First Bite: ZANA - New restaurant offers modern American cuisine in Birmingham, MI
Signature dishes, creative cocktails and gilded décor can all be found at the new downtown Birmingham, Mich. restaurant.
ZANA is the latest vision from Mario Camaj and The Tallulah Group, also known for Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro in in Birmingham, Mich. and BESA in Detroit.
The brand said ZANA’s 10,000 square-foot space, formerly the home of The Bird & The Bread, has underwent a complete renovation. The large space features an exclusive bar area, private and secluded dining areas and a full banquet space that can host up to 135 guests.
Credit: Hayden Stinebaugh
Led by Chef Jason Bamford, ZANA’s menu offers dishes including octopus with fennel, potato, cured olive, celery, chicharron, nduja and lemon; whole black bass with olive, citrus, herbs, potato tostones and Shishito pepper zhoug; steak tartare with 12-hour tomato, shiitake, burnt onion, cress and marrow toast, under smoke; and lamb chops with coco spice, shaved kohlrabi, apple, cress, black barley, mint and pomegranate vinaigrette.
Credit: Hayden Stinebaugh
“I’ve been fortunate to have worked all over the country but was waiting for the right opportunity to return home to Michigan,” said Bamford. “It’s an honor to now be part of the ZANA family.”
ZANA’s cocktail menu was crafted by mixologist Anthony Escalante. The company said the menu features flavors and libations that “inspire further exploration of local flavors and spirits.” Escalante is a recent recipient of the Best Cocktail in the Country award by Restaurant Hospitality Magazine.
General Manager and Partner Johnny Prenci, who’s worked with Camaj for 13 years, will oversee day-to-day operations.
“Guests should expect a dining experience that will transcend taste… through alluring ambiance, bold flavors and unparalleled service,” said Prenci.
As for the space, guests can find intricate details including barreled ceilings, mosaic tile, custom glass work and a hand-blown glass light fixture commissioned from the Czech Republic. The bar is trimmed in gold and lit from top to bottom.
The restaurant was designed by Sabrina Buchanan of BASE Designs, Ian Hartwell of Oliver Max Inc., and architect John Gardner of Gardner & Associates
Initial hours of operation are:
Tuesday-Thursday from 4 – 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday from 4 – 11 p.m.
Sunday from 4 – 8 p.m.
210 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009
Reservations are recommended. They can be made here.
