By Demetrius Carrington

In the mid-1980s, Detroit’s nightlife scene was synonymous with one name: Darnell Small. A master of innovation and exclusivity, Small redefined what it meant to throw a party. His events, hosted under the banner of Darnell Small and Company, were the epitome of sophistication, drawing Detroit’s most attractive and influential crowd. These weren’t just parties—they were experiences, carefully curated to blend elegance, energy, and exclusivity, leaving attendees talking for weeks. Small’s talent for creating unforgettable moments cemented his legacy as one of Detroit’s most beloved and respected party promoters.

By 1997, Small transitioned his mastery of entertainment into the world of hospitality, co-owning Sauce with Dennis Archer Jr. Sauce wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a destination for Detroit’s young, vibrant elite. Whether you were a rising entrepreneur or a cultural tastemaker, Sauce was where you wanted to see and be seen. Building on that success, Small launched Prive Ultra Lounge in the historic London Chop House, a venue that quickly became the go-to spot for Detroit’s beautiful people. From its lavish ambiance to the magnetic energy in the air, Prive embodied Small’s knack for blending sophistication with celebration.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Small reinvented the Prive concept, launching Prive Deux a few years later. For five years, it thrived as a premier nightlife destination, reinforcing Small’s reputation as a genius in the realms of entertainment and hospitality. His vision didn’t stop there—he expanded into marketing for major entertainment companies and alcohol brands, before venturing into the medical field. Yet, despite his success in other industries, Small’s passion for creating experiences never faded.

When I recently spoke with Darnell, he admitted something that didn’t come as a surprise: he missed the entertainment business. This spring, Detroit will see the long-awaited return of his magic with the opening of Smallz, his newest venture in Bingham Farms. Located on Telegraph Road, Smallz promises to be a sexy, upscale restaurant where great food meets even better company. With plenty of parking, an accessible location, and Darnell Small at the helm, it’s destined to set a new standard for dining and entertainment in Metro Detroit.

Smallz is more than just a restaurant—it’s the rebirth of a legend. With his proven expertise in hospitality, his impeccable taste, and his ability to draw the best of the best, Darnell Small’s second coming will undoubtedly be even better than before. Prepare for an unforgettable experience—because when Darnell Small is involved, nothing less will do.