As warm days continue to outnumber the cold ones, it’s a sign that summer in Michigan is arriving. And just in time for the weather change, Topa, the latest rooftop bar in Detroit, opens today (May 21). The bar and the AC Hotel Detroit at the Bonstelle are developed by Detroit-based real estate investment firm, The Roxbury Group, through its Treefort Hospitality Group. San Diego-based Azul Hospitality manages the property.
Coastal Aesthetics
Located on the 11th floor of the AC Hotel Detroit at the Bonstelle, Topa offers panoramic views of Detroit’s cityscape. From the south-facing patio, Detroit’s sports stadiums are in full view. From the west, Michigan Central stands out prominently.
Inside, the décor and ambiance have been plucked from a coastal resort and planted in Brush Park. Live greenery, stained wood, and comfortable seating are complimented by an abundance of natural light. Two of the interior walls feature reclaimed wood from the historic Cadillac House in Lexington. Cadillac House is also owned by the Roxbury Group.
“Topa represents the next chapter of the hospitality experience at the AC Hotel Detroit at the Bonstelle,” said James Van Dyke, President of the Roxbury Group. “Our vision was to create a space that feels transportive, a place where guests can slow down, connect and enjoy an atmosphere inspired by the California coast while still being surrounded by the energy of Detroit.”
Small Plates, Big Flavors
Named after the Basque phrase “to toast”, Topa takes inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of the Mediterranean. Both the lobby restaurant, The Conservatory, and Topa are led by executive chef Jorge Morales. Small, shareable plates is the focus of both.
At a media preview on May 20, Hour Detroit had the chance to sample some of the food and drink offerings. Upon entering, we were greeted with an assortment of breads, deli meats, and four dips and spreads. Highlights from this portion were the herb focaccia and the hummus made with chickpeas and sesame.
Other samplings from the small-plates menu included the areyes and skewers of barramundi, a type of striped bass. The areyes consisted of a well-seasoned beef patty between two pieces of crispy flatbread. It is then topped with a creamy garlic sauce. The barramundi was cut into four bite-sized pieces and served over zhug, a vibrant herb chili chimichurri spread. (Note: on the menu, the barramundi is plated on a bed of Persian rice with a saffron and miso beurre blanc sauce.)
Basque in the Libations
Much like the food menu, the drinks at Topa are largely Mediterranean influenced. The kalimotxo — a Basque drink made viral by Lady Gaga last summer — is one of 10 signature cocktails. The only ingredients are red wine and Coca-Cola, but the surprising combination makes for a refreshing summer beverage.
Other standouts include the Coastside. This cocktail is a white rum and white wine-based drink mixed with madeira, Cointreau noir, citrus honey, peach, orange, and pineapple. For coffee-cocktail lovers, try the Topa Carajillo. Made with rum, Crown Royal Chocolate, local Two James Coffee Liqueur, Licor 43, and espresso, it’s a perfect pick-me-up on a night out.
Topa is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to midnight and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Parking is available in the adjacent structure, as well as a valet service in front of the hotel’s main doors. For more information, find them @TopaDetroit on Instagram.
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