After closing suddenly in early 2025 after a fire, the storied Checker Bar in downtown Detroit has announced a reopening date.
The casual and historic Cadillac Square watering hole will reopen March 4 following a months-long period of extensive cleaning, repairs and restoration.
“Detroit doesn’t give up — and neither do the places that make it special,” said owner Timothy Tharp in a statement. He purchased the bar, which dates back to the 1950s, in 2014. The fire was caused by a utility-related underground explosion.
“When the fire happened, we were at a total loss for how to proceed, but the community showed up for us immediately,” he said.
The renovations include a refresh of the second floor, now called the Clubhouse. That’s reopening March 4 as well with billiards, steel-tipped darts and live entertainment.
“There were days when this restoration project felt completely overwhelming. It felt like roadblock after roadblock,” said Tharp. “But every message of support reminded us that Checker Bar isn’t just a business — it’s part of Detroit’s story.”
Known for affordable prices and a no-frills menu featuring burgers, the bar is at 124 Cadillac Square, just outside Campus Martius. At one time in the 20th century, the location was a Big Boy restaurant, and a vintage Big Boy bucket was even unearthed from a wall during renovations.
mbaetens@detroitnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Checker Bar in downtown Detroit sets reopening date after 2025 fire
Reporting by Melody Baetens, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
