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Firebird Bar GR, 526 Stocking Ave NW, Grand Rapids ~ July 21, 2026

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  The Firebird opened in February of 2026 in the building that previously held Turnstiles, a bar and music venue that closed in July of 2025 after operating for four years. Before that, Joe V's Sports Bar Pizzeria was a long time neighborhood staple here. We had to skirt some equipment to get into the parking lot. Robert Wahl is the new owner (he also owns Bridge Street Bar and the  The Win Tavern ) and this is a very cool looking bar with unique decor. There's a beautiful horseshoe bar running down the middle of the building. Pontiac Firebirds were produced from 1967-2002 and various firebird hoods adorn the walls. The firebird is also a mythical creature found in Slavic folklore and some tales also include a "Horse of Power". The lamps are also quite distinctive. Like Turnstiles, live music events are a regular thing here. There are plenty of TVs. The Firebird has an extensive liquor list, specializing in beer and Bourbon. We started with a very good Old Fashioned, ...
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Champs Bar & Grill, 287 Main St, Coopersville ~ June 16, 2026

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This place is definitely a small-town favorite, and a patron told us it's been here for as long as she can remember. We couldn't find any specific history on it so we'll have to leave it at that 😊 A long and charming bar extends through the first dining area. There are more tables in the back section and an outdoor patio. We started with a Margarita, an Old Fashioned, Ultra Light (tastes like college) and an Arnold Palmer. We don't usually have good luck at local watering holes with cocktails (and yet we keep trying), but Champs was an exception. The Old Fashioned had bitters and a garnish, and was not made overly sweet by too much simple syrup. The Margarita arrived in a really tall glass instead of the traditional glass. And it was potent with the right mixture of sour and sweet. Even the ice was good - the drink and salt could still be tasted. So kudos to the bartender! We ordered Loaded Tots for our appetizer and they arrived over loaded with ground beef. It was mo...
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