You GUYSSSSSS … who was going to tell me how many AMAZING things there are to do in Detroit’s West Village? I’ve been going here for years to snag desserts at Sister Pie (currently on hiatus), but with the opening of several new businesses over the past few years, I find myself prioritizing this neighborhood more and more lately.
From brunch to books, I’m sharing everywhere Brad and I went on an afternoon West Village outing in this post and on YouTube (bonus points if you subscribe to my channel and leave me a comment so I know you stopped by)!
West Village Detroit:
Watch the video on Youtube
West Village Detroit: 6 Must-Dos
Sister Pie
📍 8066 Kercheval Ave., Detroit
Sister Pie has consistently ranked as one of my favorite bakeries for YEARRRRS, but sadly at the time of writing this article, the shop is on hiatus for a business restructure. According to the owner, however, we can expect a return soon—so keep an eye out! In the meantime, you can keep up with the beloved pie shop’s popups and announcements on their Instagram page.
Ouizi Mural
📍 Agnes Street (Across from Norm’s Diner), Detroit
Louise Jones, aka Ouizi (“wee-zee“) is known for painting giant, colorful flowers all over the country, including her current home base of Detroit. This well-loved mural sprawls prominently across the street from Norm’s Diner and Red Hook Coffee (home to a beautiful pheasant mural also by Ouizi) and offers the perfect place for a West Village photo opp.
Norm’s Diner
📍 8029 Agnes Street, Detroit
Fun fact: Brad and I first visited Norm’s sometime last year, then went back every. single. weekend. for almost a month. It’s that good, I promise. Great food, service, people, vibes—it’s a treat every time we stop by, and has quickly become one of my favorite brunch spots.
(TIP: Norm’s is typically VERY busy on weekends, so I suggest stopping by to put your name on the waitlist, then popping next door for a coffee at Red Hook or over to one of the other places on this list while you wait for your number to be called).
Van Dyke Books
📍1417 Van Dyke Street, Detroit
Van Dyke Books is one of those little shops that just makes you glad small businesses exist. Nestled in an historic home with perfectly creaky floorboards, this used bookstore carries a variety of genres that range from mass market romance to social- and culture-focused works. There’s even a kids’ area in the back where your little ones can play games while you browse for curriculum books—win-win.
The Velvet Tower
📍8116 Kercheval Ave. Suite 1, Detroit
The Velvet Tower is THE place to be if you love very cool vintage clothing and accessories. The store has a mystical, Bohemian feel, TONS of rad men’s and women’s options, and a tailor regularly onsite. Plus, the prices are really fairly priced as far as vintage goes, so you’ll save money on a one-of-a-kind outfit for whatever occasion you’re looking for.
Signal Return
📍9301 Kercheval Ave. #1, Detroit
Ah, Signal Return. Basically every non-vintage piece of artwork in my home is from this letterpress collective. Formerly housed in the Eastern Market, this nonprofit workshop/store now calls Kercheval its home, and the new location appears to be treating them well. I love stopping by to browse pieces from local artists and rarely leave empty-handed.
West Village Detroit:
Other Places of Note
While we weren’t able to include everything from the West Village in one day (and how could we?), there are several places outside of this list that are worth checking out. Some favorites:
The Red Hook
📍8025 Agnes Street, Detroit
I briefly mentioned this cafe above, but didn’t include it in our itinerary because I typically order coffee with my meal at Norm’s (which also has really great coffee). If, however, you’re up for more caffeine than I can handle (or simply looking for a great cafe), this place is very much worth the visit.
Huddle Soft Serve
📍8130 Kercheval Ave., Detroit // (Open during warmer months)
This little hole-in-the-wall soft serve shop keeps things simple, but delicious. Tucked into a side patio on Kercheval, Huddle serves up chocolate, vanilla, or twist with options to add toppings like oreos, chocolate chips, or sea salt. It’s straightforward and an oh-so-refreshing way to appease that sweet tooth.
(Pssst: Headed downtown? There’s also a Huddle located right outside Parker’s Alley! // 2 John R Street, Detroit)
Two Birds
📍8130 Kercheval Ave., Detroit
If you saunter right around the corner from Huddle, you’ll find yourself at Two Birds: A family-run neighborhood bar that serves cocktails, non-alcoholic mocktails, beer, and wine (and a weekly brunch). It’s open late and a great place for friends/dates to congregate.
La Fonda Street
📍8016 Kercheval Ave., Detroit
La Fonda Street is my new favorite casual place to grab a burrito! Stop in on a late night when you’ve got the munchies and don’t feel like dressing up or facing the fancy dining room crowd. There are literally two tables, so you’ll either be cozying up with your neighbor or grabbing your food to go. Worth it.
Washed Up Coffee*
📍8016 Kercheval Ave., Detroit
*Despite the fact that this little cafe shares a space with La Fonda Street, I have yet to visit during open hours! After seeing it alllllll over my Instagram feed, however, you can bet that I can’t wait to check it out. Plus, their merch is very cute so I may need to allot a separate budget for that.
