Rare Bird BrewPub

In a downtown that values its local butchers and farmers, Rare Bird BrewPub is giving people reason to want to get to know the local brewer.

Amid the male-dominated craft brew industry, co-owner Tina Schuett is a rarity to be reckoned with, flying up the ranks and running her own brewery before the age of 30. (And that’s including a detour working as a park ranger and bird researcher in places as far flung as New Zealand.) Co-owner Nate Crane, as his name might suggest, also loves birds, perhaps as much as beer. The pair work symbiotically at Rare Bird: Nate controls the neck (running the front of house) while Tina works her tail feathers (producing beautiful creations back in the brew tanks.)

The dynamic duo poured their soul into forming this establishment in 2014, remodeling the 1930 brick building, in large part, by themselves, even cutting down a tree to form the awesomely large tables that line the long German-style beer hall.

The tap wall is a diverse ecosystem of flavors. It offers a lineup of 35 rotating taps: six handcrafted, naturally brewed Rare Bird beers, along with an assortment of other unique favorites from around the state and globe. In another bold move, this brewpub also offers cocktails, wine and spirits.

People come for the memorable beverages, but are pleasantly surprised by the quality of the hearty pub fare. Here, comfort food has a gourmet twist like mango marinated wings and curry chicken grain bowls. (Psst! Locals also love the Tuesday Trivia nights and live entertainment.)

Consider a little bartender advice: Tina wasted no time getting into her first brewery, and you shouldn’t either. Visit Rare Bird and find out why its two passionate co-owners have been known to say, “Beer is our reason for being.”

What you have to try:

On a sunny day, reach for a refreshing Rare Bird Blood Orange You Witty?, made with real oranges that have been hand peeled and juiced into the brew. Need something more soothing for the long winter? Opt for the tap of Chief’s Coconut Brown, which contains 22 pounds of real coconut in each batch with a nod of coffee flavor.

What’s up Michigan favorite:

Try the monster-thick sea salt pretzel sticks, served with white cheddar ale sauce and IPA whole gratin mustard. Take them to go with a favorite growler for a memorable night at home.