New Italian Restaurant Opening In Historic Downtown Detroit Building

DETROIT — A new Aurora Italiana restaurant will open inside the historic Michigan Oriental Theater in Grand Circus Park in downtown Detroit sometime later this year.

The space, formerly home to PAO Detroit, was recognized by PEOPLE Magazine and OpenTable as one of "The 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America" for 2024.

Prime Concepts Detroit plans to build upon that legacy with a fresh culinary vision rooted in authentic Italian tradition through Aurora Italiana Detroit.

"Our goal is to create an experience that honors both the incredible history of this landmark building and the timeless appeal of Italian hospitality," Barbat Holdings and Prime Concepts Detroit Chairman and CEO Joe Barbat said. "From preserving the beauty of the historic Michigan Oriental Theater to introducing a warm, rustic trattoria atmosphere, Aurora Italiana Detroit will be a destination where guests can enjoy exceptional food in one of Detroit's most remarkable spaces."

Aurora Italiana Detroit is known for its authentic Italian cuisine centered on traditional recipes, premium ingredients and elevated hospitality.

Featured dishes typically include burrata caprese, cacio e pepe, veal ossobuco and fresh fish from the Mediterranean.

The new Detroit restaurant will have seating for 110 guests across its first and second floors and feature an inviting open-kitchen concept, allowing diners to experience the energy and craftsmanship behind every dish.

It will also feature a rustic atmosphere that celebrates timeless Italian hospitality while thoughtfully preserving the architectural character and history of one of Detroit's most iconic buildings.

Additionally, plans are underway to convert the Briggs Houze building, home to Aurora Italiana Detroit, into a Hyatt Hotel.

Aurora Italiana Detroit will be open seven days a week starting at 4 p.m. There are three other Aurora Italiana restaurants in the Detroit area, including in West Bloomfield and Commerce Township.