Coffee shops are as synonymous with city life as it gets – and while Detroit’s uphill battle toward resurgence is underway, the underlying grit of the city can be felt by one of its hidden gems: 1515 Broadway.
A quirky and unexpected café, 1515 sits at its namesake location facing the Opera House in downtown. This cash-only almost bistro has some rather unexpected facets.
Through the black curtains on the way to the restroom, the back opens up into a startlingly large and dramatic stage. Local plays, small traveling theater companies and the occasional art gallery set up shop at 1515 from time to time.
Accompanying the cleverly hidden and unforeseen theater is a rather eclectic mix of furniture that is as charming as it is confusing.
Flyers about local events, plays, skits, and various performances cover the cork boards that make up the bulk of the décor.
But the real appeal comes with 1515’s coffee offerings and quick-bite snacks. The menu includes an endless list of coffee drinks, teas, hot chocolates, and cold beverages. The snack case in the front contains bagels, cookies, and various other pastries.
Soups and sandwiches are there for a satisfying yet light lunch, complemented with chips and candy bars.
The prices are fantastic, and the hours are great for a locally owned café – 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. – allowing for a pick-me-up before or after work.
The location is the cherry on top for this eccentric spot. The Broadway People Mover stop is just across John R, with Comerica Park and Ford Field within just a few blocks. The Y is also a neighbor, making 1515 the perfect spot to stop before your workout.
1515 Broadway is a great place to grab a latte “for here” in one of their deliciously oversized mugs and cuddle up with a magazine or book. Tablets and laptops are welcome as well, with free Wi-Fi for its tech-savvy patrons.
1515 Broadway is located in downtown Detroit and can be reached at (313) 965-1515.
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