If you’ve spent any time in any of the larger cities in our great state of Michigan (Grand Rapids, East Lansing, Detroit, and soon to be Ann Arbor…), chances are HopCat is not a foreign name to you. If it is, allow us to introduce you!
Ahh, where to begin? You could say Short’s has a bit of a crush on HopCat (and dare we say vice versa?). With its first location popping up in the heart of BeerCity USA in 2008, it’s no surprise that they quickly became a must-stop for beer lovers and foodies alike. With the craft-only approach they take with their beer list, coupled with fare that, by name, has addictive qualities (think Crack Fries) they have the perfect equation for a tap room that draws people in time and time again. HopCat Grand Rapids has a cool vibe, just down the street from college campuses and Van Andel Arena – a premier venue for shows and events. Whether you need a study break, a pre-concert libation, or just a casual drink with friends, this tap room will keep you coming back with its ever changing beer list and inviting atmosphere. They even have a birthday shindig for Joe every year!
Following in its big brother’s footsteps, HopCat East Lansing opened in summer of 2014, making lots of college students and other residents delighted by the downtown addition. Their grand opening included a world record breaking 100 Short’s beers on tap, and crack fries for all. This multi-level location has plenty of seats, 100 taps pouring craft beer at all times, and a weekly special fit for a freshman’s wallet – the ‘Burger-beer me’ special which clocks in at $7 and includes a burger, crack fries, and a pint.
Next up, was HopCat Detroit. Making itself at home in the midtown area at the end of 2014, in a renovated building that is almost a century old and had been vacant for nearly eight years. Short’s brought along 120 beers to the [grand opening] party, shattering the world record that was set in East Lansing. The new location celebrates more than just creative brews. Other forms of art are also showcased, local artists painted murals for the building, and Detroit inspired musicians’ memorabilia is featured inside to accompany The Huma Room, a live music and event space within the restaurant. Short’s was proud to participate in the epic event that was yet another example of this great city’s revitalization. Joe Short even carved a message into the brand new bar alongside owner, Mark Sellers, forever leaving his mark on this sure to become iconic establishment.
HopCat ventures into yet another beloved Michigan city, Ann Arbor, this coming Valentine’s Day – how sweet is that? To learn more about the history of HopCat and how it came to be, listen to the next episode of Short’s Cast airing this Tuesday, January 27th, 2015, where we have the pleasure of chatting with founder, Mark Sellers. Extra credit if you can tell us what his favorite beer is. Hint: it rhymes with puma.
