A new country-rock bar and restaurant is planned for Grand Rapids’ west side, taking over the former Turnstiles location on Stocking Avenue.
Turnstiles previously operated as a music venue, bar, and restaurant, known for its small stage, open mic nights, trivia, and rotating live performances. The space served as a casual neighborhood spot for live entertainment before closing earlier this year.
Why Turnstiles Closed
In July, Turnstiles announced its closure, citing rising operating costs, shifts in the market, and a property deal that ultimately did not move forward. The announcement marked the end of the venue’s run as a live music destination on the west side.
What’s Moving In
The building now has a new tenant lined up. Restaurateur Rob Wahl, owner of Bridge Street Bar in Grand Rapids and The Win Tavern in Jenison, plans to open Fire Bird Bar in the space. This will be Wahl’s second bar on the west side of the city.
Fire Bird Bar is expected to feature a country-rock theme with a full food menu. According to plans shared with WGRD, the restaurant will include a lunch buffet, salad bar, chicken dishes, sandwiches, southern-style comfort food, and a variety of pizzas. Live music is also expected to return to the space.
Opening Timeline
Fire Bird Bar is currently targeting an opening in February 2026. Renovation plans and additional details are expected to be shared closer to launch.
The new concept adds to the growing list of west side dining and nightlife options and signals continued.
INFORMATION RETRIVED FROM: https://www.crainsgrandrapids.com/news/real-estate/country-themed-firebird-bar-to-open-in-former-turnstiles-space/ AND https://wgrd.com/turnstiles-fire-bird-grand-rapids/
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A new country-rock bar and restaurant is planned for Grand Rapids’ west side, taking over the former Turnstiles location on Stocking Avenue.
Turnstiles previously operated as a music venue, bar, and restaurant, known for its small stage, open mic nights, trivia, and rotating live performances. The space served as a casual neighborhood spot for live entertainment before closing earlier this year.
Why Turnstiles Closed
In July, Turnstiles announced its closure, citing rising operating costs, shifts in the market, and a property deal that ultimately did not move forward. The announcement marked the end of the venue’s run as a live music destination on the west side.
What’s Moving In
The building now has a new tenant lined up. Restaurateur Rob Wahl, owner of Bridge Street Bar in Grand Rapids and The Win Tavern in Jenison, plans to open Fire Bird Bar in the space. This will be Wahl’s second bar on the west side of the city.
Fire Bird Bar is expected to feature a country-rock theme with a full food menu. According to plans shared with WGRD, the restaurant will include a lunch buffet, salad bar, chicken dishes, sandwiches, southern-style comfort food, and a variety of pizzas. Live music is also expected to return to the space.
Opening Timeline
Fire Bird Bar is currently targeting an opening in February 2026. Renovation plans and additional details are expected to be shared closer to launch.
The new concept adds to the growing list of west side dining and nightlife options and signals continued