Oakland County Lakefront Restaurant To Undergo Renovations

COMMERECE TOWNSHIP, MI — A West Bloomfield group bought a popular lakefront Oakland County eatery with plans to renovate the restaurant, Patch learned Wednesday.

It’s a Matter of Taste, located on 11 acres on the shores of Union Lake in Commerce Township, was recently purchased by Barbat Holdings, a real estate investment and management company in West Bloomfield.

Prime Concepts Detroit, Barbat Holdings’ hospitality group, will occupy the building and rename the restaurant Aurora on the Lake, an extension of the group’s Aurora Italiana restaurant brand.

Prime Concepts Detroit, known for its diverse and exceptional concepts, will begin the renovations, which they hope to complete by early 2025.

Aurora on the Lake will offer stunning lake views with a menu that features steaks, fresh seafood, and refined Italian cuisine.

"The acquisition of this stunning lakeside property perfectly positions us as we continue to grow our real estate holdings along with expanding our hospitality offerings," Chairman and CEO of Barbat Holdings Joe Barbat said. "We’re excited to bring the Aurora Italiana brand to the Commerce Township community and create new traditions and memories at Aurora on the Lake."

In the meantime, the restaurant's 200-person banquet facility will remain open and feature the Aurora on the Lake menu.

Additionally, each of It’s a Matter of Taste employees will have the opportunity to remain at Aurora on the Lake. They will be joined by experienced team members from Aurora Italiana, who will support all restaurant and culinary operations.

"With its original location opened in September 2023, Aurora Italiana, one of metro Detroit’s premier dining destinations, captures the Amalfi Coast's coastal flavors and dining experiences. Aurora on the Lake will bring these beloved traditions to Commerce Township," Managing Partner and Director of Operations at Prime Concepts Detroit Stolion Liti said. "We look forward to serving the community and look forward to earning the privilege to become its new favorite dining destination."

It’s a Matter of Taste opened its doors in 1990 and served as the area’s premier dining, gourmet catering and private event venue.

Prime Concepts also operates NARA Sushi, PAO Detroit, Prime29 Steakhouse, Sexy Steak and Castle Hall in the Grand Army of the Republic Building, Wabeek Club, and Tribu on the Green.