Bobcat Bonnie’s Closes Corktown Location After Nearly a Decade

Bobcat Bonnie's Corktown location drew locals and visitors alike for nearly ten years.

News Summary

Corktown bids farewell to its cherished Bobcat Bonnie’s as the restaurant closes its doors after nearly ten years of beloved service. Owner Matthew Buskard announced the closure on March 4, 2025, citing economic challenges in the restaurant industry. While the Corktown location is closing, fans can still enjoy the restaurant’s offerings at its Ferndale and Lansing locations, with several Corktown staff members transitioning to Ferndale. Buskard reflects on the community’s transformation and encourages support for local businesses during these difficult times.

Bobcat Bonnie’s Bids Farewell to Corktown After Nearly Ten Years of Flavor and Fun

In a bittersweet twist of fate, Corktown, Detroit, is saying a heartfelt goodbye to its beloved Bobcat Bonnie’s. The flagship restaurant, which opened its doors back in 2015, has officially closed after nearly a decade of serving mouthwatering dishes and drinks that brought the community together. This news came straight from owner Matthew Buskard, who announced the closure on March 4, 2025, leaving many in the Corktown area feeling a mix of nostalgia and sadness.

The Reasons Behind the Closure

The decision to shut down the Corktown location was not made lightly. It reflected the current economic climate and the unique challenges faced by many eateries in today’s world. It’s no secret that the restaurant industry has been battling numerous hurdles lately, and Bobcat Bonnie’s was not spared. Buskard shared that watching small businesses, including his own, grapple with closures or rebranding during these tough times is truly disheartening.

Reflecting on a Decade of Memories

As the dust settles on this chapter, Buskard took a moment to reflect on the vibrant transformation that Corktown has undergone throughout the years. The area, once defined by vacant lots and unoccupied buildings, has blossomed with exciting developments, including the evolution of Tiger’s Stadium. The shift in the neighborhood is both impressive and heartwarming, and it’s clear that the Corktown community has played an essential role in this transformation.

Looking Ahead: Where to Find Bobcat Bonnie’s

While Bobcat Bonnie’s flagship location may be closing, fear not—there are still two thriving establishments in Ferndale and Lansing where fans of the eatery can get their fix. To ensure a smooth transition for beloved staff members, several employees from the Corktown location have been offered jobs at the Ferndale restaurant, which is great news for those who enjoyed their friendly service!

A Year of Unusual Challenges

2024 has been quite a tumultuous year for Bobcat Bonnie’s. There was an employee strike at the Ferndale location earlier this year, which brought several management issues to light. During this time, there were demands regarding severance packages and improved working conditions. This turbulence undoubtedly made the overall situation more challenging for the staff and the future of the Corktown location.

A Heartfelt Farewell but Hope for the Future

Buskard expressed that this closure was a heartbreaking decision, but one that was necessary for the financial sustainability of Bobcat Bonnie’s remaining locations. He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, especially during these uncertain times when the community needs it the most. Despite the high emotions surrounding this farewell, there is a glimmer of hope for the future as Corktown continues to evolve and grow.

In Memoriam of Menu Favorites

As a parting gift of sorts, Buskard humorously apologized for some controversial menu items, including the infamous vegan meatloaf, which sparked friendly debates and mixed feelings among patrons. This lighthearted nod encapsulates the restaurant’s journey and the cherished community connections forged over shared meals and experiences.

The Final Message

As Bobcat Bonnie’s waves goodbye to Corktown, it encourages loyal customers to continue supporting local restaurants and businesses that contribute to the vibrant spirit of Detroit. Though the Corktown chapter is closing, the spirit of Bobcat Bonnie’s remains alive in Ferndale and Lansing, where the team is excited to enhance service and improve the dining experience. Here’s to hoping for more delicious memories to come!