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Photo courtesy of Bobcat Bonnie's
In Metro Detroit, the dining experience is more than just about food—it’s about the atmosphere, ambiance, and for many restaurants, the art. These art-filled spaces offer a creative dining experience where talent (oftentimes local) is celebrated alongside expertly crafted menus. There are many memorable and incredible restaurants showcasing fabulous artwork in Metro Detroit. From vibrant murals to curated art collections, here’s a look at some standout spots that blend excellent dining with local artistry…
LA FERIA
4130 Cass Avenue, Detroit
For those seeking a blend of art and delicious cuisine, La Feria takes diners to Spain with its restaurant. The authentic tapas and Spanish wines are complemented by quite an ambiance. “La Feria/Cata Vino is an experience that transports you to the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Spain,” shares co-owner Naomi Khalil. “For 11 years, La Feria/Cata Vino has been a strong community partner and supporter of growing Detroit into an international destination! Stop by and try us out! We can’t wait to have you ‘en casa.’” The menu is filled with tapas, charcuterie, desserts, and cocktails, while the restaurant itself is surrounded by art that reflects its Spanish roots. Whether you’re admiring the curated art pieces or savoring small bites of jamón, salad, or seafood, La Feria offers a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
BOBCAT BONNIE’S
Multiple locations in Metro Detroit
Bobcat Bonnie’s is known for more than just its flavorful dishes and laid-back vibe. This local favorite is deeply rooted in the artistic community. “We pride ourselves in supporting local artists whenever we can here at Bobcat Bonnie’s, from our owner’s partner, Joey Salmon, painting murals at nearly every location to Michigan artists designing our menu covers! While each of our restaurants’ artwork and vibe differs, we love bringing in fun, colorful, eye-catching art into each of our restaurants!” says Jill Bamrick, Social Media Director. Each location showcases a different collection of contemporary and vintage pieces, making each visit a visually engaging experience of eclectic mixes and fun vibes. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail or a burger and loaded tots, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant, imaginative works that reflect the creativity of Metro Detroit.
FREYA
2929 East Grand Boulevard, Detroit
Freya’s commitment to offering an exceptional dining experience extends to its carefully curated artwork. This restaurant and its adjacent cocktail bar Dragonfly not only excel in culinary creativity but also embrace the artistic spirit of the city. Stick with Freya for a multi-course dining experience, or pop into Dragonfly for an ala carte meal. The rotating art displays add a dynamic visual layer to the already excellent food, offering diners an evolving gallery of Metro Detroit’s finest artists. With curated collections featured quarterly, there is always something to entice you visually beyond your plate. The thoughtful integration of art ensures that every visit to Freya (and Dragonfly!) is a new and immersive experience.
SYNDICATE FERNDALE
140 Vester Avenue, Ferndale
Syndicate Ferndale combines art and community in a way that feels uniquely inclusive. “Syndicate Ferndale is an elevated dining experience offering a seasonal food menu and a rotating craft cocktail menu. We host events weekly; anywhere from calligraphy classes to live music!” shares Johanna Medranda, Floor & Social Media Manager. The lounge area, which showcases local art, provides a cozy yet creative setting for guests to enjoy cocktails or a meal while admiring the work of Metro Detroit artists. Start with a charcuterie board, a flatbread, or Parsnip Pierogi while you take in the collection. With a spacious, dog-friendly patio and a free pool table in the lounge, Syndicate is more than a restaurant—it’s a hub for creativity and community, perfect for casual hangouts or special gatherings.
THE CONGREGATION
9321 Rosa Parks Boulevard, Detroit
Located in a repurposed 100-year-old church, The Congregation is a community hub through and through. Dr. Chanel Beebe, Art Curator at The Congregation, shares, “For the past four years, The Congregation has been a creative sanctuary, where art, coffee, and community converge. We believe that art should be accessible to everyone, and the walls of The Congregation reflect the creativity and spirit of Detroit’s talented artists.” The former church’s walls now house a rotating selection of art shows, turning the space into a spot where local artists are given a platform to shine. “We’ve been dedicated to curating a diverse range of art shows that elevate local artists and bring vibrancy to the space.” Whether you’re sipping a latte, snacking on a bagel or sandwich, or attending one of their many events, The Congregation offers a welcoming and enriching experience for all.
DRIFTER COFFEE
770 Woodward Heights, Ferndale
Drifter Coffee brings art into its community-centric ethos, with ‘damn tasty coffee’ and a focus on uplifting others. The light, airy space is as welcoming to all, with a cafe, quiet space, greenhouse, garden, and patio space when the weather cooperates. One special aspect of Drifter Coffee is its Bug Mural, vibrantly showcasing the critters that pop up around the garden space. Drifter frequently hosts pop-ups, markets, and exhibitions, making it a hub for creativity and connection, along with its clubs and fundraisers. The art on its walls, the greenery around the building (inside and out), and the delicious beverages and baked goods add personal and fresh touches to the cozy, inclusive atmosphere that Drifter Coffee is known for. Check it out!
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on May 3, 2023, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.
