Brewery plans taproom in Grand Rapids

Brewery plans taproom in Grand Rapids

Ada-based Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery & Supply was founded in 2013. Courtesy Gravel Bottom

A suburban brewery is planning to expand into Grand Rapids.

Ada-based Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery & Supply said today it plans to open an new 18,000-square-foot facility and is considering the former MC Sports store in northeast Grand Rapids, at 3150 Plainfield Ave. NE.

The beer styles produced in Ada would also be available at the Grand Rapids location.

The brewery will present its plan to the city on Oct. 12. It hopes to begin construction between this December and February 2018.

“The whole idea is to have a place where people can come and really experience craft brewing," said Matt Michiels, owner, Gravel Bottom.

The new facility would house a 15-barrel brewing system, canning line, homebrewing supply shop, taproom and restaurant.

Customers would also be able to participate in brewing and tasting classes, brew beer on the premises and rent homebrewing equipment.

The brewery said the Grand Rapids restaurant would allow it to explore pairing food with its beers.

“Our idea is to bring the creativity and innovation into the food just like we do with the beer,” Michiels said.

Gravel Bottom said it remains committed to its roots in Ada.

The brewery has started building in the redeveloped Ada Village, where it will continue making its beers with an upgraded three-barrel brewing system.

The Ada location will also expand Gravel Bottom’s taproom capacity and offer small plates and quick lunches.