After Bobcat Bonnies in Ypsilanti closed its doors last October, the once-bustling building on W. Michigan Ave sat vacant, leaving the local community to wonder what would become of the space.
Now, a new chapter is about to unfold in the beloved Ypsilanti corner. In an effort to revive the city’s small-town charm, lifelong residents Kevin and Brian Cox have decided to take action.
The Cox brothers, who have deep roots in Ypsilanti, have partnered with Darrel Savos, a fellow local entrepreneur, to transform the vacant building into a vibrant gathering spot for the community.
"We want to bring Ypsi back to what it was with music, entertainment, good food, and safety,” Kevin Cox said.
The project aims to unite locals and visitors alike, offering something for everyone.
The building will be reimagined with a two-phase approach. The first phase will see the main floor transformed into Bella Vita Bistro, a charming cafe that will serve up a delicious blend of Italian and French cuisine. The menu will be designed to bring a taste of Europe to Ypsilanti, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
Each morning will begin with the locally-loved Hyperion Coffee, paired with a selection of baked goods and made-to-order breakfasts that promise to delight customers. As the day unfolds, the lunch menu will transport patrons to the streets of Paris, featuring baguette sandwiches, classic French grilled sandwiches, and a variety of fresh soups and salads. As evening approaches, the atmosphere will shift, offering gourmet pizzas that are similar to those served at the Cox brothers' other venture, MoonWinks Café and Tavern in Dixboro. These deluxe pizzas add a gourmet twist to a beloved classic. For those seeking a refined dining experience, Bella Vita will offer elegant dinner options that cater to every taste.
Cox emphasized that while the bistro will maintain a fine dining atmosphere, it will also offer a range of casual options for those in search of a quick, delicious meal. The addition of a walk-up window will allow customers to grab a late-night snack on the go.
The second phase of the project will focus on the building’s lower level, where a speakeasy-style jazz and blues club will take shape. This intimate venue will offer a high-class atmosphere, said Cox, featuring live performances from some of the best musicians in the region.
“Our music venue is already getting a lot of big names coming to town,” Cox said.
One of the first to grace the stage will be Laith Al-Saadi, an Ann Arbor native and finalist on The Voice. His performance promises to be just the beginning of what’s to come.
The speakeasy will open after the bistro is up and running, adding another layer of excitement to the Ypsilanti area. With its blend of fine dining, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere, the new venue will create an experience for those looking to unwind, connect, and enjoy local entertainment.
As the plans move forward, Cox and his team are working closely with architects to finalize the designs. Their target is to open the doors of Bella Vita Bistro by summer 2025, marking a significant step in the brightening of Ypsilanti’s downtown.
This project is part of a broader movement within the community to breathe new life into the city’s local economy and foster a sense of community pride. With the Cox brothers’ vision and dedication, along with the support of the community, Ypsilanti’s future looks brighter than ever.
“We’re really excited to be a part of this transformation,” Cox said. “It’s about creating a place where people can gather, share a meal, enjoy some music, and feel at home.”
As the new establishment prepares to open its doors, it’s clear that Bella Vita Bistro and the adjacent speakeasy will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Ypsilanti for locals and visitors alike.
