Terry Foster: My 10 Favorite Places In Detroit

By Terry Foster
@TerryFoster971

I do not need a pair of Nike gym shoes. I've got enough workout gear and T-shirts and it is too warm to be in the market for a sweat shirt.

But after the crowds die down I plan on heading downtown to the Nike store to make my small contribution to Detroit and downtown and the rebirth that is happening there. It seems to be the right thing to do for the city.

Nike is a name and a brand. It is one of the few big name stores that do business in the city. This is progress.

You see Nordstrom in Seattle and Portland. You do not see it in Detroit.

You see Lord & Taylor in Chicago. You do not in Detroit.

But slowly you are seeing names coming to Detroit. Whole Foods, Moosejaw and John Varvatos now call Detroit home.

I remember a Detroit with three major department stores, seven Qwickee donut shops, two stand alone newspaper buildings and the best men's clothing store in Hughes and Hatcher. Even my old neighborhood, which is blighted now, had its own movie theater called the Riviera.

Nike will bring people downtown. Here are my ten favorite stops downtown and in Midtown.

1. DSE Flagship store: The owner James designs his own T-shirts, sweatshirts and caps. He often makes political and social statements but he mostly promotes Detroit. His shop is located on Grand River near Coach's Corner bar.

2. John Varvatos: I just think the store is cool looking with its mix of clothing and records. I love the cologne's and have three in my collection now.

3. City Slicker Shoes: Many of the shoes are a little wild for my style. But I love to look at them any way and dream of wearing green gators with a lime green suit.

4. Carthartt: I am into flannels and I got these black monster boots that make me six inches taller and bad ass in the winter. It is located near Wayne State University.

5. Gratiot Central Meat Market: It is fast-paced here and I love the hustle and flow of the people and the meat and seasonings are fantastic.

6. Shinola: You can go in and watch them make watches. How would you like a leather baseball? They got it.

7. Avalon International Breads: They service some of the best restaurants in Detroit with bread and desserts. I am a big of the blueberry buckle and their sandwiches which they pop into the oven.

8. Bob's Classic Kicks: It is located on Woodward near Wayne State. If you are looking for unique gym shoes and T-shirts this is the spot for you.

9. Astoria Pastry Shop in Greektown: It is always fun to get a new treat for the kids and a cookie for me.

10. R. Hirt Jr. & Company: There is so much stuff from meats and cheeses to something for your backyard. And there is a great place for sausage nearby.

(Foster can be reached at Terry.Foster@cbsradio.com)