5 Reasons Why Long Road Distillers Grand Haven Is The Lakeshore’s Hottest New Destination (2025 Update)

Step into the vibrant West Michigan lakeshore scene this December 2025, and one destination stands out for its unique blend of local flavor and national acclaim: Long Road Distillers Grand Haven. This location, situated at 102 Washington Ave, has firmly established itself not just as a tasting room, but as a culinary and craft cocktail haven, drawing on the same "grain-to-glass" philosophy that made its Grand Rapids parent location an award-winning success. The journey to opening was not without its twists, making its current status as a must-visit spot all the more compelling.

The allure of the Grand Haven outpost extends far beyond its prime downtown location. It offers a distinct, lakeshore-inspired experience, featuring an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails and a full food menu perfect for sharing. As the company continues to rack up major industry accolades—including being named the Best Brandy Distillery in the U.S.—the opportunity to sample their world-class spirits right by the water makes this a premier destination for both locals and tourists seeking high-quality, Michigan-made beverages.

The Grand Haven Story: From Controversy to Cocktail Haven

The establishment of Long Road Distillers in Grand Haven is a fascinating case study in perseverance and local business development. Initially, the distillery faced a significant hurdle when city leaders denied their proposal to lease space in the historic depot building in downtown Grand Haven. This initial rejection sparked considerable discussion among residents and business advocates.

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However, the Long Road team, known for their dedication to the West Michigan community, pivoted quickly. They successfully secured a location at 102 Washington Ave, and in a subsequent meeting, the Grand Haven City Council unanimously approved the distillery's tasting room license. This move allowed them to bring their acclaimed spirits and unique dining concept to the lakeshore, transforming a potential setback into a successful launch.

The Grand Haven location is now a thriving part of the downtown corridor, perfectly positioned to capture the seasonal tourist traffic while maintaining a loyal local following. Its presence has added a sophisticated, craft-focused element to the city’s nightlife and dining options, proving that the "long road" often leads to the best destinations.

Must-Try: The Lakeshore-Inspired Cocktail & Food Menu

A key differentiator for the Long Road Distillers Grand Haven experience is its commitment to a menu that reflects its coastal setting. The concept centers on a full food menu featuring shareables, snacks, sandwiches, and salads, all designed to pair perfectly with their extensive list of handcrafted cocktails.

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Signature Cocktails & Seasonal Refreshments

The cocktail program here is an art form, utilizing the distillery's own award-winning spirits and the freshest seasonal ingredients. Visitors can expect unique, inventive drinks that are often a riff on classics or entirely new creations. For instance, during the warmer months, patrons rave about their frozen options, such as the "It's an Anchor!"—a refreshing blend of Long Road Vodka, rhubarb, and citrus, served with a lime wheel. Another popular choice is the bright and tangy "Scandinavian Daiquiri."

• Seasonal Rotations: The menu constantly evolves to incorporate the latest seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit.
• Spirit Flights: For the purist, spirit flights are available, allowing guests to sample the core lineup of Long Road Gin, Vodka, and Whiskey.

The Food Menu: More Than Just Bar Snacks

While the spirits are the main event, the food menu is designed to be a compelling reason to stay and dine. It moves beyond typical distillery fare, offering substantial and satisfying options. A staple like the Chicken Tender Basket, featuring hand-breaded chicken strips and house fries, is a testament to their commitment to high-quality comfort food. They also ensure that dietary needs are considered, with a clear Vegetarian Option Available.

The focus on shareables makes it an ideal spot for groups looking to enjoy a casual, yet elevated, dining experience by the water. The combination of savory food and expert mixology solidifies Long Road as a true destination, not just a quick stop.

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Beyond the Bar: Award-Winning Spirits and The 'Grain-to-Glass' Philosophy

Long Road Distillers' reputation is built on its unwavering commitment to the "grain-to-glass" philosophy. This means they source locally sourced ingredients, primarily from West Michigan farms, and handle the entire distillation process in-house, ensuring complete control over quality and flavor. This dedication has resulted in a cabinet full of awards and a loyal following that appreciates the authentic, Michigan-made nature of their products.

A Legacy of Excellence: Best Brandy in the U.S.

One of the most significant recent accolades that directly impacts the Grand Haven location is the company being named the Best Brandy Distillery in the U.S. This national recognition underscores the quality and craftsmanship of their distilled products. This award is particularly timely, often coinciding with the release of their latest batches of Long Road Brandy, which are highly anticipated events at both the Grand Rapids and Grand Haven locations.

The Core Spirit Lineup and New Releases

The Grand Haven location is the perfect place to explore the full spectrum of Long Road's offerings, from their flagship spirits to their more esoteric, limited-edition releases. The distillery frequently announces new products, keeping their offerings fresh and exciting. Recent news highlights include the statewide distribution of their new line of Ready-to-Drink Canned Cocktails, perfect for taking the Long Road experience home or to the beach.

Must-Try Entities from the Long Road Lineup:

• Grand Absinthe: A complex spirit crafted with over a dozen herbs and spices.
• Michigan Cherry Liqueur & Michigan Raspberry Liqueur: Showcasing the state's famous fruit agriculture.
• Amaro Pazzo & Red Amaro: Unique Italian-style liqueurs with a Michigan twist.
• Original Nocino: A traditional Italian walnut liqueur.
• Asparagin: A highly limited-edition, experimental spirit that captures the distillery's innovative spirit.

Whether you are sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail or taking home a bottle of their award-winning Original Rum, the commitment to Michigan's finest agricultural ingredients is evident in every drop.

Plan Your Visit: Location and Experience

Located steps from the Grand Haven boardwalk and channel, the Long Road Distillers Grand Haven tasting room is a perfect addition to any lakeshore itinerary. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and sophisticated, offering a high-end experience without the pretense.

Location Details:

The venue is easily accessible with street parking available, as well as a large public parking lot nearby, accessible from Harbor, Franklin, and 1st Streets. While specific hours can vary seasonally, the location typically operates on an evening schedule, making it an ideal spot for happy hour or a late dinner. (Please check their official website for the most current hours of operation before planning your visit in late 2025/early 2026.)

The tasting events and opportunities to purchase bottles to-go make it more than just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience into the world of craft distilling. From the initial city council debate to its current status as a celebrated destination, Long Road Distillers Grand Haven has proven that taking the "long road" is often the most rewarding path, delivering a world-class experience right to the shores of Lake Michigan.