Ren Cen Marriott opens new lobby bar, hopes to lure Detroiters

Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center has debuted a new lobby bar called Volt.

Featuring contemporary decor, wireless access and a fresh food selection, the Marriott hopes to appeal to both hotel guests and downtown Detroiters; liquor and wine tastings will be scheduled to broaden the bar's attraction to local residents. "We want to start involving the community," says sales manager Kelly Herbert.

The bar's name and decor is inspired by the Chevy Volt, General Motors' extended-range electric vehicle that will be available in 2010. "The decor is more of a hip, chic kind of communal lobby," says Herbert.

Food ranges from sandwiches and burgers to walleye, meatloaf and salmon ranging from about $10 to $30. An outdoor patio with sweeping river views will open in warmer weather.

The Ren Cen Marriott recently completed a significant upgrade to its guest rooms. Next up is the completion of two board rooms, a lobby expansion and the relocation of its corner market.

Source: Kelly Herbert, Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh

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