Restaurant With Cheesy Name Moves Into Cafe Al Karar Space Downtown

Cafe Al Karar (or rather the restaurant formerly known as Cafe Al Karar) is no more. The Broadway Street restaurant in downtown Detroit has shut its doors to make way for a new Italian concept curiously dubbed I Luv Cheese. DBusiness reports that the fast-casual build-your-own pasta bar operated by chef Omar Mitchell (also of Great Lakes Burger Bar) is opening the doors at a location in Clinton Township on August 29 followed by Detroit on September 6.

Design plans for the 6,000-square-foot downtown location include cheddar cheese-colored walls, red floors, and Edison light fixtures. The menu features a choice of pasta (cavatappi or gluten-free angel hair) and a choice of sauces and toppings. Diners can also expect sides like mac & cheese sriracha balls, salads, and a “craft beverage bar” with milkshakes, fresh juices, and house sodas.

Cafe Al Karar debuted in 2014, replacing Al’s Paradise Cafe. Early on the eatery struggled to find a steady clientele during dinner service. In recent months the eatery had undergone a major rebranding, switching its name to “Detroit Street Bistro.” Diners also reported on Yelp that prices had undergone a significant hike. I Luv Cheese is expected to host a hiring day on August 31 for the Detroit location.

I Luv Cheese will open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 1368 Broadway St. Website.

• New Create-Your-Own Pasta Bar to Open in Clinton Township, Downtown Detroit [DBiz]

• Cafe Al Karar Struggles with Dinner Service, Gets Boost from New Downtown Restaurants [ED]

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