The long-time-anticipated brewery is taking longer than anticipated. Co-owner Bryan Hunt posted a video on the company’s Facebook page, stating more delays. Meanwhile, MLCC license records showed some back-and-forth in acquiring the microbrewery license.
The news about Summerlands Brewing was first reported in Lansing State Journal in January. Two hobby brewers, Bryan Hunt and Joe Prevo Jr., who are also colleagues at Jackson National Life have been making plans for the brewery over the past few years. Eventually, the pair chose the former space of Charlie’s Bar and Grill at 1957 Cedar St as the future home for Summerlands Brewing.
The culinary adventure at Summerlands is spearheaded by award-winning chef Kevin Cronin. On Facebook, Hunt described Summerlands’ future menu as “Tropical Belt Cuisine-based” and will feature “flavors from Florida, Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Tahiti, and the Baja region.” Hunt also indicated there will be an additional section that reflects the unique flavor from a chosen destination each month.
The brewery originally planned to open on March 15th, although multiple challenges have prolonged the process. Hunt, however, was hopeful. In his latest Facebook update, he shared: “On the brighter side, we did have our preliminary walkthrough on the brewery today with the health inspector.” Hunt then mentioned there were only a few tests to be completed and was hopeful of getting approved so the team can begin brewing next week, wheres the grand opening is tentatively moved to April 26th.
