By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
One of the oldest businesses in the Wyoming area is Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille. Home to Michigan’s “Original Sizzle,” Brann took over the Division Avenue restaurant in 1971 and has been running consecutively for 49 years. Brann also serves as the 77th District State Representative, which covers the City of Wyoming and Byron Center Township. He has often said that being a restaurant owner has given him a unique perspective into what people face everyday, especially during the COVID pandemic where he has championed for support for those in his industry.
Name: Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse and Grille
What is your business? Steakhouse
How long has your business been operating? Been in business 49 years at same location 4157 S. Division Ave., Wyoming.
How did your business get started? My dad lent me $30,000 dollars at age of 19 after working for him since 13. He saw my hard work ethic and we bought the Southern Restaurant July 5, 1971 on a land contract. I had a $5,000 a month payment at the age of 19.
Why did you decide to locate your business in the Wyoming/Kentwood area? The Southern Restaurant was up for sale at that time in Wyoming. Also, we had a motel one time on the property and I stayed there also.
What has been the greatest challenge for your business? The biggest challenge was to show that a 19-year-old kid can do it and they saw me working from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. right off the bat and for more than 20 years with that work schedule so I could make my $5,000 dollar a month payment.
What is the most popular product/item at your business/restaurant? Popular item is our sizzler steak.
What is a Wyoming/Kentwood business you like to visit during your free time? Cherry Health, 2929 Burlingame Ave. SW, in Wyoming. It is a non-profit but they do so many great things.
