Independence Twp.– The Nickelodeon is almost finished with its transformation.
Last October, the restaurant at 10081 Ortonville Road began getting a new look.The outer facade was torn away. New pastel-colored exterior walls appeared. An outdoor patio area to seat 40 was added.
Inside, more renovations took place. New booths with floral fabric have been added. Brick in the atrium has been cleaned and stained. A fountain is new. Floors have been replaced and wood has been refinished. The stone and brick on the fireplace in the main dining room has been redone.
The name has even been embellished. The restaurant will now be known as the Nickelodeon Bistro Bar & Grill.
However, some of the old restaurant and its charm remains.
‘We tried to mix old and new,? says Peter Berishaj, who is co-owner with wife Ann. ‘We have a lot of antiques.?
Berishaj notes that all the construction was a lot of work and says it may have been easier to start from the ground up. But after nine months, it is almost done.
Berishaj is planning to open the Nickelodeon around August 1, offering Italian and American fine cuisine.
The menu offerings include not only Italian dishes like chicken picatta, chicken vesuvio, lobster ravioli, and several veal dishes, but steaks and seafood, including grilled salmon and ahi tuna. Pizza is available and specialty toppings can be ordered, including shrimp, lobster and crawfish. Other menu listings include shrimp and buffalo wings appetizers; salads; sandwiches and burgers; and desserts such as cheesecake, tiramisu, and spumoni. A kid’s menu is also available. Carry-out for all listings is offered.
‘We’re concentrating on the food,? said Berishaj, who has hired three chefs. ‘The food will be excellent. I may not know how to cook all of it myself, but I know how to taste it.?
Berishaj has previously owned five restaurants, including the Troy Cafe, Deputy Dog, and the Village Cafe in Clarkston.
The Nickelodeon is intended for families who want a cozy, friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices, says Berishaj.
‘Your wish is our command.?
The Nickelodeon Bistro Bar & Grill will be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to a time yet to be determined. For more information, call (248) 625-9550.