TROY, Mich. (WXYZ) — Dining outdoors in Michigan when it’s cold out and there snow on the ground is unheard of, unless you’re eating inside one of the hottest restaurant trends.
Igloos are popping up in Metro Detroit. It’s a cool trend to enjoy a drink or dinner outside during the winter, but still stay sheltered from the weather.
"Here’s our one chance to cheat Mother Nature,” said Vic Dzenowagis.
He owns Camp Ticonderoga on Rochester Road in Troy. The restaurant is debuting two heated igloos for the season. Each one seats a party of ten with a $200 minimum.
“Go to any restaurant. How are you going to get a table for 10, where it’s just your party.”
Vic also owns Deadwood Bar & Grill in Northville. You may remember 7 Action News reporter Syma Chowdhry checking them out last year when they first tried out this new trend.
Turns out it was a hit!
They served more than 8,000 people, bringing in upwards of $300,000.
“We called the guy that makes these and said we are ordering four more.”
Camp Ticonderoga has already booked 400 igloo reservations from now until early March.
Last year, we showed you other local bars and restaurants with igloos.
Vic says the ones they have are carpeted, well insulated and cost around $8,000 each.
“But that pays for itself in a week.”
And it will stick around for a long time.
Vic told Syma, “Your daughter that was born a year ago will be sitting here in 20 years having her wedding shower in one of these. That’s how long they’re going to last.”
The igloos will also accommodate your personal music, adding to the experience.
“Who likes to be cooped up inside? I know I don’t. It’s a good excuse and a comfortable way to be outside.”
