After 10 years in Downtown Detroit, Vertical Detroit has announced it will close later this month. The owners plan to focus on growing the brand’s retail operations.
Vertical Detroit Announces Closure After a Decade
Located in Downtown Detroit, Vertical Detroit operates as a wine-focused restaurant, bar, and retail shop. It was opened by James and Remy Lutfy, and was the first fine wine-oriented dining venue in the city. The concept pairs an extensive wine list with chef-driven dishes in a warm setting inside the Ashley building.
Vertical offers a unique wine-tasting experience that combines wine education and exploration. The establishment also offers craft cocktails, beer, and small plates and entrees prepared by its chef, all suited to the full beverage menu.
Vertical Detroit also had its own retail experience in addition to its dining room, allowing the customers a wide choice of quality bottles to buy. The space became a go-to spot for casual drinks, date nights, and celebrations.
Recently, the restaurant announced that it will serve the Detroit diners for the last time on or before March 28, 2026. While thanking the guests, the restaurant wrote, “Our guests have truly been the best part of this journey, from the celebrations and laughter to every bottle that we shared, your support has meant everything to us. Thank you for being a part of the Vertical Detroit story over the past decade.”
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Owners’ Future Plans and Reasons to Close
Vertical is best known for its wine selection, having launched 10 years ago. Vertical Detroit has been featured in articles by Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator on multiple occasions. It was also named one of America’s 100 Best Wine Bars.
So, as the owners close the restaurant part of Vertical, they are focused on expanding their retail footprint. They already have a retail wine shop, Fine Wine Source, at 16721 Middlebelt Rd, Livonia, MI 48154. This fall, an additional Fine Wine Source location is expected to open in Plymouth, Michigan.
A decade-long notable run will soon come to an end. This closure is an opportunity for the brand to go beyond the restaurant floor and elevate the retail offerings to a premium level.
