Elia Group, a real estate development and hospitality company in downtown Birmingham, today announced two new restaurants in downtown Detroit — Experience Zuzu and Upstairs Bar.
Both establishments are scheduled to open this summer in the 511 Woodward building, located a block south of Campus Martius Park and immediately east of the Guardian Building.
The restaurants join Elia Group’s Iconic Collection, an assortment of award-winning restaurants that include 220 Merrill in downtown Birmingham, The Duke at the Kingsley Hotel of Bloomfield Hills, and in Detroit — Parc Detroit and Brisabar in Campus Martius Park, Cadillac Lodge in Cadillac Square, and the Anchor Bar along Fort Street.
“An incredible amount of thought went into creating Experience Zuzu and Upstairs Bar,” says Zaid Elia, founder and CEO of Elia Group and the Iconic Collection. “Along with iCrave, a world-renowned design firm, we curated a space to create a totally immersive and unforgettable iconic experience for our guests, unlike any other in downtown Detroit or even the Midwest.”
Inspired by notable dining destinations in Miami and Las Vegas, Experience Zuzu will feature eclectic new Asian cuisine drawing influences from centuries-old cooking traditions. The menu will feature hand-rolled sushi, playful appetizers, wok-fired specialties, and exclusive dishes crafted from a charcoal oven and wood-fired grill.
In addition to a full bar, Zuzu will showcase bespoke cocktails, premium bottle service, and a specially sourced selection of sake, champagne, and wine. The interior will be reminiscent of a theatrical experience.
On the second floor above Zuzu, the Upstairs Bar is described as “an ultra-luxurious lounge and club serving craft cocktails, inspired small plates, and sushi in a show-stopping atmosphere. Upstairs Bar is a techno fantasy brought to life, melding Detroit’s distinctive sound with Japan’s colorful anime aesthetic. Live DJs and a top-of-the-line sound system contribute to the edgy and exclusive party energy.”
In addition to completely reimagining the space in 511 Woodward, Experience Zuzu will open to an expansive and well-appointed patio along Woodward. The two venues will create 150 jobs in downtown Detroit.
Experience Zuzu and Upstairs Bar may be expanded to other markets in the near future.
For more information on Experience Zuzu, visit experiencezuzu.com, and for the Upstairs Bar, visit experienceupstairs.com.
Founded in 2016, Elia Group owns the Ford Building in downtown Detroit, and for Brisabar (summer season) and Cadillac Lodge (holiday season), it works with the Downtown Detroit Partnership. For more information about Ella Group, visit theeliagroup.com.
