One of my favorite dining spots in Detroit is the Russell Street Deli in Eastern Market. I say that because the price-quality-ambiance has always been right at the top.
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Reflecting the 19th Century buildings of Eastern Market across from Russell Street the Deli has been a market institution for a couple of decades.
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When Detroiter Ben Hall and Bennington College [VT] classmates Jason Murphy and Hans Buetow acquired the deli two years ago I had my apprehensions about their taking on a restaurant business in Detroit's dodgy economy. But those fears were allayed last night when they threw a party to celebrate their second anniversary. Above Ben takes a break from serving up specialty mixed drinks to pose with Jason [left]. [Russell St. does not serve alcoholic beverages, this was a private party occasion, so even more credit goes to their success.]
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It was too busy of a night for all three to be together, so here is Hans [left]. Hans was also instrumental in the creation of the Rock Dove Couriers a downtown bicycle courier and delivery service, a collective that the partners share in.
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I first met the partners several years back when they were playing handball. Ben and Hans are seen here with Bennington friend Sarah on Belle Isle in 2003. All three owners as also renowned artists and musicians, so their cultural and job creation contribution to the Detroit scene is a dual blessing.
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I would be remiss without giving kudos to the affable former owner Bob Cerrito who firmly defined the deli before handing it off because, well because, restless soul that he is, he just felt like doing something else. An art collector, he approached me about hanging my paintings on his then bare walls back in the nineties, a win-win proposal for both of us as it resulted in several sales to the deli's clientele from the art center and downtown district who frequent the location.
So happy second anniversary fellas and many happy returns.
- Hours:
Mon – Fri: 7AM – 3:00PM
Saturday: 8AM – 3:00PM- Address:
2465 Russell Street
Detroit, MI 48207
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