Grand Rapids Magazine May/June 2024

YOU VOTED AND WE TALLIED

ANNUAL READER-RANKED LIST OF THE CITY’S MOST POPULAR FACES AND PLACES

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800-FUN-TOWN isn’t just our phone number, it’s our way of life.

Plan your next trip to Michigan’s Little Bavaria during our favorite season - festival season. It’s the Frankenmuth you remember, but with so much more to explore. VISIT

every issue

10 editor's letter

94 dining guide

A guide to the area's best eateries.

120 gr gems

A 'darling' restaurant turns 100!

people + places

14 city

Parties — Save the dates! Grand Rapids' Best and Cider Fest!

15 voice

Escape from Patriarchy: 'Rift' author tells her harrowing story.

16 issues

Mounds of Evidence. A deep dig into the region's first Natives.

18 spotlight

App developer and EDM artist. Is there anything she can't do?

20 profile

The forces behind the AsianPacific Festival open new eatery.

22 guide

Take me out to the ball game, but hold the peanuts & Cracker Jacks.

look + feel

26 style

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for the Best of GR party!

28 expert

Is your house too darn hot?

Maintain and modernize your AC!

31 home

Long held vision comes to life at farmhouse on family land.

34 experience

Walkability and a small town feel define this SE neighborhood.

36 wellness

The Pollening! Springtime can be a horror story for the allergic.

food + drink

80 cheers

New Cherry St. venue is a coffee bar by day, wine bar by night.

82 create

Sweet and spicy! A mouthwatering variation of the classic margarita.

83 table

Holy Mole! MeXo's pre-Columbian culinary creations are superb.

88 must-try

Love authentic Mexican tacos?

Five of our favorite GR taquerias.

90 on-the-go

Chugga chugga! Choo Choo Grill still serving amidst departure.

The Best of GR: Let's get this party started!

As the warm embrace of summer envelops our city, I am thrilled to welcome you to the latest edition of our magazine. With each turn of the page, we invite you to embark on a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Grand Rapids, where every corner reveals a new story waiting to be told.

But first things first! While the positive tone of the story should have tipped you off that it was a dreaded typo, we regret any confusion caused by awkward wording in our last issue's story about the GRAM exhibit "Sonic Border." The museum's intention was NOT to exacerbate divisiveness! That key word was erroneously omitted from the text of the article and we hope you got a chance to see for yourself this poignant and powerful exhibit at our city's beloved and innovative art museum.

With that out of the way, what better way to kick off this new season than with our much-anticipated "Best of Grand Rapids" list, and an inaugural event where we will celebrate the people and places that make our city truly extraordinary. Enhanced by the insights of Pat Evans, our reader-ranked list starts on page 40 and highlights the most beloved faces and locales in Grand Rapids, showcasing the essence of our community. Join us for the festivities celebrating the winners and finalists on May 10, and let's revel in the spirit of our city together.

In this edition, we delve into the heart of Grand Rapids, uncovering its hidden gems and celebrating its diverse culture. From the rich history of our land to the innovative spirit of our artists, entrepreneurs, and kings and queens of the culinary scene, each story is a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of our community.

As you peruse these pages, you'll discover the untold stories behind familiar landmarks, the voices of those who shape our city, and the pulse of life that courses through its streets. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, we invite you to explore Grand Rapids through our lens and discover something new with each turn of the page.

So, as summer beckons us with its warmth and promise, I invite you to join us on this journey through the heart and soul of Grand Rapids. Let's celebrate the best of our city and embrace all that makes it truly exceptional.

See you at the party on May 10!

Grand Rapids Magazine: How long have you been photographing for the magazine? Teri: I began photographing for Grand Rapids Magazine in 2019.

GRM: What’s been your favorite subject to capture for GRMag so far? TG: I love the variety of it all – shining a light on people's talents and passions is one of my greatest joys (from capturing our city's amazing food scene to portraits of chefs, writers, artists, etc.). A standout assignment for me was the farming feature a few years back [Eat Local, July 2020] — the environmental portraits captured during the height of Covid are still some of my favorites.

GRM: What excites you the most about living and playing in the Grand Rapids area? TG: I've lived in Chicago and Los Angeles, but Grand Rapids, hands down, has my heart. The balance and accessibility of nature, food, art and culture and the warmth of the community make for a truly amazing place to live and play.

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Whitecaps’ new menu is a hit!

Ciders, perries, and pommeliers

BY LISA ENOS

On Saturday, May 18, more than 30 of Michigan's 192 hard cideries will be slinging scrumptious samples to the sound of live music at Cider Fest 2024.

The event will serve as a festive finale to the Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition at DeVos Place, where top pommeliers from around the globe will gather to taste and critique more than 1500 international ciders and perries, and to choose the winners.

“We have the top cider celebrity in the world coming to judge at Cider Week this year,” said Paula Englin, Executive Director of the Michigan Cider Association. “He’s from the UK. There are also pommeliers coming from Japan, Spain, and Canada.”

The competition is closed to the public, but other facets of Cider Week (May 10-18), like Mother’s Day brunches, tap takeovers, and Cider Fest (1–5 p.m. at Rosa Parks Circle May 18) are wide open.

Party with the best

On Friday, May 10, you are invite you to join Grand Rapids Magazine in celebrating the city’s best restaurants, bars, boutiques, salons, spas, musicians, personalities, and more, 6 – 11 p.m. at New Vintage Place, 889 Broadway Avenue, NW. This inaugural "Best of Grand Rapids" party will feature three floors of food, drinks, entertainment, live music, and so much more. For more information on pricing and VIP packages, visit grmag.com/events

The Katt who broke the internet

When comedian Katt Williams appeared on NFL legend Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast Jan. 3, he spilled more tea than a truckload of Snapple.

In February, he dished dirt again to Joe Rogan.

On Saturday, May 11, he brings his wicked wit to Van Andel Arena. The show starts at 8 p.m.

Above and top: Cider sampling takes place in the outdoor area at Farmhaus Cider, one of the many local cideries participating in Cider Week, which takes place May 10–18, 2024.

CITY

"I am emotionally ready to tell the story in a meaningful way. ...

Healing isn’t about getting to the finish line, but a lifelong process."

Cait West

Escape from patriarchy

Memoir details author's breakaway from fringe movement

BY ANN BYLE

Cait West had no control over her life, her body, and her choices as a child and young adult. No, she wasn’t trafficked. No, she wasn’t enslaved in the ways we might understand those terms.

Instead, she was part of the Christian Patriarchy movement. “I was told that I would be a wife and mother, never go to college, and would stay home until marriage,” said West, who lives in the Grand Rapids area.

Christian Patriarchy an ideology positing that God is masculine and the ultimate patriarch and thus offers a pattern by which to live. Fathers are the patriarchs, mothers submit to fathers in all things, and children obey and follow the vision of the father. Along with Christian Patriarchy is the Stay-At-Home-Daughter movement that says daughters must remain home until marriage to a man chosen by their fathers.

She records her journey from obedient daughter to young woman married to the man she loves in Rift: A Memoir of Breaking Away from Christian Patriarchy, which came out April 30 and is published by Grand Rapids-based Eerdmans Publishing Company.

“I am emotionally ready to tell the story in a meaningful way,” said West, 36. “A big part of my processing is knowing that it wasn’t my fault. Healing isn’t about getting to the finish line, but a lifelong process.”

She fears for our society and especially women. “We are seeing restrictions on healthcare for women in the laws created now around women and the overturning of Roe v. Wade. These are the kinds of things that affected me in the Christian Patriarchy movement—I had no bodily autonomy, was never taught the idea of consent, and didn’t understand that I had personal rights as a human being,” said West.

What West is referring to is the introduction of bills in states like Ohio, Georgia, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and South Carolina that provide personhood for fetuses from the moment of conception, with Georgia’s having already passed. Here in Michigan, West Volunteered to help get the Reproductive Freedom for All proposal passed.

“Laws are taking away women’s agency over their own bodies and what they can consent to, which is a really dangerous trend. What was once a fringe movement is now becoming mainstream,” she adds.

Her principal goal for Rift is that those who grew up like West, who experienced abuse, who struggled with churches that were harmful places “feel seen and validated that their stories matter and their struggles matter,” she said.

“Women and children in these closed groups are silenced and not seen by the outside world. I want to bring awareness and connect with people to bring about change to prevent abuse and deal with it when it happens,” West said. “The ideology of patriarchy hurts all genders.”

Editor’s note: According to abortionfinder.org: “Abortion is legal throughout pregnancy in Michigan – there is no ban or limit on abortion in Michigan based on how far along in pregnancy you are. If you are under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must give you permission to get an abortion in Michigan.”

Be part of the conversation

Join Cait West, author of Rift: A Memoir of Breaking Away from Christian Patriarchy, in conversation with Kristen Kobes Du Mez, author of Jesus and John Wayne.

Date: Thursday, May 9

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Place: Schuler Books, 2660 28th St., SE, Grand Rapids

Mounds of Evidence

Investigating the enigmatic Hopewell culture, Moundbuilders with a vast trade network who lived along the Grand River 2000 years ago.

BY LISA ENOS

The ancient burial mounds in the Grand Rapids area offer a poignant glimpse into the Indigenous Peoples who once flourished in the region. Among these sacred sites, the Norton Mounds, located on the east bank of Grand River stand as silent sentinels, bearing witness to an enigmatic culture that once thrived in the area. In contrast, the Converse Mounds, razed by construction as downtown Grand Rapids expanded in the 19th century, are now merely symbolically represented in Ah-Nab-Awen Park.

Both mound groups are attributed to ancient peoples known as Moundbuilders, a diverse pre-Columbian indigenous civilization that engaged in division of labor, grew crops, had vast trade networks, and constructed mounds for a variety of purposes.

The Big Dig

Richard E. Flanders (1931–1989), a professor of Anthropology at Grand Valley who earned his PhD. at University of Michigan, conducted an extensive survey of Norton Mounds in 1964 through which he cemented

the hypothesis that the Norton Mounds belonged to the Hopewell culture— a category of Moundbuilders who flourished in the Eastern Woodlands of North America from around 100 BCE to 500 CE.

Through his excavations and research, Flanders sought to understand the cultural practices, social organization, and the ceremonial and religious activities of the people who constructed the Mounds. The dig focused on documenting earthworks, human remains, and artifacts, ultimately yielding valuable data on the material culture of the Hopewell people.

He wrote about his findings in “The Burial Complexes of the Knight and Norton Mounds in Illinois and Michigan” (1970), which he co-authored with James Bennett Griffin and Paul Francis Titterington. The book, published by University of Michigan Press, contains meticulous descriptions of the objects uncovered, and includes photographs and illustrations of a Busycon shell, copper, threaded stones, fabric, pottery, atlatl projectile points, a pipe carved out of stone in the shape of a bird, as well as human remains and other artifacts. The findings served as evidence that these particular Moundbuilders were of the Hopewell tradition. Among other criteria, the Hopewell are characterized by a vast trade network that stretched as far north as the Upper Peninsula; as far south as the Gulf of Mexico; as far east as North Carolina; and perhaps as far west as the Rockies.

The dig Flanders took part in was not the first to unearth burial mounds in West Michigan. The Norton Mounds were initially excavated in 1874 by archaeologist W. L. Coffinberry, who was

“The Grand Rapids Public Museum has been on the cutting edge, ahead of the curve. Before these regulations ever came out, the museum was really following NAGPRA and a human remains policy.”

Ed Pigeon

ISSUES

A photo by archeologist Richard Flanders, from the digital collection of University of Michigan's Museum of Anthropological Archaeology, shows field research conducted on "Mound M" at Norton Mound complex in July of 1964.

associated with the Kent County Scientific Institute (which would later become the Grand Rapids Public Museum).

According to The Newsletter of Hopewell Archeology in the Ohio River Valley, the most “spectacular” discovery was made when developers were installing a water line in downtown Grand Rapids on May 30, 1885. A mound disturbed by the excavation produced “large nuggets of copper and silver, copper panpipe jackets, copper celts, drilled effigy and true bear canines, platform pipes, and an effigy beetle done in antler.” The artifacts were placed in Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History and Harvard’s Peabody Museum. Other early researchers, like W. M. Mills and Harlan I. Smith, played crucial roles in discovering and documenting other mound sites. Their efforts may have laid the foundation for further archeological investigations, but 150 years have passed since the discovery of the Norton and Converse Mounds, and there is still much to be learned.

Relics Returned

The future study of the Hopewell is now limited to what’s already been documented. On January 12, 2024, an updated Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act was enacted by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Its purpose was to improve upon a 1990 law, outlining the processes for the “disposition or repatriation of Native American human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural patrimony.”

Ed Pigeon, Grand Rapids Public Museum's Anishinaabek Curator and Gun Lake Tribe member views this as a very good thing.

“The GRPM has been on the cutting edge, ahead of the curve. Before these regulations ever came out, the museum was really following NAGPRA and a human remains policy,” said Pigeon. NAGPRA includes a step-by-step roadmap with specific timelines for museums and other agencies to facilitate disposition or repatriation of relics and remains.

“In the sixties or the seventies, there were still people digging them up and studying them,” Pigeon said, perhaps referencing the excavation documented by Flanders. “There were big debates between Natives and university people on the ethics of it."

The Natives won. "Everything that was dug out of the Mounds was repatriated back to Gun Lake 10 years ago,” Pigeon said.

A Documentary

While the repatriation of remains of Moundbuilders who lived in the Middle Woodlands period to the Gun Lake Tribe is a “win” for Indigenous Peoples everywhere, for local filmmakers Chris and Amy Penney who are making a documentary about the Hopewell culture in Michigan, it serves as a little more than an inconvenience. With all the relics tucked away, no longer on view at museums, it’s difficult to tell the story of this fascinating culture without access to key visuals, such as pottery, artwork, stone tools, projectile points, and other items that were buried along with human remains.

Chris noted that similar sites in other states draw tourists and offer educational programs that provide an invaluable understanding of Indigenous Peoples. Serpent Mound, an earthwork in Ohio attributed to the Adena culture (500 BCE–100 CE), has a visitor center and provides walking tours, attracting visitors from all over the world. Amy expressed concern over trash she noticed at the Norton Mounds. Indeed, Flanders, in his book, documented the remnants of a modern picnic mixed in with ancient artifacts. This suggests people may be oblivioius as to what the "hills in the woods" actually are. A film on the subject could raise awareness and spur beautification and preservation efforts.

The Anishinaabe (the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi–collectively known as the “Three Fires” alliance) are the Indigenous Peoples of the region surrounding Grand Rapids.

“I’m just thankful for the people on the fourth floor of the Grand Rapids Public Library,” Chris said, referring to employees who helped him locate some of the only publicly available archives on the subject. “They’ve been very helpful.”

Many aspects of the Hopewell culture remain the subject of academic debate, such as its seemingly sudden cessation around 400–500 CE. What happened to the Hopewell? Did they die out due to a climate catastrophe or cataclysm? Were they assimilated into the Moundbuilders of Cahokia in Illinois, the Mississippian culture (1050–1350 CE) that built the largest prehistoric earthen construction in the Americas north of Mexico? How are they related to the Anishinaabek?

“We came from the East over to this place,” said Pigeon of the Anishinaabek. “They (the Hopewell) would be the people who came before us, at least the way I interpret it…a lot of Native people will say that since (the Hopewell) are also Native people, they are our relatives.”

A New Exhibit

Pigeon, who worked in Tribal government for 21 years, is currently working on a new Anishinaabek exhibit for GRPM. “I actually came out of retirement to do this,” he said. “The current exhibit is over 30 years old now. What people don’t realize is they’re surrounded by Tribal people,” he said, noting that his Tribe is an owner of one of the most prominent buildings in downtown Grand Rapids, McKay Tower.

“We’re going to highlight in the new exhibit, not only our past, but our present and all the contributions we continue to make.”

Norton Mounds was the site of an archeological dig conducted by the University of Michigan in 1964.

Entrepreneur drops Royaltea

Therapeutic outlet transforms into streaming success story

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY ALFIELD REEVES

Andrea Jenkins is one of those people who just doesn't stop. In the past decade she's worked in advertising sales and social media management; competed in two cover model competitions for Jetset magazine; entered and won a short sci-fi screenplay competition; and modeled clothing as much as possible. She's developed her own mobile news app and released an EDM single. And, she is also a single mom.

"I’ve been building websites since I was 17. I used to make and sell backgrounds for MySpace," said Jenkins, who is now 37. She originally set out to study graphic design at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. She later enrolled John Casablancas Modeling Center in Florida. Both attempts at schooling were interrupted due to her growing family, and at one challenging point in time, caring for a premature infant.

Despite these early setbacks, Jenkins' entrepreneurial spirit and creativity has shone through. After parting ways with an Allegan news organization, she set out to do her own thing. "I wanted to give West Michiganders an app that has everything your local newspaper or print magazine would, in one app. I'm really good at networking and research. I got on Google and tried to find the best option for me."

Jenkins' app is called West Michigan Media on the mobile app store. She reported it had scored more than 61,000 downloads by March of 2024. The platform she used to create the app is called Appypie

"They have an option where AI can whip one up for you, but as a mom of five, if I can get something on a budget, I prefer to. You download their app and create it yourself, choose the colors, et cetera," she said.

"There are Michigan creators on (my app) who make their own shows. It’s all family friendly, nothing R-rated; free eBooks, entertainment— just something positive. How I make money is through advertising. Businesses are being added weekly, and you can check our job section as well," said Jenkins in "sales pitch" tone.

Her journey with music started relatively recently as a therapeutic outlet while navigating through a painful divorce.

"My friend had a studio basement in their house. A kid from Switzerland, Zentazy, and I teamed up." Her single "Royaltea" (2021) has garnered more than 150k streams on Spotify alone. It's been a bit of a slow burn, but Jenkins reported in the spring of 2024 that the song was gaining traction on VaMo and Poze Radio in Chicago; Chic Radio Hits in France; and It is Now Radio in London.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jenkins is grounded in her faith and family, attributing her success to her unwavering belief in God and the support of her children. Looking ahead, Jenkins plans to focus on creating music that aligns with her Christian values. She's also begun writing a memoir of her experiences, with the ultimate goal of inspiring others.

Andrea Jenkins and Swiss artist Zentazy teamed up on "RoyalTea" an electronic dance music single.

Andrea Jennkins looks out the window of her Holland, Michigan home in March, 2024.

A Filipino full circle

Meet the family behind Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival and their new Adobo Boy

BY

When Jackie Canamo and Ace Marasigan first met at a Filipino restaurant in Detroit back in 2005, they never would have imagined that moment would come full circle nearly 20 years later with the opening of their own eatery: Adobo Boy GR. A lot has happened in between then and now, though.

First, Some Background

Both Ace and Jackie emigrated to the US from the Philippines with their respective families when they were young, and both ended up settling in Grand Rapids. Ace began working in the banking industry, while deejaying on the side and playing in a band with his brothers. Jackie entered the nursing field. They married in 2006 and had their son, Redd, in 2013. When Redd was born, so was an idea, even if the Marasigans didn’t know it yet.

As Redd grew, Ace and Jackie realized their son needed a way to be himself and see himself in the people around him; to feel he has a place as an Asian American in his

PROFILE

ALLISON BANNISTER // PHOTOS BY ALFIELD REEVES

An rice bowl entree at Adobo Boy, located inside Amazing Myanmar, 3740 28th St., SE, in Kentwood.

community and to embrace the differences between cultures. And, more importantly, to not just fly under the radar and try his best to fit in. That notion became the impetus for the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, which was first held in June of 2017.

To get this monumental effort off the ground, Ace had to secure volunteers and buy-in, including funding, from area businesses. He had to take a leap of faith as well—a theme that comes up again and again in the Marasigans’ story. He networked like crazy and tapped into the knowledge of other cultural festival planners in town, and eventually amassed a small team of eight to bring the inaugural Festival into being. The Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation (GRAPF) was founded by Ace during that time, as well. Many of those founding members are still involved today, including Mai Thao, Events Director and Ace’s right hand.

In those early days, the main goal was to raise awareness about the multitude of cultures and countries that make up Asia.

And, to make Grand Rapids, the Foundation says, “A place where Asian people can

Above: Dragon boat races take place on the Grand River during the annual Global Water Fest. The 2024 races are scheduled for July 27.

Top right: Calder Plaza is filled with Asian-Pacific Festival revelers,

feel belonging and celebrate their food, traditions, dress, music, dance, and lives with their neighbors.”

In its seventh year, after taking a hiatus in 2020, the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival will be held June 14-16, 2024.

A Dream Materializes

Today, this initiative has grown to be so much more. Not just in terms of the events GRAPF has organized over the years, but in their vision. “Our mission,” the Foundations says, “Is to shape a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community where cultural awareness, economic empowerment, individual growth, and community education intersect seamlessly.” That’s a lofty endeavor, and it’s made possible by a force of passionate individuals who serve as advocates, ambassadors, and volunteers. They work tirelessly and they work for free—all because they recognize the importance and the impact of what they do.

The initial Asian-Pacific Festival that was held in June of 2017 was the beginning of much bigger things to come. Subsequent Festivals brought local and national

“Our mission is to shape a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community where cultural awareness, economic empowerment, individual growth, and community education intersect seamlessly.”

The Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation

some using poles to rhythmically move decorative dragons, taking part in performing a traditional dragon dance.

acts, increased numbers of vendors and performers, and, one year, a Sumo Wrestling event, which was enthusiastically received by all who attended.

Working with Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. (DRGI), Ace and the GRAPF team launched their first Lunar New Year celebration in February of 2018, which included a parade, a dragon dance, fireworks, food, and more. After a few years of hosting the Lunar New Year festivities, DRGI and GRAPF decided to shift their focus, replacing that event with Noodle Fest, which first made the scene as part of World of Winter in March of 2023 with nine participants. It returned in 2024 with 17 vendors slinging $6 noodle bowls and competing for the title of Noodle Fest Champion.

The idea for Noodle Fest was hatched by Ace and supported by DRGI, without their really knowing what it would be. That’s a lot of trust! But Ace and GRAPF have proven themselves year after year, and this was yet another event that just “worked.” (Not without a lot of time and dedication from a lot of people, of course!) Ace knew he wanted it to be a way to highlight small businesses and give them an opportunity to market themselves—and make some money at the same time. With attendance in the thousands, it has done just that.

Harnessing the Mighty Grand

Since the inception of the team that eventually became GRAPF, there was talk of incorporating the Grand River into their plans. Years later, that became Global Water Fest, a two-day event held at Canal Park. The main attraction is the dragon boat race, which, in 2024, will be held Saturday, July 27. Ongoing will be authentic Asian cuisine, entertainment, and local art. On Sunday, the 28th, free rides on the dragon boats will be offered.

The goal for Saturday’s race is to get 25 teams to sign up. Each boat requires 14 rowers and one drummer, and has a $500 participation fee (if you do the math, that’s just 33 bucks per person). The winners take home a $500 prize, as well as $500 toward a charity of their choice. Their fee to participate the following year will also be waived. That’s a lot of incentive to sign up!

Jackie’s Time to Shine

Though much of this story centers on Ace, he’d rather not take all the credit. He acknowledges how all of this has been a team endeavor, and that includes Jackie

and Redd giving a lot of their free time and energy. So much of the inspiration for GRAPF’s activities has centered around Asian cuisine, particularly Ace and Jackie’s connection to the food they grew up with. And, that’s how Adobo Boy GR came to be.

They seized an opportunity to occupy space in Amazing Myanmar’s restaurant, which meant Jackie leaving her job as a nurse, which she’d been doing for 25 years. It was a risk much like the one Ace took when he left a 20-year banking career to become a real estate agent—a move needed to keep the family afloat during the pandemic. “Sometimes, you just have to go for it,” Ace says.

The restaurant opened in December of 2023, with Jackie heading up the kitchen. Despite being a lot of work, it’s been a source of joy and calm and fulfillment for her—to craft traditional Filipino food and to see customers enjoying her creations made from traditional family recipes. “That’s the ultimate happiness as a husband, seeing her light up because she’s doing what she loves,” Ace says.

At the restaurant, Ace serves as support to Jackie, whether it’s marketing, accounting, dishwashing, or waiting tables. Jackie often comes out to greet guests, too. “We make this as a family, exactly how it would feel to visit us at home,” Ace says.

With the restaurant, with the Foundation, and with the many events that put the spotlight on Asian culture, the Marasigans have achieved what they set out to create for their son, for themselves, and for the community. “I would love for people to read this article and be inspired,” Ace says. “To say, ‘I think I can do this. This is a crazy idea but I think I can do it.’”

Learn more at grapf.org and adoboboygr.com.

“I would love for people to read this article and be inspired. To say, ‘I think I can do this. This is a crazy idea but I think I can do it.’”

Ace Marasigan

Ace and Jackie Marasigan smile in celebration at their new restaurant, Adobo Boy Filipino Eatery. The restaurant changes its menu weekly.

Move over, peanuts and Cracker Jacks

The West Michigan Whitecaps are rolling out a new menu of fan food and fun themes

BY LISA ENOS

The West Michigan Whitecaps are gearing up for a veritable grand slam of entertainment this Spring, along with some culinary surprises.

“This year, we are holding a chef’s competition in Food Network’s "Chopped" style, where they will compete against each other to come up with our ultimate fan food, which will be featured on the concessions menu for the season,” said Lynn Tuori, the team's director of marketing ahead of the season opener.

The winning dishes? Dugout tots, frycuterie boxs, pulled pork on pretzel buns, rice bowls, cheese wedges, big beef sandwiches, jalapeño bacon firecrackers, and more are now available, along with more than 50 local beers on tap.

Top: Whitecaps mascots exchange high fives with band members at Lake Michigan Credit Union Ballpark. Above, right: West Michigan Whitecaps team member Josh Crouch (15) at Lake Michigan Credit Union Ballpark.

The Lineup

The dog days of Spring?

On May 9, baseball fans are invited to bring “Fido” along for a day of tail-wagging fun. This canine companion event is coupled with Michigan Army National Guard Thrifty Thursday, featuring $2 hot dogs, Pepsi products and draft beers.

Fri-YAY!

Friday, May 10, marks School Day, where young fans take center stage for a morning of educational programming. Meanwhile, the first 2,500 children through the gates will receive push pop toys, courtesy of Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network of Michigan. And for all attendees, HopCat FRY-days promise free Cosmik Fries, adding an extra dash of flavor to the experience.

Salute!

Saturday, May 11 brings Military Appreciation Night, a poignant tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. Active and former military members and their families are invited to enjoy discounted tickets and a special salute during the game. After the game, spectators will be treated to dazzling post-game fireworks.

Paint the Park Pink

On Sunday, May 12, the stadium will transform into a sea of pink for Paint the Park Pink. Proceeds from this event benefit breast cancer awareness initiatives. Families can also partake in Corewell Health Family Sunday festivities, complete with complimentary meals for the first 1,000 children, pre-game activities, and post-game base running.

Other dates to look forward to in May and June are the Bluey and Bingo visit on May 31 and June 1; the Whitecaps Family Showdown on June 21; and Star Wars night on June 22.

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Experience the essence of Detroit at the Best of Detroit Party! Join us for a night of top-notch cuisine, craft cocktails, and live entertainment, celebrating the best this iconic city has to offer. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event!

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IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge

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Music on every floor featuring Ben Sharkey, DJ Bruce Bailey, and Sound Cocktail. Live art and painting by Paint Creek Center for the Arts, Brian Lewandowski, and B.P. LeGault.

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Put on your dancing shoes!

Our inaugural Best of Grand Rapids party will take place at New Vintage Place on May 10

BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK // PHOTOS BY KRIS KINSEY

Originally built in 1923 on the historic west side of Grand Rapids, New Vintage Place is an iconic building that has stood the test of time. Rising up over the outskirts of downtown, this premiere party venue was originally a power plant for the American Seating factory. Over the years has played many roles in the landscape of GR, including its parking lot which was once utilized as the Union High School Football Field.

The building started a new chapter as New Vintage Place in 2015, officially opening as an event venue. It’s bold, brickfilled exterior expands into its interior as well, with high ceilings and large windows that let in natural light. The venue easily serves as the canvas for weddings, holiday

Exposed brick and high ceilings are accented by light streaming through the party venue's oversized

parties, trade shoes, birthday parties, corporate events and more by lending its historical character to every event.

New Vintage Place boasts towering windows, original exposed brick and structural steel, soaring open-architecture ceilings and their iconic 150-foot high smoke stack. The venue features two expansive event spaces so you can get creative in tailoring your event to multiple rooms, allowing you to create different themes and atmospheres and accommodate different timelines. On its expansive property, you’ll also find two on-site dressing rooms, a stylish cocktail lounge, outdoor amphitheater, and courtyard.

With its large footprint and unique amenities, New Vintage Place has hosted

everything from local fundraisers to fashion shows. Free on-site parking allows easy access for up to 300 guests, while still being close enough to capturing the charm and energy of the downtown area.

New Vintage Place is operated by RYE Venue Management. Founded in 2018, RYE specializes in the operation of intimate to mid-sized wedding and event venues. Leveraging years of collective expertise in the field, RYE is dedicated to optimizing venue operations, enhancing guest experiences, and revitalizing struggling properties. RYE has grown quickly and now manages five Grand Rapids venues including New Vintage Place, The Lit GR, Ballroom at McKay, Heritage Barn Co., and the Grand Rapids Art Museum.

On May 10, 2024, Grand Rapids Magazine will host the inaugural "Best of Grand Rapids" Party at New Vintage Place, a fitting location given the building’s longtime residency in the city.

The party will celebrate the winners and finalists of Grand Rapids Magazine’s annual readers’ survey (featured in this issue, beginning on page 40). We hope you will come and join us in congratulating the people behind our area’s best restaurants, bars, museums, entertainment venues, shops, salons, etc. This event aims to kick off the season in style. So, put on your dancing shoes and dress to impress. There will be three floors of food, drinks, live music, entertainment, and a whole lot of fun to be had at New Vintage Place.

Once a historic landmark boasting a 150-foot smokestack, this space has been transformed into a top event venue. With oversized windows, exposed brick, and open ceilings reminiscent of America's Gilded Age, New Vintage Place offers two event spaces, a stylish lounge, an outdoor amphitheater, a courtyard, and perhaps best of all — ample free parking!

Too darn hot?

When Summer officially arrives on June 21, it’s likely that warmer weather will already be in full swing. By mid-March the Farmers’ Almanac had already warned: “Summer is coming early this year, and it may bring the hottest temperatures in recorded history...The general outlook: muggy, stormy. "

If you're wondering if your home's HVAC system is up for the challenge, many experts agree that replacing it earlier in the season, before contractors get too busy with "emergency" service calls, is probably a good idea. Contractors tend to be less busy during milder seasons, potentially resulting in quicker installation and better service.

We reached out to service technician Brad Rosema at Blakeslee & Son, Inc. for more advice on getting the most out of our air conditioner in a year that's threatening to be a scorcher.

GRM: How long does an HVAC system last?

Brad Rosema: An average of 12 to 15 years.

GRM: What’s the best way to extend the life of my unit? BR: Have it maintained and cleaned yearly.

GRM: How often do I need to change my air filters? BR: One-inch filters should be changed monthly as the system runs. A fourto five-inch filter should be changed every three to six months.

GRM: What else can I do about indoor air quality? BR: Reme Halo. I’m installing mine right now. (The “Reme Halo” is an in-duct air purifier employing UV light, alongside proprietary technologies— including a mechanism generating low levels of

hydrogen peroxide dispersed throughout the air-conditioning system and indoor areas. Its functionality aims to diminish bacteria, viruses, odors, and mold spores, both in the air and on surfaces.)

GRM: What causes AC units to freeze up? BR: Dirty filters, low on refrigerant, or both.

GRM: How can I save money, increase efficiency with my HVAC system? BR: Have maintenance done and/or replace it with higher efficiency equipment. Everything nowadays in the world is more efficient than it was 10 years ago.

Blakeslee & Son, Inc. is located at 198 Northland Dr NE, Rockford. The company— in business for more than 75 years— offers rapid HVAC and plumbing service in Rockford and beyond, with emergency service on weekends and evenings.

blakesleeandson.com.

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The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio engages the imagination and elicits emotional responses in all who experience this powerful statement of Mid-Twentieth Century Modern architecture. Planted into an encompassing pond, the Home and Studio is alive with reflective light, soaring roof lines, diverging angles, brilliant color and the perfect balance of enticement and tranquility. It truly is an “oasis of architecture and inspiration.” Schedule your visit for architectural tours, educational programs, Michigan history and much more.

River cruises offer a seamless transition from land to water, connecting you deeply with your destinations. Whether you prefer a relaxed pace or you’re an adventurous go-getter, there’s a cruise that’s right for you.

Newly built farmhouse anchored in her story

A

BY ANDREA ROWLAND

long-held vision is brought to life with a cadre of reclaimed remnants; salvaged and century-old items, from support beams to finishing touches.

The oak kitchen island was crafted in the style of an antique farmhouse table.

“It [the sink] was rusted and in bad shape, but Cory and Sarah and the kids polished it up and brought it back to life.”

Kristin Thompson

When Sarah and Cory Wyma set out to build a home for their family of five, the legacy of the land was foremost in their minds. The building site and surrounding orchards were farmed for generations by Sarah’s family. Cory, the third-generation CEO of custom home builder Kenowa Builders, put his experience in historic restoration to work when sourcing materials for Orchard House.

Tucked off a winding gravel road in Ada sits Orchard House, a newly constructed farmhouse layered with history and remnants of a bygone era.

Top left: The powder room sink was pulled from a restoration project in Heritage Hill and refurbished. At right: A painting of a landscape similar to that which surrounds the home, as seen through the window of the master bedroom.

“Cory really did care about the historical accuracy of the house,” said Kristin Thompson, the interior designer at Kenowa Builders tasked with bringing the couple’s vision to life. “They bought land from Sarah’s parents on an old apple orchard. With the location and the history, and her being part of a farming family, it was important to pull from those roots; not only from her family but from the land itself.”

The couple worked with architect Dru Chapman of Studio Chapman to create a design reminiscent of a century-old

house – not unlike the home of Sarah’s childhood. Many of the materials used could be found in a traditional farmhouse 100 years ago, including soapstone countertops, farmhouse sinks, and a stone fireplace. The oak kitchen island was crafted in the style of an antique farmhouse table, and even the décor hints at the yield of the land with oil paintings of orchards integrated throughout.

In the years leading up to the build, Cory salvaged and saved century-old materials, storing them in an unused cidery on the property. One such find is the family’s powder room sink, which was pulled from a historic restoration project in Heritage Hill.

“It was rusted and in bad shape, but Cory and Sarah and the kids polished it up and brought it back to life,” said Thompson. Other reclaimed features of the home include the barn wood beams in the family room, the clawfoot tub in the master bathroom, and even pieces of tile used throughout the interior.

A brass dinner bell is mounted near the exterior door, another small hint of the Wyma’s intention for Orchard House to be real and livable, a home in which to raise their family.

Above, left: The laundry room features the kind of deep sink traditionally found in a farmhouse. Above: The master bathroom's iconic clawfoot tub is one of the many reclaimed features of the home.

Above: Rustic wood beams accent the ceiling of the Orchard House family room.

Small town in the big city

Historic neighborhood's walkability lends to a simpler, more connected way of life.

BY ANN BYLE // PHOTOS BY WES KITTEN

Talk to anyone who lives in Alger Heights and one of the first words out of their mouth is “walkability.” They walk to Ken’s Market for produce, Brass Ring Brewery for libations, The Old Goat for lunch, the Seymour Square library for a good read.

The roughly 4,500 residents that live between Burton Street on the north and 28th Street on the south, Kalamazoo Avenue on the east and Eastern Avenue on the west live in one of the most popular city neighborhoods that is seeing renewed interest in the already much-loved area.

For Gwendolyn Johnson, a real estate agent who has lived in Alger Heights since 1993, it’s the walkability that draws her, along with the neighborhood’s diversity. “I love to meet new people so I love walking around the neighborhood, plus the variety of foods available and the diverse population,” she said.

Jody Smith, a social worker devoted to foster care, moved into Alger Heights in 2001 at the urging of a long-time friend and real estate agent.

Springtime in Alger Heights sees cyclists and people returning to one of the outdoor seating areas on the sidewalk adjacent to Eastern Ave.

“I have never once regretted moving here,” she said. “I love the diversity and I love being the only white person and only one solely speaking English when I go to the bank or grocery store or library.”

She knows her neighbors and their pets and loves to stop and chat while she’s out walking. “So many things are within walking distance here, plus it doesn’t take long to get anywhere in the city,” she added.

Alger Heights was one of the only neighborhoods in the city to be built up during both the Great Depression and World War II, with a housing boom expanding it even more in 1940-41. The business district at Eastern Avenue and Alger Street came into being in 1946 to accommodate the growing neighborhood and new families moving in. In those days it was “suburban” Grand Rapids.

In came Mersman’s Super Market at 2420 Eastern Ave., De Waard Jeweler, Alger Heights Hardware, Anton’s Soda & Grill, Polly Anna Pastry and a barbershop. At one point there was a Sunoco Gasoline Station at the corner of Alger and Eastern. As time passed, Boersma’s replaced Mersman’s and Swierenga Jewelers replaced De Waard. Both are gone now, replaced by new businesses eager to tap into the popular community. Alger Hardware is there as well, offering small-town service instead of big-box anonymity.

The Seymour Square Library opened to the public in 1963, and Seymour Christian School served children in the Grand Rapids Christian School system. Alger School served children via Grand Rapids Public Schools, with Alger Middle School now serving grades six through eight.

Now, Seymour Christian School is permanent home to Tabernacle Community Church, with a second building purchased by ICCF to turn into condos. For Tabernacle’s Pastor Artie Lindsay Sr., the first order of business when the church decided Alger Heights would be its permanent home was to purchase a house in the neighborhood.

“We’ve seen over the last twelve or thirteen years that neighbors are willing to

help other neighbors, willing to engage in opportunities to gather together, to participate in events together,” he said. “There’s a desire within the community to connect with people who might be different from them.”

A recent gathering at the nearby Kroc Center saw residents from both Alger Heights and Garfield Park working on the Alger Garfield Neighbors Collaborative, with business, church, and neighborhood leaders comparing notes and getting to know one another. It’s this willingness to work together that draws and keeps residents in Alger Heights.

Keverne Lehman has lived there since 1981, purchasing her first home as a single woman and then buying a bigger home when marriage and a baby came along. What’s keeping her in Alger Heights for 43 years? “Walkability, diversity, trees! And the shopping area, library, post office close by, and proximity to all parts of the city.”

The Alger Heights Business Association has a dream for the east and west sides of Eastern Avenue just south of Alger Street. Jay Brooks is owner, with wife Barbara, of Reinspired Treasures, a home décor store with a mix of vintage and new finds that opened eight years ago. He was recently elected president of the Alger Heights Business Association.

“Our goal for this year is to get more businesses involved. We’re almost going door-to-door to do that and are trying to involve in-home businesses as well,” said Brooks, whose first home was in Alger Heights. “We want to work together to make the business district stronger for both the businesses and the community. The more we can do that, the more impact we’ll have.”

Brooks is responsible for bringing the popular Eastern & Alger Popup Market to the business district. Running the second Saturday of the month from June to October, the market brings people from around the city and the neighborhood looking for unique gifts from a variety of vendors. They can get a coffee from Sip Coffee and Cocktails, lunch at Real Food Café or The Old Goat, and pick up something for dinner at Ken’s Market.

The popup market takes advantage of one of the unique facets of the business district: 25 feet of frontage from the business’s front door to the sidewalk. No other neighborhood in the city, according to Making Thyme Kitchen owner Karen Byrne, offers that kind of outside space.

That space has the business association dreaming of “creating a space that will be relevant and useful for the next 25 years,” said

Alger Heights is in the middle of the 58-squaremiles of Plaster Creek Watershed. Plaster Creek Stewards—a collaboration of Calvin University and community partners—is eager to restore the health of the watershed.

Plaster Creek Stewarads offers free curb-cut rain gardens to Alger Heights residents whose curbside meet criteria. The rain garden helps rainwater flow off the streets and into the natural filtration system of native plants on its way to Plaster Creek.

For more information, visit calvin.edu/plastercreek-stewards.

Byrne. Making Thyme Kitchen has been in Alger Heights for five years after having space on Cherry Street and then five years at Downtown Market. It offers fresh food for walk-ins and for delivery.

“We wanted to be back in a neighborhood with free parking available, with a tight and supportive community and with neighbors committed to local businesses,” said Byrne.

Alger Heights has all of that, and now Byrne and the business association dream of even more.

Seating areas, shade trees and greenspace, sculptural play equipment, permeable pavement for storm water remediation, a small performance stage, bicycle parking, EV charging stations, traffic safety features.

Initial plans and renderings, done by local firm Fishbeck, were paid for by a $30,000 grant from the Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority (see photo). Now the AHBA is searching for additional grants to pay for the new streetscape and redo parking lots behind the east- and west-side businesses.

“We want to make our business district more attractive, function better, and have more greenspace,” said Brooks.

For Keverne Lehman and so many Alger Heights residents like her, “Most of all, it’s a feeling of community with my neighbors. It’s about living a simpler, connected life.”

Reinspired Treasures — located at 2417 Eastern Ave SE, in Alger Heights — offers a mix of new and gently used home furnishings and gifts.

Tabernacle Community Church Pastor Artie Lindsay Sr. says of his neighbors:"There's a desire within the community to connect with people who might be different from them."

The Pollening

The seasonal allergies cometh!

BY ALLISON BANNISTER

It sounds like the description of a horror movie. For some people, when the trees, grass, and weeds start to release their pollen and fungi send out their spores, it can certainly feel like it. If you’re among the roughly one in four adults who deals with seasonal allergies, whether mild or severe, you may just be wondering why this is happening. Though annoying, it’s quite interesting what our bodies are doing. An allergy is the immune system’s response to contact with a foreign substance that it deems harmful, even though it isn’t. Pollen is just one of several innocuous particles that triggers our immune systems to release antibodies to combat the invaders we inhale. This typically results in an itchy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, and other bothersome symptoms that can sap the joy out of an otherwise delightful season.

One of the reasons spring allergies have such a widespread effect is because, currently, trees are producing massive amounts of pollen to ensure reproduction. Since trees can’t move, they rely on the wind to carry their multitudes of minuscule grains to other trees to complete the fertilization process. Kind of feels like we’re having “The Talk” right now, doesn’t it?

Just when the trees are about done doing their thing, then the grass kicks in and goes through a similar process. That’s

Seasonal Allergy FAQs

How does someone know when it’s time to see an allergist?

I always recommend having a discussion with your personal physician about when you need a referral. If you’re not doing the things you want to do because of your allergies; if you’re not going outside when the weather is nice or you’re really suffering from symptoms when you do, it’s very reasonable to think about seeing a boardcertified allergist. There, you can have testing done and consider treatment options.

Why is it important to treat and not just tolerate allergies?

For one, allergic rhinitis is the number one cause of presenteeism: You go to school or work or but you’re not functioning at your best. There are also real consequences for uncontrolled allergies over time. You not only have to deal with the symptoms in the moment, but if they’re chronically uncontrolled, you’re going to be at increased risk to get sinus infections and need oral steroids.

All of those have side effects and long-term consequences. It’s far better to be proactive and try to get the symptoms under control.

why allergy season lasts so long for some. The reasons why some people are affected, and others aren’t—or their response to pollen changes as they age—are varied and complex. The important question isn’t so much why we get seasonal allergies, but how we can alleviate some or all of the discomfort associated with them.

To get some answers, we talked with Dr. Ted Kelbel, a board-certified allergy/ immunology physician with Corewell Health.

It’s good to start by identifying the symptoms, he says, and ruling out first that it’s not a viral infection—which can be tricky at the onset. The difference is that allergies generally make people itch, whether it’s irritated, watery eyes, an itchy nose, or sneezing. And, if these symptoms come on seasonally and correlate with heavy pollen counts, it’s often easy to conclude what’s the culprit.

Treatment typically starts with overthe-counter medications. Recommended to try first are second-generation oral antihistamines, which tend to have longer-lasting relief and are not as sedating. These include Cetirizine (Zyrtec®), Loratadine (Claritin®), and Fexofenadine (Allegra). These offer transient relief and generally start working quickly.

For those with more chronic symptoms, nasal steroids, like Fluticasone (Flonase) and Triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ), can help. These are also available over the counter and can be used to calm overactive immune responses to allergens. From there, consulting with a primary care physician or getting a referral to a board-certified allergist are options, as they can prescribe medications that could be added, such as nasal antihistamines, ocular antihistamines, or leukotriene blockers.

Still struggling? For those with more significant symptoms who don’t respond very well to more traditional medications, it may be time for allergen immunotherapy. Allergy shots can be helpful in getting the immune system to stop reacting to the allergen. The goal with these shots is, over time, for the immune system to essentially forget how to react to allergens—and for the patient to eventually be able to discontinue the shots and still maintain the benefit for years to come.

The Scoop on Natural Remedies and Alternative Tactics

For those who prefer not to use allergy medicine, let’s talk about the buzz around local honey. It's been debunked by the medical community because bees make honey from the pollen in flowers, which is much bigger and stickier, and humans are not typically allergic to it. “It’s the really tiny pollens from the trees and the grass and the weeds that cause the trouble,” Dr. Kelbel says. “I’m very pro bee and I support local honeybee farmers, and local honey is great for a number of other reasons, but it’s not probably going to make a big difference in someone’s allergies.”

Still, some seasonal allergy sufferers say consuming local honey helps, and even if it's because of the placebo effect, at least you're supporting local bees!

What Dr. Kelbel does get behind is the use of neti pot rinses and other forms of nasal saline irrigation. It's crucial to use sterile water to prevent infections, mixed with a specific ratio of salt (often sold in packets at a pharmacy). This technique removes pollen and other debris, loosens up mucus, and relieves other nasal symptoms related to seasonal allergies.

There are also avoidance strategies. Closing windows, using the air conditioning and a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter can help. Finally, consider taking oral antihistamines before going outside, and/or waiting to go outside until later in the day, as pollen counts are highest early in the morning.

All You Need to Know to Breeze Into Summer

The last several months have given us quite a wild ride, haven’t they?! For those of us living in Michigan, it’s nearly impossible to predict what Mother Nature is going to send our way. Though we may not be able to depend on the forecast, we can at least feel confident in the advice provided by area specialists— in everything from real estate to landscaping to vacationing to heirloom jewelry.

In this issue’s Trusted Advisors section, we’ve gathered your questions and found the right people to answer them. In the market for a new home, or making a move? Learn what you should look for in an agent. Love getting out in nature, but don’t know where to go? Ludington Area CVB makes a convincing case for visiting their region. Looking to update your yard and outdoor spaces? Get the lowdown on why a landscape plan is critical to your success. Thinking about buying a vintage ring—for yourself or your spouse-to-be? Know the ins and outs before you shop. Whatever you have on your mind for the season, start by reading what these pros have to say.

Q: What makes Ludington, Michigan a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts this Spring?

A: Ludington is an idyllic Spring destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Nestled along the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, Ludington State Park offers over 5,300 acres of natural beauty, featuring 21.5 miles of scenic trails that meander through sand dunes and lush forests. The park’s iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse, open for tours in late spring, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Closer to town, Ludington’s Urban Singletrack trail system offers a thrilling network of mountain bike trails, presenting a diverse mix of terrain, from winding forest multi-use paths to challenging singletrack hill climbs. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Ludington’s serene beaches are perfect for leisurely strolls or soaking in the majestic sunsets. With its natural wonders, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse outdoor activities, Ludington is the perfect Spring getaway for those looking to connect with nature and embrace the season’s thrills.

Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Brandy Miller, Executive Director  119 S. Rath Ave.

Ludington, MI 49431

1-800-542-4600

visit@ludington.org

pureludington.com

Q: What should I know about vintage rings?

A: Vintage ring repairs can be complicated and costly! For one, it may be harder to size because it may be worn too thin to be reshaped, or there could be cracks and breaks in the delicate undercarriage. There also may not be enough metal protecting the stones. Prongs wear down with time, but they can be built back up if they’re not completely worn off. In addition, we can’t be sure what other jewelers have done over the life of the ring. Sometimes solder lines only appear when it’s heated up during the repair process. A laser welder, like we have at Metal Art Studio, allows us to repair fragile parts that can’t be heated up with a torch. That’s why it’s important to consult with an expert first. Come talk with us about your piece and we’ll give you a free estimate!

Metal Art Studio Fine Jewelry

Carol Wagen, Co-Owner

978 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506

616-459-5075

metalartstudioinc.com

Q: What recommendations do you have for firsttime home buyers in Grand Rapids?

A: My best advice for first-time home buyers is to meet with an agent to make a plan and discuss your success strategies based on the market. The agent you hire should be able to explain the value they will provide during the transaction. As a home buyer, you should receive full transparency throughout the process; your agent should understand your requirements and be anticipating and answering your questions before they come up—and know that you might not even know what questions you need to ask. Your agent should also be able to set expectations of how the transaction will go, with no surprises along the way. First-time home buyers are my primary clientele. I have the expertise to help you feel confident in achieving this big milestone! For more info, follow @stephanie. houseman on Instagram.

Boss Lady Realty

Stephanie Houseman

3237 Platinum NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49525

616-648-6378

bossladyrealty.kw.com

Q: Why is it important to have a landscape design?

A: One of the things we always tell our clients is to think about going on a trip or building an addition on your home. You wouldn’t proceed without a plan—and the same is true for creating a harmonious landscape. A good design involves four main elements: form, color, texture, and space. An experienced landscaper knows the proper spacing for plants, what size and height they’ll be at maturity, how they’ll look throughout the season, and how they’ll complement not only each other, but also the architecture of your home. They’ll also focus on how you’ll use the space, whether it’s simply for beauty or for outdoor entertaining, and create a plan that’s compatible with that goal. A well planned, well planted space is one of the better investments you can make in your home, and can increase curb appeal, too!

Alfresco Landscapes

Paul Burd, Owner

2914 3 Mile Road NW

Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-2530

alfresco-landscapes.com

Q: How can the right Real Estate agent help home buyers and sellers navigate today’s challenging market?

A: It starts by working with someone who knows the local market conditions. Experience matters always, but even more so in a competitive market like Grand Rapids’. More than 85% of Realtors haven’t been in the business for more than five years. Some are brand new and others work only part time. They may have success in a hot market, but in a normal or shifting market, they could struggle to deliver for both buyers and sellers. With 22-plus years of experience in real estate, I’ve seen it all—and that has allowed me to be nimble as fluctuations occur. I understand the pros and cons of each market and have been through all the ups and downs over decades, which means I can give clients the edge and set them up to get the most for their home.

Greenridge Realty EGR

Romanowski Homes

Janet Romanowski, Realtor

2213 Wealthy St. SE

East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-458-3655

romanhousekey.com

WRITTEN BY PAT EVANS

THE BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS2024

YOU VOTED AND WE TALLIED. WE'RE EXCITED TO SHARE THE LIST OF THIS YEAR'S HIGHEST HONORS IN CATEGORIES RANGING FROM BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE TO BEST TATTOO SHOP AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. NOW PRESENTING, YOUR WINNERS...

Opposite page:Schnitz Deli topped the sandwich categories this year. Here: Nick Nortier ascends a wall at Grand Rapids Boulder Park in Highland Park.

THE BUZZIEST PLACE

bars and gastropubs in those cities that feel very much like Butcher’s Union.

Ask a Millennial or late Gen-Z person their favorite place to dine in Grand Rapids and there’s a good chance it’s Butcher’s Union.

Whether that’s right or wrong in your opinion, the wait times most nights of the week tell the true story of how popular this restaurant is — be forewarned if you don’t know, Butcher’s Union does not take reservations. It’s packed, often with lines out the door.

Butcher’s Union, 438 Bridge St. NW, brings home four different Reader’s Choice honors, including BEST APPETIZERS, BEST DATE NIGHT

RESTAURANT, BEST STEAK and BEST WHISKEY BAR

A lot of the hype around Butcher’s Union can be attributed to its big city feel. There is a lot about the place that could easily be found in New York City or Chicago. There are plenty of

The vibes in the covered back patio area easily explain why it wins best date night, with a courtyard like vibe and warm, moody lighting. And certainly, one would be hard pressed to find a better, more expansive whiskey selection in town.

As for the food, you can’t argue with what the people say. There is a solid selection of various steaks, which readers heavily enjoy. As they do the apps, whether it’s the tuna crudo, the crispy Brussel sprouts or the peppercorn slab bacon, the starters are a popular pick — either to begin a dinner or cap off a drink.

One also probably cannot go wrong saddling up to the bar at Butcher’s Union, grabbing a light beer and a whiskey side car and ordering a West Village Double Cheeseburger.

PHOTO BY TERI GENOVESE

The

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

ANNUAL FESTIVAL ArtPrize

FINALISTS: Festival of the Arts, Pulaski Days, Oktoberfest, Hispanic Heritage Festival, Eastown Street Fair, Wine, Beer & Food Festival

BAND FROM GRAND RAPIDS

The Verve Pipe

FINALISTS: Brena, The Crane Wives, La Dispute, The Hacky Turtles, Cabildo

BOWLING ALLEY

The Clique

FINALISTS: Wenger’s Bowling Center, Spectrum Lanes, Northfield Lanes, Woodrow’s Duckpin Bowling

DANCING

The B.O.B./Eve

FINALISTS: Rumors Night Club, Woody’s Press Box, Holiday Bar, Billy’s Lounge

IMPROV TROUPE

River City Improv

FINALISTS: The Comedy Project, Pop Scholars, Tiny Breakfast, Karolesque

KARAOKE

Fulton Street Pub

FINALISTS: K-Rok Korean

Barbecue & Karaoke, Playstation Pub, Cheers Restaurant, Stella’s Lounge

LIVE MUSIC

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

FINALISTS: Pyramid Scheme, GLC

Live at 20 Monroe, The Intersection, The Score

LOCAL MUSIC SERIES

Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

FINALISTS: St. Cecilia’s Jazz, Folk, and Chamber Music

Series; Tuesdays at the Farm at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park; Ada Music on the Lawn; Relax at Rosa

MOVIE THEATER

Celebration

Cinemas North

FINALISTS: Studio Park, AMC Star Theater, Phoenix, Wealthy Theatre

MUSEUM

Frederik Meijer

Gardens & Sculpture Park

FINALISTS: Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

PERFORMING ARTS ORGANIZATION

Civic Theatre

FINALISTS: Broadway GR, Grand Rapids Symphony, GR Ballet, Opera Grand Rapids, Circle Theatre

BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

CHIROPRACTOR CLINICS

Active Life

Chiropractic

FINALISTS: iChiro Clinics, Higher Health, Kooistra Chiropractic Clinic, Chiropractic Unlimited

DAY SPA

Woodhouse Spa

FINALISTS: Benji Salon & Spa, Ethos Day Spa, Design 1 Salon and Spa, Glow Up Aesthetics

DENTIST

Great Lakes Dental

FINALISTS: Hudsonville

Dental, MI Smiles

Dental, Contemporary Family Dental, Grand Rapids Dentistry, Fulton Street Dentistry, Dr. Julie VanHoose

FITNESS CENTER

YMCA

FINALISTS: Next Level

Personal Training, The Exercise Coach, MVP Sports, Planet Fitness

DERMATOLOGIST

Dermatology

Associates of West Michigan

FINALISTS: Dr. Kurt Ashack, West Michigan

Dermatology, Dr. Ryan

Freeland/Wolverine Dermatology, Dr. Dipa Patel

PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr. Brad Bengtson

FINALISTS: Dr. David Alfonso,

an old school deli

Grand Rapids has a sad dearth of delis. There simply are not enough.

But that doesn’t stop Schnitz Deli, 1315 E. Fulton St., from being an incredible place to

stop in for a quick and delicious lunch. Unsurprisingly, Schnitz won for BEST DELI SANDWICH and BEST SANDWICH. And there is nothing wrong with that. The large menu can satisfy even the pickiest eater.

The Reubens are all incredible, whether it’s the classic Schnitzel Ruben, or the corned beef special, which subs in coleslaw for the sauerkraut. Or maybe you’d prefer pastrami. Or the California Ruben, with turkey breast.

Then there’s the simple Schnitzel Club, with turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on Sourdough. Maybe you’d like the Rancher’s Roast Beef, with roast beef, Swiss cheese, grilled onion and horseradish on

PHOTO BY TERI GENOVESE

an onion roll.

Schnitz even serves up warm sandwiches, like The Big John, with grilled, sliced rib eye, onions, melted provolone, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on a French roll. The list truly goes on and on.

You might have a favorite, and you want to go back, but how do resist the temptation of a new potential favorite. Maybe try a soup next time as well; perfect for a chilly day. There’s something truly special about Schnitz, and it

Dr. John Renucci, Dr. Douglas Leppink, Dr. Marguerite Aitken

HAIR SALON

Benji Salon and Spa

FINALISTS: Jeffrey Richard

Salon, Coiffeteria, Smash Salon, Design 1

Salon and Spa

MANI/PEDI

Posh Nails

FINALISTS: Benji Salon and Spa, Smash Salon, Sue’s Nail & Spa, Luxe

Nail Bar, Design 1

Salon and Spa

TATTOO PARLORS

Screaming Needle

FINALISTS: Mos Eisleys

Tattoo Studio, Honest to Goodness, Copper Coin, Pearls and Jade, Balm Tattooing, High Point Tattoo, Sovereign Tattoo

YOGA

Funky Buddha Yoga

FINALISTS: AM Yoga, Twisted Hot Yoga, Kula Yoga, Yoga Fever, From the Heart Yoga

COMMUNITY AND PEOPLE

DOG PARK

Grand Ravines Dog Park

might not even be the food. There’s an incredible warmth and genuine friendliness when you order at the counter. Go once or twice and your face is remembered, and it feels like home.

GOLF COURSE

Thousand Oaks Golf Club

FINALISTS: Egypt Valley

Country Club, Indian Trails Golf Course, The Mines Golf Course The Golf Club at Thornapple Point

HOTEL

Amway Grand

FINALISTS: Embassy

Suites, Canopy by Hilton, JW Marriot, Hilton Garden Inn

ORCHARD

Robinette's Apple

Haus & Winery

FINALISTS: Schwallier's Country Basket, Ed Dunneback and Girls, Crane Orchards, Wells Orchard PARK

Millennium Park

Finalists: Riverside Park, Wilcox Park, Huff Park, John Ball Park

PRIVATE SCHOOL

Grand Rapids

Catholic Central

FINALISTS: Grand Rapids Christian, Stepping Stones

Montessori, Living Stones Academy, NorthPointe Christian, Potters House

Christian Elementary

FINALISTS: The Pack

Indoor Dog Park, Hillcrest Dog Park, Shaggy Pines, Cascade Township Park

HIKE/BIKE TRAIL

White Pine Trail

FINALISTS: Aman Park, Ken-O-Sha Park/ Plaster Creek Trail, Kent Trails, Millennium Park

SPORTS TEAM

Grand Rapids Griffins (Hockey)

FINALISTS: West Michigan

Whitecaps (Baseball), Grand Rapids Gold (Basketball), Grand Rapids Tidal Waves (Women’s Football)

SPORTS TEAM (REGIONAL)

Detroit Lions

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Lake Michigan

FINALISTS: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, John Ball Zoo, ArtPrize, Le Grande Vitesse Sculpture in Calder Plaza, The Great Lakes Pub Cruiser

WEDDING VENUE

Bissell Treehouse at John Ball Zoo

FINALISTS: Amway Grand Plaza, The Harris Building, Goei Center, Downtown Market, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

METEOROLOGIST

Ellen Bacca

FINALISTS: Bill Steffen, Matt Kirkwood, George Lessens, Samantha Jacques

RADIO PERSONALITY

“Smitty” (WYCE)

ROCK CLIMBING GYM

Grand Rapids

Boulder Park

FINALISTS: Terra Firma

Climbing, Higher Ground Rock

Climbing Centre, Inside Moves

Rock Climbing, Calvin University Climbing Center

FINALISTS: Shelley Irwin (WGVU), Shelby Brook (WYCE), Gregg Daniels & Chris Michaels (The Free Beer & Hot Wings Morning Show on WGRD), Jackie Green and Rachel Grey (Grey and Green on WHTS), Michelle (WLAV)

Dan Rios, Schnitz Deli's owner, readies himself to devour a Schnitzel Reuben.

BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS

TV PERSONALITY (FEMALE)

Ellen Bacca

FINALISTS: Rachel Ruiz, Emily Linnert, Janice Allen, Teresa Weakley

TV PERSONALITY (MALE)

Bill Steffen

FINALISTS: Tom Hillen, Brian Sterling, Blake Harms, Elliot Grandia

TV STATION

Wood TV 8

FINALISTS: Fox 17, WZZM 13WGVU

RETAIL

ANTIQUES

Pinky’s Place –Antique & Artisan Market

BIKE SHOPS

Village Bike Shop

FINALISTS: Freewheeler Bike Shop, Switchback Gear Exchange, Alger Bikes, Grand Rapids Bicycle Co.

BOOK STORE

Schuler’s Books

FINALISTS: Books & Mortar, Plumfield Books, Baker Book House, Barnes & Noble

BRIDAL SHOP

Bridal Elegance

FINALISTS: Renee Austin Wedding, Magnolia Bridal, Jenna in White, Jenny’s Brides & Alterations, Bella Bridesmaids, True Society Bridal Shop, Becker’s Bridal

hot to tot!

A lot of bars end up with a certain late-night crowd, but only one won BEST LATE NIGHT

DINING AND DRINKS. That’s Blue Dog Tavern, 638 Stocking Ave. NW

Blue Dog has a

cool, old location with plenty of history, despite just opening its current iteration in 2014.

Blue Dog also won BEST TATER TOTS and BEST POUTINE. Its big menu of various all beef hot dogs and burgers, along with a smattering of

shareables and its giant menu of tots helps explain why people don’t mind ending the night at The Blue Dog. There are seven types of tater tot choices, including a monthly special. And if you’re looking for the best poutine, there’s even poutine tots.

As for late night drinks, there’s a $5 shot wheel from 9 p.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday. Plus, the normal cocktails aren’t a bad price either, like the Campfire Old Fashioned for $9.

FINALISTS: Wally’s Treasures Mall, Lost & Found Treasures of Old and New, Changing Thymes, North Star Antiques, Warehouse One Antiques and Collectibles

AUTOMOTIVE Fox

FINALISTS: Sharpe Cars, Auto Masters, Betten, Borgman, Dykstra’s, Harvey, Kool, Auto Fix-it Body Shop

BEER AND WINE MERCHANT

Martha’s Vineyard

FINALISTS: Rishi’s International Beverage, Total Wine and More, Smitty’s Specialty Beverage, D. Schuler’s Fine Wine & Spirits

COMIC BOOKS

Vault of Midnight

FINALISTS: Tardy’s Collector’s Corner, Inc., Argos Comics and Used Book Shop, The Comic Signal, Blue Bridge Games

CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Gild The Lily

FINALISTS: The Spark, Rock Paper Scissors, Cinderella's Closet, Second Dance

FLORIST

Eastern Floral

FINALISTS: Kennedy’s Flower Shop, Stems Market, Ball Park Floral & Gifts, The Tilted Tulip

FURNITURE STORE

Talsma Furniture

FINALISTS: Pinky's Place

PHOTO BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

Clockwise from bottom left: poutine tots, The Freshman cocktail, junkyard tots, and a loaded dog.

– Antique & Artisan Market, Klingman’s Furniture & Design, Design Quest, Portobello Road

GARDEN CENTER

Horrocks Market

FINALISTS: Romence Gardens, Flowerland, W.W. Greenhouses, Countryside Greenhouse

GIFT SHOP

Rebel

FINALISTS: The Spark, Pinky’s Place –Antique & Artisan Market, Kennedy’s Flower Shop, Parooz Boutique Gifts

GROCERY STORE

Horrocks Market

FINALISTS: Kingma’s Market, Ken’s Market, Forest Hills Foods, Bridge Street Market

GROCERY STORE (REGIONAL/ NATIONAL CHAIN)

Meijer

FINALIST: Trader Joe’s

HARDWARE

Rylee’s Great Lake’s Ace (Michigan Street)

FINALISTS: Great Lakes Ace (Fulton Street), Modern Hardware, Alger Hardware, Gemmen’s Ace Hardware

HOME DÉCOR

Pinky’s Place –Antiques and Artisan Market

FINALISTS: Kathryn Chaplow Collect, Commune, The Spark

HOME DÉCOR (NATIONAL CHAIN)

Home Goods

JEWELRY

DeVries Jewelry Store

FINALISTS: Metal Art

Studio, Dime & Regal, Preusser Jewelers, Opus Jewelry, The Spark

MEN’S CLOTHING

Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store

FINALISTS: A.K. Rikk’s, Everywear, New Yorker Menswear, Jurgens & Holtvluwer Menswear

PLACE TO BUY LOCAL ARTWORK

Fulton Street

Farmers Market

FINALISTS: LaFontsee Galleries, The Spark, The 12th House GR, PaLatte Coffee & Art

SPECIALTY GROCER

Horrocks Market

FINALISTS: Harvest Health Foods, Martha’s Vineyard, Kingma’s Market, Bridge Street Market, Trader Joe’s

WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Gina’s Boutique

FINALISTS: Leigh’s, Lee & Birch, Laurel and Jack

WOMEN’S CLOTHING (NATIONAL CHAIN)

Von Maur

PET CARE

Chow Hound

FINALISTS: V.I. Pets, Your Pets Naturally, Fido & Stitch, Cascade Animal Hospital, Plymouth Road Animal Clinic, Whiskers Resort & Pet Spa

There is a growing connection between pets and their owners and Fido & Stitch is catering to those "pawrents."

Whether it’s a quick stop in for a baked treat, a new

outfit for the pup, or the doggo’s next bag of food, Fido & Stitch, 820 Monroe Ave. NW, has the everyday needs covered.

The boutique also offers full grooming services (P.S. they won BEST PET GROOMER), making sure the dogs are pampered

and looking their best. The salon offers simple services like a basic bath and brush out or face, feet and fanny to a full custom hair cut. Plus there are addons, like the posh pup which includes a blueberry facial and protein-infused coat conditioner.

The services at Fido & Stitch are also quick, but in the event an owner can’t be back expediently, the dogs are well taken care of and occasionally could be mistaken for an employee.

PHOTO BY BRYAN ESLER

EVERY DAY’S A HOLIDAY

When a bar wins BEST BAR and BEST HAPPY HOUR, that place is doing something right for their clientele.

And that’s what The Holiday Bar, 801 5th St. NW, did this year. The Holiday has been a Grand Rapids staple since 1905, but it’s not a rundown dive bar. No, the place has kept up with the times and renovated to stay a nice, neighborhood haunt.

Happy Hour at The Holiday runs Monday to Friday, from 3:30 to 6:30 — that’s three hours of happiness a day during the week. The deals include $5 food items, like deviled eggs, cheese quesadilla or sliders.

As for beverages, this is probably where they get their fans: $3.50 Absolut Vodka or $4.50 Tito’s. Maybe a Jameson & Ginger at $4.50.

Maker’s Mark & Cola at $4.50 or wine by the glass at the same price. Then you get to the beers, and there’s a whole selection of domestic brews for $2.50.

Meanwhile, Monday through Thursday comes with weekly specials, like half off craft drafts on Tuesday or a half off bottles of wine (with food) and $3.50 White Claws on Wednesday.

Oh, and by the way, along with its Reader’s Choice winnings, The Holiday also touts itself as Grand Rapids’ premier outdoor patio.

And those happy hour specials are why (and maybe they don’t say it, but they should) every day is a Holiday at The Holiday Bar.

PHOTO BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

From left to right: Francesca Mettetal, Beau Boonenberg, Ezrah Huempfner, and Lauren Froman enjoy happy hour drinks and snacks at The Holiday Bar.

FOOD APPETIZERS

Butcher’s Union

FINALISTS: San Chez

Bistro, MDRD, ROAM by San Chez, Aperitivo, One Bourbon, Max’s South Seas Hideaway

BAKERY

Nantucket

Baking Company

FINALISTS: Field & Fire, Wealthy Street Bakery, Rise Bakery, Hall Street Bakery

BBQ

Two Scott’s Barbecue

FINALISTS: Butcher

Block, City BBQ, Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ, Mission BBQ

BREAKFAST

Real Food Café

FINALISTS: Anna’s House, Wolfgang’s, Lucy’s, Cherie Inn

BRUNCH

Morning Belle

FINALISTS: Lucy’s, San Chez Bistro, Anna’s House, Speak EZ, Terra

BURGER

Stella’s

FINALISTS: Noco

Provisions, HopCat, Black Napkin, Nonla Burger, Mr. Burger

BUTCHER

Sobie Meats

FINALISTS: Bob’s Butcher, E. A. Brady’s, Frank's Market, Louise Earl Butcher

CATERING

Martha’s Catering

FINALISTS: Distinctive Catering, KJ Catering, Kangaroo Catering, Apple Spice

CHEF

Jenna Arcidiacono

FINALISTS: Oscar Moreno, Nate Peltier, Nick Tushek, Kevin VanderMeer, Katherine Stuit, Stephen VanHeulen

CHICKEN SANDWICH

Hancock

FINALISTS: New Holland/ Knickerbocker, Black Napkin, Chik-Fil-A, Nonla Burger

CHILI DOG

Yesterdog

FINALISTS: Grand Coney, One Stop Coney Shop, Corner Bar, Leo’s Coney Island, Mad Dogs

CHINESE FOOD

First Wok

FINALISTS: Red Bowl, Three Happiness, Gaslight Kitchen, Golden Wok

CUPCAKES

Salted Cupcake

FINALISTS: The Cakabakery, DreamScape Desserts, Leah T’s Sweets and Treats, Connie’s Cakes

DATE NIGHT

RESTAURANT

Butcher’s Union

FINALISTS: MDRD, Linear, Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar, Cooper’s Hawk

DELI SANDWICH

Schnitz Deli

FINALISTS: Two Beards

Deli, Apple Spice, Boardwalk Subs, O’Brien’s Deli, Jersey Mike’s, Schnitz Ada Grill

DESSERTS

Mokaya

FINALISTS: MDRD, Leah T’s Sweets and Treats, Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar

DESSERTS (NATIONAL CHAIN)

Cheesecake Factory

DINER

76th Street Diner

FINALISTS: Matchbox, Grand Coney, Real Food Café, Anna’s House, Good Truckin’ Diner, Leo’s Coney Island, Wolfgang’s

DONUTS

Marge’s Donuts

FINALISTS: Sprinkles Donut Shop, Sandy’s Donuts, Van’s Pastry Shoppe, Bro’s Doughnuts

FOOD TRUCKS

Tamale Mary’s

FINALISTS: Patty Matters, Airborne Burritos, Street

Chef Shaw, Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ

FRENCH FRIES

HopCat

FINALISTS: Black Napkin, One Stop Coney Shop, Brass Ring Brewery, Stella’s Lounge

FROZEN YOGURT

The Pump House

FINALISTS: Sweet Yo’s, Top This, Elsa’s

HANGOVER FOOD

Yesterdog

FINALISTS: Grand Coney, Wolfgang’s, Real Food Café, Stella’s Lounge, Speak EZ, Logan’s Alley, Garage Bar

ICE CREAM

Frosty Boy

FINALISTS: Jersey Junction, Heights Cream, Furniture City Creamery, Love’s Ice Cream & Chocolate

INDIAN FOOD

Palace of India

FINALISTS: Pind Indian Cuisine, Pal’s Indian Cuisine, Grand Indian Cuisine, Curry Leaf Indian Cuisine

KIELBASA

Frank’s Market

FINALISTS: Lewandoski's Market, Sobie Meats, E. A. Brady’s, The Grilling Company, Westsider Café

LATE NIGHT DINING AND DRINKS

Blue Dog Tavern

FINALISTS: Knoop, Z’s Bar & Restaurant, Birch Lodge, Sip Coffee & Cocktails, Max’s South Seas Hideaway, IDC, General Wood Shop, Rio Peruvian & Mexican Restaurant

MAC ‘N’ CHEESE

Electric Cheetah

FINALISTS: Westside

Social, The Green Well, HopCat, Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ

BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS

MEDITERRANEAN

Sammy’s Gyro (Pita House)

FINALISTS: Sheshco, Zeytin, Zivio, Parsley

NACHOS Cantina Mexican Grill

FINALISTS: Airborne Burritos, Condado Tacos, Z’s Bar and Restaurant, Turnstiles, Archival Brewing, City Built Brewing Company, Green Well, Holiday Bar, Lindo Mexico Restaurante

Mexicano

PASTA

Amore Trattoria Italiana

FINALISTS: Bistro Bella Vita, Myrth, Pietro’s, Palio, Nonna’s Trattoria

PIZZA

The Mitten Brewing Company

FINALISTS: Peppino’s, Buddy’s, Harmony Brewing Company, Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen, Quarantino’s, JB’s

POUTINE

Blue Dog Tavern

FINALISTS: Brewery

Vivant, One Bourbon, ROAM by San Chez, Fire Rock Grill, Lucy’s, Railtown Brewing

RESTAURANT SERVICE

Amoré Trattoria Italiana

ROOFTOP DINING

Mertens Rooftop

FINALISTS: Knoop, MDRD, The Friesian Gastro Pub, Rockwell Republic

OUTDOOR/ DECK SEATING

The Score

FINALISTS: Blue Water Restaurant, Knoop Rooftop Bar, Linear Restaurant, Rose's on Reeds Lake

SANDWICH

Schnitz Deli

FINALISTS: Two Beards Deli, Founders Brewing Company, Blue Dog Tavern, Hancock, One Bourbon, Chicago Beef Joint, Toasted Pickle, Apple Spice

SEAFOOD

Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar

FINALISTS: Real Seafood Company, Beacon Corner Bar, Mr. and Mrs. Crab, Bonefish Grill

STEAK

Butcher’s Union

FINALISTS: MDRD, Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar, One Bourbon, Mexo Tequila & Mezcal Bar and Restaurant, Reserve Wine & Food, Butcher’s Union, Margaux

FINALISTS: Chop House, Bowdie’s Chophouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar

SUSHI

Maru Sushi & Grill

FINALISTS: Jaku, Ginza Sushi & Ramen Bar, Ju Sushi & Lounge, Tokyo Grill

A morning bun from Nantucket Baking Company. You can't go wrong with any of this bakery's pastries, especially not these tasty morsels.

There’s often nothing like a fresh loaf of bread, and Nantucket Baking Company is certainly one of the best around when it comes to baked goods in Grand Rapids. Perhaps, it's why they won this year's BEST BAKERY praise.

With two locations, 615 Lyon St. NE and 1308 Fuller Ave. NE, Nantucket offers up fresh-baked breads and pastries for customers and restaurants across the region.

Every day, the bakery menu includes loaves like Polish Rye, San Francisco

Sourdough, Country French and Baguettes, among others. Then, there’s daily specials like Monday’s Sunflower Flaxseed or Friday’s mix of Challah, Marbled Rye, Pumpernickel and Chocolate Challah.

There’s also an assortment of delicious pastries and cookies made every day. The offerings include pies, cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, muffins, scones and dessert bars.

And on top of that, the bakeries often throw in special daily offerings.

Along with the two bakeries, the products can also be found across Grand Rapids, including Brewery Vivant, Founders Brewing Co., Nonna’s Trattoria, Meijer Gardens and Linear, among many others.

flaky, tasty bakery bites

PHOTO BY TERI GENOVESE

BEST OF GRAND RAPIDS

TACOS

Tacos El Cuñado

FINALISTS: Condado

Tacos, Luna, Donkey

Taqueria, Lindo

Mexico Restaurante

Mexicano, F'n K Tacos

TATER TOTS

Blue Dog Tavern

FINALISTS: Gravity, Bobcat

Bonnie’s, Logan’s Alley

THAI FOOD

Little Bangkok

FINALISTS: Bangkok Taste

Cuisine, Thai Fusion, Lai Thai, Rak Thai

VEGAN/ VEGETARIAN MENU

The Green Well

FINALISTS: Gaia House

Café, Rise Authentic Baking Co., Two Beards

Deli, Stella’s Lounge

VEGGIE BURGER

Electric Cheetah

FINALISTS: Stella’s

Lounge, Black Napkin, The Green Well, The Winchester

WET BURRITO

Beltline Bar

FINALISTS: Cantina

Mexican Grill, Lindo

Mexico Restaurante

Mexicano, Taco Boy, Adobé In & Out

WINGS

Wing Doozy

FINALISTS: Shots, Mike’s Wings

WINGS (REGIONAL/ NATIONAL CHAIN)

Detroit Wing Company

FINALIST: Buffalo

Wild Wings

drinks BAR

Holiday Bar

FINALISTS: Blue Dog Tavern, Brass Ring

Brewing, Garage Bar, O’Toole’s

BEER BRAND

Perrin Brewing Company

FINALISTS: New Holland Brewing Company, Founders Brewing Company, Brewery

Vivant, Arvon Brewing Co., The Mitten Brewing Company

BLOODY MARY

The Winchester

FINALISTS: Rockwell

Republic, Steel Cat, Sundance Bar & Grill, Garage Bar

BREWERY

The Mitten Brewing Company

FINALISTS: Brewery

Vivant, Founders Brewing Company, New Holland Brewing Company, City Built Brewing Company

CIDER

Vander Mill Cider

FINALISTS: Farmhaus

Cider, People’s Cider, Pux Cider, Virtue Cider

CRAFT COCKTAILS

Long Road Distillery

FINALISTS: Buffalo Traders, Eastern Kille, Sidebar GR, Butcher’s Union

COFFEE HOUSE

Madcap Coffee

FINALISTS: Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge, Scorpion Hearts

Club, Rowster Coffee, Sparrows at Kingma’s, Sip Coffee & Cocktails, Outdoor Coffee Co.

DISTILLERY

Long Road Distillery

FINALISTS: Eastern Kille, Bier Distillery, Wise Men Distillery, Two James Spirits, Michigan Moonshine Distillery

HAPPY HOUR

Holiday Bar

FINALISTS: One Bourbon, Peppino’s, Rockwell Republic, Terra

MARGARITA

Donkey Taqueria

FINALISTS: Luna, Condado Tacos, Beltline Bar, Cantina Mexican Grill

SPORTS BAR

The Score

FINALISTS: Peppino’s, Ucello’s, Vitale’s, Big E’s Sports Grill, Bob’s Bar, Garage Bar, Shots

SPIRITS BRAND

Long Road Distillery

FINALISTS: Eastern Kille, New Holland Spirits, Michigan Moonshine, Wise Men Distillery

WHISKEY BAR

Butcher’s Union

FINALISTS: One Bourbon, Stella’s Lounge, Buffalo Traders, Alto Bar

WINE BAR

Reserve

Wine and Food Bar

FINALISTS: Aperitivo, House of Wine, Post Off

WINE BAR (NATIONAL CHAIN)

Cooper’s Hawk services

ANIMAL CLINIC

Cascade Hospital for Animals

FINALISTS: Family Friends Veterinary Hospital, Plymouth Road Animal Clinic, Eastown Veterinary Clinic, Animal Medical Center of Wyoming

BANK

Lake Michigan

Credit Union

FINALISTS: Huntington Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Mercantile Bank, Chase Bank

CREDIT UNION

Lake Michigan

Credit Union

FINALISTS: Consumers Credit Union, Michigan State University

Federal Credit Union, Adventure Credit Union, DFCU Financial

CHILD CARE

AppleTree & Gilden Woods

FINALISTS: Milestones, Explore & Grow

Christian Learning Center, The Goddard School, All Saints Academy

CLEANING SERVICES

Clean Bee

Home Services

FINALISTS: Best of the West Cleaning Services, Cascade Fresh Home Cleaning Services, Pinnacle Cleaning Services, Green Home Cleaning

Grand Rapids isn’t exactly known for its mountains, but there is a wonderful rockclimbing community in Grand Rapids.

Pro or not, the community is welcoming, particularly at Grand Rapids Boulder Park in Highland Park (this year's winner for BEST ROCK CLIMBING GYM). Together, the West

Benjammin Parker (front) and Drew Parker (back) scale one of the two wooden structures built for climbing at Grand Rapids Boulder Park.

Michigan Chapter of the American Alpine Club and the City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department developed the boulder park with two wooden climbing structures to provide “access to climbing for anyone and everyone.”

There’s no favoritism either, as Terra Firma Bouldering Co., Inside Moves and Higher Ground Rock Climbing

Centre are partners helping ensure the Grand Rapids climbing community sticks together and continues to grow.

The Grand Rapids Boulder Park offers a free place to experiment with

climbing, particular the subset known as bouldering, which helps provide an easy and free way to try out the sport.

and Restoration, Sparkle & Shine Cleaning Services of West Michigan, Afendoulis Cleaners

COURIER SERVICES

Professional Courier Services

FINALISTS: Same Day Delivery, Van Go Delivery, LLC

INTERIOR DESIGN

Katelynn Scott

FINALISTS: Kathryn Chaplow, Jean Stoffer Design/Stoffer Home, W. Haus of Design, KSI Kitchen & Bath, Lauren Figueroa

LANDSCAPING

Summit Landscaping

CLIMB ON! 2024

COURIER SERVICES (NATIONAL CHAIN)

Amazon

FINALIST: GrubHub

DOGGIE DAY CARE

Camp Bow Wow

FINALISTS: Whiskers

Resort & Pet Spa, Cascade Hospital for Animals, A Pleasant Dog, Kim’s K-9, The Pack Indoor Dog Park

DOG GROOMER

Fido & Stitch

FINALISTS: Whiskers

Resort & Pet Spa, North Bark Pet Grooming, Cascade Animal Hospital, Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique

ESTATE PLANNING

Michigan

Law Center

FINALISTS: Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC, Coonen Law, PLLC., McShane & Bowie

FAMILY LAW

Varnum, LLP

FINALISTS: Bolhouse

Hofstee, & McLean PC, McShane & Bowie, Michelle McLean, Christopher Wirth

FINALISTS: Harder & Warner Landscapes and Boutique Gardens, Kappes Landscapes, Clark’s Landscape Services, Cool Guy Lawn Co., Knapp Valley Gardens, Procare Landscape, Witte

Lawn Maintenance

REAL ESTATE

Five Star Real Estate

FINALISTS: Green Crown Real Estate, Kristin Carlson, Robert Antonini, Baragar Realty

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Holland Home

FINALISTS: Clark Retirement Community, Beacon Hill at Eastgate, Porter Hills Village, The Village of Heather Hills, StoryPoint Senior Living

WATER SERVICE

Gordon Water Systems

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IT'S

TIME

Electric, eclectic and revolutionary — these funky festivals take the idea of counter culture to a whole new level.

BY PASHA SHIPP

Warm weather and longer days mean lots of things in West Michigan. Boats are relieved of their winter covers and towed out to crisp, blue waters for the first ride of the season. Fingers once concealed by woolen mittens are bare and sticky with melted ice cream. For many, myself included, it also means festivals – where free spirits abound and freak flags are flown with pride. Put on your sunscreen and grab your shades because we’re taking a closer look at three very different festivals coming up this summer.

ISABEL DOWELL

Opposite page: Trained classically as an opera singer, Brooklyn-based Evan Giia lends her vocals to the EDM genre at Electric Forest Festival in 2022. Here: The Della Kit serenades fans amidst a sea of hammocks and hanging decorations in the Electric Forest.

“We want the week to be filled with opportunities to connect with each other though music, camping, learning, activities and so much more.”

ABRA WISE

Here: Revelers dance after dark in a lighted tent. Below: Fern Fest, a six-day festival in Trouffant, Michigan fosters a community for women, nonbinary and trans folks and those that live on the spectrum of the feminine spirit.

At Feast of the Strawberry Moon in Grand Haven, nearly everyone dresses in eighteenth century garb, even the musical performers.

The 18th century comes to life along the lakeshore with Feast of the Strawberry Moon— two days of historical reenactments, demonstrations, musical performances, and activities for all ages centered around the 1700s. Everything from the food and clothing to vendor wares are true to the period, allowing guests to soak up the experience of 18th-century living.

Colin LaMore, the president of the board for the West Michigan Historical Alliance, and a self-proclaimed history nerd, enjoys putting on an event that gives people perspective and a glimpse into the not-toodistant past of the Grand Haven area.

“There is loose history in the area, specifically in the mouth of the Grand River,” LaMore said. “The English, French, and local Ottawa met, spent a week trading with each other, shook hands and decided, ‘Hey, we're not going to fight during this during this period of the strawberry moon.’

That’s what the event is based on, but we've expanded it a bit more to the West Michigan, Great Lakes frontier experience.”

Reenactors dress in the era-appropriate attire of the French, English and Native Americans while reenacting battles and demonstrating 18th-century cooking and craftsmanship, like woodcarving and blacksmithing, for guests to see.

“A lot of reenactors for the Native Americans are members of local tribes,” LaMore said. “Then we also have some that come from Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. A vast majority of them got into reenacting based on their interest in their own family history.”

Whether you want to see how chocolate was made in the 1700s, browse the handmade wooden toys and gifts, or participate in a game of lacrosse (a game with origins in Native American tribes), Feast of the Strawberry Moon has something for everyone.

Check out Feast of the Strawberry Moon, June 8-9 on Harbor Island in Grand Haven.

If you’ve been dreaming of spending a week filled with workshops, activities and live music surrounded by nature under the warm summer sun, Fern Fest might be just the thing for you. This six-day, five-night festival experience out in Trufant, Michigan is designed to be a safe, accessible space with a very particular objective in mind.

“Fern Fest is specifically curated to foster community for women, nonbinary and trans folks and those that live on the spectrum of the feminine spirit,” said Abra Wise, one of the organizers of Fern Fest. “It's a special experience to come together in a space that is created for and by our community. We want the week to be filled with opportunities to connect with each other though music, camping, learning, activities and so much more.”

The festival organizers are committed to ensuring diverse voices are welcomed

and amplified through performances, programming, and providing a forum for people to connect and engage with one another in meaningful ways. The festival is predicated on being an opportunity for learning, sharing, and growing together.

“It is a priority at Fern Fest to create an inclusive and equitable environment where everyone in our community can show up as their authentic selves,” Wise said. “We are on a collective journey to learn and grow together in order to build that space. We have another diverse lineup this year of amazing stage performers from around the country, as well as dynamic workshops, crafts and food vendors and many community spaces to gather and engage in activities and conversations.”

Visitors can expect a rustic camping experience with a community kitchen, as well as food and craft vendors. If camping isn’t your speed, no worries – guests are welcome to seek offsite accommodations and still participate in the festivities. As for programming, there will be plenty of interactive workshops and live music and performances with interpreters for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing.

“Creating and producing Fern Fest is the most fulfilling and passionate work I have ever done,” Wise said. “As a musician and an avid music listener, the opportunity to curate a festival and lineup that supports artists, both new and well known is a dream come true. The outpouring of love and support for Fern Fest gives me so much hope for the future.”

Fern Fest is July 9-14 at Smiling Acres in Trufant, MI. Get tickets at michiganfernfest.com. Thousands flock to Rothbury each summer for the multi-genre festival that is Electric Forest. It’s known for lights that bathe the woods in brilliant, neon colors and crowds of festivalgoers in vibrant and eccentric costumes. Hammocks sway lazily in the summer breeze by day, and the fields pulse with wild energy at night. It’s a place where friendships are forged, and memories made.

Mike Brameijer and Jessa Challa are two Grand Rapidians for whom Electric Forest is a time-honored tradition they come back to again and again.

“I have been to Forest eight times; this year it will be nine,” Brameijer said. “It’s a homecoming for my friend group. It’s a place where no matter how far we move away, we always come back and hang out as a family.” Stilt walkers and performers captivate and entertain in intricate costumes, while interactive art installations inspire and delight. There are plenty of people to see

Above: Festival goers smile as they vibe to the music at Electric Forest Festival. Right: Jake Wesley Rogers, a performer at Electric Forest Festival in 2022 has been likened to Elton John by Elton John himself. The two singers maintain a friendship with one another.

and things to do, but also a few important things to remember.

“People say it a lot, but you’ve got to drink water,” Brameijer said. “You still are outside for four days, and you’ve got to be able to take care of yourself. Your good time

can’t be at the detriment of other people’s good time – you have to be mindful of others. Forest is what you make it.”

“You are camping,” Challa said. “You need to make sure that you’re getting at least two meals if not three meals in a

day. You’re going to be out in the sun and the elements. This past year was my first experience where a pretty bad storm blew through. You have to be prepared for that kind of situation.”

You might be roughing it in a tent or spending a weekend in an RV equipped with AC like Challa and Brameijer, but no matter where you’re camping, make sure you have a few essentials on your packing list.

“It’s a homecoming for my friend group. It’s a place where no matter how far we move away, we always come back and hang out as a family .” MIKE BRAMEIJER

“You should have an E-Z Up [pop-up canopy] for the heat, some way to carry water and a good pair of shoes,” Brameijer said. “You need a bandana or a mask for the dust. Earplugs – don’t make the same mistake I did. Have good earplugs that don’t muffle the sound but bring the decibels down.”

Perhaps most importantly, be sure to bring an open mind and a sense of adventure. The eclectic, immersive experience is never exactly the same from year to year, and that’s part of the charm.

“There’s so much to explore,” Challa said. “The one year that you go, you’re not going to see everything, and that’s OK. You have to let go of your fear of missing out and really enjoy the things that you do get to experience.”

Vancouver-based artist The Della Kit captivates the crowd with an energetic and rhythmic performance at Electric Forest Festival in 2022.

TSecure Your Slice of the American Dream with a Real Estate ALL STAR

he West Michigan real estate market continues to be a topic of conversation for many of us. It’s definitely a hot issue, whether it’s because we’re looking to buy or sell—or both!—and navigating the challenges of that process, or we’re looking in as an outsider, feeling grateful that we’re not entrenched in it. For those of us in the former category, it’s times like these when it’s more important than ever to have an expert by our side. Not necessarily a friend of a friend, or someone new to the industry, but someone who has been proven to get results.

In this section, we’re spotlighting West Michigan’s Real Estate All Stars. They’re some of the top brokers and agents in the region, and they’ve earned this recognition by consistently delivering for their clients—and placing in the top 5% of total sales volumes, as determined through a survey by a private research company. If you’ll be buying or selling in the next year, this is the place to do your research and find a professional who can give you the edge!

For Grand Rapids Magazine’s Real Estate All-Stars 2024, we commissioned Professional Research Services (PRS) to conduct a survey of all Grand Rapids brokers and agents, to determine the top agents and mortgage professionals in the area. Agents who were chosen as Real Estate All-Stars had a total residential sales volume that fell within the top 5 percent of Grand Rapids agents. The mortgage professionals on our list came highly recommended by agents and brokers in the region, and the mortgage professionals with the most votes were the ones who were named Real Estate All-Stars for 2024 in the mortgage category. Inclusion in Grand Rapids Magazine’s Real Estate All-Star list is based solely upon merit; there’s no commercial relationship to the listings, and listings cannot be purchased. While Grand Rapids has many experienced real estate and mortgage professionals, the ones listed here are considered Grand Rapids Magazine’s Real Estate All-Stars. These Real Estate All-Stars know the communities they serve. They can best guide you, whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, and introduce you to the home of your dreams.

Tyler Addington

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Edward Alexander

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Ingrid Anastasiu

Anastasiu Homes

Keller Williams Grand Rapids 1555 Arboretum Drive Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-304-9387

ingridanastasiu.com

Donna Anders

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Dustin Anderson

Five Star Real Estate Ada

Emily Anderson

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

Connor Anderson

Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Kirk Antekerier

Core Realty Partners Muskegon

Mary Applehof

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Gretchen Arkins

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

Matthew Armstrong

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Jon Austin

RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-292-0118

jonaustin@remax.net

jonaustin.remax-united-mi.com

Pamela Averill

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Ross Bacon

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Erik Bagroski

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Kimbra Baker

Five Star Real Estate Spring Lake

Brad Baker

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Leslie Baker

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Jesse Baragar

Baragar Realty Grand Rapids

Michele Baragar Baragar Realty Grand Rapids

Brian Bartholomew

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Trevor Bartkowiak

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

Cynthia Barton

Greenridge Realty - Caledonia Caledonia

Julie Bays

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Michigan Real Esate 1679 68th St. SE, Suite B Caledonia, MI 49316 616-706-5627

juliebays@bhhsmi.com

juliebays.bhhsmichiganrealestate.com

Andrea Belding

Five Star Real Estate Gowen

Rob Bell

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Dwight Berens

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Lacey Bereza

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Jody Schwalm

RE/MAX United

4150 E. Beltline NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49525

616-581-5960

jodybernhardt@remax.net

jodybernhardt.remax-united-mi.com

Christa Beukema

Five Star Real Estate Ada

Jeffrey Blahnik

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Justin Blevins

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Brandi Block

Greenridge Realty - Summit Grand Rapids

John Bodien

Greenridge Realty - Summit Grand Rapids

Blake Boehm

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

John P. Boggiano

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Justine Born

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Katherine Bourgois

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Brian Boven

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Brittany Boverhof

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Birgitta Boynton

Greenridge Realty - Muskegon Muskegon

Mark Brace

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Scott Bradford

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Daniel Bradley

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Kristine A. Brady

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Sue Brandsen

Five Star Real Estate Holland

Larry Branscombe

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Craig Brink

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Geoff Brown

City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale

Jared Brown

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

Pete Bruinsma

Grand River Realty 330 Fuller Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-293-5731 petebr@grar.com grandriverrealty.com

Bob Budreau

Greenridge Realty - Ludington Ludington

Tammy Jo Budzynski

Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids

Kaleb Burke

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Dan Burrill

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Juanita Buskard

Buskard Group Real Estate Grandville

Todd Buskard Buskard Group Real Estate Grandville

Robert Camp

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Laura Campbell

Five Star Real Estate 460 Ada Drive, Suite 120 Ada, MI 49301 909-203-9076

laurahomerealtor@gmail.com listwithlauragr.com

Barry Capel

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Tricia Carlson

Five Star Real Estate Whitehall

Patricia Soler Caston

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Micah Childress

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Laura Cole

Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Amy Conley Greenridge Realty - Kentwood Kentwood

Abigail Corcoran Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Trisha Cornelius

Novosad Realty Partners Grand Rapids

John Cremer Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Abby Cribbs

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Andrea Crossman

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Holland

Heather Davis

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Richard Dawdy

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

David DeBruyn

Greenridge Realty - Kentwood Kentwood

Julie DeDoes

Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

Mark Deering

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Sandie Dehamer

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Matthias DeJongh

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

Jack Dekker

Greenridge Realty - Hamilton

Hamilton

Drew Denham

eXp Realty Grand Rapids

Angela Devereaux

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Evan DeVisser

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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 and is the 2024 GRAR PresidentElect. 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 Marantette, Associate Broker

616-285-9305

greensquaregr.com

Guy Devries

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

John DeVries

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Kimberly Dickerson Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Patricia Doezema

Greenridge Realty - Hastings Hastings

Vito Dolci, Jr. Five Star Real Estate

Walker

Ted Dozeman

RE/MAX Lakeshore

Holland

Tina Drum 616 Realty Grand Rapids

Mark Dubridge

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Megan Duthler

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Lindsey Dykstra

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Mary Dykstra

Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

Bridget Eklund

B Home & Co. Grand Rapids

Darin Elliott

Greenridge Realty - Ionia Ionia

Lance Engel

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Anne Espinoza

Greenridge Realty - Kentwood Kentwood

Christine Estep

Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

Peter Faber

Five Star Real Estate

Ada

Brandon Faber

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Delaney Faught

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Laura Featherston

Greenridge Realty - Summit Grand Rapids

Gerald Feenstra

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Todd Fencil

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Erin Fester

GR Home Team

Ada

Brooke Finlan

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Charles Fisher

Greenridge Realty - Summit Grand Rapids

Rachel Fortenbacher

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Willie Friend II

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Tammy Fulcher

Five Star Real Estate

Ada

Chuck Gallagher

Greenridge Realty - Downtown Grand Rapids

Michelle Gaudreau

Greenridge Realty - Caledonia Caledonia

Nate & Stacy Geerts

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Sandi L. Gentry

RE/MAX Lakeshore

Grand Haven

Rick Genzink

Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

Carol Genzink

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

David Geurink

Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

Scott Giddings

Five Star Real Estate Stanton

Ernest Gills

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Carrie Girman

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Ami Giusti

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Barb Glashouwer

Novosad Realty Partners Grand Rapids

Justin Glover

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Cheryl Grant

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Elizabeth Grant

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Andrew Grashuis

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Kendall Grashuis

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

West Michigan’s real estate market continues to be challenging, and that means choosing the right realtor is more important than ever. Buyers and sellers need a trained, experienced agent with strong negotiation skills who can help them achieve the most favorable transaction—and that’s not always the highest price or offer. Possession and financing terms can also come into play, as well as many intangibles. The team at RE/MAX United dedicates several hours a week to analyzing, adapting, and innovating new processes to stay up to date on the latest changes and methods in the region.

RE/MAX United’s 2024 Real Estate All Stars are Tracie Rich, Kim Hensley, Jon Austin, Karla Karamol, Chris Lehman, Stacey Morea, and Jody Schwalm. All approach a sale the same way: By really delving into what the buyer or seller needs. Each has earned the Real Estate Negotiation Expert designation, and the proof of their skills is in the results they attain for their clients.

Education is part of the core philosophy of RE/ MAX United, which has locations in Rockford and Grand Rapids—and, it’s what sets these All Stars apart from others in the field. They live, work, and serve in our local communities and have the expertise to get the job done. In addition to exceptional marketing strategies to help sell a home quickly, RE/MAX United offers the latest technology to make the process of finding a home easier, too. Clients enjoy access to cuttingedge map search technology, a state-of-the-art mobile app, current market stats, and more. ■

Tracie Rich, Broker/Owner

Kim Hensley, Associate Broker

Jon Austin, Associate Broker

Karla Karamol, Realtor

Chris Lehman, Realtor

Stacey Morea, Realtor

Jody Schwalm, Realtor

RE/MAX United Rockford Office

616-866-5800 remax-united-mi.com

Susan Gray

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Vaughn Greathouse Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Amanda “Mandy” Green

Coldwell Banker Realty Greenville

Will Greene

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

Traci Gresham Five Star Real Estate Holland

Steve Grilley

Five Star Real Estate Lakeshore Holland

Timothy Groenhof Five Star Real Estate Ada

Lisa Groesser

Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

Jeremiah Gruchow

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Lori Grysen

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Michael Haan

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Tantzi Habsburg

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Douglas Hale

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Crystal Hallack

Five Star Real Estate Hart

Tammy Halterman Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Michelle Hanmer

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Caledonia

Scott Harestad

Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

Mike Harig

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Sharon Harig

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Brenda Harris

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Lisa Hawke

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

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 Saranac

Tracy Hilty

Greenridge Realty - Muskegon Muskegon

John Holkeboer

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Nick Holtrop

Blu House Properties / EXP Realty Grand Rapids

Scott A. Holwerda

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Cathy Hoppough

Keller Williams Rivertown Ionia

Mark Hoskins

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Rockford

Lucas Howard

Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Tim Hrynewich

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Ann Huizen

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Christian J. Huyge

Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

Benjamin Iwema

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Tyler Jackson

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Jason Johnson

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

LeAnn Johnson

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

Heather Jones

Five Star Real Estate Greenville

Kristy Jones

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Patrick & Nicole Kane

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Karla Karamol

RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St.

Rockford, MI 49341

616-460-1634

karlakaramol@remax.net

karlakaramol.remax-united-mi.com

Janet Romanowski

Greenridge Realty EGR, Romanowski Homes, 2213 Wealthy St. SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-458-3655 | romanhousekey.com

A powerful presence in Grand Rapids real estate for more than 20 years, Janet Romanowski knows that when clients hire her, they’re enlisting not just her skills and expertise, but also her level of service and commitment to every detail. Deciding to work with Romanowski Homes – Greenridge Realty EGR means receiving Janet’s undivided attention.

“With a smaller team, I can ensure my clients get prompt responses—and they don’t have to worry about anything being omitted or falling through the cracks,” Janet says.

“I have high standards, and by being fully involved with my eyes on every contract, as well as providing consistent communication, Romanowski Homes – Greenridge Realty EGR can live up to the reputation and trust I’ve built over the years.” ■

Terry Wickering

Bryant Ellam

Zac Ellerbroek

Ben Langenau

Rebecca Masck

Jenna Mitchell

Emrah Sero

Dave Stellin

Luther Trook

Bryan Paul

Dann Mulder

Lauren Karsten Five Star Real Estate Ada

Timothy Katerberg RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Wendy Katerberg RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Maria Kauffman Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Scot Kellogg 616 Realty Grand Rapids

Don King Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Keith King Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Shawn Kiphart Midwest Properties ER Powered Belmont

David Kirchgessner Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Susan Kirchgessner Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Randy Klingel Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Elizabeth Klinzing Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Elizabeth Klopp Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Eric Knoll Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Kevin Knoll Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Hwee-Ping Koh Five Star Real Estate Ada

Hope Kolker Five Star Real Estate Ada

Chris Konyndyk RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Michael Kooistra Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Scott Koop Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Mitchell Koster Five Star Real Estate Allendale

Patty Koval Greenridge Realty - Wayland Wayland

Diana Kovalcik Greenridge Realty - Ludington Ludington

Kyle Kovalcik Greenridge Realty - Ludington Ludington

Jessica Kraai Greenridge Realty - Wayland Wayland

Alicia Kramer RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Brooke Krebill Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

M. Dean Kreps Greenridge Realty - Holland Holland

Elizabeth Krueger eXp Realty Caledonia

Char Kurant Core Realty Partners Muskegon

Michael Kuzawa Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Stephanie Langeland 616 Realty Grand Rapids

Gary Langlois Greenridge Realty - Muskegon Muskegon

Leo Langlois Greenridge Realty - Muskegon Muskegon

Joanna Lasser Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Vonny Last Five Star Real Estate Ada

Chris Lehman RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-835-3735 chrislehman@remax.net chrislehman.remax-united-mi.com

Anthony Lewis RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Ryan Lipinski

Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Michele Lipka Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Brian Lorenz RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Melissa Lundeberg Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

Giuseppe Lupis Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

616-293-9261 | wilcox@grar.com | wilcoxgrproperties.com

Arija Wilcox’s mission is to improve the quality of her clients’ lives. Paired with her team, Jimmy Scott and Alison Kraai-Mckee, Wilcox GR Properties remains a top producer, and leader for Keller Williams Grand Rapids North—with over $300 million in sales, and 40-plus years of combined experience.

Wilcox GR Properties works in a broad range of properties throughout West Michigan, from urban condos to single family homes, ranging from $40K to $1.6M. They also specialize in New Development Sales, with the completion of RiverPoint of Ada and The Cove at Dean Lake, currently selling at The Oaks of Forest Hills by Graystone Homes.

The team is knowledgeable of current and future inventory, providing a competitive advantage to their clients in this challenging market. ■

Alex & Taylor Macias

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Rachel Major

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Vung Mang Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming

Jessica Mann

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Beth Mans Greenridge Realty - Cascade Grand Rapids

Paul Marantette GreenSquare Properties LLC

2618 East Paris Ave., Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 313-727-5570

paul@greensquaregr.com greensquaregr.com

David Martin

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Wyatt Martin Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Larry Martin Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Christine Mattson Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Joshua May RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Kevin McCarty Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Joshua McCracken Greenridge Realty - Lowell Lowell

Jane McGregor

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Molly McManus

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Janet McNamara

Five Star Real Estate Holland

Christopher Mendels

Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

Imaree Mendez

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Pam Merriman 616 Realty Grand Rapids

Karen Metchikoff

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Rockford

Amy Miller

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Gabriel Miller

Grand River Realty Grand Rapids

Melissa Mitchell GRI, SRES

GreenSquare Properties LLC

2618 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

616-308-6304

melissamitchell@grar.com greensquaregr.com

Travis Moelker

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Pamela Monday

Key Realty Grandville

Thomas Monette

Greenridge Realty - Muskegon Muskegon

Denny Moore

Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Kristine Moran

Five Star Real Estate Allendale

Stacey Morea

RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-915-3315

staceymorea@remax.net

staceymorea.remax-united-mi.com

Cheryl Morehouse

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Caledonia

Kagiso Motaung

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Mara N. Musser

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Caledonia

Dana Myers

Greenridge Realty - Caledonia Caledonia

Ingrid Nelson

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Kimberly Nelson

Greenridge Realty - White Lake Whitehall

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Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

Zach Newhof

Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

Mary Noles

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Bob Novosad

Novosad Realty Partners

Grand Rapids

Lisa Novosad

Novosad Realty Partners Grand Rapids

Phil Nykamp

Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

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City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale

Leo Olson

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Skylar Olson

Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

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Greenridge Realty - Caledonia Caledonia

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Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Arthur Otis

Greenridge Realty - Cascade Grand Rapids

Dan Otten

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Jeff Overway

RE/MAX Lakeshore Holland

Kim Paavola

Greenridge Realty - Caledonia Caledonia

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Michelle Parent

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

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Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

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Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

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Greenridge Realty - Grand Haven Grand Haven

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Patti Pitcher

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

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Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

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Greenridge Realty - Fremont Fremont

Jason Porte

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Jason Post

Five Star Real Estate Rockford

John Postma

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Blue Beacon Realty Wyoming

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Five Star Real Estate Jenison

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Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

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Greenridge Realty - South Rath Ludington

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Five Star Real Estate Holland

Ingrid Anastasiu, Realtor

Anastasiu HomesKeller Williams Grand Rapids

1555 Arboretum Drive

Grand Rapids, MI 616-304-9387

ingrid.a@kw.com

Ingrid Anastasiu stands as a dynamic force in the Grand Rapids Real Estate scene, recognized as the #1 KW Solo Agent and ranking among the Top 25 Realtors in the area. With an impressive 75% referral business, Ingrid’s commitment to client success shines through in every transaction. She goes above and beyond to ensure her sellers achieve the highest profits by offering staging, remodel assistance, and professional photography services. In a fiercely competitive market, Ingrid leverages her robust network and creative strategies to secure homes for her buyers, particularly those relocating to the area, making her an indispensable ally in the Real Estate landscape. ■

Kelley Rahilly RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Tara Reibel

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Caledonia

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Jamie Rodriguez

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Amanda Rogers

Rogers Neighborhood Realty 317 E. Main Lowell, MI 49331 616-644-0784

amanda@amandasellsmichigan.com rogersneighborhoodrealty.com

Janet Romanowski

Greenridge Realty 2213 Wealthy East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-318-0065 janet@romanhousekey.com romanhousekey.com

Julie Rossio Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Mike Rundhaug

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Grand Rapids

Kristin Ruther

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Brandon Ryan 616 Realty Grand Rapids

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Ada

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Rockford

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Greenridge Realty - Holland Holland

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Ithaca

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

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Greenridge Realty - White Lake Whitehall

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Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Greenridge Realty - Kentwood Kentwood

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

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City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale

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Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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Coldwell Banker Sneller Real Estate Allegan

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Steven Spriensma

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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Greenridge Realty - South Rath Ludington

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Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

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Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Sarah Takens

The Local Element West Michigan Grand Rapids

Nora Tan

Greenridge Realty - Holland Holland

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Five Star Real Estate Spring Lake

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Greenridge Realty - Summit Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Rockford

Kevin TerBeek

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Rodney Thiss

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Lisa Thomas

Polaris Real Estate Grand Rapids

Lance Tiffany

Greenridge Realty - Cascade Grand Rapids

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Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

Gerald Towner, Jr.

Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Kelly Uganski

RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

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Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

David Van Dam

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Lindsay Van Duinen-Scully

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Bailee VanderMolen

Five Star Real Estate Grandville

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Tyler VanWingen

Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Lisa Vela

Five Star Real Estate Muskegon

Rachael Veldkamp

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

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Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

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City2Shore Gateway Group Byron Center

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Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

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RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Dan Way

Greenridge Realty - South Haven South Haven

Amy Jo Weller

Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

Kevin Wensley

Novosad Realty Partners Grand Rapids

Scott West

GreenSquare Properties LLC 2618 East Paris Ave., Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-285-9305

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

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Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

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RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

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Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

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Wilcox GR PropertiesKeller Williams GR North 3237 Platinum St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-293-9261 wilcox@grar.com wilcoxgrproperties.com

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Five Star Real Estate Mount Pleasant

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RE/MAX Lakeshore Grand Haven

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Keller Williams Rivertown Holland

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Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

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Five Star Real Estate Grandville

Rob Young 616 Realty Grand Rapids

Joshua Yskes

Five Star Real Estate Ada

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

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Greenridge Realty - East Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Dan Zuniga

Five Star Real Estate Whitehall

Laurel Zwit

Greenridge Realty - Montague Montague

MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS

Doug Ardy

Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group

Grand Rapids

Jonathan Arnold

Guild Mortgage

Ada

Stephanie Axdorff Mercantile Bank

Grand Rapids

Steve Axdorff Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Michael Bartels

Old National Bank Grand Rapids

Julie Christine Basinski-Bacon Preferred Rate

Ada

Stacey Beers

Grand River Bank

Grand Rapids

Seth Bellas

Churchill Mortgage Wyoming

Tom Boorsma

Churchill Mortgage Wyoming

Brendon Chapin

Huntington Bank - Downtown Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Danielle Crilley

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

David Dakoske

Guaranteed Rate

Grand Rapids

Drew DeWolf Mortgage 1, Inc.

Kentwood

Jared Dykstra United Bank

Grand Rapids

James Eerdmans

My City Home Loans

Grand Rapids

Bryant Ellam

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner

Grand Rapids

Zac Ellerbroek

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner

Grand Rapids

Austin Engerson

JPAL Mortgage

Grand Rapids

John Fitzgerald

Michigan First Mortgage Grand Rapids

Ryan Gardner

Dart Bank

Mason

Thomas C. Girardot

Team Mortgage Company

Grand Rapids

Kevin Hilderbrandt

VanDyk Mortgage

Greenville

Boomer Hoppough Independent Bank

4200 E. Beltline Ave.

Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-902-0796

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Pete Humphreys

Independent Bank

78 S. Main St.

Rockford, MI 49341 616-304-2009

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Mike Izenbaard

Heartland Home Mortgage

Grand Rapids

David Jackson

Ruoff Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Jason Jenkins

CrossCountry Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Dan Johnson

Fifth Third Bank

Byron Center

Sarah Kelly

First Community Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Sue Lake

Fifth Third Bank

Lowell

Ben Langenau

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner

Grand Rapids

Heather Lauren

Priority Home Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Bernie Marvin

Big Lake Lending

Walker

Rebecca Masck

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner Grand Rapids

Mason Maurer

Northpointe Bank

Grand Rapids

Zach Maurer

Northpointe Bank

Grand Rapids

Tim McAleece

Mercantile Bank

Grand Rapids

Jon McCready

Mortgage 1, Inc.

Kentwood

Tim Meduna

Northern Mortgage

Byron Center

Stacy Anne Miller-Kuiper Preferred Rate

Ada

Jenna Mitchell

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner

Grand Rapids

Wade Monsma

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Lou Moratti

First Community Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Dann Mulder

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Wyoming

Wyoming

Josh Nawrot

Northern Mortgage

Byron Center

Brendan O’Driscoll

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Megan Ostrander

West Michigan Mortgage

Lowell

Bryan Paul

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Lakeshore

Grand Haven

Kevin Polakovich

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Melissa Rincones

Private Mortgage Guarantee

Wyoming

Hannah Ritzenhein

Huntington Bank - Downtown Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

2024 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS

Dirk Roskam

Churchill Mortgage Wyoming

Jeremy Scherer Heartland Home Mortgage Grand Rapids

Lindsey Secrest Fifth Third Bank Jenison

Emrah Sero Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner Grand Rapids

John Seville Benchmark Mortgage Grand Rapids

Chris Slating Mortgage 1, Inc. Kentwood

Julie Smith

First Community Mortgage Grand Rapids

Bob Smith

Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Dave Stellin

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner

Grand Rapids

Bob Storrer

Independent Bank

6750 Cascade Road SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-447-3963

bstorrer@ibcp.com

independentbank.com

Mike Strohauer

Huntington Bank - Kalamazoo West Kalamazoo

Mallory Strotheide

Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Curt Stuck Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Sherry Tedaldi Fifth Third Bank Holland

Gregg Teegardin

Consumers Credit Union Grand Rapids

Luther Trook

Lake Michigan Credit Union - Knapps Corner Grand Rapids

Seth VanderWey

Churchill Mortgage Grand Rapids

Scot Veneklase

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Amber Wagner

Treadstone Mortgage

Grand Rapids

Keith Westhouse

West Michigan Mortgage Grand Rapids

Terry Wickering

Lake Michigan Credit Union - East Paris Grand Rapids

Tony Wylie Fifth Third Bank Wyoming

DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS

Coffee, Corks, and Candlelight

Couple's vision comes to life in new space for pastries, light bites, and plenty of wine!

Golden daylight pours through the shop windows filling the space with warmth and energy, while espresso machines buzz to the beat of busy laptops. At night the space transforms as ambient light and flickering candles create an intimate vibe, with a chorus of clinking glasses and conversations bouncing off the walls. Chateau is coffee bar by day, wine bar by night, and full-time new resident of Grand Rapids.

Inspired by the exciting wine bars they experienced in their travels to New York, Paris, and London, owners Chris and Allaire Swart felt motivated to create something equally vibrant and introduce the Grand Rapids community to new wines.

“We wanted it to feel like a place we would love to hang out with our own family and friends,” said Chris.

Their upscale old-world vision came together with brass fixtures and emeraldgreen accents, warm wood and velvet textures, exposed brick and crown molding, the perfect blend of modern and romantic. The Swarts want the beautiful space to draw window shoppers and neighborhood walkers in the door, and the exceptional product and service to keep them there.

Choosing to add coffee and pastries to their morning service just made sense for utilizing the space at all times of day, but a passion for wine was always the couple’s main driving force.

Chateau has over 200 unique varieties of wine in the cellar, and they’re constantly evolving. “We really think we have the best wine list in town,” said Chris. “And we are willing to accept a lower margin at times to introduce the people of Grand Rapids to amazing wines.”

Chateau also offers a rotating list of charcuterie boards with domestic and imported meats and cheeses, and they recruited a talented chef to curate seasonally inspired and ever-changing food pairings.

“We want people to feel like they don’t need to leave for a dinner reservation, they can spend the whole evening here and

CHEERS WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TYLEE SHAY

Bartender Austin Adamczyk pours a glass of Sylvain & Alain Normand '22 Bourgogne.

enjoy substantial small plates and unique dishes with incredible wine,” said Allaire.

After opening their doors on Valentine’s Day, they immediately felt the love from the Grand Rapids community. “The response was exactly what we hoped for,” said Chris.

Allaire agreed.

“It’s great to see that people really get what we’re trying to do. Hearing customer feedback like ‘Grand Rapids really needed something like this’ has been so rewarding,” she said.

This response made them feel even more excited for what’s to come. Summer outdoor patio seating, a wine club and member-only dinners, educational evenings with wine importers, oyster nights, jazz trios, and more are all things to come in 2024, making Chateau worth frequent visits to see what’s new and happening.

The Owners’ Orders:

Allaire

Coffee – Pour over

Wine – French Red Bourgogne

Bites – Hamachi Crudo

Chris

Coffee – Cortado

Wine – German Riesling

Bites – Scallop Crudo

Above: Quaint window seating allows for beautiful light throughout the day. Below: Owners Chris (left) and Allaire Swart.

Chicken Liver Pâté with pickled blueberry, smoked salt, and house crackers paired with a glass of Catherine & Pierre Breton 2020 Bourgueil 'Nuits d'lvresse.'

Sweet & Spicy

Crafted to ignite your palate, this dynamite margarita fuses jalapeño with pineapple

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATY MCAVOY

Sweet pineapple juice and spicy jalapeño pepper combine for a flavorful twist on the classic margarita. Served on the rocks with a salted rim, this Spicy Pineapple Margarita is perfect for Cinco de Mayo festivities or your next Taco Tuesday.

This cocktail is easy to adjust based on personal preference. Want a spicier drink? Muddle the jalapeño slices in the shaker along with the pineapple juice before adding the other ingredients. Don’t like it spicy?

Leave out the peppers for a delicious pineapple margarita.

Ingredients:

2 oz blanco tequila

1 oz pineapple juice

1 oz simple syrup*

¾ oz fresh lime juice

½ oz triple sec

2-3 slices of fresh jalapeño pepper

Coarse salt or Tajin seasoning

*HOMEMADE SIMPLE SYRUP:

Combine ½ cup sugar with ½ cup hot water. Stir until sugar has dissolved.

Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator and chill completely before using.

Preparation:

Pour some coarse salt into a shallow dish. Run a slice of lime around the rim of the glass. Dip the rim into the salt. Fill the glass with ice cubes and set aside.

In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, pineapple juice, simple syrup, lime juice and triple sec. Add jalapeño slices and ice cubes to the shaker and shake well for 10 seconds. Double strain into the prepared glass.

Garnish with a slice of pineapple and/or lime. Sip and enjoy!

Refined, traditional

Celebrated chef Oscar Moreno puts modern spin on pre-Columbian cuisine at MeXo

BY PAT EVANS // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

When Peter Krupp decided to open MeXo, he was seeking a level of Mexican cuisine he’d become familiar during his time in New York City and Chicago.

It was specifically in Chicago, where Krupp fell in love with the traditional Mexican fare from Rick Bayless’s Frontera Grill.

“We started going to Rick’s restaurants 30-plus years ago and he was always just a little bit more refined, closer to what we can get at restaurants in Mexico,” he said. “When I’m in the mood for it, TexMex is awesome, but we wanted more refined, more moles, more traditional flavors.”

Grand Rapids is certainly awash with TexMex spots. It’s also home to many great taquerias, but what he hoped to bring to the city takes that authentic feeling and pushes it up a notch.

Here, a fresh sope is assembled. Mexo's sopes are made with a Nixtamal masa dough hand-shaped cup; filled with your choice of sirloin picadillo and cotija cheese or vegan cuitlacoche; topped with lettuce, tomato and salsa cruda; and served with Molcajete salsa.

And so it was at 118 E. Fulton St., formerly home to Brian’s Books, that Krupp and his CDKI Dining group opened MeXo and focused on traditional, and largely preColumbian, Mexican cuisine. CDKI also owns Sandy Point Beach House in West Olive and the recently opened Chicago Beef Joint, 822 Ottawa Ave. NW.

To man the kitchen and ensure MeXo was a chef driven concept, Oscar Moreno was brought on as chef. A native of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Moreno infuses his modern approach to food with the preHispanic foods from the nation.

Earlier this year, the American Culinary Federation (of) Greater Grand Rapids voted Moreno Chef of the Year and MeXo earned a nod as the Ethnic Origin Restaurant of the Year.

And it is, at least in part, Moreno who makes MeXo a gem in Grand Rapids. His persona shines when he hits the dining room floor, but his food can make people smile. Whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner, the flavors are big, bold and fresh. (Amazingly, because of the pre-Hispanic nature of the menu, most of the items are naturally gluten free, and many dairy free.)

Let’s start with dinner, and with that the appetizers. The masa dough centric starter

Above: the Braised Pork Torta lunch with beans, mayonnaise, hibiscus pickled onions and served in ahogada sauce. (Be sure to tell your server your preferred heat level!)

Above, right: Oscar's Baja Tacos, made with beer battered mahi-mahi and tossed inMeXo's salsa macha, topped with homemade tartar sauce, salsa cruda and papaya salsa.

Here, Bartender Paige Booms prepares an Oaxacan Margarita (right) featuring Mezcal and Velvet Falernum, a rum-based liqueur.

menu is a fun way to experience the MeXo flavors. The little dough nuggets are fluffy and savory and packed with a variety of toppings and fillings. Whether it’s the sopes filled with sirloin picadillo and topped with lettuce, tomato and salsa or the Huaraches with Morita Flada, filled with beans and topped with smoked peppers, brisket, red onion and cojito cheese, or the Puebla Mole Bites, chicken and rice wrapped in masa and topped with chayote (a Mesoamerican fruit

that’s like a crush between cucumber and squash, with a touch of apple) and jicama slaw, the morsels are little bombs of flavor.

There is of course the course that should not be missed, chips and salsa and guacamole. But while you have the chips on the table, don’t miss out on the ceviche.

I have not yet had the pleasure of a soup, but those are on the agenda for my next visit — the Pozole Verde looks great, with a hominy stew with braised pork, tomatillo, beans and cilantro. And as we head into summer, the Watermelon Salad looks like it’ll be a crisp way to enjoy a meal with tajin compressed watermelon, julienned jicama, chayote, cucumber, basil and arugula with a vinaigrette. (There’s also the True Caesar 1924, because as any true salad aficionado knows, the Caesar Salad originated in Mexico.)

For entrees, there are Tex-Mex friendly options, including the Enchiladas Rojas and Oscar’s Baja Tacos. There’s also a smattering of deconstructed tacos as well. There is also a Local Mushroom Taco plate, made with guajillo pepper infused mushrooms, from local Pebble Creek Mushrooms, that can tickle the taste buds.

But beyond those options, diners can dive into an array of items that lets Moreno’s talents shine, like the spicy shrimp dish Camarones Ala Diabla, the Red Snapper Zarandeado and the Pulque Wild Boar Tenderloin.

And as mentioned by Krupp, the true star of a show at a traditional Mexican restaurant are the moles — a chili sauce that is as diverse as they come and vary by region and family. At MeXo, there’s the Pollo Con Mole Poblano and the Enmolada enchiladas as the two dishes that highlight it the most. And both are delicious.

The brunch is a special time as well, and certainly under appreciated. The basic Huevos Rancheros is a work of magic, as is the Huevos con Chorizo, and the Omelette Ala Espanola.

Bistec Ranchero gives the ol’ steak and eggs combo a run for its money with a nice spicy kick.

As for brunch drinks, the Bloody Maria — a Bloody Mary with tequila, but can also be subbed for mezcal — is a treat. But so is the coffee, a French press with star anise, clove, cinnamon and piloncillo. A few simple additions and the coffee is kicked up a notch.

And perhaps it is the drinks that help MeXo stand out even further. A true tequila and mezcal bar, MeXo has bucked the

“And it is, at least in part, [Chef Oscar] Moreno who makes MeXo a gem in Grand Rapids. His persona shines when he hits the dining room floor, but his food can make people smile.”

Chef Oscar Moreno whips up Camarones ala Diabla, a dish featuring sautéed Oshii shrimp with citrus, morita, guajillo, tepache, arbol peppers and garlic sauce; served with cilantro rice and cucumber salad.

In the background, from left to right: Oscar's Baja Tacos, sopes, and Camarones ala Diabla. Up front: Pollo Con Mole Poblano.

trendiness (although, yes mezcal has its fans and moments) of beer and whiskey in Grand Rapids.

Whether it’s the variety of margaritas or the Oaxacan Old Fashioned or one of the number of anejo tequilas or mezcals neat, the bar is a place to try and find a world not often well explored in West Michigan.

For me, the Paloma Classic with blanco tequila, Mexican Squirt, grapefruit, lime and salt is a winner. As is the Vaquero Sour, with reposado tequila, rye whiskey, lime juice, simple syrup, a few bitters and egg white.

You will find a full range of Mexican brews and the West Michigan staple Bell’s Two Hearted, but not much else by way of beers, and a limited wine menu.

There is an odd feeling a customer can walk away with from MeXo. Some might expect Tex-Mex, and it most certainly is not that. And that expectation can come TexMex price expectations. So, the receipt can come as a bit of a shock.

But for the quality and creativity of the food, the price is more than reasonable when compared to some other West Michigan restaurants. It’s also possible to walk in and out of MeXo for right around $20 — say a smoked $14 beef brisket torta with a $4 Victoria beer.

Beyond the standards, MeXo hosts a monthly specialty dinner where Moreno truly lets his talents out. In March, when this article went to press, MeXo’s monthly dinner celebrated the Chicomecóatl civilization, an ancient Mesoamerican group that emphasized corn, beans and squash and helped shape what modern Mexicans eat today.

The dinners are themed similarly and let the chef and bartender showcase the possibilities of the restaurant on an even more specialized scale.

MeXo is among the spots — along with Grove, MDRD and the soon-to-reopen Sovengard — in Grand Rapids helping add a new vibe to the culinary scene and keeping longtime residents on their toes. Those restaurants add a nice variety to the rising trend of bars that feel like they’d fit in a big city, like Butcher’s Union, Post Off and Chateau.

It’s this type of concept with more upbeat, bustling, and adventurous menus that helps kee the growing number of big city transplants and returnees happy while also helping others come gently out of their comfort zones into beautiful, vibrant flavors.

Earlier this year, the American Culinary Federation (of) Greater Grand Rapids voted Moreno Chef of the Year and MeXo earned a nod as the Ethnic Origin Restaurant of the Year.

Chef Oscar Morenos prepares Pollo Con Mole Poblano dish over an open flame. The dish consists of Tepache and morita marinated free-range chicken, topped with mole poblano, and served with escabrche and cilantro rice.

CHICKEN

GR's top 'tacos auténticos'

These casual culinary scene stars exude simplicity and vibrant flavors!

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER

While there's nothing wrong with adding shredded lettuce, cheddar, and sour cream to your homemade taco, authentic Mexican tacos highlight the natural flavors of the basic ingredients and are more traditional in presentation. Here are five "taquerias" to try:

TOP TACO IN TOWN

I was introduced to Tacos El Cuñado in 2013 by one of Grand Rapids’ preeminent artists, Roli Mancera, who is originally from Mexico City. His endorsement of the somewhat obscure place served as a stamp of approval. I couldn’t wait to join him and hear about his ArtPrize piece and to sink my teeth into some authentic Mexican cuisine.

Geographically positioned near the 131 Freeway in an area of town bustling with native Spanish speakers at 1342 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue in Southwest Grand Rapids, the vibrant green

corner establishment stood out as a beacon. A longtime lover of genuine Mexican cuisine, I was intrigued and couldn’t wait to venture inside.

While indoor seating was limited, the outdoor deck offered ample space to savor the soon-to-becrowned “best” tacos in Grand Rapids. Served topped with cilantro and onion, with pickled hot veggies and chips on the side, the presentation was reminiscent of one of my old favorite Venice, Calif. haunts on Abbot Kinney Boulevard (once deemed the coolest block in America). So far, the “authentic” test had been

passed and it was time to indulge. In addition to two “lengua” tacos, I opted for a side of guacamole and a cooling cold horchata to wash it all down. It was love at first bite.

The restaurant’s reputation has since spawned several locations. Most recently Tacos El Cuñado put down stakes in East Grand Rapids, where it occupies the former Wok & Mortar, 2151 Wealthy St. SE. Other locations include Downtown Market, Plainfield Avenue, Burton Street, and restaurants in Cascade, and Holland.

If you love authentic Mexican tacos, you will not be disappointed!

BARBACOA Tacos El Cuñado

TACO AL PASTOR Tacos El Cuñado

TACO DE BRUSELAS Donkey Taqueria

TACO DE PESCADO Donkey Taqueria

TACO VEGETARIANO Don Betos

TACO TRADICIONAL (STEAK) Don Betos

7 Mares

CHORIZO El Granjero

TACO DE HONGOS Donkey Taqueria

BEEF TONGUE 7 Mares MUST-TRY

Additional must-trys:

A UNIQUE PEAR-ING

Donkey Taqueria, 665

Wealthy St SE., steals the spotlight with its unconventional yet delicious creations. There might be other places in town where you can find delicious al pastor or fish tacos, but sweet potatoes, lamb, and Brussels sprouts tacos? I’ve yet to see them on another taqueria’s menu. Pair your tacos with a prickly pear margarita and soak in the festive ambiance –a quintessential Cinco de Mayo experience.

A SEE-FOOD DIET

7 Mares, 1403

Kalamazoo Ave. SE, is a longstanding unassuming restaurant that offers no-frills authentic Mexican at reasonable prices. As far as tacos go, there are steak, chicken, pork, tripe, seasoned pork, beef tongue, Mexican sausage, shredded beef, shrimp, and fish to choose from. The heavy emphasis on seafood makes it a standout in Boston Square and beyond. Among many traditional Mexican dishes, the menu offerings include oysters in the shell, shrimp soup, fish soup, shrimp cocktail, and octopus salad! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for more than a decade, so many exciting choices await those who venture to this rare Southeast Side staple.

BETTER THAN DON PERIGNON

Tacos Don Beto’s, a restaurant located at 2401 Eastern Avenue in trendy Alger Heights, is one of the newer purveyors of authentic taco in town. With a bright blue facade and a menu brimming with traditional favorites, this family-owned café in business since 2019 keeps it simple yet satisfying. From classic tacos to tostadas, tortas, and beyond, there's something for everyone – accompanied by Jarritos or authentic Mexican Coke, naturally.

THE WEST SIDE’S BEST

El Granjero Mexican Grill, 950 Bridge St. NW., serves a selection of traditional tacos like lengua, and bisteca (and now pescado, too). The main draw of this no-frills, affordable Mexican Grill are some of its out-ofthe-ordinary delicacies, like grilled cactus and bright pink, sweet Jamaica (pronounced ha-my-cah) juice. My favorite thing to order here, apart from the chicken tacos, are chilis rellenos! Whether it’s desayuno, a lunch special, a large plate, or an a la carte add-on, El Granjero stands out with some of the best Mexican food on the West Side.

make your own taco:

Traditional

• Corn Tortillas

• Carne (Meat: flank steak)

• Fresh cilantro

• Onions (for sautéing)

• Green chiles

• Cumin

• Raw onion (for topping)

• Salsa verde or rojo

Optional: Queso fresco

The "American" way

• Shredded lettuce

• Fresh tomato

• Cheddar cheese

• Sour cream

Directions:

Sauté the onions, cilantro, green chiles in a little bit of oil. Add the carne and season to taste with salt, pepper and cumin. Slowcook on low, stirring and adding water as needed until the meat is tender (about an hour). Heat the corn tortilla (both sides) in an oiled skillet on medium heat. Dab off extra oil with paper towel and fill tortilla with meat mixture. Top with raw onion, fresh cilantro and salsa!

Prefer a more "American" taco? Use a flour tortilla and top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomato, and cheddar cheese. Yum!

Tacos El Cuñado's Al Pastor (left) and Barbacoa tacos

A genuine slice of comforting oldschool Americana, the Choo Choo is chock full of railroad-themed artwork and knick-knacks. You can feel the history when you walk into the place. A backlit menu board proclaims “Best Burgers on Earth (or anywhere else).” It ain't lyin'! The staff are on first name basis with many customers, and it has the “Cheers” feel of a home away from home where everybody knows your name.

Their weekly hours are 7a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays, and 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. They are closed Sundays. If you get there in time for breakfast, there are plenty of colorfully named meal options such as the Fireman, the Conductor's Omelet, and the infamous Rail Kill Sandwich (English muffin, two eggs, two sausage links, cheddar cheese, and Choo Choo Sauce!)

Get yourself one of the best burgers on Earth (or anywhere else) before 78-year-old Choo Choo Grill leaves the proverbial station! BY JASON ROTH

ON-THE-GO Above: Shiloh Mack, daughter of owner Rick Mack (center), and Kathy Spencer gather with an olive cheeseburger and onion rings (left), a chocolate peanut butter malt (center), and "The Legend" cheeseburger and fries (right). Top right: Choo Choo Grill's red exterior is as eyecatching as its signage for homemade soup!

While the lunch menu features choices such as a Meat Loaf Sandwich or Tuna Melt, it's nigh impossible to not get one of their burgers, which, for my money, are the best in Grand Rapids. You can choose from one-third pound burgers, half-pound burgers, and if you're feeling daring, take on The Legend, a one-pound cheeseburger that has conquered many a lesser eater! My pick was The Red Caboose: a half-pound cheeseburger deluxe that comes with glorious steak fries and a drink. The massive burger was cooked to perfection as always. A slightly bittersweet

The staff are on first name basis with many customers, and it has the “Cheers” feel of a home away from home where everybody knows your name.

note: the future of the Choo Choo Grill restaurant is uncertain, as owner Richard Mack is thinking of retirement and has put the property up for sale. He has not yet found a buyer, so until the property sells, the Choo Choo Grill will continue to be the Creston neighborhood destination it's been for decades. Whether or not the restaurant will continue after the sale will depend on who buys the property and what their plans are.

So don't delay, make your way to Choo Choo Grill and chow down on The Best Burgers on Earth (or anywhere else) while you still have the chance!

Above: Kathy Spencer builds "The Legend," a one pound deluxe cheeseburger. Top: owner Rick Mack converses with some Choo Choo Grill regulars.

From the bottom of our hearts Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2022. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

Nicole Earl Photography Liv

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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 $-$$

BEACON CORNER BAR & COASTAL FARE

Owned by the group behind San Chez and Roam, the restaurant offers up seafood from the three coasts: East, West and Michigan. // 38 W Fulton St, 383-3800. beaconcornerbar.com. 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

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OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES

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 $$

COTTAGE BAR

Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. 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 $

FORTY PEARL

A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats,cheeses, baked goods, sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily. // 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.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 $$

GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR

Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups

From the bottom of our hearts Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2022. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

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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 entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Year-round 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 $-$$

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. Perfect for before and after a movie at Celebration. // 122 Oakes St SW Suite 100, 805-3780, leosconeyisland.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LEO’S SEAFOOD

Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. // 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, 419-4168. 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 $-$$

PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE

Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PIND INDIAN CUISINE

A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY

Contemporary seafood restaurant that offers premium fresh fish and seafood from the waters of New England to the Great Lakes. // 141 Lyon St NW, Grand Rapids, (888) 456-3463, realseafoodcorestaurant.com. Dinner $$$

RESERVE WINE & FOOD

Wine bar offers extensive by-the-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. // 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), 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 $$

ROCKWELL REPUBLIC

Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave

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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$$

SOCIAL HOUSE

A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters,soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$

SOCIAL MISFITS

An interesting concept mashing waffles (sweet or savory,) with other food, accompanied by creative cocktailss. The business also introduces Great Lakes Coffee Roasters to town. // 43 W. Fulton St, 272-4984. thesocialmisfits.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

SPEAK EZ LOUNGE

Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

STELLA’S LOUNGE

Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 7424444. 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 $

WAHLBURGERS

Celebrity-owned (by Mark Wahlburg and brothers) burger joint offering up a fast-casual experience. //

10 Ionia Ave NW, 616-719-1788. wahlburgers.com. 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, 4543141. 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 $

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. // 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 $$

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 $

JOLLY PUMPKIN PIZZERIA & BREWERY

Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.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. Closed Mondays. // 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 $-$$

MARU

Asian fusion eatery featuring small plates, bentos, rice bowls, raw bar, noodles, soup, salad and more. Wide selection of wine, plus local, domestic and international beer. Full bar. // 415 Bridge St NW, 608-0789. andosushi.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, 233-9799. 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 contribute 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 $-$$

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 BASALT

Modern Tex-Mex cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu focuses on breakfast tacos, quesadillas and tortas. Closed Mondays. // 1450 Wealthy St. SE, 719-2146. basaltgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Thurs-Sat) $

BREWERY VIVANT

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, 288-

5038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $

CANTINA LOS AMIGOS

Cantina Los Amigos features tacos, chicken flautas, birria stew, stuffed plantains, other authentic Mexican fare and vegan friendly! // 1 Carlton Ave SE suite A, 988-9791, cantinalosamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $-$$

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 (Sat-Sun), 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 $-$$

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THE WINCHESTER

Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in centuryold 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 $-$$

CHEER’S 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 fresh-pressed 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 world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT

Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

JAKU SUSHI NORTH

Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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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. // 2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

LUCY’S CAFÉ

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, 3010600. 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, 951-6071, 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 $$

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, 7858880. 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. AllAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landingrestaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

PERRIN BREWING CO.

Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $

STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN

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

Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-lacarte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SWAN INN RESTAURANT

Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. // 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT

Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330

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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 (MonFri), 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 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.

dine / estau ants

Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 2414141. 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, 5700322, 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 $-$$

WEI WEI PALACE

Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. 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 $-$$

FRANKIE V’S PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR

Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GOLDEN 28

Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$

3 GATOS BREWERY

German-style beers with Brazilian bar food. Closed Sunday and Monday. // 1760 44th St SW, 307-2215. 3gatosbeer.com. 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 $-$$

BIG BOILER BREWING

Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. // 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com. 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, 9873352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

From the bottom of our hearts Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2022. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

nestled in downtown grand rapids for just over 10 years.

we use organic, locally grown grains. we mill our own our daily, in-house. our bread is crafted using a slow fermentation process, delivering unrivaled health and avor. come see why our bread is better.

MYNT FUSION BISTRO

Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOCO PROVISIONS

Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA

Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch TuesSat. 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, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$

VINTAGE PRIME & SEAFOOD

Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. //

5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. Dinner $$$

ZEYTIN

Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 6822222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Grandville/ Hudsonville Area

BANGKOK TASTE

Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EL BURRITO LOCO

More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

HUDSONVILLE GRILLE

Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. // 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 6629670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, 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 $$-$$$

HONEY CREEK INN

Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO

Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $

ROCKFORD BREWING CO.

Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TIMBERS INN

Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$

dine / estau ants

THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY

Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-512-9314. 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 $-$$

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. // 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. 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. // 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 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, 9303596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. 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, 3018171; 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, 662-5088. 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. 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, 532-8888. 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, 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

From the bottom of our hearts

From the bottom of our hearts

Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2022. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2023. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

Explore the latest book from award-winning journalist and magazine editor R.J. King. “Detroit: Engine of America” is the real life story of how the city grew, step by step, from a French fort on the riverfront in 1701 to become the world’s largest

Dr. Kristi Hawley’s number one goal when opening the Derm Institute of West Michigan was to build a practice around putting patients first. Together with Dr. Nathan Nartker and their experienced medical staff, they ensure your unique skin concerns are diagnosed and resolved not just on the surface, but where it matters most—at their source.

Access to qualified skin care is a rare find. There’s no need to travel to the best, because it’s right here in West Michigan. Now also serving patients at our second location in Petoskey.

Call 616.326.0114 or visit DERMINSTITUTEOFWMI.COM to schedule your appointment today!

We are committed to putting the patient first and are proud to offer appointments in less than three weeks.

From the bottom of our hearts Teresa & I would like to thank all of our Grand Rapids Magazine readers for voting us one of the Top Butchers in 2022. It is so humbling to us & our amazing crew that you think so much of us and our business to vote for us again. Truly our customers make us #1! Thank you God for blessing our business and for all the support from the whole community. May God bless you All!

5.10.24 | NEW VINTAGE PLACE

PURCHASE TICKETS TODAY!

Grand Rapids Magazine presents the inaugural Best of Grand Rapids Party on May 10, 2024. This can’t-miss event will kick off the summer in style with three floors of food, drinks, live music, and entertainment. Experience the best that Grand Rapids has to offer in one unforgettable celebration!

FEATURED RESTAURANTS

Apple Spice Catering

Bistro Bella Vita

Brass Ring Brewing Company

Buddy’s Pizza

Condado Tacos

Donkey Taqueria

Field & Fire

Madcap Coffee

Noco Provisions

Nonla Burger

Van Eerden Food Service

Plus many more..

Music on every floor featuring the Brena Band.

Major Sponsors Gold Sponsors

Main Stage Sponsor

Beverage Sponsors

Floral Sponsor

Happy Hundredth!

the place: "Did you know Jay Van Andel was born in the apartment upstairs? And that President Ford met his father here for the first and only time?" The anecdotes are a testament to the enduring presence and impact the Cherie Inn has had on the city. What sets it apart as an eatery is a tasty array of Eggs Benedicts on the menu, served with signature, made-from-scratch, real Hollandaise sauce.

"It's what we're known for. At Christmas time 'Happy Hollandaise' is how we greet people," Kulczyk said.

While the Hollandaise is fantastic, the biggest draw to the Cherie Inn is the connection it provides to a bygone era, and the sense of belonging that resonates with the patrons who keep coming back.

"It's the vibe," Kulczyk says (and the members of the East Hills Neighborhood Council who gather at the restaurant agree).

Flavor and community combine at Cherry Street darling

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY KRIS KINSEY

In the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, lies a culinary treasure that has been delighting taste buds and fostering community connections for a century. The Cherie Inn, under the stewardship of owner Michael Kulczyk for 27 years, is not just a restaurant but a cherished gathering place where people from a variety of age groups and backgrounds come together over exceptional food and heartfelt hospitality.

The Cherie Inn's roots run deep with Kulczyk. He was a longstanding patron himself before taking the reins. And he's the perfect driver of the historic establishment. When he's not busy answering the phone, creating a meal, or cashing someone out, he will gladly take the time to muse about the historic significance of

The Cheri Inn, located at 969 Cherry St. SE, is Grand Rapids' longest running restaurant.

According to owner Michael Kulczyk, its name is the result of a public competition. ("Chérie" means darling in French.)

As the Cherie Inn turns 100 this year, celebrations are in full swing, with themed monthly dinners and special events filling the eatery's calendar. But it's the everyday moments that make the Cherie Inn a beloved institution— the generations of customers who keep coming back with the new additions to the family. From intimate dinners for two to larger gatherings, like rehearsal dinners, Kulczyk enjoys making every guest feel valued and cared for, embodying the spirit of hospitality that defines the Cherie Inn.

Innovation is also at the core of the Cherie Inn's success. From Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Pancakes with Peanut Butter Mousse to vegan and gluten-free options, the Cherie Inn's offerings are vast and ever changing. As Kulczyk likes to say, "You keep coming, and we'll keep cooking."

Here's to many more Happy Hollandaise!

Three generations. One place to call home. 1919

Ernest and Ann Pike and Grace VerBerg

Since 1959, families in the Grand Rapids community have entrusted Beacon Hill at Eastgate to care for their beloved family members as they age. Grace VerBerg, pictured above, was one of our very first residents. Years later, her daughter

Ann and husband Ernie Pike lived at Beacon Hill. Today, their son Karl Pike, former pastor, is a current resident. And Sandy Hancock, CNA, long-time Grand Rapids resident, cared for all of them — with the personal attention and enduring trust that keeps families coming back for generations.

Join a community that cares for your family like their own.

You belong here.

Sandy Hancock, CNA

SPRING ADVENTURE STARTS HERE.

Before the hustle and bustle of summer begins, spring is the perfect time to explore Pure Ludington. While it can be hard to predict when it will arrive or how long it will last, spring is a "secret" season to be enjoyed by all. Hit the trails by foot or by bike to explore nature's rebirth. Wander down a secluded stretch of shoreline or grab a bite to eat and a locally-made brew on a nearby patio. No matter what you're seeking - fun for the whole family, a beach or outdoor adventure, a peaceful get-away, or just a community of friendly faces - you can find it here.

PURE LUDINGTON .COM