GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Johnny Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille has served the Grand Rapids Westside community since 1974, but Friday they’re closing their doors to start a new multiphase development project they said is much needed.
"Residents that live in Grand Rapids or even out of state or out of town, we all love their food and love their great customer service,” customer Jo Morris said.
Morris has been enjoying Johnny Brann's Steakhouse & Grille for decades.
Owner Johnny Brann Sr. said it's all part of the changing landscape of the restaurant industry that prompted the change.
"I want to stress the brand is going nowhere, and the concept would be brands that would have evolved into what the market is now, so it's changed so much, it's incredible, so we have to adjust to that,” Johnny Brann Sr. said.
The new development will foster a hub of new creativity, setting the stage for the next generation. It will include multiple retail spaces, a sports bar, 60-102 residential units and a concept restaurant. The project is expected to cost between $25-42 million. Operations will be suspended so construction on the new development can begin. In the meantime, customers can visit other locations around Michigan to get the food and customer service they have come to love. The news of the closing is hard for long-time customers like Morris to hear, who said she has made friendships with the kind and warm staff over the years.
"This feels like family here. When you sit here, this feels like family with the waitresses or waiters, whomever waits on you,” Morris said. "It's very homey here and it's sad to see that this is going to be torn down and something new is going to be coming which is great, but I like the old memories."
Since its opening, many renovations, expansions and enhancements have already taken place. With the popularity of food delivery apps, such as DoorDash and UberEATS, they have also had to adjust to those changes to stay relevant in a technically advanced age. Because of these changes, there will be less seating while they work in some areas.
"We've had a lot of over the last four or five years, even with the ability for delivery, all the delivery platforms and technology, so we're able to reach customers in a different way,” Johnny Brann Jr. said.
Friday, June 7 at 10 p.m. is the last time customers can visit the iconic steakhouse before they officially close. Owners said it's not a "goodbye," but a "see you later." The project is expected to start in 6-12 months, with a completion date of 2026 or 2027.
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