We get asked often what the history of the building is and along with frequently asked questions, here are just some of the answers for you to enjoy.
Our building was purposely built in 1910 as a roller skating rink, in the 19 teens, it was a propeller and steering wheel shop. In the 40s and 50s, it was the Mayflower doughnut shop, started by a German immigrant and was the first nationwide chain of doughnut shops. In the 60s, 70s and part of the 80s, it was an auto repair and Earl Scheib, yes that one, paint any car for 29.99.
In 1993, one of our owners, Joe Mifsud, saw something in this building and purchased it. On the day he came to start the restoration, the city of Detroit, showed up to tear it down, after some discussion about ownership, the city packed up and moved on. The journey began from there. Original to the building are the brick walls, support trusses, the wood ceiling and the window frames towards the back of the building (glass was replaced and frames restored)
The decor in the restaurant was added from Joe’s collection of items he has gathered for over 40 years. We decided the building needed to be built out to showcase the building itself, not a brand new modern restaurant, so we built it purposefully to look old.
Freq Asked:
Where did the bell come from? When do you ring it? Fulton Engine and Iron Works, Detroit, Mi 1901. Fulton was located on the site of the Ren Cen. We ring it if a round is bought for the bar or for special occasions
Is there really an Easybake oven here? Absolutely and it is Chef Matt’s original easybake from when he was a child. It is up to the guest to find it, along with a few other hidden items. The coffee mug, the milk carton, St. Pasquel (patron saint of chefs and kitchens) and lastly, the clown
What is the front door? It is a 12x10 foot used oil drum, we got it from a local recycler, did work on it and got it in place as our front door. Inside is old school Detroit graffiti by local artists. Currently this is the 4th spray that we have had done.
What is the oldest thing in the building? Carriage lights located on the North wall, from 1862 and were converted from gas to electric by our very talented electrician
What did you use for the parking lot fencing? The ADA gate actually tells you, Mt. Elliot Cemetery fence.
Where did you find the bricks for your patio? They are old Detroit street bricks from the area, Michigan Ave, Bagley St. and Vernor
Are the patio doors original? No, they were hand built by the owners and were modeled after the doors at Greenfield Village
Is this Two James? No… It is not, Two James is our neighbor, and they are located next door