Dominick's lays groundwork for expansion plans

Wednesday, July 22, 2009 | Source: Concentrate

One of Ann Arbor's longtime institutions is gearing up for what could shape up to be some significant changes.

Casa Dominick's, a popular local drinking institution for students and townies, is jumping through the hoops for a PUD (planned unit development) approval. It was approved by the City Planning Commission Tuesday and will go before the City Council later this summer or in the fall.

Dominick's, famous for its sangria, is located across Monroe Street from the University of Michigan Law Quad since Dominick DeVarti opened it in 1960. The PUD also includes two adjacent houses that are currently student rentals. The PUD calls for the options of expanding the restaurant, creating apartments, offices or even a bed & breakfast.

"We don't really have any plans for renovation at this time," says Matthew Krichbaum, an attorney representing Dominick's. "The city said give us your 50-year vision."

What could be in the relatively near future is expanding the second-floor deck in back that overlooks the garden. Another possibility is expanding the restaurant into the rental house at the corner of Monroe and Oakland Avenue.

"The design will fit in with the character of the neighborhood," Krichbaum says.

Source: Matthew Krichbaum, an attorney representing Casa Dominick's
Writer: Jon Zemke