Looking for a new way to help the environment? BYOC (or Bring Your Own Container) is a local, Ann Arbor-based business that encourages patrons to bring their own containers in! They offer a variety of body washes, shampoos, soaps, and other items that usually require customers to purchase plastic containers. The shop aims to lower the amount of plastic waste in the world, one bottle at a time. The store is set to open on Friday, April 9. Be sure to check it out! 255 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. (734) 709-4222. byocco.com.Â
What’s tastier than some good wings? Not much else. Side Biscuit moved from being a pop-up restaurant in a driveway to having a brick-and-mortar store in Ann Arbor. The restaurant offers delicious wings, awesome biscuits, and more! There is no indoor seating, so orders will need to be done as take-out. There are a few seats outside the restaurant if patrons wish to eat there. It’s definitely worth trying. 1232 Packard St., Ann Arbor. 734-531-6777. sidebiscuit.com.Â
Popups have been making a big impact since the start of COVID, and Basil Babe is no different. This delicious popup is quick to sell out of their dumplings, and it’s easy to see why. Although there isn’t a brick-and-mortar location, their dumplings are definitely worth hunting down. Follow them on their social media pages to see where they plan to pop up next! basil-babe.com.Â
Sava and Adventura owner, Sava Farah is proud to announce the opening of The Dixboro Project. Set in the historic spot where Lord Fox and Roger Monk’s once sat, The Dixboro Project is set to bring pizza, pastries, and fine dining all in one place. The goal is for the restaurant to open sometime this spring, so keep your eyes open for the latest from this exciting restaurant. However, patrons who want to try this restaurant are able to with their The Boro To Go take-out menu, which is offered all day. 5400 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor. 734-669-3310. thedixboroproject.com.Â
Treehouse 603 is ready for Hash Bash. On Saturday, April 3, the latest dispensary in downtown Ann Arbor will host its grand opening during the biggest cannabis event in the area. They offer a variety of in-store discounts during opening day for customers to try out. Although the dispensary did open in November 2020, current COVID restrictions kept the shop from opening to the public. However, with the upcoming event and the loosening of restrictions, they decided to celebrate their opening right in time for the classic event. 603 E. William St., Ann Arbor. 734-773-3895. treehouse603.com.Â
Gora’s Grill is a quick-service diner that offers vegan and vegetarian foods with a South Indian flavor. You can build your own meal by picking bases, toppings, proteins, and flavorful side dishes. The entire menu is vegan, with the exception of their mango lassi and the regular cheese options. Indoor seating is available as well as delivery through GrubHub and carry-out. 533 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-544-9707. gorasgrill.com.Â
Looking for gender-neutral clothing? One DNA offers gender-neutral pieces that break down the boundary between womenswear and menswear without sacrificing style. Their collection was featured in Highsnobiety and WWD, which stated that One DNA is leading the unisex trend. Their collections are made to wear and repair over a long period of time, and the brand regularly offers eco-conscious items. 216 W. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti. 503-975-5805. onedna.earth.Â
If you’re looking to update your home, kitchen, or garden, check out Stone & Spoon. They offer a variety of home goods, including plant-based cleaners, adorable home decor, and occasionally run pop-up plant sales. Located in downtown Ypsilanti, the store is sure to make your home just a bit cozier. 110 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-945-7976. stoneandspoon.com.Â
Frog Island in Ypsilanti has seen quite a few changes this year, including a new B2B trail. Additionally, the city of Ypsilanti has added lights along the new B2B trail, making it safer for pedestrians to travel and check out the area. The lights will extend along the south and west sides of the park, running parallel to the Huron River and connecting to East Cross and East Forest Streets.
After a long day, nothing is better than a delicious dessert. Cravings Dessert Lounge opened earlier this year and offers a variety of halal and kosher dessert options. You can order Kanafa, ice cream, cakes, or even try some Middle Eastern desserts. 2643 Ellsworth Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-221-5658. cravingsdessertlounge.com.Â
This, That & ODDer Things opened recently in downtown Ypsilanti. The store sells a variety of odds and ends, from clothing and apparel to nick nacks and toys. Be sure to check out one of the newest and kookiest stores around for unique treasures, locally-made art, decor, jewelry, and everything odd. 50 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-221-5833. odderthings.com.Â