Attendees explored 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 examined how gastronomy shapes identity, public space, entrepreneurship, and sustainable urban futures. From local foodways to global creative networks, visitors expereinced how food serves as both cultural heritage and a powerful tool for city-building.

Thanks to our hosts at Mexicantown CDC & to all of the chefs, designers, culinary entrepreneurs, architects, hospitality industry experts & creatives for showcasing their unique perspectives. A delicious time was had by all.
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The evening featured interactive demos, tastings & exibitions including: Coffee Design Tastings & Demos from Tubique Turkish Coffee & Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, NA Brewing Tasting with Gardenside Brewery, Local Foodways Demo & Display from Keep Growing Detroit, Tasting & Demos from Aunt Nee's x Detroit Sandwich Party, Installation with Raffle & Prizes from Big Soup Creative, Architecture for Hospitality Displays by END Studio & Other Work, Food Printing Activity with CCS Office of Partnerships, Healing through Food with Ace, Small Batch Frozen Treats from JB's Ice Pops, Brand Storytelling for Hospitality, How to Photograph Food Workshop with The Pulpo Group, Scents & Olifactory Design with Sfumato & more. Thanks to our musical guest Camilla Cantu for providing the evening's soundscape.

‍About 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, Mexicantown CDC 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.