34 THE BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS THE 2025 READERS' SURVEY WINNERS + A BELOVED VENUE THAT SWEPT SIX CATEGORIES! BY
LISA ENOS
46 TEE TIME! GET OUT AND EXPLORE KENT COUNTY'S BEST COURSES BY
PAT EVANS
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
The foliage is beginning to bloom at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
wish you were here.
It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why The Wall Street Journal featured Traverse City as one of “The 10 Best Places to Go in 2025”.
every issue
8 editor's letter
90 dining guide
A guide to the area's best eateries
110 gr gems
Mitten-shaped breakfast pizza? Yes, please!
people + places
12 city
Meijer Classic, Riverbank Run & The Best of Grand Rapids Party!
13 guide
Intersection's summer slate: Rock the Lot and more!
14 issues
Deport him to where? Unpacking the Jilmar Ramos-Gomez story.
16 spotlight
Crafting Luxury: From hobby to brewing 24k Gold.
17 profile
Drive to revive Town & Cuntry— There's an "App" for that!
20 voice
Bear County chronicles smalltown struggles and triumphs.
look + feel
24 style
Vivd Visions: Vitamin Sea, Girly Pop & cowboy-inspired designs.
26 home
Gardening: Expert tips on sowing the seeds of success.
29 experience
Recreation: A fresh take on outdoor fun and adventure.
food + drink
70 table
Three restaurants, one dream & the duo behind a Saugatuck gem.
Welcome to the highly anticipated Best of Grand Rapids edition. This is the issue everyone’s been buzzing about, and for good reason. We’re celebrating the best of our city’s top restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, service providers, and personalities. And don’t forget about the party we’re throwing on May 9 at the Goei Center to honor all the winners — it’s going to be one for the books (see page 12 for details)!
In this issue, we’re embracing the spirit of spring. We’ve got all the inspiration you need to make the most of the season, starting with our Recreation Reimagined feature. Pasha Shipp dives into some truly unique ways people are staying active, from unicycling to group line dancing in the park, plus her own personal fitness routine. Pat Evans takes you through tee times at some of the area’s top golf courses — another perfect passtime for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors. Carol Lautenbach offers expert tips on creating a beautiful garden, with advice from the pros at Flowerland and Kelsey Dunneback takes us on a tour of what’s trending in spring fashion with her "Vivid Visions" piece highlighting three key fashion trends she's honed in on: girly pop, dreamy cowboy, and vitamin sea.
And speaking of the sea, we’ve got some exciting culinary finds. Ann Byle interviews a new husband-and-wife duo behind Fishmoonger Seafood Market. Matthew Rothenberg takes us on a veritable tour to Bourbon Street for some seriously tasty Cajun and Creole cuisine at Garden District, a new restaurant on Monroe Center. If you’re looking for a truly special experience, head to Saugatuck’s Lady Bird. This restaurant offers a delicious, eclectic menu of modern American, seasonal fare, paired with exceptional service, plus a cozy inn upstairs with modern amenities. As the website says: Come for dinner— or stay for a week!
But that’s just the beginning! Be sure to check out the Best of Grand Rapids winners— one venue stands head and shoulders above the rest with an impressive six wins. I’ll let you turn the pages to find out which one! Until next time, enjoy the read, and don’t forget to make the most of this beautiful season!
Rapids Magazine
The 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
GR Mag: What's been your favorite assignment?
Pat Evans: While I’ve written about food and beverage for the Magazine for a long time, I’m always a fan of assignments that get me behind the scenes. A few years ago, I toured John Ball Zoo with a zookeeper and that was an absolute blast.
Lisa Enos Editor, Grand
Next issue
Best Brunches, Top Doctors, Summer Travel
FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR
Pat Evans
You Should Be Here, Not There
If you’d like to vacation here, you should be here, not there.
These beautiful places aren’t in Traverse City. They’re 28 miles away on the western shore of Leelanau County.
We’re on that shore. You can see these dunes from our mile-long beach.
We offer wonderful accommodations, Palmer golf, fun shops, farm fresh foods, and local wineries. All without crowds, traffic and long drives.
Be happy. Be here.
Call 231.334.5100 to enjoy it all!
people+places
Fatima Sherif braids
Gail Brown's hair at Fatima African Hair Braiding Salon in Towne & Country Shopping Center.
Driving for show, putting for dough: Meijer Classic
The prestigious Meijer LPGA Classic by Simply Give, held annually at Blythefield Country Club in Belmont, brings the world’s top female golfers to Grand Rapids. This highly competitive tournament, which debuted in 2014, features 144 players competing in a four-day, 72-hole stroke-play format. With a purse of $3 million and past champions including Lexi Thompson and Nelly Korda, the tournament is a highlight of the LPGA season. But it’s not just about golf – the event also offers an exceptional food experience. J. Brewer’s and Frederik’s have put together a premium all-youcan-eat dining option located by the fourth fairway during the tournement curated by Meijer chefs and local restaurants. J. Brewer’s showcases over 20 local eateries, while Frederik’s menu features exclusive items from Meijer’s premium product line. With live views of the course and delicious meals, it’s a perfect blend of sports and hospitality. The 2025 event runs June 12-15. Parking address is 4100 Kroes St NE, Rockford with shuttles running every 15-30 minutes. For more information on this celebrated annual tournament, read Pat Evans' golf feature on Page 46 or visit, meijerlpgaclassic.com.
shot from the sixth tee during the 2024 Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give at Blythefield Country Club.
River Bank Run
Best party in Grand Rapids
Kick off the summer in style with an evening of food, drinks at the second annual Best of Grand Rapids party, presented by Max’s South Seas Hideaway. The fun takes place Friday, May 9, 6–11 p.m. at the Goei Center (818 Butterworth St SW) where we will celebrate the very best of our city as we honor the winners of Grand Rapids Magazine’s annual readers’ survey, featured in this issue. From top restaurants and bars to standout entertainment venues, shops, salons, and local personalities, our readers have chosen their favorites, and we’re throwing a party to celebrate them all! This is a 21+ event. Valid ID required for entry. Cocktail attire recommended. Cost: general admission, $85; VIP, $115. For event updates, visit: grmag. com/best-of-grandrapids-party-2025.
The Amway River Bank Run in downtown Grand Rapids on May 10, celebrates 48 years with over 10,000 participants. It features the largest 25K in the U.S., including wheelchair and handcycle divisions. Additional events include 5K, 10K, and the Amway Junior. The 25K hosts the USA 25 km Open Championships. For course information and to register, visit amwayriverbankrun.com.
Above left: Grace Kim of Australia plays her
Intersection ready to Rock the Lot!
31 shows, three stages and one outdoor extravaganza! Billy Corgan and The Machines of God – A Return to Zero Tour - June 21
For over five decades, The Intersection has stood as the heartbeat of Grand Rapids’ live music scene, offering an eclectic mix of genres and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away to an 80s throwback, rock out at an emo night, or see iconic acts like Gwar or Mustard Plug, The Intersection has been a destination for music lovers of all kinds.
As one of the only all-ages venues in town, it’s a place where fans of all ages can enjoy diverse performances in a variety of spaces.
This spring and summer, The Intersection is bringing 31 exciting shows to Grand Rapids between May 1 and June 30, featuring a wide range of Country, Metal, Rock, EDM, and more. The variety of events showcases the venue’s dedication to offering something for every music lover. And it’s not just concerts—the venue is also branching out with its first-ever comedy show! With three distinct stages— the Main Room (known as The Intersection), The Stache, and Elevation—each concert offers a unique atmosphere, but there's one show each year that's an outlier, as in, it takes place outdoors. "Rock the Lot shows tend to happen each summer and they are usually country acts," said Kar Powel, a spokesperson for the venue, which provides an incredible way to experience live music under the open sky.
Here are a few of the standout performances you can catch this summer at The Intersection:
Bearly Dead
– Paradise Waits Tour - June 7
If you’re a fan of the Grateful Dead, Bearly Dead is not to be missed. This Boston-based quintet brings the music of the Dead to life with passion, authenticity, and an energetic stage show. The band explores everything from the band’s early catalog to its final tours, delivering a cosmic musical journey that’s perfect for longtime Deadheads and newcomers alike. Join them at The Stache for a night of incredible jams and spontaneous improvisation.
Rock the Lot - June 20
Chase Rice is this year's headliner at Rock the Lot. Known for his electrifying performances and a sound that blends traditional and modern country, Rice brings his “Go Down Singin’ International Tour” June 20. With hits like “Eyes on You” and “Drinkin’ Beer, Rice promises a highenergy night you won’t want to miss.
The legendary Billy Corgan, frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, returns with his solo project, The Machines of God, for an intimate show at The Intersection. Known for his profound impact on alternative rock, Corgan’s blend of raw emotion and innovative sound continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Pumpkins or just discovering his solo work, this show will be a night of reflection and rock greatness.
Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - June 26
It’s hard to believe that Red Jumpsuit Apparatus has been rocking the stage for 20 years! Their hit “Face Down” from 2006 still resonates, and they’re bringing that same energy to The Stache with new material from their latest release. With an intense dedication to their fans and a genuine passion for their craft, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus proves that their music is still as relevant and impactful as ever.
From massive outdoor events to intimate, highenergy club shows, The Intersection is the place to be this summer in Grand Rapids. Make sure to check out their full calendar for more upcoming shows and get ready for a season of incredible live music and unforgettable experiences! Brothers Osborne perform at the Intersection.
ISSUES
Deport him? To where?
Citizen: The Jilmar Ramos-Gomez story and the ramifications of racial profiling.
BY LISA ENOS
In 2018, a U.S. citizen named Jilmar Ramos-Gomez was mistakenly detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His story, one that was initially about confusion and error, became a powerful symbol of a deeper, more insidious issue: racial profiling and the unwarranted targeting of Latino communities in an era of harsh immigration policies. For Ramos-Gomez, a veteran suffering from PTSD, the consequences were devastating—not only was he wrongfully detained in an ICE facility, but his identity as a citizen was disregarded in large part because of the color of his skin.
This tragic misunderstanding was captured in the documentary Citizen: The Jilmar Ramos Gomez Story, directed by Jose Jimenez, a filmmaker and social media manager at Steelcase, who has spent years documenting the ongoing struggles of immigrant communities in Michigan. Jimenez’s film, which takes an honest look at the painful realities of racial profiling, shines a light on an issue that is as urgent as it is complex: the treatment of Latinos in America, even when they are legally entitled to live here as citizens.
It’s a story that starts with a mistake—a mistake that no one would have imagined happening to someone who wasn’t Latino.
On December 14, 2018, Ramos Gomez, a man with a U.S. passport and a Real ID, was arrested at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids after reportedly attempting to set a fire. He was clearly a U.S. citizen, but as the documentary reveals, his encounter with the police became a case of mistaken identity that spiraled out of control. A police officer, upon hearing about the arrest, instructed fellow officers to "check his status," and in that moment, racial profiling took over. Ramos Gomez was assumed to be undocumented, despite clear evidence to the contrary. He was handed over to ICE and placed in a detention facility, a place meant for people who are here illegally, despite the fact that he was a U.S.
citizen and a Marine veteran.
Jose Jimenez’s film chronicles this unjust treatment and explores how the case became emblematic of a much broader issue. As Jimenez follows community activist Gema Lowe, who was leading protests against the ICE contracts in Kent County, the film captures the growing anxiety within the Latino community. The fear is palpable: that anyone who looks a certain way—darker skin, with accents, or who may not fit a certain American image—can be picked up, detained, and sent across the border, despite having every legal right to live in the United States.
Ramos-Gomez’s mother, in a heartfelt interview, asked the question that reverberated through the film: "Where are they going to deport him to? Grand Rapids?" Her son, who had served in the U.S. Marine Corps and was a born-and-raised American, was suddenly seen as a target for deportation—not because of the incident at the hospital, but because of his racial identity.
Racial profiling isn’t just an isolated incident. It’s part of a larger pattern that many in the Latino community feel all too personally. Citizen is an honest portrayal of this fear and frustration and the toll that the threat of ICE raids has taken on the families who live in constant fear of being torn apart.
carrying a U.S. passport would be mistaken for an undocumented immigrant. It’s a stark reality that Latino communities across the country are forced to navigate—living as lawabiding citizens, yet constantly fearing that they are a target.
For many in the Latino community, the psychological toll of constant fear is just as harmful as any physical threat. A scene shows Jilmar having a conversation with Latino friends. One recalls an incidents from childhood when ICE came looking for his father. Children are growing up with the fear that their parents, undocumented or not, could be deported at any moment. The fear of being separated and sent "back" to countries they’ve never known is a real one, and cases like that of Ramos-Gomez justify those fears .
In an unrelated incided, a young Latino woman Grand Rapids Magazine interviewed, after losing her house key was nearly arrested for "breaking into her own home." These stories paint a picture of a terrifying reality— where even the most innocuous situations can escalate into an encounter with law enforcement.
The issue for those affected isn’t about illegal immigration; it's about being part of an unfairly targeted segment of the population. If Ramos-Gomez had been of — for example— Polish descent, it’s unlikely he would have been treated the same way. In cities like Chicago, an area that has one of the largest Polish populations outside of Poland, it’s not likely that a U.S. citizen with Polish heritage
And yet, despite the horror of these stories, there is hope. Jimenez, in his discussions following screenings of Citizen, encourages viewers to take action. "We need to stand together," he says. "We need to protect each other and ensure that this kind of racial profiling stops. We cannot let fear dictate who gets to stay and who has to leave."
The documentary has already made its way through local screenings at places like Muskegon Community College and the Central Michigan International Film Festival, and Jimenez plans to continue pushing the film to broader audiences. His goal is clear:
Citizen: The Jilmar Ramos-Gomez Story is about ensuring every person— regardless of their background—receives due process, their Constitutional right.
to raise awareness about the issue of racial profiling in the context of immigration enforcement and to empower communities to fight back.
One thing becomes clear from watching Citizen: this is not just a Latino issue. It’s an issue for all of us. It’s about ensuring that every person—regardless of their background, their appearance, or their immigration status—receives due process, the right they are entitled to under the Constitution.
As people like Jimenez continue to raise awareness, the film serves as a reminder of
the ongoing struggle for justice. And for those who might still question the validity of these concerns, Jimenez leaves them with this final thought: "When will it be enough? When will we all say, ‘This is not right, and we’re going to do something about it?’"
Once Ramos-Gomez’s case became public, it sparked an outcry from civil rights activists and organizations who immediately began to investigate the circumstances surrounding his detention. They found that not only had ICE wrongly detained a U.S. citizen, but they had also failed to immediately correct their error even after clear proof of Ramos-Gomez’s citizenship was presented. His family was forced to prove his status, fighting for his release, which came days later. According to a statement by the ACLU, In 2019 the law enforcement officer who racially profiled Ramos-Gomez was suspended without pay and the Grand Rapids police announced a new policy that prohibits officers from inquiring about a person’s immigration status or contacting ICE for civil immigration enforcement. The City of Grand Rapids settled Mr. Ramos-Gomez’s claim for $190,000, the ACLU statement read.
In the end, Ramos-Gomez’s legal battle led to changes in local law enforcement practices; a win for now. Kent County also instituted a new policy requiring a judicial warrant before turning someone over to ICE.
Jimenez points out that during Democratic administrations, members of his community let their guards down somewhat— a false sense of hope, maybe, that the politicians in charge had their best interest in mind. But the numbers tell a different story.
The sad truth is that the Latino community's would-be allies in the struggle over border issues do not always show up for them. While the rhetoric surrounding Trump's immigration policies rightly rings alarm bells for many in the Latino community, Obama oversaw about 5.3 million total repatriations, including 3.2 million deportations. Trump’s first term, about 2.1 million repatriations took place, fewer removals compared to Obama. Biden’s administration saw roughly 4.8 million repatriations through 2024. At the time this magazine went to print, an estimated 114,000 to 120,000 deportations had occurred since Jan. 20, 2025, and not on track to outpace Biden’s or Obama’s annual totals. Were any of them citizens? Follow Citizen on Instagram: @citizenjrg and @josegjimenezjr.
Right: Poster for the documentary, "Citizen: The Jilmar Ramos Gomez Story," by Jose Guadalupe Jimenez.
Opposite page: Activest gather with a sign demanding that Kent County "end the contract" with ICE in 2018.
Crafting Luxury
From hobby to roasting 24k gold
BY GIL STANSELL // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN
When out and about one night, I saw a man absolutely tearing it up, dancing salsa. We got to talking and eventually, the conversation turned towards coffee, as conversation often does. He told me about a company he started that was finally beginning to take off. I ended up buying his top shelf coffee, and to my surprise, and delight, it was some of the best coffee I’ve ever had!
Cameron’s coffee is unique. It isn’t just terrific coffee, his coffee, “24K Gold Coffee”, includes 24K edible gold flake sprinkled in every bag, lending an aesthetic of luxury and high quality to the brand. Years ago, inspired by wanting great tasting coffee, but finding normal, store-bought coffee lacking, and always needing a generous helping of creamer to make it palatable, Cameron decided to try for something better. So, he began by roasting coffee beans at home as a hobby. His goal was to make coffee that tastes great, without needing creamer.
While larger producers roast batches of hundreds of pounds of coffee beans at a time, often resulting in the coffee being a year old when finally purchased, Cameron’s company, 24K Gold Coffee, is passionate about using only the highest quality beans, and only roasting in
small batches to keep the coffee beans as fresh as possible. All roasting is done by Cameron, in house, to maintain control of quality.
Cameron believes there’s a lot of bad coffee on the market because most companies are trying to find the lowest cost/ best margin for highest profit. Most people settle for whatever they can get and just add creamer to make the coffee drinkable. Cameron’s approach is very different. Personally, overseeing all procurement, roasting, packaging, marketing, and sales, he works tirelessly to provide a superior product. A daunting, time-consuming endeavor, but as sales picked up, Cameron was encouraged. People really seemed to like the quality. So, he committed to reinvesting profits back into his fledgling company to make the brand even better. Sourcing the best quality product, buying a better roaster, the company eventually began to take shape, providing an incomparable, top shelf product.
As
agent Cooper once said, “That is a damn fine cup of Coffee.”
“For years, I sold my coffee practically at, or below cost, and wasn’t making money. I was laser focused on getting the best product on the market instead. Eventually, I raised prices so I could keep going, stay operational, but I refuse to sacrifice quality.”
After sampling 24K Gold Coffee, I can confirm the quality is undeniable, packaging is top notch, and as agent Cooper once said, “That is a damn fine cup of coffee.”
Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.
You can order 24K Gold coffee online at: 24kgoldcoffee.com or find his coffee at Yochef Café in Kentwood, Bridge Street Market in downtown GR, Robinson’s Popcorn inside of Rivertown Mall, by chance at Fulton Street Market in the summer, or at the South East Market.
Above, 24K Gold Coffee beans and packaging are displayed. At right, Cameron Whitmore owner of 24K Gold Coffee poses at the coffee bean roaster.
A Drive to Revive!
Richard App has a plan to transform Towne & Country Shopping Center
BY MATTHEW ROTHENBERG // PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER
If you’re driving by the intersection of 44th and Kalamazoo, you may (or may not) notice a weathered strip mall fronted by a sign portraying a horse and buggy. Like the rest of the architecture, Towne & Country Shopping Center’s signage hasn’t changed much since 1956, when founder Chuck Wiersma bought the lot from a dairy farmer in exchange for cows. But to Richard App, this modest commercial hub represents his own career history — and the multicultural future of Grand Rapids.
Richard App stands in the parking lot of Towne & Country, where he's leading a rebranding campaign aimed at changing the center's image and attracting new visitors.
PROFILE
Since early 2020, App has advocated for city stores and restaurants as Grand Rapids’ first Retail Retention and Attraction Specialist. (His position is funded jointly by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, the City of Grand Rapids and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.)
But most of his career has been in retail. His best-known businesses were Richard App Gallery and NOMAD Gallery, but his first business got its start at Towne & Country. “My mom called me one day and said that Towne & Country Photo was for sale,” App recalled. “They had lab equipment, a dark room, and a photo studio. I was 23 at the time, and I was like, ‘You know what? I’m going to start my own business!’”
App envisions a rebrand that replaces the horse and buggy with signage and marketing that befits an international business district.
Follow the money
Fast-forward to January 2020, when App started his job with the city — less than months before the US locked down in the face of COVID-19. “There was no real road map on how this was going to work,” App said. “Originally I was retail attraction and retention. The idea was attraction was the big part of the story. On March 15, when the state was effectively shut down, they switched my title to “retention and attraction” instead of ‘attraction and retention.’” App found himself attending a raft of meetings about grants being made available to help retailers weather the pandemic. “I don’t think businesses realize the kind of monies that are available to them in the different parts of the city — and I’ve been incredibly vocal about saying, ‘Do you see what’s here? Do you see what we can do?’
“We’ve been able to bring several national retailers into our downtown, which we didn’t have. But we’ve brought a lot of good businesses downtown. We brought in record stores. We brought in these vintage and upcycling stores. These are all from people that are in their 20s, in their 30s and a little bit into their 40s, yeah, which is where we’re growing the fastest. So, it’s exciting to see this, and to be able to tell people what kind of grants are downtown is amazing.”
League of nations
All of which brings App to Towne & Country’s unique cultural and economic niche among Grand Rapids neighborhoods. This little retail strip is home to a worldclass assortment of international shops and restaurants. However, its position way out
Left: Fatima Sherif braids Gail Brown's hair at Top left, Fatima African Hair Braiding. Below: Madina International Foods.
Mediterranean Island supermarket.
at the border of Kentwood puts it outside the city’s business associations and the Corridor Improvement Authority funds aimed at Southtown, Michigan Street, the West Side and other neighborhoods.
Town & Country has more than enough shops to organize its own business association, App remarked over lunch at Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant. We’d stopped at this Towne & Country standout for lunch after shopping for produce and international treats at the Mediterranean Island supermarket located catty-corner from the restaurant.
“There’s a Sri Lankan restaurant, there are East Asian markets, there’s African hair braiding … At my last count, there were 14 immigrant business owners here,” App said. “And when you start thinking about it, the only place in Michigan that could probably rival this would be the Eastern Market in Detroit.
“In a world where we’re always talking about diversity, shouldn’t we help this place grow and serve all of Grand Rapids?”
To make it happen, App envisions a rebrand that replaces the horse and buggy with signage and marketing that befits an international business district. Getting there will require buy-in from the businesses as well as fresh funding sources. “I want to come in with a city lens and a Chamber lens,” he said. “I want people to know what’s here. When you go by, it
doesn’t give you a good indication of the business. Not at all!”
Besides starting a business association, App said, “perhaps we can find more money to help push businesses into this area — which is, you know, a very concentrated part of the city from a residential standpoint.”
“When visitors ask me to show them a unique part of Grand Rapids, I bring them here. This is a key part of our business recipe. That’s why I’m so passionate about figuring out how to put a business association here: Associations that work together create better business by promoting each other.
“We need to have longer, more meaningful conversations with business owners here to tell them why there’s a value in having a business association,” App said. “Number two, we need to go after funding sources to actually help implement the ideas that are here. I would love to find a funding source that could help get better signage for all the businesses that are here. If we get a really good brand specialist, we can put something consistent together.”
Besides the retail mix, Towne & Country offers another attraction for Grand Rapidians: parking. “There’s still a ridiculous amount of free parking here,” App said. “I know this is one of the biggest retail parking lots in the city.”
From cow pasture to car park, Towne & Country still offers room to roam.
App’s Towne & Country must-trys:
Grand Rapids’ Retail Retention and Attraction Specialist has been dining and shopping at Towne and Country since he was a kid. Here’s a sample platter of his favorite current shops.
Mediterranean Island International Foods. This handsome supermarket offers high-quality produce and some of Grand Rapids’ best halal meats as well as aisles of specialties from Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Want fresh hummus or Iraqi flatbread? Comparison shopping for ajvar or fava beans that represent halfa-dozen countries’ special recipes? Hankering for fresh figs, Afghani almond cookies, or an olive and pickled vegetable bar? Want to try Dubai chocolate? Mediterranean Island’s got it … Most any time, the checkout line includes a United Nations of shoppers.
Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant. Since 2013, Kasahun Beharselase has served Grand Rapids’ most authentic Ethiopian food to visitors as well as the town’s sizable East African community. That includes a new breakfast menu as well as public buffets for Ethiopian Orthodox New Year (Sept. 11); Christmas (Jan. 7); and Easter (April 20). Beharselase just opened a retail shop next door; Ethio Mart features Ethiopian products and dry goods, as well as a shiny new press to create injera flatbread at industrial scale.
Mithru Sri Lankan & Indian Cuisine. Located directly southeast of India, the island nation of Sri Lanka is fiercely proud of its special South Asian cuisine — and Mithru owner Tharma Thuraisingam serves it up for newbies as well as the Sri Lankan community. Check out the Chettinad potatoes, fried up with special spices in traditional Tamil style.
Fatima African Hair Braiding. This salon’s hair craft taps into traditions of West Africa, and the store sells much more that represents the region, including finely crafted baskets, jewelry, and colorful dresses and wraps.
Madina International Food. Ahmad Ahmadi opened this store about a year ago to sell goods from his native Afghanistan to the 200 to 300 Afghani families who live in Kent County. He’s also a must-stop for shoppers with roots in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and more. Besides his groceries, check out the beautiful Afghani costumes Afghani sells for special occasions.
Urartu International Foods. This Russian grocery store advertises bread, chocolate and smoked fish, as well as Slavic pickles, preserves and potions.
Everest Marketplace. Owner Nandu Dangal said that in addition to customers from his native Nepal, his store brings in customers from Burma and Bangladesh, as well as African countries like Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and South Sudan. Check out the store’s assortment of Himalayan dry goods as well as its woven mats and chairs.
N&K Market (formerly Hornbill Asian Market), Chin Hills Asian Grocery Store, Eden Asian Marketplace. Towne & Country Burmese has boasted not one, not two, but three independent Burmese groceries for more than a decade … Although none of them seem to agree on who got there first. Why not explore all three? In addition to common grocery fare, they’ve got frozen seafood and vegetables from East Asia; cookware; and special seasonings like pickled tea and pandam (a leafy plant also known as “Asian vanilla.”)
Towne & Country also features some innovative shops with concepts born in the USA.
Duds N Suds. App helped owner Edward Lewis Diallo Bates open Michigan’s first laundromat to serve beer and wine. “If I’m a young father or mother living in an apartment and I don’t have laundry service, here’s a beautiful space where I can meet up with my friends while we all do laundry,” App said. “Instead of this just being a work obligation, it can be a social part of your life!”
Great Lakes Disc. “The Frisbee place here is one of the busiest in the state,” App said. “That makes sense because two of the top three disc golf courses in the state of Michigan are here: Garfield Park and Riverside Park.”
Fact or fiction?
Tales from Nowhere-in-particular, Michigan
BY ANN BYLE
John Counts knows Michigan’s small towns—he’s lived in them, visited for outdoor activities, and reported on the people and events of those small towns so often that they have become part of him. And are now the impetus behind his book of stories titled Bear County, Michigan, published by Northwestern University Press.
“I spent a lot of time in these little towns and became immersed in the communities, getting to know them intimately,” said Counts, who lives in Whitmore Lake and works at MLive as editor in charge of its statewide investigative team.
It’s that investigative experience that allows Counts to dig deep into the characters that populate his stories, often
folks who experience the messy side of life.
“I feel like when you take the world head on, it’s a messy and hard place with a lot of nastiness in it. But if you can come out the other side with hope or a brief connection with another human or with nature, those are the moments you look for,” he said. “To fight through the misfortune and nastiness makes it all the more beautiful.”
Counts, who is eight years sober, knows that life can be tough. He can write about Jimmy Blizzard on a frantic search for more Oxy; about Lillie Korpela and her house made of animal skulls. Shelly Bowman is frantically trying to get her mom away from a nudist colony, while Capt. Fred Bjorklund is facing life after a
“I feel like when you take the world head on, it’s a messy and hard place with a lot of nastiness in it. But if you can come out the other side with hope or a brief connection with another human or with nature, those are the moments you look for.”
John Counts
When: 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 7
Where: Schuler Books, 2660 28th Street, Grand Rapids
Bear County, Michigan will be available for purchase and signing.
debilitating stroke. He’s seen so many like them in his life.
Counts started writing the short stories while working at the Manistee News Advocate back in 2010, working on them over a number of years and getting a few published in small literary journals. When Northwestern University Press put out a call for manuscripts about the Midwest and Michigan, Counts submitted Bear County, Michigan. It released in February.
“The stories expose readers to a different side of Michigan. I hope readers look down the street instead of driving past,” said Counts. “People still hope for human connection and are doing the best they can; even people who are screw-ups deserve empathy and understanding.”
There are similarities, he said, between his work as a journalist and that of his storytelling. “The mission remains the same— getting the stories and telling the truth—in my journalism career and fiction writing. It’s always about telling the truth.”
John Counts will read from and answer questions about Bear County, Michigan.
Isle Royale National Park
Keweenaw National Historical Park
International Keweenaw Dark Sky Park
look+feel
KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY
Recreation Reimagined
» PLUS: VIVID VISIONS: SPRING TRENDS
SOWING SEEDS OF SUCCESS
PHOTOGRAPH BY BRYAN ESLER
Joycelyn Evans, founder of Queens and Kings Linedance leads an outdoor dance class.
If your type of spring cleaning includes a wardrobe refresh, read on to discover four fashion trends that will have you dopamine dressing your way into sunnier weather and sunnier dispositions. We spoke to GR fashion experts Ilze Vizulis, Director of Women’s at luxury boutique A.K. Rikk’s and Carmen Foster, owner of local boutique COVET to get the latest on what’s trending in style this spring.
Vitamin Sea: From “fisherman aesthetic” to fisherman sandals, water-inspired, colorful dressing is making waves this season (pun intended), with oversized, cable-knits and sardineinspired accessories, embrace the laid- back maritime lifestyle.
Ilze Vizuli: You’ll be seeing a lot of nautical inspiration as sea creature prints.
Carmen Foster: Anything quirky and ‘food related’ prints are huge. Think lobsters, lemons, cherries and cocktail themes. Nautical and crochet moments are still always relevant for spring with bold stripes and intricately knit details.
Trendy spring fashions
BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK // PHOTOS BY LISA ENOS
Vacay Vibes: With temps warming up, embody the vacation mindset whether you’re planning a Greek Isle getaway or catching rays in your backyard. The resort-chic look is trending, featuring soft colors, breezy pants and easy-to-style sets.
IV: I’m really excited about the developments we’re seeing in linen this season, both in quality as well an update in style. Linen is going to be a
Polka-dots: From dresses to bloomers, this time-honored pattern is making a comeback. STYLE
must-have for effortless and chic dressing for your next vacation or summer outing.
CF: Matching sets are more popular than ever. The versatility and “more bang for your buck” aspects are speaking to everyone.
Dreamy Cowgirl:
Western trends are here to stay, with a resurgence of elevated country-inspired vibes that skew a bit more 70’s-inspired, with dark denim, cowgirl boots with flowy dresses and soft suede. Queue up Cowboy Carter, Kelsea Ballerini or the folk-pop artist of your choice and ride into the spring season.
CF: Denim tops and dresses are all over right now. Think bustier, corset denim tops, button front vests that double as a top. Chocolate brown is a hot color, and boho styles are making a comeback with flowy, gauzy fabrics and silhouettes.
Girly Pop:
Spring is truly for the girls this season with fantastical florals and all things ultrafeminine. With trending colors like pink, cornflower blue and cherry red, perfect the dollhouse-like, Polly-Pocket look with tie tops, luxe accessories and colorful barrettes.
CF: Bubble hems on skirts and dresses along with contrast/mixed media dresses (think ribbed tank on top connected to a bubble hem skirt). The tie-bow front tops and sweaters are still having their moment in spring with new pastel color ways and prints.
Style Refresh Tips:
IV: A.K. Rikk’s personal stylists are here to make it easy and fun for you. I always say that if you don’t know what to wear, you probably don’t have enough basics. Start by investing in timeless staples to build a capsule wardrobe that offers endless options to mix-and-match.
CF: Spring and summer are the perfect times to play with new trends. Add some bolder prints and colors to your basic staples. Try a new silhouette of denim, like the barrel or wide crop styles that are trending. Fashion is fun and an expression of your personality and creative desires, don’t fall into “fashion rules”.
Follow along on social: Ilze Vizulis: @thefashionforefront COVET: @covet_gr
Spice up your spring with an eyelit cotton striped tank & matching clutch, a floral blouse with a light faux-suede jacket, or this eye-catching ensemble in the front window at Covet, 953 Cherry St SE.
Sowing seeds of success
Expert tips for new gardeners
BY CAROL LAUTENBACH PHOTOS BY LISA ENOS
Like proud parents sharing pictures of their new babies, customers at Flowerland, West Michigan’s 75-year-old purveyor of plants, sometimes bring in snapshots showcasing the plants that garden supply buyer Kathy Rohm has helped them nurture. In many ways, the process of growing plants has parallels with raising newborns: Confusion about what to do, desire to provide the best environment, and pride in their growth and development. Maybe there’s a reason the word “nursery” is associated with both.
Kathy and her colleague Kristi Klaver, Flowerland’s fertilizer and pesticide buyer, have expert gardening advice to offer. Between them, they have 64 years of experience in the plant business, almost as long as Flowerland itself. So they know a thing or three.
In fact, when asked what the top three things people need to to know to grow a productive garden are, they had this to say:
Sun
Top on Rohm’s tip list is to know how much sunlight the garden has in peak season. Klaver added that a sunny spot quickly becomes shady when the trees leaf out in May. And while many plants grow well in shade,
vegetables don’t. Plants that produce food is a growing trend among their clients. Both hours of sunlight and intensity are important variables for home growers to know. So, in late spring, they recommend taking some time to grab your sunglasses, have a seat outside, observe the garden spot you have chosen, and jot down where the sun is coming from and how long it shines on the patch you have selected. Thes specialists at your local garden centers will know what plants will do best there.
Soil
Who would have guessed that soil is one of Flowerland’s most popular products? Each plant has particular preferences for the ground under it; keeping the kind of plant you have chosen happy may mean amending the soil with supplements like gypsum, lime, and worm castings or kelp meal, both organic fertilizers, another product that is growing in popularity. How would you know what kind of soil you have? Is it sandy, loamy, rocky, or a combination of all of the above? Flowerland encourages gardeners to bring a two-cup sample of their soil in for testing; this twenty-dollar test can pay off in healthier plants and better yield.
Above, left: A variety of seeds are on display at Flowerland, located at 765 28th St SW in Wyoming.
Top: Pink Gerber Daisies are one of many colorful potted plants available at Flowerland.
Below, left: Purple perennial pansies, ready for planting.
Time
Hobby gardening is growing in popularity. A few tips from experienced gardeners can help weed out unnecessary expenses and grow knowledge that will yield better results— and lower grocery bills.
Tip number three has nothing to do with environmental conditions. It has to do with the gardener. How much time do you want to spend on this new hobby? From planting to watering to weeding to harvesting, the time can add up. Some plants require more tending than others. Once plants are in and established, Klaver and Rohm said that two hours a week is a good amount to budget. Think of it as an investment that can do serious damage to your grocery bill.
But that’s not the only benefit. These experts noted that homegrown produce can have more micronutrients than storebought vegetables. Working in the soil itself provides physical health benefits and can be a mood booster. And growing living things brings a sense of accomplishment and pride.
So, dig in and get started growing! And don’t be shy about sharing your successes: Your neighborhood garden center gardeners always welcome pictures of your “family tree.
Recreation Reimagined
BY
Each year, we endure the unrelenting chill of winter–waiting, albeit not always patiently, for the unparalleled bliss of a West Michigan summer. We are rewarded with balmy breezes that kiss the shores of Lake Michigan and the boundless possibilities of a sunny Saturday. Maybe you grab your pickleball paddles and head for the courts or don your lifejacket for an afternoon of standup paddleboarding on the Grand River. Your favorite summer recreational activities may be equipment intensive or on the simpler side; if you’re having fun and getting your blood pumping, you’re doing it right!
Defying Gravity
When a picture of a co-worker riding a unicycle to work in a torrent of snow popped into my Microsoft Teams chat, I knew I had to know more. Turns out, Kevin Higby rides his unicycle to the office almost every day and has been riding for 24 years.
PASHA SHIPP // PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER
Kevin Higby enjoys the outdoors by unicycling nearly every day. He’s been riding for almost a quarter of a century.
“For one, it’s really fun,” Higby said. “It’s kind of been part of my identity, I guess. I learned when I was seven, and I stopped riding my bike at that point, and I just rode the unicycle everywhere. You get a lot of looks; I do it partly for the attention, I will admit,” he laughed. “You get really funny reactions, and it makes people’s day, so it’s fun to be able to do that.”
Higby learned to ride from his father, but the unicycle tradition started with his grandfather, who built one for his kids using things he had laying around the garage.
“He put together a unicycle, and he challenged his kids–whoever learned how to ride it first would get a banana split,” Higby said. “I think my dad learned when he was in elementary school, but I don’t remember how old he was exactly. He did that same challenge with us. At the time, though, we were in West Africa, so a banana split was a bigger deal,” he continued. “We all tried, but I stuck with it, and eventually I got all the way down the street and back to our gate and I earned my banana split.”
Today, he rides for transportation, sport and because he enjoys it, but he also has a friendly rivalry going with his father. Last year, they raced their unicycles in the Dirty 30 Gravel Grinder–a 30-mile race in Saranac, Michigan. The duo also ride atop their six-foot giraffe unicycles, dazzling crowds in parades.
“Last year, he beat me by eight minutes in the race, but this year, we have both signed up
Joycelyn Evans Founder of Queens and Kings Linedance teaches a class.
”The first thing they’ll say is, ‘I can’t dance, or I don’t have any rhythm.'
First of all, let me assure you, you can dance, and you do have rhythm; we just have to find it.“
Joycelyn Evans
again, and I’m gonna kick his ass,” Higby laughed. “We rode in the East Grand Rapids Fourth of July parade last year together, which was super fun. My dad has actually ridden in the Chicago Thanksgiving Day parade. He invited me, but I missed the registration window, but hopefully this year I’ll be able to do that.”
With kids of his own now, Higby and his father hope to pass the unicycling legacy down to the next generation this summer.
Dancing Queens (and Kings)
It started as Queens of J – line dancing classes for women who loved to dance in the Grand Rapids community. Little by little, founder Joycelyn Evans broadened the scope to include anyone who wanted to participate. That’s when Queens and Kings Linedance began to take shape.
“At first, it was just a fun activity, then I started realizing like, ‘wait a minute; this is muscle memory because you have to memorize different steps,’” Evans said. “It’s also giving you exercise. You could do slower line dances, or you could do the faster ones, either way. If you do the faster ones, of course it’s going to get your heart rate up. If you do the slower ones, you would be able to do some muscle toning.”
Her classes cater to beginners and advanced dancers alike, so don’t worry if you’re new to line dancing. And if you think you can’t dance, Evans is here to tell you, that’s not true.
“Whatever the step is that we’re doing, I call it exactly that,” she said. “If I say step two times to the right, starting with the right foot, that’s what we’re going to do. It’s breaking it all the way down so they can feel comfortable. I’m not going to use fancy terms because everybody doesn’t know what those terms are. Some folks come in with very low selfesteem; we have some that the first thing they’ll say is, ‘I can’t dance, or I don’t have any rhythm,’” she continued. “First of all, let me assure you, you can dance, and you do have rhythm; we just have to find it.”
As an instructor with Grand Rapids Parks and Rec, you can find her Queens and Kings Linedance classes all over – Roosevelt Park, Baxter
Community Center, Garfield Park, Briggs Park – you name it.
“Our classes for Grand Rapids Parks and Rec are usually in between 45 and 55 minutes,” Evans said. “When you’re outside, it really looks more like an exercise class, but, you know, we’re having fun and you’re learning steps. In a 55-minute class, we can probably do seven or eight hustles or line dances.”
Evans knows somewhere in the neighborhood of 350 unique line dances, including the ones she created herself. She even choreographed one for R&B singer Lenny Williams’ nephew.
“To see other people perform, especially something that I’ve created, I mean, it’s just heartwarming because at the same time, I look at the participants, and they trust me,” she said. “Because that’s really big to be able to say, ‘Okay, you want me to do what with my feet and my ankles and my hips?’ And then to see them do it and I don’t have to instruct it, I don’t have to count it out. I just turn the music on, and they go; that’s the payment.”
Dog Days of Summer
I’m one of those people who hikes in all seasons. Whether it’s 86º or 26º, you can catch me out on the trail, decked out in whatever gear is required to beat the heat or brave the cold. Most of the time, unless it’s too toasty or too frosty, Lilue tags along. Who’s Lilue, you ask? She’s a 12-pound, all sass, Schnauzer Poodle mix. More than chasing tennis balls and lying in sunsoaked patches of carpet, she likes taking a walk, or hitching a ride, on one of my frequent outdoor excursions.
A couple years ago, I got an electric bike, and it has changed the game. I was always lagging behind and struggling to conquer even the smallest
More than chasing tennis balls and lying in sun-soaked patches of carpet, she likes taking a walk, or hitching a ride, on one of my frequent outdoor excursions. ion.
of hills until my sky-blue Blix bike came on the scene. While I don’t bike in all seasons, I spend the better part of summer cycling around Kentwood with Lilue in tow; literally. With her in a dog trailer tethered to my bike, we glide through town, her tongue lolling out as she catches the wind.
Whether biking or hiking, I have a few go-to trails that always deliver. Ken-O-Sha Park is one of my absolute favorites. There’s a paved trail that winds its way through a lush, wooded area, with smaller gravel paths that zig and zag over streams and tree roots. Lilue loves meandering by Plaster Creek and catching the scent of nearby squirrels as we go along.
On days when I’m feeling more ambitious, the Paul Henry-Thornapple Trail is just the ticket. I only bike or hike a small section of it, but it goes on for miles, cutting across Kentwood and Caledonia with plans in the works to potentially stretch all the way to Vermontville. Meanwhile, Millennium Park is a bit out of the way for me but never disappoints with its scenic backdrops and rambling pathways–it’s always worth the trip.
Pasha Shipp, takes her dog on bike trails for a walk.
Make the Most of Summer with
Advice from the Experts
Summer is o icially around the corner, and that means di erent things for di erent people. You may be getting your lawn and garden in shape for the season or — speaking of curb appeal — even preparing to sell your home and move to a new one. Of course, summer isn’t all work and no play — far from it. This is also vacation season, and deciding where to go and what to do once you’re there is always a fun diversion this time of year. Thinking
Q: What makes a great restaurant?
of a staycation this summer? You don’t have to travel far for a good time; there are places around town that give o a tropical vibe and make it easy to unwind right here in Grand Rapids. Whatever your plans, we know local professionals who have answers to your questions so you can make the most of the season. Browse this section to see what this issue’s experts have to say!
A: The No. 1 thing is obviously the quality of the food. Nothing else really matters if the food isn’t great. But there are several other critical things a restaurant needs to do well to be successful:
• Prompt, friendly, attentive service sta .
• A fair trade-o between the price of the meal and the value perceived by the guest.
• Location, location, location.
• Ownership that’s engaged in the business and respected by the employees.
• An ambience that fits the dining experience guests expect for the price point they’re paying. The bottom line is that operating a successful restaurant is a very tricky and delicate balance between many di erent factors. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s hugely rewarding to see guests enjoying their time away from home and smiling as they leave. Ask any restaurateur and they’ll tell you that’s why they got into this business in the first place. We love to make our guests happy.
Max’s South Seas Hideaway
Mark Sellers, Restaurateur 58 Ionia Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-551-0016 info@maxstiki.com
Q: What is a buyer’s agent and what are the benefits of employing one in your home search?
A: In real estate, a buyer’s agent has one role: to represent the interest of the buyer. They have a fiduciary duty to their clients not only to prioritize and advocate for their needs from search to closing but also to negotiate the best deal under the conditions that matter most to their clients.
An Accredited Buyer’s Representative, like myself, will have solid connections in the community, which is especially critical in finding the right lender and the best terms for financing your home. A buyer’s agent will also be able to offer trusted guidance on important factors, such as inspections and negotiations. Working with a buyer’s agent means you have a partner who will walk with you through every step and provide peace of mind in an often complex and confusing process.
Q: Why is early summer a great time to visit Ludington?
A: Early summer in Ludington offers the perfect blend of pleasant weather, exciting activities, and fewer crowds. While Lake Michigan may still be a bit chilly for swimming, early summer is an ideal time for beach walks, hiking, and exploring the area before peak-season visitors arrive. This is also when some of Ludington’s top attractions open for the season: Our museums welcome guests starting May 4, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse opens for climbing on May 21. Plus, early June brings unique events like Love Ludington Weekend, happening June 6–9. Whether you’re here for the history, the scenery, or the local charm, early summer is an unbeatable time to experience Ludington at a relaxed pace while still enjoying everything that makes this lakeside town special in the warm-weather months!
Greenridge Realty EGR Romanowski Homes
Janet Romanowski Realtor, ABR 2213 Wealthy St. SE East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-458-3655
janet@romanhousekey.com
Q: What should be included in full-service landscape maintenance?
A: Maintaining a healthy, beautiful yard requires year-round care. Not only does this enhance curb appeal, but it also increases property value and creates an inviting space for you and your guests.
In the spring, focus on repairing the lawn and preparing the landscape bed areas for the upcoming season. Cleaning up winter debris, repairing winter damage, fertilization, and preemergent weed control, as well as pruning and fresh mulch, will set your landscape up for the growing season. Summer should include regular mowing, pest control, ongoing fertilization, and weed management. As the seasons change, it’s crucial to trim perennials, treat for pests, and clean up fallen leaves from plant beds and your lawn. For the best results and to protect your landscape investment, consider hiring a professional service. Have questions? We’re here to help keep your outdoor space thriving year-round!
Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Brandy Miller Executive Director
Paul Burd Owner 2914 Three Mile Road NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-2530
Alfresco Landscapes
of Grand Rapids
Top left: "Long Island Buddha," created by Zhang Huan on view at the Japanes Gardens at Frederik Merijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Left: The Lena Meijer Children's Garden— a place for children to interact with works of art. Above: Alexander Liberman's sculpture "Aria," one of many iconic works at the Park.
BEST OF GR A Celebration of Excellence
Story by Lisa Enos • Photos courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
eEach year, the community weighs in on what makes Grand Rapids great in our Best of Grand Rapids Readers’ Survey. In fall 2024, thousands of votes flooded in from across the city, making this year’s survey one of the most anticipated events in our city’s cultural calendar. After a vigorous round of write-ins and narrowing down to the top finalists, the results were clear: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park emerged as the big winner, dominating the awards and taking home an impressive six titles.
Several other Grand Rapids institutions also had standout performances as well. Long Road Distillery earned accolades across multiple categories, and Mitten Brewing stood out with top honors for Best Pizza and Best
Beer. Chef Jenna Arcidiacono is once again recognized as Best Chef, earning a win for her incredible culinary talents both individually and for Best Pasta at her restaurant, Amore Trattoria Italiana. Horrocks Market continued its tradition of excellence with wins in three categories.
Other respected local institutions, such as Lake Michigan Credit Union and Warner, Norcross & Judd, also earned multiple wins, showcasing the diverse excellence that defines our city. The 2025 “Best of” winners truly highlight the vibrant spirit of our community. Be sure to check out the full list of honorees beginning on Page 40 of this issue to discover all the standout creators, businesses, and organizations, and individuals who make this city shine.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Dominates 2025 Best of Grand Rapids List
As Grand Rapids Magazine unveils the 2025 “Best of” winners, one name stands out— Frederik Meijer Gardens. This iconic venue not only earned six prestigious awards but also marks its 30th anniversary this year— a fitting milestone for a place that has become a cultural cornerstone of Kent County. The recognition, spanning categories such as Best Date Night Venue, Best Museum, and Best Live Music Venue (and more), speaks to the institution’s continued commitment to excellence and its profound impact on Grand Rapids.
In an exclusive interview with Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Magazine had the opportunity to sit down with him and
Visitors are greated at the entryway to Park with Tony Cragg's sculpture "Bent of Mind."
B BEST S of Grand Rapids
dive into the Gardens’ journey. Burke has been at the helm of the Gardens since 2023, guiding the institution through growth, change, and countless community events. During his leadership, the Gardens has become even more of a vital part of the city’s fabric.
“We are thrilled to embark on our 30th year of creating unforgettable experiences for our community and visitors from around the world,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “As a place where art, culture, and nature come together, Meijer Gardens offers something truly special for everyone. We look forward to welcoming guests of all ages to discover the joy, beauty, and inspiration that await around every corner.”
With a clear vision of the future and a deep respect for the legacy of founders Frederik and Lena Meijer, Burke is looking forward to more exciting “world-class” developments at the Gardens. Stay "tuned" for an announcement in the area of food offerings that promise to enhance the visitor experience even further, and for new additions to the one of the country’s largest interactive children’s gardens, where visitors will soon be able to buy ice cream.
As Frederik Meijer Gardens celebrates its “120 Seasons” milestone, let’s dive into the six categories where it was recognized by voters for its exceptional contributions to Grand Rapids.
Best Date Night Venue
Romance Among Art and Nature
Frederik Meijer Gardens provides the ideal setting for an unforgettable date, whether you're with someone new or celebrating an anniversary with your spouse. Wander through the vibrant gardens, bask in the peacefulness of the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, or unwind in the lush tropical conservatory—each space encourages connection. Add to that a romantic dinner at the Café (some exciting new offerings are on the horizon in the food department) or a live performance at the outdoor amphitheater during the summer, and you’ve got all the elements for an outing that will leave lasting memories for years to come.
Best Date Night finalists: 20 Monroe Live, AllArtWorks Viewing Studio, BattleGR, Big Mini Putt Club, Dr. Grins, House Rules, Rapid River Stillhouse, Studio Park, The Aroma Labs, The Comedy Project, Thought Design Learning Studio, Turnstiles.
Best Museum
A World-Class Art Experience
Features over 200 world-renowned sculptures and attracting over 850,000 visitors annually, the Gardens has won "top sculpture park" in USA Today's 10Best Readers Choice Awards for three years in a row.
Best Museum finalists: Gerald R. Ford Museum, Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Best Wedding Venue
A Picture-Perfect Setting
Whether hosting an extravagant celebration or an intimate ceremony, the Gardens provides an ideal setting to say, "I do." With so much "eye candy" to choose from as a backdrop, the photos are sure to be spectacular!
Best Wedding Venue finalists: Goei Center, Harris Building, New Vintage Place, Venue3Two.
Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is a one-of-a-kind venue that combines art, nature, and architecture. With space for up to 1,200 guests, it offers a unique setting for your wedding, while granting free admission to select park areas for you and your guests to enjoy.
Frederik
An aerial view of the Tassell-Wisner-Bottrall
English Perennial Garden at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park courtyard and fountain.
Best Live Music Venue Music in a Natural Paradise
The Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater has hosted over 470 concerts since 2003. As one of the region’s premier outdoor concert venues, the stage is perennially set for world-class performers. The lineup for the 2025 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts includes legends like Chaka Khan, Rick Springfield, Smokey Robinson, Cheap Trick, Psychadelic Furs, Dinne Krall, Wynonna Judd, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Verve Pipe, and more.
Best Live Music Venue finalists: 20 Monroe Live, The Intersection, Midtown, The Pyramid Scheme.
Best Local Music Series
A Soundtrack to Summer Evenings
Every Tuesday evening, local and regional musicians take the stage, offering a diverse mix of musical genres in a relaxed, open-air setting at the Ayers Basement
Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club. From June through August, concerts are included in the price of admission, and all of Meijer Gardens is open to visitors until 9 pm on Tuesday concert nights.
Best Local Music Series finalists: Blues Jam at Chicago Beef Joint, GR Symphony Coffee Masterworks, Lowell Showboat Concert Series, The Beat Suite.
Best Tourist Attraction
A Year-Round Destination
Whether you’re exploring the “Butterflies Are Blooming” exhibit in spring or experiencing the dazzling “Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World,” the Gardens offers something for everyone throughout the year, making it a must-see for both residents and visitors in every season.
Best Tourist Attraction finalists: ArtPrize, BattleGR, Boulder Ridge Animal Park, John Ball Zoo.
2025 B BEST S of Grand Rapids
and architecture. The park features over 200 sculptures, beautifully landscaped gardens, and an impressive indoor conservatory, offering visitors a unique experience that combines culture and natural beauty.
Looking Ahead
The future of Frederik Meijer Gardens is as bright as ever, with a full calendar of exciting exhibits and events ahead. On view through Sept. 21 is BUSTED: Contemporary Sculpture Busts, featuring unexpected busts of famous historical figures, including some whimsical likenesses you might not expec. Other events and programs that make up the vibrant lineup of events this spring include the Naturalist Walk on May 1 and the Michigan All-State Bonsai Show May 10–11. For an extra special tranquil and unique cultural experience, the Japanese Teahouse will be open May 18 and June 22 from 1–4 p.m. Farm Family Weekend on June 7–8 and Fridays at the Farm on June 27 offer immersive experiences of a bucolic nature, and for youngest FMG attendees, the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden will host programs every Monday and Wednesday morning throughout June and July.
Finally, don’t miss the Great Gardens Gala presented by Northern Trust on May 16, celebrating the Gardens' 30th anniversary. Here’s to many more seasons of beauty, inspiration, and continued recognition as one of the city’s "Best" venues, and a remarkable example of what makes Grand Rapids truly exceptional!
Above, the James & Shirley Balk Café at night reflects the light of its surroundings. At left, "Mad Mom" stands at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, a stunning blend of art, nature,
B BEST S of Grand Rapids
2025 WINNERS
The finalists who received the most votes are in Bold Type
Arts & Entertainment
ANNUAL FESTIVAL
ArtPrize
Breakaway Music Festival
Colombian Independence Festival
Grand Rapids Pride Festival
Pulaski Days
• BAND FROM GRAND RAPIDS
Brena
The 6 Pak Band
Bootstrap Boys
Common Molly
Desmond Jones
GR Symphony
Great Scott
Mark Lavengood
Mustard Plug
Verve Pipe
•
BOWLING
Clique Lanes
Hudsonville Lanes
Northfield Lanes
Wengers Bowling Center
Woodrow’s Duckpin
Bowling
Woody’s Press Box/ Spectrum
•
DATE NIGHT VENUE
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
20 Monroe Live
AllArtWorks Viewing
Studio
BattleGR
Big Mini Putt Club
Dr. Grins
House Rules
Rapid River Stillhouse
Studio Park
The Aroma Labs
The Comedy Project
Thought Design
Learning Studio
Turnstiles
• DANCING
Rumors
Back Forty
Billy’s Blues Bar
Eve HOME at the Bob Mojo’s
The Holiday Bar
•
SOCIAL DANCE VENUE
Rosa Parks Circle
Moveir Dance Studio
Social Dance Studio
The Studio by Benji
•
IMPROV TROUPE
River City Improv
Battle Bots - The Comedy Project
Pop Scholars
Tiny Breakfast
• KARAOKE BAR
Fulton Street Pub
Cheer’s Good Time Saloon
K-Rok
The Holiday Bar
Z’s Bar & Restaurant
•
LIVE MUSIC VENUE
Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park
Amphitheater
GLC Live at 20 Monroe
Midtown GR
The Intersection
The Pyramid Scheme
•
LOCAL MUSIC SERIES
Frederik Meijer Gardens
Tuesday Night Local
Music Series
Blues Jam at Chicago
Beef Joint
GR Symphony Coffee
Masterworks
Lowell Showboat
Concert Series
The Beat Suite
•
MOVIE THEATER
Celebration Cinemas
AMC Theater
North Star Cinema
Phoenix Theaters
Sperry’s Moviehouse
Wealthy Theatre
•
MUSEUM
Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park
Gerald R. Ford Museum
GR Children’s Museum
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Grand Rapids Public Museum
•
BEST KIDS EVENT/ OUTING
John Ball Zoo
Accidental Art
Backyard Fun Zone
Children’s Museum
Craig’s Cruisers
• PERFORMING ARTS
ORGANIZATION
Civic Theatre
Broadway Grand Rapids
Deos Ballet
Grand Rapids Ballet Company
Grand Rapids Symphony
(Education,CommunityParks and Amenities)
CHILDCARE
Milestones
Big Steps Little Feet
Bright horizons
Cascade Christian Child
Development Center
ChildTime
Divine Providence
Academy-Little Wings
Guidepost Montessori
Katie’s Christian Family
Childcare
Peacock
The Goddard School
Whistle Stop CDC
Wonderfully Wild Early
Childhood Care & Education
• PRIVATE SCHOOL
Grand Rapids Catholic Central
Ada Christian School
Grand Rapids Christian Schools
North Point Christian
South Christian
West Side Christian School
• RETIREMENT
COMMUNITY
Holland Home
Beacon Hill at Eastgate
Clark on Keller Lake
Commonwealth Senior
Living
Georgetown Cambridge Manor
• PARK
Millennium Park
Cascade Township Park
Huff Park
Riverside Park
Roselle Park
The Highlands Wilcox Park
• HIKE TRAIL
Millennium Park
Aman Park
Grand Ravines North
Huff Park
Provin Trails
• BIKE TRAIL
White Pine Trail
Cannonsburg Ski Area
Dragon Trail
Kent Trails
Luton Park
• GOLF COURSE
Egypt Valley
Cascade Hills Country Club
Scott Lake Country Club
The Mines
Western Greens
HOTEL
Amway Grand Plaza
Ada Hotel
Canopy by Hilton
Embassy Suite Downtown
JW Marriot
• ORCHARD
Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery
Ed Dunneback & Girls
Farmhaus Farms
Schwallier’s Country Basket
Wells Orchard
•
ROCK CLIMBING GYM
Terra Firma
Grand Rapids Boulder Park
Higher Ground
• SPORTS TEAM
Grand Rapids Griffins
GR Rise Volleyball
Grand Rapids Gold Rampage
West Michigan Whitecaps
•
TOURIST ATTRACTION
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
ArtPrize
BattleGR
Boulder Ridge Animal Park
John Ball Zoo
•
WEDDING VENUE
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Goei Center
Harris Building
New Vintage Place
Venue 3Two
Health & Beauty
CHIROPRACTOR
Westside Chiropractic
Active Life Chiropractic
Chiropractic Unlimited
Greater Life Chiropractic
iChiro
Kooistra Chiropractic
•
DAY SPA
Woodhouse Day Spa
Bengtson Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery
BENJI Salon and Spa
Ethos Day Spa
Glow Up Aesthetics
Leigh’s
Tanaz
•
DENTAL CLINIC
Great Lakes Dental
44 West Dental
Professionals
Bander Dental Group
Personalized Dentistry of West Michigan
•
FITNESS CENTER/GYM
YMCA of Greater
Grand Rapids
Coachman Strength & Conditioning
Grandville Tranzform
Custom Fitness Solutions
MVP Sportsplex
Planet Fitness
•
DERMATOLOGY CLINIC
Dermatology Associates of West Michigan
Cosmetic Treatment Center
Dermatology at MidTowne
Forefront dermatology
The Derm Institute of West Michigan
Urban You
West Michigan
Dermatology
Wolverine Dermatology
• PLASTIC SURGERY
Bengtson Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery
Centre for Plastic Surgery
Partners in Plastic
Surgery of West Michigan
Partners in Plastic
Surgery of West Michigan
Plastic Surgery Associates
Steven Ringler MDCenter for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery
Urban You
Vagotis Cosmetic Surgery + Skin Center
HAIR SALON
Benji Salon & Spa
Cheeky Strut
Coiffeteria Salon
Heidi Christine’s Meraki Salon
•
NAIL SALON
Posh Nails & Spa
A-T Nails
Benji Salon & Spa
Dream Nails
Posh
TLC Spa
• TATTOO PARLOR
Screaming Needle
Balm Tattooing
House of Honor Tattoo
Studio
Lighthouse Tattoo Company
Lightning Revival Tattoo Company
Sparrows Nest Tattoo
Studio
•
YOGA STUDIO
Funky Buddha
AM Yoga
Kula Yoga
The Studio by Benji
Twisted Hot Yoga
oga Food & Beverage
BAR
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The Knickerbocker)
Anchor Bar
Holiday Bar
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
Pursuit of Happiness
• BEER BRAND
Founders Brewing Company
Archival Brewing
Bell’s Brewery
City Built Brewing Company
Mitten Brewing Co.
New Holland Brewing and Spirits Shorts
• BLOODY MARY
The Winchester
Holiday Bar
San Chez Bistro
Steel Cat
•
BREWERY
The Mitten Brewing Co.
B BEST S of Grand Rapids
2025 WINNERS
The finalists who received the most votes are in Bold Type
City Built Brewing Company
Founders Brewing Company
New Holland Brewing and Spirits
Railtown Brewing Company
• CIDERY
Farmhaus Cider
Archival Brewing
Painted Turtle Hard Cider
People’s Cider Co.
Pux Cider
Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery
Vander Mill
• CRAFT COCKTAILS
Long Road Distillers
Buffalo Trader’s Lounge
Drip Drop Cocktail Room
Eastern Kille
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
• COFFEE HOUSE
Madcap Coffee Company
Morning Ritual Coffee Bar
Roots Brew Shop
Scorpion Hearts Club
Sparrows Coffee
Squibb Coffee and Wine Bar
• DISTILLERY
Long Road Distillers
Eastern Kille
Mammoth Distilling Cocktail Lounge
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The Knickerbocker)
• HAPPY HOUR
The Holiday Bar
Archival Brewing
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway MeXo
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The Knickerbocker)
• MARGARITA
Donkey Taqueria
Condado Tacos
El Cerrito
Luna
MeXo
• SPORTS BAR
The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar
Big E’s Sports Grill
Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar
Peppino’s
Uccello’s Ristorante
• LOCAL ALCOHOL/ SPIRITS BRAND
Long Road Distillers
Easter Kille Distillery
New Holland Brewing
Knickerbocker
Rapid River Beverage
Wiseman distillery
• WHISKEY BAR
Butcher’s Union
Buffalo Trader’s Lounge
Butcher’s Union
Mammoth Distilling Cocktail Lounge
New Holland Brewing’s
The Knickerbocker
One Bourbon
Rapid River Stillhouse
Stella’s Lounge
• WINE BAR
House of Wine Aperitivo Chateau
Good Good Good
Pursuit of Happiness
• APPETIZERS
San Chez Bistro
Archival Brewing
HopCat
Little Bird
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
New Holland Brewing
Knickerbocker
One Bourbon
Pochis Colombian Café
Roam by San Chez
• BAKERY
Nantucket Baking Company
Field and Fire
Hall Street Bakery
Rise Authentic Baking Company
Wealthy Street Bakery
• BBQ
Two Scotts
City BBQ
Mission BBQ
Pit Stop
Sweet Racks & Smokin’
Butts BBQ
• BREAKFAST
Anna’s House
Lucy’s Café
Morning Belle
Real Food Café
Wolfgang’s
• BRUNCH
Lucy’s
Anna’s House
Brunch House GR
Little Bird
Morning Belle
San Chez Bistro
Social Misfits
SpeakEZ Lounge
• BURGER
Stella’s Lounge
Black Napkin
Butcher’s Union
The Holiday Bar
Little Bird
Patty Matters
• BUTCHER
Sobie Meats
Delski’s Prime Meats
E A Brady’s
Frank’s Market
Louise Earl Sobie Meats
• CATERING
Martha’s Catering
Applause Catering
Distinctive Catering
KJ Catering
Martha’s Catering
Pochis Colombian
Restaurant and Café
Sweet Racks and Smokin’
Butts BBQ
• CAKE
Nothing
Bundt Cakes
Cakabakery
Nantucket Bakery
Rise Authentic Baking Co.
Sweet Details GR
•
CHICKEN SANDWICH
Hancock
Black Napkin
Hop Cat
Kitchen 67
Little Bird
New Holland Brewing and Spirits’ Knickerbocker Nonla Burger
One Burbon
•
CHILI DOG
Yesterdog
Blue Dog Tavern
Corner Bar
Mr. Burger
One Stop Coney
• CHINESE FOOD
First Wok
Gaslight Kitchen
Golden Wok
Grand Lakes
Red Bowl
Tea Garden
• CUPCAKES
Salted Cupcake
Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant
Cakabakery
Connie’s Cakes
Nantucket Baking Co.
Rise Authentic Baking Company
• DATE NIGHT
RESTAURANT
Butcher’s Union Gin Gin’s
Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar
Little Bird
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
• DELI
Schnitz
Eastern Deli
Kingma’s Market
Martha’s Vineyard
Two Beards Deli
• DESSERTS
Nantucket Baking Co.
Chartreuse Sisters
Pochis Colombian Café
Rise Authentic Baking Co.
San Chez Bistro
• DINER
76th Street Diner
Anna’s House
Choo Choo Grill
Matchbox
Westsider Café
• DONUTS
Marge’s Donut Den Bros Doughs
Cindy’s Donuts & Ice Cream
Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery
Sandy’s Donuts
Sprinkles Donut Shop
• FOOD TRUCK
Patty Matters
Crepes by the Lake
Pizza Parliament
Street Chef Shaw
Sweet Racks & Smokin
Butts
• FRIES
HopCat
Black Napkin
Little Bird
Noodle Pig
Patty Matters
Vivant Brewery + Spirits
•
FROZEN YOGURT
The Pump House
Elsa’s
Frosty Boy
PeachWave
Sweet Yo’s
• HANGOVER FOOD
Wolfgang’s
Blue Dog Tavern
Logan’s Alley
Noodlepig
The Pita House
• ICE CREAM
Frosty Boy
Berry’s G Italian Ice
Furniture City Creamery
Jersey Junction
Love’s Ice Cream & Chocolate
• INDIAN FOOD
Palace of India
Desi Spice
Indian Masala
Mithu and Sri Lankan
Pal’s Indian Cuisine
Pind Indian Cuisine
• KIELBASA
Frank’s Market
Lewandoski’s Market
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (Knickerbocker)
Roam by San Chez
Sobie’s Meats
• LATE NIGHT DINING & DRINKS
Z’s Bar & Restaurant
Bob’s Sports Bar
Drip Drop Cocktail Room
General Wood Shop
Gin Gin’s
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (Knickerbocker)
Turnstiles
The Winchester
• MAC ‘N’ CHEESE
Electric Cheetah
Hancock
HopCat
Knickerbocker)
Archival Brewing
Sweet Racks &
Smokin’ Butts BBQ
West Side Social
•
MEDITERRANEAN
Peppino’s
Vitale’s
• POUTINE
Vivant Brewery & Spirits
Holiday Bar
Knoop
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The Knickerbocker)
Sheshco
Bob’s Sports Bar
Rose’s on Reeds Lake
Le Kabob
Parsley
Pita House/Sami’s Gyro
Zeytin
Zivio
• NACHOS
Condado Tacos
Archival Brewing
Cantina Mexican Grill
The Friesian Gastro Pub
Holiday Bar
Noco Provisions
Sweet Racks n Smokin Butts
Vivant Brewing + Spirits West Side Social
• PASTA
Amore Trattoria Italiana
Bistro Bella Vita
Little Bird
Myrth
Testa Rosa
Uccello’s Ristorante Vitales
• PIZZA
Mitten Brewing Co.
Andrea’s Pizza
Fratelli’s Pizza
Harmony Brewing
Company
Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The
FireRock Grille
Glass House
Kaffeine
Logan’s Alley
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
One Bourbon Roam
• RESTAURANT SERVICE
Leo’s Seafood
Restaurant & Bar
Anna’s House
Gin Gin’s
Little Bird
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
New Holland Brewing (The Knickerbocker)
One Bourbon
Pochis Colombian
Restaurant and Café
San Chez Bistro
• ROOFTOP DINING
MDRD
Knoop
Mertens Prime Olive’s
Rapid River Stillhouse Rix
Rockwell Republic
• OUTDOOR DECK/ SEATING
The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar
• SANDWICH
Two Beards Deli
Archival Brewing
Little Bird
Sweet Racks & Smokin’
Butts BBQ
The Pita House- Sami’s Gyro
Toasted Pickle
• SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Leo’s Seafood
Restaurant & Bar
Carolina Low Country
Real Seafood Co. San Chez
•
MEXICAN FOOD
Tacos El Cuñado
Cantina Mexican Grill
Donkey Taqueria
Luna GR
MeXo
• STEAKHOUSE
Chop House
Bowdie’s Butcher’s Union
Gin Gin’s
Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar
Ruth’s Chris
• SUSHI
MaruSushi & Grill
Ginza Sushi & Ramen Bar
Jaku Sushi
Ju Sushi & Lounge
Tokyo Grill & Sushi
• TACOS
Tacos El Cuñado
Condado Tacos
Donkey Taqueria
Luna GR
Poncho’s Tacos
•
B BEST S of Grand Rapids
2025 WINNERS
The finalists who received the most votes are in Bold Type
TATER TOTS
Blue Dog Tavern
Anna’s House
Bobcat Bonnie’s
Logan’s Alley
New Holland Brewing and Spirits (The Knickerbocker)
• THAI
Little Bangkok Angel’s Thai
Bangkok Taste
Lai Thai Kitchen
Thai Fusion
Thai Table
• VEGAN/VEGETARIAN MENU
Gaia House Café
Anna’s House
Littlebird
Stella’s Lounge
• VEGGIE BURGER
Stella’s Lounge
Ale Bird Taphouse
Black Napkin
Bostwick Lake Inn
Littlebird
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
Papa Chops
The Holiday Bar
• WET BURRITO
Beltline Bar
Adobe Mexican Kitchen
Anna’s House
Beltline Bar
Cantina Mexican Grill
Village Inn Pizza
• WINGS
Wing Doozy
Big E’s Sports Grill
Max’s South Seas
Hideaway
Mike’s Wings
Sweet Racks & Smokin
Butts BBQ, LLC
The Holiday Bar
The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar
Wing World of Sparta
•
Personalities
BARTENDER
Cassie Heuton/ The pursuit of Happiness
Adam / Brass Ring Brewing
Austin Forshee
Bryan Gomez / Archival Brewing
Dustin Lantz / One Bourbon • CHEF
Jenna Arcidiacono (Amore Trattoria Italiana)
Chris Wessely (Noodlepig)
Kevin Vander Meer (KJ Catering)
Oscar Moreno (MeXo)
Paola Carlson (Pochis Colombian Café) • COMEDIAN
Jen Frissina
Ben Glaze
Hayden Miedema
Mike Logan
Stu McCallister • RADIO PERSONALITY
Free Beer & Hot Wings (Gregg Daniels and Chris Michels)
While Michigan winters can be a drag for avid golfers, when spring rolls around, the Mitten State continues to shine as a haven for golfers.
Michigan is in the top five for most golf courses in the country with more than 850, and many of them are stationed in the western half of the state, including a huge portion within a quick drive from downtown Grand Rapids.
Ravines Golf Club, located in Saugatuck, is one of two public courses operated by the RedWater Group.
Nationwide, golf participation has grown for seven straight years, surpassing 28 million golfers in 2024, an increase of 1.5 million golfers, the largest single-season increase since 2000, according to the National Golf Foundation. And Grand Rapids is no different, with area clubs hitting record membership levels.
From the prestigious private country clubs in the Grand Rapids area to some of the premier public courses, there are plenty of options for golfers at any level of handicap.
There’s a long, rich history of golf history in Grand Rapids, starting with Kent Country Club, which dates back to 1896 when it was called Grand Rapids Golf Course on the shores of Fisk Lake in East Grand Rapids. It moved to its current location along Plainfield Avenue in 1901 and remains one of the oldest country clubs in the country.
Kent County Club boasts the history on the course and clubhouse, as one of the oldest in the country, and provides a green oasis near downtown
a great destination for golfers of all abilities looking to hone their games.
Staying true to the public municipal courses, Kent County’s Kaufman Golf Course, 4807 Clyde Park Ave. in Wyoming, which like Indian Trails plays great for golfers of all levels and is maintained meticulously for a publicly owned course. It, too, has a driving range for the public.
Both Indian Trails and Kaufman offer in-season rates of under $50 for 18 holes and a cart and $25 for nine
There are three other private country clubs that are the cream of the crop in the Grand Rapids area: Blythefield Country Club, Cascade Hills Country Club and Egypt Valley Country Club. (Editor’s Note: See the sidebar for more information on the four private clubs.)
The history even extends to municipal courses, like the City of Grand Rapids’ Indian Trails Golf Club, 2776 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, which opened up in 1928 and nears its centennial. While its course is perfect for beginners and high-handicappers, the driving range and free-to-use pitching and putting greens make it
Both Indian Trails and Kaufman offer in-season rates of under $50 for 18 holes and a cart and $25 for nine.
Another Grand Rapids gem of a course open to the public is Boulder Creek Golf Club. The gorgeous course offers a challenging mix of holes and landscapes for golfers of all types. A round of 18 with a cart can be hand for under $50 if you start after 3 p.m. on a weekend, but other times are under $70.
Boulder Creek Golf Club’s proximity to Blythefield can make it seem like it plays above its weight as well, especially the
Thornapple Pointe Golf Club offers a solid golfing experience and is known for its accessibility to golfers of various levels.
BY THE NUMBERS
weekend the country club hosts the Meijer LPGA Classic, which returns to Blythefield hosts for the 11th year in a row this year.
Boulder Creek also has a decent restaurant attached for some solid 19th hole enjoyment.
For those who are avid golfers in the area, they’d be remiss not to visit the trio of Mike DeVries-designed courses: The Mines, Diamond Springs and Pilgrim’s Run. The Mines is in extreme proximity to downtown at 330 Covell Ave. SW, and is a fantastic afternoon escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The course is extremely hilly and can be a tough walk.
Diamond Springs and Pilgrim’s Run are a bit of a drive, Hamilton and Pierson, respectively, but Pilgrim’s Run especially is worth the 30-minute drive as it might be the best public course in the area.
Municipal courses like Indian Trails Golf Club, opened in 1928. With a course ideal for beginners and highhandicappers, plus a driving range and free pitching and putting greens
850+
Number of golf courses in Michigan, making it one of the top five states in the U.S. for golf course availability.
4
Number of private country clubs considered elite in the Grand Rapids area: Kent, Blythefield, Cascade Hills, and Egypt Valley.
5
Number of indoor golf simulator facilities available to the public as part of the Redwater Group’s offering
1896
The founding year of Kent Country Club, originally called Grand Rapids Golf Course.
$12m
Funds raised for Meijer’s Simply Give program through the Meijer LPGA Classic in its first 10 years.
$25
Cost for 9 holes with a cart at public courses like Indian Trails and Kaufman.
Kent Country Club, is the oldest continuous country club in Michigan.
For those who are avid golfers in the area, they’d be remiss not to visit the trio of Mike DeVries-designed courses: The Mines, Diamond Springs and Pilgrim’s Run.
For golfers who want the luxury of a country club membership but might want to play an array of courses is the Redwater Group, which includes Watermark Country Club, Macatawa Golf Club, Muskegon Country Club, Stonewater Country Club, Sunnybrook Country Club, Thousand Oaks Golf Club. The group also includes the fantastic courses Thornapple Pointe and Ravines Golf Club and nine restaurants around the area.
Although another bit of a drive from downtown, Saskatoon Golf Club in Alto is a mega bargain with 45 holes in five nine-hole configurations.
There’s also The Meadows, Grand Valley State University’s course. With a collegiate team playing there, it is a solid challenge for golfers and always well-manicured for a decent price.
Beyond those, there is a plethora of golf courses within an hour of downtown Grand Rapids, and plenty more beautiful course if the option is there. Like the beauty of Michigan in general, the amazing golf courses of Grand Rapids are a hidden gem.
A CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND
In June, the LPGA brings the Meijer LPGA Classic back to West Michigan for the 11th year in a row at Blythefield Country Club.
The week-long event begins Monday, June 9, withe the first practice rounds. Wednesday is a Pro-Am before the course opens up to the public to attend the actual tournament from Thursday to Sunday. Tickets are available for as low as $10 per day, or a $25 tournament-long pass.
Founded in 2014, the tournament provides West Michiganders the ability to watch world-class golf in the pristine setting of Blythefield. The tournament has maintained a commitment to being an affordable attraction for West Michigan families, from the low-priced tickets to affordable concession products.
And those looking to watch incredible golf are not to be disappointed. A $3 million purse attracts a field of the best-of-thebest women golfers, like Lexi Thompson and last year’s winner, Lilia Vu, the 2023 LPGA Player of the Year.
It’s about a lot more than golf too, as the tournament helps raise funds for Meijer’s Simply Give program, to the tune of more than $12 million in its first 10 years.
"Reflecting on the past 10 years, it's been wonderful to see the Meijer LPGA Classic truly flourish into one of the biggest events on the LPGA Tour, and we're grateful to all who've made it a spectacular tournament year after year," Meijer President & CEO Rick Keyes said following last year’s tournament. "This tournament goes beyond the golf course, making a substantial impact on hunger relief through our Simply Give program and helping to keep our local food pantry shelves stocked for families in need. From the players to our spectators, community partners, and volunteers, the impact of this event continues to make a difference for our neighbors in need."
There is also a corresponding Meijer LPGA Classic 5K Run & Walk, which includes tickets to the tournament, and a Junior Clinic, held at nearby Boulder Creek Golf Club.
Thornapple Pointe Golf Club
A WEST MICHIGAN GOLF EMPIRE
Started in 1998, Redwater Group has assembled an eclectic mix of private and public courses as well as a portfolio of excellent restaurants.
Anybody can play the group’s two public courses: Thornapple Pointe, 7211 48th St SE, Grand Rapids, by the airport and Ravines Golf Club in Saugatuck. There are also five indoor golf simulator facilities spread out among the courses that are open to the public.
A membership at one of the private clubs at RedWater also provides access to five other private courses. The courses are:
• Macatawa Golf Club, 4600 Macatawa Legends Blvd, Holland
• Muskegon Country Club, 2801 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon,
• StoneWater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE Suite A, Caledonia
• Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon St SW, Grandville
• Thousand Oaks, 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, Grand Rapids
• Watermark Country Club, 1600 Galbraith Ave SE, Grand Rapids Ravines
Along with the normal membership options, including pool only options, RedWater members also get discounted memberships to RedWater Fitness and 10% the groups restaurants.
RedWater also has a fun set of restaurants that are open to the public, including the standalone Gravity Taphouse and Grille on the East Beltline and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland.
But its the likes of Cork at Watermark and Reds at Thousand Oaks that help make the restaurant group a solid option for dining in Grand Rapids.
A TRUE COUNTRY CLUB EXPERIENCE
In Grand Rapids, there are four elite country clubs, the places you can go and live the stereotypical country club life, complete with some of the best golf West Michigan has to offer. An invite from a member
Started in 1998, Redwater Group has assembled an eclectic mix of private and public courses as well as a portfolio of excellent restaurants.
Club
is required to play, and joining the clubs is a feat in recent years because of the surge in golf popularity.
Kent County Club boasts the history on the course and clubhouse, as one of the oldest in the country, and provides a green oasis near downtown. The club recently renovated its clubhouse with a brand-new restaurant and revamped bar menu.
Egypt Valley Country Club is a beautiful course with plenty of elevation change over two sprawling 18-hole courses and a solid offering of pool, tennis and food options around the clubhouse. It’s the newest of the big four, so it does lack some of the fun history of the other three.
Blythefield Country Club offers perhaps the most fully-golf focused experience, with the fine tuning done over the years for the Meijer LPGA Classic. Recent clubhouse renovations do help further elevate the experience for the small membership. Blythefield has nearly a century of history, including an Arnold Palmer PGA Tour Win and some goofy stories like the one that can be seen in the movie Phantom of the Open.
Sprawling along Cascade Road, Cascade Hills Country Club offers perhaps the most expansive options outside of the golf. The golf is solid as well, if not extremely well-maintained. And founded in 1921, the history buffs will love it as well.
Make Your Next Move with Confidence
U.S. News & World Report recently scored Grand Rapids at an admirable second place in its 2024–2025 rankings of best places to live in Michigan. It’s easy to see why the area is a popular place to call home. The report cites public art, the craft beer scene, the picturesque setting on the Grand River, and a robust health care industry as just a few of the city’s many draws. Being known as a great place to live does mean more people — students, professionals, and retirees alike — are flocking to the area, and that, in turn, makes real estate a hot commodity.
The real estate market in West Michigan remains competitive, and demand for housing continues to be strong, so both buyers and sellers need to be nimble. But they don’t need to go it alone, and they shouldn’t — not when there’s a highly qualified Real Estate All-Star just a phone call away.
One of the most important decisions anyone navigating this complex market can make is choosing the right real estate and mortgage professionals to work with. Some buyers and sellers might be looking for a savvy, no-nonsense agent to get the job done e iciently, while others might prefer a softer touch, someone who feels like family and can walk alongside them for the entire process. Whatever the favored approach, buyers and sellers need to find a partner who has the competence, experience, and connections to deliver the best results. This special section introduces readers to some of the region’s top real estate professionals, dubbed Real Estate All-Stars. Read on to find just the right West Michigan professional to help you buy or sell your home!
Amy Abare
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Roger Ackerman
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Austin Adams
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Tyler Addington
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Edward Alexander Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Laura Alexander
Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Vanessa Alt
RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-299-7296 vanessaalt@remax.net vanessaalt.com
Ingrid Anastasiu
Keller Williams Grand Rapids East, Anastasiu Homes Grand Rapids
Donna Anders
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Dustin Anderson
Five Star Real Estate Ada
Mary Applehof
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Matthew Armstrong Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Rachel Asiala
City2Shore Gateway Group Byron Center
Jon Austin
RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-292-0118
jonaustin@remax.net jonaustin.remax-united-mi.com
Lisa Austin
Greenridge Realty Kentwood
Pamela Averill
Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Ross Bacon
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Erik Bagroski
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Brad Baker Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Racine Bamwanya Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming
Jesse Baragar
Baragar Realty Grand Rapids
Michele Baragar Baragar Realty Grand Rapids
Jamie Barendsen
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Brian Bartholomew RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Ginger Baxter
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Rob Bell Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Kimberly Salvaggio Beller
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Judy Billings
Five Star Real Estate Grand Haven
Adam Black
Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs
Je rey Blahnik Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jim Blehm
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Justin Blevins
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Brandi Block Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
John Bodien Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Blake Boehm
Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Drew Born RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Justine Born RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Katherine Bourgois Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Brian Boven Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Mark Brace Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Scott Bradford RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Daniel Bradley Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Kristine A. Brady
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Sue Brandsen
Five Star Real Estate Holland
RE/MAX United
When it comes to real estate in West Michigan, RE/MAX United stands out for its exceptional service, strong community involvement, and hands-on leadership. More than just closing deals, this premier brokerage helps clients find their dream homes while fostering meaningful relationships.
Exceptional Agents, Superior Results
At the core of RE/MAX United’s success is its team of dedicated and knowledgeable agents. These professionals provide top-tier service, staying ahead of market trends and leveraging cutting-edge technology. Their deep understanding of the Rockford and Grand Rapids housing market allows them to offer valuable insights — whether accurately pricing a home or helping buyers find the ideal neighborhood.
Known for their strong negotiation skills and commitment to integrity, RE/MAX United agents work tirelessly to secure the best outcomes for clients. Their dedication to customer satisfaction has earned them a reputation as trusted real estate professionals.
Hands-On Leadership for Success
Unlike larger, impersonal agencies, RE/MAX United provides direct access to experienced broker/owners who actively support their agents. This hands-on management approach ensures every agent has the tools, mentorship, and training needed to excel. By fostering a culture of growth and collaboration, the brokerage empowers its agents to deliver outstanding results.
A Deep Commitment to Community
RE/MAX United believes real estate is about more than just buying and selling homes — it’s about strengthening the community. Actively involved in Rockford and the surrounding areas, the brokerage supports local schools, small businesses, and charitable initiatives. Through sponsorships, fundraising events, and volunteer work, RE/MAX United makes a tangible impact on the communities it serves.
This community-fi rst approach builds trust with clients and sets RE/MAX United apart as more than just a real estate company — it’s a partner in creating better neighborhoods.
Continuous Growth Through Training
The real estate industry is ever-evolving, and RE/MAX United ensures its agents stay ahead with high-level training and coaching. Whether it’s new agent development or advanced courses for seasoned professionals, continuous education is a core pillar of the brokerage’s success.
Through workshops, coaching sessions, and technology training, agents gain the knowledge and confidence to provide the highest level of service. This commitment to professional growth translates into better experiences for buyers and sellers alike.
Choose RE/MAX United for Your Real Estate Needs
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in Rockford and beyond, RE/MAX United offers results-driven service with a client-first approach. The brokerage’s outstanding agents, hands-on leadership, and deep community ties make it the premier choice for real estate.
When you choose RE/MAX United, you’re partnering with a team that prioritizes your needs, delivers exceptional results, and is
dedicated to making a difference. Experience the RE/MAX United advantage — let them guide you home today!
616-866-5800
Larry Branscombe
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Robyn Britton
Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs
Sheree Broussard Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Pete Bruinsma Grand River Realty Grand Rapids
Bob Budreau Greenridge Realty Ludington
Tammy Jo Budzynski
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Kaleb Burke
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Dan Burrill
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Juanita Buskard Buskard Group Real Estate Wyoming
Todd Buskard
Buskard Group Real Estate Wyoming
Bruce Bylsma
Bruce Bylsma Real Estate Grand Rapids
Robert Camp Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Barry Capel Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Keith Cardosa Greenridge Realty Kentwood
Tricia Carlson Five Star Real Estate Whitehall
Shannon Carpenter Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Drew Champlin
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
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Micah Childress Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Shannon Clark Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Courtney Clement 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Amy Conley Greenridge Realty Kentwood
Adam Copeland 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Abigail Corcoran Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
John Cremer
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Abby Cribbs RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Andrea Crossman Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Holland
Richard Dawdy Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Melissa DeBoer
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
David DeBruyn Greenridge Realty Kentwood
Jason Decker
RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-836-9576 jasondecker@remax.net jasondecker.remax-united-mi.com
Sandie Dehamer
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jack Dekker Greenridge Realty Hamilton
Drew Denham
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Pamela Derks
Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Brian DeSmit Apex Realty Group Byron Center
Angela Devereaux Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Evan DeVisser Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Corin Dickerson City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale
Vito Dolci Jr. Five Star Real Estate Walker
Tina Drum 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Mark Dubridge
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Megan Duthler Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Danna Dykema
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Joel Dykstra
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Julie DeDoes Greenridge Realty Grand Haven
Mark Deering
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Lindsey Dykstra Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Mary Dykstra
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
GreenSquare Properties
GreenSquare Properties is a locally owned and operated real estate brokerage dedicated to providing unparalleled service within the industry. Offering a concierge experience for their clients, with a more personal, service-oriented approach, the team at GreenSquare delivers big results from their small office. A testament to that capacity is in the Real Estate All Star designation earned by three agents at their office.
Melissa Mitchell is a trusted Senior Real Estate Specialist providing personalized, concierge service. She brings over a decade of industry experience, market knowledge, and cutting-edge technology to meet her client’s unique needs, even in complex situations.
Paul Marantette has been a real estate professional since 2017. He has years of
experience in hospitality and customer service, and uses skills gained in those industries to build relationships and create memorable experiences for his clients and their families.
Scott West has been in the real estate industry for over 20 years. He was awarded the 2023 GRAR Realtor of the Year, was the 2024 GRAR PresidentElect, and is now the 2025 GRAR President. Scott’s passion for serving others is infectious and is evident to both his clients and employees. He seeks to surround himself with like-minded agents who have his same level of talent, attention to detail, and client care.
GreenSquare’s dedication to advanced training, education, and client communication is paramount to its success. This focus continues to produce
top performing agents who are leaders within our real estate industry. Trust GreenSquare’s agents to deliver an unparalleled real estate experience.
Melissa Mitchell, Associate Broker
Paul Marante e, Associate Broker
Sco West, Broker/Co-Owner
GreenSquare Properties
2618 East Paris Ave. SE, Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49546
616-285-9305 | greensquaregr.com
2025 REAL ESTATE
Darin Elliott
Greenridge Realty Ionia
Tori Ensing
Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Laura Ensley
Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs
Lindsey Eppink
Five Star Real Estate Grand Haven
Christine Estep Greenridge Realty Grand Haven
Delaney Faught
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Laura Featherston Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Gerald Feenstra
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Todd Fencil
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Alex Fernandez
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Erin Fester
GR Home Team
Ada
Chase Fetterley
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Brooke Finlan
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Chuck Fisher Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Rachel Fortenbacher
Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Will Friend
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Darcy Fritsch
616 Realty Grand Rapids
Chuck Gallagher Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Brenda Gartzke
RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-293-4582 brendagartzke@remax.net brendagartzke.remax-united-mi.com
Michelle Gaudreau Greenridge Realty Caledonia
Ashley Gauthier
Coldwell Banker Sneller Real Estate Allegan
Spencer Geisen Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Will Gelderloos
Apex Realty Group Byron Center
Sandi Gentry
RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven
Rick Genzink
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Jennifer Gesik
Crown Real Estate Partners, Inc. 8200 Ashwood Drive SE Ada, MI 49301 616-292-8793 gesik@crowngr.com crowngr.com
Jaclyn Gettings Five Star Real Estate Grand Haven
David Geurink Five Star Real Estate Holland
Ami Giusti
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Barb Glashouwer Novosad Realty Partners Grand Rapids
Justin Glover
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Cheryl Grant RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Elizabeth Grant RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Andrew Grashuis Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Ken Grashuis Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Susan Gray Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Vaughn Greathouse Five Star Real Estate Grandville
David Gregory Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Nancy Gregus Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Traci Gresham Five Star Real Estate Holland
Diane Gri in
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Timothy Groenhof Five Star Real Estate Ada
Jeremiah Gruchow RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Mansingh Gurung Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming
Michael Haan Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Douglas Hale Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Tammy Halterman Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Jennifer Gesik, Realtor
Crown Real Estate Partners, Inc.
616-292-8793 | gesik@crowngr.com | crowngr.com
Jennifer Gesik is a top-performing broker and multimillion-dollar producer in the local real estate market. Owner of Crown Real Estate Partners — a boutique-oriented residential real estate firm serving Greater Grand Rapids — Gesik has more than 20 years of industry experience.
Along with her Crown Real Estate Partners team, she focuses on “roots, relationships, and results,” effortlessly facilitating negotiations between buyers and sellers and personalizing the process along the way.
Gesik takes pride in establishing solid relationships and building trust with each transaction, which has brought the firm many repeat customers and referrals. In addition to being named a Real Estate All-Star numerous times, Gesik has been recognized by Grand Rapids Magazine as a Woman Who Moves West Michigan several years running.
Janet Romanowski
Romanowski Homes — Greenridge Realty EGR 2213 Wealthy St. SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 | 616-458-3655 | romanhousekey.com
With West Michigan’s hot real estate market, having an experienced agent in your corner is more crucial than ever. Janet Romanowski, with Romanowski Homes — Greenridge Realty EGR, brings more than 20 years of expertise to the table as well as a level of empathy not always present in the field.
She understands that buying a home is likely the biggest investment most of her clients will make, and building confidence and a partnership during that process is one of her highest priorities. Though she is highly sought after in the region, Romanowski ensures that everyone she works with receives consistent communication and her signature attention to detail. “If a home buyer says, ‘I feel like I’m your only client,’ then I know I’ve done my job,” she says.
Joe Hamilton
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Charlene Hammontree 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Scott Harestad Greenridge Realty Grand Haven
Mike Harig Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Sharon Harig RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Brenda Harris
Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Kim Hensley
RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-690-2252 kimhensley@remax.net kimberlyhensley.com
Ryan Hesche Greenridge Realty Saranac
Tracy Hilty Greenridge Realty Muskegon
Austin Hilyer
Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Jim Hocking
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Fredrick Hogle
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
John Holkeboer Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Scott A. Holwerda
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Cathy Hoppough
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Mark Hoskins
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Rockford
Kelly Hover City2Shore Gateway Group Byron Center
Nicholas Howell Five Star Real Estate Ada
Reed Hrynewich Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Tim Hrynewich Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Brian Hu man RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-437-0537 brianhu man@remax.net brianhu man.remax-united-mi.com
Ann Huizen
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Michael Hummel Greenridge Realty Fremont
JP Huntington Greenridge Realty Grand Haven
Christian Huyge Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids
Kevin Irwin Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Benjamin Iwema
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Lisa Jabara-Newell Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Heather Jones Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Kristy Jones Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Nathan Jones
Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs
Alicia Joustra Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Chad Jurgens
Apex Realty Group Byron Center
Patrick Kane
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Karla Karamol RE/MAX United Rockford
Lauren Karsten Five Star Real Estate Ada
Timothy Katerberg
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Maria Kau man
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Scot Kellogg 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Don King
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Keith King
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
David Kirchgessner Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Sue Kirchgessner Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Randy Klingel Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Liz Klinzing
Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Eric Knoll
Five Star Real Estate
Grandville
Chuck Bauss
Zac Ellerbrooek
Steve Kik
Ben Langenau
Rebecca Masck
Jenna Mitchell
Dann Mulder
Bryan Paul
Becky Sims
Dave Stellin
Luther Trook
Jake Williams
Kevin Knoll
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Hwee-Ping Koh
Five Star Real Estate Ada
Chris Konyndyk RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Dave Kooistra Apex Realty Group Byron Center
Scott Koop Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Heather Kopecek Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Mitchell Koster
Five Star Real Estate Allendale
Patty Koval Greenridge Realty Wayland
Diana Kovalcik Greenridge Realty Ludington
Kyle Kovalcik Greenridge Realty Ludington
M. Dean Kreps Greenridge Realty Holland
Kevin Kroondyk Greenridge Realty Kentwood
Elizabeth Krueger eXp Realty Grand Rapids
Hallie Kutzli
RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-240-0237 halliekutzli@remax.net halliekutzli.remax-united-mi.com
Ruth Lange
Five Star Real Estate Rockford
Stephanie Langeland 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Gary Langlois
Greenridge Realty Muskegon
Leo Langlois
Greenridge Realty Muskegon
Erik Larson
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Joanna Lasser Five Star Real Estate Muskegon
Jennifer Lavallee 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Paul Leason
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Caledonia
Michaela Lee Apex Realty Group Byron Center
William Leiter 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Roberto Leon Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming
Anthony Lewis RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Sara Lewis CENTURY 21 A iliated Grand Rapids
Jacob Lietaert
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Kelly Lloyd Greenridge Realty Caledonia
Kurt Loosenort
Brian Lorenz RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Marcus Love
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Melissa Lundeberg Greenridge Realty Grand Haven
Giuseppe Lupis Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Charles Mahar Jr. Greenridge Realty Greenville
Rachel Major Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Vung Mang
Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming
Beth Mans Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Paul Marantette
GreenSquare Properties 2618 E. Paris Ave. SE, Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 313-727-5570
Janet Romanowski Greenridge Realty, Romanowski Homes Inc. 2213 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-318-0065 janet@romanhousekey.com romanhousekey.com
Mike Rundhaug
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids
Leslie Ruppel
Five Star Real Estate Ada
Kristin Ruther RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Brandon Ryan 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Mike Satterlee Greenridge Realty Greenville
Patrick Schaefer
Five Star Real Estate Ada
John Schat
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Katy Sche ler
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Nina J. Schillman
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Rockford
Stacy Schilz Greenridge Realty Hastings
Tony Scholten
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Jason Schuringa
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jody Schwalm
RE/MAX United Grand Rapids
Don Scott
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jimmy Scott
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Rustin Scott
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jared Sebright
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Brook Sharp
Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Ashley Shaw Greenridge Realty Holland
Brit Shearer
Greenridge Realty Holland
Doug Sheneman
City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale
Susan Shively
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Jim Shull
Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids
Mary Siemer
Greenridge Realty Whitehall
Greg Simmons
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Michigan Real Estate Rockford
Adam Sims
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
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Brooke Sines
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
Jennifer Skarda 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Lindsay Slagboom Greenridge Realty Grand Rapids
Mike Smallegan
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Jacqueline Smart
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Cherie Smith
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Molly Smith
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Carol Sneller
Coldwell Banker Sneller Real Estate Allegan
Rebecca Snider City2Shore Gateway Group Byron Center
Kimberly Southwick Five Star Real Estate Ada
Steven Spriensma Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Angela Start 616 Realty Grand Rapids
Henry Ste es
Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids
Erica Stehouwer
RE/MAX Grand Rapids Grand Rapids
James Stephens
Keller Williams Rivertown Collective Grandville
Samuel Sterk
Five Star Real Estate Grandville
Debby Stevenson Greenridge Realty Ludington
Lisa Stewart Greenridge Realty East GR 2213 Wealthy St. SE Suite 200 East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-540-7132
Brendan O’Driscoll Treadstone Funding Grand Rapids
Reilly O’Toole
Guaranteed Rate, Inc. Grand Rapids
Bryan Paul
Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Haven
Josiah Samy
Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids
John Seville Benchmark Mortgage Ada
Becky Sims
Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Haven
Dave Stellin
Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Haven
Bob Storrer Independent Bank Grand Rapids
Mallory Strotheide Treadstone Funding Grand Rapids
Sherry Tedaldi Fifth Third Bank Holland
Adam Tolley Mortgage 1 Kentwood
Luther Trook
Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Haven
Tyler Truxton
Big Lake Lending Walker
Keith Westhouse
West Michigan Mortgage Grand Rapids
Ryann Lee White PreferredRate Ada
Michael Whyte Fifth Third Bank Grand Rapids
Jake Williams
Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Haven
food+drink
Cajuninspired cuisine
Garden District's Jambalaya
Three restaurants, one dream
A culinary journey of hard work and heart
BY LISA ENOS
If you’ve ever been unexpectedly wowed by a meal, you’ll understand my reaction to a recent brunch at Lady Bird in Saugatuck. It was a frigid February day, but that didn’t matter once inside—the cozy atmosphere and friendly, attentive service warmed me right up.
My meal began with a raspberry mimosa, and the real decision-making began: lamb meatballs as an appetizer, or should I stick with brunch? The breakfast dish with elk sausage caught my eye. Also, the grilled swordfish. Eggs, and caviar (which are more expensive these days?) also sounded good. So did a sandwich called Little Jerry Goes to Thailand. I’m a sucker for both food with comedic names and Seinfeld references, so I almost ordered it for those reasons alone.
Lady Bird offers a variety of topquality culinary creations, with a rotating menu inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Then I saw the Beet Salad, and then the oysters Rockefeller! Decisions, decisions. After flagging down servers and asking for recommendations, my lunch companion and I settled on the Wagyu Pastrami Eggs Benedict, baked French toast, and got the oysters Rockefeller and beet salad to start. We shared everything. Every dish was divine—perfectly executed and beautifully presented. We couldn’t have been happier.
Matt Bush, the owner, stopped by the table and shared his culinary journey—from humble beginnings in Michigan to bigname kitchens in New York and Vegas. His experience was evident in every bite.
The story behind three of West Michigan’s new breakout go-to dining spots—Lady Bird in Saugatuck, Bird Dog in Mattawan, and Dog & the Bank in Plainwell—began long before the first plate hit the table. It began in high school in Paw Paw, Michigan, where two ambitious teenagers, Matt Bush and Allison Maxwell, met and began their journey toward a culinary empire.
Now co-owners of three distinct and thriving restaurants, Matt and Allison’s story is one of hard work, determination, and a deep love for the restaurant industry.
The Road to Entrepreneurship
After high school, Matt and Allison’s paths diverged, but their shared passion for the restaurant business remained. Matt headed to Las Vegas, where he honed his skills in some of the most renowned kitchens before settling on a career as an Executive Regional Chef at Morton’s and Fleming’s. Meanwhile, Allison had moved to Indianapolis, where
she built a successful career as the Director of Operations for Prime 47, a chain of high-end steakhouses and nightclub. She spent her days building out restaurants, including one in Milwaukee, all while learning the ins and outs of managing operations.
“Matt covered 25 different locations, traveling all over the country, including New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas, Wisconsin, and California,” Allison recalls. “Meanwhile, I was climbing the ranks in Indianapolis, starting as a hostess and working my way up. We both busted our butts in our 20s.”
At left, the exterior of Lady Bird, located at 149 Griffith St in Saugatuck. Below: Oysters on the half shell.
as seen above is served Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The experience Matt and Allison gained working in high-profile restaurants taught them a lot—about leadership, hard work, and the intricacies of running a kitchen and front-of-house. When they decided to open their own restaurants, it was clear that they wouldn’t run them like the toxic, high-stress kitchens that Matt had worked in earlier.
“Matt runs a kitchen where there’s no yelling,” Allison says. “There’s no toxic environment. We want our teams to make money and go home at the end of the day.”
The Birth of Bird Dog
In 2015, Matt and Allison returned to Michigan got married and soon began looking for a location to start their first restaurant. In 2018, they found a building in Mattawan that would become Bird Dog, a neighborhood restaurant that immediately set itself apart with its focus on scratch-made food and bold flavors. With six tables
Brunch,
inside, ten bar seats, and a patio with three igloos for winter dining, the space was small, but the community supported it. They gutted the building, raised the roof, and transformed it into a welcoming, cozy spot that quickly became a local favorite.
The Expansion: Dog & the Bank and Lady Bird
Once Bird Dog found its footing, Matt and Allison turned their attention to expanding. In 2022, they opened Dog & the Bank in Plainwell, after another extensive renovation. By 2024, they had three young children (really!) and they were ready for their third venture: Lady Bird in Saugatuck. Located in a historic building at 149 Griffith Street on the ground floor of an Air B n B. The restaurant’s website invites you to “Come for dinner, stay for a week.” Don’t mind if I do.
Lady Bird has been nothing short of a culinary triumph. With a beautiful interior, an expansive outdoor patio, the restaurant offers both an exceptional dining experience and, with the upstairs apartment— a unique escape upstairs for those who want to stay for more than just a meal.
“We bought all of the buildings ourselves,” Allison says. “No investors, no parents with money, just us.”
Opening Lady Bird was no easy task. The building was in poor condition when they first walked through it, but with their combined experience in restaurant operations and construction, they saw potential. After a thorough renovation, they transformed the space into a gorgeous, functional restaurant on the ground floor with a stunning 90-seat back patio, and they rent out the upstairs— a three-bedroom, two-bath AirBnB upstairs, which has become a popular destination for visitors (where, incidentally, there were staying when they got the inspiration to buy the building).
A Unique Approach to Restaurant Management
One of the key elements that sets Matt and Allison apart is their hands-on approach to running their restaurants. Unlike many establishments, they don’t employ traditional managers. Instead, their frontof-house staff runs the dining room and operates as a team.
“We give them the control to manage things themselves,” Allison explains. “They’re all responsible for the whole restaurant, not just their station. It’s about everyone working together and making sure
the restaurant runs smoothly.”
Their commitment to teamwork extends to the kitchen as well. “Matt has a sous chef, but he runs the kitchen with a collaborative approach,” Allison says. “No yelling, no toxic work environment. It’s all about getting the job done well and moving on.”
This collaborative philosophy is part of the reason the BushMaxwell duo has found success. They focus on building a strong, supportive team where everyone is accountable, and no one feels overlooked.
Looking Ahead
As for the future, Matt and Allison are always looking for new opportunities to grow, but they remain grounded in their roots. “We love Saugatuck, but we’re also committed to providing options for locals and visitors that aren’t just another bar food joint,” Allison says. “Matt wants to cook paella on the back patio and do some outdoor grilling this summer. We’re excited to see where the future takes us.”
From their humble beginnings in Paw Paw to opening three successful restaurants, the journey of Matt and Allison is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of partnership. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at Lady Bird, Bird Dog, or Dog & the Bank, you’re experiencing the result of years of perseverance and passion.
So, if you get the chance to sit down at one of their tables, know that you’re not just indulging in a great meal—you’re partaking in a dream that’s been years in the making, built on a foundation of love, hard work, and a shared vision.
The Seafood Tower at Lady Bird is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
Fresh seafood, affordable,
Dine
in or take
too!
out—cooked or raw, plus tips from the chef for cooking at home.
BY ANN BYLE // PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE
When Zully Vielma and Louis Hamper settled in Greenville in 2016, for Louis Hamper, whose mother lived there, it was a homecoming. For Vielma, it was fleeing her homeland of Venezuela after threats and violence forced the family to leave.
Now the pair are owners of Fishmongers Seafood Market at 4011 Plainfield Ave. NE, a small business that blends a wholesale seafood arm, a seafood market, and a small eat-in area. Fishmongers offers everything from raw oysters to fresh whitefish, from shrimp to crab legs, from soup to spices.
“We are not a full restaurant, not a full market. We are both,” said Vielma. “People ask how to cook fresh salmon and we can get the chef to talk to the person about how best to prepare it.”
Fishmongers (fishmongerseafoodmarket.com) opened in December 2024 to little fanfare, but it quickly became popular with folks in the north Plainfield area. More and more people are discovering the business’s unique blend of fresh seafood to take home and a quick lunch of clam chowder or fried perch.
Fishmongers Seafood Market offers a variety of dishes to eat in or take away. Clockwise from top left are Mahi-Mahi Tacos, Fried Shrimp Po'boy , Oysters Rockefeller, and Coconut Shrimp.
Right, Owners of Fishmongers Seafood Market Zully Vielma and Louis Hamper.
The business began as Bayo Food, a wholesale seafood business. They bought the Plainfield location several years ago as the business office, but people started requesting to buy directly from Bayo.
“They didn’t want 10 pounds of snow crabs or a case of fish, just a filet or a few pounds,” said Vielma. “We had the space, so we decided to start Fishmongers. It’s so rewarding to sell to customers. We never expected so many people to come.”
Vielma and Hamper are dedicated to the community, offering jobs to local kids, training staff, providing good and healthy food. Seven employees work for Bayo and six for the market. Hamper is in charge of operations, while Vielma is in charge of administration. Their son works as a cashier and in the kitchen after school.
“Seafood is my number one food. I like the feeling that we are doing something to help people enjoy good food. We are very community oriented and offer fresh seafood at affordable prices,” said Vielma.
A new grey hare you'll love
A Wealthy Street art gallery with a twist of cocktails.
BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY WES KITTEN
If you’ve walked past the spot where Elk Brewing used to be on Wealthy Street and wondered what's going on in the new space, the answer has arrived: The Grey Rabbit. And it’s not just another bar—it’s a blend of fine art, expertly crafted cocktails, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of something – and somewhere– truly special.
The Grey Rabbit, owned and operated by Will Warren, is a sleek, inviting art gallery and lounge all in one. The moment you walk through the door, you’re greeted by walls adorned with beautiful, thought-provoking works of art, as well as a mix of patrons—locals and visitors alike—who seem just as intrigued by the art as the expertly crafted cocktails. The venue’s warm, intimate vibe sets the tone, offering a laid-back yet refined setting to enjoy both the visual and sensory experience that Warren has worked so carefully to create.
One evening, I had the pleasure of attending the artist reception for the latest exhibit, “Going Places I Have Never Been Before,” featuring the work of Williamston-based sculptor and painter, Mark Chatterly. I was immediately drawn to the intricate and haunting sculptures that filled the space, as well as a series of paintings created during Chatterly’s residencies in Arizona. The combination of mediums— sculpture and two-dimensional works—added a dynamic element to the gallery that left me feeling like there would always be something new to discover here.
What makes The Grey Rabbit stand apart isn’t just the caliber of art on display; it’s the way it redefines the gallery experience. Think of it as a modern museum—without the stiff atmosphere. There’s no need to feel like you’re tiptoeing around and whispering; instead, you can sip on a Paper Plane or one of Warren’s signature cocktails, all while casually
discussing the works that line the walls. Whether you’re deep in conversation with friends about the medium of a particular piece, or simply soaking in the art while sipping a perfectly mixed Manhattan, the experience feels more like a night out than a formal gallery visit.
But let’s talk about the drinks for a second, because honestly, they deserve their own moment. The Grey Rabbit serves a variety of expertly crafted cocktails that go beyond the typical offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Negroni or something more adventurous like an Espresso Martini or my choice, the Orange Mocha Milkshake, Warren’s got you. The cocktail menu is carefully curated to complement the space’s vibe—sophisticated, yet accessible. And don’t even get me started on the wines. The Grey Rabbit offers a carefully selected list that ranges from smooth reds to crisp whites, with something for every palate. And what’s a night at a gallery without a little something to nibble on? While the food menu is limited, what it lacks in variety, it makes up for in quality. Think light bites like charcuterie boards, artisanal cheeses, and sweets that pair perfectly with a glass of wine
or your cocktail of choice. While the emphasis here is not so much on the food, but rather the experience—something I found refreshingly different—the offerings are top notch.
When I spoke with Will Warren, he told me that the idea for The Grey Rabbit came from his deep appreciation for both art and hospitality. After a long corporate career, Warren decided to follow his passion and create a space that would encourage the local community to engage with art in a new way.
“We’re not big, we’re not crowded, and we’re not loud,” Warren explained. “It’s comfortable. It’s a space where people can come in, enjoy a drink, and experience art in a way that feels natural and accessible. It’s not intimidating. We’ve had people buy their first piece of art here, which is exactly what I was hoping for.”
In a world where art galleries can often feel intimidating or staid, The Grey Rabbit is a refreshing change of pace. It’s a place where you can experience incredible art, enjoy a drink with friends, and just be. And with new exhibits rotating every 6-8 weeks, there’s always something new to look forward to.
So, is The Grey Rabbit an art gallery with a bar, or a bar with a rotating collection of art? Maybe it’s both. And maybe that’s exactly the point. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for a cool new spot to relax with friends, The Grey Rabbit is exactly the kind of place you didn’t know you were missing in Grand Rapids.
The Grey Rabbit serves drinks for every taste. From left: espresso martini, Negroni, red wine, and an All Day IPA.
Spring’s Bounty:
Mushrooms with Goat Cheese and Herb Salad
BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO // FOOD STYLIST JASON WHEELER
Spring brings with it more than just warmer weather and blooming flowers—it ushers in the season of mushrooms. While the elusive morel often steals the spotlight and has likely already made its brief appearance in our forests, Michigan is home to a variety of edible fungi that are a true delight for any forager or food lover. Chanterelles, with their fruity, peppery flavor, are a favorite for wild mushroom enthusiasts, and lucky for us, they grow in Michigan’s woodlands, near trees like oaks, maples, and conifers. These golden gems can be found from late June through October, particularly after a good rain. Oysters, too, grow in Michigan, often clustering on dead or dying hardwood trees, and their delicate flavor makes them a sought-after find.
While some mushrooms, like shiitakes, aren’t native to the wilds of Michigan, they’re often cultivated right here in our state, thanks to the ingenuity of local growers. Pebble Creek Mushrooms and Mycophile’s Garden are just two of the local farms that provide an abundant supply of high-quality mushrooms throughout the season. Whether you’re foraging in the woods or picking up a fresh batch from a farm stand, this recipe makes the most of Michigan’s spring mushroom bounty, pairing wild mushrooms with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs for a perfect seasonal dish.
This dish combines sautéed mushrooms with fresh spring greens and creamy goat cheese, making it the perfect light lunch or appetizer salad. You can find some of the mushrooms at specialty grocers like Kingma's Market on Plainfield, among others. Be sure to call ahead to check availability, or feel free to substitute your favorite mushrooms. Enjoy!
While some mushrooms, like shiitakes, aren’t native to the wilds of Michigan, they’re often cultivated right here in our state, thanks to the ingenuity of local growers.
Mushrooms with Goat Cheese and Herb Salad
Serves 4
The rich history of mushrooms and cheese goes back centuries. In fact, early Celts not only mined salt and perfected butter churning, but they also crafted cheeses, including goat cheese, which they preserved with salt. This recipe nods to that tradition, combining wild mushrooms and tangy goat cheese in a modern, flavorful dish that’s perfect for springtime gatherings.
Ingredients :
12 ounces wild mushrooms (chanterelles, caps, shiitakes, or oysters)
1 large garlic clove, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
2 ounces soft goat cheese, cut into 4 rounds
2 cups mesclun greens or spinach
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh marjoram, chopped
1/2 cup fresh (optional)
2 tablespoons white wine, tarragon, or white vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Begin by cleaning and slicing the mushrooms. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and chives, cooking until the mushrooms are just tender—about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked mushrooms onto a lightly oiled baking sheet. Divide them into 4 portions, and place a round of goat cheese in the center of each pile. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
While the mushrooms bake, wash and dry the mesclun or spinach, along with the herbs. Gently toss them together in a medium bowl. If using, sprinkle the nasturtium flowers on top. Divide the herb mixture onto 4 warmed plates.
Once the mushrooms are ready, heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the vinegar, stirring to capture the flavorful bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer until reduced slightly.
Spoon the warm mushrooms and melted goat cheese over the herb salad. Drizzle with the hot oil and vinegar sauce. Serve immediately.
This dish combines the earthy flavors of spring’s wild mushrooms with the creamy tang of goat cheese, offering a perfect celebration of the season’s bounty. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or a starter for your next gathering, it’s sure to impress.
Southern Style Cajun and Creole
Garden District brings the Big Easy to Monroe Center
BY MATTHEW ROTHENBERG // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN
Want to spot the difference between Cajun food and Creole food? Raphael Jones says to check for tomatoes. “Creole dishes like Shrimp Creole will have tomato,” he said. “There are items that have the same name like Gumbo, but there’s a Creole version of gumbo and a Cajun version of gumbo. We don’t add tomatoes to our Cajun Étouffée, but our Creole Jambalaya has a tomato base.”
Of course, there are some other differences between the cuisines, Raphael continued. “Cajun dishes tend to be heavy on crawfish and pork, while Creole is a lot more broad when it comes to ingredients, especially seafood. Cajun is the country folk — Creole is the city folk!”
Raphael should know: He and his wife and business partner, Jessica, offer both tastes of New Orleans at Garden Center, a new CajunCreole restaurant on Monroe Center.
Raphael grew into the role of West Michigan ambassador for Louisiana cooking: Born in Grand Rapids, he spent his high school years in New Orleans when his mother decided to move closer to family. “I understand why my family here in Grand Rapids would always come to
our house to eat dinner at our home!” he said. “I thought the food was normal because I’ve always had it, but when it comes to the seasonings and different flavors I now know as an adult that it wasn’t normal in a Grand Rapids home. I bring friends down to New Orleans with me, and I see their eyes open when they get to taste the food.”
Meanwhile, Jessica brings her experience as general manager of Maru Sushi & Grill to the Garden District mix. “I have great appreciation and admiration for Maru’s polished casual standard,” she said. “Finding that balance with food, ambiance and service is how we feel a restaurant in our location will thrive the most. We take the best of the traditional New Orleans recipes and do our best to plate them well.”
As for location, Jessica said the couple jumped at the chance to fill the vacancy created by the departure of Monsoon Vietnamese Cuisine. (Garden District has kept Monsoon’s layout, including the arched bar.) “Monroe Center is beautiful! Through every season, this street is very picturesque, walkable and has a rich history. The proximity to the major events
in downtown Grand Rapids helps us maintain a healthy level of business also.”
So, what should a NOLA newbie order first? For someone sensitive to spice, I would recommend the red beans and rice!” Raphael said. “It’s full of flavor without the heat. The Gumbo Yaya is a great place to start if you might not be a huge seafood lover, because it still holds all the rich New Orleans flavors. My personal favorite is the étouffée... crawfish tails and tiger shrimp smothered in a rich, slightly spicy, seafood gravy.”
Other menu standouts include po’ boy sandwiches in shrimp, crawfish, catfish or hot sausage; muffuletta, a tangy, spicy cold-cut sandwich invented by a Sicilian immigrant to New Orleans; and even vegan dirty rice.
So, whether you say “tomato” or “to-MAHto,” Garden District has something to amuse your bouche!
Owners of Garden District, Raphael and Jessica Jones.
Opposite page, from top left to right, muffulatta sandwich, jambalaya, red beans and rice, gumbo yaya, and a shrimp po'boy.
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Wondering if this program is right for you? Schedule a 30-minute introduction call with our Wellness Expert team to learn more, ask questions, and find out if you’re a candidate.
Your journey to a healthier, more vibrant you starts with a single step! Book online today!
Laurie Zokoe is one of West Michigan’s leading real estate professionals. Real estate has become a way of life for Laurie. Having grown up in West Michigan, she has intimate knowledge of the Greater Grand Rapids area and a thorough understanding of the housing market. As the leader of her team, Laurie’s goal is to make buying and selling real estate a pleasant, seamless experience for her clients.
Olivia Anderson Photography
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 $-$$
ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ
Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
APERITIVO
A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.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 $
DIVANI
European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. 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 $$
GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL
“All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
GRAND WOODS LOUNGE
Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live
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entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$-$$$
HONG KONG EXPRESS
Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
K-ROK
Delicioius Korean BBQ, noodles, Soju cocktail and more Private karaoke rooms. Full bar. Happy hour specials and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Closed Mondays. // 169 Louis, Campau Promenade Ste 1A, 369-5765. $-$$
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 $-$$
LEO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR
Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Happy Hour specials Mon–Thurs, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Open Mon-Fri., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sat 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sunday. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$
LINEAR
Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options;
plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
LITTLEBIRD
Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 4194168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $
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 $-$$
MARGAUX
A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$
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 $$$
MERTENS PRIME
French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. mertensgr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$
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 $$
MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR
Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$
NOODLE PIG
Unique ramen noodles made in-house with fresh, high-
end ingredients and served with nutrient-rich broths. // 601 Bond Ave NW Suite 102, 327-2922, www. noodlepig.com. Dinner $-$$
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 $$$
PALACE OF INDIA
Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 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$$
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SILVA
A dinnertainment venue that focuses on reviving crafting dishes that honor and revive traditional recipies. Billiards, bocce, darts & more in a carnival-like atmosphere. // 975 Ottawa NW, 757-4582. silvagr. com. Drinks, Dinner, Games$$-$$$
SOCIAL HOUSE
A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters,soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$
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, 2724984. 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 $-$$
TERRA BAGEL
A quaint place to grab a bagel, a schmear and some coffee. The sister restaurant of Terra Bagel and Terra GR in Eastown. Open Daily // 40 Pearl St. NW, terrabagels.com, 616.465.4343 Breakfast, Lunch $
TUPELO HONEY
This southern kitchen & bar serves southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. // 140 Ottawa Ave NW STE 100, 239-7158, tupelohoneycafe.com. Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch $$
TURNSTILES
Bodacious bar food in a music-themed atmosphere. Cocktails, drafts, and the largest selection of nonalcoholic beverages in GR. Nightly live music with no cover. Free on-site parking. // 526 Stocking NW. turnstilesgr.com. 616-330-LIVE. Lunch, Dinner $
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, 458-5595. 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 $$
GIN GIN
Stylish and inviting, Gin Gin’s offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. The bar's charm provides the perfect ambiance for savoring handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails. // 345 Summer Ave NW, 341-9124, ginginsgr.com. Tue–Thurs, 4–11 p.m./Fri, 4–11:30 p.m. Sat, 3–11:30 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $$–$$$
THE HOLIDAY BAR
Established in 1905, the menu features appetizers, snacks and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
THE KNICKERBOCKER–
NEW HOLLAND BREWING
Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
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ONE BOURBON
Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
ELECTRIC CHEETAH
Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. Cascade location closed on Sun. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779 electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$
FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN
“Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI
Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
THE GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB
Not your run-of-the-mill New American fare. Full bar with more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open Tue–Sun. // 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.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, $$$
HANCOCK
Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
QUARANTINO’S
Detroit-style pizza restaurant offering unique pizza options finished with Satori Wisconsin Parmesan. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 1444 Lake Drive SE, 734-6833. quarantinosgr.com. Dinner $$
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 $-$$
TESTA ROSSA
Neighborhood Italian joint serving up crispy crust pizza, pasta, hearty sandwiches, salad, and desserts. Enjoy live music and a lively, family-friendly at-mosphere and the Wolve's Den Bar with a late-night menu. //1017 Wealthy St. SE, 278-3174. terragr.com. Mon-Wed, 11 am – 10 pm; Thurs–Sat, 11 am – midnight. Wolves Den Bar: Thurs–Sat, 4 p.m. to midnight. Lunch, Dinner $$
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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 $-$$
CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON
Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
CRESTON BREWERY
More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
GRAYDON’S CROSSING
Global pub serves traditional English pub food and worldinspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
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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 $$
SHOTS ON THE RIVER
Full menu kitchen and bar with 22 taps offering craft and domestic beer options, daily lunch specials, large patio with outdoor seated bar, banquet rooms, numerous TV’s, pool table, and live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday featuring some of West Michigan’s top cover bands. Open daily at 1 p.m. and closed on Sundays. // 5760 West River Drive NE Belmont, 9516071, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$
THAI CHEF
Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 $$
PERRIN BREWING CO.
Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes
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tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $
ROASTED SPORTS BAR & GRILL
Spacious sports bar with a diverse menu of specializing in ribs and other American fare. Outdoor seating. TV's for sports viewing. Full bar. Open daily. // 34322 Remembrance Rd NW, 381-2000. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$$
AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY
Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
ASIAN PALACE
Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
BELTLINE BAR
Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
BRASS RING BREWING
Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.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 $-$$
CAFÉ DE MIRO
A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. Traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes; skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $
CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL
Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$
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 $-$$
EAST GARDEN BUFFET
Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
EL GLOBO RESTAURANT
Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$
FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE
Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
GANDERS
Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$
GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT
Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
PHO SOC TRANG
Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan
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Picnics
dine / estau ants
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, 5302400. 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 $-$$
MYNT FUSION BISTRO
Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
door 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 $$
ZEYTIN
Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 $-$$
RAINBOW GRILL
Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 8960033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$
WHITE
FLAME BREWING CO.
Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
THE WIN TAVERN
Family-friendly restaurant offering cooked-to-order meals, including starters, salads, burgers, sandwiches & steak. Sunday breakfast, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a buildyour-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 $$
GRILL ONE ELEVEN
American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY
Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616512-9314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
THE TOASTED PICKLE
Handcrafted unique sandwiches, soups, salads, cocktails and more. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 8840498. thetoastedpickle.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
From
May God bless you All!
dine / estau ants
Multiple Locations
ANNA’S HOUSE
Retro-style diner with a menu that caters to guests with a wide variety of dietary needs; gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Natural, local ingredients are utilized to create tasty classic breakfast entrees, benedicts, house bowls, salads, wraps, sandwiches, fresh-pressed juices, signature coffees, lattes and more. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5488 Northland Dr NE, 330-3310; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, 551-0434; 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville, 2885855; 525 84th St SW, Byron Center, 447-1201. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$
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, 249-9500. 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 $-$$
FIRST WOK
Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 $
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, 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 $$
MR. BURGER
Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 6625088; 6880 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 986-1110. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
MUDPENNY
Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE
Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; 5065 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-1615. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$
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 $
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 $
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, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $
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) $$
TACOS EL CAPORAL
Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
TACOS EL CUÑADO
Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and
operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
VITALE’S PIZZERIA
Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from family recipes and a wide variety of American fare; burgers, subs, entrées and appetizers. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
Smitten with the Mitten
Hidden gem serves up breakfast pizza with a house-made biscuit crust!
The Mitten Breakfast Pizza, pitchured above is a housemade biscuit crust, nitrate-free ham, housemade sausage, onion, green pepper, scrambled eggs, hollandaise sauce, tomato, oregano, fresh basil, feta, cheddar hollandaise sauce, tomato, oregano, fresh basil, feta, cheddar.
BY GIL STANSEL
I recently happened upon a restaurant I hadn’t been to before, and wow, what a delicious surprise it was! This hidden gem, Noble Restaurant, is tucked away at 1851 44th St SW in Wyoming, offers pick up & delivery, and a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast or lunch where patrons can enjoy “thoughtfully sourced American comfort food.”
Noble is unique in that they offer truly delicious meals for all diets. Vegan? No problem. Not vegan? You’re in good hands. I couldn’t say ‘no’ to the “Mitten Breakfast Pizza,” served on a house made biscuit crust, shaped to look like the state of Michigan, topped with nitrate free
ham, house made sausage, onion, green pepper, scrambled eggs, hollandaise sauce, tomato, oregano, fresh basil, feta and cheddar. This unique ‘pizza’ was like nothing I’ve tasted before. Just writing about it has me drooling onto my keyboard.
Noble offers “inclusive eating, serving honest, natural, scratch-made meals for breakfast and lunch; free from artificial colors & flavors, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial nitrates. Noble is proud to offer many vegetarian and vegan options.” Everyone at the table agreed: the quality of the ingredients used at Noble is undeniably next level.
The staff at Noble was knowledgeable and made great recommendations (but seriously, try the Michigan ‘pizza’). The chef was accommodating in customizing an order for a member of our group who is more particular, and the atmosphere was casual, laid back, and friendly. Noble has become my new favorite ‘go to’ when I want to get out of the house for breakfast or brunch.
So, check it out, this hidden gem will keep you coming back for more.
Stunning Hotel & Wawyé Oasis
All-new and all-spectacular! This is 15 stories of head-turning magnificence, featuring 252 rooms, 30 suites, and one remarkable two-story suite. Indulgence is everywhere you look, from the new restaurants and lounges, the Mnoyé Spa Retreat, and still the most exciting casino in Michigan. And the centerpiece – the Wawyé Oasis, the always-80° aquatic atrium, with two pools, swim-up bar, and private cabanas. By night, it transforms into a rockin’ concert experience.. Book your room today at GunLakeCasino.com.
SUMMER ADVENTURE STARTS HERE.
YOUR SUMMER STARTS HERE.
If your idea of the perfect vacation is sugar-sand beaches, clear blue waters along 28 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, outdoor adventures, climbing to the top of historic lighthouses, or exploring a charming downtown, Ludington is your destination for Pure Michigan fun.
Ludington's unspoiled natural resources offers a quintessential “Up North” experience all within easy reach located at the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 10. No
matter what you're seeking - a beach or outdoor adventure, a peaceful get-away, or just a community of friendly facesyou can find it in Pure Ludington.
If your idea of the perfect vacation is sugar-sand beaches, clear blue waters along 28 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, outdoor adventures, climbing to the top of historic lighthouses, or exploring a charming downtown, Ludington is your destination for Pure Michigan fun. Ludington's unspoiled natural resources offers a quintessential “Up North” experience all within easy reach located at the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 10. Now is the time to get up and go. Start planning your Summer adventures now at:
