A list of lists: The best, the unexpected, the hottest

’Tis the season for list-making. We sorted through some of the lists local publications and news outlets have created and came up with our list of lists. 

1. We’re starting out with Metro Times: “Best of Detroit 2025”.  Yes, it has the expected Best Food and Best Drinks, but it also has Best Burlesque Troupe (Tip-Top Showbar), Best Anime Convention (Youmacon), and Best Comic Con for People Watching (Astronomicon). Check out the full list here.

2. Local Spins’ writers have put together their Best of 2025 list for Michigan artists. It skips over the top culturally expected hits to highlight  Michigan gems like Phabies (The Curse of Caring) and Snocaps (a project with MJ Lenderman and Katie Crutchfield). It also includes the “Best Concert” awards for the year. And you can listen to the podcast featuring its Michigan showcase. 

3. At Hour Detroit, their list is all about the development projects that helped transform Detroit in 2025. They say a new addition to the city’s skyline, a luxury hotel at a historic venue, and a new home for a beloved band shell are just some of the development projects that helped transform the city in 2025. On the list:  Hudson’s Detroit, Palmer Park Bandshell, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park and Southwest Greenway, AC Hotel at the Bonstelle and The Conservatory, Chandler Park Fieldhouse, and Orchard Village Housing.  Read the full list here and their description of each project, by Will Reaume, of The Hour

4. Raw Detroit, which says its mission is to celebrate the essence of Detroit, has a list of the hottest new restaurants to try. There are six that make their list. They say Tacos Wuey Brings Southwest Detroit Flavor, Chenin Wine Bar Opens at The Sire, and Full Measure Brewing Co. Blends Beer With Food and offer three more.Raw’s thoughts are: “Overall, Detroit’s newest restaurants reflect both diversity and creativity. From bold tacos to artisan bagels and sushi innovations, the city’s food scene continues to grow. Transitioning from long-time staples to fresh concepts, these new spots are shaping Detroit into a destination for food lovers of all kinds.” To read the rest of the list and what Raw has to say about them click here. 

5. The Best Of Jewish Detroit 2025 as chosen by the readers of the Jewish News, is out. Readers selected their favorites in categories such as Best Bagel, Men’s Clothing, Women’s Clothing, Shoe Store, Pizza, Jewelry Store and 15 others. Check out who their readers have decided is the best of the year by visiting here.

6.  LittleGuide, founded in 2018, says it has grown into the largest resource for families throughout Metro Detroit. Their list is 45 New Destinations for Families (2025). This exhaustive list tracks a lot of new openings from the year, including specific new playscapes, nature parks, and “hidden gem” family spots. The destinations are not all in Detroit, but they are all within day-trip driving distance. Browse the 45 new destinations.

Any thoughts on what list is missing? Let us know here.