Detroit Eatery Recognized As North America’s Most Exciting Restaurant

DETROIT — A popular international food magazine labeled a Detroit restaurant as North America’s most exciting restaurant.

Ladder 4 Wine Bar was given the "Resy One to Watch Award" from The 50 Best, which annually puts together lists celebrating the world’s top 50 restaurants and bars.

The award recognizes Ladder 4 Wine Bar as a "rising star restaurant whose distinctive vision and culinary excellence have earned it recognition as a future leader on the North American stage."

The restaurant, which opened inside a restored 1910 Detroit firehouse in February 2022, is best known for using locally sourced ingredients and a deep wine collection.

The British-based magazine described the restaurant's atmosphere as "warm and exacting," and specifically praised its curated wine program and its focus on "small, family-run producers from around the world."

It also noted Ladder 4 Wine Bar's menu is typically guided by seasons, with its dishes inspired by using herbs and vegetables grown in its on-site garden.

They also called Ladder 4 Wine Bar's head chef John Yelinek one of Detroit’s most promising culinary talents, noting he has curated a menu consisting of comforting ‘grandma cuisine’ with an elevated bistro touch.

"Rather than pursuing novelty, the focus is on delivering beloved favorites with exceptional quality and thoughtful execution," the magazine said.

Yelinek leads Ladder 4 Wine Bar with co-owners and brothers James and Patrick Cadariu and general manager Preston Smith.

"It is rare for us and our peers in Detroit to be recognized on a stage like this, but what makes this award so meaningful is that the entire city of Detroit feels like ‘One To Watch’," Ladder 4 Wine Bar head chef John Yelinek said. "To receive this honor feels like a recognition of everyone who’s building something here. We’re grateful to be part of the story and to share this moment with our team and our city."

The award ceremony will be held on Sept. 25. It will be livestreamed on the brand’s YouTube channel.