Berkley Gets a Flavor Upgrade Thanks to Three Friends and Their Bold Burger Vision

Berkley is about to welcome a new culinary hotspot as Buns & Patties prepares to open its doors at 2375 Coolidge Highway. This late-night eatery, spearheaded by childhood friends Mark Isakov, David Pinkhasov, and Vladislav "Vlad" Shamayev, aims to redefine the local dining experience.

The trio, who grew up together in Metro Detroit, bring over a decade of combined experience in the food industry. Their journey began with roles at establishments like Social Kitchen & Bar in Birmingham, where they honed their skills as servers and bartenders. In March 2025, they took a significant step by securing a 1,400-square-foot building in Berkley, formerly a Tubby's sandwich shop.

Buns & Patties is set to become a go-to spot for late-night cravings, staying open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and extending to 3 a.m. on weekends. The menu will feature their signature smash burgers, a fried chicken sandwich with coleslaw and secret sauce, seasoned fries, and soft-serve sundaes. Emphasizing quality, the team plans to make everything from scratch, including hand-cut coleslaw and hand-battered chicken tenders.

The interior design aims to blend classic diner aesthetics with a modern vibe. Patrons can expect a stainless-steel counter, a long banquette, rich leather tones, woodgrain accents, and neon lighting. A local artist will also contribute a wall mural, adding a unique touch to the ambiance.

The name "Buns & Patties" has a nostalgic origin, conceived by Pinkhasov during a 10th-grade biology class. Their burger inspiration comes from the renowned Goldburger in Los Angeles, known for its delectable smash burgers. By pressing down hard on small balls of meat, they achieve the Maillard reaction, resulting in a flavorful charred taste.

The partners' bond runs deep, rooted in their shared experiences as Russian-Jewish immigrants who arrived in Detroit between 1997 and 2000. Their families, supported by organizations like Jewish Family Service and Hebrew Free Loan, settled in the area, fostering a close-knit community. Their mothers' friendship laid the foundation for the trio's enduring camaraderie.

As Berkley continues to evolve, Buns & Patties joins a wave of new establishments enhancing the local dining scene. Notably, Slows Bar BQ is also set to open a location in downtown Berkley, further enriching the city's culinary landscape.

With a commitment to quality, community, and late-night hospitality, Buns & Patties is poised to become a beloved fixture in Berkley. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to savoring their bold burger vision in the near future.