I love food. I love to make it, eat it, talk about it, read about it. I read cookbooks for fun and spend my weekends making fresh pasta and experimenting with new pie crusts. So naturally, one of my favorite ways to engage with Detroit is by eating. I have tried many (many!) restaurants throughout the city and I’d love to share some of my favorites:

Mudgie’s: This Corktown deli spot serves fantastic charcuterie and quality deli meats. They also have a great happy hour, especially on Mondays. Check out their interesting and diverse wine and beer selection and their adorable patio.

El Parian: This food truck, (I usually go to the one on Springwells and Lafayette in Southwest) has some of the best tacos al pastor I’ve ever had, and I just got back from a trip to Mexico City. They’re very inexpensive ($1.50 for each taco, last time I checked,)  and super flavorful. I always say you know a good taco when your hand still smells vaguely of corn tortilla after you’ve finished. Try the horchata and the chorizo tacos too!

Lady of the House:I can’t say enough about this place. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you’re looking for an extravagant meal, this is the place to go. Their gin & tonic is the best I’ve ever had! It’s peppery, with the unexpectedly fitting flair of pickle juice. The flavors are reminiscent of a Bloody Mary without the tomato.

Caribbean Citchen: We happened on this unassuming place during our previous Challenge project. It’s located near Marygrove College and University of Detroit Mercy, and they serve delicious, authentic Jamaican and Caribbean food. I recommend for an affordable takeout meal!