Echelon Kitchen & Bar: A Fresh Culinary Experience on Main Street

The Ann Arbor dining scene is about to reach new heights with the highly anticipated opening of Echelon Kitchen & Bar this February. Located at 200 S. Main Street, this restaurant is redefining what it means to serve a "vegetable-forward" menu, blending sustainable practices with bold, wood-fired flavors.

But don't let the term "vegetable-forward" fool you—Echelon Kitchen & Bar isn’t just for vegetarians. Alongside their stunning produce-focused dishes, the menu also features carefully crafted meat options that promise to impress. Their wood-fired chicken selections stand out as an exciting highlight, with each dish showcasing their mastery of fire-kissed, flavor-rich cooking techniques.

A Fire-Centered Philosophy

At the core of Echelon's kitchen lies a roaring wood fire, an ancient yet timeless cooking method. This technique brings out the natural sweetness and smoky depth of their ingredients, from flame-kissed vegetables to perfectly seared meats. Whether it’s the caramelized edges of ember-roasted beets or a succulent wood-fired chicken dish, each bite tells a story of care and craft.

A Culinary Team to Celebrate

The Echelon experience is driven by a stellar team, including Executive Chef Joseph VanWagner, whose diverse culinary background has shaped a menu that’s both progressive and approachable. From his roots in Southwest Michigan’s fruit belt to his stints in acclaimed kitchens across the U.S. and Europe, Chef VanWagner brings a vision that’s as inspired as it is delicious.

Rounding out the team is Executive Pastry Chef Ben Robison, known for desserts that balance creativity with precision, and Executive Beverage Director Taylor Johnson, whose curated wine and cocktail pairings feature sustainable, biodynamic, and organic producers.

Spotlight on the Menu

While the vegetable-forward concept shines, the menu also caters to meat lovers. The wood-fired chicken dishes are especially exciting, offering tender, flavorful options elevated by the simplicity of their cooking method. This thoughtful balance ensures that every guest—regardless of dietary preference—will find something memorable to enjoy.

For those seeking the ultimate culinary adventure, Echelon Kitchen & Bar offers a six-course Chef’s Taste menu. This carefully curated experience promises to surprise and delight, showcasing the very best of what the restaurant has to offer. We can’t wait to indulge in this immersive tasting journey!

Local Partnerships That Shine

Echelon Kitchen & Bar’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their menu and into the heart of Michigan’s agricultural community. By partnering with local farmers, artisans, and purveyors, they bring the freshest, highest-quality ingredients to the table while supporting the local economy.

Their key partners include:

• Motor City Seafood, for sustainably sourced seafood.

• Green Things Farm Collective, supplying organic produce.

• Argus Farm Stop, connecting Echelon with small-scale farmers.

• Goetz Farm, for locally grown vegetables and herbs.

• The Nordique Chef, offering artisan products.

• Graylings Ceramics, providing handcrafted ceramic tableware.

These collaborations highlight Echelon’s dedication to honoring farmers, the soil, and the seasons while crafting a dining experience that is both rooted in community and elevated in quality.

Ann Arbor’s New Culinary Gem

With its vegetable-forward philosophy, wood-fired techniques, thoughtfully curated meat options, and strong local partnerships, Echelon Kitchen & Bar are poised to be more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary destination. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor exploring Ann Arbor’s vibrant dining scene, Echelon is a must-visit.

Mark your calendars for February, and be ready to enjoy a meal that’s as refined as it is grounded. From the spotlight-worthy chicken dishes to the innovative six-course Chef’s Taste, we’re excited to see Echelon Kitchen & Bar light up Main Street in style.

For more details and reservations, visit their website at echelonkitchenandbar.com.

We Want to Hear from You!

Are you excited to try Echelon Kitchen & Bar? Which dish or menu item are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below! If you've already visited, share your experience and favorite dishes. Be sure to follow Ann Arbor Hub for more local restaurant highlights, foodie features, and community updates. Let’s keep the conversation going! 🍽️🔥

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