This place is LEGIT! Fantastic place for brunch. A total hidden gem. The photos on yelp do not do this place justice. When my friends suggested this place for breakfast, I was surprised I'd never heard of it before! They had read about it in a Detroit magazine, apparently not HOURS. We met on a Sunday morning and there was already a little bit of a wait. Restaurant is attached to a somewhat seedy looking motel and at first glance looks a little suspect but when you walk in, it's packed to the brim with people (every seat was taken and there was a crowd forming at the door). It was Sunday morning after all. The brightly colored walls and paintings and low ceiling give it a lovely warm cozy feel though like you're headed into a party in someone's living room. Our booth seats were very comfortable. There's limited parking out front and if you're lucky you might snag a spot. Otherwise good luck finding street parking. I had to circle the block a couple of times and ended up parking at the free 2 hour Riverwalk lot off Atwater St. and walking on over. Very doable like 3 short blocks. My Mexican omelette with chorizo was delicious and huge. It could easily feed two people. They also give you the option of getting home fries, toast, grits, or pancakes with it. I chose the pancakes and they were equally delightful. So soft and fluffy and it's a sweet batter so you don't even need maple syrup to enjoy it. Salmon patties were tasty but not the star of breakfast. That would be the Bananas Foster on croissant. Wowee super decadent, sweet, and sinfully good. This dish will give you diabetes for sure so share the sugar! The dish came out piping hot and maan, oh maan that first bite was heavenly good. Definitely share it with someone though and get a coffee and/or savory entree to temper the sweetness. We added on the grilled cinnamon bun which was also awesome! Everything was just very well done here and the prices given the portion sizes were spot on. Service was great. I love a waitress who can crack jokes with you and laugh. She was the perfect amount of chipper for the morning. It added to the festive atmosphere and they were on top of the ball about refilling our coffees. Reason this place gets a resounding 5 stars is, I ended up eating my leftovers the next day for "brinner" (breakfast for dinner) and they stood up to being nuked in the microwave. I think it stands to the quality of the food that it still tasted delicious after sitting in my car all day and in my fridge the next. My one complaint is that the AC could be stronger. I don't mind it being a little warm but with so many people inside and the kitchen being out in the open, it definitely was hot inside so my poor friend was sweating buckets. I will be back for sure though! Highly highly recommend this place!
(5)
Dreda S.
This restaurant has the best food I have tasted in a while here. The absolute spot! If you're ever in the Detroit area and you're cruising down through the Jefferson Avenue, don't judge it by how it looks on the outside you definitely have to come in it has warm and friendly atmosphere and the food is excellent they take no time at all bringing your hot plate to your table 5 stars.
(5)
Stephen E.
This place is definitely worth a visit. The food portions are set where there is no way you can leave the place still hungry and for the price, you cannot beat it. The place is kinda small so you may be in for a wait but it is worth it! The atmosphere is pretty much the same as any other local diner but the food is where it's at!
(5)
Susan L.
After a former "regular" raved to us about The Clique (he'd long ago moved out of the neighborhood), we ate breakfast there with another couple on a Saturday in 7/07. We thought the food was very mediocre and the prices were too high for the rather small portions. The service was just so-so.
(2)
Nikki T.
Welcome to the best greasy spoon this side of Jefferson! This is another coney island type restaurant. It's located inside of a local hotel right off Jefferson. If your not careful you'll pass it. Best late night breakfast food! The service is decent and they are definitely pretty quick. It's usually a little crowded just because it's located in the hotel but again the service is pretty quick. I definitely recommend this restaurant after an evening of partying.
(3)
Dann A.
Generic greasy spoon on the east side. Convenient for those working downtown, but it's not really worth the drive. It's got the charm of a truck stop - and the food to match. That's not to say it's awful, but it's far from special. Those looking for an omelet or slab o' bacon are better off checking out the Brooklyn Street diner on Michigan near old Tiger Stadium.
(2)
monika l.
I struggled eating Midwest festival food for four days. This was my one savior. Unfortunately it's all Midwest food too. But good Midwest breakfast food for super cheap. Eggs, bacon and toast for four bucks. There's usually a fifteen minute wait, but when your staying at the Shore Crest right next to it, it's worth the wait. It closes by two or three in the afternoon, so make sure and stumble out of your hotel bed by one. service is fast and to the point.
(3)
Tallbrowngiraffe B.
My pastors wife and I ordered the 1/2 french toast,2 orders of sausage,fruit,toast,coffee, orange juice, and potatoes and it was all under $20. I thought they gave me the wrong bill but Nope. The food was outstanding and the prices are unbeatable. If I lived in Detroit,I would frequent this place often.
(5)
Jane H.
Great breakfast spot. The salmon breakfast and the wing ding breakfast are my favorite
(5)
Kyleen C.
Ugh I crave coming here every week with my boyfriend he has been coming here for his whole life and I was introduced to it a couple months ago from him and I literally crave it every week I try to make it there every Friday morning with him but recently haven't been able too I cannot wait to go and order my usual which is always superb!! Love this place
(5)
Melissa G.
Fantastic food and very friendly service. I ordered the French toast, scrambled eggs, and bacon. Every single bite was absolutely delicious! I would highly recommend this place!
(5)
Raquel B.
This is my go to spot when I want a delicious, hearty, mouth-watering breakfast. The prices are reasonable and the service is superb. I've been coming to this spot for the last 3 years. My favorite dish is the Corn Beef Skillet, a savory dish of corn beef, potatoes, green peppers, onions topped with an egg anyway you like it and a side of pancakes.....yummy! I swear they put crack in those pancakes!! They are da bomb!! It looks like a hole in the wall from the outside but don't let that fool you. Try it and don't forget to thank me
(5)
Geo K.
Friendly staff, great food, great service! We ate breakfast there twice while in Detroit.
(4)
Keith H.
What a well hidden Jewel in Detroit. If you haven't tried this place you'd better. Best breakfast place in downtown Detroit.
(5)
Jermond B.
The best breakfast downtown hands down. The food is always fresh, seasoned and cooked well. The salmon cakes with some scrambled eggs with american cheese will change your life. Check it out
(5)
Justin A.
Okay, I'm gonna go out there and give The Clique 5 stars. The reason I'm gonna throw so much praise at them is that this restaurant is one of the most solid and consistent places I've ever been too. There are no gimmicks, just a simple menu with quality dishes. Their breakfasts are great, particularly the skillets and the sandwiches and salads are huge and delicious. The thing that really makes The Clique though is their staff. They treat you like they're your friends. Sitting at the counter is recommended so you can see the cooks putting on their show. I love this place. There's a reason why you see the same people there every time you go.
(5)
Kelly M.
Such an awesome little place! I was staying at the shorecrest motor inn which is right next door and went for breakfast one of the days. The staff was so friendly, they were hard working, and got people in and out since it was crowded. The omelette was fantastic and it came with pancakes! The hashbrowns that came with it as well were amazing too.
(5)
Edward L.
The Clique is a legendary Detroit stop. I make it a point to stop here if I go to the harbor, Belle Isle or the Heidelburg Project. The Mexican omelette is chorizo packed and crazy good with fresh made salsa. I am never disappointed. Other listers describe it well, it isn't fancy but if you like breakfast you'll love the Clique.
(4)
Daisha H.
Yesterday, me and my boyfriend went here for breakffast! I ordered the berry french toast with a side of bacon and an order of hashbrowns. Everything was AMAZING. This was my second time dining at The Clique and I can not wait to go back! The staff there are very friendly and helpful. It is a very small restaurant and has been crowded each time I went so we have to wait for a table. Don't let this discourage you though, its so worth the wait! This is definitly a hidden gem right in Downtown Detroit, it looks a little sketchy because its attached to a Motel; however, it is EVERYTHING!
(5)
Tony M.
Nice big meat-lover's omelette. Either there were four eggs or the chickens are on performance-enhancing drugs. I got the home fries at the server's recommendation, which I do not regret. The server, a frazzled, friendly woman named Kim, made this first-timer feel like a regular.
(4)
Nikki C.
I FINALLY made it to Clique after seeing it all my life, sitting there on Jefferson, attached to a motel -- not exactly something that would attract me to go in and eat there, but after hearing so many good things about Clique, I finally bit the bullet and gave them a chance. SO glad I did. It has a classic, greasy spoon, dive feel... small, cramped, open kitchen, which was very cool because I sat at the counter to eat and had the chance to watch the cooks handling their business on the grill. As busy as the place was, they got those orders in and shot them right out in such an efficient way. Every diner has to have delicious coffee and Clique did not disappoint. The coffee was spot on, the pancakes were to die for. I'd love to go back and try the french toast. I saw an order being served up and it looked fluffy and delightful. The eggs were good, the hashbrowns looked good (I didn't order any). I ordered the turkey sausage, but next time, I'd love to try the salmon patties or just skip any dieting rules or "weight watching" and go for the real deal bacon. I was in and out fairly quickly and enjoyed my meal. I'll be back, Clicque!
(4)
Lita F.
Salmon patties were delicious I was hooked my first visit brought me right back in less than a week very speedy service It's already a favorite of mine
(5)
Pat B.
Been here twice with families of four. Great service, and great food each time! Lots of character - hidden gem! Excellent home fries, hot cocoa, with large portions. It is a destination for travelers (my folks were from out of state), and will bring guests and friends from out of town and out of country to share this cherished gem!
(5)
Jeffrey A.
It's a Rivertown dive, attached to a Motel, yes, and the fake plants look almost real due to the intense sunlight coming through the vast windows. A very diverse clientele as well (people of all ages, colors, and socio-economic statuses blend well together here). Oh, and the counter stools are very cool. Not sure if I can say anything here that hasn't already been said, except for... Try the delicious Salmon patties - they staff told me they make the salmon patties there at the restaurant. They went quite well with eggs. They aren't trying to be fancy or hyper-local (example: they don't have real maple syrup with the pancakes), so don't expect that when you come here. Just expect quick, delicious food and good service.
(4)
Robert Z.
Great food...great biscuits and gravy. Diner level service was fine. Recommended if youre looking for that greasy spoon.
(4)
Mollie Rose B.
Best breakfast I have had at a restaurant, anywhere. It is attached to a shady looking motel, but don't let that fool you. It's so good.
(5)
Joy S.
Greasy Spoon Classic D! The Clique has been a Detroit Classic for many, many years. A regular I became when I lived across the street at the Historic Palms Building on Jefferson in the 90's. But years after I moved away from my river view apartment, I still return, not only because of the food and the service but because it's part of the city. Food: Eggs-Check. Toast-Check. Coffee-check, (but suck-nation). All the basic greasy spoon-coney island fare is there at The Clique. What's different? Well for one, they have the some of the best bacon in the city (i'm a bacon fanatic)-not too thick, not to thin, never greasy. Grits are good, if they're too thick, they will thin them out. The hash browns-real potatoes sliced and grilled. Ask them to be cooked well done with some grilled onions and you've got a great vegan meal. Feeling like a meatatarian? Get the steak and eggs-a nice breakfast size New York Strip, cooked on a grill-not flat top, or a burger grilled the same. Still want more meat? Wednesday, get the SHORT RIBS. Fall off the bone w/ brown gravy, mashed potatoes, salad and dinner roll. And oh, THE GRILLED cinnamon roll, yes that's it. the GRILLED cinnamon roll. This croissant-like cinnamon roll is pushed over the top by splitting it and grilling it in butter on the flat top. Drizzle a little syrup on the top and OMG. (did I really type OMG) It's mmm. They're known for their breakfast, but try lunch's normal offerings, like a club sandwich, a daily yummy soup or salad. Atmosphere: The Clique is attached to the Shorecrest Motor Inn, a 2- star motel with floral bed spreads. But don't be fooled. Expect a wait most busy times during the week and especially on the weekends. The Clique used to have cheesy vinyl booths where your legs stick to the seat, but a couple years ago, they renovated the place with upgraded matte finish vinyl, all booth seating w/a few seats at the counter. It looks great. 4 and 2 top booth seating, with ONE large booth in the back for up to 6. If you're looking to bring a big group, this isn't the place. This place is for a loud, un-private breakfast meeting or a cute meal with friends. If you want to be incognito, don't come here. This is where Detroit's who's who go to eat and meet. Politicians, business people, artists and music people all go here- and they go to be seen. Expect to run into someone you know personally, someone that's locally famous or someone who's locally infamous. Service: Good and fast. Most of the waitresses have been there 4-ever. They aren't overly friendly, nor overly rude, but they're professional and they get the job done well. They know your name if you're a regular-and they know your order. You can order anything you want, any way you want it. No complaints. Their crappy coffee, is always plentiful, and you will never get to the bottom of your cup. Price: On the expensive side of inexpensive. The breakfast special-2eggs, nice-size portion of meat (bacon, sausage,or turkey sausage) , hash-browns or grits, pancakes or toast all for $7.95. 3-egg omelets, bout the same. Expect to spend about $10-12 per person for breakfast including tax, tip and drink. I would have given it 5 stars, but the coffee is sucky (I now bring my a Starbucks Via packet with me). BUT, The Clique is still my favorite breakfast spot-a nice, clean, centrally located, city institution, with a fan base that will keep it around for a many more decades. Go often. I will see you there.
(4)
AJay J.
This place is a D Town classic check it out for breakfast. Yes its small so if its a sat be ready for a wait but its worth it!
(4)
Michelle I.
Fancy a greasy spoon breakfast with a backstory? Well then, The Clique is your place! Adorned with autographs of Detroit's Movers and Shakers, this teeny diner serves up your typical greasy breakfast and lunch fare. I sat down for breakfast here after a cold morning of volunteering for the Greening of Detroit. Brrr! I needed coffee, STAT! Coffee is your typical diner cup of joe. Nothing special, but it warmed me up so I was happy. I ordered a basic breakfast; eggs, toast, hashbrowns. All of them did the job right. However, Mr. Boyfriend got the real deal when he ordered the corned beef hash. His breakfast was beautiful since they used fresh chopped up corned beef, adorned with green peppers and onions. He was more than satisfied with his breakfast choice! Our decent breakfast was rounded off with some sweet-ass service. Our waitress was the nicest lady ever, totally making me feel at home as I kept asking for more coffee refills to warm up my frozen fingers. Overall, breakfast here is no different from other greasy spoon affairs, but if you prefer some interesting autographs to peep and some super nice service....you will probably fancy The Clique.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Kathleen S.
This place is LEGIT! Fantastic place for brunch. A total hidden gem. The photos on yelp do not do this place justice. When my friends suggested this place for breakfast, I was surprised I'd never heard of it before! They had read about it in a Detroit magazine, apparently not HOURS. We met on a Sunday morning and there was already a little bit of a wait. Restaurant is attached to a somewhat seedy looking motel and at first glance looks a little suspect but when you walk in, it's packed to the brim with people (every seat was taken and there was a crowd forming at the door). It was Sunday morning after all. The brightly colored walls and paintings and low ceiling give it a lovely warm cozy feel though like you're headed into a party in someone's living room. Our booth seats were very comfortable. There's limited parking out front and if you're lucky you might snag a spot. Otherwise good luck finding street parking. I had to circle the block a couple of times and ended up parking at the free 2 hour Riverwalk lot off Atwater St. and walking on over. Very doable like 3 short blocks. My Mexican omelette with chorizo was delicious and huge. It could easily feed two people. They also give you the option of getting home fries, toast, grits, or pancakes with it. I chose the pancakes and they were equally delightful. So soft and fluffy and it's a sweet batter so you don't even need maple syrup to enjoy it. Salmon patties were tasty but not the star of breakfast. That would be the Bananas Foster on croissant. Wowee super decadent, sweet, and sinfully good. This dish will give you diabetes for sure so share the sugar! The dish came out piping hot and maan, oh maan that first bite was heavenly good. Definitely share it with someone though and get a coffee and/or savory entree to temper the sweetness. We added on the grilled cinnamon bun which was also awesome! Everything was just very well done here and the prices given the portion sizes were spot on. Service was great. I love a waitress who can crack jokes with you and laugh. She was the perfect amount of chipper for the morning. It added to the festive atmosphere and they were on top of the ball about refilling our coffees. Reason this place gets a resounding 5 stars is, I ended up eating my leftovers the next day for "brinner" (breakfast for dinner) and they stood up to being nuked in the microwave. I think it stands to the quality of the food that it still tasted delicious after sitting in my car all day and in my fridge the next. My one complaint is that the AC could be stronger. I don't mind it being a little warm but with so many people inside and the kitchen being out in the open, it definitely was hot inside so my poor friend was sweating buckets. I will be back for sure though! Highly highly recommend this place!
(5)Dreda S.
This restaurant has the best food I have tasted in a while here. The absolute spot! If you're ever in the Detroit area and you're cruising down through the Jefferson Avenue, don't judge it by how it looks on the outside you definitely have to come in it has warm and friendly atmosphere and the food is excellent they take no time at all bringing your hot plate to your table 5 stars.
(5)Stephen E.
This place is definitely worth a visit. The food portions are set where there is no way you can leave the place still hungry and for the price, you cannot beat it. The place is kinda small so you may be in for a wait but it is worth it! The atmosphere is pretty much the same as any other local diner but the food is where it's at!
(5)Susan L.
After a former "regular" raved to us about The Clique (he'd long ago moved out of the neighborhood), we ate breakfast there with another couple on a Saturday in 7/07. We thought the food was very mediocre and the prices were too high for the rather small portions. The service was just so-so.
(2)Nikki T.
Welcome to the best greasy spoon this side of Jefferson! This is another coney island type restaurant. It's located inside of a local hotel right off Jefferson. If your not careful you'll pass it. Best late night breakfast food! The service is decent and they are definitely pretty quick. It's usually a little crowded just because it's located in the hotel but again the service is pretty quick. I definitely recommend this restaurant after an evening of partying.
(3)Dann A.
Generic greasy spoon on the east side. Convenient for those working downtown, but it's not really worth the drive. It's got the charm of a truck stop - and the food to match. That's not to say it's awful, but it's far from special. Those looking for an omelet or slab o' bacon are better off checking out the Brooklyn Street diner on Michigan near old Tiger Stadium.
(2)monika l.
I struggled eating Midwest festival food for four days. This was my one savior. Unfortunately it's all Midwest food too. But good Midwest breakfast food for super cheap. Eggs, bacon and toast for four bucks. There's usually a fifteen minute wait, but when your staying at the Shore Crest right next to it, it's worth the wait. It closes by two or three in the afternoon, so make sure and stumble out of your hotel bed by one. service is fast and to the point.
(3)Tallbrowngiraffe B.
My pastors wife and I ordered the 1/2 french toast,2 orders of sausage,fruit,toast,coffee, orange juice, and potatoes and it was all under $20. I thought they gave me the wrong bill but Nope. The food was outstanding and the prices are unbeatable. If I lived in Detroit,I would frequent this place often.
(5)Jane H.
Great breakfast spot. The salmon breakfast and the wing ding breakfast are my favorite
(5)Kyleen C.
Ugh I crave coming here every week with my boyfriend he has been coming here for his whole life and I was introduced to it a couple months ago from him and I literally crave it every week I try to make it there every Friday morning with him but recently haven't been able too I cannot wait to go and order my usual which is always superb!! Love this place
(5)Melissa G.
Fantastic food and very friendly service. I ordered the French toast, scrambled eggs, and bacon. Every single bite was absolutely delicious! I would highly recommend this place!
(5)Raquel B.
This is my go to spot when I want a delicious, hearty, mouth-watering breakfast. The prices are reasonable and the service is superb. I've been coming to this spot for the last 3 years. My favorite dish is the Corn Beef Skillet, a savory dish of corn beef, potatoes, green peppers, onions topped with an egg anyway you like it and a side of pancakes.....yummy! I swear they put crack in those pancakes!! They are da bomb!! It looks like a hole in the wall from the outside but don't let that fool you. Try it and don't forget to thank me
(5)Geo K.
Friendly staff, great food, great service! We ate breakfast there twice while in Detroit.
(4)Keith H.
What a well hidden Jewel in Detroit. If you haven't tried this place you'd better. Best breakfast place in downtown Detroit.
(5)Jermond B.
The best breakfast downtown hands down. The food is always fresh, seasoned and cooked well. The salmon cakes with some scrambled eggs with american cheese will change your life. Check it out
(5)Justin A.
Okay, I'm gonna go out there and give The Clique 5 stars. The reason I'm gonna throw so much praise at them is that this restaurant is one of the most solid and consistent places I've ever been too. There are no gimmicks, just a simple menu with quality dishes. Their breakfasts are great, particularly the skillets and the sandwiches and salads are huge and delicious. The thing that really makes The Clique though is their staff. They treat you like they're your friends. Sitting at the counter is recommended so you can see the cooks putting on their show. I love this place. There's a reason why you see the same people there every time you go.
(5)Kelly M.
Such an awesome little place! I was staying at the shorecrest motor inn which is right next door and went for breakfast one of the days. The staff was so friendly, they were hard working, and got people in and out since it was crowded. The omelette was fantastic and it came with pancakes! The hashbrowns that came with it as well were amazing too.
(5)Edward L.
The Clique is a legendary Detroit stop. I make it a point to stop here if I go to the harbor, Belle Isle or the Heidelburg Project. The Mexican omelette is chorizo packed and crazy good with fresh made salsa. I am never disappointed. Other listers describe it well, it isn't fancy but if you like breakfast you'll love the Clique.
(4)Daisha H.
Yesterday, me and my boyfriend went here for breakffast! I ordered the berry french toast with a side of bacon and an order of hashbrowns. Everything was AMAZING. This was my second time dining at The Clique and I can not wait to go back! The staff there are very friendly and helpful. It is a very small restaurant and has been crowded each time I went so we have to wait for a table. Don't let this discourage you though, its so worth the wait! This is definitly a hidden gem right in Downtown Detroit, it looks a little sketchy because its attached to a Motel; however, it is EVERYTHING!
(5)Tony M.
Nice big meat-lover's omelette. Either there were four eggs or the chickens are on performance-enhancing drugs. I got the home fries at the server's recommendation, which I do not regret. The server, a frazzled, friendly woman named Kim, made this first-timer feel like a regular.
(4)Nikki C.
I FINALLY made it to Clique after seeing it all my life, sitting there on Jefferson, attached to a motel -- not exactly something that would attract me to go in and eat there, but after hearing so many good things about Clique, I finally bit the bullet and gave them a chance. SO glad I did. It has a classic, greasy spoon, dive feel... small, cramped, open kitchen, which was very cool because I sat at the counter to eat and had the chance to watch the cooks handling their business on the grill. As busy as the place was, they got those orders in and shot them right out in such an efficient way. Every diner has to have delicious coffee and Clique did not disappoint. The coffee was spot on, the pancakes were to die for. I'd love to go back and try the french toast. I saw an order being served up and it looked fluffy and delightful. The eggs were good, the hashbrowns looked good (I didn't order any). I ordered the turkey sausage, but next time, I'd love to try the salmon patties or just skip any dieting rules or "weight watching" and go for the real deal bacon. I was in and out fairly quickly and enjoyed my meal. I'll be back, Clicque!
(4)Lita F.
Salmon patties were delicious I was hooked my first visit brought me right back in less than a week very speedy service It's already a favorite of mine
(5)Pat B.
Been here twice with families of four. Great service, and great food each time! Lots of character - hidden gem! Excellent home fries, hot cocoa, with large portions. It is a destination for travelers (my folks were from out of state), and will bring guests and friends from out of town and out of country to share this cherished gem!
(5)Jeffrey A.
It's a Rivertown dive, attached to a Motel, yes, and the fake plants look almost real due to the intense sunlight coming through the vast windows. A very diverse clientele as well (people of all ages, colors, and socio-economic statuses blend well together here). Oh, and the counter stools are very cool. Not sure if I can say anything here that hasn't already been said, except for... Try the delicious Salmon patties - they staff told me they make the salmon patties there at the restaurant. They went quite well with eggs. They aren't trying to be fancy or hyper-local (example: they don't have real maple syrup with the pancakes), so don't expect that when you come here. Just expect quick, delicious food and good service.
(4)Robert Z.
Great food...great biscuits and gravy. Diner level service was fine. Recommended if youre looking for that greasy spoon.
(4)Mollie Rose B.
Best breakfast I have had at a restaurant, anywhere. It is attached to a shady looking motel, but don't let that fool you. It's so good.
(5)Joy S.
Greasy Spoon Classic D! The Clique has been a Detroit Classic for many, many years. A regular I became when I lived across the street at the Historic Palms Building on Jefferson in the 90's. But years after I moved away from my river view apartment, I still return, not only because of the food and the service but because it's part of the city. Food: Eggs-Check. Toast-Check. Coffee-check, (but suck-nation). All the basic greasy spoon-coney island fare is there at The Clique. What's different? Well for one, they have the some of the best bacon in the city (i'm a bacon fanatic)-not too thick, not to thin, never greasy. Grits are good, if they're too thick, they will thin them out. The hash browns-real potatoes sliced and grilled. Ask them to be cooked well done with some grilled onions and you've got a great vegan meal. Feeling like a meatatarian? Get the steak and eggs-a nice breakfast size New York Strip, cooked on a grill-not flat top, or a burger grilled the same. Still want more meat? Wednesday, get the SHORT RIBS. Fall off the bone w/ brown gravy, mashed potatoes, salad and dinner roll. And oh, THE GRILLED cinnamon roll, yes that's it. the GRILLED cinnamon roll. This croissant-like cinnamon roll is pushed over the top by splitting it and grilling it in butter on the flat top. Drizzle a little syrup on the top and OMG. (did I really type OMG) It's mmm. They're known for their breakfast, but try lunch's normal offerings, like a club sandwich, a daily yummy soup or salad. Atmosphere: The Clique is attached to the Shorecrest Motor Inn, a 2- star motel with floral bed spreads. But don't be fooled. Expect a wait most busy times during the week and especially on the weekends. The Clique used to have cheesy vinyl booths where your legs stick to the seat, but a couple years ago, they renovated the place with upgraded matte finish vinyl, all booth seating w/a few seats at the counter. It looks great. 4 and 2 top booth seating, with ONE large booth in the back for up to 6. If you're looking to bring a big group, this isn't the place. This place is for a loud, un-private breakfast meeting or a cute meal with friends. If you want to be incognito, don't come here. This is where Detroit's who's who go to eat and meet. Politicians, business people, artists and music people all go here- and they go to be seen. Expect to run into someone you know personally, someone that's locally famous or someone who's locally infamous. Service: Good and fast. Most of the waitresses have been there 4-ever. They aren't overly friendly, nor overly rude, but they're professional and they get the job done well. They know your name if you're a regular-and they know your order. You can order anything you want, any way you want it. No complaints. Their crappy coffee, is always plentiful, and you will never get to the bottom of your cup. Price: On the expensive side of inexpensive. The breakfast special-2eggs, nice-size portion of meat (bacon, sausage,or turkey sausage) , hash-browns or grits, pancakes or toast all for $7.95. 3-egg omelets, bout the same. Expect to spend about $10-12 per person for breakfast including tax, tip and drink. I would have given it 5 stars, but the coffee is sucky (I now bring my a Starbucks Via packet with me). BUT, The Clique is still my favorite breakfast spot-a nice, clean, centrally located, city institution, with a fan base that will keep it around for a many more decades. Go often. I will see you there.
(4)AJay J.
This place is a D Town classic check it out for breakfast. Yes its small so if its a sat be ready for a wait but its worth it!
(4)Michelle I.
Fancy a greasy spoon breakfast with a backstory? Well then, The Clique is your place! Adorned with autographs of Detroit's Movers and Shakers, this teeny diner serves up your typical greasy breakfast and lunch fare. I sat down for breakfast here after a cold morning of volunteering for the Greening of Detroit. Brrr! I needed coffee, STAT! Coffee is your typical diner cup of joe. Nothing special, but it warmed me up so I was happy. I ordered a basic breakfast; eggs, toast, hashbrowns. All of them did the job right. However, Mr. Boyfriend got the real deal when he ordered the corned beef hash. His breakfast was beautiful since they used fresh chopped up corned beef, adorned with green peppers and onions. He was more than satisfied with his breakfast choice! Our decent breakfast was rounded off with some sweet-ass service. Our waitress was the nicest lady ever, totally making me feel at home as I kept asking for more coffee refills to warm up my frozen fingers. Overall, breakfast here is no different from other greasy spoon affairs, but if you prefer some interesting autographs to peep and some super nice service....you will probably fancy The Clique.
(3)