Okay, let's be real here - Detroit isn't exactly a small town. Detroit is a large, metropolitan city... so what's a person to do if they're really craving that small-town, family diner taste? They should definitely check out Sweet Potato Sensations - it's perfect.
Jeffrey and Cassandra Thomas were celebrating their first Thanksgiving together as a married couple. Jeffrey had a special request: could there be sweet potatoes with this holiday dinner?
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Cassandra decided to see what she could do with the vegetable other than the typical dishes.
First, she created a recipe for sweet potato cookies, and they turned out well. Incredibly well. So well, in fact, that in 1987, the Thomases decided to see if they could market them to the public.
Needless to say, they sold out within hours on their very first day selling cookies to neighbors at the local block yard sale.
Cassandra and Jeffrey began creating more dessert recipes centered around the sweet potato. Each result was absolutely delectable. Finally, in July 1993, the couple opened up a family bakery. They called it Sweet Potato Sensations - and boy, was it a sensation.
Sweet Potato Sensations featured an incredible menu full of mind-blowing desserts including pies, ice cream, and, of course, Jeffrey and Cassandra's original cookies.
In 2014, Jeffrey had an idea - what if they expanded the menu to include dishes beyond dessert? Hesitantly, Cassandra agreed and Jerry got to work developing some new recipes for the shop.
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His persistence paid off and he created a recipe for fried chicken and sweet potato waffles that were just to die for, among other things.
News of the updated menu at Sweet Potato Sensations traveled fast. The bakery-turned-diner had a whole new selection of amazing and truly unique dishes.
No matter what they're craving, hungry visitors will always find something they'll love here.
From artisan sandwiches to salmon croquettes, the selection isn't necessarily enormous, but it is quite broad. Don't worry - most of the non-dessert items still incorporate sweet potatoes in some way.
Sweet Potato Sensations is open six days a week, Tuesday through Sunday.
From Tuesday to Saturday, their hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Sundays, you'll find them open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They're closed on Mondays, though, so you'll have to try to get your sweet potato waffle fix somewhere else (good luck!).
You can check out their savory menu here, and their world-famous dessert menu here.
Have you ever tried this fantastic Detroit treasure? Tell us everything in the comments below.
Hidden-gem restaurants in Detroit feel like a holiday when you discover them. If you’re looking for a dining experience that strays from the norm, Metro Detroit offers plenty of options. While there’s something to be said for checking out a popular, bustling eatery, we’re suckers for lesser-known spots that tend to fly under the radar. When your cravings strike, load up the car and venture to these oft-overlooked restaurants in and around the Motor City.
Make your way to Ann Arbor for a classic, laid-back dining experience at Benny’s. This unassuming yet out-of-the-way eatery is situated away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Ann Arbor, so you might need a few extra minutes to find your way here - but as soon as you step inside, you’ll be delighted. There’s no better place to appreciate friendly service, classic American eats, and family togetherness than at one of the best restaurants around Detroit. Discover more on the Benny’s Family Dining website.
This Sterling Heights eatery is located in a strip mall, so it might not catch your eye from the road. Don’t let its exterior fool you, though - there’s so much to adore inside. Open daily, Old House offers a casual yet carefully crafted dining experience that will bring your breakfast and lunch dreams to life. Dig into egg-based plates, waffles, pasta, and burgers. We like this delicious club sandwich with fries. Read further information on the Old House Family Restaurant Facebook page.
This eatery is so worth the 45-minute drive from Detroit. After all, nothing satisfies cravings quite like a hearty serving of BBQ, and Jack’s certainly delivers when it comes to flavor and experience. The aroma of smoked meats will have your taste buds tingling as soon as you arrive. While the smells are spectacular, nothing beats that first bite - whether you opt for ribs, brisket, or something in between.
This taqueria offers multiple locations, but we’ll focus on the Dexter eatery here. While it’s situated in a strip mall, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a new world as you appreciate the ambiance, colorful decor, and unbeatable service at Chela’s. The menu boasts options like wet burritos, flautas, chili relleno, and a variety of other eats that will have you feeling happy and full in no time. Read the menu on the Chela’s Restaurant website.
Located in Corktown, the Sugar House is a speakeasy-esque bar and Detroit restaurant that feels like a true hidden gem. With an emphasis on craft cocktails, it’s a wonderful place to unwind with friends over drinks and bask in a delightfully moody environment. You don’t have to be a cocktail connoisseur to find something wonderful here, as there’s truly an option for every taste preference on the menu. Visit the Sugar House website for more information.
Tucked away 30 minutes by car from downtown Detroit, Kate’s Kitchen is a welcoming and decidedly relaxed spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch with loved ones. Family-owned and operated since 1978, there’s a real sense of community at this small but lovely locale. Whether you’re snagging a slice of homemade pie or digging into a three-egg omelet, you’ll be charmed by this cash-only establishment.
While its vibrant exterior makes it easy to spot when you’re in the immediate area, Coriander Kitchen sits slightly off the beaten path for those who typically spend time in the heart of the Motor City. Located just a stone’s throw from the shores of the Detroit River, this farm-to-table destination features everything from flatbreads to fantastically fresh salads and everything in between. You’ll surely return to this Detroit restaurant for seconds. Learn about the restaurant on the Coriander Kitchen and Farm website.
Looking for an even more secluded speakeasy experience? The Last Word in Ann Arbor has you covered. This truly hidden destination is tough to spot from the outside, but what awaits upon stepping inside is truly magical. There’s a real warmth to be appreciated as you dig into fare including charcuterie trays, truffle chips, cheesecake, and an impressive array of adult beverages. Learn the story on the The Last Word website.
Looking for an old-fashioned diner experience within driving distance of the city? Head to The Hut Diner in Redford, a small but mighty roadside spot that serves some of the tastiest burgers around. Whether you’re enjoying a coney dog, a traditional cheeseburger, a creamy milkshake, or a breakfast plate, this is some of the best hidden-gem dining in Detroit. We enjoy this taste of simpler times.
Hidden-gem restaurants in Detroit are the best finds in the city. Have you visited any of these awesome eateries during previous dining adventures with loved ones? Are there any other restaurants we should have included on our list? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below. Or recommend another tucked-away spot in Metro Detroit by filling out our official nomination form.
All-you-can-eat seafood spots that serve quality food are plentiful in the Detroit area. But for an amazing meal that you wish would never end, Harbor House is an unassuming seafood spot in downtown Detroit with a terrific offering of delicious food. From fried shrimp to crab legs, Atlantic cod to frog legs, prime rib, and so much more, you can enjoy a neverending meal with all the sides you crave. Remember — the famous, breaded mushrooms come with every meal. And don't let the exterior confuse you: Harbor House is the best spot for an extraordinary meal that won't stop. Get down there and dig in on the all-you-can-eat seafood near me! Let's see what's cooking.
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Welcome to Harbor House! This unassuming spot in Detroit should not be overlooked.
All-you-can-eat seafood in Detroit is something we treasure. Discover more on the Harbor House website. Have you ever indulged in an extravagant meal at Harbor House? What did you think? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
