DETROIT –
The colorful, cool and comfortable ambiance hits you instantly upon entering Wah-hoo, making the new Chinese/Asian style restaurant in Detroit's downtown already feel like a hot spot. There's a solid wood, wrap-around cocktail bar and a busy sushi bar, touches of art deco in the sconces and ceiling fans that remind you you're in the city that made the fabulous cars of yesteryear.
Wah-hoo is the latest restaurant venture of Nico Gatzaros of Fishbone's fame. The stylish restaurant features an extensive sushi menu, as well as a full complement of familiar Chinese dishes (Chef Feng, who rules the kitchen, had been the sushi chef at Fishbone's).
Wah-hoo does a brisk lunch business – and even after work, professionals congregate to dine, chat and, of course, drink. On weeknights, most of the accountants and bankers from the nearby financial district give way to whatever event-based crowd is in town that night, and on Fridays and Saturdays Wah-hoo remains open until 1 a.m.
The menu is extensive, with appetizers including pork-stuffed potstickers, chicken skewers, fried won-tons and several shrimp choices. You won't go hungry with the generous dinner servings, and there's something for everyone in the large menu divided into themes: Garden, Sky, Ocean and Land. Many of the dishes are the classic Chinese fare, with some features spicy enough to require a quick sip of sake.
Wah-hoo is located at 536 Shelby St., right across from Cobo Hall and is just a quick walk from the People Mover. For more information, call 313-324-8700 or visit the restaurant's Facebook page.
