7 Unforgettable Things To Know About The Fly Trap Michigan: The 'Finer Diner' Guy Fieri Couldn't Resist

The Fly Trap in Ferndale, Michigan, continues to be one of Metro Detroit's most talked-about and beloved dining institutions, especially following a significant ownership transition and recent expansion that has kept it firmly in the spotlight as of late 2024 and into 2025. This establishment, proudly calling itself "a finer diner," has earned national recognition not just for its eclectic, scratch-made menu, but also for its vibrant, quirky atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the Woodward Avenue corridor. From its famous "blunch" service to its recent acquisition of a coveted liquor license, The Fly Trap is constantly evolving while staying true to its roots as a must-visit Michigan landmark. The latest and most exciting news is the return of its original founders, who have stepped back into the kitchen and management to ensure the diner's unique legacy continues. This article delves into the seven most critical, updated, and unforgettable aspects of this iconic Michigan eatery, from its celebrity-endorsed status to the specific dishes that keep the lines out the door.

The Fly Trap: A Quick Biography and Key Facts

To truly appreciate The Fly Trap, one must understand its foundation and the key players who have shaped its identity over the years. This "finer diner" is more than just a place to eat; it's a cultural fixture in the city of Ferndale.

• Name: The Fly Trap: A Finer Diner
• Location: 22950 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, MI 48220
• Founding Date: December 28, 2004
• Original/Current Owners (as of 2024): Kara and Gavin McMillian
• Previous Owner: Matt Buskard (transferred ownership back to the McMillians)
• Signature Concept: A modern, upscale take on the classic American diner, focusing on fresh, scratch-made ingredients and an eclectic menu.
• Famous For: Being featured on Guy Fieri's Food Network show, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (Triple D).
• Operating Hours: Open daily, primarily for "blunch" (breakfast/lunch).

1. The Return of the Founders: A 2024 Ownership Shake-Up

One of the freshest and most impactful pieces of news surrounding The Fly Trap is the return of its original creators, Kara and Gavin McMillian, who officially took back the reins of the business from previous owner Matt Buskard. This ownership transition, which occurred in 2024, signaled a renewed commitment to the diner’s founding vision and unique atmosphere. The McMillians are not new to the culinary scene; they also run another successful establishment, ensuring their passion for high-quality, local dining remains strong. This change has been met with enthusiasm by long-time patrons who appreciate the stability and familiar hands guiding the beloved Ferndale spot. It's a significant development that assures the diner’s distinct character will be preserved for years to come.

2. National Fame: Guy Fieri's 'Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives' Endorsement

No discussion of The Fly Trap is complete without mentioning its star turn on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. The appearance on the show, hosted by Guy Fieri, cemented its status as a culinary destination beyond Michigan. Fieri, known for his love of authentic, quirky, and flavorful food, highlighted the diner’s commitment to making everything from scratch. The exposure led to a massive influx of "Triple D" fans, turning the local favorite into a national phenomenon. In fact, The Fly Trap was even named the Best 'Diner, Drive-In, Dive' in Michigan, a testament to its exceptional quality and enduring appeal. Its featured dishes instantly became legendary, driving people from all over the country to experience the "finer diner" firsthand.

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3. The Iconic 'Blunch' Menu and Scratch-Made Philosophy

The Fly Trap's menu is arguably its biggest draw. They have perfected the concept of "blunch"—a portmanteau of breakfast and lunch—and offer it daily. Unlike typical diners that rely on pre-made ingredients, The Fly Trap is staunchly committed to a "scratch-made" philosophy. This means everything, from their sauces to their famous biscuits, is prepared fresh in-house. The menu is eclectic, blending classic comfort food with innovative, globally inspired dishes. Key features include:

• The Eclectic Mix: You can find everything from fluffy Belgian waffles and traditional eggs to more adventurous items like the famous "Sweet Potato Waffle" or unique takes on breakfast burritos.
• Vegetarian Focus: The diner is highly regarded for its tons of vegetarian options, ensuring that diners with all dietary preferences have flavorful choices beyond the standard fare.
• The Famous Breakfast Board: A staple that showcases the diner’s creativity and commitment to fresh ingredients.

4. The Ferndale Location: A Vibe on Woodward Avenue

The Fly Trap is located at 22950 Woodward Avenue, placing it right on one of the most historically significant and bustling thoroughfares in the Metro Detroit area. Its location in Ferndale, a city known for its vibrant, progressive, and artistic community, contributes significantly to the diner's unique "vibe." The diner's exterior, with its distinctive neon sign that actually reads "The Fly Trap" (and, in smaller letters, "a finer diner"), is instantly recognizable. The interior is often described as quirky, colorful, and inviting, a perfect match for the creative energy of the Ferndale neighborhood. This blend of classic diner structure with modern, artistic flair makes the experience memorable before the food even hits the table.

5. The 2024 Expansion and New Liquor License

In a major development that promises to change the dining experience, The Fly Trap successfully completed an expansion and, crucially, acquired a liquor license in 2024. This is a game-changer for a diner traditionally focused on breakfast and lunch. The expansion allows for more seating and a better flow, while the liquor license opens the door for extended hours and a new dimension to their menu. The management has plans to use this license to offer a wider variety of dining times and perhaps even a dinner service, elevating the "finer diner" concept to include craft cocktails, local beers, and wine pairings with their eclectic menu items. This move is a clear indication of the restaurant's growth and ambition.

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6. Why It's Called "The Fly Trap"

The name "The Fly Trap" is deliberately provocative and memorable, though its literal meaning is more about capturing attention than insects. The name itself is part of the diner's long and winding history, which has seen the restaurant concept weave in and out of various locations and owners since the 1980s. The current iteration, which opened in 2004, adopted the name and added the tagline "a finer diner" to signal their intentions. The name evokes a sense of irresistible attraction—a place where people are drawn in by the promise of great food and a unique atmosphere, much like a Venus flytrap draws in its prey. It's a clever, slightly edgy moniker that perfectly suits the Ferndale sensibility.

7. An Enduring Michigan Cultural Landmark

Beyond the food and the fame, The Fly Trap has become an enduring cultural landmark in Metro Detroit. It’s a place where diverse crowds—from local artists and business people to tourists and families—mingle over a shared love of quality food. Its commitment to scratch-made quality, its recognition on national television, and its recent revitalization under the McMillians' returning ownership all contribute to its status as a Michigan institution. It represents the best of the state's independent dining scene: creative, high-quality, and deeply rooted in its community. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The Fly Trap is a quintessential Michigan dining experience that continues to evolve and buzz with activity.