Ford’s Garage Shifts into High Gear with New Restaurant Now Open in Novi, Michigan

Vintage service station-inspired eatery is the second of its kind to open in metro Detroit

NOVI, Mich. (Feb. 27, 2023) – Diners can dig into generous servings of nostalgia while savoring beefy burgers, sipping craft brews and enjoying other classic American fare at the newest Ford’s Garage in metro Detroit, now open in the Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk retail complex at 44175 W. 12 Mile Road.

As an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, the restaurant’s filling choices are served amid décor that simulates a 1920s service station, including memorabilia, like vintage vehicles, fixtures, gas pumps and a Model A car suspended above the center bar. Playing further into the theme, servers are dressed in mechanic shirts, blue shop towels are used as napkins and the door handles made from fuel pump nozzles The bar inside the restaurant mixes Prohibition-style elements like brick, richly colored woods and a copper bar top that’s hammered by hand.

Downs Management, the franchise group that owns and operates the new Novi restaurant, opened metro Detroit’s first Ford’s Garage location in Dearborn in 2017, bringing the car-themed concept to an area where Ford Motor Company history and loyalty runs deep.  

“I’m excited to share this fun, family-friendly concept with the Novi-area,” said Billy Downs, owner of Downs Management and longtime restaurateur who also serves as current chairman of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association. “The Novi area has a rich history with Ford Motor Company. This concept gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate an important part of our local heritage.”

Nostalgia brings diners to Ford’s Garage, but it’s the menu that keeps them coming back. Burgers are made with 100% certified Black Angus beef or are available in vegetarian and bison options. They are served with all-natural aged cheeses, fresh toppings and flavorful sauces on artisan buns branded with the Ford’s Garage logo.

Locals will recognize several names behind the Burgers of Fame menu, including Mayor of Novi Bob Gatt (The Mushroom Swiss); Novi High School Principal Nicole Carter (The Patty Melt) and 99.5 WYCD’s Josh, Rachael and Grunwald (The Black-N-Bleu), among others.

The restaurant also specializes in popular American comfort food like homemade meatloaf, chicken wings and tenders, onion rings and macaroni & cheese. Lighter fare such as fresh salads, grilled chicken and seafood options are also available.

Beer-lovers can choose from over 100 types of beer, including more than 30 drafts on tap, with an emphasis on local breweries. The restaurant also serves wine, cocktails and nonalcoholic options.

The Novi Ford’s Garage is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m, for both and carry-out service.

About Ford’s Garage

Founded in 2012 and franchising since 2015, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, Florida, less than a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home. Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, enabling them to use the company’s iconic blue oval logo and other brand imagery, the 1920s garage-themed burger and craft beer restaurant franchise has expanded to include a total of 23 locations across six states. For more information, visit www.fordsgarageusa.com.

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