Grand Rapids | September-October 2025

THE ARTS ISSUE

Mustard Plug Formed in 1991 Opened for national ska acts in

Toured globally for 30+ years

The Verve Pipe Frontman Brian Vander Ark talks passion and persistence

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”.

When words fail, food speaks.

COASTAL ITALIAN, DOWNTOWN GR

At Allora, every dish is a story—rooted in Italian tradition, shaped by the seasons, and crafted for our Grand Rapids table. We bring the sundrenched flavors of coastal Italy to the heart of downtown, pairing handcrafted pastas, fresh seafood, and bright, sustainable ingredients with the vibrant spirit of our city. Join us for a dining experience where community, flavor, and atmosphere come together beautifully.

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2025

VOLUME 62, ISSUE 5

FEATURES

38 THAT THIRD COAST SOUND TRACKING THE RISE OF WEST MICHIGAN MUSICIANS WHO HAVE MADE IT! BY

CLAYTON TRUTOR

50 FIVE O'CLOCK IN THE 616 WHERE TO SIP, SNACK, AND MAKE THE MOST OF HAPPY HOUR BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

PHOTOGRAPH BY TERI GENOVESE

Blue Dog Tavern unveils its new dog- friendly patio, a prime happy hour destination.

every issue

8 editor's letter

104 dining guide

A guide to the area's best eateries

120 gr gems

Larger than life, Ethel B. Coe.

.

people + places

12 city

Confluence, Allegan Fair lineup, and Rock of Ages at the Civic.

13 guide

ArtPrize 2025: Kick-off, half-time, and an immersive must.

14 issues

All This Love— The triumphs and tragedies of "GR's Jackson 5."

16 Voice

City Attorney Anita Hitchcock's roundabout journey to retirement.

18 Spotlight

Putting on the hits: Broadway GR brings debuts to DeVos.

19 Profile

Building on History: Hail to the Historic Preservation Commission!

.

look + feel

26 Style

Behind the Seams with RC Caylan, and his runway extravaganza!

30 experience

Where the Whimsical Things Are: Enchanted Woods Fantasy Faire.

34 home

Ghosthunting expert reveals new book about hauntings in GR.

.

food + drink

72 table

Primed for success: Mertens Prime and Rooftop revamps.

76 create

Walhalla Sunset: Golden hour in a glass, inspired by Up North.

77 cheers

Dragon's Milk's new bright idea: Emerald IPA, a smooth pale ale.

79 must-try

Little Bit goes a long way: Vitale's cook back in Ada kitchen.

80 on-the-go

Late nights, crispy bites: NYinspired fantastic fried chicken!

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com

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Contributors: Ann Byle, Ann Byle, Kelsey Dunneback, Amy Piper, Gabriel Rose, Pasha Shipp, Clayton Trutor

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You gotta have art

Welcome to autumn in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Enjoy the show.

In past “Arts” issues, we’ve celebrated ArtPrize contestants, GR-based filmmakers, and symphony conductors. This time, we’re turning up the volume—literally—with a spotlight on West Michigan musicians who’ve made it big.

Imagine performing on the Van Andel stage or touring the globe— yet still calling GR (or nearby) home. That’s the caliber of artists we’re showcasing on page 38 in “That Third Coast Sound.”

Speaking of the spotlight: Broadway GR continues to raise the curtain— and the bar—by bringing top-tier productions to DeVos Performance Hall (p. 18). These aren’t just quality shows; they’re often making their Michigan debuts right here. (Sorry, Detroit, but Grand Rapids is giving you a serious run for your money.)

As always, we’re proud to highlight leaders who’ve made a lasting impact. Like City Attorney Anita Hitchcock, who recently announced her retirement. Her journey to becoming a lawyer—nonlinear, unexpected, determined—is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams (p. 16).

In that same spirit of passion and perseverance, fashion designer to the stars RC Caylan is curating a multi-arts extravaganza like no other (p. 26). Think: part runway, part opera, part ballet—all choreographed to a sweeping symphonic score. Yes, please!

We’ve also got your ArtPrize guide: from opening festivities to halftime happenings, closing celebrations, and a new immersive inflatable experience unlike anything we’ve seen before (p. 13).

Elsewhere, Pasha Ship explores GR’s vibrant fantasy culture—a living fairy tale ball that blends Renaissance fair with a high-concept dreamscape (p. 29).

Ann Byle returns with a trio of pieces: advice for student athletes from a local author (page 28); a dive into the art of junk journaling (p. 32); and a look at the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission (p. 19).

Naturally, we close with food: happy hour hits (p. 50), a pizza comeback (p. 78), soul-healing fried chicken (p. 80), a surprising new IPA (p. 77), and dining at Mertens Prime and Rooftop—where the new menu pairs perfectly with ArtPrize pieces on the top floor (p. 72).

Because yes—

You gotta have art. Miles ‘n miles n’ miles of art.

See you downtown!

Lisa Enos Editor, Grand

Rapids Magazine

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

Featured Contributor:

GR Mag: You’ve been writing for Grand Rapids Magazine for a while now, what’s been your favorite assignment so far?

Clayton Trutor: My favorite piece I’ve written for Grand Rapids magazine was my profile of Wally Pipp, the man that Lou Gehrig replaced at first base for the Yankees. To me, Wally Pipp was always just the answer to a trivia question. By delving into his decades in Grand Rapids, I gained an appreciation for the man and the life he led away from the diamond.

Clayton Trutor

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» PLUS: DEFERRED, NOT DENIED PUTTING ON THE HITS ALL THIS LOVE

Arborialis, a walkthrough luminarium where light, color, and sound blend into a dazzling sensory journey will be open daily at 555 Monroe Ave NW during ArtPrize 2025.

Confluence at Five

Rocking the future of innovation

Confluence, Grand Rapids’ high-energy celebration of music, art, science, and technology, returns Sept. 19–20 for its fifth and most immersive year yet. Now based at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University’s downtown campus, the festival will take over 17 Pearl St. NW and surrounding areas—turning city streets into a hands-on exploration of what’s next.

Festivalgoers can expect everything from high-stakes esports competitions and next-gen robotics to interactive art installations, live music, and creative tech demos. Families will love the Future Innovators Zone packed with STEAM activities, while other attendees can explore the Innovation Showcase, Esports Expo, and more.

The weekend kicks off with Friday@Confluence, a tech-forward culture crawl across the city, and continues Saturday with a full lineup of free, public events.

“This is an exciting year for Confluence,” said Brian Cohen, Founder and Director of the festival. “We will celebrate five years with our boldest event ever and place art, music, science and technology across downtown Grand Rapids.”

Details at confluencefest.com.

A fair to remember

Rock out at the Civic

Above, a DJ entertains the crowd at the 2024 Confluence Festival in Rosa Parks Circle. In 2025, the festival

“Rock of Ages” hits the stage Sept. 12–26 at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre—one of the largest community theatres in the U.S. Follow Sherrie and Drew as they chase stardom on the Sunset Strip, told through nonstop ‘80s rock anthems from Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Journey, Pat Benatar, and more!

West Michigan’s own Myron Elkins, now signed to Elektra/Low Country Sound, takes the stage as the opener for headliner Gabby Barrett at the Allegan County Fair on Sept. 11. Joining the ranks of the musicians in this issue's cover story, Elkins serves as the latest example of a local talent breaking through. The annual fair— which always manages to punch above its weight— continues the tradition with Cole Swindell (Sept. 6), Ne-Yo (Sept. 12), and comedians Fluffy Iglesias and Jeff Dunham (Sept. 5).

moves to a new venue at 17 Pearl St. NW. CITY

Myron Elkins

Your Guide to 2025 ArtPrize

September 18 – October 4, 2025

ArtPrize 2025 returns to Grand Rapids this fall with a refreshed schedule and fresh surprises. Running from September 18 to October 4, this year’s event leans into tradition while embracing new energy. The citywide, open art competition continues to transform churches, parks, hotels, bars, and plazas into vibrant art venues—places like Calder Plaza, the Amway Grand Plaza, The BOB, and community hubs of all types.

The festival kicks off with a carnivalthemed opening celebration on Thursday, Sept. 18 at Rosa Parks Circle. Expect bold costumes, a brass band, and a parade that will wind through downtown to the waterfront, where fireworks will light the night sky.

A new addition this year is BioPhilia, a curated ArtPrize venue at the new “dinnertainment” complex Silva in the Monroe North district. And for a more immersive artistic escape, don’t miss Arborialis, a glowing, inflatable luminarium by Architects of Air at 555 Monroe Ave NW. This ticketed experience ($10) invites visitors into a world of radiant color, ambient sound, and fluid architecture. Open daily (except Mondays) from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4, Arborialis is designed to inspire awe—perfect for families or solo explorers alike.

Mark your calendars for a new “Half-Time Show” on Friday, Sept. 26, at Sixth Street Park, headlined by rising country star Tiera Kennedy. Other acts include Jake Kershaw and the Bootstrap Boys. With a festival-like vibe, food trucks, and the announcement of the Top 20 ArtPrize entries in each district, this free ArtPrize party is a highenergy way to keep the excitement alive midway through the event. Gates open at 6 p.m.

The Closing Ceremony takes a dramatic turn this year, in collaboration with Studio Park. Think red carpet and cinematic flair. While the in-person event is ticketed and partially VIP, it will be livestreamed citywide—watch from your favorite venue or gather on the Studio Park piazza to celebrate the winners and close out the season in style.

With 18 days of vibrant creativity, street performances, community events, and a growing list of curated spaces, ArtPrize 2025 promises to be unforgettable. Whether you’re a returning fan or a first timer, there’s never been a better year to explore the art that fills every corner of Grand Rapids. For more information, visit artprize.org.

GUIDE BY LISA ENOS

Above, Step inside Arborialis—an immersive luminarium of light, color, and sound—open daily during ArtPrize 2025 at 555 Monroe Ave NW.

ISSUES

'All This Love'

The DeBarge family’s story of triumph and tragedy is rooted in Grand Rapids

BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

In 1972, a gospel singer from Detroit named Etterlene DeBarge moved her 10 children to Grand Rapids. She left an abusive marriage to seek out a new life for her eight sons (Bobby, Tommy, Randy, Mark [“Marty’], Eldra [“El”], James, Jonathan [“Chico”], and Darrell [“Young]) and two daughters (Etterlene [“Bunny”] and Carol [“Peaches]). Barely a decade later, people around the world knew the name DeBarge. El, Bunny, Marty, Randy, and James had become a Jackson 5 for the 1980s, the darlings of Motown Records who sang smooth, soulful R&B with the kind of close harmonies that seem possible only among siblings. The last forty years have included profound triumph and tragedy for the entire DeBarge family.

One thing is certain of DeBarge, both the eponymous group and the larger family is

broadly blessed with musical talent. Their meticulously arranged, infectious pop songs serve as a soundtrack to the recent past. DeBarge scored nine top 40 hits on the R&B charts, five singles on the pop charts, and earned three gold records. The likes of Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Mariah Carey, and Ashanti have sampled DeBarge’s music in their work. Rolling Stone ranked El as one of the 200 Greatest Vocalists of All Time in 2023, citing his unique falsetto and smooth tenor voice.

It all started with Etterlene, “Mama D,” the matriarch of the family. At age 16, Etterlene’s father, James Abney, one of Detroit’s best known choir leaders, died unexpectedly. A year later, Etterlene, an African American, married Robert DeBarge, a white soldier who was stationed at a nearby military base. According to

Members of the family R&B group DeBarge pose for a promotional photo in the early 1980s. Pictured are (top row, left to right) Randy DeBarge, James DeBarge, and El DeBarge; (bottom row, left to right) Bunny DeBarge and Mark “Marty” DeBarge. Known for their lush harmonies and hits like “All This Love,” “Rhythm of the Night,” "Who's Holding Donna Now," the Motown-signed siblings became one of the most beloved R&B groups of the decade.

the accounts of several DeBarge family members, Robert subjected his family to frequent physical abuse.

Grand Rapids offered Etterlene and her children a new, welcoming home. Her brother, Bishop William Charles Abney Jr., served as pastor at Bethel Pentecostal Church in southeast Grand Rapids. Her brother James was the church’s choir director. Etterlene and her children became engrossed in the life of the church, singing in the choir and learning to play instruments to accompany the service.

Initially, the family lived in public housing on Fuller Avenue before finding a home at 606 Giddings Avenue in southeast Grand Rapids, roughly a mile from their church. Etterlene bought a used upright piano the family called “Old Bessie,” which augmented the children’s musical education.

The DeBarge kids attended Ottawa Hills, Creston, and Kenowa High School, where they made quite the musical impression. Bunny, Tommy, and Bobby performed in the “Sounds of Soul Choir” at Ottawa Hills, wowing with their vocal talents and ability to play multiple instruments. El was a standout singer and multi-instrumentalist in the Creston Jazz band in the mid-1970s.

The first DeBarges to make waves in the music business were Bobby and Tommy, who joined Barry White’s backup band in 1975. A year later, White’s group dissolved, and the brothers joined Switch, a group formed by Ottawa Hills classmate Gregory Williams. Switch signed with Motown and scored several hits on the R&B charts.

Initially, several of the other DeBarge kids formed a gospel group before shifting to popular music. Switch helped Randy, Marty, El, and Bunny, who had formed a singing group, get Motown’s attention. El scored an

The likes of Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Mariah Carey, and Ashanti have sampled DeBarge’s music in their work. Rolling Stone ranked El as one of the 200 Greatest Vocalists of All Time in 2023, citing his unique falsetto

and smooth tenor voice.

audition with Motown founder Berry Gordy, singing and playing his siblings into a recording contract.

James would soon join the group, which was known initially as “the DeBarges.” Bobby and Tommy left Switch in part to mentor their siblings. Adding further input at Motown were mentors such as Jermaine Jackson and his wife Hazel Gordy (Berry’s daughter) as well as Iris Gordy (Berry’s niece).

The group’s 1981 debut album got little notice but their second record, "All This Love" (1982), became a major hit, buoyed by the title track and “I Like It,” which reached No. 1 and No. 2 respectively on the R&B charts. DeBarge’s presence on the radio was matched by their ubiquity on television. The group performed on Solid Gold, Soul Train, American Bandstand, the Merv Griffin Show, and on Motown’s 25th Anniversary special.

Their third album, "In a Special Way" (1983), went gold and earned them a Grammy nomination. They opened for Luther Vandross on an extensive national tour. In their early years, DeBarge cultivated a squeaky-clean image, which was built around the religious devotion of the family. In interviews and public appearances, they gave praise to God continuously and held hands in prayer before performances. The DeBarge kids gave thanks to their mother by purchasing her a beautiful home on Alger Street.

Cracks in the armor soon became evident. Tensions over creative control mounted in the group while multiple members started dealing with substance abuse problems.

Berry Gordy himself contributed to the group’s fracturing. He perceived El and Bunny as the stars of the group. This was a common pattern at Motown, as Gordy had previously distinguished Smokey Robinson from the Miracles, Diana Ross from the Supremes, and Michael Jackson from the Jackson 5.

Nevertheless, DeBarge scored their biggest hits in 1985. Their "Rhythm of the Night" album went platinum, and the infectious title track became the group’s biggest hit, reaching No. 3 on the pop charts. Another ballad “Who’s Holding Donna Now?” reached No. 6.

The following year, Motown signed Bunny and El to solo deals and dropped the other siblings. It didn’t go as planned. Bunny’s debut album "In Love" (1987) underperformed and Motown dropped her. El enjoyed a couple of solo hits but never hit as big as DeBarge. Chico earned a Motown deal but never managed to break through.

A reformulated DeBarge group featuring Bobby released one album on

an independent label that made little headway on the charts and the group disbanded in 1989. The end of DeBarge was a product— in large part— of the brothers’ legal troubles.

Bobby and Chico were convicted of drugrelated offenses in the late 1980s. While in prison, Bobby told his family he contracted HIV. After his 1994 release from prison, Bobby spent his final days in hospice in Grand Rapids and died in August 1995 at the age of 39. After years of poor health, Tommy DeBarge, who also struggled with drug addiction, died of kidney failure in 2021.

The last 30 years have been filled with both triumph and tragedy for the DeBarge family; the tragedy largely shaped by ongoing struggles with substance abuse.

El’s 2010 comeback album "Second Chance" netted three Grammy nominations but drug and legal problems derailed his return. Chico has released several successful solo albums while James’ daughter, Kristina DeBarge, was signed to Island Def Jam Records.

DeBarges have performed around Grand Rapids occasionally in the last two decades, often at charitable events organized by Etterlene. She worked for years with Child Haven, teaching children carols at Christmastime. Etterlene died in Woodland Hills, California on February 16, 2024 at age 88.

A documentary on the DeBarge family, which focuses on the experiences of James and Randy, is making its way around the film festival circuit. "I Like It" was directed by Matthew Siretta and debuted at the 2025 Slamdance Film Festival in Los Angeles.

El DeBarge portrait taken after a very intimate show in studio at WDAS in Philadelphia, in 2010.

DeBarge: By the Numbers

1975 Bobby and Tommy join Barry White’s backup band, marking the family’s first break in the music business

1981 Year DeBarge released their debut album

1982 Breakthrough with All This Love, featuring the R&B chart-toppers “All This Love” (#1) and “I Like It” (#2)

1983 In a Special Way album goes gold and earns a Grammy nomination

1985 The group's "Rhythm of the Night" album goes platinum; title track hits No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100

9 DeBarge songs that made the R&B Top 40

5 Songs that charted on the Billboard Pop Top 40

3 Gold records earned by the group

1 Platinum album "Rhythm of the Night"

3 Grammy nominations for El’s 2010 comeback album, "Second Chance"

2023 Rolling Stone ranks El DeBarge among the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time

Deferred, not denied

GR City Attorney Anita Hitchcock leaves legacy of justice, empathy and service.

BY LISA ENOS

When Grand Rapids City Attorney Anita Hitchcock announced her retirement, the moment carried more than the usual weight of a public official stepping away after decades of service. It marked the conclusion of a uniquely impactful career—one defined not by titles or legal victories alone, but by an enduring commitment to empathy, equity, and the belief that justice is as much about healing as it is about enforcement.

“I didn’t take a straight line,” Hitchcock says. “But I still got there.”

Born to a teenage mother and raised in Grand Rapids from the age of two, Hitchcock grew up shaped by service. “I’m my mother’s child,” she explains. “She sacrificed so much for other people. I didn’t want to be that. And then—I grew up. And I am that.” Her life’s trajectory, marked by resilience and unexpected detours, reflects both the quiet strength of her roots and a fierce sense of purpose. From working factory jobs at Steelcase to supporting seminary students at Calvin University, Hitchcock’s journey toward the law was winding but always intentional.

Her early inspiration came from watching the infamous Sam Sheppard case unfold on television, and the passionate defense mounted by F. Lee Bailey. “At 12, I wanted to be an attorney,” she says. “That case stirred something in me.” But college, marriage, and motherhood interrupted that plan. “Don’t give up,” she advises.

“Sometimes it’s not a no—it’s a not yet.”

Hitchcock set out to make her mother proud, gaining admission to University of Michigan. But life intervened. She eloped and had a child a year later. After dropping out of U of M, Hitchcock went to work at Steelcase for 13 years, and she made good money doing it. But at one point she decided that was not what she wanted to do her whole life. She decided to finish her college degree at Aquinas and then went to work at Calvin College (now Calvin University). Eventually, she realized that wasn’t the end of her professional ambitions, even though she found a lot of satisfaction in her job there.

“It was too sterile for me. I wanted to go out in the world and make a difference,” Hitchcock said.

After seven years, she made a bold pivot and enrolled at Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Her original goal was to go into estate planning, but without prior experience, law firms weren’t biting. It was suggested she apply to the City of Grand Rapids to gain practical legal experience—a role she hadn’t imagined for herself. Yet from that unexpected starting point, Hitchcock rose steadily, ultimately becoming city attorney in 2016 after a national search—breaking barriers as the first Black woman in the position and redefining what the role could be.

Her tenure will be remembered for its quiet but radical shifts: steering the department from a punitive framework toward one centered on restorative justice. “We started asking young people not just about what they did that got them in trouble, but what they

“I didn’t just hire for talent. I hired for a team fit. That’s the greatest accomplishment for me. I can leave knowing this team won’t miss a beat.”

— Grand Rapids City Attorney Anita Hitchcock

wanted to do with their lives,” she says. “If they said they wanted to be a nurse, we told them to go to GRCC and figure out how to apply. That became the consequence—taking responsibility for your future.”

In that framework, justice became human again. It became local. And it became possible. As she nears retirement, looking back on the winding road that she took to fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming an attorney, her words echo that of Langston Hughes: “It was a dream deferred, not denied,” she said. The reference is deliberate— and perhaps deeply personal, as she worked hard to ensure her dream did not dry up like the raisin in Hughes' poem (and Lorraine Hansberry's play)“Raisin in the Sun.”

Like Hughes and Hansberry, she has lived through—and worked within—the contradiction of being asked to serve in a system that often works against her own community. “Some people were upset with me, asked me why I wanted to be a city attorney,” she recalls. Some saw the role as one that inherently stood in opposition to their interests. But Hitchcock believed her presence in that office could serve a higher purpose. She understood that the position came with discretion—she could influence which cases

were pursued and how justice was applied. In her view, that kind of authority, when held by someone with empathy and lived experience, could be used to build trust and to ultimately affect real change.

That empathy also shaped her relationship with the Grand Rapids Police Department. Hitchcock didn’t just represent the city in litigation—she helped reshape its culture. She led initiatives to address bias in traffic stops and partnered with national leaders in police reform, including consultants from President Obama’s 21st Century Policing Task Force. Her approach was clear-eyed and collaborative, recognizing both the strengths of the local department and the urgent need for continued evolution.

Still, she remains deeply concerned about the fraying relationship between youth and law enforcement. “It breaks my heart when I talk to kids in schools and hear how they see the police,” she says. “They see them as the enemy. And that makes me sad.” Her dream for retirement? Not travel or rest—but more time in Grand Rapids Public Schools, building bridges. “I want to help kids see that people like me—lawyers, police—aren’t adversaries. We can be their advocates.”

That duality—tough-minded reformer and nurturing mentor—has defined her leadership. Her office has become a training ground for young lawyers, many of whom may not have considered public service as a path. She started internship pipelines, pushed for diverse hiring, and built what she proudly calls a “culturefirst” team. “I didn’t just hire for talent. I hired for a team fit,” she says. “That’s the greatest accomplishment for me. I can leave knowing this team won’t miss a beat.”

And yet, stepping away is not easy. “This job is non-stop,” she admits. “Most days, you’re handed a problem and expected to solve it. And I’ll miss that. I’ll miss the people.” But she’s also excited to reclaim parts of herself long deferred: reading voraciously, writing, maybe even publishing her book “God’s plan is greater than the devil’s plot,” she says with a laugh. “And I want to take up painting.”

In the end, Hitchcock’s story is not just about a woman rising through the legal ranks—it’s about a woman redefining power through presence. She showed that justice, when rooted in community and compassion, can be transformative. That the law, wielded with care, can bend toward restoration. And that even a dream deferred by decades can still blossom into something enduring and extraordinary.

Anita Hitchcock retires after a trailblazing career shaped by empathy, resilience and a transformative vision of justice.

Putting on the hits

Broadway GR's rise to Michigan's center stage

BY AMY PIPER

Since 1988, Broadway Grand Rapids has been a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing top national Broadway tours to West Michigan, enriching the local culture with high-quality live shows. It has grown from hosting occasional performances to becoming a year-round cultural hub in downtown Grand Rapids. Each season is curated to strike a balance between blockbuster hits, fan favorites, and new works that challenge traditional storytelling and stagecraft.

Broadway Grand Rapids’ President & CEO, Meghan Distel, explains that “Season planning is a collaborative process between Broadway Grand Rapids leadership in partnership with Broadway Across America, a leading presenter of first-class touring Broadway. BAA’s national network provides access to premier productions and insights into tour logistics, routing, and audience trends. Together, BGR and BAA ensure each season features a thoughtful mix of proven hits and fresh, innovative works that resonate with local audiences.”

Broadway Grand Rapids also plays a role in honoring top Broadway productions, as the organization announced that the Broadway League named Distel a full Tony Award voting member. As a Tony voter, she joined a select group of approximately 800 industry professionals responsible for selecting the winners of the annual Tony Awards, widely regarded as the highest honors in American theater.

Recent and upcoming seasons feature a strong lineup of productions, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to Broadway in Grand Rapids. They’ve hosted Michigan premieres such as "SIX" and "MJ the Musical," and premiers to come: "The Outsiders," "&

Juliet," and "Water for Elephants," which will all make their Michigan debuts in Grand Rapids.

As Broadway Grand Rapids expands, the organization is taking strategic steps to align its structure with its evolving goals and increasing scope. Recently, three team members were promoted to new roles. Jennifer Pascua was promoted to Vice President of Marketing & Community Engagement. Chad Kirkpatrick transitioned to Vice President of Operations, and McKenzie Szalai was promoted to Marketing Specialist. “These promotions are about more than titles—they represent a deliberate effort to formalize leadership within our organization, deepen our strategic expertise, and build the capacity needed to support our expanding programming and community initiatives,” said Distel.

Broadway Grand Rapids is poised to shape the region’s cultural future by serving as both a premier entertainment venue and a community hub, driving the area’s economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in the region.

2025–2026 Season: Water for Elephants Oct. 7–12, 2025

The Book of Mormon Nov. 4–9, 2025

Kimberly Akimbo Jan. 27 – Feb. 1, 2026

& Juliet

March 10–15, 2026

Disney’s The Lion King April 8–26, 2026

The Outsiders June 9–14, 2026

The Great Gatsby July 21–26, 2026

Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com, or call (616) 235-6285 for groups of 10 or more.

Samantha Pauly (center) & cast in the Broadway production of The Great Gatsby.

Building on history

Hail to the Historic Preservation Commission

BY ANN BYLE // PHOTOS BY DAVID SPARKS

Ever wonder if that run-down old building is worth saving? Can we replace all the original windows with new ones in that Heritage Hill home? Maybe run that coolant line from the air conditioning unit up the outside of the historic house?

The answers are yes, no and possibly if you’re working on a vintage building under the auspices of the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission, a City of Grand Rapids Commission made up of seven volunteers appointed by the City Commission and charged with protecting the city’s heritage and overseeing historic districts and landmarks.

Residential and commercial structures older than 50 years are eligible for historic designation per the Secretary of the Interior if they meet certain criteria. Local historic designation efforts follow a process outlined by ordinance which takes research, planning and a series of public meetings. This process can be spearheaded by citizens, organizations, property owners and/or local government. However, final determination

Preservation work at 974 Front Street ensures this historic riverside building continues to serve as a distinctive piece of Grand

Rapids’ past.

and establishment can only be undertaken by the City Commission.

For Nathan Willink of Willink Construction, that effort meant first contacting Rhonda Baker, historic preservation specialist with the City of Grand Rapids Planning Department. Willink needed to know what was possible at 800 Wealthy St., which had been home to a drug store, post office, and a variety of other businesses through the years, as well as apartments on the second floor.

“We bought the building uncertain about the challenges of an old, shuttered building, but it was nice to get the last messy building in the area. It had been left as it was,” said Willink.

He contacted Baker at the HPC and got the ball rolling on restoration. The historic designation was a help, not a hindrance, according to Willink, because they were able to go back to the original usage designation—retail and residential—and use that for the current building. With HPC help, melding business and residential in one building was much less complicated.

Willink and his crew uncovered the original tile floor with the word Drugs at one entrance, as well as the original flooring from the post office. They found a basement treasure trove of vintage

“People came out of the woodwork to tell us their memories of the place.”

—Nathan Willink

For more information, visit www.grandrapidsmi. gov/Government/ Boards-andCommissions/ Historic-PreservationCommission

merchandise displays, paper spools for wrapping packages, an old cash register, and a variety of other goodies. Years of deferred maintenance had to be caught up, but the bones of the building were strong.

“When we started working on it, people came out of the woodwork to say that they had once worked in the building,” said Willink. “Precedent has been set that these old buildings are valuable to keep. That people are still walking Wealthy Street and it’s a destination is a tribute to the HPC.”

Baker is the one city employee paid for her work with the HPC. Matt Dixon, director of architecture at Pinnacle Construction Group, has been board chair for the last seven years and will term out next year.

“We’re here to help and not be an impediment, not a hoop that has to be jumped through,” said Dixon. “There’s been a lot of research into how important historical preservation is to a city, the community and the residents. We’re not here to stop development, but to make sure the areas that deserve it are protected.”

Baker adds, “It’s important to remember our sense of place, the character that draws people in, an area’s walkability. All this is related to an area’s historic environment, so maintaining it is vital.”

The City of Grand Rapids has about 2,500 designated historic buildings, six historic

At 800 Wealthy Street, Willink Construction revived a once-shuttered corner building, revealing its original tile floors and long retail legacy.

districts, and 80 individual landmarks. All of Heritage Hill is one district, for example, with its numerous individual houses. The Calkins Law Office, the oldest surviving structure in Grand Rapids, the Pike House at 230 E. Fulton St and the Turner House at 731 Front St. NW are examples of landmarks.

The criteria for historic designation include buildings, sites or objects that are architecturally significant or examples of a style of architecture, and/or that represent historical periods, developments or events, and/or are related to significant people. Historic significance can include houses, factories, public buildings, bridges, cemeteries, parks, burial grounds, and even cobblestone streets.

Currently in Grand Rapids there are two active designation projects, and one recently completed. The Dean/Kendall House at 2350 Leonard NW is seeking local historic designation as a landmark, and the Auburn Hills neighborhood is being presented to the Keeper of the National Register for placement on the National Register of Historic Places. The third is the Clipper Belt Lacer Company complex on Front Street that was recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places through efforts spearheaded by Pinnacle Construction and Dixon.

Naming a building as historic at the local level can lead to protection of the building, preservation of neighborhoods and a community’s sense of place, increased tourism, open doors to possible grants and tax credits, protecting investments and increasing property values. HPC speaks only to the exterior, outbuildings and grounds, not the interior or how the building is used.

Paul and Merideth Kuiper purchased a single-family home at 341 Charles Ave. in Cherry Hill, planning to do most of the renovations themselves. The 155-year-old home had much deferred maintenance that needed to be done, including a new foundation. One of their first calls was to the HPC and Baker. She answered their questions about exterior changes and updates and even met them at the house to discuss details. The HPC provided a guidebook on how to build according to historic standards, according to Paul Kuiper.

The most helpful advice came from Rhonda, who was readily available to help clarify what would and would not be approved.

The recommendations from the HPC mostly consisted of small adjustments to details, such as porch spindle distance, that on our own we wouldn’t have thought much about but it ensured the integrity of the historic nature of the house,” he said.

“We believe in what the commission does,” said Dixon. “It’s important to use historic precedent to inform how we develop communities.”

This sentiment is reflected in the State of Michigan’s 5-year strategic preservation plan which looks to continue efforts and benefits preservation brings to the state, cities and communities while also adapting to current and future needs. Such efforts include increasing equality in historic designations for buildings and sites important to all walks of life at the local, state and national levels. Dixon points to current efforts in the form of grants such as the Underrepresented Communities Grant for groups such as LGBTQ+, indigenous peoples, African Americans and other underrepresented communities eager to preserve structures and places important to their history.

Heritage Honored The Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission recognized seven preservation efforts in 2025, and one individual:

• Innovation Central High School for Most Outstanding Preservation by a Group

• Marywood Academy’s Motherhouse for Most Outstanding Preservation by a Group

• 800 Wealthy Street—Willink Construction Inc., for Most Outstanding Commercial Preservation Project

• 322 Fountain St. NE —JDE & Associates and Eastown Construction for work on the Heritage Hill Historic District home

• 341 Charles Ave. SE—Paul and Merideth Kuiper for work on their Cherry Hill home

• 409 Prospect Ave. SE— Wealthy Prospect LLC

• 322 Union Ave SE— Jeremy Gish

• Peter Bruinsma for his work with the city’s historic districts

The Kuipers restored their 341 Charles Avenue home in Cherry Hill with guidance from the HPC, blending DIY dedication with historic standards.

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Pasha Shipp embraces the magic in full elven attire at the 2024 Enchanted Woods Fantasy Ball in Byron Center.

Behind the seams with RC Caylan

Visionary designer to unveil new collection at 'One Night Only' fashion extravaganza

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY BRYAN ESLER

When I stepped into RC Caylan Atelier in Breton Village, I expected glamour. I expected fashion. What I didn’t expect was a scene that felt more like a behind-the-scenes glimpse at a major motion picture wardrobe department than a boutique in West Michigan.

Bolts of exquisite fabric — some sourced from Paris, Italy, Japan, and Belgium — lined the small but elegant studio. Gowns in progress hung from racks, each one whispering hints of a grand debut. A younger assistant hand-stitched flower appliqués onto a

Romel “RC” Caylan is an internationally celebrated fashion designer who has a showroom in Beverly Hills and a studio in Breton Village. Follow RC Caylan on Instagram @ rccaylanatelierofficial

bodice. At the far end of the space, a man meticulously shaped layers of ruffled organza. This wasn’t just a shop. This was a stuido of fashion in motion.

Designer RC Caylan, a Grand Rapids resident by way of the Philippines, is no stranger to drama — the good kind. Before fashion, he was involved in theater, choreography, hair, and makeup. “I used to choreograph friends’ debutante balls,” he tells me with a smile, referencing the traditional Filipino celebration similar to a quinceañera or Sweet 16. Though he didn’t learn to sew from a formal school — he credits his mother and grandmother, both seamstresses — Caylan always had an eye for aesthetics. He began by designing dresses for friends, eventually stepping into the world of couture.

Now, he’s dressing stars on red carpets at Cannes, the Met Gala, and most recently at "The Power of Young Hollywood" event

STYLE

as reported by Variety. A scroll through his social media pages reveals an A-list roster wearing his designs — dramatic silhouettes, tailored menswear, and gowns worthy of opera stages. And yet, the name remains rooted in the Midwest. His assistant puts it simply: “It’s not about the names. The clothing speaks for itself.”

This fall, the spotlight turns once again

to Grand Rapids as RC Caylan’s Spring/ Summer 2026 collection “ReImagine” makes its debut October 4, 2025 at DeVos Place. The show, entitled “One Night Only” will feature fashion and fine arts together for a one-of-a-kind haute couture extravaganza, with ballet dancers, opera singers and a full scale symphonic score that promises to be a feast for the senses. Part catwalk, part stage show, all elegance. Expect choreography. Expect drama. Expect RC Caylan’s bold, high-glamour aesthetic infused with the artistry of West Michigan’s most celebrated cultural institutions. The details hadn't been entirely sewn up (pun intended) at the time this magazine went to print, but the gist of it is that it's the must-attend fashion event of the year— live music, flowing drinks, and a celebration of what happens when couture and community combine.

Caylan’s journey from selling sweets in school back in the Philippines to dressing celebrities and mounting major productions is a testament not only to his talent, but to his steadfast vision. When he arrived in Michigan, newly married and unsure of his next step, he encountered setbacks in getting into the design school of his choice, pivoted and ended up stduying fashion right here at GRCC. As the saying goes, the rest is history.

True artists always find a way. And Caylan didn’t just find his place in Grand Rapids— he’s helping to reshape its creative landscape one stitch at a time.

“Caylan didn’t just find his place in Grand Rapids — he’s helping reshape its creative landscape one stitch at a time.”

Models pose wearing pieces from RC Caylan's 2025 Spring/Summer collection.

Clockwise from left: Chloe Shulz, Moji Olurin, Kendall Schamel, and Melisa Solem— all part of the RC Caylan Atelier team, hard at work preparing for the unveiling of "ReImagine" which will make its debut at DeVos Place on Oct. 4, 2025.

Coaching beyond competition

What every parent needs to know about navigating youth sports culture.

BY ANN BYLE

Brian Smith calls it the Youth Industrial Sports Complex, the system that feeds kids in at pre-school age and spits out college-bound athletes who may even make the pros.

That’s the dream, anyway.

“I’m mentoring my own kids within a system that values winning and also spending as much money as possible,” said Smith, who lives in Lowell and is on staff with Athletes in Action. He and his wife coach the crosscountry team at Lowell High School.

Smith is also co-author of “Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports,” which released July 1. “The book is designed to help you take advantage of the opportunities that sports provide,” said Smith, whose co-author is Ed Uszynski.

Advantages are many, he said. The social aspects that come with sports in our increasingly isolated society. Life lessons and building character that come with hard work, winning and especially losing. Learning there

is a connection between working hard and seeing the fruit of that work on the back end of the process.

The downsides are tough, and often revolve around parents who invest heavily in time and money. All that investment means their child should play more and start every game, their kid deserves more coaching, more accolades, more everything.

“It’s about parents caring about the things that transcend the scoreboard and what happens on the field.”

— Brian Smith

Ed Uszynski (left) and Brian Smith (right), co-authors of "Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports," share insights on balancing the dreams, pressures, and life lessons in today’s youth sports culture.

parents navigating youth sports:

Know that it’s your job to build character in your kids. Sports alone doesn’t build character and, in fact, is more likely to erode character than build it, according to Smith. Play from identity, not for identity. Make sure your kids know that you love and accept them no matter what happens on the field, court or rink.

Understand the pressure we’re putting on kids with our wallets. You may not say it aloud, but the message can be, “We’re spending a lot of money so you better play well.”

Know the pressure your child can face. “We’re creating highly-pressurized environments for our kids. If a professional athlete can’t handle that pressure, how can we expect our kids to,” asked Smith.

“We’ve created a system where we put in a lot of money and a college athlete is going to pop out at the end. We all think our kid is going to be the exception to the norm,” Smith said. “The problem is that 90 percent of parents think their kid is going to be that exception.”

Smith has a few recommendations for

Start your children in sports as early as possible via YMCA or rec leagues, and try as many sports as possible to help them figure out what they like.

Don’t specialize children too early. Research says that specializing early can result in injury, increased pressure on the child, and decreasing enjoyment. Be careful on the car ride home. Don’t coach or criticize, which says to the child that they don’t measure up. Connect instead, talking about how they feel and praising their effort.

“It’s our God-given responsibility to build character in our kids and sports is one way to do that,” said Smith. “It’s about parents caring about the things that transcend the scoreboard and what happens on the field.”

Where the Whimsical Things Are

Last summer, Steve Zaagman, the founder of the Grand Rapids Original Swing Society, hosted a fantasy ball on his parents’ property in Byron Center. To my delight, Zaagman is bringing the spellbinding soiree back for another year this September, and I couldn’t be more excited.

I was 100 percent a fantasy kid growing up. I was always playing fairies or pretending to be a princess from an enchanted realm.

BY PASHA SHIPP

One of my core memories is being a preteen girl asking my father for a mermaid tail. I had a pool in my backyard, and I longed to swim beneath the chlorinated waves in mermaid splendor. In support of my quest, he presented me with a pair of black scuba flippers. I was devastated. I explained I wanted a real mermaid tail, and he explained such a thing didn’t exist. Sure, that may have been true in 2003, but boy would he be surprised to see the multimilliondollar industry of real-life mermaids today.

And yes, in recent years, I did buy myself a monofin, thank you very much. I took it for a test drive in Crooked Lake this summer–the dreams of childhood Pasha finally vindicated over 20 years later.

My point is, I have always relished the opportunity to take fantasy into reality. As you may have guessed, I have a Dungeons & Dragons group–I play as a wood elf druid named Yuna– and I deeply enjoy fantasy TV, movies and role-playing video games. That’s why when one of my dear friends

Pasha Shipp stands in costume among the trees at the Enchanted Grove: Court of the Fae fantasy ball in Byron Center.

invited me to join her at Enchanted Grove: Court of the Fae, a genuine fantasy ball last summer, I immediately poured my heart into it, allowing myself to dream and surrender to the magic.

I commissioned a crown woven with fresh flowers from Eastern Floral and procured the perfect elven ensemble for the occasion. I donned my pointed silicone ears and applied iridescent shimmer over my nose and cheeks to simulate enchanting freckles. To complete the look, I wore my silver Triforce necklace–a symbol of my love for The Legend of Zelda franchise and my innate nerdom. My character for the evening would be a Hylian named Althea, a Hateno Village native enjoying her night off from tending her mother’s shop.

After much anticipation, the day finally came. One by one, the party arrived at my humble cottage, the scene of our otherworldly transformation. The dining room, living room and first-floor bathroom were strewn with plastic packages of elf ears, duffle bags packed with makeup and an avalanche of discarded garments that wouldn’t make the cut. We fluttered from room to room, asking for assistance with the affixing of wings and the honest opinion of this wig versus that one. After a few last-minute switches and minor adjustments, we were ready.

Strapped in corsets and adorned with intricate headpieces, our merry band piled into the Uber XL parked in my driveway. We organized ourselves in the van with the precision of Tetrominoes, ensuring every skirt was safely tucked inside. As we wound our way through the quiet suburban neighborhoods of Byron Center, we mused about what lie ahead. Nervous laughter peppered our conversation as we wondered aloud what a real fantasy ball might entail–How many people would there be? And among them, who would actually commit to dressing up? Were we too dressed up? Unbeknownst to us, we’d soon be met with an experience to surpass all expectations. We arrived to see fae folk gathered in all manner of dress, from extraordinary cosplays to simple attire–everyone was on theme. Glittering gowns swept the fields while leathery black wings stretched out majestically at the backs of their wearers. Antlers and horns swayed in the evening air as people danced and reveled in the magic of the whole affair. Jugglers and fire dancers dazzled crowds with their skills, while knights clad in plate armor cleaved their weapons against one another, sending sparks flying in an entertaining display.

"The night belonged to the daydreamers, the fan fiction writers and the debaters of lore and legacy."

The sprawling property was divided into distinct sections – a clearing laden with fairy mounds, a dancefloor lit by fairy lights with lanterns bobbing overhead, a field dressed in the rustic charm of the 1500s and a forest path that weaved across the entirety of the estate. Each area had something unique to offer, from wand making, fortune telling and dance lessons of all kinds. The festivities culminated in a bonified wedding where two lovely people we’ve never met tied the knot surrounded by a handful of loved ones and hundreds of onlookers who were just happy to be there.

"I have always relished the opportunity to take fantasy into reality."

It was an evening unlike anything I’ve experienced to date. A coalescence of people from all walks of life sharing something beautiful. The night belonged to the daydreamers, the fan fiction writers and the debaters of lore and legacy. It belonged to the nerds and fantasy fangirls. It belonged to me.

Of course, I’m not the only one who loved it. With such massive success, it’s no wonder they’re bringing the fairy ball back for a second year. This time, as Enchanted Woods Fantasy Faire and Fae Ball (yours truly was even featured on the image carousel for the Eventbrite page for this year). The idea started as a way for Zaagman to spread a little delight and share the home he grew up loving with folks who would appreciate it.

“I have been very fortunate to grow up in the woods, and over the years those woods have become a very special place. I kept thinking, ‘What could we do in these woods that would make for a magical event?’ Well, I had been to a ‘Bridgerton’ Ball, and I went to the big Michigan ren faire in Holly and thought, ‘Thats it; I can do my version of that locally,’” he said. “These woods are very special to me and represent my childhood. I get to share this with others; how cool is that! And of course, I am just a big fantasy nerd. The costumes, the lore, the chance to step in to the past and see magic and share magic.”

Same as last year, there will be plenty to see and do and a whole host of activities and performers.

“We have local fire dancers breathing fire with the backdrop of the

A fairy casts a bubble spell over two young partygoers at the Enchanted Woods Fantasy Faire and Fae Ball.

woods; we have dance instructors who will teach you dances from the Regency Era, and local belly dance performers shaking up the night,” Zaagman said. “We have artists who invite you to paint a giant fantasy mural, drummers who invite you to play with them, fantasy characters handing out quests–I am always shocked by the talent in the area. I mean, who would have thought we have a real knight fighting club in the area or a pirate group that just shows up with their tents and puts on a show, or a wizard that will do close-up magic. Grand Rapids needs more events where even the most niche can put on a show.”

This time, I’m taking my fantasy game to the next level with the help of my friend, and owner of Emerge Prosthetic Arts in Battle Creek, Paul Rothchild. Though he specializes in creating lifelike skin tones and textures for prosthetics, he can also use his artistic eye to create impressive masks and special effects pieces. I won’t give too much away, but I will have custom-made horns, ears and fangs. See you in the enchanted forest!

Enchanted Woods Fantasy Faire and Fae Ball is a limited ticket event with proceeds going to support the Grand Rapids Original Swing Society.

At left, friends in flowing elven gowns share a smile beneath glowing fairy lights. Above, fantasy ballgoers strike a pose in detailed costumes at the edge of the enchanted woods.

A hands-on outlet that eases stress and sparks joy

BY ANN BYLE // PHOTOS BY BREE BYLE

A junk journal in progress, surrounded by vintage ephemera— ticket stubs, postcards, ribbon, old paper scraps and buttons—illustrates the tactile, memorykeeping nature of the craft. Many creators embrace “thrifted, gifted or found” materials over storebought supplies.

If your drawers are filled with old ticket stubs, greeting cards, maps, or bits of ribbon you might use someday, you’re not alone. Many of us feel compelled to keep things that seem meaningful or potentially useful—but that tendency can sometimes spiral. Hoarding disorder is a real and serious condition, recognized in the DSM-5 as part of the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. If you believe you may be struggling with it, consult a medical professional. But if your collecting habits don’t interfere significantly with daily life, there’s a creative and therapeutic way to channel them: the junk journal.

Here’s a new word: papyrophiliac. A papyrophiliac is a person who loves paper, who is obsessed with pages from old books,

scrapbooking paper, pretty craft beer labels, stickers, stationary, playbills, ticket stubs, old library checkout cards, old greeting cards, photographs, sheet music, maps. Take that paper love/obsession a couple steps farther and junk journals begin to appear. Add items important to you— think long-saved greeting cards or travel brochures—a bit of lace, a few buttons, maybe a paper doily or two and you’ve got a one-of-akind, hand-made book that provides a creative outlet and a place to store your memories.

WELLNESS

Junk journals blend journaling and scrapbooking, creating a unique medium that uses recycled and repurposed materials as often as possible. One website calls it a form of “rebellion” against purchasing premade papers and other supplies, instead turning to paper items that normally would end up in a landfill (houseofmahalo.com/ history-of-junk-journals/). The journals can range from books of blank pages with a unique cover to each-page-a-work-of-art volumes. Etsy sells junk journals that range from about $35 to as high as $650.

Kathleen Wojtowicz lives on Grand Rapids’ West Side and owns Rose Colored Glasses, a papercraft business that features junk journals, junk journal kits, small packages of ephemera, and other papercraft items. She exhibits at arts and crafts shows, outdoor markets and hosts workshops.

Wojtowicz’s motto is “thrifted, gifted or found.” She finds papers at thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, junk bins, other peoples’ trash. “I look at it as true junk, using items that I’ve found. I don’t use anything digital, and don’t go to retail stores,” she said.

Wojtowicz says her love of paper is where it all started. “People tell me they need a creative outlet. Creating a junk journal is very tactile. You use scissors and glue, which seems silly when talking to someone who doesn’t do it, but once you start handling it, it’s about creating something new.”

“It’s about putting something of yourself on the inside and in the process. The end result is something important to you.”

—Kathleen Wojtowicz

Buttons were the gateway to junk journals for Linda Radermacher, who lives in Kentwood and owns Button Up. She had collected thousands of buttons through the years, first adding them to jean jackets and other clothing. A friend gifted her a junk journal and she was immediately drawn to the medium. She put her own take on junk journals, adding buttons of course, fabric, paper, embroidery and more to each unique piece.

“I never know what a single page will look like until it’s done,” said Radermacher, who upcycles and thrifts what she needs. She’s made ten junk journals and has three left after beginning to sell them last year at craft shows, pop-up markets, and through home shows.

For her, it’s also about the creativity. “Junk journals are an artistic outlet, and customers appreciate the uniqueness of each one. Some are terrified to start making a journal but I’ve already done the hard part for them,” she said. “I hear oohs and aahs as people turn the pages. They can use the junk journals to save things by tucking them into the many pockets.”

She admits to being a bit of a hoarder when it comes to paper, fabric, cards and more. In her pre-retirement life, she called herself a rule follower. Now, she said, she can break the rules.

“Anything goes because it’s all in the creator’s eyes. Throw rules out the window and do what you want to do. Experiment,” said Radermacher. “Try something a see where it leads. People are surprised at how much creativity they have in them. The key is having fun with what you’re doing.”

Whether you create your own junk journal to store your memories or purchase one and add your memorabilia, it’s about “putting something of yourself on the inside and in the process. The end result is something important to you. We cut ourselves short if something we make has to be perfect,” said Wojtowicz.

Rose Colored Glasses

Follow on Facebook at Rose Colored Glasses and on Instagram at rosecoloredglassesgr

Kathleen Wojtowicz will lead workshops at the DAAC on Plainfield Avenue NE on Sept. 12, Oct. 24, and Nov. 7 from 6::30-8:30 pm. Cost is $15. For more information, contact her via Facebook or Instragram.

Button Up

Follow on Instagram at buttonup.by.lmr

Linda Radermacher will be at several markets through the end of the year and does home shows where attendees create junk journals. Contact her at lmr44buttons@gmail.com.

Linda Radermacher and Kathleen Wojtowicz blend textures like buttons, fabric, old library cards, and lace. Each handmade page becomes a one-of-a-kind canvas for personal storytelling, creative play, and meaningful keepsakes.

Is your house trying to tell you something?

Ghost expert tells tales of hauntings.

BY ANN BYLE

We often think of home as our refuge—a place of comfort, safety. But what happens when that sense of peace is replaced by an eerie feeling you can’t explain? A flicker in the hallway. A shadow that doesn’t belong. A sense that you’re not alone.

In this season of shifting light and long shadows (and in the spirit of Halloween fun) we've interviewed local paranormal researcher Julie Rathsack, who's made it her mission to investigate what might be stirring behind closed doors. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or just someone curious about the stories tied to our city’s older residences and buildings, Rathsack offers insight into how hauntings happen, where they tend to linger, and what to do if you suspect something otherworldly might be cohabiting with you.

Historic buildings like First United Methodist Church and the Charles R. Calkins Law Office reflect Grand Rapids’ deep roots—and may hold lingering energy from the past. Paranormal researcher Julie Rathsack says older structures often carry spiritual echoes, especially those built before 1950.

The Sweet House—once home to the Women’s City Club—reportedly hosts visits from former residents Martin and Desdemona Sweet, according to ghost investigator Julie Rathsack.

Julie Rathsack suggests several ways to discern if there might be paranormal activity around you.

• Follow your senses the air feels heavy, doesn’t feel quite right, or the energy is different than normal.

• Look out for pranks— items are missing, but turn up later in the exact spot they were before.

• Look for movement— out of the corner of your eyes, shadows, random movements.

• Have an icky feeling— get out if you feel like you shouldn’t be there.

• If concerned, contact Lifted Veil (liftedveilparanormal.com)

This might not be your typical home improvement story—but it just might help explain why your keys keep vanishing.

Rathsack knows all about our Grand Rapids ghosts: she’s met them, researched them, led ghost tours, and written about them. Her book A Haunted History of Grand Rapids came out in 2024 and her latest, The Ghostly Tales of Grand Rapids written for children, in May of this year.

“I started collecting ghost stories at about age 17, but in my 40s I started loving the history more,” said Rathsack, who lives in Plainfield Township. Her newest book for adults offers the history of the haunted place first, followed by the ghost story.

There’s the murder/suicide in front of The Fulton, a boardinghouse at 118-120 Fulton Street, which is now MeXo Tequila & Mezcal Bar. It appears that Frank Hibben Stout haunts both the Fulton Street location where he murdered Ada Mann and another house where he once lived.

Abram Pike is said to appear at his former home, Pike House on Fulton Street. A young boy talks to guests at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. The Sweet House, former home to the Women’s City Club, has visits from Martin and Desdemona Sweet, who lived there for years.

For Rathsack, whose day job is manager of business intelligence at Acosta Sales and Marketing, such events are all in a night’s work. She owns Lifted Veil Paranormal, a business that researches and investigates paranormal events. She focuses on pre-1950 ghosts, and adds that new buildings can be haunted because they sit on land that is haunted.

Paranormal activity is said to stir in multiple downtown Grand Rapids locations. Some believe hauntings linger in familiar places like this one, especially if the land beneath has a storied past.

“It can be very boring as we sit and wait, and it can be freaky—we’re on edge because stuff is moving all the time. We have weird, unexplainable things happen,” she said.

She and her team use a spirit box— known as an SLS Detector—that detects words or sounds from the entity. She wears headphones to hear the static and any words that break through.

Such as “Weaver” when recently investigating DeCaydence Vintage at 71 Division Ave. S, located next door to Rumors Night Club. The businesses sit on the site of the former Kalamazoo Hotel, where Ed Weaver was the manager. Employees have seen a little girl sitting on a keg and singing “Ring Around the Rosy” in the basement.

“It’s terrifying when I see something, but five minutes later I think it’s cool,” said Rathsack. “I feel like I attract ghosts.”

TRUSTED ADVISORS

Q: In your 50-plus-year quest for great furniture design, have you found anything new?

A: Once in a while, truly new ideas come along and create a new category of furniture. Sometimes it is a novel use of materials, like the increasingly popular porcelain ceramic tabletops, which, like porcelain floor tiles, are very durable, low maintenance, and attractive. Other times, an idea that has been around but never executed well is tweaked or added to a product in a new way and becomes brilliant. The Stressless Stella sofa and sectional is a great example. The market is full of reclining sofas, and over the years, there have been a few rocking sofas. Stella borrows from both concepts without being a rocker or recliner but a sofa that responds to you. Sit down and lean back, sit up or relax — Stella follows however you move. When someone tries it for the first time, they usually smile as they lean back and experience the comfort and movement that is so intuitive it is brilliant.

Q: Why involve a landscape designer to ensure year-round landscape success?

A: Creating a landscape that thrives year-round requires an understanding of design, Michigan’s seasons, and soil. As trained landscape designers, we specialize in blending plants, layout, and functional elements to craft outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and purposeful. One of the most important aspects of year-round landscape success is plant selection. Selecting the right combination of perennials, evergreens, shrubs, and trees ensures that your landscape o ers visual interest and structure throughout changing seasons.

Year-round success isn’t solely about plant selection. We also design with function and sustainability in mind by creating usable spaces that stand the test of time. This often includes solving drainage issues, incorporating proper retaining solutions, and using professional-grade materials for lasting results. By partnering with a landscape designer, you’re creating a living space that grows, evolves, and adds value to your property in every season. Have questions? We’re happy to help!

Design Quest

Thor Sorensen

Co-owner

4181 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-940-9911

info@designquest.biz

Q: When should I book my spring break trip to get the best deals?

A: Believe it or not, now’s the time! Booking your spring break trip between now and November gives you the best shot at good prices and great options — especially for popular spots like Florida, Mexico, or the Caribbean. As we get closer to March and April, prices rise and availability drops fast!

If you’re traveling with family or a group, early booking helps ensure you can sit together on flights and stay in the same place. To save more, consider flying midweek to avoid peak weekend travel dates.

Not sure where to start or overwhelmed by options? That’s where a travel adviser can help — whether you’re dreaming of a beach, a cruise, or something more o the beaten path. Spring break will be here before you know it; let’s start planning something unforgettable!

Alfresco Landscapes

Colton Schlitters

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

Witte Travel & Tours

Cathy Bancino

Vacation Travel Consultant

3250 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512

616-942-5112

cbancino@wittetravel.com

Q: What are the latest trends in window coverings?

A: At Gotcha Covered Grand Rapids, customers are purchasing custom draperies and café curtains. Homeowners want the soft ethereal look of sheer or semisheer café curtains and sheer draperies. While they love the sun — especially after a bleak winter — people don’t want harsh sunlight when eating, watching TV, or getting ready for the day. A sheer or semisheer fabric di uses bright light without making the room dark.

Decorative side panels and traversing draperies are another trend among clients wanting to create warmth within their homes. We’re also seeing interior designers recommending draperies for adding interest, texture, and color to a room’s décor. Draperies provide a layer of insulation, too, which means lower utility bills. Side panels and traversing draperies greatly minimize the “halo” e ect of blackout shades, thus providing a better night’s rest. Come visit our showroom to see a range of drapery styles and fabrics as well as a wide variety of blinds, shades, and shutters.

Gotcha Covered Grand Rapids

Judy Cisler, Owner 4444 Breton Road SE Kentwood, MI 49508 616-914-2580

Q: What makes a ride on the S.S. Badger such a unique travel experience for visitors to Ludington?

A: The S.S. Badger isn’t just transportation — it’s a floating piece of maritime history and a memorable way to experience Lake Michigan. As the last coal-fired passenger steamship in the U.S., the Badger o ers a nostalgic four-hour cruise between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, featuring onboard dining, games, free movies, and sweeping lake views. But you don’t have to cross the lake to enjoy it — the Badger also o ers shoreline cruises and mini cruises, perfect for sightseeing, relaxing, and soaking up the ship’s rich history. These special sailings are especially popular with families, photographers, and anyone looking for a unique and a ordable way to connect with the Great Lakes. Whether you opt for a full voyage or a short scenic trip, the Badger promises a one-of-a-kind adventure on the water.

Q: How should I care for my jewelry?

A: This answer has two parts.

1. Take it off. There are five times you shouldn’t wear your jewelry. First, when sleeping. Sheets scratch, chains tangle, delicate rings bend under our body weight. Second, when exercising. Apart from the potential damage to jewelry, our fingers swell and can make rings uncomfortably tight. Third, when cleaning. Avoid scratching, denting, and exposure to chemicals. Fourth, when swimming or hot tubbing. Pool chemicals are harsh; also, rings could slip off. Fifth, when applying soaps, lotions, and sanitizers, which leave gunky residue. (Do not remove your ring in a public restroom! We’d rather clean a dirty ring than remake a lost ring.)

2. Bring it to us. The best thing to do is bring it to one of our jewelers annually for professional cleaning and inspection. You’ll love how good it looks, and you’ll relax knowing everything is secure.

Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Brandy Miller Executive Director

Metal Art Studio

Fine Jewelry

Carol Wagen, Co-Owner

978 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506

616-459-5075

metalartstudioinc.com

ThirdSoundCoast THAT

FERTILE GROUND FOR MUSICIANS AND MUSIC FANS

BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

“MOST SUCCESSFUL MUSICIANS ARE ENTREPRENEURS. YOU HAVE TO GET LUCKY WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE AS WELL.”

— Brian Vander Ark, frontman of The Verve Pipe

MUSIC FANS AN EMBARRASSMENT OF RICHES.

GRAND RAPIDS OFFERS

FOR A COMMUNITY OF ITS SIZE, GRAND RAPIDS SPECIFICALLY AND WEST MICHIGAN more generally are home to fantastic music venues of all sizes and foundational institutions in the performing arts. Moreover, Grand Rapids and its environs have a remarkable track record of cultivating significant artists and music scenes in a wide range of genres.

“We are truly supported in Grand Rapids by a great customer base of people that love seeing live music in an intimate setting,” said Scott Hammontree, partner and talent buyer for the Intersection, which has been one of the city’s most beloved spots for live music for more than 50 years. For the last 22 years, the Intersection has been located in downtown Grand Rapids and hosts live music in its five distinct indoor and outdoor venues. Indoor performances with a capacity of as many as 1,500 are held in the Showroom while the Mint, the Intersection’s smallest space, has a capacity of 200. The Intersection hosts outdoor shows for as many as 2,200 in its “Rock the Lot” series.

Above, Brian Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe, in addition to performing, also hosts

“I LOVE GRAND RAPIDS. IT'S A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND IT'S A GREAT PLACE TO BE IN A BAND.”

— Dave Kirchgessner, co-founder of Mustard Plug

“We've always lived in Grand Rapids. Our practice space has always been in the city of Grand Rapids. We all live really close to each other. I love Grand Rapids. It's a great place to live and it's a great place to be in a band,” said Dave Kirchgessner, co-founder of ska troubadours Mustard Plug. The group formed in 1991 and has spent decades as one of the country’s most popular ska bands.

Mustard Plug are far from the only major artists with strong ties to Grand Rapids and West Michigan. The likes of Billy Strings, Del Shannon, DeBarge, Al Green, the Verve Pipe, and Maynard James Keenan also have roots in the area.

One thing that unites the artists who hail from West Michigan is their willingness to work. Beyond crafting great songs, the artists interviewed for this story all embraced the behind-the-scenes grind it took to find an audience for their music.

“Most successful musicians are entrepreneurs. You have to get lucky with the right people as well. Part of it is getting guys in your group that are ambitious,” said Brian Vander Ark, founder of Grand Rapids-based alternative rock band the Verve Pipe, whose platinum selling 1997 album Villains was buoyed by their top 5 single, “The Freshman.”

Facilitating the successful grinds by Grand Rapids musicians are factors clearly in the Furniture City’s favor. Grand Rapids is a significantly more affordable city than many larger communities. It also serves as a great point of entry for touring musicians, being a three-to-five-hour drive from several

BILLY STRINGS

Formed in 1991

Opened for national ska acts in early '90s

Sold hundreds of records via Vinyl Solution Toured globally for 30+ years

Mustard Plug

MAYNARD KEENAN

major markets. West Michigan itself serves as a great starting point for building an audience, as evidenced by Greensky Bluegrass, the Kalamazoo-based bluegrass jam band which has developed a devoted fanbase across the country.

“In the early days of booking the band, we were exclusively a West Michigan band, touring up and down 131,” said Greensky co-founder Paul Hoffman.

The city of Grand Rapids has venues of all sizes capable of hosting both regional and national acts.

Van Andel Arena is a classic, industrial-strength indoor site for shows. Besides hosting professional hockey and basketball, the Fulton Street venue has served as the city’s home for the largest indoor concerts since it opened in 1996. The likes of Taylor Swift, Pearl Jam, Elton John, and Metallica have played the 13,184-seat venue in recent years.

In the summertime, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is one of West Michigan’s premier outdoor music spaces, nestling listeners amid sculptures, flora, and an ivy-covered stage.

Beginning in 2026, the Acrisure Amphitheater, located at 201 Market Avenue, will be another warm weather center of gravity

for the city’s music lovers. The 12,000-capacity venue will provide another downtown site for major concerts and further revitalize the Grand Riverfront as part of the “Green Ribbon.”

Breakthrough at Farm Aid IV via Willie

Signed to RCA; Villains went platinum

Ongoing success with 4 albums in the past decade

For those in search of a more intimate setting, Grand Rapids has several incredible, independently-owned concert venues, spaces that host both local and national acts.

It all starts with the Intersection. Collectively, the club’s five stages host more than 300 shows per year.

“We prefer to book artists that have a loyal following, regardless of genre or stage in their career,” said Hammontree. In the fragmented music business of 2025, it can be difficult for a club to figure out which acts to book. The Intersection relies on a mixture of streaming service spins, radio playlists, and customer input.

“We try to keep our pricing reasonable and make sure our customers experience the best night possible while they are here. We appreciate anyone who comes out to a show and then tells their friends and family about the great experience they had,” Hammontree said.

Located in the Heartside neighborhood, the Pyramid Scheme is a music venue with a

The Verve Pipe Formed in 1992

Nelson

Above: The Verve Pipe joins forces with the Grand Rapids Symphony for a powerful night of symphonic rock under the stars at Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater—blending classical orchestration with alt-rock energy in a uniquely Grand Rapids collaboration.

“THE HOME OF THE BAND IS WEST MICHIGAN, AND NOTHING WILL EVER CHANGE THAT.”

— Dave Bruzza, Greensky Bluegrass

brings their genrebending bluegrass jams to Frederik

Gardens Amphitheater, one of West Michigan’s most beloved outdoor venues. The Kalamazoobased band, which got its start playing open mics and bars across the region, now commands national stages while proudly calling West Michigan home.

Greensky Bluegrass

Meijer

pub and a world class pinball arcade. The venue has a capacity of 420 for standing shows and 210 for seated performances. Opened in 2011 by the VandenBerg family, the venue hosts alternative, Americana, indie, punk, and hip-hop acts as well as live comedy.

“We're lucky in Grand Rapids to have a lot of different venues and different size venues. You’ve got a place you can jump in at the bottom and then grow,” said Kirchgessner. Mustard Plug will be playing Pyramid Scheme on September 27th, featuring songs from throughout their more than three-decade long career.

Undergirding Grand Rapids’ superb collection of music venues are a host of performing arts institutions that form the foundation of the region’s arts scene.

Based at the gorgeous Devos Performance Hall, the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra is a regional treasure. Directed since 2016 by Marcelo Lehninger, the Symphony and its affiliates perform more than 400 times each year throughout Michigan. The Grand Rapids Symphony’s 2025-2026 Richard and Helen Devos Masterwork Series opens on September 12th and 13th. The 10-concert series will feature everything from Mahler to Brahms to Copland.

Located in Manistee National Forest, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp has offered summer arts education programs since 1966. Students can

focus on music, dance, painting, sculpture, and drama. The Camp offers a range of learning environments for students with differing levels of experience and skill.

The Interlochen Center for the Arts (I.C.A) has been an epicenter of arts education since the 1920s. I.C.A. emerged from an effort by music educator Joseph Maddy to create a National High School Orchestra Camp. The institution has evolved into an elite boarding school where students major in a performing, visual, or literary arts discipline. The Interlochen Arts Camp is the summer version of the program which draws aspiring performers from around the world. I.C.A. has served as a venue for public radio since 1963. Broadcasts of classical music originating from Interlochen Public Radio have been heard across the country for more than 60 years.

Beyond the spaces where West Michiganders enjoy music are the stories of local musi-

Above: Grand Rapids Symphony fills DeVos Performance Hall with rich sound and vibrant energy during a live performance, showcasing the ensemble's worldclass talent.

Opposite page: Grand Rapids Symphony Music Director Marcelo Lehninger leads the orchestra at DeVos Performance Hall.

“BASED AT THE GORGEOUS DEVOS PERFORMANCE HALL, THE GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA IS A REGIONAL TREASURE.”

cians whose influence has spread far beyond the region. In the cases of the Verve Pipe, Greensky Bluegrass, and Mustard Plug, each band developed a strong local following which laid the groundwork for their broader success.

“We didn't really have big ambitions beyond writing a few songs and playing some shows. Our goal was always to take it one step further,” Mustard Plug singer Dave Kirchgessner said of the band he co-founded with Colin Clive in 1991.

“Colin and I were the only two really hardcore ska fans that I ran into on our side of the state. I kept going to ska shows in Ann Arbor and Detroit and bumping into him,”

Kirchgessner said. Clive and Kirchgessner both moved home to Grand Rapids after graduating from Michigan State in 1991. They decided to start their own ska band.

Mustard Plug embedded themselves in the city’s underground music scene, recruiting band members and playing shows for friends with adjacent musical tastes.

“There was a pretty good underground alternative music scene here. It wasn't just punk rock. There was a grunge, weird post punk, and industrial scene. We all kind of knew each other,” Kirchgessner said. “What we were doing was a little bit different than what was going on, everything else was bummer music. Ours was danceable and energetic and fun,” he continued.

During the early 1990s, Kirchgessner worked part-time as a concert promoter, bringing ska bands such as Let’s Go Bowling and Skankin’ Pickle to West Michigan. Kirchgessner would have Mustard

Key Grand Rapids Music Venues

Van Andel Arena 13,184 seats

Acrisure Amphitheater (2026) 12,000 capacity

Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater 1,900

The Intersection – 5 stages, 300+ shows a year

The Pyramid Scheme – 420 standing, 210 seated

DeVos Performance Hall 2,543

The iconic façade of Vertigo Music in downtown Grand Rapids — a beloved indie record store known for its deep vinyl selection, bold murals, and dedication to the local music scene.

Country star Chase Rice fires up the crowd at The Intersection, one of Grand Rapids’ most dynamic live music venues known for hosting national acts in an intimate, highenergy setting.

Train performs to a packed crowd at the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater.

“WE'RE LUCKY IN GRAND RAPIDS TO HAVE SO MANY DIFFERENT VENUES AND DIFFERENT SIZE VENUES. YOU'VE GOT A PLACE YOU CAN JUMP IN AT THE BOTTOM AND THEN GROW.”

— Dave Kirchgessner, Mustard Plug

Plug open for the better-known acts, gaining the Grand Rapids band wider exposure and helping them earn opening spots on shows in Chicago and Detroit.

Independently owned local record stores, most notably Vinyl Solution, were “enormously supportive” of Mustard Plug, said Kirchgessner. Located near 28th and Breton Road, Vinyl Solution was a massive shop which operated from 1986 until 1996.

“It was hands down the best record store in the state,” Kirchgessner said. Herm Baker, the founder of Vinyl Solution, later established Vertigo Music on Division Avenue, which has

now been a premier destination for music buyers for two decades.

“We literally sold hundreds of copies through Vinyl Solution. I worked there at the time and it would be me selling it to them,” Kirchgessner said. Mustard Plug established itself over the course of the 1990s and early 2000s as one of the country’s most popular ska bands, releasing a host of studio albums and touring North America and the world for more than 30 years.

Brian Vander Ark of the Verve Pipe got his start as a teenager playing for tips at Holiday Inn bars around West Michigan. After a stint

in the Army, he returned to the Holiday Inn circuit when a friend at a country radio station got him a meeting with Willie Nelson.

Brian gave the Redheaded Stranger a demo tape and Nelson got back to him a few days later, inviting him to perform at Farm Aid IV at the Hoosier Dome in Indianapolis.

Vander Ark went from playing for a couple of dozen people at a hotel lounge to performing for 20,000 in a stadium while rubbing shoulders with the likes of Neil Young and Lou Reed.

After Farm Aid, Vander Ark worked in several bands before helping form the Verve Pipe in Grand Rapids in 1992.

Greensky Bluegrass

Formed in 2000

Won Telluride Bluegrass Festival (2006)

Toured nationally with a growing fanbase

Collaborated with Billy Strings

“WE WERE GRINDING IT OUT FOR YEARS IN BARS AND SKI TOWNS. BUT GRAND RAPIDS ALWAYS GAVE US A CROWD THAT LISTENED.”

— Dave Bruzza

“It was a fantastic scene. Everybody was interested in original rock and roll bands, especially when the Seattle sound hit. Back then, everybody was so hungry for live music,” Vander Ark said, citing clubs such as the Intersection, Club Soda in Kalamazoo, and Rick’s American Cafe in East Lansing as particularly supportive.

Through intense touring of the region, the Verve Pipe sold a combined 40,000 copies of their first two independent releases, garnering attention from major labels.

The Verve Pipe did a great deal of business with record stores like Vinyl Solution and Flat Black & Circular in East Lansing.

“We'd go in and stock them and they'd call us a day later and say ‘hey, we need more.’ We didn't have any kind of major distribution. We just played all the time and sold records at the show,” Vander Ark said.

The Verve Pipe signed with RCA and scored a pair of major post-grunge alternative rock hits with “Photograph” and “the Freshman,” buoying Villains to million-seller status. The band has continued to be a prolific recording and touring act. In the past decade, the

group has released four albums.

Vander Ark credits the band’s evolving sound to singer and co-songwriter Channing Lee, who joined the band a decade ago.

“Her vocal on the album is so distinctive, our voices work really well together. Lyrically, she keeps me in the storytelling place. Those last three records have some of the best songs I've written and it's thanks to Channing,” Vander Ark said, citing the likes of Harry Chapin and James Taylor as inspirations as a songwriter.

Greensky Bluegrass got their start in 2000, playing open mics across West Michigan and learning bluegrass songs.

Co-founders Dave Bruzza and Paul Hoffman were both fans of the Grateful Dead

West Michigan’s own Greensky Bluegrass, left to right: Dave Bruzza (guitar), Paul Hoffman (mandolin), Mike Devol (bass), Anders Beck (dobro), and Michael Arlen Bont ( banjo).

and found their way to bluegrass through the Dead and Dead offshoots, many of which made use of the mandolin and embraced old time music. From the beginning, the group has juxtaposed the sounds of the counterculture with those of more traditional bluegrass. Like the Seldom Scene, heroes of the progressive bluegrass movement, Greensky combines improvisation and irreverence into their sound.

“We were all just kind of new at doing it and just doing it for fun. And learning together and growing together. The next step always seemed obvious, so we just kept taking it,” Bruzza said.

“I remember calling bars all the time and trying to convince them that people would dance to Bluegrass. Yeah, we have a banjo but people will dance,” Hoffman said, noting that they were exposing new listeners to bluegrass just as the members of the band were being exposed to more bluegrass themselves.

In 2006, Greensky expanded its audience considerably after winning the prestigious Telluride Bluegrass Festival’s band competition.

“We certainly weren't the most polished

Bluegrass band, but we were genuine and unique,” Hoffman said.

“Winning that competition got our name out there in a way that was really funny. We played in Owosso, Michigan right after that and the poster said ‘One of Colorado’s most exciting new bands,” Bruzza said.

For the past two decades, Greensky has won over a devoted fanbase through relentless touring and the creation of a large and diverse recorded catalog.

“It's a constant evolution and I feel very lucky that we have five brains in this band that are strong and creative and challenge us,” Bruzza said.

“We constantly want to be creative with our music in ways that challenge us. That means trying new things that our instruments are maybe not familiar with. Or familiar in the Bluegrass world,” Hoffman said.

Even though members of the group live in several different places now, “the home of the band is West Michigan, and nothing will ever change that,” Bruzza said.

The stories of groups like Greensky, Mustard Plug, and the Verve Pipe continue to

recreate themselves in the region, as local musicians find their way into unfamiliar ears by way of streaming. West Michigan’s Billy Strings has become one of the shining lights of the contemporary bluegrass scene, winning a pair of Grammys and twice earning Artist of the Year honors at the Americana Music Awards. Greensky has collaborated with Strings on a number of occasions and expresses their pride and admiration for all that their friend has accomplished.

When asked for advice on how younger musicians in West Michigan can expand their reach, each of the interviewees said that it boiled down to the act’s willingness to work hard and work smart, particularly when it came to promoting themselves.

“You have to be able to navigate social media so well. You've got to allocate jobs to each member of the band. Have one person who's all about the social media all the time with help from everyone else. One person should concentrate on getting the banned booked. We had one guy who's in charge of putting the word out with the press. Allocating that work is how we did it. Everybody has to hustle,” Vander Ark said.

The Verve Pipe along with the Grand Rapids Symphony perform at Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater on July 7, 2025.

HAPPY 5 O’clock in the 616

When the clock strikes 5 p.m.- whether you’re working from home, commuting from the office, or wrapping up a day at your favorite coffee shop- you’re probably craving a break from screens, but not quite ready to head home to dinner, the couch, and yet another Netflix documentary (no shade- there are nights for that too!).

If you’re looking for that perfect in-between spot to ease out of work mode, Grand Rapids has a ton of happy hour hangouts to help you transition into the evening. While there are plenty of roundups focused on the best deals, we’re spotlighting three standout happy hour spots that serve up a variety of vibes. From laid-back and local to nature-inspired to a little more luxe- read on to discover your next go-to happy hour destination.

Cocktails, from left: Rum Punch, Blue Citrus Blue Dog Margarita, Mimosa, Bloody Mary.

STORY BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERI GENOVESE

LOCAL GO-TO: BLUE DOG TAVERN

If you know, you know- and if you don’t, let me introduce you to one of the West Side’s most beloved neighborhood gems. Tucked into a corner of 4th and Stocking on the Westside of GR, just off Bridge Street, Blue Dog Tavern is a bar steeped in history. They’ve been serving up gourmet tots, loaded hot dogs, and what might be the best burger in town since 2013. Housed in a building with serious history (a former bank in the 1900s, then Frank’s Tavern post-prohibition, and later the beloved Kopper Top for 40 years), Blue Dog blends old-school charm with a come-as-you-are vibe that locals love. The friendly staff, elevated bar food, and crowd-pleasing cocktails are part of the magic- but now, there’s even more to love.

Their newly added patio (dog friendly, of course) has been mentioned by almost everyone in my circle unprompted, bringing an new outdoor energy to the bar. Outdoor seating had always been on their wish list, and when the building next door became available, owners Fred Mackraz and Rob Kraal jumped at the chance. “The old Stocking Theater fit the Blue Dog brand and gave us a chance

to create a truly unique outdoor space and experience,” they said. The expansion also brought a much-needed kitchen upgrade and two additional bathrooms.

Happy Hour runs Monday through Thursday from 3–6 p.m., with $4 wells and $3 domestics. Don’t forget to try their patio special on warm nights- get the Blue Dog outdoor cup for $1 with the purchase of a slushy. Sunday funday comes with $6 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas, and you’ll find $5 house bombs after 9 p.m. every night and Industry Night discounts post 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. Whether you're in the mood to post up at the bar or soak in the sun out back, Blue Dog is the kind of place where everyone feels like a regular.

Clockwise from top left, Poutine Tots and Bloody Mary. Rum Punch with a Smash Burger and the Blue Dog Tavern's new dog-friendly patio.

OUTDOOR GETAWAY: THIRD NATURE BREWING I

f you’re looking to press pause and soak in some nature with a drink in hand, head straight for Third Nature Brewing. This family-owned brewery in Rockford is equal parts laid-back and scenic- with a sprawling biergarten that feels like a vacation without leaving West Michigan. Just off the White Pine Trail (yes, you can bike right in), try Trail Tuesdays where if you walk, run, or bike in on the trail, you get $2 off your first pint. Opened in 2019 by three siblings and their spouses (hence the “Third”), this spot lives up to its name in every way. “On any given day we’ve got deer running through our biergarten or a bald eagle flying overhead,” says owner Troy Mark Zitzelsberger. It’s a go-to for outdoor lovers, dog parents, and anyone looking to enjoy craft beer surrounded by fresh air and tall trees. With a large patio outdoor space, you can enjoy the outdoors year-round, with live music in the summer, firepits in the fall and igloos in the winter.

Happy Hour runs weekdays before 5 p.m. with $1 off adult beverages and a rotating food menu that goes well beyond your standard pub fare- think burgers, gyros, pierogis, and pizzas. Sipping rec? Try the Cuke’s of Hazzard, a crisp, refreshing brew infused with Thai basil and English cucumber. Or kick off your night with a Kentucky Mule and settle into that “vacation” state of mind. Try an Adult Bubbly Water to create-your-own drink with their house seltzer and a range of available flavors to customize to your preference.

Clockwise from top left: bikes are parked in front of an outdoor eating area; a server delivers a 3NEIPA in a tulip glass; the Screamin' Goat Burger, and Pad Thai.

HAPPY HOUR

Chorizo Crostini, fries, Kentucky Mule, and a Cukes of Hazzard beer.

HAPPY HOUR

A tempting Chef’s Rotating Cheese & Charcuterie board with house pickles, bread, and an array of artisan cheeses and meats, perfect for pairing with a glass of wine.

Idulge in a hearty cheesesteak panini from The Lark's menu.

Savor the vibe at The Lark in Ada Village, where plush seating and warm lighting set the stage for a perfect night out.

LUXE LIBATIONS: THE LARK

Tucked into the heart of Ada Village, The Lark is a cozychic wine bar that’s already made a name for itself- and it only opened in March. With thoughtfully designed zones for different occasions (think swanky bar, plush couches, roomy booths, and a dog-friendly patio complete with leash holders and treats for your furry friends), The Lark is built for whatever kind of night you’re after- girls night, date night, or just a good glass of wine solo.

Owner May Graceffa calls the space all about “good vibes,” and the energy lives up to the promise. You’ll find over 25 wines by the glass and more than 150 bottles to choose from in the retail section-

including picks from Europe, California, New Zealand, and Michigan- all of which you can open right there for a corkage fee. Pair your pour with elevated bites like mushroom and goat cheese crostini, sliders, rotating panini specials, or the local-favorite Cheese Lady charcuterie. While The Lark doesn’t offer happy hour specials yet, the atmosphere, wine selection, and rotating menu make it feel like a celebration any night of the week. Monthly wine tastings and themed food events (yes, they’ve done oysters and fried chicken sliders) keep regulars coming back- and events sell out fast. “The people who have been coming in and enjoying The Lark are what has made it so special,” says Graceffa. And it shows.

HAPPY HOUR HOT SPOTS

Check out these other under the radar or local favorites for happy hour in GR.

•THE COMMONS: RetroAmerican Midwest comfort food escape with a 70s-style twist- think your grandma’s basement with board games, a shot-ski and Austin Powers playing in the bathroom. A perfect mix of kitschy and cozy.

•Happy Hour: Wed- Thur 4-6pm, Fri 12pm-5pm

•Specialties: $5 food features, $2 draft beers, $3 domestic tall boys cans, $3 wells & house pour wines. Try nostalgic desserts like Strawberry Crunch Cake, snacks like pizza rolls or corn dogs, or a savory cocktail like the Garden Tour Martini.

•RENDEZVOUS: Modern hotel lounge located in the Amway Grand Plaza lobby with mellow live music on weekends, ideal for relaxed catch-ups over craft cocktails and light bites.

•Happy Hour: Lounge open Wed–Thu from 4pm; Fri from 4pm

•Specialties: Craft cocktails and premium pours, light bites from Wolfgang Puck’s "Kitchen" menu.

•LONG ROAD DISTILLERS: Craft spirits made 100% from scratch, using regional ingredients. Try this distillery with a sleek, industrial-chic interior.

•Happy Hour: Tuesday- Friday $2 off cocktails, 4-5pm

•Specialties: Known for inventive spirits (like Michigan asparagus based “Asparagin”). Try something new like the Smoked Chocolate Old Fashioned or a zero proof Lavender Lemonade.

•BUFFALO TRADER’S: Leather-filled, elevated cocktail lounge with vintage 1920s roots and a moody back patioserious about camaraderie and cocktail craft.

•Happy Hour: 50% off all cocktails 4-5pm every Monday & Friday

•Specialties: Try a best-inclass espresso martini, spritz or old fashioned or let the bartender do their thing with a custom creation.

Company Milestones MARK THE MOMENT

EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE BUSINESSES YOU KNOW AND LOVE

MWhen it comes to deciding where to shop or which businesses to partner with, there’s peace of mind in working with a well-established and trusted company. Whether it’s buying or selling a property, choosing a construction firm for an important project, hiring caterers or florists for an event, or selecting a personalized gift for a special occasion, confidence is key. And longevity is one of the strongest signifiers of credibility.

The companies featured in this section have proved themselves through decades of serving their clients and the community. They’re leaders in their respective industries, weathering the turbulence of changing times and finding innovative solutions to the issues of the day. What allows them to persevere when others crumble? Find out as you read about their significant milestones, as well as their strategies for building relationships, their reputations, and a loyal following of happy customers.

Company Milestones

Distinctive Catering

In 1995, Tom Doyle, a former partner of Brann’s Steakhouse, opened Distinctive Catering. Originally a small addition to the restaurant, it has since established itself as a separate, well-respected entity. In 2025, the company celebrates 30 years — a longevity rooted in trust, consistency, and community support. For decades, it has built a solid reputation by delivering exceptional dining and customer service experiences, all while remaining affordable.

Over time, the company has expanded its services to include a dedicated, all-inclusive bar division that’s also enjoying a significant milestone: 10 years as a standalone service. The team has also dedicated themselves to forming lasting relationships with hundreds of venues throughout West Michigan and acquiring numerous venues of their own, including the Waddell Center in downtown Grand Rapids.

Distinctive Catering has earned a number of accolades in the industry, including winning “Best of Weddings” on The Knot and “Couples’ Choice” on WeddingWire , as well as being nominated as one of Grand Rapids Magazine ’s best caterers. Through recognition and word of mouth, it has dramatically increased its business, punctuating that growth by serving nearly 200,000 guests in 2024.

As the team reflects on their past, they’re also looking toward a new chapter where the next generation will take the reins while continuing Tom’s beliefs that high-quality catering should be accessible and worry-free. For Distinctive Catering, it has been and will always be about the thousands of couples, families, and businesses who’ve trusted them with life’s most important moments — whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or private gathering.

LEADER SHIP

Tom Doyle Owner and CEO

Kenny Doyle General Manager

Sunni Lawson Director of Sales

Established in 1995 4945 Division Ave. S. Grand Rapids, MI 49548 616-538-4384 distinctivecatering.com

Dan Cook Chef and Kitchen Manager

Madeline Doyle Director of Business Development/Marketing

Emily Fricke

Event Coordinator

Milestones

Dykhouse Construction, Inc.

For nearly 40 years, Dykhouse Construction, Inc., has been a fixture in the west Michigan construction landscape, delivering successful projects and long-term value to its partners who count on it. In the competitive construction management and general contracting industry, longevity matters. Those decades of serving clients not only show experience but reflect consistency, community roots, and trustworthiness.

“We’re not a company chasing growth at the expense of relationships,” says Ryan Dykhouse, president. “We’re proud to be a local leader, built on word of mouth, referrals, and repeat clients — the kind of reputation that only comes from doing right by people, again and again.”

That level of trust is crucial in the construction industry. When deadlines are tight and expectations are high, knowing what to anticipate every time brings invaluable peace of mind. And for DCI, it’s about more than completing a project quickly; it’s a commitment to handling it correctly. The DCI team treats every client’s project like it’s their own, with transparency, accountability, open lines of communication, and proactive problem-solving at the heart of their approach.

“Our reputation is our foundation,” Dykhouse says. “We’re proud to say that the majority of our work comes from people who have already experienced what it’s like to build with DCI. That kind of loyalty only comes from consistently providing quality and staying true to our character.”

In an industry often defined by transactions, for close to 40 years, DCI has been built on something more lasting: people, partnership, and follow-through.

Company Milestones

Greenridge Realty, Inc.

Founded in Grand Rapids in 1980, Greenridge Realty has grown from a small, Grand Rapidsbased firm into one of west and central Michigan’s most trusted names in real estate. Today, with 27 offices and over 450 agents, Greenridge has a reach stretching from Ludington to South Haven along the lakeshore and east into central Michigan. In addition to this footprint, it has international reach as a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®. Greenridge’s family of companies includes residential, commercial, title, mortgage, insurance, property management, and association management.

Greenridge remains locally owned and operated by second-generation leaders Adam Paarlberg (president) and Walter Perschbacher (vice president), who carry on what their fathers started: providing real estate done right — and bringing that approach to more communities each year.

Greenridge’s mission is simple: We care. This means helping clients feel informed and confident, supporting agents with training and mentorship, and giving back to neighborhoods across the region.

“We believe that when you put people first and invest in their growth, the rest follows,” Paarlberg says.

The company’s focus on development and service has produced many of the area’s top Realtors and community leaders. As Greenridge grows, its goal stays the same: to practice real estate in a way that builds trust and strengthens the places people call home.

Perschbacher sums it up: “Our goal is to keep growing — to share our way of doing business with more communities. We’re proud of our legacy and honored to keep welcoming people to our hometown.”

Established 1980 3115 Orchard Vista Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-954-3480 | greenridge.com

LEADER SHIP

Adam Paarlberg President

Walter Perschbacher Vice President

Kelly Richardson

Director

of Relocation & Business Development

Beth DeVries Director of Marketing Services

Michael Courtright Director of Agent Development

Kelly Cater Director of Human Resources & Employee Engagement

Company Milestones

Eastern Floral

For 75 years, Eastern Floral has been a constant presence in the Grand Rapids community. This significant milestone marks generations of trusted service and decades of helping families celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. From births, weddings, anniversaries, and graduations to also honoring loved ones during times of loss, in each interaction its mission has remained the same: to bring comfort, joy, and connection through beautiful floral design and exceptional service.

In an era where businesses come and go, reaching 75 years is a testament to the strong foundation built by Eastern Floral’s founder, Frank DeVos, and the care that’s been poured into the business ever since. From Frank’s footprint to the Goei family’s current leadership, they’ve created a place people can turn to for both beauty and reliability. Starting as a small storefront in 1950 and becoming the full-service company they are today, they’ve continued to evolve while maintaining the values that have guided them from the beginning.

With their growth, Eastern Floral has expanded beyond traditional floral delivery to include weddings, corporate events, residential and commercial interior plantscaping, and gift boutique offerings. They also host monthly, on-site floral design classes, allowing people to connect, learn, and create. They now manage two wedding and event venues at the Goei Center as well, which allows them to support even more celebrations and gatherings.

“This milestone is not just about our longevity,” says Rachael Goei Vander Heide, president of Eastern Floral. “It’s about legacy, tradition, and the enduring relationships we’ve built along the way.”

Established 1950 2836 Broadmoor Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-949-2200 | easternfloral.com

LEADER SHIP

Bing Goei CEO Emeritus

Rachael Goei Vander Heide

President

Amy Goei

Vice President of Operations

Megen Klopf

Vice President of Sales and Marketing

Company Milestones

Preusser Jewelers

Celebrating 175 years in 2025, Preusser Jewelers is the oldest continuously operating jewelry store in Michigan. It’s also the longest continuously run business of any kind in Kent County. That’s a milestone to celebrate! Since opening in 1850, it’s moved five times within Grand Rapids, but changing locations hasn’t changed its commitment to providing clients with exceptional service and value.

That dedication has served Preusser Jewelers well over the years and has paid off in longevity as well as customer loyalty and referrals. “We love it when generations from the same family shop with us to find the perfect piece of jewelry—and send us their friends and new acquaintances, too,” says Debra Clegg, general manager of Preusser Jewelers. “We believe in creating and maintaining strong relationships.”

That philosophy goes beyond just the company leaders. The entire Preusser team of Debra Clegg, Caryn Grainger, Isabelle Martirossian, Benny Huerta, Sharon Straight, and Dave Kammeraad believes in creating and maintaining strong relationships. Combined, they have 210 years of experience in the jewelry industry.

Though Preusser Jewelers remains steady and reliable, it has also continued to grow and transform as the industry, the world, and client tastes evolve. The team’s goal is to always be moving forward. That means striving to ethically source their jewelry, and loose diamonds and gemstones, so that sustainability, a fair price, and the finest quality all align.

Whether it’s an engagement ring, anniversary gift, birthday present, handcrafted custom item, or “just because,” the Preusser team has the expertise to assist in choosing the perfect piece.

Established in 1850 1200 E. Paris Ave. SE, Suite 2 Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-458-1425

preusserjewelers.com

LEADER SHIP

David Kammeraad

Owner

Debra Clegg

General Manager

Caryn Grainger Sales Rep

Isabelle Martirossian Sales Rep

Benny Huerta Jeweler

Sharon Straight Accountant

Grand Rapids

Making

a

Powerful

Difference in Greater Grand Rapids

Humanitarianism is a cornerstone of West Michigan’s character. The organizations leading various philanthropic endeavors here give generously to those who need it most. Whether they’re assembling teams of volunteers, raising funds, offering scholarships, or issuing grants, the nonprofits featured in this special section make this region a better place. They also increase the area’s appeal, attracting families, students, and professionals

to this little corner of the Great Lakes State. From providing compassionate hospice care to breaking barriers to affordable housing, supporting mental and behavioral health, and managing endowments for pressing issues, these groups and nonprofits are building stronger neighborhoods and a kinder, more robust, and more sustainable community. Read on to learn about the meaningful impact they’re making.

Faith Hospice

Mission // In fulfilling God’s calling to serve others, we will serve with love and compassion, commit to excellence, and follow Christ’s teachings and examples in all we do.

KEY SERVICES PROVIDED:

Faith Hospice is a locally owned and operated nonprofit organization that provides expert and compassionate hospice care for anyone in the community facing their end-of-life journey. Its hospice services are provided in the patient’s home or at the inpatient facility, Trillium Woods. Its interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, social workers, therapists, spiritual caregivers, and volunteers empowers patients to spend the end-of-life journey on their terms.

EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

ANNUAL LUNCHEON

Join Faith Hospice at Cascade Hills Country Club on Oct. 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. RSVP at faithhospicecare.org

FINANCIAL GIFTS

Funds raised are used to enhance the care Faith Hospice provides its patients and their grieving loved ones.

CIRCLE OF FAITH FUND

In addition to hospice services, Faith Hospice offers grief support for anyone navigating the loss of a loved one. Its bereavement care is not a “one-size-fitsall” service but offers guidance through each individual’s unique healing process. All grief support services are provided free of charge, making donations essential to delivering this important work.

Gifts to the Faith Hospice Circle of Faith support an endowment fund that will help people receive hospice care services now and in the future.

MEMORIAL GIFTS

Faith Hospice can be designated as a charity of choice for memorial gifts honoring a loved one under the organization’s care.

BUY A BRICK

Dedicate a brick along the pathway to the Van Andel Hope and Healing Pavilion.

LEADERSHIP:

Troy Vugteveen Trillium Living CEO/President

Kimberly Holton Executive Director

Adam Kinder Trillium Living CFO

Janet Jaymin Director of Integrative Support Services

Shelly Baas Director of Operations

Gina Schulz VP of Advancement

Established 1995

8214 Pfei er Farms Drive SW Byron Center, MI 49315 | 616-235-6309 faithhospicecare.org

your champion

“Giving others the end-of-life care that was such a gift to our family is the best way we could honor him. I feel like I’m carrying on his legacy.”

—Faith Hospice Donor

Give the gift of compassion, care, and community.

For 30 years, Faith Hospice has been providing compassionate, whole-person hospice care and grief support to our community. As a nonprofit, we rely on our community’s generosity to bring expert medical care, spiritual support, complementary therapies, and bereavement services to those who need it most. Your gift is more than a dollar amount—it gives our patients and their loved ones time to spend with each other, find peace, experience fulfillment, and work towards healing.

To offer your support, please visit faithhospicecare.org/donate.

Hospice Care • Palliative Care • Grief Support Services faithhospicecare.org

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Mission // The Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s mission is to build and manage the community’s permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people.

KEY SERVICES

PROVIDED:

Grand Rapids Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion, and resources. Over the last century, the Community Foundation has worked with partners to find solutions to the community’s most pressing issues. It provides grants to support the work of nonprofits; scholarships to local students; and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity, and belonging.

The Community Foundation is guided by its North Star: For West Michigan to grow and prosper, we must make sure that everyone can apply their talents and creativity to fuel our future. It is only by connecting across perspectives and overcoming inequities that we can build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community. The Community Foundation helps local philanthropists leave a lasting legacy by stewarding their assets to accomplish their unique goals, today and beyond their lifetime. Its donor partners support a wide variety of funds and initiatives, including:

• Education support and scholarships for local students.

• Community partnership funds focused specifically on communities with shared identities or interests, including the Black Legacy, Somos Comunidad, Our LGBTQ, and Youth Grant funds.

EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES: MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LOVE FOR GRAND RAPIDS

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation has a staff of professionals to help you accomplish your philanthropic goals. Whether you are interested in giving during your lifetime or want to create a gift in your will, they can help. They will listen and provide ideas and options to help you find your unique way to make the community an even better place to call home.

GIVE NOW

Make a gift today. One-time or recurring donations can support the Centennial Campaign, building a more equitable West Michigan for generations to come.

GIVE LATER

• The Fund for Community Good, built by hundreds of donor partners, which invests in nonprofit partners throughout Kent County that share the Community Foundation’s commitment to advance equity and justice.

Learn about smart, easy, and costeffective ways to give through your will or an estate plan. The vast majority of the Community Foundation’s assets have come from gifts in a will.

CREATE YOUR OWN FUND

The Community Foundation manages more than 850 separate funds. Establishing your own fund is a great way to carry on your family name or honor the memory of a loved one.

LEADERSHIP:

LaSandra Gaddy President & CEO

Danielle R. Brown Interim VP and CFO

Jessica Hermann-Wilmarth VP, Development

Ashley René Lee VP, Strategic Communications

Kate Luckert Schmid VP, Program

LaSandra Gaddy, President and CEO of Grand Rapids Community Foundation.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s One Hundred New Philanthropists, a new generation of passionate community members helping Grand Rapids Community Foundation usher in a new century of service and impact.

FOR GENERATIONS TO COME STARTS NOW

For generations, Grand Rapids Community Foundation has worked alongside our community to create lasting positive change. Now, we’re inviting our entire community to join us in creating a fairer and more equitable West Michigan.

Find out how our Centennial Campaign is fueling a new century of service and impact at GRFoundation.org/CentennialCampaign.

Pine Rest Foundation

Mission // The Pine Rest Foundation exists to provide Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services with financial resources and community support so its ministry of love and healing in Christ’s name can flourish and be enhanced.

KEY SERVICES PROVIDED:

As the largest behavioral health provider in Michigan, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services serves its communities well through the breadth and depth of expertise of its 750-plus world-class physicians, advanced practice providers, and clinicians. It o ers a full continuum of treatment and services through its southeast Grand Rapids campus, its 21 outpatient clinics, and telehealth. Its services include:

• Inpatient and hospital day programs.

• Psychiatric urgent care.

• Outpatient therapy, psychiatry, and medication management.

• Addiction treatment and recovery.

• Residential programs.

• Assessment and testing.

• Neuromodulation treatments.

HOW WE HELP: PATIENT ASSISTANCE FUND

No one should delay or forgo care for depression, anxiety, addiction, dementia, stress, or relationship issues because of cost. Thanks to a generous and compassionate community, financial assistance is available through the Pine Rest Patient Assistance Fund.

EDUCATION TO IMPROVE OUTCOMES

An environment of learning improves care and outcomes for the community. Pine Rest programming includes internships, residencies, and fellowships for psychiatric professionals, advanced practice providers, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors. In addition, we o er continuing education opportunities for sta and professionals in the community.

IMPROVING ACCESS & QUALITY OF CARE

The Casey Wondergem Grant Program, supported through the Pine Rest Foundation endowment, o ers funding for research and innovation. The foundation also raises current funds for special Pine Rest projects and initiatives.

LEADERSHIP:

Mark Eastburg, Ph.D. President and CEO

Donald MacKenzie Executive Director, Pine Rest Foundation

Steve Alles President, Pine Rest Foundation Board

Mel Trombley Secretary/Treasurer, Pine Rest Foundation Board

• Extensive child and adolescent programs.

GIVING

OPPORTUNITIES:

Gifts to the Patient Assistance Fund are used to reduce the cost of treatment for people unable to a ord care for themselves or a family member. Without this fund, many would be unable to receive life-changing and lifesaving care.

Donations can be made several ways:

• Online, at pinerest.org/donate

• By calling 616-455-8680.

• By mailing a check to the Pine Rest Foundation, P.O. Box 165, Grand Rapids, MI 49501.

• By using the QR code below.

• By shopping, donating, or volunteering at Rustic Market, located at 389 68th St. SE. One hundred percent of proceeds go to the Patient Assistance Fund.

PEDIATRIC CENTER OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Opening March 2026, this first-of-its-kind center in Michigan is designed entirely for kids and their families. Located on Pine Rest’s 220-acre campus, the new facility will o er a full continuum of care for 18,000 more children and families each year — including same-day psychiatric urgent care; expanded inpatient and outpatient services; teletherapy; and specialty programs for neurodevelopmental disorders, eating disorders, substance use, and young children.

Ray Lanning

Peter Draaisma

Janis Petrini

Steve Ender

Bryan Ridgeway

Ann Hansen

Aaron Jonker Je Steeby

With a treehouse-themed design; a specialized gym; an art and activity room; an education lab; a kitchen for therapeutic food education; and family-friendly spaces like a Ronald McDonald Family Room®, café, and meditation room, the center is built to heal both body and spirit. In partnership with Corewell Health’s Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Pine Rest is reimagining how mental health care is provided to children across the state.

Established 1961

300 68th St. SE, P.O. Box 165 Grand Rapids, MI 49501 | 616-455-8680 pinerest.org/foundation

More access. More support. More healing — just for kids.

The Windemuller team took home the trophy for the morning golf scramble contest during the 2025 Pine Rest Golf Classic hosted at Harbor Shores Golf Club.

The Van Andel men’s team took home the trophy for the afternoon golf scramble contest during the 2025 Pine Rest Golf Classic hosted at Harbor Shores Golf Club.

First Michigan Behavioral Health Center 100% for Kids & Their Families

The Pine Rest Pediatric Center of Behavioral Health will expand existing treatment capacity and add new services to give our kids the support they deserve.

• NEW walk-in psychiatric urgent care for same-day assessments

• MORE inpatient capacity

• INCREASED testing & assessment

• EXPANDED outpatient psychiatry & therapy

• INTRODUCING specialty programming for eating disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and treatment of young children

ICCF Community Homes

Mission // Equitable opportunity. A ordable homes. Thriving neighborhoods.

KEY SERVICES PROVIDED:

ICCF Community Homes is the oldest nonprofit affordable housing provider in Michigan. It has been active in the Grand Rapids area since 1974, and it serves 2,000-plus households annually with housing solutions and related services.

• Family Shelter: Family Haven is a six-unit emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness.

• A ordable Rentals: ICCF owns and manages over 650 a ordable rental units.

• Homeownership: ICCF renovates and constructs between 10 and 20 singlefamily homes each year for low-tomoderate income families.

• Financial Empowerment Initiatives: ICCF equips families to be more successful in addressing financial challenges and building assets.

ICCF Community Homes’ initiatives are driven by the belief that all people deserve safe, stable, and affordable housing. In response to the growing housing crisis, ICCF continues to pursue equitable opportunities, affordable homes, and thriving neighborhoods.

EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

Building with Faith: Creating 200 affordable homes in partnership with local churches. Learn more at iccf.org/bwf.

Houses to Homes Gala: Join us in March 2026. Details available soon at iccf.org/gala.

Volunteer: Lend your time and talent to build more homes in West Michigan at iccf.org/getinvolved

Donate: Give the gift of home at iccf.org/donate

LEADERSHIP:

Ryan VerWys

President & CEO

Berniz

Constanza Terpstra

VP of Housing & Family Services

Philip Hall

VP of Asset Management

Andrew Hakken

General Counsel

Michelle Covington VP of Advancement

Molly Petersen VP of Finance

Jan van der Woerd VP of Real Estate Development

Irene Helmholdt Operations Manager & HR Coordinator

616-336-9333 | iccf.org

food+drink

Primed for success

A Grand Rapids revival rooted in resilience

BY LISA ENOS //

KAMPPINEN

If you've walked past the historic New Hotel Mertens building downtown and thought, “Didn’t that place close?”—you’re not alone. A misinterpreted article and a brief listing the restaurant for sale left many Grand Rapidians under the impression that Mertens had shuttered for good. But here’s the truth: Mertens Prime never closed. Despite the rumors and setbacks, the heart of this local institution beats on—stronger and more vibrant than ever.

TABLE

PHOTO BY AMANDA

Steak-frites — a ribeye served with a generous side of crispy fries.

From Brasserie to Modern Fusion: A Restaurant Evolves

Since its grand debut in 2017, Mertens Prime has always stood out—not just for its historic charm but for its bold culinary ambitions. Housed in the former lobby of the New Hotel Mertens, the space oozes old-world grandeur: original tiled floors, a dark wood bar, and plush leather booths that nod to a different era. It began as a brasserie with a heavy French influence, but under the leadership of public-facing owner and General Manager Laura Sandborn, the restaurant has evolved into something far more dynamic.

When Sandborn returned to Mertens in 2021 after a brief departure, she brought with her a clear vision: to make great food more accessible. Gone were the prix-fixe menus and intimidating French terms. In their place came a new American fusion approach— global inspiration with local heart. Dishes like Chicken and Waffles now sit comfortably alongside classics like Filet Mignon for Two, and even playful vegan options like Marry Me Butter Bean “Chicken.”

"We don’t want people to feel like they have to save up for months just to come in and enjoy a meal," says Sandborn. “This should be a place where you can walk in on a Tuesday and feel welcome—no stress, no pressure.”

Weathering Rumors and Setbacks

But the path hasn’t been easy. After the restaurant briefly went up for sale, word

quickly spread that Mertens Prime had permanently closed. "Once the rumor mill starts, it’s really hard to shake off," Sandborn admits. "We were never closed—we just shut down a couple days midweek to regroup. But the damage was done. People still ask us if we’re open."

Adding to the challenge, Sandborn suffered a serious injury that temporarily took her away from day-to-day operations. Known for her hands-on leadership—always present, always in the thick of it— the absence left a palpable gap. But the team pressed on. “They were worried, but they pulled through,” Sandborn says. “And I’m proud to say we’re back and stronger than ever.”

From left: Mertens Prime stained glass window and a Flourless Chocolate Torte — rich, dense chocolate on a berry coulis, garnished with blueberries.

The historic bar at Mertens Prime, where classic architecture meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.

An Elevated Experience Without the Pretension

Despite all the changes, one thing hasn’t shifted: the quality. Mertens Prime remains a place to get one of the best steaks in the city, often butchered and cut to order in-house, using locally sourced meats from Byron Center Meats and Halperns. Their scratch kitchen refuses to cut corners, and the results are evident on every plate— from the bone marrow and truffle fries starter to the lobster ravioli with bay scallops.

Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, the menu is designed to offer guests high-end dining without the elitist feel. The energy inside is upbeat and modern, yet rooted in timeless elegance. And it’s not just about the food—it’s about the entire experience

“My goal is for people to feel at home here,” Sandborn says. “Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a long dinner with friends, it should feel warm, approachable, and genuinely good.”

Clockwise from top left: Mertens Prime and Rooftop interior; Grilled Salmon topped with honey mustard cream sauce; Marry Me Beans — slow-simmered white beans in sundried tomato and garlic-infused sauce with herbs, vegetable broth, and a hint of spice.

Building a Team and a Culture

While Sandborn is the visionary behind the restaurant, she’s quick to shine the spotlight on her team. Front-of-house veteran Candice Rolfe is one of the driving forces behind the guest experience, bringing a personal touch and genuine warmth to every table. “We’ve got a crew of people who care deeply about what they do,” Sandborn says. “This isn’t just a job— it’s a place to grow, to create, and to be part of something meaningful.”

The Rooftop Renaissance—and Art in the Air

One of Mertens Prime’s standout features is its rooftop, a rare open-air space offering a nearly 360-degree view of downtown Grand Rapids. It's become more than a dining spot; it’s a cultural experience. This year, Mertens will host several ArtPrize artists, transforming the restaurant into a gallery. Artist Thaddeus Zwirkoski Jr. will display his work "Celebration!" a in the main restaurant while the interior of the top floor guests pass through on the way to the rooftop will be home to four other art pieces.

At left, rooftop dining with breathtaking city views. Below, a refreshing craft cocktail garnished with mint.

The rooftop has a separate kitchen and serves sharable small plates like crispy pork belly and perfectly seared steak bites, making it an ideal space for date nights, or simply enjoying a cocktail at sunset. The Rooftop menu is eclectic and— like Mertens Prime— it evolves with the seasons.

A Dining Experience to Remember

A recent visit confirmed just how far Mertens Prime has come. The meal opened with decadent bone marrow and crisp truffle fries, followed by a light, well-balanced lobster ravioli. But the main event—the Filet Mignon for Two—was nothing short of spectacular: seared to perfection, tender and flavorful, paired with delicious potatoes and roasted asparagus.

Every bite was matched by the atmosphere: welcoming staff, warm lighting, and a dining room that hums with the energy of a space reborn.

More Than a Restaurant—A Community Anchor Mertens Prime is a story of resilience, reinvention, and staying power. It has navigated the storms of rumor and recovery, and emerged not only intact but reimagined. With Laura Sandborn at the helm and a dedicated team behind her, the restaurant has doubled down on its roots—classic hospitality, timeless style, while still pushing boldly into the future.

So if you haven’t been lately, now’s the time. Mertens Prime and Rooftop is not just open—it’s thriving. And it’s more than a restaurant. It’s a Grand Rapids gem, a cultural hub, and a place where everyone is welcome at the table.

CREATE

Golden hour in a glass

A wild berry and pineapple infused sipper inspired by the stillness of a sylvan retreat.

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY REBECCA SIMONOV // RECIPE BY TRACY CZARNOPYS BEECHNAU

Tucked deep in the Michigan wilds, where forest meets river and quiet hangs in the air like mist off the Pere Marquette, Walhalla feels like a place out of time. With its roots in Norse myth and German heritage, and its soul shaped by centuries of Indigenous presence, this small community hums with the kind of still magic that only untouched land can hold. The Walhalla Sunset is a tribute to that blend of serenity and legend—a drink that tastes like dusk on the riverbank, where the breeze carries wild berries and the warmth of fading sun. Tropical pineapple notes nod to faraway dreams, while the wild berry and grenadine swirl like a northern sky in midsummer. Sip slowly. Let it take you somewhere sacred.

Walhalla Sunset

Ingredients

2 oz. Wild Berry Absolut

2 oz. Triple Sec

6 oz. 7-up

4 oz. Pineapple Juice

Dash of Grenadine (for color)

The Walhalla Sunset — a tribute to that blend of serenity and sweetness found deep in the Michigan wilds.

Dragon’s Milk Emerald IPA is a bold evolution for the brand—trading bourbon barrel-aged stouts for a smooth, citrus-kissed IPA that still carries the same depth, craft, and care.

"We have always explored how time and oak shapes flavor, and this time we applied that philosophy to hops."

— Founder of New Holland Brewing Co. Brett VanderKamp

CHEERS

Dragon's Milk's bright idea

A smooth IPA to convert pale ale skeptics

BY GABRIEL ROSE

For more than two decades, New Holland Brewing Company’s Dragon’s Milk line of beer has been synonymous with full-bodied, bourbon barrelaged stouts—a name that’s earned its stripes one batch at a time. So when a brand rooted in the deep, dark comfort of aged stouts pivots into IPA territory, it turns heads.

“We have always explored how time and oak shape flavor, and this time we applied that philosophy to hops," said Brett VanderKamp, Founder of New Holland Brewing Co. "Emerald IPA is a new direction, but it carries the same spirit that defines every Dragon’s Milk release.”

Emerald IPA is a striking departure from the familiar darkness of its predecessors. This beer doesn’t just mark a new release—it signals a bold expansion in the brand’s identity. And after trying it myself, I can tell you: it’s a surprisingly smooth, flavorful and bright brew with creamy body and just the right amount of citrus to keep it fresh, not flashy.

Unlike the overly bitter or sharply perfumed IPAs that often scare off traditional palates, Emerald IPA leans into complexity without becoming overwhelming.

That sense of craftsmanship is nothing new for Dragon’s Milk. Since its first pour in 2001, the brand has built a reputation around patience and purpose. The original bourbon barrel-aged stout was a quiet experiment that turned into a national sensation, eventually becoming the No. 1 selling American-made stout.

Over the years, Dragon’s Milk expanded with Reserve releases, Triple Mash batches, and even a full-fledged spirits line. They didn’t just put bourbon in barrels; they flipped the equation, aging bourbon in beer barrels to produce their now-iconic Beer Barrel Bourbon. You can feel the same care that’s gone into every Dragon’s Milk release present here. The barrels aren’t an afterthought—they’re part of the structure. The hops are vibrant but not aggressive. The body is full without being heavy. It’s still a Dragon’s Milk beer—just one wearing a brighter, greener coat.

For those who’ve grown up with Dragon’s Milk, who’ve watched it evolve from a seasonal favorite into a full-blown brand, Emerald IPA is a welcome next step. It keeps the spirit of tradition alive while offering something entirely new. And for anyone who’s avoided IPAs until now, this might be the one that changes your mind.

'Little Bit' goes a long way

The evolution of Vitales, the 'Cheers' of Ada

BY DEBBY BUCK DEJONGE // PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN NORMAN

I don’t speak Italian—yet. But I do speak Vitales! It started decades ago when I was invited to the grand opening of the original Vitales on Leonard Street in Grand Rapids. I was smitten with the builder’s son, which earned me an invite to the ribbon cutting. It was a family affair from Vreeland, the Netherlands—Dutch roots that brought these treasured Italian recipes to life. I still remember the homemade sauce nestled between wide ribbon noodles, layered with cheeses and meats—oh my.

More than a decade later, a tiny storefront bearing the same name opened on Ada Drive, tucked deep in a strip mall parking lot. My first visit: a large ham and mushroom pizza on a sunny day. My doctor husband, who hailed from New Jersey and wasn’t an easy pizza customer, examined it carefully before enjoying every bite. Hip,

hip hooray—I had a night off from cooking and cleaning!

I called Vitale's to sing their praises: “Thank you for opening here in Ada. The pizza was delicious. It had panache! I’m your new best customer, and I’ll tell everybody!” After a pregnant pause, a different voice on the line asked, “So...what was wrong with the pizza?” Apparently, my enthusiasm didn’t quite translate.

Don’t let humble beginnings fool you. Word spread fast. Soon, owners Joe and Angela Polizzi needed a larger space. They took their sacred family recipes, the help, and moved across the parking lot to a bigger spot. It was like a shopping mall compared to before, with seating, in-house dining, and a bar. That’s a road welltraveled for another time. The "Cheers" of Ada was born! Just change the names. To

"Vitales of Ada isn’t just a restaurant—it’s part of the rhythm of life here... it always feels like coming home. And in a town that keeps changing, that kind of comfort is priceless."

protect the innocent, that’s me!

Eventually, Vitales and its neighbors had to move after the building sold. Their new home is now at the entrance to Ada on Fulton Street, bright and easy to find. I wasn’t quick to warm to the change— change isn’t my favorite—but after several visits with friends and family, I found my happy place again.

A big part of what makes Vitales special today is the chef, “Little Bit,” Jim Bacon’s son. At 6’4”, with tight curls over his cherubic cheeks, Bit is nothing short of a miracle. After a serious accident and months of recovery, seeing him back in the kitchen is a joy. His talent is God-given, and his specials delight the senses—like “Squid Lobster Done Bit’s Way,” inspired by a lobster dish I enjoyed at Chef Tell’s restaurant in Grand Cayman called “Lobster Done Brian’s Way.” Bit’s

From classic curb appeal to

crust: Vitale’s

Editor's

FRATELLI’S

Fratelli’s Pizza, 435 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, is a local favorite known for classic and specialty pizzas. Open late, it’s popular for pizza by the slice, delivery, and takeout. Try the mozzarella-loaded cheese pizza or Nutella Dessert Pizza. Menu: fratellisgr.com, (616) 454-9370.

VITO’S

Vito’s Pizza at 658 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids, is a late-night hotspot for college students, open until 3 AM (4 AM weekends). Serving pizza, subs, pasta, and salads, it’s casual with dine-in, carry-out, and delivery. Most love its affordability and vibe, though it can get rowdy.

PERA

Pera Pizzeria, located at 2224 Wealthy St SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506, serves Mediterranean-style wood-fired pizzas in the space formerly occupied by Rose’s Express. They offer pizza by the slice, with options like the Kurdish Pizza featuring Armenian sausage. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

QUARANTINO’S

dad, Jim Bacon, is a longtime friend of my brother Brian’s—it really is all in the family. The classics still shine. Their lasagna—with wide layers of sauce, meats, and cheeses— brings back that old-time feeling. Their submarine sandwiches are satisfying, and the pizza? Still as good as the first time I tasted it. Vitales of Ada isn’t just a restaurant—it’s part of the rhythm of life here. Whether I’m picking up a pie on a weeknight or settling in for a long lunch with friends, it always feels like coming home. And in a town that keeps changing, that kind of comfort is priceless.

JB’S PIZZA

JB’s Pizza Parlor, 2433 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, is a family-owned spot in Alger Heights serving gourmet deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas since 1998. Known for its Creamy Garlic Chicken Pizza and $5 lunch deals, JB’s offers vegan options, friendly service, a cozy, remodeled dining space, and pizza by the slice. jbspizza.com.

Quarantino’s Pizza, 1444 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, serves Detroit-style pies in a cute historic building. Known for crispy-edged square pizzas, available by the slice, vegan options, wings, and cheesy breadsticks. Local favorites include the MC5 and Greek pies. Dine-in, carry-out, and delivery available. Menu: quarantinosgr.com, (616) 734-6833.

Pizza places that deliver big on flavor by the slice

crowd-pleasing

of Ada blends small-town charm with big flavor. At left, the restaurant’s welcoming exterior; and at center, the thin-crust pizza topped with fresh mushrooms and ham. Top photo: Jim "Bit" Bacon, pictured with his wife Maryclaire Bacon.

Late nights, crispy bites

New York Fried Chicken hits the spot

BY GABRIEL ROSE // PHOTOS BY KRISTEN NORMAN

Some of the best food discoveries happen when you least expect them. For me, that moment came late one night when I found myself standing in front of a bright yellow sign at the corner of South Division and MLK Jr. St. at New York Fried Chicken.

The quality of the fried chicken served here is, without exaggeration, impeccable—crispy, juicy, and deeply satisfying. You don’t expect to find that kind of execution at 1 a.m., but somehow, New York Fried Chicken delivers.

The locally owned restaurant operates two locations, each serving the community with the same commitment to quality. The original spot (743 Division Ave. S.) stays open until 2:30 a.m., while its 44th Street location (777 44th St. SE) pushes even later, serving until 3 a.m. Both locations bring the same late-night energy and consistently excellent food, though I’ve found myself gravitating toward the 44th Street spot for those really late cravings.

The dining room is humble—orange walls,

a handful of tables, and a TV in the corner. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve swung by expecting to be in and out, only to find a whole crowd of people waiting patiently for orders to be filled, often with a fight or a game streaming in the background. The kind of scene that tells you: this place is legit.

The story behind New York Fried Chicken is as grounded as its food. It began with a chef who grew up cooking in a family kitchen in New York, refining his craft before deciding to bring his dream to Grand Rapids. The goal was simple: serve food that hits the spot and make everyone who walks in feel welcome.

While fried chicken is the crown jewel, the menu is impressively broad— offering everything from crispy seafood baskets to hearty sandwiches and gyros. If you’re not in the mood for chicken (though I can’t imagine why), the shrimp basket holds its own, and the catfish is fried to perfection. Feeling indulgent? The Philly cheesesteak or the

double-decker cheeseburger won’t disappoint. Craving comfort food? Order a side of macaroni & cheese, nachos, or even mac & cheese bites. The portion sizes are generous and the flavors consistent.

Whether you’re tackling Combo #1—a 12-piece mixed chicken box with family fries and a 2-liter soda—or grabbing a quick snack like the 6-piece hot wings, everything comes out hot, crispy, and fast. The seafood offerings rival their poultry: try the 21-piece shrimp basket or a 4-piece perch meal with fries and slaw. They even have classics like pizza puffs, mozzarella sticks, and gizzards if you’re in a snacky mood. There’s something beautifully unpretentious about it all. Fried food, done right isn’t supposed to be fancy. It should be affordable, fast, and soul-warming—and that’s exactly what this place delivers. It’s the kind of spot that sticks with you, whether you’re celebrating after the big game, working late, or just hungry at 2 a.m.

Above: Three-piece fried catfish, beef gyro, and fivepiece fried chicken with fries from New York Fried Chicken. At right, the bright yellow sign marks the original South Division location.

Meet the Dentists Giving Grand Rapids a Reason to

Whether you’re a parent looking to set up your child for a lifetime of good oral health or an adult seeking out a specialist for a full-mouth transformation, this section is a great place to start your search. From handling routine, preventive maintenance to tackling more complex issues, the providers featured here have a passion for dentistry. Their credentials and specialties range from general dentistry to pediatrics, implants, aesthetics, prosthetics, advanced restorative techniques, sleep apnea, bite issues, and more.

Not only are these dentists committed to delivering expert care and treatments, but they also have earned the esteem of their colleagues in the field. Many have sought out the highest levels of training and strive to be on the cutting edge of dental technology and advancements to make sure West Michigan residents and families are in the best hands.

The professionals listed herein were selected by their peers in a survey conducted by Professional Research Services 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 prscom.com or email PRS at sshevin@prscom.com

David Selis

Endodontics

Amru Albeiruti Forest Hills Endodontics Grand Rapids

Arthur Doering e Root Canal Specialists Grand Rapids

Andrew Drerup West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

Anthony Guinn West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

Tyler Guinn

West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

Je rey P. Halvorson Root Canal Specialists North, P.L.L.C. Grand Rapids

Michael W. Hembrough Root Canal Specialists North, P.L.L.C. Grand Rapids

Sco Hodges

West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

omas Korte Grandville Endodontics Grandville

Brian J. Licari Grandville Endodontics Grandville

Sarah Lennan Masterson Grand River Endodontics, P.C. Grandville

Brent A. Medema

Medema Endodontics Caledonia

Patrick Mullally Lake Michigan Endodontics Muskegon

Geo Robert

West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

» Top Dentists

e Root Canal Specialists Grand Rapids

Aric Smith

West Michigan Endodontists Grand Rapids

General Dentistry

Betsy Bakeman, DDS The Art of Dentistry 2757 Leonard St. NE Suite 100 Grand Rapids, MI 49525

616-940-0481 contact@bakemandds.com micosmeticdentist.com

Carol Baldwin

Grand Rapids Dentistry Grand Rapids

Leonard J. Bartoszewicz Jr. Bartoszewicz Family Dental Grand Rapids

Larissa Bishop Grandville Dental Health Center Grandville

Tracy E. Blount Dental Design, P.C. Grand Rapids

Zachary Breen

Breen Family Dentistry Grand Rapids

James B. Brennan

Brennan Dentistry Grand Rapids

John Bruinsma Genuine Care Dentistry Grand Rapids

Heather Cadore e 85 West Dental Rockford

Judd T. Carroll

Judd Carroll, D.M.D. Lowell

Haley Clark, DMD

Bander Dental Group 2301 E. Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

616-949-5980 info@banderdentalgroup.com banderdentalgroup.com

Keith A. Combs

Keith A. Combs, D.D.S. Byron Center

Patrick James Condit

Condit Family Dentistry Rockford

Robert S. Dame, DDS

North Park Family Dental 422 North Park St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-7265 drdamedds@npfamilydental.com npfamilydental.com

Steven M. Dater Dater Dentistry Rockford

Jocelyn R. Davis (Carroll) Carroll Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Grand Rapids

Drew De Zwaan

Great Lakes Dental Care Grand Rapids

Nic DeBoer

Complete Health Dentistry Grand Rapids

Alpine Ridge Dental

Metro Dental Associates

44 West Dental Professionals

4330 44th St. SW, No. 105, Grandville, MI 49418 | 616-530-2200

5010 Cascade Road, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | 616-942-0840 | 44westdental.com

With a commitment to reaching more patients and offering a wide range of advanced treatments to all of West Michigan, 44 West Dental Professionals of Grandville recently opened a second convenient location in Cascade. Dr. Jason Doublestein, Dr. Kate Trierweiler, and Dr. Michael Wierenga staff both locations, along with their talented team, ensuring that 44 West continues to provide the excellent clinical care for which the practice is known.

The use of advanced technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral scanning, CT imaging, and 3D printing, continues to be an important part of the practice. Bringing this technology to the new Cascade location enables the doctors to provide preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry along with specialty services such as Invisalign and Spark clear aligners, endodontic treatment, and implant procedures for all patients. Both locations are currently welcoming new patients.

All three doctors are graduates of the University of Michigan and have received additional education at the world-renowned Pankey Institute in Florida. They also collaborate with other area dentists and stay up to date with new technologies.

The 44 West team offers a thorough approach to dental treatments and is dedicated to clinical excellence and building strong patient relationships. The goal is that patients feel comfortable and confident; to achieve that, the 44 West team takes the time to establish mutual trust with patients and get to know each individual and their visions for their dental health.

44 West understands that many people in the community do not have dental insurance, which creates a barrier to accessing quality dental care. The office has responded by establishing the Blue Tooth Club, a membership plan that helps to make care more affordable. ■

» Top Dentists

Bander Dental Group

After more than 65 years of serving the Grand Rapids community, Bander Dental Group is entering an exciting new chapter.

Following the practice’s 2020 transition from longtime owner Dr. Samuel Bander to Dr. Travis Mattson, the team has now relocated to a significantly larger, modern facility just three minutes from its previous location. This move marks a key milestone in the practice’s ongoing growth and deepened commitment to exceptional patient care.

Driven by increasing demand and the limitations of the former space, the move provides a more spacious environment with improved amenities, including expanded parking and a larger waiting area. The new location also positions the practice for future growth, all while maintaining the convenience and familiarity long valued by existing patients.

“We’ve preserved the warm, smalloffice atmosphere our patients have always

appreciated,” says Carmen Bollinger, the practice administrator and chief operating officer. “It’s a lot like Grand Rapids itself — a bigger city with a small-town feel. Our close relationships with patients and among our team remain central to who we are.”

Expanded Services and Growing Team

The new facility nearly doubles the practice’s footprint, supporting a growing clinical team that now includes four doctors:

» Top Dentists

Dr. Travis Mattson, Dr. Haley Clark, Dr. Devon Ramaswamy, and Dr. Allie Timmerman, the newest addition. Each provider is dedicated to ongoing professional development, including advanced training at the renowned Kois Center in Seattle, to ensure patients receive the highest standard of care.

The practice has also extended its hours — including availability on Fridays — and now accepts a broader range of in-network insurance plans, such as Delta Dental, making access to care more convenient than ever.

Investments in Technology and Whole-Body Wellness

The upgraded space features state-of-theart technology designed to improve both comfort and clinical outcomes. On-site milling machines allow for same-day or expedited

crowns and restorations, while advanced diagnostic tools — including AI-assisted cavity detection — enable earlier intervention and more conservative treatment options.

In alignment with a whole-body health approach, Bander Dental Group is expanding services to include sleep apnea therapy through oral appliance treatment, offering a more comfortable alternative to CPAP machines. The practice also provides diagnostic saliva testing to detect harmful oral pathogens associated with systemic inflammation — potentially lowering risks for heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions through early intervention.

A Unified, Patient-Centered Approach

With expanded space and a cohesive, growing team, Bander Dental Group is deepening its collaborative approach to care. Regardless of

which doctor a patient sees, they can expect the same high level of personalized, consistent, and compassionate treatment.

This new facility marks a bold step forward, blending six decades of trusted care with innovative practices designed to meet the evolving needs of the Grand Rapids community. ■

» Top Dentists

Jason Doublestein, DDS

44 West Dental Professionals

4330 44th St. SW Suite 105 Grandville, MI 49418

616-530-2200

info@44westdental.com 44westdental.com

Richard Elias III

Richard Elias, D.D.S. Grand Rapids

John Frey Frey Family Dentistry Belmont

Matthew K. Gietzen Partners in Dental Care Grand Rapids

Thomas Grias West Michigan Dental Professionals Caledonia

Caitlynn Haas Mailloux Dentistry Holland

Janel Hackbardt

Midwest Family Dental Care Jenison

Peter G. Hallas Lake Michigan Dental, P.C. Grand Rapids

Amy Harmon Sarah Palmer, D.D.S. Grandville

Christopher Hier Hier Family Dentistry Caledonia

Matthew D. Hudson Beltline Family Dentistry Grand Rapids

Eric Hull, DDS, AAACD

Eric Hull, DDS

769 York Creek Drive NW

Comstock Park, MI 49321

616-784-2377

ehull84@gmail.com greatmismiles.com

Robert B. Hurley

Robert B. Hurley, D.D.S., Family Dentistry Grand Rapids

Kristen Kemmer Healthy Life Dentistry Grand Rapids

Doug Klein Klein Dentistry Grandville

Andrew Knowlton Knowlton and Masson Dentistry, P.L.L.C. Sparta

Nicole E. Kooiker

Cherry Health - Wyoming Community Health Center Wyoming

Travis Kragt Great Lakes Dental Care Grand Rapids

Kevin Kross, DDS

Blueprint Dentistry 877 E. 16th St. Suite 30 Holland, MI 49423 616-396-5197 office@blueprint-dentistry.com blueprint-dentistry.com

John O. Leitner

Leitner & Pellegrom, D.D.S., Microscopic Enhanced Dentistry Grand Haven

Matthew Lieto Heritage Hill Dental Grand Rapids

Bryton Mansfield, DDS

Mansfield Family Dentistry 2 Grand Rapids locations 1632 Leonard NW 580 Cascade W. Parkway SE 616-453-2255

drbryton@mansfieldgrdental.com mansfieldgrdental.com

Travis Mattson, DDS

Bander Dental Group 2301 E. Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-949-5980 info@banderdentalgroup.com banderdentalgroup.com

John McMahon, DDS

McMahon Dental 2076 Baldwin St. Jenison, MI 49428 616-457-2710 office@mcmahonfamilydental.com mcmahonfamilydental.com

Nicholas Miller Aspen Dental Muskegon

Jerry Mulder A Life of Smiles Grand Rapids

Alexis Neuman Advance Dental Grand Rapids

Richard Neuman Advance Dental Grand Rapids

Devin O. Norman

Norman Family Dentistry Ada

Brian S. Nylaan, DDS

Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 5011 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-7317

info@nylaandental.com nylaandental.com

Daniel O’Brien O’Brien and Ellison, D.D.S. Grand Rapids

Karen O’Rourke O’Rourke Wonderly Dental Grand Rapids

» Top Dentists

Betsy Bakeman, DDS

2757 Leonard St. NE, Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-940-0481 |

There are many reasons why Dr. Betsy Bakeman is one of Grand Rapids’ top dentists. First and foremost, she strives to meet or exceed her patients’ expectations — and patients from all over the state and beyond seek her care and expertise. “Although cosmetic dentistry isn’t a recognized specialty, we treat it like one,” Dr. Bakeman says. “We utilize an expert team that includes highly trained specialists and esteemed ceramists, allowing us to provide high-level, world-class results.”

The first dentist in Michigan to achieve the distinction of Accredited Fellow in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Bakeman is one of only a select few to achieve the AACD’s highest level of achievement.

Dr. Bakeman is able to restore smiles using a variety of techniques including teethwhitening, bonding, periodontal plastic surgery, porcelain veneers and crowns, dental implants, and Invisalign. The office also provides advanced preventive services and routine dentistry. Dr. Bakeman strongly believes that there’s no reason why anyone should be unhappy with the appearance and comfort of their teeth. There are many options available today, and treatment can be staged over time to increase access and affordability.

Dr. Bakeman regularly teaches other dentists from around the world, and it’s common to have young dentists in the office observing and learning from her. “It’s always important to keep learning,” she says. “As the

science of dentistry evolves, we keep abreast of changes so we can continue to provide our patients with state-of-the-art care.”

Making their patients feel beautiful, confident, and healthy is important to Dr. Bakeman and her team. “My staff members are my greatest asset,” Dr. Bakeman says. “They’re smart and knowledgeable, and together we go the extra mile to deliver the finest of care.” ■

Michael S. Palaszek

» Top Dentists

Lake Michigan Dental, P.C. Grand Rapids

Stephanie Sakowicz Mulder Dental, P.L.L.C. Grand Rapids

Samy Salhadar

Ada Family Dentistry, P.L.C. Ada

Maritza Salvo-Ale Affinity Dental Care Grand Rapids

J. Stephen Sill

Cherry Health - Heart of the City Health Center Grand Rapids

Joshua Smith

Grand Rapids Dental Partners Grandville

Logan Smith, DDS

Smith Dental Team

7706 Georgetown Center Drive Suite A

Jenison, MI 49428

616-855-0005

office@smithdentalteam.com smithdentalteam.com

Mary Bernona Stevens, D.D.S., P.L.L.C. -

Stevens Smile Dental Grand Rapids

Robert Strobel

Strobel Family Dentistry Grand Rapids

Craig T. Thorson EGR Dental - Rose City Dental Grand Rapids

Katelyn Trierweiler, DDS

44 West Dental Professionals 4330 44th St. SW Suite 105 Grandville, MI 49418 616-530-2200 info@44westdental.com 44westdental.com

Ryan Van Haren

Van Haren Dentistry Grand Rapids

Mitchell S. Vander Baan V Dental Grand Rapids

Lauryne M. Vanderhoof

Cascade Village Dental Grand Rapids

Snyder Family Dentistry Byron Center

Christian L. VerMeulen

Christian L. VerMeulen, D.D.S., P.L.C. Grand Rapids

Lindsey Vogl, DDS

Ada Dental Co. 7167 Headley St. SE Ada, MI 49301 616-676-1800 adadentalco@gmail.com adadentalco.com

Sabrina Wadood, DDS

Fulton Family Dentistry 853 Fulton St. E. Grand Rapids, MI 49503

616-458-1977 fultonfamilydds@gmail.com fultonfamilydds.com

Joshua Wansten

Gaslight Village Family Dentistry Grand Rapids

Roseanna P. Noordhoek, DDS, FACS, and Emily Van Heukelom, DDS

Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants | 4349 Sawkaw Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 158 Marcell, Suite B, Rockford, MI 49341 | 616-361-7327 | grandrapidsoralsurgery.com

For over three decades, the Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants has been a trusted leader in oral health care throughout West Michigan, with convenient locations in both Grand Rapids and Rockford. Under the compassionate guidance of Drs. Roseanna P. Noordhoek and Emily Van Heukelom, the practice is dedicated to providing professional, safe, and accessible care to its community.

In 2024, the team grew with the addition of two exceptional oral surgeons, Drs. Christopher M. Bulcher and Dillon L. Feigenbaum. Their expertise further strengthens the practice’s commitment to

serving the community with the highest standard of care.

The highly credentialed office specializes in a range of essential oral surgery services designed to improve dental health and rejuvenate smiles. The practice is renowned for expert dental implant placement, utilizing advanced 3D digital surgical planning to restore missing teeth with durable, naturallooking solutions. When it comes to wisdom teeth removal and other necessary tooth extractions, the surgeons prioritize patient comfort and efficient, safe procedures.

At the Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, the team understands that oral

surgery can be daunting. That’s why the doctors not only are experts in their field but are also trained in various anesthesia options, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patients. The practice is proud to provide comprehensive care that helps its patients achieve optimal oral health. ■

Sarah Webb

Dentists on Eastcastle Grand Rapids

Elizabeth (Liz) White Polished Dental Care Grand Rapids

Michael Wierenga, DDS

44 West Dental Professionals 4330 44th St. SW Suite 105 Grandville, MI 49418 616-530-2200 info@44westdental.com 44westdental.com

Kathi Wilson

The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, P.C. Grand Rapids

Tyler Wolf

Georgetown Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Jenison

Lora Wonderly

O’Rourke Wonderly Dental Grand Rapids

Rosanna W. Wong

Garvin Family Dental Care Byron Center

Lauren Zandstra

Lavender Dental Group Dutton

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Andrew M. Baker

Cascade Oral Surgery Grand Rapids

Brett Bezak

Oral Surgery Associates Grand Rapids

P. Jeffrey Brooks

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Western Michigan, P.L.C. Grand Rapids

Brent Dingman

Oral Surgery Associates Grand Rapids

J. Mark Domin

» Top Dentists

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Western Michigan, P.L.C. Grand Rapids

Brant A. Erbentraut

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Western Michigan, P.L.C. Grand Rapids

Paul Huizinga

West Michigan Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Grandville

Mark L. Jesin, DDS

Advanced Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Studio

3855 Burton St. SE, Suite B Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-369-0360 info@oralsurgerymi.com advancedoralsurgerymi.com

Bob Kintz

Oral Surgery Associates Grand Rapids

Kyle Klooster

West Michigan Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Holland

Mark Lonergan

West Michigan Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Holland

Igor Makovey

Cascade Oral Surgery

Grand Rapids

Chip Niquette

Third Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Byron Center

Roseanna Noordhoek, DDS, FACS

Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants 4349 Sawkaw Drive NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-7327 | director@grandrapidsoralsurgery.com grandrapidsoralsurgery.com

Ezio F. Novelli

Cascade Oral Surgery Grand Rapids

J. J. Ooi

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Western Michigan, P.L.C.

Grand Rapids

Bradley M. Robinson

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Western Michigan, P.L.C. Grand Rapids

Emily Van Heukelom, DDS

Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants

4349 Sawkaw Drive NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

616-361-7327 | director@grandrapidsoralsurgery.com grandrapidsoralsurgery.com

Bradley VanHoose

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Greater Grand Rapids

Caledonia

Orthodontics

David Armbrecht Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics

Grand Rapids

Katherine Beard Lakeshore Orthodontics

Grand Haven

Jason L. Charnley

Lakeshore Orthodontics

Grand Haven

Elizabeth Christopherson Christopherson Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Alexis Gallagher Williams and Gallagher Orthodontics

Rockford

Cameron H. George

Cameron H. George, D.D.S., M.S. Holland

Heather Gietzen

Grand River Orthodontics

Lowell

Leslie Glupker Glupker Orthodontics

Holland

R. Graham Greenland, DDS, M.S.

Greenland Advanced Oral Care | 2490 East Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-256-8770 | greenlandaoc.com

At Greenland Advanced Oral Care, Dr. R. Graham Greenland applies his education in advanced prosthodontics and dental reconstruction to treat patients who require comprehensive dentistry or have difficult medical backgrounds. He specializes in implants, traditional dentures, crowns, and bridges, and he provides care for everything from routine to more complex cases. Collaboration with support staff, surgeons, periodontists, and other specialists plays an important role in patient care as well.

Greenland Advanced Oral Care was born out of a noticeable shortage of advanced dentistry providers in the region, combined with Dr. Greenland’s own passion for restorative dentistry and a personal interest in the oncology side of dental care. A commitment to reach more patients in need has led Dr. Greenland to broaden his practice and build a Destination Dental Center on the Medical Corridor located on East Paris, which opened in the summer of 2024.

Since moving into the new space, one of the most significant updates has been the expansion of the in-house lab. With more space and upgraded equipment, Dr. Greenland can now provide more services on-site. This enhanced lab not only allows for a faster turnaround on certain procedures; it also facilitates same-day adjustments and repairs, when needed, with controlled measures for quality upkeep. Having completed Phase I, and with the Phase II Dental Education Center opening in September 2025, Greenland Advanced Oral Care will move on to Phase III, which will encompass all dental specialties.

With this continued growth and advancement, Greenland Advanced Oral Care has become a practice where patients can receive a wide range of care. ■

Timothy Glupker

Glupker Orthodontics

Holland

Eric Hannapel

Hannapel Pellillo Orthodontics Caledonia

Jeffrey Heinz, DDS, MSD

Heinz Orthodontics

Locations in both Rockford and Grand Rapids

616-951-3006

info@heinzorthodontics.com heinzorthodontics.com

Thomas Herremans

Herremans Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Paul Karl, DDS, M.Cl.D.

Karl Orthodontics

3989 Cascade Road SE Suite 10

Grand Rapids, MI 49546

616-459-7171

deborah@karlorthodontics.com karlorthodontics.com

James Kessel

Kessel & Bouwens Orthodontics Grandville

Kevin Knapp

Knapp Orthodontics Byron Center

Larry Majznerski

Align Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Lathe Miller

Miller Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Rebecca Monticello

Grand Ridge Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Paul O’Grady

O’Grady Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Sonni Pellillo

Hannapel Pellillo Orthodontics Caledonia

Breanna Powell

» Top Dentists

Powell Orthodontics Jenison

Katie Randall

Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Kathryn Swan

Swan Orthodontics Caledonia

Mark J. Wierenga Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics Grandville

Thomas Williams

Williams and Gallagher Orthodontics Rockford

Ed Young Robinson Dental Grand Rapids

Pediatric Dentistry

Daniel Bolt West Michigan Pediatric Dentistry Holland

Meghan Condit

Grand River Pediatric Dentistry Jenison

Lauren M. Feuerstein

SixOneSix Dentistry for Children Byron Center

Veronica Hamilton, DDS, M.S.

Hamilton Pediatric Dentistry PC 3299 Clear Vista Court NE, Suite B Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-608-6826 info@veronicahamiltondds.com veronicahamiltondds.com

Alex Korte

Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics

Grand Rapids

Sally Kotani

Grandville Pediatric Dentistry

Grandville

Agata Lefere

Grandville Pediatric Dentistry Grandville

Jessica Massie

Eastown Pediatric Dentistry

Grand Rapids

Meggan McCone, DDS

Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentistry 2643 E. Beltline Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

616-988-9485

info@growingsmilesgr.com growingsmilesgr.com

Suzanne Port, DDS, M.S.

Port Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. 291 W. Lakewood Blvd., Suite 5 Holland, MI 49424 616-392-1100

Brett Kingma

Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics

Grand Rapids

Stephanie Kloostra

Pediatric Dental Specialists of West Michigan Grand Rapids

smiles@portpediatricdentistry.com portpediatricdentistry.com

Chris Powell

Stellar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry Byron Center

Grady Randall

Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics

Grand Rapids

Stephanie Rashewsky

Norman Family Dentistry

Ada

Kruti Shah

Mitten Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics Grand Rapids

Katie Swanson

Pediatric Dental Specialists of West Michigan Grand Rapids

Aimee C. Valleau

SixOneSix Dentistry for Children

Byron Center

Meggan McCone, DDS

Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. | 2643 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-988-9485 | growingsmilesgr.com

Meggan McCone, DDS, is a Michigan native and Grand Valley State University alum who returned to West Michigan after completing her pediatric dental residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She has been providing outstanding pediatric oral health care in the Greater Grand Rapids region since founding Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in 2013.

At her practice, she and her team treat infants, children, and adolescents, and they specialize in sedation dentistry and the care of children with special health care needs. Dr. McCone also has extra training in child psychology and guiding behavior. This is especially important for those with sensory issues but applies to every child who walks through the door.

The Growing Smiles team stresses the importance of taking children to a pediatric specialist. These experts apply childspecific knowledge and techniques to make going to the dentist easy and fun for little ones. As soon as the first tooth comes in, parents can visit Growing Smiles and start building the educational foundations and oral habits that will help their children become dentally confident adults.

“Our amazing doctors and team are dedicated to the care of your littlest loved ones, curating each visit to the unique needs of your child,” Dr. McCone says.

“You’re involved on the journey to your child’s healthy smile as we help you understand their growth, development, nutrition, and prevention — creating a foundation for a lifetime of oral health.” ■

» Top Dentists

Christopher E. VanDeven

SixOneSix Dentistry for Children Byron Center

Christy Vollmar Grand River Pediatric Dentistry Jenison

Taryn Weil

Pediatric Dental Specialists of West Michigan Grand Rapids

Danae Willenberg Little Red Pediatric Dentistry Holland

Periodontics

Brian Cilla

West Michigan Periodontics Grand Rapids

Jordan Dempsey

Restore Periodontics & Implants Grand Rapids

Kathleen M. Eisin

Eisin Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Grand Rapids

Jacob C. Lueder

Jacob C. Lueder, D.D.S., M.S., P.L.L.C. Grand Rapids

James Papp, DMD Great Lakes Periodontics, Laser Surgery & Dental Implants

Locations in Grand Rapids and Wyoming, MI

616-940-2854

info@greatlakesperio.com greatlakesperio.com

Prosthodontics

Joe Fazzio

Norman Family Dentistry

Ada

R. Graham Greenland, DDS, M.S.

Greenland Advanced Oral Care

2490 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-256-8770

info@greenlandaoc.com greenlandaoc.com

Dr. Veronica Hamilton

Hamilton Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. | 3299 Clear Vista Court NE, Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-608-6826 | veronicahamiltondds.com

Dr. Veronica Hamilton is a highly skilled, board-certified pediatric dentist who specializes in dental care for children, young adults, and adults with special needs. She holds a number of accreditations, as well as memberships in several dental associations. Her practice is driven by a mission to provide access to care for children and families who might not otherwise receive the dental treatments they need.

Dr. Hamilton purposely pursued pediatrics to support children with complex cases that need to be handled by a specialist. She is one of the few dentists who accept Healthy Kids Dental, an insurance program available to kids through Medicaid. “Often the kids we see have extensive decay and I try to give them a fresh start,” she says. “Their parents are doing the best they can, but it’s tough when they can’t find a dentist in town. We have kids come from all over the state because we take HKD. We’re here to help.”

With pediatrics, much of the focus is on gaining trust and getting patients to cooperate. As part of that effort, Dr. Hamilton started bringing her family’s rescue dog to the office on Wednesdays. Rosie, a trained service dog who didn’t quite make the cut, is wonderful with kids and sits happily at the front desk to greet patients and reward them if they demonstrate good behavior during their appointments. Rosie is a great addition to the office and gives kids something to look forward to if they visit when she’s there. ■

Lindsey A. Vogl, DDS

Ada Dental Co. | 7167 Headley St. SE, Ada, MI 49301 | 616-676-1800 | adadentalco.com

Lindsey Vogl, DDS, is the founder and owner of Ada Dental Co. Along with her associate, Dr. Megan Michalski, and her all-women staff, she strives to treat each patient who walks through their door like family. “I am a dentist, but my job goes way beyond teeth,” Vogl says. “I love to know about my patients’ lives and see photos of their grandkids and their dogs and their vacations. I have watched kids in my practice grow up. It feels like a big family here.”

Dr. Vogl is a mom of five kids, so she understands the need for efficiency and ease with appointments. She also maintains a conservative approach to recommending treatment and really listens to a patient’s needs and wants. ■

Mark L. Jesin, DDS

Advanced Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Studio | 3855 Burton St. SE, Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-369-0360 | advancedoralsurgerymi.com

For so many people, the ability to smile, eat without pain, and feel truly confident has been lost. But at Advanced Oral Surgery, Dr. Mark Jesin is changing that reality every day.

Dr. Jesin is known not only for his surgical skill but for the way he sees his patients — not as cases, but as whole people with stories, struggles, and dreams.

Patients come to Dr. Jesin after years of hiding their smiles, avoiding photographs, skipping social events, or turning away from the people they love. Many have endured fear, shame, or trauma from past dental experiences. “We remove the fear. We rebuild trust. And we give people back the parts of themselves they thought were gone forever,” Dr. Jesin says. “We’re not focused on fixing teeth — we’re focused on healing lives.” ■

Robert S. Dame, DDS

North Park Family Dental | 422 N. Park St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-7265 | npfamilydental.com

Dr. Rob Dame, founder of North Park Family Dental, has been proudly serving the Grand Rapids community for over 30 years, providing personalized, high-quality care in a welcoming, family-centered environment. Known for his approachable style and clinical excellence, Dr. Dame is honored to be recognized by his peers as one of Grand Rapids’ best dentists.

A certified Invisalign provider, Dr. Dame offers advanced clear aligner treatment alongside a full range of dental services — including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care — all tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Dentistry is truly a family affair at North Park Family Dental. Dr. Dame is excited to soon welcome his son to the practice as a fellow dentist and his daughter as a hygienist, marking a new chapter of growth rooted in legacy, trust, and compassionate care.

Outside the office, Dr. Dame brings his passion for music, acting, and storytelling to life through his church’s drama ministry, where he regularly performs in uplifting and meaningful productions.

Being selected as one of Grand Rapids Magazine’s Top Dentists is a reflection of Dr. Dame’s lifelong commitment to clinical excellence, meaningful relationships, and helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles in a practice that feels like home. ■

Kevin Kross, DDS, and Kaylin Wolter, DMD

Dr. Kevin Kross, founder of Blueprint Dentistry, formerly Michigan Avenue Dentistry, is a highly trained professional dentist with strong educational credentials and affi liations. He’s also a faculty member of the Dawson Academy in Florida, an educational and research facility focusing on dental advancements, where he lectures several times a year and teaches.

Dr. Kross and his team, which includes the addition of Kaylin Wolter, DMD, in 2024, off er a range of services using some of the most progressive digital technologies available. Unlike traditional dentists, the experts at Blueprint specialize in complex cases — oftentimes those that other providers might not have the confi dence or experience to address. Whether it’s a cosmetic, preventive, or restorative procedure, Blueprint Dentistry is on the cutting edge of dental care and innovations. ■

Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. | 5011 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-361-7317 | nylaandental.com

Dr. Brian Nylaan says, “I don’t work on teeth; I work with people who have teeth.” Dr. Nylaan approaches the whole person, taking time to educate patients on what is needed to take care of themselves and their smiles.

“Dentistry is incredibly important for overall health and should not be viewed as optional,” he says. “It is a requirement for living a healthy life.” Dentistry is oral medicine. Dr. Nylaan and his team have training to improve your total body health and have implemented many advancements in the dental field.

“My goal is to help people recognize when they have a need and provide treatment options to improve the quality of life,” he says. “It starts when you listen to your patient. Your well-being is my greatest concern.” ■

Sabrina Wadood, DDS

Fulton Family Dentistry | 853 Fulton St. E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-458-1977 |

Dr. Sabrina Wadood, owner of Fulton Family Dentistry, is a general dentist who provides a wide variety of dental care, from routine cleanings and checkups to cosmetic dentistry, crowns, implant restorations, root canals, emergency dental care, and more. Well connected in the community, Dr. Wadood is editor of the West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin newsletter and co-chair of the New Dentist Forum group, as well as a member of a number of regional and national dental organizations.

Dr. Wadood recently renovated her facility with state-of-the-art dental equipment and expanded the space to allow her and her team a greater capacity for seeing more patients in a timely and efficient manner. e practice is in network with Delta Dental and is woman-owned, minority-owned, and run by an allfemale staff. ■

Dr. Je rey M. Heinz

Heinz Orthodontics | 158 Marcell Drive NE, Suite A, Rockford, MI 49341 | 616-951-3006 6208 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite 3, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 | 616-656-4155 | heinzorthodontics.com

Dr. Jeff rey M. Heinz and the well-trained team at Heinz Orthodontics take a patient-centric approach that provides world-class orthodontics in an affordable, convenient, and fun way. During their in-depth consultations, they spend the majority of the time understanding exactly what each patient wants to change about their smile. While some are concerned with the function and health of their bite, others want a complete smile transformation.

Whatever the desired outcome, they determine the best way they can help each family and then tailor treatment options to their needs. Heinz Orthodontics is a familyowned practice that is known for offering an exceptional patient experience and five-star customer service. With their Smile Guarantee program, they assure patients that they’ll never need another orthodontist again! ■

From Left to Right: Dr. Travis Mattson, Dr. Sam Bander, Dr. Tim Obradovich and Dr. Haley Doose.

Drs. Paul Karl and Ben Bouchard

Karl Orthodontics | 3989 Cascade Road SE, Suite 10, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | 616-275-4624 | karlorthodontics.com

At Karl Orthodontics, relationships matter. That’s why Dr. Paul Karl is so excited to introduce Dr. Ben Bouchard to the practice and the Grand Rapids community! Dr. Bouchard is a Michigan native with a passion for creating confident smiles and meaningful connections. He completed his dental training at the University of Michigan and his advanced orthodontic residency at the University of Iowa, where he served as chief resident.

His friendly, down-to-earth approach fits perfectly with Karl Orthodontics’ mission of personalized care. Dr. Karl knows his patients will feel at ease with Dr. Bouchard’s kindness, expertise, and commitment to excellence. ■

Bryton C. Mansfield, DDS

Mansfield Family Dentistry | 1632 Leonard St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 | 616-453-2255 580 Cascade West Parkway, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | 616-949-9060 | mansfieldgrdental.com

Dr. Bryton C. Mansfield is the owner of Mansfield Family Dentistry. He is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Michigan Dental Association, and Pankey Study Club. He has earned the Top Dentist designation several years in a row.

He feels so blessed to have found the crew that works alongside him. They all focus on offering the highest-quality service in a calm environment while boosting whole-body health through personalized optimization of mouth health. This atmosphere and approach are supported by the latest dental technologies, such as digital scanning used to fabricate permanent same-day crowns and 3D CT scans to help detect preventable problems and perform root canals. With these advancements and his own enhanced training, Dr. Mansfield can perform less-stressful procedures and more-comprehensive treatments within a few hours. ■

John M. McMahon, DDS

McMahon Dental | 2076 Baldwin

Step into McMahon Dental, where clinical excellence meets curated comfort, and discover a new standard of care. Under the leadership of Dr. John M. McMahon, the boutique-style practice blends cutting-edge technology with an uncompromising commitment to aesthetics, wellness, and personalized attention. From advanced cosmetic transformations to comprehensive family care, every detail is designed with intention. Patients — discerning individuals and families alike — choose McMahon Dental for the elevated experience: It’s a place where expertise, artistry, and hospitality converge. Backed by a team that prioritizes relationships and results, Dr. McMahon doesn’t just treat teeth — he enhances lives. is is where your dental care evolves into something exceptional.

Experience the art of modern dentistry. McMahon Dental: Designing dentistry diff erently. ■

Smith Dental Team | 7706 Georgetown

Dr. Logan Smith and Dr. Katie VanderWal provide a wide range of comprehensive care, with a strong focus on helping everyday people maintain healthy mouths, balanced bites, and confident smiles. Serving patients at Smith Dental Team in Jenison, they and their support staff are passionate about building lasting relationships and providing a high standard of care in a warm, supportive environment.

What sets them apart is their advanced training and experience in helping patients manage TMJ pain and complex dental problems. Dr. Smith and Dr. VanderWal are members of the American Dental Association, Michigan Dental Association, and West Michigan District Dental Society, as well as lifelong learners committed to excellence. They dedicate countless hours to continuing education, especially through the renowned Pankey Institute. ■

Eric Hull, DDS

Dr. Eric Hull is a cosmetic and general dentist who provides impressive results that are backed by the multiple credentials he’s earned since receiving his dental degree. He is highly skilled in comprehensive mouth rehabilitation and works closely with a number of oral surgeons and orthodontists. Dr. Hull and his team are dedicated to providing personalized service and the best, most competent care a patient can receive.

Dr. Hull is a graduate of the Kois Center, a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, and accredited in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He is one of only seven AACD-accredited dentists in the state of Michigan. ■

Suzanne Port DDS

Dr. Suzanne Port has been practicing for 19 years and provides a range of care for patients ages 0-19. She is a proud alum of the University of Michigan, receiving both her dental degree and specialty master’s in pediatric dentistry there. Dr. Port is board certified with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a fellow with both the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. She and her team offer care that puts kids at ease, and they look forward to meeting new families and helping them to begin their journey to a lifetime of good oral health. ■

Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry

769 York Creek Drive NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321 616-784-2377

greatmismiles.com

Port Pediatric Dentistry, PC 291 W. Lakewood Blvd., Suite 5 Holland, MI 49424

616-392-1100

portpediatricdentistry.com

James C. Papp, DMD

Dr. James C. Papp, a certified periodontist and East Grand Rapids native, has served the Greater Grand Rapids area since 2001. With convenient locations in Grand Rapids and Wyoming, Great Lakes Periodontics is dedicated to the community’s dental health. Dr. Papp is a member of numerous organizations, including the American Academy of Periodontology, Michigan Dental Association, West Michigan Dental Society, Academy of Laser Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and Midwest Periodontal Society. Specializing in laser-assisted periodontal therapy, soft-tissue augmentation, and dental implants, he and his team provide compassionate, excellent care to ensure long-term oral and systemic health. ■

Great Lakes Periodontics 4880 Cascade Road SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

616-201-1079

greatlakesperio.com

dine

OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO

THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES

For any additions or changes, please email lenos@hour-media and write "Dining Guide" in the subject line of the email.

Downtown GR

7 MONKS TAPHOUSE

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

ALLORA

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

ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ

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

APERITIVO

A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE

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

BEIJING KITCHEN

Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$

BISTRO BELLA VITA

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

BLACK NAPKIN

High quality burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries and

homemade sodas. Takeout only, Tuesday-Saturday. // 966 E. Fulton St. Lunch, Dinner $

BOB’S BAR

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

BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B.

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

BRICK & PORTER

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

BRICKYARD TAVERN

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

BROOKLYN BODEGA

BAGEL & DELI

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

THE CHOP HOUSE

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

CITY BUILT BREWING CO.

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

CINCO DE MAYO

Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW,

719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

CHICAGO

BEEF JOINT

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

DUBLIN HALL

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

FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ

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

FLANAGAN’S

Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Open Daily. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FOUNDERS BREWING CO.

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

FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB

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

GARDEN DISTRICT

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

GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR

Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen,

poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL

“All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

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

French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-centuryera hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. mertensgr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MEXO

Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full

bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$

MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR

Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$

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 $$$

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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 $$

TURNSTILES

Bodacious bar food in a music-themed atmosphere.

Cocktails, drafts, and the largest selection of nonalcoholic beverages in GR. Nightly live music with no cover. Free on-site parking. // 526 Stocking NW. turnstilesgr.com. 616-330-LIVE. Lunch, Dinner $

Z’S BAR & RESTAURANT

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

West Side

BLUE DOG TAVERN

West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

BROAD LEAF WESTSIDE

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

BROADWAY BAR & GRILL

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

BURGER THEORY

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

BUTCHER’S UNION

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

CONDADO TACOS

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

DRIP DROP COCKTAIL ROOM

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

EL GRANJERO

Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 4585595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EL SOMBRERO

Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR

Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $

NONLA BURGER

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

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 $-$$

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. //

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1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

WEALTHY STREET BAKERY

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

THE WINCHESTER

Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

YESTERDOG

Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $

ZIVIO

Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids

BIG BOB’S PIZZA

Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE

An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com. Dinner $$$

CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN

Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. // 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. Dinner $$

GASLIGHT KITCHEN ASIAN CUISINE

Asian restaurant specializing in Chinese-American dishes. // 2128 Wealthy St. SE, 454-8677, gaslightkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S

Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

OLIVE’S

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

PERA PIZZARIA

Pera Pizzaria features several different Mediterranean style pizzas, shish salads and a surprising pizza made with Nutella. // 2224 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4810, perapizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PINK PIGGY

A casual contemporary boba and Asian fusion restaurant for dine-in or takeout. Open Tues-Sun. // 2230 Wealthy St. 805-3949, pinkpiggy.online. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ROSE’S

Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northeast GR

BIRCH LODGE

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

BLUE WATER GRILL

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

BUD & STANLEY’S

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

CAFÉ MAMO

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

CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE

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

CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON

Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188.

cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

CRESTON BREWERY

More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

DETROIT WING CO.

Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR

Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO

Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ

A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE. Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $

GOLDEN WOK

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

GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE

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

GRAYDON’S CROSSING

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

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HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT

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

JAKU SUSHI NORTH

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

616 KABOB STOP

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

KITCHEN 67

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

LA HUASTECA

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

LAI THAI KITCHEN

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

LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN

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

LUCY’S

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

MAI’S THAI

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

MILL CREEK TAVERN

Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE OMELETTE SHOPPE

Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

POKE TOKI

Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

PALIO

Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS

Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

REZERVOIR LOUNGE

Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON

Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE

A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$

THE SCORE

Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SHESHCO GRILL

Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$

SHOTS ON THE RIVER

Full menu kitchen and bar with 22 taps offering craft and domestic beer options, daily lunch specials, large patio with outdoor seated bar, banquet rooms, numerous TV’s, pool table, and live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday featuring some of West Michigan’s top cover bands. Open daily at 1 p.m. and closed on Sundays. // 5760 West River Drive NE Belmont, 9516071, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$

THAI CHEF

Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northwest GR

AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA

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

CHINA CHEF

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

CHINA CITY

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

EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II

All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT

Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. Dinner $-$$

HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET

Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. // 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at. Lunch, Dinner $$

616 KABOB STOP EXPRESS

Located near the Allendale campus of Grand Valley State University, eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 10897 48th Ave., Suite B100, Allendale. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $

THE LANDING

Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/ the-landing-restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

dine / estau ants

PERRIN BREWING CO.

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

ROASTED SPORTS BAR & GRILL

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

THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT

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

WALKER ROADHOUSE

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

Southeast GR

7 MARES

Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 3018555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY

Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ASIAN PALACE

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

BELTLINE BAR

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

BRASS RING BREWING

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

BROAD LEAF BREWERY & SPIRITS

Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Open daily. Brunch on Sun. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

CABANA TRES AMIGOS

Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. // 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$

CAFÉ DE MIRO

A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. Traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes; skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $

CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL

Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$

DADDY PETE’S BBQ

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

EAST GARDEN BUFFET

Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL

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

EL GLOBO RESTAURANT

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

FIREROCK GRILLE

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

FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE

Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GANDERS

Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT

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

HALL STREET BAKERY

Breakfast sandwiches and pastries; pizza, entrée salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

INDIA TOWN

Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL

Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $

LE KABOB

Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MI TIERRA

Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

MIKADO SUSHI

Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

NU-THAI BISTRO

Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE OLD GOAT

Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE

Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $

PHO ANH TRANG

Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PHO SOC TRANG

Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout

available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

SIP COFFEE & COCKTAILS

Café by day with breakfast bites that transforms into a bustling nighttime cocktail lounge, serving flatbread and appetizers. Closed Sun, hours vary. // 806 Alger St. SE, 805-3517 $$

SUSHI KUNI

Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

TACON MADRE

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

THAI EXPRESS

Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $

THAI FUSION

Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI

Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE

Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Southwest GR

84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE

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

ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY

Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN

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

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT

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

GOLDEN 28

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

LINDO MEXICO

RESTAURANTE MEXICANO

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

LITTLE BANGKOK

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

MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR

Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOBLE RESTAURANT

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

PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN

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

WOODY’S PRESS BOX

Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 5302400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area

ADA GARAGE BAR & GRILL

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

CASCADE ROADHOUSE

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

CORK WINE & GRILLE

Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

THE EURO BISTRO

European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

FLAT RIVER GRILL

Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

JU SUSHI & LOUNGE

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

LA LAGUNA

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

LITTLE BANGKOK

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

MAIN STREET BBQ

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

MYNT FUSION BISTRO

Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOCO PROVISIONS

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

NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA

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

NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING

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

OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT

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

SABOR MEXICANO

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

SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR

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

SCHNITZ ADA GRILL

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

SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN

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

THORNAPPLE BREWING CO.

Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 2886907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$

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 $-$$

THE

WIN TAVERN

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

Rockford Area

BOSTWICK LAKE INN

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

BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT

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

CEDAR SPRINGS BREWING CO.

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

GRILL ONE ELEVEN

American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

HONEY CREEK INN

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

MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO

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

ROCKFORD BREWING CO.

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

TIMBERS INN

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

THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY

Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-5129314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

THE TOASTED PICKLE

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

Multiple Locations

ANNA’S HOUSE

Retro-style diner with a menu that caters to guests with a wide variety of dietary needs; gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Natural,

dine

/ estau ants

local ingredients are utilized to create tasty classic breakfast entrees, benedicts, house bowls, salads, wraps, sandwiches, fresh-pressed juices, signature coffees, lattes and more. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5488 Northland Dr NE, 330-3310; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, 551-0434; 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville, 2885855; 525 84th St SW, Byron Center, 447-1201. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

BAGEL BEANERY

Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 249-9500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE

Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 5345421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIRST WOK

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

GRAND CONEY

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

HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA

Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

HOPCAT

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

MORNING BELLE

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

MR. BURGER

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

MUDPENNY

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

PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE

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

PITA HOUSE

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

REAL FOOD CAFÉ

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

RED GERANIUM

Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL

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

TACOS EL CAPORAL

Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

TACOS EL CUÑADO

Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TAMALES MARY

Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 18 types

of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007; 1551 Wealthy St. SE, 724-4269. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE,

PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE

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

VITALE’S PIZZERIA

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

Larger than life

A giant among women from stage to civil rights, Ethel B. Coe's legacy lives on.

BY LISA ENOS

Coe’s lifelong dedication to music, justice, and public service — from her early civil rights advocacy as a student to decades of community activism and performance.

A towering figure in Grand Rapids history, Ethel B. Coe is now memorialized in a vibrant mural tucked along Monroe Avenue NW — on the very alley that bears her name, Ethel B. Coe Way. Fittingly painted on the side of 20 Monroe Live, the mural celebrates a woman whose life was rooted in music, activism and public service.

Born in Falls Church, Virginia, in 1899, just 30 years after the Civil War, Coe moved to Grand Rapids at the age of eight. Her resolve and sense of justice appeared early.

As a student at South High School, she

successfully challenged a local business in a civil rights case after being refused service at an ice cream parlor — a quiet but powerful act of defiance that foreshadowed a life of advocacy.

Throughout her decades in Grand Rapids, Coe became a force for equity, deeply involved in the NAACP, the Urban League, and the Family Life Council. She was equally known for her artistic contributions, performing for more than 40 years with institutions like Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and St. Cecilia Music Society. Even at 68, she was still giving back — volunteering across the U.S. and abroad to teach English to Latino and Vietnamese children.

Ethel B. Lee Coe died in 1988, but her legacy endures — not just in paint and pavement, but through the Giants Ethel Coe Humanities Award, which honors individuals who, like her, uplift the community through art and activism.

A vibrant mural of Ethel B. Coe on the side of 20 Monroe Live anchors the alley now known as Ethel B. Coe Way in downtown Grand Rapids. The artwork honors