Best of Detroit 2026: Community and Sports Winners Revealed

Hour Detroit’s Best of Detroit 2026: Celebrating Local Champions Across Community and Sports

This year, Hour Detroit’s Best of Detroit 2026 awards shine a big, bright spotlight on the people and organizations making a real difference in Detroit. From unsung heroes in philanthropy to culinary titans and gridiron legends, these honors celebrate the best our city has to offer across dining, entertainment, radio, television, and sports.

Get ready to meet the local talent who took home top honors, plus the impressive finalists who gave them a run for their money.

Community Cornerstones: Recognizing Local Impact and Inspiration

The heart of Detroit beats in those who work to make it better. Hour Detroit’s Best of Detroit 2026 highlighted some truly remarkable figures and initiatives that embody this spirit.

In the fiercely competitive community category, Mitch Albom stood out for his deep contributions. Albom, well-known as an author and philanthropist, uses his platform to support people in need and really lives out what it means to be a community leader.

The field of finalists was strong, with individuals making their mark in all sorts of ways:

• Brian Bartes
• Josh Malerman
• Kristy Robinett
• Nandi Comer
• Stephen Mack Jones
• Viola Shipman

The awards also celebrated organizations making a real, visible difference. The Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program in Detroit took home honors for outstanding community impact. This initiative has empowered so many young women, giving them the support and guidance to reach their academic and personal goals.

Other finalists in this category included:

• 1 Mother 2 Another
• Chaldean Community Foundation
• Easterseals MORC
• Elmwood Blessing Box
• Guiding Harbor
• Impact 100 Oakland County
• United Community Family Services

The Detroit Zoo’s Sunset at the Zoo snagged recognition as the best gala/event. This beloved annual gathering gives guests a memorable evening while helping support the zoo’s important work.

Other standout events in the running were:

• Anton Art Center’s ArtParty
• The Chaldean Community Foundation’s Annual Gala
• The Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview
• And several other notable gatherings showcasing the best of Detroit’s social calendar.

Culinary Creations and Melodies that Move Us

Detroit’s food scene keeps raising the bar. The Best of Detroit awards spotlighted the chefs and restaurants pushing boundaries and delighting diners.

Asher Miller of Grey Ghost picked up a well-deserved award for his culinary skills. Miller’s inventive style and commitment to quality have turned Grey Ghost into a must-visit spot for food lovers. He topped a list of talented chefs from places like:

• Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse
• Victoria’s Bistro
• FIVE Steakhouse
• Echelon Bar & Kitchen
• Sexy Steak
• Weiss Distilling Co.

James Rigato of Mabel Gray in Hazel Park also earned a prestigious nod. Rigato’s creativity in the kitchen is hard to miss, and his recognition just proves how high the bar is for dining in metro Detroit.

He stood out among finalists from:

• Selden Standard
• SheWolf Pastificio & Bar
• Alpino
• San Morello
• Café Cortina
• Dixboro Project
• Oak & Reel
• Barda
• Echelon Kitchen and Bar
• Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse

Detroit’s stages and airwaves buzzed with talent this year. Ebony “KARMA” Dior got a nod for her powerful music, and the Mega 80’s tribute band took top honors in their category.

On the radio and TV front, Mojo in the Morning charmed listeners to win best radio personality, while Ryan Ermanni earned recognition for his engaging TV presence. Other nominees came from respected outlets like WJR, WWJ, WDET, WXYZ, and WDIV.

Friendship Circle in West Bloomfield also received a well-earned mention as a standout nonprofit, reflecting their commitment and the real difference they make.

Detroit’s Dominance on the Field: Sports Standouts

The passion for sports runs deep in Detroit. The Best of Detroit 2026 awards have triumphantly recognized the teams, athletes, and venues that capture the city’s sporting spirit.

The Detroit Lions absolutely owned the spotlight this year. They were crowned the top team after a remarkable season that sparked city-wide excitement.

Aidan Hutchinson stood out as the top athlete, showing off skill and real dedication on the field. Head Coach Dan Campbell led the Lions with a blend of grit and motivation, earning him the top coach honor.

Detroit’s favorite sports spots got their moment too. Comerica Park took home the title of top venue, solidifying its spot as a must-visit for baseball fans and a real cornerstone of the city’s sports scene.

If you’re into golf, you’ve probably heard people rave about Shepherd’s Hollow in Clarkston. This place grabbed the best golf course distinction, thanks to its sharp design and the experience it offers on the green.

 
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