The History of 220The “Old Detroit Edison” Building which houses 220 and Edison’s was built in 1932. It was erected by Detroit Edison to be their offices for the northern suburbs. At one time, Edison actually had 72 customer offices located throughout the 13 counties in Southeastern Michigan. From this time until 1975, customers of Detroit Edison could drop off small appliances for repair, exchange burned out light bulbs for new ones ~ for free ~ or pay their electric bill at the counter which was located where 220's bar stands today. Management changes, new Public Service Commission rules and a class action suit all contributed to the customer service changes that occurred in the seventies. Finally, under economic pressure, Edison decided to sell the building to a group of developers and move to smaller quarters just two blocks away on Merrill Street. By that time, the government had forced Edison to start charging for their light bulbs. The developers determined that the main level was perfect to house a restaurant, and since Birmingham had recently passed a law allowing liquor by the glass for the first time, one of the first full service restaurants in the city was born. Herb and Carolyn Schmid, of the popular Schmid Haus in Warren, opened their German-American theme restaurant in August of 1979 to large crowds. The design was done by Ron Rea, who chose to keep the original paneling and the marble slate floor in the bar area, along with scrolled ceiling trim from when the building was originally built. 220 Merrill Street Restaurant operated as a local gathering place for many people over the next 15 years. In the fall of 1993, Herb and Carolyn decided to retire and sold the restaurant to your current owners. The popularity of the restaurant over the years caused it to be nicknamed simply “220" and so the name was shortened to reflect what everyone called it anyway. Again, Ron Rea was hired to refurbish the space and this time he played up the 1930's retro theme, with antique chandeliers, (one from the old Palm Theater) mixed up light bulbs and a light bulb theme paying homage to the exposed filament bulb Edison produced years earlier. These bulbs are used generously in the antique chandeliers hanging over the bar and Thomas Edison’s portrait greets guests as they arrive in the front lobby. The 3 month refurbishing led to the grand opening on July 1, 1994, with an American-Italian theme specializing in pasta, veal, seafood and steaks, serving lunch and dinner 6 days a week. 220 enjoys the benefits of its downtown location and the long bar still welcomes many locals meeting family and friends in a casual and friendly atmosphere. In 1996, Ron was again called upon to design a small jazz bar for the space in the lower level, named Edison's for obvious reasons. Opened in March 1997, Edison's features live entertainment & dancing to everything from classic rock to rythm & blues. Dining offerings include everything from 220's menu. Edison's features premium liquors, such as single malt scotches and chilled vodkas as well as superior champagnes and wines by the glass. Check out our varied selection of craft & imported beer. Edison’s is also available for private parties Sunday through Wednesday. We look forward to welcoming you to 220 & Edison's. Judi Roberts, Frank Tillman, and Herb Abrash |
