Little Liberia is Michigan’s only dedicated Liberian restaurant, located in Detroit’s East English Village neighborhood along the East Warren corridor. Originally launched as a pop-up, the business has grown into a full-service brick-and-mortar restaurant introducing the city to Liberian and West African cuisine.
Owned and led by Chef Ameneh Marhaba, Little Liberia is one of only a few Afro-fusion dining concepts in Detroit. The menu features a diverse selection of beef, goat, seafood, and vegan dishes, complemented by house-made desserts and a beverage program offering both cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
The restaurant is located within The Ribbon, a mixed-use development along East Warren Avenue near Outer Drive. The 2,000-square-foot space includes a 75-seat dining area, a full bar serving handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, high-top seating, and a retail section featuring branded merchandise and specialty goods. Garage-style doors open to an outdoor dining area during warmer months, creating a flexible and inviting environment for guests.
Chef Marhaba has been engaged with ProsperUs Detroit since 2021 through its Entrepreneur Training Program, as well as through ongoing technical assistance and capital support. Her journey reflects the impact of sustained investment in local entrepreneurs and small business growth.
Little Liberia plays a significant role in the revitalization of the East Warren corridor, representing one of the area’s first sit-down immigrant-owned restaurants and contributing to a more diverse and vibrant local dining scene.
The Ribbon development includes 18 affordable housing units and aligns with the goals of Detroit’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund, a $150 million initiative which supports equitable neighborhood development. Project partners include Invest Detroit, Capital Impact Partners, LISC Detroit, and Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The project was led by Edward Carrington of Flux City, an emerging Detroit-based developer of color.
Little Liberia opened in March 2026. Learn more at www.littleliberia.com.