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Jamaal Muhammad, a 27-year-old resident who relocated to Detroit five years ago, established Supreme Café in January with the assistance of Motor City Match funds.
According to Muhammad, “All our dishes are created from scratch, and we exclusively use 100% halal meat.” Halal refers to the preparation of food in accordance with Islamic dietary laws, which prohibits the consumption of pork.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Muhammad recognized the scarcity of healthy dining options within Detroit’s city limits and sought to rectify the situation. “I wanted to provide a high-quality food option for the community in a smaller neighborhood,” explains Muhammad, who became more health-conscious during the pandemic.
The cozy dining area of Supreme Café showcases a mural featuring influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., President Barack Obama, and members of the Nation of Islam, alongside local personalities like Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield. Muhammad aspires for these depictions to inspire his customers.
“The purpose is not merely to admire the great individuals on the wall, but to realize that every person has their own greatness within them. You just need to tap into your growth, potential, and unleash the star that you are,” he states.
Muhammad’s strong faith, as a member of the Nation of Islam, motivated him to establish a community-oriented restaurant. Throughout the pandemic, he provided 500 complimentary meals to elderly and unhoused individuals in Detroit.
“We cannot merely discuss the importance of creating decent, safe communities without actively engaging in actions that contribute to that goal,” he emphasizes.
In the kitchen, Kamilah Muhammad skillfully fries salmon by adding a spoonful of oil to the griddle and chopping the fish with two spatulas. Popular menu items include egg rolls, salmon burgers, and fried fish sandwiches, much to the delight of customers.
Jordan Bailey, a Detroit firefighter, ordered the highly recommended supreme salmon burger.
“I wanted to support a Black-owned business, and when I saw these guys, I wanted to show my encouragement,” says Bailey. “This area has a thriving Black community, and we often spend our money in nearby suburbs. It’s a fantastic place to visit.”
Muhammad acknowledges that running a new business comes with its challenges but embraces them willingly.
“There are days when you may feel like giving up, but you have to persevere and keep pushing forward,” Muhammad affirms.
For Muhammad, opening Supreme Café represents his personal commitment to effecting positive change within the community.
