Every journey is more fun when you're together. Grab your friends and hit the road in style in the Chevy Trax.
Photo courtesy of Zingerman's Delicatessen
Ann Arbor features local businesses committed to fresh ideas, quality offerings, and community engagement. From creative delis to internationally inspired bakeries, Ann Arbor has carved out a distinctive identity. Residents and visitors alike can explore flavors, learn through hands-on exhibits, or discover unique gifts, often all in one afternoon. Whether you seek a hearty meal, a relaxing coffee, or a knowledge-filled outing, Ann Arbor’s scene welcomes you.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen
422 Detroit Street, Ann Arbor
Zingerman’s Deli has long been revered for its top-tier sandwiches and strong local ties. “Being local has been part of the vision of the organization from the very beginning,” shares Marketing and Communications Manager Jennifer Santi. This perspective led to the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses, which encompasses ventures like “a bakery, coffee company, training business, food tour company, and more!” Their menu includes classics like the #2 Zingerman’s Reuben, rotating Sandwiches of the Month, and grab-and-go salads, all backed by a commitment to supporting the Ann Arbor community.
Azalea
312 South Main Street, Ann Arbor
Azalea is a contemporary Asian restaurant, specializing in sharable plates and sushi. Guests will find dishes that blend bold flavors, from savory Korean Fried Chicken to delicately assembled specialty rolls. Modern decor invites conversation, while the menu’s focus on fresh ingredients and creative presentations draws both newcomers and regulars. Whether you’re craving hearty noodles or a light sashimi plate, Azalea aims to showcase a diverse taste of East Asia.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
220 East Ann Street, Ann Arbor
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum introduces families to the wonders of science, technology, and more through interactive exhibits. Children can experiment with water features, tackle engineering puzzles, and dive into practical demonstrations that spark curiosity. Group programs and birthday parties allow for deeper engagement, blending education with active fun. The museum’s interactive approach underscores how knowledge can be both playful and impactful for visitors of all ages.
The Songbird Cafe
2707 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
The Songbird Cafe places a priority on comfort, offering a variety of dishes and drinks in its relaxed setting. General Manager Cindy Kim shares, “The Songbird Cafe takes pride in being a cozy gathering place in Ann Arbor, where community and comfort food come together seamlessly. We strive to offer our customers a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy freshly made brunch dishes, coffee, and pastries, all crafted with care. Our café embodies the spirit of Ann Arbor’s vibrant community. Every day, we delight in seeing friends, families, and neighbors sharing meals and creating cherished memories here.” Check out a specialty coffee and a hearty wrap for a delightful break in your day.
Yoon’s Bakery
2775 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
Yoon’s Bakery introduces a Korean twist to French baking techniques, offering confections such as red bean buns, matcha-infused pastries, and soft cream bread. Their specialty cakes often simply decorated and fruit-topped draw attention for being light and airy. Pairing these treats with espresso drinks or tea provides a refreshing twist on American baked goods. Patrons come away with a taste of something new with international flair.
Mani Osteria & Bar
341 East Liberty Street, Ann Arbor
Mani Osteria & Bar is a popular spot for Italian-style small plates, wood-fired pizzas, and craft cocktails in Ann Arbor’s downtown area. Diners regularly praise its creative pies, ranging from Cipollini with provolone, roasted arugula, bacon, balsamic, and chili flakes, to Puttanesca with Calabrian chili, oven-roasted tomatoes, olives, red onion, and parmesan cheese to top. Shareables like Isabel’s Meatballs and Fritti stand out, as do the housemade pasta choices. With its sociable setting and vibrant gathering space, Mani Osteria & Bar is a great spot for meeting with friends and family.
Dozer Coffee
112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor
Dozer Coffee centers on single-sourced beans and skilled baristas who excel at espresso drinks, pour-overs, and seasonal specialties. Visitors find the minimalist interior and natural lighting inviting and perfect for a cup of coffee. Local partnerships bring in pastries and snacks that align with Dozer’s high standards for quality. Every element, from latte art to the calm ambiance, encourages patrons to linger and enjoy the careful craftsmanship behind each cup.
FOUND
415 North 5th Avenue, Ann Arbor
FOUND is a shop featuring a careful curation of local works. Natural elements, pops of color, and textures are found throughout the space, featured in jewelry, gifts, and decor. Blending handcrafted pieces and unique finds, FOUND has something for everyone. The shop occasionally hosts workshops and pop-up shows, adding a community-driven angle to the retail experience. It’s an ideal stop for anyone seeking one-of-a-kind home accents or gifts that capture Ann Arbor’s creative vibe.
Each of these spots showcases Ann Arbor’s knack for fostering creativity and welcoming visitors. Whether you’re after a hearty deli sandwich, an inventive pastry, or a hands-on way to explore science, you’ll find a place that resonates with Ann Arbor’s ethos of quality and originality. The result is a city that invites everyone to savor food, culture, and discovery.
