18 incredible black-owned restaurants in Detroit you should know about

By Metro Times editorial staff on Wed, Feb 24, 2016 at 8:30 pm

National stories about Detroit's emerging restaurant scene are exciting and all, but those of us who live here know that Motown has a rich history in food and drink. It goes far beyond the trendy new cocktail bars and small plate eateries that have been heavily promoted as of late. Specifically, black-owned bars, restaurants, and other businesses have played an integral role in Detroit life, long before the city became a so-called food mecca. While we know we are only giving a small glimpse of the popular spots around town, we hope this slideshow offers some ideas of places - old and new - that you'll want to check out, stat.

Know a place we should add to our list? Let us know in the Comments or shoot us an email at [email protected].

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Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles, 19345 Livernois Ave.
This popular eatery, founded by former NFL player Ron Bartell, will satisfy your breakfast and soul food cravings day or night. (Photo by Dontae Rockymore)

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The Block, 3919 Woodward Ave.
This gastro pub-style establishment launched last fall under the ownership of George Stewart and Michael Byrd, who also own the Garden Theater. It's a more casual setting than its short-lived predecessor, Midtown Grille, with gourmet chicken wings, burgers, and other bar snacks among its menu offerings.

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Floods Bar and Grille, 731 St. Antoine
This downtown establishment, owned by the same Byrd family behind The Block in Midtown, has been serving up soul food, drinks, and live entertainment for almost 30 years. (Photo via Instagram user @kanitaunique)

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Cutter's Bar and Grille, 2638 Orleans
Situated in the Eastern Market area, Chuck Nolen's Cutter's is famous for its old school burgers and its chic yet laid back, urban atmosphere. (Photo via Instagram, @cutterseasternmarket)

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The Bridge, 6730 E Jefferson Ave.
This relatively newer, swanky spot opened was launched last year by Alicia Strong and Zamarr Woods. The place adds a bright spot on an otherwise meh stretch of East Jefferson. Drink specials are plentiful, the New American menu is approachable, oh and Sunday brunch. (Photo by Jenna Belevender)

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Sweet Soul Bistro, 13741 W. McNichols
This westside bar and restaurant has a cool, loungey feel and an elevated menu of bar food with hints of Motown inspiration. (Photo by James Brown)

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Sweet Potato Sensations, 17337 Lahser Road
Cassandra and Jeffrey Thomas have been preparing all manner of sweet potato treats for almost three decades including, single-serving-sized pies, belgian sweet potato waffles with chicken wings, even ice cream. (Photo via Instagram, @sweetpotatosensations)

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Detroit Vegan Soul, 8029 Agnes St.
Marrying two otherwise conflicting culinary styles, this popular West Village spot manages to retain that hearty flavor found in most soul food, sans lard. (Photo via Instagram, @detroitvegansoul)

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Central Kitchen and Bar, 660 Woodward Ave. #4a
This scaled-up gastro-pub, co-owned by Dennis Archer Jr., is your happy medium in downtown dining. Not too pretentious, not too divey, you're guaranteed unique burgers, giant salads, and fun, fruity cocktails. (Photo via Instagram, @centralkitchenandbar)

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House of Pure Vin wine shop, 1443 Woodward Ave.
Not a restaurant per say, but still a great place to pick up a bottle of vino downtown or indulge in regular wine tastings. Opened toward the end of 2015, founders Regina Gaines, Terry Mullins and Andrea Dunbar have introduced a high-end wine shop in the heart of downtown. (Photo by Dontae Rockymore)

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Cafe D'Mongo's Speakeasy, 1439 Griswold St.
Founded by Larry Mongo long before the screeches of Gilbert-back construction crews took over downtown, this Friday and Saturday-only bar and restaurant is considered the great connector - attracting folks from all walks who just want to have a good time. (Photo via Facebook, Cafe D'Mongo)

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Detroit Seafood Market, 1435 Randolph St.
Visit here on any given night and you're likely to encounter many members of the black political elite. You'll also find fine seafood cuisine and classy cocktails set in an upscale space in Harmonie Park. (Photo via Yelp user Kenny A.)

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Good Cakes and Bakes, 19363 Livernois Ave.
Walk into this bakery (which sits on the same block as Kuzzo's) and you're transported to a children's wonderland, with bright, splashy decor and a smiling greeting from owner April Anderson, who's baked delights focus on local, organic ingredients. (Photo by Yelp user Max M.)

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Raven's Lounge and Restaurant, 5145 Chene St.
Owned by Tommy Stephens, this spot's claim to fame is that it's the oldest blues club in all of Michigan. It's tucked away on a lesser-traveled Chene Street. The live music, along with great drinks and soul food make this place a hidden gem. (Photo by Yelp user Eddie C.)

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Goodwells Natural Food Market, 418 W Willis St
Co-owner Jason Wood is a pioneer in reinvigorating the Cass Corridor into what it is today, thanks to the all-natural groceries and house-made veggie-friendly sandwiches, juices, and tostadas. (Photo by Yelp user Lynn S.)

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Dime Store, 719 Griswold St, Suite 180
Looking for a downtown spot where you can hold a power breakfast meeting, grab a quick muffin and coffee, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or a craft beer for happy hour? Look no further than Dime Store in the Chrysler House, where Jeff Alexander makes up one-third of the eatery's ownership, along with Larry Kahn and Ann-Marie Murphy. (Photo via Facebook, Dime Store)

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GO! Smoothies, 110 Clifford
One of the biggest challenges faced by downtown dwellers are affordable, casual options for food and drink. GO! Smoothies founders Callie Bradford and Monique Dooley recognized that and opened their tiny smoothie shop, where residents and workers can stop in for a healthy boost of fresh pressed juices and smoothies. (Photo via Facebook, Go Smoothies)

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Baker's Keyboard Lounge, 20510 Livernois
Dubbed the world's oldest jazz club, this legendary spot is owned by Eric Whitaker and business partner Hugh W. Smith III. (Photo via Wikipedia)

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