Rooftop Dining Might be Returning to Royal Oak Soon

Originally slated to open in mid-July, the rooftop at on Main Street is now expected to be open by the end of the year, a manager said.

"But we're still locking down the concept," said Brooke Santa Maria, the general manager for Cantina Diablo's in Royal Oak.

Santa Maria could not immediately provide details on why the rooftop has taken longer than expected to finish. As of last week, all the electrical infrastructure had been installed. The rest of the concept will evolve in the coming weeks, Santa Maria said.

Cantina Diablo's opened at the end of May after buying Memphis Smoke, which closed its doors last December. Memphis Smoke had operated a causal open-air rooftop lined with picnic tables that was usually packed on the weekends, especially during the summer months, where patrons could drink and eat.

The new owners are wanting to reimagine the rooftop concept to match the feel of Cantina Diablo's – what Santa Maria described in May as "sexy, fun and funky."

When it opens, Santa Maria said the rooftop will be "seasonal," with fire pits and sleek couches and one closed-off area that people can enjoy during the winter months.

Drinks and food also are expected to be served in the rooftop space. 

But will there be music?

Jenn Hatcher, general manager of Rosie O'Grady's, whose owners also own Cantina Diablo's, said in May that they would "love to do live music on the rooftop."

At the time, however, the city had an ordinance against live outdoor music –and still does – because of noise concerns.

The restaurant is still working out the logistics of offering music, as well, Santa Maria said Thursday.

Check back with Patch for more details in the coming weeks.