Crane Optical

Crane Optical

Celebrating 75 years of excellence, Crane Optical proudly carries on the legacy of founder Dr. Leonard Crane, who established the business in Ferndale in 1949. Lee Laster spoke to us about how Crane offers a personalized, stress-free experience dedicated to helping patients find the perfect, properly fitting frames. Each pair is thoughtfully hand-selected, prioritizing quality manufacturing and durability to ensure long-lasting satisfaction.

Love & Other Books

Love & Other Books

Erin Cambron, co-owner of Love & Other Books, is dedicated to running a romance-genre focused bookstore while also nurturing a vibrant community of book lovers. Literary enthusiasts are invited to immerse themselves in the shop’s cozy, inviting atmosphere by joining one of its engaging book clubs. Beyond that, the shop hosts exciting author signings, providing readers with an opportunity to connect with writers personally, gain insight into their creative inspirations, and have their books signed.

Rust Belt Market

Rust Belt Market

Founded by Tiffany Best and her husband, Chris, The Rust Belt Market in Ferndale, MI, is a vibrant artisan marketplace. Inspired by local art fairs, it features a diverse array of local vendors offering high quality handmade goods, art, and vintage items. Since its opening, the market has become a hub for the creative community, providing a unique shopping experience with a focus on supporting small businesses. The Rust Belt Market also includes a bar, offering craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere, and frequently hosts special events.

Como’s

Como’s

Como’s has graced the corner of Woodward and Nine Mile since 1961, but was recently taken over by new owners. TJ Shibbins, general manager, and Henry Van Dusen, executive chef, stopped by to tell us about the large restaurant’s fun atmosphere. Best known for its pizza, Como’s also offers a unique Saturday and Sunday brunch menu, plus entrees like blackened salmon, chicken piccata and more. You can still enjoy Como’s big patio in the fall, with some heaters and plexiglass to shield you from the weather!

Secret Bakery

Secret Bakery

SECRET BAKERY

Max Leonard always loved baking, and he got really good at making sourdough bread. Beginning in 2018, he sold it out of his home in Hamtramck, and then in Ferndale … until local government found out. Now he has a retail location that’s open only on Wednesdays and Sundays, typically offering five types of bread (including the popular sourdough loaf), plus sweet treats and savory items like olive fougasse. Secret Bakery was named to the Detroit Free Press 2024 best new eateries and continues to be just as popular as it was when Max was baking out of his home kitchen. 

What’s New? – Coeur

What’s New? – Coeur

Jordan Smith, owner and chef for Coeur in Ferndale, stopped by to tell us what’s new. News includes an updated patio and interior, as well as some accolades. Coeur was named no. 1 best new restaurant for 2024 by the Detroit Free Press and received a Wine Spectator award of excellence. The restaurant has also made Wine Enthusiast’s 50 best wine restaurants list. Look for wine tastings and classes coming up at Coeur in the fall.