DEARBORN, Mich. – Miller’s Bar, the longtime and beloved Metro Detroit burger staple, has a new owner, officials announced Tuesday.
The family-owned pub serving hamburgers, sandwiches and sides for eight decades was purchased from the Miller family by businessman Allie Mallad, who grew up in Dearborn, according to a press release issued Tuesday, Jan. 9. The bar owners, who have been looking to retire, listed Miller’s for sale in 2021 with an initial asking price of $4 million.
The bar has been long known for its no-frills attitude, serving food without a menu, and only allowing customers to pay in cash. Patrons would pay for their meals using the honor system -- though those familiar with the spot say the waitresses are good at keeping track.
Now leaving the hands of the family, Miller’s new owner Mallad said the Metro Detroit community can expect the same operations going forward.
“We are privileged and honored to have the opportunity to continue the traditions of Miller’s Bar and the profound impact that Miller’s has had on the community,” reads a statement from Mallad. “Everyone can expect to enjoy the same atmosphere and the same exact traditions that the Miller family created, I will continue that amazing legacy.”
Mallad also reportedly purchased the shopping center property on which Miller’s Bar is located, where a beauty salon also resides. The businessman is the founder and CEO of the Massage Green Spa franchise brand, and the CEO of Lefty’s Cheesesteaks Franchising, according to his LinkedIn.
Over the last 80 years, Miller’s Bar has been recognized for serving one of the best burgers that Metro Detroit has to offer. To this day, people from all over stand by the beloved greasy cheeseburgers at Miller’s.
And while the history of the bar can’t be denied, there are some who believe the Miller’s Bar burgers shouldn’t be placed on such a pedestal anymore -- at least, that’s what some of us at Local 4 think.
Over the last few months, Local 4′s Carmichael Cruz and I, Cassidy Johncox, have been on the hunt for the absolute best burger in Metro Detroit. In our Burger Breakdown series, we’re visiting spots all over the region to taste and narrow down the best of the best.
Given its local fondness and history, our very first stop was at none-other than Miller’s Bar in Dearborn.
So, how did the restaurant fare? Click here to see for yourself -- and find all of our Burger Breakdowns here.