In Michigan we’re really lucky when it comes to food in that we have such a rich cultural history. What was once a mostly German, then Irish settlement (not to mention influences from French Canadians), the state has really grown into a hub for folks from all over the world wanting to realize the American Dream. That means a delicious mashup of all kinds of culinary influences. Check them out.
- Al Ameer, Dearborn
Yelp Michigan is home to the largest Middle Eastern population outside of the Middle East. So naturally there’s bound to be a seemingly endless supply of amazing food from Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere. Al Ameer tends toward Lebanese traditions and has two locations in metro Detroit.
- Aladdin Sweets & Café, Hamtramck
Yelp OK, so this is actually a Bangladeshi restaurant, but it decribes itself as having Indian cuisine, speaking to the influences each culture have on one another. Since its opening in 1998, Aladdin has been a staple for folks wanting no muss, no fuss Indian and Bangladeshi food at really affordable prices.
- Das Steinhaus, Marquette
Facebook Here, you’ll get your fix of German- and other European-inspired cuisine, with locally-sourced ingredients.
- Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth
Yelp This renowed attraction celebrates Michigan’s deep cultural ties with its German ancestry. Chow down on traditional dishes like schnitzels, sauerbraten, and knackwurst. Plus, German-import brews and while you’re at it, all-you-can-eat buffet of chicken dinners, coleslaw and ice cream.
- Best China, Canton
Angela “Watty” W. Metro Detroit has a sizable Chinese American population in western suburbs. So if really good Chinese food is what you’re craving you may want to check out this hole-in-the-wall place, which features both a Chinese and English menu.
- El Asador, Detroit
Facebook El Asador proves that Mexican cuisine is not just your typical tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Featuring interesting steak dishes, seafood, and yes, traditional standbys, El Asador has made an impressive imprint in Detroit’s southwest side.
- Fenians Irish Pub, Conklin
Yelp One of the best Irish pubs in Michigan and perhaps America, this place wins points for its authenticity, all the down to the live Celtic music.
- London Grill, Kalamazoo
Yelp Situated in downtown Kalamazoo, this spot gets great props for its authentic-looking British atmosphere. Plus, the food pays homage to both British and Indian cuisine.
- Mani Osteria, Ann Arbor
Facebook This fairly new Italian eatery has been getting praise since it opened. It has a lot to do with the fact that the spot has an innovative take on Italian food. Next time you’re feeling adventurous, give it a try.
- Motor City Soul Food, Detroit
Yelp You haven’t tried soul food until you’ve stopped off at this unassuming spot in Detroit. Featuring gut-busting pork chops, fried chicken, mac ’n cheese, greens, and banana pudding - all served to you carryout in styrofoam boxes from behind bullet proof glass.
- Polish Village Cafe, Hamtramck
Yelp This one really speaks for itself. Enjoy Smoked Kielbasa and Pork Chops they way they were meant to be eaten.
- Santorini Estiatorio, Detroit
Facebook Looking for Greek food in a classy setting? This hotspot offers Lobster Markaronatha, Dolmathakia, and many other delicious dishes I have no idea how to pronounce.
Makes it nearly impossible to pick a favorite kind of food out here, huh? And this is not even to mention the food that is Michigan-centric, that you can’t really find in other parts of the country. Tell us though, does this hit the mark culturally speaking? What are some other ethnic cuisines that you love, that people probably didn’t know existed here? Tell us about it in the comments below!
Yelp
Michigan is home to the largest Middle Eastern population outside of the Middle East. So naturally there’s bound to be a seemingly endless supply of amazing food from Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere. Al Ameer tends toward Lebanese traditions and has two locations in metro Detroit.
OK, so this is actually a Bangladeshi restaurant, but it decribes itself as having Indian cuisine, speaking to the influences each culture have on one another. Since its opening in 1998, Aladdin has been a staple for folks wanting no muss, no fuss Indian and Bangladeshi food at really affordable prices.
Here, you’ll get your fix of German- and other European-inspired cuisine, with locally-sourced ingredients.
This renowed attraction celebrates Michigan’s deep cultural ties with its German ancestry. Chow down on traditional dishes like schnitzels, sauerbraten, and knackwurst. Plus, German-import brews and while you’re at it, all-you-can-eat buffet of chicken dinners, coleslaw and ice cream.
Angela “Watty” W.
Metro Detroit has a sizable Chinese American population in western suburbs. So if really good Chinese food is what you’re craving you may want to check out this hole-in-the-wall place, which features both a Chinese and English menu.
El Asador proves that Mexican cuisine is not just your typical tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Featuring interesting steak dishes, seafood, and yes, traditional standbys, El Asador has made an impressive imprint in Detroit’s southwest side.
One of the best Irish pubs in Michigan and perhaps America, this place wins points for its authenticity, all the down to the live Celtic music.
Situated in downtown Kalamazoo, this spot gets great props for its authentic-looking British atmosphere. Plus, the food pays homage to both British and Indian cuisine.
This fairly new Italian eatery has been getting praise since it opened. It has a lot to do with the fact that the spot has an innovative take on Italian food. Next time you’re feeling adventurous, give it a try.
You haven’t tried soul food until you’ve stopped off at this unassuming spot in Detroit. Featuring gut-busting pork chops, fried chicken, mac ’n cheese, greens, and banana pudding - all served to you carryout in styrofoam boxes from behind bullet proof glass.
This one really speaks for itself. Enjoy Smoked Kielbasa and Pork Chops they way they were meant to be eaten.
Looking for Greek food in a classy setting? This hotspot offers Lobster Markaronatha, Dolmathakia, and many other delicious dishes I have no idea how to pronounce.
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