Foran's Grand Trunk opens up to Woodward with new facade, adds breakfast and brunch to menu

Foran's Irish Pub is now Foran's Grand Trunk -- in homage to its history as a Grand Trunk ticket office -- but that's not the only change in store for the venerable downtown establishment.

Its new facade is under construction, featuring wood-clad door-style windows that open up to Woodward as well as copper-sheathed transom windows. "There's going to be a lot more light," says owner Tim Tharpe. A new outdoor patio will also add al fresco drinking and dining to the mix.

When work is complete, Tharpe will submit paperwork to the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. for its facade improvement program, which will reimburse the business 50 percent of the cost of the work.

Foran's Grand Trunk has also expanded its menu to include breakfast four days a week and Sunday brunch. The simple menu includes a variety of eggs Benedict, Grand Marnier French toast, thick-cut bacon and fresh fruit parfait.

Hours of service are Wednesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. In an effort to be family-friendly, Sunday brunches are smoke-free.

Additional weekend specials include live jazz and steep discounts on beer, bloody Marys and mimosas. "It pays to drink early," says Tharpe.

Source: Tim Tharpe, Foran's Grand Trunk
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh

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