The original location of the first Ima, pre patio expansion. This building is now host to Summertown Fresh Bar.
Heartfelt Hospitality.
Launched in 2015 with their first location ‘Ima’ (pronounced ee-ma) in Corktown, EightyAte Hospitality has become one of Detroit’s most-dynamic hospitality groups and a culinary force: boasting four distinct concepts across five prime locations in the Metro Detroit area. Specializing in Japanese-inspired cuisine, Chef Mike Ransom employed his French culinary background to create a gastronomic odyssey; weaving traditional Japanese flavors with local ingredients and in turn, redefining Detroit's dining landscape. It was in this first Ima kitchen that “Detroit Style Noodles” were first created with udon noodles, fresh vegetables and pork-free broths.
The overwhelming success of their food-truck sized first location, launched a second ‘Ima’ in the nearby suburb of Madison Heights, allowing for easier access to the communities outside of the city. The larger space enabled the addition of ramen which subsequently earned Ima the title of ‘Restaurant of the Year’ by the ‘Detroit Free Press’ in 2019.
In 2015, Ima Corktown’s main dining room only had bar seating or communal tables.
As success burgeoned, ‘Ima’ expanded to a third location in Midtown, Detroit, in the heart of Wayne State University, bringing the addition of crispy chicken and tofu sandwiches to the menu. The sandwiches became so popular, they inspired SuperCrisp; a fun, bright and playful restaurant that transformed the classic American burger shop with Ima’s bold, unique flavors and a nod to Japanese cuisine. At SuperCrisp, Ima’s sought-after fried sandwiches expanded beyond chicken to fried fish and an exciting menu of burgers, wagyu hot dogs, wings, snacks, fries and a large vegetarian and halal menu.
Ima Corktown’s doubled the capacity expanded the patio and
Outgrowing it’s original shoebox space, in 2022, Ima Corktown relocated one block down historic Michigan Avenue and reopened under the name ‘Ima Izakaya.’ The large, new space features a full bar, raw bar, house made dumplings, entrees, a robota grill and heated outdoor patio.
The first Ima location then transformed into ‘Summertown Fresh Bar,’ a community-centric cafe featuring energizing smoothies, fresh fruit and veggie juices, teas, signature coffees, soups, savory snacks and desserts.
Understanding the needs of the Corktown community, ‘Summertown’ is also a market which sells a curated selection of packaged snacks and picnic food as well as a large offering of unique non-alcoholic beverages and a select list of beer, wine and sake. A neighborhood hangout for people of all ages, ‘Summertown’ often hosts pop-up vendor fairs and live dj music events.
EightyAte’s commitment to a healthy Metro-Detroit community extends beyond the kitchen, manifesting in thoughtfully designed spaces that immerse patrons in an abundance of live plants and eclectic music to create an ambiance reflective of Detroit’s rich music history.
With a keen understanding of Detroit's pulse, EightyAte has strategically positioned its concepts in key neighborhoods, contributing not only to the culinary scene but also to the vibrancy and unique character of each neighborhood. Their growth is a testament to the communities’ appetite for thoughtfully crafted cuisine in an approachable atmosphere; a captivating combination for Detroit’s diners.
In just 8 years, EightyAte Hospitality has evolved from a single vision to a cohesive family of brands. The underlying secret to EightyAte’s success is their team of talented professionals that are committed to heartfelt hospitality.