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Variety FoodServices to Operate Concessions and Vending along the Detroit Riverfront
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Detroit, MI – July 17, 2026 – Variety FoodServices announced today that it has been selected by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy to operate all concessions and vending along the Detroit Riverfront. The Conservancy manages more than eight miles of public space along the Detroit Riverfront, which includes the Riverwalk, five parks and three greenways.
With this new partnership, Variety FoodServices will be fully operating the food services at Cullen Café & Tiki Bar at Cullen Plaza, The Shed Bar & Café and Bob’s Barge at Robert C. Valade Park, Mt. Elliott Café at Mt. Elliott Park, and the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard as well as vending machines throughout the Riverwalk. As part of the partnership, Variety FoodServices plans to revamp and expand menus across several locations, with a strong emphasis on local Detroit flavors and partnerships with Michigan-based businesses and food trucks.
“The Detroit Riverfront has already done an exceptional job creating an inviting experience for everyone visiting the Riverwalk. We're thrilled to partner with them to elevate that experience with a higher standard of food and hospitality that matches the beauty of the riverfront itself,” said Jim Pearce, Director of Business Development at Variety FoodServices.
Central to Variety FoodServices' approach is a commitment to partnering with local, Detroit-based businesses to bring authentic Michigan flavors to the riverfront. The new menus will feature products from Frosty Products, Atwater Brewery, Better Made Chips, Leonard Syrups & Michigan Bread Bakery, with plans to continue growing its roster of Michigan partners throughout the season.
Guests at Cullen Plaza can look forward to classic concession favorites like All-Beef Hot Dogs, Detroit-Style Pizzas, Great Lakes Nachos, and Soft-Serve Custard Cones & Sundaes. In the weeks that follow, each location will begin rolling out new signature items including Signature Burgers like the Dockside Guac & Bacon Burger, Chicken Sandwiches, Walking Tacos, and more.
As the summer season kicks off, Variety FoodServices is eager to welcome guests from across metro Detroit and beyond, serving up delicious, locally inspired food and drinks along one of the city's most cherished destinations.
“We look forward to working with the team at Variety FoodServices as they operate concessions and vending along the riverfront public spaces we manage,” said Rachel Frierson, chief operating officer of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. “We know that they will provide riverfront visitors with a great selection of delicious and affordable food and drink options while delivering exceptional service.”
About Variety FoodServices
Variety FoodServices has been a Detroit institution since 1928, when founder Norman Nowak began placing vending machines in streetcars and bars during the Great Depression. Nearly a century later, the company remains family-owned — now in its third and fourth generations — and has grown into one of the top foodservice providers in the country, ranking among the top 5% nationwide. From vending and micro markets to event catering, corporate dining, and school meal programs, Variety proudly serves the metro Detroit community it has called home for nearly 100 years. Learn more at varietyfoodservices.com.
About the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
Since 2003, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy has transformed Detroit's international riverfront into a vibrant, welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike. Through its commitment to safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces, the Conservancy fosters exploration, recreation, and wellness while honoring the rich history and beauty of the Detroit River. Learn more at detroitriverfront.org.
To view our full menu at the Detroit Riverfront, click here: https://www.varietyfoodservices.com/detroit-riverfront
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kristina Familara
Marketing Manager
Variety FoodServices
Phone: (586) 756-8100
