News Summary
Grand Rapids welcomes Silva, a new 55,000 square foot entertainment venue located at 975 Ottawa Ave. NW. Featuring state-of-the-art bocce ball courts and a diverse dining menu, Silva aims to create a communal space that encourages face-to-face interactions. With investment exceeding $15 million, the venue also offers engaging entertainment options and can accommodate large events in its ‘Big Room’. Silva serves as a vibrant addition to the city’s recreation landscape, focusing on real-life connections and fun activities.
Grand Rapids, Michigan has a new entertainment hub with the opening of Silva, an expansive venue designed to offer a unique blend of dining and interactive gameplay. Located at 975 Ottawa Ave. NW, Silva has transformed the former Berkey & Gay Furniture Company factory into a vibrant space that spans 55,000 square feet and can accommodate over 700 guests.
Developed by Mark Secchia, the project represents an investment exceeding $15 million. Among its signature features are five state-of-the-art indoor bocce ball courts, crafted with input from Italian experts. The construction of these courts alone amounted to $250,000, with a multi-layer system designed to enhance gameplay precision. Each court is suitable for teams of up to eight players, with reservations available for larger groups of up to sixteen. Time slots for bocce games vary, allowing bookings from 30 to 90 minutes.
Silva initially opened its dining area, offering a full menu to guests before and during their bocce matches, though red wine is notably excluded. The restaurant features a diverse selection of dishes, including jalapeño popper croquettes and Sticky Ribs, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere. Silva is also embracing a “digital detox” philosophy, encouraging social interactions among guests without the distractions of digital devices.
In addition to the bocce courts and dining, Silva hosts whimsical entertainment options, such as magicians, stilt walkers, and even belly dancers, enriching the overall experience for attendees. The venue encompasses a substantial event space known as the “Big Room,” which can accommodate up to 1,500 people for events ranging from concerts to corporate gatherings. A recreational area featuring billiards and darts adds another layer of entertainment for guests.
Silva is also committed to community engagement, offering activities and free games to guests who arrive early. The bocce courts will be available for leagues and group play, establishing a structured environment with specific rules that govern gameplay and attire. Secchia aims to create a welcoming environment that reflects his Italian heritage and passion for bocce.
The development project faced some legal hurdles, specifically complaints regarding property easements with a neighboring business, but it has still garnered significant community support. Silva’s unique carnival-inspired atmosphere, paired with its focus on fostering real-life connections in a fun and interactive environment, sets it apart in the Grand Rapids area.
As locals and visitors alike explore Silva, they are invited to partake in a diverse array of activities that prioritize communal engagement over technology, making it a noteworthy addition to the city’s entertainment landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Grand Rapids Magazine: Bocce Anyone?
- WOOD TV: Crew from Italy Builds New Grand Rapids Indoor Bocce Courts
- MLive: Enjoy Rock Star Ribs & Bocce Ball at Circus-Themed Eatery in Grand Rapids
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: $16.5M Bocce Entertainment Restaurant Venue Silva Set for Early 2025 Opening
- MLive: Whimsy Meets Circus Chic at Silva, Grand Rapids’ Newest Restaurant & Event Venue
- Wikipedia: Bocce
- Google Search: Bocce Ball
- Google Scholar: Bocce Ball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bocce
- Google News: Bocce Ball Grand Rapids
