Ford’s Garage to open in Novi

The budding burger-and-craft-beer franchise Ford’s Garage, inspired by Henry Ford himself, will open a location in Novi, in early 2023. Ford’s Garage first entered the Detroit market in 2017, with a restaurant in Dearborn, and has since become a go-to-place for burgers and beers, along with a side of automotive history. Franchise partner Billy Downs, who owns and operates the Dearborn location, has committed to opening four more of the vintage garage and prohibition-themed restaurants in the area, including the development in Novi. Though leases have yet to be signed for the other locations, site selection has begun, and Downs says he’s “eyeing key areas where there’s restaurant synergy. With people ready to put the pandemic in the rear view mirror, they’re back out dining again and they’re looking for entertainment. People enjoy great food and energy in a restaurant that is comfortable, unpretentious and unique to the casual dining space,” said Downs. Founded in 2012 near Henry Ford’s winter home in Fort Myers, Florida, Ford’s Garage is an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, enabling them to use the company’s iconic blue-oval logo and other brand imagery. Each restaurant is sculpted to look like a 1920s service station and is filled to the brim with Ford memorabilia, including vintage vehicles, fixtures, and gas pumps, as well as a Model T or Model A car suspended above the center bar. Burgers are the main draw, with black angus beef and a vegetarian option, which are coupled with all-natural aged cheeses, fresh toppings, and sauces on artisan buns branded with the Ford’s Garage logo. The restaurants also specialize in popular American comfort food options like homemade meatloaf, chicken wings and tenders, onion rings, and macaroni and cheese. Lighter fare such as fresh salads, grilled chicken, and various seafood options are also available. The bars highlight over 100 types of beer including more than 30 drafts on tap, with an emphasis on local microbreweries. In addition, the restaurants serve wine, cocktails and nonalcoholic options. 44175 West 12 Mile Road at the Fountain Walk, Novi