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Historic Michigan steakhouse to be demolished after 50 years of being a state landmark
A cherished establishment in Grand Rapids for half a century, time is now up for a Brann's Steakhouse & Grille - for now.
The two-story corner building is slated for demolition to make way for a much larger five-story building with more than 100 apartments.
It means the steakhouse - as locals know it - was forced to shut its doors on Friday night.
But it will return - and take up space in a new restaurant area in the new building. However, it be smaller and over just one floor rather than two as it is currently - and the work might not be done until early 2027.
Johnny Brann Sr was 18 when his father John opened the restaurant at 401 Leonard St in 1974. The building is thought to have been built more than 100 years ago, and has become a landmark near the Grand River.
Brann's Steakhouse & Grille on Leonard Street in Grand Rapids in Michigan in a recent photo
Brann's Steakhouse & Grille from 1969. It is painted a darker color - before being white through the 1980s and 1990s and returning to dark more recently
He has seen the business grow, survive the pandemic and play a key role in a new law allowing businesses to fly flags for fallen members of the police and military. He will stay as the owner of the new building.
Brann's Steakhouse & Grille was founded in 1960 to Jonny's father, John M Brann. There are now seven restaurants in Wyoming, Holland, Grandville, Caledonia, Bay City and two in Grand Rapids.
Staff at the Leonard Street oulet will move to other locations.
'It's about a somewhere between a $25 to 40 million project, between 60 and 102 units will be involved, including residential, commercial and some mixed-use,' he told reporters from Wood TV at a news conference.
The new building will take up a much bigger footprint than the current one. It will cover land
'The journey of Brann's Steakhouse & Grille on Leonard has been a labor of love and dedication,' Brann Sr. added in a statement.
'I am immensely proud of the relationships my wife and I have built, the memories we've created and the community we've served.
'I'm excited to work alongside my son to craft a future that reflects our commitment to the Westside and the legacy we hold dear.'
Brann's Steakhouse & Grille in 1983. It is all white with some Tudpr-style wood beams
The building before it became the steakhouse. It is thought to be at least 100 years old
Brann's Steakhouse & Grille was set up in 1960, and is a hit with locals in Michigan
It is very much a family affair - with Johnny Brann Jr also now part of the business - the third generation.
He said: 'The legacy my parents have cultivated is not just about restaurants; it's about a shared commitment to our community.
'As we move into this new phase, I am honored to work with my Dad to continue the Brann's tradition. Our dedication to the Westside's growth remains unwavering, and we look forward to contributing to its vibrant future.'