By Emily Phillips
Graduate ambassador
Master's student in occupational therapy

Wayne State University is one of the most diverse universities in the state of Michigan, and that is because of its wonderful location in the heart of Detroit. The options are endless for any food, drink, activity, or entertainment you could be in the mood for. In my experience the best places to go out for delicious drinks and delightful meals are Hopcat, Tony V’s Tavern, and Common Pub. If you are more of a coffee and pastry person, or just in the mood for it that day, -320° Coffee and Creamery and Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters are the best coffee spots.

Grab a bite to eat

Hopcat is a trendy burger and sandwich restaurant with a wide selection of local draft beverages for every taste. They are also known not only for being the beer capitol of midtown, but their music and entertainment acts during the week and on weekends. The location is on the corner of Woodward Avenue and West Canfield Street.

Another place to go for a bite to eat is Tony V’s Tavern on Cass Avenue between West Palmer and I-94. This restaurant is known for their brick oven pizza that’s cooked to perfection, a bar stocked with local favorites, and an exciting environment to hang out with friends or watch a game.

Common Pub is located further down Cass Avenue between West Ferry Street and West Kirby Street. This place is surprisingly on the main floor of an old apartment building from the 1920s. The restaurant has retro architecture and ambiance that gives the place a lot of character. I would describe the menu as elevated bar food (sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads fries, etc), along with local beers and beverages to choose from. There is a patio that is open almost year-round that is tucked away from the busy street to allow you a quiet place to study or catch up with friends.

A quick coffee break

If you are looking for a unique cup of coffee to tickle your taste buds and a beautifully baked pastry, then Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters and -320° Coffee and Creamery are the places for you. Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters is located on Griswold Street next to Campus Martius and has the most festive lattes during the holidays and has a wonderful ambiance to sit and enjoy your cup of coffee and study or meet up with friends.

The - 320° Coffee and Creamery is the place to stop in between classes since it is on campus on Cass Avenue across from Old Main. This coffee shop has cute outdoor seating to enjoy the weather if it is nice. My favorite item on the menu there is the oat milk latte that you can add your favorite flavor and the warm chocolate hazelnut croissant. Both items are perfect for walking around campus and enjoying the fall weather.