Barbat Holdings in West Bloomfield Township today announced it has acquired the It’s a Matter of Taste restaurant on Union Lake Road in Commerce Township and says it plans to make it an extension of its Aurora Italiana location on Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield. Terms of the sale were not disclosed.
Nestled on 11 acres on the shores of Union Lake, It’s a Matter of Taste opened in 1990, serving as the area’s upscale dining, gourmet catering, and private event venue. Prime Concepts Detroit, Barbat Holdings’ hospitality group, will rename the property Aurora on the Lake, effective immediately, with renovations to be completed in early 2025.
The restaurant and its 200-person banquet facility will remain open and feature the Aurora on the Lake menu. It’s a Matter of Taste’s gourmet carry-out space will continue to operate with its usual selections, along with some unique items sourced directly from Italy.
Aurora on the Lake will offer steaks, fresh seafood, and refined Italian cuisine, all with a lakeside view.
“The acquisition of this stunning lakeside property perfectly positions us as we continue to grow our real estate holdings along with expanding our hospitality offerings,” says Joe Barbat, chairman and CEO of Barbat Holdings. “We’re excited to bring the Aurora Italiana brand to the Commerce Township community and create new traditions and memories at Aurora on the Lake.”
Each of It’s a Matter of Taste employees will have the opportunity to remain at Aurora on the Lake. They will be joined by experienced team members from Aurora Italiana, who will support all restaurant and culinary operations.
“With its original location opened in September 2023, Aurora Italiana, one of metro Detroit’s premier dining destinations, captures the Amalfi Coast’s coastal flavors and dining experiences. Aurora on the Lake will bring these beloved traditions to Commerce Township,” says Stolion Liti, managing partner and director of operations at Prime Concepts Detroit. “We look forward to serving the community and look forward to earning the privilege to become its new favorite dining destination.”
Prime Concepts also operates NARA Sushi, PAO Detroit, Prime29 Steakhouse, Sexy Steak and Castle Hall in the Grand Army of the Republic Building, Wabeek Club, and Tribu on the Green.
In addition, Barbat Holdings has acquired and developed several properties in southeast Michigan, including the former Briggs Hotel, The Gabriel Richard, St. Regis, Philip Neudeck building, the Michigan Oriental Theater, and the GAR Building.
For more information about Prime Concepts and Barbat Holdings visit primeconceptsdetroit.com and barbatholdings.com.
