Signature Grill, Detroit

Located in the Riverfront Towers complex, Signature Grill is more than a spot for Angus burgers and riverside views—it's also a nexus between worlds. Sports lovers gather at the grill before Red Wings, Lions, and Tigers games to take the adjoining private walkway to Joe Louis Arena. After the game, they can hunker down at the grill again, munching on buffalo chicken calzones while they wait for the traffic to dwindle and for the losing team to apologize personally to every fan. The grill also leads directly to the PeopleMover station, thereby serving as a gateway to all of downtown's theaters, casinos, and clubs.

This isn't to say that its regulars merely consider the Signature a hub of operations. Its menu is enough of a draw, with entrees of stuffed salmon and Australian lamb chops served up alongside comforting classics such as reubens and tuna melts. The grill has its own impressive calendar of events, as well. Live music and DJ sets occur frequently, and karaoke sessions encourage group harmonies every Thursday night.