Selden Standard is a New American small-plates restaurant at 3921 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, on the corner of Second Avenue and Selden Street in Midtown, within the historic Cass Corridor. Opened in 2014 by Chef Andy Hollyday and partner Evan Hansen, it helped define Midtown’s dining revival. Travelers come for seasonal, farm-driven plates cooked in a wood-fired oven, paired with a serious wine and cocktail program.
What to Expect at Selden Standard
The kitchen builds its menu around Michigan farms, capturing produce at its seasonal peak. Most dishes pass through the wood-fired oven and arrive as shareable small plates. The menu changes almost as often as the weather. Expect charred vegetables, house-made pastas, and roasted meats and fish. Tables usually order several plates to share, which suits groups and couples alike.
The bar gets the same care as the kitchen. It pours wines from small producers, local and global beers chosen to match the food, and craft cocktails that rotate with the seasons. The dining room is rustic and casual, with warm wood, an open kitchen, and a busy bar. The house motto is come as you are, so the mood stays relaxed even at a $$$ price point.
- Wood-Fired Cooking: The oven at the heart of the kitchen gives vegetables, breads, and proteins a smoky char.
- Seasonal Small Plates: Shareable portions let a table sample much of the menu in one sitting.
- Small-Producer Wine List: Bottles and glasses are chosen for character, and the list changes often.
- Craft Cocktails: Drinks change with the seasons and use fresh, often local, ingredients.
- Carryout and Gift Cards: You can order carryout online or buy gift cards on the official site.
Selden Standard at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 3921 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Midtown (Cass Corridor), near Wayne State University |
| Operating Hours | Monday to Sunday, 5 PM to 10 PM |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$, small plates designed for sharing |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | QLine Woodward stops at Canfield and Warren, about a 10-minute walk; metered street parking on Second Ave and Selden St |
| Official Website & Phone | seldenstandard.com · +1 313-438-5055 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Book ahead through the official website, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. Prime tables between 6:30 and 8 PM fill days in advance. For a better chance at a walk-in bar seat, arrive right at 5 PM opening. The restaurant sometimes closes for staff events, so check the homepage before you go. By public transit, ride the QLine along Woodward Avenue, get off at Canfield, and walk west. Drivers will find metered spaces on nearby streets and paid lots around Wayne State.
The restaurant is in a street-level corner building, so the dining room is easy to navigate for most guests. Wheelchair users should call ahead to confirm entrance and table arrangements. After dinner, walk about 5 minutes to the shops and bars along West Canfield Street. The Detroit Institute of Arts is about a 15-minute walk east on Woodward. Wayne State’s campus and Cass Avenue’s cafes are a few blocks north.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Selden Standard’s hours?
Dinner is served daily from 5 PM to 10 PM. Early evening on a weekday is the calmest time to visit.
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly on weekends. Some bar seating may be available for walk-ins.
How much time should I budget?
Plan on 1.5 to 2 hours to share several small plates and enjoy cocktails or wine.
Is there a dress code?
No. The restaurant asks guests to come as they are, and smart-casual attire fits right in. Older children who enjoy trying new foods are welcome.
When planning your Detroit travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and new american restaurant in Detroit, pair this stop with standout local spots including Detroit Historical Museum, The Henry, Autograph Collection, Best Western Greenfield Inn, and The Whitney (0.6 km away).
