Highlands Detroit to open atop GMRENCEN

An experience. That is what awaits you at Highlands – a vibrant, multi-concept culinary destination soon to be located on the 71st and 72nd floors of the GMRENCEN. Moving into the space once home to Coach Insignia and the revolving restaurant The Summit, Highlands is redefining the top of the tower dining experience.

 

Though Highlands doesn’t open until November 2019, here is what you can expect from the latest restaurant at the GMRENCEN:

 

An Award-Winning Partnership

James Beard Award-winning Chef Shawn McClain, along with his partners Sarah and Richard Camarota, have found the ideal location for McClain’s first hometown project, at the very top of Detroit and the tallest building in Michigan, the GMRENCEN.

 

 

Long before Detroit, McClain graduated from the School of Culinary Arts at Kendall College in Chicago. From there, he perfected his craft across the country, opening three award-winning and iconic restaurants in Chicago, then moving on to launch destinations in Las Vegas with partners Sarah & Richard Camarota. He won a James Beard Award for Best Chef Midwest in 2006 and even appeared (and won!) on Food Network’s Iron Chef America with Richard Camarota (business partner) and Scott Garthwaite (Executive Chef at Highlands) by his side.

 

Most recently, the partners at McClain Camarota Hospitality have grown their presence in Las Vegas, parlaying one restaurant to three starting with upscale culinary gem Sage, then moving onto pizza with FIVE50 PIZZABAR, both at Aria Resort and Casino. Finally, the third restaurant is Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay, the group’s fun, eclectic gastropub. McClain, his wife Holly and partners have been looking for the right project to take on in McClain’s hometown of Detroit; after a lengthy search the group decided GMRENCEN to be the ideal fit. “There’s really nothing that can compete with this iconic space and the legacy of the building. We are honored and excited to become the social clubhouse and comfort zone for all those who work and visit GMRENCEN,” said McClain.

 

One iconic destination, three unique concepts, endless ways to experience it all

Highlands will be three unique concepts and epic private event space in one iconic destination.

 

“Our goal was to create a spot that’s not only for special occasions, Highlands is about living it up daily, for any occasion. This is what led us to develop three distinct concepts, each with their own vibe, culinary experience and style,” McClain said.

 

 

  1. Highlands Steakhouse – Creative Riff on a Classic

Highlands Steakhouse blends tradition with innovation for a bold re-imagination of the steakhouse. Come for the vibrant, urban atmosphere, stay for the quality ingredients and epic wine list curated by Master Sommelier, Nick Hetzel.

 

  1. Hearth71 – Vibrant and Fun

Hearth 71 celebrates a simpler form of dining, emphasizing open-fire cooking, craft beer and rock ‘n’ roll. At the center of it all is a roaring fire to create sensational dishes like fried walleye with cornmeal crust, bacon potato salad and brussels sprout slaw.

 

  1. High Bar – The Happiest of Hours

High Bar encourages one to indulge in the arts and the finer things. You don’t have to wait until happy hour to order a dainty dessert, a perfectly crafted cocktail or whiskey from every corner of the world. In fact, you shouldn’t.

 

Highlands Events – Events as Unique as You

Planning an event? Those seeking customizable events should look no further than Highlands Events. Guests will have direct access to event curators, chefs and the beverage team to create personalized menus for any occasion.

 

So, raise a glass, feed your soul and lift your spirit when Highlands arrives in November. In the meantime, visit highlandsdetroit.com and keep an eye on Highlands’ Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.