Where Should Detroit's First Michelin Stars Go? Our Picks and Predictions (and more)
Devon O'Reilly
Dearborn, MI
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On today's Daily Detroit, a fast-moving, food-and-development-heavy episode rooted in what's changing on the ground in metro Detroit.
Jer is joined by Devon O'Reilly and Norris Howard for a full-table conversation that spans ballparks, the best places to eat, and big bets on Dearborn's future.
The crew starts with Opening Day, as Norris recounts one of the most beautiful Tigers home openers he's ever seen — complete with a cautionary tale about trying to outdo his dad.
Devon then takes us to Midtown for a deep dive on Mad Nice as a rare, reliable "power lunch" spot, breaking down its cocktail program, menu, and why its scale, aesthetics, and backing have given it real staying power past the three-year mark.
From there, the conversation shifts to huge news for the region: Detroit and the Great Lakes are now eligible for Michelin stars. Jer, Devon, and Norris build their own shortlist of contenders — from Freya and Seldon Standard to London Chop House, Ladder 4, Grey Ghost, Saffron De Twah, and more — while debating consistency, creativity, and what a first star should reward.
The focus turns west to Dearborn, where the former Hyatt/Edward Hotel site moves toward a major hotel-and-residential redevelopment, and Ford plans a massive "World Headquarters South" campus that will bring thousands of employees, Ford Performance, and new amenities to the city.
Plus, we get into the Detroit Grand Prix that's starting to get set up, and coming renovations at the Motor City Casino Hotel.
Rundown:
03:06 - Where we've been: Mad Nice
07:36 - Which Detroit restaurant should get a Michelin Star first?
16:04 - Dearborn Hotel Rebuild?
17:23 - Ford World HQ South Plans
19:47 - Detroit Grand Prix is starting their setup work
22:20 - Major Motor City Casino Renovation
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Hosts & Guests
Devon O'Reilly
Resident "Man about Town." The Dearborn native has passed through the doors of more than 500 bars, restaurants, and establishments in the area. Now a dad, but still staying connected and involved in the community.
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