Why this Detroit restaurant closed after 36 years in business

DETROIT – The Rattlesnake Club restaurant in Detroit has permanently closed after 36 years in business.

“We are grateful for the support of our loyal customers over these many years. Most of all, we are grateful for the loyal service of our dedicated employees,” Vice President and CFO Mark Tuttle said in a statement.

The restaurant first opened in 1988. Tuttle said the business could not recover after the COVID pandemic.

“Changing patterns in dining habits, office occupancy and traffic have negatively impacted revenues since the COVID pandemic. Private events, which had always been a pillar of the business, have not recovered,” Tuttle said.

Tuttle said employees were briefed on the closing on Saturday, June 29, and were offered severance pay.

“After 36 years, the Rattlesnake Club Restaurant will close permanently after June 28. We are grateful for the support of our loyal customers over these many years. Most of all, we are grateful for the loyal service of our dedicated employees. These seasoned professionals’ focus on producing the finest food and outstanding customer service have been responsible for maintaining the restaurant’s reputation these many years since it opened in 1988. Changing patterns in dining habits, office occupancy and traffic have negatively impacted revenues since the COVID pandemic. Private events, which had always been a pillar of the business, have not recovered. Employees were briefed today (June 29, 2024) on the closing and have been offered severance pay.”

Mark Tuttle, Vice President and CFO