5 /5 Reno: Standby has officially earned its spot as one of my favorite restaurants in Detroit.
Let’s start with the ambiance, because it truly sets the tone the moment you walk in. The lighting is low and moody, creating a relaxed, almost mystical vibe. The space itself is intimate—small enough to feel cozy—but the energy stays high-paced in the best way. Somehow it manages to feel lively yet calming at the same time.
One of the most charming touches is the drink menu, which comes printed in a newspaper-style booklet with adorable little articles. The cocktails and overall mixology program are incredible, and the bartenders and servers have a real talent for helping you discover something you’ll genuinely love.
And then… the food.
Everything is delicious, but a few dishes truly stand out:
• Brown butter waffle with crab — my absolute favorite. A perfect balance of rich, sweet, and savory.
• Fries — crispy, never greasy, and so easy to snack on.
• Smash burger — so flavorful on its own I thought I’d want ketchup, but nope, not even needed.
• Little gem Caesar — refreshing, light, and the ideal palate reset.
• Short rib with cornbread purée and braised collard greens — unbelievably flavorful. The sweet and savory elements dance together on your tastebuds in the most satisfying way.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
But what truly ties the whole experience together is the exceptional customer service from Marquez, Ebrahim*, and Angel. They’re personable, knowledgeable, and genuinely attentive—making sure you leave feeling like Standby is a place you’ll always want to return to.
Standby isn’t just a restaurant. It’s an experience—one that keeps you coming back for more.