Revere’s to become Fat Daddy’s

Source: Oxford Eccentric On Monday, Matt Misenar, executive chef for the new venture Fat Daddy’s Restaurant, confirmed the sale of the building that formerly housed Revere’s Lounge, a Mexican-American restaurant in Oxford Township for 20 years.

Misenar said the building, at 1076 S. Lapeer Road, was purchased by partners David Iselli and Randy Smith on Feb. 28 from Revere’s owner Larry Laidler. The business continued to run as Revere’s until it closed a month later for renovations.

Laidler could not be reached for comment, but Misenar said he stated his reason for closing was “retirement. He opened it in 1972 and ran it for nearly 30 years. He was the single owner. He was done with it,” Misenar said.

Fat Daddy’s promises diners an upscale menu, with classic Michigan cuisine, like grouse, pheasant and other wild game, as well as braised items like barbecue ribs. Misenar said it will be family-oriented with steaks, burgers, pastas and a home-style menu. Dinner entrees will range from $10 to $20.

Aug. 1 is the “projected date” for the new restaurant to open, Misenar said. By that time, renovations are expected to be completed, which include letting in more natural light with the addition of windows along the sides and front. Misenar said the interior will be completely gutted. “On the inside, it’s going to be a brand new place,” he said. No outdoor expansion to the building or parking is planned.

Fat Daddy’s will continue the bar service, he added. The liquor license was contingent with the sale of the business. It took almost a year to clinch the deal. “They (Iselli and Smith) didn’t want to buy it unless the license was transferred,” Misenar said.

Township Clerk Clara Sanderson confirmed council recommended approval of the liquor license transfer Nov. 22, 2000.

Misenar is looking forward to being head chef at Fat Daddy’s. Currently, he has been sous chef at Orchard Lake Country Club for the past four years. He trained under Iselli and Smith, both executive chefs, while attending Oakland Community College’s culinary arts apprenticeship program.

Iselli and Smith head their respective culinary staffs, at Orchard Lake Country Club and Paint Creek Country Club in Orion Township. “They both apprenticed uner Chef Milos (Cihelka) at the Golden Mushroom in Southfield, years ago,” Misenar said, noting Cihelka’s fame (He’s now retired, a restaurant spokesperson said.). “He was the first certified master chef in America.”

Misenar also participated in the 1996 Culinary Olympics in Germany, taking two silver medals for the Michigan Culinary Team.

He indicated all that combined experience is the recipe for a successful restaurant.

“What we’re going to do is make this a homestyle place, but we’re going to bring that culinary touch... We’re going to bring country club quality, but without demanding the high price for it,” he said.

Misenar said diners will feast on $40-a-plate entrees for half or less the price.

Fat Daddy’s will start out with lunch and dinner. As business progresses, “We may open a fancy Saturday or Sunday breakfast,” Misenar said. “Not eggs and hash browns. There’s enough Coneys in this town. But that’s just something on the back burner.”
Source: Oxford Eccentric