February 17, 2026
The Challenge
Before the opening of Big Mike’s Steakhouse, the City of Millbrook was focused on attracting high-quality, full-service dining options that would enhance both its downtown and the growing 17 Springs development. While interest from restaurant operators existed, landing the right concept required patience, creativity, and long-term collaboration among public and private partners.
The Strategy
Retail Strategies and Retail Specialists began working with an Alabama-based full-service restaurant operator in the summer of 2019, sharing potential sites, hosting market and site tours, and maintaining consistent communication over several years. Jeff “Coach” Rouzie played a pivotal role, leveraging long-standing relationships and quickly engaging city leadership to align vision and resources.
A key advantage in Millbrook was city ownership of the targeted building, which allowed the deal to be structured as a streamlined, turnkey opportunity for the restaurant operator—reducing upfront costs while ensuring long-term community benefit.
The Partnership
The effort was led in close coordination with Ann Harper, Economic Development Director for the City of Millbrook, who served as the primary point of contact and champion for the project.
“We are very excited about both Big Mike’s Steakhouse and Baumhower’s Victory Grill coming to Millbrook. These are huge wins for our community,” said Harper. “Thanks to Retail Strategies and Retail Specialists for laying the groundwork and introducing these great establishments to our market. Jeff Rouzie’s relationships have been invaluable to our success.”
The Deal
Drawing from a proven redevelopment model, the city structured a turnkey restaurant buildout, similar to a prior Big Mike’s project in Bay Minette but simplified due to city ownership of the building.
- The city provided a fully built-out, turnkey restaurant space
- Big Mike’s Steakhouse signed a long-term, 20-year lease
- The structure supports sustainable revenue for the city while minimizing operator risk
- The project required coordination among city leadership, utilities, investors, and development partners
The Result
After nearly six years of collaboration and persistence, Big Mike’s Steakhouse is officially open in Millbrook—bringing a highly sought-after dining option, new jobs, and long-term economic impact to the community.
The project stands as a testament to the value of patience, trusted relationships, and public-private collaboration in retail recruitment.
“This shines as another great example of the difficulty and extended timeframe required to see deals through—but also the value of strong partnerships,” said the Retail Strategies team.
With Big Mike’s Steakhouse and Baumhower’s Victory Grill both secured, Millbrook is well-positioned for continued commercial growth in its downtown and 17 Springs areas.
About Retail Specialists
Retail Specialists is the premier retail real estate services firm in the south. We are committed to long-term relationships in property management, retail representation, development, and leasing and brokerage. Founded in 2005, we’ve thrived through tough times and shine under pressure. A unique mix of experience, technology, and data have proven successful in a business we love.
