Joe Giacomino and John Vermiglio discuss Detroit's culinary evolution

Join chefs and restaurateurs Joe Giacomino and John Vermiglio as they share their remarkable journey transforming Detroit's dining scene. Since opening Grey Ghost in 2016 as just the second destination chef-driven restaurant in the city, these Chicago-trained culinary partners have witnessed—and helped drive—an extraordinary urban revival.

From navigating a dangerous street where early guests faced armed robberies to thriving in today's vibrant, walkable Brush Park neighborhood, Joe and John offer a front-row perspective on Detroit's ongoing transformation. Discover how they've expanded their restaurant empire to include a beer-and-shots bar, the Izakaya-style Basan, and Little Ghost burger joint in Ferndale, all while staying true to their culinary vision.

In this episode of Menu Talk, hear candid insights about their career paths, the challenges of pioneering in an emerging food city, and what it takes to build multiple successful concepts in one of America's most dynamic comeback stories.

Menu Talk is a collaboration between Restaurant Business Senior Menu Editor Pat Cobe and Bret Thorn, Senior Food & Beverage Editor of Nation's Restaurant News.