Oak & Iron and Honky Tonk Coming to Downtown Jackson

If there is one thing Michiganders can get behind, it's the opening of a new restaurant. Downtown Jackson is getting a new dining destination in a familiar restaurant space. 151 West Michigan Avenue will soon be home to Oak & Iron, and 'soon' officially has a date.

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Oak & Iron: Opening Date & Vision

In an interview with JTV, owner Roberta Dalenberg says the Oak & Iron menu will be "global-inspired" and "big." Taking inspiration from various parts of the world, she says everyone is sure to find something they'll enjoy.

According to Nick Dyc, one of the co-owners, the restaurant is set to open on October 17, 2025. But that's not all they have planned for the space. There's an entire third floor, just waiting to be given a new purpose.

Future Plans: Third-Floor Honky Tonk Bar

Dyc went on to say that on October 31, 2025, a honky tonk-style bar will open in the former rental space. No further details were given, but a country bar would be a welcome addition to the nightlife in downtown Jackson.

Past Lives: Restaurants That Called This Space Home

MLive reports the building originally opened in 1885, playing host to The McLellan Stores before malls began sucking up traffic from downtown. It sat vacant for many years, until 1988, when Otello's, an Italian restaurant, gave the space a new purpose. After Otello's closed in 1999, more dining options would follow. In 2000, it became Arnies, then Daryl's Downtown from 2001 to 2013, when it became One-Five-One, only to close in 2014.

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In 2019, Veritas opened under the current ownership group and remained a fine-dining option in downtown Jackson until January 2025. And now, another new life for 151 West Michigan Avenue. Cheers to Oak & Iron.