New Country-Rock Bar to Replace Turnstiles in Grand Rapids

Miss Turnstiles in Grand Rapids? We now know what’s moving into the former music venue, bar, and restaurant! Before we get into what’s coming next, here’s a quick refresher on what used to be there.

Get our free mobile app

Turnstiles: A Quick Look Back

Turnstiles opened at 526 Stocking Ave. NW in spring 2021, taking over a space that previously housed Joe V’s Sports Bar and Palace of India. The bar was owned by Grand Rapids native Robert Schellenberg, who envisioned the spot as a home base for local musicians and service industry workers.

👇BELOW: GRAND RAPIDS RESTAURANTS OPEN ON CHRISTMAS DAY👇

The venue featured a small stage, open mic nights, trivia, and a rotating mix of live performances.

Why Turnstiles Closed

In July, Turnstiles announced it would be closing its doors. In a message shared on social media, the owners cited rising costs, a changing market, and a deal to secure the property that ultimately fell through as the reasons behind the closure.

READ MORE: Want to Eat Outside? Guide to Grand Rapids Restaurants with Heated Igloos

Grand Rapids' New Country-Rock Bar, Fire Bird

Now, the Stocking Avenue space has a new tenant lined up. For anyone hoping live music would return to the building, you’re in luck! Restaurateur Rob Wahl—who also owns The Win Tavern in Jenison and Bridge Street Bar in Grand Rapids—is behind what’s moving in next, marking his second West Side bar.

Wahl plans to open a country-rock bar and restaurant called Fire Bird Bar at the Stocking Avenue location. According to Crain’s Grand Rapids, the new spot will feature a large food and drink menu and will once again host live music.

Opening Timeline and What to Expect

As a salad bar enthusiast, I find this super exciting: Fire Bird will have one! Wahl tells Crain's Grand Rapids it'll also feature a lunch buffet, chicken dishes, sandwiches, southern comfort food, and a variety of pizzas. Fire Bird Bar is expected to open in February of 2026.