From Hollywood to Bisbee: How Gretchen Bonaduce Reinvented Herself as a Restaurateur, Airbnb Owner, and Community Leader

Lifestyle By Billboard Lifestyle 8 min read

From Hollywood to Bisbee: How Gretchen Bonaduce Reinvented Herself as a Restaurateur, Airbnb Owner, and Community Leader

Gretchen Bonaduce is a Reality TV Personality best known for her marriage to Danny Bonaduce from the hit ’70s TV show The Partridge Family. She starred in two solo reality TV shows and, after years of living the Hollywood lifestyle, made the bold move to Bisbee, Arizona. A true “fish out of water” in this quirky, historic town, Gretchen has fully embraced its unique charm. Gretchen is also an active member of the Bisbee community. She serves as a board member of the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, contributing to the preservation of the town’s rich mining heritage. Additionally, she plays a vital role in the cultural and entertainment scene by serving on the Mariachi Festival, Blues Festival, and Gay Pride committees, helping to bring vibrant events and celebrations to Bisbee.

She recently ran for mayor and has become an integral part of Bisbee’s growing appeal. As a restaurateur and Airbnb owner, she operates the highly rated Le Cornucopia Café and a 10-bedroom boutique stay, adding her own flair to the town’s hospitality scene. Whether she’s baking at her restaurant’s new Sierra Vista location, pitching a docuseries. Gretchen is always up to something exciting—and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Photography: Puspa Lohmeyez

Tell us about yourself: Share your background, interests, and what motivates you in your chosen field or passions. I have a vast array of experience in many fields. My first real job was at Red Lobster in Chattanooga, TN. That led me to wait tables in multiple restaurants, including a Chicago comedy club (my favorite job of all time), working for Alamo Rent a Car, a production company in Phoenix (which is how I met my ex-husband Danny Bonaduce), and then in Hollywood, appearing in and producing TV reality shows. Currently, I am a restaurateur and hotel Airbnb owner in Bisbee, Arizona. I fell into the Airbnb field as I fell in love with a house that I could not afford to live in and figured out a way to make it profitable by renting it out to pay all the bills while also living there. It has 10 bedrooms and 11 private bathrooms, making it ideal for accommodating travelers.

How did you begin your journey in your field/interest? Could you take us through the key moments that have shaped your path so far? I have always been flying by the seat of my pants. I don’t think I had a plan at all. I knew I definitely wanted to leave LA—it was too expensive, and I was sitting in traffic for hours. I was looking for a slower pace and a more affordable place to settle in. I was fortunate to experience LA like everyone who comes to Hollywood with a dream—to attend the Grammys, Emmys, and red carpet premieres. At first, it was fun and exciting, but then it just became another obligation. Getting a dress, makeup, hair styled, the long drive, walking the red carpet while people yelled my name—it was fun, but sometimes you just want to walk in the back door and avoid the hassle. Because I was barely on the D-list, I always thought the photographers were wasting their time taking photos of me. Living in LA is exciting but super stressful in the showbiz industry. You are constantly chasing the next job. Getting on a movie or TV show is no guarantee of another one. Once you get a small taste, most people can’t let it go. I still pitch shows from Bisbee for fun, but I don’t count on that for a living, which makes it sane. It would be icing on the cake to get another reality show on TV, but my livelihood doesn’t depend on it.

What inspired you to pursue your field/interest, and why is it your chosen path? I love people, so going into hospitality was a no-brainer for me. I love waiting tables at my restaurant. We just opened a second location of our restaurant, Le Cornucopia Café, in Sierra Vista, Arizona, where I also do a fair amount of the baking. I love to cook. I usually make far too much food at home parties, so it’s great to cook for many people without wasting it. In our restaurant, food has a shelf life, so we let our employees and the senior center take all the food we cannot sell at the end of the day. I hate to waste food—too many people go hungry, and there’s no excuse to throw it away if it can be consumed.

Are there specific individuals, mentors, or role models who have had a significant influence on your journey? I have the holy trinity: Cherie Currie of the band The Runaways, the most kick-ass lady I have ever met. She keeps rocking into her 60s. I had the honor of singing backup with her in London and Scotland last year. Jackie Kallen, known as the first woman of boxing, managed several notable boxers. A movie about her life, “Against the Ropes” starring Meg Ryan, was filmed in 2004. Sarah Siegel-Magness, the founder of Smokewood Entertainment, refers to herself as a full-time polo vagabond. The movies she has produced have been nominated for many awards, including Oscars. I met her during our “Breaking Bonaduce” days on VH1. I wish I could be that cool. All three are mothers who have also carved out amazing careers.

Photography: Puspa Lohmeyez

Could you share some of your most significant or memorable achievements or experiences in your field or area of interest? My restaurant is ranked in the top 10 percent of the world for lunch by TripAdvisor. I am a Superhost on Airbnb. I try to do everything I do with excellence.

Looking back, what do you consider your most important work or contribution to date, and why? Well, of course, my children! I am happy to contribute two wonderful humans to the planet.

Future Plans and Aspirations: Just to keep on keeping on. It is a grind sometimes, but I truly love what I do. I’ve been doing a lot of the baking and cooking at the new Sierra Vista location. I am hoping to finalize all of our menu items within the next year so I can step in whenever we need extra help.

What exciting projects, goals, or plans do you have for the future in your career or area of interest? I am currently shopping for a new docuseries, and I am hopeful it could get picked up by a network. I would love to build a full-blown franchise with Le Cornucopia Café. I wouldn’t rule out another run for mayor down the line.

How do you see your field evolving or changing in the coming years, and how do you aim to adapt or contribute to those changes? I am extremely hopeful that my town, Bisbee, Arizona, will become the number one vacation destination in the state. Sedona is so last year—Bisbee is the new kid on the block. I have Airbnbs and a restaurant to accommodate the influx.

One of the gems in Gretchen Bonaduce’s hospitality portfolio is The Greenway Manor, a stunning historic mansion in Bisbee’s Warren District. Originally built in 1908 for John Greenway, General Manager of the Queen Mine, the 10-bedroom, 11-bathroom Craftsman-style estate is a beautifully preserved glimpse into Bisbee’s past. The home retains much of its original character, including intricate woodwork, Art Deco lighting, hand-painted murals, and a grand elevator that allows guests of all abilities to experience its timeless elegance. Gretchen fell in love with The Greenway Manor at first sight and, after a determined pursuit, acquired and restored it as a premier overnight lodging destination. The estate is perfect for weddings, corporate retreats, and themed events celebrating various historical eras, from Teddy Roosevelt’s time to the Roaring ‘20s and beyond. Some rooms even feature kitchenettes for extended stays. With its rich history and opulent charm, The Greenway Manor is more than just a place to stay—it’s a journey through time in one of Arizona’s most unique destinations.

Another gem is the Hacienda Del Avion for those seeking a truly unique getaway, Gretchen Bonaduce offers an exclusive experience at Hacienda Del Avion, her boutique hotel near the Bisbee Airport. This one-of-a-kind destination features a private hangar, allowing guests to fly their personal jets directly into Bisbee for a luxurious and convenient retreat. Whether arriving by air or simply looking for a distinctive stay, visitors can enjoy the charm and comfort of this aviation-inspired escape, making it the perfect weekend hideaway for those who love to travel in style.

Gretchen Bonaduce’s culinary venture, Le Cornucopia Café, has become a beloved dining spot in Bisbee, Arizona. Renowned for its fresh ingredients and outstanding homemade bread and desserts, the café offers generous portions that often leave guests taking home leftovers tripadvisor.com A standout menu item is the ‘slab’ of meatloaf sandwich, which lives up to its name by serving a hearty portion that has delighted many patrons Tripadvisor The café’s commitment to quality and flavor has earned it accolades, including being voted as having the best sandwich in Bisbee by Forbes. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, making Le Cornucopia Café a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable meal. Gretchen Bonaduce has expanded her successful Le Cornucopia Café with a brand-new location in Sierra Vista, Arizona! Building on the charm and flavors that made the Bisbee café a hit, this new spot offers the same commitment to fresh, homemade dishes, including its famous five-star meatloaf. With a welcoming atmosphere and a passion for hospitality, Le Cornucopia Café – Sierra Vista is quickly becoming a local favorite, serving up hearty meals, freshly baked treats, and a warm dining experience for the community.

Recent Developments and Community Involvement: After a devastating fire last year in Bisbee that damaged many businesses, I have been involved in rebuilding efforts to restore the town and help affected businesses. The Letson Hotel suffered severe fire damage and is set to reopen in March. Additionally, the Legion Bar and Grill is slated to open in September, bringing a new dining experience to Bisbee. One of the most exciting developments is the recent opening of the Warner Hotel, a gorgeous wedding venue that has quickly become the crown jewel of Old Bisbee. The Letson Loft Hotel, another key landmark, has also been part of the revitalization efforts. Located in the heart of historic Bisbee, this boutique hotel blends modern luxury with vintage charm, offering travelers a unique and comfortable stay while exploring the town. Roadrunner studios will be opening this March which is owned by Gretchen’s Le cornucopia cafe partner Kevin Kautzky.  They are hoping it will be the premiere west coast recording studio to rival muscle shoals in Alabama. Hitching Post Saloon is another exciting new establishment opening in Bisbee.  Gretchen is  thrilled to see these new establishments thrive and contribute to Bisbee’s growth as a top travel destination.” 

Gretchen Bonaduce continues to embrace her dynamic journey, balancing her passion for hospitality, entertainment, and community involvement. Whether she’s expanding her restaurant franchise, developing a new docuseries, or helping Bisbee thrive, she remains a vibrant force in every endeavor she takes on. With her unique blend of Hollywood flair and small-town charm, Gretchen proves that reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s a way of life.

Check the links for more information for a Bisbee Experience 

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On the cover · March 2025 Billboard Lifestyle cover, March 2025: Gretchen Bonaduce

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