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Welcome to Lafayette Coney Island

"Lafayette Coney Island, located in Detroit, is a beloved hot dog spot with a rich culinary history. Customers rave about their iconic Coney Island hot dogs, known for their perfect snap and flavorful chili topping. The cozy atmosphere, fast service, and friendly staff make this a must-visit location. The classic coney dogs, chili cheese fries, and loose burgers are standout dishes that never disappoint. With a simple menu focusing on quality and taste, Lafayette Coney Island is the go-to spot for authentic Detroit-style hot dogs and delicious diner fare."

LOCATIONS
  • Lafayette Coney Island
    118 W Lafayette Blvd Detroit, MI 48226
    118 W Lafayette Blvd Detroit, MI 48226 Hotline: (313) 964-8198

Welcome to Lafayette Coney Island, a cherished gem located in the heart of Detroit at 118 W Lafayette Blvd. Known for its culinary legacy, Lafayette stands as a testament to authentic Coney dog craftsmanship, offering visitors a taste of Detroit's rich food culture.

Open every day, this iconic eatery captures the essence of what a classic Coney Island should be. Diners are welcomed by a bustling yet inviting atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. The layout is cozy and almost nostalgic, adorned with local celebrity photos, which adds to its charm. As you enter, you'll notice a system where orders are called out from the tables to the cooks, showcasing the well-oiled operation and friendly professionalism of the staff.

Customer favorites include the famous Coney dogs, which feature a perfect balance of savory chili, crispy onions, and a snappy hot dog, all enveloped in a soft steamed bun. This blend of flavors is not just good; it’s a true delight that keeps patrons returning for more. As Marcello M. aptly put it, "the combination of the savory chili, crisp onions, and snappy hot dog is perfection." Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by the warm embrace of that rich, flavorful chili.

The chili cheese fries are another standout. Described by Ranyia T. as "fresh and gooey," they complement the main dish perfectly, providing that indulgent comfort food experience. Lafayette’s commitment to quality means that even the simplest items on the menu pack a punch, avoiding shortcuts that compromise taste.

Lafayette Coney Island isn’t just another restaurant; it embodies Detroit's culinary history. As Jen P. noted in her experience, “the staff is super nice and knowledgeable about the place’s history,” making each visit not just a meal but a lesson in local lore. The passion for tradition shines through every dish served, reminding us of the importance of preserving these culinary landmarks amidst a sea of big chains.

If you find yourself in Detroit, don’t miss out on this must-visit spot. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Lafayette Coney Island promises a delicious journey laden with the flavors of the Motor City, all while preserving the beloved simplicity that has made it a staple for generations.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Lafayette Coney Island
John C.
John C.

Go here, not the big, colorful place next door on the corner, I've never had the big place, but Lafayette is considered the authentic, cool place. And it does seem pretty cool, they call out the orders to the cook from the tables, and everyone is super professional.

Ranyia T.
Ranyia T.

The place if you don't know it is small and always full. The service is fast. The coney dogs are the best. They have that nice snap to them. The chili cheese fries are always fresh and have that gooey goodness.

Jen P.
Jen P.

If you're reading this, I hope you were NOT disappointed by the place next door. This was stop two of our taste test. We should have not bothered with the place next door at all - it was awful. THIS, on the other hand, wowed me! Admittedly, we can all make a coney at home, but this chili is so flavorful and delicious, why would you? Hands down the better of the two dogs on this block! They sayd the chili has cumin (one of my faves!). I was worried that it would be too onion heavy or worse, too mustard heavy, but everything was so completely balanced, we ordered a second dog to enjoy. The restaurant itself doesn't look like much, but the dog packs a punch! And the staff is super nice and knowledgeable about the place's history. It almost transports you back to a much simpler place and time. Places like this are disappearing from the fabric of our cities and towns, due to large chains and big box - but this place has withstood the test of time. I hope they continue to thrive, because their coneys are scrumptious!

Marcello M.
Marcello M.

Lafayette Coney Island is more than just a restaurant it's a cornerstone of Detroit's culinary history. I ordered the classic coney dog, and it was nothing short of perfection. The combination of the savory chili, crisp onions, and snappy hot dog wrapped in a soft steamed bun is the best in Detroit, bar none. The price is unbeatable, especially for the level of quality. In a world where many places cut corners, Lafayette stays true to its roots, serving up timeless excellence without ever compromising on taste or tradition. The atmosphere is exactly what you'd expect from a Detroit staple: no frills, just pure, authentic coney goodness. If you want to experience a piece of Detroit history, look no further. This is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. A timeless classic that will never go out of style.

Calvin H.
Calvin H.

Being from out of town, I got hyped up on the Lafayette vs American Coney Dog thing. With them being literally next door to each other, we went to both locations back to back and tried the Coney Dog and fries at both. The interior of Lafayette has more of a cozy mom and pop old diner feel. The walls are filled with pictures of local celebrities and athletes. Food-wise, I would say I could not tell a difference. It's not a bad thing. The Coney Dogs by design are pretty simple with a hot dog, mustard, chili and onions. The hot dog itself tasted like a standard hot dog and the flavor of the chili was more on the light side. It wasn't heavy on spice or saltiness. When you're craving a hot dog it hits the spot.

Zach H.
Zach H.

The best Coney Island in Detroit! So fast. So delicious. So yummy! The employees are great here and very friendly. If you want a coney this is the spot! Don't ever leave Detroit without a coney!

Karen H.
Karen H.

Located in a fairly small shop with two entrances, this spot has a small menu. We heard it was the place to stop by for Detroit style hot dogs and were a little confused because we accidentally came in the back and no one greeted us or told us where to go. Eventually we spotted a small open table and snagged it and someone made their way over to us to give us ice water and take our order. The hot dogs came out super quickly and were pretty decent, especially at $4 apiece. It's definitely a spot where you stop by for a quick meal, not a place to go to for the ambiance or to linger.

Tiana T.
Tiana T.

The food at Lafayette Coney Island is the star of the show. Known for their iconic Coney Island hot dogs, the restaurant delivers on taste and quality. The hot dogs are flavorful, with a perfect snap, and the chili topping is well-spiced and delicious. The menu is simple, featuring classic diner fare such as loose burgers, french fries, and chili. The presentation is straightforward, focusing more on taste than aesthetics. Portion sizes are generous, ensuring that diners leave satisfied. Overall, dining at Lafayette Coney Island is a delightful experience for those who appreciate classic American diner food. The strengths of the restaurant lie in its delicious food, friendly service, and nostalgic atmosphere. However, the decor and cleanliness may not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking a more modern dining environment. Despite these minor drawbacks, Lafayette Coney Island remains a beloved institution in Detroit, offering a taste of history and tradition. It's a must-visit for both locals and tourists who want to experience a piece of Detroit's culinary heritage. Just be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere and a bit of a wait during peak hours.