Detroit’s Multi-Sport Complex Hunts for Restaurant & Bar Expert to Run Cafe

Here’s an opportunity you don’t see every day: a chance to head up the cafe and bar at Midtown’s forthcoming indoor multi-sport complex. The new 64,000-square-foot athletics hub will feature a world class velodrome for high-speed cycling races, a track for walking and running, and infield events space. But, as the non-profit Detroit Fitness Foundation (DFF) tells Eater, they have yet to secure a partner to manage the centrally-located cafe and bar.

Velodrome expert and executive director for the DFF, Dale Hughes says that in addition to the sports events and activities, the building is designed to host community gatherings such as art shows, graduations, and corporate meetings. Facility rentals will help generate revenue to support the DFF’s free daytime programing for kids and seniors. The cafe is considered to be a key component of that revenue stream, he says.

While plans are still being finalized, the venue will feature a liquor license and be outfitted with the equipment necessary to provide basic catering to the facility including refrigeration. The shop will not have a kitchen, so any food offerings would have to be prepared off-site. DFF envisions the cafe offering coffee, beer and wine, and healthy, light fare such sandwiches, soups, and salads.

Ideally, the operator would have experience in food and beverage or in running a catering business. The partner would also need to be available on Friday and Saturday evenings during the velodrome cycling races. “We’re really open to seeing what can work for them and what can work for us,” Hughes says.

The multi-sport complex is slated to break ground at the Tolan Playfield (next to Mack Avenue and I-75) in April with an estimated September debut. Those interested in running the cafe should reach out to Susan Tate at susan@detroitfitness.org.

• Multi-Sport Complex Will Feature Cafe With Velodrome Views [ED]

• An Indoor Multi-Sport Complex With Velodrome Is Coming to Detroit [CDET]

• All Up For Grabs Coverage [ED]