Exciting Restaurant Scene Updates in Metro Detroit

Hey there, folks in Metro Detroit! We’ve got a bit of an update here on some restaurant shenanigans that’ve gone down in our fair city this past month. There were a bunch of new places that popped up, offering all kinds of flavors from all over. But, of course, it wasn’t all good news – we said goodbye to a handful of old favorites. Let’s dive in and see what’s up.

First off, repping the newbies, we’ve got Doyles Irish Pub over at Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth. This slick new spot has a big focus on the outdoors, with loads of games outside, not to mention some deliciously reimagined Irish classics on the menu.

Then, there’s Maxhari’s Family Restaurant in Brownstown. A comfy, down-to-earth spot with a serious soup game, this family business had us at “cheese sticks.”

For you sweet tooth junkies, Peach Cobbler Factory finally opened up in Detroit. With a menu practically drowning in dessert goodness, from fruit cobblers to churros, this place is a sugar-lover’s dream come true.

Another spot that’s making waves is Scout in Ferndale. What used to be M Brew has transformed into this cozy, ‘Pure Michigan’ style joint, complete with pinball games and a whole lotta charm.

A few other places that flung open their doors in July include Chipotle Mexican Grill in Plymouth, Dave’s Hot Chicken in Shelby Township, Elephant & Co. in Detroit, Finjan Cafe in Garden City, Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken in Roseville, Pink Garlic in Shelby Township, Portillo’s in Livonia, and Shankar Distillers in Troy.

Unfortunately, not every story in July had a happy ending. A few joints in the area sadly locked their doors, some for the last time. Bandit Tavern and Hideaway in Royal Oak, for instance, put a lid on their pop-up bar adventure due to market conditions, while the Buca di Beppo locations in Utica and Livonia joined the ranks of America-Italian food chains that are closing around the country.

And if you are a bagel lover, prepare for a punch in the gut. Detroit Institute of Bagels, which had only just reopened in the Core City neighborhood in 2023, has had to close doors again. We’re hoping this is a temporary hiccup and it’ll be back soon.

And speaking of temporary, The Morrie in Royal Oak shut its doors Sunday, with the owner leasing out the space for a new restaurant concept. And finally, Smuggler’s Run, a music venue and tiki bar in Wyandotte, called it quits after a six-year run.

Whew! There you have it, folks – a month of openings, closings, rebirths, and farewells in our bustling city’s culinary scene. Let’s see what August beckons!