By Kathy Oswalt-Forsythe
Bud’s Bar in Schoolcraft is reopening in May. New owners Shannon and Tom Brady purchased the business, closed since 2019, in December and have been hard at work ever since.
The Bradys, currently south Portage residents, are experienced in the restaurant and food service industry. They owned a restaurant called “Brady’s on Broad” in Linden, Michigan. They also owned and managed three Tim Horton restaurants. “Yes, it was busy, but we really enjoyed it,” said Shannon. “We assembled a great staff, and they became like family to us.”
Tom is also a builder, which comes in handy with all the interior and exterior work the couple is undertaking. The layout of the restaurant will remain basically the same. The bar is being repaired, the kitchen and bathrooms will be gutted and replaced and flooring will be updated throughout.
The couple is also renovating one of the upstairs apartments.
Their three adult children, Margaret, Grace, and Joe, also help with the work as needed.
The Bradys are excited to be a part of the Schoolcraft community and really like the small town and its members. “People have been really positive,” said Shannon, “and are happy that we are here.”
Showcasing local history is important to the Bradys, and they want to frame historical images of the building and the downtown and surrounding area in prominent places throughout the business.
Many in the community will be comforted to know that the name will stay the same. When asked about the sign, Shannon said, “Oh yes, we will have the old neon sign repaired and it will remain above the front entrance.”
The couple expects to begin the hiring process in April and plan to open May 1. Watch for updates.
And watch for the familiar, iconic Bud’s Bar sign to return to its original glow!