Since they were knee-high the McClure brothers, Joe and Bob, helped out on annual family pickling missions. All grown up, they decided to honour their Grandma Lala’s beloved pickle recipe by producing and selling a range of small-batch pickles to share with the world. Now this family business employs dozens of staff, and packs several million jars of pickles every year from a converted former Ford Axle Factory in Detroit.
Joe shares his top tips for eating, drinking, and general merriment in the Motor City. TL,DR: Don’t go to Detroit for a toastie!
What’s the best way to start the day in Detroit? Flat whites still haven’t caught on here, so I’m a bit lost outside NZ. Closest I get is James Oliver Coffee: a proper latte and something small to eat.
Which neighborhood is best for a food lover to explore? Right now the downtown city centre has a good vibe to it. Second favorite: Corktown.
What's your ultimate pickle-loaded dish? I actually just prefer a burger loaded with pickles. We make veggie burgers with pickles a couple of times times per week.
Where’s your go-to spot for cocktails? I’ve been a fan of Kamper's lately. It has a great view of the city, good cocktails, and they have tinned fish on the menu (one of my favorite snacks).
Detroit is known for diverse food roots—which cultural cuisines shine brightest here? Very strong Mexican food scene which is great; Middle Eastern food is fantastic. One of my favorite hole-in-the-walls is Boostan, right down the street from our factory.
Wait… the Coney Island dog originated in Detroit, not New York? What makes a great one, and where do you go to satisfy a craving? The cheapest bun, the cheapest dog, and loaded with chili. The two tops are Lafayette Coney and American Coney. Right next to each other. In fact, I think the buildings are attached.
Detroit-style pizza is iconic. What defines it, where should we try it, and did it really start in auto shop trays? Detroit-style square pizza, thicker than New York style, thinner than Chicago style. Buddy’s original pizza would be the way to go. Head to the original location off Conant in Detroit, get a personal pan. Nice burnt edges and four corners! (Auckland readers craving a taste of Detroit-style pizza – check out Slabs in Onehunga, pictured below)
Are there any other local specialty foods or drinks we shouldn't miss? Detroit has a pretty great cocktail called The Last Word. Very tasty. Gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino, lime juice. Equal parts – Uber home.
You frequently visit NZ for the Great New Zealand Toastie Competition—how do Detroit’s toasties stack up? Toasties here are pitiful compared to what I’ve experienced in New Zealand. We make grilled cheese sandwiches with melted Kraft Singles, dip into tomato soup, and if you’re lucky you’ll get a pickle. Don’t come to Detroit for a toastie.
Photo: Alberto Adan, pixabay
Pictured below: Lafayette Coney Island dogs; Detroit; Slabs makes Detroit pizza in Auckland
