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.
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…