Vivant Brewery & Spirits

Vivant Brewery and Spirits is a unique craft brewery and distillery located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. This establishment is especially prized for its expertly brewed Belgian- and French-style beers, as well as its original craft spirits. The venue's unusual location—a former funeral chapel—lends it a truly unique and intriguing atmosphere.

Brewery Vivant, as it is often called by enthusiasts, is known not only for its excellent beer and spirits but also for its innovative approach to production and firm commitment to sustainability. Notably, it was the first brewery in the USA to be awarded LEED Silver certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). This certification confirms the company's serious attitude toward environmental standards and responsible business practices.

Visitors to Vivant Brewery and Spirits can expect more than just a drink tasting; it’s a full gastronomic experience. The establishment successfully combines the functions of a brewery, restaurant, and bar. Here, guests can enjoy a wide selection of house-made beers and spirits alongside gourmet dishes that perfectly complement their flavors—all within a unique and memorable setting.

To learn more about Vivant Brewery and Spirits, such as the current menu and special events, or to book a table, you can use the contact information provided below. The staff is always ready to answer your questions and help plan your visit.

A visit to Vivant Brewery and Spirits is, first and foremost, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of craft beer. Here, you can sample various brews inspired by Belgian and French brewing traditions. The selection includes both year-round favorites and interesting seasonal releases. Be sure to try their signature drinks, such as the Farm Hand farmhouse ale, the hoppy Big Red Coq red IPA, or Triomphe, a Belgian-style IPA. If you find a beer you love, you can not only enjoy it at the bar but also purchase it in bottles or cans to take home.

Beyond the drinks, Vivant Brewery and Spirits offers a complete dining experience. The on-site restaurant serves refined cuisine with dishes specifically paired to complement the flavor profiles of the local beers. The menu will delight those who appreciate quality products, as it features locally sourced farm ingredients, and the dishes themselves are often inspired by European culinary classics.

For those who want to learn more about brewing, engaging tours of the brewery are available. During the tour, guests learn about the beer-making process from start to finish and hear about the company's history and commitment to environmental initiatives. Additionally, Vivant Brewery and Spirits frequently hosts various events, including beer festivals, live music nights, and special pairing dinners, creating unique gastronomic experiences.

You can reach Vivant Brewery and Spirits, located at 925 Cherry Street SE in the East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids, in several convenient ways. The choice of transportation depends on your location and preferences.

If you prefer public transport, Grand Rapids is served by The Rapid bus system. You can reach the East Hills area, where the bar is located, via routes No. 4 and No. 6. The nearest bus stop is just a few minutes' walk from the venue, making this a very convenient option.

For those traveling by car, simply enter the brewery's address into your GPS. There is visitor parking available near Vivant Brewery and Spirits, though it can get quite busy on weekends and in the evenings. Alternatively, you can always use a taxi or ride-sharing service, especially if you plan on sampling the drinks.

If you are staying in downtown Grand Rapids and the weather is nice, the brewery is about a 20–25 minute walk. Active travelers can also use a bicycle—the ride takes about 10 minutes. The city's Spin bike-share program makes this option even more accessible.

Brewery Vivant, now known as Vivant Brewery and Spirits, opened its doors in 2010 thanks to the efforts of husband and wife Jason and Kris Spaulding. Jason brought a wealth of experience to the family business from his time at New Holland Brewing Company. The idea for the brewery was born from travels through the French and Belgian countryside, where the couple was charmed by the atmosphere and traditions of European farmhouse breweries.

To house their unique venture, the founders chose the historic Metcalf & Jonkhoff former funeral chapel, dating back to 1915. Located in the picturesque East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids, the building was meticulously restored with a focus on environmental standards, preserving its historical charm while implementing modern "green" technologies.

Since its founding, Vivant Brewery and Spirits has established itself as a leader in sustainability. In 2012, their efforts were recognized with a LEED Silver certification, confirming compliance with high environmental requirements. The company was one of the first in the industry to publish annual reports on its environmental impact and social responsibility, demonstrating transparency and a commitment to sustainable business principles.

The brewery continued to evolve, expanding its production facilities in 2016. In subsequent years, the product range grew to include craft spirits, leading to a name update. Thus, Brewery Vivant became Vivant Brewery and Spirits, reflecting its expanded beverage selection and drive for innovation.

When planning a visit to Vivant Brewery and Spirits in Grand Rapids, you should allow for approximately 2–3 hours. This is usually enough time to fully enjoy the atmosphere, sample a few craft beers or signature drinks, and try something from the food menu. If there are brewery tours available on the day of your visit, this timeframe also allows you to join one and learn more about the production process.

If your visit coincides with a special event, themed night, or tasting dinner occasionally hosted at Vivant Brewery and Spirits, it is best to set aside a bit more time. In these cases, you might stay for 3–4 hours to enjoy the program and all the offerings without rushing. Either way, this venue is perfect for a pleasant and leisurely experience.

Vivant Brewery and Spirits in Grand Rapids typically welcomes visitors during the following hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM; Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM; and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Please note that the brewery is closed on Mondays.

Despite the fixed schedule, operating hours may vary depending on the season or special events. Therefore, to ensure your visit goes smoothly, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the official Vivant Brewery and Spirits website or by contacting them directly before you go. It’s also worth asking if a reservation is needed, especially if you plan to visit with a large group or during peak hours.

Visiting Vivant Brewery and Spirits is a great way to spend time in Grand Rapids, but don't stop there. Exploring the surrounding area will help you get to know the city better, discover new interesting spots, and make the most of your trip.

A walk through the nearby blocks or a short trip to other landmarks can be a pleasant addition to your visit. There are several points of interest near Vivant Brewery and Spirits that are easily accessible and worth exploring.