Just before Thanksgiving, Hidden Lake residents gathered for an evening that felt less like a restaurant review and more like a heartfelt neighbor celebration. One of our newest premier STROLL sponsors, Bliss & Fish Restaurant, newly opened by Hidden Lake resident Shadia Zamlut, hosted the community for an intimate Restaurant Review event—filled with incredible food, meaningful conversation, and a story that left many guests visibly moved.

Shadia shared that opening her doors to neighbors ahead of Thanksgiving felt especially meaningful. She described the evening as her version of a “neighbor Thanksgiving,” explaining how excited she was to serve the very community she now calls home. “I loved having the opportunity to meet my neighbors and serve them,” she shared. “It meant so much to welcome everyone into this space and share our story through food.”

And share she did—generously.

The evening began with a beautifully prepared spread of Fattoush salad, crisp falafel bites, and creamy, house-made hummus that immediately set the tone. Guests raved about the freshness and flavor, noting that the hummus was both smooth and deeply satisfying. As one neighbor put it, “You can taste that everything is made with care.”

The main course quickly became the star of the night. Guests were treated to Bliss & Fish’s famous fish and chips—an old family recipe passed down from Shadia’s father—alongside tender baked fish. The fish and chips earned glowing praise across the room, with several neighbors declaring it among the best they’d ever had. The made-from-scratch tartar sauce was a clear crowd favorite.

Between courses, Shadia opened her heart to the room. She shared the deeply personal journey that led to Bliss & Fish—from learning of her son’s autism and IBS diagnosis to discovering the powerful healing benefits of pure olive oil from her family’s homeland. She spoke about the positive changes she witnessed in her son’s health and how that experience compelled her to launch an olive oil brand rooted in heritage, purity, and purpose—eventually leading her back, unexpectedly, to the restaurant world she grew up in.

One of the most touching moments of the evening came when Shadia introduced her father, whose wisdom and ancestral knowledge helped guide her toward olive oil as a source of healing. Guests listened intently as she shared how his teachings, along with generations of tradition, became the foundation for both her olive oil brand and the restaurant itself. The room grew quiet, attentive, and clearly moved.

Neighbors later shared that hearing her story changed how they viewed the food on their plates. “Knowing where it comes from and why it exists made the experience so much more meaningful,” one guest commented. Another added, “You could feel the love behind everything—from the food to the way the staff treated us.”

Feedback throughout the evening was overwhelmingly positive. Guests praised the staff for being warm, attentive, and welcoming, and the drink menu earned high marks for its robust and unique offerings. Several neighbors described the cocktails as exceptional, both in presentation and flavor.

Attendees also appreciated the atmosphere of Bliss & Fish itself. Neighbors commented on the spacious layout and loved knowing the restaurant includes an outdoor area with a firepit—perfect for gathering when warmer weather returns. More than one guest shared that they could easily picture themselves coming back with friends or family for another relaxed evening.

As the night wrapped up, one thing was clear: Bliss & Fish had already made a lasting impression. Guests left not only satisfied, but inspired—by Shadia’s journey, her generosity, and the heart behind everything she creates.

Bliss & Fish didn’t just host a restaurant review—it hosted a moment of connection, gratitude, and community. Just before Thanksgiving, it was a beautiful reminder of what can grow when food, family, and faith come together.

Bliss & Fish is located at 102 S. Howell St. in Pinckney. Neighbors are encouraged to explore the full menu at www.BlissAndFish.com, call with questions at (734) 800-5109, and keep them in mind for catering, whether for intimate gatherings or larger celebrations.