Downtown Grand Rapids longest-running restaurant is up for sale.

Wood TV 8 reports that owner of the Cottage Bar and One Trick Pony, Dan Verhil, announced that he is retiring and selling the businesses at the corner of Fulton Street E and La Grave Avenue SE.

The restaurant was first opened in 1927 by Earl and Marie Coon. Originally it was a sandwich shop called "The Cottage" that catered to the surrounding factories.

In 1967, Dan Verhil's father, John Verhil, became the third owner. Dan took over in 1980 and opened the bar next door, One Trick Pony in 1996.

One Trick Pony (2)
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One Trick Pony has served as a venue for local music too, hosting different music series throughout the years.

Those who have eaten at the Cottage Bar know alllll about those delicious Cottage Fries! With any luck the new owners will keep those on the menu...

Verhil said in a statement he is hoping to find someone to continue the legacy of these legendary downtown GR eateries:

My most important goal and first order of business is to find a new owner and curator who appreciates the history of these iconic restaurants — someone who will carry on their legacy and honor my longtime and loyal staff...As I make this transition, I look forward to visiting with – and thanking – the wonderful colleagues, customers, partners and community members who I have come to know as friends. I trust they will continue to support and enjoy these heritage restaurants long into the future.”

 

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