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contents MAR C H/APRIL 2026 VOLUME 63, ISSUE 2

The St. Cecilia Music Center in Grand Rapids, built in 1894, features a Renaissance Revival and Beaux-Arts classical style facade designed by Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb.

FEATURES

FRESH ON THE SCENE GR ' S R E S I L I E NT DIN IN G S C E NE + T H E BE ST N E W R ESTAU R A N TS O F 202 6 BY PAT EVANS

UNDER THE WATCH OF ST. CECILIA H ISTO RI C MUS IC C E N T E R FO U N D E D BY WO MEN FO R S O U N D A ND CELEBR AT I O N BY LISA ENOS

38 NIFTY & THRIFTY

S ECO N D - H A N D DO ES N OT H AVE TO M E A N S ECO N D - R AT E BY ANN BYLE

P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F S T. C E C I L I A M U S I C C E N T E R

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

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contents • march/april

every issue 8 67 74

editor's letter dining guide

A guide to the area's best eateries.

gr gems

Black Dog–a curated kind of cool.

people + places 12

city

voice

14 15 16

Up, up & away: STEM careers cleared for takeoff.

spotlight

Grand Valley Artists: 70 years of community and collaboration.

profile

Custom homes: 20 properties, 3 GR-based designers, 1 book.

experience

wellness

Waiting for spring to spring: A guide to the Great Indoors. On a mission: Searching for the PLN "Dutch gene" mutation.

food + drink

table

on-the-go

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

guide

The 'Unemployed Alcoholic' gets his big break in the Metaverse.

look + feel

A sunny return for W . omen's Day, Broadway GR, & Lantern Fest!

Tucked away in Howard City, this refined restaurant is 'a real find.' Bada boom, bada Bangkok Taste: Jenison's favorite Thai place.

create

Recipe: Corned Beef Brisket— A St. P . addy's Day Pleaser.

cheers

A mobile coffee (and more) truck is on the move in West Michigan.

must try

Soul food from Southern Smoke, + five more soul-inspired gems.

DRINKS BY KRISTEN NORMAN TOM'S COFFEE TRUCK BY KRISTEN NORMAN PORTAIT PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARTY KLAR/GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com Publisher: Jason Hosko

For the Exceptional & Essential

Editorial Managing Editor: Lisa Enos Special Projects Editors: Olivia Sedlacek, Morgan Brown Contributors: Ann Byle, Debby Buck DeJonge, Kelsey Dunneback, Pat Evans, Jason Roth, Matthew Rothenberg, Pasha Shipp Design & Production Creative Director: Lindsay Richards Art Director: Kevin Martin Associate Art Director: Steven Prokuda Production Manager: Crystal Nelson Graphic Designer: Joe Salafia Production Assistant: Alessandra Taranta Account Manager: Elizabeth Kowalik Contributors: Bryan Esler, Teri Genovese, Amanda Kamppinen, Kristen Norman, Bree Rose, Pasha Shipp Sales General Inquiries: (616) 459-4545; advertising@hour-media.com Media Advisors: Nick Irwin, Maddy Gill, Stephanie Scott Publishing & Sales Coordinator: Logan Neaton Digital Director of Digital Strategy: Travis Fletcher Digital Development Manager: Matthew Cappo Senior Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim Digital Development Specialist: Brian Paul

Sierra Sofas, Chairs & Tables by Copeland Unmistakable Craftsmanship

IT IT Director: Jeremy Leland Circulation Audience Development Director: Geralyn Wilson Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers Senior Circulation Coordinators: David Benvenuto, Rachel Moulden Circulation Coordinators: Cathy Krajenke, Michele Wold Circulation Customer Service: (866) 660-6247 Marketing Marketing & Events Manager: Regan Wright Marketing & Events Coordinator: Puja Trivedi Marketing and Events Administrative Assistant: Kayla Yucha Weddings Account Manager: Karen Wilkie Administration Director Of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki Senior Accounting Associate: Andrew Kotzian Accounting Associate: Austin Schmelzle, Jenna Glod Published By Hour Media CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo

Grand Rapids Magazine USPS 997340, (ISSN 1055-5145) Copyright © 2026 by Hour Media LLC is published bi-monthly by Hour Media, 5750 New King Drive, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. Call (866) 660-6247 to subscribe. Periodicals postage is paid at Troy, MI, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 5750 New King Drive, Suite 100, Troy, MI 48098. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $5.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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GR M AG .CO M

editor's letter / connect

Wake Up, Sleepyhead Spring has a way of shaking us awake. After months of hibernation, March and April invite us back into the world — full calendars, shared experiences, and reasons to leave the house. This issue of Grand Rapids Magazine is all about reconnecting: with our city, new cuisine, and the people and places shaping life here right now. That sense of presence runs through every page as we profile Grand Rapids architects featured in a new book highlighting 20 standout homes in the Midwest, examine a local STEM high school encouraging students to think beyond the classroom, and spotlight Grand Valley Artists as they celebrate 70 years of nurturing some of the region’s most talented creators. We also explore the science behind “The Dutch Gene,” linking Grand Rapids to cutting-edge heart research. Spring’s cultural lineup is vibrant. Broadway Grand Rapids brings fresh energy to the stage. Comedy born out of Gilda’s LaughFest reminds us that laughter still brings people together — now even in virtual reality. On March 8, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Shawn Colvin performs at St. Cecilia Music Center, which marks International Women’s Day with a celebration as timely as it is deeply rooted. Later this spring, the center’s executive and artistic director marks 20 years at the helm, a milestone explored in Under the Watch of St. Cecilia, alongside a retrospective of the institution founded by nine Grand Rapids women 143 years ago. Food remains central to our stories. While national headlines suggest a struggling restaurant industry, Pat Evans uncovers a more nuanced local narrative. Though a few longtime favorites have closed, dozens of new concepts have emerged over the past year, signaling an industry still on the rise. Add in Ann Byle’s thrifting adventures, a visit to a new record shop with Pasha Shipp, a new coffee truck, and standout restaurants— from Jenison and South Division to as far away as Howard City—this issue offers countless ways to embrace new experiences. For adventures beyond the plate, Kelsey Dunneback explores the great indoors, and John Ball Zoo’s Lantern Fest returns April 8. So, get out and explore GR — curious, connected, and wide awake.

Lisa Enos Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

T he best ways to reach us: Email: lenos@hour-media.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or follow us online at grmag.com or on social media: @grmag @grmagazine @grmagazine

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

Next issue

The Best of Grand Rapids What's New at John Ball Zoo A Greek Island Escape

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Debby Buck DeJonge GR Mag: What do you like most about writing for GR Magazine? Debby Buck DeJonge: It is so much fun to write for GR Mag because it affords an opportunity to share some of my experiences and favorite haunts through my articles. GR Mag: Favorite assignment so far? DBD: So many of the assignments have been absolutely delightful to cover, making it difficult to choose just one. My heart says Bliss at Black Star Farms as it is my home away from home.

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people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

PROFILE

An interior by Brad Douglas Tilma, featured in "New View — A Curated Visual Gallery: Twenty Magnificent Homes by Midwest Architects" published by Beth Buckley of benton buckley books, showcases his refined approach to design.

» PLUS: GR AND VALLEY ARTISTS TURNS 70 STEM C AREERS CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF COMEDY CLUB IN THE METAVERSE

Custom & By Design page 16

P H OTO G R A P H BY J A M E S H A E F N E R GR M AG .CO M

people + places / city

Lanterns light up the night at John Ball Zoo More than 145,000 guests attended the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival in 2025. This can’t miss event returns April 8 through June 14, 2026, with spectacular, larger-than-life Asian lanterns illuminating a one-mile path at John Ball Zoo. The spring festival blends wildlife and Asian culture with evening hours and timed entry for families.

CITY

& Juliet

Pop hits, punchlines and a new ending for Juliet The Michigan premiere of “& Juliet” comes to DeVos Performance Hall March 10–15. This hit Broadway musical flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic, asking the hilarious question: what if Juliet didn’t die for Romeo? Breaking free from the balcony, she rewrites her story, chasing love, adventure and life—her way. Audiences will sing, dance and laugh along to pop hits everyone knows, including “Since U Been Gone,” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life,” “That’s the Way It Is” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” High-energy, funny and unstoppable, “& Juliet” is Broadway magic in downtown Grand Rapids.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

A Sunny Return

Three-time Grammy Award winner Shawn Colvin will perform at St. Cecilia Music Center on March 8, International Women’s Day, continuing the venue’s legacy of hosting acclaimed artists.

Shawn Colvin to headline on International Women’s Day In early February, St. Cecilia Music Center announced that a remarkable roster of 2026 Grammy nominees and winners has performed on its downtown Grand Rapids stage. The list spans genres and generations, including nominees Margo Price, Rhiannon Giddens, Branford Marsalis, Brad Mehldau, Gerald Clayton, Béla Fleck, Sierra Hull, Patty Griffin, and Bob James. Of the winners, Christian McBride took home two Grammys—Best Jazz Performance and Best Large Jazz Ensemble—while Samara Joy won Best Jazz Vocal Album. Billy Strings earned his third Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album; he performed at St. Cecilia Music Center back in 2013. Joining this lineup of internationally renowned talent is three-time Grammy Award winner Shawn Colvin, who performed at the venue in 2016 and 2022. She will return to the stage on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2026, at a venue founded by nine women—making it a particularly meaningful setting to celebrate women’s lasting influence on the arts and culture. Find out more on page 32. LIGHTS THE ZOO SHAWN COLVIN BY DAVID SOKOL & JULIET EVAN ZIMMERMAN FOR MURPHY MADE

people + places / voice

VOICE

The Unemployed Alcoholic

How LaughFest turned a down-on-his-luck comic into a virtual comedy empire BY LISA ENOS

Aaron Sorrels was once an unemployed alcoholic. That’s not something he hides or softens. It’s something he wears like a badge of honor. Heck, he even named his company The Unemployed Alcoholic. “It’s true,” Sorrels said. “When my employees cash their checks, they’re cashing them from The Unemployed Alcoholic.” This is probably a good time to tell you that his company is a virtual reality comedy club—and that being an unemployed alcoholic (sober, but still an alcoholic, as anyone in recovery will tell you) is how he stumbled (pun intended) into comedy. A Mason, Michigan native with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Ferris State University, Sorrels spent years in Big Rapids before moving to downtown Grand Rapids with his wife, Renee, who worked in the city. He had what he calls a “grown-up job” in marketing—until he was unapologetically dismissed from it. Unemployed. Newly sober. And wide open. The big turning point came during LaughFest, the annual comedy festival that takes over downtown Grand Rapids each March. Sorrels signed up for an open mic night at Dr. Grins inside The B.O.B. It was a Friday. The place was packed. And Sorrels crushed it. The rest, as they say, is history. He started booking clubs around Michigan, then around the country, even crossing into Canada. Comedy wasn’t just something he did—it was something that fit. Today, Sorrels runs The Soapstone Comedy Club, a mixed-reality comedy venue that exists entirely in the digital world. People can attend shows using VR headsets, their phones, or a web browser. Inside Meta Horizon, The Soapstone has hosted more than 5,000 events—stand-up, music, improv, trivia nights, talk shows, and open mics—featuring everyone from first-timers to well-known comedians like Jay Pharoah, Natasha Leggero, and Cristela Alonzo. He now employs 10 to 20 people and coordinates hundreds of volunteers. Sorrels and Renee moved to Drenthe during COVID—an area AVATAR COMEDY CLUB VR WORLD SOAPSTONE COMEDY CLUB

"It’s true. When my employees cash their checks, they’re cashing them from The Unemployed Alcoholic.” — Aaron Sorrels

west of Byron Center known for its barbecue restaurant American Char, and proximity to Moo-ville (West), Sorrels says. When we talked back in January, on one of the coldest days Michigan could throw at us, Sorrels was driving to the airport with Renee, headed for a flight to sunny Orlando. Not bad for an unemployed alcoholic. He’s quick to point out none of this would’ve happened without sobriety—and a Christian-based twelve-step program grounded in the AA Big Book and the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Turns out, knowing the difference can change everything. Learn more at soapstonecomedy.com. The Soapstone Comedy Club is a sponsor of LaughFest 2026—March 11–15 at venues in Grand Rapids and Gun Lake Casino Resort.

Above comedians performing as Avatars at the Soapstone Comedy club. Once unemployed and newly sober, Aaron Sorrels found his footing in comedy, creating a virtual reality club that hosts thousands of shows and connects performers and audiences online.

How to Experience The Soapstone Comedy Club The Soapstone Comedy Club is accessible through Meta Horizon on VR headsets, mobile devices, and the web. All access links and event information are available at soapstonecomedy. com. Meta Quest headset users can enter The Soapstone world directly in Meta Horizon, while mobile users can join through the Meta Horizon app.

GR M AG .CO M

people + places / guide

“What stands out most is the culture. Our students carry themselves differently.” — Nicole Gasper, West Michigan Aviation Academy, CEO

GUIDE

At West Michigan Aviation Academy, hands-on learning and aviation culture come together, blending STEM education with flight, engineering and opportunity.

Cleared for takeoff

STEM careers soar at West Michigan Aviation Academy BY LISA ENOS

The third week of March brings equal parts cheers and tears to West Michigan Aviation Academy. It’s lottery week—the moment when students who have applied find out whether they’ve landed a seat at this unique school, located at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. For some students, it’s the realization of a dream that started with model planes and flight simulators. For others, it’s a reminder that admission here comes down to pure chance. 14

Prestigious doesn’t mean exclusive at WMAA. In fact, grades, test scores, and prior experience don’t factor in at all. “The application is intentionally simple,” says CEO Nicole Gasper. “Name, address, contact information—that’s it. If we receive more applications than spots, Kent ISD runs a public lottery. Names are literally drawn out of a basket.” Each incoming class includes about 155 students, selected entirely at random from across Michigan. The result is a student body

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

that looks like the state itself—academically, socioeconomically, and culturally diverse. “There’s a misconception that we serve a select population,” Gasper says. “As a public charter school, we can’t—and don’t—operate that way.” Once inside, however, students quickly learn this is no traditional high school. Block scheduling allows for longer, immersive classes, and hands-on learning is the norm. It’s not unusual for students to spend the morning in engineering labs and the afternoon flying a Cessna as part of the school day. Every student takes introductory courses in both engineering and aviation, then chooses from pathways including flight, drone and UAS technology, aerospace, robotics, computer science, and aircraft construction. The academy also houses career-tech-certified aviation programs—an uncommon offering at the high school level. Founded in 2010 by Dick and Betsy DeVos in response to growing pilot and aviation mechanic shortages, WMAA blends rigorous STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education with what leaders call “aviation professional culture.” That means equal emphasis on human skills—eye contact, accountability, respect—and academics. “What stands out most is the culture. Our students carry themselves differently,” said Gasper. Demand remains high, fueled largely by word of mouth. Families can attend information nights, schedule tours, or have eighth graders shadow a current student. Once chosen, attending WMAA takes dedication—often from the whole family, since the school doesn’t provide transportation. But for students who would rather spend the school day flying planes—or building them—it’s a commitment worth making, and the first step toward a career that truly takes flight. JET SIMULATOR AND DRONE ADOBE STOCK

An artist sketches a live model at Grand Valley Artists, an arts collective, studio and gallery located at 2661 29th St. SE, Ste. B.

people + places / spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

A place to create & grow Grand Valley Artists offers community, collaboration BY LISA ENOS

On a winter evening more than two decades ago, Diane Haworth walked down a long, dark stairway into a basement studio, unsure of what she would find. She could hear voices and movement below. When she reached the bottom, she realized she was the only woman in the room. “They looked up to see that someone came in and went back to their work,” Haworth said. Unsure where she belonged, Haworth approached one person for help. That person turned out to be Jim Markle — a past president of Grand Valley Artists and a name that still surfaces often when members talk about mentorship. “He took me under his wing and made sure that I wasn’t being ignored,” Haworth said. “That was my lucky day.” Moments like that have defined Grand Valley Artists since its founding in 1957. Approaching its 70th anniversary, the volunteer-run nonprofit remains one of West Michigan’s longest-standing artist organizations — though it is frequently mistaken for being affiliated with Grand Valley State University. It is not. In fact, the group predates the university itself. Grand Valley Artists began when a small group of “elite” local artist pushed back against the growing dominance of abstract expressionism. According to former president Dana Donnell, the founders leaned toward realism and held one another to demanding standards. “They wanted to challenge each other,” Donnell said. “The drive toward excellence was really important.” In its early years, the organization gained a reputation for intense critiques and juried ARTWORK PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARTY KLAR/GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS

membership. Over time, it evolved, opening its doors to artists working in a wide range of media and at all levels of experience, while maintaining its emphasis on growth and practice. “What truly distinguishes GVA,” Donnell said, “is that it offers a place, a time and a theme for people to get together and do artwork.” Unlike many arts organizations that function primarily as exhibition venues or teaching institutions, GVA centers on shared studio practice. Live-model sessions, open studios and critiques take place multiple days a week in a dedicated physical space — something members say is essential. “To be a practicing artist, you have to be comfortable spending a lot of time alone,” Donnell said. “But that doesn’t mean you don’t want to be in the company of other people who understand you.” She added that GVA offers “a place for artists to talk to each other or NOT talk to each other but just be around each other.” That atmosphere of quiet support is echoed by Joanne Swann, who served as president from 2020 to 2023, a period

marked by pandemic shutdowns and the search for a new location. “My presidency was all about upheaval,” Swann said. Even so, Swann said the organization’s collaborative culture never wavered. “It’s not competitive, it’s collaborative,” she said. “There’s a lot that people are willing to share.” A member since 2005, Swann said she especially enjoys watching newer artists develop over time. “I personally love to see new people come in,” she said, “and I like to watch them grow as an artist.” Today, Grand Valley Artists has more than 270 members. The group skews older, with many artists retired or nearing retirement, and leaders acknowledge the need to attract new participants to sustain the organization into its next decade (or seven). Still, as Haworth’s first visit suggests, the core of Grand Valley Artists has remained remarkably consistent for nearly 70 years: artists showing up, working alongside one another, and creating a community where growth happens — sometimes through conversation, and sometimes simply through shared experience. grandvalleyartists.org. GR M AG .CO M

PROFILE

By Design

A custom home near the Lake Michigan shoreline showcases the work of Grand Rapids architects Robert Sears.

Celebrated Midwest architects turn visions into custom homes BY SETH SCHWARTZ

Residents along Michigan’s west coast, with visions of custom designed builds, have found a big assist from three Grand Rapids architecture firms. For Robert Sears, prospective homeowners are engaged from conception to completion. “We sit down with the client and make them part of the design process,” said Sears. “We get into the minutiae in what they’re looking for and get them involved in the process until the home is done. Some understand the drawings better than others, but everyone has some sense. The last six months of building we’re in constant contact. Many of our clients end up becoming friends.” One of the homes is in Ada overlooking the Thornapple River. A standing seam metal iron ore roof with gray stone lends an ornate presence. The driveway ends with three large glass windows giving the home ample exposure. An open floor plan merges the kitchen, living room and bar. The 18-foot ceiling has steel cable trusses custom 16

fabricated by Zahn Builders. Eight-foot clerestory sliding glass doors allow views of the river and open to a terrace. Three pendant fixtures, by Visual Comfort, are located in the central space. At one end of the home, the master suite has an office and access to a terrace, recessed hot tub, cold tub and fireplace. On the opposite side, there’s a terrace with an outdoor kitchen. “They wanted detailing to be appropriate in that space. We had to make sure it looked good,” said Sears. “The house has a contemporary look and the color of the stonework with the windows and roof.” The back of the house has a walkout patio on the second level with clerestory windows. Jeff Visser has tackled thousands of projects in his 35 years as head of J. Visser Design. Always interested in a challenge, Visser met with a client who envisioned a beach house on a dune above Lake Michigan in Whitehall. Submitting his design to the former owner, a

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

month later, Visser was approved. After two years, it was completed in 2008. Nestled 60-feet up the sloped razorback dunes into a bucolic setting it’s an architectural masterpiece. Due to environmental restrictions, a six-foot wide by quarter mile elevated boardwalk was constructed first to gain access to the building site. The elevated metal boardwalk served as the primary access for construction activity. Beauchel stone was brought in from Fond du Lac, WI. which clad the exterior alongside copper paneling, glass, ipe, and steel. Due to the small buildable area atop the dune a 20x60 main house and two 20x20 guest pods are all connected with exterior cantilevered decking for seamless access between the buildings. This also allowed for various outdoor areas to enjoy views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forest. An iron spiral staircase outside the home extends three floors. The first floor has an expansive patio with a large stone fireplace ROBERT SEARS EXTERIOR BY AIMÉE MAZZENGA

people + places / p ofile and chimney at the opposite end of the home. Facing west are a series of windows, the second floor is also lined with windows. Patios extend off the second floor; the third floor has a deck. Ceiling steel support beams inside connect the outside support structure. The master bedroom has eastern exposure with windows peeking through the surrounding trees to Lake Michigan. “It came out like I envisioned and better than expected,” said Visser, a self-taught architect who started at age 21. “It’s important to understand the client thoroughly, visit the site and the neighborhood. It’s like putting a puzzle together.” As a child, Brad Douglas Tilma developed a passion for basketball and design. Earning a scholarship to Cornerstone University, he was a starting point-guard for three-years and led the Golden Eagles to the national championship his senior year. A business marketing and computer systems major, he started working for a Grand Rapids architecture company in 1999. Digesting everything for designing homes and drawing construction plans, he opened Brad Douglas Design in 2015. “I learned a ton working in my first job,” said Tilma. “Handling designs and working with clients was a great experience.” His first major home in Ludington received great reviews and the company has been busy ever since with projects in metro Grand Rapids to Traverse City and New Buffalo. Two miles from downtown Manistee, the homeowner found a spot, secluded by 50-foothigh trees, to construct Copper Creek Cottage. “The owner wanted a home that was nestled into the dunes with a commanding view of Lake Michigan,” said Tilma, who worked with Colonial Builders and Dwellings Grand Rapids designers featured in book Grand Rapids designers Robert Sears, Jeff Visser, and Brad Douglas Tilma are among the 20 architects featured in “New View — A Curated Visual Gallery: Twenty Magnificent Homes by Midwest Architects,” published by Beth Buckley of benton buckley books. The book highlights “visionaries” who “unfurl their finest expressions of ‘home’ across landscapes both urban and pastoral.” More information:bentonbuckleybooks. com/new-view-midwest TOP BRAD DOUGLAS TILMA INTERIOR BY ASHLEY AVILA LOWER JEFF VISSER INTERIOR BY LAUREN GRYNIEWSKI BOOK COVER COURTESY OF BENTON BUCKLEY BOOKS

Interior by Brad Douglas Tilma.

Interior by Jeff Visser.

Inc. interior designer. “The owner had very good taste and was very detail oriented. The builder and I spent a lot of time at the site prior to construction. The home has the feel of a timeless sophisticated lodge. It’s not fussy, there’s rich material in every space. It feels like it’s meant to be part of the property. It’s amazing the way it turned out.” The Brombal steel patio doors are imported from Italy. Stone delivered from New York gives an elegant rustic look across the exterior. Adroitly cutting the stones, the masons were able to fit everything at a variety of angles. Perched on a 40-foot-high sand dune, the home and connecting guest house exude a rustic elegance. Two carriage style double garage doors and a cedar shingled roof meet the driveway. Adjacent to the front door is a 20-foot-high window washing light up and down the stairwell. Light brown cabinets are across the kitchen that has hickory wood floors. The ten-foot ceiling has a series of 2x10 foot hewn wooden beams. Several light fixtures extend from the ceiling. A steel floating walkway connects the primary suite to the main house. Among the many intricate details extended across the landscape is the pool and hot tub. Dug into the ground, it looks out over Lake Michigan. Just below pool level is a covered stone patio with two couches, a sink and outdoor kitchen. A sauna is located on the lower level. There’s a beautiful outdoor patio with breathtaking views connected to the guest house on the north side of the property. There’s an indoor patio in the guest house. Steps descend to the sandy beach. GR M AG .CO M

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MTG_2026_14561 GR Magazine Print Ad_Mar:April v4.indd 1

1/13/26 11:07 AM

look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

The Great Indoors! EXPERIENCE

page 20

» PLUS: THE DUTCH HEART GENE

A contestant takes part in a fully interactive game show, where trivia, team challenges and live entertainment place guests directly in the action.

P H O T O G R A P H B Y B R YA N E S L E R GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / expe ience EXPERIENCE

The Great Indoors: A Guide to the Inside From fitness & fun to culture & creativity—keep cabin fever at bay until patios reopen BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

TAKE A SEAT

Between seasons, indoor spaces become places to move with purpose—from climbing walls to games, shows, and creative escapes.

Let someone else do the sweating. Editor’s Pick: Grand Rapids Rise Volleyball The Grand Rapids Rise bring big-league vibes to the indoor sports scene. As West Michigan’s professional women’s volleyball team, matches are fast, loud, and seriously fun to watch. Also Worth a Visit: •Grand Rapids Griffins: Cheer on GR’s pro hockey team (with $2 beer and hotdogs every Friday.) •Grand Rapids Gold Basketball: Highenergy hoops that keeps you close to the action all game long. •Monster Jam: Happening March 20-22, take a seat for oversized trucks and roaring engines. THE SHOW MUST GO ON Live performances that make winter nights feel intentional.

March and April in West Michigan can feel like a waiting game. When patios are still on pause, Grand Rapids delivers indoors. SHAKE OFF THE WINTER Because cabin fever deserves a better outlet than pacing your kitchen. Editor’s Pick: Terra Firma Bouldering Co. Terra Firma Bouldering Co. offers an indoor workout that feels more like play than exercise. With no ropes or harnesses required, climbers tackle short, challenging routes that reward both physical strength and creative energy. The atmosphere is welcoming whether you’re brand new or an experienced climber, and the social nature of bouldering makes it easy to meet new friends. Plus, they also offer group fitness classes, college nights and lessons. 20

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Also Worth a Visit: •Grand Rapids Ballet Adult Classes: Beginner-friendly ballet classes that bring out your inner child and will have you pirouetting in the kitchen in no time. •Pickle & Pin: A social take on pickleball, combining play with food, drinks, and an upbeat, hang-out atmosphere. •Kula Yoga Studio: A welcoming studio with three locations that offers workshops like breathwork, book clubs, sound baths and crochet classes. •Gimme’s Par & Grill: Indoor golf simulators make it easy to practice your swing without waiting for spring. •Water Aerobics at YMCA: Get out of your comfort zone with this low-impact class (membership required).

Editor’s Pick: Wealthy Theatre The Wealthy Theatre has mastered the art of being both historic and modern. This intimate venue hosts an ever-changing lineup of independent films, live music, comedy and special events in the heart of Eastown. Afterwards, grab a cup of soup at Uncle Cheetah’s or a juice at Good Judy’s. Also Worth a Visit: •DeVos Performance Hall: From symphony nights to Broadway favorites like & Juliet, The Lion King, Dancing with the Stars, and The Price Is Right Live, spring’s lineup is stacked. •Grand Rapids Civic Theatre: Local theatre lovers can check out The Lightening Thief and Dial for Murder this March/April. •The Comedy Project: Local, fast-paced improv and sketch comedy that keeps you on your toes. •Dr. Grins Comedy Club: National headliners and crowd-favorite comedians deliver laugh-out-loud nights in the heart of downtown. CLIMBER ADOBE STOCK

•Grand Rapids Art Museum: Rotating exhibitions and contemporary works make GRAM a fresh stop every visit. •Calvin Mineralogical Museum: A hidden gem at a local university featuring glittering crystals, fossils, and geological surprises. GAME NIGHT, ELEVATED Low-stakes fun that still gets competitive. Editor’s Pick: Grand Rapids Game Show The Grand Rapids Game Show flips a night out into a fully interactive experience. Part trivia, part team challenge, and part live entertainment, it places participants directly in the action rather than on the sidelines.

From interactive game shows to indoor kart racing and pickleball, winter nights in West Michigan stay lively, competitive, and anything but predictable.

CLASSIC FUN, NO COAT REQUIRED Nostalgia, upgraded. Editor’s Pick: Grand Rapids Grand Prix Grand Rapids Grand Prix brings the speed indoors when winter won’t let up. The highspeed indoor go-kart track delivers just enough adrenaline to get your heart racing, while arcade games and other attractions keep the fun rolling between heats. Also Worth a Visit: •Woodrow’s Duckpin Bowling: Shorter lanes and faster games keep things lively. •Silva: For Bocce Ball, darts, pool and just the all-around spectacle of this circusthemed “dinnertainment” complex. •Main Event: Bowling, laser tag, and arcades under one roof make this a crowd-pleaser when no one can agree. •Dave & Busters: A grown-up version of the arcade, with a full bar and just enough competition to get serious. WANDER, LEARN, REPEAT Slow down and let curiosity take the lead. Editor’s Pick: Grand Rapids Public Museum Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium The planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum offers an escape that feels both educational and awe-inspiring. Travel through space, explore constellations, or experience seasonal shows about everything from dinosaurs to the Northern Lights- all without leaving your seat. This Spring, check out Concerts Under the Stars, which brings in local musicians to perform under the dome with visuals designed by local graphic artists. Also Worth a Visit: •Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: The butterfly exhibit blooms in March and April, offering tropical air and instant spring vibes. GAMESHOW BRYAN ESLER RACER ADOBE STOCK SUPERNOVA NASA/ADOBE STOCK

“The Grand Rapids Game Show flips a night out into a fully interactive experience.”

Also Worth a Visit: •House Rules Board Game Lounge: Walls of games and a relaxed vibe turn “one round” into an entire night out. •The Ruse Escape Rooms: Clever puzzles and immersive themes make this a great pick. •Pyramid Scheme: Retro pinball, live music energy, and a laid-back bar atmosphere.

— Editor’s Pick: Grand Rapids Game Show

Editor’s Pick: Wawyé Oasis Wawýe Oasis at Gun Lake Casino offers a warm-weather illusion when spring refuses to show its face. With its indoor tropical atmosphere, palm trees, and heated pool, Oasis feels like a mini vacation just outside the city.

SLOW SEASON CHILLOUTS When doing nothing is actually the plan.

Also Worth a Visit: •phlōt: Floating, sauna sessions, and cold plunges offer a full nervoussystem reset. •SWET Sauna: A warm, infrared sauna with a private room experience for 1-2 people. •Lex Facial Bar & Spa: Choose from an express facial bar, an open facial lounge you can book with friends and happy hour specials Tues.Thurs., 3-7pm. •Studio Park Celebration Cinema: Recliner seating, food delivered to your seat, and a downtown setting elevate the classic movie night. HANDS-ON CREATIVITY Proof that winter is still productive. Editor’s Pick: Local Epicurean’s pasta making classes Local Epicurean’s pasta-making classes turn a chilly night into a hands-on culinary experience. Guided by knowledgeable instructors, learn traditional techniques while rolling, cutting, and shaping fresh pasta from scratch. Also Worth a Visit: •Pottery Lane: Hands-on classes let you shape, spin, and create something truly your own. •Spruced Studio: Creative DIY workshops that blend crafting with a cozy atmosphere. •Total Wine Classes: One of the best FREE experiences around- sip, learn, and discover new favorites with themed classes every month. (Be quick, these fill up fast!) GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / wellness

WELLNESS

Searching for Genetic Mutations

Heart transplant survivor from Friesland turns tragedy into a mission to stop hereditary heart failure in Dutch-descended families. BY ANN BYLE

Peter Glijnis is on a mission. Not to discover a new planet or to find a new species, but instead to find carriers of the miniscule PLN R14del gene mutation that effects only people of Dutch Friesland heritage. The mutation causes heart arrhythmia disorders and heart failure. Glijnis has been instrumental in tracing the mutation back 700 years to the A native of Friesland who suffered from PLN cardiomyopathy, Glijnis visited Grand Rapids late last year to raise awareness about PLN within the large Dutch community in West Michigan, connect with scientists who might be interested in researching PLN, and connect with people who might be able to help solve this problem through testing or donations. Glijnis started his career as a mechanical engineer, eventually founding a company that cut steel into three-dimensional shapes. At age 42, he had just broken ground on a new building in the Netherlands. Two days later, while in Singapore, his heart went into arrhythmia and he had to be defibrilated 40 times. “Two days before, I thought I was a businessman walking on clouds,” said Glijnis. “Then my life totally changed. I was wondering whether I’d see my kids grow up.” No one knew about PLN back in 2008 when he had that first cardiac event. In 2011, scientists discovered the mutation but didn’t have any treatment for it. In 2012, Glijnis had a heart transplant and, after selling his business, spent a year getting back to normal. He also started the PLN Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to furthering research into PLN and bringing together carriers of the disease. “I then wondered what to do. But life was given to me, so I made it my mission to help prevent other people with PLN having to go through this,” said Glijnis. In layperson terms, PLN is a protein with the 14th amino acid missing. It is carried in some people of Friesland descent, with children of carriers having a 50 percent chance of also carrying the mutation. It affects men and women equally, and pregnancy is not a trigger. Even as a carrier, there is not a 100-percent chance the disease will develop. 22

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“Two days before, I thought I was a businessman walking on clouds,” said Glijnis. “Then my life totally changed. I was wondering whether I’d see my kids grow up.” — Peter Glijnis

For Glijnes, now 63, one of his three children is a carrier. “She is my ultimate driving force,” he said. Glijnis and his team run the PLN Foundation and its many outreaches and research efforts, as well as PLaN Therapeutics, started in 2021, a for-profit biotech company focused on bringing affordable treatments to those with PLN. Profits are funneled back to the foundation for more research and development projects. There is now a PLN biobank to collect blood samples for research, a PLN lab to process the blood, and even a PLN blood bus to collect fresh samples for the biobank. “My goal is to stimulate and motivate the world—science, pharma, technology—to find cures and treatments for PLN, a disease called by a gene mutation,” said Glijnis, who moved from big business to searching for a cure for one small gene mutation. “How beautiful to change from economic entrepreneurship to social entrepreneurship. My work is a mission.”

Might you have PLN Cardiomyopathy?

•You are of Dutch/ Friesland descent •Your family has a history of cardiac events •Family members have experienced early death from heart events •You have arrhythmia or heart failure •See a cardiologist for free testing through the PLN Foundation PETER GLIJNIS COURTESY

FRIE

SLAND

Peter Glijnis has been instrumental in tracing the mutation back 700 years to the Friesland region of the Netherlands

For more information: www.plnheart.org www.geneticcardiomyopathy. org/get-tested Check with your cardiologist for family practitioner if you have questions or would like testing, or contact Corewell Health Grand Rapids Medical Genetics at 25 Michigan St. NE, Suite 2100, 616-391-2700. Visit corewellhealth.org/ locations/LOC0000193450/ corewell-health-grand-rapidshospitals-medical-genetics-25michigan-st-ne

HEART ILLUSTRATION OPENAI / SOURCE MATERIAL ADOBE STOCK

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FR SH E ON THE SCENE New batch of chefs, kitchens and concepts signal industry in motion

A 24

STORY BY PAT EVANS

▣

PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE

cross the nation, the restaurant business still feels like a battlefield. A sector once celebrated for its creativity and resilience was pummeled by pandemic shutdowns, with tens of thousands of eateries failing to survive the aftermath and operational costs climbing sharply in the years since. Even as broader industry closures have eased — hitting multiyear lows in 2025 according to recent data — the scars remain: independent operators face razor-thin margins, labor shortages persist, and consumer habits shifted irrevocably toward takeout and value-oriented dining. Yet in Grand Rapids, while the national narrative might seem grim, the local restaurant landscape tells a more nuanced story. The city has seen some notable losses from beloved longtime eateries, but dozens of new concepts have launched in the past year, and more are on the way. Several innovative newcomers signal an industry still in motion. That resilience isn’t accidental, it reflects a community and hospitality sector willing to innovate, pivot and open its doors even as broader economic headwinds test the very economics of dining out.

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Opposite page, top photo: The elegant bar at Prime Casual Steakhouse. Bottom: A wedge salad in the foreground, with a 20-oz. Delmonico ribeye, sweet potato mash, and grilled asparagus in the background. Two Sons’ Grand Pepperoni pizza. Mallory Squibb, owner of Sav Sav by Squibb at the Downtown Market, with a Roman sandwich—focaccia, pistachio pesto, mortadella, and burrata—alongside tomato soup. Below: Myanmar Meals’ steak and shrimp hibachi.

Several innovative newcomers signal an industry still in motion. That resilience isn’t accidental, it reflects a community and hospitality sector willing to innovate, pivot and open its doors even as broader economic headwinds test the very economics of dining out. GR M AG .CO M

Welcome to the Big Time: New tables, cool digs Dirty Plate Bistro, 961 E. Fulton St.

While its name might not inspire the cleanest of environments, Dirty Plate Bistro opened in fall 2025 across from one of the hottest spots in town, Black Napkin, the smash burger joint that often has a line around the corner. Initially located out in Saranac, Dirty Plate relocated to Fulton Street with owner and chef Benjamin Striewski looking to pump out his rotating menu of AmericanFrench fusion cuisine. The menu rotates biweekly, keeping both Striewski and diners figuring out what might come out of the kitchen next. Menu sections remain fairly static, with a section of handhelds like a burger, pork belly sandwich and reuben to entrees like veal scallopini marsala and Elk Parmentier du bistro. Striewski keeps products as local as possible and, in the era of ever-rising costs at restaurants, manages to keep nearly every dish between $10 and $30. 26

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Above: Dirty Plate Bistro’s espressocrusted lamb chop, served with Mediterranean couscous and red wine reduction. At left: Veal with sweetbread carrot purée and pickled vegetables.

Prime Casual Steakhouse, 3874 W. River Drive NE

Steakhouses often get saddled with the reputation of being expensive, fancy dinners out. But Scott Ingersoll set out to change that when he opened Prime Casual Steakhouse last year. Ingersoll, who also owns Mill Creek Tavern, aims to offer quality steakhouse dining like that you might find in a white table cloth restaurant downtown, but at prices that are more reasonable on a wallet. And that shows on the menu, where a diner can purchase a $42 8-ounce Wagyu flatiron steak with mashed potatoes and asparagus. The menu also includes a 20-ounce Delmonico ribeye for $60. The petite filet comes in at $38. Along with steaks, the menu also includes items like king crab, slab bacon, shrimp cocktail, roasted chicken, salmon and pork shank lollipops.

At left: The warm, cozy interior of Prime Casual Steakhouse. Above: A 20-ounce Delmonico ribeye with sweet potato mash and grilled asparagus,is served with a side of sauteed baby bellas, a wedge salad, and an Old Fashioned.

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Kawa Sushi, 415 Bridge St.

Maru Sushi closed its Bridge Street location in 2024, which allowed Kawa Sushi owner Robert Asai to bring his craft to downtown. Asai operates Kawa Sushi and Grill and Kawa Express in Rockford. The Grand Rapids location joins the eclectic mixture of Bridge Street restaurants and bars, offering its sushi rolls, entrées and drinks. It also hosts a regular karaoke night. A nightly 3 to pm happy hour with 50% off House Sake, Sapporo, Kirin and Asahi beer plus appetizer discounts is a can’t-miss way to try out the spot.

Rock ‘N’ Thai Café, 1117 Wealthy St.

With locations in Holland and Hudsonville, Rock ‘N’ Thai made its way to Grand Rapids, opening up a location at 1117 Wealthy St. The menu ranges from stir fries and curry to noodle bowls and soups. And those worried about the Thai spice options, Rock ‘N’ Thai offers a range from no spice all the way to Thai hot and the even hotter Lao hot. Vel Sushi and Pho, 122 Oakes St. In Studio Park, Vel Sushi and Pho is ladling out one of the finest cures to a cold: pho, a noodle soup from Vietnam. The menu also includes sushi, boba tea and fried rice. The owners, Anu Sung and Aceu Thawng, have years of restaurant experience and already hope to find a second location in the Grand Rapids area. 28

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The restaurant will focus on pizza styles from around the country, ranging from Detroit-style to Chicago deep dish and the East Coast styles from New York City and New Haven.

SUSHI ADOBE STOCK

Two Sons Pizza, 67 Ottawa Ave.

Traverse City-based Two Sons Pizza opened their pop-up shop in November 2025 in the former Stan’s Taco location on Ottawa Avenue. But there’s more coming, as owners Jen and Steve Tyson will open another Grand Rapids pizza concept this year. The restaurant will focus on pizza styles from around the country, ranging from Detroit-style to Chicago deep dish and the East Coast styles from New York City and New Haven. Two Sons Pizza initially opened in Traverse City three years ago, with 20-inch pizzas sold whole and by the slice. On the menu includes classic pies like cheese, pepperoni and meatball to signatures like the TC Pie, with cherry barbecue sauce, slow smoked pulled pork and red and green onions, and Mushy Madness with sauteed mushrooms, ricotta cheese, truffle oil and basil. The Tysons moved to Michigan from New York City and struggled to find suitable East Coast pizza, leading to the new business. On An assortment of pizzas is displayed at Two Sons Pizza.

TWO SONS PIZZA TERI GENOVESE

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top of working to serve up delectable pizza, the business also aims to take care of its employees with a solid wage, full benefits and then some.

Downtown Market Makeover

The Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave. SW, drastically changed up its eatery options last year, beginning with a massive upgrade for its long-time tenant Rak Thai. Following 10 years as a vendor within the market, the Thai restaurant moved into one of the building’s full-service restaurant spaces and rebranded as Rak: Modern Thai and Cocktails. The 5,000-square-foot space was formerly home to Social Kitchen, which closed in 2020, and was empty until Rak Thai’s move. The restaurant’s menu maintained all the mainstays from its time within the market but also expanded to include other Asian fusion dishes and a full cocktail bar. Meanwhile, the long-time stalwart Aperitivo called it quits in the market but was taken over by Sav Sav by Squibb. Operated by Squibb Coffee, the concept aims to offer cheese, charcuterie and wine, alongside the coffee, maintaining the same feel and product types offered by Aperitivo. Other vendors have also come into the market, like Myanmar Meals. Aye Soe and Min Tun offer up a variety of eats from 30

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Top, left: The signage at Sav Sav by Squibb inside the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Above, Olives, tomato soup and a Roman sandwich are accompanied by a glass of wine at Sav Sav by Squibb, a new concept in the Downtown Market in the space that Aperitivo once occupied. SAV SAV BY TERI GENOVESE

Sandwiches and salad at Molly’s Café and Deli.

Southeast Asia, including chicken crispy rolls, Burmese Samosa Salad with potato curry, pork bao, Cantonese fried rice and coconut chicken curry noodles.

Suburban, Authentic & Savory: Somos, 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr. SW

A call for “authentic cuisine” in Byron Center resulted in Somos, which is serving up a Latinfusion menu. The restaurant features a bright, modern dining room with a menu full of small plates, lunch and dinner options and a full bar menu. The food is all prepped in house, with a focus on sustainability and quality take on bold flavors and creativity. From duck wing drumettes and Spanish meatballs to shrimp and adobo grits, chargrilled pork tenderloin and ribeye a la plancha, the menu at Somos will keep mouths watering.

New Sandwich Spots:

Top: Sesame chicken from Myanmar Meals. Bottom: Crab cheese nachos from RAK: Modern Thai and Cocktails. SESAME CHICKEN TERI GENOVESE NACHOS COURTESY OF RAK: MODERN THAI AND COCKTAILS. SANDWICHES AND SALAD COURTESY OF MOLLY’S CAFÉ AND DELI

In East Grand Rapids’ Gaslight Village, Nichole Achram recently opened Molly’s Café and Deli, which offers hearty hot and cold sandwiches, salads and baked goods. Achram, a trained pastry chef, and team makes all the food from scratch, working to use products from local purveyors as often as possible, like its East Grand Reuben, made with Detroit-famous Sy Ginsberg corned beef. Meanwhile, in August 2025, The Toasted Pickle opened up its third location at 820 Michigan St. The deli opened up its first spot eight years ago in Grand Haven before expanding into Rockford. Now, its Michigan Street location is serving up its selection of sandwiches like the Cuban and French Dip, to Grand Rapidians. Along with sandwiches, it also offers fresh-squeezed lemonade and milkshakes. Did we miss your favorite new haunt or do you know of a new spot opening soon, let us know, lenos@hour-media.com. GR M AG .CO M

UNDER THE WATCH of

ST. CE CECILIA MUSIC ENDURES. P E O P L E G AT H E R . COMMUNITY THRIVES.

BY LISA ENOS

he Frequently Asked Questions section of the St. Cecilia Music Center website opens with a direct question: Are we a religious organization? The answer is unequivocal. No religious affiliation. No doctrine. No worship. And yet, after more than 140 years—after wars and pandemics, near-demolition and renewal, generations of people returning to the same hall to sit quietly together before sound fills the room—the question feels worth asking again. Institutions do not endure this long by accident. They endure because people believe in them. They gather. They return. They pass the experience on. If St. Cecilia Music Center is not a religious institution in the formal sense, it is something closely related: a place shaped by devotion, sustained by ritual, and animated by faith in the power of music to bring people together.

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HISTORIC IMAGES COURTESY OF ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

St. Cecilia Music Center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture and acoustics, is seeking a third designation for social impact, highlighting its historic role in women’s leadership. The building hosted the 1899 National American Woman Suffrage Association convention, where Susan B. Anthony spoke.

“IT’S WHAT MAKES THE BUILDING AND THE ORGANIZATION SO INTERESTING. “IT’S BEEN THIS HUB FOR SUCH A LONG TIME. SO UNIQUE WE ARE STILL IN EXISTENCE WHICH IS PRETTY INCREDIBLE.” — TIFFANY NOVAK, DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

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A stained window at the music center depicting St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music and musicians.

1894 Concert hall opened on June 19, 1894, after seven months of construction.

1883 Founded by nine Grand Rapids women who named their society after the patron saint of music. 1890s

1899 Susan B. Anthony spoke from the St. Cecilia stage in support of women’s suffrage.

1919

1940s

The predecessor to the Grand Rapids Symphony was organized under St. Cecilia’s sponsorship.

St. Cecilia Chorus

1940s St. Cecilia Quintette

A local newspaper ad featuring the St. Cecilia chair designed by the Grand Rapids Seating Company.

The St. Cecilia Music Center was designed by architect Henry Ives Cobb, who applied acoustic theories developed by Dankmar Adler—designer of Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre and a consultant on Carnegie Hall—to ensure exceptional sound quality.

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SUSAN B. ANTHONY ADOBE STOCK HISTORIC IMAGES COURTESY OF ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

BY THE NUMBERS

1950s The building housed

GI Bill-funded art classes.

Youth Orchestras that currently have weekly rehearsals and draw students from seven counties.

1970

St. Cecilia Junior Symphony with David Ellis conductiing.

1960s Saved from demolition during

downtown urban renewal; Opera Nights helped seed Opera Grand Rapids.

1971

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

2019

COVID-19 pandemic — The building was closed for 19 months; streamed performances were presented.

“YOU MAY NOT BECOME THE NEXT YO-YO MA. BUT YOU MIGHT BECOME THE PERSON WHO GOES TO CONCERTS AND BRINGS OTHERS WITH YOU.” — CATHY HOLBROOK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER.

he organization was founded in 1883 by nine Grand Rapids women who named their society after the patron saint of music. St. Cecilia was not chosen as a theological statement but as a symbol of artistic devotion. Still, the name seems to have carried some spiritual weight—and perhaps a hint of serendipity. According to tradition, Cecilia was a third-century Roman noblewoman who made a vow of chastity to God. At her forced wedding ceremony, she sang in her heart to the Lord, in defiance, and was ultimately martyred for it. Remarkably, three blows to her neck with a sword did not kill her, and she lived long enough to request—according to some accounts—that the Pope consecrate her home as a church. That is how she earned her sainthood, and for more than a century, St. Cecilia Music Center has endured trials and tempests—seemingly under her watchful eye. In its earliest days, the St. Cecilia Society had no building. Members met in one another’s parlors to study and perform music together. A composer would be selected. Someone would research the work. The music would be played and discussed. The ritual repeated weekly, and the group grew. By 1890, the society was sponsoring performances by world-renowned musicians. Membership expanded rapidly—from 63 charter members to nearly 800 within a dozen years. Parlors were no longer sufficient. Borrowed halls were inadequate.

EASEL ADOBE STOCK HISTORIC IMAGES COURTESY OF ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

Years tenure as executive director Cathy Holbrook’s leadership broadened programming to include jazz and folk series.

625

Seat capacity and is noted for its intimate setting and acoustics that often don’t require amplification.

800

Membership grew from 63 charter members to nearly 800 dues-paying women within a dozen years.

Estimated number of people who attended the building dedication in June of 1894 — nearly 10 percent of Grand Rapids’ population at the time.

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140+

Years the organization has endured wars, pandemics and renewal while continuing to bring people together through music.

o, the women did something audacious for the time: they decided to build their own concert hall. They raised funds with dinners, performances, and inventive fundraising campaigns. A ‘mile of pennies,’ aimed to collect 84,480 pennies—amounting to $844.80—which was the calculated value of pennies needed to stretch a mile long. They even took over the Grand Rapids Evening Press for a day, writing all the stories and selling the papers themselves in exchange for the proceeds. They purchased land on Ransom Avenue NE and hired prominent Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb, who applied acoustic theories developed by Dankmar Adler—designer of Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre and a consultant on Carnegie Hall. Construction took seven months. When the building opened on June 19, 1894, an estimated 4,000 people—nearly 10 percent of the city’s population—attended the dedication. The St. Cecilia Society quickly became more than a venue for concerts. It became a civic platform. In 1899, Susan B. Anthony delivered a speech from its stage in support of women’s suffrage. Later, the annual women’s suffrage conference—previously held only in Washington, D.C.—came to Grand Rapids because of the Society's reputation as a women-founded institution of influence. Over time, it became an incubator for the city’s cultural life. The predecessor to the Grand Rapids Symphony was organized under its sponsorship in 1919. The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and the Grand Rapids Ballet also trace their beginnings to the institution. Designated Opera Nights helped seed what would later become Opera Grand Rapids. During World War I, the building served as headquarters for the Red Cross. In the 1950s, it housed GI Bill-funded art classes. The building itself survived multiple eras of change. In the 1960s, under the banner of urban renewal, it was slated for demolition. The community intervened. The building was saved and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 36

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“THERE’S A REAL CONNECTION BETWEEN THE MUSICIANS AND THE AUDIENCE. THEY FEEL IT IMMEDIATELY.” — CATHY HOLBROOK

1971, and then later renamed—first St. Cecilia Music Society, then St. Cecilia Music Center. “It’s hard to look at that history and not feel a sense of responsibility,” said Executive Director Cathy Holbrook, who is marking her 20th year leading the organization. Holbrook’s role is equal parts artistic director and steward. She oversees programming, education initiatives, and the care of a 131-year-old building that requires constant attention. “We have to raise about half of what we need every year just to do what we do,” she said. “And with an older building, there are always surprises.” Roofs age. Boilers fail. Systems require replacement. St. Cecilia maintains a building reserve fund and a long-term maintenance plan designed to anticipate those needs rather than react to them. The work is guided by four core pillars: excellence, accessibility, historical relevance, and sustainability. “We’re not willy-nilly about decisions,” Holbrook said. “Everything has to meet those standards, including how it’s going to be paid for.” That balance—between honoring the past and remaining relevant—has shaped the organization’s evolution. Twenty years ago, St. Cecilia presented primarily classical music. Under Holbrook’s leadership, jazz and folk series were added, broadening the audience without abandoning the mission. She also elevated the organization’s profile by partnering with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, bringing worldclass chamber musicians from the esteemed New York City venue to perform regularly in the hallowed hall. “The board trusted the vision,” she said. “They gave me the freedom to dream a little.” The expansion proved transformative. Folk and jazz performances brought firsttime visitors into the building, many of whom would return for more concerts. Once inside, audiences tend to notice the same things: the beauty of the hall, the intimacy of the space, the acoustics that require no amplification for most performances. Artists notice it too. “There’s a real connection between the musicians and the audience,” Holbrook said. “They feel it immediately.” BUILDING FACADE COURTESY OF ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER That connection was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the building was closed for 19 months. One of the first streamed performances featured jazz pianist Xavier Davis playing to an empty hall. “What struck me wasn’t the music,” Holbrook said. “It was the absence of gathering afterward. No shared conversation. No collective reaction.” When audiences returned, they did so cautiously—and gratefully. “It almost felt more sacred,” she said. “People had missed being together.” Concerts are now regularly sold out. The 625-seat capacity creates intimacy rather than pressure. “We’re not trying to fill 1,500 seats,” Holbrook said. “The people who come are true music lovers.” Education remains central to the mission. Each week, three youth orchestras rehearse in the building, drawing students from seven counties. Programs range from elementary

March and April 2026 concerts at St. Cecilia Music Center St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium serves as a venue for original programming (denoted below with an asterisk) as well as a rental space for other performing arts organizations.

string ensembles to a full high school orchestra. Additional initiatives include piano and band camps, school assemblies, and Strings to Schools, a donor-funded program that brings string instruction into Grand Rapids elementary schools. Students in those programs perform their final concerts on the St. Cecilia stage. “That’s a core memory,” Holbrook said. “They don’t forget that.” Not all will become professional musicians. That is not the goal. “You may not become the next Yo-Yo Ma,” she said. “But you might become the person who goes to concerts and brings others with you.” The building also hosts weddings, community gatherings, and milestone celebrations. “It’s a place where happy things happen,” Holbrook said. “That matters.” St. Cecilia Music Center has survived two world wars, the Great Depression, the Spanish flu, and COVID-19. Like the saint for whom it was named, this legendary institution has also refused to surrender in the face of repeated threats to its existence, enduring as a place where music is held sacred. Holbrook attributes that resilience

to generations of people who stepped forward when it mattered. “There have always been people who cared,” she said. “Staff, volunteers, artists, donors, audiences.” She pauses, then adds with a laugh, “Maybe some divine intervention.” On March 8, singer-songwriter Shawn Colvin will perform on International Women’s Day—a fitting date for an institution founded and shaped by female leadership. On March 20, there's a public open house marking Holbrook’s 20th anniversary as artistic and executive director. She defines success simply. “If we’re bringing people together through music,” she said, “everything else falls into place.” The website will continue to state that the beloved music center is not a religious organization. Technically, that remains true. But institutions that endure for more than 140 years—built on belief, sustained by generosity, and renewed through shared experience—tend to take on a life of their own. Under the quiet watch of a patron saint, perhaps, doing exactly what they were called to do.

March 7– Candlelight: Coldplay and Imagine Dragons March 8– International Women’s Day concert with Shawn Colvin* March 13– Grand Rapids Symphony Coffee Masterworks, Coffee with Duo March 19– Branford Marsalis Quartet* March 20– Cathy Holbrook’s 20th Anniversary of Celebration March 26– Sam Bush* April 16– The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center April 18– Eat. Drink. Be Merry! Wine tasting event and fundraiser. April 24– Coffee Masterworks: Coffee with Bob April 30– Joan Osborne* For a full schedule of events, visit scmc.org.

SHAWN COLVIN BY CYNTHIA LEVINE

Shawn Colvin will perform at the St. Cecilia Music Center Sunday, March 8 at 7 p.m. GR M AG .CO M

A mix of patterns and fabrics are found at Goodwill on East Beltline.

Nifty & Thrifty BARGAIN HUNTERS ARE FILLING THEIR CARTS AT SECOND-HAND STORES

ANN

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PHOTOS

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hrifting is the new cool these days as shoppers young, mature, and in-between flock to area thrift stores. Fashion-forward girls and women look for one-of-a-kind clothing. High school dudes search out retro shirts and sweatshirts. Moms try to keep up with their growing children. Some search for specific things such as craft supplies, books, or glassware. Some are resellers, finding high-end items to resell on eBay or ThredUp. No matter the reason, more people than ever are shopping at thrift stores.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

Shoppers scan packed racks at the Salvation Army on Plainfield, drawn by constant turnover, low prices, and the thrill of stumbling onto something unexpected.

“ T H R I F T I S A M U LT I - B I L L I O N - D O L L A R I N D U S T R Y A N D I T ’ S O N LY G O I N G U P ” —JOHN SCAFE, NATIONAL DIRECTOR AT LEGACY THRIFT FOR SEVENTEEN YEARS BEFORE RETIRING.

GR M AG .CO M

PERCENT OF SECONDHAND PURCHASES ARE CLOTHING

PERCENT GROWTH IN THE SECONDHAND MARKET FROM 2024 TO 2025

“I BELIEVE PEOPLE ARE THRIFTING MORE BECAUSE T H E Y WA N T T H E ECONOMY OF T H R I F T. T H E Y S AV E M O N E Y. ” —MAJOR RAMONA ARTHUR, ADMINISTRATOR FOR BUSINESS AT SALVATION ARMY.

B I L L I O N I N VA L U E O F U.S. SECONDHAND MARKET IN 2025

CENTS OF EVERY DOLLAR REINVESTED BY GOODWILL INTO PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

OFFICE CHAIRS COURTESY MILLERKNOLL, INC.

Bright baskets, coasters, decorative wooden blocks, glassware galore and bins full of boots are just some of the items available at Grand Rapids area thrift shops.

Local trends reflect a broader interest in second-hand shopping. Goodwill has seen an uptick in sales, donations, and customers, “which helps reduce waste while keeping affordable goods accessible for local families,” said Erica Eash, marketing manager for Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, which has 18 retail locations across five counties in West Michigan. Legacy Thrift, which operates eight stores in Michigan, has seen an increase as well. Its Plainfield location has seen sales jump 113 percent from 2016 to 2025. “Thrift is a multi-billion-dollar industry and it’s only going up,” said John Scafe, national director at Legacy Thrift for seventeen years before retiring. He’s now the ad hoc regional manager for the Michigan stores and one in Indiana. According to Capital One Shopping (capitaloneshopping.com), the U.S. secondhand market in 2025 (which includes thrift stores and secondhand sales) is worth about $56 billion, up more than 14 percent from 2024. Traditional thrift stores account for about 46 percent of the total secondhand market. Thrift stores get their items via donations and are often nonprofit and support charities or social programs. Salvation Army’s eight thrift stores in West Michigan support the Adult Rehabilitation Center, a 180-day residential work/therapy program at no cost to qualified participants. Goodwill reinvests ninety cents of every dollar into its eight services and programs, including career training such as CNA certification, that support individuals facing barriers to employment, according to Eash. Legacy Thrift supports ministries such as Bible League International, Unknown Nations, and Living Water. Individual stores support individual ministries. “We try to find and strategically support ministries that get God’s Word out into the world,” said Scafe. Prices are generally lower and quality can be inconsistent at thrift stores. Resale stores are usually for-profit retail stores (brick-andmortar or online) with higher prices on bought or consigned products. Think Gild the Lily in Rockford, Rock Paper Scissors Consignment Boutique, and Urban Exchange in Grand Rapids.

“I believe people are thrifting more because they want the economy of thrift. They save money,” said Major Ramona Arthur, administrator for business at Salvation Army. “A lot of people shop for retro or vintage items like a band T-shirt from the 1980s or a candy dish like Grandma’s.” Arthur also points out that with the economy up and down and food prices up, “a customer can buy a pair of shoes worn three times, which means they can save that money and buy more food.” For resellers like Carly Koster, thrift shopping was about making a little extra money. She frequented thrift stores looking mostly for high-end women’s clothing and shoes that she then sold on Poshmark. She did this for years when her children were young and her family did foster care. She points to American Eagle, Abercrombie, Patagonia, Nike, Adidas, and footwear as selling well. Her biggest find was a vintage Coogi sweater she bought for $7.99 and sold for $350, though she says reselling is a lot of work. Each item sold must be purchased, cleaned, stored, listed, sold, and shipped, plus the research involved in staying up to date on trends and brands. Stores such as Goodwill have quick turnover, Koster calling it “a new store every week. There is constantly fresh inventory.” Clothing is the biggest seller at thrift stores. According to the New York Post article “Budget-conscious Americans are GR M AG .CO M

thrifting in 2025” (nypost.com/2025/08/12/ lifestyle/where-are-americans-thriftingin-2025/), clothing purchases account for 71 percent, following by home décor at 45 percent, then home good, shoes, collectibles, and furniture (26 percent). Local thrift stores agree. At Legacy Thrift, clothing is top for sales; clothing is 50 percent or more of sales at Salvation Army, and women’s clothing is among the most popular at Goodwill, following by men’s and children’s clothing. “The biggest thing that makes thrifting cool is that it allows you to create a home and/or wardrobe that is uniquely you while also benefitting your community and the planet,” said Eash of Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids. “Thrifting is a great way for people to create a unique style that feels very curated and specific to them. And some people just really love the thrill of the hunt or the challenge of a DIY/upcycle project.” Pointing to another reason thrifting is so popular: helping the planet. “Thrifting is cool now for the younger crowd because younger people are concerned about the economy and the ecology of the world,” said Arthur of Salvation Army. “We need to not put so much stuff in the dump that could be reused, not throw away things that could be used again.” Eash adds, “Some people thrift because of the cost-savings involved. Others thrift because of their desire to give back,

Check out these thrift stores. 1. The Acorn Resale Shop, 6780 Martin View St. NE. Donation-based resale shop helps children attend camp and classes at Camp Roger and Camp Scottie.

2. New 2 You: An Upscale Resale Shop, 2929 29th St. SE. Supports Grand Rapids Christian Schools. 3. Mel Trotter Ministries Thrift Stores Stores, numerous locations. Proceeds help fund the programs of Mel Trotter Ministries. Look for clothing, furniture, and home décor. 4. Mission India Super Thrift, 2146

Plainfield Ave NE. Proceeds support Mission India’s work to share the gospel of Jesus and plant churches.

5. Rustic Market Thrift Store, 389 68th

St. SE. Store proceeds go to patient care at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services through the Patient Assistance Fund.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

Clockwise from top left: Art and dishes are on offer at Goodwill on East Beltline, a shelf full of books are for sale at Salvation Army on Plainfield, and at Legacy Thrift, a heap of colorful clothing is ripe for the picking.

whether we’re talking about global sustainability or local impact. In 2024 alone we diverted over 20.3 million pounds from the landfill and served 2,158 individuals.” Gone are the days of dark, dusty stores with junk strewn everywhere. Here are the days of well-lit and organized stores, curated content, e-commerce, and outlet stores. Salvation Army now has an e-commerce offshoot started in 2020 that sells higher-end items through eBay. Goodwill’s online platform (shopgoodwill.com) sells those high-end finds, with jewelry a high-performing category. Stores are also selling to the customers they have. Salvation Army doesn’t sell furniture in Holland because no one buys it, but they sell furniture at the Northview store on Plainfield NE because the market it good. The Portage store sells a lot of the jewelry so most goes there. Goodwill has its wedding dress sale and other special sales. And there’s the Outlet, or “the bins” as it’s called at Goodwill. Located on Prairie Street SW, the Outlet is full of unsold clothing, linens, shoes, and glassware filling large bins and sold by the pound. Other items are sold at big discounts. Salvation Army has its Buy the Pound Outlet inside it main store at 1491 Division Ave. where clothing and linens not sold in the stores are sold by the pound. Shoes are $3 a pair, and furniture is also for sale. Staffing shortages keep the outlet store hours limited, but it will soon be open Wednesday-Saturday. Volunteer shortages are also

a struggle for Legacy Thrift, which keeps it hours limited at certain stores. Also, according to Arthur at Salvation Army, donations are down perhaps because “people are keeping items longer.” Other thrift stores haven’t seen a decrease in donations, which keeps shelves and wracks filled and ever changing. And people keep coming in the doors. “Gen Z and Millennials are especially impact-driven with their purchases,” said Eash, “and they also have the largest presence on social media so things like thrifting hauls and thrifting treasure hunts have not only given thrifting a ton of exposure, but they’ve helped change the public perception by giving it a ‘cool’ factor it hasn’t always had.” Adds Scafe of Legacy Thrift, “The industry is exploding. People are finding great things at fractions on the dollar. Our country is so rich in products. We are so consumer driven and we waste a lot of money, but in our business that means we’re gaining a lot of things.” GR M AG .CO M

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE

FACES OF BREAKFAST .................................................................... 45

PERSONAL INJURY LAW ................................................ 56

CANCER CARE................................................................. 46

THE PET INDUSTRY .........................................................57

CHIROPRACTIC CARE .................................................... 48

PHILANTHROPY .............................................................. 58

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT .................................. 49

PROSTHODONTICS ........................................................ 59

DANCE EDUCATION ........................................................ 50

QUALITY MEAT ................................................................ 60

DERMATOLOGY ................................................................ 51

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE ........................................... 61

ENTERTAINMENT.............................................................52

RESTAURANT AND SPECIALTY MARKET ..................... 62

ESTATE PLANNING ..........................................................53

SALON AND SPA ............................................................. 63

FAMILY LAW ..................................................................... 54

SENIOR LIVING ............................................................... 64

LANDSCAPING .................................................................55

WEALTH MANAGEMENT ................................................ 65

FA C E S O F W E S T M I C H I G A N • M A R C H /A P R I L 2 0 2 6

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

BREAKFAST

ANNA’S HOUSE

5200 PLAINFIELD AVE. NE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49525 | 616-447-1201 | ANNASHOUSEUS.COM

If you’re searching for breakfast and brunch in Michigan, Anna’s House delivers an experience that’s anything but ordinary. Founded in Grand Rapids in 2003, Anna’s House has become a favorite for fresh, flavorful breakfast classics and inventive brunch dishes made for every lifestyle. The menu features gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, along with rotating seasonal specials that keep guests coming back year-round. With 13 locations across Michigan, Anna’s House continues to

grow while staying rooted in the communities it serves. In 2026, the brand is also expanding through franchising, bringing its award-winning breakfast and brunch concept to new markets. Each location showcases Anna’s House’s signature retromodern design restored from old buildings, complete with vibrant colors, hand-painted murals, and iconic toaster displays. Anna’s House provides more than just a meal; it offers a welcoming, family-style atmosphere where guests leave feeling full, happy, and ready to take on the day.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

CANCER CARE

THE CANCER & HEMATOLOGY CENTERS LOCATIONS IN GRAND RAPIDS, LAKESHORE, LANSING, AND EASTERN MICHIGAN | 800-411-7999 | THECHC.COM

Since 1979, The Cancer & Hematology Centers has experienced significant growth. Today, it encompasses a team of more than 40 oncologists statewide and dozens of essential advanced practice providers. It operates several clinical centers and regional practices, solidifying its position as the largest physician-owned oncology practice in Michigan. CHC takes pride in its diverse subspecialty teams that specialize in benign and malignant hematology and other rare cancer malignancies. Physicians pictured from top left to right: (This page)

Kathryn Alguire, M.D.; Eric Batts, M.D.; Brett Brinker, M.D.; Daria Brinzevich, M.D.; Sreenivasa Chandana, M.D.; Luke Eastburg, M.D.; William Fabricius, M.D.; Virginia Falvello, M.D.; Daniel Foley, M.D.; Thomas Gribbin, M.D.; Colin Hardin, M.D. (Opposite page) Sonya Inderbitzin, M.D.; Jared Knol, M.D.; Nehal Lakhani, M.D.; Kelly Lynch, D.O.; Michael McLane, M.D.; Erin Pettijohn, M.D.; Latha Polavaram, M.D.; Haritha Reddy, M.D.; Zabila Saeed, M.D.; Eric Santos, M.D.; Manish Sharma, M.D.; Andrew Sochacki, M.D.; Britni Souther, D.O.; Amy Vander Woude, M.D.; Frances Wong, M.D.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

THE CHIROPRACTIC DOCTORS

5747 28TH ST. SE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546 | 616-432-3103 | BESTGRANDRAPIDSCHIROPRACTOR.COM

At The Chiropractic Doctors in Grand Rapids, care starts with two simple questions: Why is this happening? And what do we need to do to correct it? Rather than chasing symptoms, the team focuses on how the body moves, how the spine functions, and how everyday stress adds up over time. The goal isn’t a quick fix; it’s helping people get back to living fully, whether that means working pain-free, sleeping better, or keeping up with their kids or grandkids.

Patients appreciate the clarity. They get answers, a plan, actionable tools for self-care, and support that fits real life. Using a combination of hands-on chiropractic care, posture correction and daily movement strategies, and whole-body wellness guidance, the clinic emphasizes lasting results over temporary relief. It’s modern, practical, and refreshingly personal. Because feeling better is good. Staying better is the point.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

FIRST COMPANIES

6355 EAST PARIS AVE. SE, CALEDONIA, MI 49316 | 616-698-5000 | FIRSTCOMPANIES.COM

Building a new space is a major investment of time, resources, and trust. Organizations benefit from a partner who listens, communicates clearly, and delivers with excellence. First Companies brings more than five decades of experience helping organizations create spaces that support their mission and growth. The company provides comprehensive services in construction, real estate, development, and property management, keeping projects coordinated, efficient, and aligned

from start to finish. The team combines proven processes with a personal, relationship-driven approach, collaborating closely with clients, designers, and local trade professionals to achieve outstanding results. In all aspects of its work, First Companies prioritizes safety, quality craftsmanship, and careful stewardship of budgets and schedules. These values result in spaces that serve people and teams well. Learn more through the project portfolio and service overview at firstcompanies.com.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

DANCE EDUCATION

THE STUDIO BY BENJI

14641 16TH AVE., SECOND FLOOR, MARNE, MI 49435 | 616-550-3378 | INFO@THESTUDIO-BENJI.COM | THESTUDIO-BENJI.COM

The Studio by Benji is a vibrant, high-energy space where creativity, movement, and confidence come to life. Designed to welcome all ages and skill levels, the studio offers an exciting lineup of dance and fitness classes led by passionate, experienced instructors. With open enrollment all year long and an easyto-use online enrollment platform, getting started is simple and stress-free — join any time and start dancing right away. Class offerings range from adorable Bitty Ballerinas and Tiny

Tappers to beginning through advanced levels of jazz, tap, ballet, hip-hop, and technique, giving every dancer room to grow and shine. For those looking to move and sweat, fitness favorites like barre and WERQ bring fun, strength, and energy to every class. The Studio by Benji is more than a place to dance — it’s a community. Stay connected and inspired by following along on Instagram and Facebook and come experience the excitement for yourself.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

DERMATOLOGY

THE DERM INSTITUTE OF WEST MICHIGAN 1661 CRYSTAL SPRINGS BLVD. SE, CALEDONIA, MI 49316 | 616-326-0114 | DERMINSTITUTEOFWMI.COM

The Derm Institute is a leading dermatology practice in West Michigan, recognized for advancing skin health through expert care, innovation, and research. Founded and owned by Dr. Kristi Hawley, a board-certified dermatologist and nationally recognized psoriasis expert, the practice is known for combining compassionate care with cutting-edge medical advancements. Dr. Hawley is joined by Dr. Nicole Bossenbroek, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who oversees the in-house pathology laboratory, allowing for timely and accurate diagnoses. The provider team also includes

Dr. Lela Lankerani, a board-certified dermatologist, along with board-certified nurse practitioners Jessica Zwolinski and Kelly Murphy. Together, the team offers comprehensive medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. The Derm Institute is widely known for its community engagement and involvement in clinical trials, innovative treatment options, advanced skin cancer care, and aesthetic services, bringing nationally recognized expertise to the West Michigan community with a patient-first approach and commitment to excellence daily. 51

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

ENTERTAINMENT

DINKS & DINGERS SOCIAL CLUB 5080 BROADMOOR AVE. SE, KENTWOOD, MI 49512 | 616-343-8343 | DINKSANDDINGERS.COM

Jumping on the pickleball court got better with this brand-new 30,000-square-foot facility serving West Michigan and visitors. Open to the public, Dinks & Dingers is a top-tier pickleball and Wiffle ball social club — with on-site pros — featuring a full-service restaurant and stocked bar with seasonal outdoor seating. Available are memberships, open play, leagues, lessons, parties, and a private corporate event space. All skill levels are welcome, and the facility houses modern locker rooms. Proprietors Andy and Becky

and their team focus on delivering an amazing experience all while having fun. As local business owners, they have been longtime community supporters of LaughFest, ArtPrize, and Young Life. Forming partnerships with people and area businesses is their social game. Now, they are looking to further build their community in the restaurant, in the event space, and on the field. Pictured are proprietors Andy and Becky Anderson with Jacob Stegman, lead pro and director of court and field operations.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

ESTATE PLANNING

JOHN INHULSEN — INHULSEN LAW FIRM 3351 CLAYSTONE ST. SE, STE. 104, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546 | 616-747-0000 | INHULSENLAW.COM

For families and business owners, estate planning is about more than documents — it’s about clarity, control, and continuity. John Inhulsen founded Inhulsen Law to help clients move forward with confidence, knowing their family, business, and legacy are well planned. Serving West Michigan, Inhulsen works with families and closely held business owners who want thoughtful, practical plans that fit their lives and long-term goals. His planning-first approach begins by understanding what matters most, then guiding clients

through clear decisions that reduce uncertainty and protect what they’re building. “When people understand their plan, they feel confident about the future,” says Inhulsen. Whether creating a first estate plan, updating an existing one, or planning for business succession, Inhulsen Law serves as a trusted guide — helping clients move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

FAMILY LAW

KO FAMILY LAW

77 MONROE CENTER ST. NW, STE. 406, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 | 616-454-7937 | KOFAMILYLAW.COM

KO Family Law is a West Michigan-based law firm dedicated to providing strong legal representation and client-centered guidance. With a practice focused on family law and probate matters, the KO team strives to help clients navigate all walks of life. From divorce and high-conflict child custody disputes to estate planning and administration, KO Family Law handles a wide range of matters, including complex financial issues, guardianships, trusts, parenting time, child and spousal support,

and abuse and neglect cases. At KO Family Law, clients receive the benefit of a teambased approach that provides compassion and dedication at every step of the process. Partners Courtney M. Sierra, Hillary E. Krill, and Kendra J. Ortega lead the KO team with a focus on empowering clients to make informed decisions for themselves and their families, regardless of what type of family dynamic exists.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

LANDSCAPING

ALFRESCO LANDSCAPES

2914 THREE MILE ROAD NW, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49534 | 616-453-2530 | ALFRESCO-LANDSCAPES.COM

For more than 15 years, Alfresco has been setting the standard for landscape design and installation in West Michigan. With backgrounds in horticulture, design, and landscape architecture, Alfresco’s team has designed for Frederick Meijer Gardens and many local homes and businesses. The team is known for creating distinctive, high-quality landscapes. Alfresco transforms outdoor spaces into personalized, beautifully crafted environments. The company’s portfolio features meticulously designed landscapes and

innovative outdoor living areas that reflect each client’s unique vision. Not only does Alfresco’s team design dream spaces, but they also maintain the space, ensuring clients can enjoy their outdoor area for years to come. Alfresco combines artistic expertise with a commitment to exceptional service, completing each project with precision and care. From the initial design to the final touches, the team provides inventive solutions and a seamless experience, making your dream landscape a reality.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

PERSONAL INJURY LAW

BRANDON HEWITT — MICHIGAN AUTO LAW AUTOLAW.COM

“PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” is more than a slogan for Brandon Hewitt, attorney and chief operating officer of Michigan Auto Law—it’s the heartbeat of a firm devoted to putting clients first. From securing more million-dollar settlements than any other auto accident law firm in Michigan to ensuring every client feels heard and respected, Brandon and his team live the “PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” philosophy. Success isn’t just about verdicts—it’s about how clients feel when their case

ends. Were they treated with compassion? Did they leave feeling supported and ready to rebuild their lives? “PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” also means giving back through student scholarships and community organizations. At Michigan Auto Law, it’s not about ads or awards—it’s about people, their recovery, and their future. “PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” isn’t just a principle. It’s a promise.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

THE PET INDUSTRY

SHEILA NOONAN — PUPPY DOG NURSERY 3819 RIVERTOWN PKWY., STE. 400, GRANDVILLE, MI 49418 | 616-755-3487 | PUPPYDOGNURSERY.COM

Sheila Noonan, owner of Puppy Dog Nursery, is recognized as the face of the pet industry for her ethical, education-driven approach to puppy care. With more than a decade of hands-on experience, Sheila built Puppy Dog Nursery on a simple belief: Every puppy deserves the right family, and every family deserves the right puppy. Her work goes far beyond placement. Sheila takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to matching puppies with families by considering lifestyle, experience level, and breed temperament.

Ethical breeding standards, transparency, and early development guide every decision made at Puppy Dog Nursery. What truly sets the nursery apart is its commitment to ongoing support and early socialization. Members of the community are welcomed daily to spend time with the puppies, helping them build confidence and strong social skills while bringing joy to everyone involved. Sheila Noonan is quietly changing lives in West Michigan, one puppy at time.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

PHILANTHROPY

GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 185 OAKES ST. SW, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 | 616-454-1751 | GRFOUNDATION.ORG

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation believes we all have a role in philanthropy. For more than 100 years, people who care about the future of West Michigan have built the Community Foundation. Through the support of its partners, the Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofits, scholarships to students, and other forms of support to communities experiencing inequities. The Community Foundation brings together, listens to, and learns alongside its many partners — individuals, nonprofits,

and businesses. Philanthropy is a community effort. When people and organizations partner with the Community Foundation, they become an important part of creating a fairer and more equitable region with pathways to success for everyone. Since its start, the Community Foundation has invested more than $338 million in community. The Community Foundation is grateful for each of the countless philanthropists who have made this possible through gifts of their time, talent, treasure, and testimony.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

PROSTHODONTICS

DR. R. GRAHAM GREENLAND — GREENLAND ADVANCED ORAL CARE 2490 E. PARIS AVE. SE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546 | 616-256-8770 | GREENLANDAOC.COM

Dr. R. Graham Greenland is a leading prosthodontist in Grand Rapids, known for restoring function, comfort, and confidence through advanced restorative dentistry. With specialized training in crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported prosthetics, he helps patients achieve long-lasting, naturallooking results. A Michigan native, Dr. Greenland completed a three-year residency in advanced prosthodontics at the Mayo Clinic, where he developed a refined, detail-driven approach to

restoring natural teeth and full-arch smiles. He later completed a fellowship in oral oncology and maxillofacial prosthetics at MD Anderson Cancer Center, further strengthening his foundation in comprehensive restorative care. As the founder of Greenland Advanced Oral Care, Dr. Greenland is recognized for thoughtful treatment planning, collaboration, and high standards of care. His practice is a trusted destination for patients across West Michigan seeking exceptional prosthodontic dentistry.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

QUALITY MEAT

SOBIE MEATS AND DELI

3450 REMEMBRANCE ROAD, WALKER, MI 49534 | 616-453-7201 | SOBIEMEATS@SOBIEMEATS.COM | SOBIEMEATS.COM

Sobie Meats has long been a cornerstone of the local community, known for its quality meats, friendly service, and deep-rooted tradition. For more than two decades, neighbors have relied on this trusted local meat market for fresh cuts, specialty items, and customer favorites prepared with care and pride. Walking through the doors feels familiar and welcoming in a place where conversations matter as much as craftsmanship. After 22 years of dedication, the Sobies are approaching a well-deserved

retirement, reflecting with gratitude on the relationships they have built and the community they have served. While there is a natural mix of calm excitement and a touch of anxious emotion that comes with change, the future feels bright. The Sobies are thrilled to be turning the business over to Amy Jones, a respected local businesswoman who shares their commitment to quality and community. This transition honors the past while confidently embracing what comes next for Sobie Meats.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

JOHN POSTMA — RE/MAX OF GRAND RAPIDS

4362 CASCADE ROAD SE, SUITE 208, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546 | 616-975-5623 | JOHNPOSTMA.COM

Throughout his remarkable career, John Postma has acquired numerous awards — a testament to his unwavering commitment, attention to detail, and exceptional client relations. A wealth of experience obtained over 45 years allows him to navigate the complexities of the market by providing clients with unlimited reassurance, resolution, and resources during some of the most significant moments in their lives. John takes pride in playing a pivotal role in the real estate achievements of multiple generations of clients.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John actively contributes to the community by serving on several nonprofit boards like The Joseph Project and The Potter’s House. This dedication to giving back highlights his commitment not only to his clients but also to the community he values. John stands as a seasoned and reputable figure in residential real estate, offering expert professionalism with honesty and integrity through a streamlined approach and a genuine passion for helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

RESTAURANT AND SPECIALTY MARKET

RUSSO ITALIAN RESTAURANT + MARKET

350 84TH ST. SW, SUITE 510, BYRON CENTER, MI 49315 | 616-345-8200 | RUSSOWINE.COM

Some businesses are built to last a season. Others are built to last generations. For the Russo family, the story began in 1902, when a 17-year-old Sicilian immigrant named G.B. Russo arrived in West Michigan with little more than determination, faith, a deep love for his Italian heritage, and the belief that food brings people together. That humble beginning grew into Russo Italian Restaurant + Market, now proudly celebrating 124 years as the oldest Italian American family business in West Michigan. The mission remains

unchanged: honor the past, care for the community, and welcome everyone like family. After a hiatus, CEO and fifth-generation owner Greg Russo helped to bring the family business back to Tanger Outlets. Today, the restaurant is run by fourth- and fifth-generation owners John, Greg, Mike, Dominic, and Stephanie (Scott) Russo. Now, 124 years later, the table is still set, the market and deli are fully stocked — and everyone is still welcome.

FACES OF

WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACES OF

SALON AND SPA

BENJI SALON & SPA

3950 LAKE MICHIGAN DRIVE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49534 | 616-558-4979 | INFO@BENJISALON.COM | BENJISALON.COM

Benji Salon & Spa is where beauty, confidence, and excitement come together under one roof. Home to 40-plus talented service providers, Benji offers an elevated experience designed to help every client look and feel their absolute best. From expert stylists creating flawless cuts and color to skilled estheticians delivering glowing skin, every service is performed with passion and precision. The spa also features top-tier nail technicians and lash artists, ensuring every detail is perfectly polished.

Taking beauty and wellness even further, Benji Salon & Spa proudly partners with Remedy+, offering advanced services such as Botox, Hydrafacials, and weight-loss solutions. This collaboration blends luxury beauty with modern wellness for results that truly stand out. At Benji Salon & Spa, innovation meets artistry, and every visit feels exciting, empowering, and unforgettable. It’s more than a salon — it’s a destination for total beauty transformation.

FACES OF WEST MICHIGAN 2026

THE FACE OF

SENIOR LIVING

JEFF HUEGLI — BEACON HILL AT EASTGATE 1919 BOSTON ST. SE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 | 616-608-8237 | BEACONHILLGR.ORG

Beacon Hill at Eastgate is a premier retirement community located in Grand Rapids’ Eastgate neighborhood, serving more than 300 residents and employing over 225 team members. Beacon Hill has been recognized by Newsweek as one of “America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities” for a third consecutive year in 2026. “Senior living should be about flourishing,” says Jeff Huegli, president and CEO. “We focus on creating an environment

where people feel known, supported, and inspired every day.” With the West End expansion now underway, Beacon Hill looks ahead to welcoming new community members and expanding its services and residences. “The West End is about opening the door to what’s possible in retirement living,” Huegli says. “It gives people the freedom to explore what this next chapter can look like, while knowing they’re supported every step of the way.”

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THE FACE OF

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

CHARLES ZHANG — ZHANG FINANCIAL

460 ADA DRIVE SE, STE. 200, ADA, MI 49301 | 616-235-5777 | CHARLES.ZHANG@ZHANGFINANCIAL.COM | ZHANGFINANCIAL.COM

Charles Zhang has led his wealth management firm, Zhang Financial, to the summit of the independent advisory world. In 2025, 2024, 2023, and 2021, Zhang was ranked No. 1 on Barron’s list of the nation’s Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors. Barron’s has also named Zhang the No. 1 Financial Advisor in Michigan for a staggering 13 consecutive years, from the beginning of 2013 through 2025.

Forbes has ranked Zhang No. 4 on the list of America’s Top Wealth Advisors from 2023 to 2025. He is the highest-ranking fee-only advisor on the list. Zhang’s impressive educational background includes an MBA from Northwestern University and executive education from both Harvard Business School and Columbia University. In addition, he holds prestigious designations in the financial industry, including CFP® and ChFC®. See zhangfinancial.com/disclosure for full ranking criteria.

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food+drink DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS

ON THE GO

Jenison's Thai Taste page 71

» PLUS: A REAL FIND IN HOWARD CITY SMOKIN' ON SOUTH DIVISION COFFEE ON THE MOVE

From Bangkok Taste, clockwise from top left are Crispy Shrimp Rolls, veggies, Drunken Noodle with beef and Curry fried noodle with tofu. P H OTO G R A P H BY A M A N DA K A M P P I N E N GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / table

TABLE

'A Real Find!'

Howard City surprises with chef-led dining and refined fare BY DEBBY BUCK DEJONGE // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN NORMAN

Oddly enough, I was in the middle of putting at Pebble Beach when the call of the wild gave way, leading me to a New York state of mind. My cousin, who hails from Buffalo, was singing the praises of a certain restaurant where “Captain Picky Eater” claims he loves the food! Where might this magical place be, I quipped. “It’s in the middle of nowhere in Michigan.” Shazam, that’s right up this girl’s alley and as it turns out. It’s not too far from Grandmother’s house. His word and the word of an overt wine snob (bragging up the wine list) were good enough for me. A hunting I will go, and go I did. He had me at meatloaf. If he thought they made enviable meatloaf, my competitive side had to go see what all the fuss is about. I’ll be the judge of that, I mused. Not only was he right, he should have mentioned to bring a friend or two because they are not shy on servings at this fancy “Hunting Lodge” in Howard City. A nice escape for weary Deer-Hunting-Wives and just regular folks to boot. And, this is not new news. 68

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

The Miller's Amish Chicken with green beans and mashed potatoes is seen at The Forager.

This lighted beacon is like the Statue of Liberty of Howard City, if you will. Of course, that seems like quite a stretch until you experience the culinary delights from near and far. This historic monument on the corner of Edgarton & Ensley has been a staple since 1869 and has welcomed weary travelers in days gone by as The Golden Hotel. I also got a feeling that I was somehow home. And, it wasn’t too far afield. I recognized the huge palatial oak bar which was formerly prominently perched in the Pantlind Hotel, where I had visited many times and later welcomed guests, as I was on the opening team of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids. I’m thinking the well-heeled staff at The Forager has to deal with a lot of patrons who just stare off in amazement at their great luck having found such a gem that they almost want to either shout from the rooftops or keep it to themselves. I know I was on the fence with those feelings. For all the reasons. This particular day it was bone-chilling cold. Layers of clothing seemed like a whisper of assistance. Hot cocoa infused with bourbon cream chased the chill away for another day. It turns out that the hot cocoa concoction was personally created by Chef Brian Thebo. Just like he does with each and every item that is served there. Or, by one of his staff he thinks of as family, whom he has taken along his trail of tours of duty. At one point, Chef mentioned South Florida as his training

Executive chef, Brian Thebo, left, and owner, Brian Papke, right, pose for a portrait at The Forager.

ground. Now, he is speaking my language. “Describe South Florida,” I coaxed. “Ft. Lauderdale to Key West.” “You don’t say. I work there, as my publisher and illustrator call Key West home.” It turns out we share a common bond, a dusty trail, and a favorite Key West bartender. Her name is Kara, just like the lovely server at The Forager. And, it didn’t take long for me to ferret out the reason I felt so at home. I love the place. And that’s because Chef Brian loves the place. It’s permeable, and the pride of ownership is oozing. I was amazed to learn that three partners, two of which share his first name, are the financial owners. Owner Brian Papke shared my feelings as he said, “It was very fortuitous of us to find such a high-level Chef.” Meanwhile, owner Brian was one of the hat-trick of hockey-playing kids who rolled the dice on a hotel they scored at an auction, partly as a way to keep their friendship tightly connected. They were betting diners would delight in fresh oysters, crab legs, steaks, and chops with a focus on fresh food like bluegill from the Great Lakes, so they called her The Forager. Owner Brian offered the doors flung open with a fury, with a flurry of diners since day one. Delicacies from the sea and steaks, any woodsman would be hard-pressed to bag. The meats are all hand-cut for thrashers and diners with birthday party appetites. And desserts that fill that bill as well, such as Cannoli’s and Apple Crisp. This particular day I had gal pal Val in tow, which is always icing on my cake. Chef suggested the calamari for starters, and trooper Val was a squid virgin, so she was game. I’m a “love it” or “leave it” gal with a semi-open mind. It was Christmas time, and the calamari were dressed to impress. The round rings were atop a lovely tomato sauce and garnished with coppola & poblano peppers. A lemon wedge sat to the side. “Dig in, Val,” I offered. She said, “You first.” I always listen to Val. She’s lucky I didn’t bring my cowgirl appetite and also that I matriculated from charm school, or I would have devoured that dish

The beet and goat cheese salad is seen.

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food + drink / table

and hit the dusty trail back to civilization. Hands down, that calamari were the best I have eaten anywhere. Any time. Period. Batter up, what do you have next for us? Val chose the Clam Chowder, which I was nonchalant about until the first taste. Eureka. He did it again. I can savor the clams, and as Val said, “I don’t want to drink anything to argue with the flavor of the food.” We decided to try a salad, for salad’s sake, and went with the goat cheese and beet salad. The dressing was delectable to the point I scored the 70

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/ARIL 2026

remainder for a celebratory pre-Rose Bowl dinner that evening. It traveled nicely. Next up were the chicken dishes. I chose a longtime Sunday favorite, the brined Miller Amish Chicken with homemade melt-in-your-mouth mashed potatoes and gravy, aside broccoli. Having roasted a walloping holiday Prime Rib of Beef led me to the poultry state of mind. And, I didn’t hanker for anything fancy, so the Chicken Pot Pie filled the bill perfectly. It is served with a flaky crust perched over a medley of vegetables and organic chicken in a stew. Let’s just say I ordered another to take with for farm friends. That’s how good it is. Meanwhile, Val was on an adventure of her own, turning the tide by savoring things from the Sea. Scallops were calling her name. Val was smitten with the scallops, so much so she immediately purchased a gift certificate for her husband. I had other ideas, and they are already in progress. The “coconut telegraph” got fired up, and I invited friends from South Florida to accompany me in the spring to enjoy their infused craft cocktails with homemade cherries. I will be back to beef well before that time, and get a convoy to welcome in or plan an event in one of the side rooms. Just thinking about that sweet find pastes a smile on my face. The attention to detail around every corner deserves all the accolades bandied about this lovely landmark from Pebble to Palm Beaches. Well done, my Forager friends!

Above: Veal, beef and pork meatballs. Left: An espresso martini, jalapeno margarita, and The Forager's old fashioned.

food + drink / on-the-go

ON-THE-GO

Bada boom, bada Bangkok! This Thai gem in Jenison serves up bold, delicious dishes that are Tom Yum good! BY JASON ROTH // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

Today finds me laid up recovering from a broken ankle, thanks to Michigan winter and a treacherous icy sidewalk. Luckily, the restaurant I’m profiling is just down the road from my humble abode in the Grand Rapids-adjacent township Jenison, and is also one of my very favorite restaurants: Bangkok Taste! Bangkok Taste first opened in 2004, and for more than 20 years they have provided Jenison and the surrounding areas some of the very best Thai cuisine around. I ordered a veritable smorgasbord, so thankfully my friend Harrison Smith was visiting from California between acting gigs to help me scarf down all this food.

Bangkok Taste offers an array of dishes, including Drunken Noodles (above) and crispy shrimp rolls.

“For more than 20 years they have provided Jenison and the surrounding areas some of the very best Thai cuisine around.” — Jason Roth

Starting off with the appetizers. I ordered something new to me, the Crispy Rolls, rolls filled with chicken, onions, vermicelli noodles, and carrots wrapped in rice paper and fried until crispy. They are served with a side of sweet Thai chili sauce. I’ll definitely be getting these again. The second appetizer was an old favorite, Noodle Soup. It consists of steamed noodles, white onions, green onions, beansprouts, and your choice of protein (I picked fried tofu) in a Tom Yum broth with added beef flavoring, hoisin sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper. Great flavor, and also a great cold remedy if you order it with medium spice or higher. Sinus cleanse ahoy! On to the entrees. First up, Drunken Noodle with beef, medium spice. With this dish you get wide rice noodles stir-fried with eggs, onions, beansprouts, bamboo shoots, green peppers, and basil leaves, all cooked splash of wine for the “drunken” part. I could eat this every day and not get tired of it. The second entree was Curry Fried Rice, which I ordered with fried tofu, medium spice. It’s fried rice with eggs, peas, carrots, and onions in an amazingly flavorful yellow curry sauce. It’s my personal favorite fried rice dish anywhere, and the portions you get are huge. I’ve managed get two to three meals out of it in the past. All dishes at Bangkok come with your choice of protein and spice level. If you venture beyond medium spice (which is plenty spicy), be ready for some serious heat. They do not deliver, but are open for dine-in and takeout Monday through Friday 11am-8pm, Saturday 12pm-8pm, and are closed on Sunday. So if you find yourself on the outskirts of Grand Rapids, don’t miss out on Jenison’s restaurant crown jewel, Bangkok Taste! GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / c eate

For those chasing the pub scene, Grand Rapids has a few favorites. Quinn & Tuitte’s on Plainfield offers an authentic Irish-American pub vibe. O’Toole’s on Bridge Street might provide the corned beef fix you’re looking for with their Rueben egg rolls appetizer. Try Dublin Hall or Mulligan's, if you can drink like a pro. Whether you’re heading out or staying in for “new recipe night,” there’s something special about St. Paddy's Day in Grand Rapids. As for the brisket—serve it with Irish soda bread, pile it on marbled rye with Swiss and sauerkraut, or simply enjoy it straight from the pot. With the luck of the Irish on your side, you’ll soon be slicing—against the grain, of course—one of the most tender, flavorful cuts of beef, with a little bit of holiday magic in every bite.

Classic Irish-American Corned Beef and Cabbage

CREATE

A St. Paddy's Day Pleaser Savory Brisket, a toast to Irish tradition BY LISA ENOS

Tradition—corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, cooked low and slow and meant to be shared.

At many Irish-American tables, corned beef and cabbage is the St. Paddy's Day star of the show. It starts with brisket, a humble cut of beef, which gets transformed with a salty cure into the tender, flavorful corned beef we all crave—a dish that, fun fact, isn’t actually from Ireland. In 19th-century New York, Irish and Jewish traditions collided: Ashkenazi Jews brought their slowcooked brisket, and Irish immigrants, swapping traditional pork for brisket, made it their own. The result? A pot of meat, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots that tastes like comfort, nostalgia, and a little holiday magic—all in one. Wash it down with a pint of Guinness or your favorite local stout (there are lots to choose from) and you’ve got a St. Paddy’s Day classic that doesn't disappoint.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

Servings: 6–8 Cook Time: 3–10 hours Ingredients: 3–4 lb corned beef brisket (flat or point cut) 1 spice packet included with brisket or: 1 tsp peppercorns, 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp mustard seeds, 4 cloves, ½ tsp allspice, pinch ground ginger 1 small head cabbage, quartered 4–5 potatoes, halved 3–4 carrots, chunked 1 onion, quartered 12 oz beef broth, ale or stout to cover brisket Instructions: 1. Rinse brisket under cold water; soak 30 minutes for less salt if desired. 2. Place brisket in pot or slow cooker; add spices and cover with liquid (beef broth, ale, or stout). 3. Cook brisket: • Pot: Simmer 3–4 hours until fork-tender. • Slow cooker: Low 8–10 hours or high 4–5 hours. 4. Add vegetables during the last 30–60 minutes of cooking. 5. Brush with a mustard and stout glaze during the last hour if desired. 6. Slice brisket against the grain; serve with vegetables and Irish soda bread or rye. CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE OPENAI

food + drink / chee s Marcia and Nate Czarnopys serve drinks from their Kentwood-based Travelin’ Tom’s coffee truck, a Kona Ice spinoff bringing espresso, refreshers, and frozen favorites to events around West Michigan.

CHEERS

Coffee (& more) on the move

How a couple's coffee truck rolled into town (and our hearts) BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY KRISTEN NORMAN

When I reached out to Marcia and Nate Czarnopys, I expected a classic mom-andpop food truck story—because that’s our usual beat at Grand Rapids Magazine. I wasn’t expecting a franchise. And I definitely wasn’t expecting to stop caring about that detail about a minute into our conversation. Marcia, a health, fitness, and wellness professional, found her career abruptly sidelined when COVID made close human contact a bad idea. Nate? He’s a postmaster in Caledonia. If that doesn’t scream “local small business grit,” I don’t know what does. So, when I asked the obvious question—Who is Tom?—the answer was… layered.

Travelin’ Tom’s, it turns out, is a coffee truck spinoff of Kona Ice, founded by Tony Lamb and inspired by his father, Tom. Kona Ice launched in 2007, Travelin’ Tom’s followed in 2020, and now there are more than 300 trucks nationwide. But Marcia and Nate’s truck? That one belongs to Kentwood. “With this franchise, you buy territories,” Marcia explained. “We’ve got Kentwood— three zip codes—and there aren’t any other Travelin’ Tom’s near West Michigan. So… we’re pretty free to roam.” They officially hit the road in September of 2025, parking the truck at a commissary until duty calls. And duty, apparently, calls

everywhere: 5Ks, half marathons, corporate employee appreciation days, soccer tournaments, flea markets, apartment complexes— even an alcohol-free wedding reception on the Lake Michigan shoreline—proof that no two events are ever quite the same. Despite the name, this is not just a coffee truck. It’s more like a rolling beverage command center. Inside are two full-on espresso machines you’d expect in a coffeehouse, plus a Micromatic system (think beer taps, but make it coffee). Hot chocolate, white chocolate mochas, cinnamon apple cider, matcha hot chocolate, refreshers, frappes, frozen lemonade, frozen hot chocolate (yes, frozen), teas, energy drinks—the list goes on. Refreshers, by the way, are fruity, lightly caffeinated drinks topped with fresh strawberries or mango and served over ice or blended. “Like a margarita,” I offered. “Exactly,” Marcia and Nate said, together in perfect unison. Marcia admits she was intimidated at first. “But once you make the drinks a few times, it’s fast. People can’t believe how quickly they get their orders.” January and February are slower— because, Michigan—but they’re staying busy. Schools, fundraisers, corporate gigs, Rosa Parks Circle ice rink, and more already on the calendar. And coming soon? Bacon. Waffles. Boba. For a second career born out of a pandemic curveball, Travelin’ Tom’s feels right at home in West Michigan: adaptable, community-minded, and always ready with a hot drink when you need it most. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / must-t y At right are four must-try entrees and sides: bottom center, a stuffed turkey leg with yams, mac and cheese, greens and cornbread; continuing clockwise, a smothered pork chop with sides, ribs with greens and spaghetti, and catfish with pinto beans and rice, green beans, potatoes and a muffin. Below: Cabbage, candied yams, green beens and other side dishes are ready for plating.

MUST-TRY

Southern Smoke Welcome to the soul food family!

“If I were going to define soul food, I would say it’s food that brings the family together and warms the soul.” — Chef Jodie Robertson, co-owner, Southern Smoke

BY MATTHEW ROTHENBERG // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

Soul food is family food. Ask someone for their soul-food recommendation, and they’re likely to direct you to their mother’s or grandmother’s kitchen. “When people come in here for the first time, I always say, ‘Welcome to the family,’ “said Chef Jodie Robertson, co-owner with her husband, Mitchell of Southern Smoke restaurant. ‘If I were going to define soul food, I would say it’s food that brings the family together and warms the soul.” Jodie credits her great-grandmother for her early education in cooking soul food. Born in Alabama before migrating to Grand Rapids in the early 1930s, her great-grandmother took over cooking for her family while her parents and 13 siblings were picking cotton. “She was a wonderful cook, I was one of the kids who always stayed back in the house, helping her cook, licking the bowl when she made cake, helping cut stuff up, and asking questions. It taught me a lot, and those recipes stayed with me.” After graduating from the Grand Rapids Downtown Market Incubator Kitchen, Josie teamed with Mitchell to launch a catering business, then their brick-and-mortar restaurant on South Division Avenue. (Southern Smoke is a literal family affair, employing children and grandchildren among its friendly kitchen and counter staff.)

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

Let’s eat! So what’s on the menu, fam? Start by choosing from different meats — catfish, chicken, ribs and meatloaf balls are standards here — then pick two side dishes. “Every day, we’re going to have our Fabulous Four [sides]: dressing, macaroni and cheese, collard greens and candied yams. And every day, we switch up other sides, like different bean dishes, spaghetti or dirty rice.” Topping off the combo is a cornbread muffin or Southern Smoke’s signature fried cornbread. (Try it — it’s really special!) On Sundays, the Robinsons pull out the stops with an extended menu that includes more than 40 different items. “We might have oxtails, stuffed turkey legs,” Mitchell said. “We might have salmon alfredo, chicken and waffles, Cajun shrimp alfredo and Turkey drumsticks, smothered Turkey drumstick stuff, Turkey drumsticks — holy smokes!” The couple is planning to add a Saturday brunch as well. Southern Smoke has some more special menus in the works: Jodie is cooking up a vegan menu for meatless family members; an “Off the Grill” menu; and Soul Bowls, which will pack in a main and selection of sides for

just $9.99. “Times are hard right now,” she said, “and even though things are going up — and we’re feeling it! — we still want to try to make our food affordable for people.” Ain’t no mountain high enough And check out the next moves for these soul pioneers: Southern Smoke co-owners Chef Jodie and Southern Smoke Soul Mitchell Robertson. Rolls. Southern Smoke has partnered with SILVA restaurant to provide its branded soul-styled eggrolls, which pack collard greens, candy yams, and macaroni and cheese and come with a gravy dipping sauce. Southern Smoke Seasoning. Jodie and Mitchell have worked with Meijer to package Jodie’s secret seasoning blend for sale at the superstore’s outlets. “Meijer mentored and walked Jodie through the [product development] process,” Mitchell said, estimating that the seasoning packages should be on Meijer shelves by early spring. Southern Smoke distillery and tasting room. “We just got our license, so we’ll be a distillery with our own branded liquor,” Mitchell said. “We’re moving right along!” As they continue to grow, the Robinsons credit their faith as well as their deep connection to the roots of soul food — and to its meaning in today’s world. “It brings up memories of ancestors and childhood,” Jodie said. “The world is so busy, busy, busy now, with so much stuff going on. But when you get that plate of soul food in front of you, you just remember grandma and grandpa and playing in the park and drinking water out the water hose — stuff you can’t do any more.” Mitchell added, “The thing about soul food is, everybody thinks they can cook it, but everybody can’t cook it. And that’s a true statement. We know we’re doing something right because of our repeat customers — people taste Jodie’s food, and they keep coming back!” Hot water cornbread, ribs, greens, and spaghetti.

A side of soul: Five must-try restaurants Here are five more soul and soul-inspired restaurants in Grand Rapids:

Gladys’ Grill. Owner Jeannica Oliver credits the name and spirit of her restaurant to her grandmother, Gladys Oliver. This breakfast and lunch spot offers a Grilled Soul Food Sundays menu that includes everything from braised oxtails to BBQ turkey knuckles to pork chitterlings. Sugah Please Breakfast Brunch Bar. This Detroit mainstay just made the journey to Grand Rapids with a brand-new location in Eastown, where it’s serving breakfast, brunch and lunch. Try the catfish and grits! Trust. Among his many culinary adventures, Chef Trimell Hawkins created the menu for the late, lamented 40 Acres. Now he’s back with a high-end “New American Soul” restaurant and bar in the heart of Heartside’s SoDIV district, serving seven- to 12-course tasting menus. (Check out his savory pot-liquor tea served with turkey pate and a corn crumpet!) The Candied Yam. With locations on 44th Street and South Division Avenue, Kent County’s soul food stalwart serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner — including some specialties like soul food wraps and sweet potato cornbread muffins. Rika’s Chicken. Naming the best fried chicken in town is always a bone of contention — but Rika’s has attracted a devoted following for its food and its late-night hours (open until 3am Friday and Saturday). Chef Sherika Dennard’s deep fryer turns out chicken wings, wingdings, nuggets and gizzards; catfish and perch; and sides like okra and cauliflower.

CAST IRON SKILLET CHICKEN ADOBE STOCK

GR M AG .CO M

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Aquinas College 1700 Fulton St. E. • Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 616-632-8900, aquinas.edu

AquinAs College is an inclusive, nationally ranked liberal arts institution located just 2 miles from downtown Grand Rapids. Student life thrives in Aquinas’s welcoming community with 40-plus registered student organizations and campus ministry groups and 34 athletic teams. Faculty and staff provide close mentorship and prioritize experiential learning through internships, service work, and hands-on opportunities outside the classroom, setting students up for success. Aquinas is also continuing its one-class-at-a-time scheduling model for first-year students in 2026-27. These courses are immersive and relationship-rich and create a steady routine. Within six months of graduation, 97% of its 2024 graduates were employed, in graduate school, or engaged in service work. All traditional-age first-year students receive financial aid. On average, students take on no more debt than they earn in their first year of work. ■

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For more than a century, Baker College has empowered students through a transformative, student-centered education that opens doors to lifelong academic and professional success. As one of Michigan’s private, nonprofit colleges, we foster an inclusive, innovative environment for those pursuing degrees from associate to doctoral levels. With degree programs in the fields of health sciences, nursing, computer science, information technology, education, and business, you can achieve your career goals. Built with flexible learning options, distinct Michigan campuses (Cadillac, Jackson, Owosso, Muskegon, Port Huron, Royal Oak, or online), a transparent tuition structure, and generous scholarship opportunities, Baker College makes it easy to find your fit. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1911 // Current enrollment: 3,955 // Student-faculty ratio: 9:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 60 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 16 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 2 // In-state and out-ofstate tuition: $13,950 // Percentage of undergrad students on financial aid: 87% // Awards/recognitions: 2024 Best Regional Universities Midwest Rankings, USNews.com. One of America’s Top Online Colleges 2025, Newsweek.com. Best Online Marketing Degrees of 2023, Forbes. // Affiliated colleges/satellite campuses: Baker College of Cadillac, Muskegon, Jackson, Owosso, and Royal Oak; Baker Online; The Culinary Institute of Michigan — Muskegon and Port Huron; The Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan

Davenport University 6191 Kraft Ave. SE • Grand Rapids, MI 49512 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 800-686-1600, davenport.edu/go

F or more than 150 years , D avenport University has stood apart from other universities because of its unrelenting focus on ensuring its graduates rise to the top of the job market. Its unique approach to education offers students a careercentered curriculum featuring more than 100 certificate and degree programs, and empowers them with real-world experience. Davenport’s academic programs meet today’s demands and anticipate tomorrow’s needs. Davenport even offers employment guarantees for several programs, ensuring students obtain employment or the opportunity to come back for additional education with no tuition cost. See terms and specifics at davenport.edu/ employment-guarantee. Davenport’s innovative approach and commitment to quality will help you get where the world is going — and arrive ahead of the pack. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1866 // Current enrollment: 4,575 // Student-faculty ratio: 18:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 58 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 26 // Subject matter expertise: Business, technology, health, science, and urban education // In-state and out-of-state tuition: $30,540 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 96% // Top awards/recognitions: College of Distinction Career Development Award by Colleges of Distinction (2025). Named No. 2 for Best College Dorms in Michigan by University Magazine (2025). Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award from Insight Into Academia magazine (2025).

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SUPPORT THAT STAYS WITH YOU Small Class Sizes

Baker Care Teams

Career Counseling

Learn more about baker college’s student-first approach at baker.edu

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Career-ready degrees and so much more. Davenport University prepares you for success with experienced faculty, hands-on learning and internships at top employers. Choose from more than 100 career-ready degrees and certificates, including select bachelor’s programs with an employment guarantee. Beyond academics, our small, welcoming campus features apartment-style residence halls, 44 athletic teams—including 27 NCAA Division II teams—and a variety of clubs and activities to explore. With 100% of incoming freshmen receiving scholarships and an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 18:1, you’ll have the support and resources to thrive in college and beyond. Check us out at davenport.edu/newstudent or call us at 800.686.1600.

Business | Technology | Health | Urban Education

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY

BULLDOGS EARN MORE.

Ferris State University has earned the prestigious Carnegie Classification, proving you’ll gain access to career-focused programs that help you earn more throughout your career. Choose from 180+ breakthrough programs and build the skills to shape your future.

APPLY NOW

AND UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL Big Rapids | Grand Rapids | Online Ferris State University is an equal opportunity institution. For information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit ferris.edu/non-discrimination.

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION Grand Valley State University 1 Campus Drive • Allendale, MI 49401 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 616-331-5000, gvsu.edu

Grand Valley State UniVerSity prepares each of its more than 22,000 students for a fulfilling career and a life of impact. It starts with more than 300 areas of undergraduate and graduate study and outstanding faculty members who focus on individual student achievement. Unique learning opportunities include studentdirected research projects, in-the-field training, and a study-abroad program that’s one of the best in the nation. The main campus in Allendale is home to modern classrooms and labs, outstanding fitness and sports facilities, a comprehensive library, and more. The Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus and the growing Health Campus put students in the heart of Grand Rapids’ central business district and along the Medical Mile. Finally, GVSU’s graduation rate and job placement rates are consistently among the highest in the state. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1960 // Current enrollment: 22,035 // Student-faculty ratio: 15:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 107 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 45 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 4 // Subject matter expertise: Business, nursing, psychology, education, criminal justice, computer science, exercise science, engineering, marketing // In-state tuition: $15,872 // Out-of-state tuition: $22,588 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 96% // Top awards/recognitions: Named to Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges. Named one of the Best Colleges in the Midwest for 2026 by The Princeton Review. Named one of the Best Colleges in America 2025 by Money.

Ferris State University 1201 S. State St. • Big Rapids, MI 49307 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 231-591-2000, ferris.edu

For more than 140 years, Ferris State University students have advanced through hands-on learning with expert faculty, preparing them to build meaningful careers and purposeful lives. Offering about 200 degree and certificate programs, Ferris State equips graduates with the dynamic skill sets that fuel Michigan’s economic growth. Nearly 8,000 Bulldogs call the Big Rapids campus home, where they find a vibrant community, 220 student organizations, and champion NCAA Division I and II athletics. Cutting-edge facilities put the latest technologies in students’ hands. Beyond Big Rapids, more than 2,200 students benefit from Student Success Hubs, online programs, and expanding presence in Grand Rapids. With nearly one-third firstgeneration students, Ferris State continues to break down barriers — supported by the Ferris Pledge, which provides eligible students a path to a degree with no out-of-pocket costs. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1884 // Current enrollment: 9,877 // Student-faculty ratio: 14:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 155 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 17 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 4 // Subject matter expertise: Pharmacy; optometry; criminal justice; AI; cybersecurity; automotive, welding, and mechanical engineering technology; dental hygiene; and nursing. // In-state and out-of-state tuition: $14,420 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 88% // Top awards/recognitions: Top Opportunity University (Carnegie Classification). NCAA DII football national champions. AI program was the first validated in Secure AI by NSA. // Affiliated colleges/satellite campuses: Grand Rapids campus including Kendall College of Art and Design. Five Student Success Hubs.

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Turning What If Into WHAT IS

At Grand Valley State University, we turn aspirations into achievements and ideas into actions. By reshaping the future of education, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and continually evolving to meet the needs of those we serve, Grand Valley is turning what if into what is.

gvsu.edu

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION Kalamazoo College 1200 Academy St. • Kalamazoo, MI 49006 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 800-253-3602, kzoo.edu

NatioNally reNowNed and globally oriented, Kalamazoo College is the home of the K-Plan, an individualized and integrated approach to the liberal arts and sciences. The K-Plan combines exceptional scholarship, study abroad, career development, civic engagement, and independent research in a flexible curriculum that allows students to make the most of their unique interests and gifts. At K, administrators and faculty embrace its motto — “More in Four. More in a Lifetime.” — by offering students more opportunities to explore, more faculty and staff mentorship and support, and more preparation for meaningful careers that make a positive impact on the world. Wherever students want to go in life, their K-Plans can take them there. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1833 // Current enrollment: 1,278 // Student-faculty ratio: 10:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 32 majors, 22 minors, and 13 concentrations // Subject matter expertise: Nationally known for the K-Plan, which integrates a flexible curriculum with study abroad, experiential education, career preparation, and a senior integrated project. More than half of K students study abroad through K’s 50-plus programs. // In-state tuition: $63,827 // Out-of-state tuition: $63,827 // Top awards/recognitions: Named a Best Value College by The Princeton Review. Fulbright Top Producing Institution for U.S. Student Scholar Program. Listed among the 45 Colleges That Change Lives.

Northern Michigan University 1401 Presque Isle Ave. • Marquette, MI 49855 Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 906-227-1000, nmu.edu/admissions

Whether you’re studying sustainability in the field or lighting up the stage, learning at Northern Michigan University is personalized and connected to the world beyond the classroom. From day one, students engage in hands-on experiences that build confidence and enhance community. Located in Marquette, on the ancestral homelands of the Anishinaabe Three Fires Confederacy, NMU’s campus is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Founded in 1899, NMU now serves about 7,000 students across 190-plus programs. Every student is provided with a laptop, and the small classes, paired with top-notch faculty, emphasize mentorship, research, and real-world learning. With 300-plus student organizations and a surrounding vibrant college town, NMU offers opportunity, connection, and direction. Come experience North for yourself! ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1899 // Current enrollment: 7,386 // Student-faculty ratio: 18:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 170 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 25 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 1 // Subject matter expertise: Education, nursing, biology (fisheries and wildlife), environmental science, sustainability, construction management // In-state tuition: $14,702 // Out-of-state tuition: $20,198 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 88% // Top awards/ recognitions: 12th Top Public University in the Midwest (U.S. News and World Report). Gold-level Veteran-Friendly School (Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency). Gold STARS rating for sustainability (AASHE).

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

It’s not about where you start. It’s about where you’re going. Imagine a place where curiosity drives learning, the world is your classroom, and the friendships you make last a lifetime. Whether you have a path in mind or you’re still figuring it out, you’ll feel at home at K. Explore your interests with our flexible curriculum, experience new cultures through our nationally recognized study abroad program, and gain realworld skills through research, civic engagement or an internship. Along the way, our faculty and staff will help you connect what you love to a career that’s meaningful to you.

Tom ’27

MAJOR: Business/Psychology STUDY ABROAD: Athens, Greece

“I’ve been able to take classes in Spanish, philosophy, religion, history, business, psychology and classics. I’ve been able to figure out what I like—and what I don’t—which is a great part about waiting to declare your major.”

More in Four. More in a Lifetime.®

kzoo.edu/admission

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PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

dine

OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES For any additions or changes, please email lenos@hour-media and write "Dining Guide" in the subject line of the email.

Downtown GR 7 MONKS TAPHOUSE Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $$$ ALLORA Top-notch, chef-led fine dining venue featuring a menu of sustainable, artfully prepared dishes inspired by coastal Italy. Open Tuesday–Saturday. // 201 Monroe Ave NW 855-9463. Reservations recommended, opentable.com. Dinner $$$ ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$ BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BLACK NAPKIN High quality burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries and homemade sodas. Takeout only, Tuesday-Saturday. // 966 E. Fulton St. Lunch, Dinner $ BOB’S BAR Down home sports bar with 10 HD TV's. 14 Beers on Tap specializing in Chicago cuisine. Open daily. // 725 Michigan St NE. 774-0512. bobsbar.org. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BROOKLYN BODEGA BAGEL & DELI Bringing the bagel shops and delis of the East Coast to the third coast. Whether a bagel, egg and cheese or a hearty turkey sandwich, Brooklyn Bodega has it. Open Monday-Saturday // 10 Jefferson Ave SE, 724-4275 Breakfast, Lunch $ THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$ CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ CHICAGO BEEF JOINT This lively casual restaurant in the Monroe North district boasts “live music all the time” and serves up scrumptious Chicago style beef and sausage sandwiches (served with your choice of hot giardiniera, mild giardiniera, or sweet bell peppers). Menu also includes, hot dogs,chicken sandwiches, tavern pizza, salad, and more. Happy hour specials and a full bar make this a great place for watching sports. Open daily at 11 a.m.,

closing times vary. // 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 420-7724. cbjgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

DUBLIN HALL Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ All-day breakfast, sandwiches, soups, salads, toasts, croissants, muffins and tarts. On weekends brunch is available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 820 Monroe Ave NW Suite 100, 616-608-4533. fieldandfire.com. Breakfast, Lunch $-$$ FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Open Daily. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GARDEN DISTRICT New Orleans style restaurant serving southern Cajun and Creole. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Closed Sundays. Full bar. / 55 Monroe Center St NW, 376-4002 . gardendistrictgr.com/ Lunch, Dinner $$ GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

GR M AG .CO M

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GRAND WOODS LOUNGE Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

LITTLEBIRD Cozy neighborhood bistro for farm-to-table cuisine, natural wine and bespoke cocktails. Full bar. Open Tuesday–Sunday. Hours vary. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $

HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

K-ROK Delicioius Korean BBQ, noodles, Soju cocktail and more Private karaoke rooms. Full bar. Happy hour specials and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Closed Mondays. // 169 Louis, Campau Promenade Ste 1A, 369-5765. $-$$

MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

JAMAICAN DAVE’S Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ KNOOP ROOFTOP BEER GARDEN Upscale rooftop beer garden offers Dutch and German inspired cuisine with a modern touch. Madefrom-scratch shareables, small bites, hand-crafted cocktails and scenic views of downtown Grand Rapids. // 131 Ionia SW, 8th Floor, 616-456-6200, canopygrandrapidsrestaurants.com/knoop/. Dinner $$-$$$ LEO'S CONEY ISLAND ON TAP An east side favorite located in Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids serves up classic Coney Island favorites, cocktails and beer on tap. // 122 Oakes St SW Suite 100, 805-3780, leosconeyisland.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LEO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Happy Hour specials Mon– Thurs, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Open Mon-Fri., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sat 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sunday. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEWAY A tiki-themed restaurant that includes a raw bar, hot appetizers, salads, sides, land and sea dishes, and vegan options. Appetizers include ceviche and puhahana rock shrimp, and entrées include a poke bowl, citrus-glazed faroe and an island lobster roll. Full bar. Open daily. // 58 Ionia Ave SW, 551-0016. maxstiki.com. D $$-$$$ MDRD Overlooking the Grand River from its location on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza, this restaurant serves modern Spanish cuisine including tapas and paella. Reservations available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 187 Monroe Ave. NW, 776.6425. amwaygrand.com/dining. Dinner $$$ MERTENS PRIME AND ROOFTOP Eclectic menu, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-centuryera hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. mertensgr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MEXO Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

NOODLE PIG Laid-back local ramen shop serving inventive bowls built from the ground up with noodles made fresh in-house daily. The menu balances traditional Japanese flavors with playful fusion twists, alongside small Japanese dishes like gyoza, the fan-favorite J-Dog, and fried chicken. Gluten-free and vegan options, a selective bar featuring beer, wine, sake, seltzers, and signature “boozy boba” cocktails. Open noon–10 p.m seven days a week. // 601 Bond Ave NW Suite 102, 327-2922, www.noodlepig.com. Dinner $-$$ ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN This restaurant offers elevated American fare; fried chicken sandwiches, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl, starters, small & large plates, handhelds a kids menu & more! Full bar. Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ PALACE OF INDIA Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIND INDIAN CUISINE A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY Contemporary seafood restaurant that offers premium fresh fish and seafood from the waters of New England to the Great Lakes. // 141 Lyon St NW, Grand Rapids, (888) 456-3463, realseafoodcorestaurant.com. Dinner $$$ ROAM BY SAN CHEZ The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

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W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SCHOLAR Swanky restaurant serving elevated old school American fare, situated on multiple levels, offering a variety of atmospheres. // 11 Ionia Ave SW, 980--9073. scholargr.com. Drinks, Dinner$$ SILVA A dinnertainment venue that focuses on reviving crafting dishes that honor and revive traditional recipies. Billiards, bocce, darts & more in a carnival-like atmosphere. // 975 Ottawa NW, 757-4582. silvagr. com. Drinks, Dinner, Games$$-$$$ SOCIAL HOUSE A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters,soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$

SOCIAL MISFITS An interesting concept mashing waffles (sweet or savory,) with other food, accompanied by creative cocktailss. The business also introduces Great Lakes Coffee Roasters to town. // 43 W. Fulton St, 272-4984. thesocialmisfits.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ SPEAK EZ LOUNGE Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ STELLA’S LOUNGE Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$ TERRA BAGEL A quaint place to grab a bagel, a schmear and some coffee. The sister restaurant of Terra Bagel and Terra GR in Eastown. Open Daily // 40 Pearl St. NW, terrabagels.com, 616.465.4343 Breakfast, Lunch $ TUPELO HONEY This southern kitchen & bar serves southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. // 140 Ottawa Ave NW STE 100, 239-7158, tupelohoneycafe. com. Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch $$

Z’S BAR & RESTAURANT Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

West Side BLUE DOG TAVERN West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ BROAD LEAF WESTSIDE Progressive craft brewery and distillery. Award winning gin. Cocktail slushies. Boozy shakes. Large outdoor beer garden. Incubator kitchen has rotating menu with guest chefs. // 443 Bridge St NW, 254-0105, broadleafbeer.com./Thurs, 4–10 p.m./Fri, 4–11 p.m./Sat, 12 p.m.–11 p.m./Sun, 12 p.m.–9 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BROADWAY BAR & GRILL Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 4540565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BURGER THEORY Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ BUTCHER’S UNION Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub with a wide menu and festive atmosphere. Craft drinks and a full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ CONDADO TACOS Stylish Bridge Street Mexican restaurant serving build your own tacos, tequila, margaritas and more. Come as you are! // 449 Bridge St NW, 734-6815, condadotacos.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DRIP DROP COCKTAIL ROOM Upscale, plush craft cocktail lounge with a NYC ambiance. Light bites. // 445 Bridge St NW Unit 2, dripdropcocktailroom.com. Snacks, Cocktails $$ EL GRANJERO Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 4585595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner EL SOMBRERO Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

GIN GIN Stylish and inviting, Gin Gin’s offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. The bar's charm provides the perfect ambiance for savoring handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails. // 345 Summer Ave NW, 341-9124, ginginsgr.com. Tue– Thurs, 4–11 p.m./Fri, 4–11:30 p.m. Sat, 3–11:30 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $$–$$$ THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, the menu features appetizers, snacks and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

KÜSTERER BRAUHAUS Munich style Bierhall offering German and American craft beers, sangria, cider, cocktails and German street food. Featuring Bundesliga and International soccer. Live music on Sundays. // 642 Bridge St. NW. 616-451-4255. grbrauhaus.com. Lunch, Dinner $ LONG ROAD DISTILLERS Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $ NONLA BURGER Nonla Burge offers both traditional, 100% beef hamburgers and Vietnamese-inspired cuisine. // 449 Bridge St NW Suite 102, Grand Rapids, nonlaburger.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GR M AG .CO M

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ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$ O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RAPID RIVER STILLHOUSE A three‑level restaurant and whiskey bar that features bold, handcrafted spirits and Southern‑inspired smokehouse cuisine with meats smoked on site. The first floor offers whiskey tasting, the second floor hosts live music, and the third‑floor rooftop deck provides city views with occasional performances. It opens at 11 a.m. daily. Closing times vary. //401 Stocking Ave NW, (616) 438-6133, rapidriverstillhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner S$-$$$ SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

SHOTS Local neighborhood kitchen and bar serving a full menu, daily lunch specials, an abundance of taps featuring craft and domestic beer options, large patio, and plenty of big screen TV’s all contributw in making this the local favorite for food, drink, sports, and groups to meet. Open daily at 11 a.m. // 4259 Lake Michigan Drive NW, 453-7780, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE SØVENGÅRD West Side farm-to-table restaurant focusing on seasonal and local sourcing with an outdoor biergarten. Special occasion/meeting space available. Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. / Dinner: Wed-Sat, 4-10 p.m. & Sunday, 4-9 p.m. // 1232 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard. com. Dinner $$ TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$ WESTSIDE SOCIAL “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Uptown ASADA ON WEALTHY STREET Tex-Mex cookout themed restaurant with grilled and smoked meat, smashburgers, breakfast and coffee. Hours: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Closed Tuesdays. // 1450 Wealthy St. SE, 719-2146. asadaonwealthycom @ asadaonwealthy $ VIVANT BREWERY + SPIRITS European style craft beer and food. Spirits, wine and cider are also available. Locally sourced menu. Housed in a renovated funeral home chapel with a large patio and geer garden. Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Fri.-Sat.), Dinner $$-$$$ BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $ CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. Cascade location closed on Sun. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779 electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GROVE Fresh, farm-to-table unique takes on American fare in a presentation unlike most experienced before. Multipletime Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Award winner. Open Wednesday-Saturday // 919 Cherry St SE, groverestaurant.com, (616) 454-1000 Dinner, $$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

HANCOCK Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HARMONY BREWING CO. Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KCM A Japanese/Korean fusion restaurant specializing in sandos, open-faced toast with meat, egg salad, curry and other rice bowls; tonkatsu, chicken katsu; and kimbap (Korean-style fish and vegetable hand rolls wrapped with seaweed). Open Tues.-Sun. // 209 Diamond Ave. SE. kcmgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MARU SUSHI & GRILL Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carryout available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ QUARANTINO’S Pizzeria featuring creative Detroit-style pies with glutenfree and vegan options, plus beer and wine. Located at 1444 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids. Open daily, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. First come, first served. // 1444 Lake Drive SE, 734-6833. quarantinosgr.com. Dinner $-$$ MANGIAMO A Gilmore Collection restaurant that serves upscale Italian fare in a historic East Hills mansion. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegilmorecollection.com/ pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$ TESTA ROSSA Neighborhood Italian joint serving up crispy crust pizza, pasta, hearty sandwiches, salad, and desserts. Enjoy live music and a lively, family-friendly at-mosphere and the Wolve's Den Bar with a late-night menu. //1017 Wealthy St. SE, 278-3174. terragr.com. Mon-Wed, 11 am – 10 pm; Thurs–Sat, 11 am – midnight. Wolves Den Bar: Thurs–Sat, 4 p.m. to midnight. Lunch, Dinner $$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

E A E AS ST TE ER RN N F FL LO OR RA AL L

OLIVIA ANDERSON PHOTOGR APHY

since 1950

(616) 949 2200 • easternf loral.com • @easternf loralmi

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TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ YESTERDOG Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ZIVIO Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids BIG BOB’S PIZZA Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com. Dinner $$$ CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. // 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. Dinner $$ GASLIGHT KITCHEN ASIAN CUISINE Asian restaurant specializing in Chinese-American dishes. // 2128 Wealthy St. SE, 454-8677, gaslightkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232

Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ OLIVE’S Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PERA PIZZARIA Pera Pizzaria features several different Mediterranean style pizzas, shish salads and a surprising pizza made with Nutella. // 2224 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4810, perapizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PINK PIGGY A casual contemporary boba and Asian fusion restaurant for dine-in or takeout. Open Tues-Sun. // 2230 Wealthy St. 805-3949, pinkpiggy.online. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ROSE’S Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northeast GR BIRCH LODGE Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BLUE WATER GRILL Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CAFÉ MAMO An American restaurant inspired by grandma's garden. Classic Midwestern dishes paired with tasty wine in a warm, comfortable setting. Open daily. // 1601 Plainfield Ave. NE, 350-3430. mamohsp.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun) Dinner (Mon-Sat) $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ CRESTON BREWERY More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ DETROIT WING CO. Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE. Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $ GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

tthe

GOEI CENTER

(616) 949 2421 • thegoeicenter.com • @goeicentergr SABRINA BROOKS PHOTOGR APHY

dine / estau ants GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and worldinspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ JAKU SUSHI NORTH Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 616 KABOB STOP Eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 2232 Plainfield Ave NE, 286-3035. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $ KITCHEN 67 Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more elevated fare. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA HUASTECA Authentic Mexican restaurant offering burritos, tacos, enchiladas, flautas and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen. net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 3123 Leonard St NE, 608-6912 . licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ LUCY’S Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate

dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ POKE TOKI Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ PALIO Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$ THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$ SHOTS ON THE RIVER Full menu kitchen and bar with 22 taps offering craft and domestic beer options, daily lunch specials, large patio with outdoor seated bar, banquet rooms, numerous TV’s, pool table, and live music every Thursday, Friday,

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

and Saturday featuring some of West Michigan’s top cover bands. Open daily at 1 p.m. and closed on Sundays. // 5760 West River Drive NE Belmont, 9516071, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$ THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northwest GR

AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$ CHINA CHEF Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHINA CITY Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. Dinner $-$$ HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. // 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at. Lunch, Dinner $$ 616 KABOB STOP EXPRESS Located near the Allendale campus of Grand Valley State University, eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 10897 48th Ave., Suite B100, Allendale. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $ THE LANDING Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/ the-landing-restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

YOUR EVENT, DONE PERFECTLY.

MULTI-YEAR FINALIST BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS

DISTINCTIVECATERING.COM

dine / estau ants

PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ROASTED SPORTS BAR & GRILL Spacious sports bar with a diverse menu of specializing in ribs and other American fare. Outdoor seating. TV's for sports viewing. Full bar. Open daily. // 34322 Remembrance Rd NW, 381-2000. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$

Southeast GR 7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 3018555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

CAFÉ DE MIRO A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. Traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes; skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $ CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$ DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Dinks and Dingers Social Club American Fare full-service restaurant and bar with a twist.Shareable apps, stacked burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads,handhelds, and house specialties. GF Options.Indoor and Outdoor seasonal seating, Eat-In, Take-Out. Open Daily // 5080 Broadmoor Ave SE, 616-343-8343. Lunch, Dinner $$ www. dinksanddingers.com EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ASIAN PALACE Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. // 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BELTLINE BAR Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRASS RING BREWING Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BROAD LEAF BREWERY & SPIRITS Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Open daily. Brunch on Sun. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CABANA TRES AMIGOS Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. // 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$

FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

HALL STREET BAKERY Breakfast sandwiches and pastries; pizza, entrée salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ INDIA TOWN Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $ LE KABOB Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI TIERRA Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MIKADO SUSHI Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $ PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

dine / estau ants

SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinne PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

SIP COFFEE & COCKTAILS Café by day with breakfast bites that transforms into a bustling nighttime cocktail lounge, serving flatbread and appetizers. Closed Sun, hours vary. // 806 Alger St. SE, 805-3517 $$ SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ TACON MADRE Mexican hamburgers, Tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and more with and a variety of proteins (pastor, Barbacoa, birria, tripe, Chicharron, Trompo and more) to choose from. Aguas frescas and other authentic Mexican specialties. // 3501 Division Ave. S. Wyoming, 570-0322, taconmadremi.com. Lunch, Dinner $ THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $ THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Southwest GR 84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE

American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$ LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOBLE RESTAURANT Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

2400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ADA GARAGE BAR & GRILL High quality bar appetizers, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, burgers and a variety of entrees. Plus there's always a $2 draft, a $3 well and a $4 glass of wine every day. // 518 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-3002, adagaragebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

dine / estau ants

MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOCO PROVISIONS Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$ OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ SABOR MEXICANO Burritos, tortas, quesadillas, quesabirrias, tamales (pork or chicken) and tacos served the authentic way, menu items for kids and more. // 109 Riverside Drive in Lowell, 987-5027. Lunch, Dinner $ SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 2886907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$

100

ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Grandville/ Hudsonville Area ARROWS RESTAURANT Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Open Monday–Saturday, 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave Hudsonville, 896-0033, dinearrows.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL BURRITO LOCO More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbecue theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$ PIKE 51 BREWING CO./ HUDSONVILLE WINERY Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RAINBOW GRILL Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ WHITE FLAME BREWING CO. Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

THE WIN TAVERN Family-friendly restaurant offering cooked-toorder meals, including starters, salads, burgers, sandwiches & steak. Sunday breakfast, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a build-your-own hash bar and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

Rockford Area BOSTWICK LAKE INN Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck. Full bar. Open daily. // 8521 Belding Rd, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$

BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. // 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/ restaurant. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CEDAR SPRINGS BREWING CO. German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. // 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRILL ONE ELEVEN American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONEY CREEK INN Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TIMBERS INN Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

West Michigan’s Ultimate Party Band

BOOK NOW

614.561.5577 www.greatscottlive.com

dine / estau ants

THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-5129314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ THE TOASTED PICKLE Handcrafted unique sandwiches, soups, salads, cocktails and more. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 8840498. thetoastedpickle.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Multiple Locations ANNA’S HOUSE Retro-style diner with a menu that caters to guests with a wide variety of dietary needs; gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Natural, local ingredients are utilized to create tasty classic breakfast entrees, benedicts, house bowls, salads, wraps, sandwiches, fresh-pressed juices, signature coffees, lattes and more. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5488 Northland Dr NE, 330-3310; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, 551-0434; 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville, 2885855; 525 84th St SW, Byron Center, 447-1201. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 5345421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIRST WOK Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner

HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171; 434 Bridge St NW, 855-6907. morningbellebrunch. com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

MR. BURGER Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 6625088; 6880 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 986-1110. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; 5065 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-1615. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ TACOS EL CUÑADO Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 18 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007; 1551 Wealthy St. SE, 724-4269. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare, pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 7731687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from family recipes and a wide variety of American fare; burgers, subs, entrées and appetizers. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PITA HOUSE Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $

GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 930-3596. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $

HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE,

RED GERANIUM Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 532-8888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch

102

SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

gr gems / visit

Where the Pack Gathers A neighborhood hub for books, music and community STORY AND PHOTOS BY PASHA SHIPP //

From left to right, rows of books and records fill the shop, a lived-in corner invites visitors to stay awhile, and a secondhand copy of "One Hundred Years of Solitude" reflects Black Dog Used Books and Records’ role as a community "third place” for reading, listening, and gathering.

104

My friend Megan and I were enjoying the holiday shopping and festivities of Uptown Shop Hop when I discovered Black Dog Used Books and Records for the first time. We stepped inside, and I was met with a warm, familiar feeling. It was a mixedmedia paradise. Rows of books and graphic novels, shelves of DVDs, cassettes, and VHS tapes – you name it! I snagged a record tote from A Clockwork Orange and filled it with an assortment of vinyl as a Christmas gift for my husband, but with the hustle and bustle, we didn’t have time to stick around. I went back in January and got the

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • MARCH/APRIL 2026

opportunity to speak with Devon Monique, a staff member of the eclectic shop. I was pleased to learn that beyond being a seller (and buyer) of a wide variety of media, the owner, Bill Moore, wants the store to function as a “third space,” welcoming the community to read, listen to music or just hang out without the expectation to buy. They put on poetry open mic nights, facilitate writing groups, and host book discussions. Black Dog might buy your old cassettes or that novel you didn’t like enough to finish, but they won’t take just anything. Besides avoiding the obvious – warped records or books with broken spines – don’t bring in presidential biographies, history books, or magazines; they’re not interested in those. If you’re not sure, just ask! As for the spoils of my second visit, I grabbed Gabriel Garcia Marquez’ “One Hundred Years of Solitude” with a canvas tote to match.

wish you were here.

It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why Good Housekeeping named Traverse City as a “2026 Travel Award Winner for Beach Escapes”.

SPRING ADVENTURES START HERE.

Before summer crowds arrive, spring is a “secret season” in Pure Ludington. Enjoy quiet trails for walking and biking, peaceful shoreline strolls, and the first opportunities for patio dining with locally made brews. With fresh air, fewer crowds, and a relaxed pace, spring is the perfect time for outdoor adventure, family fun, or a peaceful getaway. faces - you can find it here. Start planning your trip at:

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