Longtime, Beloved Gastropub in Grand Rapids to Close

Grand Rapids’ ever-evolving restaurant scene is taking another hit—and as someone who loves a good patio and weekend brunch, this one bums me out.

2025 has been a rough year for foodies in GR, as we've said goodbye to so many spots like Turnstiles, The Foolery, Pochis Columbian Cafe, House of Wine, and more.

👇BELOW: CHECK OUT ALL THE RESTAURANTS THAT HAVE CLOSED IN GRAND RAPIDS THIS YEAR👇

And now, The Green Well has announced it’s closing.

The Cherry Street favorite first opened back in 2007 and just this past January, rolled out a refreshed menu.

READ MORE: Northeast Grand Rapids Restaurant Closes, Shifts to Private Event Venue

The lineup featured creative small plates like Confit Chicken Wings, White Pimento Cheese Dip, BBQ Corn Ribs, and Truffle Fries. There were soups and salads, stacked sandwiches, and juicy smash burgers. Entrées ranged from Steak Frites and Pork Belly to Grilled Salmon, Meatloaf, and an Ancient Grain Bowl.

READ MORE: Finally, This Brazilian Steak House is Opening Up in GR

And that weekend brunch I love? It delivered big with Breakfast Poutine, Pastrami Hash, Pork Belly Benedict, a Tomato Spinach Frittata, Chicken and Waffles, and more.

Get in for that final meal at the East Hills eatery, because in a few weeks The Green Well will shut down.

In a message shared to social media, Essence Restaurant Group said:

After nearly two decades of serving the West Michigan community, we’ve made the difficult decision to close The Green Well on Cherry Street. As we approach the renewal of our lease, we have opted not to renew... it’s been a gathering place, a neighborhood favorite, and a cornerstone of the dining scene in West Michigan.

Fans of The Green Well are chiming in with their sadness at the news.

Lori says,

So sad to hear this news. Green Well has always been our favorite place to take ourselves and guests to!

Victoria shares,

Oh no! I always loved coming here. The Truffle Fries with Aioli were my jam! And the Michigan Turkey sandwich! Sorry to hear this news.

Laura writes,

Based on the level of sadness reading this post makes me feel, I cannot even begin to imagine the level of sadness it caused to write this post. The Green Well has been a staple for us since our first visit in 2008. You will be greatly missed.

Its final day of service will be Saturday, August 16. Until then, you’re invited to stop in, grab a drink, and raise a glass to the many memories made.

Essence—soon rebranding as Essence Hospitality Group—will continue to focus on its other Grand Rapids' restaurants: Bistro Bella Vita, Lucy’s, and Grove. Thank goodness Lucy's, another one of my faves, is still open! If you haven't been, you're missing out. It was actually named the 12th best brunch restaurant in the entire country by Yelp!