Michigan Central Station in evening from the viewpoint of a walking path with lights strung up above. Helmut Ziewers

Here Are the Corktown Restaurants to Check Out Now

From casual taco trucks and vegan-friendly destinations, here’s where to eat in Detroit’s first neighborhood

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Corktown is Detroit’s oldest existing neighborhood and as such, has a wealth of culture embedded on every block. The neighborhood, situated on the city’s southwest side, just west of downtown, was named after the County Cork in Ireland, in recognition of the influx of Irish immigrants who made their way to Detroit in the 19th century. Through the generations, the area has worn many hats: welcoming the first waves of Mexican immigrants, becoming home to several legendary sports bars, thanks to its proximity to old Tigers Stadium; and more recently, has become a major transportation hub with the installation of Michigan Central Station. Now, the neighborhood is home to one of the most dynamic food and drink destinations in the city — featuring old-school dive bars, vegan-friendly diners, award-winning experiences, and chill breweries.

With the redevelopment of Michigan Central Station and a spike of interest in real estate throughout the surrounding area, Corktown continues to draw thousands of residents and visitors every year. Whether you’re in the neighborhood for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Opening Day, to catch an indie garage band, out for a drink, or are looking for innovative approaches to dining in the city, Corktown’s where it’s at.

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Takoi’s trendy space and Northern Thai-influenced food is both a vegan-friendly place that serves incredibly-flavored, family-style cuisine, it’s also an immersive experience. With moody lighting, spaceship vibes in the interior, and an enclosed outdoor patio area, Takoi is sure to transport guests to another galaxy.

Supergeil

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Corktown restaurant and bar Supergeil specializes in Berlin-style döner kebabs, tinned seafood (sardines, tuna, mackerel, and mussels), and cocktails made with spirits from Two James. But every Sunday, the spot turns to brunch, with twists on traditional breakfast fare like its döner Benedict, feta and toast with olives, or sesame rolls with honey.

Cork & Gabel

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If location is everything, then Cork and Gabel has it all in Corktown. Just a straight shot to the Michigan Central Station, which continues to undergo a multi-million dollar redevelopment, along with the remaking of Roosevelt Park across the street, this destination for Italian-Irish-German comfort food offers staples like fish and chips, Guinness beer-braised short ribs, a full bar, as well as an impressive weekend brunch menu.

Mercury Burger & Bar

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Choose from 15 different burgers at this Corktown hotspot. Many items on the menu pay homage to the city including the Southwest, which features a chorizo slider, candied jalapeño relish, munster cheese, tortilla strips, avocado, and pickled carrots. Pair it with a boozy Hummer milkshake or poutine tater tots slathered in dark gravy.

Grandma Bob’s Pizza

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Corktown pizzeria Grandma Bob’s went all in on cheesy edged Detroit-style pizza. The Michigan Avenue eatery features in a relaxed atmosphere with lots of beer, boozy shakes, and vegan custard (vegan options here are plentiful). Choose from creative toppings like sausage and pistachio or the smoked chicken gyro pizza with topped with kalamata olives and Greek feta dressing.

Slows Bar BQ

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Slows is popular with everyone from old-school Detroiters to young hipsters. Customer favorites at this Corktown-based chain include the smoked chicken Yardbird sandwich or baby back ribs for carryout. The restaurant also sells sauces for cooking at home. Patio seating is available with a beer menu.

Situated in the space where the shuttered flagship Astro location once stood, visitors will find a familiar aesthetic as the previous tenant, as well as those Corktown neighborhood feels. The brief menu currently features espresso drinks like a traditional cafe de olla or a Bitter Orange Esspritzer made with Topo Chico, espresso, and blood orange juice; pour-overs; tea; and a variety of pastries. Coffee is sourced from Anthology Coffee in Eastern Market and Grand Coffee Roasters, based in San Francisco.

The Pink Flamingo

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The Pink Flamingo To-Go may be open year-round at its brick-and-mortar restaurant in Palmer Park, but the beloved Corktown food truck is a seasonal operation founded by Meiko Krishok, where she serves restorative meals out of an Airstream trailer in a garden setting at 2746 Vermont Street in North Corktown. Be sure to check out its social media for updates on when its season will resume.

Ima Izakaya

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Ima founder Mike Ransom is now flexing his background in fine dining at Ima Izakaya. Guests can expect many of the growing chain’s casual favorites, such as its popular udon, pho, rice bowls, shrimp dumplings, and chicken karaage. In addition, Ransom adds a touch of creativity with new arrivals like hamachi crudo made with yellowtail, yuzu-lemon confit, jalapeno, micro cilantro, and black sea salt, robata grill with skewered bites, market cut meats, and a more robust bar menu. The new spot replaces Ima’s original Corktown location just down the street.

Lucky Detroit - Coffee Roasters & Espresso

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Tucked within the same property as Detroit Barbers, Lucky Detroit serves coffee and cheesecake bites, and a spacious upstairs seating area, which longtime fans might remember as being where the cafe previously sat.

Summertown Fresh Bar

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This all-day cafe and snack bar is set inside the former original Ima location and is a salve for folks on the run but in need of a refreshing pick me up. The menu features smoothies, sweet or savory soba crepe wraps, power bowls, fresh juices, a small line of boozy beverages, packaged grab-and-go munchies, and more. Take a break from the hustle and bustle from the shady, outdoor patio, equipped with comfy seating.

Antojitos Southwest

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This weekends-only food truck launched as an informal food business during the earlier days of the pandemic — tapping into a very on-trend phenomena taking place on social media at the time: the art of birria. Among the very few operations in the city whose primary focus is on the fiery, red stewed meat, customers can find quesabirria fresh off the griddle, cups of birria ramen, asada fries, and a selection of glass bottled Jarritos. Oh, and the beef is all halal.

Tacos El Rodeo

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As far as food trucks go, most of the city’s favorites can be found in neighboring southwest Detroit. However, Tacos el Rodeo is among just a few within Corktown proper. Conveniently located in the parking lot of Motor City Wine and available 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, Tacos el Rodeo offers guests filling options like carne asada fries, tacos, tortas, and quesadillas available with your choice of meat. Ideal for busy office workers or wine bar guests.

Bobcat Bonnie's

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Nowadays, Bobcat Bonnie’s locations can be found in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, as well as in Lansing and out-state in Toledo. However, the brunch-friendly spot got its start in Corktown. For breakfast or brunching options, opt for something sweet like the Oreo pancakes or Captain Crunch french toast, along with a DIY mimosa and bloody mary stand. Also be on the lookout for fun burger specials, vegan options, and a fun fruity cocktail menu.

Momento Gelato and Coffee

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Momento Gelato, next door to the UFO Factory, is a neighborhood Italian-style ice cream parlor in Corktown that specializes in using all natural ingredients. The shop is the creation of Tom Isaia, who also founded Coffee Express, a roasting company based in Plymouth. The menu features seasonal flavors, espresso drinks, and a delightful affogato. Flavors change with the seasons, but guests can expect specialties such as mango sorbet, coffee (made with brew from Coffee Express), and pistachio.

UFO Factory

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Indie music venue and bar UFO Factory offers is a chill spot to grab a beer or a simple cocktail and a snack. Yes, this spot is great for a casual beer, as well as reasonably-priced cocktails made with the bar’s selection of house-made cocktail mixers. In the snacks department is Laika Dogs, featuring a number of unique toppings, such as the banh mi, Detroit-style with vegan coney chili, and the PB&J featuring Thai peanut sauce. When weather permits, the rooftop deck bar is used for outdoor drinking and free movie nights.

Folk Detroit

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This award-winning all-day cafe and bottle shop is quite versatile. Enjoy a brunch with waffle breakfast sandwiches; pick up a quick turmeric chai latte on the way to work; or select a bottle of biodiverse wine, along with a curated selection of gourmet groceries items — a bulk of which is sourced locally, by BIPOC makers, or are considered sustainably sourced — to host your own fancy dinner party at home.

Mink Detroit

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When you’re looking for an intimate, yet casual setting for a romantic round of drinks and oysters, Mink offers a unique experience. Sit at the bar and marvel at the crew as they get to shucking, plating, and interacting with guests. Guests can opt to order a la carte from the spot’s selection of fresh oysters from across the country or an array of tinned seafood snacks. Or, go all out and make reservations to try a five-course tasting menu (available with optional beverage pairing), which switches out every month. Previous tasting menu offerings have included as a lobster olive loaf, scallop ambrosia salad, and a swordfish casserole.

Ottava Via

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This Corktown spot offers a modern spin on Italian favorites. From charcuterie to cocktails to a hearty dinner feast complemented by a glass of wine, Ottava Via hits many notes. There are traditional pastas and pizzas, as well as a selection of hot plates like the pan-seared branzino with salsa verde. It’s particularly popular during patio season, thanks to an outdoor fireplace and bocce ball lanes.

The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection by Hilton

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This new hotel features numerous options to wine and dine. Up top is the I|O Rooftop Lounge, which features retractable walls and glass ceiling, providing a unique view of the Detroit skyline. In addition to cocktails and and a food menu, the lounge regularly hosts live entertainment presented by Eater Award-winning nightlife experts, Black on Both Sides. On the ground level, Hamilton’s — operated by Chickpea Hospitality (which brought us Phoenicia in Birmingham and Leila downtown) — offers all-day service and a new American menu that subtly leans toward the group’s Mediterranean influence. Enjoy a Denver steak, the popular halibut and chips set on a bed of pea mash, or roasted carrots in zhug, pistachio dukkah, and fresh herbs. Drinks include cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of wine.

The Brooklyn Street Local

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This busy all-day brunch hub offers among the best selection of poutines in the city, harkening back to the proprietors’ Canadian roots. Brooklyn Street’s menu also includes other breakfast and brunch items, salads, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, and quiches, and has been known to routinely open its space up to pop-up collaborators.

Batch Brewing Company

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This Corktown brewery has become absolutely essential in the local brewing community as well as the Detroit hospitality industry at large. Batch is a consummate neighborhood spot that keeps dozens beers rotation and also takes care with its food. Among its frequent offerings, a two-day-a-week Mexican menu from Taqueria el Rey, and more recently, has leaned way into barbecue with its “side hustle,” Yellow Dog Craft BBQ, which takes place from noon to when it sells out every Saturday.

Lager House

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Yes, Lager House has been through a lot over the years. Longtime owner Paul “PJ” Ryder called it quits in 2022, leaving some wondering if the famous indie music venue and venerable bar would remain. Under new ownership, it’s still a destination for affordable drinks, vegan fare, and to catch a local show.

James Oliver

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Among the many Corktown establishments where, if you’re looking to run into someone you know, you’ll probably run into them there. Featuring an array of classic espresso drinks, coffee roasted in-house, James Oliver also carries kombucha on tap, pastries, sandwiches, and of course bagels (the space formerly housed the Detroit Institute of Bagels).

Mudgie's Deli and Wine Shop

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Mudgie’s offers an unbeatable variety sandwiches including the Brooklyn, served warm and made with house-smoked beef brisket, applewood smoked bacon, beer pub cheese, and caramelized maple onions on a brioche roll. Order a beer or a bottle of wine to wash everything down.

Takoi

Takoi’s trendy space and Northern Thai-influenced food is both a vegan-friendly place that serves incredibly-flavored, family-style cuisine, it’s also an immersive experience. With moody lighting, spaceship vibes in the interior, and an enclosed outdoor patio area, Takoi is sure to transport guests to another galaxy.

Supergeil

Corktown restaurant and bar Supergeil specializes in Berlin-style döner kebabs, tinned seafood (sardines, tuna, mackerel, and mussels), and cocktails made with spirits from Two James. But every Sunday, the spot turns to brunch, with twists on traditional breakfast fare like its döner Benedict, feta and toast with olives, or sesame rolls with honey.

Cork & Gabel

If location is everything, then Cork and Gabel has it all in Corktown. Just a straight shot to the Michigan Central Station, which continues to undergo a multi-million dollar redevelopment, along with the remaking of Roosevelt Park across the street, this destination for Italian-Irish-German comfort food offers staples like fish and chips, Guinness beer-braised short ribs, a full bar, as well as an impressive weekend brunch menu.

Mercury Burger & Bar

Choose from 15 different burgers at this Corktown hotspot. Many items on the menu pay homage to the city including the Southwest, which features a chorizo slider, candied jalapeño relish, munster cheese, tortilla strips, avocado, and pickled carrots. Pair it with a boozy Hummer milkshake or poutine tater tots slathered in dark gravy.

Grandma Bob’s Pizza

Corktown pizzeria Grandma Bob’s went all in on cheesy edged Detroit-style pizza. The Michigan Avenue eatery features in a relaxed atmosphere with lots of beer, boozy shakes, and vegan custard (vegan options here are plentiful). Choose from creative toppings like sausage and pistachio or the smoked chicken gyro pizza with topped with kalamata olives and Greek feta dressing.

Slows Bar BQ

Slows is popular with everyone from old-school Detroiters to young hipsters. Customer favorites at this Corktown-based chain include the smoked chicken Yardbird sandwich or baby back ribs for carryout. The restaurant also sells sauces for cooking at home. Patio seating is available with a beer menu.

Alba

Situated in the space where the shuttered flagship Astro location once stood, visitors will find a familiar aesthetic as the previous tenant, as well as those Corktown neighborhood feels. The brief menu currently features espresso drinks like a traditional cafe de olla or a Bitter Orange Esspritzer made with Topo Chico, espresso, and blood orange juice; pour-overs; tea; and a variety of pastries. Coffee is sourced from Anthology Coffee in Eastern Market and Grand Coffee Roasters, based in San Francisco.

The Pink Flamingo

The Pink Flamingo To-Go may be open year-round at its brick-and-mortar restaurant in Palmer Park, but the beloved Corktown food truck is a seasonal operation founded by Meiko Krishok, where she serves restorative meals out of an Airstream trailer in a garden setting at 2746 Vermont Street in North Corktown. Be sure to check out its social media for updates on when its season will resume.

Ima Izakaya

Ima founder Mike Ransom is now flexing his background in fine dining at Ima Izakaya. Guests can expect many of the growing chain’s casual favorites, such as its popular udon, pho, rice bowls, shrimp dumplings, and chicken karaage. In addition, Ransom adds a touch of creativity with new arrivals like hamachi crudo made with yellowtail, yuzu-lemon confit, jalapeno, micro cilantro, and black sea salt, robata grill with skewered bites, market cut meats, and a more robust bar menu. The new spot replaces Ima’s original Corktown location just down the street.

Lucky Detroit - Coffee Roasters & Espresso

Tucked within the same property as Detroit Barbers, Lucky Detroit serves coffee and cheesecake bites, and a spacious upstairs seating area, which longtime fans might remember as being where the cafe previously sat.

Summertown Fresh Bar

This all-day cafe and snack bar is set inside the former original Ima location and is a salve for folks on the run but in need of a refreshing pick me up. The menu features smoothies, sweet or savory soba crepe wraps, power bowls, fresh juices, a small line of boozy beverages, packaged grab-and-go munchies, and more. Take a break from the hustle and bustle from the shady, outdoor patio, equipped with comfy seating.

Antojitos Southwest

This weekends-only food truck launched as an informal food business during the earlier days of the pandemic — tapping into a very on-trend phenomena taking place on social media at the time: the art of birria. Among the very few operations in the city whose primary focus is on the fiery, red stewed meat, customers can find quesabirria fresh off the griddle, cups of birria ramen, asada fries, and a selection of glass bottled Jarritos. Oh, and the beef is all halal.

Tacos El Rodeo

As far as food trucks go, most of the city’s favorites can be found in neighboring southwest Detroit. However, Tacos el Rodeo is among just a few within Corktown proper. Conveniently located in the parking lot of Motor City Wine and available 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, Tacos el Rodeo offers guests filling options like carne asada fries, tacos, tortas, and quesadillas available with your choice of meat. Ideal for busy office workers or wine bar guests.

Bobcat Bonnie's

Nowadays, Bobcat Bonnie’s locations can be found in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, as well as in Lansing and out-state in Toledo. However, the brunch-friendly spot got its start in Corktown. For breakfast or brunching options, opt for something sweet like the Oreo pancakes or Captain Crunch french toast, along with a DIY mimosa and bloody mary stand. Also be on the lookout for fun burger specials, vegan options, and a fun fruity cocktail menu.

Momento Gelato and Coffee

Momento Gelato, next door to the UFO Factory, is a neighborhood Italian-style ice cream parlor in Corktown that specializes in using all natural ingredients. The shop is the creation of Tom Isaia, who also founded Coffee Express, a roasting company based in Plymouth. The menu features seasonal flavors, espresso drinks, and a delightful affogato. Flavors change with the seasons, but guests can expect specialties such as mango sorbet, coffee (made with brew from Coffee Express), and pistachio.

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UFO Factory

Indie music venue and bar UFO Factory offers is a chill spot to grab a beer or a simple cocktail and a snack. Yes, this spot is great for a casual beer, as well as reasonably-priced cocktails made with the bar’s selection of house-made cocktail mixers. In the snacks department is Laika Dogs, featuring a number of unique toppings, such as the banh mi, Detroit-style with vegan coney chili, and the PB&J featuring Thai peanut sauce. When weather permits, the rooftop deck bar is used for outdoor drinking and free movie nights.

Folk Detroit

This award-winning all-day cafe and bottle shop is quite versatile. Enjoy a brunch with waffle breakfast sandwiches; pick up a quick turmeric chai latte on the way to work; or select a bottle of biodiverse wine, along with a curated selection of gourmet groceries items — a bulk of which is sourced locally, by BIPOC makers, or are considered sustainably sourced — to host your own fancy dinner party at home.

Mink Detroit

When you’re looking for an intimate, yet casual setting for a romantic round of drinks and oysters, Mink offers a unique experience. Sit at the bar and marvel at the crew as they get to shucking, plating, and interacting with guests. Guests can opt to order a la carte from the spot’s selection of fresh oysters from across the country or an array of tinned seafood snacks. Or, go all out and make reservations to try a five-course tasting menu (available with optional beverage pairing), which switches out every month. Previous tasting menu offerings have included as a lobster olive loaf, scallop ambrosia salad, and a swordfish casserole.

Ottava Via

This Corktown spot offers a modern spin on Italian favorites. From charcuterie to cocktails to a hearty dinner feast complemented by a glass of wine, Ottava Via hits many notes. There are traditional pastas and pizzas, as well as a selection of hot plates like the pan-seared branzino with salsa verde. It’s particularly popular during patio season, thanks to an outdoor fireplace and bocce ball lanes.

The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection by Hilton

This new hotel features numerous options to wine and dine. Up top is the I|O Rooftop Lounge, which features retractable walls and glass ceiling, providing a unique view of the Detroit skyline. In addition to cocktails and and a food menu, the lounge regularly hosts live entertainment presented by Eater Award-winning nightlife experts, Black on Both Sides. On the ground level, Hamilton’s — operated by Chickpea Hospitality (which brought us Phoenicia in Birmingham and Leila downtown) — offers all-day service and a new American menu that subtly leans toward the group’s Mediterranean influence. Enjoy a Denver steak, the popular halibut and chips set on a bed of pea mash, or roasted carrots in zhug, pistachio dukkah, and fresh herbs. Drinks include cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of wine.

The Brooklyn Street Local

This busy all-day brunch hub offers among the best selection of poutines in the city, harkening back to the proprietors’ Canadian roots. Brooklyn Street’s menu also includes other breakfast and brunch items, salads, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, and quiches, and has been known to routinely open its space up to pop-up collaborators.

Batch Brewing Company

This Corktown brewery has become absolutely essential in the local brewing community as well as the Detroit hospitality industry at large. Batch is a consummate neighborhood spot that keeps dozens beers rotation and also takes care with its food. Among its frequent offerings, a two-day-a-week Mexican menu from Taqueria el Rey, and more recently, has leaned way into barbecue with its “side hustle,” Yellow Dog Craft BBQ, which takes place from noon to when it sells out every Saturday.

Lager House

Yes, Lager House has been through a lot over the years. Longtime owner Paul “PJ” Ryder called it quits in 2022, leaving some wondering if the famous indie music venue and venerable bar would remain. Under new ownership, it’s still a destination for affordable drinks, vegan fare, and to catch a local show.

James Oliver

Among the many Corktown establishments where, if you’re looking to run into someone you know, you’ll probably run into them there. Featuring an array of classic espresso drinks, coffee roasted in-house, James Oliver also carries kombucha on tap, pastries, sandwiches, and of course bagels (the space formerly housed the Detroit Institute of Bagels).

Mudgie's Deli and Wine Shop

Mudgie’s offers an unbeatable variety sandwiches including the Brooklyn, served warm and made with house-smoked beef brisket, applewood smoked bacon, beer pub cheese, and caramelized maple onions on a brioche roll. Order a beer or a bottle of wine to wash everything down.

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