AWARDS

From when the tree is lit in November through the beginning of March, would-be figure skaters show off their moves, amateur speedsters cross the ice in a flash, and easy-gliding hockey leaguers dodge the children and first-time skaters trying to find their ice legs.

In warmer weather, the rustle of shade trees and gentle gurgle of fountains, replace the sound of skates, and the acre-plus park becomes a venue for concerts. Its botanical gardens and lawn areas create a peaceful, contemplative place.

In the middle of this very urban scene sits a single-story, glass-front building that houses our choice for Hour Detroit’s 2018 Restaurant of the Year: Parc, a crisp and formal but distinctly unstuffy restaurant with very good food and exceptional service.

Little touches say a lot about a restaurant. And the excellence and atmosphere for which Parc strives is immediately evident on approaching its glass doors. Before you can reach for the handle, a member of the staff steps out and holds the door open. “Welcome to Parc,” he says, a simple politeness, and a nice touch not too often seen in American restaurants, but more common to Europe.