Exceptional Eats in 2015

Merry belated Christmas to all of my readers out there  who celebrate! I hope you all had a wonderful time, and of course, ate some fantastic food. I definitely indulged in some pretty exceptional Christmasy baked goods at work, and not to mention, traditional Jewish Christmas cuisine — Chinese food!

Now that Christmas is over, we have 2016 to celebrate! Looking back on 2015, I am feeling pretty satisfied with the way I spent my time, especially related to the Detroit food scene. I got to try some fantastic food and make connections with some exceptional people — local restaurateurs, chefs, writers, and not to mention, other foodies who are just as geeked as I am about what’s happening with Detroit’s food scene.

Right before our eyes, the city of Detroit is quickly becoming a food mecca. While it’s no New York or L.A., Detroit is certainly paving its own way. Passionate people with a desire to bring amazing tastes to city-dwellers and suburbanites alike are heading successful new restaurant ventures all over town.

While I cannot discount the fact that Detroit still has serious problems, I personally am thrilled that the city is making a come-back in the food world.

A New Year’s goal of mine is to continue to support local businesses, particularly new restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries popping up all over town. If you’re looking to do the same, then you’ll want to take a peek at my top favorite new food spots I encountered in 2015.

Cheers to a great rest of 2015 and continued achievements for this awesome city in 2016!

1. Forest, Birmingham

Forest is Samy Eid’s new baby. You may recognize his name — he also runs Birmingham’s Phoenicia. Formerly known as Forest Grille, Eid gutted the interior and hired a passionate team to serve up authentic, Euro-American fare. Exec chef, Nick Janutol, who ran the kitchen back when it was still Forest Grille, is serving up simple, yet elegant dishes with high-quality ingredients. Recommendations include the carrot soup, farm egg, Branzino, and linguine alle vongole. Save some room for the Baked Alaska for dessert!

2. The Sardine Room, Plymouth

If you like seafood, then the Sardine Room should be your next restaurant visit. While there are multiple local spots that know how to do seafood, the Sardine Room offers quality dishes, and not to mention, probably the freshest oysters I’ve tasted in this area. With a mix of small plates and larger dishes, this is a great place for sharing and sampling. Top recommendations include the fresh oysters, grilled octopus, and sea scallops.

3. Dime Store, Detroit

Talk about full-flavor dishes in a cozy setting! Dime Store is one of those spots you’ll want to bring some friends on a rainy, Saturday morning. Sip on a cup of coffee alongside a delectable pastry while you wait for your main course to arrive. Great for breakfast or lunch, Dime Store is a new favorite of many in the downtown scene. Make sure to try their Duck Bop Hash with a side of drool-worthy bacon, parm, and truffle fries!

 

 

4. GreenSpace Cafe, Ferndale

One of Ferndale’s newest additions, GreenSpace cafe opened its doors in early December 2015. While more veggie and vegan-friendly restaurants have been popping up, GreenSpace sets themselves apart from the rest by using minimal oils and chemical additives. Their dishes are flavorful and plated beautifully, such as their Pad Thai with tofu, and mushroom tacos. They also specialize in hand-crafted cocktails, in addition to a unique additions to their drink menu — cold pressed juices and Kombucha!

5. Craft Work, Detroit

This spot went above and beyond my expectations. I stopped here on the night before Thanksgiving, not sure what to expect. Turns out, I made an exceptional discovery. Craft Work is a great cocktail bar with a creative menu. I opted for the “Sage Advice,” a delicious beverage  made with Hendrick’s, shaken and stirred just to my liking. For dinner, sample their cheesy crab dip and enjoy their perfectly crisp, not greasy, panko-breaded fish and chips. If you’re looking for something lighter, they have healthy, yet delicious options such as their “Red Beet and Cauliflower.” Vegan and gluten free, this dish will not disappoint!

 

C&K Readers, what are some of your favorite spots that you discovered in 2015? What spots are at the top of your list for 2016? Share with me in a comment, Tweet, or Facebook post!

Thank you for your readership this year, and make sure to share my blog with fellow Detroiters or food-savvy friends!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Out of This World Burgers at Mercury Burger Bar!

So you’re probably wondering, where the heck is C&K’s annual pumpkin post? It’s officially pumpkin season, so bring it on!!!

I hate to break it to you, but this pumpkin craze has gone off the charts. I’ve always been the type that likes to “rebel” now and then, and this is my way of doing so — by posting about some mouthwatering, over-the-top burgers instead!

While many of us are very picky about our burgers, Mercury Burger Bar in Corktown has a burger for everyone. Don’t like burgers? They have a whole slew of sandwiches, and not to mention alcoholic milkshakes to satisfy the boozers in your life. Just kidding 🙂

Since the word “burger” is in the title of the restaurant, I felt like I had to go with one of their many unique patty combinations. While I am more of a turkey or veggie burger kind of girl (I know, sooo typical), I decided to order the real deal.

My beef burger of choice was “The Juicy,” which had gooey, melty cheese on top AND inside of the patty. And it comes with the traditional add-ons — lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion, but you can obviously opt out or add on other toppings. This place also has an amazing cart of hot sauces and condiments.

My one pet peeve about burger places is when fries are a la carte. Mercury Burger Bar does this, but they do make up for it with other tempting sides, including loaded tots various ways (I tried the chili cheese tots), and bigger-than-your-head onion rings. And coleslaw, for those who at least want to attempt having a balanced meal here. They also offer a bunch of great toppings for no additional charge, like jalapenos, green olives , and Zanahorias (pickled spiced carrots)!

Mercury is definitely the kind of place to go before or after catching some live entertainment downtown, to cure a hangover or reduce a drunken stupor, or to take someone who is new to Detroit and thinks all we do well are coney dogs.

Mercury Burger Bar proves their worth, and definitely left a permanent grease stain on my heart.

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Price range: $11-30

Location: 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit, 48216

Hours:  Mon. – Thurs. 11 am -11 pm, (bar open until midnight), Fri. and Sat. 11 am – 1 am (kitchen and bar), Sun. 11 am – 11 pm (bar open until midnight)

Phone: (313) 964-5000  *No reservations

 

Get a head start on figuring out your order by checking out their killer menu here!

 

Cheers for Beers!

Beer is a hot commodity these days, and thankfully, Michiganders don’t have to travel very far to drink some amazing craft brews. With big-name breweries like Bell’s in Kalamazoo, Founders in Grand Rapids, and smaller-scale breweries like Atwater in Detroit, Michigan is becoming a destination for beer lovers. Bell’s alone has moved up in the rankings as one of the nation’s top breweries by the Brewer’s Association. Not to brag, but we’ve got a good thing goin’ in the mitten state!

Metro Detroit alone has its fair share of breweries and beer-savvy bars. Spots that are well-known for their Michigan craft beer selection are popping up in Royal Oak, Ann Arbor, and the “D.” While I love a good road trip and brewery tour, it’s nice to know where to go and sip on quality beer just a few miles away.

So, if you’re tired of having to trek to a specialty store or brew your own stuff, you are in luck. C&K has thought long and hard about the most tried and true brewpubs around town and wants to share them with you! Cheers!

1. One-Eyed Betty’s – 175 W Troy Ave, Ferndale 

While the name of this restaurant sure sounds a little creepy, you will find yourself immediately relaxed once you step inside. One-Eyed Betty’s will make you feel like a kid in a candy store (well, beer store, in this case). This place is known for its whopping selection of 44 rotating craft beers on tap. In the mood for an IPA? Betty’s has ’em! More of a Belgian beer lover? You’re in luck. Need a little help deciding? Their waitstaff is great at offering only the most honest advice in selecting a suitable beer for you. If you’re also craving some food, their pretzel appetizer always hits the spot. They also have an extensive menu of sandwiches, salads, burgers, and filling entrees. If you’re not too full on beer, their donuts are supposedly out of this world!

2. HopCat – 4265 Woodward Ave, Detroit 

HopCat is a Michigan-based chain with a stellar reputation. With its recent opening in Midtown, HopCat is one of the coolest places around for a round (or two or three) of beers. If you’re choosy about your craft beer, you’re in luck — HopCat has 130 taps filled with cold beer and cider. You won’t want to leave without ordering some crack fries (I hear “loaded” is the way to go), but they also have plenty of other food options if you’re craving a solid meal. With their endless beverage options, musical entertainment galore in their Huma Room and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, you may turn into a regular quicker than you think! Also, be sure to check out their Happy Hour dates and specials listed on their website.

3. The Rock on Third – 112 E. Third Street, Royal Oak

This place may look like nothing special, but their beer selection (130 craft beers from all over the world) and drink discounts all week long are something to treasure. You’ll always be able to find a Michigan beer on tap from award-winning breweries like Short’s, Bell’s, and even Frankenmuth. With daily specials and unbeatable prices, this is a casual “Happy Hour” or Friday night drinking destination. Their food is nothing to write home about, but they offer the typical bar eats like wings and pizza that you suddenly find yourself craving after a few too many. Check out their killer offerings on their website.

4. M-Brew – 177 Vester Street, Ferndale

I will be completely honest with you — I was a bit hesitant to share this one. M-Brew is one of those hidden little gems that I greedily wanted to keep to myself. But, I decided to be generous to my dedicated readers and give you the inside scoop on this wonderful little place. While sipping on one or more of their 30 Michigan craft beers on tap, you can play old-school arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong in their “Basement Brewcade.” It’s pretty awesome, if you ask me. I haven’t sampled their food just yet, but their pizza and pasties have a good reputation from what I hear. Proud n’ nerdy beer-loving guys and girls, this is the perfect place for you.

5. Ale Mary’s – 318 S. Main Street, Royal Oak

Bringing in the crowds since opening day, Ale Mary’s is a popular choice for beer fans roaming the streets of downtown RO. Not only will you love their selection of craft brews, but you’re bound to find something delicious to eat. Their Cheese & Charcuterie Board  or Beer Glazed Pork Belly are just a couple of hearty options to start off your Ale Mary’s experience. Whether you dine inside or out, you will love the bustling and warm vibe of one of Royal Oak’s newest and best beer spots. Check out their beer menu before stopping in!

Share your favorite beer spot on Facebook, Twitter @coneysandkale, or tag me in a post at coneysandkale on Instagram!

I Found A Pot of Gold Cash Gold!

Let’s be real — who goes to pawn shops anymore? I know the last time I did, it was to see if some thief had traded my precious 5th grade band clarinet for a hefty load of cash. My mission was very unsuccessful.

Burrata and pesto

However, I learned recently that pawn shops can serve a real purpose. And that is to be renovated into restaurants that serve up amazing eats. If you haven’t tried Gold Cash Gold in Corktown yet, then you’re missing out on a true Detroit jackpot.

After a long week, this is the the ideal spot to grab some friends and sit around one of the many wooden tables. My three girlfriends started off the night with some fun, refreshing cocktails. GCG also has a great selection of wine and beer, so I opted for a glass of crisp Pinot Noir for myself.

Next, we swooned over their funky menu, adamant about finding an app to please everyone’s palettes. While I was turned down for my vote on the chicken liver mousse (our waiter highly recommended it), we settled on a seasonal dish of Burrata and ramp pesto, served with warm, sliced bread. This was a melt-in-your-mouth, heavenly delight.

Pickle brine fried chickie

Before we knew it, our entrees arrived. Again, I was the odd one out, but I got to sample some of my friends’ pickle brine fried chicken (all three of them ordered it)! This  was some mighty fine, crispy, crunchy chicken with so much flavor my mouth could barely handle it. This was a huge portion, and came with some stellar gravy and cornbread. My Cioppino (a tomato-based stew with seafood and chicken sausage), was a perfect size for a gal like me. I pretty much devoured it all, and reluctantly shared a shrimp or two.

As an added indulgence, we ordered some piping hot, thick-cut french fries. It was obviously necessary. I do wish I could say we had room for dessert, but that will have to wait. Next time, I’m heading to Gold Cash Gold for brunch! Chicken and waffles, anyone?

Final words of wisdom on GCG: Be bold, be prepared to wait, and just enjoy!

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Price range: $10-20

Location: 2100 Michigan Ave, Detroit, 48216

Hours: Closed Mon., Tues. – Th. 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. – 11 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. – 12 a.m., Sat. 10 a.m. – 3:00p.m., 5 p.m. – 12 a.m., Sun. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Phone: (313) 242-0770

Click here to view their fabulous website for more info!

Cioppino

Dimestore: A Brunch-time Destination

Duck Bop Hash

“We serve breakfast all day.” These are the magic words that get me every time I walk into a restaurant, so I knew I was in the right place when I read those words on the Dimestore menu. Tucked inside the Chrysler House office building in Detroit, Dimestore is a cozy little spot, with funky wall decor, an open kitchen and bar, and great street views through the large windows.

While you’re likely to wait at Dimestore, or in my case, wait more than anticipated, know that the waitstaff are no strangers to customer service. Since the kitchen was backed up during my visit, my waitress brought out a complimentary croissant that I devoured before the food arrived. The warm, flaky, almond and chocolate croissant tasted like it came straight off of the streets of Paris.

Our food did arrive after some time, and it was well worth the wait. I had no shame

Chocolate almond croissant

about ordering breakfast food at 2:00 in the afternoon, because I knew my taste buds were going to get pampered.

I eagerly selected the “Duck Bop Hash,” which is a unique twist on a potato hash, complete with tender duck confit, spinach, onion, topped with two over-easy eggs, and drizzled with a Korean bbq glaze. Although one of my eggs was slightly overdone, the other yolk was soft and runny, just the way I like it. The dish was a beautiful medley of crunchy, soft, savory, and spicy. I dug right in and pretty much devoured it all!

If you’re not one of those breakfast-all-day-everyday type people, don’t worry —

Veggie burger

Dimestore has plenty of options for you. My dining partner chose the veggie burger, which was housemade, hearty patty, topped with creamy goat cheese and honey mustard, served with a side of thick-cut french fries. This was no “Boca Burger,” mind you.

And if you’re looking for a meaty option, try the duck reuben or the maple and mustard glazed salmon salad. This menu is anything but ordinary, and there is something for everyone — drinks included. Whether you’re in the mood for alcohol or just a hot cup of coffee, Dimestore has it all. Their Bloody Mary is top-of-the-line, and they serve good ol’ Zingerman’s coffee.

If you’re looking for a brunch spot that is somewhere in between diner joint and swanky country club-style, Dimestore is that happy medium. They create food with style, and serve it up with class.

Check out Dimestore this weekend, or make it your new Happy Hour destination on Tuesday through Friday from 3 – 6 p.m.

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Price range: $10-20 for food, with alcoholic beverages in the $8 range

Location: 719 Griswold St, Detroit, inside the Chrysler House office building

Hours: Mon. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tues. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sat. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Phone: (313) 962-9106 *No reservations, but yes on take-out!

Take a peek at their website here to see their menu and meet the Dimestore team.

Selden Standard: Setting the Bar High in Midtown Detroit

Grilled Quail

For up-and-coming restaurant, Selden Standard, it doesn’t get much better than being awarded Detroit Free Press‘ “2015 Restaurant of the Year.” Selden Standard not only took home that title, but has been buzzed about constantly since it opened back in early November.

I stopped in for dinner on a sub-zero-temperature evening, but instantly warmed up once I stepped inside the trendy interior, with wood-panelled ceilings and soft lighting. The bar was packed with people drinking tall glasses of wine and rose-colored cocktails, chatting and laughing.

Once I was seated, I perused the drink menu, choosing a cocktail called the “Fortunella Fizz,” which was served in a small glass fit for a princess. This little number had gin, kumquat, lime, Barenjager, and a foamy egg-white topping for taste and presentation. While it was a little sweet for my taste, it was well-crafted and creative.

For dinner, I was faced with so many delicious options. To help guide me, my waitress explained that the menu items are listed from lightest to heartiest as you read vertically, and noted the plates are generally smaller than average.

Kale Caesar 

For someone who loves family-style, I was excited for what was to come.

My dining partner and I chose the kale Caesar salad and roasted cauliflower to start. I tend to think Caesar salads are quite boring, but I was wowed by this dish. This salad was perfectly dressed, topped with crispy chicken skin alongside sourdough croutons.

Cauliflower is generally mild in flavor, but Selden Standard’s was out-of-this-world, with a tahini, lemon, and cilantro sauce, mixed with a medley of pickled peppers. My dining partner was initially skeptical, but his face lit up with delight upon his first bite. This cauliflower is a game-changer!

After smiling through the first two dishes, we were presented with our final two. We

Roasted Cauliflower

opted for the lamb meatballs, served with a tomato and yogurt sauce, and the grilled quail, which came with a lusciously creamy chestnut puree, pickled cranberries, and raddicchio — a highly underrated leafy veggie.

I was eager to try quail, since I don’t frequently come across it during my typical dining adventures. It was tender and lean, comparable to chicken. The cashew sauce and cranberries really added to the flavor of the quail.

Lamb Meatballs

After working our way through these spectacular dishes, dessert wasn’t even a thought, although I can imagine that they are delectable. Selden Standard offers sweet and savory options, such as a caramelized white chocolate pot de creme, and a cheese plate with crackers and preserves. I left content with my lot, but I also had an immediate urge to come back for more.

Selden Standard prides itself on being a “seasonal restaurant,” catering their menu items to the freshest and best ingredients in Michigan. They also rely on local businesses, including Guernsey Dairy and Anthology Coffee. A full list of Michigan farms and producers they use can be found here.

Prices are on the higher end of the spectrum, but getting a group together will mute your “sigh” upon receiving the bill. And don’t let the small plates concept steer you away — Selden Standard makes up for the size with BIG tastes and unique foods to appeal to both adventurous and simple palettes alike.

Price range: $11-30

Location: 3929 Second Ave, Detroit, 48201. Parking can be found in the back lot or on the street.

Hours: Lunch (daily) from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Bar (daily) from 4:30 p.m. – 11 p.m., Dinner (daily) from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Brunch (Saturday/Sunday) from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Phone: (313) 438-5055 *They take reservations, and I recommend making one, especially on the weekends.

Check out their website here — I particularly love their “Stories” section, where they feature everything from seasonal recipes to upcoming events. You can also follow them on Instagram @seldenstandard for drool-worthy pics.