Former Mayor & NBA Legend Kevin Johnson Opens Newest Fixins Soul Kitchen in Detroit’s Paradise Valley
Kevin Johnson, former NBA All-Star and the first Black mayor of Sacramento, California, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the newest location of his soul food restaurant chain, Fixins Soul Kitchen, in the heart of Detroit. After facing construction delays and supply chain challenges, the highly anticipated Detroit outpost opens today at 1435 Randolph Street in the historic Paradise Valley Cultural and Entertainment District.
Fixins Soul Kitchen, founded in 2019 by Johnson and his wife, Michelle, has quickly become renowned for its made-from-scratch soul food dishes, offering a blend of accessibility, affordability, and family tradition. The Detroit location marks the fourth installment in the Fixins chain, joining existing restaurants in Los Angeles, Sacramento, California, and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Today’s opening started with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m., followed by the restaurant opening for business. In the evening, a red-carpet VIP event will be held in a soon-to-be-launched lounge adjacent to the main dining space.
A Celebration of Soul Food and Culture
Johnson describes Fixins’ menu as a celebration of soul food, featuring family-favorite recipes passed down through generations. Highlights include their signature fried chicken, which undergoes a 24-hour brine soak before frying, resulting in a perfectly seasoned, juicy dish with a hint of spice. The menu also offers a variety of traditional soul food dishes such as shrimp and grits, gumbo, and oxtails with sweet brown gravy.
Side dishes like collard greens with smoked turkey necks and creamy mac and cheese complement the hearty main courses, while desserts like peach cobbler and banana pudding provide the perfect sweet finish. A full-service bar featuring beverages and spirits from predominantly Black-owned businesses, including Uncle Nearest Whiskey, further enhances the dining experience.
A Nod to Motown and Detroit’s Rich History
The 8,000-square-foot Detroit restaurant is Fixins’ largest location to date and is designed to reflect the cultural heritage of the city. The interior pays homage to Detroit’s legendary Motown era, with walls adorned with artifacts and photographs of musical icons such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Aretha Franklin. The spacious dining area, featuring exposed brick and nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, can accommodate over 200 guests. Additionally, a separate speakeasy-style room with seating for 100 offers a more intimate setting for private dining and events.
“We are also paying tribute beyond Motown, honoring the musicians, the athletes, and other folks from Detroit who have made significant contributions to the city and the nation,” Johnson said.
The choice of Detroit’s Paradise Valley for the new location is deeply symbolic. Once a thriving district of African American business and entertainment, Paradise Valley holds a special place in the city’s history, much like the area of Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Fixins’ third location resides. Johnson is passionate about opening Fixins in historical Black communities, building on their rich heritage.
A Commitment to Community
Johnson’s vision for Fixins extends beyond food; it’s about celebrating community, culture, and heritage. A portion of the proceeds from the restaurant’s first day will be donated to support the Motown Museum, underscoring Johnson’s commitment to giving back to the community.
“We’ve made a significant financial investment in this project, and we’re excited to be part of Detroit’s resurgence,” Johnson said. “Building on the history of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley, we’re strategically located to do something special in this community.”
With Fixins Soul Kitchen, Kevin Johnson brings not only his passion for soul food but also his dedication to honoring and uplifting the communities in which his restaurants reside. As Detroit continues its revitalization, Fixins is poised to become a cornerstone of the Paradise Valley district, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of soul food infused with love and history.
Fixins Soul Kitchen
1435 Randolph St., Detroit
fixinssoulkitchen.com
