If you asked most people in Michigan a year ago whether this longtime diner chain was on its last leg, the answer probably would've been “for sure.” And honestly, rightfully so. Back in 2024, we told you they were planning to close at least 150 locations by the end of this year, which sounded like the beginning of the end.

While they still plan to shut down a bunch of underperforming spots across the country, they are not going down without a fight. In fact, according to The Street, the chain is still profitable.

Which Popular Restaurant Chain in Michigan Is Trying to Make a Comeback?

We are talking about Denny’s. Yup, with roughly a dozen locations still open in Michigan, the home of the Grand Slam isn't going away just yet.

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Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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They just got scooped up by a private investment group, they are cutting loose the slow-performing spots, and they are trying to modernize a bit instead of fading into restaurant history. I think we are all a little surprised by this turn of events.

It has been a struggle for Denny’s since the pandemic, but it is pretty awesome to see that they are not headed for the same graveyard as so many other restaurant chains we lost along the way.

Will this comeback actually work? No idea.

But if they can keep the late-night breakfast vibes alive and not charge an arm and a leg for a plate of pancakes, Michigan might just give them another shot. I know I will.

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Using reviews, awards, and the experiences of their teams, publications like Lovefood.com, 24/7 Tempo, Tasting Table, and Yelp have declared these the top eats in the Mitten State.

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