Henry the Hatter
Searching for a fine hat in Motown? You shouldn't have to. Henry the Hatter is a one-stop shop for your bald patch-covering needs. Founded in 1893 and in the same location since 1962, this legendary shop offers hats and caps from New Era, Dobbs, Stetson, Borsalino, Kangol, Biltmore, and others. Already have a hat that simply needs some TLC? They also offer a basic cleaning and blocking service, alongside a full restoration option that will see your favorite hat renovated from the brim up.
Caruso Caruso
Whether you're looking for denim, shirts, or more denim, Caruso Caruso is worth the trip. Located just slightly northwest of Detroit, this large store is home to a huge selection of brands, including AG, Psycho Bunny, SLVDR, Flying Monkey, Citizens of Humanity, Drifter, Retro Brand, 3rd & Army, and Earnest Sewn, as well as a selection of locally-branded goods from the likes of Detroit Shirt Co., and Made In Detroit. They also offer shoes, hats, and other accessories — but the big draw is the denim, especially for those brands that aren't exactly easy to find elsewhere in the Mitten.
Motorburger
A beer and a burger — one of life's perfect pairings. Apparently, the guys behind Motorburger agree. The menu isn't exactly what we'd call extensive — a list of a dozen or so half-pound burgers dominates, with options ranging from a traditional hamburger to a "Shrimp Fuel" that's made with ground shrimp, chilies, avocado, and mango salsa — but it is satisfying, and fittingly automotive-themed. And while the shakes and cocktails are delicious, you really need to try a beer — after all, the place brews their own on-site. [Scouted by J]
Jacoby's German Biergarten
A lot has changed over the last 100 years in downtown Detroit, but one thing that's remained constant is the friendly atmosphere at Jacoby's German Biergarten. In business since October 1904, this neighborhood spot started out as an old-world German restaurant and bar, went Irish for a period, and is now back, serving authentic, home-style German food, along with some pub-style offerings like burgers, sandwiches, and wings. Of course, this is still a biergarten, and as such it offers an impressive beer list, over 20 taps, and a good selection of German beers as well as Belgians.
Vinsetta Garage
What do you do when the oldest garage east of the Mississippi closes down? You turn it into a restaurant, of course. Vinsetta Garage sits where it always has on Woodward, but instead of offering car care, it's serving up refined-yet-simple grub that might have been enjoyed by the mechanics themselves. Staples like burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, Union Mac & Cheese, pasta bowls, and coal-fired pizzas, all updated and enhanced just enough for you to know this is more than just a greasy spoon. Of course, the station workers probably also enjoyed a beer or two after work — so appropriately, the bar stays open 'til 2. [Scouted by Jon]
Grand Trunk Pub
Enjoy some local craft beers and historical surroundings at the Grand Trunk Pub. Located in the heart of downtown, this time machine of a pub is housed in a building that dates back to 1879, and has served as a jewelry store and Grand Trunk Railway ticket office before becoming a bar. Highlights include over 170 bottled craft beers, many of which are sourced in-state, as well as 20+ taps and a selection of cocktails and wines by the glass.
Eastern Market
Many people associate "decay" with D-town, but that couldn't be further from the truth at Eastern Market. Every Saturday, this local food district packs in over 250 independent vendors and merchants selling super-fresh and in most cases locally-sourced food stuffs, flowers, and other goods. Occupying six blocks, the market also boasts roughly 30 full-time tenants, and should you think this is a passing fad, know that they've been hosting a market here since 1891.
Cliff Bell's
Step back in time when you step in to Cliff Bell's. Serving up strong cocktails and live jazz since its opening in 1935, the place is named after its original owner, who ran a series of Detroit-area speakeasies during Prohibition, and is rumored to have been the first person to place stools at his bars. Apart from the music and impeccably restored interior, this joint also offers one of the city's most intriguing happy hour specials: pints of PBR open at just $.50 a piece, and go up a quarter every half-hour.
Scotty Simpson's Fish & Chips
You know if a place has been in business for more than half a century, they're probably doing something right. Scotty Simpson's Fish & Chips is a prime example. The interior is like a time capsule back to its opening in 1950, probably attributable to the fact that the Motor City staple has seen only three owners since it opened. Something else has stayed pretty consistent since it opened: they serve up some of the best fried cod this side of the pond.
