A beloved Michigan restaurant and bar is undergoing new ownership after 25 years—marking the fourth ownership transition since it first opened in 1934.
Paul and Barbara Olson recently finalized the purchase of Art’s Tavern, located at 6487 Western Ave. in Glen Arbor. The local staple has been serving the community for more than 90 years.
According to The Ticker, the Olsons are taking over from Tim Barr and Bonnie Nescot, who have operated the tavern since 2000.
Barr and Nescot originally planned to sell the business earlier, but when the pandemic hit, they opted to keep the doors open rather than close for good. They managed to stay afloat with the help of grant funding, the outlet reported.
Barr approached Olson in late August about a potential sale. The two have known each other for years, and the Olsons have been longtime regulars at Art’s— even celebrating their engagement there in 1992. Barr also has a deep connection to the tavern, having started as an employee in 1986 before eventually buying it.
The Olsons’ experience in culinary and hospitality management impressed the previous owners. The couple is well-known for running Mission Table on Old Mission Peninsula, which they plan to continue operating alongside Art’s Tavern.
Art’s officially reopened under the new ownership on June 4. Olson said he has no plans to change fan favorites like the burger or onion rings, but hinted at menu tweaks and specials nights starting this fall.
What Now Detroit reached out to the Olsons for comment on their vision for Art’s and future plans but has not yet received a response.
According to the tavern’s website, Art’s will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner 360 days a year, opening at 7 a.m. and remaining open late.
