Where the Pit Meets the Pint

Lisa Enos | December 4, 2025 | Articles | No Comments

Dr. Rolf adds brew to the menu

One sunny afternoon that feels like ages ago now, after jumping waves and tossing tennis balls for my dog at Kirk Park until we were both wiped out — I got seriously hungry for some good barbeque. I was dripping wet and not in the mood for anything fancy.

I stopped at a couple of local spots, including that big barn on Highway 31 with the BBQ sign out front—the one with line dancing in the basement—but had no luck. Then I remembered Dr. Rolf’s, a longtime Muskegon favorite of mine, had opened a Spring Lake location in the former Old Boys’ Brewhouse building, so I continued my quest north.

The Chili Flight. Photo Courtesy of Dr. Rolf’s Barbecue

Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque is a family-owned restaurant inspired by Dr. Rolf Hissom’s Appalachian roots and lifelong passion for quality food, alongside his wife Judy, who has championed their vision from the start.

I had a delicious brisket sandwich, but unfortunately I wasn’t able to wash it down with a quality pint of pilsner. That end of the operation had not yet come to pass.

Bar seating. Photo Courtesy of Dr. Rolf’s Barbecue

“We knew when we acquired the old brewery that we would eventually utilize the equipment and brew some unique beer just for Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque,” said Judy Hissom, owner of Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque, adding that she’s excited to “add something new” to go along with all of the delicious meats and sides on offer. The couple was planning to launch their craft beer (along with some live music, yard games, and backyard festivities in September) but some unforeseen circumstances had them postponing the debut of their brew and the party until Oct. 25.

“While the delay was unexpected, it gives us the chance to make sure everything is running perfectly for our guests. Having a party seems like the perfect way to celebrate,” said Hissom.

In addition to the two BBQ restaurants, the Hissoms also own The Early Owl in Muskegon, where —they say— their passion for food transforms your dining experience.

A platter of perfection. Photo Courtesy of Dr. Rolf’s Barbecue

The Spring Lake brewpub is open seven days a week with dine-in or seasonal waterfront patio seating, carryout, delivery, and catering. They’re serving all the smoked classics—pulled pork, ribs, brisket—and fan favorites like smoked mac and cheese. By the time this magazine went to print, I still hadn’t gotten a chance to sample the brewpub’s beer offerings, but that gives me the perfect excuse to return. I can’t wait.