If you’re planning your next trip to Detroit to watch the Detroit Red Wings play at Little Caesars Arena, you’re probably wondering where you’ll eat while you’re there. You like going out to eat, but you also like the convenience of finding something cheap and cheerful at the venue. The good news is that there are plenty of options, whether you’re looking for delicious pizza or something upmarket. This guide will show you where to eat next time you’re in town for a Detroit Red Wings game.
Mike’s Pizza Bar
Mike’s Pizza Bar is steps from the arena entrance and is a popular pregame destination spot for sports enthusiasts. The menu comprises mainly pizza options but offers some delicious appetizers. They are best known for their handcrafted artisanal pizzas with fresh ingredients. Their range includes their signature Detroit-style deep dish, which is made with locally sourced ingredients. When we say that this restaurant is located on top of the arena, we aren’t kidding; it will take you just two minutes to walk there.
2515 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Gray Ghost Detroit
Grey Ghost Detroit offers a sophisticated alternative if you are looking for a slightly more upscale experience near Little Caesars Arena. This restaurant brings a unique character to Detroit’s dining landscape. The menu is centered around meat, with options like tender filet mignon, skirt steak served with black bean and plantain, and popular appetizers like fried bologna with waffles. This is an excellent option if you want a pregame meal with friends and want to share their charcuterie boards with smoked whitefish. Of course, nonmeat options are available, but this dining experience is highly recommended if you are a big meat eater.
47 Watson St, Detroit, MI 48201
Hockeytown Café
Hockeytown Café is the perfect option for a bite to eat before seeing the Detroit Red Wings play, with deep hockey routes. It’s one of the most iconic sports-themed restaurants near Little Caesars Arena. It was opened in 1999 and created as a tribute to one of the NHL’s most accomplished teams. Their signature dishes include house-smoked wings, Detroit-style pizzas, and burgers you will struggle to finish. They are known for their mac and cheese around town, so don’t go here without trying this.
2301 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Hudson Café
Hudson Cafe was founded in 2011 and has established itself as an ideal breakfast and brunch destination. If you plan on going to a game later, or perhaps you are in town for a few days and want to find a great brunch place to eat at, Hudson Cafe has an expansive menu that includes delicious items like cinnamon buns and voodoo Benedict on house-made corn cakes. Their chunky monkey pancakes are served with caramel and banana, and they even have red velvet pancakes.
1241 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Bookies Bar and Grill
If you are more in the mood to get something snack-related for dinner, and would instead like to find somewhere that serves your favorite beer, this multi-level sports bar will be your best bet. It is a popular establishment, boasting one of Detroit’s few heated rooftop terraces. This way, you can enjoy the view while sipping your favorite drink and relaxing with friends. Their menu includes Buffalo chicken tots topped with Monterey cheddar cheese, Mac and cheese bites served with ranch and boom boom sauce, and pretzel bites dipped in stout beer batter.
2208 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Parc
Parc is, as you might have already been able to tell by the name, a more upscale dining experience. Perhaps you are in town to catch a game and celebrate a birthday or an anniversary. If this is the case, a restaurant like Parc should be at the top of your list. This chic establishment contrasts with your typical sports bar, serving refined contemporary cuisine in an elegant setting. If you have special dietary requirements, you’ll be pleased to know that the kitchen provides vegan options, vegetarian options, and gluten-free alternatives to typical menu items.
800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Wahlburgers
If you are a fan of Mark Wahlberg, you will want to check out his restaurant chain, which he started with his brothers. It is a casual dining experience that combines Hollywood fame with chef-crafted comfort food. The menu is inspired by authentic dishes from the Wahlberg family kitchen, and includes the Thanksgiving Day sandwich, the BBQ bacon burger, and Mom’s sloppy Joe. If you are a big fan of burgers and supporting home-style, family restaurants, you’ll have a great time at Wahlburgers before the game.
569 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226
The Mixing Board
The mixing board is proudly Michigan-focused, celebrating Detroit’s rich heritage through a distinctive culinary approach. You’ll be pleased to learn that this locally inspired restaurant operates within the arena, making it one of the most convenient options for a pregame meal. Its menu features built-from-scratch meal options, created with local ingredients. From sandwiches, salads, and flatbread pizzas to shareable dishes and desserts, you have a lot to choose from. The venue is only open during Little Caesar’s events, so it’s worth checking out as you won’t be able to experience it at any other time.
2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Detroit Shipping Company
Detroit Shipping Company is unique in that it is built from 21 refurbished shipping containers. It creates a distinctive dining destination just minutes from Little Caesars Arena and boasts an innovative food hall concept. It is a refreshing alternative to traditional restaurants and offers patrons a vibrant atmosphere in which to relax. Because it is a food hall, you have several options, from taquitos to Southeast Asian cuisine, Nepalese dumplings, snacks, and Middle Eastern flavours.
474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI 48201
Conclusion
Whether you want to stay traditional on this trip and go for a Detroit-style pizza or are excited to make the most of Detroit’s upscale dining experiences, Little Caesars Arena has some excellent options for you to make the most of before the game. The dining scene around Little Caesars Arena continues to evolve, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. This guide is a testament to the city’s revitalized food culture, ensuring visitors can make the most of a memorable meal, regardless of their preferences.