Detroit has a way of taking comfort food classics and giving them a bold, flavorful twist — and corned beef egg rolls are a perfect example. This Motor City favorite combines tender, deli-style corned beef with melted cheese and tangy dressing, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll shell. What started as a local fusion snack has turned into a must-try item at delis, diners and food trucks across metro Detroit, earning a loyal following for its crunchy-meets-savory perfection.
What are corned beef egg rolls?
Corned beef egg rolls, which are also known as “Irish egg rolls” or “Reuben egg rolls,” are a twist on the classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Thousand Island or Russian dressing. Then, they wrap it all up in a crispy egg roll shell. The crunchy wrapper, salty beef, tangy cabbage and creamy sauce make for the perfect savory snack.
It’s a fun and unique twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Rumor has it that Mader’s in Milwaukee made the first Reuben egg rolls in the 1990s but the delicacy is becoming a regional specialty in Detroit.
Where to get corned beef egg rolls in Detroit
North Bar and Grille
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Address: 29555 Northwestern Highway, Southfield
This cozy spot takes the city’s famed egg-roll-wrapped meat tradition and delivers it with a crispy shell and melty cheddar, all served up late night (open until 2 a.m. on some nights). Whether you’re winding down after the game or grabbing a weekend snack, their egg rolls are bold, comforting and full of local flavor.
Lou’s Deli
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Address: Multiple Detroit locations
Lou’s Deli combines the traditional Detroit deli style with the egg roll twist. The menu features the famous corned beef egg rolls along with a sandwich. The atmosphere here is like an old-fashioned deli, perfect for groups that want a meal that is hearty and classic.
Grand Trunk Pub
Address: 612 Woodward Ave., Detroit
A more sophisticated version of the idea that would be great for a casual dinner with your buddies. They have “Reuben Eggrolls,” which are egg rolls made in-house and filled with Wigley’s corned beef, Swiss cheese and kraut. They come with 1,000-island sauce and are served as a side or appetizer.
Asian Corned Beef
Address: 13660 Wyoming Ave., Detroit
People say that this is where the corned beef egg rolls craze in Detroit got it’s start. The chopped brisket gets wrapped in a crunchy egg roll shell, deep fried and distributed as a distinctive local dish. It’s a simple eating spot that focuses on the vibe: lots of flavor, easy to share with others and great for something enjoyable and unique.
D Motown Deli
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Address: 3750 Gratiot Ave., Detroit
D Motown Deli is a Detroit favorite known for hearty sandwiches and creative comfort food. Their corned beef egg rolls are a must-try — crispy on the outside, packed with tender, flavorful corned beef inside, and served with a tangy dipping sauce. It’s a perfect fusion of classic deli flavor and crave-worthy street-food style.
