Detroit has always had a reputation for reinvention, and nowhere is that spirit more alive on a plate than at Selden Standard. In the heart of Midtown — a neighborhood full of funky Detroit style, small businesses, college town vibes, and old dive bars — Selden Standard opened in 2014 to serve fine dining with a casual ambiance. Since then, it has grown into far more than a beloved neighborhood restaurant. It has been named Restaurant of the Year by both the Detroit Free Press (2015) and Hour Detroit (2016), and twice earned a James Beard semifinalist nod for Outstanding Restaurant (2024, 2025).
Selden Standard was one of the first restaurants in Detroit to combine New American food, good cocktails, and exposed wood — and really helped kickstart the city’s food scene when it opened. The result is a dining room that feels simultaneously exciting and familiar, the kind of place you want to return to every season — literally, because the menu changes right along with the weather.
What Makes the Food So Special
Selden Standard’s fare features flavors born on local farms, captured at the peak of the season, prepared in a wood-fired oven, and served small plates-style in shareable portions. This isn’t just a marketing slogan — it defines every single dish that comes out of the kitchen. Rather than being beholden to one cuisine, the focus is on fun, rustic, delicious food — sustainably sourced meat and fish, homemade pasta, and wood-roasted veggies — and since it’s a seasonal restaurant, the menu changes almost as frequently as the weather.
The vegetable carpaccio is one of the most ordered starters for a reason — it combines everything the restaurant stands for, with produce sourced from Detroit’s Eastern Market, featuring ingredients like kohlrabi from Fisheye Farms, radishes from New Suns, and beets and carrots from Keep Growing Detroit. It’s a dish that reads like a map of Michigan agriculture, and it tastes every bit as intentional as it sounds.
One of the kitchen’s signature showstoppers is the roasted mushrooms, which come out of the wood-fired oven more than anything else — and for good reason. Served over a sauce of ajo blanco and topped with chimichurri and a sprinkle of espelette pepper, they’re savory and bright with a kick of heat. It’s the kind of vegetable dish that converts even the most devoted carnivore at the table.
The “vegetables & such” portion of the menu includes things that are better than anything under that header should be. From there, the meat and fish section offers standouts like charred octopus and lamb ragù. This always-packed Midtown restaurant excels with small plates and craft cocktails, making it a great spot for a group gathering. The house-made pastas alone are worth the trip — rich, delicate, and deeply satisfying.
The Chef Behind It All
Before opening the doors to Selden Standard with co-owner Evan Hansen, executive chef Andy Hollyday honed his skills at renowned restaurants including Roast, L’Essentiel, Tribute, and Oliveto. That pedigree shows in every plate. Chef Hollyday is a 2023 James Beard Foundation finalist and four-time semifinalist — a distinction that places him firmly among the elite of Midwestern cooking. He nails a thoughtful menu filled with local vegetable dishes, fun pastas, and great grilled chicken, all while keeping the dining experience grounded and approachable.
Atmosphere & Décor
The food is trendy and skillfully presented in a remarkable setting. The minimalist and sleek dining room is reminiscent of what you might find in trendy SoHo or West Hollywood — but without the pretense. It’s the rare combination of stylish and genuinely welcoming, where you don’t feel like you need to dress to impress even if you want to.
The cozy yet stylish ambiance is created by warm lighting, wood accents, and vine-covered walls that foster an inviting atmosphere. The main room is bright and loud with tables and the bar, giving the whole space an energetic buzz that makes the evening feel like an event. For those who prefer something quieter, the restaurant features a separate dining room tucked away from the main action.
If you want the most immersive experience, the counter is where you want to sit — you can watch the chefs slide vegetables into the wood-fired oven and cook meat over the wood-burning grill. It’s dinner and a show, with the intoxicating smell of wood smoke adding an atmosphere that no amount of interior design could replicate. There’s also full bar service and patio dining available for warmer months, making it a versatile spot year-round.
Other Considerations
How much should I expect to spend? Selden Standard is noted for its exceptional culinary offerings, though it does attract attention for its higher price point, which may be a consideration for some. That said, the small-plates format lets you control how much you order, and sharing several dishes between two people is really the intended way to experience the menu.
Do I need a reservation? Reservations are strongly recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity. Selden Standard has been noted to already be fully booked for popular occasions like Valentine’s Day well in advance, so planning ahead is always wise — especially on weekends.
Is there a dress code? There’s no official dress code, but the smart-casual vibe of the space sets a natural tone. Think nice jeans and a clean shirt at a minimum — this is elevated dining in a relaxed setting, and you’ll feel most comfortable dressing the part.
What about parking? Parking is available both on-site and on the street. Finding a spot can occasionally be a minor inconvenience, so budget a few extra minutes if you’re driving, especially on busy weekend evenings.
Are there options for vegetarians? Yes — Selden Standard offers several vegetarian and vegan options to cater to different dietary preferences. In fact, vegetable-forward cooking is really the heart of the menu, so plant-based diners will feel right at home rather than like an afterthought.
Selden Standard
📍 3921 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Website: http://www.seldenstandard.com
