A class of 1991 Wolverine shares her updated experience as her son heads until senior year in Ann Arbor.
Blog originally published 2022 UPDATES 2024
Michigan grads from the early 1990’s and the new generation of Wolverines
There are two cities that I think of as living, breathing entities much more than mere spots on a map. One is New York City. Can you imagine The Catcher in the Rye or Breakfast at Tiffany’s set in any other locale? Besides the Big Apple, there’s another place that formed the me that I’ve become (and I imagine the same is true of many of the other 1/2 million living alumni) - and it’s in the middle of a state shaped like a mitten. The University of Michigan and the intertwined town of Ann Arbor has left its fingerprints deep in my heart forever. What a joy it’s been to watch my friends’ children, and now our own son, matriculate at my alma mater and get to experience their own version of this quintessential college town.
Whether you’re like, me, a fellow alum headed back to A-squared with a new student, or a parent navigating this behemoth of a school for the first time - this guide is meant to be a real life, of-the-moment guide to what’s new (and old) in town. From food to fashion to football, here’s what you need to know about Ann Arbor in Fall of 2024.
IT WAS ALWAYS A BIG SCHOOL..AND IT GOT EVEN BIGGER
Michigan’s enrollment topped 50,000 for the first time last 2021 representing a steady climb since the 1940s when the student body was 19,176. Whether in the dorms, Greek system pledge classes, or food service lines you’ll notice the change. As of 2023, enrollment surged above 52,000 students, this surpassing Michigan State University as the state’s largest school. Buildings have grown (hello, Ross School of Business), and this former hippie-town got a glow up. Shakey Jake passed away in 2007 and you’ll notice more hammocks than protest shanties in the diag. Here’s a guide to what is gone, what remains, and where the new generation meets up on South U - spoiler alert - there’s no more Stucchi’s on South U (though you can find the brand at Michigan Creamery on State Street.
FOOD HEAVEN
Ask anyone on the street their first thought when it comes to U-Michigan and they’re most likely to mention the football program. Ask an alum about Ann Arbor, and they will very likely mention their favorite food in this culinary heaven. It’s amazing that Michigan has been ranked by some the #1 public university in the country, but also notable that Ann Arbor ranks in the tops of many college towns in America for best food and drink.
HALL OF FAME
ZINGERMAN’S It’s a legend for a reason. To avoid the long lines, order in advance. During high traffic times like welcome week, game days or Parents’ weekend, be prepared for long lead times. An alternative off-campus is their Zingerman's Roadhouse location which features a barbecue-themed menu and is a different experience than the classic deli, but a fantastic alternative. And, they sell the tee-shirts so you can look like a real Wolverine when you’re back home.
ONLY IN ANN ARBOR
THE CHIPATI
I’ll pause here to allow those who know a moment of nostalgia. If you’ve never heard of this item, it’s a salad/sandwich with chopped greens, vegetables, and shredded mozzarella served in a pita-like bread with a distinctive tangy sauce. The originator of this culinary concotion is up for debate and the ultimate purveyor is a matter of taste between Pizza House and Pizza Bob’s. Most of my contemporaries (and I) prefer the Pizza Bob’s version but it’s something worth taste-testing to make your own decision (like a Philly cheesesteak or New Haven pizza). Of note, Pizza House has greatly expanded from its humble buidling on Church Street and is now a much more upscale sit-down restaurant. It’s a great spot to watch the game if you aren’t able to secure tickets and its new adjacent property The Garage Bar (“GarBar”) shares a kitchen and menu but has its own unique daily specials. Pizza Bob’s has stayed true to its roots and those seeking a more nostalgic experience will enjoy ordering online and stopping into the frozen-in-time storefront. Only change of note, there’s a whole shrine to #10 Tom Brady that was absent “back in my day”.
‘ZA
My brother spent 8 years as a student in Ann Arbor and always craves Cottage Inn Pizza when we return to our alma mater. Cottage Inn is cozy, has private party rooms and also a classic Midwestern family restaurant vibe true to those who want a taste of “old Ann Arbor”. The pizza has a thick crust more akin to Chicago-style pie, so if you prefer New York style pizza, you might want to opt for Joe's Pizza NYC which often wins the top slot for ‘za amongst the new generation. NYC is in the business name for good reason - they’re not afraid to charge (212) prices here in the (847). It’s worth mentioning that Domino’s has roots and its corporate HQ in Ann Arbor and is an affordable option for late night pie.
for more Ann Arbor eateries, check out this link
Time-tested Favorites on the Food + Beverage SceneYou’ll be happy to hear that the following Ann Arbor classics still remain from the late 1980s.
Afternoon Delight great brunch and lunch options - fresh interiors and I enjoyed a perfect latte and breakfast there this morning.
Amer’s Deli The original location opened on Church Street when I was a student but has since re-located to State Street. Their sandwiches are sublime and it’s a game day favorite, so use online ordering on busy weekends to avoid a long line. It’s the perfect spot from which to grab to-go for a glorious fall picnic convenient to the Diag.
York This is such an insiders’ tip I’m almost hesitant to share - but hey, my son only has one year left so I’ll hold off on gate-keeping! While it’s located on well-known Packard Street, this particular stretch of the road is not a common student destination. Highlights are the farm fresh ingredients for breakfast and lunch fare as well as a charming garden for relaxed seating en plein air. I tried the day’s special a few weeks ago, a
The Brown Jug is a very casual bar and restaurant with the infamous “Back Room” which serves pizza slices late into the night. Interior has changed a lot (not really for the better) and a recent meal was meh but my sons had a blast here on BINGO night and came home big winners so there’s that.
Dominick’s Convenient to the law and business schools, this charming outdoor café feels a little like a ski chalet dropped into the Middle West. The pitchers of sangria are sublime and the en plein air atmosphere is lively and kinetic with the campus energy. I just learned when adding the link here that the establishment is properly named “Casa Dominick’s”. Do not refer to it by that name on campus because absolutely no one who’s local would ever call it that.
Outdoors at Dominick’s - Class of 1991 graduates meet up for the first night game at the Big House in fall 2011 CLICK PHOTO FOR MICHIGAN-WEAR SHOPPING LINKS
The Earle French and Italian fine-dining for a special occasion or splurge meal. This is the one spot in this section where I have never eaten personally, but a trusted classmate encouraged me to include here as a classic that has stood the test of time.
Good Time Charley’s location…location…location - best people watching from the outdoor table on South University - I swear the same women’s bathroom door stall has been broken since I was a student, so it’s defintely not been notably renovated. Solid bar food - THE COUNT TWISTS - but it all tastes better with a pitcher of beer for the table.
Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger Sliders since 1953 - menu remains much the same, just the location has changed to 304 S. Ashley Street.
Real Seafood Co. A short walk from central campus in the Main Street district, this seafood staple delivers high quality fare (a key supplier is Foley Fish from Boston) in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for Parents’ Weekend.
Rick’s American Café You will not get any Casblanca vibes here and as far as the name’s suggestion that people eat food here, I can’t recall ever seeing any non-liquid consumption. But for great music and a subterranean college bar, this campus classic has stood at 611 Church Street since 1979. For my 80s classmates, the “computing center” in the building above where we used to bring our floppy disks and wait in line for a dot-matrix printer has left the building but the below-ground bar remains the same and is still a favorite for upperclasspersons.
Scorekeepers Originally Dooley’s when I moved in to South Quad, this sports bar became “Skeeps” in 1992 and is still a favorite for Michigan students and the most likely bar on campus to spot a visiting celebrity or student athlete of note.
Noteworthy Newcomers for Bites + Bottles
Fleetwood Diner They serve hippie hash + milkshakes and are open 24 hours. What else can I say?
Frita Batidos Cuban-inspired Street Food, this chic space is a top pick for current students and their grass-fed beef burger gets high praise by critics. The eatery blends slow-food philosophy with a fast-casual service model.
Madras Masala Take-out, delivery or dine-in on “South Indian Sizzle”. Chicken Tikka at $13.95 sounds a lot like lunch tomorrow to me.
No Thai! My on-campus sources tell me that this is their go-to for a great value for satisfyling take-out that won’t break the bank. Anticipating an all-nighter? You can schedule a delivery for tomorrow night on-line now.
Of Rice and Men This Asian-fusion dining option has made a big splash in its first year in Ann Arbor. The dumplings are a standout and who can resist a Tiki-style cocktail? Located on Main Street.
Palio
Another Main Street Ventures restaurant replaced the former Quality Bar on the corner of Main Street and East William in 1991 and reliably serves authentic Tuscan fare in a lively atmosphere with a killer roof-top bar. All of the Main Street properties are known for great service - most notably when I waitressed at Q-Bar and Gratzi back in the day. ;)
The Chop House Make your reservation now for Parents’ weekend 2023 because this popular dining spot books up quickly. As of writing, the last spots open (for a party of 2) for September 24 this year are at or before 5pm or 9:30pm. Ambiance and prime beef are apparently in high demand.
In Memorium
RIP: Drake’s, China Gate, Steve’s Lunch, Olga’s on E. Washington, Village Corner, The Bagel Factory on South U, Del Rio, Gratzi, O’Sullivan’s, Bicycle Jim’s, Angelo’s (Dec ‘23)
SHOP A²
MVP: BIVOUAC Originally a humble army surplus store, this treasure has expanded and can suit you up not only with boots but also that Canada Goose parka (Winter is coming) or the latest denim silhouettes in the loft space. The customer rewards program is well-worth signing up for and you’ll receive not-overly-frequent texts with rewards and specials.
We love this brand “Save the Duck” which we first discovered at Bivouac - if you can’t buy it in person there, the photo above is the link to shop on Amazon.
THE DAWN TREADER BOOK SHOP In a town known for bookstores (the first Borders was an indie bookshop founded in 1971 in Ann Arbor), this gem remains as an authentic old-school experience where a bibliophile could spend hours perusing its rare and used treasures.
Make it Maize
THE M DEN What the Big House is to college football, this expansive fan shop is to spirit-wear. It gets very crowded with long lines so I’ve done a pre-shop for you today and found exceptional Michigan gear options online so you can arrive on campus alrady decked in the maize and blue and be free to spend more quality time with your Wolverine instead of waiting in a queue.
SHINOLA This Detroit retailer has opened up a storefront on S. Main Street with stylish watches and leatherware.
UMMA STORE Don’t miss the outstanding art collection at the University’s fine art museum. After you realize that an original Picasso is neither in your budget or for sale, stop by the well-curated lobby shop for the perfect gift for the aesthete in your orbit.
VAN BOVEN At Nickel’s Arcade on S. State, this sophisticated menswear retailer sells a high-end Peter Millar Michigan collection, Smathers & Branson needlepoint preppy swag and excellent quality apparel.
VERBENA Young women on campus are covered (well, with today’s looks perhaps not SO covered) with great options from loungewear to date party dresses at Verbena and the nearby Pitaya on S. State Street.
RIP Middle Earth, Balfour House, the Original Border’s, Ulrich’s, Michigan Book and Supply
THE BRIGHTSIDE OF U-M - IT’S GAME DAY!
GAME DAY at the Big House - yes, you need a flag for dorm décor and hometown flying and flexing.
“You haven’t lived until you’ve been to a Michigan home game.” Perhaps some hyperbole, but when you’re watching your first football at the Big House, you might think that I’ve actually understated it. First, you’ll need tickets - if the official Michigan site is sold out, the third-party sellers are always a-buzz. Of note, if you dare to brave a seat in the student section, the ticket has to be presented with a current M Card (that matches your actual face) or validated in advance to pay up from the discounted student fare. This should be taken care of in advance of game day as the lines for the service once tailgating has commenced will easily have you missing kick-off.
KNOW THE RULES Stadium guidelines have been updated and now all bags - including fanny packs - are prohibited with the exception of clear plastic options. The language on the website was updated in advance of opening day, and they suggest a clear plastic bag for necessary items such as baby diapers or medication. Play it safe and go with an option below with a strap to keep your necessary items and your phone close. There is no alcohol permitted in the Big House (if you like a buzz with your ‘ball, there’s plenty of opportunities to tailgate pre-game) and cameras must have lenses less than 6 inches long. There are no umbrellas allowed, so pack a poncho as the Great Lakes state is known for unpredictable precipitation.
YOUR CELL PHONE WON’T WORK Count on an experience for the ages, but plan like’s in 1990 since cell service is incredibly unreliable with the huge concentration of spectators in and around the stadium.
WHAT TO EXPECT You probably won’t be sitting much, though apparently one may bring in a stadium cushion. For those who haven’t attended a game since back in the day, you’ll see a bit less of the “the wave” but you’re in for a treat when the whole stadium sings along to the new anthem “Mr. Brightside” by the Killers near the end of the third quarter. Lots of games are designated “maize outs” so you’ll need to pick up the right game day apparel. And for heaven’s sake, never, ever wear red to the Big House.
LET’S GO BLUE! xo, Jane
We were asked by REDFIN to share an Ann Arbor tip - read the whole feature here