Maccabees Readies for Yet Another Revamp

Maccabees at Midtown is preparing for yet another revamp. The restaurant, which recently underwent several short-lived transformations including last summer’s stint as 5057 Viale, will take on a new name and menu next week, as Maccabees Traders.

Owner Petar Berishaj has brought on a new partner, Chicago-based restaurateur David Kraus, according to the Detroit Free Press. Kraus in turn hired Chicago native Rafael Esparza to run the kitchens. Esparza and Kraus met while working at James Beard Awards semifinalist Shibumi in Los Angeles; Esparza was opening sous chef while Kraus was a consultant. The pair shared a mutual Chicago connection and an interest in the growing Detroit culinary scene.

Together, Kraus and Esparza developed a new direction for Maccabee’s. The name is an allusion to historic East Asian trading companies and a nod to the flavors found on the menu, per a release. Diners can expect a selection of dishes including Vietnamese fish sauce wings, bao, bahn mi, green papaya salad, and more.

The interior of the 110-seat restaurant will also undergo some tweaks. Plans call for a larger bar area, more natural light, and updated light fixtures, and other cosmetic details. The restaurant is expected to open for brunch on March 5 and dinner the following day. Take a peek at the menu below.

Maccabees Traders is located at 5057 Woodward Ave. The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner and will offer happy hour and late-night service.

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