Detroit Restaurant Named This Year’s Best In The U.S. By USA Today

USA Today released its Restaurant of the Year list, and a Detroit restaurant made the list, along with 46 other restaurants. The restaurants on their list include "buzzy Instagram-worthy spots backed by award-winning chefs, tried-and-true small-town standbys, and pantheons of fine dining worthy of foodies pilgrimages." They mentioned that their list features a mix of old and new restaurants.

Detroit’s Selden Standard was included in this year’s USA Today’s Restaurants of the Year list. The magazine highlighted the restaurant for its seasonal ingredients, homemade pasta and bread, and Michigan-raised meat. "When it opened in 2014, Selden Standard brought a fresh culinary perspective to midtown Detroit, a neighborhood better known for its fast-casual spots and takeout joints than upscale dining establishments," they wrote.

Selden Standard has more than 1,300 reviews on Yelp and a current rating of 4.4 stars. One local reviewer from Ann Arbor shared a bit about their 5-star experience. "Deserves a Michelin star; it's so damn good! Every single dish is fantastic and leaves you wanting more! I don't usually order pasta at restaurants, but our waitress recommended them, and I'm so glad she did -- it was absolutely delicious," they said.

Another reviewer praised the restaurant’s great service, atmosphere, and creative takes on food and drinks. "I love the concept of small plates/tapa dishes for friends and family to share," they added.

The Selden Standard team currently has six James Beard nominations. "What an unexpected delight, in our 9th year, to be named a semifinalist for a @beardfoundation Outstanding Restaurant in the United States. While we try to keep our focus on each service, each day, it's hard not to take a moment to reflect on some serious national recognition," they shared in an Instagram post.

Selden Standard is located at 3921 2nd Ave., Detroit.

Take a look at USA Today’s 2024 Restaurant of the Year list here.

We all want something special on date nights, right? A little adventure, a lot of romance, and memories that will stick with us. Of course, candlelit dinners and riverside strolls are classic, but let's shake things up. Sometimes, the ideal date spot might be closer than we think, hidden in the heart of a neighboring town, waiting to be explored. Detroit, with its charm and its beautiful view of Canada,  truly has a romantic vibe.

The search for the right date night spot can be an exciting adventure. It begins with a desire to break away from the ordinary and embrace new experiences. Whether you're planning a first date, reigniting the spark in a long-term relationship, or stepping out as a couple without the kids, discovering the perfect place involves understanding each other's interests and preferences.

Partners should openly discuss their likes, dislikes, and the kind of experiences they envision for their date night. This mutual understanding can narrow down the options and lead to a more focused search for the ideal venue.

Next, think outside the box. While popular places have their allure, true magic often lies in the lesser-known and unique spots that may be hidden in plain sight. You might be surprised by the charming cafes, quirky art galleries, or cozy parks offering just the ambiance you hoped for.

Moreover, consider shared hobbies and interests. If both partners enjoy art, visit museums or art installations. A nearby botanical garden or scenic trail might be the perfect setting for nature enthusiasts.

Sometimes, it's the intangible factors that make a place special. The right ambiance, friendly staff, and a warm atmosphere can turn an average location into a cherished memory. So, don't be afraid to explore new places, even if they are only a town away.

Check out some of the best date night spots Detroit has to offer.

Looking for a hidden gem in the heart of Detroit that promises inventive cocktails, snacks, and an intimate ambiance? Head to Candy Bar at 1509 Broadway St., tucked within The Siren Hotel. In 2018, Architectural Digest named the Candy Bar at Siren Hotel in downtown Detroit the "most beautifully designed bar" in Michigan.

Get your island vibes on at The Skip. This open-air cocktail bar serves up fun frozen, tropical drinks, and craft brews. The graffiti-covered interior and communal tables create a chill hangout spot, with laid-back music setting the perfect mood to unwind and enjoy the good times.

At Sid Gold's Request Room, the cozy lounge vibe centers around a grand piano, bringing guests together for a good time. With warm yellow bulbs adding to the vintage charm, it's an inviting spot to grab a barstool, sway with cocktails, and sing along with new friends.

Unwind at the Motor City Wine Bar, where you can enjoy regional wines, tasty snacks, and live entertainment. With a glass or bottle in hand, groove to an eclectic mix of live jazz, soul, and even house and techno beats. You can also join in on their monthly wine-tasting event.

Located in Midtown Detroit and exclusively for those 21 and older, Barcade is your ultimate destination for an action-packed night out. With over 70 arcade games, beers on tap, and a fully stocked bar offering weekday happy hour specials, it's the perfect spot to unleash your inner gamer. Barcade also has a full kitchen, making it a one-stop-shop for dinner, drinks, and endless fun.