Waka's new brick and mortar represents the next evolution of a beloved Detroit food truck, transforming a mobile culinary brand into a permanent, whimsical restaurant destination. Rooted in the same vibrant spirit and cultural authenticity that made the original food truck a local favorite, the new space carries forward its identity through thoughtful material selection, color, and graphic expression.
The design draws directly from the food truck’s existing branding and finishes, reinterpreting familiar textures, patterns, and visual elements into an immersive interior environment. By recasting mobile design language into a fixed architectural setting, the space preserves the energy, accessibility, and community connection of the original concept while translating it for a brick-and-mortar experience.
anticipated opening: winter / spring 2026
design and project management
space planning
interior and architectural design
architecture
facade design
finishes/fixtures
ff&e
meps/fse engagement and coordination
ets engineering
jred engineering
metropolitan structural engineers and assoc
cecil consulting and training