By Jason Wesseldyk, Sports Editor
Last call for Rhino’s Hometown Pub came on Saturday, Jan. 15.
That’s when, after two decades in operation, the popular watering hole on Main Street in downtown Plainwell, closed its doors for the final time.
Owner Phil Anglin shared news of the closure with patrons in a Facebook post on Monday, Jan. 10, stating that the announcement came with “a bit of sadness and a lot of excitement.”
“All good things must come to an end,” Anglin said in the post. “As I look back on the past 20 years, I can honestly say it has been an amazing experience, and I will fondly remember the incredible relationships that were fostered inside our little pub.
“Love, marriages (and yes, even children) all began with an innocent trip to Rhino’s!”
Anglin categorized the last day as “amazing.”
“The amount of support we received leading up to our last day was wonderful, as was the turnout on Saturday night,” Anglin said. “We heard from so many customers who each had their own favorite Rhino moment, whether it was meeting their future spouse or just having great times with friends.
“Sometimes during the daily grind, you don’t realize the positive impact you can have on people, so that was a nice surprise for me personally.”
Rhino’s opened for business in 2002 and has been a fixture of the downtown Plainwell restaurant/shopping district ever since.
The electric sign on the front of Rhino’s would often display birthday wishes for one of its patrons along with messages detailing upcoming events.
Anglin believes the business will be in good hands moving forward.
“As most of you know, there have been opportunities to sell the business over the past few years, but I didn’t feel right selling to just any buyer,” Anglin said in the post. “I wanted someone who would actually care for the business.”
Anglin identified the new owner only as “Jen.”
“I am so excited for the future of this business as I am absolutely sure Jen will take what we have built and make it even better,” Anglin said.
“Thank you all for being part of my life and for supporting Rhino’s for all of these years. You are truly appreciated and cherished.”