New brewery on the Block in Howell

HOWELL — After months of intense renovation, the caterpillar that was once the Shark Club of Howell has emerged as the butterfly that is now Block Brewing Company, the latest Michigan craft brewery to open its doors to a public increasingly craving fresh, local beer.

Named after automotive engineer turned brewhouse designer turned college instructor turned brewer Tom Block, the former multi-tap bar, grill, nightclub and poker palace now offers 10-12 brewed-on-site beers alongside several dozen taps of other Michigan brews. The menu has likewise undergone a transformation, from a fairly standard “pub grub” orientation to a sumptuous new bill of fare specializing in barbecue dishes like ribs, smoked chicken wings, and brisket. Sides including salads, beans and mac and cheese are also available.

It’s all the result of the collaborative vision put together by owner-operator Mike Magyari, general manager Richard Gonzales, and Block himself.

“Over the years the billiard and nightclub busines

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