The Wockley Detroit has been open just over a month, and as far as founder Jason Midgely is concerned, his fine-dining establishment has achieved its number one goal.
“We’ve reviewed surveillance footage from 15 different cameras,” he says, “and can state with certainty that no diner has ever looked at another one.”
The house rule is posted on a simple, tasteful placard at the hostess station:
Please Do Not Look at Anyone Else
This applies not only to diners at different tables, but even to those seated right across from each other.
Adhering to the policy, Midgely believes, is essential if diners want to maximize the culinary experience he believes only his North Central Midtown eatery can offer – Braised Redemption Chicken, Crushed Chutney Clementine and the sun-deprived Melon Roullade.
While Midgely grudgingly allows limited conversation, he insists it must pertain to the food: “This is fantastic!” for example, or even an occasional “Please pass the caramelized lotus salt.” Three of the service staff work as monitors, continually roaming the premises to make sure nobody looks at anybody else.
“If we ever catch anyone they’ll be gone for good,” says Midgely. “There will be no second chances.” Judging from the current waiting list – 122 months – he’s confident nobody will risk this happening.
The Wockley is Midgely’s second venture in Detroit – following Twiffle, which closed last September following an asparagus setback.
