Empire Lounge Impresses on Grand Opening

Empire Lounge, Shelby Township's newest upscale establishment, held its grand opening on Friday.

Ron Shaba, general manager, was welcoming eager guests hours before the festivities kicked off.

"We are an entertainment venue and restaurant," said Shaba. "People can come in and enjoy a great meal. We also host any event, group, or act."

The possibilities are limitless at Empire Lounge.

"We host live entertainment, deejays, fashion shows, and hair shows," said Shaba. "And we also cater to women clientele. We offer complimentary champagne and martinis for special events such as birthday parties and bachelorette parties."

The restaurant has a full menu with a personal touch. Empire Lounge's sauces are all made from scratch and there are 21 different martinis to choose from.

People were giving Empire Lounge high marks for its grand opening night.

Veronica Chamberlian of New Haven said the wait staff was extremely nice and helpful and she loved the classy atmosphere of Empire Lounge.

She was there with her friend, Elisha Kolcan of Shelby Township.

Kolcan, a restaurant manger, said she was very impressed by how clean the place was.

"When you're in the restaurant business, it's one of the first things you look for," said Kolcan.

She also loved the lighted stairway to the upper level that changes colors.

Another customer, Deanne LaTulip of Washington Township, said she loved the decor of the place.

The co-hosts for the evening were promoter Vito Galati and celebrity Carey Torrice of Clinton Township.

Torrice, a private eye, model, actress who is currently appearing on E! Network's "Holly's World," and a former Macomb County Commissioner, was all smiles as she greeted guests.

"I love Empire Lounge," said Torrice. "It's so upscale and comfortable. I'm happy to support local, Macomb County businesses and wish them nothing but success."

For more information about Empire Lounge, visit their website or find them on Facebook.

The lounge features two floors, a VIP area, a lava bar, a dance floor, eight televisions, live music and weekly DJ nights. In addition to specialty martinis, Empire offers an array of liquor, beer and wine, serving an eclectic menu of appetizers, salads, soups, Angus steaks, seafood and more.

• Hours: Daily, noon - 2am
• Payments accepted: American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
• General services: Eat-in
• Features: Dancing, Dinner, Live Entertainment, Lunch, Private Parties
• Features: DJs, Dance floor, Live music, Private parties
• Bar type: Lounge
• Bar Specialties: Martinis
• Bar Features: Big-screen TVs