Gillespie Group's newest eatery offers Riverfront community enrichment

If you've taken a stroll along Lansing's downtown stretch of Grand River in the last week, you've probably noticed MP Social. This brand new contemporary eatery, located right inside Marketplace, was developed by the Gillespie Group to complement the urban community they're helping to revitalize in Lansing's Stadium District.

The name itself is a clue. MP stands for Marketplace, but Social is what it's all about. It's a place to gather for an impromptu drink with friends, have a snack on the go, or sit down for a light meal. "It's the first of its kind in the area - a bar and restaurant inside a residential building." explains Ashley Brzezinski, Marketing Manager for Gillespie Group.

And the residents of Marketplace love it. "They can come down from their apartment to grab a drink and a bite to eat with each other or with guests. It provides the community atmosphere that many young professionals are looking for when looking for a place to live. They want community. They want to be social."

But it's not just the residents of Marketplace that benefit from the light, simple, and flavorful plates on offer at MP Social. As Brzezinski points out, the unique location allows both residents and the general public to access it. "It gives them a place to stop for a drink or a bite to eat as they're out, enjoying the riverfront."

Even people on the river can enjoy a light meal and a drink on the go. With MP Social's to-go liquor license, you could come in off the river in your kayak or canoe, buy a few cans of beer and a sandwich, and jump back on the river to continue your journey. It also allows anyone walking the rivertrail to stop in and buy a bottle of wine to take home with them, which is uncommon. There aren't many places downtown right now, where you can buy a high quality bottle of wine.

The goal here is to energize and revitalize the riverfront. Brzezinski says they're trying to get the ball rolling in the right direction. "We hope this encourages more organizations and businesses to participate in growing the riverfront. We have great natural amenities in Lansing, and it's our goal to enhance and celebrate them!"



Source: Ashley Brzezinski, Marketing Manager, Gillespie Group
Writer: Sarah Hillman, News Editor

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