Former Rocket Cos. CEO Jay Farner to Open Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery

The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery is scheduled to open by year’s end in historic Franklin Village at the site of the former Franklin Grill at 32760 Franklin Road. The new owner is Jay Farner, managing partner of Ronin Capital Partners in Detroit.

Farner, former vice chairman and CEO of Rockets Cos. in Detroit, acquired the property earlier this year and is now leading the renovation of what was originally a carriage house built in 1848.

Once completed, the redesign will honor the building’s history while blending Charleston’s coastal dining experience with Napa Valley’s ambiance.

The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery, nicknamed “The Franklin,” is led by Executive Chef Nick Geftos, who also serves as executive chef of BESA Detroit, an award-winning restaurant and another Ronin Capital Partners investment.

The original settlers of Franklin often came from New England, where oysters were commonly enjoyed. By the mid 1800s, shucked oysters were packed in ice and shipped to Detroit by rail or steamboat. The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery pays homage to the oyster suppers the villagers held.

“In addition to grabbing a seat for perfectly shucked oysters at the raw bar, The Franklin will offer guests a variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as steaks and a delicious burger,” says Geftos. “Our elevated weekend brunch will pair classic breakfast favorites and an endless stream of mimosas, bloody marys, and cocktails of your choice.”

The menu will focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients as well as a curated selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails.

The Franklin’s indoor dining space will seat around 100 guests. The main dining room will house two bars, one for hand crafted cocktails and the other featuring freshly shucked oysters.

An upstairs space will be available for regular dining as well as private events.

“Our beautiful outdoor patio and all-season pavilion will offer guests additional seating,” says Farner. “Whether you’re stopping by for a relaxed dinner, a lively weekend brunch, or a special celebration, The Franklin promises to be the go-to destination.”

Farner also has acquired the neighboring building at 32750 Franklin. This space is set to be transformed into a grab-and-go café, offering coffee, pastries, salads, charcuterie, sandwiches, and flatbreads.

The café will share a back patio with The Franklin Oyster Bar & Eatery, creating a seamless connection between the two venues.

The café’s name will be announced soon and be overseen by award-winning Pastry Chef Christine Anschuetz.

For more information, visit https://www.thefranklinmi.com .

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