Mike’s Famous Ham Place on Detroit’s west side is being sold after 50 years

DETROIT – Mike’s Famous Ham Place, a beloved one Detroit institution at Michigan Avenue and West Grand Boulevard, has been sold, but the new owners promise to keep everything the same.

Known for its hearty ham dishes, thick soups and pickle sandwiches, the restaurant has been a fixture in the community since 1961, first as Lile’s and then as Mike’s Famous Ham Place when Sadiq “Mike” Muftari took over in 1974.

After nearly 50 years of running the cash-only restaurant, “Mike,” affectionately known as “Junior” by regulars, has decided it is time to retire.

“It’s been the same menu for 50 years, and it’s still current,” said one regular.

But fans of Mike’s can rest easy knowing that the new owners, Kimberly and John Lambert, plan to maintain the restaurant’s time-honored traditions.

Longtime customers themselves, the Lamberts strive to maintain the staples that have made Mike’s Famous Ham Place a local treasure.

“We can’t change the soup and the ham,” Kimberly said. “A bunch of regulars said you should make it like this. “(John) made that soup, so it was perfect.”

While the menu will remain largely untouched, the Lamberts plan to add some modern touches, including catering services, credit card payment options and a touch of nostalgia: a cheesecake recipe from John’s grandmother.

“Our photographer even got a taste of it and was speechless,” said Erika Erickson.

With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Mike’s Famous Ham Place has become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Some customers even come straight from the airport.

“They’ll say, ‘I just got off the plane and this is my first stop,’” Kimberly said.

However, Mike and his wife won’t go far. They plan to help during the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons and promise to stop by often to check in.

“I wish the new owners the best – and make no mistakes!” he said laughing.