Detroit’s dining scene just keeps getting better. Across Metro Detroit, bold new flavors and creative concepts are popping up in every corner, adding fresh energy to an already vibrant food culture. From cozy sandwich shops to elegant global cuisine and inventive street food, the Motor City proves time and again that it’s a destination for diners who crave something memorable.
Whether you’re in the mood for street-style tacos, elevated sushi, or oysters and cocktails on a stylish patio, these standout spots deliver. Here are 10 of Metro Detroit’s must-try newer restaurants, all worth a place on your dining list.
1. Enomah – Midtown Detroit
Enomah is one of Midtown Detroit’s most exciting new dining experiences, bringing a refined take on Afro-Mediterranean cuisine to the city’s vibrant restaurant scene. Led by Chef Omar Anbari, the menu artfully blends North African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences with contemporary technique and presentation. The space itself is warm, intimate, and stylish. It’s perfect for an elevated yet welcoming dining experience.
Must-try: Lamb tagine with apricots, charred octopus, and freshly baked breads.
Best for: A soulful, global, and elegant dinner that feels both special and approachable.
2. Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery – Franklin Village
This charming reinvention of the beloved Franklin Grill brings a focus on seafood, with a refined yet approachable vibe. With a beautifully refreshed space and an impressive raw bar, it’s already become a hot spot for brunches, date nights, and summer patio dining.
Must-try: East Coast oyster sampler and chef’s daily catch.
Best for: Upscale but relaxed seafood lovers.
3. Carajillo – Ferndale
Carajillo brings modern Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails to downtown Ferndale in a chic, lively setting. With vibrant décor, a full tequila and mezcal bar, and a menu that balances tradition with creativity, it’s quickly become a neighborhood favorite. Expect dishes like flavorful birria tacos, fresh ceviche, and elote, alongside inventive cocktails. And, of course, the namesake carajillo, a Mexican coffee cocktail.
Must-try: Birria tacos and the signature Carajillo cocktail.
Best for: A fun night out with friends or date night vibes.
4. Tall Trees Café – Ferndale
Tall Trees Café brings creative sandwiches and cozy vibes to Ferndale. This petite, wood-accented shop is already drawing lines for its thoughtful combinations, like the spicy mortadella with bomba calabrese and the Clong, a thick-cut turkey sandwich with herby mayo, pickled shallots, and roasted tomato on focaccia. Seasonal soups and salads round out the menu, making it a perfect stop for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Must-try: Spicy mortadella sandwich.
Best for: A casual, flavorful lunch.
5. Witch Topokki – Madison Heights
Witch Topokki brings the spicy, comforting flavors of Korean street food to Madison Heights in a colorful, modern space. Their specialty is topokki (also spelled tteokbokki), a beloved Korean dish of chewy rice cakes simmered in a rich, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce. Diners can customize their bowls with add-ins like ramen, fish cakes, cheese, and more. The playful interior and casual vibe make it a great spot for a quick, flavorful meal that’s a little out of the ordinary.
Must-try: Classic spicy topokki with cheese and ramen add-ons.
Best for: Comfort food with a kick.
6. Jinya Ramen Bar – Royal Oak
The popular California-based chain made its Michigan debut, serving rich tonkotsu and spicy miso ramen in a bustling, modern space. Ideal for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, Jinya delivers warm, comforting bowls of flavor that have already won over Royal Oak locals.
Must-try: Spicy miso ramen or the vegan ramen for plant-based diners.
Best for: Comfort food on a chilly evening.
7. Soraya – Downtown Detroit
Located in the historic Federal Reserve building, Soraya offers a polished, modern sushi experience in an elegant downtown setting. The rolls are fresh, creative, and beautifully presented It’s perfect for business lunches, pre-theater dinners, or a refined evening out.
Must-try: Chef’s signature roll and the shrimp tempura roll.
Best for: Sushi connoisseurs and stylish nights out.
8. Bar Pigalle – Brush Park
Though it opened a few years ago, Bar Pigalle remains one of the city’s most talked-about spots. With its romantic, Parisian-inspired design and a modern French menu, it’s perfect for special occasions or a chic night out. It’s honestly one of my favorite places to go when I want to make sure I have a top-tier experience. You truly can’t go wrong here.
Must-try: Duck breast with seasonal accompaniments.
Best for: Date nights and intimate dinners.
9. Olin – Downtown Detroit
Mediterranean flavors shine at Olin, where the menu balances small plates, fresh pastas, and standout entrees in a cozy, historic setting. The wine list and desserts (olive oil cake, anyone?) seal the deal.
Must-try: Moroccan-spiced lamb chops.
Best for: A romantic evening or stylish dinner.
10. Freya – Milwaukee Junction
This intimate, tasting-menu-only spot continues to impress with hyper-seasonal dishes that change often but always highlight Michigan’s best ingredients. The elegant, low-key vibe makes it ideal for special nights.
Must-try: Go with the tasting menu and trust the chef.
Best for: Foodies who love being surprised.
Honorable Mentions:
- Supergeil – Corktown, playful German-inspired street food.
- Saffron de Twah – Modern Moroccan, reimagined dine-in.
Final Thoughts
Metro Detroit’s dining scene is thriving, and these ten spots showcase just how creative, diverse, and delicious our city has become. From brand-new openings to innovative, standing favorites, there’s something for every palate.
Where will you make your reservation first? Comment below with some newer spots that I may have missed
Happy Dining~
Lence in Layers 