07/09/2026
I'm writing today with a heavy heart about what we have to let go of and excited about the amazing things that are soon to come. We are going through some drastic changes that will be for the positive here at the Bullpen but in order for us to do those we have to make some difficult decisions, one of which is to liquidate the restaurant and arcade portion of the Bullpen.
I know this will be hard for many people to hear, that is definitely not lost on us. We have lots of regulars that work downtown and order lunch from us weekly and have done so for years. We also have repeat customers from all over the country that visit us every time they are in the area. During the winter weekends our arcade is almost always booked for private parties which makes all of this change that much harder for us to do.
I want to make it very clear we are not going out of business, I'm always afraid of making posts about change because people often only absorb portions of what we say and not the overall message.
The changes we are going through have been in the works since January and we have now gotten to the point where the behind the scenes stuff has brought us to the point where we have to do the things that impact our customers. The changes we are making will help solidify our ability to serve the community for many more years to come.
I will be going into greater depth in another post on the main Bob's Bullpen page in August regarding what is exactly happening after a few more gears have turned with everyone involved in the changes. If you aren't following that page please do so since further posts here will likely just outline things like liquidation sales of arcade machines and fixtures.
It has been Wendi and my immense pleasure over the last 8 years to serve Alpena, Northeast Michigan and really people from all over the world in the restaurant and arcade. For the employees past and present, thank you so much. I am forever grateful for your support through the tough times of Covid the exciting filming of travel shows here, being awarded by votes the last three years in a row as the Best of the Best Place to Eat with Kids in Northern Michigan and the unforgettably wonderful weekly moments when we get to see families celebrate birthday parties here.
The event portion of the Bullpen for many separated parents has become a place to celebrate their children year after year together in neutral ground for all family members involved. For me personally, the one thing I will miss the most every weekend is hearing everyone singing happy birthday at the parties. I know it sounds silly but I am often in the next room working on the computer as grandparents, friends and family all gather to take pictures, sing, read cards, laugh and create memories. I find great pride in being the catalyst for those situations becoming reality, these are memories I will never forget. In those moments I am beside myself with joy and amazement in this life I live.
This weekend we will be celebrating Thunder Con downtown selling comics, Pokemon cards, video games and serving food for as long as it is in stock. When we sell out of food, we are out, I will not be restocking the food anymore. So come down and nerd out with the community and get one of your favorite Vienna's like the Pretzel, Coney or Bulldog.
I think this might be a great opportunity to share your favorite memories, games you've played here and food items past or present. I would love to reminisce a bit. It's been a crazy ride!!!
For everyone feeling sad or worried for us or the community loosing a family friendly play option, just know we sympathize and understand how you feel but the best is yet to come. Wendi and I promise. Stay tuned.
Sincerely,
Bobby LeFevre
Owner of the Bullpen.
