Pure Michigan Pints

Brewery Vivant

Grand Rapids, Michigan

There’s no hiding the fact that Brewery Vivant used to be a church. In fact, I know somebody who went to pre-school there. I’ve only known Brewery Vivant in its post-church days as a kick-ass brewery. And I’m more than okay with that.

But we all worship in our own way, amirite?

Beer Selection

Brewery Vivant is dedicated to farmhouse style ales. You’re going to get those Saisons and, as their website put it, “some emphasis on Belgian & French styles.” When they do have a stout on draft, they’re going to do it their own way and it’s not going to taste like a traditional stout. They’ll have an IPA or two on draft (a little less hoppy; you’ll notice), and a few you can’t get in cans on draft as well. (Since Grand Rapids is a bit of a drive for me, I tend to explore the later options first.)

Because of this focus, you’re going to miss out on having traditional offerings. It’s just how it goes. But their offerings are truly unique to them, and they not only do beers in their own way but are really good at it.

Vibe

I’m not a fan of church unless there’s beer at church (this kind of church). Here, I dig the old-building vibes. The first time I came here I was impressed, and each time this has continued.

And there’s not a bad seat in house; I’ve sat upper, in the crowded banquet halls (almost feels more like a beer hall in that regard sometimes), at the bar, and even standing when the place was too crowded to catch a seat.

Service

The service hasn’t been stellar on most of my visits here.

In their defense, they are normally packed.

Maybe I’m catching the servers on their off nights? Maybe they have inconsistencies with staff? Maybe some nights they’re truly getting slammed? Maybe they’re trained to talk to each other for five minutes and ignore anybody at the bar instead of asking if somebody would like a beer?

The last time two servers were at the bar; I waited a good few minutes before either inquired if I’d like a beverage. And while the architecture of the place is amazing, I didn’t just sit at the bar to take up space.

If they put as much effort into service as they did being a sustainable business, they’d have superior service.

Beer Quality

If you’re into Belgian and French styles of beer this is the place in Michigan to go. I’ve always loved Big Red (noticed the name change; I preferred the old one)—a hoppy Belgian Red Ale. Their mainstays are pretty solid. If I’m seeking a stout in the wintertime, I probably wouldn’t go to Vivant, but if I’m looking for a good beer I would. Last time, I stumbled upon Tart Tangerine. I not only fully enjoyed my pint, but I bought a 4-pack to go.

Food

I wish I’d have tried more of the food. (We’re honestly talking over 7 visits in my lifetime, and the last time was the first time I ordered a whole meal.)

They’re highly praised in this aspect. The burger was pretty solid. It was far above average. I’d get it again or venture out to try other offerings of their menu.

Overall—Recommend

Brewery Vivant is a must go if you’re in Grand Rapids. Well, let me re-phrase that: If you are in GR and have not gone to Vivant, it needs to be pushed to the top of your list.

Total—16/20