Ferndale welcomes Nine Kitchen + Bar

Nine Kitchen + Bar has opened on Woodward Avenue in Ferndale, just north of Nine Mile Road—hence the name. Housed in the former Brooks Brewery location, the space has undergone a complete transformation. At the heart of the restaurant is a striking 20-seat bar, the focal point of an interior that blends industry and glam. Corrugated steel ceiling panels, exposed ductwork, and terrazzo flooring provide a raw, modern backdrop, which is softened by plush velour banquettes, elegant lighting, and vintage black-and-white Hollywood photos. The venture is led by co-owners Damian Dabish and Marlon Gaggo, with Ryan Thweni serving as general manager and Sloan Yearry overseeing the bar program. Thweni describes the concept as “a new American bistro and upbeat cocktail lounge with good vibes only.” The menu is built around elevated comfort food and shareable plates, including favorites like bang bang shrimp, tuna tartare, and lamb meatballs. Signature entrées include caramelized onion chicken served with cacio e pepe mashed potatoes, asparagus and rosemary carrots; and whitefish crusted with pistachio-sage breadcrumbs, finished with parmesan, beurre blanc, and seasonal vegetables. Nine Kitchen + Bar is open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner. The happy hour, which has already proved to be quite popular, runs Tuesday-Friday 4-6 p.m. House wines are $6, draft beers are $2 off and craft cocktails are offered at $10. 22925 Woodward Avene, Ferndale ninekitchenbar.com