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Willis Show Bar (Deadline Detroit photo)
In 1949, the Willis Show Bar at Willis and Third in Detroit's Cass Corridor was a respected jazz club. But as the area declined, the neighborhood became known for drugs and prostitution.
In 1978, during a crackdown on prostitution, authorities padlocked the doors. Then in 2018, a group of Los Angeles-based hospitality veterans, along with the restaurant group, the Detroit Optimist Society, fixed up the joint and reopened it as a classy venue for cocktails and music.
The place closed in July and is up for sale, Crain's Detroit Business reports.
On Instagram, the owners posted this week:
It’s with a heavy but hopeful heart that we share this news:
After over seven incredible years, our group has made the decision to sell Willis Show Bar.
This choice did not come easily. Willis has been more than a business — it’s been a home for Detroit’s musicians, artists, and music lovers. Our decision is rooted in a desire to preserve the historic spirit of the venue and ensure its next chapter continues to honor the creative heartbeat of this city.
Over the years, our lives and circumstances have evolved in many ways. What began as a passion project has grown into something larger than ourselves — a cornerstone of Detroit’s live music scene. We believe Willis’ full potential can best be realized by a Detroit-based operator who can focus their time and energy on nurturing the venue’s next era.
This is a turnkey opportunity — a fully equipped, beloved venue with a passionate fan base and an incredible roster of performers ready to bring the stage back to life. The foundation is strong, the energy is waiting, and the next chapter is ready to be written.”
