News Summary
Hot ‘n Now, the affordable fast-food chain, is set to open two new restaurants in Michigan in 2025, with one located in Wayland. The Wayland location is currently under construction and will emphasize a drive-thru-only model. A second restaurant is expected to open in Alpena later in the same year. With a commitment to providing value to families, Hot ‘n Now aims to revitalize its presence in Michigan with a menu featuring signature items at budget-friendly prices.
Wayland, Michigan
Hot ‘n Now, the beloved fast-food brand known for its budget-friendly offerings, is set to expand its presence in Michigan with two new restaurants scheduled to open in 2025. The first of these new locations will be in Wayland, which is currently under construction. A second restaurant is also planned for Alpena, with an expected opening in October 2025.
Details of the Wayland Location
The Wayland restaurant is strategically located at 1146 129th Avenue, behind Gun Lake Investments’ Noonday Market and across from the popular Gun Lake Casino. While the official opening date has yet to be announced, construction is actively taking place, promising residents of Wayland a new dining option in the near future.
The restaurant will operate from 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Emphasizing the chain’s drive-thru-only model, the new establishment will feature a 737-square-foot building adorned with Hot ‘n Now’s signature red metal roof, manufactured using a modern “plug and play” concept that streamlines design and construction processes.
Alpena Opening and Future Expansion Plans
In addition to the Wayland location, the second restaurant will open in Alpena in October 2025. Construction for this site is expected to start soon, further enhancing Hot ‘n Now’s footprint in Michigan. The company, under the new ownership of Gun Lake Investments (GLI) and developer Jeff Konczak, is exploring opportunities for future expansions beyond these locations.
Revitalizing a Brand with Rich History
Hot ‘n Now was founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1984 and quickly gained popularity, particularly for its drive-thru-only model and low-priced menu items, including their signature burgers. At its peak, the chain boasted over 150 locations across 15 states, making it a household name in fast food. However, the brand faced financial challenges that culminated in multiple ownership changes and a bankruptcy filing in 2004.
Currently, there is only one Hot ‘n Now restaurant operating in Michigan, located independently in Sturgis. With the recent revival efforts led by HNN Holdings, LLC, Hot ‘n Now aims to reconnect with its roots while catering to modern dining needs and preferences.
Menu Offerings and Community Focus
The menu for the new locations will feature signature items, such as The Olive Burger and Cheesy Taters, offered at affordable prices to accommodate a range of household budgets and incomes. The CEO of Gun Lake Investments has highlighted the brand’s commitment to providing value to families by implementing hyper-value pricing strategies.
To keep the public informed about ongoing developments, construction updates, menu details, and future announcements, Hot ‘n Now will maintain an updated website, which can be accessed at www.hot-n-now.com. Residents in Wayland and Alpena can look forward to the reopening of this nostalgic fast-food option, ensuring more accessible and affordable dining experiences in their communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox 17 Online
- Wikipedia: Hot ‘n Now
- WZZM 13
- Google Search: Hot n Now Michigan
- Wood TV 8
- Encyclopedia Britannica: fast food
- MLive
- Google News: Hot n Now opening
- Crain’s Grand Rapids
- Google Scholar: Hot n Now restaurant
