Black Pearl in Ann Arbor is Expanding into the Space Next Door

According to the story initially reported by MLive , Black Pearl , a beloved seafood restaurant and martini bar in downtown Ann Arbor, is expanding into the space next door. The restaurant hopes to open its doors in the new space by this fall or early winter.

The vacant space at 300 S. Main St . previously belonged to a Starbucks, which closed in late October last year. Black Pearl signed the lease for the space in February and is currently working on getting permits to make changes to the space, including knocking down the partition wall to connect both suites into one larger restaurant space.

Black Pearl was founded by Harry Cohen, a traveling psychologist best known for his lectures on leadership, customer service, and personal development. The establishment is currently overseen by operating owner Jake Doyal , who brings his trusted reputation as an experienced real estate agent in Washtenaw County, unforgettable friendliness, and excellent people skills to the space. Executive Chef Anthony Chavez creates the menu, and Beverage Manager Ian B. Youngs crafts the fan-favorite martinis.

The new space will have a U-shaped bar, added indoor seating, and increased carryout capacities. Doyal also told MLive that the restaurant plans to add sushi to its menu. What Now Detroit reached out to Doyal with an email request for comments but hadn’t heard back by the time of this coverage.

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