Ready for a weekend trip that’s packed with great food?

Take the train, stay downtown, try the best local restaurants, and follow the fun!
 

Chicago-based creator Jeremy Joyce, founder of Joy at First Bite (@Blackpeopleeats) and his wife Lanesha took the Amtrak train to Ann Arbor. They turned their quick trip into a self-guided food tour and ultimate three day vacation.

Follow Jeremy’s journey as he shares his favorite places downtown to inspire your future travel plans.


Jeremy Visits Ann Arbor 

Catch the highlights and plan your own itinerary inspired by Jeremy's visit to Ann Arbor. 

@joyatfirstbite My wife and I (@takeitfromnesh) explored Ann Arbor, Michigan with @annarbor — and what a trip 💙💛 We arrived via @amtrak from Chicago and stayed at the sleek and stylish @vanguardannarbor — a perfect home base. Ann Arbor surprised us with its food, culture, and energy. 🍽️ Food highlights: @baospacea2 for unforgettable bao and pork dishes @bluellamajazzclub for live jazz + duck confit & sweet potato cornbread @zingermansdeli (since 1982) for iconic sandwiches that live up to the hype @echelonannarbor was our favorite dinner — incredible flavors from start to finish @misskim by @@chefjihyekim was my first Korean food experience and it was phenomenal @peridot_a2 delivered one of the best steaks I’ve ever had 🍳 Breakfast & dessert: @iggyseggies breakfast sandwiches @avalonannarbor waffles that hit every time @laserre_annarbor inside the hotel for a solid sit-down breakfast @milkandfrothicecream + @blankslatecreameryannarbor for elite ice cream runs 🧖🏾 Relax + explore: @bloomspadaya2 for one of the best spa experiences we’ve ever had Shopping local at @rockpapermi, @kerrytownshops, and @university_vintage 🏀 Highlight: seeing @umichbball play at a @uofmichigan basketball game — a childhood dream come full circle. First time in Ann Arbor, but definitely not the last. #annarbor #destinationannarbor #joyatfirstbite #goblu #romanticgetaways ♬ original sound - Joyatfirstbite

Keep scrolling to visit the places mentioned and find out why Ann Arbor is a highly rated food destination!


Best for Breakfast or Lunch

Try these must-visit Ann Arbor spots for an early or mid-day meal. 

Dine Here for Dinner

Reserve your table at these upscale downtown restaurants.

Shopping & Sweet Treats

Add these local favorites to complete your Ann Arbor itinerary. 

Take the Train

Book your train tickets on the Amtrak traveling to Ann Arbor from Chicago and Detroit. The station is downtown, a short walk or drive to your hotel.

Amtrak

  • 325 Depot St

National Railroad Passenger Corporation. ATM not available Quik-Trak kiosks Restrooms Ticket sales office Vending machines Same day and overnight parking available Accessible platform and waiting room

Amtrak

Where to Stay

Jeremy stayed at The Vanguard Ann Arbor during this stay. View the elegant space or browse nearby hotels.

We'd like to give a special thank you to Jeremy for sharing his experiences!

This is just a sample of all that you can do in A2. Keep exploring our website for more inspiration on things to do.


About the Creator

Man stands and smiles for a photo. He's wearinga grey suit with a black button up shirt underneath.

Jeremy is a Chicago-based creator and cultural storyteller who began his journey with Black People Eats, a platform dedicated to uniting people through food, travel, and culture while uplifting underserved restaurants and communities. What started as a mission to spotlight hidden culinary gems has evolved into something even greater.

Today, Jeremy is the visionary behind Joy at First Bite, a movement centered on transforming lives through joy, using food and experiences as the gateway. Through powerful storytelling, immersive travel, and intentional partnerships, he creates moments that inspire connection, celebration, and a deeper appreciation for culture.

Recognized as a Fortune Magazine 40 Under 40 honoree, a recipient of the Chicago Tribune’s Best Social Justice Advocacy Award, and NBC’s Making a Difference Award, Jeremy is committed to using his platform not just to influence, but to impact. His mission is clear: to transform the way people see the world, one joyful experience at a time.