A sign hangs over the entrance of Cedar Tavern that reads, “The Best People In the World Walk Thru This Door.”
The iconic local bar has been sold as of last week after the watering hole was placed on the market in 2023.
“Well, this is a post that is extremely sad and happy at the same time. Fortyseven years of the Cedar Tavern being in our family … it’s time for me to pass it on,” Ellen Stachnik said. “My dad gave this bar everything; he loved it, and it showed. We have so many great memories here. We have met so many wonderful people.”
It all started in 1978 when Ellen’s father, Ron Alpers, and mother, Joan, bought the local watering hole from Frank Schill.
Ellen grew up in the bustling kitchen since the age of 12. After getting hitched in the 80s, Ellen and Roger Stachnik worked at the restaurant ever since. Ellen and Roger have owned the business for the past 15 years after Alpers died in 2008.
“Thank you for everything; we love you all,” Ellen and Roger said. “We love all of the people out there who supported us and the community.”
Although the Stachniks will be looking for their next adventure, they plan to visit their son, who is living in the Sacramento, California, area this summer. They will also be relaxing and figuring out their next steps in life.
The Greene Family will carry on the Cedar Tavern legacy.
“We all come to Cedar with various restaurant/bar experience and wish to maintain the Cedar Tavern’s “local” flair, legend, and family hospitality, which has been going strong for decades,” the new owners stated in a post on social media. “The Tavern is all about its relaxed community feel and open tables, always ready to share life’s celebrations, friendships, and camaraderie. Hats off to Ellen and Roger for carrying on the 47-year Legacy with Ron Alpers.”
Few changes are planned at this point in time, according to the new owners.
“We are thrilled that our great local staff, whom you have known for years, will be there with us to serve even more of ‘The best people in the world walk through our door.’” The Tavern closed Sunday for cleaning and small renovations before opening again Tuesday as business as usual.
The biggest question they have received is whether the fish fry is still happening, and they will hang their hat on that, along with taco Tuesday and other good eats at one of the most affordable sit-down restaurants in Leelanau County.
“We’re not looking to turn things upside down or change much at all,” Jim Greene said.
The idea of buying the restaurant came up in conversation when the family was enjoying cherry pie in December.
“We have watched kids grow up and now bring their kids in,” Stachnik said. “We appreciate all the support and kindness over all these years.”
