Motor City Munchies: Detroit's Delicious Dishes That Deserve a Gold Medal (or at least a Participation Trophy)
You might know Detroit for its wheels (cars, that is), Motown hits, and maybe even that time Eminem roasted everyone in the rap game (respect!). But buckle up, because this industrial icon also boasts a food scene that's hotter than a muffler on a July day.
Coney Crazy: The Dog with a Double Identity
First up, we gotta talk about the Coney Island hot dog, also known as a simply "Coney" to the in-the-know Detroiters. Don't let the name fool you, this hot dog has nothing to do with the amusement park in New York (although it probably provides just as much joy). This bad boy is a beef hot dog nestled in a soft bun, smothered in a meaty chili (no beans!), diced white onions, and a healthy squirt of yellow mustard.
The real drama unfolds at the American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island, two restaurants that have been slinging Coneys since the early 1900s and are locked in an eternal battle for Coney supremacy. Tourists flock to try both, and locals will argue about the finer points of chili recipe and hot dog snap until the cows come home (or maybe until the next order of fries arrives).
Deep Dish Done Different: Detroit-Style Pizza is a Square Deal
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Next, let's address the elephant in the room, or rather, the extra-large pizza box on the table. Detroit-style pizza is a rectangular masterpiece with a thick, focaccia-like crust that can handle all the toppings you can throw at it. We're talking about brick cheese all the way to the edges, caramelized to perfection, followed by your choice of delicious ingredients. Pepperoni? Absolutely. Sausage and peppers? You betcha. And don't forget the sauce – it goes on after the cheese, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Buddy's Rendezvous is credited with inventing this beauty back in the 1940s, using leftover auto parts pans (because, Detroit!). While Buddy's is a legend, there are plenty of other pizzerias serving up Detroit-style goodness, so you can find your own perfect slice of heaven.
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| What Food Is Detroit Famous For |
Bonus Bites: Beyond the Big Two
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
Detroit's culinary crown isn't just for Coney dogs and pizza. Here are a few more treats to tempt your taste buds:
- Better Made potato chips: A Detroit staple, these chips come in all sorts of crazy flavors, from classics like salt and vinegar to more adventurous options like barbecue and even (!) caviar.
- Pasties: A legacy of the city's Cornish population, pasties are savory hand pies filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Perfect for a grab-and-go lunch.
- Faygo pop: This Detroit-made soda brand boasts a rainbow of unique flavors, from Rock & Rye (seriously, it's a thing) to Moon Mist (tastes like...well, a mystery!).
How to Get Your Grub On: A Detroit Food FAQ
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Q: How to I order a Coney dog?
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
A: Keep it simple. Just ask for a "Coney" and they'll know what to do. You can add extras like onions and cheese if you're feeling adventurous.
Q: What's the difference between American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island?
A: This is a heated debate. American Coney Island claims to be the original, while Lafayette boasts a spicier chili. Try both and decide for yourself!
Q: Where can I find the best Detroit-style pizza?
QuickTip: Save your favorite part of this post.
A: Buddy's Rendezvous is a classic, but there are many other great options. Ask a local for their favorite spot – they're sure to have a strong opinion!
Q: What are some good places to try Better Made chips?
A: You can find them pretty much anywhere in Detroit, from grocery stores to gas stations.
Q: Where can I get Faygo pop?
A: Thankfully, Faygo isn't just a Detroit thing anymore. You can find it in many grocery stores across the country, but nothing beats grabbing a can from its birthplace!
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