Issuu

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 $5.95

PLUS SIDE HUSTLE

DAREDEVIL

HAPPINESS ACHIEVED

ALL ABOARD

MODEL TRAINS TRACKING WITH HOBBYISTS

“The atmosphere is reminiscent of Stowe or Aspen… It’s more town than resort.” Great Lakes Skier

Ski, See, Sip, Savor & Save You’ll enjoy wonderful skiing, spectacular views, and unmatched service…without crowds. All in the place Good Morning America named the “Most Beautiful Place in America.” There are choices of places and prices for casual or fine dining with crackling fires and live entertainment. So are there choices of places and prices for lodging — a lodge, historic inn, romantic all suite getaway, family friendly hotel or one-to four-bedroom vacation home. With the best prices you’ll find and a Grand Rapids Magazine Special! CALL 231.334.5100

thehomesteadresort.com sleepingbeardunes.com Glen Arbor • Michigan

Plan your holiday vacation today at frankenmuth.org or 800-FUN-TOWN

Windows & Doors of Western Michigan

Beautifully prepared for winter. Pella windows bring lasting quality and comfort to your home, so you can enjoy the beauty of Western Michigan winter.

O F F E R E N D S N OV E M B E R 3 0 , 2 02 6

% OFF

Qualifying Installations¹

NO INTEREST for 48 Months²

Schedule your free consultation today. Call 1-866-258-3664 Visit PellaWestMichigan.com/GrandRapids

Homeowners rate Pella windows and doors #1 for highest quality.*

*Study of homeowner perceptions of leading national brands. Study commissioned by Pella, 2023. ¹Minimum purchase of $5,000 required. Valid only for replacement customers who purchase Pella® products and have them installed through their local Pella® Window and Door Showroom. The 50% off applies only to the cost of installation. The savings described in this offer are based on each participating distributor's standard retail pricing methodology reduced to reflect the promotional offer. There are often adjustments in consumer cost and other factors that may not apply to this offer. Only valid on select Pella® products and installation methods. Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Repairs to existing products, including parts such as sash and panel replacements, excluded. Prior sales excluded. Other restrictions may apply. See store for details. Offer expires on 11/30/2026. ²The Pella Windows & Doors credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms for 4 years (48 months) apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 29.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 06/01/2024 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires on 11/30/2026.

wish you were here.

It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. Come see why Country Living named Traverse City one of the “Best Towns for Lakeside Getaways”.

contents NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2026 VOLUME 63, ISSUE 6

FEATURES

2026 RESTAUR ANT OF THE YEAR GIN N ING U P GR EAT FO O D & AMBIA N C E BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

ALL ABOARD! MO DEL T R A I N S AR E T R AC K I NG W IT H FA N S , H O BBY I STS BY ANN BYLE

P H OTO G R A P H BY B R E E R O S E

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

contents • november/december

every issue 10 editor's letter 82 dining guide 96 gr gems

Meet the Mural Artist.

people + places 14 city

Outdoor Xmas shops, GVA's 100 x $100 art sale, ENLIGHTEN returns.

16 voice

Pastor Presence: Faith, Community & Change in Roosevelt Park.

18 profile

Author! Author! Author! Three West Michigan writers who get lit.

20 guide

The Side Hustle: Hosting a big meal? Our guide to buying sides.

22 spotlight 24

Daredevil Chloe Kimes builds music career with no safety net.

issues

Root Cause: Exploring a healthcare model built on prevention.

look + feel

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

experience

style

expert

wellness

Success Redefined: After cancer, his goal is more birthdays. These Jeans Shop—a curated approach to thrifting. The Great Cover Up: The creative mind behind book art & design. Some Like It Hot (or Cold) at this luxurious Latvian spa in Ada.

34 home

The family room makes a comeback, this time in color.

food + drink 68 table

73 8

The Beet Goes On: An Eastown staple opens 'Kitchen' in Ada.

create

cheers

must try

on-the-go

Margie's Flawless Fruit Dip: Three ingredients, one crowd-pleaser. Happiness Achieved: Nieghborhood Lounge with a bubbly spirit. AndyS: Huge new restaurant and sports bar opens on Ludington Ave. Classic Comfort: Homestyle meals, whole pies, and a drive-through.

CHLOE KIMES PERFORMS AT STIX LISA ENOS ESPRESSO COCKTAIL TERI GENOVESE RIGATONI WITH VODKA SAUCE KRISTEN NORMAN

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

For the Exceptional and the Essential

Editorial Editor-in-Chief: Lisa Enos Special Projects Editors: Olivia Sedlacek, Morgan Brown Contributors: Rob Alway, Ann Byle, Angela Chandler, Christopher Cosmos, Kelsey Dunneback, Carol Lautenbach, Jason Roth, Pasha Shipp Design & Production Creative Director: Lindsay Richards Art Directors: Kevin Martin Associate Art Director: Steven Prokuda Production Manager: Crystal Nelson Graphic Designer: Joe Salafia Production Assistant: Alessandra Taranta Account Manager: Elizabeth Kowalik Contributors: Rob Alway, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Teri Genovese, Amanda Kamppinen, Kristen Norman, Bree Rose, David Sparks Sales General Inquiries: (616) 459-4545; advertising@hour-media.com Media Advisors: Nick Irwin, Maddy Gill, Stephanie Scott Media Associate: Ariana Biondo Digital Director of Digital Strategy: Travis Fletcher Digital Development Manager: Matthew Cappo Senior Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim Digital Development Specialist: Brian Paul

Butterﬂy by Copeland A Statement of Outstanding American Craftsmanship

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

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

Design Quest

4181 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512

design.quest 616-940-9911

GR M AG .CO M

editor's letter / connect

This Issue Gins Up Something Special It is officially November. The year is rapidly wrapping up, and what an incredible year it has been for West Michigan. We brought back the rapids, opened a breathtaking new amphitheater, and announced a new soccer coach. We will, of course, be tracking all of those major developments as we move forward into 2027, but right now, we have a particularly interesting, packed issue to close out the season. And we are starting with the fun stuff. You already know we have restaurants covered—it is what we do best (or at least, what we think we do best!). This month brings our biggest reveal of the year: our official Restaurant of the Year, Gin Gin’s. We pair that massive feature layout with a look at Eastown favorite Terra as they launch their new to-go concept in Ada, and a visit to the New York-style Pursuit of Happiness champagne bar. That sense of local celebration continues as we lean into pure holiday nostalgia. Turn to page 44 for an expansive, 8-page feature on local model train clubs, complete with spectacular custom setups that will make you feel like a kid again. But as this book came together, it also took an unexpected, deeply important turn into some heavy health care coverage. We track a groundbreaking, second-chance experimental cancer treatment saving lives at BAMF Health and explore how a Grand Rapids health company is helping employers tackle rising medical costs through transparent primary care. We wrap up the issue with profiles of the people making serious waves across our neighborhoods. We “get lit” with three standout West Michigan authors hitting it out of the park, track the powerful 20-year community legacy of the Rev. Dr. Reginald Smith in Roosevelt Park, and spotlight native singer-songwriter Chloe Kimes. From cold plunges in Ada to thrift fashion, there is a lot to uncover. As we look ahead, I want to hear more from our readers. Who do you think we should cover next? Should we dive deeper into local sports, music, or something else entirely? Drop me a line with your thoughts and enjoy the issue. Lisa Enos Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Next issue The Quest for the Dress Fratelli's Moves East Nourishing Narratives

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Rob Alway Grand Rapids Magazine: Rob Alway has written for us for about two years, with stories appearing in our lakeshore publication, Urban Street, and on the Grand Rapids Magazine website. In this issue, he reports on a new entertainment complex and restaurant in downtown Ludington. Rob, what’s been your favorite assignment so far? Rob Alway: One of my favorite assignments was covering the USS Silversides as the World War II submarine left Muskegon for preservation work in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. I have lived along the Lake Michigan shoreline my entire life, so I especially enjoy writing stories that celebrate the region, particularly its maritime industry, history and people.

ROB ALWAY COURTESY PHOTO

people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

City

Here We Glow Again page 14

» PLUS: PASTOR PRESENCE THE SIDE HUSTLE DAREDEVIL

P H OTO G R A P H CO U R T E SY O F F R E D E R I K M E I J E R GA R D E N S & S C U L P T U R E PA R K GR M AG .CO M

people + places / city

Third Time Even More Charming ENLIGHTEN returns to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park for its third season Nov. 23–Jan. 10, transforming the gardens on select evenings into an illuminated winter wonderland. What’s new? Food and beverage options throughout the park— including a new hot chocolate bar— make it easier to refuel along the way, while the midway point features a warming tent, firepits and a reimagined Scarlatti by Mark di Suvero. A new grand finale awaits inside the Tropical Conservatory, while the James & Shirley Balk Café stays open until 9 p.m. on ENLIGHTEN nights.

CITY

Holiday shoppers stroll the Christkindl Markt at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, one of two outdoor markets creating a festive downtown corridor this season.

Holiday Shops Two Markets, One Merry Holiday Corridor

Grand Rapids holiday shoppers will have two outdoor Christmas markets to explore this season, creating a new holiday corridor downtown. The inaugural Holiday Market at Studio Park, a project of The Arts Marketplace with support from Studio Park, will transform Studio Park Plaza into a winter village from Nov. 18 through Dec. 23. The market will feature glowing chalets, handcrafted gifts, food and seasonal experiences. Nearby, the Christkindl Markt at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market returns for its fourth year, running Nov. 18 through Dec. 24. The European-inspired market will feature more than 60 vendor stalls offering handcrafted goods, food, beverages and holiday gifts. The separately operated markets will have distinct vendors and experiences. Together, organizers anticipate the downtown holiday corridor could draw more than 300,000 visitors during November and December.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Grand Valley Artists 100 for $100 Sale Holiday shoppers can find one-of-a-kind gifts featuring original artwork by local artists at this biannual two-day sale on Friday, Nov. 6, 4-9 p.m.and Saturday, Nov. 7, noon-6 p.m. at Grand Valley Artists Studio & Gallery, 2661 29th St. SE, Suite B (behind Schuler Books) in Grand Rapids. Works include paintings, photography, drawings and three-dimensional pieces. All proceeds benefit Grand Valley Artists Inc. grandvalleyartists.org.

MARKET GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN MARKET, ENLIGHTEN FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK ART SHOW GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS

people + places / voice

Dr. Reggie Smith reflects on his years at Roosevelt Park Community CRC in his memoir, "Roosevelt Park Rising," a story of faith, community, conflict and renewal.

VOICE

Pastor Presence

New book explores 20 years of faith, community and change. BY ANN BYLE

Dr. Reggie Smith knew he would offend people with his new book because not too many Christian Reformed Church (CRC) pastors write about their congregations. Yet Smith did in “Roosevelt Park Rising: A memoir of the renewal of a pastor, a church, and a neighborhood,” published by Reformed Journal Books based in Holland, Mich. “But I have a unique perch being a Black pastor in a white church in a Latino neighborhood,” said Smith, who lives in Grand Rapids. “I was trying to bring the community and church together.” “Roosevelt Park Rising” chronicles Smith’s 20 years as pastor of a new church created with the 1994 merger of Bethel CRC and Grandville Avenue CRC, churches with dwindling 16

memberships as the white Dutch congregants moved to the suburbs. The new Roosevelt Park Community CRC was created to reach into the neighborhood and make a spiritual impact. “This was right in line with what I was doing, what I wanted to do,” said Smith. “I was crossing boundaries, but I didn’t feel restricted by them. Roosevelt Park itself was a boundary to be explored and changed.” He got his first inkling things might not go as planned when the church custodian wouldn’t let him in, not recognizing the new pastor. While the congregation welcomed him and his family, they didn’t welcome change. A service that drew neighborhood young people, Keep It Real, was canceled by leadership because they felt Smith was spending too much time on it

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

and not traditional members. A Spanish language service was voted down because members didn’t like a bi-lingual service despite Bethel and Grandville Avenue CRCs both having had Dutch language services. Yet Smith also experienced the joys of serving God’s people in the church, working with the Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, and getting to know neighborhood residents. His stories are both endearing and challenging. “I needed a chance to tell my own truth about what it’s like to be a pastor in this context, with this history and this tension between church and community,” said Smith. “And I want to generate conversation about what it takes to build a church that doesn’t only happen to be in a community but is actually part of the community.” Roosevelt Park Community CRC held its last service on July 26, 2015. Yet it wasn’t until eight years later that Smith felt the story was truly over. A church lay leader, who was dying, talked openly about how poorly the church had treated him. “I’m sorry,” the man said. “For the first time in eight years, I felt free. For the first time in eight years, I felt fully alive. Another resurrection had happened in Roosevelt Park,” Smith said in the final words of “Roosevelt Park Rising.” His final words about the book are, “This is a book of hope.” Smith now attends Madison Church and works for Thrive, the church renewal and revitalization arm of the CRC. The book is available at Baker Book House and online retailers. PORTRAIT AND PORTRAIT COURTESY OF REFORMED JOURNAL BOOKS

Buy your first home, Buy your first home, Buy your home, build yourfirst dream home, build your dream home, buildfeel your home, and atdream home sooner. and feel at home sooner. and feel at home sooner. Homeownership is a journey with the sweetest destination of all. As Michigan’s #1 purchase and construction lenders,* LMCU’s team Homeownership is a journey with the sweetest destination of all. of local mortgage experts would love to help you take the first step As Michigan’s #1 purchase and construction lenders,* LMCU’s team Homeownership is a journey with the sweetest destination of all. — while saving you plenty of time and money along the way. of local mortgage experts would love to helplenders,* you takeLMCU’s the firstteam step As Michigan’s #1 purchase and construction — saving youexperts plenty would of timelove andto money along thethe way. of while local mortgage help you take first step — while saving you plenty Get pre-qualified today:of time and money along the way.

(844) 754-6280 today: Get pre-qualified or visit LMCU.org/Mortgage (844) 754-6280 Get pre-qualified today: or visit LMCU.org/Mortgage (844) 754-6280 or visit LMCU.org/Mortgage

*InGenius, June 2026. LMCU NMLS #442967 *InGenius, June 2026. LMCU NMLS #442967 *InGenius, June 2026. LMCU NMLS #442967 MTG_2026_14561 GR Mag Ad_NovDec v2.indd 1

10/1/26 4:22 PM

MTG_2026_14561 GR Mag Ad_NovDec v2.indd 1

10/1/26 4:22 PM

MTG_2026_14561 GR Mag Ad_NovDec v2.indd 1

10/1/26 4:22 PM

PROFILE

Author! Author! Author! Three Prolific West Michigan Writers Making Their Mark STORY BY LISA ENOS

Emma Palova

Erin A. Craig

From Fan Fiction to the Phantom When Erin A. Craig was in eighth grade, she heard the music of The Phantom of the Opera and was hooked. She checked cassette tapes out of the library, tracked down the complete libretto and original production photos, and absorbed everything she could about the musical. She even wrote Phantom fan fiction as a teenager. She never imagined that, years later, she would be chosen to write an official novel based on it. Craig’s Phantom of the Opera novel, Exploring Life With Christine, retells the story from Christine’s perspective, taking readers inside the head of the young woman at the center of the famous love triangle. It’s Craig’s sixth published book and the latest chapter in a writing career that began, somewhat improbably, after a long career in theater. Craig grew up in West Michigan and attended Spring Lake High School 18

before studying theatrical design and stage management at the University of Michigan. She spent about 15 years working professionally in theater, including productions in Boston, Oklahoma, Virginia and Memphis, and worked on touring productions and at Opera Memphis. Then she got bored. After becoming a stay-at-home mom, Craig had a book she had been writing for fun. “What if we tried to publish this just for fun?” she remembers thinking. That book became House of Salt and Sorrows, a gothic retelling of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses.” It was published in 2019 and launched a career that now includes young-adult and adult fiction, with Craig’s books known for blending fantasy, romance, spooky elements and a strong sense of place. Then came the call that changed everything. In 2024, Craig learned that Penguin Random House and the entertainment

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Michael Loyd Gray

company behind Phantom were considering authors for a new series of novels. Her editor told her they had a writer who loved gothic romance, had a background in stage management—and Phantom was the show that had inspired her career. Just before Christmas, Craig learned she had been chosen. “I had happy tears,” she says. “Then sitting down the first day going, ‘How are we going to do that?’” One answer was research. Craig drew on her theater experience to imagine what happens backstage, while also digging into the world surrounding the original story. She even got to meet Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musical’s composer, and talk through her ideas with him. At one meeting, she told him the line she was considering for the end of the novel. His face lit up. “I love that,” he told her. “Keep it just like that.” For Craig, the project is both a professional milestone and a wonderfully strange full-circle moment: the girl who once wrote Phantom fan fiction for fun is now part of the story’s official legacy. PORTRAITS COURTESY OF THE AUTHORS, OUR STRANGE DUET DELACORTE PRESS

people + places / p ofile

And she hopes longtime Phantom devotees will enjoy the book while newcomers can pick it up without knowing the musical at all. “I want to have my arms open to both,” she says. Emma Palova Keeps Finding Stories in Michigan’s Past Emma Palova has learned that some stories take their time. In the mid-1990s, not long after moving to Lowell, Palova was working as a journalist and exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline when she came across a historic marker in Saugatuck describing Singapore, a 19th-century lumbering town that had disappeared beneath the sand. The story stuck with her. It would be decades before she turned it into a novel. “I didn’t know when,” Palova says. Eventually, the idea became The Lost Town, a historical-fiction novel set in Singapore during the 1830s. Palova followed it with The Quest for the Lost Town, continuing the story of fictional characters against the backdrop of real people and places. The books combine history, mystery and adventure, and Palova has made a point of visiting the locations she writes about. She has ridden the Star of Saugatuck paddleboat to the mouth of the Kalamazoo River and visited historical sites and museums while researching. “If I’m able to put anything together, I’ve got to be there physically,” she says. “It helps a lot.” That approach makes sense for a writer whose career began in journalism. Born in what is now the Czech Republic, Palova came to the United States with her family and eventually settled in Michigan. She studied journalism at Grand Rapids Community College and worked for newspapers including the Allegan County News, covering the lakeshore. She has also written for other West Michigan publications and had stories syndicated by the Associated Press. Her fiction draws from those experiences. Her Shifting Sands collections include short stories inspired by journalism, retail work and her immigration story. She once worked second shift at the Cascade Meijer and wrote in the mornings about the strange

and sometimes funny things she had encountered the night before. Her own family history eventually became Greenwich Meridian Memoir, which traces two generations of her family’s journey from Czechoslovakia to the United States. Palova was naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 1999 at the Gerald R. Ford Museum, an experience that helped inspire the book. But Michigan’s history keeps pulling her back. Palova is fascinated by the idea that places can disappear while their stories remain. Singapore was swallowed by shifting sand after the area’s white pine was heavily logged, but remnants of the town survive in Saugatuck, including the former Wildcat Bank building. She wants her books to do something simple: entertain readers while making them curious about the places around them. “Some people think history can be boring,” she says. “But it’s all how you present it.” For Palova, presenting it means turning old towns, forgotten people and bits of Michigan history into stories that can be picked up and read today. “And that towns like Singapore are never really lost,” she says. The Prolific Life of Michael Loyd Gray Michael Loyd Gray has written a lot of books. He plans to write a lot more. The Kalamazoo author’s latest novel, The Writer in Residence, came out this year, along with The Space Between Now and Then, a collection of his short stories. Next year brings another novel, Emperor of the Mundane. All told, Gray has published more than a dozen books and nearly 70 short stories, many of them in literary journals around the country and, increasingly, overseas. For Gray, writing has never been much of a hobby. “My desire to write fiction was the same as

SHIFTING SANDS COURTESY OF EMMA PALOVA, THE WRITER IN RESIDENCE BETWEEN THE LINES PUBLISHING

my need to have oxygen,” he says. His route to becoming a full-time writer was anything but direct. Gray earned a journalism degree from the University of Illinois and spent about 10 years working for newspapers in Arizona and Illinois. He wrote about business and celebrities in Arizona and, later, just about everything at the Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette. Then, around age 40, he sold his house, moved to Kalamazoo and entered Western Michigan University’s MFA program in creative writing. He finished in 1996 and eventually built a career writing and teaching, including years at Aiken Technical College in South Carolina. He has taught in several places, but Michigan kept pulling him back. These days, Gray often writes at Water Street Coffee in Kalamazoo, where he settles into a back room and works for a couple of hours each morning. He says he is more productive there than at home, where there are too many distractions. His brain doesn’t seem to need much help generating material. A church he sees for sale along a road to Dowagiac becomes a story idea. Something his grandmother said years ago eventually becomes a short story. A recent idea about a world dominated by roadkill becomes another. “I see things and hear things that maybe a lot of other people would not take note of,” he says, “and they end up reverberating in me.” Gray writes what he calls literary realism, although his work increasingly incorporates absurdism. His stories and novels tend to focus on ordinary people confronting work, marriage, family, aging and the peculiarities of American life. Kurt Vonnegut, Ernest Hemingway and Raymond Carver are among his influences. He doesn’t outline extensively, either. He likes discovering a story as he writes it. “Take the plane up into the atmosphere,” he says, “and then learn to fly it when I’m up there.” For someone who has been writing professionally for nearly three decades, Gray has developed a remarkably straightforward philosophy: Sit down, write, and keep going. “I don’t get writer’s block,” he says. “I never have.” Apparently, he has no intention of starting now. GR M AG .CO M

people + places / guide GUIDE

The Side Hustle Your guide to outsourcing the holiday feast! BY LISA ENOS

It’s been a while since I cooked a big family dinner. And when I used to do that regularly, luckily, I lived in a house with two kitchens. Weird, I know. But it certainly came in handy. Not only did I have two kitchens, but my main kitchen had two ovens—one convection and one regular—so I could simultaneously roast a turkey and bake my ratatouille without having to choose between the two. (Yes, I was that person.) Fast-forward a few years. The kids have moved out and I’ve moved on. Gone are the days when preparing a family feast meant being trapped in the house for three days beforehand, peeling, chopping, simmering and generally turning my kitchen into a food-production facility while simultaneously preventing World War III over whether the big TV would be used for Minecraft or Transformers III. Also, I live in Grand Rapids now. We have specialty grocers and markets with cases chock-full of fresh, made-by-hand delicacies that may differ from one day to the next but are always delicious. So the one thing you really want to concentrate on—the meat—can take center stage. The potatoes? Someone else can handle those.

The salad? I know a place. Dessert? Absolutely not my problem. Here are five places to visit when you want to impress your guests but aren’t interested in doing the “side” hustle.

Kingma’s 2225 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids Kingma’s is one of the most thoughtfully curated stores in the city. The owners take great care to source from local producers whenever possible, and you can feel that sense of community throughout the store. It’s the kind of place where shopping for dinner doesn’t feel like a chore so much as a little culinary treasure hunt. And it’s an absolute go-to for any of those treasures you might want to buy in bulk. Want good food? Interesting food? Food that makes your guests think you worked much harder than you actually did? Kingma's. Horrocks 4455 Breton Rd. SE, Kentwood This place has everything you never knew you needed and more. Start with some takeaway 20

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

soup for a first course. Easily some of the best in GR. Or head to the prepared-food counter in back and grab bacon-wrapped asparagus. Don’t forget the Arnie’s bread or Bill Knapp’s cheesecake. And if out-of-town guests are staying with you, there are prepared quiches that can make breakfast look suspiciously ambitious. When I say this place has everything, I mean E-v-e-r-eeee-thang. Bring helpers.

Martha’s Vineyard 200 Union Ave. NE, Grand Rapids Yes, it’s a go-to for wine. It’s in the name, and no doubt many of you will be going there for your holiday wine stash. That’s a given. But walk in, pass the produce and hang a left. Then head straight back and to the left. Back and to the left. There you’ll find some of the most scrumptious desserts in the city—and some mac and cheese worth arm-wrestling over. No more slaving over soufflés that fail to rise or meringues that melt. Buy something scrumptious, put it on a pretty plate and accept the compliments. Forest Hills Foods 4668 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids I’ve lived all over this city, and of all the grocery stores I’ve left behind, this is the one I miss shopping at the most. The prepared-food counter is my definite go-to when I’m looking for the salad-y stuff. You know what I mean: the things that make a meal feel complete without requiring you to spend the better part of an afternoon chopping vegetables and making three different types of something because someone in the family “doesn’t like” the first two. Forest Hills Foods understands that a good side dish should complement the main event, not become a second career. Russo’s 350 84th St. SW, Suite 510, Byron Center I once had a sister-in-law who turned every holiday into an excuse to cook a big Italian meal. Great, but I’m kind of a corn-fed Midwesterner. That said, sometimes I miss her cannoli. And her awesome tricolor salad. And the whole glorious Italianfood situation. Which is why I’m happy there’s Russo’s. It’s the place to go when you want that authentic Italian deli experience without having to spend the day making it happen yourself. Think sausages, sauces, cheeses, pasta salads and all the other delicious accoutrements that can turn a holiday table into something that looks like you really went all out. And that, really, is the beauty of the side hustle. You get to go all out. Without having to make everything yourself. WRAPS KINGMA'S ASPARAGUS HORROCKS, MAC AND CHEESE, PASTA SALAD AND CHARCUTERIE ADOBISTOCK

SAVOR THE WORLD.

Taste your way through Tuscany, sip wine along Portugal’s Douro River, and discover local flavors in destinations across the globe. Witte Travel & Tours specializes in crafting food and wine journeys that immerse you in the heart of every destination.

LEARN MORE

WWW.WITTETRAVEL.COM 3250 28TH ST SE, GRAND RAPIDS 616.942.5112 | VACATION@WITTETRAVEL.COM

For discovery that powers the future, Look to Michigan. From starting some of the nation’s very first research facilities to pioneering advances in computing and autonomous vehicles, the University of Michigan has always been at the forefront of what’s next. In 2026 alone, our faculty generated 726 new inventions and launched 40 startups — transforming bold research into companies that are defining the future. For what’s needed. For what’s next. For all of us. / Look to Michigan

umich.edu/look

people + places / spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

Dare Devil

Chloe Kimes builds career in music with no safety net. STORY & PHOTOS BY LISA ENOS

For Chloe Kimes, the path to becoming a full-time musician began in the woods of Mason County. Born in Ludington and raised in nearby Riverton, Kimes picked up the guitar at age 9 or 10, when her dad taught her a few chords. She soon began teaching herself songs from chord sheets, developing the rhythm-guitar foundation that would eventually carry her onto stages far beyond Michigan. By 13, she was playing coffee shops and busking on the sidewalks of downtown Ludington. At Redolencia, a beloved local coffee shop, she played “I feel like I’m outside with a speaker and tip jar. Around the just shooting same time, a trip to a myself out Nashville Songwriters of a cannon Association International every day and convention and hoping for a seeing Michigan landing, for an musicians Lindsay Lou and Billy Strings applause.” perform at the Lowell — Chloe Kimes Bluegrass Festival opened her eyes to the possibilities of making a living in music. “It really opened my eyes to different paths of success,” Kimes says. “Beyond the very boilerplate: ‘get lucky, get a record deal, get famous.’” After graduating from Mason County Central in Scottville in 2016, Kimes moved to Tennessee to attend Middle Tennessee State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Recording Industry/Songwriting in 2019. Living in Nashville gave her a community and an education in the business, but perhaps more importantly, it taught her that there is no single blueprint for a music career. For Kimes, success means sustainability: 22

Chloe Kimes performs on stage at Stix in Ludington during her Working Woman tour August 14, 2026.

building a life around performing, touring and songwriting without necessarily chasing fame or fortune. Her songwriting reflects that independence. Songs often begin with a line or melody that arrives while she’s walking, doing dishes or driving. She keeps a running list of fragments in her phone and sometimes writes entire melodies without an instrument. She wrote all of “He Still Listens to the Radio” during a solo drive from San Diego to Nashville. That instinct for the unexpected is central to Daredevil, her new album which dropped in October. Made entirely independently, the record grew from a deliberate challenge: write the things she—or someone around her— might be afraid to say. The result is less an album about fear than an exploration of what happens when an

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

artist moves toward it. “Songwriting offers me this protective curtain that shields my own gnarly truths and fibs from ever having to actually reveal themselves,” she says. “That lets me be highly vulnerable and exposed.” The title for her sophomore album Daredevil arrived in a flash of clarity on the morning of the album’s final studio session, capturing the emotional risk of her songwriting and the grit of sustaining an independent touring career. “Having been an indie artist for the last decade, working and now somehow making a living on my own as a touring musician who does everything self-funded and self-managed literally feels like I’m just shooting myself out of a cannon every day and hoping for a landing, for an applause,” Kimes says. CHLOE KIMESi PERFORMS AT STIX LISA ENOS

Get Your FREE Estimate Today!

Standby Power that stands up to anything. Stay warm and comfortable with a Kohler Generator.

Scan QR code for more information.

517-512-6265 2631 EATON RAPIDS RD, LANSING, MI 48911

people + places / issues

ISSUES

The Root Cause

Exploring a Healthcare Model Centered on Prevention BY LISA ENOS

For many Americans, November brings an annual ritual: choosing health insurance for the year ahead. Open enrollment arrives, premiums can rise, deductibles can feel out of reach and the list of doctors covered by a plan may seem increasingly narrow. While Washington continues to debate the future of the Affordable Care Act and healthcare spending, some of the most interesting changes in how Americans access and pay for care are happening closer to home, in doctors’ offices, corporate boardrooms and technology companies— rethinking how care is delivered. In Grand Rapids, one example of that shift is taking shape at Root Functional Medicine, a healthcare company founded in 2022 by family physician Dr. Erica Armstrong, who serves as its founder and CEO. The company is expanding its downtown presence while developing RootOS, its proprietary technology platform designed to support a functional-medicine approach to healthcare. The idea reflects a broader shift in healthcare: Some physicians and employers are looking for ways to make care more transparent, accessible and proactive rather than waiting for changes to the traditional insurance system. For patients, that can mean knowing what a service costs before receiving it. For employers, it can mean looking for ways to address health problems earlier and potentially reduce the cost of care over time. Rethinking the Middleman The traditional healthcare system can be difficult to navigate because the person receiving care isn’t always the person paying for it. A patient might schedule a blood test without knowing what it 24

will ultimately cost, while insurers and providers negotiate rates behind the scenes. That disconnect can make it difficult to comparison-shop for healthcare in the same way consumers do for other services. Direct-care models attempt to change that equation by putting the relationship — and often the price — more directly between the patient and provider. The approach is particularly relevant to self-funded employers, which pay their employees’ healthcare claims directly rather than purchasing a traditional insurance plan that shifts that financial risk to an insurer. These employers may still use an insurance company or third-party administrator to process claims and provide access to a provider network, but when medical costs rise, the financial impact RootOS ultimately lands on laboratory testing Dr. Erica Armstrong, founder and CEO of Root the employer. with care from physicians and Functional Medicine — That gives companies registered dietitians, using building a new model of an incentive to explore its RootOS software platform proactive, technologyapproaches that could to support its approach. Root enabled healthcare. improve care while describes its model as “root managing costs. cause health benefits” and says it Root’s recent expansion works with self-funded employers offers a local example. The across the country. company recently closed a Series A The company’s approach is rooted in funding round led by HealthX Ventures, functional medicine, which seeks to look a Wisconsin-based digital-health venture beyond individual symptoms and consider capital firm. Root is also expanding its factors such as nutrition, metabolic health, downtown Grand Rapids headquarters to lifestyle and other aspects of a patient’s 3,920 square feet at 120 Ionia Avenue SW, overall health. where it plans to house a team of around Root also emphasizes upfront pricing. 16 employees. The company says its “Root Cause Panel,” The company combines advanced a diagnostic package, can cost about $2,100

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

What Is Functional Medicine? Functional medicine is an approach to healthcare that seeks to identify and address underlying factors contributing to chronic illness rather than focusing solely on symptoms. Root-cause focus: Looks for underlying contributors to disease. Patient-centered care: Considers an individual’s genetics, environment and lifestyle. Whole-body systems: Views the body’s systems as interconnected. Proactive prevention: Emphasizes early intervention, nutrition and other strategies aimed at supporting longterm health.

“My focus is on creating the future of healthcare: one where care is proactive, personalized, and powered by both human connection and technology.” — Dr. Erica Armstrong, founder of Root Functional Medicine

through conventional channels but is available for $225 through Root’s model. Root attributes the difference to direct purchasing, negotiated laboratory costs and reduced administrative overhead. For patients accustomed to medical bills that can be difficult to decipher, the appeal is straightforward: knowing what a service costs before agreeing to it. For employers, the potential impact is broader. Root says its model is designed to help employers reduce healthcare costs, improve employee health and provide a benefit employees will use. Those claims are part of a growing interest among selffunded employers in approaches that seek to address health problems earlier rather than simply paying for care after they become more serious. OFFICE AND PORTRAIT COURTESY OF ROOT FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

A More Proactive Approach The larger idea behind models like Root’s isn’t simply that healthcare should cost less. It’s that the incentives surrounding care could change. Much of the U.S. healthcare system operates through a complex web of insurers, providers, employers, patients and third-party administrators. Root is betting that technology and a more proactive approach can simplify part of that equation while giving patients and employers more information about the care they receive. That philosophy is central to Armstrong’s vision for Root. “As a physician, author, and entrepreneur, my focus is on creating the future of healthcare: one where care is proactive, personalized, and powered by both

human connection and technology,” said Armstrong. “Between this recent capital investment and our expanded offices and team, I believe we can solve what conventional healthcare leaves unsolved: chronic disease, fragmented care, and the absence of true prevention.” It’s an ambitious proposition in a healthcare system as complicated as America’s. No single clinic, employer or technology platform can solve every problem. Insurance remains central to the way millions of Americans receive care, and the economics of medicine are shaped by everything from pharmaceutical pricing to hospital consolidation. But change doesn’t necessarily have to begin with a sweeping federal overhaul. It can start with a conversation about whether it's better for patients to see a price before a test is ordered. And whether a system built around prevention might ultimately be better for patients and providers alike. The question is increasingly personal: What if the besthealth care is the kind that helps us need less of it? GR M AG .CO M

THE

y a d i Hol MARKET

AT S T U D I O PA R K PRESENTED BY ARTS MARKETPLACE

11.18 TO 12.23 STAY UP TO DATE & FOLLOW STUDIOPARKGR

look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

WELLNESS

Latvian Luxury page 32

» PLUS: SUCCESS= MORE BIRTHDAYS FASHION FOR <$15 THE GREAT COVER UP

Intersect Studio and Pinnacle Construction Group provided the inspiration for the interior design at The Wellness Club in Ada— located at 7505 River St. SE, Ste. 104.

P H OTO G R A P H Y BY DAV I D S PA R K S GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / expe ience

Bill Romanowski experiences BAMF Health’s patient-centered approach to prostate cancer care, from advanced imaging and theranostic treatment to personalized support from the clinical team.

EXPERIENCE

Measuring Success in More Birthdays Turning a Cancer Diagnosis Into Purpose

BY CAROL LAUTENBACH

man of many words “People need a story to tell about their cancer,” Bill Romanowski said as he began to talk about his prostate cancer diagnosis. “They need a metaphor for it. Some use the word ‘journey,’ others may say it’s a ‘battle.’” But not Bill. He chose a different metaphor for the severe and difficult emotional and physical test cancer was for him: “I call it a ‘crucible.’” No surprise, really, that Bill would be thoughtful in his word choice. He is a retired Calvin University professor of Communications, an author and blogger who understands how language shapes experience. He has written seven books and is working on another, this time a historical fiction novel. Bill is literally a man of many words. When prostate cancer came into the picture in 2011, he vividly described the words used during the call informing him of his test results: “...results of your biopsy.... unfortunately…cancerous… schedule more tests….” Someone whose thoughts had always produced coherent and copious written records struggled, in that moment, to form a continuous thought. His crucible was already showing up as an intense and difficult experience. Bill is a gregarious storyteller, full of positive energy and a ready smile. He kept his diagnosis quiet at first because he didn’t know how others might react. Then friends encouraged him to use his writing talent to chronicle his cancer experience. He decided to write 28

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

both a blog and a newsletter. His motivation? To help others. Deciding to be the first Bill takes caring for others very seriously. Which is exactly what he said about his own doctor during an interview together at BAMF Health. “He really cared for me,” he said, looking over at Dr. Brandon Mancini. BAMF Health opened its doors in 2022, with Dr. Mancini as its first Medical Director. The center is “super sub-specialized” in treating prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Brandon’s education has ranged from psychology to oncology to business administration, and his philosophy is human-centered: “We can’t always control the outcomes,” he said, “but we can control how we make people feel and how we value their lives.” Bill and Brandon’s paths crossed after Bill had undergone many treatments for prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation, medication and chemotherapy. He continued to have positive margins, a sign that the cancer was persisting. His oncologist referred him to BAMF Health, where he met Brandon. At that first appointment, Brandon reviewed Bill’s history and told him he was eligible for an FDA-approved treatment plan. But Brandon had other news: Bill was also a good candidate for a clinical trial so new that he would be the first person ever to try it. After Brandon described the trial in detail, he asked Bill if he had any questions. “Just one,” Bill said. “Where do I sign?” PATENT COURTESY OF BAMF HEALTH

They both laughed as they recalled the moment. Brandon said Bill was ready to go immediately, but clinical trials require a 24-hour waiting period before a patient commits. This gives patients time to think things through and get answers to their questions. As soon as he could, Bill signed on. When asked why he was so eager to participate, Bill said the clear and compassionate way Brandon described the trial gave him confidence. He was also honored to be the first to try the treatment. “I trusted him,” Bill said, “and I have a son, I have nephews, and I want to help others who also receive a devastating diagnosis like mine. It’s all about loving your neighbor.” Bill started the trial in November 2025. The imaging agent used in the trial gives off signals showing where targeted cells are located. When the body is scanned, the signals light up. A former film studies professor, Bill said his detailed and colorful scans “look like a 4K science fiction movie.” That December, he began Pluvicto, a treatment that both creates signals and provides therapeutic treatment—a two-pronged “radiopharmaceutical” approach. His six treatments included infusions followed by scans using a total-body PET/CT scanner with twice the resolution and 40 times the sensitivity of conventional scanners. It is also much faster, taking as little as five minutes instead of 40. The procedure has minimal side effects. Bill’s numbers are looking good, and he is getting his energy back. He knows he may need additional treatments in the future, another part of the crucible that is cancer. He is grateful to be in remission. The trial is part of BAMF Health’s broader use of theranostics. Bill’s clinical trial aimed to determine whether its imaging agent could detect prostate cancer as well as or better than currently available imaging agents. “Someone has to be brave and volunteer,” he said. Others had participated in trials that helped develop the treatments he had already received. Now it was his turn to help others. Beyond the technology, Brandon emphasizes the human side of their approach: SCANNER, DOCTOR WITH FAMILY & BUILDING COURTESY OF BAMF HEALTH

“So much control is taken away when you have cancer; we are trying to give patients as much agency as possible.” Brandon knew early that he wanted to go into oncology. He also wanted to balance his scientific understanding with knowledge of how people think and interact. His undergraduate work was in psychology. He put that knowledge to use as class president during all four years at the University of Michigan, helping improve interactions between administrators and students.

More about Prostate Cancer About one in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. October is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: pcf.org/pcam/toolkit/ Bill’s website: patmosrhodes.comblank-5 BAMF Health: bamfhealth.com/ Terminology BAMF Health: Located on Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile in the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building, part of Michigan State University. Theranostics: An innovative medical approach that combines diagnostic imaging with therapeutic treatment. Radiopharmaceuticals: Personalized prescription treatments used in theranostics to help locate and treat cancer cells Total-body PET/CT scanner: A scanner used to detect signals from radiopharmaceuticals. BAMF’s specialized scanners offer twice the resolution and 40 times the sensitivity of conventional scanners.

“I try to do my best as a person and treat everyone the way I’d want to be treated.” How does he measure success? More birthdays for his patients to celebrate. Likewise, Bill’s life is centered on how he can contribute. “When I can be a part of things that BAMF does and tell people stories, help them, and write about it, it gives purpose to my experience and takes what I can do and does something more with it.” He thinks of it as redeeming the situation. When asked what he might say to others just taking up the crucible that cancer is, Bill said, “It’s an opportunity to carry on with your life in a way that is invested with more meaning: ‘What’s important in my life? What are things I want to accomplish? What about my family?’ Do what you can do and communicate with others about it.” Brandon emphasized a similar personalized approach: “Find a treatment path that aligns with what you want. Some may be hesitant about certain therapies. What’s amazing about West Michigan is that all of the best treatments can be found here.” “BAMF Health’s goal is to provide the best in the world in patient experience, the best imaging, the best patient interactions, and the best human touch involved within that person’s crucible. We have the only two of these specialized scanners in the country. We are paving the way for theranostics to be one of the most meaningful cancer therapies that has ever existed and we want to lead the world in how this is done. It’s all about improving people’s lives.” And as for his patient Bill’s own crucible? “We’ll keep an eye on things so Bill can continue to laugh and tell amazing stories.” That’s fine by Bill. He has his sights set on becoming a published novelist and returning to speaking to others about stories and the human experience. “I hope to get back on the road again.” And about that historical fiction novel he’s looking forward to publishing in 2027? Bill’s answer, in a way, is a metaphor, too: “I’ve already started on a sequel to it.” GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / style

STYLE

Fashion for <$15 A curated approach to secondhand style, plus the thrill of the find. BY LISA ENOS

For Jenna Bosscher, thrifting is all about the thrill of the find. The East Lansing-area native, who now lives downtown Grand Rapids with her husband, Chris, and their dog, Kevin, launched These Jeans Shop as a way to share that feeling through a carefully curated selection of affordable secondhand clothing. “I love the process of curating a collection of clothes that I like and would wear myself,” she says. Her approach starts with something surprisingly simple: touch. Before checking a brand tag or considering a garment’s style, Bosscher often evaluates its quality by the way it feels. From there, she looks for pieces that fit the These Jeans aesthetic — and, most importantly, pieces she would actually want in her own closet. Everything at These Jeans is $15 or less, making it possible to refresh a wardrobe without a major investment. Jackets are one of Bosscher’s favorite finds and a staple of her own closet. A recent score was a Madewell denim jacket that originally retailed for $148. She also has a collection of leather jackets planned for fall. For Bosscher, the right jacket can transform a basic outfit: jeans and a white shirt can become office-ready with a blazer, date-night appropriate with a leather jacket, or casual with a patterned zip-up. She also keeps a range of jeans in different sizes, washes and brands, including what she calls “denim with a twist” — embellished, patterned or otherwise unexpected pairs. Beyond jeans and jackets, shoppers can find tops, graphic tees, shorts, dresses, shoes, belts, purses and more. Part of These Jeans’ appeal is that Bosscher has already done the overwhelming part of thrifting: sorting. She filters hundreds of pieces down to a 30

Jenna Bosscher, founder of These Jeans Shop, curates affordable secondhand clothing from her downtown Grand Rapids home. Every item—including her signature selection of denim—is priced at $15 or less.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

smaller collection of quality, on-trend items that have been checked for flaws. For shoppers who want an even more personalized experience, Style Bundles allow Bosscher to shop based on individual sizing and style preferences, with previews and opportunities to swap pieces before the bundle is finalized. Ultimately, Bosscher hopes These Jeans Shop makes secondhand shopping feel accessible and fun. “I don't believe that secondhand clothing should be expensive,” she says. Her goal is for shoppers to feel welcomed, included and inspired — and to find something that makes them feel great without breaking the bank.

Find These Jeans Around Grand Rapids These Jeans Shop has grown beyond Instagram and into Grand Rapids’ local shopping scene. Bosscher regularly pops up at local businesses including Stovetop Roasters, Roots Brew Shop and Rebel, creating opportunities to browse her curated thrift finds in person. You can also find These Jeans at two vendor locations: Crow’s Hold Vendor Market, which is currently open seven days a week, and Riverside Market, which opened in September. Bosscher restocks weekly, so there’s always something new to discover. For Style Bundles, shoppers can reach Bosscher by DM on Instagram. For future consignment conversations, she can be reached at thesejeansshop@gmail.com. JENNA WITH JEANS COURTESY OF THESE JEANS

look + feel / expe t

Laura Klynstra has designed covers for some of publishing’s biggest names.

EXPERT

The Great Cover Up Meet the woman whose art you’ve seen — and you never even knew it! BY CHRISTOPHER COSMOS

Are you an avid reader, in a book club, a casual reader, or even just fancy a stroll through a bookstore from time to time? Chances are you're already familiar with the work of Laura Klynstra, one of the best book designers in the world, who is from right here in West Michigan, and you might not even realize it. Laura’s created covers for such celebrated authors as Mitch Albom, Jodi Picoult, Paula McLain, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Emily Giffin, Danielle Steele, and many more (and in full disclosure, two of mine!). It’s always a privilege to speak with someone who is one of the absolute best in the world at what they do, and to that end, it’s my great pleasure to introduce you to Laura Klynstra. GR Mag: Hi Laura, and thanks so much for doing this. To begin, could you talk a little about your journey and career from growing up in West Michigan to where you’re at now? LK: I grew up in Hudsonville and went to MSU for undergrad. I moved to NYC in 2001, the summer before the events of 9/11, and even commuted through the World Trade Center that morning (but that’s another story for another day). I worked in the midtown offices of HarperCollins which is where I started designing book covers. I was there for eleven years before moving back home to Michigan in 2012 and now am the Senior Art Director COVERS COURTESY OF PUBLISHERS

and influencer account @ spiceandsugartable. LK: My close friend Mumtaz GR Mag: Do you have a favorite Mustafa and I started a food cover you’ve done? One of journey on Instagram. Mumtaz that was the most difficult? is from Pakistan and represents One that’s received the most the spice in our name, while I’m notoriety? primarily a baker and represent LK: My most difficult cover design the sugar. We ended up writing Laura Klynstra also turned out to be the most a cookbook together, Gather influential and consequential & Graze, that centers around book I’ve ever worked on. It was an epic story finding commonality across cultural in itself to find the perfect image, then secure differences and coming together around the rights. That novel—The Known World by delicious food. I’ve also authored and Edward P. Jones—went on to win the Pulitzer photographed two additional cookbooks: Prize and was recently named the 4th Best Book Christmas Baking and The Homemade of the 21st Century by The New York Times. Pie Cookbook. at Revell, which is part of Baker Books in Ada.

GR Mag: That’s incredible. Where does the inspiration for the covers you do come from? LK: My main goal is to invoke a mood and give the reader a feel for the time and place in which a novel takes place. I think mood and feel is much more important than literal representation of story. A good fiction cover will have a kind of visual poetry through the type, ornamentation, and images that hopefully invokes the right feeling to draw a reader in. GR Mag: You’re also an author yourself, and co-run a very popular food spotlight

GR Mag: As someone who has tasted some of your baked good, I have no hesitation in recommending your recipes to everyone. For any that might want to get in contact with you, what’s the best way? LK: Check out @spiceandsugartable or @ lauraklyn on Instagram for more about my baking adventures. To learn more about my designs you can visit www.lauraklynstra.com. The cookbooks are easy to find online and if you want to flip through them at a local bookstore, stop by Baker Book House—they usually have them in stock. GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / wellness

WELLNESS

Some Like It Hot (and Cold) As the Seasons Change, So Should Our Approach to Wellness BY ANGELA CHANDLER // PHOTOS BY DAVID SPARKS

Seasonal change is one of the few constants of life in the Midwest. As summer gives way to crisp mornings, shorter days and cooler temperatures, our environment changes—and, naturally, so do we. Our circadian rhythm responds to changes in daylight and our daily routines evolve with the seasons. Fall is an ideal time to pause, reassess and refresh our approach to wellness. What served us well during the long, active days of summer may not be what we need as autumn settles in. Our routines are built from the habits we intentionally create for health and well-being, but a healthy routine also leaves room for adaptation. Sometimes, wellness means knowing when to change course. On the topic of self-care and daily habits, 32

I watched a video that caught a moment on camera of a gentleman leaving a building on River Street in Ada Village that perfectly captured the feeling of exhilaration and pure joy. He walked out taking a few steps toward his car—and then performed what may have been the greatest tuck jump I’ve ever seen. It was almost as if his entire body was saying, “I feel so alive!” Naturally, I needed to know more. Had he just received great news? Won the lottery? Nailed an important interview? No. He had just finished a session at The Wellness Club. A Little Bit of Latvia in Michigan The Wellness Club is the vision of a dynamic

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

sibling duo, Aleksis and Ilze Vizulis, who have brought an Eastern European, Latvianinspired wellness experience to Michigan. For the pair, the concept is more than a business venture. It is a meaningful connection to their heritage, thoughtfully translated into a contemporary Michigan setting. “We thoughtfully created this space to mimic and reflect the traditional feeling of being surrounded by nature,” Aleksis explained. That connection to nature begins the moment you walk through the door. The first impression is surprisingly simple: fresh, clean air without an overwhelming fragrance. There is a calmness to the environment. Soft sounds of nature gently fill the space, while neatly folded, crisp white towels line the wall. The atmosphere feels intentional without feeling fussy.

The Wellness Club offers a modern take on Latvian-inspired wellness rituals— from sauna and steam to cold plunges—creating space to reset, recharge and reconnect.

You begin to sense that this is time set aside specifically for you. The communal space includes four private changing rooms, a rainfall-style rinse area and a warm, accommodating sitting area to rest with choice of herbal refreshments. Meaningful symbolism is part of the aesthetics woven throughout the design, from carefully etched images on the wood ceiling to the flowing river imagery on the wall. Every detail seems to quietly point back toward nature, resilience and renewal. And then there is one rule that may be surprisingly refreshing in today’s constantly connected world: No phones. “Be by yourself in your own mind,” is the philosophy behind the protocol. Aleksis says the goal is to provide a place where guests can disconnect and unwind—or choose to share the experience and strengthen relationships with others. More Than Heat and Cold Sauna bathing and cold-water immersion may seem like modern wellness trends, but the combination has much deeper cultural roots. The traditional Latvian pirts, or bathhouse, was far more than simply a hot room. Heat, water, steam, plants, nature and inherited knowledge were woven into a living cultural tradition. Historically, the

may be the hardest part. For more information on what to expect or a guided tour, visit: thewellnessclub.com. For others, it is the moment they discover what their bodies and minds are capable of. People are noticing a sense of euphoria, mood enhancement, stress reduction, sharper mental focus, and resilience.

pirts could serve as a bathhouse, healing space, herbal treatment area, place for massage and gathering place for family and community. As you enter The Wellness Club’s traditional dry sauna, you’ll feel the warmth build gradually as the heated Oregon red cedar releases a subtle, earthy, grounding aroma reminiscent of a quiet forest. In other words, the Latvian-inspired sauna experience is inherently multisensory. And then comes the contrast. Heat. Cold. Renewal. Traditional Latvian bathing practices include warming the body and then cooling it rapidly in cold water. Historically, that could mean stepping into a pond, lake, river or outdoor water—or taking a cold shower. At The Wellness Club, that ancient rhythm has been translated into a modern experience still using heat, water, rest, cold, and renewal. For some, the anticipation of the cold

A New Ritual for a New Season There is something particularly fitting about discovering The Wellness Club as autumn arrives. Summer invites us outdoors—to long walks, warm sunshine, beaches, fresh air and spontaneous time with friends. As Michigan turns cooler and darker, we naturally begin looking for different ways to restore ourselves. Perhaps that is why The Wellness Club feels timely. It isn’t simply another place to sweat or another trendy cold plunge. It offers a ritual rooted in an old relationship between humans and nature, translated for modern life. You enter, leave your phone behind, feel the warmth begin to build, experience the startling embrace of cold water, and then settle back into stillness. Your senses become engaged. Your mind becomes quieter. And for a little while, the outside world can wait. Since opening in August, Aleksis says guests have already discovered that the space can be an inviting place to gather with close friends or colleagues—and many have returned for the experience again by themselves. “The time is yours and you can use it however you like,” he says, with safety naturally remaining a priority. Perhaps that is the real gift of The Wellness Club: not simply heat or cold, but permission to pause. As the seasons change, our wellness practices can change with them. We can seek new ways to care for our physical, mental, emotional and social well-being. And sometimes, renewal begins with something as simple—and as powerful—as stepping away from the noise, feeling the heat, embracing the cold and remembering what it feels like to be fully present. Right here in Ada, Michigan, a little piece of Latvia has arrived. No airfare required. Angela Chandler, NBC-HWC, NASM-CPT is a national board-certified health & wellness coach and personal trainer. GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / home Painted shelving and cabinetry show how color can bring personality and purpose to a room, turning everyday spaces into inviting places for reading, hobbies, games and conversation.

HOME

The Winter Hunker-Down

Paint has a role to play—not just on the walls. BY LISA ENOS

If the words “family room” conjure up visions of brown-on-brown paneling, a gigantic television housed in an equally gigantic wooden console, we’re sorry. It doesn’t have to be that way. A recent consumer trends report from the Sherwin-Williams Consumer Brands Group found that people are making more room in their homes for the things that bring them together: games, reading, hobbies, music and other activities that are better when shared. They’re calling it “The Fall Reconnect.” In Michigan, it might be more aptly named “The Winter Hunker Down.” But it’s the same premise. Now that televisions hang neatly on our walls—or, let’s face it, are carried around in your pocket—we’re left with more room to use the space for, well, other stuff. Why not create spaces that give us something to do together? Game tables. Reading nooks. Crafting areas. Music corners. Places to work on a puzzle, spread out a project or simply sit with a book. Just choose a color and go. “The goal isn’t to assign a color to every activity, but to use color and finish thoughtfully to create spaces that feel welcoming, personal and ready to be enjoyed together,” said Lisbeth Parada, Color Marketing Manager for Dutch Boy Paints, Krylon and Minwax. “Color can help signal how we want a space to feel and, in turn, how we want to use it.” In other words, color can help give a space its personality. And it doesn’t have to be on a wall. Imagine a cheerful painted shelf filled with games and collected objects beside a contrasting painted table. Or a reading nook with a deeply colored wall, a comfortable chair and shelves filled with books. A piece of furniture in an unexpected color can turn an otherwise overlooked corner into a place you actually want to spend time. And you don’t necessarily need to redo an entire room. An entryway cabinet painted in a rich color can make a utilitarian drop zone feel intentional. A small table in a sunny corner can become a dedicated spot for puzzles or cards. A painted piece of furniture can establish an activity zone without requiring a renovation—or a whole week with a paint roller. The Sherwin-Williams Consumer Brands Group—Minwax, Cabot, Dutch Boy Paints, Krylon and Purdy— are tapping into something that feels less like a decorating trend and more like a shift in how people are beginning to re-think how they are using their homes. With the television no longer the star of the family room, make 34

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

room for something else. A game. A book. A hobby. A conversation. Or just a really comfortable chair. And perhaps a little color to tell us: this is a room meant to be used—for something besides scrolling. INTERIOR IMAGES COURTESY SHERWIN-WILLIAMS CONSUMER BRANDS GROUP

TRUST E D A DV ISO R S

GET READY FOR THE

Most Wonderful TIME OF THE YEAR

As the winter months settle in, there’s a temptation to go into hibernation mode. But the world keeps turning, and with so many facets to keeping up with daily life, there’s barely a moment to waste. On the wellness side, you might be past due for a dental checkup or considering cosmetic skin treatments. On the home front, you may want to refresh your space with new furniture, look into a line of credit, make sure you have curb appeal in every season, or start searching for a new abode. Or maybe you’re due to start thinking of something fun, like what to do and where to go when the snow melts and school takes a break. So much to think about! The professionals in this section are here to help, with answers to all your important questions.

Q: What are the keys to achieving a beautiful landscape all year round? A: We advise blending a variety of plants and trees so that homeowners can not only enjoy blooms in spring, summer, and fall but also have a pop of greenery in winter. Hydrangeas are popular for their longevity in the warmer months, while evergreens, boxwoods, and holly keep their color in winter — and are especially pretty when topped with snow. In addition to plant selection, upkeep is important. That means maintaining consistent

watering in high heat but taking care not to overwater as temperatures cool off. Also, pruning perennials and cleaning up fall leaves will keep plants healthy and help prevent mold and diseases. Bringing in a certified horticulturist with a degree in design, like the staff at Alfresco Landscapes, is the ultimate way to ensure all-season splendor. Their knowledge considers more-complex factors to create a sustainable landscape for years to come.

Alfresco Landscapes

Colton Schlitters Operations Manager 2914 Three Mile Road NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-2530

TRUST E D A DV ISO R S

Q: Why are sofas and recliners like books? A: Because you should not judge them by their cover. You need to experience a sofa or recliner before you buy it. As we get older, our bodies become less elastic. A young person can sit comfortably on almost anything, but as we age, we need more and better support. It doesn’t matter how cool a pair of shoes is, or how good the deal seemed — if the shoes are not your size, they will not be comfortable.

That is why we encourage customers to sit, relax, and listen to their body. Many of our stylish recliners and some of our sofas come in multiple sizes. Do your feet touch the floor? How is the lumbar? Does the upper back put your shoulders and neck at a comfortable angle? When we go through this with a customer and find the right seat, it is rewarding to see how their expression changes from “Nice” to “Wow!”

Design Quest

Thor Sorensen Co-Owner 4181 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-940-9911 info@designquest.biz

Q: What factors should homebuyers think about before sitting down with a real estate agent? A: As a potential homebuyer, understanding your goals before starting out helps us stay focused and keeps you excited throughout the process. I always recommend talking with your lender first. You likely have an idea of what you can afford, so keep that in mind going in, as buyers are often approved for more than they can comfortably pay. Once you know your budget, you can start thinking about priorities.

What matters most to you? Walkability, school district, upkeep, floor plan, and commute time are common considerations. Pinpointing your deal-breakers — and recognizing what can be changed about a property to meet them — makes it easier to streamline our search. My role is to provide expert guidance, honest advice, and local market knowledge so you can make confident decisions every step of the way.

Greenridge Realty EGR

Janet Romanowski Realtor, Romanowski Homes 2213 Wealthy St. SE East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-318-0065 romanhousekey.com

Q: What type of home equity loan is right for me? A: Home equity loans are a great way to access funds by putting the money you’ve already invested in your home to work for you. When looking for a home equity loan, every institution is different, and you should find a financial institution that offers no application and no annual fees. It’s also important to compare a home equity line of credit (HELOC) with a fixed-rate home equity loan to decide what’s right for your needs. A HELOC features a variable interest rate and offers revolving credit, with interestonly payments during the draw period. This

makes a HELOC ideal for renovation projects with unpredictable total expenditures—or unexpected emergencies. In contrast, a fixed-rate home equity loan provides a constant interest rate and a one-time payout, with consistent monthly payments that include both principal and interest. This makes a fixed-rate loan wellsuited for large, one-time expenses. Whichever you decide is right for you, both options allow you to leverage your home’s equity and can usually be customized.

LMCU

Julie Oziemkiewicz Director of Home Equity 616-464-7479 julie.oziemkiewicz@lmcu.org LMCU NMLS #442967

Is a CPAP the only way to treat sleep apnea? A: No! There is a wonderful alternative for patients who cannot tolerate a CPAP or wish to have a more convenient treatment for travel or time away from home. A simple treatment process involving a few scans of your teeth and an evaluation of your jaw movements allows me to fabricate a mandibular advancement appliance. It works to gently posture your lower jaw forward, opening your airway to treat sleep apnea and snoring.

Mansfield Family Dentistry

Dr. Bryton Mansfield, DDS 2 Grand Rapids Locations: 1632 Leonard St. NW 580 Cascade West Parkway 616-453-2255

Q: What should I consider when choosing where to have cosmetic treatments? A: Start with expertise. Cosmetic dermatology is about more than improving appearance — it requires an understanding of your skin, facial anatomy, aging, and overall skin health. A board-certified dermatologist can evaluate the full picture and recommend treatments based on your individual goals. Consider who is performing your treatment. This is especially important with injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers. These are medical procedures, and physician injectors

have extensive training in facial anatomy, as well as recognizing and managing potential complications. Finally, look for a personalized approach. The best cosmetic plan may include injectables, lasers, skin resurfacing, professional skincare, or a combination. Having treatments performed within a dermatology practice allows your cosmetic care to be guided by medical expertise while focusing on safe, naturallooking results.

The Derm Institute

Dr. Lela Lankerani Expert Dermatologist 1661 Crystal Springs Blvd. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 616-326-0114 derminstituteofwmi.com

Q: What should I consider when planning a spring break trip? A: While it may seem counterintuitive, it’s important to first consider a few things other than the destination, as what you may be envisioning isn’t necessarily where you’re envisioning. Do you want relaxation? Adventure? A space to connect with family? Is an all-inclusive experience a nonnegotiable? Do you want a week on the beach or a week exploring medieval landmarks? All of these things and more are what your travel

adviser will take into consideration when matching you with the perfect vacation. They will package it with dining, airfare, ground transportation, excursions, suite add-ons, and all the other fine-print items that can easily go overlooked. As spring gets closer and the snow continues to pile up, it’s important to start planning soon as rooms will begin to sell out. Contact Witte Travel today to turn your dream getaway into reality!

Witte Travel & Tours

Shelley Kohtz, CTC, MCC, DS Manager of Vacation Travel Services 3250 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-942-5112

Seared sea scallops showcase Gin Gin’s seafood-driven side, while the welcoming entrance below offers a glimpse into the warm, lively dining room beyond.

GIN GIN'S WINS BY K E LS E Y D U N N E B AC K• P H OTO G R A P H Y BY A M A N DA K A M P P I N E N

i 38

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

If you’re asked about the best experiences of your life, you might be tempted to share an international trip, your wedding day or maybe a once-in-a-lifetime concert. But what made those moments the most memorable probably wasn’t where you were- it was who you were with: the people who made those memories along the way. That same idea is at the heart of Gin Gin’s, this year’s Restaurant of the Year. Here, good food and great drinks are only part of the experience. It’s the people- the ones behind the bar, in the kitchen and gathered around the table- who give the restaurant life. When Gin Gin’s opened in 2024, brothers and owners Paul Reinert and Dave Reinert were already veterans of the Grand Rapids restaurant scene. Their path to Gin Gin’s has been shaped by more than two decades of creating spaces for people at different stages of life. They started in the industry as teenagers washing dishes at Arnie’s Bakery and working their way through different restaurant jobs. After college, they started building restaurants of their own- from the nightlife crowd at Monte’s to the pub atmosphere of O’Toole’s, the lively dinner scene at Rockwell Republic and the more refined yet welcoming feel of Butchers Union. In many ways, each restaurant echoes not only what type of places they were personally seeking, but who they were creating a place for.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2026 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

A Classic Ribeye takes center stage alongside Buttery Mashed Potatoes and a Bee’s Knees, highlighting Gin Gin’s straightforward approach to steakhouse favorites and classic cocktails.

GR M AG .CO M

Members of the Gin Gin’s culinary team work in the restaurant’s open kitchen, where a menu built around steak, seafood and pasta comes together. Below, warm wood, globe lighting and a central bar lend to the restaurant's chic, polished feel.

“Looking back, each place reflects where we were in life,” says Paul. “Dave and I have spent years imagining these places, but it’s the people who work in them who give them life.” Gin Gin’s feels like a natural continuation of that evolution. Even its name is inspired by a person: their Aunt Virginia, who everyone called Gin. “As kids, Dave and I would hear that Aunt Gin was coming over, and her name alone seemed to promise a fun night.” Walking into Gin Gin’s, you’ll immediately feel the warmth of the warehouse-turned-restaurant with brown wood accents, soft globe lighting and gleaming green tiles. It feels like a mix of a cozy, beloved English pub and the next swanky dinner spot in NYC—a place that feels equally suited for a casual dinner or a dinner that stretches well into the evening. That sense of comfort is intentional. “We wanted Gin Gin’s to feel like the kind of place you’re always happy to walk into, and never quite ready to leave,” Paul says. The open kitchen sits alongside the bar at the center of the space, while the energy spills onto a string-light-lit patio hung with greenery. Every element—from the lighting and music to the wood, bar and seating- was chosen to feel elevated without becoming formal. True to putting people at the center of it all, Paul says it was built on a simple idea: good food, great drinks, and even better company. Inside, you’ll find a mixed crowd: girls’ night filled with laughter and martinis on the patio, an intimate date night tucked in a cozy booth and the friends claiming the two corner seats at the bar over a pint and the football game. At the heart of Gin Gin’s menu are three pillars: steak, seafood and pasta. Together, they give the kitchen room to get creative while staying true to the restaurant’s roots. With appetizers ranging from $12-$39, salads and sandwiches from $10-$20, and main dishes from $25-$81 there’s plenty of room to build a meal around your appetite and budget. But while the menu offers familiar favorites, Jon Haener, culinary director and Casey Oster executive chef, says the philosophy behind each dish is anything but ordinary: focus on quality ingredients, keep things simple and execute them well. One of the clearest examples of that philosophy is the Double Wagyu Cheeseburger. While a burger might seem like one of the simplest things on the menu, Gin Gin’s treats it with the same attention to detail as its more elevated dishes. “For us, creativity doesn’t necessarily mean making something complicated or unfamiliar,” Jon notes. “Sometimes it’s taking something as simple as a burger and obsessing over every detail. We make our patties from the trimmings of the steaks we break down in-house, grind the beef fresh every day, and make the pickles and aioli ourselves. It’s still a burger, just one we’ve put a tremendous amount of thought and care into.” The menu starts with approachable favorites like Truffle Arancini and New England Clam Chowder, while dishes like the Burrata bring a little more surprise. It pairs basil pesto and cherry tomatoes with candied pistachios and strawberries, creating a balance of acidity and sweetness that makes it one of my personal favorites. That same attention to detail carries through to the steak selection, which ranges from a classic Ribeye and Hanger Steak & Frites to Filet Mignon and a 16-ounce Delmonico, and in the spaghetti a la vodka, another standout. The pasta is made fresh daily and finished with burrata, quality olive oil and fresh basil. 40

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

2026

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Gin Gin’s spaghetti alla vodka features fresh pasta finished with burrata, olive oil and basil. The restaurant’s food is complemented by a well-stocked bar and beverage program featuring wines, local beer and classic cocktails. Jumbo Snow Crab Claws, pictured below, add another standout seafood option to a menu designed for lingering over dinner and drinks.

“That’s really the balance we’re after: familiar enough to feel inviting, but thoughtful and creative enough to feel special,” Jon remarks. While after dinner, dessert isn’t an afterthought. The s’mores sundae combines toasted marshmallow ice cream, chocolate ganache, graham cracker crumble and torched meringue for a nostalgic finish with just the right amount of sweetness. Gin Gin’s offers an assortment of local draft beer, wines, a range of classic cocktails and plenty of martinis to choose from with classics like Espresso or a more adventurous Blackberry Bramble. After dinner drinks are taken care of as well, with an array of digestifs. To maintain their quality, ingredients are sourced locally and seasonally whenever possible, including from West Michigan growers like Visser Family Farms, Peach Ridge Farms, Green Wagon Farm, Pebble Creek, and Kessler Family Farms. “We’re constantly talking with local farmers about what they’re growing, what’s coming into season, and what we’re excited to work with,” Jon says. That collaborative spirit doesn’t stop with the farmers. The menu itself is a team effort, changing with the seasons and whenever creative inspiration strikes. Paul and Dave may set the direction, but the people working in the kitchen and front of house help shape what ends up on the table. Feedback travels both

“THAT’S REALLY THE BALANCE WE’RE AFTER: FAMILIAR ENOUGH TO FEEL INVITING, BUT THOUGHTFUL AND CREATIVE ENOUGH TO FEEL SPECIAL.” — JON HAENER, CULINARY DIRECTOR

GR M AG .CO M

2026

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Gin Gin’s pairs a warm, club-like atmosphere with a thoughtful cocktail program led by Finn Perdue, lead bartender. House offerings include classics such as the Bee’s Knees, Dirty Martini, Limoncello Spritz and Old Fashioned.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

ways, with the kitchen team bringing new ideas and the front of house staff bringing back what guests are loving- and what they want to see next. “An evolving menu gives our chefs the opportunity to work with new ingredients, learn new techniques, and continue growing their craft,” notes Paul. When deciding if something should be added to the menu, excellence is the filter through which they evaluate it. “We want you to taste the thoughtfulness, love, and care that went into it,” says Jon. “If we don’t feel that, it’s probably not ready for the menu.” One thing becomes clear when talking with Paul and Jon: the people—both those

behind the scenes and those who walk through the doors—are what gives Gin Gin’s its character. “When everything comes together, it’s the people that give it life,” Paul reflects. “Our guests have reminded us how meaningful it is to create a place where people choose to spend their time, celebrate milestones, and make memories.” And perhaps that’s what makes Gin Gin’s feel like more than just another place to grab dinner. The food, drinks, design and hospitality all play their part, but ultimately, it’s the people around the table- and the people who made the experience possible- who turn an ordinary night out into something worth remembering. As Jon puts it, “Great food is never the work of just one person. It’s the result of a team that shares the same standards, takes pride in the details, and is committed to making every dish the best it can be. That collective effort is what brings every dish to life and ultimately makes Gin Gin’s feel special.”

The team behind Gin Gin’s brings the restaurant’s steak, seafood and pasta-driven menu to life. The culinary crew includes, from left, Madi Klairter, sous chef; Casey Oster, executive chef; Jon Haener, culinary director; Chase Toczydlowski, executive sous chef; David Diehl, sous chef; and Robert Johnson, chef de cuisine — a collaborative group focused on quality ingredients, careful execution and attention to detail.

GR M AG .CO M

All ! d r a Abo MODEL

TRAINS

ANS, WITH F G N I K TRAC

S BBYIST

A model of the Pere Marquette 1225—the locomotive that inspired East Grand Rapids native Chris Van Allsburg’s "Polar Express."

STORY BY ANN BYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BREE ROSE

odel train people are serious about their hobby. They speak their own language with phrases such as HO scale and Centralized Traffic Control Panel and double track; they have their own clubs, stores, and flea markets; they have basements and attics covered in tracks, trains, and tiny trees. And these folks will talk about trains until the last whistle blows and the final car pulls into the station.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

PHOTO CONTENT PHOTO CREDIT

The Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society brings the railroad to life in miniature, recreating trains, rail yards and detailed scenery.

GR M AG .CO M

“THE INTEREST IN RAILROADING B R I N G S U S T O G E T H E R A S P E O P L E .” — SKIP LUYK , CO-FOUNDER, GRAND RAPIDS MODEL R AILROAD HISTORICAL SOCIE T Y

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

A railroad crossing signal stands in front of the Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society’s detailed HO-scale layout, which recreates the Pere Marquette Railroad as it appeared in the late 1940s. PHOTO CONTENT PHOTO CREDIT

All Aboard!

From top left: Skip Luyk, a founder of the Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society poses in front of a model railroad scene; Club member Thom Post prepairs to drill into the foam base to add a tiny fire hydrant; and Les Miner places an engine on the track.

Above, A model of the Pere Marquette 1225 rolls through the Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society’s detailed HO-scale layout. The real-life locomotive inspired East Grand Rapids native Chris Van Allsburg’s "Polar Expres."

The Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society meets Tuesday nights at its Comstock Park headquarters at the back of Dwight Lydell Park to talk trains and work on their layout. They have an HO scale, double deck layout representing the Pere Marquette Railroad as it existed in the late 1940s between Plymouth, Mich., and Chicago, Ill. Members have recreated stops in numerous cities including the old Wyoming yard and the Grandville/Hudsonville stop. The 1,000 feet of track represent 180 miles of the Pere Marquette line. The tiny trains chug through hand-painted landscape replicas of that era that include storefronts, trees, streams, people, cars, barns, and even animals. It’s a miniature extravaganza of detail, detail, detail all put together by dedicated model train enthusiasts. The club hosts several open houses for the public including Nov. 21 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., showing off its Pere Marquette 1225 engine. The real-life PM 1225 inspired Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express,” a Caldecott Medal

winner published 40 years ago. Van Allsburg grew up in East Grand Rapids. Skip Luyk helped start the GRMRHS back in 1992. The club has had 123 members over the years, with 19 current members. “Trains are a fabulous transportation system, with a tremendous history of building this country,” he said. “The interest in railroading brings us together as people.” Mark Baldwin, also an early member, remembers riding the switcher, a small engine, in the railroad yard with his dad, a firefighter who “knew people” who could offer the boy and his dad rides. They had belonged to a now-defunct club before, then helped start this one. “I like the escape and the challenge,” said Baldwin. “I love the history and research part, going to museums and libraries to research the Pere Marquette line.” Club members range in age from men into their 90s to those in their 20s and 30s, with the occasional youngster tagging along. While many train enthusiasts are men, women are interested as well. Many enthusiasts also have their own model railroads at home. Luyk has a layout of a logging operation in the Pacific Northwest. Legend has it that a model railroader once designed the basement of his new home for his railroads and let his wife design the rest of the house above him. GR M AG .CO M

All Aboard!

“I LI K E H AV I N G A PLACE TO RUN MY OWN TRAINS AND C O M PA R E N OT E S . EVERYONE GETS SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM THE H O B B Y. T H E Y M I G H T LIKE THE ENGINES AND CARS, THE S C E N E R Y, O R T H E THOUGHT PROCESSES T H AT G O I N T O M O D E L I N G .” —J A K E A B E L , RIDER’S HOBBY

Jake Abel, an employee at Rider’s Hobby Shop and member of the Grand River Valley Model Railroad Club.

Les Miner, in his late 20s, has been a club member for four years and also has a model in his basement. He recreated the Ashtabula Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad that ran from Pittsburgh to Ashtabula and hauled iron ore from the lake boats to the steel mills. “My favorite thing is the ability to apply my skills to a larger goal, the club layout, while also learning from experts in other areas,” said Miner. “I do electronics, but others are great at scratch building and paining. I can learn the tricks of other areas of railroading without having to trip over myself as much along the way.” Just inside the door of the GRMRHS sits a green Centralized Traffic Control Panel full of toggle switches and lights, which controls where and when the model trains move around the tracks. It models the old way trains were monitored and switches controlled in the 1940s, which is now done via computer. Miner ran hundreds of feet of cable throughout the layout to help make it all work. For member Kevin Clark, “I’ve always loved trains and the logic of how you control where they go. I love the hardware and the computer component.” “I also really like the people,” said Clark, who has been in the club 48

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

a couple of months. “There is no competition here because we’re all here for a purpose. People are kind and accepting and from all walks of life who enjoy each other and enjoy models and trains.” Model railroading pieces and parts come from flea markets, trade shows, eBay, donations from train enthusiasts or their loves ones, their own yards for stones and dirt, and places like Rider’s Hobby Shop on 28th Street. According to branch manager Bill Mosey, model railroading stock takes up about 25 percent of the store’s shelf space and is about 20 percent of total sales. He said the old Lionel trains—called O Scale or O Gauge models—make up only about 5 percent of the hobby today, with 80 percent of model railroaders working with HO scale models. HO Scale is a 1:87 ratio

Train Stops

Santa Train For folks looking for a life-size train ride, don’t miss the annual Santa Train run by the Coopersville and Marne Railroad. Runs weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Buy tickets early as the Santa Train fills up quickly (mitrain. net/train-rides/ santa-train/). Train Sale The Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society hosts its annual train sale for buyers and sellers on Jan. 9, 2027, at the KC Event Center in Wyoming. Visit grmrhs.org for details.

Bill Mosey, manager of the Grand Rapids branch of Rider’s Hobby Shop, 2055 28th Street.

National Organization The National Model Railroad Association, based in Soddy Daisy, Tenn., has districts and regions all over the world, many holding annual or bi-annual conventions. Visit nmra.org for details.

A detailed HO-scale rail yard at the Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society features freight cars, multiple tracks and industrial buildings brought to life in miniature.

GR M AG .CO M

Kevin Clark sits at the control station for the entire track system. Members have designated nights that they run the trains and watch the complicated systems they have coded and created come to life.

Kevin Clark accesses the computer system that manages the tracks at the Grand Rapids Model Railroad Historical Society.

model train size, meaning its 87 times smaller than a real train and half the size of the large O scale trains (HO stand for Half O). There are a number of other scale sizes. According to Mosey, model railroading “is all about creating real life in miniature and idealizing that life. Some people are into the trains, and some are as much about the layouts and towns.” For Jerry Frye and his store called Hobby Recycling, it’s 1,250 square feet of nothing but used trains and modeling paraphernalia. About 50 percent of sales are HO scale, 30 percent the smaller N scale, and the rest is a variety of scales. “I like the people who are interested in trains; they are good bunch of nice people,” said Frye, who has been selling model train stuff for 35 years, 30 at his Lee Street location. “We’ve seen more kids lately. The pandemic pushed kids into looking for something to do. One kid told me he’s sick of looking at computers and remembered his grandpa had a train in his basement.” Jake Abel, who works at Rider’s Hobby Shop, is a member of the Grand River Valley Model Railroad Club, which rents basement space on Porter Street SW. The club has two different models, one a double track for people to run their trains and the other a single track under construction. Both are freelance, which means that the layouts model

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

no specific place or time period. “I like having a place to run my own trains and compare notes,” said Abel. “Everyone gets something a little different from the hobby. They might like the engines and cars, the scenery, or the thought processes that go into modeling.” Therein lies part of the allure of model railroading—learning the skills involved in building a model railroad. There’s carpentry to build the base; welding for tracks and trains; design to create the model; math for scaling; electronics and technology to run the models; painting for everything from recreating tiny fence posts to aging an engine to look authentic; research for accurate modeling; problem solving, and more. Abel sums up the world of model railroading well. “The deeper you dive, the more you find.”

All Aboard!

Above, Jerry Frye, owner of Hobby Recycling, 2313 Lee Street SW, Wyoming. Hobby Recycling sells used model train items exclusively. He’s been in the location for 30 years.

Dine by the Rails All Aboard: Because Grand Rapids Magazine loves a good restaurant—and train lovers deserve a good meal, too—this story wouldn’t be complete without a nod to The Depot Restaurant, 22 W. Main St. in Grant. Housed in an 1891 railroad depot, it’s packed with trainthemed charm, classic comfort food, a caboose for photo ops, and actual trains rolling by right outside.

GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers

THESE ARE THE

TOP LAWYERS IN WEST MICHIGAN Being recognized by your colleagues in any field is an honor, but in the legal realm, it’s especially meaningful. Corporations, individuals, and families alike who need a trusted adviser and representative in their corner may not know where to start when seeking legal counsel. The list of peer-recognized lawyers in this section is a great place to start a search.

estate, compliance, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiation, and other complex topics. This is not a time to trust an answer from a bot. Real people with proven expertise are the only ones for the job. Looking for someone with strong interpersonal skills and impartiality to help resolve a delicate, high-stress situation with compassion and respect? In need of a team with varied specialties to provide levelheaded support in the boardroom? Let these listings of esteemed Top Lawyers be your guide to finding the right fit.

It could be a personal case involving injury, divorce, family mediation, estate issues, or civil litigation. Or a business matter concerning employment and labor, insurance, real •••

The professionals listed herein were selected by their peers in a survey conducted by Professional Research Services Company of Troy, Michigan. Professionals may be screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through various applicable boards, agencies, and rating services. For further information, visit www.prscom.com or email PRS at sshevin@prscom.com

APPELLATE LAW Aaron D. Lindstrom Barnes & Thornburg LLP Katie N. Steffes Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC John Bursch Bursch Law PLLC Jonathan B. Koch Dickinson Wright PLLC Paul D. Hudson Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Jennifer L. McManus Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Greg Timmer Rhoades McKee PC Drew W. Broaddus Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Conor B. Dugan SouthBank Legal Gary J. Mouw Varnum LLP Gaëtan Gerville-Réache Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Matthew T. “Matt” Nelson Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

ARBITRATION Robert L. DeJong Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICE LAW David A. Hall Barnes & Thornburg LLP Darren J. Burmania Bodman PLC Floyd E. Gates Jr. Bodman PLC

Kimberly A. Baber Varnum LLP Mary Kay Shaver Varnum LLP Charlie Goode Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Gordon R. “Gordy” Lewis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Rodney D. Martin Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Jeffrey A. “Jeff” Ott Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Laura J. Genovich Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC A. Todd Almassian Keller & Almassian PLC Greg J. Ekdahl Keller & Almassian PLC Daniel R. Kubiak Mika Meyers PLC Ryan F. Beach The Law Offices of Ryan F. Beach PLLC Robert F. Wardrop II Wardrop & Wardrop PC

Brian E. Kersey Bodman PLC

BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITOR/ DEBTOR RIGHTS LAW

Matthew R. Smith Bodman PLC

Mark D. Hofstee Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC

Stephen B. Grow Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Daniel F. Gosch Dickinson Wright PLLC

Steve Bylenga CBH Attorneys & Counselors

Gordon J. Toering Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Michael E. Moore Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

Mike Hanrahan CBH Attorneys & Counselors

COMMERCIAL LAW

Trent J. Taylor Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

April Hulst CBH Attorneys & Counselors

David Bevins Rhoades McKee PC Peter Rhoades Rhoades McKee PC

G R A N D R A P I D S M AGA Z I N E • TO P L AW Y E R S

Jeffrey O. “Jeff” Birkhold Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Peter Lozicki Rhoades McKee PC

Elizabeth T. Clark Chapter 13 Trustee

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Daniel F. Gosch Dickinson Wright PLLC

Scott R. Murphy Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Top Lawyers Benjamin H. Hammond Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Loren Andrulis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Mark A. Rysberg Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Jeffrey S. “Jeff” Battershall Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Bruce Courtade Rhoades McKee PC

CORPORATE LAW Patrick Miles Jr. Barnes & Thornburg LLP Robert R. Stead Barnes & Thornburg LLP Sungjin Yoo Bodman PLC Nicholas R. Dekker Cunningham Dalman PC Phillip W. Smith Dickinson Wright PLLC Jeffrey G. York Dickinson Wright PLLC Todd M. Neckers McShane & Bowie Yue Li Mika Meyers PLC Curtis L. Underwood Mika Meyers PLC Erik R. Daly Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Ryan McNally Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Jacob Dunlop Rhoades McKee PC Tom Hogan Rhoades McKee PC Robert Shaver Rhoades McKee PC Nicholas A. Reister Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Matthew J. Wiebe Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Daniel C. Molhoek Varnum LLP

Emily E. Cantor Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Corinne N. Curtis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Douglas A. Donnell Mika Meyers PLC William A. Horn Mika Meyers PLC Emily Green Rhoades McKee PC

Cameron S. “Cam” DeLong Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Mary Jane Rhoades Rhoades McKee PC

Kelly R. Hollingsworth Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Matthew B. Eugster Varnum LLP

Michael J. “Mike” Jones Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Matthew D. Zimmerman Varnum LLP

Gordon R. “Gordy” Lewis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

John V. Byl Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Ford J.H. Turrell Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Dennis J. Donohue Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Stephen C. “Steve” Waterbury Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Eugene E. “Gene” Smary Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS LAW

FAMILY LAW

Troy W. Haney Haney Law Office PC

Jennie B. Bryan AAML Michigan

Frank E. Berrodin Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Jeffrey P. Arnson Arnson VanTol Law

John D. Arendshorst Varnum LLP

Nancy Ballast Arnson VanTol Law

Jeffrey A. DeVree Varnum LLP

Jason VanElderen Arnson VanTol Law

William R. Hineline Varnum LLP

Samantha M. VanTol Arnson VanTol Law

Anthony J. “Tony” Kolenic Jr. Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Victoria J. Drake Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC

Heidi A. Lyon Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Michelle M. McLean Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC

Justin W. Stemple Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Katie N. Steffes Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC

ENERGY LAW Joshua D. Beard Mika Meyers PLC John M. DeVries Mika Meyers PLC Timothy J. Lundgren Varnum LLP

Amanda Van Essen Wirth Core Mediation Services LLC 616-855-2145 awirth@corelegalplc.com

Scott M. Watson Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Susan Wilson Keener Keener Law Offices PLC Kendra J. Ortega KO Family Law Courtney Sierra KO Family Law James W. Kraayeveld Kraayeveld Family Law 616-300-2575 jim@kraayeveld.com

Kelsey A. McCalmon Kraayeveld Family Law 616-300-2575 kelsey@kraayeveld.com

Holly Robrahn Kraayeveld Family Law 616-300-2575 holly@kraayeveld.com

Daniel W. Boocher Kreis Enderle Hudgins & Borsos PC Audra Rose McClure Kuiper Kraemer PC Bethany D. Spencer Lola Law PLC Katie M. Johnson Madarang Hoort & Associates Law Offices Matthew G. Reens Matthew G. Reens PLLC Kyle J. Quinn McShane & Bowie Kristen S. Wolfram MI Family Law Center Elizabeth K. Bransdorfer Mika Meyers PLC Kimberly M. Large Mika Meyers PLC Courtney Quist Quist Homier Law PLLC

Christopher Wirth Core Mediation Services LLC 616-855-2145 cwirth@corelegalplc.com

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW Charles M. Denton Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Stephanie L. Judd Judd & Fricke PLLC

Michele M. Giordano Giordano Law PLC Daniel S. Fricke Judd & Fricke PLLC

Paul McCarthy Rhoades McKee PC Suanne Watt Stay Rhoades McKee PC Robert C. Rutgers Rutgers Law

GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers David Sarnacki Sarnacki Law Firm

Meghan E. Moore Avanti Law Group PLLC

Mary R. Pigorsh Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Susan Im ImLaw

Emily Rysberg Thacker Sleight

Jenn Tello Jenn Tello PLLC

Connie Thacker Thacker Sleight

Kimberly A. Clarke Varnum LLP

Michael Toburen Toburen Law PLC

Yvonne K. George Varnum LLP

Nicholas B. Missad Varnum LLP

INFORMATION MANAGEMENT & DISCOVERY LAW

Randall L. Velzen Velzen Law Office PLLC Nathaniel J. Kaleefey Verspoor Waalkes PC Richard A. “Ric” Roane Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Scott R. Carvo Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LAW

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND PATENT LAW Peter A. Cummings Bodman PLC Estella P. Riahi Bodman PLC Monica J. Stover Bodman PLC Christopher A. Mitchell Dickinson Wright PLLC Frederick S. Burkhart Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP Matthew D. Kendall Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP Terence J. Linn Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP

Erica L. Auster West Michigan Divorce

Jennifer A. Puplava Mika Meyers PLC

FOOD AND BEVERAGE LAW

Hal Ostrow Rhoades McKee PC

Michael B. Comeau McGarry Bair PC

INSURANCE LAW

Patricia H. Jander Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Peter D. Bosch Bosch Killman VanderWal PC

INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW

Christopher J. Gartman Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Joseph M. Infante Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Stephen M. Ragatzki Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

J. Paul Janes Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 jpjanes@gmnp.com

HEALTH CARE LAW Brian S. Fleetham Dickinson Wright PLLC Joseph J. Gavin Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Richard E. Hillary II Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Joseph L. Rivet Rivet Health Law PLC William W. Jack Jr. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Brian J. Kilbane Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Christopher H. Reed Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Scott D. Alfree Varnum LLP Zachary J. Meyer Varnum LLP

IMMIGRATION LAW Robert Anthony Alvarez Avanti Law Group PLLC

Jeffrey D. DenBraber Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Jeffrey G. Muth Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC D. Andrew Portinga Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Amanda B. Fopma Secrest Wardle Dale Arndt Straub Seaman & Allen PC Matt Tompkins Straub Seaman & Allen PC Thomas P. Murray Jr. The Sam Bernstein Law Firm Daniel J. James Wheeler Upham PC Gary A. Maximiuk Wheeler Upham PC

G R A N D R A P I D S M AGA Z I N E • TO P L AW Y E R S

Karl T. Ondersma Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP

Bradley T. French Bodman PLC

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW Keith J. Brodie Barnes & Thornburg LLPT

Andrew A. Cascini Henn Lesperance PLC Nikole L. Canute Mika Meyers PLC Dominic T. Clolinger Mika Meyers PLC Scott E. Dwyer Mika Meyers PLC Nathaniel R. Wolf Mika Meyers PLC Grant T. Pecor Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Keith E. Eastland Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Nathan D. Plantinga Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Mary L. Tabin Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Crystal J. Bultje Pinsky Smith PC Erin Dornbos Pinsky Smith PC Sarah Riley Howard Pinsky Smith PC Meaghan Clayton Rhoades McKee PC Luis E. Avila Varnum LLP Ashleigh E. Draft Varnum LLP

Jennifer Stocker Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Richard D. Fries Varnum LLP

Amy J. Zdravecky Barnes & Thornburg LLP

David E. Khorey Varnum LLP

John David Gardiner Bodman PLC Cameron D. Ritsema Bodman PLC Bradley Glazier Cunningham Dalman PC Robert Howard Cunningham Dalman PC Christina K. McDonald Dickinson Wright PLLC Stephen R. Drew Drew, Cooper & Anding Karl W. Butterer Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC

Stephanie R. Setterington Varnum LLP Elizabeth Wells Skaggs Varnum LLP DeAndre’ Harris Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Louis C. “Lou” Rabaut Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Glenn L. Smith Wheeler Upham PC

LAND USE & ZONING John A. Weiss Dickinson Wright PLLC

Top Lawyers Craig R. Noland McGraw Morris Masud PC Bradley A. Fowler Mika Meyers PLC Ross A. Leisman Mika Meyers PLC

Anthony C. Sallah Barnes & Thornburg LLP Daniel J. Hatch Butzel Long Benjamin H. Hammond Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Scott A. Dienes Varnum LLP

Aileen M. Leipprandt Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

LITIGATION - COMMERCIAL

Jeremy N. Orenstein Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

William J. Leeder III Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Mark Smith Rhoades McKee PC

Sophia Vander Kooy Barnes & Thornburg LLP Andrew T. Blum Bodman PLC Rachael W. Roseman Bodman PLC Grant Semonin Bodman PLC

William E. Rohn Varnum LLP Emily S. Rucker Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

LITIGATION - INSURANCE Julian J. Heidenreich Bosch Killman VanderWal PC

John Fitzpatrick Cunningham Dalman PC

LITIGATION - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Michael Stephan Dantuma Holmes & Wiseley PC

Richard A. Gaffin Grand Law Attorneys

C. Christopher Newberg Kuiper Kraemer PC

R. Michael “Mike” Azzi Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

James R. Wierenga LightStone Law

Douglas A. “Doug” Dozeman Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Daniel J. Broxup Mika Meyers PLC

LITIGATION - LABOR EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

Amanda Fielder Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Dean F. Pacific Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Thomas R. Behm Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 trbehm@gmnp.com

LITIGATION - REAL ESTATE David C. Hill Barnes & Thornburg LLP Justin R. Wheeler Bodman PLC Scott W. Kraemer Kuiper Kraemer PC Patrick Drueke Rhoades McKee PC Krista A. Jackson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

MEDIATION Anne Bachle Fifer Anne Bachle Fifer Lee T. Silver Butzel Long

Kevin M. Lesperance Henn Lesperance PLC Mark Fatum Rhoades McKee PC J.R. Poll Rhoades McKee PC Carol D. Carlson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Melissa R. Charbonneau Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Laura A. Johnson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge John C. O’Loughlin Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Stephen L. Grimm Stephen L. Grimm PC

Margaret E. Allen Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW

Frederick D. Dilley Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC

Jill K. Miller Dickinson Wright PLLC

Dale Iverson JustMediation PLC

John T. Schuring Dickinson Wright PLLC

Thomas A. Kuiper Kuiper Kraemer PC

Tracy T. Larsen Honigman LLP

Timothy F. Sheridan Plunkett Cooney PC

Benjamin A. Zainea Mika Meyers PLC

Mark Smith Rhoades McKee PC

Dustin J. Daniels Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Paul A. Wilhelm Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Shon A. Cook Tabono Law

Dustin J. Jackson Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Stephen Hulst Rhoades McKee PC

Timothy J. Ryan Jackson Lewis PC

Robert E.L. Wright The Peace Talks

Robert D. Wolford Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Paul McCarthy Rhoades McKee PC

Katherine Smith Kennedy Pinsky Smith PC

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW

Jake Dunlop Rhoades McKee PC

Kevin J. Cowan Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

H. Rhett Pinsky Pinsky Smith PC

Dominic T. Clolinger Mika Meyers PLC Neil P. Jansen Mika Meyers PLC

Jon M. Bylsma Varnum LLP Michael J. TerBeek Wheeler Upham PC

LITIGATION - CONSTRUCTION Scott R. Murphy Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Keith J. Brodie Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Mark Smith Rhoades McKee PC Joseph J. Vogan Varnum LLP Edward J. “Ed” Bardelli Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Andrea J. Bernard Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Rob J. Buchanan Buchanan Firm William M. Azkoul Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 wmazkoul@gmnp.com

Jon Siebers Rhoades McKee PC Christian K. Leeka Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Jacob A. Droppers Varnum LLP James M. Eardley Varnum LLP Scott J. Hill Varnum LLP Peter G. Roth Varnum LLP

G R A N D R A P I D S M AGA Z I N E • TO P L AW Y E R S

Attorneys Tom Sinas and Brian Lawson

Top Lawyers Kurt G. Yost Varnum LLP

Andrew J. Rodenhouse Rodenhouse Law Group PC

Conor J. Boland Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Mikayla S. Hamilton SBBL Law, PLLC 888-915-8064 mikayla@sbbllaw.com

MUNICIPAL LAW Clifford H. Bloom Bloom Sluggett PC

Heath M. Lynch SBBL Law, PLLC 888-915-8064 heath@sbbllaw.com

Jeffrey Sluggett Bloom Sluggett PC Jessica L. Wood Bloom Sluggett PC Vincent L. Duckworth Cunningham Dalman PC

Tessa K. Muir SBBL Law, PLLC 888-915-8064 tessa@sbbllaw.com

Ronald A. Bultje Dickinson Wright PLLC Mackenzie M. Almassian Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC Craig R. Noland McGraw Morris Masud PC Carly F. Cruickshank Mika Meyers PLC Ronald M. Redick Mika Meyers PLC Kathryn Z. Stegink Mika Meyers PLC Charles L. Bogren Plunkett Cooney PC John M. Huff Varnum LLP

NON WHITE-COLLAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Michael R. Bartish The Bartish Law Firm PLLC Marcus T. Chmiel The Law Office of Marcus T. Chmiel Jeffrey T. Kortes West Michigan Defense Team

Peter VanGelderen Willey & Chamberlain LLP Larry C. Willey Willey & Chamberlain LLP Pavol Fabian Zamzow Fabian PLLC

NONPROFIT/CHARITIES LAW

Jeffery S. Crampton Grand Law Attorneys

Dale R. Rietberg Varnum LLP

Desiree M. Benedict-Notter Kent County Office of the Public Defender

Jeffrey B. “Jeff” Power Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Laura J. Helderop Kent County Office of the Public Defender

PERSONAL INJURY

Zachary J. Houghton Kent County Office of the Public Defender

Justin Maxim CBH Attorneys & Counselors Adam C. Sturdivant Drew, Cooper & Anding

Julia A. Kelly Kent County Office of the Public Defender Paul L. Mitchell Paul L. Mitchell PLLC Rachel L. Frank Rachel Frank Law PLLC

G R A N D R A P I D S M AGA Z I N E • TO P L AW Y E R S

Jennifer M. Anton Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 jmanton@gmnp.com

Tom Sinas Sinas Dramis Law Firm 616-301-3333 tomsinas@sinasdramis.com

E. Thomas McCarthy Jr. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Matthew L. Wikander Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Stephen Grimm Stephen L. Grimm PC

Thomas J. Worsfold Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 tjworsfold@gmnp.com Aaron David Wiseley Holmes & Wiseley PC Anne Mabbitt Mabbitt Bhimani Law Thomas Baker Michigan Auto Law 616-333-0606 tbaker@michiganautolaw.com

Stephen Boehringer The Sam Bernstein Law Firm Justin L. Cole The Sam Bernstein Law Firm Thomas P. Murray Jr. The Sam Bernstein Law Firm R. Kevin Thieme Thieme Law Gary A. Maximiuk Wheeler Upham PC

PRODUCT LIABILITY Brandon Hewitt Michigan Auto Law 616-333-0606 bhewitt@michiganautolaw.com

Rick Houghton Michigan Auto Law 616-333-0606 rhoughton@michiganautolaw.com

Jamie J. Vander Kolk Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC Wendy Parr Holtvluwer Holtvluwer Law PC

Benjamin W. Mills Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 bwmills@gmnp.com

Steven R. Simkins West Michigan Defense Team

Nicholas Dondzila Dondzila Law PLLC

Laura M. Joyce Kent County Office of the Public Defender

Melissa B. Heinz Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 616-235-5500 mbheinz@gmnp.com

John M. Roels Wheeler Upham PC

PUBLIC FINANCE LAW Mark E. Nettleton Mika Meyers PLC Jonathan D. Tromp Mika Meyers PLC Mary Kay Shaver Varnum LLP

Laura Skenderas Michigan Auto Law 616-333-0606 lskenderas@michiganautolaw.com

Susan M. Wyngaarden Varnum LLP

REAL ESTATE LAW Jeremy Tiedt Michigan Auto Law 616-333-0606 jrtiedt@michiganautolaw.com

David P. Shafer Shafer Swartz PLC Brian Lawson Sinas Dramis Law Firm 616-301-3333 brianlawson@sinasdramis.com

David C. Hill Barnes & Thornburg LLP David B. Ederer Bodman PLC Matthew R. Smith Bodman PLC Justin R. Wheeler Bodman PLC Randall S. Schipper Cunningham Dalman PC John G. Cameron Jr. Dickinson Wright PLLC

Top Lawyers David R. Durell Dickinson Wright PLLC Leslee M. Lewis Dickinson Wright PLLC Jonathan M. Durell Durellaw PLC Scott H. Hogan Foster Swift Collins & Smith PT James R. Brown Mika Meyers PLC Ryan McNally Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Patrick Drueke Rhoades McKee PC Tim Dudley Rhoades McKee PC Todd Hendricks Rhoades McKee PC Neil Kimball Rhoades McKee PC Dan Parmeter Rhoades McKee PC Christian K. Leeka Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Jonathan W. Anderson Varnum LLP David T. Caldon Varnum LLP Nyal D. Deems Varnum LLP Stacey A. George Varnum LLP Melissa B. Papke Varnum LLP

TAX LAW Erin M. Haney Bodman PLC Paul V. McCord Bodman PLC Wayne D. Roberts Bodman PLC Thomas J. Hillegonds Cunningham Dalman PC Raj A. Malviya Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Mark E. Rizik Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Laura E. Radle Varnum LLP

Laura A. Jeltema Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

David A. Malson Jr. Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Susan “Susie” Gell Meyers Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Jessica Arends Cunningham Dalman PC P. Haans Mulder Cunningham Dalman PC Alexandre M. Zucco Dickinson Wright PLLC Kris N. Johnson Journey Law PLLC. Lindsay M. Cummings Kuiper Kraemer PC Christine L. Senkowski Legacy Estate Planning & Elder Law

William W. “Bill” Hall Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Lauretta K. Murphy Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Katie Hogan Aguilar Rhoades McKee PC Pam Cross Rhoades McKee PC Brianna Keller Rhoades McKee PC Andrea Snyder Rhoades McKee PC

Linsey Gleason Varnum LLP

TRUSTS AND ESTATES

Jack G. Van Slambrouck Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

Timothy L. “Tim” Horner Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Christopher J. Caldwell Varnum LLP

Catherine H. Jacobs Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Melisa M. W. Mysliwiec Barnes & Thornburg LLP

G R A N D R A P I D S M AGA Z I N E • TO P L AW Y E R S

WORKERS COMPENSATION LAW Patrick Duff Duff Law, PLLC 616-900-6003 patrick@dufflawpllc.com

Kristle A. Teague Teeples and Teague Law PLLC

Stephen R. “Steve” Kretschman Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Rob M. Davies Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Mel Moseley Moseley Law PLLC

Nicholas A. Reister Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Daniel W. “Dan” Borst Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Jeffrey M. Black Mika Meyers PLC

SECURITIES LAW

Jay C. Kakaty Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Terry Zabel Rhoades McKee PC

Peter A. Schmidt Varnum LLP

James J. “Jim” Rabaut Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Jenny L. DeGraves Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Laura E. Morris Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Jennifer L. Remondino Warner Norcross + Judd LLP David L.J.M. Skidmore Warner Norcross + Judd LLP W. Michael “Mike” Van Haren Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

WHITE-COLLAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE Jeff J. Davis Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Leonard M. Hickey Hickey Combs PLC Christopher J. Rabideau McCroskey Law Christopher Westgate Ryan, Podein, Postema, & Westgate PC Themis J. Fotieo Themis J. Fotieo PLC

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES Terence J. Ackert Kent County 17th Circuit Court Curt A. Benson Kent County 17th Circuit Court Matthew S. DeLange Kent County 17th Circuit Court Paul J. Denenfeld Kent County 17th Circuit Court Maureen A. Gottlieb Kent County 17th Circuit Court Jennifer L. Johnsen Kent County 17th Circuit Court Deborah L. McNabb Kent County 17th Circuit Court Christina Mims Kent County 17th Circuit Court Scott A. Noto Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Erin K. Lane Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

George J. Quist Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Matthew L. Vicari Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

J. Joseph Rossi Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Matthew G. Borgula SBBL Law, PLLC 888-915-8064 matt@sbbllaw.com

Gary K. Springstead Springstead Maddox Stolte Law PLLC Madelaine C. Lane Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Mark P. Hunting West Michigan Defense Team

Clay M. West Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Top Lawyers

Michigan Auto Law 212 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Suite 105, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-259-4498 | autolaw.com

People Over Everything For more than 50 years, Michigan Auto Law has followed one guiding principle: People Over Everything. When car, truck, or motorcycle accidents shatter individuals’ lives, helping them rebuild is not just the firm’s work; it is Michigan Auto Law’s calling. Proven Results Michigan Auto Law has secured more million-dollar auto accident results than any other firm in the state, as well as the largest

car and truck settlements in Michigan history. While insurance companies often make low offers, Michigan Auto Law does not cave. The firm has delivered $181 million in verdicts compared with just $2.6 million in final offers. Putting People First Results matter, but so do people. The way the firm serves every client reflects its commitment to “People Over Everything.” Michigan Auto Law funds scholarships and safety programs, offers free legal resources

to families, and treats each client with compassion, dignity, and respect. To insurers, a case may be just a file. To Michigan Auto Law, it’s a person with a story that matters. Why Choose Michigan Auto Law? After a serious accident, individuals deserve more than a lawyer; they deserve a team that truly cares. Michigan Auto Law is dedicated to fighting for each client’s recovery, future, and peace of mind. At Michigan Auto Law, people always come first. ■ GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers

Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC – Dale Arndt 2810 E. Beltline Lane NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-257-5151 | lawssa.com For more than 38 years, Dale Arndt has built a distinguished litigation career defined by skilled advocacy, sound judgment, and a practical approach to complex disputes. His practice spans commercial, corporate, contract, insurance, and civil defense litigation in Michigan state and federal courts. Known for his common-sense, down-to-earth style, Arndt combines thorough preparation with direct, effective advocacy, earning the confidence of clients, litigants, and colleagues. He is also frequently selected as a special mediator, applying extensive litigation experience to resolve contested matters. In 2026, his career and contributions to Michigan’s legal profession earned Arndt two significant distinctions: induction into the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame and recognition by Crain’s Grand Rapids Business as a Leader in Law, honors reflecting his long-standing commitment to professional excellence, leadership, and service. ■

Kraayeveld Family Law 990 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-300-2575 | kraayeveld.com For more than 30 years, Kraayeveld Family Law has represented West Michigan families through divorce, child custody, and parenting time disputes. This year, several of the firm’s attorneys were again named to Grand Rapids Magazine’s 2026 Top Lawyers list, a recognition built on decades of exclusively practicing family law. That experience has taught the team what matters most to people in the middle of a hard season: being heard, kept informed, and represented by an attorney who will fight for them. Every client can count on hearing back from their attorney within one business day. It also means having the difficult conversations. Clients need to know what to expect so they can make informed decisions about their case and their future. Every case is prepared with the same thoroughness, whether it settles or heads to trial, all in service of reducing stress and fighting for a better future. ■

Top Lawyers

The Sam Bernstein Law Firm — Thomas P. Murray Jr. 3300 Eagle Run Drive NE, Suite 102, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-608-0338 | callsam.com Thomas P. Murray Jr. represents clients who have been injured in automobile accidents, slip-and-fall accidents, and dog-bite attacks. Since 1990, Tom has tried nearly 100 jury trials, both civil and criminal, throughout Michigan. He has litigated in more than half of the state’s 83 counties and successfully argued to the Michigan Court of Appeals dozens of times. Tom also serves as a mediator, arbitrator, and case evaluator throughout West Michigan. Tom is a commissioner on the State Bar Board of Commissioners and a Michigan State Bar Foundation Fellow. Super Lawyers and Grand Rapids Magazine have recognized Tom as a top lawyer multiple times. This year, Crain’s Grand Rapids Business recognized Tom as a Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting, and Law. He was accepted into the American Board of Trial Attorneys in 2022 and inducted into the Michigan Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame in 2025. ■

Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC – Matthew T. Tompkins 2810 E. Beltline Lane NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-257-5158 | lawssa.com Matthew T. Tompkins understands that the best litigators know when to fight — and how to do it with purpose, perspective, and professionalism. At Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC, he has built his civil litigation practice around that philosophy, representing clients across Michigan from the earliest stages of a dispute through trial and appeal. Tompkins combines preparation and judgment with determined advocacy, believing that advancing a client’s interests and respecting the legal process go hand in hand. Licensed in Michigan state and federal courts, he is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, Grand Rapids Bar Association, and National Institute for Trial Advocacy. At every stage, Tompkins remains focused on thoughtful strategy, principled advocacy, and meaningful results while building the trust essential to enduring client relationships. ■

Top Lawyers

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2027

Keep your business goals on target in the new year.

From entity formation to contract negotiations, transactions to corporate governance, Foster Swift’s business attorneys serve the full range of clients’ business and commercial needs. For the latest on legal updates, please visit our website.

616.726.2200 FOSTERSWIFT.COM

2900 Charlevoix Dr. SE, Ste. 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-975-5500 | gardner-linn.com

ardner Linn is an award-winning law firm specializing in the protection, enforcement, and defense of intellectual property including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, as well as unfair competition and related agreements. From their Grand Rapids office, they represent clients locally, throughout the U.S., and internationally. Clients range from large, multinational corporations to sole proprietorships. Gardner Linn maintains the highest standards of professionalism, while retaining Midwest values and prioritizing communication and client relationships. ■

From Left to Right: Jeffrey A. Lehman, Matthew D. Kendall, Matthew L. Goska, Terence J. Linn, Catherine S. Collins, Karl T. Ondersma, Emily S. Fluent

GRAND RAPIDS LANSING DETROIT SOUTHFIELD HOLLAND

Celebrating Excellence.

We applaud this year’s Top Lawyers for their

outstanding achievement. At Mika Meyers, we serve our clients with integrity, insight, and accessibility . Our approach is grounded in professionalism

and driven by a genuine dedication to the people and businesses we represent.

Top Lawyers

Core Mediation Services LLC 180 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 405, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. | 616-855-2145 | coremediationservices.com Christopher and Amanda Wirth are award-winning family law attorneys with Core Legal PLC and serve as principals in the mediation firm Core Mediation Services LLC. As certified domestic relations mediators, they successfully mediate family and civil litigation. At Core Mediation Services, the Wirths understand participants’ priorities for successful mediation, considering the perspectives of participating and referring attorneys. These priorities include streamlined booking and client onboarding, flexibility of remote or in-person participation statewide, comprehensive settlement recordings, and settlement transcripts for ease of drafting stipulated orders and consent judgments. Blending their strengths, the Wirths mediate together in cases where participants believe having a male-female team will assist in resolution. Whether they work together or individually, they help all participants objectively resolve disputes and bring solutions-oriented, valuedriven, collaborative outcomes. ■

Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC 99 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 800, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-235-5500 | gmnp.com Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman PLLC has provided elite personal advocacy for over 40 years. The firm guides individuals through medical malpractice, personal injury, and complex litigation with integrity and landmark results. Deeply honored by their team’s recognition in Grand Rapids Magazine’s Top Lawyers edition, the firm remains committed to protecting West Michigan. They offer direct attorney access and a “no win, no fee” contingency structure, ensuring premier legal representation with zero up-front risk to the injured. ■

Top Lawyers

Pinsky Smith PC 146 Monroe Center NW, Suite 418, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-451-8496 | pinskysmith.com Katherine Smith Kennedy, Sarah Howard, Erin Dornbos, and Crystal Bultje of Pinsky Smith PC specialize in employment law, labor law, and civil rights claims. They represent labor unions both big and small; employees who have been wrongfully terminated, discriminated against, and/or retaliated against in the workplace; and people who have been paid illegally. They also review severance agreements for all types of employees, as well as employment contracts for C-suite executives and medical professionals. They have received numerous awards and recognitions, including the following: Who’s Who in American Law, Best Lawyers of America, Lawyers of the Year in both labor law and employment law, Top 100 Michigan Super Lawyers, Top 50 Women Lawyers in Michigan, Respected Advocate Awards, Rising Stars, AV Preeminent — Martindale Hubbell’s top rating, and the 40 Under 40 Award from Crain’s Grand Rapids Business. ■

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

Bubbly Spirts

CHEERS

Page 73

» PLUS: THE BEET GOES ON FL AWLESS FRUIT DIP CL ASSIC COMFORT FOOD

The Nora Walker cocktail and a burrata plate at Pursuit of Happiness Co.

P H OTO G R A P H BY T E R I G E N OV E S E GR M AG .CO M

TABLE

The Beet Goes On

Restaurant Built on Firm Ground in Eastown Takes Root in Ada BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY KRISTEN NORMAN

Above, The rigatoni with vodka sauce, sun dried tomato, ricotta and basil is seen at Terra.

The Eastown restaurant that helped put farm-to-table dining on Grand Rapids’ map is taking its seasonal, community-minded approach to a new neighborhood. There are certain restaurants that become part of the personal geography of a city. For me, Terra is one of them. I remember the first time I ordered a craft cocktail there. It was the beet margarita, which, in retrospect, seems like exactly the sort of drink Terra would put in front of me. At the time, though, I was skeptical. A beet margarita? I was looking for the traditional Friday happyhour buzz, not a serving of vegetables in a cocktail glass. But there were beets in it.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

food + drink / table

At left, is the Kale Caesar salad that has became a staple at Terra. Below, is head chef of Terra, Clark Frain, seen cooking in the kitchen.

beloved to disappear. The kale Caesar is one of them. The beet margarita is another. "We've got some core menu items," Sung says. "And some things we put on in the fall that are too popular to take off right now." That balance—constant change without losing the familiar—is a big part of Terra's identity.

So, essentially, I was being healthy. That was my introduction to Terra, the longtime Eastown restaurant that has built a loyal following around food that feels both decidedly of the moment and deeply rooted in West Michigan. Terra has never been about chasing trends so much as paying attention—to the farms, the seasons, the neighborhood and, perhaps most importantly, the people who walk through the door. Years later, when I lived just down the street in East Grand Rapids, the kale Caesar became a staple. It was the kind of restaurant regularity that happens almost without realizing it: You stop thinking of a place as somewhere you go and start thinking of it as somewhere that's simply part of your life. And here's the funny thing about both the beet margarita and the kale Caesar: They're still around. Terra changes roughly 75 percent of its menu throughout the year, according to owner Ken Sung, largely following what local growers and purveyors can actually provide. Yet some things become too

Six seasons, not four Sung and business partner Clark Frain have been thinking about food in terms of seasons for a long time. Terra's predecessor, Trillium Haven, grew out of Trillium Haven CSA, with the original idea that the farm would supply a significant portion of the restaurant's produce. Over time, that sourcing model expanded. Today, Terra works with more than a dozen farms and a network of smaller growers and purveyors, constantly looking for the best available ingredients. The result is a menu that doesn't necessarily change when the calendar says it should. "Strawberries are only on for about four weeks," Sung says. "Asparagus only lasts six weeks." Peaches and tomatoes might have their moment for six weeks. Other ingredients might be available for only a few weeks. So instead of thinking strictly in terms of spring, summer, fall and winter, Terra changes its menu about six times a year— roughly three or four times during the growing season and a couple of times during the colder months. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / table

It's a very Michigan way of cooking. And it requires a certain amount of flexibility. Terra's kitchen is largely scratch-made, right down to its vegetable broth. The staff rotates through different stations, learning the oven, brunch, sauté and other parts of the operation rather than becoming permanently fixed in one role. Sung sees that flexibility as part of the restaurant's culture. "The more you learn, the more valuable you become," he says. That philosophy extends beyond the kitchen. Sung says building a strong employee culture is one of the most important parts of the restaurant group, helping create the consistency that keeps guests coming back. Because for all the talk about seasonality and sourcing, Terra's longevity may ultimately come down to something much simpler: trust. Guests know what kind of experience they're going to have when they walk through the door. A neighborhood restaurant with a surprisingly large orbit Terra has always been a neighborhood restaurant, but its orbit has grown. The Easttown location has benefited from its proximity to everything from longtime neighborhood regulars to downtown workers and concertgoers. Sung says the restaurant has even drawn new customers from Acrisure Amphitheater during major events. And, yes, there are the Dave Matthews fans. It's an unusual combination: the intimate, familiar feel of a neighborhood restaurant with the ability to suddenly find itself entertaining a much larger crowd. 70

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Terra's beetroot margarita.

PHOTO TERRA KRISTEN NORMAN

Above: The interior bar at Terra. Left: Owner Ken Sung and Executive Chef Clark Frain in the dining room.

That may be one reason Terra's approach has endured. It doesn't feel like a steakhouse. It isn't trying to be a destination restaurant built around big-ticket bottles of Napa Cabernet or oversized portions. Its bar program, meanwhile, has become a significant part of the experience, with craft cocktails and a wine list that follow the same general philosophy as the kitchen: thoughtful sourcing, interesting ingredients and a preference for things that tell a story. The beet margarita, naturally, fits right in. The next chapter is in Ada Now Terra is expanding that neighborhood philosophy to Ada. Sung and Frain have been thinking about bringing Terra's food and hospitality to Ada for years. When the opportunity arose to take over the former Jam n Bean space, they decided it was time. The new concept, Terra Kitchen, is designed to bridge several parts of the Terra experience. "It's a hybrid," Sung says. The space has been renovated, including a new floor and a wood-fired oven—an addition that will allow the team to execute a substantial portion of Terra's menu. The plan is for Terra Kitchen to operate in the morning and afternoon, roughly 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with dinner service from about 4 to 8 p.m. It won't be a traditional full-service restaurant. Think more market-meetsneighborhood-kitchen: Terra Bagels' offerings, seasonal dishes inspired by the

Easttown restaurant, beer and wine, takeout and a handful of places to sit and eat. The new location is also a natural extension of what Sung and Frain have already built with Terra Bagels, which celebrates its sixth anniversary in September. Takeout, in particular, has become an increasingly important part of the restaurant business. Rather than treating it as a lesser version of dining in, Terra has embraced the fact that people increasingly want good food on their own terms—at home, at community events or while they're out exploring their neighborhood. And Ada, Sung says, is poised for more of that kind of activity. With the covered bridge, ongoing improvements to the area and a growing emphasis on making the community more walkable, the timing feels right. Terra Kitchen will be positioned to participate in that evolution rather than simply observe it. "We know with a lot of community events around us in Ada, we will be able to play a major part in that," Sung says.

“We know with a lot of community events around us in Ada, we will be able to play a major part in that.” — Ken Sung, owner

Keeping it fresh There's something fitting about Terra moving into a new space without abandoning the philosophy that got it here. The Eastown restaurant has recently undergone its own renovation. Nothing was necessarily broken. It simply felt like time for the restaurant to grow into its surroundings again. That's Terra, really. The food changes. The cocktails change. The dining room gets refreshed. A new location opens. But the underlying idea stays remarkably consistent: Find good ingredients. Know where they came from. Cook them from scratch. Take care of your people. Take care of your guests. Pay attention to the neighborhood. And don't be afraid to put a beet in a margarita. Nearly two decades into the farm-totable conversation that helped shape Grand Rapids' dining culture, Terra isn't standing still. It is, in its own quietly ambitious way, doing what it has always done—growing with the community around it. This time, it's putting down roots in Ada. And if the past is any indication, there will probably be something seasonal in the glass. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / c eate

Margie’s Flawless Fruit Dip Three ingredients. One sweet crowd-pleaser for the party. BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO // FOOD STYLING JASON WHEELER

In the middle of winter, we Michiganders sure know how to make a meal that sticks to our ribs. Pulled pork. Wings. Gooey dips scooped up with corn chips. Not. Fruit. So when my host asked me to bring fruit and dip to a Christmas party, I was a little disappointed.

A three-ingredient creamy dip paired with fresh fruit and pretzels— easy and delicious.

As someone who likes to mess around in the kitchen—and, if I’m being completely honest, enjoys when people fawn over something I’ve made—I was like, OK. I guess. Fruit dip didn’t exactly sound like my moment. But I followed my host’s instructions. Bought the three ingredients, stirred them up, cut up some fruit—no muss, no fuss—made it look presentable and arrived with my fruit plate and whippy dip in hand. And then something unexpected happened: The "healthy" alternative was a hit! The fruit brought a little freshness to the table—and, without anyone really thinking about it, a little extra hydration, too.

Margie’s Flawless Fruit Dip

You’ll need: • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened • ½ cup powdered sugar • 1 cup heavy whipping cream • Apples, pears, grapes, muskmelon, oranges, pineapple, strawberries—or any dippable fruit. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add heavy cream and whip until fluffy. Chill 15 minutes or serve immediately.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

food + drink / chee s

CHEERS

Happiness Achieved! A Neighborhood Lounge with Sparkling Personality and a Bubbly Spirit BY PASHA SHIPP // PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE

Tucked behind Connie’s Cakes in the Kingsley Building is Pursuit of Happiness — a chic cocktail bar with sparkling personality. You can find yummy munchies and a selection of beer and wine on the menu, but cocktails made with their titular brand of bubbles are the main attraction. “So much of the craft movement, which I still love, is really kind of dark and serious,” said Wendy Wassink, owner of Pursuit of Happiness. “A lot of reasons people drink and get together; it's light and celebratory. When I got into the market research, I saw there needed to be an affordable champagne product that tastes really great. That really is the ultimate lightheartedness.” Champagne can be pricey, and Wassink didn’t want to make a product that felt exclusionary. Her goal was to create excellent bubbles that tasted just like champagne without the $80 price tag. “I wanted to make a high-quality product that you can feel really great about serving or showing up to somebody's house with at under $30,” Wassink said. “To be called champagne, it has to be from the Champagne region of France; that is why it's so expensive. It's such a small space of real estate, and then it has to be imported into the country and that adds a lot of costs. I found a company in

Pursuit of Happiness, tucked behind Connie’s Cakes in the Kingsley Building, brings a bright, approachable energy to its cocktail program and atmosphere. At left, Charcuterie Plate, Black Manhattan (right), The Nora Walker (left), Baked Dates, Bourbon Pecans. Inset image at right, owner Wendy Wassink holds a cocktail called Dirty Bubbles, made from the house brand bubbly, olive brine and olives.

New Mexico, and they make Gruet. They are a champagne-making family from France. When I visited Pursuit of Happiness with a group of girlfriends this past summer, I was instantly smitten. It’s furnished with plants and bright, inviting décor that reminds of Southern California. Each design choice was thoughtfully made to create an experience that feels both elevated and approachable. “When I saw this space, I knew it was the right space, just because of the industrial feeling of the brick and the concrete,” Wassink said. “That lack of pretense really appealed to me. Sometimes when people think of champagne or going out, it feels like you need to know a lot or be dressed up. To me, champagne and cocktails are an everyday thing. It was really important to me to make it accessible.” Whatever your background, there’s a place for you at POH. I’ve seen couples on dates, a group of gals celebrating a wedding, and two guys catching up after clocking out. “I wouldn't say we're focused on women, but we certainly are a place that makes women feel comfortable and safe,” Wassink said. “The one thing that I have felt here from day one is the championship of women coming in to support a woman-owned business. We have a great male clientele here too; that's part of being inclusive. You are super welcome here, and you're gonna fit in, and it's a very friendly vibe.” Wondering what to try? I loved their classic French 75, but “86º in In the Shade” has a delightful kick!. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / must-t y

A ribbon-cutting celebration welcomes AndyS to downtown Ludington. The threestory dining and entertainment venue features wood-fired pizzas, hearty entrées, golf simulators and a lively dining room with bigscreen sports. At Suzy’s Rooftop, guests gather around fire tables and enjoy views of downtown and Lake Michigan.

MUST-TRY

Lake Michigan views & sports

AndyS combines dining, entertainment and rooftop vistas 'Up North Close By' STORY AND PHOTOS BY ROB ALWAY

“I also want to offer great dining and entertainment experiences to the people of Mason County and surrounding areas.” — Dr. Andy Riemer, owner and developer of AndyS

Watching a game, trying a golf simulator and settling in above downtown for a Lake Michigan view are all part of the experience at AndyS. The three-story restaurant and entertainment venue at 129 W. Ludington Ave. occupies the former Michael’s Bar & Grill site, which was razed, at Ludington and Rath avenues. Dr. Andy Riemer’s ASR Real Estate LLC developed the approximately $10 million project. Rather than concentrating the activity around one dining room, AndyS gives each floor a different role. Three bars, more than 70 televisions and spaces for performances and private events bring several kinds of nights out into one building. Each level has 24 taps. The main floor includes a stage designed for music, comedy and theater performances, backed by a video wall. Large circular bars and televisions throughout the venue make sports viewing a central feature, alongside the live entertainment. Upstairs, AndyS Country Club offers three golf and sports

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

simulators and private event space. The simulators add an indoor recreation option, while the separate gathering areas accommodate groups planning something beyond a restaurant reservation. Suzy’s Rooftop, on the third level, offers indoor and outdoor seating overlooking downtown and Lake Michigan. Fire tables on the rooftop terrace provide another gathering spot. Visitors have a choice between watching the action on a screen and looking out over the city. Wood-fired pizza is joined by appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, salads, pasta and dinners including steak medallions and pork tenderloin. Las Vegas bartender Eric Hobbie developed the cocktail menu; beer, wine and nonalcoholic drinks round out the beverage offerings. Riemer, a Ludington ophthalmologist, previously rebuilt Stix Bar north of Ludington and purchased Mason County area restaurants Chuck Wagon Pizza and Doc’s on the River. Riemer has described a goal extending beyond any one property. He said he wanted to attract more people to Mason County and help strengthen its economy. “I also want to offer great dining and entertainment experiences to the people of

Expanding the Reimer-Verse Mason County eye doctor Andy Reimer is shaping more than just vision—he’s transforming the lakeshore’s dining landscape. Known for acquiring beloved local landmarks and breathing vibrant new life into them, Reimer’s growing hospitality empire extends far beyond his latest venture, AndyS, on Ludington Avenue. If you're exploring the region, here are five other destinationworthy stops in the "Reimer-verse" Stix, 1963 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington This isn’t your average bowling alley. Reimer completely reimagined this Ludington staple into a state-of-theart entertainment hub, pairing a sleek restaurant and sprawling outdoor beer garden with top-tier lanes and a live event center.

Doc’s on the River, 9121 US-31, Free Soil

Mason County and surrounding areas,” Riemer said. The downtown project’s path to completion included a dispute with the City of Ludington. In August 2025, the city halted construction, alleging columns supporting the second-floor overhang were too close to Rath Avenue and violated the approved site plan. Officials cited snowplow and vehicle-door clearance concerns. The order came just weeks before the restaurant’s anticipated opening. Riemer sued, maintaining the building followed previously approved plans. In March 2026, Judge Eric R. Fox ordered the stop-work order rescinded through a preliminary injunction, finding inconsistencies in the approved plan made simultaneous compliance impossible. The ruling allowed construction to resume; it was not a final resolution of the lawsuit. The city issued a temporary occupancy permit May 28. For visitors, the result is a downtown destination that can accommodate dinner, a private gathering or an evening of entertainment, with a rooftop view to finish the night.

Nestled on the banks of the Lincoln River in Free Soil, this casual American eatery and bar delivers a welcoming, riverfront atmosphere alongside classic comfort food and a fantastic, laid-back drink menu. Funny T-shirts are available for purchase, to boot!

Chase Creek Smokehouse, 7143 S. Depot St., Chase A must-visit destination for barbecue purists. This rustic spot serves up melt-in-your-mouth smoked brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and rich mac and cheese, all perfectly complemented by a stellar lineup of local beers and craft cocktails.

Chuck Wagon Pizza, 971 N. Lakeshore Dr., Ludington A lakeshore favorite since 1984, this community treasure is legendary for its massive, mountain-high layers of toppings. Reimer preserved its nostalgic charm while ensuring it remains the ultimate go-to spot for pizza night.

Fin’s Beach Club7786 US-10, Walhalla Breathe in the fresh air at the former site of the historic Emerson Lake Inn. Transformed into a vibrant beach club, this inland-lake gem offers gorgeous waterfront views, a breezy vacation energy, and great food to match.

GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / on-the-go

Grilled meatlof, mashed potatoes and gravy, and a side of corn is served with a dinner roll and a piece of caramel apple pie at Russ' Restaurant in Cutlerville. ON-THE-GO

Classic Comfort

Homestyle meals and whole pies, served hot or to go. BY JASON ROTH // PHOTOS BY KRISTEN NORMAN

With autumn settling in and cooler weather upon us, it's time to seek out comfort food. One place you'll certainly find it is at that West Michigan restaurant staple, Russ' Restaurants. Russ' have been around over 85 years, beginning with the original location in Holland which opened in 1934, and expanding over the years to 12 locations throughout West Michigan. It had been a bit since I'd visited Russ', so accompanied by my friend Jeff Schaap, aka The Olive Burger Aficionado, we voyaged in to see if it held up to previous visits of yore. Walking in, it immediately felt comfortable, familiar, and naturally, very Dutch. Russ' menu is quite extensive, featuring a large breakfast menu in addition to their burger, sandwich, chicken, and fish lunch and dinner favorites, a rotating soup menu, plus the option of a soup, salad, and potato bar. The rotating dessert menu features an array of homemade cakes and pies, including Hot Fudge Cake, Coconut Cream Pie, Baked Blueberry Pie, and many more. Bake-at-home whole pies are also available for purchase. Today the mission was comfort food. I zeroed in on the “Russ' Knife and Fork Hot Sandwiches” section, and picked the Meatloaf Stacker, consisting of their meatloaf grilled and stacked atop homemade bread, smothered 76

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

with homemade meatloaf sauce, then loaded with mashed potatoes, beef gravy, and topped off with two onion rings. No sides necessary, this is a hearty monster of a meal. I foresee a food coma in my near future! Jeff grilled our waitress on the differences between the Famous Twin Burger and the Olive Burger, which both feature olives in different quantities. She fielded his questions like a champ, and he went with the half-pound Olive Burger r with a side of homemade onion rings. The kitchen didn't skimp on the fresh olives, olive dressing, or onion rings. Neither Jeff nor I went hungry this day, I can tell you. It's always a good time to revisit an old favorite, so don't sleep on Russ' Restaurants. Speaking of sleep, it's time for that food coma I mentioned earlier. Until next time!

Take a Pie Home For the Holidays! Looking for a homemade pie without having to do the homemade-pie work? Russ’ Restaurants has you covered. The restaurant's whole pies are available to take home and serve up for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time a good pie is called for. Check with your local Russ’ for availability and pricing. We found these pies are generally available: • Apple: $16 • Coconut Cream: $18 • Pumpkin: $16 • Rhubarb: $16 • Baked Cherry: $17 What’s more? The majority of Russ' locations offer drive-thru or pick-up service windows (though individual setups can differ) so you can collect your dose of comfort food from the comfort of your car. Let Russ’ do the baking while you take all the credit. You can order online at russrestaurants.com/orderonline.

EAT, DRINK, & BE

Merry

WEST MICHIGAN’S PREMIER FOOD & BEVERAGE CATERER SINCE 1995.

DISTINCTIVECATERING.COM

Holiday Cocktail Guide

Fallen Leaves Chris Grays Jr. Mangiamo, Bar Manager Years bartending: 5 Ingredients:

2 oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon (cinnamon-infused) 0.5 oz house-made orangecello 0.5 oz lemon juice 0.75 oz maple syrup 0.25 oz brown sugar simple 2 dashes orange bitters 1 egg white

Directions:

Velvet Cypress Alastair Watt Buﬀalo Traders Lounge, General Manager / Bar Manager Years bartending: 15 Ingredients:

1.75 oz Marker’s Mark Bourbon 0.25 oz port Bar spoon of nocino 0.25 oz ﬁg/sweet potato gastrique Black walnut bitters

Directions:

Add all ingredients to mixing tin, stir on ice, and strain into rocks with ice. Garnish with a torched rosemary sprig.

PHOTOGRAPHER: STACY FEYER-SALO; BEVERAGE STYLIST: JASON WHEELER

Shake ingredients without ice for 10 seconds, add ice, and shake again vigorously. Strain over large ice cube rocks glass. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon surrounded by cinnamon stick pieces. Ignite the cinnamon pieces and enjoy!

Gold Skies

Finn Perdue Gin Gin’s, Lead Bartender Years bartending: 7 Ingredients:

2.0 oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon 0.75 oz lemon juice 1 oz rosemary honey syrup 1 dash celery bitters

Directions:

PHOTOGRAPHER: STACY FEYER-SALO; BEVERAGE STYLIST: JASON WHEELER

Add ingredients to shaker, shake with ice vigorously for 10 seconds, double strain with a ﬁne mesh strainer into a coupe glass, and add a torched rosemary sprig clipped on the rim.

Fig and Fortune Danielle Whaley Lumber Baron Bar, Mixologist Years bartending: 10 Ingredients:

1.5 oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon 0.5 oz spiced ﬁg simple 0.5 oz lemon juice 0.25 oz nocino 1 dash Angostura bitters 2 drops saline solution 1 egg white

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Dry shake, add ice, and shake again. Double strain into a coupe. Finish with an expressed lemon peel, bitter swirls, and fresh ﬁg.

Holiday Cocktail Guide

Winter ’95

Rob Hanks The Nightwatch Lounge, General Manager Years bartending: 16 Ingredients:

1.5 oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon 0.5 oz cranberry liqueur 0.75 oz lemon juice 0.25 oz Fernet-Branca 2 dashes Angostura bitters 2 oz sparkling wine

Directions:

Joyeux Noël Aubrie Jarema Margaux, Bartender Years bartending: 13 Ingredients:

1.5 oz Maker’s Mark 46 0.5 oz Chambord 0.75 oz pomegranate-thyme shrub 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice 0.25 oz simple syrup 1 egg white

Directions:

Shake ingredients with ice, strain, then “dry” shake ingredients without ice. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with dehydrated raspberry powder on half (use a ﬂat edge down the middle to create a straight barrier) and add a thyme sprig across the top of the powder.

PHOTOGRAPHER: STACY FEYER-SALO; BEVERAGE STYLIST: JASON WHEELER

Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin (except sparkling wine) and shake vigorously. Add sparkling wine to the tin and ﬁne strain into a collins glass with ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Maple Harvest Old Fashioned Nick Frelitz (aka Goose) The Holiday Bar, Lead Bartender Years bartending: 4.5 Ingredients:

2 oz Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Bourbon 0.5 oz maple syrup or demerara simple syrup 4 dashes apple bitters

Directions:

PHOTOGRAPHER: STACY FEYER-SALO; BEVERAGE STYLIST: JASON WHEELER

Combine ingredients into a mixing glass. Stir ingredients until chilled. Strain over a large cube in a short rocks glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and slice of green apple. Finally, light the cinnamon stick with a torch.

Red Rover

Lane Ellens Bowdie’s Chophouse, Bartenter Years bartending: 5 Ingredients:

1.5 oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon 1.5 oz sweet vermouth (we’re using Contratto Rosso) 1 bottle of Underberg Tiny pinch of salt

Directions:

Build it in a rocks glass, top with ice, give it a little stir, then stick the empty Underberg bottle in the drink upside down as a garnish alongside whatever skewered cherry you like best!

dine / estau ants

dine

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

Downtown GR 7 MONKS TAPHOUSE Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $$$

ALLORA Top-notch, chef-led fine dining venue featuring a menu of sustainable, artfully prepared dishes inspired by coastal Italy. Open Tuesday–Saturday. // 201 Monroe Ave NW 855-9463. Reservations recommended, opentable.com. Dinner $$$

ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. //342 State St SE, 4588383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (Sun-Fri), Dinner $-$$

BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

BLACK NAPKIN High quality burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries and homemade sodas. Takeout only, Tuesday-Saturday. // 966 E. Fulton St. Lunch, Dinner $

BOB’S BAR Down home sports bar with 10 HD TV's. 14 Beers on Tap specializing in Chicago cuisine. Open daily. // 725 Michigan St NE. 774-0512. bobsbar.org. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BROOKLYN BODEGA BAGEL & DELI Bringing the bagel shops and delis of the East Coast to the third coast. Whether a bagel, egg and cheese or a hearty turkey sandwich, Brooklyn Bodega has it. Open Monday-Saturday // 10 Jefferson Ave SE, 724-4275 Breakfast, Lunch $

THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$

CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

CHICAGO BEEF JOINT This lively casual restaurant in the Monroe North district boasts “live music all the time” and serves up scrumptious Chicago style beef and sausage sandwiches (served with your choice of hot giardiniera, mild giardiniera, or sweet bell peppers). Menu also includes, hot dogs,chicken sandwiches, tavern pizza, salad, and more. Happy hour specials and a full bar make this a great place for watching

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

sports. Open daily at 11 a.m., closing times vary. // 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 420-7724. cbjgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

DUBLIN HALL Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ All-day breakfast, sandwiches, soups, salads, toasts, croissants, muffins and tarts. On weekends brunch is available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 820 Monroe Ave NW Suite 100, 616-608-4533. fieldandfire.com. Breakfast, Lunch $-$$

FOUNDERS BREWING CO. Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GARDEN DISTRICT New Orleans style restaurant serving southern Cajun and Creole. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Closed Sundays. Full bar. / 55 Monroe Center St NW, 376-4002. gardendistrictgr.com/ Lunch, Dinner $$

GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

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

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

H H H

STILL THE BESTHHH

ARTIFICIAL TREES

TREE DECORATING

GIFTS & DECOR

Shop the area’s best

Style your Christmas tree

Find the perfect gift for

FRESH TREES, WREATHS & GARLAND

selection of pre-lit artificial

with confidence! From

family and friends. Whether

Stop in and discover our

Christmas trees. Our trees

sparkling ornaments to

it be Christmas-themed

amazing selection of fresh

feature quick connect poles

festive silk flowers, foliage,

decor, a special candle, or

wreaths, fresh garland, and

for easy step-up and the

and lights, our 2026

garden gift, Flowerland has

fresh cut trees, perfect for

latest in LED technology

Christmas collection has

so many options.

bringing a touch of nature to

including multifunction

everything you need to

Can’t decide?

your decorating. Shop under

lighting programs controlled

create a holiday look that’s

Give the perfect gift –

cover and remember…

through smartphone apps.

uniquely and stylishly you.

a Flowerland gift card!

smelling is always free!

Comstock Park 616-784-0542 * Kentwood 616-942-5321 * myf lowerland.com

dine / estau ants

GIMME'S PAR & GRILL Lively restaurant and sports lounge featuring golf simulators and a full menu of food and drinks. Happy hour, cocktails, and vegetarian options. / 45 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, 280-4050. gimmespar.com/ Lunch. Dinner. $$.

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

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

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

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 $-$$

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

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

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

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

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

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 $$$

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 $$-$$$

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 $$$

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 $$

LEO'S CONEY ISLAND ON TAP An east side favorite located in Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids serves up classic Coney Island favorites, cocktails and beer on tap. // 122 Oakes St SW Suite 100, 805-3780, leosconeyisland.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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) $$-$$$

LEO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Happy Hour specials Mon– Thurs, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Open Mon-Fri., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sat 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sunday. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

NOODLE PIG Laid-back local ramen shop serving inventive bowls built from the ground up with noodles made fresh in-house daily. The menu balances traditional Japanese flavors with playful fusion twists, alongside small Japanese dishes, gluten-free and vegan options. Bar featu beer, wine, sake, seltzers, and cocktails. Open noon–10 p.m seven days a week. // 601 Bond Ave NW Suite 102, 327-2922, www.noodlepig.com. Dinner $-$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

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 $$$

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

ROAM BY SAN CHEZ The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

SCHOLAR Swanky restaurant serving elevated old school American fare, situated on multiple levels, offering a variety of atmospheres. // 11 Ionia Ave SW, 980--9073. scholargr.com. Drinks, Dinner$$-$$$

SILVA A dinnertainment venue that focuses on reviving crafting dishes that honor and revive traditional

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

H H H

STILL THE BESTHHH

dine / estau ants

recipies. Billiards, bocce, darts & more in a carnival-like atmosphere. // 975 Ottawa NW, 757-4582. silvagr. com. Drinks, Dinner, Games$$-$$$

selection of tots, dogs, burgers, appetizers and more. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 6086050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, 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 $$$

BROAD LEAF WESTSIDE Progressive craft brewery and distillery. Award winning gin. Cocktail slushies. Boozy shakes. Large outdoor beer garden. Incubator kitchen has rotating menu with guest chefs. // 443 Bridge St NW, 254-0105, broadleafbeer.com./Thurs, 4–10 p.m./Fri, 4–11 p.m./Sat, 12 p.m.–11 p.m./Sun, 12 p.m.–9 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SOCIAL MISFITS An interesting concept mashing waffles (sweet or savory,) with other food, accompanied by creative cocktailss. The business also introduces Great Lakes Coffee Roasters to town. // 43 W. Fulton St, 2724984. thesocialmisfits.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

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

STELLA’S LOUNGE Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$

TERRA BAGEL A quaint place to grab a bagel, a schmear and some coffee. The sister restaurant of Terra Bagel and Terra GR in Eastown. Open Daily // 40 Pearl St. NW, terrabagels.com, 616.465.4343 Breakfast, Lunch $

TRUST A chef-driven new American soul restaurant serving a seven to ten course tasting experience shaped by seasonality, emotion, and the belief that food can be both intimate and transformative. // 117 Division Ave S, trustrestaurantgr.com, 616.430.8654 Dinner $$-$$$

TUPELO HONEY This southern kitchen & bar serves southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. // 140 Ottawa Ave NW STE 100, 239-7158, tupelohoneycafe. com. Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch $$

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

West Side BLUE DOG TAVERN Craft brews on tap, full bar, beer garden. Good

BROADWAY BAR & GRILL Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 4540565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

BURGER THEORY Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

BUTCHER’S UNION Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub with a wide menu and festive atmosphere. Craft drinks and a full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$

CONDADO TACOS Stylish Bridge Street Mexican restaurant serving build your own tacos, tequila, margaritas and more. Come as you are! // 449 Bridge St NW, 734-6815, condadotacos.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

DRIP DROP COCKTAIL ROOM Upscale, plush craft cocktail lounge with a NYC ambiance. Light bites. // 445 Bridge St NW Unit 2, dripdropcocktailroom.com. Snacks, Cocktails $$

EL GRANJERO Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 4585595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GIN GIN'S Stylish and inviting, Gin Gin’s offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. The bar's charm provides the perfect ambiance for savoring handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails. // 345 Summer Ave NW, 341-9124, ginginsgr.com. Tue–Thurs, 4–11 p.m./Fri, 4–11:30 p.m. Sat, 3–11:30 p.m./Lunch, Dinner $$–$$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, the menu features appetizers, snacks and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

KÜSTERER BRAUHAUS Munich style Bierhall offering German and American craft beers, sangria, cider, cocktails and German street food. Featuring Bundesliga and International soccer. Live music on Sundays. // 642 Bridge St. NW. 616-451-4255. grbrauhaus.com. Lunch, Dinner $

LONG ROAD DISTILLERS Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$

MAGGIE’S KITCHEN Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $

NONLA BURGER Nonla Burge offers both traditional, 100% beef hamburgers and Vietnamese-inspired cuisine. // 449 Bridge St NW Suite 102, Grand Rapids, nonlaburger.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

RAPID RIVER STILLHOUSE A three‑level restaurant and whiskey bar that features bold, handcrafted spirits and Southern‑inspired smokehouse cuisine with meats smoked on site. The first floor offers whiskey tasting, the second floor hosts live music, and the third‑floor rooftop deck provides

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

H H H

STILL THE BESTHHH

dine / estau ants

city views with occasional performances. It opens at 11 a.m. daily. Closing times vary. //401 Stocking Ave NW, (616) 438-6133, rapidriverstillhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner S$-$$$

SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 4544280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

SHOTS Local neighborhood kitchen and bar serving a full menu, daily lunch specials, an abundance of taps featuring craft and domestic beer options, large patio, and plenty of big screen TV’s all contributw in making this the local favorite for food, drink, sports, and groups to meet. Open daily at 11 a.m. // 4259 Lake Michigan Drive NW, 453-7780, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE SØVENGÅRD West Side farm-to-table restaurant focusing on seasonal and local sourcing with an outdoor biergarten. Special occasion/meeting space available. Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. / Dinner: Wed-Sat, 4-10 p.m. & Sunday, 4-9 p.m. // 1232 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard. com. Dinner $$

TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$

WESTSIDE SOCIAL “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Uptown BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $

CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

DIRTY PLATE BISTRO Clean eating from an ever-changing menu meets bold flavors and good vibess. Full bar. Closed Sunday and Monday. // 961 Fulton St E, 301-4166. dirtyplatebistro.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 $

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 $-$$

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 $$-$$$

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 $-$$

MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carryout available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

GINO'S PIZZA EASTOWN Local family-owned joint for hand-tossed pies, strombolis, and subs, plus Italian comfort dishes like lasagna and appetizers such as wings and breadsticks. Late-night hours with dine-in, takeout, and delivery available. Open Tue–Thu 5 p.m.–1 a.m., Fri–Sat 5 p.m.–2 a.m., Sun 5 p.m.–midnight. // 1556 Wealthy St SE, 458-6522 ginospizzaeastown.com. Dinner $

GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GROVE Fresh, farm-to-table unique takes on American fare in a presentation unlike most experienced before. Multiple-time 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 $$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

QUARANTINO’S Pizzeria featuring creative Detroit-style pies with glutenfree and vegan options, plus beer and wine. Located at 1444 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids. Open daily, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. First come, first served. // 1444 Lake Drive SE, 734-6833. quarantinosgr.com. Dinner $-$$

MANGIAMO A Gilmore Collection restaurant that serves upscale Italian fare in a historic East Hills mansion. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. mangiamogr.com. Dinner $$-$$$

TESTA ROSSA Neighborhood Italian joint serving up crispy crust pizza, pasta, hearty sandwiches, salad, and desserts. Enjoy live music and a lively, family-friendly at-mosphere and the Wolve's Den Bar with a late-night menu. //1017 Wealthy St. SE, 278-3174. terragr.com. Mon-Wed, 11 am – 10 pm; Thurs–Sat, 11 am – midnight. Wolves Den Bar: Thurs–Sat, 4 p.m. to midnight. Lunch, Dinner $$

TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VIVANT BREWERY + SPIRITS European style craft beer and food. Spirits, wine and cider are also available. Locally sourced menu. Housed in a renovated funeral home chapel with a large patio and geer garden. Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Fri.-Sat.), Dinner $$-$$$

THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

H H H

STILL THE BESTHHH

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation 1. Publication Title: Grand Rapids Magazine 2. Publication Number: 997-340 3. Filing Date: 09/24/2026 4. Issue Frequency: Bi-Monthly 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 6 6. Annual Subscription Price: $24.00 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 Contact Person - Geralyn Wilson Telephone - 248-691-1800 x187 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher: Jason Hosko 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696

Editor: Lisa Enos 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 Managing Editor: Lisa Enos 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 10. Owner: John Balardo 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 Stefan Wanczyk 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities. Stefan Wanczyk 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098-2696 12. Tax Status: Not applicable 13. Publication Title: Grand Rapids Magazine 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: September 1, 2025

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution 1) Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 2) In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS® 4) Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mailed Classes Through the USPS c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation d. Nonrequested Distribution (Samples, complimentary, and other free) 1) Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 2) In County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 3) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by other Classes 4) Nonrequested Copies Distributed outside mail (trades shows, etc...) e. Total Nonrequested Distribution (Carriers or other means) f. Total Distribution g. Copies not Distributed h. Total i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

Average No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

15,000

11,587

12,551

112

100

11,698

12,651

2,484 0 0 0 2,484 14,182 818 15,000 82.5%

1,600 0 0 0 1,600 14,251 749 15,000 88.8%

dine / estau ants

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 $$

JYOTI’S KITCHEN Cozy Indian restaurant serving flavorful butter chicken, garlic naan, vegetarian options, and other Indian favorites. Wi-Fi and highchairs. // 2230 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, 805-3959. jyotiskitchengr.com Lunch, Dinner $-$$

OLIVES 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 $-$$

ROSE’S ON REED'S LAKE 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, 4581122. thegilmorecollection.com/roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northeast GR BIRCH LODGE Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

BLUE WATER GRILL Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CAFÉ MAMO An American restaurant inspired by grandma's garden. Classic Midwestern dishes paired with tasty wine in a warm, comfortable setting. Open daily. // 1601 Plainfield Ave. NE, 350-3430. mamohsp.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun) Dinner (Mon-Sat) $-$$

CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

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.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

// 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 $-$$

UJI 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 $-$$

GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and worldinspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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

616 KABOB STOP Eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 2232 Plainfield Ave NE, 286-3035. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $

KITCHEN 67 Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more elevated fare. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LA HUASTECA Authentic Mexican restaurant offering burritos, tacos, enchiladas, flautas and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

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

dine / estau ants

LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen. net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 3123 Leonard St NE, 608-6912 . licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

LUCY’S Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $

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 $$-$$$

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 $$

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 $-$$

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 $-$

THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

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 $$

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 $$-$$$

PRIME CASUAL Classic steakhouse serving prime cuts, sides, and drinks in the heart of Comstock Park. Full bar, open daily, 4–10 p.m. // 53874 W River Dr NE Suite B, 214-7738. primecasualsteakhouse.com. Dinner $$-$$$

TIA JUANA This gem brings the Tijuana taco experience to Knapp's Corner. // 52289 E Beltline Ave NE Suite C, 901-3316. tiatacos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Northwest GR AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$

CHINA CHEF Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $$-$$$

CHINA CITY Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. //

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 $-$$

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

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 $

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

ROASTED SPORTS BAR & GRILL Spacious sports bar with a diverse menu of specializing in ribs and other American fare. Outdoor seating. TV's for sports viewing. Full bar. Open daily. // 34322 Remembrance Rd NW, 381-2000. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$

Southeast GR 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 $$

GR M AG .CO M

dine / estau ants

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

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, 8185522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Dinks and Dingers Social Club American fare full-service restaurant and bar with a twist.Shareable apps, stacked burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads,handhelds, and house specialties. GF options.Outdoor seasonal seating, Eat-In, Take-Out. Open Daily // 5080 Broadmoor Ave SE, 616-3438343. Lunch, Dinner $$ www.dinksanddingers.com

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 $$

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 $-$$

Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. oldgoatgr.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. $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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 $-$$

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 $$

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 $

TACON MADRE Mexican hamburgers, Tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and more with and a variety of proteins (pastor, Barbacoa, birria, tripe, Chicharron, Trompo and more) to choose from. Aguas frescas and other authentic Mexican specialties. // 3501 Division Ave. S. Wyoming, 570-0322, taconmadremi.com. Lunch, Dinner $

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

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 $-$$

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

dine / estau ants

Southwest GR

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area

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 $$$

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 $-$$

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 $-$$

CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOBLE RESTAURANT Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), 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, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection. com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

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

NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$

NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$

OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

SABOR MEXICANO Burritos, tortas, quesadillas, quesabirrias, tamales (pork or chicken) and tacos served the authentic way, menu items for kids and more. // 109 Riverside Drive in Lowell, 987-5027. Lunch, Dinner $

SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$

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

GR M AG .CO M

dine / estau ants

Grandville/Jenison Hudsonville Area ARROWS RESTAURANT Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Open Monday–Saturday, 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave Hudsonville, 896-0033, dinearrows.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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

MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbecue theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$

PIKE 51 BREWING CO./HUDSONVILLE WINERY Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

Rockford Area BOSTWICK LAKE INN Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck. Full bar. Open daily. // 8521 Belding Rd, 874-

290. 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, Rockford. 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 $-$$

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. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-512-9314. thirdnaturebrewing.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,

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

wraps, sandwiches, fresh-pressed juices, signature coffees, lattes and more. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5488 Northland Dr NE, 330-3310; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, 551-0434; 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville, 2885855; 525 84th St SW, Byron Center, 447-1201. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Original Sizzler steaks, BBQ ribs, prime rib, burgers and handhelds, starters, salads, seafood, and other entrées. Full bar. // 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 5345421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800; 6450 100th St SE, Caledonia, 891-6055; 12234 James St, Holland, 393-0028. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIRST WOK Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616 firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 7731895 herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner. $-$$

HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171; 434 Bridge St NW, 855-6907. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

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

dine / estau ants

MR. BURGER Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 6625088; 6880 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 986-1110. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; 5065 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-1615. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

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

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 $-$$

REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups,

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 $

THE TOASTED PICKLE Handcrafted unique sandwiches, soups, salads, cocktails and more. // 820 Michigan St NE, 17 Squires St Square NE. thetoastedpickle.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare, pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 7731687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from family recipes and a wide variety of American fare; burgers, subs, entrées and appetizers. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRMag.com Bringing You the Best of West Michigan View the Best of Grand Rapids list and more great content at GRMag.com $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

GR M AG .CO M

gr gems / estau ants

Rebranded: River North New Mural Marks District’s Evolution

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO COURTESY OF RIVER NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT

Artist Mark Serra stands in front of the new River North mural at Mason Street NW and Ottawa Avenue NW, created to celebrate the rebranding of the Grand Rapids business district formerly known as Monroe North.

There’s a new name on the east side of the Grand River, and a recent mural unveiling marked the occasion. The Grand Rapids business district formerly known as Monroe North is now River North, a name that puts its most obvious neighbor — the Grand River — right where it belongs: front and center. The rebrand was celebrated Sept. 1 with the unveiling of a new community mural at the corner of Mason Street NW and Ottawa Avenue NW. The mural, created by artist Mark Serra, provides a colorful new landmark for an area that has spent the past few decades transforming from an industrial corridor into one of the city’s livelier riverfront districts. And, naturally, it’s already become a popular photo backdrop. The celebration was hosted by the River North Business Association and included remarks from Mark Washington, Mark Serra and River North Business Association President Mark Secchia, along with a ceremonial mural reveal and community activities. The new River North moniker applies to the business district within the Belknap Lookout Neighborhood. The district has changed considerably since Boardwalk Condominiums arrived in the late 1990s, helping bring residential life to an area long

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

associated with warehouses and industry. Since then, housing, restaurants, coffee shops, retail and small businesses have continued to fill in, transforming the area into a lively mix of places to live, work, eat and gather. Public and private investment has also been reshaping the riverfront, with improvements to the riverwalk, 6th Street Park and Canal Street Park, as well as connections toward Belknap Hill. In other words, Monroe North had a pretty good run. River North feels like the next chapter. The district’s new identity is intended to emphasize its connection to the Grand River and its evolution into a destination for commerce, culture, community and, increasingly, hanging out by the water. As for the mural? It may already be making a strong case for itself as one of the city’s best backdrops for a photo.

WOODLAND MALL S H O P * D I N E * C E L E B R AT E

ShopWoodlandMall.com

FIND YOUR

WINTER HERE.

Winter is the perfect time to sneak away for a rejuvenating getaway to Pure Ludington. Whether you are a winter enthusiast looking for outdoor activities that will enliven you like taking on snow-covered trails, or just looking for a recharging getaway to reconnect and enjoy good food and craft beer, there is a place for you here. Don't forget about exciting events like the New Year's Eve Ball Drop in downtown Ludington, or Pure Ludington's Brrrewfest too! Make plans now to embrace all that a Pure Ludington winter has to offer!

PURELUDINGTON.COM