Nicole Rupersburg

Event organizer, writer, shopkeep and photographer Nicole Rupersburg just might be one of Detroit's biggest foodies. She's known locally for a gossip blog, and now has added a dining blog to her repertoire.

Few people -- and probably fewer who are working on a twentysomething's budget -- have been to so many good Detroit restaurants. And she's got her ear to the ground about new places to check out. A self-described Detroit booster, Nicole knows a lot about the city, but also has the scoop on the 'burbs too.

So when she's away from her Detroit home and finds herself in Birmingham on a Sunday morning or early afternoon, Nicole recommends the blueberry pancake martini with an understated nutella/banana/apple breakfast sandwich at Toast – a great spot for brunch.

For a glamorous dinner, the eclectic Mediterranean/Asian/American seasonal fusion menu Forte. It's a spot that's even more popular as an after-diner drink locale among the local trendy elite.

For true nightlife, she says you can't beat The Corner bar. A very popular, always crowded, ultra-chic hotspot where DJs spin ambient house, techno, hip-hop, Latin--depending on the night.

For shopping, Nicole singles out Tender for gorgeous, one-of-a-kind and hard-to-find items:  "Expect extremely personal clienteling-style service."

Those seeking a less high-end experience might like Oliver's Trendz for its funky and very affordable accessories store that carries designer and exclusive names from all over the country. And Beadz 'n Bagz, a smaller store and carries primarily just bags, sterling silver jewelry, and (as in their name) a variety of beads to make your own.

For coffee Nicole stops at Java Hutt. For dessert, the Cupcake Station or Schakolad Chocolate Factory, "both are painfully cute and quaint; befitting of a cozy tourist town".