New Music Venue & Restaurant, JD’s Stage Bistro, Coming to Chelsea Next Spring

JD’s Stage Bistro is under construction at 117-1/2 South Main Street in Chelsea, Michigan. This project is a long-awaited venture for the Tannin Property Group.

The idea for JD’s Stage Bistro began when Tannin Property Group partnered with actor Jeff Daniels to envision a world-class music venue with exceptional food and a welcoming space for gatherings with family and friends. Daniels, along with his son, Ben, and his son’s wife, Amanda, joined the project to help create a world-class music venue that would attract local, regional, and nationally recognized singer-songwriters, while setting a new standard for sound quality.

On the culinary side, Chef Nate Wegryn, formerly of Echelon Kitchen and The Dixboro Project, will feature an inspired contemporary menu, working with many local farmers and suppliers. The 100-seat restaurant will feature a wood-fired pizza oven, cocktail bar, patio seating, and multiple private event spaces. The event spaces will cater to small to mid-sized community gatherings and private celebrations. 

Building on a history of restoration and stewardship, the team is creating a new downtown destination in JD’s Stage Bistro: a music venue, bistro, and event space designed to reflect Chelsea’s culture and love of the arts. Perfectly positioned as a nighttime counterpart to the acclaimed Purple Rose Theatre, JD’s will fuel a thriving evening economy, strengthening Chelsea’s reputation as a must-visit destination for culture, creativity, and live entertainment.

The venue has been designed by Aaron Vermeulen, Principal of O-X Studio, Inc., and Nat Stanton, Principal of Craft Structural Engineering, Inc. Mechanical and Electrical engineering was provided by Kelly Sugg of Greenpath Design and Lynn Surdock at WPF Engineering. Acoustics is at the forefront, by Gavin Haverstick, lead Acoustical consultant at Haverstick Designs, not only to ensure an outstanding listening experience but also to manage the sound within the building. Acoustic treatments, structural reinforcements, and sound-absorbing materials are being incorporated to ensure performances enhance downtown without disrupting nearby residents and businesses.

JD’s Stage Bistro is a commitment to Chelsea’s future. The venue will create new job opportunities for restaurant and event staff, provide opportunities for local and regional musicians, and serve as an intergenerational gathering place that will enhance Main Street activity and support neighboring businesses. By sourcing ingredients from Michigan producers and welcoming local artists into the space, the project is designed to feel like it belongs to Chelsea—because it does.

The owners anticipate an opening of JD’s Bistro in Spring 2026. They look forward to welcoming the community into a space built with care, creativity, and a deep respect for Chelsea’s past and future. For more information, please visit www.jdsstagebistro.com.

Rendering of the Newsroom Event space, Photo courtesy JD’s Stage Bistro