Mexican Village

 2600 N Bagley
Detroit, MI

 313-237-0333

http://www.mexicanvillagefood.com/index.html

In Mexicantown (yes, it is called Mexicantown) area of Detroit, everyone seems to have their favorite restaurant, specifically the three that are located at the corner of 23rd Street and Bagley.  One of my favorite restaurants is Mexican Village.  Like most of the popular Mexican restaurants in Mexicatown, Mexican Village predominantly features Tex-Mex fair.

 Mexican Village claims to be the original Mexican restaurant in southeast Detroit. It is located on the east side of the Fisher Freeway (I-96/I-75) on the eastern edge of Mexicantown and is about 1 mile from the central Mexicantown area..

I have been going to Mexican Village for about 40 years and it was probably one of the first  Mexican restaurants I visited including the old Old Mexico restaurant on Grand River east of Telegraph.  Over the years, I found Mexican Village to be very consistent in their food and service whether it is during dinner on weekends or for lunch during the week.  

I usually order and enjoy the  Enchiladas Suizas, Enchiladas Rancheras, Trio Enchiladas or the Arizonian (Beef Chimichanga, Beef and Cheese Burrito, Flour Beef Taco, Beef and Cheese Enchilada, Rice and Beans).  Yes the Arizonian is a lot of food. :) 

Mexican Village offers a variety of domestic and Mexican beers as well as standard and frozen Margaritas.  They, in my opinion, have outstanding tortilla chips.  When we have an event at our house for family or friends, I will take a run down to Mexican Village and buy a box of their chips for snacks.  The box is $12 and contains 6 bags of tortilla chips.  They also sell their salsa by the pint.    

Mexican Village is located a half block west of the Honey Bee Market (see my previous post).  So grab some Mexican groceries at the Honey Bee and enjoy a meal at the Mexican Village.
 

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The Heidelberg Project - Revisited

 3600 Heidelberg St  Detroit, MI 48207

http://www.heidelberg.org/
 December 10, 2013

 Obstruction of Justice "OJ" House

I am not here to debate the positives or negatives of the Heidelberg Project, but if you ever wanted to see this work of art, you better plan on seeing it soon.  There are obviously factions in the Detroit area who don't want it around anymore.  The last three photos were taken in May the Sunday morning after the first fire that destroyed the "OJ" House.  

While I was taking photos around the Project that morning, I met a man who was also taking photos.  He asked me where I was from, I said 'Livonia', I sensed that he did not know where Livonia is located, so I asked him where he was from.  He said 'San Francisco'.  As it turns out two co-workers and him flew in the night before to attend a Tech Conference in the Detroit area.  One of his other co-worker suggested that the first thing they should do when arriving in Detroit was to see the Heidelberg.  He was impressed with the Project.

 

Rocky's at the Historic Eastern Market‎

2489 Russell Street

Detroit, MI 48207

(313) 567-6871

rockypeanut.com

 ‎

Rocky's is located on Russell Street directly across from the main Eastern Market Pavilions.  Rocky's has been a fixture of the Eastern Market since the '70's. and it's current location since the '80's.

Rocky's features a large variety of spices, nuts, beans and dried fruits both in bulk and smaller packages.  When I visit Rocky's I usually purchase unsalted blanched peanuts, cashews and a couple of containers of their granola.  

Rocky's also offers, for those with a sweet tooth, and extensive bulk candy area.  You buy the candy by the pound.and there has to be over 40 different varieties of candy.  Besides the standards like Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and mini 3 Musketeers and Mr. Goodbars, they also have classic Mary Janes, Slow Pokes and Black Cows. 

If you are going down to the Eastern Market for either the Pavilions or the Gratiot Central Market, stop by Rocky's and check out their nut and bulk products. 

Mudgie's Deli

1300 Porter Street Detroit, MI 48226

313-961-2000

http://www.mudgiesdeli.com/ 

Mudgie's is another fine establishment located in the Corktown area of Detroit.  Located on Porter Street about 1 block west of Most Holy Trinity Church, Mudgie's has been in business for about 5 years.  This part of Corktown has several blocks of nicely restored late 19th/early 20th century houses.  Drive around this neighborhood before or after visiting Mudgie's for a nice view of one of the better areas of Detroit.

The interior is a mix of early and mid 20th century decor.  Tables are 50's style and the chairs are classic Eames fiberglass.  


Mudgie's has an extensive menu that features locally products, including Better Made Potato chips and McClure's pickles.  Besides standard deli menu fare, they also offer a 'Comfort Food' Dinner Menu featuring standards like Roast Turkey and Meat Loaf.  On Sunday's Mudgie's has a brunch menu, I have not visited Mudgie's during brunch, but their entrees look interesting.

Among the items on their deli menu that I have sampled is the Lockwood and That's Jared (menu items have a local Detroit theme).  Both were very good.  Mudgie's is also know for their soup; I recently sampled their outstanding Cream of Pumpkin soup.  This year, Mudgie's has added beer & wine and have a very good selection of both including several local micro-brews.  You can't go wrong with a sandwich and a bottle of Atwater Dirty Blonde beer.

Since the Corktown area is a growing 'Go To' area of Detroit, Mudgie's fits in well with their atmosphere and great food and drinks.  I recommend visiting Mudgie's when one is going downtown for an event or if you have a knack for great deli fare (voted Best Deli in Wayne County for 3 straight years). 

Downtown Detroit's Coney Islands

 Lafayette and American Coney Islands

Lafayette Coney Island

 118 W Lafayette Blvd Detroit, MI  48226

American Coney Island 

114 W Lafayette Blvd Detroit, MI  48226

Coney Island restaurants are an institution around Detroit as there is probably not a single city in the Detroit area that does not have at least one.  The menus are very similar and offer American Greek food like Greek salads and Gyros.  However, the main menu attraction is the Coney Island Hot Dog which is a natural casing hot dog in a steamed bun dressed with meat chili (no beans), diced onions and yellow mustard.  You can also order various combinations of the main ingredients including ordering a coney without the hot dog.  This is called a Loose Burger which is similar to a Sloppy Joe but on a hot dog versus hamburger bun.  A standard order would be two coneys with 'Everything' and an order of french fries.  It is not uncommon to order a third coney for dessert :). 

 
The two Coney Islands featured in this post are the two original Coney Islands.  They are situated right next door to each other and have a common root, with the original restaurant, American, being established by Greek immigrant brothers Bill and Gus Keros in 1914. They got into a business dispute soon thereafter, and in 1917 split their restaurant into the two establishments that exist today.  I always got the impression that Lafayette was the original but apparently it was American.

Although they both feature Coney Islands, I believe American has a more extensive menu.  True coney island aficionados claim that the chili used at the two locations are different and that one features natural skin hot dogs with a crisper crunch then the other.  I myself can't tell the difference between the two coneys but again, I have never tried them back to back.  

Over the years, I have visited Lafayette Coney more frequently then American.  Mostly it is due to the more unique, old time atmosphere versus American's '60's/'70's decor.  Lafayette looks like it probably did in the '20's/'30's.  I usually order two with everything, fries and either a coke or a domestic beer.  Note that most other Coney Islands around the Detroit area do not sell beer, which makes these two locations unique. Depending on when you visit, part of the attraction of these two places is the clientele that frequents these establishments.

Because these two places are located in downtown Detroit, parking can be an issue depending on the time of day you visit.  Recently, buildings down the street from these places have been torn down and paid parking lots have been created.  Don't expect to be able to park in front of either of these two place and you will need to walk about 1 or 2 short blocks after you park your car.

If you want to sample some authentic Detroit delicacies, I highly recommend that you visit one of these fine establishments for the food as well as the atmosphere.

    

 

Dearborn Music

22501 Michigan Ave Dearborn, MI

(313) 561-1000

http://dearbornmusic.net/Home

Dearborn Music is a record store that has been in business since 1956.  Previously, until earlier this year, they were located at the corner of Mason and Michigan Avenue in West Dearborn in a 19th century building.  The current location is about 1 mile west of their old location in a strip mall.

Dearborn Music has been an institution in West Dearborn and to be still in business as an independent record store is a outstanding accomplishment.  The new location offers a much larger floor plan where they can expand their offerings of new and used CDs and LPs.  Dearborn Music also offers a great selection of Rock, Blues/Jazz & Indie genres T-Shirts and memorabilia. 

Besides in store sales, Dearborn Music also offers purchases through their website.  Since Dearborn Music is close by, I have been using only their in store service.  The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.  I have purchased several new LPs of new and old music to fill out my record collection I started in the early '70's.  If there is any type of music that is not currently in their inventory, Dearborn Music will special order it for you.

If you are an audiophile that likes to browse racks of new and used LPs & CDs, Dearborn Music is well worth a visit.  You just may find that piece of music to help complete your collection.

Howell's Bar

 1035 Mason St. Dearborn, MI

 313-565-6322

https://plus.google.com/100949536928311504513/about?gl=us&hl=en 

I have known of Howell's Bar for probably 5 decades, but the first time I visited Howell's was this week; August 1, 2013.  This is a brief review due to my limited, but enjoyable experience.

Howell's is located one block south of Michigan Avenue in downtown West Dearborn about 1 mile from Ford's Research and Engineering Center.  In bar vernacular, Howell's would be classified as a 'Dive' bar.  However, saying that, it is in very good shape, and has that cozy corner bar atmosphere.  I found that the help was very friendly and accommodating. 

Like Miller's down the street, Howell's offers a limited bar menu including fish dinners.  This week, I only sampled their cheese burger and fries.  I thought the burger was very good and the day I went, they only offered steak fries which I enjoyed.  The waitress/cook, it was not busy during the weekday lunch hour, said, when I ordered the burger medium, is that how she normally cooks the burgers.  So if you want a well done burger, you may have to be very specific.  The condiments were standard, like Miller's, although Howell's also offers fresh tomatoes.  

It does not appear like Howell's offers any different beers other then domestic and Canadian brands.  Although I would consider Howell's a dive bar, it was very clean and nothing was run down about it.  Plus for a bit of nostalgia, Howell's has a couple of wood phone booths in their back area.

Based on my first impression, I plan on visiting Howell's again in the coming months for a very good hamburger for lunch.

 

Miller's Bar

 23700 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI

 313-565-2577

http://www.millersbar.com/

Miller's Bar has been in business since 1941 and has been serving outstanding ground rounds for the last 50+ years or longer.  I first started going to Miller's back in 1973, the year I was eligible to legally purchase alcohol (drinking age was 18 in 1973).  Back then it was a right of passage for West Dearbornites to purchase a ground round, fries and a shell of beer while sitting at one of Miller's bar stools.

 During the week, it is not uncommon to find Ford employees having lunch at Miller's as it is about 2 miles from Ford's Research and Engineering Center in Dearborn.  As there website indicates, people from around the world have visited Miller's.  I myself, have introduced several South Korean's to Miller's finest cheeseburger.

Miller's offers several items on their menus, but the standard, as mentioned previously is a hamburger or cheese burger with fries.  In addition, one can select their baked beans.  Don't expect a plate as the burgers are served on waxed paper and the fries are served on a paper tray.  The condiments that Miller's offers is restricted to mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, raw onions and pickles.  Pretty basic fair compared to other burger bars around Detroit.  I have never sampled anything else on their menu beyond their burger, fries and beans.

The atmosphere is basic corner bar, someplace you would be comfortable bringing the family.  Since I have been visiting Miller's the decor has changed maybe twice, still it is very clean and well kept up.   The beer selection is standard domestic, I don't believe they offer any local craft beers.

Over the years, I find that their burger is very consistent and very  good.  I don't think there are may places that has offered a consistent product over the years like Miller's.  Miller's is also consistently voted one of the best bar burgers in the Detroit area every year.  

If you want a very good bar burger, Miller's is the place to visit.

 

Sweetest Heart of Mary Catholic Church

and

Sweetest Heart of Mary Pierogi Festival

 4440 Russell Street

Detroit, Mi 48207

 313-831-6659

 http://motherofdivinemercy.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweetest-Heart-of-Mary-Pierogi-Festival/116880695000667 

This post will be the first of several that will focus on the Roman Catholic Churches of Detroit.

Built in 1893, Sweetest Heart of Mary is a Roman Catholic Church founded by Polish immigrants.  Located just north of the Eastern Market, it is one of three Polish parishes within 3/4 of a mile stretch along Canfield.  The other two churches are St. Albertus located on St. Aubin, founded in 1885 and St. Josaphat located on Canfield and founded in 1889.  St. Josaphat is the church one sees will driving down I-75 towards downtown.  Driving by these churches, which are very large by today's standards, it is amazing that the local neighborhood back then could support these three churches, let alone that the were all built within an 8 year span.

The Sweetest Heart church is an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture.  The alter area is very beautiful with the usage of colors, statues and architectural details.  The stain glass is all original from the 19th century and is extremely detailed in the execution.  Unfortunately, I do not have a good photo example. 

Sweetest Heart has two masses during the weekend, Saturday's at 4:00 pm and Sunday's at 10:00 AM.  If we are going to Detroit for a Saturday night event, we usually attend the 4:00 PM mass. 

Sweetest Heart is also know for their food, specifically pierogi's.  The parishioners make pierogi's on a monthly basis and sell them by the 1/2 dozen after both masses.  The profits from the pierogi sales help support the church.  We have purchased several dozen pierogis over the last couple of years and they are highly recommended.

Once a year, the parishioners of Sweetest Heart have a yearly Pierogi Festival.  Like the weekly pierogi sales, the festival helps support the church.  It is usually the second weekend in August.  This year, 2013, it will be during the weekend of August 10th - 11th.  Held on the grounds of the church, the festival offers Polish dinners including kielbasa, pierogis, golabki and potato pancakes. They also serve a dinner featuring only their pierogis.  Besides the excellent food, the festival features Polish dancers, Polka bands and plenty of beer.  We went for the first time last year and really enjoyed the event.

If one wants to experience one of the most beautiful churches in the Detroit area and enjoy some outstanding food, I highly recommend visiting Sweetest Heart of Mary during their Pierogi Festival.
 

     

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Slow's BBQ

 2138 Michigan Ave  Detroit, MI 48216

 (313) 962-9828

http://slowsbarbq.com/ 

I've waited on posting a review of Slow's since I wanted to first post some lesser known establishments around the Detroit area.  Slow's has been open since 2005 and I first started frequenting it about 5 years ago.  A running joke that I had was I went to Slow's five times and have eaten there twice.  Early on, if you tried to eat dinner during the peak hours of a Friday or Saturday night, one would expect a 1.5 to 2 hour wait.  Recently, Slow's expanded their dining area and the wait is a lot less then previous years, usually around 30 to 45 minutes.  If one goes during off peak hours or on a week night, assuming no major concert or sporting event, one can be seated quickly.  If you are in a waiting situation, you can always sample a beverage at one of their two bars (several Michigan micro brews are available) or go next store and have a custom made cocktail at the Sugar House.

Over the years, I have sampled several items on Slow's menu including Hoppin' Jack, Jambalaya, Carolina Style Pulled Pork and their Texas Style Beef Brisket.  One can't go wrong with anything on their menu, but I generally lean toward the brisket.  Another item I recommend is their Yardbird sandwich.  It features pulled smoked Amish chicken and apple wood bacon, a very good change of pace from the typical ground round.  

 

Slow's offer several sides either available with an entree or separately.  I like their cole slaw and baked beans and usually one or the other of two sides choices with an entree.  However the second side is always their Mac-N-Cheese.  It is simply outstanding. 

 

There are a few other BBQ places around the Detroit area, but in my opinion, don't compare to Slow's.  If you are in the mood for BBQ, one can't go wrong with sampling Slow's fare.

  

"The Fist"

Monument to Joe Louis

At Woodward Avenue and Jefferson

Detroit, MI

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monument_to_Joe_Louis

Most cities around the world have statues of various founding fathers, dignitaries or war heroes.  Detroit has those type of memorials also.  What Detroit has that no other city has that I am aware of is a monument of a man's arm and fist.  It is not just anyone's arm and fist, it represents Joe Louis', Boxing's longest running Heavyweight Champion from 1937 to 1949.  

Although not born in Detroit, Joe Louis moved with his family to Detroit when he was 12 in 1926 during the Great Migration from the South.  He made his amateur boxing debut at age 17 and his record as an amateur was 50-4 with 43 knockouts.

Joe Louis turned pro and compiled a 69-3 record with 57 knockouts over his career.  The two major bouts of his career was against Max Schmeling during the late '30's.  At the time, Schmeling represented Nazi Germany while Louis represented the U.S.  The two bouts took place just prior to WWII in 1936 & 1938 and had social/political implications between the two nations.  Schmeling won the first bout and Louis the second after only 2 minutes and 40 seconds of the first round.  This second win presented a major propaganda victory for the United States and African Americans at the time. Without going into additional detail in this post, one can review Joe Louis' life and career at  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Louis .

The monument was erected back in 1986 and was commissioned by Sports Illustrated magazine.  Besides paying homage to Joe Louis, the 8,000 lb., 26 foot long sculpture, over the years, has also been a symbol of Detroit's pride and defiance.

The statue is best viewed early in the morning on weekends as both Jefferson and Woodward are the two major streets in Detroit and are quite busy during the week.  As an example, the photo above was taken around 10:00 AM on a Sunday morning.  Also, viewing during the weekend mornings allows one to park close by and walk to the statue.  Although not a major attraction in Detroit, it is still an interesting art form worth seeing. 

 

Motz's Burgers

 7208 West Fort Street

Detroit, MI
313-843-9186

http://www.motzs.com/Home.html

 Motz's Burgers Facebook

 

Motz's is located on Fort Street in Detroit about 1.5 miles east of the Ford Rouge complex.  Motz's is a family run business since 1929 and based on that it is one of the original slider establishments in the Detroit area.  

Like most slider establishments, there menu is pretty basic.  Hamburgers, Cheese Burgers, specialty Big Burgers, Fish Fry Flounder and Fried Shrimp dinners.  They also offer hot dogs and coney islands as well as fires, fried mushrooms and onion rings.  Beverages include coke products and coffee as well as vanilla and chocolate shakes.

I have only had the chance to eat at this establishment once, but I was very impressed with their sliders and fries.  They have a lunch deal where they offer two sliders, an order of fries and a pop for $5.00.  It's $6.00 if you want cheese with your sliders.  That's a pretty good deal considering their sliders are on the large size, over twice the size of a White Castle.

I found the servers, as well as the patrons, to be very friendly and accommodating.  While I was there for lunch, I had a lively conversation with one of the waitresses.  We were comparing notes on other slider establishments as well as discussing Motz's recent review on the PBS 'Under the Radar - Michigan' TV show.

I plan on returning to Motz's frequently this summer, both to sample their fine hamburgers as well as experience their friendly waitstaff.

 

 

Bates Hamburgers

 33405 5 Mile Road

Livonia, MI 48154

 734-427-3464

http://www.batesburgers.com/ 

The next two posts will focus on a couple of  locations that specialize in the classic hamburger 'Slider' . 

Bates Hamburgers is family owned and has been located at the 'Downtown' intersection of Livonia (5 Mile and Farmington) since 1959.  They also have a location on Middlebelt south of 9 Mile in Farmington Hills.

I have been going to Bates since moving to Livonia back in '86.  As the photo above shows, Bates Hamburgers has the classic hamburger grille restaurant architecture similar to the old White Castles.  Although they offer a breakfast menu, and judging by weekend morning drive bys, they have a  brisk morning business, Bates menu is basic hamburger fare.  In fact all of the main food groups are represented; hamburgers, cheese burgers, chili burgers, hot dogs and coney islands.    They also offer french fries (crinkle cut), soups of the day and soft drinks and chocolate shakes.

Our favorite menu items are the double cheeseburgers, the fries and chocolate shake.  The double hamburger helps equalize the bread to meat ratio.  Of course, one must include the grilled onions.  The other menu item we purchase frequently are the coney islands.  They are very good and on Wednesdays, Coney Day, they are only $1.15.  

As one can see when reviewing the menu, Bates offers an economical meal that tastes great.  Bates offers both inside dining and carryout.  The inside dining features a lunch counter atmosphere.  Carryouts are ordered and picked up in a small enclosed area adjacent to the main diner.  It is suggested that for carryouts, you pre-order over the phone as the carryout area can get quite cramped with people placing and awaiting for their carryouts.

If you are in the Livonia area and are hankering for a slider and fries, give Bates Hamburgers a try.

 

 

Detroit Eastern Market

Part One

http://www.detroiteasternmarket.com/ 

For those who are not familiar with the Eastern Market, it is a historic commercial district located just east of downtown Detroit.  The Eastern Market has been in it's current location since the 1850's.  The main section of the market contains both open and enclosed pavilions where regional farmers, butchers and budding product entrepreneurs can sell their products.  As a side note, Detroit also had a Central and Western Market, however, both have been closed for several decades.

 

The pavilions are open year round, but are most active during the spring through fall months on Saturdays. Besides the pavilions, there are several restaurants, bars, butcher shops, fish markets and special product stores in the general walking distance area.  One can spend several hours exploring the Eastern Market and discovering interesting sites and things to purchase.  Visit the Eastern Market website to view their calendar of events. 

 

This post is part one of several future posts focusing on the Eastern Market area.  Note that one of my earlier posts was on Supino's Pizza which is located on the western edge of the market.  I will provide more Eastern Market stores/shops/attractions in future posts.  Here are my first two local Eastern Market attractions.

 

Signal - Return

 1345 Division St.

 Detroit, MI 48207 

 (313) 567-8970

http://www.signalreturnpress.org/ 

 

 

 

Signal Return is a printing shop that offers, to anyone interested, workshops for the learning of printing and typography methods.  After completing two of their classes one has the opportunity to enroll in open studio time at Signal Return and start work on your own printing projects; business cards, posters, invitations, etc.  

 

When I visit the Eastern Market, I often walk over to Signal Return to see what type of printed material they have for sale.  Several of the available printed artwork has a Detroit theme to it and in my opinion, they are very well done.  I especially like their Eastern Market and Masonic Temple posters.  This past Saturday, when I last visited, they had for sale a cool poster featuring the early '60's Detroit Tiger head logo.  Over the last several months, I have purchased various Detroit themed post cards and coasters from Signal Return that I have framed and displayed in my man cave.

 

If one is visiting the Eastern Market, take a stroll over to Signal Return on Division Street.  One may find something of interest to purchase or even be enticed into signing up for one of their workshop classes.

 

 The Detroit Mercantile Company

3434 Russell Street

Detroit, MI 

(313) 831 - 9000

https://www.facebook.com/TheDetroitMercantileCo

 

 

 

Detroit Mercantile Company is a store on the northern edge of the Eastern Market that specializes in products about or made in Detroit.  DMC offers apparel, t-shirts, artwork, food products for sale from local companies such as Carhartt, Detroit Denim, and Better Made Potato Chips :).  

 

I liked their large variety of photo books that feature the architecture of Detroit as well as Detroit history.  Detroit Mercantile has a good selection of locally themed t-shirts and outer ware some which include the logos of the early 20th century Detroit breweries and the old Tiger Stadium/Briggs Stadium/Navin Field.  I'm going to need to buy an Auto City Brewing Company t-shirt.  While I was there, I had to pick up some of their line of vintage Detroit postcards. 

 

Saturday was the first time my wife and I visited Detroit Mercantile Company and it won't be our last as we plan to return in the near future to purchase more of their products.  The Detroit Mercantile Company is a short walk up Russell from the Eastern Market pavilions.  I recommend visiting DMC and looking over their Detroit themed products.  You may just find something that perks your interest. 

  

 

 

 

The Centaur

2233 Park Ave.

Detroit, MI   48201
313-963-4040

 http://www.centaurbar.com/welcome.html

The Centaur is a martini bar that is located behind (west of Woodward) the Fox Theater.  It is a short walking distance from, besides the Fox, the Fillmore, Cliff Bell's, Comerica Park and Ford Field.  

Although they have an appetizer menu, I have yet to sample their food.  Their menu looks interesting, especially their bacon wrapped dates.

What has brought my wife and me back to the Centaur are their martinis.  The Centaur offers a varied menu of martinis that changes on a seasonal basis.   One of my favorites is their Detroiter which features besides vanilla vodka and spiced rum, the best ginger ale in the world, Vernor's.  My wife loves their Lemon Meringue and Dirty Girl Scout martinis.  

I recommend Centaur as a place to grab a drink either before or after a concert or sporting event, or just for the sake of sampling their fine martinis.

Motor City Brewing Works

 470 West Canfield

Detroit, MI  48201

 http://www.motorcitybeer.com

Not one of my better photos, too much shadow from the adjacent building

The Motor City Brewing Works is located in the Mid-Town area of Detroit around the Wayne State campus, just off of Second Street on West Canfield.  The MCBW is actually located adjacent to the parking lot that services the Traffic Jam and Snug so be forewarned that there is limited parking available in front the brewery although there is additional parking one street over.

 

I have frequented Motor City Brewing about 4 times over the last couple of years and always enjoyed my experience, the last being about 3 weeks ago.  The times I have attended I sampled both their Pale Ale and Ghettoblaster products.  Both of which I found to have very good flavor.  In fact, Ghettoblaster is now one of the ingredients featured in my homemade chili.:).  Motor City also provides craft beer for the Greenfield Village in Dearborn of which I have sampled their Steam Station beer while visiting the Village.  If you review Motor City's web site, they offer several types of beers, wines, ciders and sodas (pops); several of their products are seasonal however. 

 

When the outdoor temperature allows, MCBW features a second floor outdoor sitting area.  I have not experienced sitting in this area yet, but plan on it this summer.  Great opportunity to sample Motor City Brewing Works finest beer and take in the sounds and smell of downtown Detroit.

 

Like several craft breweries around Detroit, Motor City Brewing Works features a limited menu featuring appetizers and pizza.  The pizza is a 10" round individual size and I found it to be very tasty and on par with the type of pizza Supino's (see earlier post) serves.  A pint or two of their beer and a pizza make a great meal.

 

The decor is recycled industrial and features a U shaped stone bar.  Although the bar counter is stone, it has that wrought, as cast, iron look to it.  I find the decor of MCBW to be very cool in an urban rustic way.

If you are in the Wayne State/Midtown area for an event or want to sample a craft beer before a Tiger or Lion's game, Motor City Brewing Works is a recommended stop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hermann's Olde Town Grille

195 W. Liberty Street 

Plymouth MI 48170
 http://hermannsotg.comI

Hermann's Olde Towne Grille is located about 2 store fronts down from the Liberty Street Brewery.  It is at the corner of W. Liberty and Starkweather Streets in the Old Village area of Plymouth.   Hermann's offers a great variety of bar food; burgers, sandwiches, salads and a very good pizza. We usually visit on either Friday or Saturday nights, and typically there is a 15 minute wait or more for seating.  

During the late spring to early fall, Hermann's offers outdoor seating along Starkweather Street. Eating outdoors is a nice feature, but the interior has an interesting decor to experience including a very large moose head above the bar.  With several TV's located through out the bar, Hermann's is a great place to watch the local college or pro team compete.  My wife and I with friends have frequented Hermann's several times to watch a Saturday night Red Wings game.  Just a word of warning for you MSU fans, Hermann's has a slight slant towards U of M. 

As mentioned earlier, Hermann's menus is quite extensive and one should have no issue with finding something they would enjoy.  For a bar pizza, Hermann's version is outstanding.  Their sandwiches and wraps are also very good. Hermann's bar also features a large variety of beers including Michigan beers like Bell's and Founder's.

We usually frequent Hermann's about once a month and have never been disappointed with their food or service.  It is not uncommon for us to start an early Friday evening at the Liberty Street Brewery, have a few pints, and then grab a bite to eat at Hermann's. 

As Plymouth, MI is known for their active downtown bar scene, you will not go wrong with traveling a little North to the Plymouth Old Village area and experiencing both the Liberty Street Brewery and Hermann's Olde Town Grille.

Liberty Street Brewing Company

149 W. Liberty Street

Plymouth, MI  48170

http://libertystreetbeer.com/

The Liberty Street Brewing Company is in located the historic Old Village area of Plymouth, MI.  They have been in operation since 2008 and is one of the first brew pubs that I have frequented having been introduced to Liberty by my brother and sister-in-law.  

The Liberty Street features at any one time several craft beers and hard ciders on tap.  One of their standard beers is their Liberty Belle Blonde Ale which I tend to sample frequently and consider it outstanding.  They usually offer either a blueberry or cherry cider (featuring Michigan cherries).  My wife and I really like these ciders and typically purchase a growler of cider to serve at home during the holidays or when we have visitors.  Reviewing their online menu which features their current on tap beers one can probably identify a brew to their liking.

Liberty Street features a limited appetizer menu.  The deal on this menu is their $1.00 popcorn. Liberty Street does allow food from nearby establishments to be delivered; they have a variety of menus from local establishments for you to choose from if you are interested in eating while sampling their beers.    

The interior is finished in natural finished woods and brass.  The brewing area is located in the front of the brewery located behind glass walls.  The bar is Z shaped and the seating is somewhat limited on the first floor.  However, they do have a small patio area in the back and the second floor can handle 70 people for either overflow or can be reserved for special parties.  Overall it's a great atmosphere to sample Liberty's products.

The cool thing about the Liberty is that it is located on a street that has that turn of the 19th Century look.  One feels like they are going back in time when walking down Liberty Street.  If you frequent the western suburbs of Detroit, the Liberty Street Brewing Company is a recommended stop.

Mason's Bar and Grille

13490 Farmington Road

Livonia, MI

http://www.masonsbarandgrill.com/

Mason's is the first location outside of the City of Detroit that I will be writing about.  I have been going to Mason's since 1976.  It is located on the northern edge of the Livonia industrial corridor that cuts through, east to west, the center of Livonia.

There are several burger bars in the Detroit area and Mason's is among my top 6.  Although they have a fairly extensive menus of snacks, appetizers, sandwiches and salads, their main attraction and what they have been known for is their burger. 

By being located in this industrial park area, Mason's has a very unique interior motif.  Livonia's industrial park, during the '60's - '90's, was the location of several small, medium and large companies including several that supported or were run by the Detroit 3.  Displayed in Mason's are several hundred company signs/logos of these companies.  Some of the companies are still in business, others like the one I worked for back in '76, are long gone.  This is your typical blue collar oasis, although not in a roughneck sort of way.  It is not uncommon to see families, sport teams and old friends hanging out at this establishment.

Mason's offer a good variety of cheese and toppings to customize your burger to suit your tastes.  The hamburgers they grille are consistently good; just don't expect gourmet dining as the hamburgers are served on paper plates. :)

If you are looking for a outstanding bar burger in the Livonia area, I highly recommend sampling the burgers at Mason's. 

Honey Bee Market

2443 Bagley Ave.

Detroit, MI 48216

 http://www.honeybeemkt.com/

I 'discovered' the Honey Bee Market about 5 years ago while working with a warehouse on Fort Street.  The market is a medium sized grocery store that focuses on foods and delicacies of Mexico.  It is located on the eastern edge of Mexicantown just south of the Michigan Central Station.

The Honey Bee offers a full compliment of fresh produce (including cactus), canned goods, dairy products (they sell 5 lb bricks of Muenster cheese!), meats, sauces and baked goods.  In addition, they sell several products that are popular in Mexico including Gansito brand cake treats; think Twinkies with cream and strawberry filling covered in chocolate.  Most of the major Mexican beer brands, Sol, Modelo, Pacifico, Dos Equis and Corona are available for purchase.  Another product that they sell is cane sugar pops (sodas); Mexican brands as well as Coke, Fanta and Faygo.  Yes, you can taste the difference.

When I make my ever evolving Chilli recipe, I visit the Honey Bee for several of the chilli's ingredients including their homemade chorizo.  In addition, when we have guests over for a get together or party, we usually swing by the Honey Bee to purchase their outstanding guacamole, salsa and fresh made tortilla chips.  While we are at it, we also purchase a variety of Mexican beers that they offer.

The store is exceptionally clean and the staff is friendly and helpful.  If you are in the Mexicantown area for a visit to one of the several restaurants, swing by the Honey Bee Market and see what they have to offer.  They are open from 8 to 8 Monday through Saturday; 8 to 6 on Sunday.  You will not be disappointed.

 

 Town Pump Tavern

100 W. Montcalm

Detroit, MI  48201

(313) 961-1929

http://www.thetownpumptavern.com/TownPump/Welcome.html

 

The Town Pump Tavern is located on Montcalm street one block west of Woodward behind the Fox Theater.   With the ivy covered front facade, the Town Pump is one of the coolest looking bars in downtown Detroit.  The Tavern has a good selection of burgers, sandwiches and their specialty; hand tossed pizza.  They also feature18 beers on tap, which include several Michigan craft beers.  So far I have eaten here just once; I sampled their Hipster pizza and my wife enjoyed the Cowboy Chicken sandwich.  

The Town Pump Tavern is located within walking distance to the Fox, the Fillmore, Comerica Park and Ford Field, so it is a favorite locale prior to or after a concert or sporting event.  We visited on a Saturday evening and it was very packed with Red Wing fans prior to a Joe Louis home game.

Although I have only visited once, I plan on returning for a chance to sample several of their menu items.

Just a note; the immediate area just west and north of the Fox & Comerica Park has several establishments that I will write about in future posts.