Just as the old Long John Silvers became Tuptim, and the old Dunkin’ Donuts became Pita Pita, I noticed today that the old Icescapes place on Washtenaw is undergoing a transformation. It seems to be turning into something called Mommie’s Soul Food. The name concerns me a bit, but I’m hopeful. If anyone has been there yet, could you please leave a review? I want desperately to go, but I don’t want to be first.
Oh, and, just after I took this shot, at about 5:20 PM, I noticed a huge grey plume of smoke rising further down Washtenaw. I assume, based on the smoke and the smell, that it was a house fire, but I haven’t been able to find any news of it online thus far. The odd thing is – and this is why I was looking for information online – the smoke seemed to be coming from a property very close to a home that caught on fire several months ago.
70 Comments
It’s just that Pita Pita and Tuptim are two of my favorite restaurants, and I have this dream of the entire Washtenaw corridor developing into a food paradise.
Speaking of which, I hear that Al Noor is now gone, opening up a spot in the old taco Bell… I’d love to get a great Indian restaurant in there.
I want Ypsi to be known for it’s great food in repurposed fast food buildings.
We drove through the old IceScapes/new Mommie’s Soul Food drive-through about a week ago, and it didn’t look like they had much set up other than the lettering in the window. There even seemed to be a “This Building Not To Be Occupied” sort of notice posted in the window, so it may take a while yet. What gives me great hope is that the window lettering seems to still mention IceScapes. Maybe we can still get some frozen treats there.
I agree it’s sad to see Al Noor go. However, the Holmes Road Diner just added falafel and chicken schawarma to their menu. We tried some tonight and were pleased.
Al Noor was good for a while, but things had been going downhill. And Pita Pita is awesome.
It’s sad that Al Noor is gone but how could it possibly survive with Pita Pita and Palm Palace a short drive down the road. Pita Hut didn’t make it either. We LOVE Pita Pita!
Wasn’t Icescapes some burger joint before that?
Does anyone know what’s happening with Temptations? At first it appeared to be gone for good but now there’s a sign of rebirth on the window. Something about new management and remodeling. There’s your Indian restaurant, Mark.
Anyone remember Kenny’s before Tios moved in?
Here’s a great Al Noor review. It syncs pretty well with what I experienced there.
http://www.epicportions.com/2009/06/22/al-noor-ypsilanti-mi/
And Temptations has been too inconsistent. I’ll give it another shot, though.
Haifa Falafel (behind the Starbucks) is really good.
I could see myself liking a drive-thru soul place called Mama’s, but Mommie’s gives me the creeps. It reminds me of men who dress like babies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paraphilic_infantilism), and that’s not something I like to be reminded of when eating.
RIP Icescapes….this saddens me. Tios & Icescapes was really a fantastic pairing. Anyone have a menu for Mommie’s?
Ditto on Haifa Falafel, very good food, and good service too.
And Mark, if you really want Ypsi to be known for great food in repurposed fast food buildings, maybe you should be cheering for Burger King to move to the Water Street developement; it would open up the current BK location on Michigan Ave for something else — my dream is a nice Cuban restaurant.
Icescapes was, originally, an In-n-out burger store. Too bad it didn’t survive because I’ve heard they make great burgers. It was operative when we first moved here in 94 and closed maybe a year or two after. Pita Pita has good food but would it kill them to tidy up the place a little? Honestly, how about at least duct-taping the gaping hole in the booth seat cushion with the gross looking stuffing hanging out of it? And fix the damned ladies restroom. It’s been closed the last few times I’ve been in there. They seem to be doing fine, business wise, so how about plowing a little money back into the place to make it more pleasant looking. A good deep cleaning wouldn’t hurt, either. I’m not a neat freak, I just don’t want to get grossed out by grimy filth.
I used to like Temptations a few years ago, but due to a pesky, stalkerish waiter, who wouldn’t leave me alone when I went there and a touch of food poisoning from the lunch buffet, I stopped going there two years ago. I’d be thrilled to have an indian restaurant close by again. Minus stalker waiter.
Y’all really need to try Neehee’s on Ford Rd. , in the same strip mall as Thai Bistro. Fantastic vegetarian street food. Here’s Kitchen Chick’s review.
http://www.kitchenchick.com/2009/08/neehees-south-indian-street-snack-foods-in-canton.html
Is it just me or is the building leaning badly to the right? It appears like the whole thing could tip over…
Is it Pita Hut that is in the old A&W?
The new Mommie’s didn’t use to be an In-n-Out, it was a Hot-n-Now:
http://www.notfoolinganybody.com/13icescapes/
Washtenaw is featured a few times on this site:
http://www.notfoolinganybody.com/19tuptim/
http://www.notfoolinganybody.com/1alnoor/
So much to say. So much food…
1) It’s possible (just possible) that Mommie’s will be nothing more than a more-formalized roadside smoker (some of the best ribs in the world). That way, they wouldn’t really need to occupy the building. That said, they’re probably working on using the building for something. It’s just a drive-through, so they won’t need to go through a lot of pesky regulations concerning customer comfort.
2) It’s amazing how all of these chains converted to locally-owned establishments. Makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. I was eating at Yoshi’s on Liberty in Ann Arbor today (best beef shawarma I’ve ever had) and realized that ALL falafel houses are independent. Other than some small chains, like Palm Palace, there really is no corporate equivalent. That’s so awesome! Does the rest of the country have anywhere near as much middle eastern food as we do? Poor bastards.
3) The former Pita Hut was in the former A&W. (If you ever ate at the former A&W, you’ll know why it shut down.)
4) The building doesn’t lean right, Mark leans left. Haven’t you ever read this blog?
5) No one listen to Kathy. She’s a few barnyard animals short of a full See ‘n Say.
Hey now, Curt! I know where you live.
I’m sorry to see Icescapes go, but a year-round business may do better on the site….
I saw “Mommie’s” the other day. I had a laugh.
Al Noor had great food but their owners were terrible. My girlfriend was working there right before they closed. The owner’s daughters ran the place horribly. I also dug up their front lawn by hand, by myself to start a flower bed. They never paid me and let all the weeds come back. They deserved to go under.
Pita Pita and Haifa are both awesome but my personal favorite is Jerusalem Garden in Ann Arbor.
Yes! You are, of course, David, correct. I know it was some kind of blank n blank.
If Mommie’s is open I will have a review up by tomorrow.
Better look out, Curt. It looks like you might have a stalker.
I hate when she undresses me with her eyes… with her mouth.
(For you regulars, I had to search MM.com for “blowjob” – 6 results, Mark? – then “with my mouth” to properly punctuate that quote.)
If I remember correctly, the phrase was, “with my butt”.
Here it is. I found it.
http://markmaynard.com/?p=5131
i don’t know about Mommie’s Soul Food– but I did find a happy hour last week to add the list you were compiling some time back. Los Amigos on the corner of Michigan Ave and Ridge Rd. (which is not repurposed fast food, but some instead some kind of converted strip mall space) has an amazing Happy Hour from 3-6 every day (1/2 off all alcohol) and they put out really great printable coupons on their website. The drafts are big, the margaritas are super strong, and the food was really delicious.
Mommy? MooooooOOOOMY!!?!!
Oh.
No.
No. Not mommy.
Not.
Thanks for reminding me Stella, one more vote Haifa. I lived off their falafels for a month after they opened. Great guys too.
Al Noor was my favorite ypsi restaurant when the original guys ran it a few years ago. Totally agree about the incredibly terrible experience it was with the new owners. Though we felt the food was still fantastic (esp. hummus & their garlic sauce), my husband & I would practically draw straws to see who would be the one to go pick up the carryout. (!) (Dining in was not even an option.) It was a shame but no surprise at all when they closed.
My new fave is Haifa Falafel.
So, was it open yesterday, John?
I saw someone driving through Mommie’s yesterday. A dude was hanging out the window as if we was serving. I was on my way to Corner or I would have stopped right there and bought some. I also can’t go tonight.
Someone please hit up this place tonight.
“Honestly, how about at least duct-taping the gaping hole in the booth seat cushion with the gross looking stuffing hanging out of it? ”
Tape up the glory hole? Nooooo…
Pita Pita is awesome! Al Noor was one of the worst experiences ever dining in Ypsi. Also, if you like mexican, you should try Zorro’s. It’s on Golfside, in the little plaza right before Huron River Dr….the one with the party store, and Stadium Comics & Cards. I’ve eaten there 3 times, and each time was great. Good food and service…and the prices are good too!
That’s not just a tear in the seat at Pita Pita. In the proper hands, that’s a goatse.
So, was it open today? I forgot to look.
The confluence of the two immediatly previous comments is beautiful.
Can anyone attest to the food at Hana Korean on Michigan Ave (@ Harris)?
It always seems to have a bunch of cars on weekend nights.
As the only fan of Korean in the house, I haven’t gone yet.
cmadler is my new hero.
Somebody buy some damn ribs, dammit!
Hi Ypsiskippy,
I visited Hana on Mich Ave (next to Value World) with my sister after a football game last year.
The food was excellent and spicy. The meal was marked by lots of smaller dishes and so I felt that we were able to try many new foods beyond the regular Korean Bi Bim Bop and Kim Chi.
The service also was excellent and we were allowed to sit comfortably for a long period of time, consuming a vast quantity of food. The price was very reasonable.
Kathy,
Kenny’s was great! We used to go on steak and all you could eat crab legs night (Fri or Sat I think) and load up. Always good food…I think it was owned by the guy who owned the Wooden Nickel…
I miss Icescapes — as a former resident of South Jersey, practically the only thing I miss foodwise is Italian Ice. MMMMmmmmmmm.
I read the linked review of Al Noor — I actually had the exact same experience as the writer: I went in, waited for some time for a person to appear behind the counter, had just about decided to leave when a guy walking in from outside and proceeded to take my order. I thought the food there was really good, but the service was so indescribably bad that we hadn’t been back there in at least a year. Still, sad to see it go. I must try Pita Pita and Haifa — I, too, cheer to see the repurposing of old chain restaurants.
I have had goodish results at Temptations, but would relish more consistency. I haven’t been thrilled with Zorro’s — service was great but the food was bland and unexciting. La Fiesta Mexicana is the gold standard for Mexican in Ypsi. I’ve been surprisingly pleased with Los Amigos out on East Michigan. Good service, good food, dull t-chips, but sexy waitstaff.
What’s this about sexy waitstaff? I’ve been staying away from that place because, several years ago, it was a biker hangout. If there’s sexy waitstaff, though, I’m willing to risk my life.
I think you’d be pleasantly surprised. Tho my taste may diverge somewhat from yours.
So, still nothing on the Mommie’s front?
The sign in the window today said, “Grand Opening,” and I saw a car going through the drive-thru. I couldn’t stop, though.
I can’t remember the name of the place (Dos Hermanos?), but the Mexican Place on West Michigan Ave just before Mansfield is also fantastic. And reasonable. Don’t be scared away by the look of the place. It’s clean, service is good, and the food is great!
AndyY, I think you’re thinking of Taqueria La Loma, and I agree with you. Dos Hermanos is more of a grocery store, and it’s on Michigan a few storefronts west of Hamilton. Also great.
Dos Hermanos does have good prepared food, though. They’re tamales are great.
Other great tamales can be purchased from Pilar’s, on Tuesdays (today!) at the downtown farmers market.
So, did this place close before it even got opened?
Taqueria La Loma, yes, that’s it! I havn’t been down there in a while…
Yea… my best friend and I have been to Mommie’s Soul Food 3 times and to be perfectly honest the food was REALLY good. Yes the set up is a little wierd bc u either have to go to the window or u have to park and let them come up to ur car and take ur order. They actually grilled the meats their selves outside and all the side are homemade! I think the food is absolutely scrumptious and I plan on ordering there regularly.
I agree with Vanessa, my family have eaten there several times and the food is delicious and Yes, all the sides are homemade! I will eat there on a regular basis too. I hear they’re doing some improvements inside and updating equipment inside, but I will look out for they’re RE-GRAND OPENING! I can’t wait. The food is definitely worth the money. Now this is SOUL FOOD so if you’re watching your weight then you might not want to eat there all the time. Soul Food is not always Healthy Food, but it is Good Food. Hurry up and open up again MOMMIE’S. Mark, Karl, and John, you won’t be disappointed. And the food portions are more than worth it.
I ordered from Mommie’s today and had it delivered (for just $1.50). This is second time eating there. The ribs are probably the best in Washtenaw County and the chicken was very good. The green beans, mac&cheese, and potato salad were good, but I’d never order the mashed potatos again. Since all the meats are cooked on a grill, I’m looking forward to trying their hamburgers and hot dogs, too. I really hope this place survives because I’m tired of driving to Livonia or Westland for decent ribs!
I want to go there.
more on Mommie’s.
http://www.washtenawvoice.com/?p=4981
this place was the worst. made me sick and poopy. also, the chicken tasted like seasoned salt and lighter fluid. if you eat here, good luck. worst resturant food that i ate in 2009. no kidding. im serious.
People threatened to break her windows? Why?
I’ve got to check this place out… Maybe this weekend… Thanks for the reminder.
Hello,
All the readers that’s looking for something bad to talk about leave this site, because if you’re trying to talk negatively about the new and upcoming restaurant named “Mommies Soul Food” that is supported by EMU and U of M College the hospitals, as well as Key Bank. The food is great, plentiful and healthy, and they are even looking to relocate to a sit in diner down the street to better serve you. The owner only wants to give the public the she can. Isn’t it funny how people that don’t want others to have anything, don’t have anything then selves? (Stupid is not what stupid dose.) Don’t take their word, try it yourself. (:-)
I drove by Mommie’s the other day, around dinner time, and their lights were out. I thought that they’d gone out of business.
Bigtime, Ed, and mark,
listen to the people who has been there.
Hello,
All the readers that’s looking for something bad to talk about leave this site, because if you’re trying to talk negatively about the new and upcoming restaurant named “Mommies Soul Food” that is supported by EMU and U of M College the hospitals, as well as Key Bank. The food is great, plentiful and healthy, and they are even looking to relocate to a sit in diner down the street to better serve you. The owner only wants to give back to the public the best that she can. Isn’t it funny how people that don’t want others to have anything, don’t have anything good to say them selves? (Stupid is not what stupid dose.) Don’t take their word, try it yourself. (:-)
Here is a quote from a customer; “I ordered from Mommie’s today and had it delivered (for just $1.50). This is second time eating there. The ribs are probably the best in Washtenaw County and the chicken was very good. The green beans, mac&cheese, and potato salad were good too, the mashed German American potatoes was great. Since all the meats are cooked on a grill, I’m looking forward to trying their hamburgers and hot dogs, too. I really hope this place survives because I’m tired of driving to Livonia or Westland for decent ribs!”
Ethics
Hi,
It’s ethics, I woke up thinking that my job was, is and will continue to make me happy… After living for more than fifty year and not doing what makes you happy one would think life was not working for you??? I get up each day to give back and help the community by opening my restaurant and continuing to give you. That is what make me happy. Read what some of Mommies Soul Food Diner patrons are saying about the Soul Food Drive Thru.
Mommiesguest,
Bigtime, Ed, and Kim. Chris stopped by. But, while I was opene. It’s called being on a Holiday Vacation. The sign is in the window. In ever basket there are bad apple. Do you read.
If I could do what it would take to satisfy everyone? I would…
If I could do what it would take to satisfy everyone? I would…
If I could do what it would take to satisfy everyone? I would…
If I could do what it would take to satisfy everyone? I would…
really…..
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU ALL, STAY SAFE.
OWNER
I just called Mommie’s phone number and was told they are closed to upgrade their facilities. They are supposed to reopen on February 1st with an expanded menu. I’m looking forward to it!
Any updates on Mommie’s?
I’m sorry that you didn’t care for my review of the food at Mommie’s, but to call me a liar is rude. I go out of my way to check out local Ypsi resturants, and patronize a number of them. I love Pita Pita, I really enjoy G’s carribean delights, Beezy’s is good, I always take my Mom & Dad to Haab’s when they are in town, Aubree’s has some tasty pizza…etc. etc….
I’m sorry, but the day i stopped by your place, it was not good. Like I said…the chicken was WAY salty and tasted of lighter fluid…the green beans appeared to have been cooking for two days and were actually more of a brown color than green. It was not good…and my wife felt the same way.
So…don’t bash me. Get on your staff.
That being said…when you open back up, I promise to give you another chance. I didn’t mean anything personal. Maybe I just stopped on the wrong day. We all have bad days. If it is good…as soon as I finish eating, I will get on this board, retract everything I said, and give it the review it deserves…
But don’t call me a liar. I am a 310 pound man, who knows his food. Good luck with your business. I hope things go well. It’s tough out there nowadays, and Ypsi needs all the thriving businesses we can get.
Looked closed yesterday evening.
To: Bigttime and others that said…
Fr: Owner of Mommies Soul Food
Re: Truth, I’m not calling you a liar…
March 04th 2010
A passion to serve others has guided the owner of Mommies Soul Food to help during this crisis despite her own dilemmas. She is filled with grief after the horrible tragedy in Haiti and wants to support the Haitian people by donating monies though selling dinner at the community churches throughout Ann Arbor, and Ypsilanti, area. The restaurant is located in Ypsilanti, Michigan. E-mail addresses [Mommiessoulfood@yahoo.com]. The restaurant owner has donating 50% of all proceeds to the Hattie’s disaster cause through January 31st 2010. Our entire staff and church family has donated their time and services to make this cause successful.
The restaurant owner and staff were supporting the Hattie disaster cause in January of 2010, actually the month of February was the grand reopening of Mommies Soul Food. That occurred the second or third week of February 2010. No one at anytime has called anyone a liar. The readers are reading what you are writing and I am writing/stating facts. The restaurant has not been open until February 2010. Bigtime, you have stated; “I’m sorry that you didn’t care for my review of the food at Mommie’s, but to call me a liar is rude. I go out of my way to check out local Ypsi restaurants, and patronize a number of them.” Owner of Mommies Soul Food, No, I do not care for the type of reporting you have posted. You could not have patronized Mommies Soul Food restaurant in January 2010, the restaurant was not open…. I do believe it would be rude to call you a liar or to lie on you. So I will not, and I’ll let the readers be your judge.
Oh, Kim the restaurant was closed January 29th 2010 all day. Thanks for your observation.
Yours Truly,
Mommies Soul Food
March 02nd 2010,
TO: Washtenaw Community College
FR: Mommies Soul Food
RE: Advertizing for the restaurant
Dear concerned,
I will be reopening Mommies Soul Restaurant in Ypsilanti, Michigan on a main Vain in Washtenaw County on Washtenaw Ave, and I’m requesting your assistance to insure my success with the advertizing for the Soul Food Restaurant establishment.
Please, if you believe that your college/radio station and your voice college news paper could successfully advertize for the restaurant its new grand Reopening and our Man Down Competition, I would be so grateful. Please at your earliest don’t hesitate contact me at the above numbers or online at mommiessoulfood@yahoo.com
Thank you.
Oh…My…God…
I didn’t claim to eat there in January. My first post, if you look farther up the thread, was on Dec. 1st. But…don’t be confused…it was before that date when I ate there. It was sometime last year. I’m sorry, but I didn’t think it was good. If you read my post, I also stated that I’d give it another try when it re-opens.
I admire and appreciate the passion that goes into what Mommie does. My brother in law is from Haiti, and some of his family are still there, so I think it’s a great thing, what you are doing .
I’ll see you when you re-open, and I’ll make sure to let you know who I am, so you can ball me out in person, if you like. I can take it. But, I stand by my initial opinion, until you prove me wrong…so start cooking. I’m hungry!
This place is closed, right? Where’s the best place for soul food in Ypsi?
I just read through this entire thread. Mommies sounds completely amazing and I will be sure to go there.
Perhaps we could arrange a group outing with Bigtime in tow. I’m serious. I think it would be fun.
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