KISS Co-Founder Gene Simmons Opens New Rock & Brews Restaurant in Royal Oak

Crowds of loyal fans gather to welcome the rock legend to the city's latest dining destination.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:33pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, glittering sequins and textures in high-contrast studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and energy of a rock and roll-themed restaurant opening.The grand opening of Gene Simmons' new Rock & Brews restaurant in Royal Oak brought out legions of loyal KISS fans eager to celebrate the rock legend's latest venture.Royal Oak Today

KISS co-founder Gene Simmons visited Royal Oak, Michigan to officially open the newest location of his Rock & Brews restaurant chain, drawing large crowds of lifelong KISS fans eager to meet the rock icon. Simmons spoke fondly of Detroit's role in the band's early success and interacted with enthusiastic supporters, some of whom have been devoted followers for decades.

Why it matters

The opening of a new Rock & Brews restaurant in Royal Oak, co-founded by legendary KISS member Gene Simmons, is a significant event for the city's entertainment and dining scene. Simmons' personal appearance and engagement with loyal fans highlights the enduring popularity of the KISS brand and the ability of celebrity-backed restaurants to generate excitement and draw crowds.

The details

Hundreds of KISS fans flocked to the new Rock & Brews location on Fifth Avenue in Royal Oak to welcome Simmons and celebrate the grand opening. Simmons spoke about Detroit's importance in KISS's early success, recalling the city's authenticity and support for the band's music. Fans, some of whom have seen KISS perform over 100 times, lined up to meet Simmons, get autographs, and express their lifelong devotion to the band.

  • Gene Simmons visited Royal Oak on April 9, 2026 for the grand opening of the new Rock & Brews restaurant.
  • KISS released their hit song "Detroit Rock City" in 1976, cementing the city's significance in the band's history.

The players

Gene Simmons

Co-founder of the iconic rock band KISS and co-founder of the Rock & Brews restaurant chain.

Rock & Brews

A restaurant chain co-founded by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, featuring a rock and roll-inspired menu and atmosphere.

KISS

The legendary American rock band formed in 1973, known for their theatrical live performances and iconic makeup.

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What they’re saying

“I'd stick my tongue out, but the floor is dirty, you can see.”

— Gene Simmons, KISS Co-Founder

“Detroit only cared about what they liked. The authenticity of their personal taste. It was the first place we happened.”

— Gene Simmons, KISS Co-Founder

“Anytime you can see your idol, you got to go. When I was 9, they were superheroes.”

— Joe Ciambelli, KISS Superfan

What’s next

Rock & Brews plans to continue expanding its presence in the Detroit metropolitan area, with additional locations expected to open in the coming years.

The takeaway

The grand opening of the new Rock & Brews restaurant in Royal Oak, co-founded by KISS legend Gene Simmons, demonstrates the enduring appeal of the KISS brand and the ability of celebrity-backed dining experiences to generate excitement and draw loyal fans. This event highlights the city's growing entertainment and dining scene.