Popular Michigan Bar and Eatery Gets New Owner After 40 Years
I always have mixed feelings when a beloved local restaurant or bar changes owners. On one hand, I’m happy to see the legacy of the establishment continue. But, on the other hand, it’s sad to see longtime owners retire and hand the place over to someone new.
One beloved Michigan bar just switched owners after more than 40 years. What’s good, though, is that the new owners say they’re going to keep it the same going forward as much as possible. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it, right?
That bar is East Lansing’s Peanut Barrel bar and restaurant. If you went to Michigan State University, like I did, chances are you’ve been there a bunch. The establishment’s owners, Joe and Jennifer Bell, have sold the business to Mike Krueger and John Mosholder. “Love and thanks to all you Nutheads,” the Bell family recently posted on social media, “What a ride it’s been. We wish all the best and much success to Mike Krueger as he takes over the reins. And … we’ll all meet up soon for another Happy Hour.”
Here’s where the good news kicks in. Krueger told The Detroit News that he doesn’t plan to change anything about the bar and restaurant. “I think the transition should go fairly well,” he said. “The culture that they have there, the way they’ve always treated their staff, the patrons, the regulars — you know, it’s just a really, really good vibe.”
Krueger has been a customer at Peanut Barrell for a long time. His and his business partner Mosholder co-own Crunchy’s, which is another popular bar just down the street. “I’m going to do my best to keep everybody happy and make the Bell’s proud,” Krueger said. The Peanut Barrel is open every day of the week for lunch and dinner. It’s located at 521 E. Grand River, East Lansing. Do you have any memories from the Peanut Barrell? Reach out to me at anne.erickson@bbgi.com and let me know!
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