New downtown Detroit businesses race to get open in final days before NFL Draft [Video]

DETROIT (WXYZ) — Pull up a seat because the bar is open.

Side Hustle Lounge in downtown Detroit is celebrating its very first week in business, the same week the city hosts the NFL Draft. The new lounge shares space and owners with Mootz Pizza, located directly next door.

“What is your excitement level heading into the NFL Draft right now?” I asked Director of Operations Walter Gregorio.

“It’s been ramping up. Every day, it gets a little higher,” Gregorio said. “Today is a 12 on a scale of 10.”

The bar is just a short walk from the draft stage and along with Mootz, the entire space is already rented out for a private event on the first night of the draft. Behind the bar is an additional dining area for Mootz.

“We’re working …