The Continental at Ford House:Executive chef Ray Zaidan has introduced a fresh spring and summer menu that showcases local cuisine alongside international tastes. Diners can expect new offerings such as perch, walleye, a Dutch baby pancake with Michigan maple syrup, churrasco Cornish hen, Maryland blue crab cakes, a short rib Benedict, a dirty chai martini, and more. “The main goal was to emphasize freshness, vibrancy, and a stronger connection to the seasons,” Zaidan stated in a press release. “I aimed for the menu to reflect the essence of Ford House, where the gardens, scenery, and historical atmosphere naturally shape the dining experience during the warmer weather.” Available for lunch or brunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 1100 Lake Shore, Grosse Pointe Shores.fordhouse.org/dining.
Busch’s Fresh Food Market: Before the summer hosting season begins, this Michigan-based specialty grocery store has introduced a new catering menu. Choose a theme such as American barbecue, Italian, Mexican, or Japanese, or opt for grazing selections like sandwich bars, charcuterie, or appetizers. They also offer mashed potato bars, breakfast pastry boxes, and party dessert platters.Buschs.com.
Chicane: The modern Plymouth eatery Chicane has updated its look as it marks its first anniversary. The new menu places more emphasis on comforting, easy-to-enjoy dishes. For dinner, patrons can choose from a house burger made with a mix of chuck, brisket, and short rib served on a brioche bun, steak poutine, lamb meatballs, and various pasta options. Sunday brunch offers buttermilk pancakes, croque madame, short rib hash, and other selections. “This past year has been about refining the elements our guests appreciate,” said owner Don Soenen in a statement. “We’ve designed a casual spot where you can enjoy a delicious meal during the week, or commemorate something special on the weekend. It’s upscale yet approachable — that’s always been our aim.” Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, along with Sunday brunch. 885 Starkweather, Plymouth. (734) 228-6888.chicane.com.
P.F. Chang’s: Until June 23, this nationwide restaurant chain is providing a five-course meal for two, beginning at $89.99. The meal begins with a chef’s choice dish, followed by soup, an appetizer, main course, and dessert. Options include BBQ pork ribs, northern-style pork ribs, hand-made dumplings, spicy chicken, Mongolian beef, and miso-glazed salmon.Pfchangs.com.
Republica:This local eatery has introduced a fresh seasonal menu featuring starters, salads, and sandwiches, along with main dishes such as a chimichurri shrimp bowl, pistachio salmon, BLT pasta, lamb schnitzel, and a homemade veggie burger made with beets. 1999 Coolidge Hwy., Berkley. (248) 268-3175.Republicaberkley.com.
Mai Tiki and Tigerlily:Two dining spots in downtown Ferndale located on W. Nine Mile have recently updated their offerings. Initially, Mai Tiki, a bar situated within Tigerlily, has extended its operating days to six per week. The updated menu at this location highlights barbecued pork, Korean sweet ribs, smoked chicken wings, sandwiches, and customizable poke bowls. On the other hand, Tigerlily’s evening menu has been simplified. Ramen bowls and other primary dishes are no longer available. Both establishments are located at 231 W. Nine Mile in Ferndale.Dinehometown.com.
Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse: A stylish, contemporary neighborhood steakhouse, Rudy’s has introduced a fresh spring menu featuring the comeback of diners’ beloved crème brûlée and “bougie” tater tots. The updated menu also includes a beet salad, spring lamb ragu, halibut with grilled asparagus, beurre blanc, and caviar, among other dishes. Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday. 9 S. Main, Village of Clarkston. (248) 625-3033.Rudysprimesteakhouse.com.
Ford’s Garage: The new “all-American weekday value meals” offer a selection of items for $10.99. Available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, the menu features a third-pound Americana roadster burger meal, a crispy chicken sandwich meal, a half-pound burger with bourbon barbecue sauce meal, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, or a soup and salad combo.fordsgarageusa.com.
Up-and-coming culinary and drink gatherings
Sugah at the Patio at Sugah Please Breakfast Brunch Bar:Every Wednesday throughout May, this downtown Detroit spot for lunchtime meals will feature live music or DJs. 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays in May. 150 W. Jefferson, Suite 125, Detroit. (313) 502-5873.Sugahplease.com.
Brunch at Rove Winery in Michigan By the Bottle Royal Oak:Experience a five-course brunch complemented by wines from Michigan’s Rove Winery. From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on May 17. $55 for the full experience. 29932 Woodward, Royal Oak. (248) 850-7175.michiganbythebottle.com/product/rove-into-brunch-5-wines-5-bites-may-17-royal-oak.
Rove Wine Dinner at Michigan by the Bottle in Auburn Hills:A winery based in Traverse City, Rove Winery, will also be hosting an event at the Bottle store located in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Admission includes a welcome tasting and a five-course dinner with wine pairings. A vegetarian alternative is offered. The event will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on May 18. The price is $120, which covers everything. The venue is at 3384 Auburn Road South in Auburn Hills. For more information, call (947) 252-5057.michiganbythebottle.com/product/rove-5-course-wine-dinner-may-18-auburn-hills.
Summer Beer Event at Riverside Park:This constantly changing event organized by the Michigan Brewers Guild is only one day this year, although it retains its name, with the date now set for late spring. It is open to individuals aged 21 and above, offering an outdoor celebration where beer enthusiasts can taste freshly made craft beer from numerous Michigan breweries. In addition to the beer, there are food trucks, live music, and shopping options available. The event runs from 1-6 p.m. on June 13. Tickets cost $60 if purchased in advance and $70 at the gate. VIP tickets are also available. Riverside Park, located at 2 E. Cross in Ypsilanti. Purchase tickets here:mibeer.com/Events/summer-beer-festival-2026.
Melody Baetens
This piece first was published in The Detroit News:Short rib Benedict, steak poutine, and other new dishes on the menu in Detroit
