Detroit Says Goodbye to Bobcat Bonnie’s in Corktown

The warm ambiance of Bobcat Bonnie's now empty as the Corktown location closes its doors.

News Summary

Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood bids farewell to Bobcat Bonnie’s, a beloved restaurant that served the community for nearly a decade. Owner Matthew Buskard announced the heartbreaking closure on March 4, 2025, citing economic challenges and high operational costs. Once thriving with multiple locations, the restaurant group has now downsized to two. While employees from Corktown are offered positions at the Ferndale location, the emotional impact resonates deeply as the community reflects on the vital role Bobcat Bonnie’s played during its tenure.

Detroit Says Goodbye to Bobcat Bonnie’s in Corktown

Detroit has felt the weight of change recently as locals bid farewell to Bobcat Bonnie’s, the beloved restaurant that served up tasty bites and a warm atmosphere in the Corktown neighborhood for nearly ten years. The closure, officially announced on March 4, 2025, on social media, has left many in the community feeling bittersweet.

A Heartbreaking Decision

Owner Matthew Buskard took to Facebook to share the news, describing it as a “heartbreaking” decision driven by a myriad of economic challenges. Since its opening back in 2015, Bobcat Bonnie’s had grown to become a hot spot for friends, families, and anyone in search of a good meal. However, after wrestling with operation costs and revenue, the Corktown location simply couldn’t weather the storm any longer.

Reduction of Locations

Once buzzing with multiple Michigan locations, the restaurant group has now trimmed down to just two remaining spots — one in Ferndale and another in Lansing. The restaurant’s closures in places like Wyandotte, Ypsilanti, Clinton Township, and Grand Rapids have marked a significant downturn for the brand as they grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic and a tightening economy.

What’s Next for Corktown Employees?

For the employees who worked tirelessly at the Corktown restaurant, hope still glimmers on the horizon. They have been offered positions at the Ferndale location, allowing them to continue being a part of the Bobcat Bonnie’s family. It’s a silver lining amid a challenging time in the restaurant sector as they try to find stability after the recent upheaval.

The Community Feelings

The emotional impact of this closure resonates deeply within the Corktown community, which has seen significant changes over the years, especially around the revitalization efforts near Tiger’s Stadium and the Michigan Central Train Station. Bobcat Bonnie’s played a crucial role in Corktown’s shift to being a vibrant cultural hub, making this farewell even more poignant. People are reminiscing about their experiences at the restaurant, from celebrating milestones to enjoying casual meals with loved ones.

Future Plans Amidst Challenges

Despite the challenges faced, there is a glimmer of positivity. Buskard has expressed a passionate commitment to refocusing on quality and service at the remaining locations. He emphasizes the need to adapt and reinvent strategies to recreate the successful elements that made Bobcat Bonnie’s special while addressing the issues experienced in recent years.

A Call for Unity

Inevitably, the closure reflects a broader issue impacting many small businesses in today’s post-pandemic world. Buskard encourages local consumers to support these establishments, especially during tough times, reminding everyone that local dining spots are more than just businesses; they are community staples that bind us together.

As the dust settles on this chapter of Bobcat Bonnie’s journey, locals will always hold a special place in their hearts for the Corktown location that sparked joy and connection for so many. Here’s hoping for the brightest of futures for the remaining locations, and continued support from the community that made Bobcat Bonnie’s a cherished part of the Detroit dining scene.