Commission approves ownership transfer for Bistro Joe’s; sets hearings for Zena and 220 Merrill liquor license renewals

The Birmingham City Commission on Feb. 10 approved a change of ownership for the on-premises liquor operation at 34244 Woodward and moved to renew liquor licenses for most establishments, but scheduled separate public hearings for two properties after safety and crowd-control concerns.

At the start of the hearing, planning staff described the transfer as a standard ownership change that requires updating the site’s special land use permit and issuing a local approval notice for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission. Planning staff noted the bistro occupies mezzanine space above an operating market and that lines of circulation between the market and restaurant mean staff will need to guard and control access to ensure the restaurant’s fixed seating capacity is respected.

The applicant, Denny Bosanovsky, said he looked forward to operating in Birmingham and affirmed his willingness to work with city departments. “Just excited to be part of the city,” he said.

Police and fire reports and enforcement history Police and fire officials recommended extra scrutiny for Zena, a popular…