Local business owners to host culinary class featuring local beer

Enjoying craft food and beer has become a staple for residents and tourists alike in Grand Rapids. With the recently awarded Beer City, USA title, Rockford Brewing Company and Thought Design took it upon themselves to show off just how craft food and beer are done. Together, they have hope to created a classic Grand Rapids summer night.

On Friday, August 16, Grand Rapidians Denise Van Eck, owner of Thought Design, and Seth Rivard, Co-Owner of Rockford Brewing Company will host Brewing & Grilling. The evening will begin at Rockford Brewing Company where attendees will receive an exclusive education about a featured beer brewed especially for the event.

“We’ll walk the attendees through how we prepare, brew and serve that particular style of beer. The beer will then be used in the culinary portion of evening,” Rivard says. While enjoying a glass or two, attendees will then learn how to prepare several recipes with the culinary staff of Thought Design. Guests will also learn how to feature the beer as an ingredient and pair it with the meal.

“It’s an event where craft beer meets culinary artistry. As it does with each of our culinary classes, the evening will end with a dinner party featuring amazing people that have prepared some amazing food,” says Van Eck.

When Denise first came to Seth with the idea of hosting an educational food & beer event, the answer was simple.

“We are very excited to see where this event will take us; we hope to turn this into a monthly series, mixing up the style of food and beer presented,” Rivard comments.

Click here to register for the event. Space is limited and registration closes Monday, August 12.