Exploring Our Favorite Local Spots in Detroit
In this 8-part series, we are shining a light on small businesses in the cities where we currently operate. With so many communities struggling today, we’re inviting you to join us in standing by local establishments you know and love. Each week we’ll feature a different city, highlighting five gems submitted by our riders and employees, and give away $1,000 worth of gift cards to these spots on our Instagram account.
Week 1: Detroit
Whether you call it The Motor City, Rock City, Motown, or Hockeytown, it’s clear Detroit has an abundance of character and history. Did you know that Detroit is home to America’s first paved concrete highway and four-way traffic signal, or that, in addition to the well-known R&B and Soul music tradition, the birth of techno occurred here, too? In Detroit, you can grab a Vernor’s “pop,” take a stroll along Riverwalk to Rivard Plaza, and amble along to Comerica Park to indulge in America’s pastime at a Tiger’s game.
We’ve been proudly operating our scooters in Detroit since November 2018, and Ford Motor Company — our parent company — helped establish the city as America’s Motor Capital way back in 1903. So, Detroit holds a special place in our hearts.
Today, we take a look at five small businesses that exude the spirit and character of Detroit. A huge thank you to our riders and local employees for submitting so many of their favorite spots, as well as personal stories to go along with each — narrowing it down to five was no easy task!
Sister Pie Detroit
Pies, mmm! Cookies, mmm! It all started with Lisa Ludwinksi, owner and founder of Sister Pie Detroit, whipping up delectable treats in her parent’s kitchen, in 2012. Now, this homey, vibrant bakery in Detroit’s West Village specializes in non-traditional flavor combinations, using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.
Johanna R described Sister Pie as “exuding wholesomeness and goodness.” She added, “It’s as if the bakery is a hidden living room for me and my friends to catch up.”
You can support Sister Pie by purchasing merch and gift certificates from their website.
Photos Courtesy of Sister Pie Detroit
FOLK Detroit
This Corktown mainstay specializes in “seasonal, made-from-scratch comfort food and healthful beverages.” FOLK Detroit is also a #goodfood100 restaurant that helps create better, more sustainable food systems.
Katie B shared some warm thoughts, “It’s one of those special places where you can tell that love goes into their food and community. It’s always a cozy spot where you can expect to feel good, and eat good, too.”
Currently, FOLK Detroit’s food, drink, and grocery items are available by walk-in and shop, or by online ordering for curbside pick up.
Photos Courtesy of FOLK Detroit
Eastern Market Brewing Co.
Dayne, Paul, and Devin, three buddies who started brewing beer in a barn as a side hustle, founded this taproom, in the middle of Eastern Market, with a focus on community and high-quality food and drinks.
Lauren G is a big fan. She praised Eastern Market Brewing Co as “a perfect place to get together with friends after a Saturday morning spent shopping at the market or on a Wednesday night for trivia!” And now in addition to pick-up, they’re delivering!
Check out their website for the menu and more details.
Photos Courtesy of Eastern Market Brewing Co.
City Bird Detroit
The oldest store in the Cass and Canfield shopping district, City Bird Detroit, was founded by seventh-generation Detroiters, Andy and Emily Linn. They sell art and handmade goods from over 200 artists in the Great Lake Region.
City Bird is a special place to Sophie T, who says, “They make it so you can find the spirit of Detroit in almost anything. I stopped in looking for a Detroit-themed gift and walked out with a hat that had a Coney Dog patch with Detroit written in mustard. Nothing more Detroit than that.”
City Bird Detroit’s storefronts are currently closed, but you can take 15% off online orders by using the code: STAYHOME.
Photos Courtesy of City Bird
The Red Hook
Another West Village staple, The Red Hook Detroit, offers Stumptown brew and a New York vibe — with the owners, Andy and Sandi Heaselgrave, hailing from Brooklyn and staying true to their roots.
James C, who calls The Red Hook his “favorite coffee shop in Detroit” has a particular fondness for “the warmth and smell of fresh beans, unbeatable baked goods (courtesy of Pinwheel Bakery), hand-painted murals on the walls, and friendly staff.”
During their temporary shelter-in-place closure, you can show your support by going to their website to purchase gift cards.
Photos Courtesy of The Red Hook
All five of these establishments, and many more small businesses in Detroit, need our support. It’s these stories and the people therein that remind us how special local spots are to the spirit of a city. These are our neighbors. Together, let’s do what we can to support them. Be sure to enter our gift card giveaway on Instagram as well.
Check back next week as we take you on a tour of some great spots in Baltimore. Until then, we hope that you and your communities stay safe and healthy.
