Find Tasty Local Eats at Detroit’s First Black-Owned Food Hall

Introduce your littles to new cuisines at Whatcha Wanna Eat? Food Hall.

Whatcha wanna eat? If you have picky eaters at home, you know that question isn’t always easy to answer. 

Luckily, Detroit’s first Black-owned food hall, Whatcha Wanna Eat? Food Hall, opened on the city’s west side last month. The food hall is home to nine vendors serving up a variety of food, from barbecue, chicken sandwiches and rice bowls to baked goods and sweets. Where else can you order yourself lobster or salmon while your little one munches on chicken tenders or a turkey quesadilla? 

Whatcha Wanna Eat? Food Hall is designed to be a space where community members can gather and support up-and-coming restaurateurs. Each business owner at the food hall is a first-time food vendor, and each business is minority owned. 

Quick details about Whatcha Wanna Eat? Food Hall 

  • Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m..; Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday noon-6 p.m. Closed on Mondays. 
  • Parking: Street parking is available. 

Our approach to visiting a food hall for the first time? Arrive on an empty stomach, but don’t order a full meal at the first place that makes your mouth water. Instead, try smaller sides and appetizers from a variety of vendors so you can sample the food and create a list of places you want to eat at again on your next visit. And, be sure to save room for dessert! 

But hey, that’s just our approach — only you can decide which delicious menu items are calling you. Below you’ll find some tasty options that are perfect for littles and picky eaters. Bon appétit!

Kid-friendly menu options at Whatcha Wanna Eat? Food Hall

There’s truly something for everyone at this food hall, from ribs and hibachi bowls to fresh produce smoothies. But, if you’re concerned about finding options for your picky eater, here are some kid-approved menu items offered at the food hall. 

Borderline Tacos + Things

Build your own tacos, nachos, burritos, quesadillas and more at Borderline Tacos + Things! The beauty of this menu is that you can pick and choose which toppings you’d like. Start your picky eater simple with a classic cheese quesadilla, or add veggies and proteins like chicken and turkey. 

Delectabowl

The menu at Delectabowl is always changing, and there are plenty of thoughtful options for folks with dietary restrictions. If your kiddo is meat, dairy or gluten free, this is the spot to eat at! Our pick for picky eaters? The loaded potato bowl, which is a classic baked potato topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, bacon and scallions.

Detroit Wild Pit

You can’t go wrong with mac and cheese! Order a classic side of mac, or share a Wild Mac Attack: cheesy mac is loaded with toppings like beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken and broccoli or spicy beef sausage.

Heavenly Chicken & Waffles

Boneless chicken strips, fries, cheesy potatoes and sweet waffles were made for kids! Your child won’t have any issues finding something to eat here, but that doesn’t mean this menu is just for kids. Heavenly Chicken & Waffles is also serving up salmon croquettes, wraps, loaded potatoes and plenty of delicious chicken sandwich options. 

Poon’s Hibachi Grill

With options like lamb, salmon and lobster, adults will love building their own hibachi bowl. Kids that are nervous about trying new cuisine can start simple with egg rolls, crab rangoon sticks and chicken, shrimp or veggie fried rice. 

Life is Sweetz

Photo credit: Life is Sweetz

Believe us — you’re going to have to do everything in your power to stop your kiddo from racing to this sugar stand! After your meal, grab a treat from Life is Sweetz. There are currently a variety of ice cream flavors, shakes, ice cream sandwiches, banana pudding and more on the menu, but the must-have treat is the loaded bubble waffle sundae.


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Nikki Roberts
Nikki Roberts
Nikki Roberts is the assistant editor on the Metro Parent team. She is always on the lookout for the coolest and trendiest new attractions, restaurants and events for metro Detroit families. Her newsletters, online family guides and exciting digital content keep families informed on all the latest happenings around town.

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