Roger's Roost celebrates 50 years

Melody Baetens
The Detroit News
Roger's Roost in Sterling Heights celebrates 50 years this fall.

In 1968, the same year Sterling Heights was incorporated as a city, family restaurant and bar Roger’s Roost opened on Schoenherr north of 14 Mile. 

The casual watering hole that is festooned with antiques and tchotchkes was founded by Roger and Dolores Kotlarz. They passed the business onto Roger’s brother Gary Kotlarz in 1993. 

Over the past several years Roger’s Roost has been supported by a loyal staff that includes general manager Carl Schmidt, who started there as a bus boy in the 1980s. Longtime bartender Renee Murray has been an employee for more than 20 years as well. 

Gary Kotlarz says there’s no place like Roger’s Roost. 

“It’s a unique place and the fact we’ve been in business for 50 years is no pedestrian feat,” he said in a press release. “It’s a tough business to be profitable in and to remain relevant.”

The celebration will last through the fall, with special events like Saturday's live performance of Kiss tribute band Detroit Rock City. On Oct. 28 Roger's Roost will host a family-friendly "trunk or treat" event, and a staff reunion is set for November. 

Roger's Roost is at 33626 Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. Call (586) 979-7550. 

Roger's Roost in Sterling Heights celebrates 50 years this fall.

mbaetens@detroitnews.

Twitter: @melodybaetens