A small boutique hotel appears to be making big plans for the next two years. Hotel Royal Oak, located at 811 E Eleven Mile Rd, recently received approval for its liquor license application and a special land use permit from Royal Oak’s planning commission. This approval signals the beginning of a major remodeling project that will add multiple bars and a diner with outside seating to the property.
According to plans submitted, the remodeling is segmented into four phases and will span from spring 2024 through fall 2024. The first phase, which includes the lobby bar lounge, is planned for April, 2024. The final phase of the project is anticipated to be completed by September, 2024, according to planning materials. The major remodeling plans to add “a lobby lounge, a lobby deck, a bar on the west wing of the property, a food service operation and liquor service,” according to owner Jim Rasor in an email to What Now Detroit.
Rasor, a longtime Royal Oak resident, a former commissioner, and a local attorney, purchased the old Royal Oak Motor Inn soon after he left office in 2014. He then transformed the motor lounge into today’s Hotel Royal Oak, a beloved boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Since the transition, the hotel has been loved by locals and travelers for its welcoming atmosphere and iconic summer concert series.
According to planning documents, the total remodeling will add 198 seats, 39 of which will be at the bars. Plans also suggest the hotel plans to offer “occasional entertainment such as a DJ or a band” and to add a dance floor “in the West Building, which will be approximately 8 feet by 12.5 feet.” Rasor stated that he is not at the place to share details regarding food and beverage options that will be available in the email. Planning records indicate the diner and the accompanying outdoor seating area is part of the second phase of remodeling, which is expected to be completed in May, 2024.
