In 2023, Detroit saw a surge in the popularity of hotel restaurants and high-end dining spots, but 2024 has brought a wave of closures, affecting both long-standing favorites and newer establishments. The downturn in restaurant activity is attributed to a combination of factors, including fewer Americans opting to dine out and rising food costs due to inflation. Many restaurants also face challenges in renegotiating leases or maintaining a consistent customer base, impacting both those living in Metro Detroit and newcomers moving to Metro Detroit who are exploring the local culinary scene.
Among the impacted businesses is the Michigan-based Mission Restaurant Group, known for managing several local establishments such as Avalon Bakery and Jolly Pumpkin. The group has been actively cutting costs, including the relocation of Avalon Bakery's flagship store from Willis to a new spot within Jolly Pumpkin on Canfield last year. In a recent setback, the group closed Vigilante Kitchen, a restaurant that garnered praise for its unique sober-friendly environment under chef Aaron Cozzad. Despite a strong weekend turnout, the restaurant struggled to attract weekday patrons, leading to its closure. Following Vigilante's shutdown, a new venture, Epiphany Nain Rouge Kitchen, was launched but has since also closed its doors.
Additionally, the group's Bandit Tavern & Hideaway in Royal Oak, located at the corner of Fifth and Main, closed in July after just eight months of operation. The venue, which had housed various well-known eateries over the years including Bastone Brewery, Vinotecca Wine Bar, Café Habana, and Jolly Pumpkin, couldn't withstand the challenging economic conditions. Mission Restaurant Group president David Ritchie expressed gratitude for the community's support over the years, stating, "We are proud to have served the Royal Oak community for two decades, employed thousands of people, introduced 11 unique restaurant concepts, and made lifelong friends. Unfortunately, current market conditions have forced us to focus our attention and resources in other areas." The group is currently working to reassign the Bandit Tavern & Hideaway staff to other locations, ensuring continued opportunities for those living in Metro Detroit.
BD's Mongolian Grill, Facebook
March 2024
Dearborn — Bd’s Mongolian Grill
After serving up customizable Mongolian barbecue for decades, Bd’s Mongolian Grill (22115 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn) has closed its doors, leaving a void for fans of the build-your-own stir-fry experience. The restaurant, part of a chain that originated in Ferndale, was a beloved spot for metro Detroiters looking to craft their own unique dishes. Despite its long-standing presence, the restaurant has now ended its run, much to the disappointment of its loyal patrons.
Downtown Detroit — Nathan’s Deli
Nathan’s Deli, a fixture in downtown Detroit at 581 E Jefferson Avenue, has been a go-to spot for hearty deli sandwiches for nearly 30 years. The beloved eatery announced its closure in a heartfelt Facebook post in March, marking the end of an era for fans who have enjoyed its generous sandwiches and friendly service. The loss of Nathan’s Deli is a significant one for the downtown dining scene, where it has been a cherished establishment for decades.
April 2024
Southfield — Bacco Ristorante
Bacco Ristorante, located at 29410 Northwestern Highway in Southfield, has closed its doors after more than two decades of delighting diners with its refined Italian cuisine. Helmed by renowned chef Luciano DelSignore, the restaurant was not only a beloved dining destination but also a cornerstone in the local culinary scene. DelSignore's leadership and mentorship were instrumental in fostering a new generation of chefs, earning Bacco Ristorante a special place in the hearts of both patrons and culinary professionals in metro Detroit.
Midtown Detroit — Vigilante Kitchen
Vigilante Kitchen, an innovative dining concept by chef Aaron Cozzad, has closed after operating for just under a year. Situated at 644 Selden Street in Midtown Detroit, the restaurant aimed to create a sober-friendly environment for its staff, addressing the widespread issue of addiction in the industry. Despite its short run, Vigilante Kitchen was a unique endeavor in the local dining landscape, known for its commitment to both culinary excellence and social responsibility.
May 2024
Cass Corridor — Temple Bar
Temple Bar, a cherished LGBTQ nightlife destination located at 2906 Cass Avenue in Detroit’s Cass Corridor, has temporarily closed due to structural damage to its building facade. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant events, the venue's closure has left a noticeable gap in the community. However, there is hope on the horizon, as the ownership has announced on Facebook that permits for repairs have been pulled and approved, paving the way for a hopeful resurrection of this beloved space.
West Village — Mumma Maria’s House
Mumma Maria’s House, the quaint Italian restaurant at 8122 Kercheval Avenue in Detroit’s West Village, has closed its doors as of May. The restaurant, founded by Carl Giordano in memory of his late wife Maria, was known for its comforting red sauce dishes and homely ambiance. An Instagram post from the restaurant indicates plans to find a new location, suggesting that this may not be the end for Mumma Maria’s House, much to the relief of its loyal patrons.
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Bunny Bunny, Facebook
June 2024
Eastern Market — Bunny Bunny
Bunny Bunny, located at 1454 Gratiot Avenue in Detroit's Eastern Market, closed its doors in June 2024. Known for its innovative blend of South African Indian and American Southern cuisine, the restaurant was a culinary project launched in 2020 by chefs Justin Tootla and Jennifer Jackson. Despite plans to close in 2022, the restaurant continued to operate through the end of its lease. Fans can still enjoy Bunny Bunny's unique offerings, as the restaurant has transitioned into a pop-up model. Meanwhile, Cøllect, the sister beer bar located above Bunny Bunny, also closed but has plans to reopen on Detroit’s eastside.
Rivertown — Rattlesnake Club
The Rattlesnake Club, a prestigious establishment at 300 River Pl Drive in Detroit's Rivertown, has permanently closed. The restaurant, which gained fame by bringing the city its first James Beard award in 1993, cited evolving dining preferences and challenges in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons for its closure. The Rattlesnake Club's legacy of fine dining and excellence leaves a lasting impact on Detroit's culinary scene.
Livonia — Chicken Guy
Chicken Guy, located at 30130 Plymouth Road Space A in Livonia, has closed its Michigan location after just over a year of operation. Founded by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, the restaurant quickly became known for its flavorful chicken dishes and variety of sauces. The closure was attributed to "unforeseen circumstances beyond our control," leaving local fans without their favorite chicken joint.
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FRAMEbar, Facebook
Hazel Park — Framebar
Framebar, situated at 23839 John R Road #1 in Hazel Park, closed its doors permanently in June 2024. The bar and pop-up venue faced scrutiny following an Eater Detroit article highlighting concerns over its business practices with local pop-up operators. Owner Joe Vaughn mentioned that a new chef and concept would replace Framebar, though further details have yet to be announced.
Royal Oak — Pop’s Hani Shop
Pop’s Hani Shop, located at 32538 Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak, shuttered in June 2024. The restaurant, launched in May 2023 by National Coney Island, focused on highlighting the "Hani," a lesser-known gem in the Coney Island food scene. The closure followed a dispute with the landlord, ending the short-lived venture that had quickly gained a dedicated following.
July 2024
Royal Oak — Bandit Tavern & Hideaway
Bandit Tavern & Hideaway, located at 419 S Main St in Royal Oak, closed its doors in July 2024 after just eight months of operation. The venue, a recent venture by the Mission Restaurant Group, offered a cozy and eclectic atmosphere along with a creative menu. Despite its promising start, the establishment struggled to thrive in the current market conditions. Mission Restaurant Group president David Ritchie cited these economic challenges as the primary reason for the closure, marking a premature end to what many hoped would become a staple in Royal Oak's dining scene.
As Detroit's dining scene navigates turbulent times, the closures of beloved spots like Bd’s Mongolian Grill, Nathan’s Deli, and Bacco Ristorante mark the end of eras that shaped the culinary landscape for years. For those living in Metro Detroit, these closures are a poignant reminder of the ever-changing nature of the restaurant industry. Meanwhile, newcomers moving to Metro Detroit might find themselves missing out on these iconic experiences that once defined the local dining culture. Despite the recent setbacks, the city remains resilient, with restaurateurs and chefs continually innovating and adapting. The spirit of Detroit's food scene endures, promising new adventures and flavors on the horizon. So, whether you're a longtime resident or a fresh face in town, there's always something exciting simmering just around the corner.
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