Slutty Vegan, an all-vegan restaurant chain, is preparing to open its first location in Detroit. The establishment is currently under construction at 1441 W. Elizabeth St., situated in the Corktown neighborhood. This new development marks an expansion into the Detroit market for the chain, which is known for its plant-based menu. While work on the site is progressing, the company has not yet released an official opening date to the public, according to an Instagram post from the business.
The chain offers an entirely vegan menu. It has been characterized by Axios as a more edgy version of a Shake Shack, distinguished by its use of strong language and its complete absence of meat products. This description highlights the brand's unique approach to the fast-casual dining experience.
To gain insight into the chain's popularity, Axios staff members recently visited one of Slutty Vegan's Atlanta locations. Kristen Swilley, a native of Georgia and a frequent patron, guided Axios reporter Casey Weldon and editor Tyler Buchanan through their visit during a company retreat.
Upon their entry, the group was met with an energetic and vocal greeting from a worker. This employee specifically announced the arrival of the group by stating, "We got some virgins from Ohio in the building!"
During her visit, Swilley ordered the Sloppy Toppy, a plant-based burger featuring jalapeños and vegan bacon. For dessert, she selected a peach pudding. She highly praised the pudding, describing it as exceptionally rich and creamy, and rated it among the best fast-food desserts she had ever experienced.
Weldon chose a vegan "chick'n" Caesar wrap from the menu. He commented on the taste and texture of the wrap, noting that if he had not been informed it was vegan, he would have confidently identified it as a very good traditional chicken Caesar wrap.
Buchanan's selection for his meal was the wings. He observed that while the vegan wings did not perfectly replicate the texture or experience of conventional meat wings, the various sauces provided with them were effective and satisfying. Among these, the vegan ranch dressing particularly stood out to him.
The forthcoming Corktown restaurant will introduce this distinctive vegan dining concept to the residents of Detroit. Located at 1441 W. Elizabeth St., the new establishment is set to offer its specialized menu of plant-based selections. The company has confirmed through an Instagram post that construction is moving forward, with further updates regarding its grand opening anticipated in the future.