Issuu

PLUS ODD BALLERS

RAZZLE DAZZLE

PICKLE PERFECT

Simple yet sophisticated, this New Nordic gem transforms Michigan harvests into culinary art

2025

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 $5.95

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR PLUS

Holiday Home

DITCH THE TINSEL & TURN TO NATURE

wish you were here.

It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why The Wall Street Journal featured Traverse City as one of “The 10 Best Places to Go in 2025”.

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS begin HERE.

Magical moments around every corner! Include a trip to Frankenmuth on your Christmas list. Capture Christmas Memories

throughout town with the Stop & Snap Challenge. Discover expertly decorated areas that are perfect for a photo-op with the family. Check in at 15 locations around town to earn a special edition Frankenmuth ornament.

Tighten Up Your Skates

for a trip around the Frankenmuth Ice Rink. Located in the heart of downtown at Zehnder Park, the Frankenmuth Ice Rink is open all week long, and lit up for your skating skills through February.

Take A Drive Through Thousands of Twinkling Lights

from the south to the north end, and everywhere in-between. Smile as brightly as the lights while you cruise to see Bavarian architecture, sparkling white lights, and Christmas displays of favorite holiday characters.

Gather Around The Table

with family and friends to savor the holiday flavors of Michigan’s Little Bavaria. Wine, dine, and laugh while feasting on a world famous chicken dinner at Bavarian Inn Restaurant or Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth.

Visit Santa’s Reindeer Friends

at Grandpa Tiny’s Farm. Tour the historic working farm that is seasonally sprinkled with Santa’s reindeer helpers in preparation for the joyful holiday season.

Dance To Your Favorite Christmas Tunes

at Frankenmuth’s Spectacular Musical Tree, set at the Frankenmuth Visitor Center. Standing 44 feet tall, this magical tree illuminates the sky with its sweet Christmas sounds and spectacular light show played throughout the day.

Shop The World’s Largest Christmas Store

to discover the perfect new Christmas tree adornments. At Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, you will experience the art of decoration and adornments for your tree with over 50,000 trims, gifts, and so much more.

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

contents

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2025 VOLUME 62, ISSUE 6 Nick Muschiana — in the gorgeous dining room of The Søvengård.

FEATURES

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR:

TWICE IS NICE. SØVENGÅRD SCORES AGAIN! BY PAT EVANS

HOLIDAY HOME

DITCH THE TINSEL AND GO AU NATUREL BY LISA ENOS

P H OTO G R A P H BY A M A N DA K A M P P I N E N

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

PARADISE IS JUST A SHORT DRIVE AWAY This is Michigan’s favorite new destination. The all-new Wawyé Oasis is a 32,000-square-foot escape unlike anywhere else in the Midwest. In here, the weather is always a perfect 80°. So you can lounge by two pristine pools, grab a drink at the swim-up bar, relax in a private cabana, and enjoy resort ambience any day, all year. The ultimate tropical getaway, no passport required. Discover more at GunLakeCasino.com.

contents • november/december

every issue 8 79

editor's letter dining guide

gr gems

A guide to the area's best eateries.

Go for the gizzards, stay for the fun.

people + places 12

city

Profile

issues

guide

19 20

Holiday Pops, 'Frozen' at the Civic and a Wine, Beer & Food Fest. GR Producers inspire with 'Holy Hustle' & 'Son of a Preacher Man.' A Calvin couple's mission: The Association for a More Just Society. Better Shop Around! Exploring GR's brick & mortar boutiques.

Spotlight

A Piano Man who "plays memories" at area retirement homes.

Voice

Odd Ballers: New book chronicles rise & fall of a West Michigan cult.

look + feel 28

Style

experience

home

Sweater Weather: Cozy up with warm knits and waterproof boots.

Massive new pickleball club serves up much more than sports. The House That Friends Built: Heritage Hill mansion transformed.

food + drink 52

table

create

Southern Comfort: Jazz, oysters & cocktails converge in East GR. Razzle Dazzle: A raspberry Linzer tart that will surely steal the show.

57 cheers

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

The Dungeon is back, and it's made quite the luxe ascension!

must-try

on-the-go

Drink your lunch! Wealthy Street staple serves 12 soups for you! Pickle Perfect: New scrumptious sandwich shop has a drive-through!

PORTRAITS ELLA BAKER PIE LAURA KLYNSTRA/BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP DRINKS TERI GENOVESE

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

For the Exceptional and the Essential

Editorial Managing Editor: Lisa Enos Special Projects Editors: Emily Doran, Olivia Sedlacek Contributors:Ann Byle, Debby Buck DeJonge, Kelsey Dunneback, Pat Evans, Gabriel Rose, Pasha Shipp Design & Production Creative Director: Lindsay Richards Art Director: Kevin Martin Associate Art Director: Steven Prokuda Production Manager: Crystal Nelson Senior Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel Graphic Designer: Joe Salafia Production Assistant: Alessandra Taranta Account Manager: Elizabeth Kowalik Contributors: Isabel Dowell, Lisa Enos, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Teri Genovese, Amanda Kamppinen, Kristen Norman Sales General Inquiries: (616) 459-4545; advertising@hour-media.com Media Advisors: Nick Irwin, Maddy Gill, Jessica Laidlaw Publishing & Sales Coordinator: Logan Neaton Digital Director of Digital Strategy: Travis Fletcher Digital Development Manager: Matthew Cappo Senior Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim Digital Development Specialist: Izak Geisler

Butterﬂy by Copeland A Statement of Outstanding American Craftsmanship

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

Grand Rapids Magazine USPS 997340, (ISSN 1055-5145) Copyright © 2025 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

Local flavor, holiday cheer

The November–December issue of Grand Rapids Magazine always feels like a seasonal pivot — a chance to celebrate the best of fall before winter settles in, and to share stories that highlight the talent, creativity, and culture thriving in our region. One of our biggest honors each year is announcing Restaurant of the Year. For 2025, that distinction goes to The Søvengård, a New Nordic gem where fusion meets flavor, and where the biergarten — lush with herbs and vegetables used in the kitchen — is a showstopper. The restaurant’s chefforward menu, warm hospitality, and Michigan-made ingredients embody the best of what Grand Rapids has to offer. This issue is packed with people doing remarkable things — local entrepreneurs taking their products nationwide, authors exploring themes from grief to cults to pie, and filmmakers bringing inspirational stories to screens far beyond the city limits. You’ll also find our holiday entertainment lineup, a "shop local" gift guide, a profile on a pianist bringing joy to retirement homes, and a look at two Calvin University alums working for justice on a global scale. A personal favorite this time around is our natural holiday decorating feature — a story close to my heart that echoes the central theme of a familar holiday cartoon: "Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas... perhaps... means a little bit more!" No, beauty doesn’t have to come wrapped in plastic or glitter. See page 44 for ideas! Lastly, don’t miss our Food & Drink section: there’s live jazz at Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen, a drive-thru sandwich shop on Michigan Street, and 175 rotating soups at Uncle Cheetah’s to get you through winter. Wherever this season takes you — into the kitchen, onto the pickleball court, or out looking for gizzards in Alto — I hope it’s filled with warmth, joy, and good stories. Happy Holidays! 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 2025

Next issue That's Italian! Wellness: Know Your History A Bona Fide A-Fish-ionado

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Gabriel Rose Grand Rapids Magazine: Gabriel, you’ve been writing for Grand Rapids Magazine for over two years now. What was your favorite assignment so far? Gabriel Rose: My favorite assignment was writing about the Bamboo Lab Podcast host Brian Bosley. Since then, I’ve implemented one of his pieces of advice into my life: Set measurable goals. GR Mag: Where are you from? GR: I was born in London, England, but I grew up in Grand Rapids, and I’ve bounced around a bit. Multiple areas feel like home. GR Mag: What's your favorite aspect of Grand Rapids? GR: My favorite aspects of Grand Rapids are the food, the scenery, and the culture.

GABRIEL ROSE COURTESY PHOTO

and then

... W E C E L E B R A T E T H E H O L I DA Y S

COASTAL ITALIAN, DOWNTOWN GR This holiday season, bring your celebration to Allora. From intimate gatherings to spirited soirées, our coastal Italian dishes and warm hospitality set the scene for unforgettable moments. Treat your guests to handcrafted pastas, fresh seafood, and bright, seasonal flavors—crafted with care for your Grand Rapids table. Book your private holiday event where community, flavor, and atmosphere come together beautifully.

people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

Voices

The Cult Next Door page 20

» PLUS: THE HOLY HUSTLE PIANO MAN JUSTICE WARRIORS

Women from the Israelite House of David commune in Benton Harbor, shown here performing music, were part of a strict religious sect in the early 20th century that promoted vegetarianism, celibacy, and long, uncut hair. The group was widely known for its musical and athletic talent. P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y O F C O M M U N A L S O C I E T I E S C O L L E C T I O N , H A M I LT O N GR M AG .CO M

people + places / city

On stage: Frozen CITY

Grand Rapids Symphony

Above, Santa Claus takes the podium at DeVos Performance Hall during a past performance of Holiday Pops with the Grand Rapids Symphony and Symphony Chorus. This year’s concerts are December 5–7, featuring conductor Bob Bernhardt and special guests Mikaela Bennett, Embellish Handbells, the Symphony Chorus, and the Youth Chorus.

Sleigh what?

Poppin’ off with Grand Rapids Symphony

Oh come, all ye faithful fans of the Grand Rapids Symphony—and deck the halls along the way, because... Hallelujah! Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s headed straight for DeVos Performance Hall for Holiday Pops—the annual tradition that makes even Carol of the Bells sound new. Conductor Bob Bernhardt will lead the merriment, joined by special guests Mikaela Bennett and Embellish Handbells. And hark! Those aren't the Herald Angels you hear singing— it's the Symphony Chorus and Youth Chorus, all taking the stage at a concert that promises more sparkle than the 10,000 lights on Clark Griswold's gaudily clad house. So grab a festive glass of cheer, find your seat, and let the Grand Rapids Symphony give you the gift of music. This lineup is sure to have even the Grinchiest guests humming along and spreading a bit more joy to the world. We wish you a merry Christmas, indeed! Holiday Pops runs December 5–7 at DeVos Performance Hall, with shows on Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at grsymphony.org, by phone at 616.454.9451 ext. 4, or in person at the box office, 300 Ottawa NW, Suite 100. Ticket prices vary; additional fees may apply.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Wine, Beer, Food, Fun

Now in its 20th year, the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival returns Nov. 21–22 to DeVos Place. With more than 1,200 global beverages and gourmet bites from top local chefs, this premier tasting event offers an unforgettable experience for both curious newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs.

Experience the magic of Disney’s "Frozen" live on stage at the Civic Theatre in Grand Rapids from Nov. 14 to Dec. 14, 2025! This dazzling Broadway-style production features all your favorite songs plus new music created just for the stage. Perfect for families and fans of the film, "Frozen" promises unforgettable performances, stunning visuals, and heartwarming moments. Special accessible performances and Stage Door Drinks events enhance the experience. Don’t miss this spectacular winter adventure—tickets on sale now. Visit: grct.org/frozen

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY COURTESY/ TERRY JOHNSTON FROZEN COURTESY OF CIVIC THEATRE FESTIVAL COURTESY

people + places / p ofile

PROFILE

Branching out Local filmmakers bring faith-based stories to BET+ BY PASHA SHIPP

Top: "Son of a Preacher Man" key art. Main: Mykee Selkin as Pastor Marcus Thompson in "Holy Hustle."

On the heels of the September 4th release of “Holy Hustle” on BET+, Grand-Rapids based, and Black woman-owned Branch Out Productions is celebrating the premier of another movie, “Son of Preacher Man,” hitting BET+ this fall. Set against the backdrop of a megachurch empire, “Son of a Preacher Man” explores the tension between faith, love, and material comfort as a young man faces a choice– remain tethered to the privilege and power he’s always known, or risk it all for romance. GR M AG .CO M

“Audiences everywhere are hungry for fresh, diverse voices— that fuels me.” — Lisa King, Co-Founder, Branch Out Productions

“Holy Hustle,” a film made by Grand Rapids based Branch Out Productions aired on BET+ on Sept. 4, 2025.

Stories like this are what Branch Out Productions seeks to tell–tales of the complexities of faith and family, of conflict and community. The production company was founded by Lisa Mathis, Lisa King and Andola Mathis to serve a very specific purpose. “Our team saw a need–and wanted to fill it,” King said. “The origin really started with Lisa, Andola, and me being active in our communities, making sure people with diverse voices had a seat at the table. Branch Out Productions became the natural continuation of that work. It grew into a company because we knew there was a real gap in whose stories were being told, and we wanted to change that–what better way to amplify a message than through storytelling,” she continued. “Too often, diverse voices weren’t being invited into the room. Branch Out was built to ensure that not only are those voices included, but they’re amplified on a global stage. We wanted to show that meaningful, authentic stories don’t just come out of Hollywood–they can spring from right here in West Michigan.” Branch Out Productions is a fitting name for a company whose philosophy is anchored in the belief that growth comes from embracing new ideas while staying true to your origins. “The name, Branch Out, of course, reflects exactly that–the belief that you can grow beyond where you started; try new things, take creative risks while still staying rooted in who you are,” Lisa Mathis said. “I stay rooted in who I am as a Grand Rapidian, and every project we take on has to check those two boxes–does it move people and will it move our business forward.” Producing films that feel like the stories of Grand Rapids comes with risk, especially for nationwide audiences, but that didn’t stop this production company from branching out to build something they believed in. King recalls a moment in their journey when she knew they were on the right track. “For me, the affirmation came from the response we received when we began telling stories that weren’t just ‘regional’ but 14

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

universally relatable,” she said. “The recognition that a story born in Grand Rapids could resonate in Los Angeles– or anywhere–was proof we were onto something bigger than geography.” Yes, their movies are on a national stage, but in many ways, Grand Rapids remains at the heart of what they do. “Holy Hustle” was inspired by the ways the production team sees faith and entrepreneurship woven into the fabric of the city. “Grand Rapids influences everything I do in my life–I was born there; I was raised there,” Lisa Mathis said. “I am a Grand Rapidian, through and through. Growing up in Grand Rapids just kind of always gives me a unique perspective, because I believe Grand Rapids is a city that’s both deeply rooted in faith, as we all know, but also, it’s incredibly entrepreneurial, and that mix of spirituality and hustle really mirrored what we wanted in this film,” she continued. “We really wanted to capture that tension between tradition and ambition and how they both can shape your identity.” Their two latest films are set in church communities, but that’s by no means the extent of the team’s narrative range. They champion films of all genres; from action and adventure flicks to comedies and dramas. “We’ve worked on projects that are funny, heartfelt, faith-driven, action oriented, scandalous and culturally rooted,” King said. “Each project reaffirms that audiences everywhere are hungry for fresh, diverse voices; that fuels me. We’re drawn to stories that reflect resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of truth. If a story has heart, if it has something to say, and if it can resonate across cultures, then it feels like a Branch Out project.” MOVIE ART COURTESY OF BRANCH OUT PRODUCTIONS

people + places / p ofile

From left, director Marvin Towns gathers with Executive Producers Krista Suh, Lisa Mathis, and Matt Allen on the set of "Holy Hustle."

Though Branch Out Productions is led by a powerhouse group of women who shape its vision and voice, they’ve also welcomed collaborators who share their commitment to meaningful storytelling. One of those trusted creatives is Marvin Towns. Towns began his partnership with the production company in 2022 and directed “Holy Hustle.” Now he’s back to reprise his role and bring the vision of “Son of a Preacher Man” to life. “I worked with the Branch Out producing team for their film Block Party that was produced entirely in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2022, and I developed a respect, friendship and admiration for their storytelling ability and as a female-led, independent production company their ability to move their movies from script to screen,” Towns said. “I’m very honored to have directed two films back-toback this past spring in Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario with the BOP team.” While there are offices on the west coast and here in GR, the production company is decidedly homegrown–and it wants to stay that way, even through industry challenges. “We want to keep growing globally while staying rooted in Grand Rapids,” King said. “We want to tell stories that feel universal but PRODUCERS PHOTO COURTESY OF MARVIN TOWNS

remain connected to the values that raised us: family, faith, and hard work. Without tax credits in Michigan, making films here has become almost impossible at the scale and quality we strive for. With dwindling budgets, we simply can’t compete with states–or countries–that offer stronger incentives,” she continued. “Our last two films had to be made in Canada in order to bring the level of production value we’re proud of. That’s frustrating, because the stories are rooted here, the talent is here, and the will is here–but the infrastructure doesn’t currently support sustainable filmmaking in Michigan.” Roadblocks or no, Branch Out Productions has their sights set on big things. There’s one duo they’d love to get involved with on a forthcoming endeavor. “We’d be thrilled to collaborate with Michael B. Jordan and Lupita Nyong’o on an international passion project we’re developing called ‘Dark Seas,’” King said. “Their talent, vision, and global presence would bring extraordinary depth to the story. Honestly, who wouldn’t jump at the chance to work with artists of their caliber?” Watch “Son of a Preacher Man” on BET+ this fall.

“I want people to walk away understanding that true faith and goodness don’t just happen inside four church walls — they happen out in the community, shoulder-toshoulder with our neighbors. 'Son of a Preacher Man' is a reminder that faith is not only about prayers and tithes, it’s about taking action. I hope the film inspires viewers to ask, 'How can I show up for someone today? How can I be part of the solution?' If this story nudges people to get out on the streets, lend a hand, and make their faith tangible, then we’ve done something meaningful.” — Lisa Mathis

GR M AG .CO M

people + places / issues

ISSUES

Seeking justice at home and abroad Calvin alums turned faith into action through nonprofit BY ANN BYLE

Kurt and Jo Ann Van Engen Ver Beek wanted to change the world when they graduated from Calvin University back in 1986. The pair have done so one country at a time, starting in Honduras where they live most of the year. They founded The Association for a More Just Society—ASJ— that has offices in Honduras as well as downtown Grand Rapids. ASJ USA’s mission is clear: “We strive to be brave Christians, dedicated to doing Jo Ann and Kurt Van Engen Ver Beek, founders of the justice in Honduras and inspiring others Association for a More Just Society. around the world to seek justice in their own contexts,” according to the ASJ USA website. Today ASJ USA collaborates with ASJ abroad program for Calvin, bringing Honduras to promote justice and peace students to Honduras for what came to there, shares experiences and lessons be called the Justice Semester. “We were learned with people and organizations teaching the students all the stuff we wished working in other countries, and challenges we had known when moving to Central people of faith to seek justice in their own America,” said Jo Ann Ver Beek, who communities. today works in communications, strategic For the Ver Beeks, doing justice began early. planning, and as a donor liaison for ASJ. “We were interested in helping the poor in “We became more and more convinced that the United States or overseas,” said Kurt Ver in Honduras—where there was an abundance Beek. He and his wife were in Grand Rapids of nonprofits working with orphanages, small over the summer and spoke to businesses, and street people—there Grand Rapids Magazine then. was no one addressing why people They have since returned to were in the streets,” said Kurt Ver their home in Nueva Suyapa, Beek. “Why the poverty? Why a notorious Honduran barrio corruption and violence, and who is run by gangs. working on that?” They volunteered at ASJ-Honduras was birthed in Baxter Community Center, 1998, soon after that first semester Other Way Ministries, abroad program. “Everything we and did internships with do in Honduras is about making World Renew, based in the country a better place so people Byron Center. World Renew don’t have to leave,” said Ver Beek. offered them jobs in Central “The Bible has a huge emphasis on — Kurt Ver Beek America working with local justice and protecting the vulnerable; partners doing work in rural development that’s the way we were taught to live out our and agriculture. They stayed two years, then faith, and we do so by helping strengthen the moved to Honduras to do the same things Honduran government.” with World Renew. ASJ-USA was founded in 2000 to offer The pair also began running a semester financial and prayer support to ASJ-

“If we can do it in Honduras, you can seek justice right here in Grand Rapids.”

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBERE 2025

Honduras, as well educate North Americans on justice-related issues. Three quarters of ASJ funding comes from U.S. churches and individuals, said the Ver Beeks. Executive Director Carol Hernandez is the public face of ASJ-Honduras, a man who meets with government officials and speaks to leaders and the public. He travels with a body guard because of death threats, not uncommon in Honduras. In fact, ASJ’s labor rights program leader Dionisio Diaz Garcia was shot and killed by a professional hitman in December 2006. His killers remain free as of today. Kurt Ver Beek runs the investigation piece of ASJ’s four-point strategy to improve lives in Honduras. These data-driven investigations look into issues such as low school attendance because schools are closed many days a year, lack of adequate textbooks in schools, gang violence, corruption, and more.

How You Can Help •Support ASJ’s work in Honduras through prayer, encouragement, and donations •Contact ASJ-USA for help to figure out how to help your local community •Lobby lawmakers to fix the immigration system in the U.S. •Connect with people who are different that you to push back against the us vs. them narrative •Ask yourself how you can help fix what’s broken in your local schools, policing, government offices. •“Be part of the solution instead of sitting around complaining,” said the Ver Beeks •Visit asj-us.org for more information on the work and mission of ASJ

ASJ-H presents the data via press conferences, sometimes one or two a week, as a second part of its strategy. Communicating their findings and naming names can help bring change, leaders say. The remaining strategies are building alliances with the Catholic church, universities, schools, and businesses, and lobbying the government for change. ASJ also serves as consultants to nonprofits interested in doing similar work. “The things we’ve learned in Honduras can be used here in the United States. The degree of problems is worse in Honduras, but the problems are very similar,” said Ver Beek. There are about a million Hondurans in the United States, said Ver Beek, about half with legal status and half without. Twentysix percent of the Honduran economy comes from the $6 billion in remittances sent back to Honduras from friends and family living in the U.S, he added. MURAL AND HEADSHOTS COURTESY OF ASJ/ALISON WABEKE

The Ver Beeks and ASJ constantly seek justice for the poor and vulnerable through encouraging government transparency and providing support and accountability in education and health care. They do so in Honduras, but also share those experiences with justice-seeking organizations and people around the world. And right here in Grand Rapids. “If we can do it in Honduras, you can seek justice right here in Grand Rapids,” said Kurt Ver Beek.

Two books offer insights into the work of ASJ and the Ver Beeks. •Call for Justice: From Practice to Theory and Back by Kurt Ver Beek and Nicholas Wolterstorff. The pair discuss theology, politics, human nature, and government systems in the work of justice. The book and an accompanying reader’s guide are available on the ASJ website. •Bear Witness: The Pursuit of Justice in a Violent Land by Ross Halperin (Liveright, an imprint of W.W. Norton & Company) is the gripping tale of Kurt Ver Beek and Carlos Hernandez, best friends and fearless advocates who face down gangs, business tycoons, and the Honduran government in the quest for justice.

A vibrant mural created by Esan Sommersell at ASJ’s Grand Rapids office reflects the organization’s mission of seeking justice in Honduras and inspiring communities around the world to do the same. Below is the text on a plaque next to the mural.

IN LOVING MEMORY Dionisio Diaz Garcia was a lawyer who worked for ASJ and was assassinated in 2006 because of his work defending a group of security guards. Dionisio was always passionate about helping people whose lives were most difficult without asking anything in return. After his death, he was referred to in the media as "the lawyer of the poor." Dionisio was a loving father, husband, and friend. He left a meaningful legacy and incomparable example we should all follow. We believe that his desire and enthusiasm to do justice still lives in all of our hearts and in the Association for a More Just Society. Written in 2020 by Dionisio's wife Lourdes Albir (now deceased) and son, Mauricio Diaz GR M AG .CO M

people + places / guide

Devries The Spark at KCAD

Stuck On Michigan

GUIDE

Shinola Watches

Gift Boxes

Better shop around!

Commune

Uniqe gifts are easy to find in brick-and-mortar boutiques. BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

Fox Naturals

STYLE & BEAUTY: Covet- Small batch clothing with trendy, yet fresh pieces. They make you feel like you’re grabbing something others won’t have. Shinola- Detroit-based, premium watches, leather and thoughtful craftsmanship with a shop now right downtown GR. A great go-to for gifts that last. Courage & SoarCharming, size-inclusive clothing & unique mugs,

kitchen and home items. Bonus–they embroider all their clothes in house! FERAL- A mix of new and used outdoor gear for the more adventurous in your life. (Pups welcome!) Fox Naturals- Beautifully curated plant-based skincare and botanical perfume apothecary in Eastown. Made with natural ingredients with aesthetic packaging for the person who deserves more self-care.

You know the drill: it’s mid-December, your inbox is stuffed with “last chance” emails, and your gift list hasn’t magically crossed itself off. But before you panic-click another mass-produced gadget or mug set, take a breath–and shop around. Read on for some lesser-known, local IRL finds to hit before you open another browser tab.

LOCAL ARTISIANS: The Spark at KCAD- Gifts spun out of Kendall College of Art & Design: student work, art objects, interesting designs. Something creative and one-of-a-kind. Stuck On Michigan - All things Michiganmade and themed: hats, candles, custom stickers, cozy crewnecks and more to show your MI pride. (Available at over 160 stores across Michigan! Or

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Covet

stuckonmichigan.com) Arts Marketplace- A downtown GR hub for local women and minority-owned artists, filled with small gifts, books and more. Pottery Lane- For that crafty friend, find local ceramics and pottery at this studio that sells handmade pottery, as well as tools.

shop (need we say more?). Their superknowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect bottle-and-bloom pairing for your loved one. Art of the TableSpecialty kitchen and tableware, gourmet finds. If your person loves hosting or cooking during the holidays, this is your spot.

FOOD: Good Good Good- A natural wine and flower

JEWLERY DeVries Jewelry- Family legacy shop with fine

pieces; more investment, but big impressions for those “wow” gifts. Metal Art StudioThis spot is all about originality. Find custom creations, discover farflung artists’ work, or bring in a beloved piece for a fresh redesign. Dime & Regal- This boutique spotlights women makers, with gems for every budget and age on your list- plus custom designs made right in-house.

FOX NATURAL/SHINOLA/STUCK ON MICHIGAN/THE SPARK/DEVERIES COURTESY COMMUNE TYLEE SHAY COVET ASHLEY WIERENGA

people + places / spotlight

Musician and memory keeper Randy Heidema brings smiles and songs to life during a heartwarming performance at Cascade Trails senior living community—one of the 30 homes he plays each month across Michigan.

SPOTLIGHT

Playing a memory

'She hadn't smiled in 4 years. Then he played one song.' BY GABRIEL ROSE // PHOTOS BY ISABEL DOWELL

When I sat down with Randy Heidema on a quiet afternoon in downtown Holland, I thought I was meeting a musician. But within the first five minutes, it became clear: Heidema isn’t just a musician—he’s a memory keeper, a spark plug, and a one-man joy machine with a guitar in his right hand and a songbook of 500 classics in the other. Heidema’s story starts like many great musicians, performing across the country, from Nashville’s studio scene to cruise ships and piano bars. Heidema eventually made his way back home to Holland, Michigan in 2021. He took a break from music, unsure what came next. But a little over a year ago, he decided to return to his first love: entertaining. Only this time, it wasn’t about making it commercially. “I’ve always connected with the elderly,”

Heidema told me, his voice warm and earnest. “I just get them. Their stories, their humor, their strength.” So, he started booking senior living homes and memory care centers, one by one, building a community in the most musical way possible. Today, he performs at 30 homes each month — six to eight shows a week. His sets are a medley of the Great American Songbook and beloved classics. Think Fly Me to the Moon, My Girl, Blue Suede Shoes, Let It Be, and Ring of Fire. Each song is more than a hit — it’s a time machine. The secret to his success? “You make them part of the experience,” he says. Every show is a sing-along, tailored to each crowd with familiar tunes, inside jokes, and personal touches. He doesn’t just play for the audience — he plays with them. Heidema’s approach is interactive and intimate. He takes requests, learns favorites, and remembers the little details that most would miss. He's even gone as far as inviting willing participants to join him on stage. And he told me a story about a woman at one of the homes he visits regularly who always tears up when he plays Can’t Help Falling in Love. Before he began the song, he paused. “This one’s for you,” he told her with a grin. The woman tapped the man next to her. He helped her up from her wheelchair, and together — slowly, sweetly — they danced for

the entirety of the song. “It's purposeful,” Heidema said, “you really change their week, you see their faces light up and it means a lot”. His performances don’t just uplift spirits — they stir something deeper. In memory care facilities, where attention is fragile and moments can slip away too fast, Heidema works even harder to connect. “It’s a challenge,” he admits. “You can lose them quickly, so you have to grab them fast with something they know — something from their childhood.” At one of his recent memory care performances, a woman approached him afterward with tears in her eyes. “You don’t know what you just did here,” she said. She explained that she’d been visiting her mother at the home for four years — and had never seen such a widespread, joyful reaction from the residents. She pointed across the room. “See that lady in the corner? I’ve never seen her smile. You played, and she was smiling and singing for an hour.” Heidema paused before leaving me. “Everyone has their own unique story, and it's neat when you're playing a song and you can see that song affects the story of their life.” It’s not just about nostalgia. It’s about connection. About belonging. About feeling alive. Whether it’s Sweet Caroline or Moon River, Heidema doesn’t just play the hits — he brings people home. Home to a memory. Home to a feeling. Home to themselves. And as long as he’s got a guitar, a piano, and a room full of hearts ready to sing, Heidema will keep doing what he does best: reminding us all that music, at its best, brings us together. If you want to catch a performance, Heidema also performs at public venues around the region, you may have to wait a bit. He’s recently been booked to play in Japan and is now on his way to Hawaii. For bookings: pianomanrh@gmail.com. GR M AG .CO M

people + places / voice Historian Evelyn Sterne examines how a Benton Harbor commune rose to fame — and infamy — in early 20th-century America in "The House of David: Salvation, Scandal, and Survival in a Modern American Commune."

VOICE

Odd ballers: The cult next door

Author chronicles the rise & fall of a Benton Harbor commune BY GABRIEL ROSE

The Benton Harbor commune known as the Israelite House of David is a fascinating chapter in American religious and cultural history, blending spiritual ambition with public spectacle. Founded in 1903, the community grew out of a religious movement that began in late 18th-century England, with members— mostly Anglo-American or European Christians — identifying spiritually as Israelites. The House of David gained national fame for its accomplished baseball team, amusement park, and touring musical acts. At its peak in 1918, it counted more than 1,000 members—all of whom gave up their assets and personal agency in search of a better way of life. Historian Evelyn Sterne captures the rise and collapse of this unusual community in her book The House of David: Salvation, Scandal, and Survival in a Modern American Commune. Through her research, she explores how the group achieved nationwide fame before spiraling into chaos. Of all their ventures, the House of David’s baseball team is the most enduring symbol. Instantly recognizable by their long hair and unshaven beards (a distinctive feature of the Benton Harbor sect), the team traveled across the country winning a significant majority of their games. They also incorporated comedystyle antics similar to the Harlem Globetrotters (though it is said they preceded them), creating a unique blend of sport and showmanship. Music was another cornerstone of community life. With both an orchestra and a jazz band, the House of David performed shows across the nation, carrying their reputation far beyond Benton Harbor. At home, they built a full-fledged amusement park, Eden Springs, that quickly became a tourist attraction for Chicago families seeking weekend recreation. 20

Yet, for all their public achievements, the community’s legacy is equally tied to scandal. Near the end of his life, founder Benjamin Purnell was placed on trial for fraud and accused of engaging in sexual relations with young women in the commune. The allegations cast a long shadow over the group, reshaping its national image. Today, only three members of the House of David survive—two from the original community and one from an offshoot called Mary’s City of David, formed by Purnell’s wife. Their work now centers on preserving the commune's history. For visitors to Benton Harbor, the remnants of the movement remain visible. Abandoned buildings stand as a ghostly reminder of what once was—a thriving, insular world that blurred the line between utopian dream and cautionary tale. Walking through the grounds, it’s hard not to feel the strange gravity of a place that once drew thousands but now exists as memory and ruin. The Author’s Perspective Behind the retelling of this story is Evelyn Sterne, Professor of History and Director of the Center for the Humanities at the University of Rhode Island. Sterne’s academic work consistently circles back to one central question: Why are people religious? It’s a theme she first explored in her earlier book, Ballots and Bibles: Ethnic Politics and the Catholic Church in Providence. When it comes to the House of David, Sterne argues that the social and economic backdrop of the early 20th century was crucial. With World War I and the Great Depression shaping daily life, individuals were primed to seek refuge in communities

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Author, Evelyn Sterne

“With World War I and the Great Depression shaping daily life, individuals were primed to seek refuge in communities that promised security, belonging, and meaning. Within that context, giving up possessions, becoming a vegetarian, rejecting family ties, and working for free in service of a collective no longer seems unimaginable.”

COVER AND PORTRAIT COURTESY OF COMMUNAL SOCIETIES COLLECTION, HAMILTON COLLEGE

Souvenir postcard depicting the House of David baseball team from Benton Harbor, Michigan in 1931.

that promised security, belonging, and meaning. Within that context, giving up possessions, becoming a vegetarian, rejecting family ties, and working for free in service of a collective no longer seems unimaginable. Inconvenient Truth Remarkably, many members and nearby townspeople spoke well of the House of David, as did Chicago tourists who visited their park. This complicates the narrative, leaving us to consider both the genuine sense of community the group offered and the darker scandals that defined its decline. Today, Sterne continues her research into the pull of extreme theologies in American history, particularly in the multi-denominational BASEBALL POSTCARD RLPM COLLECTION / ALAMY

landscape of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Her work suggests that the House of David is not just a quirky footnote, but part of a larger pattern of religious experiments that rose and fell in response to social upheaval. In the end, the story of the Israelite House of David commune invites us to reflect on how communities form, how they fracture, and why people are willing to trade so much for the promise of something unseen, or, perhaps, something greater. For a deeper dive into this strange Southwest Michigan cult, The House of David: Salvation, Scandal, and Survival in a Modern American Commune is available for purchase at most major booksellers and is published by Oxford University Press.

“The House of David is not just a quirky footnote, but part of a larger pattern of religious experiments that rose and fell in response to social upheaval.”

GR M AG .CO M

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look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

EXPERIENCE

Dinks & Dingers page 29

page 28

» PLUS: SWEATER WEATHER BUBBLES WITH BENEFITS THE HOUSE THAT FRIENDS BUILT

Professional pickleball player Andrea Koop, co-founder of the Beer City Open, joins Andy Anderson at Dinks & Dingers, a new Kentwood pickleball club owned by Andy and Becky Anderson. COURTESY OF DINKS & DINGERS GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / wellness

WELLNESS

Bubbles with benefits

A group of friends enjoy oHy on the Blue Bridge in downtown Grand Rapids.

Smooth, subtle, and science-backed: Meet the Michigan sparkling water that's flipping the script on fizzy drinks. BY LISA ENOS

Forget everything you thought you knew about sparkling water. A new Grand Rapidsbased startup is flipping the script—one smooth sip at a time. Founded by local innovators Trent Hartwig and John Green, oHy (pronounced oh-high) is the Midwest’s latest entry into the booming functional beverage space. But unlike the fizzy, tongue-tingling alternatives you’ll find in most grocery aisles, oHy Sparkling Water takes a gentler approach, harnessing the power of molecular hydrogen and elemental magnesium to deliver a smooth, subtly effervescent experience—without sugar, sweeteners, calories, or additives. "With oHy, you get all the refreshment of sparkling water without the harsh bite,’ says John Green, OHy co-founder. “It's smoother, softer, and easier to drink — something you actually want to sip on all day." And consumers are catching on. After a soft launch in Michigan Meijer stores, oHy quickly gained traction. It’s now available at Erewhon, Fresh Thyme, ShopRite, and Heinen’s, and it’s receiving 26

glowing 4-star (and higher) reviews on Amazon. The brand’s Strawberry Lemon flavor even took home a 2025 Good Housekeeping Best Snack Award for “Best Hydrogen Water.” Science Meets Sippability So what exactly is hydrogen water—and why all the buzz? Hydrogen water is regular purified water that’s been infused with molecular hydrogen gas (H₂) under pressure. Unlike carbon dioxide (CO₂), which gives traditional sparkling water its sharp, acidic texture, hydrogen gas produces a smoother, softer kind of bubble that won’t burn your throat or upset your stomach. "Hydrogen water has been studied for years for its wellness benefits,” says oHy co-founder and CEO Trent Hartwig. “But most formats were out of reach — either too pricey or just not convenient. With oHy, we wanted to change that — bringing the benefits of hydrogen water into a refreshing, clean, and convenient format." Research, while still emerging, suggests

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER.DECEMBER 2025

that hydrogen-rich water may help reduce oxidative stress, support recovery after exercise, and even promote metabolic and cardiovascular health. One randomized, double-blind study cited a reduction in inflammatory markers and improved antioxidant capacity in participants who drank hydrogen water daily. Other trials have hinted at benefits for people with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and even liver conditions. Add elemental magnesium—a mineral linked to mental clarity, muscle recovery, and mood balance—and you’ve got a beverage that bridges the gap between hydration and wellness in a new, thoughtful way. Flavored by Nature True to their health-first mission, oHy’s lineup features a curated collection of organic flavors: Strawberry Lemon: award-winning and lively. Cherry Lime: a nostalgic twist. Lemon Lime: bright and classic (the author’s favorite). BLUE BRIDGE COURTESY OF OHY

“With oHy, you get all the refreshment of sparkling water without the harsh bite.”

feeling energized or less bloated—though whether that’s the hydrogen, magnesium, or placebo effect is still up for debate. This writer’s verdict? Delightful. And if it happens to be delivering antioxidant support with every sip, all the better. So, as the holiday season winds down and New Year’s resolutions ramp up, oHy might be the fizzy reset your body (and taste buds) didn’t know they needed. oHy Sparkling Hydrogen Water is available at Meijer, Erewhon, Fresh Thyme, ShopRite, and Heinen’s. Learn more or order online at drinkohy.com

– John Green

From left, John Green and Trent Hartwig, Co-Founders of oHy.

The H₂ Factor

What makes hydrogen water special? Smooth Bubbles: No acidic burn—just a silky fizz. Antioxidant Action: H² may help reduce oxidative stress. Magnesium Boost: Supports calm, clarity, and recovery. Zero Sugar, Zero Guilt: No calories or additives. Pro Tip: Hydrogen is a tiny molecule that dissipates quickly. Drink it fresh from the can for maximum benefit! Let’s raise a can to better bubbles—and better hydration. The makers of O’Hy just might be onto something.

Raspberry: juicy, tart, and flying off local Meijer shelves, according to the founders of the beverage. Plus, a plain version for the purists. Each flavor is crafted without artificial sweeteners or added sugars, keeping the focus on clean ingredients and functional benefit. The cans themselves are sleek and minimalistic—a nod to the brand’s roots in modern wellness and sustainability. Meet the Founders Behind oHy is a powerhouse pairing of local entrepreneurial talent. Trent Hartwig, oHy’s co-founder and CEO, brings over 15 years of leadership experience in building brands rooted in sustainability and innovation. Known for transforming the local produce space through Revolution Farms, Hartwig is equal parts strategist, conservationist, and hands-on builder (ask him about the business he sold for $1). John Green, also co-founder, is no stranger to the beverage world. As former executive chairman of Founders Brewing Company, he helped scale the craft beer icon into a global name. Green has also served as an investor, board member, and advisor to fast-growing beverage brands like Cirkul and Long Drink, bringing two decades of product innovation and authenticity to the industry. Today, he continues to shape the future of food and drink through his work at Green Family Ventures and Revolution Farms, with a keen eye on emerging trends and product innovation. Together, Hartwig and Green are leveraging their combined expertise in food systems, sustainability, and market disruption to take oHy nationwide. Drink to Your Health While experts caution that more long-term research is needed, hydrogen water is considered safe by the FDA, with no known side effects at typical consumption levels. And for many, the difference is noticeable. In early user reviews across platforms like Reddit and Amazon, fans of oHy describe it as a gentler, more refreshing alternative to carbonated waters like La Croix or Bubly. Some say it leaves them

CO-FOUNDERS COURTESY OF OHY

Oh, Ojai! This serene California town shares more than a name with Michigan’s new wellness water. While Grand Rapids sips on its newest wellness beverage, oHy, the West Coast has long been drinking from its own fountain of well-being—Ojai, California (pronounced the same way: oh-high). Nestled in a sun-drenched valley just 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles, Ojai is a tiny city with an outsized reputation as a wellness mecca. With its Chumash roots, the town’s name means “moon,” an apt moniker for a place known for spiritual reflection and healing energy. Surrounded by the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai enjoys a Mediterranean climate that encourages outdoor living, holistic retreats, and creative expression year-round. Dubbed “Shangri-La” by longtime fans and newcomers alike, Ojai draws wellness seekers from across the globe. Its reputation dates back to the 19th century, when visitors came to soak in the nearby Matilija hot springs, believed to have therapeutic properties. Today, that legacy continues with a bounty of yoga retreats, meditation centers, massage studios, and acupuncture clinics tucked among the orange groves and boutique-lined streets. At the heart of it all is the legendary Ojai Valley Inn—a 220-acre luxury resort and spa that’s been setting the gold standard for holistic hospitality since 1923. Spa Ojai, the Inn’s award-winning wellness center, offers treatments inspired by the local mountains, a serene adult-only pool, and fitness classes that blend movement with mindfulness. Culinary experiences like Farmhouse at Ojai take “farm-to-table” to new heights, using ingredients grown right in the valley. Part of Ojai’s magic lies in its commitment to staying local. The town has banned chain stores, supporting a vibrant community of artists, healers, organic farmers, and small business owners. Cannabis is legal here, too— and thoughtfully integrated into the wellness scene. Whether you’re hiking the Shelf Road Trail, browsing the Sunday Farmers’ Market, or simply breathing in the lavender-scented air, Ojai offers a kind of restorative energy that can’t be bottled. But if it could? It might taste a lot like oHy. If you find yourself in need of a winter recharge, Ojai’s calm, curated energy is just a plane ride away—and it might just be the moonlit retreat your soul is craving. GR M AG .CO M

Local Yarn Shops Near Grand Rapids West Michigan stores offer yarn, patterns, and supplies — many with knowledgeable staff, classes, and a welcoming space for knitters and crocheters. Perfect for sourcing materials for your next sweater project.

look + feel / style As temperatures drop, knitters turn to the craft. Nautical Yarn, at 108 S. Rath Ave. in Ludington, is a regional hub for supplies, community groups and seasonal retreats.

Unwind GR 1059 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids Yarn, supplies, classes, and a modern community space. unwindgrstore.com

STYLE

Sweater weather

Threadbender Yarn Shop 1982 44th St SE, Grandville Longstanding yarn store offering a wide range of yarns and patterns. threadbenderinc.com

When the mercury drops, it's a good time to cozy up and create something new.

The Craft Outlet Store 1450 Buchanan Ave SW, Grand Rapids Affordable yarn and craft supplies — a hidden gem for budget-friendly options.

BY LISA ENOS

There’s a moment each Michigan autumn — quiet and unmistakable — when the air shifts. Maybe it’s the first time you see your breath in the morning. Maybe it’s the sudden need for socks. Whatever the sign, it comes with a familiar instinct: it’s time to reach for a sweater. But what if, instead of reaching for your comfy old standby — the one that’s a little too worn out for date night — you made one instead? For inspiration, I headed north to Ludington, where sweater weather arrives a little earlier. In the heart of downtown sits Nautical Yarn, a shop that has quietly become a fiber sanctuary for knitters and crocheters from across the state. The walls are lined with color — wool, alpaca, and more — and the air holds the soft hush unique to places where minds are at ease. This fall, the shop is especially well-stocked, with yarns in every weight, texture, and hue. Owner Carole Kauffman said she stocked up more than usual this year to get ahead of expected tariffs. Visitors to the shop come for its abundant supplies, and to share tips. Some sign up for workshops — like the upcoming Knitter’s Weekend Nov. 7–9. If that sounds like too much to commit to, just pick up a single skein and start knitting swatches. Remember, knitting a sweater is simply a series of small steps, repeated. The time is right— with these quiet early nights — it's the perfect time to begin! 28

JT Stitchery & Frame Shop 40 E Bridge St NE, Rockford Yarn and needlework shop in a cozy downtown location.

Group Gatherings and Events Nautical Yarn hots groups from places like Grand Haven, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and Big Rapids. Groups that schedule their visits in advance may enjoy a VIP experience that includes a discount on purchases and a complimentary beverage from the neighboring Book Mark Café. For those needing overnight accommodations, the Book Mark Lofts near the shop offers a cozy option. Looking ahead, the shop's Spring 2026 Knit & Crochet Retreat promises good company, lake views, and plenty of yarn-fueled creativity. Sign up for their newsletter at nauticalyarn.com.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Country The Boot That Changed My Winter Needleworks How much would you pay for comfort? And 1961 Baldwin St, what if comfort really means warmth? Let’s be Jenison honest — when your feet are warm, everything Full-service else just feels easier. Whether you're walking needlework shop with the dog, trekking through slushy streets, or just yarn, patterns, and accessories. trying to stay dry and cute, waterproof deck boots are your secret weapon. Henny’s Yarn Shop My pick? The XTRATUF Women’s 6” Ankle 8980 N Rodgers Ct Deck Boot — part fashion, part fortress. These SE, Caledonia aren’t just “rain boots.” They’re winter warriors. Small but locally loved shop offering yarns Fully waterproof, fleece-lined (hello, cozy!), and knitting support. and made with a slip-resistant Chevron outsole, these boots are ready for anything. Bonus: they come in colors and patterns that are actually fun — think two-tone, three-tone, patchwork, even camo. And for those who need extra warmth, the Trolling Edition steps it up: faux shearling lining, duck camo styling, and all the traction of the originals. These boots are lightweight, easy to pull on, and built to last. Price range? $39.99 to $125.00. Advice? Pay more. You won’t regret it. Because let’s face it — cold, wet feet can ruin your day. These boots won’t let that happen.

NAUTICAL YARN SHOP LISA ENOS BOOT COURTESY OF XTRATUF YARN PHOTO AND SWEATERS CONTENT PHOTO ADOBE CREDIT STOCK

look + feel / expe ience

EXPERIENCE

Drinks & Dingers New sports club is a grand slam for West Michigan

BY LISA ENOS

ust off 52nd Street and Broadmoor Avenue in Kentwood—between the bustling 28th Street Corridor and the steady stream of travelers heading to Gerald R. Ford International Airport—a bold, new concept in social entertainment has made its mark. Welcome to Dinks & Dingers: The Eat and Play Social Club. This isn’t just a place to grab a drink after work or break a sweat playing the nation’s fastest-growing sport. It’s a state-of-the-art indoor (and soon, outdoor) facility where anyone—yes, anyone—can come to play, spectate, dine, and unwind. No membership required. No experience necessary. No pressure. Whether you’re swinging a paddle, tossing a wiffle ball, or sipping a Pickletini while catching the action from the sidelines, Dinks & Dingers is as much about community as it is about competition.

Guests enjoy a match on one of six professionalgrade indoor pickleball courts at Dinks & Dingers, where community and friendly competition meet under one roof.

The Man Behind the Movement The visionary behind Dinks & Dingers is Andy Anderson, a Grand Rapids-area GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / expe ience

entrepreneur with what most would consider an unconventional path to club ownership. Trained as a civil engineer at Marquette University, Andy spent more than 15 years in the information and technology space in engineering sales management. Then, he made a rare move—he stepped away from the corporate ladder to become a full-time stay-athome dad to his sons, Tommie and Isaac. During that chapter, Andy didn’t idle. He went back to school, earning a Master of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary in Holland and a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. He served parttime as a school social worker and associate pastor. But just as he prepared to take a position at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, life pivoted again—his wife, Becky Anderson, was diagnosed with cancer. Andy pressed pause, cared for Becky, and began writing what would eventually become the business plan for Dinks & Dingers. Thankfully, Becky is now cancer-free— and Dinks & Dingers is not just an idea, but a thriving social and recreational venue redefining what it means to “eat and play” in greater Grand Rapids. Meet the Other Half of This Power Couple Becky Anderson isn’t just Andy’s partner in marriage—she’s his only business partner in Dinks & Dingers. A nationally recognized financial advisor and principal with Edward Jones, Becky has spent more than two decades helping individuals, families, and business owners reach their financial goals. With accolades from Forbes and an active role in charitable organizations like Gilda’s LaughFest and YoungLife, Becky is a community leader in her own right. Their combined skills—his creativity and community-mindedness, her financial acumen and professionalism—are the foundation behind Dinks & Dingers’ early success.

A player connects at Dinks & Dingers’ fullsize indoor Wiffle Ball field — the only one of its kind in the country.

match—especially during Michigan’s long winters.

The Wiffle Ball concept came next. One night, Andy found his son “I’ve always watching Major League Wiffle Ball on YouTube. Inspired, and drawing loved gathering from his own experience as a travel baseball coach, he saw a second people. gap: adults and kids alike needed a fun, indoor way to play baseballWhether style games year-round. And so the “Dinger” half of the name—and the through vision—was born. Phase I of Dinks and Dingers officially opened in July 2025 with a church, sports, ribbon-cutting that brought out city officials, local athletes, and curious or just good conversation— Grand Rapidians. And it’s easy to see why the excitement is justified. this place is Inside the facility: about people • Six professional-grade indoor pickleball courts — individually fenced, coming with courtside high-top seating for spectators and players. • A full-size, regulation indoor Wiffle Ball field — the only one of its together, rain kind in the entire country. or shine.” — Andy Anderson

What’s in a Name? The name “Dinks & Dingers” says it all—if you know a bit of pickleball and baseball lingo. A dink is a soft, strategic shot in pickleball that just clears the net, while a dinger is a baseball term for a home run. It’s playful, clever, and perfectly reflects the club’s spirit. Andy became obsessed (his words) with pickleball during the pandemic, playing frequently with Becky and their sons. He competed in tournaments like the Beer City Open and noticed a void: while pickleball is wildly social, there was no true “third place” for players to gather, relax, and socialize after a 30

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

• A modern, casual American restaurant and full bar — featuring cleverly named dishes like “Dingers Original Smash” and “Let It Be” BLT, alongside cocktails like the Pickletini, the Dinks Cosmo, and the Grand Slam. • Game lounge — with foosball, ping pong, air hockey, cornhole, and classic board games. • Second-story corporate and event space — seating up to 100 people for meetings, team-building events, parties, and more. • Tech-forward courts — equipped with PlaySight video technology for training, instant replay, and tournament broadcasts. And that’s just the beginning. Phase II will bring four more indoor courts, and Phase III will introduce four covered outdoor courts and a landscaped outdoor social area with seasonal seating and games like shuffleboard and outdoor cornhole. It’s Not Just for Athletes—It’s for Everyone One of the most striking things about Dinks& Dingers is its accessibility. Yes, it’s a dream for the pickleball-obsessed and Wiffle Ball die-hards. But it’s also perfect for: Lunch breaks: Grab a burger, bring a client, and enjoy a non-traditional networking space. Post-work meetups: Meet your spouse for a cocktail and a quick doubles match. DINKS & DINGERS COURTESY PHOTOS

Dinks & Dingers combines creativity, community vision, and business savvy to bring West Michigan’s first “eat and play” social club to life. From casual dining and craft cocktails to wiffleball, cornhole, and more, Dinks & Dingers is redefining recreation as a place for everyone to connect, play, and unwind.

Pickleball Lingo to Know Don’t be caught off guard. Here’s a quick peek at pickleball terms you might overhear: Dink – A soft shot just over the net Dillball – A live ball that’s in play

Weekend family outings: Kids can play; parents can watch or join in. Corporate events: Custom packages offer meeting space, catered food, and fun, lowpressure team sports. Date nights: A little friendly competition followed by dinner and drinks? Yes, please. You don’t need to know how to hold a paddle or swing a bat. Just bring your appetite—for food, fun, or both.

DINKS & DINGERS COURTESY PHOTOS

Kitchen – The no-volley zone near the net Falafel – A weak, under-hit shot ATP – Around the Post shot Erne – A legal volley taken near the sideline outside the court

A Strategic Location With Big Community Vision Located just a mile north of M-6 and a few minutes from the airport, Dinks & Dingers is perfectly positioned for both local guests and out-of-town visitors. The Andersons intentionally chose this spot to complement the growth happening in Kentwood, which has embraced the growing popularity of pickleball, with a planned expansion at Covenant Park and other recreational offerings in the works. Dinks & Dingers aligns perfectly with this momentum, adding a unique and exciting experience to the region’s thriving pickleball scene. “We didn’t just build a sports facility. We built a community space—one that’s fun, flexible, and open to everyone,” says Andy. More Than a Venue — It’s a Lifestyle At its core, it’s built on something simple: connection. “I’ve always loved gathering people,” says Andy. “Whether through church, sports, or just good conversation—this place is about people coming together, rain or shine.” So whether you go to dink, drink, hit a dinger, or just enjoy a killer smash burger and a local craft beer, Dinks & Dingers is more than a place to experience pickleball, it's a place to connect with others and have fun while you exercise — and after! GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / home The 1897 Heritage Hill mansion, originally built by furniture magnate Albert Stickley, underwent extensive restoration led by Ella Baker and her family. Inside, Baker’s first-floor apartment features intricate millwork and a rounded glass window that fills the living space with sunlight. HOME

The house that friends built How an 1897 mansion became a design studio, apartment hub, and chosen family. BY SETH SCHWARTZ

Immersed in real estate and renovations growing up in Grand Rapids, Ella Baker transitioned to Michigan State University's prestigious interior design program. Graduating in the spring of 2020, Baker and her family bought a 8,500 square foot home on a half-acre in Heritage Hill’s northeast side. Built by furniture magnet Albert Stickley in 1897, after World War II it was divided into five units. Painting the exterior, they rebuilt the front porch, did column restoration, replicated trim work in the 10-foot foot high ceilings, refinished the floors on the first floor and updated the plumbing. Removing a layer of plaster over the living room fireplace one evening, they discovered a red marble surround that had been covered for decades. Baker’s living room, which was formerly the dining room when it was a single-family home, is now designed around the marble fireplace. A warm oatmeal color adds depth to the dining room. In the fall of 2022, Baker, her husband, Connor Baker, and several friends from Michigan State moved into five of the units as renters in what’s taken on a version of the sitcom, Friends. Two large one-bedroom apartments are on the third floor, the second floor has two one-bedroom apartments. Each has their own kitchen and living rooms. While a number of new tenants have moved in, the family atmosphere has stayed consistent. “Everyone is friends and we get along well,” said Baker. “It’s a home that’s become a second family. We all respect the design and history.” A few blocks from downtown, the location pairs well. Renovations in the area have spiked over the past decade. “There’s been a huge push for restoring single and multiple family homes here,” she said. Baker and Connor, have a two-bedroom apartment on the first floor. Her well-rounded office is layered with intricate millwork, a mosaic tile fireplace and interesting motifs repeated around the room. A rounded glass window allows ample sunlight and expansive views of Prospect St. Ornate mosaic tile work adorns the fireplace and plaster motifs stretch across the ceiling. “My office is amazing and a very inspiring place,” said Baker. “It’s great to be able to walk to many places.” 32

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

HOME AND PORTRAITS ELLA BAKER

Element Design Studio Since launching Element Design Studio in the fall of 2024, Ella Baker’s reputation has grown rapidly. Known for her passion for historic homes and her meticulous attention to detail, Baker tackles everything from landmark renovations to contemporary new builds. Her design philosophy centers on seamlessly blending timeless architectural character with modern sophistication, creating fresh, livable expressions of luxury. Baker believes great design doesn’t just shape spaces—it transforms the way people experience them.

Ella Baker, founder of Starting Element Design Studio, reimagined the interiors of the home at 60 Prospect Ave NE. Her 2024 renovation uncovers original details while blending historic character with fresh, modern design. GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / expe t

EXPERT

Author explores life after loss in self-help book Guidance for embracing change, healing wounds, and finding light in tough times. BY ANN BYLE

Kate J. Meyer is a spiritual caregiver and grief counselor with a West Michigan hospice, as well as author of “Faith Doesn’t Erase Grief” and her newest book “Navigating the Waves of Grief.” The book, which she calls a “guidebook,” released in September with Grand Rapids-based Lake Drive Books. Meyer, also a licensed professional counselor and ordained minister, talks about how we can understand and navigate grief and begin to truly grieve the loss of loved ones, life changes, job loss, pregnancy loss, loss of dreams, and so many other ways we experience grief. GRM: How would you define grief? KM: If I were to boil down grief to one thing, it’s emotions. If we don’t know how to identify, name, and release emotions, it becomes really hard to move through the common experiences of grief. GRM: What are some of those common experiences? KM: First is emotions—we feel the emotions in our minds and bodies. Second is connection. We feel connected to ourselves, to others, to the person who died or the experience, and to whatever higher power we believe that is bigger than ourselves. Third is identity. Who was I with this person, and who am I now? Who was I with this job, and who am I now? Fourth is through. This doesn’t mean that we are through with grief, but that we have moved through the deep muck of it to the other side. This doesn’t mean we’re better or stopped missing the person, but that we are no longer defined by our grief. GRM: What are some of the things we grieve? KM: The book is primarily written toward human death, but everything in it can easily translate to things such as retirement, moving to a new place, infertility, loss of a pet, and disenfranchised grief, which is grief not usually recognized by society. This can include stillbirth or miscarriage, and LGBTQ+ people who may lose a spouse who isn’t recognized by society as a spouse.

Author and grief counselor Kate J. Meyer’s newest release, “Navigating the Waves of Grief,” is a hands-on guidebook designed to help readers actively work through loss with reflection, creativity, and courage. Published by Grand Rapids–based Lake Drive Books.

“Grief doesn’t end; we simply move through it until it no longer defines us.” —Kate J. Meyer

GRM: How does “Navigating the Waves of Grief” help people work through those emotions and their grief? KM: My first book, “Faith Doesn’t Erase Grief,” was more of a learning and reading experience, more passive in other words. “Navigating” is an active book, with grief toolkits, reflections, and Action Challenges. It encourages using creative outlets such as writing, drawing, or collaging, and there is space to write or draw. The book guides people into the active work of grief. “Navigating the Waves of Grief” is available via online retailers and The Bluestocking Bookshop and Reader’s World in Holland. For more information, visit www. lakedrivebooks.com.

GRM: Is there a right or wrong way to experience grief? KM: As long as what you are doing, thinking, or saying is not harming you or someone else, there is no right or wrong. But it can be wrong if you’re not facing the grief. 34

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

COVER AND PORTRAIT COURTESY OF LAKE DRIVE BOOKS

TRUST E D A DV ISO R S

Warm Up to Winter with

INFO YOU CAN USE As the holiday season comes into view, there are more things to think about than gift giving, gathering, and merrymaking — though those are definitely among the most fun! With winter also comes frosty weather, slick roads, and dicey travel. Safe driving habits can prevent mishaps, but if you do find yourself in a fender bender, do you know what to do? It pays to have a plan. In this section, a Grand Rapids lawyer offers practical tips to keep in mind should your dashing through the snow take an unfortunate turn. This time of year also brings parties and after-work functions, and the restaurants that serve as hosts experience some of their busiest times. How do they pull it off, balancing pleasing food, an inviting atmosphere, customer satisfaction, and their own success? In this section, a local restaurateur shares his secrets!

Q: What should I do if I’m involved in a motor vehicle crash? A: Your first priority after a crash should be your health. If anyone is injured, call 911 or ask the police to request an ambulance. Some injuries don’t show up immediately, so it’s wise to seek medical attention even if you feel fine at first. Next, protect your rights for Michigan no-fault benefits and any potential liability claim against the at-fault driver: • Take photos or videos of the crash scene, damage to all vehicles, and any visible injuries. • Collect the other driver’s insurance details and personal information.

• Contact an experienced auto accident attorney as soon as possible — they can explain your rights and guide you through the legal and insurance processes. Two critical things to avoid: 1. Do not speak with insurance adjusters or investigators or the other driver without consulting legal counsel first.

Sinas Dramis Law Firm Tom Sinas, Partner 435 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-301-3333

2. Do not engage in settlement negotiations on your own. Let your attorney handle all communications and negotiations to protect your interests.

Q: What makes a great restaurant? A: The No. 1 thing is obviously the quality of the food. Nothing else really matters if the food isn’t great. But there are several other critical things a restaurant needs to do well to be successful: • Prompt, friendly, attentive service staff. • A fair trade-off between the price of the meal and the value perceived by the guest. • Location, location, location. • Ownership that’s engaged in the business and respected by the employees. • An ambience that fits the dining experience guests expect for the price point they’re paying. The bottom line is that operating a successful restaurant is a very tricky and delicate balance between many different factors. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s hugely rewarding to see guests enjoying their time away from home and smiling as they leave. Ask any restaurateur and they’ll tell you that’s why they got into this business in the first place. We love to make our guests happy.

Max’s South Seas Hideaway

Mark Sellers, Restaurateur 58 Ionia Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-551-0016 info@maxstiki.com

2025

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR BY

PAT

E VA N S

•

P H OTO G RA P H Y

A M A N DA

The 'New Nordic' gem that star ted

a trend on Bridge Street is back on top (and fur ther west).

Søvengård owner and chef, Rick Muschiana on his second Restaurant of the Year win: “This time feels a little bit different. It’s still incredible and humbling, especially after being reopen just a year. We’re thankful for the recognition, but we don’t work for awards, we’re just focused on doing good work, but it’s still humbling and surprising.”

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

When The Søvengård opened on Bridge Street in 2016—before the neighborhood blossomed into the lively dining destination it is today—owner Rick Muschiana set out to introduce the New Nordic movement to West Michigan, infused with Midwest charm. Since then, the restaurant has relocated to a beautiful purpose-built space further west at 1232 Bridge St. NW, and continues to shape the vibrant local food scene. It worked well, combining the seasonality and sustainability of the Scandinavian minimalist cuisine with the fresh local farm ingredients and an amazing beverage program. While most Midwesterners are not the most adventurous eaters, those that like to see the world of culinary delights were excited to try the food, and often love it. At the time, it peaked in 2020, when it was named Grand Rapids Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year … just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down restaurants across the United

KA MPPI NEN

S Ø V E N G Å R D

Roasted chicken topped with a sprig of rosemary, served with a side of braised cabbage, and finished off with a delicate sauce.

GR M AG .CO M

The restaurant's chef and owner Rick Muschiana is flanked by parents and co-owners Bill and Lynne Parlberg.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

THE SØVENGÅRD OWNERS AMANDA KAMPPINEN

2025

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

SØVENGÅRD SAMPLES Shaved beef smorrebrod Local pastured beef, smoked blue cheese, caramelized onion jam, crème fraiche, argula on toasted levain Mother Earth House cashew cheer, heirloom red bean spread, whipped chili butter, roasted and pickled vegetable, bread and house cracker. Whitefish Sammie Buttermilk brined wild caught fillet, beer batter, toasted sesame rolle, dill aioli, greens, garlic-dill pickles, vinegar powder Varmlandskorv Wood grilled Swedish pork and beef sausage, dill and chive creamed butterball potatoes, grilled scallion, dill oil. Rainbow Trout Sustainably farmed, panseared fillet, pole beans, tomato, cucumber, brioche crumble, Bourdain’s rouille. Michigan craft beef Wood-grilled rotating butcher’s cut, roasted summer vegetables, chermoula, aged sheep’s milk velouté, charred allium powder. Walk in the Woods (a cocktail on the menu since the original location) Aquavit, Montenegro, cassis, lemon, seasonal fruit Bleeding Heart Vodka, beet-infused fernet, cocchi torino, Montenegro Pulp Fiction Gin, casis, dry vermouth, seasonal fruit

Clockwise from top left: Farmer's Cut (charcuterie plate), Chicken Liver Paté, Pork Chop, Roasted Chicken, and Tomato Smorrebrod.

States and ravaged the restaurant industry. While Søvengård did reopen as restrictions eased, one can never know what benefits the restaurant missed in the immediate aftereffects of the 2020 ROTY honor, and it closed up with its big plans to relocate further west down Bridge Street in early 2022. “We were closed for two years, that’s a long time and so we really had to kind of reestablish ourselves and remind the community who we are," said Muschiana. While there were some growing pains, the long journey has brought the inventive restaurant back into the spotlight as the 2025 Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year. “The first time we won was a little bit unexpected, we had been open for four years,

but it was a testament of moving forward. We do things a little out of the norm, and people were a little slow to embrace, so it was great, but then there was the pandemic. I mean, ultimately, it helped our reputation and certainly got our name I front of people that might not have otherwise known it.” Søvengård spent nearly $3 million on the new location, a much larger, gorgeously designed space that allows diners to experience multiple settings, including a giant outdoor biergarten. It is an attractive place to eat a meal, which immediately helps set up the food ahead. In line with the New Nordic movement, which was most famously championed by the Danish restaurant Noma and its GR M AG .CO M

Rick Muschiana gathers herbs from the restaurant's biergarten.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

chef Rene Redzepi, Søvengård changes it menus seasonally to best highlight the local ingredients grown in West Michigan. Søvengård aims to have 90% of its ingredients sourced from within the state. “We’re going to lean further into our concept,” Muschiana told Grand Rapids Magainze in 2024 of the restaurant’s Midwest-meets-New Nordic ethos. “That’s not just a concept, it’s a philosophical lifestyle choice for how we want to c onduct our business and what we think is important.” The menu starts with a “for the table” section, that includes bread, fries, charcuterie plate and a chicken liver pate. There’s little plates, like a whitefish sandwich or a light salad, then the smorrebrod, a Scandinavianstyle open-faced sandwich, that can be topped with anything, from heirloom tomatoes to shave beef with a caramelized onion jam. Then there are the full dinners, like on the

2025

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

PA R K I N G : Free street parking + across the street at Resurrection Fellowship Church, located at 321 W Valley Ave NW, Grand Rapids, everyday except Sundays before 10 a.m.

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late summer menu that included a risotto, a sausage pasta, fried green tomatoes, soulvaki, rainbow trout and a steak. Occasionally, diners will get lost in the menu and perhaps become intimidated by the ingredients put together on the plates. But the plates on not complicated and easy to read once in front of a diner, and really, the beauty of the New Nordic movement is its simplicity and use of ingredients known locally. And there is a lot to be said when dining out, and that’s to trust the kitchen team and what they’re putting on the menu. Søvengård is also quick to make changes to accommodate diners looking for vegan, gluten free and dairy free options. If the Søvengård menu does not appeal at first, there are now plenty of options to choose from to try it out. A first and foremost suggestion, though not ideal in the winter, is to try out its massive biergarten for a beer from the well-curated taplist or a delicious cocktail and something from the first section of the menu. Otherwise, GR M AG .CO M

head over for the “social hour,” which is 4-6 p.m. every Wednesday to Friday, offering $6 ‘tini-spressinis and haus lagers, and $1 off draft beers, $2 off wine and $3 off house cocktails. The social hour also offers $6 fries, $15 poutines, a $5 danish hot dog, and $1 off smorrebrod and sammie.

H OT D O G N I G H T

Perhaps an even more fun time to see what Søvengård is all about is Wednesday’s “Nordic Hot Dog Night,” which runs from 6-9 p.m. It offers three rotating hot dogs, with fries, special sides and features Michigan beers on the menu. On weekends, Søvengård will also feature a “Late Night Street Food” menu which often highlights a different global cuisine’s street and drinks a, like Colombia’s arepas and empanadas with augua fresca or a daiquiri; or a special German night for Oktoberfest. As for the beverages, the bar is extremely well-thought out with beers tapped from around the globe, something Muschiana set out to do when he first opened during a time when Michigan beer was often all bars would highlight. A nice, simple wine list follows cocktail list that features inventive housedeveloped drinks and classics like an old fashioned, negroni or any number of spirtzs. If you like food and trying things that might test your palate without stretching your mind too far with local ingredients, Søvengård is just the Above: Staff are busy at work in The Søvengård place to try it out. While kitchen. the food might look different than what Bottom, left: Hardwood grilled bone-in local some might be used to, pastured pork, forager’s it’s all ingredients we’ve sauce, roasted honeynut grown up on and plated squash, toasted walnut, and topped with fried sage. in a way that is often visually stunning and Far right: Chicken Liver Paté, Bacon fat, pickled palate pleasing. egg, whole grain mustard, fresh seasonal fruit and compote, toasted brioche.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

2025

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR JOINING THE RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR CLUB Søvengård joins Grove and MeXo as winners of the Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year since the program restarted in 2023. Of note, the GR Mag does not consider steakhouses for the award, but will be doing a special steakhouse round-up in 2026. There are many steakhouses in the area, and while they have long been the standard for fine dining, the offerings often don’t push the limits in terms of menus, and while big slabs of meats and heaping of potatoes are something everyone can get behind, they just don’t scream most unique or best dining experience in Grand Rapids. The Søvengård decision was close, but it certainly ranks up there in terms of quality and inventiveness in its food and beverage menu and overall experience as the previous two winners. Winners are put on a twoyear break after winning ROTY. The decision was made by the Grand Rapids Magazine staff, and other restaurants included during the process were Rix, Little Bird, Linear, MDRD, and Gin-Gins. As we head into 2026, the competition is ready to heat up. Grove, the 2022 ROTY winner, is back eligible and will hop to the front of the line as it hasn’t let up its consistent service, cuisine that pushes Grand Rapids forward and creative events that highlight kitchen talent and wine makers from across the globe. Also among the restaurants to watch will be the runners up from this year that were in close competition, among the others considered this year were Mangiamo and Leo’s, both staples of the West Michigan dining scene. Beyond that, Allora opened up and replaced Reserve, the long-time stalwart on Monroe Avenue. Its coastal Italianinspired menu is a welcomed addition to the Grand Rapids market and has impressed in the first several visits from Grand Rapids Magazine diners. GR M AG .CO M

e m o h y a ✴ d i l l e o r H u natu a ✴

WRITEN BY LISA ENOS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY FEYER-SALO PROP STYLING BY ANGELA OCHOA

Affordable décor need not be mass produced or purchased at a box store

was recently given a tip as to how to stop myself from spiraling into negativity. I mean, when I look at the world around us, it’s hard to deny the absolute absurdity that abounds. The tip was to stop the “bad thought” dead in its tracks and say aloud or to myself something that sparks joy. (My joy-word is “abundance.” More on that later.) So, when I read a report that people who celebrate Christmas can expect an increase in prices on Christmas décor this year, thanks to tariffs, instead of decrying our country’s controversial central figure as Satan incarnate, or— if you’re a South Park fan— Satan’s lover, I thought to myself, “good, who needs all that plastic crap, anyway?” Specifically, the Reuters piece read: “Retailers anticipate a reduced supply of fake Christmas trees and other holiday decor as tariffs constrained their orders.” Fewer fake Christmas trees? Say it isn’t so! While I’d normally lament an increase on the price of any consumer goods, is a reduction 44

Here are more than a dozen ways to decorate using natural, eco-friendly items that won’t break the bank. Biodegradable materials and natural knick-knacks are at the heart of this holiday decorating list: Real Christmas trees: Fresh evergreen trees like fir, spruce, or pine, sustainably sourced for a classic, aromatic centerpiece that can be decorated and later recycled or composted.

Popcorn and cranberries: String air-popped popcorn kernels and fresh cranberries into garlands for trees or mantels, creating edible, colorful, and biodegradable decorations with a rustic charm.

Real fir or pine greens from a nursery: Fresh cuttings of fir, pine, or spruce boughs from local nurseries, used for wreaths, swags, or garlands to bring authentic forest scents and greenery indoors.

Beeswax candles: Natural, honey-scented candles made from beeswax, often hand-poured or dipped, providing warm, ecofriendly lighting for mantels or tables without synthetic additives.

Bows made from cotton or hemp: Simple, tied bows from natural fibers like organic cotton ribbon or hemp twine, adding a soft, textured accent to wreaths, gifts, or branches without plastic.

Pinecones: Collect them from nature to create rustic ornaments, wreaths, or table centerpieces; they can be left natural or lightly dusted with eco-friendly glitter like mica powder.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

✴

Star anise, cranberries, nuts, popcorn, raisins, and other dried fruit and plants can be crafted into wholesome and environmentally friendly holiday trimmings.

“WHEN I LOOK AT THE WORLD AROUND US, IT’S HARD TO DENY THE ABSOLUTE ABSURDITY THAT ABOUNDS.” Dried orange or citrus slices: Dehydrate slices of oranges, lemons, or grapefruits to string into garlands, hang as ornaments, or place in bowls for a fragrant, colorful touch. Cinnamon sticks: Bundle them with twine for scented ornaments, stirrers, or additions to wreaths, providing a warm, spicy aroma. Holly branches: Use fresh holly

with its red berries for wreaths, mantel displays, or simple bouquets, adding traditional festive color (ensure berries are non-toxic if pets or kids are around). Mistletoe: Hang fresh bunches for a classic kissing tradition, or incorporate into natural wreaths for subtle greenery. Dried herbs like rosemary or bay leaves: Form them into mini

wreaths, garlands, or posies for doors and tables, offering both decoration and herbal scent. Nuts (e.g., walnuts, acorns, or chestnuts): String them for garlands, fill bowls as centerpieces, or use as tree ornaments for an earthy, textured look. Pomanders (clove-studded oranges): Pierce fresh oranges with cloves in patterns, then let them dry

for long-lasting, aromatic spheres to hang or display. Star anise or cloves: Scatter in bowls, glue to wreaths, or string for ornaments, enhancing decor with their star-shaped beauty and fragrance. Wooden elements: Carve or slice branches into stars, snowflakes, or simple shapes for ornaments, using sustainably sourced wood like birch or driftwood. GR M AG .CO M

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

✴ in plastic trees and tinsel really going to affect anyone—other than the cleaning service that might miss out on a few billable hours spent vacuuming it up? While the decrease in trashy tree trimmings may threaten the job security of an underage child in a third world sweatshop who’s been looking forward all year to meticulously hot-glueing plastic carrots onto the noses of Styrofoam Frosty The Snowmen x 10,000 (I know I’d be crushed), perhaps a “reduced supply”

of bombastic bric-a-brac isn’t such a bad thing. The idea that baubles, bows, bells, beads, berries, birds, and bubble lights— all made from synthetics like polystyrene, acrylic, or resin— won’t be as easy to get or as inexpensive is hardly “a needle scraping across vinyl” to my cynical ears. For the love of all things holy (it is the holy-day season after all), shouldn’t we who campaign for— or at least celebrate — eco-friendly everything be jumping up and down with excitement that there will be far fewer cheap CHRISTmas (shout out to Bronner’s in Frankenmuth) trinkets entering the landfills come January? While deep diving into my own Huguenot ancestry, I found that French Calvinists, if they celebrated it at all, were in favor of a dialed-back version

✴ ✴

“PERHAPS A ‘REDUCED SUPPLY’ OF BOMBASTIC BRIC-A-BRAC ISN’T SUCH A BAD THING.”

This homemade candelabra features pomegranates and pomanders (clovestudded oranges) nestled in a bed of fir and pine branches.

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of the annual tradition, called Noël, focusing on simple worship and family reflection. The Puritans who colonized Massachusetts Bay viewed Christmas as an unbiblical, paganderived holiday associated with immorality and (gasp) Catholic excesses, leading them to ban its observance entirely in 1659 with fines for activities like feasting or taking the day off work. They believed only scripturally mandated holy days should be kept, and even after the ban's repeal in 1681, cultural disdain for yule tide activities persisted in New England for generations. So, what am I getting at, you ask? If we want to truly embrace the spirit of the holiday, let's do it without giving rise to more cheap tchotchkes.

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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Support Local Shops and Farms for Natural Holiday Décor

✴

“IF WE WANT TO TRULY EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAY, LET’S DO IT WITHOUT GIVING RISE TO MORE CHEAP TCHOTCHKES.”

Looking to skip the plastic this holiday season? These locally owned shops and farms in the Grand Rapids area offer everything from real Christmas trees and fresh greenery to bulk spices, beeswax, and handmade gifts. Supporting small businesses not only cuts down on waste — it keeps your holiday spending close to home. Vormittag Tree Farm 9921 Linden Dr NW, Grand Rapids Phone: 616-677-3605 A family-owned U-cut and pre-cut tree farm offering firs, spruces, pines, wreaths, and fresh greens.

Fulton Street Farmers Market 1145 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids Phone: 616-454-4118 Vendors offer fresh herbs, spices, citrus, nuts, greenery, honey, and more, all locally sourced.

Hart Tree Farm Rockford A small, family-run tree farm with a variety of evergreens and a traditional choose-and-cut experience. Call or search locally for current contact details.

Moondrop Herbals Available online and at select local markets A woman-owned business offering handcrafted herbal products, dried herbs, and natural body care.

Bosch’s Country View Nursery Allendale Known locally for its festive atmosphere and fresh-cut trees, wreaths, and greenery. Contact details vary; check locally for current information.

Global Infusion 143 Diamond Ave SE, Grand Rapids Phone: 616-776-9720 A fair-trade, locally owned shop with bulk herbs, spices, teas, and handmade gifts.

Dorothy and Tony’s Gourmet Popcorn 435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids (Inside Downtown Market) Phone: 616-805-5308 Small-batch, in-house flavored popcorn suitable for stringing or snacking. Natural accents like evergreens, pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and citrus turn plain packages into festive works of art.

Popnotch Goods 1157 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids Phone: 616-734-6600 Locally made gourmet popcorn in creative flavors, made fresh on site. Great Lakes Popcorn Co. Lowell 103 E Main St, Lowell Phone: 616-987-3081 Offers popcorn and roasted nuts in small batches using natural ingredients. Zack’s Bees West Michigan Email: zack@zacksbees.com Local beekeeping business offering pure honey and beeswax products including candles and ornaments. Aberdeen Apiary Grand Rapids Urban honey producer with small-batch honey and beeswax, often available at local markets.

Harvest Health Foods Family-owned health food store with four locations carrying organic produce, herbs, spices, bulk nuts, beeswax, and seasonal natural goods. Eastern Avenue Location 1944 Eastern Ave SE, Phone: 616-245-6268 Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Cascade Location 6807 Cascade Rd SE Phone: 616-975-7555 Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Hudsonville Location 4150 32nd Ave, Hudsonville Phone: 616-896-6630 Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Holland Location 12675 Greenly St, Holland Phone: 616-251-1123 Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Editor’s note: Dear readers, if I’ve missed a business you think should be on this list, please email me at lenos@hour-media. com and I’ll add it when I post it online at grmag.com. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year filled with abundance! GR M AG .CO M

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1. Publication Title: Grand Rapids Magazine 2. Publication Number: 997-340 3. Filing Date: 09/30/2025 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

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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

10,956

10,715

149

130

11,105

10,845

2,968 0 0 0 2,968 14,073 927 15,000 78.9%

3,285 0 0 0 3,285 14,130 870 15,000 76.8%

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

CHEERS

The Dungeon Ascends

» PLUS: LOWCOUNTRY COMFORT PICKLE PERFEC T TWELVE SOUPS FOR YOU!

page 57

The Dungeon in Grandville is back with a reimagined menu that includes stuffed mushrooms, fajitas, udon noodles and a variety of upscale cocktails.

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

Pecan Pie Martini, Blackberry Bramble and Sea Scallop & Shrimp Alfredo.

Southern comfort TABLE

Lowcountry cuisine and jazz strike the perfect chord in Gaslight Village BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE

Right in the center of East Grand Rapids—smack in the middle of Gaslight Village’s town square—is a restaurant that might look familiar at first glance. The name, the crab logo... you could be forgiven for thinking it’s part of a Southern chain you’ve seen off a highway exit somewhere between here and Florida. It’s not. Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen is a one-of-a-kind, locally owned spot, opened in 2017 by East Grand Rapidian Brienne Postema and two partners, united by their love of oysters and a mission to bring authentic Lowcountry fare to Michigan. Since then, it’s grown into something that feels both unexpected and right at home. The “Lowcountry,” Postema says, refers to the coastal islands of South Carolina and Georgia. The people of the region lived off what the Atlantic provided — fish and shellfish — along with produce like corn, rice, grapes, green and peaches. All combine nicely to form rich sauces, and comfort food. The restaurant’s oysters, however, are not from the islands or the Gulf. Postema sources oysters from cold waters — New England, the eastern seaboard of Canada, even Oregon and Washington — rotating varieties as freshness allows. Four kinds are offered at all times, and on Mondays they’re paired with a new addition: the John Shae Trio, a jazz group formerly heard downtown at Rockwell Republic before its closure. 52

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

food + drink / table

A handwritten sign at Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen lists the rotating draft and craft beers behind a bar stocked with an extensive wine selection.

A Local’s Return, and a Culinary Mission Brienne Ritzenhein Postema is originally from Rockford and graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in 2000. She admits she hadn’t considered opening a restaurant in her hometown until the right moment. “I was really excited about opening a restaurant somewhere I was so familiar with,” she says. “It is so beautiful, and the people are really kind. They care about the community. Everybody here wants it to feel like a small town.” Her path to ownership was winding. She worked in local restaurants over 25 years — as a manager at Peppino’s in Kentwood, at Ground Round, and at Chili’s. Her first job? Miller’s Ice Cream and Restaurant, an old soda shop where she made fountain lime soda from scratch, a favorite to this day. That early exposure shaped her sensibility. “My mom was a farm‑to‑table person,” she says. “So I learned that way — but how to run the numbers in the kitchen, that comes with experience.” When she and partner Mike Wagner joined with chef‑owner Tom Pugh, the idea of a lowcountry concept began to coalesce. Pugh, who had a culinary degree, contributed many original recipes that built the foundation of the menu. Over time, Postema took over recipe development and continues to drive menu evolution. “I don’t have a culinary degree, but I have a huge background in cooking and pastry,” she says, referring to a bakery she ran out of her home when her kids were small. Pugh made the initial research trips to the Charleston area, visiting many restaurants, and established a common thread among the authentic lowcountry dishes that would make it on the Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen menu. The design of the restaurant

followed: the ceiling beams are 200‑year‑old barn wood, tabletops pressed and handmade in the Carolinas. They wanted guests to feel like they were getting an authentic experience all around; look, feel, taste. And they've achieved it.

The Baked Lobster Roll with Sweet Potato Fries and a Cowboy Margarita.

Sourcing Oysters, Crafting Menus, And Balancing Taste One of the restaurant’s cornerstones is oysters. Postema prefers “cold‑water” oysters, avoiding Gulf oysters, and always carries a Blue Point as the “house oyster” for newcomers. She rotates three East Coast varieties and one from the West Coast (Oregon or Washington). During happy hour and specials like Oysters Rockefeller, she stresses freshness: “I don’t like wasting food … if I bring in fresh product, I don’t bring more than 10 lbs.” Her kitchen operates without a walk‑in freezer — seafood arrives fresh and leaves fresh. To ease newcomers into oysters, Postema highlights char‑grilled versions, which firm up texture and reduce the intimidation factor. Sauces are designed not to mask the oyster flavor but to complement it. Additional oyster styles include raw, fried, baked, and buffalo. Sides and sauces — bacon‑gorgonzola butter, bourbon‑chipotle butter, herb butter — are made in house (all but the French fries). But Carolina Lowcountry’s menu is quite broad for a restaurant that's centered on Lowcountry fare. There are authentic Southern GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / table

staples like shrimp and grits, and gumbo. She says draws from mostly from Lowcountry traditions while adapting other dishes for Michigan palates and of course seasonal availability. Postema avoids farmed fish, favoring wild‑caught varieties, and educates her staff so they can speak knowledgeably with guests. “You want your guest to have choice, but also to understand flavor profiles,” she said. To keep the menu lively, she introduced features and announces updates via social media. Some items, like lobster risotto or pasta fall outside strict tradition but help broaden appeal. Postema stresses that while the heart of the concept is Lowcountry, expansion and experimentation are welcome — as long as the restaurant's core dishes don’t stray from those Lowcountry roots.

Above, left: The John Shea Trio plays Jazz in the front window on a Monday evening.

Jazz, Community, and the Reward of Hospitality Live music on Monday nights came after Rockwell Republic (where the John Shae Trio used to play) closed. “We had talked about doing live music for years,” Postema says. The acoustics in their space are excellent, and the trio brings a new energy to a historically quieter night. She sees it as a way to draw people in early in the week and deepen the dining experience. Postema is deeply connected to the Gaslight Village community. She tends the patio, with its impeccable garden, herself — “the patio is my baby” — and hopes to activate the space for yoga or other neighborhood events. Her team is long‑term and tight-knit, and she works alongside staff in every role. The most rewarding part of her journey? “Watching people enjoy their food, seeing servers earn money, giving young hosts experience — I absolutely adore it. You can’t put a price tag on that.” Her 70‑hour weeks, she says, is offset by the joy of working in the field of hospitality.

“The most rewarding part of my journey? Watching people enjoy their food, seeing servers earn money, giving young hosts experience — I absolutely adore it."

Favorites, Challenges and What’s Next Among her personal favorites: dishes tied to her decades of experience, and seasonal features that excite. The crab cake benedict (which was once on their brunch menu) may make a return, she hints. Feature specials — like lobster risotto, the grouper Reuben, and sausage‑corn chowder— reflect that culinary risk balanced with broad appeal. After eight years, the restaurant continues to evolve. They 54

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

Above, right: oysters on the half shell.

— Brienne Ritzenhein Postema

Delta catfish on a bed of slaw. Also pictured: a Pecan Pie Martini and a Blackberry Bramble cocktail.

introduced lunch service a couple of years ago. Happy hour runs daily (4–6 p.m.) and Saturdays (3–5 p.m.), with half-off house wine by the glass, half-off domestic drafts and eight $5 appetizers. Looking ahead, Postema hopes to keep new ideas flowing — new specials, community events, and perhaps a Sunday patio activation. But she always returns to this guiding principle: “We don’t want to stray from our base or our roots. We want to try new things, too. Most of all, I really just want people to come in and enjoy their meal.”

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4444 Breton Rd SE Kentwood MI 49508 Kentwood MI 49508 616 914-2580 616 914-2580 Serving West Michigan since 2010 Platinum Graber Dealer

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GRMag.com Bringing You the Best of West Michigan View the Best of Grand Rapids list and more great content at GRMag.com

food + drink / c eate

CREATE

Razzle dazzle!

This centuries-old crowd pleaser pairs almond crust with raspberry filling...yum! BY ANN BYLE

Laura Klynstra loves a good pie. She’s made hundreds over the years, bringing them to holiday parties and family gatherings. Now she’s put 100 in her new book The Homemade Pie Cookbook: 100 Pie, Tart, and Galette Recipes for Every Season, which released in September. “There is something special about a pie,” said Klynstra, who grew up in Hudsonville and now lives in Lansing. “I think it’s because of the handmade nature of pie. You’re taking time to make it and your hands are involved.” Klynstra, who is senior art director for Grand Rapids-based Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, took all the photos as well as designed the cover and interior of The Homemade Pie Cookbook. The stunning four-color art makes the Raspberry Linzer Tart look easy, and the Rhubarb Raspberry Pie a masterpiece. Readers will find the occasional savory recipe amidst dozens of mouthwatering pies, tarts, and galettes, divided into sections based on the seasons. Plus advice on making crust, choosing top-notch ingredients, and all manner of pie etiquette. “Making pie is about stepping away from electronics and doing something with my hands,” said Klynstra. “There is something special about making something beautiful and that tastes good.” Klynstra’s best pie advice: the butter must be as cold as possible. Cold butter in tiny pieces makes for a flaky crust. Also, use American butter, which stays hard longer than European butter. Her favorites: Lemon Meringue Tart; Strawberries and Cream Tart, inhaled by her family; Toffee Crumb Pie, which she always makes for Thanksgiving. Here, we've chosen a favorite of our own: Raspberry Linzer Tart. Look for The Homemade Pie Cookbook at local bookstores and online. 56

Raspberry Linzer Tart With Almond Crust ½ cup whole raw almonds 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 eggs, room temperature 2¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon fine sea salt ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1½ cups Raspberry Jam Egg Wash Confectioners’ sugar, to garnish Instructions Preheat oven to 350ºF. Place almonds in a single layer on

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes. Remove and allow to cool. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes, until fluffy. Add egg yolks and beat until combined. In a food processor, process the cooled almonds until fine. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Pulse until well combined. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat on medium speed until thoroughly mixed. Divide the dough into two portions. Wrap each in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350ºF again. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first portion of dough to about a 12-inch round. Place into a 10-inch tart pan. If the dough cracks while moving, simply press the cracks back together. Pour the raspberry jam into the crust. Roll out the second portion of dough, cut into strips, and form a lattice top. Place the tart on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm with whipped cream.

RASPBERRY LINZER TORTE LAURA KLYNSTRA/BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP

food + drink / chee s

At left, cocktails: a classic Margarita; Spanish Gin and Tonic; Kiwi Caipirinha; and the Tia Maria Margarita. Above offers a glimpse of The Dungeon's reimagined interior.

CHEERS

Rock bottom to buried treasure The Dungeon Bar and Grand Villa are back and better than ever under new ownership. BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY KRISTEN NORMAN

There are restaurants that open and close without anyone giving it a second thought. And then there’s The Dungeon. It was a special spot that never pretended to be more than it was: a gritty, lovable basement hangout slinging wet burritos and cold beer surrounded by rock walls and low ceilings. Tucked around back at 3594 Chicago Drive SW in Grandville, it was the kind of joint you didn’t just find — you were brought there by someone who knew. For years, it lived in that sweet spot between dive bar and local legend. And then, one sad day, it was gone. But—huzzah! It’s now back in action, though not quite how you remember it. Thanks to new owners Nina Mahesh and Manoj Mulki, the Grandville landmark has been almost completely reimagined. The entire building has undergone a multi-million-dollar, three-year renovation and emerged as Villa Bar & Banquet—a fresh, elevated events space—along with a reinvented downstairs speakeasy that still bears the Dungeon name. What once felt like a hidden haunt now balances nostalgia with sophistication, offering something entirely new: part throwback, part luxe

La Nima: Tequila by the Owner Manoj Mulki, co-owner of Villa Bar & Banquet and The Dungeon, is also the founder of La Nima, a premium spirits line now featured at the venue. The brand offers five distinct expressions: Blanco, Premium Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and a smoky Mezcal. The tequilas are crafted with attention to smoothness and subtle herbal infusions, with the Premium Blanco offering a more refined experience. The Añejo is aged over two years for rich, layered flavor. La Nima is currently available exclusively at The Dungeon, with future plans for wider distribution.

lounge experience, and with a wholly original and more upscale menu than before. Upstairs, Villa Bar & Banquet will serve as an events center for everything from weddings and corporate galas to milestone celebrations. It can host up to 300 guests in style and has ample free parking. But let’s get back to The Dungeon. Yes, the name stayed. Yes, those iconic stone walls remain. But the gritty, dive-bar vibe? That’s history. The space has been reimagined and reworked with moody lighting, plush lounge furniture, and a rich palette of bold colors and textures. It feels like you've stumbled upon a secret soirée in Manhattan—intimate, stylish, and sonically dialed-in. The ribbon-cutting took place in August, followed by a grand opening—a party this writer was lucky enough to attend. The real stars? The tequila and the authentic Indian samosas. I was also quite taken with the stuffed mushrooms—some of the best I've had, especially when paired with a pour of Manoj’s La Nima Tequila. So smooth, you'll find yourself asking for the bottle. One thing you won’t find at the Dungeon—the one thing you might miss? The wet burrito. “That’s just not us,” Nina said. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / must-t y Soups, clockwise from top left: Pumpkin Chorizo (GF); Creamy pumpkin bisque with spicy Spanish chorizo (vegan option available); Tomato Saffron Bisque (V/ GF); Roasted tomato with saffron and light cream; Pickle Cheddar Potato (V/GF): An unexpectedly addictive combo; Lobster Bisque: Rich tomato, sherry, thyme & real lobster, topped with housemade challah croutons. Sandwiches, from left: The Old Goat (fresh mozzerella, rosemary goat mousse, white cheddar on challah) and the Mac n Cheese Please (housemade cheddar mac and yellow cheddar on challah). MUST-TRY

12 soups for you! When the weather cools down, this tried & tested Eastown eatery heats up. BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE

There’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of soup on a dreary autumn day in Grand Rapids—G-Rap to the fun ones in the know. Sure, summer’s farewell always stings a little, but there's a cozy silver lining waiting on a cobblestone street at 1133 Wealthy SE. That’s right—Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop. Nestled among tree-lined sidewalks and vintage storefronts in the hippest neighborhood east of New York's Upper West Side, Uncle Cheetah’s is a steaming bowl of nostalgia wrapped in a ‘90s sitcom vibe. It’s the kind of place you wouldn't be surprised to see the local mailman ordering a Mulligatawny. Yes, it's really on the menu. I had marked opening day on my calendar—circled it twice—but life being life, I showed up a day early. Through the window, I saw someone setting up chairs. When I tried the door, I got the classic “No soup for you!” (Okay, maybe just a polite “We’re not open yet.” But it felt like that.) So, I returned the next day. It was already packed, line out the door, chatter humming like a laugh track. Inside, chalkboards listed the 12 fresh soups on offer that day and hot diggity, the lobster bisque was back! I ordered a bowl with a challah roll—because that's how I roll and 'you had me at challah.' 58

"Inside, chalkboards listed twelve fresh soups, rotating daily, and yes, the lobster bisque was back!"

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

A charming garden sign at Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop keeps the message simple and clear: Eat Soup. A fitting welcome to this cozy, comfort-food haven.

Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop is a cozy, seasonal staple serving up hearty soups, sandwiches and salads. Open M–F, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

The menu is massive—like, encyclopediathick—but delightfully organized. Soups are tagged for every dietary need: GF, DF, V, P… there’s even a key for upcharges and modifications. This place respects your choices and your gut. On that magical day two, I sampled five soups. The lobster bisque was a creamy, ocean-kissed dream. The red pepper asiago bisque hit like autumn in a bowl— warm, cheesy, with just enough kick. The white chicken chili? A crowd-pleaser. The goulash? Just like mom used to make, if mom had swapped out the shells for cavatappi and knew it was supposed to be a soup, and packed full of paprika. The potato leek soup was thick and delicious— comforting like a flannel blanket. Outside, the trees danced in the wind,

Editor's Pick Five: Uncle Cheetah's Souperstars SIGN TERI GENOVESE FIVE SOUPS LISA ENOS

"Uncle Cheetah’s isn’t just a spot to grab lunch—it’s a scratchmade, affordable experience you can taste in every bite."

leaves swirling like they knew soup season had begun. Inside, strangers nodded at each other knowingly, spoons clinking gently. A guy near me said, “Try the 7th Inning Stretch next time—tastes like a White Caps game in a bowl.” Another whispered reverently about the Dill Havarti. And while it's technically Uncle Cheetah’s SOUP Shop, you'd be best advised to also try the sandwiches. I saw someone bite into the Raspberry Beret— pulled chicken, goat mousse and jam on challah...definitely not something you'd find in a second hand store. Uncle Cheetah’s isn’t just a spot to grab lunch—it’s a scratch-made, affordable experience you can taste in every bite, with a rotating playlist of favorites. Whether you’re all about that bisque (like I am) or We Got The Beet, there’s a soup that’s sure to please, waiting on Wealthy Street. And while Uncle Cheetah keeps things cozy and casual with rotating soups and scratchmade sandwiches, his younger, more refined nephews—the Old Goat and the Electric Cheetah—bring their own flair to the scene, each with distinct menus and a bit more elbow room. Just down the block, you’ll find their long-lost Italian brother, Testa Rossa, turning heads with a dining experience that feels like stumbling into a Roman holiday. But don’t let the quirky names fool you—this restaurant family is serious about food, and they cater, too! Whether you’re dining in on a rainy Tuesday or planning a block party complete with food trucks, they've got your back (and your belly).

Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop offers 12 rotating soups daily, from a list of around 175 unique recipes — all clearly labeled for dietary needs. Of the day’s lineup, these five stood out as my favorites (shown above, from left): the rich, velvety Lobster Bisque, made with real lobster and a touch of sherry; the hearty, paprika-spiced Goulash with cavatappi; the bold and creamy Roasted Red Pepper Asiago Bisque; the spicy yet comforting White Chicken Chili; and the thick, rustic Potato Leek, a simple vegetarian classic done right. Each soup was flavorful, satisfying, and distinct— a perfect sampling of what makes this little soup shop a local favorite. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / on-the-go

ON-THE-GO

Pickle Perfect! A new go-to for seriously good sandwiches. BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY KRISTEN NORMAN

Above, the Nashville Hottie sandwich: crispy chicken breast, sweet and spicy pickles, house-made coleslaw topped with Toasted Pickle hottie sauce and serrano crema on a brioche bun. Top image, general manager Alec Avery stands in the dining room at Toasted Pickle's third and newest location, 820 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids foodies, rejoice: the long-awaited third location of The Toasted Pickle is finally here. Nestled in a reimagined fast-food spot on 820 Michigan St NE—rumored to have once been a Hot & Now—this isn’t just another sandwich shop. It’s the next chapter in a family-run food phenomenon that started in nearby Grand Haven and Rockford. The buzz? Real. The food? Delicious. The lines? What does it matter? This place a drive-through. You wait in your car till you get a ping and then proceed to the window to retrieve your order. Behind this booming brand are the Averys—Karen, Jim, and their son Alec—who’ve grown Toasted Pickle from a passion project into a beloved local chain. Karen, the creative force behind the concept, started it all with a dream and a deep-rooted love for good, fun food— something she inherited from her father, “Papa Zeke,” a prolific home pickler. That legacy lives on not just in the name, but in the whimsical, brine-loving spirit of the shop. The Grand Rapids outpost brings all the hits: the Crusty Cuban (their #1 seller), the Green Goddess Grilled Cheese (as seen on Food Network),

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

the spicy Nashville Hottie, and the indulgent Bacon Jam Burger. For the curious, there’s also the “Hooker” fish sandwich—named after Chef Jason Hooker, who runs the back of house with skill and humor. And let’s not forget those famous pickle poppers, which require such finesse in preparation there’s a staff trophy for mastering them. The new spot is overseen by Alec, who lives in the neighborhood and had his eye on the location for years. He’s now the GM, leading with the same joy and hospitality that have made Toasted Pickle more than just a sandwich joint—it’s a feel-good food experience. Think: house-smoked meats, bread from Village Baker, and fresh-squeezed lemonade that’s already become a local favorite. Whether you’re into elevated comfort food or just want a good ol’ crusty Cuban on the go, this family-run spot delivers on every front. Stop by 820 Michigan St. NE and grab a pickle popper or two—because as Papa Zeke used to say: “If you ever find yourself in a pickle, eat your way out.”

Top Lawyers

FINDING A GREAT LAWYER SHOULDN’T BE A TRIAL

t doesn’t matter if you’re a single individual, a family unit, or a large corporation: If you’re in a position of needing legal counsel or representation, securing the right professional is critical. From complex family matters to business litigation to employment and labor law and beyond, the attorneys in this section have done it all, earning the respect of their peers. If you need someone in your corner, the first place to start your search is right here.

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 GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers

ANTITRUST LAW Richard L. “Rich” Bouma Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

APPELLATE LAW Aaron D. Lindstrom Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3931 aaron.lindstrom@btlaw.com Katie N. Steffes Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 katies@bolhouselaw.com John Bursch Bursch Law PLLC Jonathan B. Koch Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1076 jkoch@shrr.com; JKoch@dickinsonwright.com Daniel J. Broxup Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8059 dbroxup@mikameyers.com Paul D. Hudson Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Drew W. Broaddus Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Conor B. Dugan SouthBank Legal Gary J. Mouw Varnum LLP

Gaëtan Gerville-Réache Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Mary Kay Shaver Varnum LLP

Ryan F. Beach The Law Offices of Ryan F. Beach PLLC

Matthew T. “Matt” Nelson Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

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

ARBITRATION

Rodney D. Martin Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Daniel R. Kubiak Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8018 dkubiak@mikameyers.com

Frederick D. Dilley Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2247 fdilley@fosterswift.com William W. Jack Jr. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICE LAW Floyd E. Gates Jr. Bodman PLC Brian E. Kersey Bodman PLC Daniel F. Gosch Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1015 dgosch@dickinsonwright.com Trent J. Taylor Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Peter Rhoades Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5237 pdrhoades@rhoadesmckee.com Kimberly A. Baber 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

Jeffrey A. “Jeff” Ott Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

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

BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITOR/DEBTOR RIGHTS LAW

David Bevins Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5130 debevins@rhoadesmckee.com

David A. Hall Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3954 david.hall@btlaw.com

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Bethany D. Spencer Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 bspencer@legalaidwestmich.net

Gordon J. Toering Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

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Steve Bylenga CBH Attorneys & Counselors

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Matthew T. Tompkins Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC 616-257-5158 tompkins@kolaw.com

Top Lawyers

Top Lawyers CONSTRUCTION LAW

Daniel C. Molhoek Varnum LLP

Matthew D. Zimmerman Varnum LLP

Jennifer A. DeYoung Cunningham Dalman

Thomas J. Vitale Dickinson Wright PLLC 734-436-7370 tvitale@dickinsonwright.com

Peter G. Roth Varnum LLP

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

Susan E. Vroegop Cunningham Dalman

Andy T. Hilger Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law Jeremy N. Orenstein Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law Timothy F. Sheridan Plunkett Cooney PC

CORPORATE LAW Patrick Miles Jr. Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3939 patrick.miles@btlaw.com

Kurt G. Yost Varnum LLP Loren Andrulis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Emily E. Cantor Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Matthew M. “Matt” Crowe Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Corinne N. Curtis Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Cameron S. “Cam” DeLong Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Matthew D. “Matt” Johnson Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Michael J. “Mike” Jones Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Ford J.H. Turrell Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Darren J. Burmania Bodman PLC

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS LAW

Nicholas R. Dekker Cunningham Dalman

Troy W. Haney Haney Law

John T. Schuring Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1023 jschuring@dickinsonwright.com

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

Todd M. Neckers McShane & Bowie Curtis L. Underwood Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8021 cunderwood@mikameyers.com Benjamin A. Zainea Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8019 bzainea@mikameyers.com Dustin J. Jackson Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Ryan McNally Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Tom Hogan Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5215 tphogan@rhoadesmckee.com Olivia Lanctot Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Allison Sleight Thacker Sleight Christopher M. George Varnum LLP

John D. Arendshorst Varnum LLP William R. Hineline Varnum LLP Anthony J. “Tony” Kolenic Jr. Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Norbert F. Kugele Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Heidi A. Lyon Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Justin W. Stemple Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

ENERGY LAW Joshua D. Beard Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8043 jbeard@mikameyers.com John M. Devries Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8012 jdevries@mikameyers.com William A. Horn Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8016 whorn@mikameyers.com

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

Charles M. Denton Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3974 charles.denton@btlaw.com Scott M. Watson Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3991 scott.watson@btlaw.com Tammy L. Helminski Earth & Water Law Douglas A. Donnell Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8035 ddonnell@mikameyers.com Emily Green Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5189 eagreen@rhoadesmckee.com Mary Jane Rhoades Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5196 mjrhoades@rhoadesmckee.com Matthew B. Eugster Varnum LLP John V. Byl Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Daniel K. “Dan” DeWitt Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Dennis J. Donohue Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

FAMILY LAW Jeffrey P. Arnson Arnson VanTol Law Nancy Ballast Arnson VanTol Law Jason VanElderen Arnson VanTol Law Samantha M. VanTol Arnson VanTol Law Victoria L. Baker Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 victoriab@bolhouselaw.com Victoria J. Drake Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 victoriad@bolhouselaw.com Michelle M. McLean Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 michellem@bolhouselaw.com

Stephanie Judd Judd & Fricke PLLC 616-802-0333 stephanie@juddandfricke.com

Courtney Sierra Kendra Ortega PLC Brooke Johnston Kraayeveld Family Law 616-300-2575 brooke@kraayeveld.com

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

Katie M. Johnson Madarang Hoort & Associates Jennie B. Bryan McShane & Bowie Kyle J. Quinn McShane & Bowie Elizabeth K. Bransdorfer Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8029 ebransdorfer@mikameyers.com Kimberly M. Large Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8024 klarge@mikameyers.com Jordan W. Swears Muskegon County Family Court Stephanie Fekkes Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5250 sfekkes@rhoadesmckee.com Paul A. McCarthy Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5133 mccarthy@rhoadesmckee.com

Top Lawyers

CONGRATULATIONS to all our colleagues recognized by Grand Rapids Magazine as TOP LAWYERS in 2025 LESLEE M. LEWIS | Member, Grand Rapids | 616.336.1042 - LLewis@dickinsonwright.com 200 Ottawa Ave., N.W. | Suite 900 | Grand Rapids, MI 49503 23 OFFICE ACROSS THE UNITED STATES & CANADA | WWW.DICKINSONWRIGHT.COM

Top Lawyers Tom Saxe Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5219 tlsaxe@rhoadesmckee.com Suanne Watt Stay Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5176 swstay@rhoadesmckee.com Robert C. Rutgers Rutgers Law David Sarnacki Sarnacki Law Firm Mary R. Pigorsh Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Benjamin R. Judd Thacker Sleight Emily Rysberg Thacker Sleight Connie Thacker Thacker Sleight Randall L. Velzen Velzen Law Office PLLC

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

Monica J. Stover Bodman PLC

Robert Howard Cunningham Dalman

IMMIGRATION LAW

Frederick S. Burkhart Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP 616-975-5504 burkhart@gardner-linn.com

Christina K. McDonald Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1039 cmcdonald@dickinsonwright.com

Susan Im ImLaw Jenn Tello Jenn Tello PLLC Nathaniel R. Wolf Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8046 nwolf@mikameyers.com Kimberly A. Clarke Varnum LLP Yvonne K. George Varnum LLP Elizabeth M. Kuperus Varnum LLP Michael E. Wooley Varnum LLP

Michael B. Comeau McGarry Bair PC

INSURANCE LAW

Jennifer A. Puplava Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8050 jpuplava@mikameyers.com

Sunny K. Sly Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 ssly@michiganautolaw.com

Erica L. Auster West Michigan Divorce

Joseph M. Infante Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

HEALTH CARE LAW Brian S. Fleetham Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1016 bfleetham@dickinsonwright.com

Mark E. Rizik Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Jeffrey D. DenBraber Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Greg Timmer Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5132 gtimmer@rhoadesmckee.com

Daniel J. James Wheeler Upham PC 616-459-7100 james@wuattorneys.com

Gary A. Maximiuk Wheeler Upham PC 616-459-7100 maximiuk@wuattorneys.com

Stephen R. Ryan Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Joseph Rivet Rivet Health Law PLC Phillip Slot Slot Law Group Christopher H. Reed Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Scott D. Alfree Varnum LLP Zachary J. Meyer Varnum LLP

Gregory A. Lewis Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC Matthew J. Gipson Price Heneveld LLP

Kevin M. Lesperance Henn Lesperance PLC Joe Hess Joe Hess Law Firm

Terence J. Linn Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP 616-975-5503 linn@gardner-linn.com Karl T. Ondersma Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP 616-988-4117 ondersma@gardner-linn.com

Richard A. “Ric” Roane Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

FOOD AND BEVERAGE LAW

Matthew D. Kendall Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Ondersma LLP 616-988-4123 kendall@gardner-linn.com

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND PATENT LAW Jeffrey A. Michael Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3925 jeffrey.michael@btlaw.com Peter A. Cummings Bodman PLC Estella P. Riahi Bodman PLC

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

Patricia H. Jander Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW Keith J. Brodie Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3958 keith.brodie@btlaw.com Donald P. Lawless Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3994 dlawless@btlaw.com Jennifer Stocker Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3932 jennifer.stocker@btlaw.com Amy J. Zdravecky Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3988 amy.zdravecky@btlaw.com John David Gardiner Bodman PLC Cameron D. Ritsema Bodman PLC Bradley Glazier Cunningham Dalman

Stephen R. Drew Drew, Cooper & Anding Karl W. Butterer Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2212 kbutterer@fosterswift.com Timothy J. Ryan Jackson Lewis PC Fil Iorio Kalniz, Iorio & Reardon Co., LPA Nikole L. Canute Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8049 ncanute@mikameyers.com Dominic T. Clolinger Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8045 dclolinger@mikameyers.com Scott E. Dwyer Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8033 sdwyer@mikameyers.com Grant T. Pecor Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC William H. Fallon Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Jeffrey J. Fraser Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Nathan D. Plantinga Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Mary L. Tabin Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Catherine A. Tracey Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Crystal J. Bultje Pinsky Smith PC 616-451-8496 cbultje@pinskysmith.com Erin Dornbos Pinsky Smith PC 616-451-8496 edornbos@pinskysmith.com Sarah Riley Howard Pinsky Smith PC 616-451-8496 showard@pinskysmith.com

Top Lawyers

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

For more than 50 years, Michigan Auto Law has followed one guiding principle: People Over Everything. When lives are shattered by car, truck, or motorcycle accidents, helping individuals 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, and 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. Michigan Auto Law’s commitment to “People Over Everything” is reflected in how the firm serves every client: • Funding scholarships and safety programs. • Offering free legal resources to families.

• Treating each client with compassion, dignity, and respect. To an insurance company, 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. Because at Michigan Auto Law, people always come first. ■ GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers Katherine Smith Kennedy Pinsky Smith PC 616-451-8496 kskennedy@pinskysmith.com

Grant Semonin Bodman PLC

Daniel J. Hatch Butzel Long

Michael C. Tibbits Bodman PLC

Benjamin H. Hammond Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Meaghan Clayton Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5136 mclayton@rhoadesmckee.com

Michael L. Gutierrez Butzel Long

Stephen A. Hilger Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Christopher J. Zdarsky Butzel Long

Aileen M. Leipprandt Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law

Andrew “Drew” McInnis CBH Attorneys & Counselors

Mark A. Rysberg Hilger Hammond, Attorneys at Law Bruce Courtade Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5152 bcourtade@rhoadesmckee.com

Stephanie R. Setterington Varnum LLP

Richard D. Fries Varnum LLP

Andrew C. Vredenburg Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2234 avredenburg@fosterswift.com

David E. Khorey Varnum LLP

Michael D. Almassian Keller & Almassian PLC

Edward J. “Ed” Bardelli Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Elizabeth Wells Skaggs Varnum LLP

Thomas A. Kuiper Kuiper Kraemer PC

Patrick Drueke Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5175 prdrueke@rhoadesmckee.com

DeAndre’ Harris Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Robert L. “Bob” DeJong Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

Charles F. Behler Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Jonathan P. “Jon” Kok Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Christopher J. Gartman Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

LITIGATION - INSURANCE

Louis C. “Lou” Rabaut Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Stephen M. Ragatzki Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone PLC

LAND USE & ZONING

Jeffrey G. Muth Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Charissa C. Huang Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Luis E. Avila Varnum LLP

Ross A. Leisman Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8017 rleisman@mikameyers.com Ronald M. Redick Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8053 rredick@mikameyers.com Scott A. Dienes Varnum LLP

LEGAL MALPRACTICE LAW Mark A. Gilchrist Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge John R. Oostema Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Michael D. Wiese Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Edward P. Perdue Perdue Law Group PLLC Bruce Neckers Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5217 bwneckers@rhoadesmckee.com Mark Smith Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5216 mrsmith@rhoadesmckee.com Kevin John Cowan Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Christian E. Pederson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge William E. Rohn Varnum LLP Andrea J. Bernard Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

LITIGATION - COMMERCIAL Michael J. TerBeek Wheeler Upham PC 616-459-7100 terbeek@wuattorneys.com

Anthony C. Sallah Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3976 anthony.sallah@btlaw.com Andrew T. Blum Bodman PLC Rachael W. Roseman Bodman PLC

LITIGATION - CONSTRUCTION Scott R. Murphy Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3938 smurphy@btlaw.com

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

Thomas R. TerMaat Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2251 ttermaat@fosterswift.com D. Andrew Portinga Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Devin Day RizzoDay PC Dale Arndt Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC 616-257-5151 darndt@lawssa.com

Daniel J. James Wheeler Upham PC 616-459-7100 james@wuattorneys.com

LITIGATION - LABOR EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS Katherine Smith Kennedy Pinsky Smith PC 616-451-8496 kskennedy@pinskysmith.com John Lichtenberg Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5163 jmlichtenberg@rhoadesmckee.com

Joseph J. Vogan Varnum LLP

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

LITIGATION - REAL ESTATE Scott W. Kraemer Kuiper Kraemer PC

MEDIATION Lee T. Silver Butzel Long Thomas R. Behm Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC Michael Stephan Dantuma Holmes & Wiseley PC Dale Ann Iverson JustMediation PLC Thomas A. Kuiper Kuiper Kraemer PC Margaret E. Allen Margaret E. Allen PC Mary L. Benedict Mary L. Benedict PC

LITIGATION INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY Richard A. Gaffin Grand Law Attorneys R. Michael “Mike” Azzi Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Douglas A. “Doug” Dozeman Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Janet L. Ramsey Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Robert E. Lee Wright The Peace Talks Mary M. Mims Scholten Fant Connie Thacker Thacker Sleight Mike Toburen Toburen Law PLC

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAW Rob J. Buchanan Buchanan Firm Susan Garver Hall Matson Garver Thomas Law

Top Lawyers

Sinas Dramis Law Firm 435 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-301-3333 | sinasdramis.com

From left to right: Tom Sinas, partner and attorney; Adam Fisher, intake coordinator; Kayleigh Rose, paralegal; Amanda English, legal assistant; Brian Lawson, attorney.

A fixture in Grand Rapids since 2013 — and with a legacy spanning 75 years — Sinas Dramis Law Firm has firmly established itself as Michigan’s advocates for the injured. Tom Sinas, a personal injury attorney and partner at the firm, leads the Grand Rapids office and has received recognition in 2025 as a Top Lawyer in West Michigan. He has also been named a Top 10 plaintiff ’s personal injury lawyer in Michigan by Leading Lawyers Magazine, as well as earning other prestigious honors. Tom has devoted his career to

serving the public and fighting for people who have been seriously injured. He has achieved high-profile verdicts and settlements across a wide range of personal injury cases — from car crashes and semitruck accidents to complex wrongful death claims. The firm is widely respected for providing exceptional, compassionate legal representation, earning an esteemed reputation in the areas of personal injury law and Michigan’s auto no-fault law. Sinas Dramis attorneys have gained the respect of both the

bench and bar, as well as the clients and communities they feel honored to serve. Deeply rooted in the Grand Rapids community, where they live and work, the Sinas Dramis team is involved in a variety of philanthropic initiatives that focus on injury prevention and strengthening the safety of residents. They also work to educate the public on legal issues that impact people’s everyday lives, and they act as advocates and partners for their clients to support healing, justice, and dignity. ■

GR M AG .CO M

Top Lawyers Stephanie C. Hoffer Hoffer & Sheremet PLC Aubri N. Sheremet Hoffer & Sheremet PLC

Jake Dunlop Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5117 jsdunlop@rhoadesmckee.com

NON-WHITE-COLLAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE Nicholas Dondzila Dondzila Law

Patrick Ellis Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5208 pbellis@rhoadesmckee.com

Robert Shaver Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5143 rcshaver@rhoadesmckee.com

Paul L. Mitchell Paul L. Mitchell PLLC

Mark Fatum Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5162 mefatum@rhoadesmckee.com

Jon Siebers Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5226 jsiebers@rhoadesmckee.com

Michael R. Bartish SBBL Law PLLC

Carol D. Carlson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Christian K. Leeka Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Melissa Renee Charbonneau Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Gregory E. “Greg” Schmidt Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Christopher R. Genther Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

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

Laura A. Johnson Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

MUNICIPAL LAW

Brian J. Kilbane Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Clifford H. Bloom Bloom Sluggett PC

John C. O’Loughlin Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Jeffrey Sluggett Bloom Sluggett PC

Paul M. Oleniczak Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Vincent L. Duckworth Cunningham Dalman

Jason R. Sebolt Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Jessica L. Wood Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1054 jwood@dickinsonwright.com

Aaron Swayne Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Stephen L. Grimm Stephen L. Grimm PC

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS LAW Robert R. Stead Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3995 robert.stead@btlaw.com Jeffrey G. York Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1019 jyork@dickinsonwright.com Tracy T. Larsen Honigman LLP Maxwell N. Barnes Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Erik R. Daly Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Dustin J. Daniels Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Laura J. Genovich Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2238 lgenovich@fosterswift.com Craig R. Noland McGraw Morris PC James R. Brown Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8031 jbrown@mikameyers.com Bradley A. Fowler Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8086 bfowler@mikameyers.com Mark E. Nettleton Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8048 mnettleton@mikameyers.com Kathryn Z. Stegink Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8044 kstegink@mikameyers.com Brennen J. Gorman Parmenter Law

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

Rachel L. Frank Rachel Frank Law PLLC

Matthew G. Borgula SBBL Law PLLC Mikayla S. Hamilton SBBL Law PLLC Heath M. Lynch SBBL Law PLLC Tessa K. Muir SBBL Law PLLC Mark P. Hunting West Michigan Defense Team Charles E. Chamberlain Jr. Willey & Chamberlain LLP

William M. Azkoul Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC Melissa B. Heinz Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC J. Paul Janes Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC Benjamin W. Mills Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC Thomas J. Worsfold Gruel, Mills, Nims & Pylman PLLC Aaron David Wiseley Holmes & Wiseley PC Anne Mabbitt Mabbitt Bhimani Law Thomas S. Baker Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 tbaker@michiganautolaw.com

Brandon M. Hewitt Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 bhewitt@michiganautolaw.com

NONPROFIT/CHARITIES LAW Jamie J. Vander Kolk Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 jamievk@bolhouselaw.com Wendy Holtvluwer Holtvluwer Law, PC 616-552-4601 wendy@holtvluwerlaw.com Matthew J. Wiebe Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Jason R. Hodge Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 jhodge@michiganautolaw.com

Timothy A. Holland Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 tholland@michiganautolaw.com

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

PERSONAL INJURY Justin Maxim CBH Attorneys & Counselors Carole D. Bos Cunningham Dalman Adam C. Sturdivant Drew, Cooper & Anding Patrick Duff Duff Law, PLLC 616-900-6003 patrick@dufflawpllc.com

Bill Failey Failey Law PLC

Rick J. Houghton Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 rhoughton@michiganautolaw.com

Jeremy R. Tiedt Michigan Auto Law 616-259-4498 jrtiedt@michiganautolaw.com

Stephen Hulst Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5155 sjhulst@rhoadesmckee.com Stephen Boehringer The Sam Bernstein Law Firm 866-236-4861 sboehringer@sambernstein.com

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. ■

Kraayeveld Family Law 990 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-276-3454 | kraayeveld.com For more than 30 years, Kraayeveld Family Law has helped families in West Michigan navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions, such as divorce and child custody disputes. This year, four of the firm’s attorneys were recognized as 2025 Top Lawyers in family law, a distinction rooted in their unwavering commitment to clients. The firm’s approach centers on personalized attention — listening closely to each client’s goals and pursuing the best possible outcome that reflects their wishes. From the first consultation to the final resolution, clients are kept informed, supported, and actively engaged in their case. With persistence, candor, and a willingness to take bold action when necessary, the Kraayeveld team works tirelessly to relieve stress while guiding families toward a brighter future. ■

Top Lawyers

Justin L. Cole The Sam Bernstein Law Firm 248-828-5143 jcole@sambernstein.com Thomas P. Murray Jr. The Sam Bernstein Law Firm 616-608-0338 tmurray@sambernstein.com

PUBLIC FINANCE LAW Jonathan D. Tromp Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8025 jtromp@mikameyers.com Susan M. Wyngaarden Varnum LLP

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

E. Thomas McCarthy Jr. Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Thomas V. Nafziger Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Matthew L. Wikander Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

PROFESSIONAL MALPRACTICE LAW

David C. Hill Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3992 david.hill@btlaw.com Matthew R. Smith Bodman PLC Justin R. Wheeler Bodman PLC Randall S. Schipper Cunningham Dalman John G. Cameron Jr. Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1010 jcameron@dickinsonwright.com

William L. Henn Henn Lesperance PLC

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

David R. Durell Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1027 ddurell@dickinson-wright.com Leslee M. Lewis Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1042 llewis@dickinson-wright.com Jonathan M. Durell durellaw PLC Scott H. Hogan Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith PC 616-726-2207 shogan@fosterswift.com David L. Smith McShane & Bowie Neil P. Jansen Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8052 njansen@mikameyers.com Curtis L. Underwood Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8021 Cunderwood@mikameyers.com

Eric R. Starck Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Tim Dudley Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5272 trdudley@rhoadesmckee.com Todd Hendricks Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5128 thendricks@rhoadesmckee.com Neil Kimball Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5140 nkimball@rhoadesmckee.com Jenny L. DeGraves Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Michael E. Doversberger Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Christian K. Leeka Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Jonathan W. Anderson Varnum LLP David T. Caldon Varnum LLP

Top Lawyers

Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean, PC 3996 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville, MI 49418 | 616-531-7711 | bolhouselaw.com Since 1978, Bolhouse Law has represented clients in business law, family law, civil litigation, real estate, personal injury, estate planning, trusts and probate, nonprofit law, collections/creditors’ rights, and criminal law. Its team of dedicated attorneys, legal assistants, and support staff is committed to providing all clients, from young families to large corporations, with the highest-quality legal representation in the most cost-effective manner possible. Bolhouse Law is known for providing the skill and expertise of a big firm, with the personal relationships and value of a small firm. All of its attorneys have earned the Top Lawyers designation in 2025: Mark Hofstee, trusts and estates; Michelle McLean, family law; Jamie Vander Kolk, nonprofit law; Victoria Drake, family law; Katie Steffes, family law; Bethany Spencer, family law; and Victoria Baker (not pictured), family law. Congratulations to the entire team at Bolhouse Law! ■

Judd & Fricke PLLC — Stephanie L. Judd 40 Pearl St. NW, Suite 838, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-802-0333 | juddandfricke.com Stephanie L. Judd is an attorney and a partner at Judd & Fricke PLLC, a Grand Rapids law firm specializing in family law. Judd focuses her practice exclusively on family law; she has an extensive background in matters of divorce, child custody, and adoption. She also dedicates a portion of her practice to working as a parenting coordinator, helping parents keep their case out of the litigation cycle in favor of working together to develop a strong co-parenting foundation. She strives to provide her clients with an unparalleled level of personal service and is committed to ensuring that her clients are satisfied with the level of representation they receive. Judd litigates tenaciously when needed and consistently monitors new legal developments to provide her clients with the most effective representation possible. Judd has repeatedly been recognized as one of Michigan’s 10 Best Attorneys, and she is honored to be named a Top Lawyer in West Michigan. She also works diligently to maintain positive working relationships with her colleagues in the local legal community and is an active member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association. ■

Top Lawyers Nyal D. Deems Varnum LLP Peter A. Schmidt Varnum LLP Rob M. Davies Warner Norcross + Judd LLP William W. “Bill” Hall Warner Norcross + Judd LLP James J. “Jim” Rabaut Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

SECURITIES LAW Mel Moseley Moseley Law PLLC

TAX LAW Erin M. Haney Bodman PLC Wayne D. Roberts Bodman PLC Thomas J. Hillegonds Cunningham Dalman Mark S. Pendery Honigman LLP Robert D. Brower Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Tom Hogan Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5215 tphogan@rhoadesmckee.com Terry Zabel Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5173 tlzabel@rhoadesmckee.com Jeffrey A. DeVree Varnum LLP Stephen R. “Steve” Kretschman Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

TRUSTS AND ESTATES Michael Lichterman Baar & Lichterman PLLC David A. Malson Barnes & Thornburg LLP 616-742-3990 david.malson@btlaw.com

Jamie J. Vander Kolk Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 jamievk@bolhouselaw.com Jessica Arends Cunningham Dalman P. Haans Mulder Cunningham Dalman Alexandre M. Zucco Dickinson Wright PLLC 616-336-1009 azucco@dickinsonwright.com Lindsay M. Cummings Kuiper Kraemer PC Jeffrey M. Black Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8054 jblack@mikameyers.com Amber M. Soler Mika Meyers PLC 616-632-8037 asoler@mikameyers.com Raj A. Malviya Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Lauretta K. Murphy Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC Katie Hogan Aguilar Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5134 kaguilar@rhoadesmckee.com Pam Cross Rhoades McKee PC 616-233-5181 pjcross@rhoadesmckee.com

Laura A. Jeltema Warner Norcross + Judd LLP Susan “Susie” Gell Meyers Warner Norcross + Judd LL Laura E. Morris Warner Norcross + Judd LLP David L.J.M. Skidmore Warner Norcross + Judd LLP James J. “Jim” Steffel Warner Norcross + Judd LLP W. Michael “Mike” Van Haren Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

WHITE-COLLAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE Matthew L. Vicari Miller, Johnson, Snell & Cummiskey PLC

Peter VanGelderen Willey & Chamberlain LLP Larry C. Willey Willey & Chamberlain LLP

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAW

Linsey Gleason Varnum LLP

Themis J. Fotieo Themis J. Fotieo PLC

Jay Rosloniec Verity Law Daniel W. “Dan” Borst Warner Norcross + Judd 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

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 David M. Murkowski Kent County Probate Court

Jon A. Van Allsburg Ottawa County 20th Circuit Court

Martha E. Reamon Reamon Law

Fredric A. Sytsma Varnum LLP

Matthew S. DeLange Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Charles R. “Charlie” Quigg Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Christopher J. Caldwell Varnum LLP

Mark D. Hofstee Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean PC 616-531-7711 markh@bolhouselaw.com

Alida J. Bryant Kent County 17th Circuit Court

J. Joseph Rossi Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Christopher J. Rabideau McCroskey Law

Laura E. Radle Varnum LLP

Curt A. Benson Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Madelaine C. Lane Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Nicholas A. Reister Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Marilyn Lankfer Varnum LLP

Terence J. Ackert Kent County 17th Circuit Court

George J. Quist Kent County 17th Circuit Court

Leonard M. Hickey Hickey Combs PLC

John M. Huff Varnum LLP

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES

Gary K. Springstead SBBL Law PLLC

Jay C. Kakaty Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Carrie E. Trimpe Bodman PLC

Carl W. Dufendach Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Top Lawyers

Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC – Dale Arndt 2810 E. Beltline Lane NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-257-5151 | lawssa.com Dale Arndt has more than 35 years of experience as a commercial, corporate, contract, insurance, and civil defense litigator in both Michigan state and federal courts. He has a seasoned track record of providing a comprehensive, thorough, and aggressive approach to addressing and advocating the client’s position. Mr. Arndt is known for a common sense, downto-earth style that puts litigants at ease and comfortable with the legal process. His nononsense communication of his client’s position gets results and has earned him a standout reputation and an expansive litigation practice. In addition to providing full-service legal counsel on all aspects of civil litigation, Mr. Arndt is often contracted as a special appointed mediator for both potential and existing litigated claims to achieve dispute resolution or settlement. ■

Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC – Matthew T. Tompkins 2810 E. Beltline Lane NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-257-5158 | lawssa.com Matthew T. Tompkins practices law at Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC, and specializes in the area of civil litigation. The firm is small, but mighty, handling soup-to-nuts litigation in many different practice areas across the state of Michigan. Straub, Seaman & Allen, PC, lawyers can handle a matter from the pre-suit phase through the appellate process. Attorney Tompkins is licensed to practice in Michigan’s state and federal courts and is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, the Grand Rapids Bar Association, and the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. He has great respect for the process and an understanding that, on balance, everyone in the field is trying to do right by their clients. Both of these philosophies frame his approach in any litigation. ■

Top Lawyers

The Sam Bernstein Law Firm 3300 Eagle Run Drive NE, Suite 102, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-608-0338 | callsam.com Since opening its full-time Grand Rapids office in June 2016, The Sam Bernstein Law Firm has continued to deepen its connection with the West Michigan community. What began as a way to provide more in-person service has grown into a thriving office of 10 full-time team members — including three accomplished trial attorneys supported by a skilled group of legal assistants, paralegals, clerks, and administrative staff. This year, the firm is proud to share that all three Grand Rapids trial attorneys — Thomas P. Murray Jr., Justin L. Cole, and Stephen Boehringer — were recognized by their peers in Grand Rapids Magazine as Top Lawyers in their field. Beyond legal work, the Grand Rapids office has become an active part of the community, supporting local charities, participating in neighborhood events, and partnering with organizations that share the firm’s commitment to helping people in need. By being present and engaged in West Michigan, the team has been able to build lasting relationships and make legal resources more accessible to clients and families in the region. ■

Wheeler Upham P.C. 250 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-459-7100 | wuattorneys.com Wheeler Upham P.C. congratulates two of its attorneys, Michael J. TerBeek and Daniel J. James, who have earned Top Lawyers designations in 2025. Grand Rapids’ oldest law firm, Wheeler Upham has provided trusted counselors and advocates since 1883. Today, Wheeler Upham remains a full-service law firm, with attorneys who have expertise in many areas of the practice of law. Michael TerBeek is a managing shareholder who serves businesses as a litigator and adviser. He also helps individuals, couples, and families with comprehensive estate planning. Daniel James is a shareholder practicing in the areas of insurance coverage, insurance defense litigation, and personal injury defense litigation, representing clients in a wide range of insurancerelated disputes. Well deserved, Mike and Dan! ■

Top Lawyers

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026

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.

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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 $-$$ APERITIVO A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$ BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BLACK NAPKIN High quality burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries and

homemade sodas. Takeout only, Tuesday-Saturday. // 966 E. Fulton St. Lunch, Dinner $ BOB’S BAR Down home sports bar with 10 HD TV's. 14 Beers on Tap specializing in Chicago cuisine. Open daily. // 725 Michigan St NE. 774-0512. bobsbar.org. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BROOKLYN BODEGA BAGEL & DELI Bringing the bagel shops and delis of the East Coast to the third coast. Whether a bagel, egg and cheese or a hearty turkey sandwich, Brooklyn Bodega has it. Open Monday-Saturday // 10 Jefferson Ave SE, 724-4275 Breakfast, Lunch $ THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$ CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW,

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

719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ CHICAGO BEEF JOINT This lively casual restaurant in the Monroe North district boasts “live music all the time” and serves up scrumptious Chicago style beef and sausage sandwiches (served with your choice of hot giardiniera, mild giardiniera, or sweet bell peppers). Menu also includes, hot dogs,chicken sandwiches, tavern pizza, salad, and more. Happy hour specials and a full bar make this a great place for watching sports. Open daily at 11 a.m., closing times vary. // 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 420-7724. cbjgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

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

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poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ K-ROK Delicioius Korean BBQ, noodles, Soju cocktail and more Private karaoke rooms. Full bar. Happy hour specials and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Closed Mondays. // 169 Louis, Campau Promenade Ste 1A, 369-5765. $-$$ JAMAICAN DAVE’S Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ KNOOP ROOFTOP BEER GARDEN Upscale rooftop beer garden offers Dutch and German inspired cuisine with a modern touch. Madefrom-scratch shareables, small bites, hand-crafted cocktails and scenic views of downtown Grand Rapids. // 131 Ionia SW, 8th Floor, 616-456-6200, canopygrandrapidsrestaurants.com/knoop/. Dinner $$-$$$ LEO'S CONEY ISLAND ON TAP An east side favorite located in Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids serves up classic Coney Island favorites, cocktails and beer on tap. // 122 Oakes St SW Suite 100, 805-3780, leosconeyisland.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LEO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Happy Hour specials Mon– Thurs, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Open Mon-Fri., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sat 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sunday. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLEBIRD Cozy neighborhood bistro for farm-to-table cuisine, natural wine and bespoke cocktails. Full bar. Open Tuesday–Sunday. Hours vary. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $ LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$ NOODLE PIG Unique ramen noodles made in-house with fresh, highend ingredients and served with nutrient-rich broths. // 601 Bond Ave NW Suite 102, 327-2922, www. noodlepig.com. Dinner $-$$ ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN This restaurant offers elevated American fare; fried chicken sandwiches, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl, starters, small & large plates, handhelds a kids menu & more! Full bar. Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ PALACE OF INDIA Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIND INDIAN CUISINE A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY Contemporary seafood restaurant that offers premium fresh fish and seafood from the waters of New England to the Great Lakes. // 141 Lyon St NW, Grand Rapids, (888) 456-3463, realseafoodcorestaurant.com. Dinner $$$ ROAM BY SAN CHEZ The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $$$

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

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elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. 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$$ SILVA A dinnertainment venue that focuses on reviving crafting dishes that honor and revive traditional recipies. Billiards, bocce, darts & more in a carnival-like atmosphere. // 975 Ottawa NW, 757-4582. silvagr. com. Drinks, Dinner, Games$$-$$$ SOCIAL HOUSE A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters,soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$

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

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

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GIN GIN Stylish and inviting, Gin Gin’s offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. The bar's charm provides the perfect ambiance for savoring handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails. // 345 Summer Ave NW, 341-9124, ginginsgr.com. Tue– Thurs, 4–11 p.m./Fri, 4–11:30 p.m. Sat, 3–11:30 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $$–$$$ THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, the menu features appetizers, snacks and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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

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the

GOEI CENTER

KAT SHERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

A historic Grand Rapids destination for timeless weddings and events. (616) 949 2421 • thegoeicenter.com • @goeicentergr

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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 $-$$ ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$ O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

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

Uptown ASADA ON WEALTHY STREET Tex-Mex cookout themed restaurant with grilled and smoked meat, smashburgers, breakfast and coffee.

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

THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. Cascade location closed on Sun. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779 electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GROVE Fresh, farm-to-table unique takes on American fare in a presentation unlike most experienced before. Multipletime Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Award winner. Open Wednesday-Saturday // 919 Cherry St SE, groverestaurant.com, (616) 454-1000 Dinner, $$$ HANCOCK Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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

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

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Voted The Best

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available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ YESTERDOG Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ZIVIO Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids BIG BOB’S PIZZA Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com. Dinner $$$ CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. // 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. Dinner $$ GASLIGHT KITCHEN ASIAN CUISINE Asian restaurant specializing in Chinese-American dishes. // 2128 Wealthy St. SE, 454-8677, gaslightkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

OLIVE’S Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PERA PIZZARIA Pera Pizzaria features several different Mediterranean style pizzas, shish salads and a surprising pizza made with Nutella. // 2224 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4810, perapizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PINK PIGGY A casual contemporary boba and Asian fusion restaurant for dine-in or takeout. Open Tues-Sun. // 2230 Wealthy St. 805-3949, pinkpiggy.online. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ROSE’S Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northeast GR BIRCH LODGE Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BLUE WATER GRILL Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CAFÉ MAMO An American restaurant inspired by grandma's garden. Classic Midwestern dishes paired with tasty wine in a warm, comfortable setting. Open daily. // 1601 Plainfield Ave. NE, 350-3430. mamohsp.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun) Dinner (Mon-Sat) $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ CRESTON BREWERY More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ DETROIT WING CO. Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE. Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $ GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and worldinspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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Voted The Best

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

dine / estau ants 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 $$

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 $$

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 $

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 $$-$$$

KITCHEN 67 Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more elevated fare. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA HUASTECA Authentic Mexican restaurant offering burritos, tacos, enchiladas, flautas and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen. net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 3123 Leonard St NE, 608-6912 . licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ LUCY’S Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$ THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$ SHOTS ON THE RIVER Full menu kitchen and bar with 22 taps offering craft and domestic beer options, daily lunch specials, large patio with outdoor seated bar, banquet rooms, numerous TV’s, pool table, and live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday featuring some of West Michigan’s top cover bands. Open daily at 1 p.m. and closed on Sundays. // 5760 West River Drive NE Belmont, 9516071, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$ THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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

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

PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes 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.

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

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Voted The Best

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// 34322 Remembrance Rd NW, 381-2000. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$

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

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 $$

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 $-$$

DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $-$$

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $ LE KABOB Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI TIERRA Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MIKADO SUSHI Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $ PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout

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

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available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SIP COFFEE & COCKTAILS Café by day with breakfast bites that transforms into a bustling nighttime cocktail lounge, serving flatbread and appetizers. Closed Sun, hours vary. // 806 Alger St. SE, 805-3517 $$ SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ TACON MADRE Mexican hamburgers, Tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and more with and a variety of proteins (pastor, Barbacoa, birria, tripe, Chicharron, Trompo and more) to choose from. Aguas frescas and other authentic Mexican specialties. // 3501 Division Ave. S. Wyoming, 570-0322, taconmadremi.com. Lunch, Dinner $ THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $ THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Southwest GR 84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$ LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOBLE RESTAURANT Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 5302400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ADA GARAGE BAR & GRILL High quality bar appetizers, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, burgers and a variety of entrees. Plus there's always a $2 draft, a $3 well and a $4 glass of wine every day. // 518 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-3002, adagaragebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$

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

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NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$ OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ SABOR MEXICANO Burritos, tortas, quesadillas, quesabirrias, tamales (pork or chicken) and tacos served the authentic way, menu items for kids and more. // 109 Riverside Drive in Lowell, 987-5027. Lunch, Dinner $ SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 2886907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$ ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Grandville/ Hudsonville Area BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL BURRITO LOCO More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbecue theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$ PIKE 51 BREWING CO./ HUDSONVILLE WINERY Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RAINBOW GRILL Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 8960033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ WHITE FLAME BREWING CO. Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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

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

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

GRILL ONE ELEVEN American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONEY CREEK INN Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TIMBERS INN Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$ THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-5129314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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THE TOASTED PICKLE Handcrafted unique sandwiches, soups, salads, cocktails and more. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 8840498. thetoastedpickle.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 930-3596. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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

MR. BURGER Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 6625088; 6880 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 986-1110. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; 5065 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-1615. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ PITA HOUSE Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $

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

REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $ RED GERANIUM Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$

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

GR M AG .CO M

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Alto escape Go for the gizzards, stay for the fun! BY DEBBY BUCK DEJONGE // PHOTO BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

At the heart of the Nighthawk Grille & Bar is owner Sandy Wanzer, proudly serving up tavern favorites with a smile. From the warm welcome inside to the glowing sign out front, this longtime local gem invites you in for comfort food and community. Gizzards, fries, and fried pickles steal the show, and everything from the burger basket to Sandy’s famous goulash keeps folks coming back. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’re already family at the Nighthawk Grille and Bar.

If you’re in the mood for a little country drive and some terrific tavern food, the Nighthawk Grille & Bar in Alto, 6950 Whitneyville Ave SE, is calling your name. Don’t let the parking lot full of Johnny Cash black trucks run you off. Inside, the servers' trays are teeming with pink cosmopolitans. The joint is family-owned, with a woman at the helm, and oh, what a woman. Her name is Sandra Wanzer and she doles out dishes that are mouthwatering at her home-grown watering hole which has been serving and delighting locals and new friends, every day of the week except Sunday for over 40 years.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

She was coaxed into bringing her show on the road and now boasts quite a big deal in the catering department. Next April will mark the 20th Chili Cook-off, benefiting cancer, as a tribute to her mother. My friend, Val, ordered the gizzards to go. Friendly locals coaxed us into trying the fried pickles. Do they come with ice cream, I wondered? No, because they are simply smashing like all of their dishes. My longtime hat trick of favorites is: Spaghetti dinner, Burger Basket, and Wet Burrito. Word on the street is: “Sandy’s goulash is out of this world." I’ll bet. She also offers keno, billiards, music and more. Keeping it simple is what they do best. Enjoy friendly, fun times and great tasting tavern delights. Everyone is welcome, even my grumpy old Godfather. You don’t have to go far to feel miles and miles away and meet longtime sidekicks and bartenders, like Melissa and Ashley. Go for the gizzards, stay for the fun.

IF IT LOOKS LIKE HER HEART IS FULL, YOU SHOULD SEE HER CALENDAR. Beaconhillgr.org | 616 245 9179

From the moment you move into Beacon Hill, connection comes naturally. You might start with morning yoga or join the walking club. Maybe you’ll find yourself elbow-deep in soil at the community garden or picking up a paintbrush in your first-ever art class. Attend a concert. Take a spiritual enrichment course. Try water aerobics. Or simply grab coffee with new friends who feel like old ones. Learn more about a future at Beacon Hill. Where life is lived fully, every single day.

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!

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