BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — A longtime staple in Battle Creek will soon be closing its doors.
Clara’s on the River, operating in Battle Creek since the ’90s, is closing for good Sunday Sept. 6, due to “increased competition from national chains, “continued high food and energy costs,” and “unaffordable maintenance costs,” according to the owners.
“We at Clara’s have been honored to be a part of your celebrations, holidays, milestones, and memories,” Clara’s Owner Ross Simpson said in a statement. “Those shared moments here will always be cherished. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support throughout the years and for allowing Clara’s on the River to be a part of the story of Battle Creek. It has truly been our privilege to serve you.”
The restaurant came to Battle Creek in the ’90s after founder Peter G. Jubeck bought the old Union Depot in Lansing in 1978.
Clara’s bought the historic 1888 Battle Creek Michigan Central Railroad Depot from the city for $1.09M in 1996, according to city property records.
Ever since, it’s been a place where countless meals have been enjoyed, laughs had, and memories made.
“When you think of Battle Creek, you think of this old train station, you think of Clara’s on the River,” Lauren Wentworth, a Battle Creek resident, said. “Really hard pill to swallow that this won’t be here for all those special events and memories.”
As news of the restaurant’s closing began sweeping the community, countless people began reminiscing, including a few former employees.
“Working here really taught me so much. Not just about the restaurant industry, but gave me a huge value in every job that I had had since then,” Niaomi Curtis a Battle Creek resident and former server, said. “For one of my good friends several years ago, for a surprise birthday, we all dressed up in our old Clara shirts.”
The West Michigan location lived on 10 years after its original Lansing location closed in 2016. They’re having their last service Sunday for brunch.
Dining and Cooking