When to Visit - Arts and Events

Detroit is regarded by many as the home of the automobile and throughout the city there are sites of homage to the great magnates who developed this massive industry. Their homes and the museums they created are in a way shrines to men like the great Henry Ford. But the city has a lighter side which is perhaps reflected by events such as the Montreaux Jazz Festival and the increasingly successful annual party known as the "Dally in the Alley" thrown by the trendy Cass Corridor community.

Detroit Dining

Until recently, Detroit was regarded as a meat-and-potatoes city, but things have changed in the last few years with venues now providing a wide variety of ethnic cuisines along with some classic Midwestern cookery. From rich and hearty Polish food in the old-world ambience of the suburb of Hamtramck, to the Middle Eastern cuisine of America's largest Arabic community in Dearborn, you'll undoubtedly be able to find a meal to suit your palate. There is also a large Greek neighborhood where Mediterranean-style dishes may be enjoyed, and a Latino area specialising in Mexican food. Local delicacies, such as whitefish from the Great Lakes, and pickerel, which is pork served with a Michigan cherry sauce, are well worth trying.

Detroit Tipping Advice

Restaurants in Detroit don't usually add gratuities to the bill, so tipping is recommended: 15 percent where customers deem the service to be good and 20 percent if the meal and service have been excellent. Tips in taxis should be paid along similar lines. The recommended rate for Detroit doormen, parking attendants and valets is one US dollar.