After two decades of serving the Milford community, Gravity Bar & Grill is under new ownership. Jimmy Eggl, the beloved owner of the downtown Milford fixture, has sold the restaurant, located at 340 N. Main St., as he moves onto new ventures. Fans of Gravity Bar & Grill, and those familiar with the local dining scene, will be interested to learn that the new owners are the Nicholas family, the experienced restaurateurs behind Smoke Street, a popular dining spot just up the block in Milford, Michigan.
The sale marks the end of an era for Gravity under Eggl’s leadership, with its last day of operation slated for November 22nd. However, it also signals an exciting new chapter as the Nicholas family prepares to take over and infuse the space with their vision, drawing on their extensive experience in the restaurant industry.
“I received an offer from Elia (Nicholas) that was simply too good to pass up,” explained Eggl, reflecting on his decision to sell the restaurant he has nurtured for 20 years. “Our final service day will be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, after which the Nicholas family will assume ownership. I am incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished here at Gravity.”
Eggl conveyed his gratitude and reassurance to his loyal staff and patrons in a message displayed in the restaurant windows. He expressed confidence in the Nicholas family’s ability to maintain the quality and service that Gravity’s customers have come to expect. “The Nicholas family are seasoned restaurant professionals dedicated to upholding the same high standards of food and service that you’ve always enjoyed at Gravity,” Eggl’s message stated.
The Nicholas family is well-established in the Michigan restaurant scene, with a portfolio that includes not only Smoke Street in Milford, but also Highland House, Tomato Bros. in Howell, E.G. Nick’s taverns in Lapeer and Plymouth, Bar None in Brighton, and several Gus’s Carry Out locations, including a forthcoming location in New Hudson.
Elia Nicholas, the family’s patriarch, voiced his strong belief in the Milford community and the potential of its downtown area. “Downtown Milford is exceptional, boasting a fantastic ambiance, pedestrian-friendly streets, charming character, and beautiful parks,” Nicholas commented. “This new venture allows me to stay close to home and provides growth opportunities for my long-term team members.”
The day-to-day operations of the revamped restaurant will be managed by Nicholas’ nephews, Tom Nevells, 42, and Zach Nicholas, 30. Current Gravity employees are being offered positions at the restaurant, ensuring a degree of continuity and experience will remain within the establishment.
While the future name of the restaurant is still under consideration, Nevells confirmed that some renovations are planned to revitalize the space. The aim is to create a brighter, more contemporary atmosphere, potentially including an expanded bar area and the introduction of craft cocktails to the drinks menu.
Crucially, the new owners intend to honor Gravity’s culinary legacy by continuing to offer steak and seafood dishes, alongside popular salads, inventive appetizers, and small plates. “We are committed to preserving the essence of Gravity and the high standards it has established,” Nevells emphasized. “As Milford evolves, we will remain the go-to destination for a premium steak or fresh seafood.”
Milford’s dining scene has recently seen some shifts, including the rebranding of Palate into Sayulita Cocina Mexicana and the closure of Milford House and Banditos. The acquisition of Gravity by the Nicholas family brings a sense of stability and renewed investment in the local restaurant landscape.
Gravity is scheduled to close for renovations on November 22nd and is anticipated to reopen around April 1st, following the completion of the remodeling work. Nevells expressed optimism about the future, hoping to replicate the long-term success of Gravity under Eggl, and to leverage the synergy with their nearby Smoke Street restaurant, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.
“Our objective is to maintain a successful presence in this location for the next 20 years, mirroring Gravity’s achievements,” Nevells stated. “Matching the level of success Gravity has enjoyed is a truly worthwhile ambition.”
For Jimmy Eggl, this sale does not signify retirement from the Milford hospitality scene. He retains ownership of The Bar, located at 224 S. Main St., and welcomes patrons to continue visiting him there.
Contact reporter Susan Bromley at [email protected] or 517-281-2412. Follow her on X @SusanBromley10.
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