Joe Louis Southern Kitchen has opened its third restaurant, at Bedrock’s 1528 Woodward Ave. property in downtown Detroit.
The approximately 4,000-square-foot facility brings its Southern-style comfort food and tribute to boxing legend Joe Louis to the center of Detroit, joining Joe Louis Southern Kitchen’s Midtown and Southfield locations.
The Woodward Avenue restaurant is the brand’s first to feature a full bar and an open-air patio along Detroit’s most bustling street. Designed for both everyday dining and downtown gatherings, the space is designed to pair warm, comfortable hospitality with visual tributes to Joe Louis, featuring archival photographs and milestones from his boxing career.
Co-owners Joe Louis Barrow II – Joe Louis’ son – and local restaurateur Johnny Cannon say they believe the opening on Woodward Avenue is about keeping the connection between the city and the Brown Bomber alive.
“Opening downtown near the three major sports arenas brings our food and spirit right to the center of the city’s energy, and close to the fans who love my father,” says Barrow. “My father’s legacy has always been bigger than boxing; it’s about resilience, pride and showing up for your community. We’re excited to welcome Detroiters and all visitors into a space where that legacy can be felt, shared and celebrated.”
The grand opening celebration featured remarks from co-CEO’s Barrow and Cannon, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield, Jared Fleisher, CEO of Bedrock, and Dr. Stuart Kirschenbaum, former Michigan Boxing Commissioner.
“We built Joe Louis Southern Kitchen around great food and an atmosphere that brings people together,” says Cannon. “We’re excited to introduce a full bar that gives guests another way to enjoy the energy of downtown. Whether visitors are heading to a game, concert or show – or just gathering with friends – we have something for everyone. Our goal is to grow Joe Louis Southern Kitchen into a national brand while staying rooted in Detroit.”
Joe Louis Southern Kitchen will have a staff of approximately 35 employees, with seating for more than 100 guests. The restaurant will be open daily from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m., with extended hours until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturdays. Weekend nights will feature house and R&B DJs, making it a natural destination for guests attending late night events at Comerica Park, Ford Field, and Little Caesars Arena.
“The energy along the Lower Woodward corridor is undeniable, and the addition of Joe Louis Southern Kitchen gives both visitors and locals another reason to experience all that downtown Detroit has to offer,” says Fleisher. “The restaurant builds on the live, play, stay momentum across downtown, while honoring the legacy of a Detroit icon.”
For more information, visit jlsouthernkitchen.com.
