New concepts feature a mix of local and national brands, including 7greens, Cask & Craft, Wahlburgers and Dunkin’
DETROIT (July 23, 2024) – Delaware North, a global hospitality and entertainment company, today announced it has been selected to operate four new foodservice outlets – a mix of Detroit-based concepts and national brands – at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).
The award for the new business will expand Delaware North’s onsite presence, which since 2012 has included foodservice and retail operations at the airport.
“We’re thrilled to broaden our footprint in Detroit alongside our new and longstanding partners,” said Scott Socha, a group president for Delaware North who oversees the company’s travel division. “These new concepts underscore our dedication to providing an exceptional guest-centric experience while highlighting the remarkable local talent and the rich, diverse culture of Detroit’s business and culinary scene.”
The new locations were approved by the Wayne County Airport Authority Board of Directors following a competitive bidding process. A timeline for implementation will be announced soon.
Included in Delaware North’s DTW program are the following concepts:
- 7greens: A health-forward café that’s born and raised in the Motor City. Founded by Michigan native Kelly Schaefer, 7greens is focused on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and chef-inspired recipes.
“Witnessing the city’s revival, I knew I had to contribute, and I envisioned offering fresh, healthy food to fuel the soul,” Schaefer said. “As a female chef and entrepreneur, I’m proud to lead 7greens – a company empowering and investing in women in the culinary industry.”
- Wahlburgers: A crave-worthy burger shop owned by the Wahlberg brothers, Wahlburgers is known for its elevated, chef-driven burgers that blend national recognition with a strong local community connection.
Mark Wahlberg, an actor, producer and co-owner of Wahlburgers, said: “Detroit is like a second home to me. I have countless memories, from filming Transformers to launching several business ventures. The city’s warm welcome and vibrant atmosphere have always been close to my heart. Joining the DTW airport is an incredible honor, allowing us to share our signature burgers and uphold our brand pillars of great food, shared experiences and community giving. We can’t wait to bring a taste of our family-inspired recipes to DTW airport!”
- Cask & Craft Local Spirits + Bites: An exciting beverage-focused concept featuring Detroit’s two most renowned distilleries. With the power duo of Valentine Distilling Co. and Detroit City Distillery leading the way, Cask & Craft will offer DTW travelers an experiential and beverage-forward experience.
“Nearly two decades ago, I founded Valentine Distilling with a mission: to bring manufacturing back to Detroit and showcase the world-class quality our city produces,” said Rifino Valentine of Valentine Distilling. “Operating at DTW alongside Delaware North aligns perfectly with that vision.”
“We already experience the pride radiating throughout Eastern Market – the heart and soul of Detroit,” said J.P. Jerome of Detroit City Distillery. “Every passionate employee, every dedicated neighbor, every loyal fan – their faces beaming as they see our homegrown brand gracing the DTW halls. It won’t just be a bar; it will be a piece of Detroit’s spirit, welcoming travelers with a taste of our city’s resilience and innovation. This opportunity isn’t just about business; it’s about sharing a story of community, rebirth and the unwavering spirit of Detroit with the world.”
- Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar and Great Lakes Coffee Roasting: Showcasing the best of Detroit’s food and beverage scene, Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar features retail items from local retailer Born in Detroit and is co-branded with the quality-focused Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company. Inspired by the grit and passion of the 313, this venue celebrates Detroit’s unique culinary culture.
“Having a presence at DTW isn’t just about selling clothes and serving drinks; it’s about showcasing Detroit to the world,” said Anthony Tomey of Born in Detroit and 8 Mile Vodka. “I started Born in Detroit because this city is more than just a place; it’s a feeling, a hustle, a heart. We wanted to create clothes that captured that spirit, that let people wear their Detroit pride on their sleeve. This is our chance to tell the story of our city through everything we offer, to welcome visitors with a taste of Detroit’s energy, and to give Detroiters a place to share their city’s soul with everyone who passes through.”
“The opportunity for our Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company to be featured at DTW, and to represent the vibrant coffee culture of the local and regional community, is an overwhelming honor for us,” said Greg Miracle of Great Lakes Coffee. “It is the capstone to 30 years of hard work, sacrifice and forward-looking vision.”
- Dunkin’: Dunkin’ will be managed by The OM Group, Delaware North’s local subtenant partner, which is the largest and fastest growing Dunkin’/Baskin Robbins franchisee network in Michigan.
“We have long dreamt of bringing our Dunkin’ Donuts franchise to DTW Airport. We are confident that our passion and dedication will translate into a thriving Dunkin’ experience for travelers at DTW,” said Amit Patel, Kalpesh Patel and Amanda Ristic of The OM Group.
Cask & Craft Local Spirits + Bites, Wahlburgers and 7greens will be located on Concourse A. Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar will be located on Concourse B. Dunkin’ will be located at pre-security baggage claim.
Fay and Mohamad (Moe) Dabaja, owners of Baba’s Grill in Detroit, are Delaware North’s ACDBE (Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) joint-venture partners on most new concepts.
“Our family’s story is woven into the fabric of Detroit,” the Dabajas said. “We arrived here with dreams, starting as line cooks, then building a restaurant that nourished our community. Now, the chance to share our vision and our flavors with travelers from around the world at DTW is an incredible honor. It’s a testament to the power of hard work and the welcoming spirit of Detroit. We believe our cuisine is more than just food; it’s a bridge between cultures, a taste of our heritage and a celebration of the American dream.”