Book Tower Detroit is Michigan’s cool recent place to eat, play and stay

This summer, sweltering temperatures have been rife across the country, but one trendy downtown Detroit destination has managed to remain cool all season long. A mixed-use development that features the Italian Renaissance-style Book Tower, inbuilt 1917 by architect Louis Kamper, and the adjoining Book Building, Book Tower Detroit is the newest project of the business real estate company Bedrockwhose portfolio includes Shinola Hotel and the highly anticipated Detroit Edition (2027).

Although Bedrock rigorously restored many original features in the course of the seven-year, $300 million renovation, including the jewel-encrusted, sky-high glass rotunda and the 29 caryatids (female sculptures that give support to the architecture) that frame the facade, the stunning design is only one reason it is best to plan a summer vacation at Book Tower Detroit.

Thanks to the creative vision of Method Co.Book Tower Detroit, the Philadelphia-based hospitality development company behind hip spots like The Pinch in Charleston, is home to 6 unique restaurants and bars, in addition to a boutique hotel. In short? It’s greater than easy to spend a delicious and relaxing weekend here without ever having to depart.

Top to bottom: Kamper’s on the 14th floor conjures up the convivial atmosphere of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter with its pretty picket bar and menu of pintxos and tapas, however the stunning views are unmistakably Detroit. The highestThe hotel’s decor is clearly inspired by Parisian brasseries (bistro chairs, quirky art, steel bar), and fittingly, the kitchen serves tried-and-true French dishes like ice-cold mussel towers and steak frites. Bar Rotunda is a rare hotel lobby bar that provides a smooth transition from breezy breakfasts to classy evening drinks while letting you come as you might be. Sakazuki puts a fun twist on Japanese izakayas by pairing Wagyu hot dogs and triple-fried chicken wings with refreshing cocktails just like the sake-based Yuzu Colada.

However, probably the most vibrant dining experience at Book Tower Detroit may be found underground at Hiroki-SanThe elegant sister of Philadelphia’s acclaimed Hiroki, also helmed by chef Hiroki Fujiyama, offers all sorts of Japanese cuisine. The seafood dishes are a specific highlight, from the nigiri, which focuses on flawless fish flown in weekly from Japan, to the split king crab legs, that are dressed with ginger mayo and crispy shallots. While the cocktail and sake offerings will not be to be sniffed at, why not end the evening with a nightcap at the brand new restaurant? The healthy Aladdin? Hidden and quiet behind curtains, this next-door lounge offers an in depth whisky menu in an artsy setting with colourful carpets, red lighting and plush seating.

The neatest thing about socializing at Book Tower Detroit is that night’s sleep is just steps away within the Rusty Detroit. Although it’s billed as an extended-stay boutique hotel with 117 fully furnished studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, it’s just as ideal for a brief getaway. You’ll have loads of space to loosen up and work, in addition to all of the amenities of home — a kitchen and washer and dryer turn out to be useful while you’re on the go — and the perks of a high-end hotel, including a pristine fitness center, co-working space, and a club to hang around at.