Detroit: Shedding its ‘food desert’ image

The Motor City is “fast outgrowing its reputation as a food desert.”

“Artisan bread and craft coffee are not typically the first things that come to mind at the mention of Detroit,” said the editors at TastingTable.com. But the Motor City is “fast outgrowing its reputation as a food desert” and gaining one as “a burgeoning hub” of great eating. Anchored by a century-old market and a bakery famous for its loaves of scallion-dill bread, culinary Detroit now even has a small inn that offers cooking classes for foodie travelers.

Eastern Market Feeding Detroit since 1891, this sprawling market is a good first stop for a “sampling of the city’s artisan food vendors.” Stock up on Suzanne’s Granola, Corridor Sausage, and Grown in Detroit produce, then refuel at the nearby Russell Street Deli, a favorite brunch and lunch stop. 2934 Russell St., (313) 833-9300

Supino Pizzeria This storefront near Eastern Market has developed a cult following for inventive pizzas like the Affumicata (speck, roasted garlic, parsley, mozzarella, smoked Gouda, and ricotta). Owner Dave Mancini trained himself in the pizza arts in his father’s Italian village, and he also uses his grandmother’s lasagna recipe. 2457 Russell St., (313) 567-7879

Honor & Folly This “stylish new inn” caters to food-minded travelers. It offers cooking classes and locally made snacks, and is sandwiched between the Sugar House craft-cocktail bar and Slows Bar-B-Q. 2132 Michigan Ave., honorandfolly.com