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Bites Nearby

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Bites Nearby: Oakland Community College Culinary Studies

Students at Farmington Hills campus will showcase their skills at Western BBQ event April 14.

The cities of Farmington and the Hills are home to a wide range of restaurants, from fancy to no frills. For those looking for the fancy food on a no-frills budget, look no further than the students of Oakland Community College’s Culinary Studies Institute. Under the watchful eye of the school’s instructors, they serve upscale cuisine at a budget-friendly price. Students’ skills and knowledge will be put to the test during OCC’s last major dinner event, which is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, April 14, the third in a series of special dinner events this semester, said Susan Baier, program coordinator and chef at Oakland Community College. The menu, which will be prepared by the buffet and banquets class, will feature dishes that fit into the "…

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Bites Nearby: Sunday Dinner is Every Night at Alfoccino's

Italian restaurant has long been a place to find traditional comfort food.

Overview: Everyday Italian in a homey setting. There is care in the food; you can taste the love in it. A great weekday dinner spot when the craving for gravy hits. Decor: Fake foliage, disposable paper tablecloths, dark lighting–it’s like stepping into a time vortex into a 1960's basement that could use an HGTV makeover. But like that basement, Alfoccino can be the scene of many great memories. The Drinks: As soon as we were seated, we were asked if we wanted to start off with a cocktail. Yes, please – that’s how we like to start off the night! There is a full bar but a small wine list, with only a handful of Italian offerings. The budget conscious can enjoy a decent glass of wine; we liked the house offering montepulciano, which at $5.50…

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Bites Nearby: It's Hip to Be Square at Buddy's Pizza

Farmington Hills restaurant dishes up tasty pies, and the other stuff is good, too.

Overview: Chicago has the deep dish, New York has the foldable thin crust and Detroit has the square pizza. Buddy’s has been lauded as Detroit’s best square pizza by various media outlets, locally and nationally. Decor: The restaurant is a shrine to the Motor City, with photos of Detroit and sports legends adorning the exposed brick walls in a brightly lit dining room with a combo of booths and tables. It’s a laid-back family-friendly atmosphere. The Drinks: Every night features a different drink special. Mixed drinks pack a potent punch. Budget-conscious wine drinkers can try one of the house wines that cost less than $6 a glass. Appetizers: We tried the meatballs and zucchini chips with homemade ranch for dipping. The meatballs were …

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Bites Nearby: The Best Chinese Food in Detroit?

Well-regarded Farmington Hills restaurant Hong Hua prides itself on elegant, gourmet cuisine

Overview: Hong Hua was named among Zagat’s “America’s Top Restaurants” last fall, and it’s well-deserved. The food is thoughtful, flavorful and elegant, elevating Chinese cuisine. There is an English menu, and one in Chinese, which features regional specialties, according to a server. Ask a manager to translate the Chinese menu. This is the cream of the crop in fine dining in Farmington Hills, and is a special occasion type of place. Decor: With its white tablecloths and elegantly appointed details, Hong Hua lives up to the fine Chinese dining in its name. A sign at the hostess stand announces a requirement for proper attire, but they won’t turn you away if you show up in jeans. Despite the fancy décor, it’s not a fussy type of …

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Bites Nearby: Join The (Breakfast) Club

This Farmington Hills restaurant is popular spot for morning meal.

Overview: The Breakfast Club is locals’ favorite joint for breakfast in Farmington Hills, as evident by the long lines on weekends. It’s a comfy, laid-back spot for grabbing breakfast on the way to work or a gathering with friends and family for a leisurely meal on a Sunday morning. There are familiar breakfast faves, dishes with a Mexican twist and fare on the lighter side. Decor: The space features lots of natural light, but with the white walls, plastic tablecloths and doilies the décor is a bit dated, like Titanic era. But you won’t worry about what your surroundings look like, because your gaze will be fixated on your breakfast. The Drinks: Freshly squeezed O.J. and plenty of coffee refills before your cup is even empty. You can also …

Renee M

9:09 pm on Thursday, February 10, 2011

Love the food and atmosphere. I have always received wonderful service from the wait staff. I highly recommend this restaurant!   more ›

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