Food, Wine & Shopping in Downtown Northville

By: Amber Ogden | January 26, 2015
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We’re nearing the end of the month, and you didn’t think I’d let you go without a new installment in our “Downtown Series,” did you? For our first of the year, we will be visiting downtown Northville! The area has plenty to offer in terms of dining, shopping and entertainment—even horses!

If you’re planning an upcoming excursion to downtown Northville, keep in mind that First Friday Experience, a special event that happens once a month, will fall on Friday, Feb. 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The event includes special exhibits from local galleries in the area, such as Dancing Eye Gallery, 101 N. Center St. Sometimes artists present during First Fridays, and many shops stay open late, serve refreshments, feature live music, and hold special sales. You’ll just have to go and find out for yourself!

As for dining, there is plenty to enjoy in downtown Northville! Garage Grill & Fuel Bar, 202 W. Main St., is set in a repurposed 1940s gas station. Try the Garage Burger (a char-grilled Angus patty with caramelized onion, seared mushrooms, lettuce, Cheddar cheese, tomato and pickle), Shaved Beet Salad (marinated purple beet, celery, brittle, frisee, arugula, herbs, onion, goat cheese and horseradish vinaigrette) or Three on the Tree (a trio of Coca-Cola-braised pork sliders topped with pineapple cream and apple slaw on toasted brioche).

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Poole’s Tavern, 157 E. Main St., is another Northville staple, one that has been voted as having the city’s best burgers and barbecue ribs. Also gracing the menu are a Salmon Ciabatta Sandwich (topped with lettuce, tomato and lemon, served with a side of wasabi mayo), “Vegetarian” Portabella Pita (grilled portabella mushroom slices marinated in balsamic vinaigrette served in pita bread with Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and red onion) and Chicken Pesto Wrap (with grilled chicken, roasted peppers, avocado pesto spread, shredded lettuce and pesto sauce).

The Northville Sports Den, 133 W. Main St., and Koji, 146 Mary Alexander Court, are two additional restaurants to try when you find yourself in the downtown area.

When you think “winter in Metro Detroit,” you may not instantly think “horses,” but Northville Downs Race Track, 301 S. Center St., begins its live racing every Friday and Saturday night beginning on Friday, Feb. 6. Admission is free, and now you’ve got a way to spend a weekend night with your friends!

Should you be in the mood for some shopping, there is plenty to do in downtown Northville. Salvaged of Northville, 133 W. Main St., is an incredibly unique store that sells vintage and repurposed items. You’ll find everything from antique and revamped furniture to little knickknacks.

Simply Wine Northville, 109 N. Center St., is a must stop along your route if you’re a vino lover. The small boutique store is full of wines for any occasion, and you can special order whatever you can’t find in store. Good news: wine tastings are offered every day!

Just a ways down the street is Celebrity Pets Co., 124 N. Center St., where you’ll find everything you could possibly need to pamper your pet! Grooming needs, food, treats, harnesses, even little doggy raincoats can all be found here.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon of leisurely shopping, or are on a mission to try downtown Northville’s best barbecue ribs, there is plenty to do to keep you busy while you’re in the area! Enjoy, and stay tuned for the next chapter in our “Downtown Series.” Where will we go next?

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