Editor’s Note: This is part one of a three part series “Griffin Maria in The Big D”, written by Playboy model Griffin Maria, about her recent adventures in Detroit.
The scent of fall is in the air with pumpkin spice, apple pie, and dry leaves. That is, everywhere except Arizona, where the record high temps leave behind only sunburns and the smell of hot asphalt. Afraid that any memory of fall would soon be seared away, I recently decided to head back to my home state of Michigan to experience the season as it’s supposed to be enjoyed. Initially, I was going to write up a single article, something like “Griffin Goes Home,” but I quickly realized I had covered too much ground with more than one good story to tell.
Griffin Maria in The Big D: Back Home Again
I had a lot to see in a short amount of time, so I kicked off things by spending some quality time downtown in the Big D. For a city known for its sport teams and cars, Detroit has a beautiful skyline with some truly amazing architecture and spectacular views. I wandered the River Walk for a while, taking in the nice cool breeze and letting my body adjust to the different time zone, while also working up an appetite. Like any good traveler, I like to base vacations around food, and I had a hankering for what my first meal should be. It felt only right to kick things off with a taste of home.
Detroit has its fair share of Lions and Tigers fans, but the real all-star of the city isn’t a mascot…it’s a dog. A coney dog. A lot of big cities are known for their specific food, and Detroit is no exception. But to find the best, you have to know where to look.
Read More: Q&A: Griffin Maria
The Mitten State has no shortage of coney islands. Drive a few miles in just about any direction and you’ll likely see a familiar neon sign in the distance. But if you’re looking for the O.G. dog, American Coney Island on Lafayette Boulevard in downtown Detroit is the place to be. This restaurant has been a Michigan landmark for a hundred years, and it’s currently run by Grace Keros, the third generation of her family to take charge, and the first female owner.
The only way to eat a coney dog
I had the pleasure of meeting Grace when I stopped in for lunch, and she’s everything you’d hope to find in a strong, independent, female boss. She’s immediately and all at once engaging, down-to-earth, witty, and someone you feel like you’ve known for years. Grace is also very busy, particularly during the lunch rush, and the last thing I wanted to be was a nuisance, so I chatted her up for a few minutes then took my seat among the bustling crowd.
Although there may be differing opinions on how to eat your coney, true Michiganders know there’s only one correct way: chili, mustard, and onions. American Coney Island knows this all-too-well, and serves them up piping hot. It’s filling, but do yourself the favor of ordering two. The first one acts sort of like a cliffhanger to your favorite bingeable TV show. Once it’s down, you’ll immediately want to follow that up with more. Forks and knives are on the table. But they’re sort of like the parsley or orange slice you’ll find on the plate at a local diner. Sure, it’s there, but no one expects you to actually use them. Besides, a pile of dirty napkins is looked at like a badge of honor around these parts.
Read More: Griffin Maria Shows Us Tombstone’s Haunted Vibes
“Tell them Griffin sent ya”
I caught Grace on my way out. I made sure to wipe the mustard from my upper lip before snapping a quick pic with her. She’s truly one of a kind. And someone who has earned a place of respect among the personalities and business owners of Detroit. As a young woman trying to forge my own path, I was inspired by Grace’s story. I’m also heartened by her success. She’s the kind of woman who holds your gaze in a conversation. Despite the chaos unfolding around her, she’s present and in the moment with you. And like the food she serves, there’s something genuine and memorable about her as well.
Next time you’re in Detroit, make a point to stop into the American Coney Island. Ditch the fork and knife, grab some extra napkins, and be sure to tell Grace that Griffin sent you!
Griffin Maria is on The Playboy Club. Talk to her now/check out more photos of her trip.
