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Dining news and events: Taco Showdown this weekend, new brunch menus and more

Detroit's Dining Scene Heats Up: Taco Showdown, Fresh Brunch Offerings, and More Culinary Buzz

Detroit's vibrant food landscape is buzzing with excitement this summer, as a slew of new events, menu launches, and restaurant updates promise to tantalize taste buds across the city. From a high-stakes taco competition to innovative brunch experiences, the Motor City's dining options are evolving rapidly, blending traditional flavors with creative twists. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor exploring the area's culinary gems, there's something for everyone in the latest wave of dining news. Let's dive into the highlights, starting with the much-anticipated Taco Showdown Sunday, which is set to bring together some of the region's top taquerias in a flavorful face-off.

The Taco Showdown Sunday event, scheduled for this weekend at Eastern Market, is shaping up to be one of the summer's hottest tickets. Organized by the Detroit Food Collective, this annual gathering pits local chefs and food trucks against each other in a battle for taco supremacy. Attendees can expect a diverse array of tacos, from classic carne asada and al pastor to inventive vegan options featuring jackfruit or roasted cauliflower. Last year's winner, Taqueria El Rey, is returning to defend its title with a new creation: a birria taco infused with Michigan-sourced spices. Event organizers emphasize the community aspect, noting that proceeds will benefit local food banks. "It's not just about the food; it's about celebrating Detroit's multicultural heritage through one of the world's most beloved street foods," said Maria Gonzalez, the event's coordinator. Tickets are priced at $25 for general admission, which includes samples from over 15 vendors, live music from mariachi bands, and a people's choice voting system. For those looking to elevate their experience, VIP passes at $50 offer early entry and exclusive tastings. The showdown runs from noon to 6 p.m., rain or shine, and promises to draw crowds eager for both competition and camaraderie. If you're planning to attend, arrive early—lines for popular spots like the fusion taco truck blending Korean bulgogi with Mexican staples are expected to be long.

Shifting gears from tacos to morning delights, several Detroit eateries are rolling out fresh brunch menus that cater to a variety of palates, incorporating seasonal ingredients and global influences. Leading the pack is Folk Detroit in Corktown, which has just unveiled its "Harvest Brunch" series. This new menu highlights farm-to-table ethos with dishes like avocado toast topped with heirloom tomatoes from nearby urban farms, fluffy ricotta pancakes drizzled with Michigan maple syrup, and a savory shakshuka featuring eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce. Chef Sarah Thompson, who helms the kitchen, explained the inspiration: "We wanted to create a brunch that's not only delicious but also reflective of Detroit's agricultural roots. Our partnerships with local growers ensure everything is fresh and sustainable." Prices range from $12 to $18 per entree, with bottomless mimosas available for an additional $15. The menu launches this Saturday and will be offered weekends from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Not to be outdone, Grey Ghost in Midtown is introducing a bold twist on brunch classics with its "Global Fusion Brunch." Drawing from Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin American cuisines, standout items include kimchi fried rice topped with a sunny-side-up egg, halloumi cheese fritters served with harissa yogurt, and churro French toast dusted with cinnamon sugar. The restaurant's beverage program is equally innovative, featuring cocktails like a matcha-infused bloody mary and a passionfruit bellini. "Brunch should be an adventure," said co-owner John Vermiglio. "We're pushing boundaries to make weekends more exciting for our guests." This menu debuts next Sunday, with reservations highly recommended due to the spot's popularity among the brunch crowd. For those with dietary restrictions, Grey Ghost offers plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring inclusivity.

Beyond these headliners, the dining news roundup includes several other noteworthy developments. In the realm of new openings, the long-awaited expansion of Selden Standard has finally come to fruition. The beloved New American restaurant is adding a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline, complete with craft cocktails and small plates like grilled octopus and heirloom beet salad. The space, dubbed Selden Sky, opens to the public next month and aims to become a go-to spot for after-work drinks and sunset views. Meanwhile, over in Greektown, Andiamo is refreshing its menu with Italian-inspired summer specials, including a chilled seafood salad and housemade gelato flavors like pistachio and limoncello. These updates come as part of a broader effort to attract tourists flocking to Detroit for events like the upcoming Jazz Festival.

Event-wise, food lovers should mark their calendars for the Detroit Vegan Fest, happening in two weeks at the Russell Industrial Center. This plant-based extravaganza will feature over 50 vendors offering everything from cruelty-free burgers to dairy-free ice creams. Highlights include cooking demos by celebrity vegan chef Chloe Coscarelli and a panel discussion on sustainable eating. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged to support animal welfare organizations. On the sweeter side, the Michigan Chocolate Expo returns to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, promising tastings from artisanal chocolatiers and workshops on bean-to-bar production. It's a family-friendly affair with activities for kids, like chocolate-making classes.

In terms of industry shifts, several restaurants are adapting to post-pandemic trends by emphasizing outdoor seating and contactless ordering. For instance, Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails in the Park Shelton has expanded its patio with new shaded areas and a herb garden that supplies fresh ingredients for their cocktails. This move not only enhances the dining experience but also aligns with growing demands for al fresco options amid warmer weather. Similarly, Marrow in the West Village is launching a subscription-based meat box service, allowing customers to receive curated cuts from local farms delivered straight to their doors. "It's about building a direct connection between consumers and producers," noted owner Ping Ho.

Sustainability remains a key theme in Detroit's dining evolution. Establishments like Lady of the House are doubling down on zero-waste practices, composting scraps and sourcing from regenerative farms. Their new brunch menu, incidentally, includes a "waste-not" hash made from vegetable trimmings, proving that eco-conscious dining can be both innovative and delicious. This trend is echoed citywide, with initiatives like the Detroit Restaurant Association's green certification program gaining traction among members.

For cocktail enthusiasts, the scene is equally effervescent. The Apparatus Room at the Detroit Foundation Hotel is introducing a summer spritz menu, featuring light, refreshing drinks like an elderflower gin fizz and a basil-infused Aperol spritz. Paired with their small plates, it's an ideal setup for casual gatherings. Over at Wright & Company, a speakeasy vibe prevails with their new "Prohibition Reimagined" series, offering historically inspired cocktails with modern twists, such as a lavender old fashioned.

As Detroit continues to cement its status as a culinary destination, these developments underscore the city's resilience and creativity. From the competitive spirit of Taco Showdown Sunday to the comforting allure of new brunch menus, there's no shortage of reasons to explore the local food scene. Whether you're indulging in street tacos, sipping on innovative cocktails, or discovering sustainable eats, the Motor City's dining offerings are more dynamic than ever. Keep an eye out for more updates as the summer unfolds—Detroit's table is always set for something new and exciting.

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[ https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/07/23/dining-news-and-events-taco-showdown-sunday-new-brunch-menus-and-more/85255728007/ ]