VOL 26 ISSUE 25, June 23, 2025
Main caption: June 17 marked the grand opening of Delaware North’s latest Travel outlet at Detroit Metro Airport (DTW): Cask & Craft, a beverage-forward concept with two local brand partners. Pictured at the ribbon-cutting event are (from left to right) Pia McDonough, general manager for Delaware North at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport; James Clarke, vice president of human resources; Chris Chila, vice president of operations for Travel; Jamie Wright and J.P Jerome, co-owners of Detroit City Distillery; Lando Jerdine, general manager for Delaware North at DTW; Rifino Valentine, president and founder of Valentine Distilling Co.; Jason Rickoff, vice president of business development for Delaware North; Adam Dabaja, ACDBE partner; and Jack Potter, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
Delaware North Travel’s latest concept at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport celebrated its grand opening on June 17.
Cask & Craft Local Spirits + Bites, an exciting, beverage-forward experience developed in collaboration with two renowned local partners, Valentine Distilling Co. and Detroit City Distillery, is sure to become a favorite among travelers.
Located near Gate A63, Cask & Craft offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy a taste of Detroit’s vibrant craft beverage scene right within the airport. The menu features a curated selection of craft cocktails, beers, spirits and delicious food items, all created with the finest ingredients and inspired by the rich heritage of Detroit’s distilling and brewing traditions.
“We are thrilled to bring Cask & Craft to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport,” said Chris Chila, vice president of operations for Delaware North Travel. “This collaboration with Valentine Distilling and Detroit City Distillery allows us to showcase the exceptional quality and creativity of Detroit’s local beverage artisans. We believe travelers will appreciate the opportunity to experience these unique flavors and enjoy a relaxing and memorable dining experience before their flights.”
Valentine Distilling, known for its award-winning spirits, and Detroit City Distillery, celebrated for its handcrafted small-batch spirits, have both played integral roles in developing the distinctive offerings at Cask & Craft. Guests can look forward to enjoying signature cocktails such as the “Detroit Bloody Mary” and the “Paper Plane,” as well as a variety of locally brewed craft beers and expertly distilled spirits.
“Travelers from around the world will now be able to experience the best Detroit-made spirits,” said J.P. Jerome, master distiller and co-owner of Detroit City Distillery. “Cask & Craft’s offerings are a wonderful way for visitors and travelers to get a taste of Michigan, whether they are returning home after a long journey, visiting to see friends and family or just passing through.”
The grand opening celebration, attended by local partners, Delaware North’s ACDBE (Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) partner and WCAA employees, was covered by Crain’s Business Detroit and Airport Experience News.
In addition to its impressive beverage selection, Cask & Craft also offers a diverse menu of light food options designed to complement the drink offerings. From gourmet shared plates to salads, sandwiches and breakfast items, the menu is crafted to provide a satisfying dining experience for all travelers.
Cask & Craft is just the start of Delaware North’s new openings at DTW this year. Next up are 7greens, Wahlburgers, Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar, Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. and Dunkin’.