Boochie Bar Eyed for Airport Expansion

Social media users have linked a new airport teaser video to the health-focused restaurant chain.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Boochie Bar Eyed for Airport Expansion

Live Poll

Should airports prioritize local businesses when selecting new restaurant tenants?

Boochie Bar is expected to open a new location at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids. The potential expansion follows a social media teaser video released by the airport.

Why it matters

The addition of a local food brand would integrate into the ongoing $600 million Elevate program at the airport. This expansion reflects the airport's efforts to diversify dining options following its recent terminal upgrades.

The airport is currently managing a $600 million Elevate program to update facilities. This follows the completion of a $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project.

The players

Jennifer Makowski

She is the business owner who established the first Boochie Bar location in 2023.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

This facility is currently undergoing a massive multi-phase infrastructure and terminal expansion program.

The details

Boochie Bar, which currently operates a location at 39 Courtland Street in Rockford, specializes in menu items such as kombucha, acai bowls, protein shakes, and various wraps. The airport released a teaser video on social media that led users to identify the brand as the likely incoming tenant.

Timeline

  1. Owner Jennifer Makowski opened the first Boochie Bar in 2023.

  2. The airport released a teaser video on social media in October 2026.

Market Landscape

The potential opening of Boochie Bar aligns with the broader strategy of regional transit hubs incorporating local vendors to enhance the passenger experience. This shift allows regional airports to better compete for travelers by offering unique local culinary brands alongside national operators.

If the expansion moves forward, travelers at the airport will gain access to the chain's health-focused menu of smoothies, salads, and wraps. This change would provide a local alternative to the existing dining options currently available inside the terminal.

The takeaway

Local restaurants expanding into high-traffic transit hubs often face unique logistical challenges regarding supply chain consistency. Patrons can expect the airport menu to mirror the core offerings found at the brand's original Rockford location.

Further reading

For more updates on new restaurant arrivals, visit Grand Rapids Openings & Closings.

Source note: This article includes information reported by 97.9 WGRD.

Live Poll

Should airports prioritize local businesses when selecting new restaurant tenants?