Detroit’s Greektown is a neighborhood in Detroit I hold near and dear to my heart. Growing up my parents loved taking my sisters and me to Greektown, Trapper’s Alley was still a thing and the casino didn’t exist yet. We’d go to Nikki’s pizza and get flaming cheese from one of the many Greek restaurants.
As the city began to change, Greektown was an area we always felt comfortable visiting. As I got older we visited less with our parents and had more nights out with friends. I’d bar hop down the street and finish the night at the casino when everything else closed.
But then… in the past few years I found myself visiting Greektown less and less. Not for any particular reason, but because new places were springing up and there were new areas of Detroit to explore.
So as I walked down Monroe street to Firebird Tavern last week, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. I had missed this place! I’d definitely been to Firebird in the past, but mainly for drinks late at night. I had no idea what to expect from the Greektown staple and I’m happy to say I was not disappointed.
Firebird Tavern opened in 2013 and is many things to many people. Some love stopping by before a Detroit Lion’s or Redwings Game. Others who work in the area find themselves there daily for lunch. They have a fantastic bar and are a favorite late night hang out on the weekends. Plus, they’re the ONLY scratch kitchen in Greektown. Firebird takes comfort food to an elevated level and has a menu that is curated but has something for everyone.
The first few dishes we tried were appetizers or from the Happy Hour Menu. If you don’t have a ton of time before a sports game – these are PERFECT!
The Irish Nachos are made with house-made chips, beer cheese, bacon, diced tomato, scallion, and lime cream. I could snack on these all night!
Next we tried the Baked Cheese Dip. This dish is made with ricotta, parmesan, and white cheddar topped with marinated tomatoes & balsamic drizzle – this is a great twist on your normal cheesy dip!
The dinner menu takes comfort food to a WHOLE ‘NOTHA LEVEL
The Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie is phenomenal. It’s made with chicken, peas and carrots in a white wine and herb cream sauce inside a puff pastry square. It’s a great take on a classic favorite.
The Meatloaf on the menu gave me all the warm and cozy fall vibes. It’s flavorful, moist and had the most amazing flavor. It’s made with a blend of ground beef and pork, caramelized onion, wild mushroom, pancetta and herbs and I’m pretty sure some kind of Guinness Beer Glaze.
If you’re a fan of Chicken Cordon Bleu The Fire ‘Bird’ sandwich is going to blow you away. This sandwich is a mouthful and tastes incredible! It’s made with breaded chicken breast, Swiss cheese, smoked ham, tomato, arugula and truffle mayo on a brioche bun. Check this baby out!
If you are looking for something a little lighter try a salad. The Bistro Salad is made with Spring mix, fried goat cheese medallions, red onion, dried cranberries, walnuts, green apples, and an apple-ginger vinaigrette. The dressing helps cut the richness of the goat cheese and it has a great balance!
And for all my vegetarians the Moroccan Chickpea Bowl is the perfect option. Chickpeas, sweet potatoes, tomato, kale and golden raisins simmered in warm North African spices. Served with rice, yogurt, and sliced almonds!
If you’re all about the drinks Firebird has those too!
If you haven’t been to Firebird Tavern in awhile we HIGHLY suggest it!
You can check out Firebird Tavern’s Food menu HERE
They also have a great Happy Hour from 3-6PM every Monday-Friday! You can see that menu HERE
Firebird Tavern is located at 419 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226