GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — Founders Brewery is getting ready to close down its kitchen ahead of upcoming planned renovations. Once they re-open they plan to have a new and improved kitchen, dining space and menu.
They said they plan to close the kitchen down Saturday. They're trying to run out of product before closing it down to avoid wasting too much food. Any food left over on Saturday night will be donated to a local charity.
Upgrades to the kitchen include new char grills, flat tops, fryers and ovens. Both the new layout and planned menu are so different, Founders said their chefs will go through extra culinary training to be able to prepare the new items. They said that the new options will build upon their old menu, with some items set to come in and out of rotation over time.
"The offerings that we'll be able to do as far as entrees, honey salmon, braised short ribs and our porter beer, things of that nature will do fryer. We're going to do some poutine with some shredded beef. So we're all pretty excited, and we think it'll complement the beer," said Founders' executive chef, Pete Engelhardt.
If you're hoping to stop by and enjoy a beer, the taproom will remain open for another two weeks with food trucks stopping in as well.
"So, at least somebody can get something to eat while they're enjoying a Founders beer," said Engelhardt.
Food truck schedule:
- Monday 2/19, Pizza MI
- Tuesday 2/20, Patty Matters
- Wednesday 2/23, Patty Matters
- Thursday 2/22, Saladino Smoke
- Friday 2/23, Pizza MI
- Saturday 2/24, Patty Matters
- Sunday 2/25, Around Baking Co.
- Monday 2/26, Pizza MI
- Tuesday 2/27, Patty Matters
- Wednesday 2/28, Around Baking Co.
- Thursday 2/29, Dune Buggy
- Friday 3/1, Saladino Smoke
- Saturday 3/2, Pizza MI
- Sunday 3/3, Around Baking Co.
The taproom will close on March 4 for the rest of the renovations, with no beer or food service available temporarily. They plan to reopen on April 1 (no joke!)
Planned renovations:
- Deli counter will be closed off to make room for full Kitchen remodel and expansion.
- Kitchen will have more room and better climate control for employees.
- New paint and upgrades to floors, tables, and layout.
- New menu and additions from Chef Pete to pair with their beer selection.
- New physical menus available upon request.
- New plates and silverware.
- New mobile pay options.
- Upgrades to company store display, interior, and layout.
Founders plans on hosting a public launch party on April 13, featuring live music and open to all ages.
More information about the taproom and its renovations can be found on Founders' website.
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