Detroit, Michigan, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Detroit-style food is a unique blend of traditional American comfort food, European influences, and Midwestern flavors, shaped by the city’s diverse immigrant heritage and its role as a major industrial center. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Detroit-style food, exploring its history, signature dishes, and the restaurants that make it all possible.
A Brief History of Detroit-Style Food
Detroit’s culinary scene has been shaped by the city’s history as a major immigration hub. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, immigrants from Europe, particularly Italy, Greece, and Eastern Europe, flocked to Detroit in search of work in the city’s booming manufacturing industry. These immigrants brought with them their own culinary traditions, which eventually blended with American comfort food to create a unique Detroit-style cuisine.
One of the most significant influences on Detroit-style food was the city’s Italian-American community. Italian immigrants brought their love of pasta, pizza, and other Italian dishes to Detroit, where they adapted them to local tastes and ingredients. The result was a distinctive Detroit-style pizza, characterized by a square shape, thick crust, and gooey cheese.
The Rise of Detroit-Style Pizza
Detroit-style pizza is perhaps the city’s most famous culinary export. This square-shaped pizza is cooked in a well-oiled pan and topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni. The crust is crispy on the bottom and chewy on the inside, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The origins of Detroit-style pizza are attributed to Buddy’s Restaurant, a Detroit institution that has been serving up square pies since 1946. Buddy’s pizza is cooked in a well-oiled pan and topped with a blend of mozzarella and Wisconsin brick cheese, which gives it a distinctive flavor and texture.
Other Detroit-Style Pizza Joints
While Buddy’s is the most famous Detroit-style pizza joint, there are many other great places to try this delicious dish. Some other notable Detroit-style pizza restaurants include:
- Lou Malnati’s: This Chicago-based chain has a location in Detroit and serves up a classic Detroit-style pizza with a buttery crust and gooey cheese.
- Green Lantern: This Detroit restaurant has been serving up square pies since 1955 and is known for its crispy crust and flavorful sauce.
Other Detroit-Style Dishes
While pizza is perhaps the most famous Detroit-style dish, there are many other delicious foods to try in the city. Some other notable Detroit-style dishes include:
Coney Islands
Detroit is home to a unique culinary institution known as the Coney Island. These small restaurants serve up classic American comfort food, including hot dogs, burgers, and fries. However, the most famous Coney Island dish is the chili dog, which consists of a hot dog topped with chili, onions, and mustard.
The two most famous Coney Islands in Detroit are American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island, both of which have been serving up chili dogs since the early 20th century. These restaurants are located next door to each other in downtown Detroit and have been the subject of a long-standing rivalry.
The Coney Island Rivalry
The rivalry between American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island is the stuff of legend. Both restaurants claim to be the original Coney Island, and both have their own loyal followings. However, the rivalry is largely friendly, and both restaurants are worth visiting for their delicious chili dogs and nostalgic atmosphere.
Other Detroit-Style Dishes
Some other notable Detroit-style dishes include:
- Pasties: These meat-filled pastries are a staple of Detroit’s Upper Peninsula community. They are typically filled with ground beef, pork, and vegetables, and are served with a side of ketchup or gravy.
- Smoked Fish: Detroit is located on the Great Lakes, and as such, it has a long tradition of smoking fish. Smoked whitefish is a particular specialty of the city, and can be found on menus throughout the area.
Detroit’s Food Scene Today
Detroit’s food scene is thriving, with a wide range of restaurants serving up everything from traditional Detroit-style cuisine to modern fusion dishes. Some notable restaurants in the city include:
The Whitney
The Whitney is a historic mansion-turned-restaurant that serves up classic American cuisine with a Detroit twist. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and creative dishes, such as its famous “Thanksgiving dinner” sandwich.
Roast
Roast is a modern American restaurant located in the heart of downtown Detroit. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes, such as its famous “roast beef sandwich,” which features slow-roasted beef served on a crispy baguette.
Conclusion
Detroit-style food is a unique and delicious blend of traditional American comfort food, European influences, and Midwestern flavors. From its famous square pizza to its Coney Islands and pasties, Detroit has a culinary scene that is not to be missed. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a taste of the Motor City, Detroit-style food is sure to satisfy your cravings.
| Restaurant | Dish | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Buddy’s Restaurant | Square Pizza | $15-$20 |
| American Coney Island | Chili Dog | $5-$10 |
| The Whitney | Thanksgiving Dinner Sandwich | $15-$20 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on location and availability of ingredients.
What is Detroit-style food?
Detroit-style food is a unique and flavorful culinary scene that originated in the Motor City. It is characterized by a blend of traditional American comfort food, Eastern European influences, and Midwestern sensibilities. Detroit-style food is known for its hearty portions, rich flavors, and creative twists on classic dishes.
From classic Coney Islands to soul food joints, Detroit-style food is all about bold flavors and satisfying portions. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a plate of crispy fried chicken, or a square slice of pizza, Detroit-style food has something for everyone. With its rich history and cultural influences, Detroit-style food is a true reflection of the city’s diverse and vibrant community.
What are some popular Detroit-style dishes?
Some popular Detroit-style dishes include the classic Coney dog, a juicy hot dog topped with chili, onions, and mustard, served on a steamed bun. Another favorite is the square pizza, a thick-crusted, cheesy delight that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. Detroit-style soul food is also a staple, with popular dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese.
Other popular Detroit-style dishes include the famous Buddy’s Pizza, a square-cut, crispy-crusted pizza that’s topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni. The city is also known for its Middle Eastern cuisine, with popular dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, Detroit-style food has something for everyone.
What is a Coney Island in Detroit?
A Coney Island in Detroit is a type of restaurant that serves classic American comfort food, including hot dogs, burgers, and fries. These restaurants are typically small, casual eateries that are open late and serve a variety of tasty and affordable dishes. Coney Islands are a staple of Detroit’s culinary scene and are often family-owned and operated.
In Detroit, Coney Islands are known for their classic Coney dogs, which are topped with chili, onions, and mustard. They also serve a variety of other dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Many Coney Islands in Detroit are open 24 hours a day, making them a popular destination for late-night diners and partygoers.
What is the history of Detroit-style pizza?
Detroit-style pizza has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s, when Buddy’s Restaurant first introduced the square-cut, crispy-crusted pizza that would become a staple of the city’s culinary scene. The original Buddy’s Pizza was opened by Gus Guerra and Connie Piccinato, who developed the recipe for the square pizza that would become a classic Detroit dish.
Over the years, Detroit-style pizza has evolved and spread throughout the city, with many restaurants and pizzerias offering their own versions of the classic dish. Today, Detroit-style pizza is known for its thick crust, gooey cheese, and crispy edges, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
What are some popular Detroit-style desserts?
Some popular Detroit-style desserts include the classic Boston cream pie, a rich and creamy dessert that consists of two layers of sponge cake filled with a creamy custard and topped with a layer of chocolate. Another favorite is the paczki, a deep-fried Polish doughnut that’s typically filled with jam or cream.
Detroit is also known for its classic American desserts, including apple pie, cheesecake, and chocolate chip cookies. Many of the city’s bakeries and cafes offer a variety of sweet treats, including cakes, pastries, and ice cream. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, Detroit-style desserts have something for everyone.
Where can I try Detroit-style food?
There are many great places to try Detroit-style food, both in the city and beyond. In Detroit, some popular destinations include Buddy’s Pizza, American Coney Island, and Lafayette Coney Island. These restaurants offer a variety of classic Detroit-style dishes, including Coney dogs, square pizza, and soul food.
Outside of Detroit, many restaurants and pizzerias offer their own versions of Detroit-style food. You can also try making Detroit-style dishes at home, using recipes and ingredients that are readily available online and in cookbooks. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, there are many great places to try Detroit-style food.
Is Detroit-style food spicy?
Detroit-style food is not typically known for being spicy, although some dishes may have a bit of heat. The city’s culinary scene is more focused on rich, comforting flavors and hearty portions, rather than spicy or bold flavors. That being said, some Detroit-style dishes may include spicy ingredients, such as hot sauce or chili peppers.
If you’re sensitive to spice, you may want to ask for mild or non-spicy options when ordering Detroit-style food. Many restaurants and cafes offer a variety of flavor options, including mild and spicy versions of popular dishes. Additionally, you can always ask for hot sauce or other spicy condiments on the side, if you prefer a bit of heat with your meal.