Great Dane opens in Royal Oak

Bloomfield residents Mike and Lisa Dimmer were exploring franchise investment opportunities when they discovered Voodoo Brewing Company. After signing a 10-year lease at 112 S. Main Street in downtown Royal Oak, they immediately began renovating the space. However, a setback with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission halted their plans to move forward with the Voodoo Brewing Company franchise. Rather than abandon the project, the Dimmers pivoted and developed an entirely new concept: The Great Dane Restaurant and Bar, named after their son, Dane. The interior evokes a traditional English pub, featuring brick facades, warm wood accents, and hunter-green plaid wallpaper. The space seats 96 guests, including 14 stools at the bar. The full bar offers beer, wine and craft cocktails, supported by 24 taps — eight which are rotating selections with an emphasis on Michigan and other craft brews. To lead the kitchen, Great Dane has hired Chef Jared Bobkin, known for his two appearances on FOX’s Hell’s Kitchen with Gordon Ramsay. Bobkin expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, noting that the menu will lean into “Euro-pub vibes.” He shared examples such as a Shepherd’s-inspired pizza, a buttered chicken pizza reflecting popular English flavors, and an updated take on a traditional Sunday roast built around short rib — complete with Yorkshire pudding. 112 S. Main Street, Royal Oak