Best Brunch in Detroit, MI

Detroit does brunch like nowhere else. You can walk through downtown and step into a spot filled with clinking glasses, fluffy pancakes, and a hum that only comes from locals lingering over good eats. Every corner of the city hides a different flavor, from cozy diners stacked with classics to sleek bistros where brunch is an art. If you live in this city, or you’re just here for the day, a good brunch can easily become the highlight of your week.

After many weekends tracking down the best stacks, skillets, and breakfast sandwiches, I’ve figured out where Detroit’s brunch scene truly shines. This guide isn’t built on hype—it’s put together from real plates, honest flavors, and plenty of taste tests. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or entirely unexpected, you’ll find a spot that turns your brunch cravings into your new favorite ritual.

Where to find the best brunch in Detroit, MI

Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Detroit, MI:

  1. Dime Store
  2. Hudson Cafe
  3. Selden Standard
  4. Ottava Via
  5. Joe Muer Seafood
  6. The Whitney
  7. Mudgie’s
  8. Seva
  9. HopCat
  10. Honest John’s Bar & Grill – Selden St.

1. Dime Store

Dime Store
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719 Griswold St #180, Detroit, MI 48226-3360
+1 313-962-9106
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Tucked into a downtown spot that buzzes from morning to afternoon, Dime Store feels like Detroit’s brunch living room. The mood lands somewhere between lively and relaxed, and the mix of aromas—fresh coffee, sizzling skillets—hits the senses the moment you walk in. 

The real show is on the plate. Cheesesteak Benny has a cult following for a reason. Layers of tender beef, perfect eggs, and creamy hollandaise show off the kitchen’s knack for twisting classics. On my last visit, the Duck Bop Hash was a revelation, pulling bright flavors into comfort-food territory. 

Dime Store doesn’t just stick to the script; it writes its own. If you want brunch with standout twists and real comfort, this should be your downtown destination.

2. Hudson Cafe

Hudson Cafe
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1241 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226-2006
+1 313-237-1000
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Step into Hudson Cafe and you’re greeted by a bright, bustling space right on Woodward. This spot feels foundational to Detroit’s brunch circuit, and it seems like there’s always a steady stream of regulars and first-timers mixing over generous plates.

Hudson Cafe’s menu doesn’t shy away from full-on comfort. The Red Velvet Pancakes deserve every bit of their local fame—fluffy, rich, and drizzled with just enough cream cheese glaze. I’ve also been won over by the Veggie Omelette, which packs in color and crunch without relying on anything heavy.

This is the kind of brunch joint where everyone at the table finds something to love. Big flavors, creative takes, and a kitchen that turns out the city’s fluffiest stacks—Hudson Cafe gets it right.

3. Selden Standard

Selden Standard
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3921 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201-1713
+1 313-438-5055
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Selden Standard has a way of making brunch feel both exciting and effortless. Tucked into Midtown, it turns local ingredients into memorable bites. There’s a warmth to the room, with an energy that grows as dishes hit each table.

What keeps me coming back is the menu’s attention to detail. The vegetable hash, with perfectly roasted roots and a punchy sauce, wakes up your palate. If you lean sweet, the house-made pastries are a quiet triumph alongside a smooth pour of coffee.

Selden Standard treats brunch as a special event, even when it’s just another weekend. It’s the place for small plates, big flavors, and a menu that changes with Detroit’s seasons.

4. Ottava Via

Ottava Via
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1400 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216-1324
+1 313-962-5500
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Ottava Via brings Italian charm to Detroit’s brunch scene, pairing brick walls and rustic wood with a menu that’s warm and inviting. The setting encourages lingering—a standout for easy weekends and drawn-out conversations.

The real win comes with their wood-fired skills. Order the breakfast pizza topped with roasted vegetables and just-melted cheese; it’s a brunch favorite that draws crowds for good reason. On my last visit, the polenta bowl turned simple ingredients into something that felt downright indulgent.

If you’re after a brunch that breaks from tradition but nails comfort, Ottava Via’s menu rewards curiosity. It’s a spot where every bite feels crafted to match Detroit’s original spirit.

5. Joe Muer Seafood

Joe Muer Seafood
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400 Renaissance Ctr Suite 1404, Detroit, MI 48243-1502
+1 313-567-6837
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Joe Muer Seafood brings a sense of old-school glamour to brunch on the Detroit River. The views alone set the stage for a special meal, but it’s the chef’s touch with seafood that seals the deal. Tucked into crisp linens and natural light, the dining room feels upscale yet never stuffy.

I keep coming back for dishes that show restraint and technique. The smoked salmon plate is always elegant—balanced, bright, and beautifully plated. If you’re in the mood for comfort, the crab and spinach omelette is another reliable choice.

Every detail contributes to an elevated brunch. Joe Muer is where you go for classic flavors, genuine hospitality, and a view that steals your attention almost as much as the food.

6. The Whitney

The Whitney
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4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201-1821
+1 313-832-5700
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The Whitney is Detroit’s answer to brunch with grandeur. Housed in a grand mansion on Woodward, it transforms a weekend meal into a quiet step back in time. Whether you dine next to the flicker of stained glass or enjoy the garden on a sunny day, the setting alone sets The Whitney apart.

The lemon ricotta pancakes are a favorite, delicate and bright against the ornate backdrop. Last time, I was tempted by the seasonal frittata and it impressed with fresh herbs and surprising depth. The Ghostbar, just upstairs, is the perfect place to linger over coffee before heading out.

Here, brunch isn’t rushed. The Whitney delivers rich tradition and dishes with a sense of occasion.

7. Mudgie’s

Mudgie's
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1300 Porter St, Detroit, MI 48226-2409
+1 313-961-2000
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Mudgie’s feels like a neighborhood brunch spot with heart. The rustic charm, both inside and out, matches the warm greetings at the door. This is the place to go when you want brunch without a hint of pretense—just pure Detroit comfort.

The real star is the menu packed with massive, inventive sandwiches. Try the Ivey sandwich for brunch: avocado, egg, and fresh vegetables stacked for plenty of flavor. Every time I stop in, the quality of the ingredients stands out, even in their simplest dishes.

Mudgie’s gives you hearty food and plenty of character, right where Southwest Detroit feels most alive. It’s easy to see why regulars return weekend after weekend.

8. Seva

Seva
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66 E Forest Ave, Detroit, MI 48201-1814
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Seva is a haven for plant-based brunch fans in Detroit. Step inside and you’ll find bright colors, upbeat staff, and a sense that healthy food should also feel indulgent. Even if you’re not strictly vegetarian, the menu tempts with inventive combinations you won’t find just anywhere.

My go-to order here is the carrot cake pancakes: they taste like dessert for breakfast, but somehow never feel heavy. I’m also fond of the huevos rancheros, which layer black beans, eggs, and salsa for a flavorful, filling start.

Seva’s menu celebrates veggies in a way that feels both novel and nostalgic. Brunch here means leaving satisfied, not stuffed—and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

9. HopCat

HopCat
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4265 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201-1817
+1 313-769-8828
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HopCat manages to make brunch feel like a lively gathering no matter the day. Housed in a historic building, it buzzes with energy, and the décor—yes, there’s half a Cadillac in the wall—gives you something to take in between bites.

This place is famous for its Cosmik fries, and they’re just as addictive during brunch as any other time. Pair them with the black bean wrap or an omelette loaded with fresh local veggies; you’ll taste the commitment to craft food and Detroit’s love of bold flavors.

HopCat nails the balance between comfort and creativity. With a wide brunch menu and the city’s best people-watching, it’s where you linger long after your plate’s gone empty.

10. Honest John’s Bar & Grill – Selden St.

Honest John's Bar & Grill - Selden St.
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488 Selden St 488 Seldon Street, Detroit, MI 48201-1724
+1 313-832-5646
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Honest John’s Bar & Grill is where Detroit goes when it wants brunch without the fuss. This Selden Street staple keeps things relaxed, making it easy to drop in for a great meal any day of the week. There’s always an eclectic crowd, and the service moves quick but never feels rushed.

The menu has range, but the breakfast burrito stands out—hearty, flavorful, and packed with potatoes and veggies. Pancakes here are also impressive, somehow fluffy yet substantial. I always end up sharing bites because everyone’s order looks tempting.

Honest John’s is classic Detroit: no-nonsense, consistently satisfying, and always welcoming. Brunch feels like an old friend—one you’ll want to visit again.

More Things to Try in Detroit, MI

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best spots for brunch in Detroit?
Popular picks include Dime Store, Hudson Cafe, Selden Standard, and Ottava Via. Each offers a unique spin on classic brunch, with options for every appetite.

Are there vegetarian or vegan brunch options in Detroit?
Absolutely. Places like Seva, Mudgie’s, and Hudson Cafe offer creative plant-based dishes for brunch, so everyone finds something satisfying.

Can I find gluten-free brunch dishes in Detroit?
Yes. Many restaurants—Hudson Cafe, Selden Standard, and Honest John’s, for example—offer gluten-free choices on their brunch menus.

Do I need reservations for brunch in Detroit?
Reservations are smart for popular spots, especially on weekends. However, many brunch spots also hold tables for walk-ins if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Where can I get brunch near downtown Detroit?
Downtown favorites such as Dime Store, Joe Muer Seafood, and Grand Trunk Pub are all great choices, each with its own style and crowd.

Is there parking available at Detroit brunch restaurants?
Most places offer nearby street parking or have lots. Weekends can be busy, so allow extra time when heading out.