American Coney Island - Detroit's Iconic Food Joint

The American Coney Island is Detroit’s most famous fast food joint.

I, @Erna_LaBeau, and @keithlabeau went there after the Kern’s Clock Meetup on June 8, 2025

It is located on a tapered plot in downtown Detroit.
Here’s the view looking towards the corner of this restaurant.

We reached there early morning and got the prized corner seat with a 360° views of the outdoors :smiley:

Erna purchased me a meal consisting of a coney burger, fries, and a pop drink - an American word for cold drinks or a soft drink.

Thanks a bunch for this warm hospitality, Erna and Keith :hugs:

Here is a photo collage of their wall of fame with certificates and old photos, the waiter or attendant, and the view on the Lafayette Street side.

Surprisingly, they also have a mini bar in one corner.

Here’s their kitchen and ordering area.

A view of the cold drink counter. Not sure what math is doing here.

Here’s a big view of their huge interiors and overall seating arrangement.

Here’s the American Coney Island triangular corner view from outside across Griswold Street:

Here’s the view of the entrance from the Lafayette Street side:

:airplane: How to Reach

Read how to reach downtown Detroit from the airport.

:shallow_pan_of_food: Where to Eat

Try the coney hot dog at the American Coney Island.

:mushroom: Detroit Attractions and Things to Do

  1. Visit the Corner Public Clock above Fresh Mex.
  2. Visit places that appear in Hollywood movies.
  3. Visit the Kern’s Clock - a landmark iconic clock tower in Detroit.
  4. Explore the Street Art in Detroit
  5. Visit the Minimalistic Art - Clock Tower on Michigan Avenue.
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@TusharSuradkar sir, American Coney Island sounds like a must-try spot. Loved how you shared the vibe—simple, iconic, and full of character. Love how you captured the classic checkered floor—it really gives off that old-school diner vibe. The place looks chill and not too crowded, which is perfect for enjoying the food. And those photos you shared really bring the whole experience to life. Keep these cool finds coming!

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American Coney Island in Detroit seems to be an iconic place to eat. I loved their interior, and the special 360 degree seat is amazing. Thank you for sharing these beautiful pictures @TusharSuradkar

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Das Lokal ist auch wunderbar gestaltet @TusharSuradkar einfach Sehenswert, zum wohlfühlen.

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Wow, what a mouthwatering post! :hot_dog::fire:
American Coney Island looks like the kind of spot where flavors meet tradition. Love how you highlighted its iconic status in Detroit — it definitely earned a place on my foodie bucket list! Thanks for sharing such a delicious piece of local culture. :face_savoring_food::round_pushpin:

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Wow …the place looks like it’s out of a 90s movie… It has an amazing interior and I love the local guides stickers you shown in the table @TusharSuradkar

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Thanks @SarathUpendran - I was waiting for this excellent observation and comment :+1:
The restaurant is in fact old and has a retro look - very cool color combination and layout.

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sooo colorful and brings back a good memory of American diner @TusharSuradkar . And the menu as well… It must be fun to spend some time here with family and friends.

My family and I went quite frequently to Coney Island while we were still living in NYC.
We certainly miss that place and this post, at some point, rekindle our memories on that.


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What a delightful and well-documented visit @TusharSuradkar ji.
American Coney Island looks like a perfect mix of history, local flavor, and classic American charm—your corner seat experience with 360° views sounds especially memorable, further the company of @Erna_LaBeau and @keithlabeau might have made it memorable. The photo collage and interiors really bring out the nostalgia and character of the place.

Did you only stick with the burger or tried any other items too?

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Thank you, dear @NandKK
Yes, the Coney is their signature dish.
I remember they had some burgers as well, but I did not opt for it :smiley:

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That’s good to know.

Thank you for answering my query @TusharSuradkar ji.

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