From Gritty Watering Hole to Community Gem: Smyrna’s Big Reveal
Sep 23, 2025
Chef-owner Jennifer Bosch shares the story of transforming a rough roadside bar into a family-friendly, locally sourced dining destination.
West Michigan has a way of reinventing itself—and few stories illustrate that better than the transformation of Smyrna Bar & Restaurant. Seven years ago, Chef and owner Jennifer Bosch took over what was once a bit of a rough-and-tumble bar and reshaped it into a warm, inclusive, and community-centered family-friendly gathering place.
Raised in Smyrna and seasoned by a career in nonprofits in Chicago, Jennifer returned home with her husband to create something more than a restaurant—it’s a mission-driven space rooted in local sourcing, progressive farming, and thoughtful hospitality. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just a foodie looking for a quality meal, Smyrna is all about inclusivity and extraordinary customer experiences.
The best part? On September 27, Jennifer will unveil a brand-new name for the restaurant—a change two years in the making—symbolizing its evolution and future.
Just 35 minutes from Grand Rapids, the drive to Smyrna is as charming as the destination itself. If you’re looking for the cool people and places that make West Michigan an extraordinary place to live (or visit), put this spot on your list.
🌱 Plan a visit. Follow along on social. And get ready for the big reveal.
Keywords: Smyrna Michigan restaurant, Jennifer Bosch chef, West Michigan dining, Grand Rapids restaurants, vegan gluten-free Michigan, local sourcing Michigan, cool places West Michigan