Big Moe’s Kitchen has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a 400-square-foot gas station kitchen. The Michigan-born chain, founded by President and CEO Moe Elhamawi, has built its reputation on hearty comfort food, fast service and a Detroit-rooted work ethic that still defines the brand today. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the company continues to draw crowds across metro Detroit — and even overseas — thanks to its bold flavors and signature dishes.
Big Moe’s Kitchen is one of the sponsors behind Live in the D’s “Days of Giving” contest, which offers viewers a chance to win a $500 gift card each day through Thursday. During a visit to the chain’s Dearborn headquarters, Elhamawi — affectionately known as Big Moe — reflected on how Detroit influenced his journey. “Detroit played a big role in Big Moe’s Kitchen’s success,” he said. “I learned all my hustle in Detroit after coming in as an immigrant from Beirut, Lebanon... Detroit hustle is just different.”
What started in Wayne, Michigan, in 2016 has since grown into nine Michigan locations and an international site in Beirut. The company is laying the groundwork for a national rollout next, with major markets on the radar. “We’re planning on expanding nationwide to bigger states like Atlanta, Chicago, New York,” Elhamawi said.
To maintain momentum, Big Moe’s Kitchen is doubling down on consistency. Quality control manager Ashley Brancheau said her team keeps every location aligned on flavors, recipes, cooking techniques and cleanliness. “We want to give the same top-quality food that you get here in Dearborn that you got back in the 400-foot Wayne gas station,” she said. Brancheau also pointed to fan favorites such as the Bam Bam shrimp, brisket sandwiches and sizzle bowls — dishes that helped fuel the chain’s rise.
Live in the D’s Days of Giving continues through Thursday, Dec. 11, with viewers able to enter daily for a $500 gift card. To enter, click here. Contest rules are posted at clickondetroit.com.