If you’re like me, there’s nothing quite like a Saturday stroll through Eastern Market in Detroit. The vibrant sights, the bustling crowds, and oh, the smells! It’s a sensory delight that leaves you with one question: where to eat?
Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch, a light lunch, or a sumptuous dinner, you’re in for a treat. The area around Eastern Market is teeming with restaurants that open their doors wide on Saturdays. From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, there’s a place for every palate.
Best Brunch Spots near Eastern Market
Brunch isn’t just a meal; it’s a lifestyle. If you’re visiting the Eastern Market on a Saturday, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a mouthwatering brunch spot in the vicinity. There’s something about the laid-back vibe and diverse menus that makes brunch near Eastern Market a must-experience indulgence. Let’s explore some favorites!
1. Russell Street Deli
A staple of Eastern Market, the Russell Street Deli never disappoints. Their menu’s filled with fresh farm-to-table options that vary seasonally. Trust me, their scrambled tofu and smoked salmon scramble are to die for!
2. Vivio’s Food & Spirits
If Bloody Marys are your brunch beverage of choice, step into Vivio’s Food & Spirits. With a history dating back to 1967, it’s one of the oldest restaurants in Eastern Market. Their brunch menu is equally historic with comforting classics like Corned Beef Hash and Eggs.
3. Detroit Institute of Bagels
Bagel lovers, this one’s for you! Detroit Institute of Bagels brings gourmet bagels to the heart of Detroit. Best part? They’re just a short walk from Eastern Market.
But those aren’t the only places to consider! You’ll also find brunch destinations like La Rondinella, Smak, and Andiamo Detroit Riverfront that continue to snatch accolades and hearts with their amazing food, drinks, and atmosphere!
Here’s a quick comparison of some highlighted brunch spots:
| Restaurant | Distance from Eastern Market | Special Mention |
|---|---|---|
| Russell Street Deli | 0.1 miles | Farm-to-table options |
| Vivio’s Food & Spirits | 0.2 miles | Known for Bloody Marys |
| Detroit Institute of Bagels | 0.6 miles | Gourmet Bagels |
Whether you’re after the ultimate veggie omelet, a decadent pastry, or just a hot cup of artfully crafted coffee, these brunch spots around Eastern Market provide an array of delicious options. But honestly, with the sheer variety of food on offer, sometimes making a choice can be the hardest part!
Casual Lunch Options in the Area
After a morning well-spent at the Eastern Market, you might be wondering where you can grab a midday bite that’s light and casual. Detroit offers plenty of options for an easy, laid-back lunch break where you can refuel for your afternoon adventures.
Madcap Coffee, for example, is a low-key, hip cafe and roastery. They specialize in artisanal coffee that’s almost too beautiful to drink! And in case you get peckish, they also serve excellent pastries and toasts.
Then you’ve got Supino Pizzeria, a crowd favorite and it’s no mystery why. Known for its thin-crust, New York-style pies, Supino’s is a place that delights both kids and adults alike.
Let’s also talk about Zeff’s Coney Island, a gem of Detroit’s home-style dining scene. This isn’t just about hot dogs, though. Zeff’s broad menu also includes larger plates, deli sandwiches, and breakfast all day.
Finally, Taqueria El Rey can’t go without mention here. This place is renowned for its grilled chicken, mind-blowing tacos, and homemade salsas. All their dishes come out sizzling hot and will keep you coming back for more!
Please note that while these casual lunch joints all offer fantastic food, service times and styles will vary. Check ahead for individual seating capacities and dining arrangements, or just take your lunch to-go!
While Saturdays in Detroit offer many vibrant opportunities for sightseeing and shopping, lunch needn’t always be a hurried affair at the nearest fast-food joint. Even a quick, casual midday meal can add a delightful splash of flavor to your Saturday adventures.
Fine Dining Restaurants for Saturday Dinner
Now that you’ve filled up on casual, deliciously comforting lunch options, it’s time I steer you towards some of my favorite fine dining spots for a splendid Saturday night. This isn’t just for the food – these places are on my must-visit list because of their exemplary service, charming ambiance, carefully crafted menus, and of course, exquisite plates of gastronomic delight.
One of my top recommendations is Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails. Their menu, rooted in classic French techniques yet highly influenced by locally sourced products, is a delightful culinary journey. From the grass-fed Michigan tartare to the Lake Superior whitefish, every dish is a testament to their commitment to freshness and quality.
Just a short distance away, Roast is another gem to consider. Led by renowned chef Michael Symon, Roast is all about meat cooked over a wood-fired grill. Here’s a quick peek of what to expect:
| Roast’s Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Beef | Try the dry-aged New York strip or beef cheek pierogis |
| Veggies | Don’t miss the roasted beet salad or blistered shishito peppers |
| Desserts | Wind down with their decadent butter cake |
Another option on the fine-dining scene is Grey Ghost. They’ve made their mark with a menu that’s equally daring and familiar. For instance, their roasted bone marrow with smoked trout roe is a standout, along with their aged duck breast served with cherry and pistachio. The atmosphere at Grey Ghost is a delicate balance of swanky and welcoming, setting the perfect stage for an unforgettable night.
To top it off, if you’re in the mood for an eclectic global dining experience, Selden Standard is the place to be. This spot has been winning Detroiters’ hearts with its seasonal small plates menu that traverses various global tastes. Take for instance, the grilled kielbasa with house made sauerkraut or the duck rillette with green tomato marmalade – it’s a beautiful fusion of flavors.
Cozy Cafes with Saturday Specials
Detroit’s bustling Eastern Market district is renowned not only for its upscale dining options but also for its selection of warm, inviting cafes. They invite you to unwind over a cup of coffee while savoring unique Saturday specials. Let’s explore a few noteworthy options.
Cafe D’Mongo’s Speakeasy is a cocktail lover’s dream come true. This gem is housed in a historic building and serves some of the most unique cocktails and live music Detroit has to offer. The atmosphere is laid back and the staff is extremely friendly. While not strictly a restaurant, they offer a limited menu of freshly prepared dishes on Saturdays that are every bit as enjoyable as their cocktails.
Heading over to Trinosophes, I can’t help but admire its combination of an airy art space, a cosy cafe, and a lovely little library all in one. It’s a place you can visit for a Saturday brunch and find yourself lingering long into the afternoon. They serve excellent light fare from local sources, and I particularly enjoy their soups and fresh salads.
Try Supino Pizzeria, nestled just a stone’s throw away from the market, if you’re seeking a more substantial meal. They serve an array of thin-crust pizzas with inventive toppings that will leave your taste buds delighted. The ever-changing “pizza del giorno” is a Saturday special that never fails to impress.
Let’s not forget about Zeff’s Coney Island, a real brunch hotspot on Saturdays. Grab a cup of Joe and stack up on their pancakes – trust me, you won’t regret it. With a friendly atmosphere and exceptional service, this is a go-to place when you’re eager to start your day off right.
On the sweeter side, Sister Pie makes a variety of scrumptious pies from local, seasonal ingredients, and it’s worth going early as these delicious treats often sell out by midday. Their unique offering each Saturday is eagerly anticipated by many, making the bakery a neighborhood favorite.
These are just mere introductions to the cozy cafes around Eastern Market, Detroit, and their unique Saturday specials. Rest assured, visiting these gems will not only satisfy your taste buds but also your appetite for authentic Detroit experiences. Each cafe has its distinctive charm, top-notch service and, of course, phenomenal food and drinks, making them truly special places to visit on a Saturday.
Conclusion
So there you have it folks! Eastern Market Detroit is more than just a bustling marketplace – it’s a food lover’s paradise, especially on Saturdays. Whether you’re in the mood for cocktails and live music at Cafe D’Mongo’s Speakeasy, a leisurely brunch at Trinosophes, a slice of inventive pizza at Supino Pizzeria, a hearty meal at Zeff’s Coney Island, or a sweet treat from Sister Pie, there’s something to satisfy every palate. I can’t wait for you to explore these culinary gems and experience the authentic Detroit charm they offer. Trust me, it’s a Saturday well-spent. Happy dining!
