It has been two years since the Spartans rolled into Ann Arbor for the annual Blue-vs.-Green showdown that always leaves half the state gloating and the other half in a funk.
The outcome of Saturday's game won't please everyone, but a great post-game meal -- and maybe a cold Michigan craft beer -- surely would. But where should an out-of-towner go?
You probably already know many of Ann Arbor's long-established restaurants, from upscale destinations like Gratzi, the West End Grill and Gandy Dancer to casual, less-expensive places like Cottage Inn, Blimpy Burger and Tio's.
So we're offering suggestions for some newer places that weren't in existence when this epic showdown last took place in A-Squared in 2010 and Michigan State squashed the Wolverines, 34-17.
Three are more upscale, but relaxed: the brand new Lena, with an Ecuadoran chef and intriguing South American cuisine; the Ravens Club, with a vintage speakeasy feel and distinctive food and drink menus, and Mani Osteria, whose Italian small plates and brick-oven pizzas even had celebrity chef Mario Batali tweeting.
The other three are budget-friendly and ultra-casual: Frito Batidos, serving Cuban-inspired burgers and thick, fruity shakes; the open-air Bill's Beer Garden, debuting tonight, with food-truckish eats sold a few steps away at Mark's Carts, and Chela's, one of Ann Arbor's newest taquerias, whose owner grew up in the heart of Mexico City.
These diverse restaurants run the gamut in style and cuisine, but they're all worth discovering -- no matter whose football team you root for.
Contact Sylvia Rector: 313-222-5026 or srector@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @SylviaRector
