Norm and Bonnie LePage have been part of the Detroit-area food/restaurant scene since the 1970s — but just never in Detroit. Until now, that is.
The LePages, who also own Big Rock Chop House, Griffin Claw Brewing Co., and Clubhouse BFD, have partnered with DTE Energy to develop Lumen — a “light-themed” brasserie/beer garden which opened Tuesday in the Beacon Park space downtown.
According to Norm, the couple have been toying with opening a Detroit space, and “came close” two or three times, but finally signed on when they were approached about the Beacon Park space by DTE last year.
“This place felt right,” Norm says. “We love the vision they had.”
Lumen’s 4,000 square foot footprint includes indoor and outdoor seating — including a “green” rooftop space with a panoramic view of city. The main floor’s ground-to-ceiling windows look out over Beacon Park. Notable structures near the thoroughly modern space are a study in contrasts: Right across Grand River Ave., is the Grand Army of the Republic “castle” that’s now home to the Republic and Parks & Rec eateries. And the soaring canopies of the Rosa Parks Transit Center are spotted by looking down Cass Ave.
Lumen will initially serve dinner only, with plans to add lunch and weekend brunch later in the year. The menu was developed by Big Rock’s executive chef Gabby Milton, along with Bonnie LePage. But don’t expect to see many copycat items from their other locations. Lumen will serve what they’re calling “eclectic American fare that pairs well with beer and craft cocktails.” Most of the beer selections, naturally, come from Griffin Claw.
Entrees include steak and frites with béarnaise butter; three versions of Pei mussels (arabiatta, white wine and chorizo, or green curry); and a German-inspired Michigan-sourced pork chop served schnitzel-style with a side of red cabbage. Appetizers range from chicken wings with “everything” bagel seasoning to crab cakes, smoked trout, and mac and cheese.
1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit. lumendetroit.com. D Tues.-Sun.
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