By now, Plaka Cafe is an institution, a 24-7 diner in Detroit's historic Greektown district, where nightclubbers can grab a couple of coneys after a heavy drinking session. But what a lot of people might not know is that the building's rooftop got an ambitious remodel a few years ago that boasts its own top-notch entertainment and dining options.
"We're all one family," says Mike Zografos, who owns the rooftop bar and lounge Level Two. "It's one family, it's one building, but it's two different businesses."
Zografos has been at the helm since the space opened in December 2012. He says that before Level Two, the rooftop was a blank slate. "It was basically just a roof that we renovated," he says. "We completely built it out."
Level Two is perhaps an overlooked dining option in a neighborhood bursting at the seams with culinary options.
"A lot of people don't know that we carry food," Zografos says. But he points out that Level Two's menu is a cut above the rest. While the menu has Greek staples like chicken lemon rice soup, Greek salad, and the classic gyro sandwich, it also features items like Shanghai potstickers, lamb chops, tacos, and Brussels sprouts, among many others.
As a bar, Level Two holds its own, with an extensive stock of liquor, tequila, Scotch, and more. Lately, Level Two has updated its offerings to include craft beer as well as an updated cocktail list.
On Thursdays through Saturdays, Zografos says Level Two's atmopshere is like a nightclub with its own resident DJ entertainment. "We're a big headquarters for birthday parties and bachelorette parties," Zografos says. "We get a ton of them — it's a great place to come celebrate." He also says the bar hosts plenty of corporate events, and can accommodate groups of up to 100.
As for the future, Zografos says he plans on installing a retractable canopy so the outdoor portion of the club can stay open in the rain and during the winter.
And of course, after a night partying at Level Two you can always stumble downstairs to Plaka for a couple of those late night coneys.
