Public House honors women

“We’re half-owned and operated by women…for me, it was really important to highlight that, especially in an industry that’s typically male dominated,” said Sagen Isham, marketing and events director for Working Class Outlaws. They’ll do just that on March 8, aka International Women’s Day, at Public House in Ferndale, 241 W. Nine Mile Road, with female-empowered food and beverage specials, and records played throughout the day will be by powerhouse women like Whitney Houston, Blondie, and Beyonce. Inspired by one of the greats, Julia Child, the menu will include Chicken Liver Mousse, Quiche Lorraine, Toulouse Cassoulet, and Reine de Saba. Public House Chef Jasmine Hughes – who chose Child, one of her first influences – said the dishes selected were ones Child was well-known for, yet are still relevant today. She also stuck close to the original recipes. “You can’t get better than a Julia Child recipe,” Hughes laughed. “There’s no improving upon that.” The beverage list features three cocktails created by Audrey Saunders, Joy Perrine, and Julie Reiner, who all had significant influence on the nation’s cocktail culture. In honor of the day, Working Class Outlaws – who also own Imperial and Antihero – will donate 10 percent of sales to HAVEN Oakland County, a Michigan-based program for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Isham said HAVEN hits close to home for the company, as members of their staff have used their resources. While this is the restaurant’s first time honoring women in such a way, both Isham and Hughes hope it continues. Hughes already has other chefs in mind to highlight in the future – Ina Garten and Tieghan Gerard.