OakNorth, the digital bank for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs, has provided a senior debt facility to support Chicago-based private investment firm Uncommon Equity in its acquisition of HopCat, the Michigan-based bar-restaurant group known for its elevated comfort food and extensive craft beer selection.
The facility comprises a term loan, a revolving credit facility and a delayed draw term loan, providing flexible capital to fund the acquisition and support HopCat’s future expansion plans. HopCat operates 13 locations — 12 across Michigan, including its flagship Stella’s Lounge, and one in Lincoln, Nebraska — with strong site economics and a loyal customer base built on scratch-made food and rotating taps of 40+ local beers.
About HopCat: Founded in 2008 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, HopCat is a regional bar-restaurant group known for its energetic, community-driven atmosphere, creative comfort food, and diverse selection of craft beers and house-created cocktails. With a loyal following across Michigan and the wider Midwest, the brand has become a go-to gathering place for craft beer enthusiasts and casual diners, and will continue to invest in menu innovation, guest experience and community partnerships under new ownership.