DETROIT FREE PRESS | Owner of Detroit's iconic Hygrade Deli is retiring, passing torch after 50 years

Susan Selasky

Detroit Free Press

Hygrade Deli, the iconic southwest Detroit institution on Michigan Avenue west of Corktown, has a new owner.

After 50 years behind the counter as its owner, Stuart Litt is retiring. Litt announced the sale of the business and building last March. The deli originally opened in 1955 and Litt's family bought the business in 1972. It's known for its piled-high corned beef sandwiches, soups, chili and breakfast.

“The last 50 years have been a blessing and I couldn’t be prouder of this great restaurant and devoted staff,” Litt said in a news release. “I’m so glad I found someone who will care for our restaurant as much as we have.”

Litt is passing the torch to Chuck Nolen, owner for 17 years of Cutter's Bar and Grill, in the Eastern Market area. Cutter's is known for its burger. Nolen is also the chair of Neighborhood Legal Services of Michigan and the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance. He owns the Butcher's Inn building in Eastern Market, where he plans to open a cigar lounge.