A New Chapter in Flavor: Blackstone's Smokehouse Brings its Renowned BBQ to Corunna

Get ready, Corunna, because a truly exciting culinary development is on the horizon! Blackstone's Smokehouse, a name synonymous with incredible barbecue and craft brews in Flint, is officially expanding its delicious reach. They’re setting up shop right in your town, having acquired the familiar Rivals Taphouse location. If you ask me, this is fantastic news for local foodies!

Owner Jeremy Schick, who, alongside his wife Jen, has skillfully steered the Flint location for over a decade, confirmed the exciting move. If all goes according to plan, and let's hope it does, Corunna can anticipate savoring Blackstone's signature smoked meats and vibrant atmosphere by late 2025, perhaps just in time for some festive feasting. Imagine those smoky aromas filling the air!

The chosen spot is none other than 108 W. Corunna Ave., a building many locals know well as the former Rivals Taphouse. Schick shared that while they absolutely intend to make the space their own – thinking fresh kitchen upgrades and a Blackstone's facelift – they also appreciate the existing character. Picture this: the familiar charm of a neighborhood spot, but infused with that unmistakable Blackstone's magic, maybe even a new smoker out back, bringing those tantalizing aromas to the street!

Why Corunna, you might ask? Well, it seems Schick has been eyeing growth for a while, and Corunna simply felt like the perfect fit. It’s a community with a great vibe, a welcoming atmosphere, and, let’s be honest, a definite hunger for some seriously good barbecue and a robust craft beer selection. It's not just about opening another restaurant; it’s about becoming a genuine part of the local fabric, bringing something truly special.

For those not yet acquainted with Blackstone's Smokehouse (and really, you should be!), their Flint location at 5311 Corunna Rd. has been a beloved institution for years. They're renowned for their mouth-watering smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and an impressive lineup of craft beers that perfectly complement their hearty menu. It’s a place where quality ingredients meet masterful smoking techniques, creating an unforgettable dining experience time and time again.

Meanwhile, the current owners of Rivals Taphouse, Jason Warda and Matt Duley, are gracefully passing the torch. They’ve built a great local spot offering American fare and a good beer selection, and we wish them well. Their decision to sell comes as they look to concentrate on other ventures, specifically their promising G2G Marketplace project in Swartz Creek. So, while one chapter closes, exciting new ones begin for everyone involved.

The anticipation for Blackstone's Corunna outpost is already building. It's more than just a new restaurant; it’s a sign of vibrant community growth and the promise of more fantastic food and good times ahead. Mark your calendars, Corunna – delicious things are coming your way, and I, for one, can’t wait to try it!