Maple Leaf Restaurant Closes after 14 years in Troy

MAPLE LEAF 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY ARTICLE--April, 2012

It started with a dream and a passion. Mario Gjetaj immigrated to the United States from Kosovo in 1989, with his wife Roza and young son Eddie. They settled in Farmington Hills near relatives, and worked in the restaurant business for the next 22 years, at notable local fixtures such as Onassis Coney in Ferndale, L George’s Coney in Detroit and Superior Coney also in Detroit. “It came time for me to venture out on my own,” said Gjetaj, “To stretch my skills and start a business for my family.” His quest for a home for his business led him to Troy in April of 2011, and now Maple Leaf Family Restaurant proudly celebrates its 1 year anniversary.

“The Maple Leaf location (110 W. Maple Rd. at Livernois in Troy) has been perfect for us. Troy has so many wonderful people who we are blessed to now call friends---the city has been unbelievably good to us; we now have loyal customers coming from Clawson, Royal Oak and Birmingham and feel our family has become part of the local family,” continued Gjetaj.

Wife Roza embodies the word “hospitality” and warmly greets and attends to every customer who arrives—many now by name. Son Eddie (a recent Oakland University graduate), also works at the restaurant as lead chef and cook, maintaining quality control behind the counter and coming up with new and unique recipes. Younger son Alban currently attends U of M and works with his brother at Maple Leaf on weekends. And waitresses Destiny, Eda, Emina, Linda, Alyssa and Emily ensure your glass or cup is never empty and you always have everything you need.

It’s not just about friendly service, though, and Maple Leaf is committed to serving high quality home-made cuisine. “We have a solid menu of tried-and-true offerings to please our diverse clientele, and over the years, we have learned what works and what doesn’t,” said Eddie. This includes his signature strawberry pancakes and crepes (pictured) that have become a legendary customer favorite, flying off the menu every time they are listed.

Other menu highlights include pastas from scratch with all sauces made to order, familiar classic Coney entrée items, breakfasts, wonderful home-made soups (different for each day), and a vegetarian menu. “We stay current with trends by searching the internet for new recipes and taking executive chef classes with Sysco Food Services,” said Mario. “We also listen to our customers and take their feedback seriously when planning new menu additions.”

In this day and age, businesses can fold as quickly they start, and it takes real commitment and staying power to make it to a first anniversary. Join the Gjetaj family as they celebrate one year in Troy, with a week of specials April 23 – 29. Call 248-273-5600 for more information or to let them know you’re coming; Mario, Roza, Eddie and Alban Gjetaj will warmly welcome you!

L to R: Eddie, Roza and Mario Gjetaj (pronounced Jedi, as in may the force be with you! J )