There’s no excuse for a date night like a reservation at a new restaurant. If you’ve been slow to sample some of Detroit’s freshest fares, consider one of these favorites for your next night out.
Alpino
Cozy up with a table near the fireplace at this Corktown restaurant, which serves dishes inspired by the rich flavors of the Alps. From the white-wine fondue to the melty French raclette cheese appetizer, the menu and service stand out, as evidenced by their recent recognition as a James Beard Award semifinalist.
Hamilton’s
In the heart of Corktown and on the ground floor of the new Godfrey Hotel Detroit, Hamilton’s offers classic, elevated fare and is a nod to city icon and clothing-house founder Hamilton Carhartt. Everything Buttermilk Biscuits top the menu, which features a little something for everyone’s taste. The hotel’s great location makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring Michigan Ave.
Cibo
Chandeliers dangle and a mirror-backed bar reaches sky high at Detroit’s newest Mediterranean restaurant, housed inside the new Cabria Hotel Downtown Detroit. Nightly live DJing makes this the perfect way to kick off a livelier date, with a convenient second stop in the hotel’s lowest level, where you’ll find Detroit Duckpin bowling and Five Iron golf simulators.
Bar Pigalle
Tucked in Detroit’s Brush Park neighborhood, you’ll find a taste of Little Paris inside this intimate bar and restaurant. The menu – small but thoughtful – is inspired by French cuisine and accompanies a great wine list. However, you can also sit at the bar – decorated in draping greens overhead – and be privy to its exclusive menu and popular double burger.
Hiroki-San
Descend the staircase inside the impressive Book Tower to find Hiroki-San, a dimly lit and modern Japanese concept featuring sushi, grilled meats, rice and noodle dishes. Sake pairings are available if your night calls for something a little extra. If you only have time for a drink, pop into bar Sakazuki, the sister site on the building’s ground floor, which features a more casual vibe and Japanese drink menu.
Jessica Pawl chronicles her family travels and tackles parenting topics on Instagram and her blog, www.DepartingDTW.com.
Photo credit: Bar Pigalle
