LUDINGTON — After more than a year of delays, AndyS will officially open its doors to the public at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, bringing a new restaurant, sports bar and entertainment venue to downtown Ludington.
The two-story venue on the corner of Ludington and Rath avenues features more than 70 televisions, including a video screen extending from the first to second level, three bars, live entertainment space, sports simulators and rooftop seating overlooking Lake Michigan and downtown Ludington. The
The opening comes about a month after AndyS announced plans to hire nearly 100 employees in preparation for its debut.
At the time, project partner Suzanne DeMott said the business expected to employ approximately 50 full-time workers, 20 part-time workers and 25 or more seasonal employees, with staffing expected to increase during the tourism season. A general manager and executive chef had already been hired and were relocating to Ludington.
The restaurant will feature authentic Italian wood-fired pizza. Maestro Pizzaiolo Leo Spizzirri, author of “Pizza Love,” is expected to be on site for the opening to prepare hand-stretched pizzas in the wood-fired oven.
Spizzirri also trained AndyS employees in authentic Italian wood-fired pizza preparation. He is a master instructor certified by the Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli in Venice and a member of the World Pizza Champions.
The beverage program was developed by Las Vegas bartender Eric Hobbie and includes specialty cocktails at each of the venue’s three bars and 24 taps on each level.
In addition to dining and drinks, AndyS is designed as an entertainment destination. The main floor includes a stage for music, comedy and theater performances.
AndyS Country Club, located on the second level, includes three golf and sports simulators and private event space. Suzy’s Rooftop offers views of Lake Michigan and downtown Ludington.
The public opening follows a lengthy development process that included compliance issues between the developer and the city of Ludington and subsequent litigation.
Mason County Circuit Judge Eric R. Fox in March granted ASR Real Estate LLC a preliminary injunction rescinding a city stop-work order and allowing construction to resume while the lawsuit continued.
The city issued a temporary certificate of occupancy May 28, with conditions remaining before a final certificate could be issued. The stated occupancy restriction concerned seating in the second-floor overhang above Rath Avenue. The lawsuit remained pending when the Daily News last reported on the project.
Dining reservations will initially be required. Reservations can be made by calling 231-515-ANDY (2639) between 2 and 4 p.m. daily.
AndyS will initially be open at 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Permanent hours are expected to be announced later.
