On the menu is fresh and authentic Mediterranean cuisine with American touches, from Chicken Shawarma Pitas to Beef Kabob Pizza. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options as well as gluten free menu items. For travelers killing time before a flight, the restaurant has a robust cocktails menu which features a traditional Lebanese liqueur known as Arak by Razzouk. And for beer lovers looking for local treasures, Mezza also serves craft beer “Ghettoblaster” by Detroit’s own Motor City Brewing Works.
Samir Saleh is the owner of this Michigan favorite, and is thrilled to grow the reach of his brand. For him, “Healthy. Fresh. Delicious.” is more than just a slogan. The inspiration for his first restaurant was to offer authentic Lebanese food from scratch, and the success of this effort is the reason his patrons are so loyal at the existing six street locations of Detroit metro. Samir shared, “A lot of my regular customers are excited for this opening, and can’t wait for the opportunity to check it out.” The DTW location will also serve these “from scratch” items including the Baba Ghannouj and the hummus.
Said Xavier Rabell, CEO of Areas USA, “We are committed to delivering local experiences to our guests, and Mezza’s distinct flavors and appetizing menu convey just that. We are proud to introduce Mezza Mediterranean Grille to the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.”
Along with their baklava (which no one should leave without trying), guests will enjoy Areas USA’s new tablet ordering concept. They will be able to order and pay for their meal at the table, and not have to worry about missing their flight while waiting to close out a check.
The design of the almost 3,500 sq ft restaurant adds to the authentic Mediterranean feel. Cement tiles and wood accents define the warm and rustic look, and a replica of a large olive tree is the main attraction in the dining area. Visible from all zones of the restaurant is a rotating gyro machine for shawarmas, and a Woodstone oven with a real flame simulating a wood burning stove.
Ana McCune van de Velde, president of ACDBDE firm VDV Concessions, LLC said, “Sitting in Mezza, I feel transported to a favorite Mediterranean destination on vacation – the olive tree, decorative spices and herbs, the overall ambiance. Mezza Mediterranean Grille offers delicious and fresh food and aromas with great value at moderate prices. My experience with Areas, USA, in establishing this restaurant at DTW, has been truly exceptional and I am proud to be an Areas ACDBE partner.”
Mezza is the newest complement to an established presence in DTW. The company already operates at the North Terminal of the airport a Ruby Tuesday, an Earl of Sandwich, and a Coffee Beanery.
“Mezza Mediterranean Grille is an outstanding addition to an already impressive collection of fresh new dining options for our Detroit customers traveling through the McNamara Terminal,” said Airport Authority CEO Thomas Naughton. “I am confident this exciting new venue will be a successful venture for both Areas USA and Detroit Metropolitan Airport.