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My Little Guide to Detroit


As some of you know, I’ve recently set up a home in Detroit, Michigan with my husband Jorge, and I can only say that it is a town I never would have expected to visit let alone one in which I would spend a portion of my time. Like many who have never experienced Detroit firsthand, I did not have the highest expectations.  To my surprise, I found a diverse and up-and-coming city with a rich history that is both preserved and celebrated, including exquisite art deco architecture, a world-class museum and Michelin-recommended restaurants that delight the palate (although we're still waiting for our first Michelin star!). If you ever happen to find yourself in this area, these are just a few spots that are worth a visit.



Le Supreme


I love a French bistro and Le Supreme hits all the right notes. Having grown up in Montreal, I developed a love for all sorts of French cuisine at a young age. (I so miss The Bistro on Greene Avenue back home which sadly closed several years ago. My father and I would often go for a bite after school, a fond memory and a particular treat). From the charming art-nouveau decor to the impressive champagne selection to the delightful French classics I’ve always loved (their brunch is to die for!), Le Supreme is probably my favourite restaurant in the city. It is centrally located with valet parking, a much-appreciated convenience on a busy block.





Le Labo Store


What a surprise to discover that Le Labo has a Detroit location! Their scents have such depth and dimension to them (I seem to have accumulated a small Le Labo fragrance wardrobe recently, but my favorites are Myrrhe, the Shanghai store exclusive, and The Matcha from the classics line, The two couldn’t be more different!). I also can’t say enough good things about their Hinoki hand pomade. a nourishing must-have with Winter approaching, plus the scent is divine! As at all Le Labo locations, clients can observe their fragrance being blended and bottled by a lab technician on-site, complete with the signature personalized label.





Detroit Institute of Arts


Founded in 1885 and settled at it’s current location in 1927, the DIA is a world-class museum with many gems in their permanent collection, from Ancient Greek sculpture to the works of Van Gogh and Rodin. I’ve spent many afternoons exploring the impressive pieces on display from impressionist paintings to European decorative arts. When I initially arrived in Detroit, the museum held an incredible exhibition featuring Parisian art created during the interwar period, with works by Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque and Le Corbusier cleverly curated . During visits to the DIA, I often pop by the Kresge Court for their delicious flatbread with a glass of Malbec. If you are lucky, you might catch a live musical performance as I did during their Japanese Friendship Dolls exhibit. It is likely you’ll spend many hours at the museum during your first visit, there is so much to take in! 






DuMouchelles Auction House


One of my first stops upon settling in Detroit was a visit to the showroom of DuMouchelles, one of the world’s largest family-owned auction houses. Throughout the years DuMouchelles has handled the estates of notable families (such as the Fishers and the Dodges), and the contents of many of the city’s historic homes. Coincidentally, during that initial visit, one of the lots on preview was a set of stationary from the collection of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. I’ve made regular visits ever since and always look forward to their previews!



(Photo 2 from DuMouchelles)



Polished Lounge


Whether I need a quick polish change or have some extra time for a full spa manicure/pedicure, my go-to nail spot is Polished Lounge, a cozy midtown nook that provides a range of services in a warm and relaxing environment. Their staff is very skilled and they are happy to accommodate special requests such as custom nail art or an extended massage. It is the perfect place for a little pampering and Prosecco.


(Photo from Polished Lounge)



John King Used and Rare Books


John King’s stores are a book lovers dream -  four whole floors of incredible used and rare books of every imaginable genre. Around the time of my first visit, the downtown location’s rare book room had a signed first edition of Edward VIII’s “A King’s Story”.  I would have purchased it in a heartbeat if I didn’t already have a similar signed copy in my library. I did manage to pick up a few hidden gems including a signed copy of Evangeline Bruce’s Napoleon and Josephine and a catalogue of Winston Churchill’s paintings. In addition to a range of books, John King also sells historical ephemera, antique maps and prints and many notable signed first editions. It’s a must-stop for anyone with a passion for books, history or the arts.



(Photo from John King Books)



The Shinola Hotel and San Morello Restaurant


When family and friends come to visit, I often recommend that they stay at the Shinola, a beautifully designed full-service boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown, part of which comprises the former Singer sowing-machine store. The suites in particular are open and spacious, an inviting atmosphere to unwind at the end of a busy day in the city, with staff on hand 24 hours a day to cater to any and all requests. The hotel, which also welcomes dogs, features an informal lounge where cocktails and small bites are provided plus the San Morello restaurant from Chef Andrew Carmellini located on the main floor (and with a beautiful summer terrace) is an absolute gem. The brunch is terrific but nothing compares to their house-made pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, my go-to is the misticanza salad. Favourite San Morello dishes can also be ordered up to your room/suite. 




(Photo 1 from Shinola Hotel)


La Cannelle


 If you are craving something sweet, La Cannelle is sure to hit the spot. Chef Matt Knio's fine French patisseries are sumptuous, from the pain-au-chocolat to the macarons, always hand-crafted with incredible attention to detail. They also have plenty of options for kids - my stepdaughter loves their chocolate madeleines!




The Whitney Mansion


Afternoon tea is always a treat, particularly when it is served in one of Detroit’s historic mansions. The David Whitney House (also called the Whitney Mansion) was built in 1890 by lumber baron David Whitney Jr, the wealthiest man in the city (Mr Whitney passed away 10 years later in 1900). The awe-inspiring residence was transformed into a restaurant in 1986, where patrons can dine or take tea in the elegant period rooms, or the dreamy garden terrace in the summer. 








As an "honourable mention" I also highly recommend walking through some of downtown's art deco buildings. They're beautifully preserved and they all have spectacular details that take one back to a bygone era. These include the Fisher Building, the Guardian Building, and the Penobscot Building.






All previously uncredited photos are my own.

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