Our Philosophy
At Sahara Detroit, we believe that food is more than nourishment— it's a bridge that connects families, friends, and cultures. Every dish we create is crafted with passion and respect for the heritage that inspires our recipes.
TIMELINE
From our humble beginnings in Ferndale to our latest expansion in Detroit, here are some highlights of our journey.
1981 ~ Humble Beginnings in Ferndale
Saad Attisha opens the original Sahara Restaurant, introducing authentic Iraqi-Chaldean flavors to Metro Detroit.
1984 ~ Journey to Oak Park
Sahara relocates to Oak Park, expanding both space and ambitions while remaining a cozy family-run eatery.
1987 ~ Metro Detroit Expansion
New locations open in Sterling Heights, Farmington Hills, and West Bloomfield as Sahara’s popularity spreads.
2012–2015 ~ Leading Change: Oak Park Goes Dry → Dining Destination
Zeana Attisha spearheads “Citizens for a Strong Oak Park,” gathering over 4,200 petition signatures that transform local dining laws.
- 2013: Beer & wine finally approved after decades of prohibition.
- 2015: Voters approve full liquor service (58% in favor); Sahara proudly serves the first spirits legally in Oak Park.
2018 ~ District Detroit Arrival Announced
Sahara is selected to join Little Caesars World HQ and The District retail strip. The 4,500 sq ft Detroit location launches alongside Fox & Fillmore Theatres and Comerica Park, bringing Chaldean cuisine to the city’s entertainment core.
2023 ~ Opening in the Heart of Downtown Detroit
The Detroit venue opens on Columbia Street, offering farm-to-table dishes, custom creations like “Sahara fries,” and fresh-baked bread—quickly becoming a District gem.