In February 2009 Sweet Georgia Brown closed down for failure to pay rent to the Greektown Casino, which owns the building at Monroe and Brush Streets. The 8,000 square-foot space may soon be refilled by Jerry Kleiner, a Chicago restauranteur who was approached by the Casino for another upscale venture. According to Crain's, Kleiner, "has a reputation for putting high-end restaurants in seedy locations," which means his head must be exploding with potential all over this town.
Opening by spring, the tentatively-named L's Cheesecake Bistro is still in need of a business partner. Kleiner may turn to one of Sweet Georgia Brown's former owners that comes with the distinction of at one time owning 80 Pizza Hut franchises in Southeast Michigan.
· Chicago restaurateur eyes Sweet Georgia Brown site [Crain's]
· Sweet Georgia Brown Closes [Detroit News]