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Heading downtown for game day is an event in itself, and nothing makes it better than grabbing a great meal before the action starts (or celebrating after a win). From classic Detroit eateries to eclectic dining options, here are some top places around Detroit’s sports arenas to fuel up before and after the big games.
HOCKEYTOWN CAFE
2301 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Hockeytown Cafe is a must-visit pre-game destination, just minutes from Comerica Park and Little Caesars Arena. Designed with Detroit’s rich sports history in mind, this three-story venue is full of memorabilia and offers rooftop seating with views of the city skyline as weather permits. Stick with a table of apps to split, ranging from Hockeytown Smoked Wings to Motown Cheese Sticks, or check out the Detroit-style pizzas (Three Little Pigs and McClure’s Pickle Pizzas are highlights), and handhelds, like the Pork Belly BLT or Detroit Danger Dog, a footlong, bacon-wrapped hotdog topped with an elote relish and cilantro aioli. Hockeytown Cafe lets you enjoy the game-day vibe before you even step into the arena. And for fans heading to see a game, you’ll be right in the heart of the action.
MIKE’S PIZZA BAR
2515 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Located right inside Little Caesars Arena, Mike’s Pizza Bar is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a quick, tasty bite just steps from your seat. Mike’s serves up Detroit and New Yourk-style pizza with plenty of cheesy, saucy goodness. Whether you go for the Detroiter (fire roasted jalapeño, spicy pepperoni, and hot honey drizzle), Eastern Market (mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, onions, olives, and artichokes), or South by Southwest (ground beef, onion, bacon, mozzarella, cheddar, and a smoked chipotle drizzle), each pizza is a slice of Detroit. With plenty of seating and a lively sports bar atmosphere, Mike’s Pizza Bar is a great spot to start your game day off with pizza.
BASAN
2703 Park Avenue, Detroit
If you’re craving something beyond your typical bar food, head to Basan, a modern Japanese-inspired restaurant across the street from Little Caesars Arena. Basan’s menu features creative takes on Japanese cuisine, from meatball and Napa cabbage skewers to Brussels sprout and Twice Fried Chicken buns. Small plates take these fusions to the next level, with corn dogs made with Thai herb sausage, unagi mustard, and chili crisp ketchup to the Brussel Caesar with pear and bao croutons. As for large plates, choose from choices like Sticky Chicken Wings (garlic chili glaze), Pork Dumplings (jalapeño, pho spices), and a Wagyu Burger with a ‘funky ranch,’ kimchi, and spicy pickles. The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it a great spot to enjoy a delicious pre-game meal. With a wide selection of sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails, Basan is a refreshing and unique alternative to the traditional game day spots.
HARRY’S DETROIT
2482 Clifford Street, Detroit
Just a short walk from the stadiums, Harry’s Detroit has long been a go-to for Detroit sports fans. Known for its generous portions and classic American comfort food, Harry’s serves up everything from loaded nachos to juicy burgers. Appetizers range from Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls to crab cakes and Creamy Chicken Chili Corn Dip with fresh avocado. Their rooftop patio offers a great view of the city, and the lively atmosphere inside is always filled with excitement as fans gear up for the game. Harry’s offers a shuttle to events, making it even more convenient for fans who want to park, eat, and relax before the game.
THE MIXING BOARD
2645 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Located inside Little Caesars Arena, The Mixing Board is a chic, contemporary spot that blends a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of globally inspired dishes. The menu includes everything from flatbreads and sliders to creative salads and shareable appetizers. Apps range from bacon-wrapped Dates and charcuterie boards to house-fried tortillas with queso. As for entrees, check out the Short Rib Ravioli, Hanger Steak, or Roast Cauliflower Steak with a maple chipotle marinade. Whether you’re coming solo or with a group, The Mixing Board’s spacious, open setting is perfect for gathering before a game. With local craft beers on tap and a range of wine options, this spot has the ingredients for a great start to game night.
DETROIT SHIPPING COMPANY
474 Peterboro Street, Detroit
For those who want variety, Detroit Shipping Company in Midtown offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. This food hall is built out of repurposed shipping containers and features a variety of local food vendors serving everything from Nepalese dumplings from Momo Cha and Thai street food available at Bangkok 96 Street Food to Motor Burger for poutine and burgers. With a beer garden and live music, Detroit Shipping Company is a social and fun spot to fuel up before the game. Located just a few blocks from the arenas, it’s a great spot for groups who can’t decide on just one type of food.
ANCHOR BAR DETROIT
450 West Fort Street, Detroit
A Detroit staple since 1959, Anchor Bar is a favorite pre-game stop for its laid-back vibe and hearty pub fare. Known for its history as a gathering spot for Detroit journalists and now sports fans alike, Anchor Bar keeps it simple with its neighborhood vibe. Appetizer options like Anchor Truffle Fries, Boom Bang Shrimp Tacos (mango pico de gallo and crispy fried shrimp), and Garbage Can Nachos (chili, housemade cheddar cheese whiz, and housemade pico) are great for sharing before a game. Grab a few sliders, an order of wings, or an Iconic Cheesesteak to round it all out with a brew or two.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on October 26, 2016.
