Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Downtown Detroit | Upscale & Vegan

24 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Downtown Detroit | Upscale & Vegan

• Sakazuki — Japanese · rated 5/5: Sakazuki pulses with the high-octane energy of a modern izakaya, where the neon glow of a city bar meets a playful menu of Japanese-inspired street food. Effervescent Toki highballs and frosty Asahi pitchers flow freely alongside inventive bites like decadent Wagyu hot dogs and pillowy tamago sandos, creating a spirited sanctuary for social sipping and late-night cravings.
• Queens — American · rated 5/5: Step into a lively sanctuary of comfort where the rhythmic sizzle of the flat-top grill and the golden glow of perfectly crisped wings set the stage for a soulful feast. The menu celebrates the quintessential American bite, featuring towering, juice-dripping burgers and artisanal wraps that tuck everything from broccoli cheddar chicken to zesty falafel into soft, warm tortillas. Each dish is a masterclass in satisfying textures and bold flavors, offering a welcoming atmosphere that turns a simple sandwich or wing basket into a memorable culinary embrace.
• Canelle detroit — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this chic urban patisserie, where the intoxicating aroma of browning butter and fresh yeast invites guests to linger over counters filled with artisanal treasures. Masterfully laminated croissants shatter into buttery shards with every bite, while vibrant fruit tarts and glossy, cream-filled eclairs stand like edible works of art. It is a sophisticated haven where traditional French craftsmanship meets modern energy, turning a simple pastry box into a curated collection of indulgence.
• Bar Rotunda — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across this elegant circular sanctuary, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted almonds and butter-laden dough. Guests can lose themselves in the delicate shatter of a golden, flakey croissant or the savory richness of a decadent breakfast sandwich, making every morning feel like a grand, sophisticated occasion.
• Brass Rail Pizza Bar — Italian · rated 3/5: Brass Rail Pizza Bar pulses with a vibrant energy, where the warm glow of the bar and the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese invite friends to linger over shared plates and cold pours. The kitchen turns out a parade of elevated comfort classics, from zesty Bangin' Brass Shrimp and honey-glazed wings to crisp, garden-fresh salads that perfectly balance the indulgence of their signature pull-apart cheese bread. Whether diving into a sprawling sampler platter or enjoying a casual night out, guests find a spirited retreat that celebrates the simple joy of great company and bold, satisfying flavors.
• Kamper's — Spanish · rated 3/5: Kamper's captures the spirited essence of a Spanish taberna, where the air is thick with the aroma of sizzling garlic and the convivial clinking of glasses over bowls of Marcona almonds and hand-carved Jamón Ibérico. Guests gather around shared plates of golden croquetas and delicate boquerones, discovering a vibrant culinary landscape where traditional Mediterranean textures meet a modern, sun-drenched sophistication.
• Upstairs Bar — American · rated 3/5: Perched above the city streets, this stylish sanctuary invites guests into a world of polished charm where the hum of conversation flows as freely as the curated cocktails. The kitchen transforms classic cravings into elegant bites, pairing the chilled brine of oysters on the half-shell and buttery mini lobster rolls with the irresistible, earthy aroma of golden truffle fries. It is a destination where vibrant flavors like sweet-and-spicy calamari and creamy burrata come together, creating a sophisticated backdrop for an evening of effortless social grace.
• ChickP — Middle Eastern: The air hums with the scent of toasted cumin and fresh herbs as golden, hand-scooped falafel sizzles to a perfect crunch in this bright, modern sanctuary of Mediterranean flavor. Whether tucked into a warm, pillowy wrap or nestled atop a vibrant mosaic of seasoned rice and crisp vegetables, each bite offers a harmonious balance of earthy textures and zesty finishes. It is a soulful destination where the simplicity of the chickpea is elevated into a nourishing, sun-soaked feast for the senses.
• Soraya — Middle Eastern: Soraya invites guests into a space of modern elegance where the delicate artistry of hand-pressed sushi meets the comforting, golden crunch of expertly prepared katsu. The air carries the savory aroma of sizzling fried rice and seasoned vinegars, setting the stage for a meal that balances traditional precision with contemporary flair. From vibrant specialty rolls to intimate, multi-course tasting journeys designed for celebration, every dish reflects a commitment to flavor and a passion for the shared dining experience.
• Dime Store — American: This high-energy brunch destination pulses with a vibrant, urban spirit, where the nostalgic warmth of a classic diner meets a bold and inventive culinary imagination. Savory aromas of sizzling Kung Pao hash and rich, hollandaise-drenched cheesesteak Benedicts fill the air, inviting guests to linger over decadent Chocolate Thunder waffles or towering stacks of spiced gingerbread French toast. It is a soulful sanctuary for comfort food lovers, where every dish is crafted with a playful touch that transforms the morning meal into a spirited, flavorful celebration.
• Avalon Bakery — American: The air at Avalon Bakery is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grains and freshly pulled espresso, drawing guests into a bright, soulful space where artisanal baking takes center stage. Mornings here are defined by vibrant slices of avocado toast and the bakery’s signature golden muffins, while the pastry case tempts with sea-salt-dusted chocolate chunk cookies and decadent plant-based treats that pair perfectly with a velvety latte or a sparkling mimosa. It is a neighborhood sanctuary where the simple joy of a perfectly crusted cookie and a warm mug creates a timeless, inviting escape.
• Firebird Tavern — American: Steeped in a warm, spirited atmosphere, Firebird Tavern serves as a vibrant gathering spot where the comforting aroma of sizzling steak tips and truffle-infused fries fills the air. Guests gather around rustic tables to share bubbling cheese dips and oversized, salt-flecked pretzels, finding a perfect balance between hearty, soul-warming poutines and crisp, garden-fresh salads. This neighborhood haunt elevates classic tavern fare into a rich, sensory experience designed for lingering over good company and spirited conversation.
• La Pecora Nera — Italian: Stepping into La Pecora Nera feels like discovering a hidden corner of a bustling Italian market, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of sliced salumi and aged cheeses. Hand-crafted sandwiches arrive bursting with authentic flavors on perfectly crusty bread, followed by delicate, cream-filled cannoli that provide a sweet, shattering crunch to complete the rustic experience.
• Mike's Pizza Bar — Italian: Mike’s Pizza Bar pulses with a lively, neighborhood energy, where the savory scent of bubbling mozzarella and smoky wings invites guests into a warm, social atmosphere. The kitchen serves up a soulful celebration of Italian-American comfort, from sizzling meatball skillets and golden garlic bread to hearty plates of chicken parmesan that feel like a decadent Sunday dinner shared among friends.
• Leila — Middle Eastern: Leila invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched sanctuary where the table becomes a colorful mosaic of shared plates and the air carries the enticing aroma of toasted spices. Velvety swirls of smoky baba ghanouj and tangy labneh give way to the satisfying crunch of golden falafel and herb-flecked salads, celebrating the bold, soulful flavors of Levantine tradition. It is an experience rooted in communal warmth, where every bite of spiced kibbeh or crispy cauliflower feels like a fragrant invitation to linger and celebrate.
• Le Supreme — French: Le Supreme transports diners to a bustling Parisian-style brasserie where the aroma of bubbling gruyère and the sight of chilled seafood platters create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The kitchen masters the art of the French morning, serving up velvety omelettes and golden-crusted quiches alongside briny oysters and hand-cut steak tartare. It is a refined sanctuary where guests can linger over a decadent Eggs Benedict or a rich onion soup gratinée, savoring the soulful, sophisticated flavors of classic Gallic cuisine.
• AM Buzz Detroit — American: AM Buzz Detroit pulses with the rhythmic hiss of espresso machines and the inviting scent of freshly roasted beans, creating a sleek urban haven for the morning-minded. Guests linger over artfully layered gourmet sandwiches and vibrant, farm-fresh salads that elevate standard breakfast fare into a sophisticated culinary ritual. This polished neighborhood gem blends the precision of a high-end coffee house with the soul of a modern bistro, offering a refined and energized start to the day in the heart of the city.
• American Coney Island — American: This legendary institution pulses with a high-energy, nostalgic charm, where the sizzle of the grill and the savory aroma of spiced chili create an instantly welcoming atmosphere. Patrons bite into the signature snap of a perfectly dressed Coney dog or savor a warm, seasoned gyro amidst a backdrop of classic diner aesthetics, making every visit feel like a delicious step back in time.
• Locos — American: Locos pulses with a vibrant, high-energy spirit where the air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling fajitas and the festive clink of ice-cold beer buckets. Golden, deep-fried tacos and mountains of loaded nachos take center stage alongside zesty margaritas, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for raucous Taco Tuesday celebrations or a spirited evening shared over spicy Bandito wings.
• Cadillac Square Diner — American: Sunlight dances across the counters of this vibrant urban gathering spot, where the comforting aroma of sizzling, hand-pressed sausage patties and perfectly griddled eggs fills the air with nostalgic warmth. The kitchen balances these hearty, savory staples with bright, refreshing strawberry salads, creating a welcoming space where classic diner soul meets a fresh, contemporary touch.
• JoJo's Shake Bar — American: Step into a neon-drenched wonderland where retro diner nostalgia meets modern indulgence, creating a high-energy backdrop for playful gatherings and sweet escapes. The air buzzes with excitement as towering Biggie Shakes—crowned with whimsical confections—arrive at tables alongside savory comfort classics and vibrant signature cocktails that reinvent the traditional soda fountain experience.
• Tin Roof Detroit — American: Tin Roof Detroit pulses with high-energy charm and the spirit of a live music joint, where the clinking of domestic pitchers and the buzz of a lively crowd create an electric backdrop for a night out. Golden, hand-breaded chicken tenders and juice-dripping smash burgers offer a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with a cold Modelo or a salt-rimmed house margarita. Whether you’re sharing a bucket of seltzers or diving into a plate of Detroit’s signature wings, the atmosphere invites you to kick back and soak in the soulful, unpretentious energy of the city’s social scene.
• Spkr Box — American: Stepping into Spkr Box feels like entering a high-energy sanctuary where the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine sets the tempo for a bold, contemporary caffeine experience. Artfully crafted lattes like the mysterious Pure Evil and the botanical Green Fairy offer a kaleidoscope of flavors, blending rich espresso with imaginative infusions in a sleek space that pulses with urban style.
• Brisabar — Spanish: Brisabar captures the sun-drenched spirit of a seaside getaway, where the clink of glasses from the bubbly bar mingles with the refreshing chill of frozen mango daiquiris and tropical cocktails. Guests feast on a vibrant array of coastal-inspired bites, from buttery mini lobster rolls and zesty Key West shrimp tacos to crisp, garden-fresh salads that taste like a summer breeze.