Detroit-based James Beard Award-winning chef Shawn McClain has found the ideal location for his first hometown project. Riverfront Holdings, Inc. has partnered with McClain and his team to develop a dining experience for the iconic destination.
“We are proud to join the culinary explosion that’s happening here in Detroit in partnership with General Motors in this spectacular location,” says McClain. “We have a shared passion for the city and its innovative spirit. We’re inspired by that bold creativity and aim to transform the space into a dynamic, multi-concept experience that’s about so much more than the amazing views.”
Leveraging the hospitality prowess from his collection of award-winning Las Vegas restaurants, McClain is enlisting a line-up of world-class talent to develop the 20,000 square-foot project, including Greg Keffer of Rockwell Group, the renowned architecture and design firm founded by David Rockwell.
“The GMRENCEN is the most iconic building in Detroit and we are excited to deliver an unrivaled dining experience,” says Claudia Killeen, General Motors manager of Renaissance Center Development. “Shawn McClain’s dynamic creative vision, featuring multiple concepts is in line with our goal of establishing the space as Detroit’s culinary crown jewel.”
Partnered with McClain in the project is his wife and Detroit native, Holly McClain, whose deep background in front-of-house service and training will be instrumental in developing the hospitality DNA of the space. McClain is also drawing upon the talents of culinary and operations lead, Richard Camarota, and brand experience lead, Sarah Camarota, both native Midwesterners who are partners with the McClains in this project and in their Las Vegas restaurants, Sage, Five50 Pizza and Libertine Social.
“A space of this magnitude and significance requires brilliance coming together from all disciplines,” adds McClain. “Every detail is being meticulously crafted to unfold into an extraordinary experience for our guests, from the way we design and launch our brand story to the special and engaging ways in which we reinvent the space.”
The premier space on the 71st and 72nd floors was previously home to Coach Insignia and the revolving restaurant, The Summit. The rotating capability was removed during its 2004 renovation as Coach Insignia.
