Michael Satterfield
Odds are that you have never heard of the Vinsetta Garage, but this old building on Woodward Avenue just outside of Detroit holds the distinction of being one of the oldest garages east of the Mississippi. For 91 years the garage has repaired all manner of cars from the dawn of the automobile to the current model. In 2010 the building’s life as a garage ended when the owner closed the business and placed the building up for sale. The shop had long been a favorite stop for car enthusiasts who took part in the Woodward Dream Cruise since its classic look made a great backdrop for any photo of a classic car.
The future looked pretty bleak until a group of investors decided to re-purpose the space, keeping its classic automotive charm, and turning it into a world-class restaurant that would keep the historically significant building a part of the community for years to come. The restaurant still has the feel of an old auto shop, with recycled industrial furniture, tool chests, and even a vintage Dragster.
The space is amazing and we hope more people will see the value in preserving unique automotive-related buildings.
If you are in Detroit be sure to swing by and check it out. CLICK HERE for the Visnetta Garage official website.
Photos © Joe Vaughn
