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Casual restaurant near DSO

My husband and I are heading down to the DSO on 9/21. Although I live in the suburbs and have been downtown for concerts/sporting events..etc, I have never seen the DSO. Anyway, we are wanting to grab dinner on the way down. Any great, casual, not too fancy restaurants around that area that you can recommend?

The area around the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) in Midtown Detroit has a variety of casual dining options that are convenient, tasty, and perfect for a pre-concert meal. Since you’re looking for something not too fancy but still enjoyable, here are some recommendations:

Casual American and comfort food options:

  • Traffic Jam & Snug: A fun, eclectic spot serving creative American dishes, sandwiches, and comfort food. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and hearty portions.
  • Buddy’s Pizza: Famous for Detroit-style square deep-dish pizza. Casual and iconic—great if you want a classic Detroit dining experience before your concert.
  • Supino Pizzeria: Offers thin-crust, hand-tossed pizzas with fresh ingredients. Cozy, informal, and within walking distance from DSO.

International and eclectic flavors:

  • La Dolce Vita Café: Italian-inspired small plates, casual and charming, good for a lighter meal.
  • Selden Standard: A modern American restaurant with casual-chic vibes, sharing plates, and locally sourced ingredients. A bit more polished but still relaxed.
  • Detroit Vegan Soul: Casual, flavorful plant-based comfort food. Perfect if you want a unique twist on classic dishes.

Quick bites and lighter options:

  • Astro Coffee: Great for a quick snack or coffee if you want a light pre-concert bite.
  • Motor City Brewing Works: Brewpub with casual fare and good beer selection, perfect if you enjoy a relaxed atmosphere before a show.

Tips for dining near DSO:

  • Arrive at least 1–1.5 hours before the concert if you want to eat nearby without rushing.
  • Check if restaurants accept reservations, especially on concert nights, as Midtown can get busy.
  • Most of these spots are within a short walk or a quick drive from the DSO, making it easy to enjoy dinner without worrying about parking far away.

Overall, for a casual, pre-DSO dinner, Buddy’s Pizza or Supino Pizzeria are iconic and convenient, while Traffic Jam & Snug offers a fun, eclectic vibe. If you prefer something light or trendy, Selden Standard or Detroit Vegan Soul are excellent choices.

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