Former Margarita Grill gets new lease on life, new owner aims to attract Arena crowd

The controversial former Margarita Grill at 25 Ottawa SW is undergoing a transformation to bring Grand Rapids what Steve Brechting describes as an “energetic casual” hotspot for eats and libations.

Brechting, 29, is an executive chef and owner of the proposed 25 Kitchen & Bar. When he was 20, he founded Chef Brech Catering; four years ago, he purchased Hub’s Inn, 1645 Leonard. His vision for the new restaurant includes partnerships with the Van Andel Arena to capitalize on the restaurant’s proximity – just across the street – to the popular sports and events venue.

“The upper part (entrance) will have flair bartenders and loud music, the lower level will be an interactive open kitchen,” Brechting says. “Being 500 feet from the arena, people will come here to get hyped up and come here afterward to stay energized.”

Brechting says he’s initiated conversations with the marketing director of the Griffins to promote the new establishment through pre- and post-event parties and by distributing advertising handouts at arena events.

Interior demolition brought the space to white box. Going forward, the dining area will have exposed brick walls, rounded booths that seat four to six, and round tables for parties of 10.

The bar area will have a contemporary atmosphere with wood framing, metal fixtures and conversation tables and banquettes. The custom bar is horseshoe shaped and seats 35.

“We’ll have international wood-fired pizzas and small plates,” Brechting says of the menu offerings he’s creating. “It will be casual but with a different twist you won’t see anywhere downtown.”

The drink menu features 25 beers on tap and 25 signature cocktails to play off the “25” in the pub’s name. The venue will serve lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Source: Steve Brechting, 25 Kitchen & Bar

Deborah Johnson Wood is development news editor for Rapid Growth Media. She can be contacted at deborah@rapidgrowthmedia.com.