After months of anticipation, Celebrity Chef James Rigato’s new restaurant ‘Mabel Gray’ is open for business in Hazel Park.
Rigato has a number of surprises in store as the restaurant officially opens to the public. In a post on Mabel Gray’s Facebook page, Chef Rigato breaks down what you can expect:
Hibachi grilled onions for soup & Michigan rabbit 'Abruzzo'. We are opening Tuesday! We will open at 4pm and serve...
Posted by Mabel Gray on Sunday, September 27, 2015
Last week, Rigato held a number of private soft openings in preparation for Tuesday’s official public launch.
Rabbit Abruzzo, Beef Tartare, brook trout, fried banana and a number of delicious desserts were just some of the items featured on the menu for the pre-opening dining experiences.
Rave reviews are already posted on Mabel Gray’s Facebook page:
“By far the best meal I've had since I've moved back to Michigan. All the little details were spot on. Even the butter served with the bread is perfect. Possibly the best soup I've had in my life, and the service is so warm and inviting. To have this in my neighborhood is an amazing thing. Bravo, chef and staff!” says Stefanie Mezigian.
“A wonderful experience! When I close my eyes I am smacked with flavor flashbacks that push me to seek out new dishes, this was a food adventure my soul was searching for,” says Chris Down.
Exciting things are happening for Rigato after appearing on the hit show “Top Chef.” In addition to the opening of Mabel Gray, he also received the prestigious distinction of being named Food & Wine magazine’s Best Regional Chef of 2015.
According to the Mabel Gray website, menu items will continue to evolve and change. This will often include daily changes to the menu.
“Food and beverage selections rotate with the seasons and availability of local farm products, with no set menu. Everything is handmade from scratch, with fresh, ethical ingredients from Chef Rigato’s extensive network of farms, butchers and foragers. Expect daily updates and activity.”
The opening of Mabel Gray is not only exciting for Rigato and his staff, but for the city of Hazel Park, its residents and for the metro Detroit food scene.
Mabel Gray will be open Tuesday through Saturday and is located at 23825 John R. Road in Hazel Park.
Hazel Park is hoping new businesses continue to follow suit as the city works to become the area’s newest hotspot.
"What great reviews so far! I can't wait for my dining adventure," says Hazel Park Mayor Jan Parisi. It is great to have a lot of new businesses opening in a condensed period of time! Hazel Park is a great place to be."
In October, a new brewery will also open up on John R. in Hazel Park.
Cellarmen’s will open in what once was the old Bolyard Lumber building. It will specialize in meads, cider and beer, according to the Oakland County Prosper.
The slated opening is scheduled for the weekend of October 17.
