After being briefly closed for a month-long series of updates and renovations, Ghost Isle Brewery in New Buffalo re-opened for business last week and is busy gearing up now for their first anniversary celebration next month. 
Ghost Isle has announced that their first anniversary celebration will take place on Saturday, April 18th, 2020, with day-long events planned to say “thank you” to the community that has supported them over the past year, including:
- Live bands
- Merchandise, gift card, and commemorative giveaways
- New beer release
- Food and drink specials
Mug club specials - Cornhole tournaments
- Free birthday cake
Ghost Isle Brewery first opened its doors on Tax Day, April 15th, 2019 to a New Buffalo and Harbor Country community that embraced the new venture that was built by a family that has lived in Harbor Country for four generations. Perched on the edge of the area’s protected and magnificent 350 acre wetlands, the new brewpub has provided a perfect scenic backdrop to all guests as they enjoy house-brewed craft beer along with a full bar and menu.
Ghost Isle owner Jim Sima says, “It’s been a dream of our family to highlight and use this beautiful piece of land in a way that everyone can appreciate. We are grateful to the hundreds of people who have told us they love it here, for the serene view, the food and drink or for the fun atmosphere that brings people together. This property has been in our family for over 70 years, and we have no doubt this was the perfect business for one of the most beautiful locations in Southwest Michigan.”
Bob Sima, son and owner, partnered with his dad in building Ghost Isle, with special attention paid to installing the new, 10 barrel, steam-jacked brewing system. A brewer himself, Bob has collaborated with the brewing staff, and is very pleased with the precision of the new system and the brews presented this past year, saying, “Our original releases are quite popular, so we’re happy to say we will continue a few of those as we add in new brews throughout the year. We plan on offering eight to ten of our own beers on tap this summer, with our brewing neighbors joining us for occasional collaborations. Our head brewer Joe Hinman has quite a legendary following, so all of us are excited for the great brews ahead.”
In addition to serving up some great craft beer, cocktails and atmosphere, Ghost Isle’s full and diverse menu completes your visit. Bob says, “Speaking of legends, our head chef Matt Lindsey is competing with Joe the brewer for bragging rights to Ghost’s success. Chef Matt’s creations are well known around here, and he’s just as happy creating a meat-eater’s entree as he is embracing farm-to-table fresh vegetables. We’ve got amazing recipes for success with both these guys, and we couldn’t be happier to jump into a new season with them at the helm.”
The 2020 season includes a 100 seat, newly enclosed wetlands patio with three huge glass garage doors that open completely to beautiful weather or close tightly to protect guests from inclement weather. As Jim tells it, “Rain or shine, summer or winter, this room makes it possible for many more guests to enjoy Ghost Isle and the beauty of the wetlands. Mother Nature gives us a spectacular show all four seasons.” He adds that the room will soon be available for private rental events after the busy summer season.
Ghost Isle Brewery is a family-owned, 208 seat brewpub founded in 2019 by Jim and Elizabeth Sima and their sons, Bob and Brett Sima. You will find it located at 17684 US-12 in New Buffalo and online at the link below. You can also follow the brewery on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Here’s their direct weblink: http://ghostislebrewery.com
