Grand Rapids Private Chef to Open New Café This Summer

Grand Rapids' culinary scene continues to expand! In addition to recently welcoming a laid-back wine bar and a board game lounge restaurant, the city will get a chef-driven café in the coming weeks.

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According to Crain’s Grand Rapids Business, Porch Light Café and Provisions is expected to open in July at 975 Cherry St in East Hills. The project comes from Grand Rapids chef Katie Barnes, who is shifting from private chef work into a public-facing café space, starting with grab-and-go service before expanding into a full dine-in restaurant next spring.

As a Certified Health Coach and Nutritional Psychology Expert, Barnes has spent the past decade operating Porch Light Gatherings. Her work has included weekly meal prep, private dinners, catering, and food consulting for clients looking for more customized dining experiences.

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In a Facebook post announcing the café, Barnes described Porch Light Café and Provisions as a space centered around pasta, coffee, and gathering. The post from May also noted that hiring is underway for key positions, including a sous chef and kitchen manager, along with a lead barista.

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The café will launch with a grab-and-go setup focused on prepared foods, coffee, and quick service items. Once the dine-in expansion happens next year, that counter service will remain in place.

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Barnes has described the broader mission behind Porch Light as creating space for more connection around food and daily life.

More details, including an exact opening date and menu plans, are expected as the project moves closer to launch. Follow Porch Light on Facebook for updates!