“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of the Dutch Girl Donut Co? It’s pretty famous and is basically heaven in a bite. It’s located on 19000 Woodward Ave in Detroit, and is the BEST place to get a DONUT. When you go there, be sure to keep your best insulin pen nearby for the diabetic coma you are about to endure. You won’t be able to put down the sugary goodness. The atmosphere is relaxed so you’ll feel right at home. Expect to spend around 5 dollars. Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you decide you want to swoon your coworkers and buy a dozen to hand out. Hope you enjoy it!”

“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of the Hilton Road Cafe? It’s (ironically) located on 3150 Hilton Road in Ferndale, and it is the BEST place to gather one or two friends for breakfast (seating is limited, but no one will want to miss out so it’s worth the squeeze). When you go there be sure to wear jeans, pajamas pants, your favorite (now too small) high school t-shirt...anything goes really, just wear SOMETHING. The atmosphere is so unique! You’ll feel like you entered a world of knick knacks, some new and some from the past. I am pretty sure I saw a ceramic chicken behind the cash register. Expect to spend anywhere from 5$ to 15$. Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you want to try another of their daily specials. The list is endless, they have more specials then some restaurants have staple items. Last time they served lobster benedict - how often do you see that? Hope you enjoy it. ”

“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of Cafe 1923? It’s located on 2287 Holbrook St in Hamtramck, and it is the BEST place to grab a coffee and catch up with a friend. When you go there, be sure to wear something comfortable, because you will likely stay awhile (perhaps wear elastic band pants in case you want to grab desserts - plural). The atmosphere is reminiscent of an artist’s dwelling with a few cheeky knick-knacks from the 1950’s era. Expect to spend anywhere from 1$ to 5$. Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you bring good reading material and will need a coffee refill. The refills are on the honor system,, so don’t be stingy! Hope you enjoy it.”

“Dear Detroiter,

If you have walked around the neighborhoods of Detroit you can see the art scene is thriving! Have you heard of MBAD’s African Bead Museum? You can find it on 6559 Grand River Ave. The vibe is almost indescribable! The African influence and soul is almost palpable. The art is vibrant and eclectic, and the beads & textiles are actual products of Africa brought back to Detroit by the museum’s owner. As the website so eloquently puts it the owner, Olayami Dabls, is an “esteemed fine-artist, museum curator, and historian” who has lectured extensively on African Material Culture for over 30 years. There is no need to explain more, just look at the photos and judge for yourself. They won’t disappoint. Enjoy, explore and experience Detroit.”

“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of the Bread Basket Deli? It has many locations all over the metro area including Redford, Livonia, Greenfield, Waterford, Eastpointe, Clinton Township, Ypsi/Ann Arbor, Palmer Park, Warren, Southfield and Lincoln Park. Go to www.Breadbasketdeli.com to find your nearest location. The Bread Basket is the place to get the BEST and BIGGEST corned beef..period! As well as many other great delectable deli sandwiches that are stacked high to the ceiling with meat and condiments. They are your Metro Times 2013 Best of Detroit.

Did I mention that the corned beef is made and delivered from Topors Pickle Company in Detroit!? The bread is from Superior Bread Co. and Bake Station. They are so pro-Michigan that they only serve Better Made potato chips, and the pop of choice is Faygo. The atmosphere is very laid back and relaxing, so you’ll feel right at home. Expect to spend around 12-14$, depending on how far to the ceiling you would like your sandwich to go! Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you decide to add a homemade pie or cake made right in the Bread Basket’s own bakery. Hope you enjoy your experience with your stacked sandwich!”

“Dear Detroiter,

Want to be the envy of all your Instagram friends? Then stop and snap a picture of the mural that shows the face of a beautiful young girl next to the inspiring quote, “Today we need to combine learning with work, political struggle, community service and even play.” You will find it on the southeast corner of 2nd and Brainard Street. Plan a bike trip on a clear day/night when you can get the perfect picture. When you are done, upload it to Facebook, Twitter, whatever you choose! That way, those friends will be jealous too. You won’t even need a filter, the spot is that amazing, and the words hot home. Gotta love Detroit”

“Dear Detroiter,

Feeling thirsty? If you are looking for a little refreshment, head to the Woodbridge Pub. It’s nestled on 5169 Trumbull in Detroit. They are known for their Bloody Mary’s, which can only be described as the best hangover cure you will ever encounter (or the worst hangover starter if you indulge the evening before). For the best experience, go on Sunday for brunch - the Irish Tofu Scramble will knock your socks off. Bring your friends, because someone may have to carry you home (perhaps for the second time in 24 hours?). Also, make sure a designated driver only orders the orange juice, unless you all plan on walking. The vibe is relaxed and slightly hipster so come dressed to impress in your best flannel shirt and chucks (but honestly, just rock your own personal style). I hope you enjoy this genuine Detroit experience!”

“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of Red Smoke? It’s located in Greek Town, and it is a great place to get a barbecue food and mac and cheese. When you go there, be sure to wear your best bib. The atmosphere is laid back, so you’ll feel right at home. Expect to spend around $15. Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you decide to save room for some beer. Hope you enjoy it!”

“Dear Detroiter,

Have you heard of Bucharest Grill? It’s located on Park Ave, near Comerica Park, and it is the BEST place to “get your shawarma on.” When you go there, be sure to wear your best Tigers gear (or really whatever you want to!). The atmosphere is really casual, so you’ll feel right at home. Expect to spend around 12 dollars for a beer and a shawarma - totally worth every penny. They also have great appetizers and fun “dog” varieties, like “The Hamtramck” dog (for you Polish folk!) Maybe bring a few extra bucks if you decide to have more beers. They have a really great selection of beers on tap. It is fabulous food. I try to go there each time I hit a Tiger’s game. Hope you enjoy it!”

“Have you ever heard of a “Cold Duck?” No I am not talking about a freezing bird, I am talking about the drink! A bubbly blend of champagne and wine, that was first introduced at the old Pontchartrain Wine Cellars restaurant in downtown Detroit. This is one drink that I personally say we make popular again!”

“I am so proud of the way Detroit represented the AL’s 3-0 win over the NL. Starting pitcher Scherzer with a 1-2-3 out, Cabrera with 5 innings at 3rd base and scoring the first run of the game, Fielder’s triple, Peralto’s single, Hunter’s pep talk and smile, Verlander for just being JV (inelible to pitch because of pitching in Sunday’s game and Leyland leading the way. Way to go Detroit! Bless you Boys!”
”

“An overwhelming feeling of gratitude and love for the D swept through my body. My muscles ache with love for Detroit!

:-).”

“Felt blessed and now I want to pass on good vibes to the guy drinking a mocha latte next to me”

“I instantly wanted to run down Woodward in my underwear while waving a Red Wings jersey.,,,yes, I was that inspired.”