I love a silver lining.
The winter dump we had earlier this week is only the beginning of a long, cold season, and some restaurants are making the most of it by resurrecting fun outdoor dining igloos.
The clear domes (which vary in size and material) are a perfect way to enjoy the wonderland of snow without being cold, and they also make for a private dining experience. These heated igloos also help the restaurant expand its seating capacity in the patio off-season.
Detroit Fleat in Ferndale is known for its colorful, sunset-facing terrace on West Nine Mile, and this season it has plopped down four structures. The food truck park (it has a bar and kitchen inside, and also a rotating cast of food trucks outside) has four igloos, two which cover picnic table seating that is good for groups.
Detroit Fleat is a more casual experience, but the igloos can be reserved. In fact, if you want to dine in an igloo this fall or winter, you’ll need to do a bit of planning.
Lumen in downtown Detroit near Beacon Park was a hot spot for igloos last year. Reserve one of the private domes or a winter chalet that can accommodate up to 14 people via the Open Table app. There are some spending requirements.
The beer-centric restaurant also has a few communal globes that are shared with others and are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hold on to a little bit of fall with an igloo experience at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill. Their geodesic dome season will start after Thanksgiving and roll through at least February. Like the others, these can seat up to 10 guests and reservations are strongly suggested.
Source: Dining igloos return to area restaurants with the winter weather
