DETROIT (WXYZ) — New Motown Bistro In Eastern Market Builds on Legacy of Bert’s Marketplace and Rockefellers Oyster Bar.
Jai-lee Dearing comes from a family of entrepreneurs that runs four generations deep, and is showing no signs of slowing down. Building on the legacy of one of Detroit’s most successful and long-running jazz clubs, Bert’s Marketplace in Eastern Market, Dearing has launched the Motown Bistro Oyster Bar, a.k.a. Bert’s Bistro.
The walls of the newly-renovated space are lined with gold and platinum records, Grammy Awards, rare pictures, and other unique items. Each booth is dedicated to a specific Motown artist or group, giving guests a different experience each time they come. Diners can watch a looping documentary in the Jackson 5 booth, or get romantic in the Marvin Gaye booth.
Although the upscale menu, linen tablecloths, formally-attired wait staff and maître d may seem like quite a departure from the soul food dishes, and hustle-and-bustle melting pot vibe of Bert’s Marketplace, there are definitely common threads. Not least of which are a love of Detroit music, great food and genuine hospitality.
The Motown Bistro is located on 2735 Russel Street in Detroit’s Eastern Market. They’re open Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight. To learn more about Motwon Bistro, visit http://www.motownbistro.com/