Our Foundation
At Sahara Sterling Heights, our story is built on tradition, family, and the love of Mediterranean cooking. For over 40 years, we've served dishes that honor our roots while creating a space where every guest feels at home. This location reflects everything we stand for—authentic flavor, timeless hospitality, and meaningful connection. It's more than a meal; it's a tradition carried forward.
OUR JOURNEY
From our humble beginnings in Ferndale to our flagship location in Sterling Heights, here are some highlights of our journey.
1981 — Where It All Began
Sahara is founded by Saad Attisha in Ferndale, Michigan. What started as a humble Mediterranean kitchen quickly earned a loyal following for its bold flavors, generous portions, and welcoming spirit.
1984 — A Growing Legacy
The restaurant relocates to Oak Park to accommodate rising demand, bringing traditional Mediterranean hospitality and cuisine to even more families across Metro Detroit.
2010 — Breaking Barriers in Oak Park
Co-owner Zeana Attisha leads the effort to overturn Oak Park's decades-old dry ordinance. After years of community advocacy, Sahara becomes the first restaurant in Oak Park history to receive a liquor license—ushering in a new era for local dining.
2000s–2010s — Expanding Across Metro Detroit
Sahara opens additional locations in Warren and Sterling Heights, staying rooted in family tradition while serving new communities. With every opening, Sahara deepens its reputation as a Mediterranean staple.
2015 — Sterling Heights Becomes the Flagship
The Sterling Heights location evolves into Sahara's flagship—featuring a timeless dining room, serene indoor patio, and grand ballroom that hosts over 400 guests. Designed to bring people together for everything from dinners to weddings, this location reflects the full Sahara experience.
2023 — Sahara Arrives in the Heart of Detroit
Sahara opens in downtown Detroit's entertainment district, directly across from Comerica Park and between the Fox and Fillmore Theatres. Invited by Little Caesars to join their World Headquarters campus, Sahara brings its signature Mediterranean elegance to the center of the city.
Today — A Mediterranean Staple
Family-owned and operated for over four decades, Sahara continues to serve generations with the same authenticity, hospitality, and community spirit that have defined it since day one.