Top 5 Woodward Dream Cruise restaurants

Eventually, Woodward Dream Cruisers will need to take a break from driving and refuel. So when that does happen, here are some suggestions that MLive frequents that aren’t just cruiser-friendly, but are on Woodward and offer some exceptional food whether you’re cruising in a classic hot rod or new custom:

BERKLEY, MI- The 2013 Woodward Dream Cruise is officially upon us, and the classic cars aren’t the only things that will eventually need refueling.

Eventually, cruisers also will need to take a break from driving and refuel.

So when that does happen, here are some suggestions that MLive frequents that aren’t just cruiser-friendly, but are on Woodward Avenue and offer some exceptional food whether you’re cruising in a classic hot rod or new custom:

5. Hunter House Hamburgers, 35075 Woodward Ave. in Birmingham: Haven’t been? Go! Hunter House is for everyone from White Castle fanatics to Kobe beef lovers. The food is fast, delicious and perfectly located about halfway through the Dream Cruise. However, there is limited seating, so think about grabbing a bag to go.

Suggestion: Before 10:30 a.m., hash browns and three-egg omelet. After then, anything that has two buns and a piece of beef in between.

4. AL’s Famous Deli (Bread Basket Deli), 32906 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak: Although it has limited seating like Hunter House, the food is good no matter where you may end up eating it. The restaurant is right in the heart of the Woodward Dream Cruise and usually never disappoints.

Suggestion: One word: Reuben. It’s delicious, a classic, and huge. For those not too fond of Reuben sandwiches (if there is such a person), Al’s also offers dozens of other sandwiches and great soups (my wife loves the split pea).

3. Como’s, 22812 Woodward Ave. in Ferndale: It’s been a Ferndale tradition since 1961 thanks to its great location and pizza. The restaurant, located at 9 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, is always fun and full of friendly people. Not to mention, it’s open until 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday for those late-night cruisers. It also features a huge outdoor patio for those looking to grab a slice without missing a second of the Dream Cruise.

Suggestion: Although I’m usually a fan of deep dish pizza (see a certain video from the Bay City Times video if you don’t believe me), but Como’s round pizza is delicious with whatever toppings you may prefer. My favorite is simple: pepperoni and cheese with a lot of dried red pepper flakes.

2. Duggan’s Irish Pub, 31501 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak: The open-air second floor of this Irish pub was made to view cruisin' and is arguably the best view of any restaurant along Woodward Avenue (if you can get near a window).

Video: 'United States of Bacon' - Macon Bacon Burger

Suggestion: While they may have been voted “Best Hamburger” by CitySearch, there’s other more unique items on the menu for Cruisers. My picks are the Spicy Shrimp appetizer, followed by the wings or five-pound wet burrito (for the hungry man).

1. Vinsetta Garage, 27799 Woodward Ave. in Berkley: It’s literally a garage that was turned into a restaurant. What more can you ask for? There is nowhere else like the Vinsetta Garage. Although there’s usually a wait because it’s a legendary garage that now offers great food, it’s worth the wait and has a great view of Woodward Avenue.

Suggestion: Macon Bacon Burger as seen on the“United States of Bacon.” It’s a delicious Angus beef delight with maple bacon, pancetta, grilled Canadian bacon, house-made bacon jam, and smoked cheddar. After you have it once, you’ll never look at bacon again.

Honorable mentions:

- Red Coat Tavern, 31542 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak:Great burgers, but a little pricey and it really has no windows to watch the Dream Cruise. But if you want a gourmet burger and are OK with carry out, this could be your place.

- Blarney Stone Pub, 27253 Woodward Ave. in Berkley: A get place to grab a drink and Irish Broasted Potatoes, but there was only room for one Irish pub on the top five.

- Crispelli’s Bakery & Pizzeria, 28939 Woodward Ave. in Berkley: Honestly, I’ve never had it, but my editor says great things about it. The restaurant, which opened last year, also appears to have an extremely large outdoor area for the Dream Cruise.

- Woodward Avenue Brewers, 22646 Woodward Ave. in Ferndale: A perfect place for car lovers who also like to enjoy some fine craft beer. It also features a great view of Woodward Avenue.