Once Popular Burger Joint Coming Back To MI This Year: Here's Where

MICHIGAN — A once popular Michigan burger joint that was known for their cheap sliders is making a comeback this year.

Hot 'n Now, which filed for bankruptcy in 2004, is returning with two new Michigan locations, according to developers.

Gun Lake Investments and Alpena business owner and developer Jeff Konczak formed HNN Holdings LLC, which acquired the Hot 'n Now name last October.

Now the group plans to bring the once popular fast-food burger chain back to Michigan, starting with two locations: one in Gun Lake Casino in Wayland, (roughly halfway between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids) and one in Alpena, according to a news release.

The group said they would like to open a Hot 'n Now in Metro Detroit sometime in the future, but they're mainly focused on getting the Wayland and Alpena locations up first. Those locations, which could open as soon as this summer, are expected to be walk-up and drive-thru only.

The group said it plans to stick to the restaurant's affordable menu concept, though it was unclear exactly how much the food will cost.

"The Hot ‘n Now brand has a multi-decade history of providing value to consumers and their families," Konczak said. "We are excited to partner with GLI on the brand acquisition, as they share our commitment to making our offerings accessible to families nationwide. Rather than limiting affordability to a few items, our entire menu will be priced to accommodate a wide range of households and incomes."

Hot 'n Now was founded in Kalamazoo and in 1984 and saw success through that decade and the 1990s when its popular sliders sold for just 39 cents. The restaurant had locations in Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan, including metro Detroit spots in Taylor and Roseville.

Ownership of the chain changed hands several times over the years before it filed for bankruptcy in 2004.

There is already a Hot ‘n Now in Sturgis, which is in far Southwest Michigan near the Indiana border. The restaurant is independently owned.