The Italians do it. The French do it. The Spanish do it. So, too, d’Etroit (Day-twa). After a very long winter season, what could be better than enjoying good food, good drink, and good conversation with family, friends or lovers? Here are 5 Metropolitan suggestions for dining out-of-doors in the city – all tried and true!

 

Fountain Bistro | Downtown

With, perhaps, one of the finest views in the city of Detroit, Fountain Bistro is perfect for lingering lunches, complete with light salads, flavorful sandwiches and full bottles of wine. General manager, Anthony Giannola, is the perfect host for business meetings, both attentive and understanding of his clients needs. But, Anthony and his staff also enjoy serving couples as they let time slip away alongside the fountain in Campus Martius Park. Happy Hour runs Monday-Friday between 4-7pm, and the staff at The Metropolitan has certainly enjoyed its share of Cheese & Charcuterie, red wine, and specialty drinks. May we suggest the French 75 this summer?

Campus Martius Park, Detroit | 313. 237. 7778 | www.fountainbistro.com

 


 

La Dolce Vita | Palmer Park District

Owner Enrico Rosselli certainly understands the concept of drinking and dining Al Fresco. His romantic, Italian restaurant’s patio is on every publications “Best Of ” list, and would be on ours, if we had a “Best Of ” list. La Dolce Vita is one of the more Metropolitan locations for intimate lunches and dinners. But, it also delivers a lively brunch. Try the Steak & Eggs, with bottomless Mimosas. Beginning in June, the patio is dedicated to Tuesday night parties on the patio, with fresh cocktails, djs, live musicians, and all the sexy locals. Plenty of Valet parking available. And, please, let Enrico know The Metropolitan sent you.

17546 Woodward Ave, Detroit | 313. 865. 0331 | www.ldvrestaurant.net


 

Los Galanes | Mexicantown

Sitting out of doors on the patio of Los Galanes is certainly one of the little pleasures in Detroit life; particularly on a hot afternoon, or when the sun is setting just right. From the colorful, Mexican tiled tabletops, to the addictive chips & salsa, to the variety of festive, summer cocktails (Margaritas, Pina Coladas, Daiquiris) Los Galanes is a welcomed respite from working your genius the whole day through. Can’t say enough about the Tacos here (house made tortillas), but I have also enjoyed Caldo de Pollo (a delicious Mexican chicken soup) and have recently tried the Barbacoa, on the recommendation of the staff, and feel confident in suggesting these tradional Mexican dish to all.

3362 Bagley Ave. Detroit | 313. 554. 4444 | www.losgalanesdetroit.com


 

Le Petit Zinc | Corktown

Nestled in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, Le Petit Zinc is a cozy “little bar” offering breakfast, pastry, a full menu of light salads, sandwiches, and the city’s finest crepes. Take your meal and coffee inside this very colorful, French island inspired space, or be seated out of doors in the charming patio area that is truly a hidden jewel. Very much recommend the Jambon et Fromage and the Citron Sucre crepes, and I am always in the mood for Zinc’s good coffee and croissant.

1055 Trumbull St Detroit | 313. 963. 2805 | www.lepetitzincdetroit.com


 

Belle Isle Fountain (Scott Fountain)

What could be more romantic than a picnic alongside the Fountain on Belle Isle (Technically, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, but the title itself seems to suppress romance) Simply drive, or ride your bike, over the gorgeous Belle Isle bridge (Or, Douglas MacArther Bridge) and open your vintage picnic basket, filled with fresh bread form Avalon Bakery, artisan cheese from Whole Foods Market, fresh sausage from Corridor Sausage, and a bottle of white Lillet from Eastern Market’s Cost Plus Wine. Now, if we can only get the state of Michigan to include an authentic Frenchman, with accordion, all will be right with the world.

 

Note: If the Fountain is turned off please head to Belle Isle Conservatory and follow instructions above.