Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger, the stacked-burger institution that Ann Arbor students and townies swear by, is officially changing hands and headed back to downtown this spring. Brothers Noah and Ethan Kaplan have taken over the longtime storefront at 304 S. Ashley Street and say they plan to reopen in May after brief renovations. The Kaplans intend to keep the Blimpy name and much of the familiar menu, while adding more vegetarian options and expanding the kitchen.
Kaplans Plan a May Return
According to What Now Detroit, Noah Kaplan said the brothers are aiming to debut their version of Krazy Jim's in a few months. The outlet reports they are doing temporary renovations at the 304 S. Ashley site and working to preserve the restaurant’s character while modernizing back-of-house operations. What Now Detroit notes the new owners are coordinating the handover with the family of the prior owner as they prepare to reopen.
Remembering Rich Magner
Richard “Rich” Magner, who ran Krazy Jim’s for more than 30 years, died in March 2025. The Ann Arbor News obituary recalls Magner’s long connection to the restaurant and his role in shaping Blimpy’s identity for generations of customers. Locals and former employees remembered him for his commitment to the community and to giving people a second chance.
Menu Tweaks, Custom Beers and Later Hours
What Now Detroit also reports that the Kaplans plan to keep the menu largely intact while adding more vegetarian choices and debuting a chili fries item made from Magner’s recipe. The brothers have partnered with Mothfire Brewing to create custom 10 ounce, lower alcohol pours for the restaurant and are applying for a liquor license so they can serve later into the night. Planned upgrades include a larger kitchen to handle both lunch service and a later crowd.
Downtown Footprint and Foot Traffic
The restaurant’s current listing at 304 S. Ashley puts Blimpy in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor near Liberty Street and a cluster of late night venues. The spot is listed in local guides and national food directories such as the Food Network, which highlight its steady student and concertgoer traffic. That central location is cited as a key reason the brand has remained a go to for quick, late night burgers for decades.
What to Watch for Next
The Kaplans have not set an exact opening day but are pointing customers to the restaurant’s social channels for progress updates. The Blimpy Burger Facebook page is currently the best place to find renovation photos, menu teases and an official reopening announcement. The owners are expected to stage a soft reopening followed by a fuller relaunch once permits and licensing are finalized.
