Wolfgang Puck Grille and La Musique

Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots
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Wolfgang Puck/La Musique
Roasted beet and goat cheese napoleon with hazelnut vinaigrette, at Wolfgang Puck Grille. Photograph by Joe Vaughn

Wolfgang Puck Grille: The most casual of the signature restaurants at the MGM Detroit Casino, this spot offers a contemporary menu in the hands of executive chef Marc Djozlija, who directs a staff of 58, turning out breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as room service for the hotel. The gleaming open kitchen can be glimpsed from many tables, and a chef’s table for 10 provides a close-up experience. The adjoining tavern, with its brightly burning gas fire set into the wall, red leather-topped bar, and cozy booths, is especially appealing. Dishes range from Puck’s upscale pizzas to veal Wiener schnitzel with warm potato salad, Colorado lamb chops, short ribs, and grilled rib-eye steak — all served by a well-trained staff. B L & D daily 1777 Third St., Detroit; 313-465-1648. $25 Smoke free; handicap accessible

La Musique: The name of the dining room at the renovated Hotel St. Regis is a nod to the legacy of Motown. A row of high-backed, tufted-velvet banquettes, with glittering chandeliers overhead, and tables set with arrangements of orchids, set the scene for the lobby-level restaurant. Cajun-influenced dishes overseen by executive chef Greg Holden include a notable gumbo and such entrees as Black Angus sirloin, rubbed with chicory coffee and spices, bone-in filet mignon with spicy roasted garlic butter, and blackened catfish with crawfish étouffée and rice. Lovely desserts, by pastry chef Darlene Smith, include jalapeño chocolate cake. B L & D daily, Br Sun. Hotel St. Regis, 3071 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-873-3000. $30 Smoke free; handicap accessible

Note: Dollar amount is the average entree price