HopCat plans reopening in Royal Oak this winter, seeks to hire 150

Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press
·2 min read

After closing its Royal Oak location more than two years ago, HopCat will soon open in a new spot in the city.

The popular gastropub known for its Cosmik Fries (formerly called "Crack Fries") is debuting at 430 S. Main Street in downtown Royal Oak. HopCat is taking up spaces formerly occupied by BD's Mongolian Grill, Gamestop and Noodles World Kitchen. Its former location on Fifth Street is a few blocks from HopCat's first Royal Oak home.

Project BarFly, the parent company of HopCat that also operates Stella's Lounge and Grand Rapids Brewing Co., announced the expected winter opening. Though no date was given, the Royal Oak location is looking to hire about 150 employees.

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That includes many positions for the front and back of the house, including line cooks, prep cooks, dishwashers, servers, bartenders and more. New employee training is expected in late November. You can apply at barflyjobs.com or at its Detroit location, 4265 Woodward Ave.

“At HopCat, we’re always looking for enthusiastic people to join our team to help us deliver high-quality service to our guests,” said Ned Lidvall, Barfly CEO in a news release. “We strive to provide the best work environment, where employees can be themselves, while fostering growth and development and giving them the opportunity to discover a long-term, rewarding career. We’re excited to return to Royal Oak and look forward to serving both returning and new guests alike.”

HopCat's first Royal Oak location at 208 W. Fifth opened in 2017 and was the former Woody's space. The space is now home to Pastaio Handmade Pasta and Pizza, which opened earlier this summer.

While HopCat spots are known for their crispy and tasty Cosmik fries, they are also noted for craft beer, including local beers, and upscale bar food. HopCat has seven locations in Michigan, one each in Nebraska and Indiana.

Contact Detroit Free Press food writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: HopCat plans ropening in Royal Oak, looking to hire 150