There has been a lot of news about Bucharest opening on Livernois over the last couple of weeks (it’s finally open, by the way).
But if you have been around the northwest neighborhoods you would have known that the area of Livernois between 7 Mile and 8 Mile has a whole host of businesses already.
First, a little history. This area is often called The Avenue of Fashion because it was a major shopping district in the 1950s. Shoppers would come to shop at B. Siegel, Sibley’s Shoes, Jacobson’s, and numerous shops up and down the thoroughfare.
Livernois, although not really a home to chain stores like before, is alive with a mix of local clothing stores, shoe stores, art studios and galleries, restaurants, bakeries and more.
We wanted to bring you a sampling of some of the shops and restaurants that are located along Livernois, old and new. Our biggest piece of advice is to park and then go for a stroll. There is a good chance that you would miss some of these stores while you drive by. And if we missed something, I didn’t mean to – leave it in the comments.
Everything Old Is New Again
What can I say about (1) Baker’s Keyboard Lounge that already hasn’t been said? This place has been serving food and jazz music since the 1930’s. If you have never been, do yourself a favor and check it out.
If you are in need of getting your shoes repaired then you should check out (2) House of Morrison Professional Shoe Care. They have been on Livernois since 1954.
If you play tennis or racquetball you should check out (3) Professional Racquet Services. This company has been located on Livernois for the past 35 years. They must be doing something right.
At one time, Motown Legend Marvin Gaye lived a couple blocks from this strip. His house (4) is in great condition, but it’s not an official tourist attraction so be respectful of who lives there if you decide to stop by.
Art
There are numerous art studios and galleries located along Livernois.
(5) Art In Motion is a ceramic studio and a gallery. Kay offers classes and drop in workshops. There are currently four artists in residence at Art In Motion, so I highly suggest stopping in to see everything.
This next place is the only fiber studio in Detroit. (6) Detroit Fiber Works is a studio and gallery, plus they also offer community classes for all ages.
If you are looking for wall art and custom framing you have multiple choices along Livernois. There is (7) Sherwood Forest Art Gallery, (8) Jo’s Gallery, and (9) Eric’s I’ve Been Framed.
Boutiques
There are a ton of cute boutiques on Livernois that carry anything from baby clothes, men and women’s clothes, shoes, and accessaries.
(10) Need a unique baby gift you need to check out DCreated Boutique. All of the clothes are hand made, and there is something for everyone’s budget.
If you’re into living a greener lifestyle check out (11) GreenBliss Lifestyle & Wellness.
Let (12) Special Effects Flowers and Accessories and (13) Motown’s Bag Lady help you with all of your accessory needs and wants.
You can find Joe’s Coney Island and D-81 clothing at (14) Flagship Boutique.
(15) Simply Casual Clothing Store carries both men and women’s clothing and shoes.
Men, do you need a suit? If the answer is yes, check out (16) Times Square.
While not a boutique, I feel the need to include (17) Peoples Records North. I could spend hours just pouring over vinyl, plus they know what they are talking about in there.
Food
If you are in the mood for a tasty leisurely meal head over to (18) 1917 American Bistro. Plus they make a pretty mean smoothie.
Not sure what you are craving, but you’re still hungry? Check out (19) The Avenue an International Kitchen. They have pizza, subs, burrito bowls, and so much more.
(20) Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles has been a popular destination since it opened in January of 2015, and there’s a good reason for that. The food is awesome. And you can get a giant glass of Kool-Aid!
When I drive down Livernois it takes all of my power to not stop at (21) Good Cakes and Bakes for a vanilla salted caramel cupcake every time. You can also find vegan goodies here, FYI.
If you need a good old fashioned cake check out (22) Mr. and Mrs. Benson Bakery.
The (23) Locker Room Lounge is south of 7 Mile, however the drinks are tight and the music is good. We’ve recorded one of our Daily Detroit Happy Hour podcasts there.
You didn’t think I would leave (24) Bucharest Grill off the list did you? I’m a pretty big fan of the chicken shwarma.
The Future
So what about the future? Here are some of the places that will be opening on Livernois in the near future.
While I was wandering through businesses for this, I came upon work being done at (25) Narrow Way Cafe. This community coffee shop is hoping to be open in the next few weeks. They say they’ll have Zingerman’s! We did a sneak peek story here.
You’ll be able to get your sushi fix come this fall at (26) Social Sushi.
(27) Slyde and (28) Motor City Brewing Works will be setting up shop in the old Hunter’s Supper Club.
So what are you waiting for? If you didn’t know, now you know. Go explore this cool corner of Detroit.
