NBA Star Kevin Johnson’s Detroit Restaurant Opens to Huge Crowds in Paradise Valley | Eater Detroit

"A much-anticipated Paradise Valley opening overflowed its expected crowd — about 250 attendees showed up for a soft launch, causing hour-long waits and even a brief fire-alarm interruption, yet staff steadily delivered hearty soul-food plates like fatty oxtails in sweet brown gravy, 24-hour–brined fried chicken featured in smothered chicken with roux brown gravy and chicken-and-waffles with grape-flavored butter, warm squares of cornbread, and deep-fried deviled eggs topped with bacon and hot sauce. Housed in the former Detroit Seafood Market, the restaurant replaces the old dark-paneled interior with an open floor plan, abundant natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, and artwork that includes 10 original pieces by Milton Bowens alongside tributes to Motown and Detroit’s cultural legacy. Founded by Sacramento native and former mayor Kevin Johnson — who launched the concept in Oak Park in 2019 and has since expanded to locations such as LA Live and Tulsa — the operation positions itself as part of a broader effort to reinvigorate Paradise Valley’s historic Black business and entertainment district. The launch events included a drumline performance, a blessing, and a presentation of the “Spirit of Detroit” award; the project is expected to create about 100 jobs and held an open job fair, and the beverage program features sweet tea, Koolaid, and cocktails using Uncle Nearest Whiskey. Open hours are 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday." - Serena Maria Daniels