Oxford Inn Opens Speakeasy Space for TV Cameras

Visitors to the Lock & Key bar had to know the secret word to get into the renovated space of the Oxford Inn on Saturday night.

A knock on a new rear entrance door and uttering the words "absinthe minded" got you in the "speakeasy" as cameras rolled for the Food Network.

"We're doing a reveal," said Oxford Inn owner Bob Higgins, as he waited to see renovations to the west room of his establishment for a brand new reality TV show, which makes over struggling bars, called "On the Rocks."

Higgins has been trying to figure out a way to pick up sales from 8 p.m. to close for some time. In January, he played with the idea of changing the name of his Main Street eatery to Bobby's Nashville Bar and Grill.

He made some minor changes to the interior, including replacing carpeting with hardwood flooring and painting walls, and not much more. In May, he lamented to Patch that "the country thing" really hurt his business.

While Higgins was figuring out what his next steps would be, the opportunity to be a part of the new reality TV show came up.

Higgins said Saturday he was pleased with the "speakeasy" makeover and its menu, which includes Vodka Poached Shrimp Cocktail, The Devil's Eggs, Roaring Rib Board, Raw Oysters, Lock & Key Frites and Flapper Girl Apple Pie. Speakeasy libations include The Green Fairy, which is absinthe served the traditional way with an absinthe spoon, a sugar cube and iced water.

If you want to see the makeover, you'll have to stop by the Lock & Key at the Oxford Inn or wait to see "On the Rocks" on the Food Network, most likely in December or January.

Please note, the Oxford Inn still serves your favorite food! The makeover was to one room only.

The Oxford Inn and Lock & Key are located at 1214 S. Main St., Royal Oak; 248-543-5619.