Explore the intersection of food, culture, and creative innovation through the lens of UNESCO’s Creative Cities of Gastronomy designation. Centered in Southwest Detroit and inspired by the rich culinary and cultural legacy of Mexicantown, this edition of Drinks by Design examines how gastronomy shapes identity, public space, entrepreneurship, and sustainable urban futures. From local foodways to global creative networks, discover how food serves as both cultural heritage and a powerful tool for city-building.

Music: Ladylike

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About our host: Mexicantown CDC

Since 1989, Mexicantown CDC has played a defining role in preserving, celebrating, and advancing Latino culture, history, and art in Southwest Detroit’s Mexicantown neighborhood. As a longstanding cultural and economic anchor, the organization has worked to serve as a Latino cultural touchstone for the broader Metro Detroit region.

Founded by a coalition of Latino community leaders with deep expertise in business development and training, MexicantownCDC was established with a clear mission: to rebuild economic ownership and community empowerment in Southwest Detroit. Guided by the principle that “a strong ethnic identity equals a strong economy,” the organization focused on equipping local residents with entrepreneurship skills and opportunities, helping restore community vitality disrupted by the construction of the I-75 freeway in the early 1960s.

In 2007, MexicantownCDC further cemented its leadership in Southwest Detroit’s revitalization through the $17.5 million development of its Welcome Center, Mercado buildings, and outdoor plaza. This landmark investment created a vibrant campus that honors Latino contributions to both Detroit and Michigan while strengthening the neighborhood’s cultural and economic infrastructure.

Today, through its affordable retail spaces, the Mexicantown Latino Cultural Center and Art Gallery, and community gathering spaces within Plaza Del Norte, MexicantownCDC continues to expand access to economic opportunity and cultural connection. With thousands of monthly visitors engaging with its campus, including through the State of Michigan Welcome Center and Secretary of State offices, the organization remains a vital force in shaping Southwest Detroit’s future.

Join us for the third Drinks x Design of 2026, with the theme of Light and Sound Design, hosted by Wasserman Projects in Eastern Market.

ABOUT
Wasserman Projects is a flexible and constantly evolving program of art, design, and music.

Through collaborations and programming that generates interest, curiosity, and commerce, their goal is to become one of the many threads in the vibrant fabric that is Detroit

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Activations, music & food vendor details coming soon!