While there seem to be lots of restaurants closing in Grand Rapids, new ones are popping up to replace them.

The Grand Rapids Business Journal reports that developers plan to open New Hotel Mertens restaurant and bar at 35 Oakes Street downtown Grand Rapids. 

The new eatery is named for the hotel that opened in the same location in 1914. Owners plan to highlight many of the building's original features.

New Hotel Mertens will be modeled after a casual French restaurant, and will serve traditional French foods, along with Belgian, French, and Michigan beer and spirits.

The 125-seat restaurant is expected to open later this year.

More From 97.9 WGRD