It’s that time of year again, Ann Arbor. The leaves are changing, the weather is getting colder, midterm-minded students are cracking their notebooks open and The Michigan Daily is bringing you a list of the best establishments in the city we call home.
This time we’ve mapped out the board so that you don’t have to roll the dice on where to go. The rules? Move around the map and decide which businesses are worth your time and money. Spoiler alert: It’s all of them.
Ready… set…
Illustration: Abigail Schad/DAILY
Illustrations:
Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Best Asian FoodMiss Kim
Christina Zhang Daily News Editor
Nestled in the heart of Kerrytown, Miss Kim’s unique menu features a variety of staple Korean food with some American influence, reflecting restaurant owner Ji Hye Kim’s journey from South Korea to Ann Arbor. Since the brick-and-mortar restaurant opened in 2016, Miss Kim — a member of Zingerman’s Community of Businesses — has become an Ann Arbor classic and expanded this year to open Little Kim, a vegetarian fast-casual restaurant.
Born and raised in Korea and later moving to New Jersey, Kim’s story in Ann Arbor began when she was an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan in the class of 2002. Kim said upon graduating, she returned to New Jersey to work in accounting.
A few years later, she found herself back in Ann Arbor running a food cart at Mark’s Cart, a downtown pop-up food truck court that
closed in 2017.
“Twelve years ago or so I had a food cart called San Street, and that’s where I was trying things out, and then I opened Miss Kim following that food cart,” Kim said. “Even though Miss Kim has been open since 2016, we’ve been around for a little longer than that as a food cart.”
restaurant.”
Meleck Eldahshoury/DAILY
Tara Wasik
Style Beat Editor
One of the most distinctive aspects of the beloved Japanese restaurant Totoro is its delightful theming, inspired by Hayao Miyazaki’s film “My Neighbor
Kim said she feels great about the recognition. Kim noted when she started her restaurant, not many people recognized that Asian food could be so diverse.
“If you go to Asia there’s obviously street food, and there’s cheap food, but there is also elevated food, or middle ground food,” Kim said. “There are so many di erent levels of food, just like American food is multifaceted. I was just bringing one facet of that and really injecting my identity in some way, be-
Totoro, conveniently located on State Street since 2003. This fall, The Michigan Daily is declaring Totoro the number one sushi spot in Ann Arbor for the fifth consecutive year.
Totoro has had years of experience to develop a fine selection of seafood. A dedicated sushi bar boasts traditional classics from all manner of salmon, tuna and tempura. The restaurant also features innovative University of Michigan specialties like the Michigan roll and the U of M roll. Can’t eat fish? Not a problem — in an interview with The Daily, restaurant manager Sooah Kim highlighted the diversity of Totoro’s menu, extending the restaurant’s doors to everyone.
“We have a big selection of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian and all
Kim said the tteokbokki, fried chicken and fried tofu are some of the restaurant’s most popular items. She also emphasized the restaurant pays close attention to dietary restrictions and allergies.
“There is a little bit of everything for everybody, and it’s not an afterthought,” Kim said. “We really think about vegetarian dishes, or we really think about how to make gluten-free things tasty…We try to make sure everybody’s welcome and they have a good time.”
Best SUSHI
sorts of allergy (options),” Kim said.
Totoro also features bento boxes, ramen, stir-fried noodles and teriyaki entrees. Kim has one simple mission when reflecting on Totoro’s patrons.
“I want them to feel comfortable with a delicious food experience,” Kim said.
But the magic of Totoro goes beyond the food. The warm lights, engaged chatter and artistic interior provide an imaginative yet comforting atmosphere. It is easy to see why Totoro draws in repeat customers, which Kim spoke of fondly.
“I saw kids who came in when they were in elementary school, and now they are in college,” Kim said. “Our local customers, it doesn’t matter where they go, they always come back with their families or they bring their friends with them.”
With a large and loyal customer base that seems to keep growing each year, Kim shared her pride in the restaurant.
Best Indian Food Madras Masala
Estlin Salah Daily Arts Writer
In Ann Arbor’s lively food scene, few restaurants inspire the loyalty and a ection that Ma dras Masala does. Known for its blend of South Indian classics and Indo-Chinese specialties, the restaurant is both a commu nity gathering place and a com forting culinary destination.
But the path here was far from easy. For two decades, Madras Masala thrived on Maynard Street before a fire in January 2023 closed its doors. In an in terview with The Michigan Daily, owner Gopalsamy Ramanujam shared that the loss interrupted his life and community. Days after the fire, a longtime customer asked him, “Where will I go to eat now?” Within hours, Ra manujam resolved to reopen as soon as possible. Six months later, Madras Masa la was reborn on Packard Street.
The Ann Arbor community has embraced that comeback with open arms. For the second year in a row, Madras
manujam opened Madras Masala Ex press on Broadway Street, designed to serve the North Campus community. With its high ceilings, warm lighting, hardwood floors and spacious seating, ers a new, welcoming space while staying true to the Packard location’s original spirit. On Oct. 2 of this year, the Express location celebrated its first anniversary.
said, describing the care that goes into every dish.
For him, it’s never enough that diners are satisfied halfway.
“(Guests) need to enjoy … 100%, that’s what I try (to do) when I make the food.”
It’s this relentless dedication to quality and care that has kept Madras Masala at the heart of Ann Arbor’s dining scene — and earned it twice-over recognition as one of the community’s most beloved restaurants.
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Varun Tandon/DAILY
Varun Tandon/DAILY
Best Vegan/Vegetarian Food Det ll
When customers walk into De troit Street Filling Station, they are greeted by lush potted plants and warm, casual decor. The all-veg an restaurant has been a staple of the vegan and vegetarian commu nity since its founding in 2017. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that Detroit Street Filling Station won the Best Vegan/Vegetarian Food award for the second year in a row.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, owner Phillis Engelbert em phasized the restaurant’s commit ment to curating a seasonal menu with local ingredients.
“Every summer, when there’s a lot of local produce available, we make specials based on what is available at the time,” Engelbert said. “Sometimes it’s as simple as a braised vegetable like asparagus or sugar snap peas, and sometimes it’s more complicated. We’ll put things in new soup or turn it into a salad.”
To source these ingredients, the restaurant partners with local farms and businesses foods.
In addition to showing a commitment to sustainability, these partnerships reflect Detroit Street Filling Station’s support for the Ann Arbor community, creating a warm, wel-
“I’ve been in Ann Arbor since 1981 and I feel like I’ve absorbed a lot of Ann Arbor in my years here, and this restaurant is a reflection of the type of Ann Arbor that I came to love as a young person and has stayed with me,” Engelbert said.
Kayla Lugo Daily Sta Reporter
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Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Bela Fischer/DAILY
Bela Fischer/DAILY
Bela Fischer/DAILY
Best Mediterranean Food Jerusalem Garden
Quinn Mittlestat Daily Sta Reporter
Slotted neatly between o ce buildings on Liberty Street lies an outdoor patio with ornate chairs welcoming guests to a well-lit, decorated oasis of Mediterranean cuisine. Over the years, Jerusalem Garden has cemented itself as a community staple, earning the Best of Ann Arbor’s Best Mediterranean Food award year after year.
Since the establishment’s humble beginnings in 1987, Jerusalem Garden has grown strong historic ties to the Ann Arbor community. In 1993, current owner Ali Ramlawi took over restaurant operations from his father, Ribhi Ramlawi, after his unexpected passing and, later on, moved the business to a much larger building.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Ramlawi said the restaurant has a deep con-
nection with those in and around the city, even receiving community sup port during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“During (COVID-19), when it was the early days of the shutdown, we had students at the University of Michigan raise money to save the restaurant,” Ramlawi said. “I had a parent come with $800 in cash, money that the stu dents raised for their favorite restaurant. I thought, ‘Look how cool that is. That’s amazing. You mean so much that people do that’.”
The restaurant has a strong commit ment to serving authentic food with an emphasis on quality. Ramlawi said Jerusalem Garden is dedicated to using fresh ingredients, like soaking their own chick
like the freshness,” Ramlawi said. “They say it’s fresh, it’s clean, it’s not so greasy and heavy and oily.”
2025 Wallenberg Medal and Lecture
“Free People in an Unfree Country”: Standing Up to Kremlin Tyranny, Past and Present
Vladimir Kara-Murza
Russian politician, author, historian, and former political prisoner
Tuesday, November 4, 4:30PM
Rackham Auditorium
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Best Mexican FoodChapala
On North Main Street, tucked away from the beating heart of campus, there’s a restaurant that spills onto the sidewalk. Colors, music and clinking glasses — maybe even an energetic birthday celebration — let you know that you’ve reached Chapala.
Chapala, this year’s winner of Best Mexican Food for Best of Ann Arbor, has cornered the market on one key area — vibes, with its elaborately decorated drinks and vibrant atmosphere. In an interview with The Michigan Daily General Manager Maxx Emerick agreed.
“The vibes (make Chapala successful), the atmosphere and the people, too,” Emerick said. “The servers and bartend
ers — shout out to David! We try to give a party vibe, while still giving good service and good food, especially when we’re serving stu dents, because we know they’re stressed at school all day. We just want to make it fun and to make people feel like they’re on vacation.”
up a new restaurant in Highland, and we’re going to be working on our third one in the next few months in Rockwood.”
She also discussed the success of the restaurant and where we can expect to see them in the future.
If you manage to make it out to try this year’s winner in any of its forms (Chapala also manages a food truck), Emerick recommends the pastor burrito or their staple queso birria tacos. If their food is anything like the refreshing and welcoming energy Chapala has cultivated, you
Cora Rolfes Senior Arts Editor
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Meleck Eldahshoury/DAILY
Meleck Eldahshoury/DAILY
Best Boba Quickly
Tucked into the corner of South University Avenue and South Forest Avenue, Quickly Boba Cafe reigns over Ann Arbor’s bubble tea scene as the Best Boba shop.
Since opening in 2021, Quickly has been constantly evolving and responding to new trends in an ever-changing boba and tea market. Sprawled across their chalkboard menu are the classics — brown sugar milk tea, mango green tea and tiger milk tea — alongside food like Taiwanese-style popcorn chicken and takoyaki, making it the perfect midday pick me up. With their diverse menu, Quickly has earned the top spot in the city’s boba sphere for the second year in a row. Manager Zac John said the cafe’s variety and
of having the most variety of flavors and options, like blended drinks, milk teas, fruit teas, slushies, all these things, as well as keeping the quality,” John said. “We freshly make boba every day. We use really good quality teas; we brew the teas every single day.”
True to its name, each order is ful filled to ac commodate the plethora of students looking for a study
served sweet treat. Quickly remains a reliable boba oasis for the Ann Arbor community, one that
Noor Khanafer Daily Sta Reporter
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Akul Gunukula/DAILY
Akul Gunukula/DAILY
Best Ice Cream Washtenaw Dairy
You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy ice cream — and that’s pretty close. For the locals and visitors of Ann Arbor, there is no better place to taste it than Washtenaw Dairy, the winner of this year’s Best Ice Cream in Ann Arbor for the first time since 2015, though the store won Best Sweet Treat last year.
Washtenaw Dairy owner Mary Raab said the award validates all the hard work that has been poured into the small business since it first opened more than 90 years ago.
“When I heard that we won best ice cream place, I was elated,” Raab said. “It made my day. We know we’re really, really good and our customers tell us that all the time in a lot of di erent ways. But it’s always wonderful to be recognized in a vote like this.”
Raab said the shop’s success stems from its vast selection of ice cream flavors, hardworking sta and partnerships with local businesses. Most importantly, she said it is their commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere that made the ice cream shop a beloved location in the city.
“It’s got to do with the neighborhood, the camaraderie, the support of a lot of di erent initiatives and issues,” Raab said. “It’s the feeling that you get when
as it al ways did. I know that I’ve come home to Washten aw Dairy for my ice cream,’ and I thought, ‘wow, that’s really won derful.’”
Raab said some of her favorite ice cream flavors on the menu are their peach, peppermint and chocolate flavors. The store also sells Washtenaw Dairy is the perfect place to enjoy a plethora of desserts.
Carter Carino Daily Sta Reporter
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Georgia McKay/DAILY
Georgia McKay/DAILY
Graciela Batlle Cestero Daily Arts Writer
Ever since Ondo opened its doors to the University of Michigan and Ann Arbor community last September, the bakery has cemented itself as a go-to spot for co ee chats, study dates and family gatherings. A year later, just in time for the bakery’s first anniversary, Ondo has won the title of Best Sweet Treat.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, owner Min Kyu Kim shared his motivation behind opening Ondo.
“I wanted to create a bakery,” Kim said. “I grew up in Ann Arbor, so I know this place well. … Ann Arbor needed a place for families and friends and students to meet and talk.”
It comes as no surprise that Ondo has become a U-M staple. With its variety of sweet treat and drink o erings, it’s the
Ondo Best Sweet Treat
perfect spot for students and families alike to study and spend time together over a shared latte and pastry. Kim expressed gratification over the community response.
“I love going around and seeing Ondo bags on the street (or) people holding our matcha latte,” Kim said. “I like seeing how the student body kind of accepts us as a central spot.”
Kim also spoke to The Daily about Ondo’s commitment to giv ing back to the U-M and Ann Arbor community.
“A lot of groups message me,” Kim explained. “They reach out, and then I do what I can. Instead of just giving (them) money, I make a drink for them.”
Not only does Ondo have an appealing variety of sweet treat o erings, their commitment to giving back to our community makes the widely adored bakery even more appealing. Make sure to stop by Ondo soon and try one of
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Soyeon Kim/DAILY
Lucia Larach Daily Arts Writer
Keeping loyal customers is hard, especially on a college campus with a revolving population and new restaurants constantly opening. Still, The Hen has figured it out. Not a Sunday goes by without a line out the door. The community they’ve built, rooted in good food and an even better environment, is why The Hen was named the Best Sunday Brunch in Ann Arbor this year.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, owner Chris Fronimos called the award “super humbling.” Though open daily (except Wednesdays) from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday brunch best reflects the restaurant’s spirit.
“Everyone interprets (brunch) a little di erently,” Fronimos said. Whether customers are visiting with their parents, still recovering from Saturday night or reflecting on their week, they are all part of an ex-
Best Sunday BrunchThe Hen
perience that The Hen excels at creating.
The Hen’s doors are open to everyone hoping to share in this experience.
“We have all types of groups that come into the restaurant,” Fronimos said. “Whether it’s the student body that is literally right on campus or all the families that come with their kids on Sunday … everyone’s smiling, everyone’s laughing and (everyone’s having) a good time.”
The Hen’s extensive menu, along with fall specials like pumpkin pancakes and cheesecake pumpkin french toast, ensures there is something for every taste.
“(On Sundays) we do sell a lot more bigger dishes,” Frominos said. “Like center dishes or sharing dishes.”
That spirit of sharing is what The Hen is all about.
“Making sure people remember who we are as people and being part of the community is more important than having the best scrambled eggs you’ve ever had,” Fronimos said. “At the end of the day, it’s about caring for the people in our community (and) … making sure people feel appreciated.”
Best Coffee MisfitCoffeeSociety C l ub
Audrey Shabelski Daily News Editor
Inside the Misfit Society Co ee Club, a small box TV plays movies from a selection of VHS tapes, gra ti covers the top half of the walls and a disco ball hangs from the sky. A relative newcomer to Ann Arbor’s co ee scene, the shop, which opened in 2023, beat out many competitors to win Best of Ann Arbor’s title for Best Co ee.
Located on East University Avenue, the shop began as an extension of the Social Misfits restaurant based in Grand Rapids and has since grown to be its own
recognizable brand in Ann Arbor. Misfits recently opened a second location in Ann Arbor in the newly opened Verve apartment complex on South For est Avenue.
In an interview with The Mich igan Daily, owner Spencer Ray mond said the idea behind the co ee shop’s branding was to create a space where everyone felt like they belonged.
“The idea of creating a safe haven or an area where people can feel at home was always part of the brand identity for the Misfits group,” Raymond said. “We genuinely
care about quality and being part of a vibe, and creating something fun and unique and identifiable.”
According to Raymond, something that sets Misfit apart from other coffee shops is the care and attention to detail that goes into all of their ingredients.
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Madalyn Braun/DAILY Holly
Best Pizza New York Pizza Depot
Thomas Gala-Garza Daily Sta Reporter
With a pizza peel in hand, the towering figure of Giuseppe the chef is the first thing customers see when they step into New York Pizza Depot. Giuseppe’s beaming grin has greeted customers since 1997 at NYPD, this year’s winner of Best Pizza in Ann Arbor.
NYPD sells pizza by the slice, allowing customers to mix and match whichever flavors they’d like. While a selection of their most popular pizza-slice offerings is always on display just behind Giuseppe, NYPD also offers an ar ray of Chicago- and Detroit-style pies to purchase as a whole.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, NYPD co-owner Domenico Telemaco said consistency was the major factor behind their Best of Ann Arbor win.
“The pizza is consistent,” Telemaco said. “It’s the same as it was 28 years ago when we opened. It’s a good, quality pizza. It didn’t change over the years and people appreciate it.”
Telemaco said achieving this level of quality comes from maintaining specific ingredients and using traditional cooking techniques.
“The products that we use, they’re
hand, we don’t use a machine. We cook it in a deck oven instead of a belt oven. There’s a lot of factors.”
NYPD was founded by Telemaco, his mother and his brothers and remains a family business today. Looking forward, Telemaco said a new generation of artisans will be ready to take charge of the restaurant in the future.
“We have a younger generation that are working in the store,” Telemaco said. “They are training and learning as we move on. This is owned by me and two more brothers, so me and my older
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Bridgette Bol/DAILY
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Best Burger
Frita Batidos
Glenn Hedin Daily Arts Writer
In a sea of restaurants serving up burgers in Ann Arbor, there exists an island called Frita Batidos: a land of Cuban-inspired street food where french fries are heaped on top of burgers and served with tropical milkshakes. The burger joint won its 11th consecutive victory in the Best burger category. How do they do it? According to Batidos owner Eve Arono , the secret ingredient is love.
“There’s a group of people I’ve worked with for a million years — like 20 years, you know,” Arono said. “We’ve worked together since before we opened Fritas, and everybody just genuinely cares. … It’s just a big team e ort.”
Going to a restaurant for the first time can be daunting because of the amount
Sophia Jayasekera Daily Sta Reporter
of options. If you want a general idea of Frita’s, however, Arono has a recommendation.
“The chorizo frita and the coconut batido, that’s by far the most frequently ordered (combination),” Arono said. “So that’s kind of representative of Frita’s at this point.”
I can’t say I deviated much from the norm. I tried the chorizo frita with bacon, though I did get the lighter batido instead. Both the burger and drink were excellent. But if my selection is too meaty for some readers, I also dragged my (vaguely) vegetarian sister along. She highly praised the black bean frita.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen, home of the famous Zingerman’s Reuben, has been an Ann Arbor staple since 1982. Having won Best Sandwich every year since 2011, it is no surprise to see the sandwich shop take the crown once again.
Ari Weinzweig, CEO and co-founder of Zingerman’s Community of Businesses, said he believes the Zingerman’s di erence is something that customers decide for themselves, but ties back to the high-quality ingredients.
“Every customer gets to decide … what makes it appeal to them,” Weinzweig said. “Our food across the organization is focused on full-flavored and tradition-
In the end, whether you order chicken or chorizo, you’re in the trustworthy hands of Ann Arbor’s best burger makers.
Best SandwichZingerman’s De lica t essen
al. Full-flavored, we define as complexity, balance and finish. We’re always, regardless of cost, trying to buy the best quality, which means the most full-flavored that we can.”
Sandwich line manager Mike Varney said the quality ingredients, some of which come from store Fra’Mani, set Zingerman’s apart.
“We care about serving a higher quality,” Varney said. “We worked with a company called Fra’Mani, and they are an ethical, sustainable company. All the pigs are raised humanely …. The company makes their meats with simple, high-qual-
ity ingredients. … It is worth the cost at our expense to celebrate a higher quality product.” CONTINUED AT MICHIGANDAILY.COM
Best Late Night Bite New York Pizza Depot
Mina Tobya Daily Arts Writer
Consistency and connection are the secret ingredients to New York Pizza Depot’s 28 years of success. Since opening its doors on East Liberty Street in 1997, the family-owned business has provided Ann Arbor with freshly made ingredients and a revolving door of everything from margherita pizza to creamy cannoli through the wee hours of the night.
Known for their innovative tailoring to the student community — with $2 Tuesdays and a 3 a.m. closing time being especially popular — NYPD is nothing short of an Ann Arbor staple. In an interview with
The Michigan Daily, co-owners Giovanni and Domenico Telemaco spoke about the business’s long-lasting relationship with the town.
“In Ann Arbor, all the little mom-andpops, they’re disappearing,” Domenico said. “The fact that we’re still a mom-andpop is very appreciated in this town. We do things in a di erent way than the chains.”
By di erent, he means they grate their own cheese, mix their own sauce and get to know their customers — daily. Through nearly three decades of business, NYPD has maintained the same recipes and
commitment to in-house preparation for all its late nights and local customers.
“We have not changed the things that have made us who we are,” Giovanni said. “Our quality speaks for itself. Anyone who wants better quality pizza and is willing to pay a little bit extra is getting their money’s worth when they come to us.”
For the Telemaco brothers, business is about holding true to their roots and continuing to do what they do best. More than just pizza, NYPD o ers good deals, friendly faces and honest business with no plans to stop anytime soon.
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
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Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Best Spot to take your parents
Eilene Koo Daily Arts Writer
When even a Panera Bread meal feels like a splurge, most Ann Arbor restaurants feel out of reach for the average student. But there’s one Ann Arbor spot that deserves at least one visit while you’re here: Zingerman’s Delicatessen.
For the first time in recent memory, Zingerman’s Deli has won two Best of Ann Arbor categories. In addition to Best Sandwich, the deli also won the Best Spot to Take Your Parents this year. Considering its higher price-point, it isn’t surprising to many — including Jennifer Santi, the marketing and communications manager for Zingerman’s Deli — that you would bring your parents here for a “free” meal. However, Santi also
sees this as a chance for students and their loved ones to spend some quality time together over good food.
“Having students want to bring their parents here means that they really love our food, but it might be a little inaccessible for them without their parents to come and treat them to an experience,” Santi said. “We love that it’s kind of like a family celebration (and) there’s a connection made over the table and around food. That really is delightful for us.”
In addition to its selection of sandwiches, Zingerman’s Deli o ers a wide variety of foods, from fresh salads to
F r ita Batidos Zingerman’s Delicat essen
baked goods; you can even send your family home with products from Zingerman’s curated grocery store. For Ann Arbor natives and visitors alike, the deli is a must-try staple of the University of Michigan experience.
“We love that … we can be a place students bring their parents and (that) they can have a family meal around Zingerman’s, that we might be a special spot to have a special moment,” Santi said.
Best Casual Dinner and Drinks
Natalie mark
Daily Arts Writer
Frita Batidos’ owner Eve Arono grew up spending a lot of time in Miami visiting her grandparents, where she would run around their neighborhood exploring, meeting new neighbors and trying di erent foods. In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Arono explained how these experiences taught her to appreciate di erent cuisines and flavors, which later inspired her to become a chef.
“I just kind of fell in love with the energy, culture and … ingredients (of) Cuban and Latin culture,” Arono said.
She also mentioned the casual and warm nature of Cuban and Latin culture in Miami, which influenced how she wanted
customers to experience her restaurant. As a result, Frita Batidos is a combination of fine dining and casual eating.
The fine dining aspect comes from the fact that Arono wants every meal, appetizer and drink to be detailed to a tee. The minimalistic design and color palette of the restaurant is meant to replicate a blank canvas so that the food’s flavor profile and spices can be the accents of the room. Arono said she also wanted the “blank canvas” so people didn’t focus on their physical surroundings, but rather the atmosphere of conversation, laughter and music.
Having spent a lot of time in high-end restaurants, Arono knows about the pre-
tentious nature that fine dining often entails and want to replicate that at her restaurant. It is important to her that people are eating and enjoying each others’ company — that’s where the casual nature of Frita Batidos dining comes from. The restaurant purposefully provides large tables with dominoes so people can be communal and enjoy each other’s company.
“People come together from all di erent backgrounds and just break bread together,” Arono said.
Ultimately, this is what Arono wants Frita Batidos to embody: a fun atmosphere full of sharing and generosity.
Alyssa Mulligan/DAILY
Best Romantic Dinner Mani Osteria
In the age of dating apps and dinner de livered to your door, Mani Osteria and Bar has proved — for the fifth year in a row— that vodka pasta and genuine eye contact will never go out of style.
Owner Adam Baru attributed receiving the Best Romantic Dinner award to the quality of Mani’s food and the energy of the open dining room and kitchen.
“It’s sophisticated but accessible for everybody,” Baru said. “Whether it’s my 80-year-old parents or freshman students going out, it’s a place to go and celebrate little things and big things with people you care about.”
The warm but sophisticated Italian restaurant has been situated on East Liberty Street for more than 14 years, serving an assortment of rotating antipasti, salads and housemade pastas, in addition to their signature wood-fired pizzas served on top of La Valle tomato cans.
Baru suggested some “go-to” items for a date night when dining at Mani, including the Michigan-made Mawby Sex sparkling wine, with shrimp ravioli or the tru ed malfatti that was recently added to the menu. The kitchen sends out dishes as they’re finished — a salad here, pasta there — encouraging couples to share throughout the meal rather than waiting for formal courses.
“The level of quality and care that we put into the dishes is hopefully something that two people (can enjoy) when they sit down to have that romantic dinner, that everything tastes great, and they get the opportunity to share those items with each other,” Baru said.
Whether you’re looking for a casual date splitting pizza and appetizers, or something more sophisticated with espresso martinis followed by tiramisu and cannoli, Mani delivers. The sleek subway tiles, intimate lighting and rich atmosphere complement the food, making it ideal for a romantic first date — and hopefully a second one.
Our 2025-26 Season
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Best Booze Shop Campus Corner
Bobby Currie Daily Arts Writer
A long week of studying for mid terms calls for something special — and (hopefully) something strong. In order to live the collegiate weekend fantasy — and not spend all your savings on two drinks — students know the value of a good liquor handle. That’s why, whether it be for a raging house party, a chill night in with friends or a legendary “Thirsty Thursday” pregame, The Michigan Daily is excited to announce that the recipient of the 2025 Best of Ann Arbor award Best Booze Shop is none other than the legendary Campus Corner.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, manager Chomi Kraim was just as welcom ing, friendly and easy to talk to as the Jose Cuervo tequila sold on the shelves. Kraim, who has been working at Campus Corner since 1997, was so grateful to receive this prestigious award once again.
“Without the students we are nothing,”
over 10,000 items in stock, and that he calls companies for special orders when items students are looking for aren’t on the shelves.
vestigative work, I can confidently say that Campus Corner is the place to run to for handles galore or even a snack for your two-hour Wednesday lecture. Congratulations once again to Campus Corner for winning Best Booze Shop — I can’t wait to see you for my next weekend adventure.
Arushi Sanghi/DAILY
Arushi Sanghi/DAILY
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Emma Spring Daily News Editor
Best Bar
Bi ll ’s Beer Garden
For the second year in a row, Bill’s Beer Garden has earned recognition in the Best of Ann Arbor awards — taking home the title of Best Bar this year after being voted Best Happy Hour in 2024.
The outdoor beer garden, located at 218 S. Ashley St., first opened in 2012 as an extension of the long-standing Downtown Home & Garden retailer. While the neighboring store announced that it will close its doors this December, Bill’s will remain open, continuing to transform a parking lot into a seasonal gathering space for Ann
a cold-weather menu, adding hot cider, mulled wine and Irish co ee to its o erings until closing for the season typically in early November. To help guests enjoy the later months, Bill’s sets up fire pits and propane towers to keep the space warm as temperatures drop. Guests are also encouraged to bring in outside food from nearby restaurants, and the space is family and dog-friendly — there’s even a dedicated Instagram account for the many pets that visit.
Bill’s general manager Eric Parziale said
think that our sta tries really hard and we definitely enjoy being a fun place to hang out,” Parziale said. “I just appreciate all the customers, especially all the regulars that legitimately come here everyday, even if it’s for a beer during happy hour. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them.”
Looking ahead, Parziale said he sees opportunities for Bill’s to continue adapting, especially with new neighbors moving into the former Downtown Home & Garden space.
“We’re not gonna know until next sea-
Josh Sinha/DAILY
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Illustrations: Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Best NightlifeLIVE
Ian Gallmore Daily Arts Writer
I think Slayyyter describes us all best on their club hit “ATTENTION!” with Kesha and Rose Gray: “Little Midwest bitch, work hard, play harder.”
For many students and Ann Arbor residents, the only way to get through a long, stress-filled day is with the promise of a late-night adventure. Bars and clubs provide a much-needed release for the chaotic energy built up by a Google Calendar filled with color-coordinated boxes. While Ann Arbor has plenty of excellent options to dance the night away, LIVE Nightclub, voted Best Nightlife, provides the perfect environment for a never-ending night.
LIVE embodies its name through its bass-bumping music, thrilling DJ and packed dancefloor. The night starts before you enter, with a door sta! to welcome potential club-goers. Once inside, feel free to grab a drink at one of the two full-service bars before heading over to the dancefloor to bump those club classics. Just don’t ask the specialized lighting technician for the next track — that duty is reserved for DJ Kevin Mi chael.
ing, safe environment for people to come celebrate, blow o ! some steam, have some fun,” Schulz said.
Whether it’s a birthday party, bonding event or even a wedding propos
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Robben Schulz, managing partner of LIVE, attributed LIVE’s success to the
Cora Rolfes Senior Arts Editor
For the 10th year in a row, Literati has been voted the Best Bookstore in Ann Arbor. For students, Literati o ers a sanctuary from academic stress, featuring shelves equipped with handwritten recommendations and a store full of welcoming sta
The homey shop on the corner is not taking a 10th year of love for granted.
Owner Hilary Gustafson discussed what the city of Ann Arbor means to the store “I mean, it’s amazing,” Gustafson said. “When we opened we weren’t even sure
it was going to make it one year, let alone 13. And then, having 10 of those years being voted the best bookstore just feels amazing and really lucky.”
Their website says they believe in the whimsy that an independent bookstore provides. For Gustafson, personal connection is a key ingredient in that.
“Going into an independent bookstore, you see books that you otherwise wouldn’t see in a chain or online. Someone is handpicking those books and putting them out with all of the bestsellers
Best Bookstore Literati
so that you might find a new author or topic mixed in, and that creates a sense of whimsy.”
“My favorite thing is hearing people come back and thanking us for giving them a book that changed their life,” Hilary said. “That’s something we really believe (in). Finding the right book for the right person at the right time can change lives and set them on a path of being a reader for the rest of their lives, so I hope that’s what we continue doing for many more years.”
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Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Grace Lahti/DAILY
Best Thrift Salvation Army
Meagan Ismail Daily Arts Writer
Upon entering Ann Arbor’s Salvation Army, located on 1621 S. State St., rows upon rows of donated products meet the eye. Clothing, knick-knacks, furniture and more stretch across 30,000 square feet. Voted as the Best Thrift Store, the Salva tion Army provides Ann Arbor residents with quality, low-cost items while also supporting a broader cause.
Jacqulynn Idzior, administrator for the Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center, spoke with The Daily about the experience of shopping at the Salvation Army.
“You never really know what you’re going to find in there,” Idzior said. “And there are so many unique pieces, from home goods to clothing, shoes and ac cessories. It just makes for a very inter esting and fun
“It’s usually cheaper than what you’re going to find … brand new, and then you’re giving
Idzior also discussed the broader mission of the Salvation Army, and the impact she hopes it leaves on Ann Arbor shoppers. All proceeds generated from the thrift stores in Southeast Michigan fund the Detroit facility where individuals facing drug or alcohol abuse, homelessness or other traumas are welcome to stay and receive help.
“I hope that everybody walks out finding something, even if they didn’t buy it,” Idzior said. “(I hope they know) that when they are purchasing from the Salvation Army it is truly going back to (the) program.”
Randall Xiao/DAILY
Illustrations
Maisie Derlega/DAILY
Randall Xiao/DAILY
Sarah Spencer Daily Sta Reporter
University of Michigan students can easily feel overwhelmed, from their intense classes to their work and club obligations each week. Winning Best Workout Class for the third time, Ann Arbor’s SoulCycle workout studio provides a fun way to de-stress and stay active for those looking for a break from academics.
The New York-based fitness company opened its Ann Arbor studio in January 2020, the first of its Michigan locations. Located on South University Avenue, SoulCycle is located close to the University’s campus, making it easily accessible for students. There is also a variety in
Best Workout Class SoulCycle
pricing per cycle class, with each session priced at $28 each, but $26 for students. New members can buy their first class at $20 and have the option to purchase a three class pack for $50.
With six instructors to choose from, riders can experience a variety of classes from themed music to traditional cycling. Recent themes include pop music rides with artists such as Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams. Other courses have included competitions between two artists such as instructor Joey D’s “Drake vs. Kendrick” ride, as well as eras themes such as 2000s or 2010s music classes.
SoulCycle is unique from other work-
out studios as it exclusively o ers cycling classes. The studio also incorporates upper body training into its session to provide a full-body workout and can be a low-impact exercise which has been proven safer for strain on muscles and joints.
SoulCycle highlights its fun and engaging classes to choose from, but its website also prioritizes safety for riders.
“We move with the rhythm and we like our music loud,” the website reads. “But don’t forget: this is your experience. Listen to your body and take breaks when you need to. If the music ever gets too loud, the front desk has earplugs for you.”