London Chop House
The London Chop House, once dubbed Detroit’s equivalent of New York City’s 21 Club, has been a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene for over eight decades, attracting business leaders, celebrities, and those seeking a refined culinary experience. Originally operating from 1938 to 1991, the restaurant underwent a significant renovation and reopened in 2012, continuing its legacy as a premier dining destination in Detroit. [1]
History
Established in the 1930s following the repeal of Prohibition, the London Chop House was founded by brothers Lester and Sam Gruber. The restaurant quickly gained prominence as a gathering place for Detroit’s elite, including business executives and visiting celebrities. [2] The Grubers cultivated a reputation for attentive service and a sophisticated atmosphere, catering to a clientele that appreciated personalized attention and a sense of exclusivity. This included providing guests with personalized matches and a coin to reimburse for their phone call upon reservation.
The restaurant’s success continued for several decades, earning accolades throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. In 1961, James Beard recognized the London Chop House as one of the ten best restaurants in the nation, and it received a Darnell Survey award as one of America’s Favorites that same year. [3] It also consistently received awards from *Holiday* magazine and was included on *Playboy’s* list of top 25 restaurants in 1980. However, the 1980s proved challenging for the establishment. Les Gruber sold the restaurant in 1982, and the departure of chef Jimmy Schmidt, coupled with the passing of the new owner, contributed to its eventual closure in 1991.
Geography
The London Chop House is located at 155 W. Congress Street in downtown Detroit, Michigan. [4] This location places it within the central business district, making it accessible to both local residents and visitors. The restaurant’s position on Congress Street is historically significant, as the area has long been a hub of commercial and cultural activity in the city.
The surrounding area features a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, reflecting Detroit’s ongoing revitalization. Proximity to theaters, hotels, and other entertainment venues contributes to the London Chop House’s appeal as a destination for a complete evening out. The restaurant’s location allows it to benefit from the increased foot traffic and economic activity in the downtown core, which has experienced significant investment in recent years.
Culture
For many years, the London Chop House represented the epitome of Detroit’s dining culture. It was known as “the restaurant of Detroit” and enjoyed recognition across the United States. [5] The atmosphere was designed to appeal to a sophisticated clientele, with a focus on providing a memorable and exclusive experience. The restaurant’s chefs, including Eddie Dobler, “Pancho” Velez, and Jimmy Schmidt, were celebrated for their preparations of local freshwater perch and whitefish, alongside classic beef dishes.
The restaurant’s attention to detail extended beyond the food, encompassing a fine wine list, expertly crafted cocktails (including absinthe), and evening entertainment. The Grubers intentionally fostered an environment that flattered the male ego, creating a sense of prestige and exclusivity for their patrons. The opening of the Caucus Club across the street in 1952 was a direct response to the increasing demand for tables at the London Chop House, demonstrating its widespread popularity. The reopening in 2012 signaled a renewed commitment to maintaining this cultural legacy and continuing to offer a high-end dining experience in Detroit.
Notable Residents
While the London Chop House did not have permanent residents in the traditional sense, it regularly hosted a clientele comprised of notable figures from various fields. Business executives frequently used the restaurant for meetings and celebrations, solidifying its reputation as a power lunch and dinner destination. Celebrities passing through Detroit also frequented the establishment, adding to its allure and prestige. [6]
The restaurant’s policy of personalizing the dining experience – providing guests with matches imprinted with their names and reimbursing them for phone calls – further contributed to its appeal among those accustomed to a certain level of attention and service. The competition for table #1 underscored the desire of prominent individuals to be seen at the London Chop House, reinforcing its status as a symbol of success and influence within the Detroit community and beyond. While specific names of regular patrons are not widely publicized, the restaurant’s history suggests a consistent stream of influential individuals who contributed to its vibrant atmosphere.
Attractions
Beyond its reputation for exceptional cuisine and service, the London Chop House offered several attractions that contributed to its popularity. The bar was known for its extensive wine list and creative cocktail offerings, including the availability of absinthe, a spirit not commonly found in many establishments at the time. [7] Evening entertainment further enhanced the dining experience, providing guests with a complete evening out.
The restaurant’s ambiance, characterized by sophisticated décor and attentive service, was a significant draw in itself. The personalized touches, such as the imprinted matches and phone call reimbursement, created a sense of exclusivity and made diners feel valued. The presence of renowned chefs like Eddie Dobler, “Pancho” Velez, and Jimmy Schmidt also attracted food enthusiasts seeking innovative and expertly prepared dishes. The reopening in 2012 maintained these attractions while incorporating modern updates to appeal to a contemporary audience.