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Frita Batidos DetroitBWorth Trying
66 W Columbia St, Detroit, MI 48201
· Cuban restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (644 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative Cuban-inspired burgers and batidos near Detroit arenas; great flavors and kid options, but expect counter service, event-night waits, and some consistency/cleanliness issues.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Frita Batidos delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by juicy fritas and tropical batidos that justify its loyal following. However, variable consistency—soggy fries, missed items, and event-night service strain—prevents a higher grade, while the excellent location near theaters and stadiums makes it a practical pre-game choice rather than a destination in its own right.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from Detroit’s theaters and stadiums, Frita Batidos brings Cuban-inspired burgers, bowls, and milkshakes to a bright, casual room with picnic tables and a small patio. Service is warm when the rush allows, and one diner noted it felt like a perfect pre-game stop with "creative flavors and quick drop-offs." Expect energy to spike around events; lines, noise, and waits follow the calendar. The cooking leans comfort food with a Cuban twist: juicy fritas crowned with shoestring fries, garlicky cilantro fries, sweet-savory plantains, and tropical batidos like passion fruit and coconut. Fans rave about the Inspired Cuban sandwich and pork bowls, while critiques focus on soggy fries, saltiness, or missed items when crowds surge. Order decisively, eat fries promptly, and consider bowls if you prefer a lighter, less greasy path. Families are well covered: there is a kids menu with mini fritas and grilled cheese, plus familiar sides and sweet batidos. Portions satisfy without breaking the bank, and the counter model makes quick meals doable. On event nights, snag a table first, keep orders simple, and know that the menu includes vegetarian and some vegan-friendly choices for picky or adventurous eaters alike.
At a Glance
- Distinctive Cuban-inspired burgers and excellent tropical batidos
- Prime location for pre-game and pre-show dining
- Event-night waits, occasional lost orders, and missed items
- Fries can be oily or soggy if not eaten fast
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Cuban-inspired frita burgers with fries on top
- Tropical batidos including passion fruit and coconut
- Event-night proximity to three major venues
What People Love
- Juicy frita burgers with fries on top
- Tropical, creamy batidos that feel like a treat
- Friendly staff who hustle during rushes
- Bright, simple space with patio seating
Points of Concern
- Service slows and errors increase during event rushes; plan buffer time
- Fries and buns skew oily or soggy when delayed
- Cleanliness inconsistencies reported at opening and post-rush windows
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (high owner responses, frequent staff shout-outs) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose a Frita Bowl ($12) if you want gluten-free or lighter options
- Pair Black Bean Frita ($10) with avocado spread ($2.25) for vegetarian richness
- Share The Best Snack Ever ($7.5) as a starter; it is filling
Perfect For
- Pre-game bite before a concert or game
- Casual group meetup with shared sides and shakes
- Families wanting quick, flavorful options
- Ann Arbor fans seeking the Detroit outpost
Location Insights
Area: Lively arena district drawing pre- and post-game crowds; casual, fast-moving, event-driven traffic.
Safety: High foot traffic around events; generally busy and well-patrolled, occasional street solicitation reported.
Nearby: Steps from Fox Theatre, Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena; pedestrian street seating and group flows.
Downtown DetroitThe dining scene in Downtown Detroit is diverse, ranging from upscale restaurants to casual eateries and fast-casual spots. The area attracts a mix of locals and visitors seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural experiences, and convenient dining options. It is generally safe and accessible with a growing reputation for innovative food concepts.
GreektownGreektown is a lively entertainment district within Downtown Detroit known for its restaurants, casinos, and bars. It offers a bustling atmosphere with a mix of traditional and modern dining options, popular among both locals and visitors looking for a vibrant social scene.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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