Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder, is set to open his first restaurant in Detroit, marking a significant expansion into the culinary world. This venture, named A Tu Madre, is a Mexican restaurant that promises to bring together exceptional food, art, music, and culture. The project is a collaboration between Hawk and George Azar, a renowned chef known for his work at Flowers of Vietnam in Southwest Detroit. Azar's deep reverence for Mexican cuisine and culture, coupled with his native roots in the predominantly Hispanic Southwest Detroit neighborhood, adds a layer of authenticity to the venture.
The restaurant is set to open in 2027 at The Shepherd, a Romanesque-style church turned multidisciplinary arts hub east of Indian Village. The design is being handled by McIntosh Poris Architects, a Detroit-based firm known for its work on other hospitality projects like Prime and Proper, the Detroit Foundation Hotel, and Como's. The restaurant will feature both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a terrace that overlooks a public skatepark designed by Hawk on the Shepherd grounds, creating a unique blend of dining and skateboarding culture.
This venture marks a significant shift for Hawk, who is also known for his California eatery, Chick and Hawk, which serves food typical of skate and surf culture. A Tu Madre, on the other hand, is a departure from his previous venture, focusing on Mexican cuisine and culture. The restaurant's opening is expected to further enhance Little Village's food and beverage offerings, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and skateboarders alike.
The addition of A Tu Madre to the neighborhood's culinary scene is a testament to the diverse and vibrant nature of Detroit's food culture. It also highlights the city's ability to attract renowned chefs and culinary experts, further solidifying its position as a top food destination in the United States.
