Coney Island Closes in Eastern Market Building Threatened by Demolition

Another restaurant closes in Eastern Market

Mike’s Coney Island, an Eastern tenant of controversial landlord Firm Real Estate, has closed its doors permanently, Crain’s reports. The restaurant resides in a building that Firm earmarked for demolition last summer, prompting members of the community to call for Eastern Market to become a historic district. Mike’s officially closed on Tuesday, December 31. The owner intends to open a new supply store nearby on Russell Street selling items like cleaning supplies and limited groceries. Firm, which became a significant property holder in Eastern Market within the last three years, came under intense criticism in 2019 after several longtime restaurant tenants including Russell Street Deli closed.

Wahlburgers relocates

Celebrity-backed burger chain Wahlburgers is moving on from its Taylor location less than two years after opening, the Detroit Free Press reports. Franchise owner Nino Cutraro plans to open a different chain, City Fire American Oven and Bar, in the building and move Wahlburgers to Woodhaven this summer. Management is offering employees positions at other Wahlburgers locations and at the City Fire restaurant in the interim. Wahlburgers Taylor’s final day of service is Wednesday, January 22.

Detroit-style pizza chain expands to Lansing

Buddy’s Pizza is adding a location in Lansing this spring. The restaurant chain, which recently opened a spot in downtown Detroit, has yet to reveal the address of its 17th outpost.

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