Nick Fink’s, GR’s oldest bar, set to reopen: ‘Happy to be back’

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The iconic Nick Fink’s is set to reopen in Comstock Park.

Nick Fink’s, located at 3965 W River Drive NE near Lamoreaux Drive in Plainfield Township, claims the title as the oldest bar in the Grand Rapids area, the Gilmore Collection said in a Thursday release.

It first opened in 1888, and is now set to reopen on Sept. 23.

“We are thrilled to reopen Nick Fink’s and welcome back the community to this historic gem,” John F. Gilmore said in the release. “Our goal remains to preserve the essence of what makes Nick Fink’s special while creating a relaxed and welcoming space where people can grab a beer after work or enjoy a great meal while watching the football game on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.”

He added that the bar has been the community’s “low-key spot” to unwind.

“We’re so happy to be back,” he said.

The Gilmore Collection has worked to preserve the bar’s history and charm, it said. The menu will include Mexican-inspired entrees like burritos and enchiladas, along with items like salads and burgers. There will also be a full-service bar, darts and “the occasional lively spirit encounter.”

“Yes, the tavern is haunted,” the Gilmore Collection said in the release.

The bar was first opened by Prussian immigrant Nick Fink, according to The Gilmore Collection’s website , later run by Nick Fink II and then Nick Fink III. The Gilmore Collection bought the historic bar in 2008.

Al Capone and his gang are rumored to have enjoyed going to the bar, and Ernest Hemingway reportedly stopped in while traveling to northern Michigan, The Gilmore Collection says.

The bar is hiring. For more information, go to gilmorejobs.com .

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