Ann Arbor's Pretzel Bell Is Making a Comeback; Halo Burger Changes Hands

EVENTWIRE — Birmingham Restaurant Week is almost here. The event runs January 25 through January 29 and February 1 through February 5 and features special lunch and dinner menus at local eateries including 220 Merrill, Au Cochon, The Stand Gastro Bistro, Townhouse, and more. [EaterWire]

CH-CH-CHANGES — Michigan-based burger slinger Halo Burger has changed hands. The new owners have, Halo Country, acquired all fifteen locations in the deal and plan to revamp the 93-year-old chain by introducing "new technology" and "the highest standards of speed and service." [EaterWire]

BEER HERE — As beer connoisseurs are aware, many Belgian brews are hard to come by stateside. That's where the North American Belgian Beer Festival comes in. From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on February 13, sample more than 270 Belgian beers. Tickets start at $40. [EaterWire]

COMEBACKS — A former beloved U-M hangout, Pretzel Bell, is poised for a comeback thanks to several university athletes and alumni. The new restaurant won't have any affiliation with the original and is slated to open in an 8,000-square-foot space this spring on Main Street in Ann Arbor. [Crain's]

THE CRITICS — Sylvia Rector bid adieu to the Free Press after a long tenure as head restaurant critic, but not before answering a few frequently asked questions about her job. Did she wear disguises? Did chefs pick up her tab? Does she have a culinary degree? All the essential details are revealed. [Freep]