Bar Louie Closes Two Popular Locations in Metro Detroit

Closed Bar Louie restaurant in Metro Detroit

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News Summary

Bar Louie has announced the closure of its Livonia and Auburn Hills locations, leaving employees shocked and customers searching for their favorite gastropub. This decision, attributed to underperformance, results in only two Bar Louie locations remaining in Michigan. As the brand strives to focus on more successful venues, the future remains uncertain for its presence in the state.

Bar Louie Closes Two Popular Locations in Metro Detroit

It’s a tough time for fans of Bar Louie in the Metro Detroit area. The beloved gastropub has made the difficult decision to shut down its locations in Livonia at Laurel Park Place and Auburn Hills at Great Lakes Crossing, leaving many employees stunned and customers searching for answers. This sudden closure took effect on Sunday, and it’s safe to say that it rolled out like a surprising plot twist in a movie.

Layoffs Leave Staff in Shock

Employees at both shuttered locations were left completely blindsided when they received news of the closures, with many discovering the situation only after arriving to find a note announcing the restaurant’s permanent closure. For those gearing up for a long day of work, this news was surely a heart-stopping shock.

With the closure of these two outlets, only two Bar Louie locations remain in Michigan: the Clinton Township spot at Mall at Partridge Creek and the Royal Oak location. As of now, these are the last bastions of the chain in the state, making them essential dining destinations for fans of Bar Louie’s varied menu.

What Led to the Closures?

According to an internal memo that came to light, the closures of the Livonia and Auburn Hills locations are attributed to their underperformance. However, it’s important to note that this decision was not a reflection of the hard work put in by employees or management. Instead, the memo emphasized the chain’s approach to focus resources on locations that are performing better. In today’s competitive market, this kind of strategic decision-making is often seen as necessary in order to ensure the overall health of a business.

Bar Louie’s Background

Bar Louie isn’t just another chain; it has a storied history that dates back to its roots in Chicago in 1990 as what it dubbed the “original gastropub.” The brand gained traction and recently expanded to 19 states, opening numerous locations along the way. However, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the chain. Back in January 2020, Bar Louie filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and had to close over 30 locations, something that greatly affected their growth trajectory.

Over the years, Bar Louie has become a popular choice for those looking to enjoy craft burgers, refreshing salads, and tasty bar bite appetizers. Its menu features a variety of mouth-watering main dishes, making it a favorite gathering place for friends and families alike. However, recent closures, including those in Kirkwood, Indianapolis, and San Antonio, shed light on the challenges the chain currently faces.

Current Status of Bar Louie

As of January 2024, Bar Louie has decreased its locations from 66 down to just 48, showing just how much the chain has struggled to maintain its foothold in the dining world. The Royal Oak location, opened in March 2019, was intended to rejuvenate the brand’s presence in Michigan, but it now finds itself one of the very few remaining locations in the state.

In the face of these closures, many have taken to social media to express their disappointment and share their experiences. Fans of the gastropub may now have to travel further for their favorite burgers and beverages, and employees are left to seek new job opportunities with little notice.

What’s Next?

As the dust settles from this sudden wave of closures, the future of Bar Louie in Michigan and beyond remains uncertain. Rumor has it that the chain is looking to consolidate its resources into locations where it can thrive, but only time will tell how that will play out. For now, the remaining locations in Clinton Township and Royal Oak will have to carry the torch for Bar Louie while the rest of the state mourns the loss of its two beloved venues.