Expansion of the B.O.B. in Grand Rapids plans for incubator for aspiring restaurant entrepreneurs

Plans for a $5 million expansion of The B.O.B, a popular entertainment and dining complex in downtown Grand Rapids, include an incubator space for prospective would-be restaurateurs where they could learn more about the business.

Greg Gilmore is contemplating part of the expansion to include food wagons or carts operated by 15 to 25 hopeful new restaurant owners who want to gain a foothold in the industry. Once they prove themselves, they could advance to a kiosk or space in The B.O.B. to run their own dining establishment.

According to excerpts from the story:

“It will be a very easy entryway into the marketplace for somebody,” said Gilmore, who sees the concept as one way to add niche or ethnic offerings at The B.O.B. “I’ve always wanted to help managers and chefs if they wanted to do something,” Gilmore said as he showed off plans for the creation of what for now is called “BOB-ville” adjacent to The B.O.B.

The idea is to create a “food emporium, in a lot of respects” that’s built around a large, multi-story plaza that could host events such as concerts or large receptions, even a farmer’s market on weekends.

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