Highlands Detroit prepares for final months before RenCen construction begins

Highlands Detroit says it will remain open and host events through May 2027 while the Renaissance Center moves toward a reported $1 billion redevelopment that is expected to start after the 2027 Final Four.

Highlands Detroit occupies the 71st and 72nd floors of the Renaissance Center and has become known for its city views. The restaurant opened in late 2019 and faced an early setback when the COVID-19 pandemic reduced visitors. Owner and executive chef Shawn McClain says the team plans to pause operations once redevelopment work begins and aims to return afterward. Reported plans call for major construction on the RenCen to follow the 2027 NCAA Final Four. Key details: - Highlands Detroit is located on the 71st and 72nd floors atop the Renaissance Center. - The restaurant opened in late 2019 and saw a sharp drop in business early in the COVID-19 pandemic. - Owner and executive chef Shawn McClain said the team hopes to come back once the redevelopment is complete. - The Renaissance Center is reported to be undergoing a roughly $1 billion redevelopment into mixed uses, with major construction planned to start after the 2027 Final Four. - Highlands Detroit will continue regular service and has bookings through May 2027. Summary: Highlands Detroit will operate and host private events through May 2027 as the Renaissance Center prepares for a reported $1 billion redevelopment. The owner framed the upcoming construction as a temporary pause and expressed an intention to return in the future. Major construction is expected to begin after the 2027 NCAA Final Four. The restaurant's exact reopening timeline following redevelopment is undetermined at this time.