New to Michigan, Wine Loft in Kalamazoo set to uncork next week

Michigan's first Wine Loft franchise will open in Kalamazoo next week, with plans to add locations in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor and Lansing.

President of West Michigan Wine Loft Inc. Tiffany Cornelius said with the opening of the Wine Loft in the historic Haymarket Building, wine lovers will be able to experience a big-city atmosphere without leaving western Michigan.

"It's a very urban and chic lounge atmosphere," said Cornelius, 32. "There are no standard tables and chairs, everything is low in an intimate setting with a lot of couches and ottomans ... it feels like it should be in Chicago or Miami."

The Wine Loft will open Aug. 25 at 4 p.m. and will serve its clients until 2 a.m. five nights of the week, per its recent liquor license.

Cornelius said customers will be able to choose from 40 different wines by the glass as well as 160 by-the-bottle options. There also will be a full-service bar and 20 different food items, including artisan cheeses, as well as pastas and desserts.

The 3,500-square-foot location has an upper level that may be rented out for private parties.

Cornelius partnered in this venture with fellow Kalamazoo-natives Terry and Jean Henderson, who have been franchise restaurateurs in Kalamazoo for over 10 years.

Readers may find more about the Wine Loft and Kalamazoo's so-called "Wine Block" in the upcoming issue of Business Review.