Prime Concepts Detroit will debut Aurora Italiana Detroit, a new restaurant opening later this year inside the historic Michigan Oriental Theater in Grand Circus Park. It will replace the former home of PAO Detroit.
In addition, plans are underway to convert the 17-story Briggs Houze building, home to Aurora Italiana Detroit, into a Hyatt Hotel. Briggs Houze had 118 residential apartments.
Additional details about the hotel development will be announced in the coming months.
Located at 114 W. Adams St., just west of Park Avenue, the Michigan Oriental Theater opened in 1927. In the 1950s, the theater portion was demolished and replaced with parking.
“Our goal is to create an experience that honors both the incredible history of this landmark building and the timeless appeal of Italian hospitality,” says Joe Barbat, CEO and chairman Barbat Holdings and Prime Concepts Detroit.
“From preserving the beauty of the historic Michigan Oriental Theater to introducing a warm, rustic trattoria atmosphere, Aurora Italiana Detroit will be a destination where guests can enjoy exceptional food in one of Detroit’s most remarkable spaces.”
The restaurant will accommodate approximately 110 guests across its first and second floors and feature an inviting open-kitchen concept. Aurora Italiana Detroit will showcase authentic Italian cuisine centered on traditional recipes, premium ingredients, and elevated hospitality.
Guests can expect signature tableside service experiences that bring classic Italian dining traditions to life; all breads, pastas, and sauces will be made in-house daily, and the kitchen will operate completely seed oil-free.
The restaurant’s interior has been designed by the Prime Concepts Detroit team, blending contemporary Italian design with the theater’s historic details to create a one-of-a-kind dining destination.
Similar to the Aurora Italiana locations in West Bloomfield and Commerce Township, Aurora Italiana Detroit will be open seven days a week starting at 4 p.m.
Additional details, including the official opening date, menu highlights, and reservation information, will be announced in the coming months.
Prime Concepts Detroit’s restaurants include Aurora Italiana, Aurora Italiana Commerce Township, NARA Sushi & Hibachi Steakhouse, Prime29 Steakhouse, Sexy Steak and Castle Hall in the Grand Army of the Republic Building, Wabeek Club, and Tribu Mediterranean.
For more information, visit primeconceptsdetroit.com.
