Hot ’n Now is staging a comeback—this time, setting up shop just steps away from Gun Lake Casino Resort. And it's getting even closer to opening!

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👇BELOW: LOCALS SAY THESE ARE THE 20 BEST BURGERS IN GRAND RAPIDS👇

New Owners Bring Hot ’n Now Back

For years, the only remaining Hot ’n Now in Michigan has been the cult-favorite location in Sturgis. Founded in Kalamazoo in 1984, the chain once boasted more than 150 locations nationwide before struggling in the ’90s and declaring bankruptcy in 2004. Sturgis became the lone outpost—until now!

Earlier this year, we told you the nostalgic burger chain would finally be expanding again. The new owners of the franchise, Gun Lake Investments and developer Jeff Konczak are kicking things off with two new restaurants: one in Wayland and one in Alpena.

Wayland Location Nears Opening

Now, the long-anticipated Wayland restaurant is almost ready! This week the building was officially delivered at 1146 129th Avenue, right behind Noonday Market and across from the casino.

Courtesy Hot 'n Now
Courtesy Hot 'n Now
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Crews have begun assembling the 737-square-foot drive-thru building, topped with Hot ’n Now’s iconic red roof. The modular structure was built in Alpena by Konczak’s company, B Cubed Manufacturing.

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Courtesy Hot 'n Now
Courtesy Hot 'n Now
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Hot ’n Now Menu Favorites

Once the finishing touches like state-of-the-art cooking equipment and final utility hookups are complete, the restaurant will be serving its famous Olive Burgers, Cheesy Taters, and more. According to a previous press release, the new locations will keep  Hot 'n Now's beloved, affordable menu. Anything you're most excited to eat again? The jalapeño poppers and Mushroom Swiss burger are on my list!

When Will Hot 'N Now Open in Wayland?

The new drive-thru restaurant is slated to open this October. Hours will run from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

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CEO Monica King says, “Today, we are one step closer to bringing the nostalgic Hot ’n Now brand back with new refreshed elements.”

The Future of Hot 'N Now in Michigan

The Wayland location is expected to create about 35 jobs, and a full menu and pricing will be revealed closer to its grand opening festivities.

It sounds like the plan is to continue to expand. So even more locations could be opening up in Michigan—and beyond!

A new website has been created so customers can stay up-to-date on construction, menus and announcements. Check it out at hot-n-now.com.

The 20 Best Burgers in Grand Rapids, Ranked by Locals

Grand Rapids takes its burgers seriously, and locals have strong opinions about where to find the best ones in town. To settle the debate, we pulled together hundreds of recommendations from some of the city’s most popular foodie Facebook groups—Grand Rapids Informed and EatGR.

The result? A mouthwatering lineup of 20 local favorites. Each spot earned its place on the list thanks to enthusiastic endorsements from people who live, work, and eat right here in West Michigan.

We’re counting down from No. 20 all the way to the burger that claimed the top spot with more than 35 mentions. Whether your go-to joint made the cut or you discover a new place to try, this list is your ultimate Grand Rapids burger guide.

Gallery Credit: Janna

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