Hotel Rose Announces New Signature Restaurant, Char + Barrel

June 4, 2025

Wheeler Development Group (WDG) has announced the coming of a signature restaurant to downtown Rockford’s Hotel Rose. Char + Barrel, an 88-seat dining establishment, will occupy the ground floor space on the Northwest corner of the boutique hotel at 12 S. Main Street. The restaurant will open in tandem with the 54-room Hotel Rose this fall.

New Dining Experience to Compliment Hotel

Char + Barrel will be open 4pm-10pm for dinner service. The menu will feature unique takes on classic dishes, bold flavors, local fare, and an elevated craft-cocktail program showcasing a wide variety of premium bourbons and spirits. The dining experience will be further heightened by an interior design featuring rich tones, select woods, commissioned artwork, decorative metals, and subtle branding touchpoints that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Wheeler Development Group Comments on Restaurant

WDG CEO, John Wheeler stated, “Char + Barrel is a cornerstone of the experience we’re curating at Hotel Rose. It brings balance to our ground floor tenant mix and is a thoughtful extension of the dining offerings in the City of Rockford. The flow between the restaurant and hotel lobby creates an inviting atmosphere for both hotel guests and restaurant patrons. We envision guests walking in and immediately feeling the weight of the day lift as they immerse themselves in a truly unique dining, cocktail, or hotel guest experience. For us, it’s about creating a space that inspires memorable moments for our patrons and guests.”

Char + Barrel Bar Back - Under Construction

Hotel Manager Works on Staffing

AHC Hospitality will serve as the hotel manager and is currently underway with hiring for upper management positions including General Manager and Head Chef for the hotel and restaurant. When complete, the restaurant will create more than 40 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the Rockford community. For information on employment opportunities, visit hotelroserockford.com.

Hotel Manager Works on Staffing

AHC Hospitality will serve as the hotel manager and is currently underway with hiring for upper management positions including General Manager and Head Chef for the hotel and restaurant. When complete, the restaurant will create more than 40 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the Rockford community. For information on employment opportunities, visit hotelroserockford.com.

Construction is expected to be completed in July. WDG anticipates a grand opening ceremony and celebration in fall 2025. More information will be available in the coming months.


About Char + Barrel

At Char + Barrel, we bring together the rich allure of bourbon and the sizzling perfection of steak. Nestled inside Hotel Rose in downtown Rockford, indulgence and craft come together, offering a refined yet inviting atmosphere for those who appreciate life’s best flavors. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring life’s finer moments, every night can be a toast-worthy event. To learn more, visit hotelroserockford.com.

About Hotel Rose

Hotel Rose is a boutique hotel anchoring a three-story mixed-use development in the heart of Rockford, Michigan. With 54 well-appointed rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, ground floor retail, and a breakfast and lunch restaurant, Hotel Rose is a primary attraction within the thriving city. The modern design, carefully crafted guest rooms, and world-class service create a charming experience and a destination to be enjoyed by all. To learn more, visit hotelroserockford.com.

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