News Summary
Sameer Kaiser Eid, the much-loved restaurateur and founder of the Phoenicia restaurant in Birmingham, has passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy in the Metro Detroit culinary scene. His contributions to authentic Lebanese cuisine and mentoring upcoming restaurateurs have made a lasting impact on the local dining landscape. Eid’s restaurant, once a simple lunch counter, evolved into a celebrated dining destination cherished by many. His unwavering dedication to culinary excellence and his family’s strong ties to the community will be remembered.
Birmingham, Michigan
Sameer Kaiser Eid, a prominent restaurateur known for founding the celebrated Phoenicia restaurant in Birmingham, passed away on August 15, 2025, at the age of 85. His death marks the end of an era for the Metro Detroit culinary scene, where he greatly contributed to the appreciation of authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Born on January 24, 1940, in Marjayoun, Lebanon, Eid immigrated to the United States in 1961. His initial pursuit was to study banking and finance at North Texas State University. However, in 1967, he relocated to Detroit, where he began working in the drapery business, setting the stage for his future in the restaurant industry.
In 1971, Eid made a pivotal move by purchasing Phoenicia in Highland Park for $5,700, a transaction finalized on a handshake after he walked in for lunch. This marked his entry as the first in his family to own a restaurant. From its humble beginnings, described in the 1970s as “little more than a lunch counter,” Eid focused on establishing an authentic Lebanese menu that would resonate with both local patrons and food enthusiasts.
The evolution of Phoenicia was notable. By 1976, under Eid’s leadership, the restaurant underwent significant enhancements. He invested in improvements such as carpeting, wine selections, and a hand-crafted wood and brass sign, transforming Phoenicia into a fully-fledged dining establishment. The restaurant received praise in various reviews, including a notable one by restaurant critic Molly Abraham in 1973, who highlighted its 100% Lebanese menu, absent of American selections, as a standout feature.
In the early 1980s, Sameer Eid relocated Phoenicia to Birmingham, where it remained for over four decades, establishing itself as a local favorite known for traditional dishes such as stuffed grape leaves and falafel. Under Eid’s stewardship, the restaurant not only thrived but also influenced a new generation of restaurateurs, including his son, Samy Eid, who co-founded Chickpea Hospitality. This organization encompasses several upscale local restaurants, further evidence of the culinary legacy that Sameer Eid created.
Phoenicia’s success and impact did not go unrecognized; the Eids were semifinalists for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur in 2020, and the restaurant received numerous accolades from both national and local publications throughout its history.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Eid was renowned for his high standards in both his business and personal life. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Leila, with whom he shared 49 years of marriage, and a loving father to his three children: Samy (Francesca), Omar (Sahar), and Rachelle. The family includes four grandchildren: Wilder, Forrester, Penelope, and Felix.
The cause of Sameer Eid’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Visitation services will be held on August 19, 2025, from 2-7 p.m. at A. J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home in Royal Oak. A funeral liturgy is scheduled for August 20, 2025, at St. Mary Orthodox Basilica in Livonia, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and mass following at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to the Mariam Center of St. Mary Orthodox Basilica.
The legacy of Sameer Eid will be remembered not only through his remarkable contributions to the restaurant industry but also through the enduring influence he exerted on those who followed in his footsteps.
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HERE Resources
Beloved Restaurateur Sameer Eid Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press
- Wikipedia: Sameer Eid
- Detroit News
- Google Search: Sameer Eid
- Hour Detroit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lebanese cuisine
- Click On Detroit
- Google News: Detroit restaurant news
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
