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The History of 220

The “Old Detroit Edison” Building which houses 220 and Edison’s was built in 1932.
It was erected by Detroit Edison to be their offices for the northern suburbs.
At one time, Edison actually had 72 customer offices located throughout the 13
counties in Southeastern Michigan. From this time until 1975, customers of
Detroit Edison could drop off small appliances for repair, exchange burned out
light bulbs for new ones ~ for free ~ or pay their electric bill at the counter
which was located where 220's bar stands today. Management changes,
new Public Service Commission rules and a class action suit all contributed
to the customer service changes that occurred in the seventies. Finally,
under economic pressure, Edison decided to sell the building to a group of
developers and move to smaller quarters just two blocks away on Merrill
Street. By that time, the government had forced Edison to start charging
for their light bulbs.

The developers determined that the main level was perfect to house a
restaurant, and since Birmingham had recently passed a law allowing liquor
by the glass for the first time, one of the first full service restaurants in the
city was born. Herb and Carolyn Schmid, of the popular Schmid Haus in
Warren, opened their German-American theme restaurant in August of 1979
to large crowds. The design was done by Ron Rea, who chose to keep the
original paneling and the marble slate floor in the bar area, along with scrolled
ceiling trim from when the building was originally built.

220 Merrill Street Restaurant operated as a local gathering place for many
people over the next 15 years. In the fall of 1993, Herb and Carolyn decided
to retire and sold the restaurant to your current owners. The popularity of
the restaurant over the years caused it to be nicknamed simply “220" and so
the name was shortened to reflect what everyone called it anyway. Again,
Ron Rea was hired to refurbish the space and this time he played up the
1930's retro theme, with antique chandeliers, (one from the old Palm Theater)
mixed up light bulbs and a light bulb theme paying homage to the exposed
filament bulb Edison produced years earlier. These bulbs are used generously
in the antique chandeliers hanging over the bar and Thomas Edison’s portrait
greets guests as they arrive in the front lobby. The 3 month refurbishing
led to the grand opening on July 1, 1994, with an American-Italian theme
specializing in pasta, veal, seafood and steaks, serving lunch and dinner 6
days a week. 220 enjoys the benefits of its downtown location and the
long bar still welcomes many locals meeting family and friends in a casual
and friendly atmosphere. In 1996, Ron was again called upon to design
a small jazz bar for the space in the lower level, named Edison's for obvious
reasons. Opened in March 1997, Edison's features live entertainment & dancing
to everything from classic rock to rythm & blues. Dining offerings include
everything from 220's menu. Edison's features premium liquors, such as
single malt scotches and chilled vodkas as well as superior champagnes
and wines by the glass. Check out our varied selection of craft & imported
beer. Edison’s is also available for private parties Sunday through Wednesday.

We look forward to welcoming you to 220 & Edison's.

Judi Roberts, Frank Tillman, and Herb Abrash