‘It’s been wonderful’: Owner opens up about restaurant closing

BAY CITY, Mich. (WNEM) - After nearly 100 years, a restaurant staple in Bay County is preparing to serve its last meals.

On Tuesday, Aug. 20, Berger’s Family Restaurant, located on M-84 near 3 Mile Road, made the announcement on its Facebook page citing economic conditions.

“Since the pandemic, the business has continued to operate as ‘normal’ as possible,” the post said. “The same economic pressures that have affected customers, have affected our business as well. Higher costs of products, equipment, and labor have made the overall economic environment very challenging to navigate. We do not see this environment changing for some time.”

Four generations have owned and run Berger’s Family Restaurant serving the Tri-City area for 96 years. At the end of August, the restaurant will close its doors for the last time.

“I’m going to miss ya’ll, it’s been wonderful,” said Bruce Berger, the owner.

The lunch crowd Tuesday afternoon at Berger’s Family Restaurant was filled with longtime friends and patrons.

“The community that’s helped us survive all of these years through the ups and downs. I mean, I’ve met four generations of families that have been coming in here, so it’s bittersweet,” Berger said.

Pictures of the original owners, Berger’s great grandparents, hang over the bar.

“My great grandparents started in 1928 more as an ice cream parlor. Great grandpa served alcohol,” Berger said.

Which then led to them serving food. Fast forward some generations and Berger will tell you it’s a formula he’s been following for a majority of his life.

“We got dropped off from school on the bus right at the restaurant. We spent most of our time there, it was a home away from home,” Berger said.

“The food is good. The staff is really good. It’s a restaurant like you want to have,” said James Griffiths.

He has had many dinners at Berger’s; he’s been dining here for close to 60 years.

“Certainly, we’re going to miss it. It’s been a frequent stop for us,” Griffiths. “We’re both 73 years old and we’ve been eating here since we were in college.”

The family isn’t ready to name the person who’s buying the restaurant, but they said they’re known in the community.

“We see this as an easier transition. We could not have come this far if it wasn’t for the three generations of family before us. Selling the building is one thing, but selling the Berger name is not something we were willing to do. We felt this decision is one that cements the legacy and reputation of the Berger family in the community. Our family has made many great friends and relationships over the years,” the post said.

Saturday, Aug. 31 will be the last day for Berger’s.

“It’s been wonderful, I’ve enjoyed the people. I enjoyed the employees that have helped us so much,” Berger said. “Survival of getting everybody done, trying to do everything we can to make it still an enjoyable place up to the end.”

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