Braised to Open in the Former Maria’s Roman Room

A new steakhouse is opening in Lakewood in the former space of the Maria’s Roman Room.

Braised, a concept offering a variety of high-end steaks and pork, is expected to open within the next few months.

This is owner Paul Colletti’s second restaurant concept. His first is Brickhouse, a popular bar and grill in Cleveland’s Slavic Village neighborhood.

Colletti has pulled demolition permits from the city to build-out the interior.

Dru Siley, the city’s director of planning and development, said the new owners are going to put  "some serious money into the space."

Expect some new signage and awnings, but Siley said most of the work is taking place on the inside of the building.

“Maria’s was an institution and it was unfortunate that it closed,” he said. “(The new owner) has a good idea and a good concept for the Maria’s space. In the next three to four months, we’re going to see a nice new bright spot on the East End.”

According to LoveLakewood.com, Maria Bastulli operated Maria’s Roman Room for 44 years before selling it in early 2005 to Leonard and Olga Fink. Ownership transferred again in late 2008.

The restaurant closed in 2009, and, other than the temporary field office for the Obama campaign last year, had been vacant since.

“It’s a great investment in the East End of Detroit and it’s going to be a big deal for the community,” said Bryce Sylvester, a city planner in the planning and development department. 

“The work will be high-quality and high class.”