Big Rock Italian Chophouse and The Rock Cigar Club in Birmingham has named its leadership team in advance of its July 15 grand opening — General Manager Steve Hermiz, Executive Chef Chris Mayer, and Sales and Concierge Manager Sue Simich.
“Our culture is to put people first, both our associates and guests,” says Cameron Mitchell, founder and CEO of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR). “Sue, Chris, and Steve all absolutely represent this philosophy of creating a truly extraordinary experience for our guests at every level.”
Hermiz is a Roseville native with nearly 20 years of leadership experience at CMR, including key roles in opening Ocean Prime locations in New York City and Las Vegas. He returns to Michigan to oversee Big Rock Italian Chophouse’s operations and lead The Rock Cigar Club.
Mayer started his CMR journey at Ocean Prime Troy and now brings more than two decades of culinary expertise to Big Rock Italian Chophouse. He will lead a kitchen that showcases premium steaks, chops, chef curated pastas, and innovative Italian-inspired cuisine.
Simich began her hospitality career in her family’s restaurant before joining CMR in 2003. With extensive experience in event planning and guest services, she will manage private events, guest relations, and exclusive concierge services for VIPs of The Rock Cigar Club.
Located in a storied Birmingham landmark, the 11,000-square-foot property has undergone a transformative two-year renovation, now housing two distinct yet complementary experiences: Big Rock Italian Chophouse features 7,718 square feet of restaurant space, while The Rock Cigar Club occupies 2,357 square feet of refined, luxury lounge space including the addition of the Annex, a newly built second floor space.
The Rock Cigar Club currently is selling VIP cigar lockers that will give locker holders full access to The Rock Cigar Club and exclusive concierge services in addition to VIP events, offers, and incentives. Interested VIPs can visit TheRockCigarClub.com to learn more.
