Council approves transfer of Class C liquor license for Ryan Road restaurant; new owner plans Middle Eastern full-service restaurant and banquet facility

The Sterling Heights City Council approved the transfer of a 2024 Class C liquor license (including Sunday sales, dance/entertainment and extended-hours permits) for a Ryan Road business to Bella and Mana Inc., which plans to operate the site as El Shuruk restaurant.

The application was moved and supported by council and passed with no recorded opposition. The petitioner (identified as Mr. Savaya in council remarks) told council the restaurant will offer full dinners and lunches with a primarily Middle Eastern menu and will continue to host family events and parties. "We have a lot of food, but mostly it's, like, Middle Eastern food," the applicant said during a brief Q&A.

Council members asked about the owner's experience in establishments that sell alcohol, state approval of the transfer and banquet/dance operations. The applicant said he had prior experience working in a liquor store and had completed training on alcohol service; he also confirmed the state-level transfer had been approved. Councilmember Schmidt noted the applicant had not submitted a sample menu to the city staff but the owner said the menu will offer full meals.

Council members discussed neighborhood concerns for the site and stressed that the city will monitor compliance with state and local rules. Councilmember Radke said city staff will watch for compliance and that the council retains authority to take action if violations occur. The transfer was approved by voice vote and no conditions were added at the meeting.