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Volume 48 Number 3

March 2011 FeaTUreS 31st annual dininG aWards

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2010,.including.the.Grand.

Rapids.Magazine.Restaurant. of.the.Year............................. 32 FiXinG thE FEral problEm

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Volume 48 Number 3

March 2011

14

on the cover:

Photography by Michael Buck at Leo’s.

52

In Every Issue Life & Style

Good Life Granola; buying local online; Cleaning for . a Reason; folk dancing; . creative funding. .............. 9-15 Profile

Luisa Schumacher’s impressive résumé prepared her for the job of heading West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. .................. 18

Speaking Up Etc.

By Carole Valade..................... 7 Travel

By Matt Baker Seeing Paris by . suitcase. ................................ 14 Grand Times

By Gordon G. Beld Riding the .

Pere Marquette. .................. 16

Design

Art Appreciation

Teenager Pat Perry may still be in school, but his graphic artwork is getting a lot of attention. ......................... 21-28

By Joseph Antenucci Becherer GRAM’s Design and .

Modern Craft Gallery. ....... 22 Critic’s Choice

City Guide

Attorney/cookbook author Dirk Hoffius profiled; complete dining list; Schmohz Brewing Co. . .................. 51-88 Calendar of Events. ............ 79

By Mark F. Miller Urban evolution. .................26 Grand Vine

By A. Brian Cain South African wines. . ........68 Fresh Hops

By Jon C. Koeze Brewery Vivant. .................. 75

24

4 Grand Rapids March 2011

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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964

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Nick Capisciolto Design Panel

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Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com (616) 459-4545 Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 2011 by Gemini Publications.

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Etcetera

Laughing into spring

BY CAROLE VALADE

MARCH ALWAYS SEEMS the longest, most colorless month of the year — the long wait for spring. Thanks to Gilda’s Club, this year we are able to laugh our way to warmer weather by benefit of LaughFest, with more than 50 comedy acts planned for 20 venues spread over 10 days.

March also is the month of the annual Grand Rapids Magazine announcement of the balloting results from dining panel members who work anonymously throughout the year to rate regional restaurant experiences.

The panel’s work is focused on local restaurants. The restaurant industry is one of the toughest types of businesses to own, and the local entrepreneurs who take the risk are due reader appreciation. Grand Rapids Magazine surveys show that readers are enthusiastic supporters of local eateries and generally eat out five to nine times each month.

The dynamics are interesting to observe: In the last few years, more than a dozen new local restaurants have opened and that list will grow again this year. The ever-changing dining landscape saw a seismic change in January with the wholly surprising announcement that The 1913 Room and sister room The Grill at 1913 will close in April. The 1913 Room, winner of several Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year awards, has won 11 consecutive Five-Diamond ratings from the AAA — the only five-star restaurant in Michigan.

It was locally appreciated but snubbed by the travelers and visitors within the hotel.

Amway Hotel Corp. President and CEO Joe Tomaselli said in his announcement, “The redevelopment of The 1913 Room to Ruth’s Chris Steak House reflects the hotel’s efforts throughout its history to continually look for opportunities to enhance guest experiences while adding to the vision of the downtown.”

His announcement is a sad commentary for a nation of “buy local” enthusiasts, a growing movement keenly observed in Grand Rapids.

It is no surprise that the community reacted to the news with sadness.

Readers were invited to celebrate the restaurants nominated for the top 11 dining awards during the Feb. 16 Grand Culinary Affair at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education

at Grand Rapids Community College, during which students prepared and served “international street foods.”

It is certain that we need to eat to sustain life, and it is certain, according to medical professionals, that laughter sustains us, as well.

Bill Cosby told managing editor Marty Primeau that he laughs when we laugh: Watching people react to his comedy makes him feel good.

Grand Rapids Magazine sponsored a local Joke Off for more than a dozen years, pitting the talents of local comedians against one another and donating the proceeds to various local charities. We are happy to help sponsor this Joke Off on steroids.

We wish you at least 10 days of good belly laughs, followed by a great meal. It could hold us over until the farmers markets open again in the spring.

Letters We welcome letters to the editor.

Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Please send letters in care of: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids MI 49503, or e-mail to letters@grmag.com.

Letters may be edited for reasons of clarity and space.

Corrections In January’s Best of Grand Rapids Readers Poll, the name of plastic surgeon Francine Vagotis was misspelled.

In the January feature “The Immigration Battle,” reference to Arizona’s immigration law did not include a later revision saying law enforcement officers can inquire about immigration status only of those they stop, detain or arrest.

In the “Making It Personal” special Wedding advertising section in the February issue, credits on the Modern Day Floral bouquet photos were incorrect. The photo of a beaded bouquet was taken by Phrené and the cascading bouquet photo was courtesy of Jennifer Mayo Studios.

MARCH 2011 GRAND RAPIDS 7

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6862 KITSON - BOSTWICK LAKE Bostwick Lake offers a distinctive quality of life that is treasured within the Grand Rapids community.

Conveniently located within an easy commute from downtown Grand Rapids, the lake is replete with memories that are created each summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This custom designed home was built in 2002 as a year round residence. The home provides an abundance of living space and takes full advantage of the views of the lake from most every room in the house. You will find an accommodating floor plan with casual sophistication that lends itself towards entertaining family and friends. Six bedrooms, three full bathrooms provides plenty of space for just that. The open kitchen — great room concept provides picturesque views of the beach and lake. You will find an additional 1260 sq.ft. of storage space on the lower level. A prime location, traditional architecture and beautiful interior combine to showcase this lake front home. $749,900

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Life & Style

“Recently I had dinner with eight adult students and I left walking on air. Truly, they are some of the most intelligent women I’ve known in my life and it’s so wonderful to see how they’ve grown and developed. Experiencing something like that is the only gift one needs.”

— Luisa Schumacher » pg18 Photography by Johnny Quirin

Inside » Good life Granola 10

» Buy local online 11

» Folk dance 12

» Creative funding 13

March 2011 Grand Rapids 9

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life & Style

Dee and Mike Freestone, founders of good life granola.

“Most people eat it in yogurt with fruit. one guy sprinkles it on ice cream. it’s pretty versatile.”

— Mike Freestone

Granola ale isn’t a staple on most bar menus.

But last December, New Holland Brewing Co. replaced its flavoring malts with 50 pounds of locally made Good Life Granola to make a batch of coppery-colored craft ale with a creamy texture.

“Its flavor is sweet and toffee-like with little to no bitterness,” reads the Facebook description. “Hints of vanilla, maple, brown sugar and cinnamon may be noticed as your glass of beer warms.”

Mike and Dee Freestone were thrilled.

The Holland couple started selling batches of Good Life Granola in October 2009. Now their original, nut-free and apple crisp granola is sold in 40 stores and shipped to online customers in 30 states.

All because Dee couldn’t find a store-bought granola she liked.

“She started experimenting with recipes,” said Mike, who handles marketing and sales as well as working in the kitchen. Her concoction of oats, pecans, almonds, brown sugar, Michigan maple syrup, canola oil, cinnamon, sea salt and vanilla was an instant hit with their three children.

They also handed out bags to friends, and when the friends requested more, they decided it was time to start selling the granola. They started with a few health food stores and became fixtures at the Holland Famers Market, offering tasting samples.

“It was just awesome,” Freestone said. “We met people from around the world. Some German people e-mailed us to ship them more.”

They also learned there’s no one way to eat granola. One woman uses it in her scone recipe (available on their website).

Another makes blueberry coffee cake with a granola streusel topping.

“Most people eat it in yogurt with fruit,” Mike said. “One guy sprinkles it on ice cream. It’s pretty versatile.”

And healthy. “There are no preservatives. You can pronounce all the ingredients,” he said.

Everything is locally sourced, even the maple syrup.

For more information, go to goodlifegranola.com or check it out on the Good Life Granola Facebook page. — Marty priMeau

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

Eat what’s good

10 Grand rapids March 2011

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Life & Style

“The members also influence the kind of products that are grown, because they’re having a conversation with who grows it.”

— Jerry Adams

Buy local on the Web

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/CREATIVEYE99 (BOTTOM); JANIS RATNIEKS (TOP/COMPUTER); ELENA ELISSEEVA (TOP/PRODUCE)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Locavores rejoice! Culinary adventurers who insist on eating only locally grown foods don’t have to put their cravings on hold during Michigan’s long winter months.

The West Michigan Cooperative, which bills itself as “the region’s first online farmers market,” allows consumers to purchase food and goods from local producers at www.westmichigancoop.com and pick them up on designated days in Grand Rapids.

For $35 a month, the co-op provides a service that helps streamline the buying process because “it allows producers to know what they sold ahead of time, and shoppers know they are getting products raised locally and sustainably,” said Jerry Adams, director and CEO. The site has grown steadily since it started five years ago and now has a

membership base of 1,000 consumers, resulting in an average of 300 shoppers per month — even in the off season.

Unlike retail stores that have a limited supply of local products, all goods advertised by the co-op come from one of the 40 West Michigan producers represented on the site.

“Here you know what you’re getting and you know you’re going to meet the person who grew it,” said Adams. “The members also influence the kind of products that are grown, because they’re having a conversation with who grows it.”

The site has even inspired spin-off sites in areas like South Bend, Ann Arbor, and Raleigh, N.C. Another website, MichiganFamily Farms.com, provides a link between farmers and consumers. By entering a zip code, visitors

to the site can find products, farms and special events in their area as well as a retail section providing info about where to buy local goods.

“A lot of retailers are selling Michigan stuff,” said Jena Van Wagner, executive director.

Launched in December 2009, the site is expanding, and its Facebook page already has nearly 500 members.

After working with farmers in Northern Michigan, Van Wagner noted that many didn’t have the time or resources to create and maintain an online presence.

“They were too busy being farmers,” she said. “Many were like, ‘I know we need to be on the Web, but to be honest with you, we don’t even get the Internet where we are.’”

She approached her boss at Stevens Advertising Inc. with an idea to create a website representing all Michigan farmers. For a yearly fee, farmers have a platform for their products.

“It’s a nice way for them to get their feet wet without having to do any of it themselves,” she said.

Farmers want to get the word out that consumers can still get their product regardless of the season, said Van Wagner. “We’re just helping the small family farmer market their product to a public that is anxious for it.”

— JACKIE ZIMMERMANN

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Life & Style

Dan Christie knows firsthand that cancer can take an awful toll on a family.

While his dad was being treated for intestinal cancer, his mom spent most of her time in the hospital by his side.

“That doesn’t leave a lot of time for household chores,” said Christie, who owns On The Spot cleaning company in Grand Rapids. So when he read about a national organization that provides free housecleaning for women undergoing chemotherapy, he signed up to help.

Cleaning for a Reason is a nonprofit foundation launched five years ago in Texas. Women can sign up at cleaningforareason.org and are matched with a participating cleaning company. So far, the organization has 817 partners in all 50 states and Canada, and has helped more than 4,000 cancer patients.

Each local company agrees to provide four monthly housecleaning visits at no charge.

Christie, who does much of the cleaning himself, said it’s worth the extra work.

“What gives us the satisfaction at the end of the day is just being able to go in and talk to the ladies and hear about their battle and know we are helping them out while they are going through this hard time,” he said. — Nick Capisciolto

Donna Hinman, left, heads up Grand River Folk Arts Society’s international folk dance group.

Sharing the magic Whether it’s zumba for fitness or swing for fun, Grand Rapidians are hitting the dance floor. Several studios and venues around the city offer lessons in dance, from elegant ballroom to urban hip hop.

Donna Hinman hopes the dance craze means a resurgence of interest in international folk dancing. In addition to the entertainment value, folk dance is “a sort of map of the language, history and experiences within a culture,” she said.

“It’s about expressing the emotion of the dance to tell a story.”

She’s been teaching for more than 30 years and heads up the Grand River Folk Arts Society’s international folk dance group that gathers once a month at Wealthy Theatre.

“We often visit a dozen countries in one evening,” she said.

This month, in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, the dancers will be trying out some Irish Ceilidh steps.

What separates most folk dancing

from other styles is that all the dancers have to work together, Hinman explained.

“In swing dance, you and your partner are creating a completely new dance that never existed,” she said. “But in folk dancing, all the people are working together to create this huge, really cool ‘toy’ that involves all the parts whirling and coming together at the right time.”

It’s like the Radio City Rockettes, she added.

“None of the magic would happen if they weren’t all participating, and if they weren’t all striving for a common purpose using a shared pattern.”

The next international folk dance session is March 11.

The GRFAS also offers a monthly “Big Dance” and a contra dance/jam. For more information, go to grfolkarts.org.

— Candace Price

Photography by Michael Buck (top); courtesy istockphoto.com/DNY59 (bottom)

Giving back by cleaning up

“None of the magic would happen if they weren’t all participating, and if they weren’t all striving for a common purpose using a shared pattern.”

— Donna Hinman

12 Grand Rapids March 2011

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Life & Style

Looking for funds in all the right places

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Photography by Michael Buck (top); courtesy istockphoto.com/DNY59 (bottom)

There’s no shortage of creative people in Grand Rapids, but the money it takes to turn great ideas into realities isn’t always so easy to find. Some local entrepreneurs are turning to such innovative options as Sunday Soup, a meal-based mini-grant funding program, and Kickstarter.com, a fundraising website platform.

In February, ArtPrize founder Rick DeVos launched 5X5 Night, with a panel of five judges awarding up to $5,000 to one of five presenters with a new idea.

“Asking for money, regardless of how much, is daunting,” said Denise Cheng, citizen journalism coordinator for The Rapidian who needed backing to launch Nibs & Noms, a bi-platform zine and website catering to local foodies.

After researching her options, she discovered Sunday Soup, held monthly at the Division Avenue Arts Collective.

The concept is simple.

Proposals for creative projects are submitted throughout a month, and on the last Sunday, the proposals are presented to attendees who pay $5 at the door to share a meal. They vote on the projects and the proposal with the most votes receives all the proceeds.

“With Sunday Soup, even if you don’t get the pot, you have just presented to a room of willing ears who will now go out and advocate for you,” Cheng said.

Bethany Grenier agreed. She’s a mem-

The Grand Rapids Music Collective, a group of musicians who share a studio space at 470 Market Ave. SW, was awarded a Sunday Soup grant. Pictured above from left, are John Harrell, Joe Wiltse, Dan Wier and Kyle Colter of Pistolbrides band. Cirque Acirca also won a “soup grant” and are looking into funding website Kickstarter.com. Artists pictured below, from left, are Bethany Grenier, Kate Jauw and Myke Amend.

ber of Cirque Acirca, a group that used a Sunday Soup mini-grant to help fund their ArtPrize entry, a mural promoting awareness of teen substance abuse and suicide.

Cirque Acirca also looked into fundraising website Kickstarter.com, which

accepts creative projects and looks to website visitors to pledge money. The projects only receive the funding if they reach their intended goal.

Grenier said the beauty of Kickstarter is that it allows a project to go viral and become visible to a vast audience. Kickstarter users are able to set up special offers for people who pledge a certain amount of money.

The Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Show, which has a large local following, used Kickstarter to raise money to fund a nationwide tour.

“We gave away tickets to a VIP-only kickoff show. We wrote songs about the person and performed them at shows,” said Funtime performer Corey Ruffin.

“For the larger donors, we set up a photo shoot with members of the group.”

The new 5X5 Night, hosted by Pomegranate Studios, is accepting submissions for everything from art projects to new businesses. Visit 5x5night.com for details.

More info on Sunday Soup can be found at sundaysoup.org.

— Alexandra Fluegel

March 2011 Grand Rapids 13

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life & Style: travel

Seeing Paris by suitcase

by Matt baker

the Pont alexandre iii spans the seine river and connects the hotel des invalides with the grand and Petit Palais, art galleries built for the 1900 World Fair. opposite page, top to bottom, Paris cafes, the church of saint-severin, one of the oldest churches that remains standing on the left bank, view of the Pont Neuf and the latin Quarter.

Tiny, yes, but at 700 euros a month, an apartment is more affordable than a hotel room for long-term stays in the city. For students, it’s also safer (and cleaner) than a room at a hostel.

My friend has been renting hers from a French woman who lives in Spain.

My first foray in the City of Love is lugging five suitcases crammed with dresses and heels.

There also are many suitcase-sized purses, overflowing with hangers and lingerie, as well as painted canvases, two full-size Moroccan rugs and a convection oven.

My friend had described the neighborhood as “quiet.” When we leave her apartment at 9 p.m., the streets are deserted. I discover that the 15th is the largest arrondissement of central Paris and remains mostly residential. There are not a lot of tourist attractions, but it’s a great place to meet real Parisians.

On this night, the sidewalk is all ours, which is ideal, as the suitcase I’m dragging is as wide as the sidewalk itself.

We walk along Rue du Commerce to the subway stop at Place Cambronne, an area livelier than the rest of the 15th, with cafés lining

PhotograPhy courtesy istockPhoto.coM/MattheW DiXoN

Most fascinating, of course, is les invalides, a complex of buildings that includes museums paying homage to the military history of France.

AFTER MY AIRFARE IS BOUGHT and paid for and after I’ve memorized such phrases as “Comprenez-vous anglais?” the friend I’ll be visiting in Paris lets it slip: My visit will coincide with her move to a new apartment.

I should be happy, she said. In one trip, I’ll get to experience two Left Bank arrondissements. The Left Bank, or Rive Gauche, is said to be the Paris of artists, writers and philosophers, from Pablo Picasso to Jean-Paul Sartre. It’s the area of creativity and bohemianism. I belong here.

First, however, is the move.

My friend insists she doesn’t have “that much stuff.” It should be said that this is my best friend; I know how she lives. She may have moved to Paris with only one suitcase, but I do not believe, even for a second, that she does not have “that much stuff.”

When I arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport, I take the train into the city and a subway to Villa Croix Nivert, a street in the 15th arrondissement. The apartment is one room, with the kitchen sink and the washing machine sharing a closet.

14 Grand rapids March 2011

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life & Style: travel

PhotograPhy courtesy istockPhoto.coM/aDaM WasileWski (toP); arPaD beNeDek (ceNter aND bottoM)

PhotograPhy courtesy istockPhoto.coM/MattheW DiXoN

the square — actually more of an octagon — swarming with Parisians drinking coffee and wine.

The new apartment is on Rue de la Sorbonne in the 5th arrondissement — a block from the Roman-era ruins of the Baths of Cluny. The 5th is known as the Latin Quarter, so named because Latin was the language the medieval-period student spoke at the Sorbonne, the city’s oldest university. This arrondissement was the core of the ancient Gallo-

Roman Paris, as revealed in the number of rare archaeological remains within the district.

After dropping off the suitcases at the apartment, which involves a wrestling match with the 19th-century elevator, we go in search of raspberry sorbet and chocolate macaroons. I am, it seems, easily bribed.

We stroll from the Arc de Triomphe down the Champs-Élysées. My friend is in full tour-guiding mode, listing an astonishing number of facts about the city’s architecture, its monuments and former emperors. Most fascinating, of course, is Les Invalides, a complex of buildings that includes museums paying homage to the military history of France.

I am awed that Napoleon is buried here. We pass the Eiffel Tower, where police on horseback are shoving around some fellow who’s just tossed an empty wine bottle at a passing police van.

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In the morning, after my friend’s old apartment passes inspection, I move her remaining “stuff” down to the lobby and then cram everything into a taxi. The only thing that doesn’t fit is me and one suitcase.

So, once again, I take the subway, but since I’ve forgotten the name of the subway stop nearest my friend’s new apartment, I find myself on foot and map-less — a great way to see the city. By the time I make it to the 5th arrondissement, I’ve admired Notre Dame and the Pantheon — yet another impressive burial place.

In 24 hours of moving suitcases, I’ve inadvertently seen many notable sights in the city. And, knowing that we’ll probably spend the rest of my visit doing nothing but wine tasting and pastry eating, I’m glad for my suitcase tour of Paris.

Matt Baker is a freelance writer based in Grand Rapids.

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History: Grand times

Riding the Pere Marquette by gorDoN g. belD

Four days before the beginning of regular service, a promotional run carried newsmen and dignitaries from Grand Rapids and Lansing to Detroit. Also aboard was 16-year-old Joan Kelly, daughter of Governor Harry J. Kelly, who christened one of the locomotives with a bottle of comingled water from the Grand and Detroit rivers.

Riders of the train were impressed by its exterior and interior beauty as well as the confort and smoothness of the ride. All its components were made after World War II, making it America’s first postwar streamliner. Injectors

for engines of the two locomotives were made by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors at its Diesel Equipment Division in suburban Grand Rapids.

Behind the locomotive of each train were a mail car, baggage car, a 44-seat diner, two coaches with 54 seats, a coach with 56 seats and observation windows facing rearward, and a coach with 58 seats and observation windows looking ahead. The seats were Heywood-Wakefield Co.’s new “Sleepy Hollow” design which could be adjusted to 10 different reclining positions. Passengers also could leave their regular seats and congregate in 10-chair lounge areas of each coach.

Besides overhead lights in the cars, there were two reading lights above each seat, one directed to the window seat and the other to the seat at the aisle. Bulkheads at ends of the cars featured circular mirrors or large photographs of country scenes on the PM route. Women’s powder rooms had an alcove with an easy chair and a wrap-around three-sided mirror.

The dining car of each train was especially appealing. Placement of the kitchen at the middle of the car, rather than at one end, provided two cozier dining areas instead of the typical long one of earlier trains. Diagonal seating at triangular and rectangular tables set into alcoves

the trains made the grand rapidsDetroit run in two hours and 40 minutes. buses at that time usually took four hours and 30 minutes.

the black & white photo from “chesapeake & ohio’s Pere Marquette” by thomas W. Dixon Jr. shows the interior of the dining car.

PhotograPhy courtesy c&o historical society collectioN

LUXURY AND COMFORT came to the rails between Grand Rapids and Detroit in August 1946 when two dieselpowered streamlined trains replaced the humdrum cars and steam locomotives that had carried passengers between the two cities for the better part of a century.

Operated by the Pere Marquette Railway, which then was controlled by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad and a year later formally merged with the larger line, the two diesels with sevencar train sets provided three round trips between the cities each day and cut 40 minutes off the previous fastest time.

After the merger, the streamliners retained the Pere Marquette name.

With fluted strips of stainless steel and brilliant blue and yellow paint — emulating University of Michigan colors — the locomotives and cars were dazzling.

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History: Grand times

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along the walls permitted serving from between the tables, leaving the aisle free and providing more privacy Most servers on earlier trains had been male stewards, but those in the new Pere Marquette diners were women known as “dining car hostesses.” All were high school graduates between 20 and 30 years old, and all were from Grand Rapids.

The trains made the Grand RapidsDetroit run in two hours and 40 minutes.

Buses at that time usually took four hours and 30 minutes.

In 1948, success of the initial Pere Marquettes prompted C&O to begin streamliner service between Grand Rapids and Chicago with a connecting service between Holland and Muskegon. A year later, the railroad put a similar train into operation between Detroit and Saginaw.

Arrival of the streamliners boosted patronage initially, but in subsequent years passenger counts dropped steadily, and by 1970 most of the once-popular trains operated with only a single coach behind the locomotive. The C&O’s passenger service in Michigan halted at the end of April 1971.

In 1984, however, Amtrak revived service between Grand Rapids and Chicago with a train appropriately named The Pere Marquette.

Contributing editor Gordon Beld was a sports writer for the Grand Rapids Herald in 1948 and rode a Pere Marquette streamliner to Detroit with the Union High School state champion football team to cover its victory over Wyandotte.

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PhotograPhy courtesy c&o historical society collectioN

PhotograPhy courtesy c&o historical society collectioN

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Profile: Influential Women

Up to the challenge Luisa Schumacher’s impressive résumé prepared her for the job of heading the West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology. By Marty Primeau

Luisa Schumacher Organization: West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology Position: Executive director Website: www.wmcat.org Residence: Grand Rapids Family: Parents, Kevin and Myrtelisa Schumacher; brother, Gabi, and sister, Jennie.

Community involvement: Member of Wealthy Theatre’s Centennial Campaign Cabinet; member of the LaughFest organizing committee; member of the board of directors for Grand Rapids Boxing Foundation, and actively involved in Art Downtown.

Photography by Johnny Quirin

L

uisa Schumacher paused mid-sentence.

“The schools offer WMCAT’s executive director, a nonprofit organization that teaches skills to at-risk teens in Grand As usual, the executive director of the West less and less arts Rapids Public Schools and to unemployed adults Michigan Center for Arts and Technology was who don’t have working skills. multi-tasking — conducting an interview programming “It’s an amazing job,” she said, “and it changes while driving back to her office after meetevery day as we face so many external challenges, ing with potential donors. and these kids like poverty and the soaring unemployment rate.

But Schumacher was distracted as she spotted desperately need At the same time, we’ve seen a reduction in donaone of WMCAT’s teenage clients shoveling snow tions. We’ve worked hard to slim down, yet at the in front of the East Fulton headquarters. some kind of same time improve our services.”

“He’s not wearing a jacket or gloves,” she mutcreative outlet.”

Those services are so very important, she tered disapprovingly, making a mental note to talk added. WMCAT, started six years ago, uses the to the young man about responsible behavior.

— Luisa arts and technology as a preventive tool to engage Being responsible is something the 29-year-old high school students in danger of dropping out.

East Lansing native understands very well.

Schumacher “In West Michigan, we have a large dropout Just check out her résumé.

Before WMCAT, Schumacher served three years as mar- rate and the need increases every year,” she said. “The schools keting and communications director for Goodwill Industries of offer less and less arts programming and these kids desperately Greater Grand Rapids. She spent more than two years as a politi- need some kind of creative outlet.”

WMCAT serves about 200 students each year, teaching them cal fundraiser for campaigns in Michigan and Florida and was finance director for the Michigan Democratic Party Coordinated everything from fiber art to digital photography. “And so many Campaign. She was corporate community advocate for Metro more need our services.”

The organization also helps a small number of unemployed Health and a public relations assistant for a firm in the Lansing area. Former Gov. Jennifer Granholm appointed her to serve a adults by training them to work in health care. “We only train as term on the Commission on Spanish Speaking Affairs. And while many as the market can handle, so they go through a rigorous still a student at Michigan State University, Schumacher interned application process.”

Schumacher loves the challenges. “It’s exciting to be part of at NATO in Belgium.

At age 26, Schumacher accepted her current position as the development,” she said. “We’ve become amazingly creative.”

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PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

Profile: influential Women Her days are always packed, and Schumacher wears a variety of hats.

“Today, I started by talking to a student who has had a hard time finding a job after graduating from the program.

So now we’re focusing on some different skills he has.”

Then it was off to meet with a potential donor, followed by a conversation with a high school principal about changing curriculum to meet the needs of students.

Next, a meeting with her staff.

“In the evenings, usually there are dinners with donors or community-based events until time for bed,” she said.

Schumacher also reports to the WMCAT board of directors — “they’re amazing, many are business leaders in the community. They make sure things happen.” And Schumacher is the one who makes sure they get everything they need.

Her impressive résumé prepared her for such a demanding role. But Schumacher credits her year as student body president at East Lansing High School with providing the necessary foundation.

“As president of the student council, you’re responsible to a group of people, and there’s an expectation that comes with that role,” she explained. “Student government was really the beginning of my philanthropy and service work.”

Away from the office, Schumacher is an avid traveler — “any kind of travel, for work or for fun. Mostly I consider all of it fun — except dealing with the airlines.”

She’s visited all but 10 states, been all over the Caribbean — “Anguilla is my favorite because it’s the farthest east and you can’t park a cruise ship” — and has traveled to Europe a couple of times.

“Last summer I went by myself to Washington and did a naturalist tour with strangers,” she said, adding that people always seem surprised that she likes to travel solo. “It was great going sea kayaking to see killer whales. I like to do random, call of the wild, out there stuff.”

On the flip side, she’s always up for a big city experience and lists San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and New York as some of her favorites.

Shopping is her other passion, especially local (she even starred in a Local First promo talking about the importance of shopping in GR). “I’m a big vintage shopper,” she said. “I love Goodwill. I love fashion and interior design.”

Her real guilty pleasure is karaoke and Liza Minnelli. “You’d understand if you’re into karaoke,” she said with a giggle. “She’s my karaoke avatar.”

But most rewarding in Schumacher’s world are the people she meets in her job.

“I love, love, love the people associated with WMCAT,” she gushed. “The students, staff, donors, people in the com-

munity, and the board. Recently I had dinner with eight adult students and I left walking on air. Truly, they are some of the most intelligent women I’ve known in my life and it’s so wonderful to see how they’ve grown and developed. Experiencing something like that is the only gift one needs.” gr

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Design “We need to remember that all objects — from cars and houses to furniture and clothing — begin with the design phase.” » pg22 Photography by johnny Quirin

Inside » Art Appreciation 22

» People 24

» Critic’s Choice 26

March 2011 Grand Rapids 21

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Design: Art Appreciation

Art and life connected

by Joseph Antenucci Becherer

If asked for a definition of art, most responses would contain such words as “painting” or “sculpture” or maybe “print.” Many people would talk about something hanging on a wall or highlighted on a pedestal, but few would reference a chair or a desk, a lamp or a bowl. I am positive there would not be much mention of an architectural rail or a multipaneled screen.

Can something functional be a work of art, let alone a masterpiece? Indeed, yes. And the Design and Modern Craft Gallery on the first floor of the Grand Rapids Art Museum is a wondrous place to begin to understand why.

To fully appreciate the objects on display, it is important to recognize a few ideas. First, since the beginning of time, works of art were intended to serve a function. Often this was a physical function — to hold or carry something, to support the figure, or maybe ornament the figure. Somewhere along the way, we forgot about this and began to think more about art as that precious object on a wall or stand. Art and life were somehow distanced.

Second, we need to remember that all objects — from cars and houses to furniture and clothing — begin with the design phase. A good design may be aesthetically pleasing, but more objectively it is thoughtful and creative.

A great design, like great literature or films,

transcends a specific time and place and is recognized for its thoughtfulness and creativity over the generations.

Although the works on display in the Design and Modern Craft Gallery differ in terms of the time and place in which they were created, and the variations of form can be discerned even at a distance, they are united by function and good design. This marriage takes the needs of utilization, analyzes it as such and joins it with a style that is both personal and of its time.

The museum has judiciously sought outstanding examples from the late 19th century forward where well-designed and artful objects speak beautifully and intelligently about the time and place in which they were created.

A particularly insightful and powerful work is the intricate Balcony Rail by the French architect and designer Hector Guimard (18671942). Universally recognized as one of the leading figures of the Art Nouveau movement that flourished during the turn of the 20th century, Guimard created works that have become synonymous with this exuberant period. Intricate and flowing curvilinear forms that often draw inspiration from flowers and plants are quintessential to Art Nouveau. There are no straight lines but twists and turns gracefully unfolding like a vine. One glance at the meticulously crafted Balcony Rail and the definition of Art

Photography by Johnny Quirin

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Photography by Johnny Quirin

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Design: Art Appreciation

Nouveau is understood.

How different this work is from several objects associated with American architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) on display nearby. The handsome Eight-Fold Screen designed by his studio is particularly impressive. Made of wood that is in part stained, painted and gilded, the overall form and the individual elements are highly geometric. Lines are crisp and straight and the outlines of forms are clear and rigid. Although nature was the source of inspiration for this work as well, what a sharp contrast from the flowing and organic characteristics of the Balcony Rail.

Considered together, these two iconic examples from the museum’s permanent collection speak not only of the diversity of expression that looked respectively at nature as a source of inspiration, but offer insight to the very essence of this gallery. Foundationally, each work was intended to serve a function. To be realized, each work needed to be designed. Here is where the artist’s creativity and response to a larger cultural context comes into play. Whereas as one turned to the florid and the ornate, another turned to the simplicity of geometry. Each is terribly important as a visual expression of a style, but knowing that each was also thought of in terms of use separates these works — and all the others in this gallery — from most of the works in other galleries in the museum.

A final note to consider when taking in the Design and Modern Craft Gallery are the number of works that have a connec-

tion to Grand Rapids and, by extension, West Michigan. The design community in this region is quite strong, especially with regard to furniture, and is recognized across the globe. Knowing that such a strong tradition of functional masterworks is a vibrant part of our community makes a visit to the Grand Rapids Art Museum and this gallery in particular even more rewarding.

Joseph Becherer is a professor at Aquinas College and curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

To fully appreciate the objects on display, it is important to recognize a few ideas. First, since the beginning of time, works of art were intended to serve a function.

March 2011 Grand Rapids 23

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Design: people

Born to draw teenager Pat Perry May still be in school, but his graPhic artWork is getting a lot oF attention. by aLeXandra FLuegeL

P

“Most clients or art opportunities i’ve had have just been from someone seeing my art and shooting me an e-mail to see if i’d be interested in working with them or showing some work in their space.”

— Pat Perry illustration of a man riding a moped wearing one of its messenger bags.

“Most clients or art opportunities I’ve had have just been from someone seeing my art and shooting me an e-mail to see if I’d be interested in working with them or showing some work in their space,” he said.

Perry said he’s obsessed over art ever since he can remember, but didn’t really consider it a viable career path until later in high school.

“I started gaining local clients — doing illustrations for family friends and small local businesses,” he said. After high school, he landed an internship with a graphic design company, which he said helped him learn the value of working with different mediums.

“I think anyone that studies art should want to be familiar with all of it,” he said, but working with the company also made him realize his passion for paint, pen and paper.

Perry’s work is intricate, combining background illustrations with vivid, often neon color washes. He describes it as “a surrealist breakdown of realistic events, places and ideas. It’s kind of an alternative interpretation of common memories that seemed insignificant at the time, but now are something we would do anything to get back.”

Perry said he always thought he’d have to find work creating illustrations for law firm brochures and canned vegetables. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised that the clients I collaborate with are companies I think are pretty neat,” he said.

PhotograPhy by JiM gebben (bottoM); illustration courtesy Pat Perry (toP)

at Perry is hesitant to call himself an artist.

“I still have a long way to go,” the painter and illustrator said. But at 19, the student at Kendall College of Art and Design has already landed jobs with Urban Outfitters and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. He had his first art reception at Chrome, a cycling store in SoHo in New York City.

“I am so grateful that I’ve gotten to work on neat and interesting jobs,” the Comstock Park native said. For his show at Chrome, the staff asked him to design T-shirts after seeing his

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Design: people

inspiration from anywhere we are located, whether that’s L.A. or Comstock Park.”

And while Perry names J.C. Leyendecker and Norman Rockwell as two major influences, his twin sister, Chelsea, is his hero.

She was born with spina bifida, which rendered her paralyzed from the waist down. “She keeps her chin up and fights every day to become self-sufficient and active in a society that often forgets about others in the race for first place,” he said.

The college sophomore said he splits his time between working on pieces for his freelance clients, preparing for an upcoming show in Los Angeles and being a full-time student. “I feel like there’s a lot of pressure right now,” he said. “Anytime I’m at home, if I’m not making something to eat or sleeping, I’m working on art.”

Perry lives in Eastown with a friend who is also an artist.

“We’re always working on something,” Perry said. “It’s pretty intense.”

His schedule may keep him busy but Perry said, “I’m still trying to be a kid.

I figure if I haven’t experienced anything, what am I going to paint about?”

He loves to fix and ride vintage mopeds and belongs to local moped group The Ghost Riders.

He spent a few months of last year traveling around the country.

These experiences are what Perry said really fuels his work. “Naturally, I’m inspired by my youth and the wild antics of my peers.” gr

illustrations courtesy Pat Perry

PhotograPhy by JiM gebben (bottoM); illustration courtesy Pat Perry (toP)

Working with big-name clients can be a difficult balance, trying to maximize the opportunity for exposure and still have creative direction, Perry explained.

“I don’t want to end up as a hand for someone else’s brain to guide around the page. Even though I’m a youngster, I always try to not be afraid to give my input on the art direction of a project,” he said.

His main goal is to share his work with as many people as possible, not solely to sell more work or gain notoriety, but to try and make an impact.

“I want to share my artwork to hopefully make people feel something foreign and interesting. The core of art is pulling people away from where they are for the moment and toss them into something weird and unfamiliar,” he said.

And while he says his career as an artist has been trial and error thus far, the response he’s received is what encourages him to get better and make new things.

Internet media platforms have proven a successful method for getting

Perry’s work out to the public. He maintains his own blog, Vimeo video site, Twitter and Flickr accounts. “To me, these are ways to share cool visual things with people,” he said, but also noted that he believes there can be a downside to using social media. “I don’t want people to look at me for advertisements.”

His parents have encouraged his artistic endeavors. Perry’s father, a writer, frequently took him on trips to Northern Michigan, which Perry said has had a heavy influence on his work.

“You go to places like Isle Royale and Keweenaw, and that stuff sticks with you,” he said, “I think we should be able to find March 2011 Grand rapids 25

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Design: critic’s choice

Urban evolution

by Mark F. Miller, aia

The three buildings, while very different, share a common history. The brick structure that faces Cherry Street was constructed in 1915 by Samuel Metcalf as the Metcalf Funeral Home, one of the first funeral homes in the city.

The family lived on the second floor while the funerary operations occurred on the first floor.

The original funeral chapel, which replaced a large stable, was constructed just east of the home in 1929, and was replaced by the more elaborate current chapel in 1948.

The third building on the site, facing Lake Drive, was constructed in the 1920s as a DeSoto and Plymouth automobile dealership and was purchased

by Metcalf in 1947 for use as a support building for the funeral home.

The family continued operation of the business on the site until the late 1980s, when they moved the business to its current location on Cascade Road and East Paris Avenue. Most recently, the Metcalf complex operated as the

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

The curving bar is centered on a large stone archway that mimics the verticality of the windows and provides order for the interior composition.

IN sUCCessfUL aMerICaN CITIes, the urban fabric is constantly evolving and remaking itself. Each layer of reinvention provides a patina that enlivens the city with richer and more diverse patterns that mingle in mutual support of one another. These malleable patterns help to make the city livable, vibrant, enjoyable and sustainable.

East Hills, near the convergence of Cherry Street, Diamond Avenue and Lake Drive, is among Grand Rapids’ premier examples of this kind of urban evolution. It has an eclectic mix of new and old buildings that have mended former holes and tatters within the neighborhood fabric through a gradual parcelby-parcel reinvention.

A recent project, undertaken by John Green and Andy Winkel of Locus Development, includes the redevelopment of three existing buildings and the construction of two future buildings on a site that straddles Cherry Street and Lake Drive.

26 Grand rapids March 2011

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Nature’s Best www.DesignQuest.biz

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

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Design Quest 4181 - 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-940-9911 www.DesignQuest.biz

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Design: Critic’s Choice Spectrum Health Child Care Facility.

The redevelopment project is anchored by Brewery Vivant, which utilizes two of the buildings for its brewing operations and taproom. The taproom is located in the chapel, a rather simple brick structure with large wood entrance doors, gothic arches, stained glass windows and massive timber trusses. Booth seating has been carved out of the aisles

along the chapel nave, while long barnwood tables fill out the seating. The curving bar is centered on a large stone archway that mimics the verticality of the windows and provides order for the interior composition. The combination of the gothic architecture, vaulted ceiling, exposed trusses and warm woods gives off a European vibe.

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cent to the taproom and makes use of the former auto dealership building that fronts Lake Drive. This barrel-vaulted building is a basic utilitarian structure with large open spaces and high ceilings that are the result of wood bowstring trusses that march across the expanse of the structure. The space is ideally suited to accommodate the large stainless steel tanks and extensive piping required for the beer production.

Designed by Cornerstone Architects, one of the project’s strengths is the subtleness in the way that the existing buildings are maintained, enhanced and made functional once again.

Mark F. Miller, AIA, is an architect and urban designer at Nederveld and former chairman of the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission.

Photography by Michael Buck

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Culligan is Celebrating 75 Years of Quality Water Treatment!

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ulligan of Grand Rapids celebrates its Diamond Anniversary this year and for 75 years they have provided the highest quality of water treatment. Culligan actively employs the best scientists, researchers and engineers to provide their customers with quality services second to none.

In 1936 Emmett J. Culligan founded what is known today as Culligan Water and it goes without saying that the technology was very different then, but still very effective for its time. For over 75 years Culligan Water has poured much of its energy into engineering products that now save on cost and energy for your home. Their drinking and household water treatment systems are now a part of what is known as the environmentally friendly family of products.

Water is our most precious resource and it plays a vital role in our everyday life. Because Culligan of Grand Rapids recognizes the importance of water, it is their mission to give the consumer the best water quality one should expect from “Water.”

Drinking Water Quality is measurable, but what about the unknowns (i.e. threatening water sources) of your drinking water quality?

According to the State of Michigan, Department of Natural Resources and Environment says in a recent article that “Unplugged abandoned wells can threaten the quality of drinking water from both private wells and those servicing public water supply systems. It is estimated that over 2 million unplugged wells exist in Michigan. The Water Bureau (WB) of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has implemented a comprehensive program to coordinate statewide abandoned water well plugging activities.” The Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) explains that by plugging abandoned water wells it will protect the aquifers that supply drinking water.

It is because of the information above and like information that Culligan believes and stands by their water treatment. Culligan understands that there is a health concern for what we are introducing into our bodies and again they reiterate the fact that we all use water in some form or another everyday of our life.

Culligan’s Solution is a no brainer, when thinking about how to improve your drinking water quality. Their latest technology of Reverse Osmosis Units offers the consumer a high standard of filtration that no refrigerator or stand alone carbon filter can match. It is incredible to find that their RO reduces Aluminum, Chlorine, Lead, Arsenic, Asbestos, Mercury, and Nickel just to list a few. You can go to www.culligan.com to see a complete list of impurities it reduces.

Whole House Working Water Quality is also measurable by testing the amount of Iron, Magnesium and Calcium which is defined as hardness (unsoftened) in the water.

Photography by Michael Buck

A recent study provided by the Battelle Memorial Institute tested 30 water heaters supplied by Water Quality Association over a 90day period. The study used a Battelle-developed and WQA approved test protocol. In the Battelle summary it said that, “The average efficiency of the gas storage water heaters on unsoftened water dropped from 70.4 percent at the start of the test to 67.4 percent at two years equivalent field service.” This is just one example of the affects that hardness can have on your home. For more information you can go to www.wqa.org/BattelleReport/ Culligan’s Solution is to remove the hardness from your water to improve your water quality, so that you can preserve your investment (i.e. your home) for a longer period of time. A representative from Culligan Grand Rapids provided some great information for this article about a particular softener they carry. I was somewhat blown away by the softener’s capabilities. The softener is called the “Smart Sensor” and it is the very environmentally friendly. Their research and engineering of this product boasts that it can save the consumer over 20,000 gallons of water and two tons of salt over the lifetime of the softener. Wow what a “Smart” piece of equipment.

To get more information on the this softener go to www.culligangrandrapids.com.

Because of Culligan’s product integrity they have been rewarded with receiving and maintaining the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval and are long time members of the Water Quality Association.

I can see why Culligan is Celebrating 75 years of success in the water industry. They have earned their position at the top of their class in the water treatment industry. It makes me want to say “Hey Culligan Man”!

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Wilcox Gardens How the gardens grow

In planting rich traditions of family, community, nature and architecture, Caroline Wilcox founded a legacy during the 1920s — and inspired East GR’s most compelling real estate opportunity today.

BY LISA M. JENSEN

S

pring emerges fragrant and green

Here, hidden off of Lake Drive, the last

in East Grand Rapids, enlivening the

five single-family home sites in East GR

senses and the unique sense of com-

are heirloom properties artfully crafted from

munity that’s nurtured here by residents.

Newcomers enticed to call this vibrant, land-locked city “home” are invited to discover historic Wilcox Gardens.

a prominent family’s turn-of-the-century estate.

Planned thoughtfully for privacy and to preserve the land’s natural character, these serene urban lots neighbor 2010’s Grand Rapids Symphony Showhouse and include plans for “Grant Park,” Grand Rapids Magazine’s intriguing next Design Home.

“This is a premiere setting within East Grand Rapids,” said Katie Karczewski, a Realtor for Keller Williams overseeing sales for each of the half- to three-quarter-acre parcels.

“There’s no question that the first people to build at Wilcox Gardens will be the ones who realize the greatest appreciation for their investment.”

THIS EXHILARATING DESIGN HOME IN EAST GRAND RAPIDS CAN BE YOURS. CONTACT KATIE KARCZEWSKI OR JEFFERY ROBERTS.

While Design Home will be Green-built and stocked with state-of-the-art technolo-

legacy remained.

Today at Wilcox

gies, products and materials, it will also be

Gardens,

the first custom home here to uphold the

custom homes for this

century-old integrity of four existing homes

intimate new neigh-

built by the Wilcox family.

borhood are rooted to a

proposed

rich heritage of family,

Preserving A Heritage

community and nature.

The first manor, built in 1888 as a

Shared gardens and green space will be

country retreat for Frederick and Caroline

enhanced by natural exterior materials and

Wilcox, became Caroline’s year-round home

authentic vintage details.

with the couple’s five children in 1912 after 55-year-old Frederick’s heart failed.

“Beyond being good for the environment,” Roberts noted, “incorpo-

A yearning to keep her family close

rating reclaimed artifacts like a

prompted Caroline later to divide the wood-

bronze balcony railing from the

ed Wilcox estate into parcels for each grown

old Chicago Opera House cre-

child. She also commissioned a community

ates a sense of history in a new

house with indoor pool and courtyard for

home.”

entertaining their families and friends. Son

Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA,

Raymond, who became a landscape archi-

designated architect for Design

tect, surrounded it with fragrant formal

Home 2011, agrees.

gardens and shared green space.

“People love the idea of mov-

Between 1924 and 1928, three new

ing to East Grand Rapids into an

homes expressing Wilcox siblings’ varying

old home with rich architectural

architectural preferences were built as well.

character,” he said, “but the older

“Though Caroline dispatched architects to

mechanical systems that come

Europe to ensure each home’s uniqueness,

with it make them nervous. This

she united them through use of quality

is the dilemma we’re solving at

materials and landscaping,” noted builder/

Wilcox Gardens.”

designer Jeffery Roberts.

Over time, as the Roaring ’20s faded, so too did celebrations in the courtyard and

L

OCATED WITHIN immediate proximity to schools, shopping and recreation, Wilcox Gardens will offer the rare opportunity to build within the land-locked community of East Grand Rapids. This site-condominium development will be a combination of existing and new single-family homes. Jeffery Roberts Homes, in conjunction with Visbeen Associates, Inc., has developed several design concepts for these exceptional historic home sites. Don’t miss this opportunity to build in one of America’s most livable communities.

To inquire about available lots in Wilcox Gardens please contact Katie Karczewski at (616) 575-0119.

JEFFERY ROBERTS HOMES

INC

To learn more about Wilcox Gardens, visit grmag.com/ wilcox.

laughter from the pool-house. But Caroline’s

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Photography by Michael Buck

Restaurant of the Year Leo’s 60 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

32 Grand Rapids March 2011

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BY IRA CRAAVEN AND GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE EDITORS

KinG oF tHe pacK

PhotograPhy courteSy iStockPhoto.coM/lelik

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

Leo’s did it again.

For the fourth time in six years, the downtown restaurant has earned top honors as Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year.

Seems there’s a lot to love about the place.

“I would compare Leo’s to any fine restaurant in any major city,” one dining panel member wrote. “The menu is as good as it can be. The quality and consistency of taste is five-star.”

Diners praise the ambience: “Special but not stuffy,” commented a panelist.

“It’s an excellent experience whether in the dining room or in the bar area.”

And that’s just what Leo Beil Jr. and his wife, Amy, intended when they opened their restaurant in 2004 on the ground floor of the Monroe Center II parking structure. They wanted a place where people could eat “exquisite seafood and classic cuisine in an elegant yet casual atmosphere.”

The couple worried at first that being in a parking garage might hamper business. Hardly. The parking ramp offers the convenience of accessing the restaurant without walking outside.

“Parking is important,” one panelist mentioned. “Especially in the winter when there is snow on the ground.”

But fans of the restaurant would be

willing to trudge through any kind of weather to eat the food. The Beils and Executive Chef Bernard Lucas fly fresh seafood in daily for the Chef’s Fresh Catch Specials — from Costa Rican mahi mahi to Nantucket Bay scallops.

“Good quality FRESH seafood,” wrote one panel member. “The place to go if one wants top quality seafood in GR.”

“Special but not stuffy. it’s an excellent experience whether in the dining room or in the bar area.”

Seafood specialties include Lobster and Shrimp Cakes, Seafood Newburg and a bouillabaisse. Selections from “the land” include a New Zealand rack of lamb with dried cherry demi-glace, herb spaetzle and asparagus, while the New York strip is certified Black Angus.

Even the pasta dishes, such as the Linguine & Shells or the Cajun Chicken Tortellini, earn raves, as do the starters. “You can make a meal of soups and appetizers,” wrote one panel member.

“We do.”

That’s because the choices include Leo’s Salmon & Corn Chowder, Seviche

and Wild Mushroom Escargot.

As for service — “always outstanding,” raved on panelist. Another noted that “Leo is a bonus,” as the owner bustles about the restaurant greeting regulars and meeting new customers.

“Courteous staff is always ready to please customers,” another said. “They can answer any questions you might have.”

And the praise continued. The “bar is well stocked and well priced,” one said.

Another praised the in-house desserts — “as special as the main event.”

Several panel members commented that Leo’s is the first choice for a special dinner out. “It’s the place I recommend when someone asks me where to eat in Grand Rapids.” gR

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More restaurants are serving locally grown produce and locally sourced meats and seafood. Pubs and wine bars are offering innovative fare. And several new restaurants have opened in GR, introducing new culinary experiences.

New dining categories; same winners

T

he 11 restaurants winning dining awards each year are chosen by Grand Rapids Magazine dining panel, who work anonymously to rate restaurants that have been open at least one full year.

This year — the 31st year for the dining awards — two of the main categories changed. New American and Classic American replaced Fine Dining and Casual. Also, a new ethnic category, Mediterranean, was added. The changes were made to reflect the ways in which dining out has evolved.

Joe Tomaselli, President and CEO, Amway Hotel Corp., said it best. “Eating habits have changed. The baby boomers enjoyed the whole idea of a lengthy dining experience in a room with chandeliers and white tablecloths.”

Today, echo boomers still want good food and great service, he said, “but they want it in a more casual environment.”

In January, Tomaselli announced the redevelopment of The 1913 Room to Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

More restaurants are serving locally grown produce and locally sourced meats and seafood. Pubs and wine bars are offering innovative fare. And several new restaurants have opened in GR, introducing new culinary experiences.

It was a challenging year for the dining panelists. But in the end, several familiar names were on top. Winners were announced at the Grand Culinary Affair hosted by the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College.

Here’s how it all works: Dining Awards

Dining panelists — including culinary experts, local residents and Grand Rapids Magazine editors — nominate restau-

rants; 54 were nominated this year.

Panelists complete a ratings sheet for their three top restaurants in each category. The rating forms include several categories, from product quality and presentation to pricing and beverage selection. The rating forms were designed

by Grand Rapids Magazine, the culinary federation’s local chapter and the GRCC Secchia Institute.

Final ballots are sent to accounting firm Beene Garter LLP for tabulation.

The restaurant with the greatest number of panel members voting for it, combined with the average score, is named Restaurant of the Year, regardless of category. The top three restaurants in New American and Classic American and the top in each ethnic category win Awards of Excellence.

Honoring the chefs he Greater Grand Rapids Chefs Association is one of 11 Michigan chapters of the American Culinary Federation, a national fraternity organization of cooks and chefs. The association presented the following 2010 awards at the Grand Culinary Affair Feb. 16:

Chef of the Year (Goes to a chef who demonstrates commitment through personal and professional development, leadership and educational support of others): Kevin Vander Meer, Corporate Chef, Michaels & Associates.

Pastry Chef of the Year Doug Orr, Assistant Pastry Chef, Amway Grand Plaza, and Chef/Instructor, Grand Rapids Community College.

Student Chef of the Year Jake Allen Warnes, Noto’s Old World Italian Dining.

Chef Professional of the Year Jamion Brunsting, Aramark, Grand Valley State University.

Chef Educator of the Year Tom Brent, Michigan Career and Technical Institute.

Purveyor of the Year (Goes to a supplier based on professionalism displayed and the support of local culinarians): Gordon Food Service.

Photography by Michael Buck

T

34 Grand Rapids March 2011

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“the menu is diverse and the presentation is top drawer. you always know what to expect.”

neW aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe Cygnus 27 187 Monroe ave. NW, grand rapids

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

C

ygnus 27 has it all: American fare with a global twist, friendly service, a trendy bar and one of the best views of the city skyline.

“Top quality food, well prepared and very nicely presented,” one panelist wrote.

“The menu is diverse and the presentation is top drawer,” another noted. “You always know what to expect.”

What to expect is innovative cuisine,

such as the Rabbit and Pork Fideua, or Sake Marinated Black Cod, specialties courtesy of Chef de Cuisine Werner Absenger.

There’s a nice assortment of small plates to share, like the chili mussels or the duck rangoon.

And should there be any confusion about the sometimes unusual ingredients, a “useful information” guide on the menu provides definitions.

The atmosphere is relaxing with décor inspired by the Cygnus constellation.

“Casual but upscale,” one panelist noted. “Cool,” another wrote. “I love showing this place off to friends.”

One panelist offered this tip: “If you have friends or family with you, try to reserve a seat next to a window. The view is breathtaking.”

March 2011 Grand rapids 35

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neW aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe Marco new american Bistro 884 Forest hill ave. Se, grand rapids

T

ucked away in a Cascade strip center between a barbershop and a 7-Eleven, Marco New American Bistro could easily be overlooked. But diners who know to enter in the back are rewarded with innovative fare in a casual yet upscale atmosphere, very Tuscan inspired with soft lighting and an intimate bar. Creative twists elevate the usual beef-pork-seafood-fowl dishes, plus the menu includes pasta, pizza and daily specials.

“Tapas Tuesdays are wonderful,” wrote one panelist, who added that the lobster macaroni and cheese is a standout.

“You can make a whole meal out of the tasty small plates.”

Everything on the menu is made inhouse with fresh ingredients, from the popular gratin appetizer with exotic mushrooms baked in herbed broth, fontina and asiago cheeses with white truffle oil, to the apple and hazelnut tart with Michigan apples, vanilla bean ice cream and a caramel sauce. Whenever possible, owners Mark and Jennifer McNamara seek out seasonal Michigan foods.

“It’s got just the right ambience,” one dining panelist commented. “It’s never too noisy and perfect for quiet conversations.”

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

Diners who know to enter in the back are rewarded with innovative fare in a casual yet upscale atmosphere, very tuscan inspired with soft lighting and an intimate bar.

36 Grand rapids March 2011

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“always a favorite to meet people downtown,” whether getting together with friends after work for happy hour drink and appetizer specials, or having dinner before an event.

neW aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe Bistro Bella Vita 44 grandville ave. SW, grand rapids

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

M

editerranean country cuisine in a hip atmosphere is what makes Bistro Bella Vita a dining panel favorite.

“One of the most innovative menus in the area,” one wrote. “Very consistent.”

The downtown GR eatery serves up everything from creative pizzas to authentic paella — even a classic boeuf bourguignon.

“Bistro Bella Vita always offers something new,” one panelist said. “Patrons

can count on excellence.”

As part of the Essence Restaurant Group, Bistro Bella Vita was one of the first eateries in the area to form partnerships with West Michigan farmers. Most dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also makes a point of offering meals for special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan and lactose-free options.

“The food is fresh, and soups are

homemade and wonderful,” commented a panel member.

Panelists also praised the atmosphere: “a very clean, cool loft look.” Dining areas are spacious, yet comfortable and inviting.

“Always a favorite to meet people downtown,” whether getting together with friends after work for happy hour drink and appetizer specials, or having dinner before an event.

March 2011 Grand rapids 37

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Steak and other dishes — jet-fresh seafood, lamb chops and char-grilled pork chops — reach new heights with flavorful sauces, reductions, demi-glace and such add-ons as Maytag blue cheese or diver scallops.

S

eems there are no better prime steaks than those served at The Chop House.

Dining panel members had nothing but raves for the downtown restaurant where “Consistency is a hallmark. From visit to visit, you can count on a stellar dining experience.”

Steak and other dishes — jet-fresh seafood, lamb chops and char-grilled pork chops — reach new heights with flavorful sauces, reductions, demi-glace and such

add-ons as Maytag blue cheese or diver scallops.

One panelist noted that the French onion soup “is a standout, possibly the best in the city.”

Service is excellent, especially when the silver warming domes covering the entrees are simultaneously removed for all guests at the table.

Sommeliers assure a standout wine list and the full-service bar can accom-

modate any request.

An added treat is La Dolce Vita, the downstairs dessert and cigar lounge where servers snip and light the stogies while diners enjoy after-dinner drinks and decadent desserts prepared daily by the pastry chef.

“Really pricey,” one panelist commented. “but you know you’ve had the best.”

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

CLassiC aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe the Chop house 190 Monroe ave. NW, grand rapids

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CLassiC aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe the grill at 1913 187 Monroe ave. NW. grand rapids

I

t calls itself a “classic American steakhouse,” but the restaurant inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel offers much more. The location is in the heart of downtown with sidewalk views of Monroe Avenue. It’s cozy and warm with outstanding service. And as the “kid sister” of the Amway’s Five-Diamond 1913 Room, the Grill has its own personality, with entrees that change seasonally.

“Good quality traditional dishes presented with a contemporary flair,” wrote one panel member. All steaks are prime grade beef, hand-selected and custom aged. Entrees, including lamb, veal, pork and seafood, come with a gourmet salad bar.

“The filet is excellent,” one panelist wrote. “And everyone should try the rack of marinated lamb au jus. Really fabulous.”

Another noted that the daily appetizer specials are a great choice for anyone who wants a lighter meal.

At lunch, the buffet offers an array of choices including salads, breads and soups, plus carved roast beef and poultry as well as pasta and stir-fry stations.

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

as the “kid sister” of the amway’s Five-Diamond 1913 room, the grill has its own personality, with entrees that change seasonally.

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Diners can choose a bottle of wine from reds’ selection of more than 300 varieties. the beverage menu also features locally and internationally brewed beers.

R

eds may offer top-quality fare with a menu to suit any taste, but it’s the ambience that dining panelists were quick to praise.

In winter, the massive fireplace offers a warm greeting as patrons enter. When the weather turns warm, it’s the large covered deck and bar overlooking the picturesque Rogue River that draws diners.

Panelists praised the casual but elegant setting with its Tuscan décor, low-

level lighting and comfortable seating .

Reds on the River is a scratch kitchen, best known for signature steaks aged 28 days and hand-cut to order, as well as such specialties as the Torch Chicken, glazed with Michigan cherry barbecue sauce. Fish is flown in daily.

“I can’t ever find a reason to fault this place,” said one panelist. “It’s pricey, but worth it.”

Diners can choose a bottle of wine

from Reds’ selection of more than 300 varieties. The beverage menu also features locally and internationally brewed beers.

A wide variety of coffees, roasted daily at Rockford’s Herman’s Boy, are served hand-pressed, tableside.

An added bonus, noted one panelist, are the restaurant’s wine school, themed dinners and special events.

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

CLassiC aMeRiCan aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe Reds on the River 2 e. bridge St., rockford

40 Grand rapids March 2011

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the navy blue and gold French-inspired décor, the yards of plush draperies that muffle dining room chatter, layered table linens with customized china and silver service pieces all add to the luxurious effect.

ethniC aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe — euRoPean the 1913 Room 187 Monroe ave. NW, grand rapids

“W

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

hen you dine here, you feel like someone special.”

That comment sums up a meal at The 1913 Room, the showcase of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and winner of multiple Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year awards. It is the first and only Michigan restaurant to earn a Five-Diamond Rating from the American Automobile Association.

“Selections are the epitome of culinary creativity,” wrote one dining panel member. “All courses are presented beautifully with artistic garnishment.”

Service is impeccable, from the person whose sole responsibility is to offer you bread to the one allowing you to choose your own steak knife. “Excuse yourself from the table,” noted one panelist, “and you’ll find a new napkin waiting upon your return.”

The navy blue and gold Frenchinspired décor, the yards of plush draperies that muffle dining room chatter, layered table linens with customized china and silver service pieces all add to the luxurious effect.

And all panelists commented on the “extras,” from a complimentary amusebouche nibble designed to awaken the palette, to the sweet treats that arrive with the guest check “most likely to assuage the sting of the bill.”

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ethniC aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe — MeDiteRRanean shiraz grille 2739 breton road Se, grand rapids

the dining panel was intrigued by the Shiraz menu, with its kabobs and khoresh (a refined stew or sauce) and specialty rice dishes.

meant to enhance the flavors of the food.

All of that — plus authentic belly dancing once a week.

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

The adjective used multiple times to describe Shiraz Grille was “authentic” — from the Persian cuisine to the original Tabriz rug.

“Shiraz is clearly in a league of its own,” one panelist wrote.

“One of the best if not the best restaurant in town,” another commented. “The food is superb and the service is perfect.”

And this isn’t an easy category.

Newcomer Shiraz was up against Marie Catrib’s, a former winner and longtime GR favorite. But the dining panel was intrigued by the Shiraz menu, with its kabobs and khoresh (a refined stew or sauce) and specialty rice dishes.

“Dishes are not overly spiced, but fragrantly herbed and tastefully prepared, with the taste of the grill lending extra dimension,” said one panelist.

The ambience also received praise: “White linens with fresh flowers, dark mahogany woods, classic columns and a tastefully done mural in a relaxing dining room.”

Shiraz has a full bar and a wine list 42 Grand rapids March 2011

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ethniC aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe — asian Xo asian Cuisine 58 Monroe center, grand rapids

T

he dining panel had plenty of Xs and Os for this upscale downtown eatery that has captured top honors in the Asian category for five consecutive years.

Panelists love the array of Chinese, Japanese and Southeast Asian cuisine, expertly prepared and artfully plated by a team of chefs specializing in their respective fares.

“It’s hard to make a decision because there are so many choices,” wrote one. The eel over rice or flank steak with spicy mango sauce?

“This is an Asian restaurant, not typical Chinese or Thai,” another commented. “Try the many varieties. Presentation, preparation and taste are all excellent.”

XO has a full bar, with a list of specialty cocktails, including an icy mango martini and a lychee martini.

Panelists laud the fresh ingredients, authentic to the different regions and cooking styles. “Love the sushi bar!”

And they appreciate the attentive wait staff (“though sometimes a little slow”) and upscale interior. The lunch crowd has a great view of Monroe Center, with al fresco seating available during the summer.

ethniC aWaRD of eXCeLLenCe — Latin aMeRiCan/CaRiBBean Beltline Bar 16 28th St. Se, grand rapids

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

PhotograPhy by JohNNy QuiriN

T

he dining panel had trouble with this category. Some voted for the authentic fare at such eateries as Maggie’s Kitchen and El Granjero. Others voted for ambience and atmosphere at Downtown Trini’s and El Arriero. But it was longtime favorite Beltline Bar that garnered the most nods.

“Everyone in GR knows this place,” wrote one. “Always a favorite for Mexican food.”

When it opened in 1953, the seating capacity in the oneroom bar was 42 people and the house specialty was chili dogs.

Things changed in 1966 with a liquor license and a recipe for wet burritos.

Today, Beltline Bar seats 250 in an expanded building. But the “World Famous Wet Burrito” still draws a crowd.

Dining panels also had praise for the bar’s drink menu, featuring 35 different tequilas. “At dinner, plan to wait in the large bar where they serve the best margarita in town,” one panelist wrote.

Another panel member recommended the curbside-to-go option for those in a hurry.

As for décor, one panelist summed it up: “It looks like it did 20 years ago.”

March 2011 Grand rapids 43

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How a dedicated group of local volunteers are attacking West Michigan’s stray cat epidemic — and how to help.

By Daniel Schoonmaker Photography by Johnny Quirin

44 Grand Rapids March 2011

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March 2011 Grand Rapids 45

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Carol Manos, executive director of Carol’s Ferals, hugs Cuddles, a stray cat who recently found a new home.

From the driveway of a neighbor keenly interested in her work, Alana Slipchuk is staking out the backyard of a 92-year-old woman who has become increasingly concerned about the welfare of the stray cats that visit her each day for food. By her count there are at least 30 of the animals wandering the alley and the backyards of her neighbors, and they keep having kittens — more and more kittens.

“It’s great that she’s feeding them,” said Slipchuk. “A feral cat will get by on its own — you can’t even bring most of them inside, they’ll be climbing up the walls — but it makes their life a bit easier.

The best thing you can do for a stray cat, though, is to get it fixed. If you have one stray cat today, you’ll have dozens in a year or two.”

She hears the trap snap shut: A white kitten, one of its eyes milky and swollen, has taken the bait. Another two kittens scurry away as she approaches. After two hours of fruitless waiting, the alley cats and kittens have taken an interest. She carefully transfers the kitten to another cage and resets the trap with a fresh pile of Bumble Bee canned mackerel on its trip lever. Within minutes the trap shuts again, this time for a skinny tigerstripe kitten. She adds another kitten to the cage a few minutes later and would have called it a day if she hadn’t glimpsed an adult female lurking near the fence, clearly pregnant.

Now with a small crowd of neighbors watching, she watches the big cat take the bait, walking into the cage and eating

the fish. But it somehow misses the trigger and finds its way back out.

“That’s a disappointment. I always feel guilty leaving one behind like that, especially a pregnant cat,” said Slipchuk, who has been trapping stray cats for several years. “But I’ll be back out here on Tuesday, maybe Monday, too. There are just too many.”

This is a key month for advocates of T-N-R (trap-neuter-release) programs in West Michigan. Every cat fixed now is one less litter in the spring — maybe two before fall. Mathematically speaking, a single cat could spawn up to 11,000 descendants over just five years. Even a fraction of that is alarming.

T-N-R addresses the unique problem of stray cats that have lived most or all of their lives without human contact. Unlike dogs and most other domesticated ani-

46 Grand Rapids March 2011

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Volunteer Jamie Castner traps a stray cat that will be checked by a vet, neutered and released in a humane effort to reduce the feral cat epidemic in West Michigan.

mals, cats easily adapt to the wild if the situation requires it. These “feral” cats, many of them once pets, are essentially wild animals and can’t be reintroduced to indoor life. It isn’t a matter of finding them a loving home, but of controlling their overpopulation through spaying and neutering.

As if to prove the point, when Slipchuk unloads her traps at Carol’s Ferals, the local nonprofit that allows any West Michigan resident to participate in T-N-R through free training and cage loans, the adult tabby she trapped earlier in the afternoon breaks free. Within seconds, it is up the wall and into the rafters.

“As you can see, they will literally climb the walls,” said Carol Manos, founder and executive director of Carol’s Ferals.

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year,” said Langlois, one of the nation’s leading experts on low-cost spay/neuter clinics. “We can’t adopt our way out of it.

The only way is to reduce the birth rate, even more so for ferals where adoption isn’t an option.”

Since its launch four years ago, Carol’s Ferals has fixed 3,500 cats, including 1,000 last year. It is the larger of two such organizations located on the grounds of Brooknelle Pet Resort on Knapp Street

“Spay/neuter is the only way we can get control of the problem of so many adoptable animals being put down each year.”

— Bruce Langlois Volunteer Christy Townsend gets lots of love from adoptable cats and kittens. Carol’s Ferals has adoptions every fourth Saturday at Centerpointe Mall or by appointment.

as a volunteer for C-SNIP, the low-cost spay and neuter clinic. She trapped a pair of cats in her Allendale neighborhood, and then a group of cats and kittens that had taken up residence behind a burger joint in Cutlerville. She was soon receiving calls to address the problem of stray cats in neighborhoods across West Michigan, and formally launched Carol’s Ferals in 2006.

Almost every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evening, Manos and her team of volunteers process dozens of cats brought in by volunteer trappers. Some, like Slipchuk, are regulars who address problem areas across West Michigan, but most are one-time trappers concerned about the strays in their backyard or neighborhood.

Manos provides training and traps to any

West Michigan resident with a stray cat to be fixed. Clients take the traps home and then bring them back to Carol’s Ferals once they’ve snared their stray.

At the end of the day, Manos loads all the cats into her used yellow hearse for delivery to Lowell veterinarian Bruce Langlois, founder of Inner City Kitties and Spay Neuter Express. All of the cats are fixed at no charge, thanks to the financial support of Vicky’s Pet Connection, a local organization focused on animal welfare education and spay/neuter advocacy. After a few days of rest, the cats are returned to their trappers, who then release them where they were found.

“Spay/neuter is the only way we can get control of the problem of so many adoptable animals being put down each

in Grand Rapids Township. Not every cat makes it back into the wild, and this is plainly visible when visiting Carol’s Ferals new 2,700-square-foot facility, a former rental property it took over in September with the separate rooms and laundry facility it so desperately needed.

While the organization does not accept drop-offs, it does keep many kittens and certain “friendly” cats for adoption, particularly if they were rescued from an unsafe situation, such as a neighborhood where teenagers have been seen harassing cats.

West Michigan residents interested in T-N-R should visit www.carolsferals.org.

GR Daniel Schoonmaker is a freelance writer based in Grand Rapids.

48 Grand Rapids March 2011

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City Guide Executive Chef Clark Frain is cooking up some new dishes at the Radisson Grand Rapids Riverfront. » pg60 Photography by JOhnny Quirin

ach y

Inside » Chef profile 52

d

» grand vine 68

» Fresh Hops 75

» clubs ‘n’ pubs 82

March 2011 Grand Rapids 51

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City guide: Chef profile

Lawyer in the kitchen DirK hoFFius shares his siMPle yet tasty reciPes in his cooKbooK, “just gooD FooD For gooD FrienDs.” by JuLIe burCh

grilled salmon with creamy caper sauce makes: 2-3 servings

1 salmon filet (at least 1⁄3 pound per person) extra virgin olive oil

prep time: 20 minutes

rattlesnake salt butter

rinse salmon in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. lightly coat with olive oil and then rattlesnake salt (not on the skin). place the salmon on a medium-high grill, skin side down. grill approximately 5 minutes and turn. remove the skin and the gray-brown flesh. Melt a very little bit of butter on the salmon and sprinkle with more rattlesnake salt. Cook about 4 more minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. (You don’t want it to dry out; a little butter at the end can help restore the moistness.)

Rattlesnake salt, combine: ¼ cup coarse kosher salt 3 tablespoons coarse ground black pepper 2 tablespoons paprika 1 tablespoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon dried lemon peel 1½ teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon garlic powder use as a rub or seasoning for beef, pork, salmon, chicken, vegetables, potatoes and pasta.

creamy caper sauce: ¼ cup sour cream or plain yogurt 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons drained capers, finely chopped 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper stir together in a bowl and chill, covered, until ready to serve. goes well with beef, pork, seafood, or on your favorite sandwich.

I

t’s been a little over a year since East Grand Rapids native Dirk Hoffius selfpublished his “unfussy” cookbook, “Just Good Food for Good Friends,” and it already has seen a second printing. The grandson and son of judges, Hoffius has been an attorney since 1969, specializing in estate planning with the Varnum law firm.

With a lifelong love of cooking and no formal training, he started keeping notes and his favorite go-to recipes in a threering notebook — basically to facilitate finding them when needed. As friends, family, coworkers and clients learned about his notebook, they encouraged him to turn it into a real cookbook.

“Publishing the book was more of an act of self-preservation and simplicity,” he said, adding that he now knows exactly where to turn for each recipe.

Throughout the years, his wife, Vickie, whom he met while attending the University of Virginia Law School, has been by his side in full support of his culinary ventures.

Brother Stephen coached him and lent his editing expertise during the two years it took to write and produce the 187-page, $15 cookbook, which is available locally at Schuler Books & Music (schulerbooks.com), Papers Plus, Art of the Table, Frederik Meijer Gardens, Kennedy’s Flowers and Gifts, Blodgett Hospital’s Window Shop and G.B. Russo & Son. Karen Maczuga, his coworker and paralegal, said the book is full of downto-earth recipes that are uncomplicated and often made from ingredients one has on hand.

“The risotto is among my favorites,” she said. “I was always intimidated by risotto. And the Tuscan rosemary salt is something I can’t live without. I use it on everything.” how did you get started cooking?

I’ve always been interested and willing to help in the kitchen. When I was in law school, I was interested in cooking real food, while my roommate heated hot-

PhotograPhy by johnny quirin

Dirk hoffius’

52 Grand rapids March 2011

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City Guide: Chef Profile

dogs with a piece of cheese in it. We had friends in for Thanksgiving my last year of law school and I did the whole Thanksgiving dinner. I was sure I could do it.

Is there a healthy slant to the book?

Not specifically. I’ve cut back on some butter and sugar, tweaking recipes until I found the right combination to still make it tasty. I’ve never been a french fries and hamburger kind of person. The theme wasn’t that I wouldn’t use butter or real fat, but it’s somewhere between comfort food and healthy food.

What is it you like about cooking?

I like the end result. I like the food; I like the company. And what I found, over time, was that simple is best. You don’t have to spend the whole day. Like the Veal Scaloppini that you can make ahead and then reheat it when the guests are ready to eat. Just put it in the oven and it’s ready to go, yet people think it’s really special.

Do you have a favorite culinary style? Unfussy and approachable.

Do you have a kitchen philosophy that guides you? I am a strong supporter of farmers markets and the outside aisles of the grocery store, as opposed to all the prepared and pre-made things that are in the middle of the grocery store.

Photography by johnny quirin

Photography by johnny quirin

“The book is full of down-to-earth recipes that are uncomplicated and often made from ingredients one has on hand.”

— Karen Maczuga What are you most likely to cook at home? I cook at home all the time. I made a Chocolate Chess Pie for Christmas. We’ve got Parmesan potatoes in the refrigerator right now. My wife likes to have them for breakfast.

What five ingredients do you always keep stocked at home? I always have butter and olive oil, tomatoes and chicken broth, onions, garlic and potatoes.

Do you have any advice for home cooks? Just do it. And don’t be intimidated. Start out with simple, practical,

Dirk Hoffius

non-fussy things where you think you can get a good result without working too hard. An example would be the meatloaf on page 96. It’s really easy and has a great result. You probably already have everything in your house to make it.

Do you have a signature dish or a favorite to make? The Summer Marinara that takes less than 30 minutes cooking time, and the Chocolate Chess Pie are two recipes that you could easily make and always have the ingredients on hand.

I was told that the sauce is historically a peasant sauce because the cost of wood was too great to cook it much longer.

Tell us about the recipe you’re sharing with us here. It’s for the grilled salmon with creamy caper sauce. I’ve made it for friends who don’t really like salmon, yet they really like this. The creamy caper sauce can be easily made ahead. The salmon is a really fresh dish that I think of as a steak alternative, and the rattlesnake salt works with it incredibly well. In fact, Penzeys Spices keeps my cookbook on hand because some of their customers have asked how to make the salt.

GR

March 2011 Grand Rapids 53

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City Guide

Grand Rapids Magazine has compiled this list of selected area restaurants as a service to our readers. The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. Restaurants are included in the guide by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing.

New American Upscale, contemporary cooking including ethnic twists on familiar standbys.

25 KITCHEN AND BAR — Dining and bar space on separate levels and a menu that offers 25 pizzas, 25 beers, 25 specialty cocktails, 25 appetizers and inventive entrees artfully presented.

Open daily 11 am-2 am. 25 Ottawa Ave SW, 8055581. twentyfivegr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BAR DIVANI — Wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. European-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrees. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. bar-divani.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ FBISTRO BELLA VITA — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire; mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. 44 Grandville Ave SW (downtown), 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. H, L, D, C, $ 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP BLUE HOUSE BISTRO — Cajun and Creole classics such as jambalaya, gumbo, muffeletta and Po’boy sandwiches, vegan options, market-fresh entrées, appetizers, soups, sandwiches and pizzas. Brunch 11 am-3 pm Sat/Sun. Closed Mon. 220 W 8th St, Holland, (616) 355-1994. bluehou sebistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BLUE WATER GRILL — Wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. Nice wine selection and The BOB’s microbrews. Lakeside views, outdoor patio with fireplace, full-service bar. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmore collection.com/bluewater.php. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE BOB — Grill on 2nd floor of The BOB offers a wide variety, from woodfired pizza, burgers and sandwiches to pasta and up-scale entrées. Full-service bar with The BOB’s microbrews on tap. Live entertainment in Cisco’s Island Lounge. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 3562000. thegilmorecollection.com/bobarinos.php.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ BUTCH’S — New York-style deli by day, fine dining cuisine by night. Menu changes seasonally.

More than 200 bottled beer selections and 700 varieties of wine available for takeout. Closed Sun. 44 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-8227. butchs.net.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$

inspired menu executed with pizzazz in attractive surroundings, complete with fireplace, waterfalls and koi pond. Full bar. Open for weekend breakfasts. 9818 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 5883223. mycobblestone.com. H, (B), L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ FCYGNUS 27 — Stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Casual, seasonally driven menu encourages sharing. Open Tue-Sat eves; Sun brunch Labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6425. amwaygrand.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $$ DERBY STATION — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derbystation.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $ ELECTRIC CHEETAH — Eclectic menu changes weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Sandwiches, soups, salads, entrees, house-made desserts and unique Sunday brunch in modern setting. Liquor license pending. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electric cheetah.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ EVERYDAY PEOPLE CAFÉ — Changing bistro menu from appetizers through dessert.

Impressive wine list with appropriate food pairings served in comfortable atmosphere. Open daily for dinner. 11 Center St, Douglas, (269) 8574240. everydaypeoplecafe.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ GILLY’S AT THE BOB — Innovative takes on seafood on the 1st floor of The BOB, complete with raw bar. Seasonal menu offers cutting-edge fare from appetizers to desserts. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. H, L (Sat), D, C, 3, V, MC, AE $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING — English pub serves Indian food with a British influence. Full bar features impressive array of specialty beers. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $ GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB — Daily menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ GRILL ONE ELEVEN — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge on the lower level. Sunday Brunch buffet 10 am-2 pm, otherwise opens at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, 863-3300. grilloneeleven.com. H, B (Sun), L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE HERITAGE — Grand Rapids Community College culinary arts students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan fare at a reasonable cost. Menu changes weekly. Wine offered with dinner. Open Tue-Fri during academic year.

Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$

CITYVU BISTRO — Top-floor restaurant in Holland’s eco-friendly City Flats Hotel specializing in creative flatbreads and small-plate fare with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. 61 E 7th St, Holland, (616) 796-2114. cityvubistro.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$

FMARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO — Cozy dining in French-country-casual, white-linen atmosphere. Creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu available for takeout.

Full bar, nice wine list. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$

COBBLESTONE BISTRO — Eclectic, globally

MIA & GRACE BISTRO — Locally grown prod-

ucts creatively composed by husband/wife team chefs and owners are served in an intimate, artsy space in downtown Muskegon. Breakfast/ lunch service year-round with special dinners during growing season. Bakery, too. 1133 Third St, Muskegon, (231) 725-9500. miaandgrace.com. H, B, L, (D) V, MC, AE $ OLIVES — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring locally grown produce and hormone-free, organic meats.

Full bar; two-level seating and alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ ONE TRICK PONY — Eclectic menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines, creative lunch and dinner specials.

Congenially casual surroundings; dine alfresco on street-front patio. Occasional live music. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ PIPER — Stunning lake view, fun décor, good service and a menu with everything from appetizers, pasta and wood-fired pizza to creative entrées and homemade desserts. Closed Sun and Mon during winter. 2225 South Shore Dr, Macatawa, (616) 335-5866. piperrestaurant.com. H, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ REPUBLIC — Asian-influenced California cuisine, from steaks, seafood and chicken to pastas and plates to share. Multi-level, arts-inspired décor with upper-level outdoor seating and attentive bar service. Sister to adjacent Rockwell’s Kitchen & Tap. Closed Sun. 45 S Division Ave, 608-6465. republicgrandrapids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ROSE’S — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with a variety of sandwiches, salads, pastas, wood-fired pizzas, entrées and desserts.

Comfortably casual; three-season porch seating.

550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Takeout at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646. thegilmo recollection.com/roses.php. H, B (weekends), L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $ SALT & PEPPER SAVORY GRILL & PUB — Pubgrub with creative twists using Michigan-sourced ingredients. Full bar. Back patio for alfresco dining. Closed Sun. 11539 E Lakewood Blvd, Holland, (616) 355-5501. saltandpepperpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ SALT OF THE EARTH — Rustic fare and bakery emphasize locally sourced products ranging from wood-fired pizzas to an array of affordably priced entrees. Full bar; closed Sun. 114 E Main St, Fennville, (269) 561-7258. saltoftheearthfenn ¢-$ ville.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS SCHNITZ ADA GRILL — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night in cozy surroundings with full bar.

Nice selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, pasta and more. 597 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzdeli.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ SIX.ONE.SIX — Market-fresh, contemporary American fare “with a global soul.” Interact with chefs in the mini Chef’s Lab exhibition kitchen, or visit Mixology lounge. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilovethejw.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE — Tapas-style fare with small plate/appetizers, soups, green plate/ salads, house specialties and desserts. Full bar with wine; nice list of microbrews. Open daily; patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavern

54 Grand Rapids March 2011

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

With casual ambience and attentive service, bentham’s is the right place for hearty, savory meals.

616.774.2000 L o c at e d i n t h e L o b b y L e v e L o f t h e G L a s s t o w e r

a M way G r a n d . c o M

pantlind gold membership

The pantlind gold membership program provides you with great rewards every time you dine with us, along with many other new and improved valuable member advantages.

• $50 dining certificate to The 1913 Room upon sign-up • Buy one entrée at The 1913 Room, Cygnus 27, or The Grill at 1913 and receive one complimentary entrée every time you dine • VIP invitations to exclusive “member’s only” events and much more!*

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159

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to become a member please call 616.776.6980.

EAT. DRINK. CONNECT. Serving American food, bistro-style. amwaygrand.com/pgm *Certain restrictions apply.

LocAted inSide the downtown courtyArd by mArriott

bring this coupon in to receive 20% off of your next bill at bentham’s.

616.776.3400

ourcourtyArdgr.com

20% oFF valid for lunch and dinner only

Valid March 1-31, 2011. Does not apply with any other discounts or Pantlind Gold Membership offers. An 18% gratuity is added prior to discount. Located in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.

 Look for new offerings in next month's issue!

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City Guide Upscale selections served in casually elegant surroundings. Open daily in the Amway Grand Plaza, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com/benthams.html. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $

There’s a new bakery opening in Ada, owned by Grand River Grocery and serving up specialties by Haley McNeil, formerly the manager at Nantucket Baking Co. Besides daily breads and pastries, there’ll be a cold case filled with tortes, cheesecakes and other desserts, all made from scratch.

“I make a really nice chocolate flourless cake,” she said. “And my homemade mousses are very popular — oh, and the peanut butter bars. And cheesecake …”

Evidently, McNeil loves to bake.

Located next door to Blimpie’s at 7277 Thornapple River Drive, the bakery will have about five tables.“We’ll also be serving specialty coffee drinks by MadCap Coffee.”

McNeil, who was hired as pastry chef for GRG, will be baking for both establishments. “They’ll be carrying some different items so we aren’t doubling up.”

Slated to open this month, check grandrivergrocery.com for more info.

onthesq.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS

— Marty Primeau

¢-$

WILD DOG GRILLE — Interesting appetizers, salads, sandwiches, stone-baked pizzas and entrees marry a complexity of flavors. Desserts made in-house. Closed Mon in winter months. Fullservice bar. 24 Center St, Douglas, (269) 8572519. thewilddoggrille.com. H, L (Fri-Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$ WINCHESTER — Locally sourced menu aims to reinvent bar food; affordably priced comfort food specialties, reclaimed century-old space with shuffleboard court-patio. 648 Wealthy St, SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

Classic American

Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country.

8TH STREET GRILL — Entrées range from catfish Valdosta to ribs, with sandwiches, salads, burgers and pasta also on the menu. Closed Sun. 20 W 8th St, Holland, (616) 392-5888. 8thstreetgrille.com.

H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE $ 84 EAST FOOD & SPIRITS — Neat restoration lends atmosphere; varied menu includes unique pasta dishes and thin-crust pizzas. Closed Sun. 84 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-8484. 84east pasta.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ ABERDEEN STEAK HOUSE — All-natural, grainfed, choice-cut aged steaks, prime rib, lamb and pork chops, Greek-style roasted chicken and halfpound burgers in refurbished surroundings. Full bar; closed Sun. 785 W Broadway, Muskegon, (231) 733-6400. aberdeen-steakhouse.com. H, L,

D, C, V, MC, AE, DS

$-$$

ACORN GRILLE AT THOUSAND OAKS — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaksgolf.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $$ ARBOREAL INN — New England-style inn offers fresh whitefish, Alaskan king crab, tournedos Oscar and more. Cozy atmosphere with dining and bar area. Portion of menu requires 24-hour notice. Closed Sun. 18191 174th Ave, Spring Lake, (616) 842-3800. arborealinn.com. H, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $$ ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT — Uniquely GR. Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. Open daily. 3561 28th St, 956-7901; 710 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurants.com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE $ Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and fine dining selections from an extensive seasonal menu. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1770. mainstreetmed iagroup.com. B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$ BEAR LAKE TAVERN — Historic North Muskegon tavern offers favorites that include yellowbelly lake perch dinner, BLT burger and hand-cut onion rings. 360 Ruddiman Rd, North Muskegon, (231) 744-1161. 4gr8food.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BENTHAM’S RIVERFRONT RESTAURANT —

BIL-MAR RESTAURANT — Beachfront dining with a great view of Lake Michigan; a wide selection of fine-dining entrées. Full bar; open daily.

1223 S Harbor St, Grand Haven, (616) 842-5920. bil-margrandhaven.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $$ BLUE PLATE — Inside downtown’s Courtyard by Marriott, menu covers all tastes. Popular Pasta Station available at lunch. Light fare in lounge.

Open daily. 11 Monroe Ave NW, 242-6000, ext 6646. marriott.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ BOATWERKS WATERFRONT RESTAURANT — Vintage motorboat ambiance overlooking Lake Macatawa. Spacious outdoor patio and two menus: casual dining in main dining room, bar and patio, with another room for fine dining. 216 Van Raalte Ave, Holland, (616) 396-0600. boat werksrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ BONEFISH GRILL — Offers fresh-from-the-seas fare. Casual, white-linen dining. Seafood selections augmented by innovative sauces and toppings; also chicken, beef and pasta dishes. 1100 East Paris Ave SE, 949-7861. bonefishgrill.com.

H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BOSTWICK LAKE INN — Roomy, cottage-style eatery offers regionally influenced cuisine in casual surroundings. Favorites include fresh seafood, pasta, steaks and ribs. Open Tue-Sat, also Mon between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 8521 Belding Rd NE, Cannon Township, 874-7290. bostwicklakeinn.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $ BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant serves an affordable selection of appetizers, sandwiches and salads as well as fowl, seafood and beef for dinner. Enjoy golf-course views from inside or on the deck.

5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BRANDYWINE — Pleasant café atmosphere serving extensive breakfasts, innovative lunches with vegetarian choices and salads, and dinner selections from Mexican to beef Wellington. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 3631723. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC ¢-$ BRANN’S SIZZLING STEAKS AND SPORTS GRILLE — Famous sizzler steaks with grill items and salads, baskets and Mexican entrees. All locations offer high-tech projection screens and sporting events. Menu tweaked to add more bar munchies. Brann’s of Grandville, 3475 Fairlanes, Grand Village Mall, 531-6210; Mike & Johnny Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; John Brann’s of Cascade, 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800; Brann’s of Holland, 12234 James St, (616) 393-0028; Brann’s of Muskegon, 5510 Harvey St, (231) 7981399; Brann’s of Portage, 700 Martin Luther King Dr, (269) 321-8852. branns.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ BULL’S HEAD TAVERN — A dozen appetizers from brie to pot stickers. Lunch menu showcases salads, soups and sandwiches. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. 188 Monroe

Photography by Ashley Avila

Scones, muffins and cakes, oh my!

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City Guide Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ C.F. PRIME CHOPHOUSE & WINE BAR — Prime NY strips and some all-natural beef selections.

Gourmet treatment from starters through salads, plus seafood, vegetarian options and desserts made on-site. Impressive wine list, full-service bar. Closed Sun. 950 W Norton, Muskegon, (231) 737-4943. cfprime.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu from fish and chips and gourmet burgers to fine-dining appetizers and entrées. Good bar, wine list. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE (at Old 28th St), 949-1540. H, L, D, C, V, AE $-$$ CHARLEY’S CRAB — Fresh seafood from a menu that changes nightly. Located on the Grand River. Early menu (4:30-6 pm daily), Sun brunch.

GR Steamer Bar has its own menu. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILL — Well-rounded menu features dinners ranging from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican fare, sandwiches and more. Full-service bar. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FTHE CHOP HOUSE — In the tradition of the best American chophouses with aged prime beef and more. A la carte sides are big enough to share.

Great wine list. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6184. thechophouserestaurant.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $$ COUSIN’S TASTY CHICKEN — A 25-year local alternative to the chains with some of the tastiest fried chicken and side dishes around. Also serving seafood and other fried fare. Closed Sun. 1209 Leonard St NE, 456-5244. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

Custom Design Furniture 2875 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE | Grand Rapids, MI 49512 Phone (616) 575-9004 | Fax (616) 575-9008 www.customdesignfurnitureinc.com

Create ...

CRAZY HORSE STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Holland’s family-friendly eatery, renowned for steaks and prime rib. Saturday night special is prime rib and lobster. 2027 North Park Dr, Holland, (616) 395-8393. crazyhorsesteakhouse. $$ com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS

Photography by Ashley Avila

DEE-LITE BAR & GRILL — Nice selection of appetizers, house-made soups, salads and sandwiches. “Fresh-Mex” dinner selections, plus seafood, chicken, steak and pasta. Live music and martinis in the Theatre Bar. Open daily; Sun brunch. 24 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 844-5055. harborrestaurants.com/deelite/. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ THE DINING ROOM AT CLEARBROOK — New entrées daily feature locally grown products.

Known for hand-cut steaks, double-cut lamb chops, Canadian walleye. More casual dining in The Grill Room. Open daily in summer. Clearbrook Golf Club, 6594 Clearbrook Dr (just north of Saugatuck), (269) 857-2000. clearbrookgolfclub. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$ DOCKERS FISH HOUSE & LOUNGE — Waterside dining on Muskegon Lake with lively summer tiki bar, seafood and land-lubber options. Full bar, dockside seating. Dockhands assist with boat tie-up. Closed Oct-Mar. 3505 Marina Point View, Muskegon, (231) 755-0400. dockersfishhouse. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$

An Impression

SiNcE 1968 . . .

Registered Landscape Architects 4353 Three Mile Road N.E. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 616-363-6400 www.kappeslandscapes.com

DUGAN’S PUB & GRILLE — Casual dining with March 2011 Grand Rapids 57

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City Guide steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at the Highlands Golf Club. Adjacent Glendevon offers banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 453-2451. grandrapidselks.org. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$

everything from beef, seafood, fowl and beyond in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. No lunch, but open Sun afternoons. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$

THE FALCON’S NEST — Creative lunch menu with a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, barbecue ribs, appetizers, chili and salads. Open 11 am-7 pm. 17000 Lincoln Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 842-4040. grandhavengolfclub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$

FTHE GRILL AT 1913 — “Kid sister” of Amway Grand Plaza’s Five-Diamond The 1913 Room.

Warm ambience and seasonal entrées featuring prime, custom-aged beef. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/ the_grill_at_1913.html. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $$

FALL CREEK — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches, house-made desserts, and creative entrées. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. fallcreek dining.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FIREROCK GRILLE — Sunny, bistro-style atmosphere, nightly features and extensive menu of imaginative fare that includes FireRock options: cook your own on a 500-degree stone. Open daily.

Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. stone $ watercc.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE FLAT RIVER GRILL — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building on the river in Lowell. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from American comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar with extensive wines by the glass and The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. Superb brunch. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection. com/flatriver.php. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ FLEETWOOD DINER — Extensive diner-style American menu with Greek influences. Famous for Hippie Hash. Open 6:30 am for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun), serving dinner until 8 pm MonThu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FOREST HILLS INN — A casual neighborhood favorite with a broad menu, excellent pizza.

Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ FRY DADDY’S FRESH FISH — Fried fresh fish, wing-dings, walleye, orange roughy, catfish, blue gill, perch, smelt and shrimp, by the pound or in baskets with French fries in pleasant surroundings or to go. Closed Mon. In Kentwood’s Trinity Plaza, 1720 44th St SE, 455-FISH. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. — Microbrewery with extensive menu that matches the handcrafted beers and natural ales. 3689 28th St SE, 285-5970. michiganmenu.com/grbrewing.html.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ THE GRAND SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR — In Grand Haven’s former Grand Theatre. Oyster and sushi bar, seafood and steaks. Open daily. 22 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 847-8944. harborrestaurants.com/thegrand. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ GRAND TRAVERSE PIE CO. — Bakery and café offer an extensive menu that covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with quiche, soups, salads, sandwiches and pastries. Open daily. 3224 28th St SE, 977-7600. gtpie.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ GRAND VILLA — Longtime favorite serving prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar, full service bar.

Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. grandvillarestaurants.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ GREAT LAKES SHIPPING CO. — Kitchen does

GRILL HOUSE & ROCK BOTTOM BAR — Allegan’s grill-your-own steakhouse with grillmasters on call. Bottomless salad bowl and potato bar; tasty desserts. Rock Bottom Bar opens 11 am daily; Grill House opens 5:30 pm weekdays, 11 am Sundays.

1071 32nd St (M-40), Allegan, (269) 686-9192. grillhouse.net. H, L (downstairs), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP (weekends) $-$$ THE GRILL ROOM — Aged steaks/chops, fresh seafood and fine wines in top chophouse tradition, served in an unpretentious atmosphere. Closed Sun during winter. Kirby House, 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorec ollection.com.grillroom.php. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ GRILLE 29 — Varied menu includes salads, soups, specialty panini, pasta, pizza and variety of entrées. Full-service bar. Open daily for breakfast and dinner. Holiday Inn Select, 3063 Lake Eastbrook SE, 285-7600. holidayinn.com. H, B, D, $ C, V, MC, AE, DS THE GRILLE AT WATERMARK — Innovative menu in relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf course. Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Sat; Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Banquet facilities.

Reservations accepted. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. watermarkcc.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, RSVP $-$$ HONEY CREEK INN — Daily specials are the highlight, mixed with traditional fare that earns rave reviews from patrons. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. honey creekinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ HUDSONVILLE GRILLE — Steaks, chops, chicken, soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican favorites and breakfast, as well as fish specialties. Full bar; closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Suite F, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ J BAR — The BOB’s steakhouse restaurant caters to those with a penchant for meat and potatoes with style and expertise. Open 5-11 pm; closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com.

H, D, C, local 3, V, MC, AE $$ JACK’S — Breakfast and lunch, plus dinner menu with appetizers, wine by the glass and a wide range of entrées, located on the Grand River at Grand Haven Waterfront Holiday Inn. 940 W Savidge St, Spring Lake, (616) 846-1370. higrand haven.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ KIRBY GRILL — Casual side of the Kirby House offers more than an average grill with innovative touches to the American menu. Family-friendly dining upstairs. 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorecollection.com/kirby. php. L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ KOPPER TOP — Uniquely GR. Raw copper tops the bar and tables at this GR staple with a longstanding tradition of seasonal decorations.

Entrées with a homemade taste. No lunch Sat, closed Sun. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 459-2001. L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE ¢ THE LANDING — Nautical décor with windows overlooking the Grand River. Menu features American favorites and German specials. Live music and dancing in the lounge. 270 Ann St NW (Radisson Riverfront Hotel at US 131), 363-7748. radisson.com/hotels/migrapno/dinings. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ OLEO’S — Combines fine dining and casual comfort with great service, impressive wine list and full bar. Fresh seafood is the specialty, but steaks and other dishes are just as good. Street level in parking ramp at Ottawa and Louis. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ LOUIS BENTON STEAKHOUSE — Upscale steakhouse with a big-city ambiance features premium Buckhead beef, wet- and dry-aged steaks, lamb, pork and veal chops, seafood and more. Superb wine list. Closed Sun. Free valet parking at Ionia entrance. 77 Monroe Center Ave NW, Suite 100, 454-7455. louisbenton.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$ MAIN STREET PUB — Casual restaurant and sports bar offers large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and nice entrée selections. Open 11 am daily, with breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MAXFIELD’S — Vast lunch and dinner menus are enhanced by daily feature buffets. Open Tue-Sun. 11228 Wyman Rd, Blanchard, (800) 550-5630. maxfieldsrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ MEADOWS RESTAURANT — GVSU’s professional and student-staffed restaurant; patio and dining room overlook golf course. Full menu offers everything from burgers to NY strip steak.

Seasonal hours; closed Sun. 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale, 895-1000. gvsu.edu/meadows/. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ MIDDLE VILLA INN — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands; in Grand Rapids call 891-1287 for restaurant info. Open daily. 4611 N Middleville Rd, Middleville, (269) 795-3640. middle-villa-inn. com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, DS $ MOE’S CONEY & GRILL — Coney Island-style hotdogs and extensive menu from sandwiches to entrees. Wide-ranging breakfast menu, all reasonable prices. Open daily; closes 2 pm Sun. 3603 S Division Ave, 514-1650. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MR. BURGER — Longtime favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. 2101 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-6291; 5181 Northland Dr NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St SW, 538-4439; 1750 44th St SE, 4558604; 950 44th St SW, 538-0363; 5835 Balsam Ave, Hudsonville, 662-5088. mrburger.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ NOEL RESTAURANT — It’s Christmas year-round at this restaurant in a former church and parsonage family-style dinners, lighter fare on lunch menu. Gift shop on lower level. Hours now by reservation only; parties of 10 or more preferred.

2371 Riley St, Jamestown, 896-6427. noelrestaur ant.com. H, L, D, V, MC, RSVP ¢-$$ OTTAWA TAVERN — The full-service, full-menu sister restaurant sharing space with downtown’s

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For truly exceptional kitchens, two names stand out.

Sub-Zero, the preservation specialist, keeps food fresher longer.

Wolf, the cooking specialist, makes great results easier to achieve.

Make that three.

My Docs/Group Ads/March 2011 GRM ad Harvey Last revised: 1/20/11 at 1:15 pm Due: 1/20/11 (drop dead date)

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*Plus tax, title, lic. & doc. fees.

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City Guide SANDI’S FAMILY RESTAURANT — Home-cooked meals, family-friendly dining in casual surroundings. Daily specials; all-you-can-eat ocean perch on Fri. Senior discount Mon-Tue. Closed Sun. 6597 S Division Ave, 281-3160. sandisfamilyrestau rant.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ SAYFEE’S — Uniquely GR. Longtime favorite with well-rounded lunch and dinner menus.

Chateaubriand served tableside; luscious dessert cart; early-dining specials. Live music and dancing Wed-Sat eves. Deck open in summer. Closed Sun. 3555 Lake Eastbrook Blvd, 949-5750. say fees.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$ SPINNAKER — Upscale menu features large selection of seafood and landlubber entrees in a nautical themed dining room. Open daily, Sun brunch. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton Grand Rapids Airport), 957-1111. thehilton.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$

Bite. Sports venue with weekday Happy Hour bar specials 4-7 pm. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. thegilmorecollection.com/ot.php. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ PAL’S DINER — A real diner with breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, served in fun surroundings.

No alcohol served. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. palsdiner.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢ PEARL STREET GRILL — Bright, airy restaurant in the downtown Holiday Inn (formerly Days Hotel).

Breakfast, lunch and steaks, pasta, chicken and fish for dinner. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 2357611. guestservice@higrdt.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ RAINBOW GRILL — Longtime favorite offers breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily luncheon specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ RED JET CAFÉ — Gilmore Collection restaurant in the former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar along with breakfast, omelets, crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, specialty pizzas and more in casual, upbeat surroundings. Full bar; opens 7 am. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/redjet.php. H, B, L, D (Tue-Sat), C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FREDS ON THE RIVER — Located on the Rogue River, Reds combines casual sophistication with Tuscan sensibilities. Varied menu, good wine list.

Lunch served 11-4 pm; closed Sun. 2 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more are offered at these Western-style Schelde restaurants.

Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266; 1820 44th St SW, 534-0704. michiganmenu.com.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ROSEBUD — Sandwiches, soups and pizza for lunch; steaks, ribs, pasta and more pizza for dinner. Live music Thu-Sat. Open daily. 100 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-7788. rosebudgrill.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ ROSIE’S DINER — The original 1946 Paramount diner made famous by paper towel commercials continues the tradition of classic homemade diner fare. Open daily. Half-mile east of US 131.

4500 14 Mile Rd, Rockford, 866-3663. rosies diner.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO — Diverse menu of starters, soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, generous entrees and desserts, all done with flair in handsome, club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ RUSS’ RESTAURANTS — Fast service, family friendly, inexpensive fare. Closed Sun. 3966 Plainfield Ave NE, 381-7545; 2750 28th St SE, 949-8631; 2340 28th St SW, 538-3410; 531 Alpine Ave NW, 784-2230; 6444 S Division Ave, 281-2790; 4440 Chicago Dr, Grandville, 531-1146. russrestaurants.com. B, L, D, 3 ¢ SAM’S JOINT — Award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. Extensive menu includes Mexican selections; full bar. 2412 Briggs Rd, Gun Lake, (269) 795-3965; 7449 68th St, Dutton, 698-1833; 107 E Main St, Caledonia, 891-1128; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-3324; 6618 Old Grand Haven Rd, Norton Shores, (231) 7987155; 15520 48th Ave, Coopersville, 837-8558; 1665 Viewpond SE, Kentwood, 455-2111. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC $

SWAN INN RESTAURANT — Home-cooked meals such as pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf, daily specials, and burgers, chicken, seafood and more. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles as well as dinner menu. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. H, B, L, C, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ TERRACE GRILLE AT BAY POINTE INN — Casual gourmet dining, impressive wine list, martini bar and lakeside dining on terrace. Seasonally changing menu includes seafood, steaks, pasta and specials emphasizing regional fare. Open daily. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville (off US 131), (269) 672-5202 or (888) GUN-LAKE. baypointeinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$ THAT PLACE ON PLAINFIELD — Classic American diner food, along with some surprises like Filipino and vegetarian dishes, in diner-style surroundings at reasonable prices. Closed Sun. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 365-6669. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢ TILLMAN’S — Uniquely GR. Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste, from liver and onions to frog legs and escargot. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. H, L, D, C, V, $-$$ MC, AE, DC, RSVP TIMBERS INN — Menu ranges from appetizers, gourmet salads, sandwiches and charbroiled burgers to wild game offerings and lumberjack meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings.

Open daily. Sun omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. H, L, D, C, 3, V, ¢-$ MC, AE TULLYMORE — Restaurant at Tullymore Golf Club offers seasonally inspired menu with layers of flavors and artful presentations in beautiful surroundings. Expansive views, large patio for outdoor dining. 11969 Tullymore, Stanwood, (800) 972-4837. tullymoregolf.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ TWISTED ROOSTER — Classic dishes with unex-

Photography by Johnny quirin

Clark Frain, new executive chef at the Radisson Grand Rapids Riverfront, shows off a rack of lamb, “my signature dish.” Frain joined the Radisson last November after five years with the Gilmore Collection. He also cooked at Charley’s Crab and Gibson’s and for Norwegian Cruise Lines. “I want to bring prominence and respectability back to the building,” he said. Look for more locally sourced products on the menu and some “trendier options” in catering.

SUNDANCE GRILL — Breakfast-and-lunch spot also offers a dinner menu in the California/ Southwestern tradition. Selection of steaks, salmon, salads and pasta, along with a margarita bar. 5755 28th St SE (Esplanade Plaza), 9565644; 40 Pearl St NW (breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Tue-Sat), 776-1616. 4gr8food.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $

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City guide pected twists. full bar featuring 18 beers on tap, local beers/wines. open daily. 1600 east beltline ave. ne, 301-8171. twistedrooster.com. h, l, d, v, MC, ae ¢-$$

Central plaza offers great breakfast and lunch with an “outside the box” menu. open daily. 2055 28th st se, 452-8544. h, b, l, v, MC, ae, ds, dC ¢-$

cinnamon pastries and more. open daily til 3 pm.

545 Michigan st ne, 726-5800; 1880 breton rd se, 726-7300. omletteshoppe.com. h, b, l, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$

VICtory CLub — ada’s “sports dining destination” with spacious dining room and lounge, fireplaces, Tvs and sports-centric décor. Menu offers standard fare plus out-of-the-norm pizzas, some Mexican dishes and comfort food, desserts and Michigan wines. 396 pettis ave se, 4257050. victoryclubada.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds $-$$

the gatherIng pLaCe — Cozy setting and country décor complement an imaginative menu.

Terrific homemade soups, dessert selections. open daily until 2 pm. 6886 Cascade rd se, 9493188. h, b, l, v, MC, ae, ds $

reaL Food CaFÉ — open early for breakfast and lunch, with everything made fresh from scratch by chef owners in cheery locale in alger heights. second location on the northeast side. open until 2 pm; closed Mon. 2419 eastern ave se, 2414080; 5430 northland dr ne, 361-1808. h, b, l ¢

oMeLette shoppe & baKery — a plethora of omelets, along with baked-fresh daily pecan rolls,

red geranIuM CaFÉ — popular spot is known

VILLage Inn pIZZa parLor — longtime local favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, soups, salads, Mexican and more, with karaoke nights Thu-sat. full bar. open daily; weekday lunch buffet. 2215 44th st se, Kentwood, 281-1444; 934 Washington st, holland, (616) 392-1818. vipizza. net. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae ¢-$ WaLLdorFF breWpub & bIstro — Microbrewery with menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, barbecue specialties, small plates, steaks, pork and lamb chops, duck, pastas and wood-fired pizzas. 105 e state st, hastings, (269) 945-4400. waldorffbrewpub.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ West Coast grILLe — daily breakfast buffet, hearty lunch fare and dinner menu ranging from quesadillas and burgers to prime rib to seafood, inside holland’s doubletree hotel. open daily.

650 e 24th st (just off us 31), holland, (616) 3940111. holland.doubletree.com. h, b, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, dC, ds $ WhIteFIsh LaKe goLF and grILL — Menu offers hand-cut steaks, barbecued ribs, fresh seafood and other dining specialties grilled over an apple-wood fire. open daily. 2241 bass lake rd, pierson, (616) 636-5260. whitefishgolfand grill.com. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds $-$$ WInter Inn — seafood, steaks and prime rib along with such specialties as seafood au gratin and pan-fried walleye in historic inn. Convivial bar. banquet facilities. 100 n lafayette st, greenville, (616) 754-7108. thewinterinn.com. h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, dC $ Woody’s press boX — pulled pork with pizzazz in a restaurant complex that includes two bars, a patio and bowling. Menu offers sandwiches and shrimp as well as barbecue fare. open daily (breakfast and lunch only sun). 5656 Clyde park ave sW, 530-3242. spectrumlanes.com. h, b, l, d, C, 3, v, MC $

Daytime casual Eateries that specialize in breakfast and lunch.

PhotograPhy by johnny quirin

anna’s house — family dining offers great breakfast fare. open daily for breakfast and lunch until 2 pm. 3874 plainfield ave ne, 361-8500. h, b, l, v, MC ¢ CherIe Inn — Café is relaxed setting for upscale breakfasts and innovative specials, served until 3 pm. Closed Mon. 969 Cherry st se, 458-0588. b, l, 3, v, MC, ae, ds ¢ Fat boy burgers — uniquely gr. legendary burger joint in the Cheshire neighborhood offers breakfast 6-11 am weekdays (7 am sat) and lunch until 3 pm in newly renovated surroundings. Closed sun. 2450 plainfield ave ne, 361-7075. h, b, l, v, MC ¢ garden rooM CaFÉ — Cheery spot in grand March 2011 Grand rapids 61

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City Guide in summer. 220 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 8571868. H, L, D, V, MC,AE $

and thin-crust pizza. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. H, L, D, C ¢

CORNER BAR — Rockford’s much-loved spot for a brew and a chili dog, with hall-of-fame status for quantity gorging. Bar fare includes burgers, sandwiches, soups, nibbles, etc. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢

INTERSECTION CAFÉ — Roomy entertainment venue offers sandwich wraps and panini, great burgers, quesadilla selections, soups, salads, appetizers, flatbread pizza, vegetarian options.

Full bar. 133 Grandville Ave SW, 459-0977. sectionlive.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢

THE COTTAGE BAR — Uniquely GR. Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili, house-made soups and sandwiches, daily specials, imported beers, full bar and cordial atmosphere. Closed Sun. 8 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.com. L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢

JD REARDON’S — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more, with a nice selection of nibbles, soups, sandwiches, dinner-size salads, steaks and other appealing entrées. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardo ns.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$

GAIA CAFÉ — Innovative, totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. On Facebook. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢

THE CURRAGH — Downtown Holland traditional Irish pub features all the fun foods, spirits, music and environment of Old World Ireland. Enjoy a pint and authentic Irish fare from a full menu.

Outdoor seating, live entertainment, valet parking. 73 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-6340. curragh holland.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$$

J GARDELLA’S TAVERN — Massive antique bar is matched by gargantuan menu ranging from homemade chips to build-your-own burger.

Three floors of seating. Open Sun for arena events. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastav ¢ ern.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS

LITTLE AFRICA CUISINE — Humble storefront café with dining area offers vegetarian dishes only. Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings are served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. Cash or checks only. Open ¢ daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. H, L, D, 3

ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL — Cozy neighborhood watering hole with bar food to match: burgers, sandwiches, nachos, salads, chicken fingers, etc. Open daily 10 am-2 am. Play darts, Golden Tee or the jukebox. 501 Fuller Ave NE, 454-6666.

H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$

Pubs & Taverns

FLANAGAN’S — Popular Irish pub, imported beers, 20 on tap, includes Guinness stout.

Homemade soups and stews, specialty sandwiches, munchies and entrées with an Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, ¢ MC, AE, DS, DC

for its specialty omelets, homemade soups, breads and desserts. Two locations: 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave. 532-8888. H, B, L ¢ SUSIE’S CAFÉ — Coffees, baked goods, breakfast served through lunch. Sandwiches, homemade soups and burgers from the grill. Malts, shakes, smoothies and ice cream. Walk-up window open late in summer. Open daily. 1120 Knapp St NE, 363-1530. H, B, L ¢ WOLFGANG’S — Popular spot renowned for breakfasts. Menu includes omelets, salads and sandwiches. Private meeting rooms available.

Open 6:30 am-2:30 pm daily. 1530 Wealthy St SE, 454-5776. mattwolfgang.com. H, B, L, 3 ¢

Vegetarian

Restaurants that prefer to be known as “bars that serve food.”

BAR LOUIE — Urban décor at Woodland Mall, with sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and hearty entrées. More than 20 beers, along with a nice wine selection and specialty cocktails. Outdoor seating. 3191 28th St SE, 885-9050. barlouieamer ica.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BUD & STANLEY’S — Mirrored bar and TV sets galore. Mexican and Italian dishes, burgers, starters, salads and sandwiches. Main entrées range from homemade pasties to one-pound Texas cut sirloin. Takeout available. Open daily. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ CAMBRIDGE HOUSE — Wash down fish ’n chips with a pint of John Courage at this pub, complete with pool tables and dart board. Hoagies, Reubens and burgers; appetizers (served until 11 pm) satisfy snackers. Lots of liquor choices and good-size wine list. Takeout available. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 356-1622. cambridgehousegr. com. L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CASCADE SPORTS GRILL — Not your average sports bar: calamari, crab cakes, potstickers, stuffed ’shrooms, sandwiches, chicken, steak and more. Sizable bar with 10 brew taps and extensive martini menu. Pool tables, dartboards, TVs and other amusements. Live DJ Sat night.

Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ CHEERS — Popular neighborhood spot with something for everyone: munchies, salads, south-of-the-border favorites, fish, steaks, burgers, breakfast fare, omelets, served daily in a log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢ CHEQUERS — Creative cuisine with a British flair ranges from beef tips Sherwood to Welsh rarebit, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and imported beer served in an English pub atmosphere. Open daily

FOUNDERS BREWING CO. — Sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom with vaulted ceilings, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and Sat. Expanded menu features sandwiches and light pub fare. Covered (heated) porch.

235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrew ing.com. H, L (11-2 Mon-Fri), 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ GP SPORTS — Sports and entertainment venue patterned after ESPN’s Zone and Dave and Buster’s, with interactive sports games, giant video screen and TVs. Menu features createyour-own pizzas, burgers, salads and such.

Closed Sun and Mon. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE — Year-round alfresco dining complete with fireplace. Eclectic menu selections mix with upscale takes on comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious bar. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoods lounge.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ HOLLY’S BACK DOOR BAR & GRILL — Fullservice menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel.

Opens 5 pm; closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ HOPCAT — Downtown pub offers crafted brews with close to 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled.

Full bar, and tasty fare including appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com. H, L (Sat-Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ HUB’S INN — Sandwiches, burgers, wet burritos

LOGAN’S ALLEY — Free popcorn complements a premium-libation special in these cozy digs.

From two Reubens to a garden burger, the 18-item sandwich-and-appetizer menu even lists pizza rolls. Seasonal deck seating. Open daily.

916 Michigan St NE, 458-1612. logansalley.com.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MILL CREEK TAVERN — Comstock Park’s cozy eatery offers appetizers, from-scratch daily soups, sandwiches, wraps, burgers and wet burritos, as well as full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 7843806. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MOJO’S — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, with starters, pastas, sandwiches, salads and reasonably priced entrées, plus late night “munchy menu.”

RSVP for dinner early, show starts at 8 pm Wed-Thu, 7 pm Fri-Sat, DJ, dancing, pool tables, VIP Room and flat-screen TVs on 2nd floor. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com.

H, D (Wed-Sat), C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NEW HOLLAND BREWING CO. — Munchies, salads, pizza and sandwiches augment a wide array of handcrafted beer. 15-minute lunch menu.

Beer and wine only. Closed Sun. 66 E 8th St, Holland. (616) 355-6422. newhollandbrew.com.

H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NITE CAP BAR & GRILL — Roomy and bright with outdoor patio, pool tables, video games, bigscreen TVs, Keno and karaoke Thu-Sat evenings.

Daily drink specials, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs, flame-broiled burgers, Mexican selections and dinners. 801 W Fulton St, 451-4243. nitecap bar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢ PEPPINO’S RISTORANTE PIZZERIA AND SPORTS LOUNGE — Contemporary ambience, separate sports bar. Italian specialties and pizza, char-grilled Sicilian-style steak and chicken, burgers, etc. 5053 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615. Family-friendly Peppino’s Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444. peppinospizza.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ 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. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ PUB 43 — Cozy atmosphere caters to all, but

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City Guide is especially popular with artists and the gay crowd. Board games, more than a dozen TVs, fully stocked bar with usual bar fare from burgers to more upscale items. Jukebox, occasional live entertainment. Open daily at 3 pm. 43 S Division Ave, 458-2205. H, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ QUEEN’S PUB SPORTS BAR — Adjacent to Bombay Cuisine with English pub grub, full bar and lots of beers on tap. Big-screen TVs, pool table, dart boards, wireless connection. 14201424 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

entertainment, 29 beers on tap. Open daily. 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-2526, takeout 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ WEST SIDE BAR — No-frills neighborhood tavern with bar-food menu that includes the Hog Burger, a half-pound burger made fresh daily and stacked with a choice of ham or bacon and all the fixings.

Live entertainment weekends. 1568 Broadway NW, 459-1240. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢ Z’S — Sports-themed eatery known for its ribs.

Soup-salad-sandwich lunches. Features 43-foot bar and multiple TVs. Carry-out available. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$

Delis, Dogs & Bagels Places that serve sandwiches, bagels and/or hot dogs.

BAGEL BEANERY — All locations bake a variety of bagels and serve great breakfast and deli sand-

QUINN & TUITE’S IRISH PUB — One of the largest selections of Irish whiskies in the area and Guinness on tap. Traditional Irish music, Celtic rock, open mic Fri eves, live bands Sat. Typical bar fare includes burgers, brats, sandwiches, munchies. 1535 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-8380. quinnandtuites.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ ROCKWELL’S KITCHEN & TAP — The more casual kid sister adjacent to Republic restaurant.

Classic American pub features comfort foods with a twist; upper-floor outdoor balcony seating.

45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsgrandrap ids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ROCKY’S BAR & GRILL — Burgers, appetizers, fried fish baskets, sandwiches and more. Art Deco bar, pool table. Kitchen open late; check for evening entertainment. Open daily, Sun at 5 pm with $1 beer specials. 633 Ottawa Ave NW, 356-2346. myspace.com/rockysgr. H, L, D, C, V, ¢-$ MC SAZERAC LOUNGE — New Orleans-style lounge featuring bar food with a Cajun bent. Live entertainment Sat nights. Open for lunch Tue-Sat, Mon at 4 pm. 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. myspace.com/sazeraclounge. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ THE SCORE — Restaurant and sports bar with a wide-ranging menu that includes pizza, ribs, hand-cut steaks, seafood, chicken and comfort dishes like meatloaf. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ SHAMROCK BAR & GRILL — Small but interesting menu offers choices such as coconut shrimp and house-made tortilla soup in addition to burgers and steak. Nice children’s menu. Open daily at 11 am. 2501 Wilson Ave NW, 735-3888. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ STELLA’S LOUNGE — Mostly vegan menu but a stuffed burger for carnivores. Advertises strong drinks and more than 200 whiskies. 53 Commerce Ave, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC ¢-$ TAPHOUSE LOUNGE — Renovated historic surroundings with dozens of beers on tap. Sports bar menu runs the gamut from appetizers, soups, salads and sandwiches to entrées such as ribs, perch and steak. Atrium cigar lounge. Open daily until 2 am. 8 Ionia Ave SW, 774-3338. taphouse gr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $ TEAZERS BAR & GRILL — Burgers and pasta entrées, sandwiches, salads and Southwestern bites. Kids menu. Look for live music on the stage.

Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 459-2481. teaze rsbar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S SPORTS LOUNGE & PIZZERIA — Serving pizza and pasta plus legendary panini sandwiches and wraps in sports-centric surroundings. Multiple screens, outside deck, live

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City Guide wiches. Vegetarian options, soups, salads and specialty coffees. Catering, kids meals, free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating. 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, 249-9500. bagelbeanery. com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ BIG APPLE BAGELS — Fresh bagels and 15 cream cheese mixtures. Choose your favorite bagel to wrap around the sandwiches or breakfast options, or build your own from the deli. 3915 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-1919; 2058 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-2390; 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 554¢ 7915. babcorp.com. H, B, L, D, 3 BITE — Deli side of Ottawa Tavern features daily soups, big wraps, salads and build-your-own burgers. Weekday Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials 4-7 pm. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. thegilmorecollection.com/bite. php. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ BITTER END — Full array of specialty coffee drinks, bagels, muffins, pastries and deli sandwiches in atmosphere of a 1930s French café.

Free Wi-Fi. Open 24/7. 752 W Fulton St, 4516061. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ BOARDWALK SUBS — 20 huge Jersey-style subs using family-recipe Italian dressing and specialty meats such as capicola and prostitini in addition to familiar choices. Also soups, chili, salads, chips, fresh-baked cookies, ice cream and kids meals. Take out or eat in. Catering and delivery.

Open daily. 5422 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 724¢ 2492. H, L, D, V, MC CAFÉ SCALA — Tre Cugini’s cousin in the Ledyard Building offers sandwiches and other Euro nibbles at reasonable prices. Open 11:30 am-2:30 pm Mon-Fri. 125 Ottawa Ave NW, 235¢ 9115. trecugini.com. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS, DC

Wi-Fi. Local artists display and sell their work.

8 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8750. frenzcoffee house.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢

condiments in downtown GR. Open 11 am-9 pm Mon-Sat. 154 E Fulton, 233-9700. onestopconey shop.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢

THE GRAND CONEY — Home-style dinners, burgers, salads, sandwiches, Mexican fare, desserts and all-day breakfast in addition to authentic Coney Island hot dogs. Open 24/7. 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580. H, B, L, D, Cash only ¢

RAMONA’S TABLE — EGR deli with selections made from scratch: soups, sandwiches, salads, baked items and meals from 8 am-8 pm daily; takeout and catering. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 4598500. ramonastable.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

JERSEY JUNCTION — Sandwiches, ice cream treats, candies and hot dogs served in old-fashioned “soda shop” atmosphere. Open daily in season beginning March 1. 652 Croswell Ave SE, Gaslight Village, EGR, 458-4107. jerseyjunction. ¢ com. H, L, D JONNY B’Z DOGS AND MORE — Southern-style, all-meat chili dogs on Texas-toast-style buns: fatty’s (all beef), skinny’s (all turkey) hotdogs, house-made gumbo, burgers, “cajon” sausage, smoked brisket, turkey or ham sandwiches, vegan dogs, vegetarian chili; lots of toppings, artisan salts; modern-retro ambience. Closed Sun, open until 2 am Thu-Sat. 638 Wealthy St SE. Facebook. L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ JW’S — Art gallery meets coffeehouse with rotation of local artists’ works. Specializing in light, health-conscious lunch fare, plus every coffee drink under the sun. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 285-1695. H, B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ KAVA HOUSE — Uniquely GR. Popular Eastown spot with bakery items (known for the scones) and java served in bowl-sized cups. Plenty of seating (outdoors, too). Bakery includes homemade pizzas, spinach pies, sausage rolls and soup. 1445 Lake Dr SE, 451-8600. Facebook. H, B, L, D, 3, V, ¢ MC

CHERRY DELI — Extensive menu offers more than 50 sandwiches, a dozen salads, five soups, with catering and takeout options. Outdoor patio; closed Sun. 834 Cherry St SE, 459-6182. cherry ¢-$ deli.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS

KAVA HOUSE BY GEORGE — Separately owned store in Gainesville Township offers bakery items and light lunch fare like wraps and seasonally inspired soups and chili. Full array of coffees. Free Wi-Fi. 6633 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 971-4560. H, B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢

CORNUCOPIA — Bakery, sandwich spot, pizzeria, take-home specialties, lunch buckets, freshground coffees, one-of-a-kind wine selection.

Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6428. amwaygrand.com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE ¢-$

LOCAL MOCHA — Downtown location offers favorite coffee specialties and smoothies as well as grilled breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 96 Monroe Center NW, 4590082. localmochagr.com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE ¢

CRAZY CHARLIE’S — Coney Island-style dogs plus a daily soup, chips, shakes, slushies, fountain drinks and soft-serve ice cream service with walkup window on Bagley Ave in warmer months.

2184 Wealthy St SE, 451-6720. H, L, D, V, MC ¢

MAMA’S PIZZA & GRINDERS — Busy spot in Thornhills Plaza offering large grinders (half-size available), pizza, salads and pasta selection. 6504 28th St SE, 954-1964. mamaspizzaandgrinders. ¢ com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS

DAM DOGS — On the dam in downtown Rockford serving everyone’s favorite variation on the hot dog theme in old-time surroundings, plus ice cream. 51 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-9565. H, L, D ¢

MUSEUM CAFÉ — Deli-style sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and beverages on the second floor of the Van Andel Museum Center with a view of the riverfront. Closed Sun. 272 Pearl St NW, 456-3977. H, L ¢

THE DOG PIT — Every variation on a hot dog, with house-made chili topping a specialty. Large variety of condiments. Also daily soups. Closed Sun. 132 Monroe Center NW, 988-1508. H, L, D ¢

NUNZIA’S CAFÉ — Combo specials of soups, chili, salads, sandwiches, pasta and Italian dishes.

In Merrill Lynch building by Calder Plaza. Open 11 am-3 pm weekdays. 250 Monroe Ave NW, No. 140, 458-1533. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢

FERRIS COFFEE AND NUT CO. — Breakfast and light lunch items in Plaza Towers on West Fulton.

Both locations feature global gourmet coffees, nut selections and sweet treats. Gift baskets available at Winter Ave location. 235 W Fulton St, 227 Winter Ave NW, 459-6257. ferriscoffee.com.

H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ FRENZ COFFEE HOUSE — Besides tea and coffee specialties, menu offers soups, salads and wrap sandwiches. Closed Sun. Musicians on Fri. Free

OLGA’S KITCHEN — Greek-style wrapped sandwiches, salads and desserts, with uniquely flavored fries, appetizers, smoothies and desserts.

Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 456-0600; 3195 28th St, 942-8020; 3700 Rivertown Parkway SW, Grandville, 531-6572. olgaskitchen.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ ONE STOP CONEY SHOP — Hot dogs plus salads, sandwiches, fries and house-made original

RITZ KONEY BAR & GRILLE — Hot dogs, gourmet sandwiches, burgers, wraps and salads plus chicken fingers, nachos, wings and fries. Full bar with limited wine list. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 451-3701. ritzkoneybarandgrille.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC ¢-$ SCHNITZ DELICATESSEN — Deli with a German flair. Sandwiches, creamy potato salad and fudgy brownies. All available for takeout. Closed Sun. 1315 E Fulton St, 451-4444; Schnitz East, 597 Ada Dr SE, 682-4660; Schnitz South, 1529 Langley St SE, 281-5010. schnitzdeli.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC ¢-$ TASTE OF THE GARDENS CAFÉ — At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Deli selections, soups and fresh-baked pastries. Brunch on second Sun of month by reservation only. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 977-7691. meijergardens.com. H, L, 3, V, MC ¢-$ URBAN MILL CAFÉ — Deli-style, grilled and baked specialty sandwiches on freshly baked breads.

Top-notch soups, salads, desserts, baked goods.

629 Michigan St NE, 855-1526. urbanmill.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VANILLAS COFFEE TEA CAFÉ — Gourmet coffees, teas, smoothies and pastries. Special-order bakery for cakes, cookies, cupcakes. Check out the dollar menu. Closed Sun. 3150 Plainfield Ave NE, Plainfield Plaza, 447-0080. vanillascafe.com.

H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY — Fresh breads, cinnamon rolls and pastries in reclaimed, roomy location, with sandwiches and daily soup specials.

Club, specialty and vegetarian sandwiches on fresh-baked breads. Free Wi-Fi. Closed Sun. 608 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ WG GRINDERS — Oven-baked gourmet grinders, excellent variety of deli and signature salads, soups and desserts. A few hot pasta selections. Catering, delivery and takeout. Closed Sun. Esplanade Center, 5769 28th St SE, 974-3354. wggrinders.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ WIRED ESPRESSO BAR — A gamut of coffee concoctions, espresso-based beverages, baked goods, sandwiches and more in Creston Business District. Free wireless Internet and occasional live weekend entertainment. 1503 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-5245. wiredgr.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ YESTERDOG — Uniquely GR. The city’s favorite hot dogs in a fun, nostalgic Eastown setting. Try the Ultradog. Closed Sun. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 262-3090. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢

European FTHE 1913 ROOM — AAA Five-Diamond rating.

Innovative, French-inspired fare, excellent wine list and superb desserts, lavish French décor and impeccable service. Closed Sun. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW, (800) 2533590 for reservations desk, 776-6426 for restau-

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City Guide rant. amwaygrand.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $$ ALPENROSE — European-inspired restaurant with fare ranging from Certified Aged Black Angus steaks to poultry and fish dishes. Five private dining rooms, banquet facility, bakery and café.

Award-winning Sun brunch buffet. 4 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-2111. alpenroserestaurant.com.

H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP ¢-$$ AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA — Authentic regional Italian dishes using local produce, meats and cheeses as well as Italian imports.

House-made desserts. Banquet facility available.

Closed Mon; no lunch Sat. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC $$ BELLA MIA PIZZERIA & ITALIAN GRILL — Italian dishes and New York-style pizza (even dessert pizzas) in roomy, window-fronted dining room.

Daily lunch buffet. 6333 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Suite 450, 554-9930. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BRICK ROAD PIZZA — A nice selection of pasta, pizza, salads, desserts and vegan specialties.

Buffet available at lunch. Meatball crust specialty.

Open daily. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brick ¢-$ roadpizza.com. H, L, D, V, MC FLORENTINE PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE — Spacious location features Italian fare with American and Mexican choices in addition to thincrust pizzas. Ten beers on tap. Big-screen TVs, pool tables, darts, video games, Foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FLORENTINE RISTORANTE — Italian and American cuisine. Pizza and pasta served in the lounge until midnight; full-menu dinner 4-10 pm.

Closed Sun. 3245 28th St SW, 534-5419. florentin eingrandville.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC $ FRANCO’S PIZZERIA — Spaghetti, manicotti, lasagna, stromboli plus pizza and subs with fresh ingredients. Limited seating, takeout available (delivery offered). Cash only; open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. H, L, D ¢-$ FRANKIE V’s PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR — Roomy space with pool tables, jukebox, covered patio. Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta entrées, plus burgers and Mexican. Weekday lunch buffet. Tap your own 100-ounce beer tower.

1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FRED’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN RESTAURANT — Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar.

Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Also, pasta dinners with a sauce that has made its way to the retail market.

Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. H, D, C ¢-$ MANGIAMO — Historic mansion houses familyfriendly Italian eatery. Steaks and seafood in addition to pasta and pizza. Open daily for dinner; extensive wine list, evening entertainment. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmorecollection.com/ mangiamo.php. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ MARINADE’S PIZZA BISTRO — Specialty woodfired pizzas, ethnic salads, sandwiches, appetizers, dips, soups, desserts and coffee. Open daily. 2844 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-0200; 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863-3300; 450 Baldwin,

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noto’s oLd WorLd ItaLIan dInIng — elegant decor, extensive menu and impeccable service. offerings include appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, veal, fish and desserts. special wine cellar dinners in unique surroundings; lounge menu features light fare. Closed sun. 6600 28th st se, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. h, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds, rsvp $-$$ pereddIes — italian fine-dining and a deli with baked breads, salads, meats, pâté, desserts and imported food. Wine list, full bar, wine to go.

More casual fare in scusi lounge. Closed sun.

447 Washington ave, holland, (616) 394-3061. pereddiesrestaurant.com. h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, dC $-$$ pIetro’s baCK door pIZZerIa — Tucked behind pietro’s restaurant off 28th street, featuring Chicago-style, thin-crust, sicilian pan and wood-fired pizzas. also skillet pastas, paninis, appetizers, salads and desserts. Kids menu. 2780 birchcrest dr se, 452-7488. rcfc.com/backdoor pizzeria/. h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ pIetro’s ItaLIan rIstorante — regional and contemporary italian cuisine. fresh-baked breads, Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. nightly features. Kids menu, meeting room and takeout available. 2780 birchcrest dr se, 452-3228. rcfc.com/pietros. h, l, d, 3, v, MC, ae, ds $ restaurant touLouse — seasonally inspired menu with french classics such as cassoulet and bouillabaisse. delectable appetizers and desserts. award-winning wines. hours vary seasonally; private parties can be arranged. sun brunch during summer. 248 Culver st, saugatuck, (269) 857-1561. restauranttoulouse.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, rsvp $$ saLVatore’s ItaLIan restaurant — sicilian and southern italian fare using family recipes. separate sports bar; patio seating. Weekday lunch buffet. all menu items, beer and wine available to go. delivery and catering. Closed sun. 654 stocking ave nW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$

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san CheZ, a tapas bIstro — legendary downtown hotspot offers spanish bill of fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. extensive wine and beer list includes spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W fulton st, 7748272. sanchezbistro.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, dC, ds $-$$ seasonaL grILLe — hastings’ italian-themed eatery features fresh, locally sourced, creative fare in handsome surroundings. full bar, craft cocktails, nice wine list. open daily. 150 W state st, hastings, (269) 948-9222. seasonalgrille. com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds $ tre CugInI — authentic high-end italian menu,

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City Guide impressive wine list, fresh daily pastas and risotto specialties, plus beef, veal, lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. Outdoor seating in mild weather.

Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, 235-9339. tre $-$$ cugini.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS TWO TONYS TAVERNA GRILLE — Italian, Greek and American specialties with full-service bar, extensive wine list. Menu includes wood-fired pizzas and nightly specials. Artsy ambience, open kitchen and large patio. Closed Sun. 723 E Savidge Rd, Spring Lake, (616) 844-0888. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE — Pizzeria, grill and sports lounge with Italian cuisine, American dishes and an array of freshly baked pizzas.

Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor SE, 891-5958. uccellos.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ VITALE’S — The original. Traditional Italian ristorante serving regional dishes from family recipes since 1966. Open daily. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368 (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 4582090), takeout 458-3766. theoriginalvitales.com.

H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S OF ADA — Multi-regional, upscale, from-scratch menu in the trattoria style of modern-day Italy. Family-friendly atmosphere; microbews to martinis in separate sports pub.

Open daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitalesada.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from original Vitale family recipes.

59 W Washington St, Zeeland, (616) 772-5900, vitaleszeeland.com; 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com (no alcohol served); 5380 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 530¢-$ 8300. vitales.us. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE

Asian

Including Thai and Indian fare.

ABACUS — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine; buffets at lunch, dinner and all day on weekends.

Nice cocktail selection. Open daily. 2675 28th St SW, 530-3300. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS, DC ¢-$

ian, chicken, seafood, beef, pork, duck and chef specialty selections (and name-your-spice-level options). Closed Mon. 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 534-5010. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BANGKOK TASTE — Features fresh Thai fare at reasonable prices. Nice lunch buffet, with Pad Thai, Thai curry and Thai fried rice prepared fresh daily. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 6678901; 15 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, 3565550. bangkoktaste.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BANGKOK VIEW — Thai food and Chinese fare.

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continued on page 70

Fine Wine, Beer, spirits and Specialty food

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ALPINE TERIYAKI AND SUSHI — Sushi selections with some deep-fried roll options, shrimp tempura and more, all masterfully presented.

Pleasant, diminutive surroundings; closed Sun. 4089 Alpine Ave NW, 647-9935. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$

ASIAN PALACE — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each cuisine. Family owned and operated. Try the “Bo 7 Mon” specialty, a seven-course beef sampling. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$

BEIJING KITCHEN — Extensive menu featuring Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines at reasonable prices. Cashew chicken is a specialty.

Lunch specials priced at $5.95. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchengr.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

Shop Around

AKASAKA SUSHI — Sushi plus Korean and Japanese offerings in low-key atmosphere in the Cascade Centre. Occasional sushi classes offered. Closed Sun. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444.

H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ — Extensive Thai fare; menu includes a your-choice stir-fry option from a long list of ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly, fromscratch sauces. Pleasant surroundings. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angels thaicafe.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$

Lunch buffet. Closed Mon. 1233 28th St SW, 5318070. bangkokviewthaifood.com. L, D, V, MC ¢-$

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City Guide: Grand Vine

South African ‘terroir’ is back

by A. Brian Cain

Shortly after apartheid laws were lifted in the early 1990s, South African wines began to appear in West Michigan. I remember tasting a variety of them at a trade event while working for D&W and thinking, “These demonstratively flavorful wines are way too earthy and expressive of the terroir for American tastes.”

I brought in a small assortment and was amazed that customers loved them! In the early 1990s, Gaslight Village D&W carried about 40 South African wines. Since then, the excitement has waned.

Terroir is that combination of factors that gives a wine a sense of place or “somewhereness.” The factors include the soil as well as traditional winemaking techniques, prevailing weather, exposure, and perhaps most importantly the influence of local flora, fauna and microbiological life. If nothing is done to kill it, the bacteria and other microscopic life, including wild yeast that exists at harvest, plays a significant role in shaping the wine’s bouquet and flavor.

The so called “international” style of winemaking attempts to minimize terroir and concentrate on the essence of the fruit flavors and smells.

American critics and merchants felt that many South African wines were a bit too earthy, so many of the large South African producers stripped their wines of the complex essence of terroir to produce simpler, more straightforward, fruity wines for the U.S. market. Consequently, many of them became colorful labels on the shelf with not much to recommend them.

There still are lots of bland South African wines out there, but here are some my wife and I found to be of good quality and interestingly different from their Californian or Australian counterparts. The scores are mine.

Contributing editor A. Brian Cain is a certified wine educator and freelance wine writer.

South African Whites 2008 Ken Forrester Petit Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, $13. Nice straw color and complex mineral bouquet is enhanced by a floral yellow plumlike aroma. The vivid lemon-like palate impression

Photography by Johnny Quirin

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City Guide: Grand Vine is completed by round, soft, pear-like fruit in the finish. 88 points 2009 Neil Ellis Sincerely Sauvignon Blanc, Western Cape, $15. The pale color belies the massive bouquet of dandelions, incense and yellow stone fruit. The green herb component is magnified on the palate and carries through to the finish. It reminds me of the Russian grape Rkatsiteli that we tasted in New York State. This huge wine is tamed when paired with blue-veined cheese.

90 points

Photography by Johnny Quirin

South African Reds 2008 Neil Ellis The Left Bank (Cab/ Shiraz/Merlot), Western Cape, $15. Wow, is this ever a throwback to the South African wines we enjoyed 20 years ago! The smell of ripe black fruit is matched by essences of earth and the smell of a dull saw blade going through oak. There is a pollen-like wild botanical smell that becomes a smorgasbord of tastes and textures when it hits the palate.

Finishing with hints of green herbs, this is a wine one could enjoy every day and find more interesting every time. 93 points 2009 Robertson’s Barista Coffee Pinotage, Western Cape, $15. Surprisingly foxy, it is very much like the red hybrids from the Eastern U.S. It is also surprisingly soft finishing, with a mild pomegranate/cranberry-like mouth feel. It is as delicate as a northern climate Pinot Noir but much softer. 79 points 2009 Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap (Syrah/Mourvedre/Viognier), Western Cape, $10. Fat, warm, charming Cal-Ital style with candy-like fruit and soft berry flavors.

The fruit lingers well into the finish, which is clean, albeit short. It is truly an honest, unpretentious table wine. 84 points 2009 Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage, Stellenbosch, $12. There is lots of juicy plump fruit up front making it an easy, casual quaffing wine. The texture is good and the finish persistent. 81 points 2007 Jardin Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, $22. The California winemaking team pays no homage to their native state.

The huge earthy nose goes straight to the palate. This big devil exemplifies all that is unique to South Africa. Rich, mouth-filling tannins compete with tar, creosote and forest floor components. The winemakers successfully walk the tightrope between a sick wine and one with enough good “bugs” to do a Ph.D. dissertation on microbes. 90 points

2009 Goats Do Roam (Syrah blend), Western Cape, $12. This is a solid wine.

Clean, light fruit focuses on kirsch, red plum and cranberry. The delicate touch of terroir is easy to enjoy. It is balanced and will nicely accompany anything from pizza to prime rib.

78 points 2009 Nederburg Pinotage, Western Cape, $14. This was one of the first wines to come into West Michigan. It has not changed in 20 years. Still plump and ripe, with significant earthy, mineral flavors that speak loudly of its origin. Amazingly, it continues to be one of the most popular wines in any wine tasting. 88 points 2007 Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block (Syrah/Grenache/Cab/Cinsault/ Viognier), Western Cape, $42. The deep red color has a rusty edge suggesting some maturity. A complex array of earth, dusty cocoa, and botanicals such as purslane or sorrel greets the palate, which smoothes out in an elegant yet persistent velvety texture.

The aroma, flavor and finish are identical, which makes it ideal to serve when a superb wine is needed that will not steal the show from food and conversation. 89 points 2004 Cirrus Syrah, Western Cape, $60. Not surprisingly, this joint effort of Englebrecht Els and Silver Oak (Napa Valley) vineyards combines elegance with dense ripe fruit. The color is still very young-looking — thick and dark with a ruby rim. The nose is leathery with hints of caramel, apple and green vegetables. The velvety palate’s juicy, dark red plum fruit is made alluring with just a hint of creosote and forest floor. 87 points 2003 Englebrecht Els Vineyards (Cabernet Sauvigon/Shiraz/Merlot/Cab Franc/ Malbec/Petit Verdot), Western Cape, $43.

This is a wine to open up at least a half hour before dinner. The translucent red brick color suggests the fabulously complex Bordeauxlike nose of cedar, tobacco, sweet plum and raisins. On the fine, silky palate, Campari-like bitter red fruit melts into brandied cherries on the long velvety finish. 90 points

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City Guide continued from page 67

Open through May 1

dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market strip mall), 261-8186. bluegingergr. com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BOMBAY CUISINE — Indian fare includes tandoori and vindaloo dishes spiced to diner’s satisfaction. Naan (bread) is cooked to order. Full bar service, eight beers on tap, live music Thu-Sat eves. Takeout available. Closed Tue. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. Facebook. H, L, D, C, V, MC $

Photo from Bodies Exhibit

CHINA CHEF — Family-style Chinese restaurant in Standale strip mall with some innovative dishes. Szechuan-style entrées are popular. Hunan choices, too. Closed Mon. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CHINA CITY — Nice selection of Chinese cuisine.

Lo mein is a specialty, along with Hong Kong-style chow mein noodles. Lunch prices all day Tue; free soup and egg roll Sun; closed Mon. 5299 Eastern Ave SE, 257-7038. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$

272 Pearl St. NW • Grand Rapids, MI 616.456.3977 • grmuseum.org Check grmuseum.org for extended evening and weekend hours.

CHINA GOURMET BUFFET — Daily lunch and dinner buffets with more than 100 items to choose from. Dinner buffet served all day on weekends; discount for seniors; special prices for children 10 and under. Open daily. 2030 28th St SW, 252¢-$ 1379. H, L, D, V, MC CHINA INN — Menu includes Mandarin, Szechuan, Hunan and Cantonese cuisine; cocktails served at West Shore Drive location only.

Open all week at two locations: 2863 West Shore Dr, Holland, (616) 786-9230; 1080 Lincoln Ave, Holland, (616) 395-8383. chinainnrestaurants. $ com. L, D, V, MC CHINA PALACE — Chinese eateries with all the amenities; large selection of popular dishes.

Open daily. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-9668; 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ CHINATOWN RESTAURANT AND JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE — Chinese and Japanese cuisine with tabletop, Benihana-style meals available.

Lunch and dinner buffets. Full bar service. Open daily. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. chinatowngr andrapids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ CHINA WONG — No-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare from spicy Hunan and Kung-Po dishes. Open daily. 6719 S Division Ave, 281-8816. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CHINA YI WANG — Chinese dishes including seafood, beef, poultry and chef specialties, combination plates and spicy Hunan dishes. Open daily. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

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EAST GARDEN BUFFET — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine in Kentwood. Open daily with buffet and large menu selection. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II — Full scale, all-youcan-eat Chinese buffet served all day. More than 80 freshly made items, reasonably priced. Special seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Delivery available.

4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ EMPIRE WOK BUFFET — More than 150 daily selections of fresh Chinese food, complete with Mongolian barbecue and sushi stations. Open daily. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9928. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ ERB THAI — Traditional Thai roots. Appetizers,

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City guide soups, salads, noodle dishes, stir-fried rice, curries, chicken, beef, pork, tofu, shrimp, scallops and crab; desserts, kids’ menu, bubble tea smoothies. Will accommodate special diets: vegetarian, gluten-free, no Msg, etc. simplistic surroundings. open daily. 950 Wealthy st se, suite 1a, 356-2573. l, d, v, MC, ae, ds, dC ¢ Far-east restaurant — serving Chinese, vietnamese and Korean dishes; vegetable-oilonly cooking. Carryout and catering available. open daily. 3639 Clyde park ave sW, 531-7176. l, d, v, MC, dC, ds $ FIrst WoK — Mandarin, hunan, szechuan cuisine. dine-in and take-out seven days a week.

Three locations: 2301 44th st se, 281-0681; 3509 alpine ave nW, 784-1616; 6740 old 28th st se, 575-9088. firstwokgr.com. h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, rsvp $ FuJI yaMa asIan bIstro — attractive surroundings offer seating at hibachi grill tables with show-chef preparations, or in the dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. full bar. open daily. 1501 east beltline ave ne, 7191859. letseat.at/fujiyama. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ Fortune CheF — Chinese cuisine and a range of american fare from sandwiches to pork chops and steak. opens 6 am weekdays, 8 am weekends with breakfast served all day. 9353 Cherry valley ave se, Caledonia, 891-1388. fortunechefcaledo nia.com. h, b, l, d, v, MC ¢-$ goLden 28 — szechuan, hunan, Mandarin cuisine complemented by a vietnamese menu. seasonal specialties and family dinners, served in an elegant atmosphere. Closed Mon. 627 28th st sW, Wyoming, 531-2800. h, l, d, v, MC, ds $

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goLden dragon — Chinese, Mandarin and Japanese cuisines with Japanese steakhouse, occasionally excellent. Closed sun. 3629 plainfield ave ne, 363-1318. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, dC $ goLden gate restaurant — Tasty Chinese fare in pleasant, roomy surroundings, affordably priced. all-inclusive lunch combination plates, tasty egg rolls, great sweet-and-sour dishes with some hot and spicy choices. Takeout, too. 4023 s division ave, 534-7087. h, l, d, v, MC, ae ¢ goLden WoK — Knapp’s Corner eatery offers wide variety of lunch and dinner options, including hunan-spiced dishes along with other favorites in a cheery dining room. open daily. 1971 east beltline ave ne, 363-8880. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$

izza” and a whole lot more !

The “Best P

grand LaKes — a wide selection of Chinese dishes and specialties, along with daily lunch combination plates. Take out or dine in, next to breton village d&W. open daily. 1810 breton rd se, 954-2500. h, l, d, v, MC, ds ¢-$ hIbaChI grILL & supreMe buFFet — panasian cuisine from sushi to buffet, offering 200plus Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and american dishes at reasonable prices. Watch chefs prepare specialties at the glassed-in hibachi grill. 785 Center dr nW (green ridge shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/hibachigrillsupremebuffet. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds ¢ hong Kong eXpress — szechuan and Cantonese cuisine for dine-in or carry-out. allyou-can-eat lunch buffet; reasonable prices. open daily. 150 e fulton st, 235-3888. h, b, l, d, v, MC ¢-$

Open 7 Days | 400 Ada Dr. SE (in the Thornapple Village) www.vitalesada.com | (616) 676-5400 March 2011 Grand rapids 71

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Backyard escape...

Tranquil, beaut iful

City Guide HUNAN — Full menu of Chinese options, house and family dinners for groups, efficient service in pleasant surroundings. 1740 44th St SW, 5303377; 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangr. $ com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, RSVP INDIA TOWN — Indian fare in a humble but cozy atmosphere. Tandooris are especially good.

Closed Tue. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. india town4u.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ JADE GARDEN — Extensive menu of Chinese cuisine, limited selection of American dishes, children’s menu and an array of tropical drinks. All dishes cooked with vegetable oil, no MSG. Open daily. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$ LAI THAI KITCHEN — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MARADO SUSHI — Sushi bar in downtown GR also offers a wide selection of Japanese fare along with a few Korean specialties. 47 Monroe Center, 742-6793. Closed Sun. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ MIKADO — Separate menus for sushi and sashimi à la carte; lunch specials served with soup and rice. Dinners offer a full range of Japanese cuisine. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666.

H, L, D, 3, V, MC, RSVP ¢-$

620 Leonard St. NW | Grand Rapids, MI 49504

(616) 459-8367 | www.beldenbrickandsupply.com

MYNT FUSION BISTRO — Classy surroundings with a fusion of Asian fare that includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NING YE — Family-owned Chinese restaurant in Ada also serves Korean fare. Closed Sun during winter months. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888.

H, L, D, V, MC, AE $ NU-THAI BISTRO — More than 70 options from appetizers, soups, and Thai salads to fried rice, curries and noodle dishes with options to add chicken, tofu, vegetables, beef, pork, shrimp scallops or seafood. Also seafood and duck specialty plates. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$

martha vineyard 1/3 h

OYSY TEPPANYAKI AND SUSHI BAR — Korean and Japanese fusion fare with a single-priced allyou-can-eat lunch from the sushi buffet or teppanyaki grilled fried rice and vegetable option with chicken, steak or shrimp choices. Closed Sun. Centerpointe Mall, 3665 28th St SE, 575-8110. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ PALACE OF INDIA — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes 20 vegetarian-friendly selections. Lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. Open daily.

961 E Fulton St, 913-9000. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ PEKING WOK — Cheery window-fronted Chinese eatery, affordably priced, in the Cascade Centre.

Closed Sun. 6264 28th St SE, 956-6525. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ PHO SOC TRANG — Vietnamese cuisine in large, windowed dining room. Variety of appetizers and soups, plus vermicelli and rice plate options.

Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ RAK THAI BISTRO — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences and a sliding scale for spiciness. Appetizers, soups, salads, stir-fries, curries, pad Thai noodle dishes

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City Guide and more. No alcohol, but try the fruity, milkshake-like bubble tea. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthaibistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$ RED SUN BUFFET — All-you-can-eat international buffet: sushi, Chinese, American, Italian and Japanese selections along with soups, salads, desserts and more, plus a menu of house specialties. Open daily. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9999. ¢-$ redsunbuffet.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS

S

SEOUL GARDEN — Chinese and Korean cuisine with full bar, elegant surroundings. Banquet and catering facilities available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. grseoulgarden.com. H, L, D, C, $-$$ 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP SHANG HAI ICHIBAN — Authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine served in two distinct areas.

Food prepared tableside in the Japanese area by hibachi chefs. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE (at 29th St), 773-2454. shanghaiichiban.com. H, L, D, C, $-$$ V, MC, AE, DC, RSVP SOC TRANG — Chinese and Vietnamese restaurant in Caledonia with a wide selection of offerings representing both cuisines. Open daily. 1831 Market Place Dr, 871-9909. gosoctrang.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ SPICES ASIAN CAFÉ — Byron Center eatery serves authentic Chinese fare with create-yourown stir fry options, Korean dishes, vegetarian options and broasted chicken dinners and buckets to go. Open daily. 2237 84th St SW, 878-0109. spicesasiancafe.com. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ Sushi Kuni — Authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine including sushi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura, bulgogi and more, and fusion fare. Private groups can eat in traditional (shoe-free) Japanese tatami room. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. ¢-$$ H, L, D, V, MC, AE, RSVP

h s e r F aked!

B

Artisan Breads, Specialty Baked Goods & Gourmet Pizzas

pecializing in artisan breads, baked goods, and gourmet pizzas, the Nantucket Baking Company brings to Heritage Hill, a neighborhood bakery that draws upon the ancient traditions of the bakers craft. Using only the highest quality ingredients, a state-ofthe-art stone-hearth deck over and oldworld techniques, our breads and pizzas are all hand-made with a reverence for the art of baking.

Bakery Hours: Open daily 8 am to 11 pm Pizza Hours: Open daily Noon to 11 pm

208 Union NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Next door to Martha’s Vineyard)

Ethnic Dining Awards of Excellence 2007, 2008, and 2009 Grand Rapids Magazine “Dining Awards”

SZECHUAN GARDEN — Diverse Chinese menu of beef, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetable dishes in Eastown. Lunch specials daily 11 am-4 pm.

Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 456-9878. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ THAI EXPRESS — Humble storefront belies the quality of these made-in-front-of-you Thai specialties, spiced to specification. Popular curry dishes, great noodles and affordably priced lunch specials. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. ¢ thaiexpressgr.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT — Broad-ranging menu, from three-alarm spicy to subtle. Lunch and dinner specials. Try the Thai banana pie.

Closed Sun-Mon. 6447 28th St SE, 285-9944. L, D, V, MC $ THAI PALACE — Holland’s authentic Thai restaurant offers a full gamut of Thai selections. Closed Mon. 977 Butternut Drive, (616) 994-9624. thai palacefood.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan regional fare, affordably priced with daily lunch and dinner specials.

Call ahead service. Open daily. 3330 Alpine Ave NW in Target Plaza, 785-3888. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI — Japanese-style tatami rooms, sushi bars and atmosphere. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura and fresh sushi. Hot and cold sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Closed Sun. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com.

The perfect combination!

Beautiful art work and Italian cuisine at its finest.

122 Monroe Center St., NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

616-235-9339

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City guide h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ae, dC, ds

¢-$

WeI WeI paLaCe — Chinese seafood restaurant features huge menu of Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. fresh lobster and crab. superb selection of dim sum at lunchtime, with tasty selections from the barbecue pit, as well. open daily. 4242 s division ave, 724-1818. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds $

hour!

2pm-6pm 7days a week . $1 Blatz cans & $1 Rolling Rock drafts . $2 Mixed drinks . $8 Pitchers of Sangria . $6 Stuffed Burgers + Veggie Burger

53 Commerce Ave, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

www.stellasgr.com ph. 616-356-2700

adam beasley adam@visualalchemy.net phone 616 446 4735 visualalchemy.net

adam beasley adam@visualalchemy.net phone 616 446 4735 visualalchemy.net

yuMMy WoK — Combo platters, sweet and sour dishes, Cantonese, hunan and szechuan dishes, chow and lo mein, chop suey, tofu and peking sizzling dishes. open daily. 4325 breton rd se, 827-2068. h, l, d, v, MC ¢-$

Middle eastern/ Mediterranean MarIe CatrIb’s — eclectic eatery in bright surroundings in east hills Center. “Care-free food” includes Middle-eastern-leaning fare. on-site bakery; seasonal specialties; Turkish coffee. breakfast 7 am Mon-fri, 8 am sat, with lunch/ dinner starting at 11 am weekdays, noon on sat.

1001 lake dr se, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. h, b, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds, dC ¢-$ MedIterranean grILL — Mid-east fare: gyros, kabobs, shwarma, falafel, fattousch, hummus, kafta. all meats are halal, in accordance with islamic requirements. Cozy, attractive dining room with hand-painted murals. Closed sun.

Cascade Center, 6250 28th st se, 949-9696. raadmediterraneangrill.com. h, l, d, v, MC $ osta’s Lebanese CuIsIne — authentic lebanese cuisine, from grape leaf appetizer and tabbouleh to shish kebob, falafel and baklava.

Takeout and full-service catering. Closed sunMon. 2228 Wealthy st se in egr, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. h, l, d, C, 3, v, MC, ds ¢-$

Client: Stella’s Lounge/MarkSellers, Garry Boyd Publication: Grand Rapids Magazine Ad size: 2.25” x 9.875” with 1/8” bleed Design questions: abeasley@visualalchemy.net or 616-446-4735 Billing questions: Garry Boyd, 356-2700, garry@hopcatgr.com

y p p ha

FXo asIan CuIsIne — upscale Thai, Chinese and vietnamese cuisine in downtown gr. vegetarian dishes available; lunch specials Monsat. full-service bar. open daily (free valet parking with $30 purchase). Will deliver. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasiancuisine.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds $-$$

parsLey MedIterranean grILLe — Mediterranean appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos of chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian entrees, kabobs and more. open daily.

80 ottawa ave nW, 776-2590. pizzubs.com. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$

the pIta house — gyros with all the trimmings, chicken salad with cucumber sauce and a variety of other Middle east specialties. open daily. 1450 Wealthy st se, 454-1171; 3730 28th st se, 9403029; 6333 Kalamazoo ave se, 698-8722; 134 Monroe Center nW, 233-4875. thepitahouse.net. h, l, d, v, MC, ae, ds ¢

FshIraZ grILLe — fine persian cuisine: firegrilled kabobs, beef, chicken, lamb, seafood and rice dishes, khoreshes (delicate stews), vegetarian options and desserts. full bar, fine wine list, martinis. 2739 breton rd se, 949-7447. shirazgril le.com. h, l (sun), d, C, v, MC, ae, ds, rsvp $ ZeytIn — Turkish-american cuisine reflects influences from the Mediterranean and Middle eastern regions, including saganaki, borek, dolma, shish kebab, falafel, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh. extensive beer and wine lists. 400 ada dr se, ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestau rant.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds $

latin American/ Caribbean 7 Mares — full-scale Mexican meals and specialty dishes that go well beyond the norm. excellent seafood selections, along with friday fish fry by the pound. super breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo ave se, 301-8555. facebook. h, b, l, d ¢-$$ adobe In & out — The usual Mexican offerings served quickly at drive-through or seated (grandville location is drive-through only). open daily. 617 W fulton st, 454-0279; 1216 leonard st ne, 451-9050; 4389 Chicago dr, grandville, 2577091. h, l, d, v, MC ¢ FbeLtLIne bar — longtime local favorite. big wet burritos are the claim to fame from the americanized Tex-Mex menu. The big enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it delivered to your car. 16 28th st se, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae $ Cabana tres aMIgos — large menu of authentic Mexican fare: daily specials, children’s menu, à la carte items, full bar, take-out service and nice vegetarian selection. spacious surroundings with fireplaces and Mexican décor. open daily. 1409 60th st se, 281-6891. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae ¢-$ CaFÉ san Juan — puerto rican, Mexican and Cuban menu offers bistec, chuletas and pollo dishes along with appetizers, soups and sandwiches. open daily. 3549 burlingame ave sW, 530-2293. cafesanjuan.net. h, b, l, d, v, MC ¢-$ CanCun restaurant — neighborhood eatery specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of fare. open daily. 1518 grandville ave sW, 248-2824. h, l, d, v, MC ¢-$ CantIna — extensive menu of Mexican specialties in an authentically decorated setting with fullservice bar. 2770 east paris ave se, 949-9120. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ds, ae $ CheZ oLga — Caribbean and Creole fare. red beans and rice, gumbo, fried plantain, Creole chicken, pork ragout and more. vegetarian/ vegan options. lunch specials. open until 2 am fri-sat, closed sun. 1441 Wealthy st se, 2334141. chezolga.com. l, d, v, MC ¢ CInCo de Mayo — Mexican eatery offers fajitas, tacos, burritos and enchiladas, carnitas and steak asada. full bar service. open daily. 123 Courtland st, rockford, 866-3438; 114 Monroe Center nW, 719-2404. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds $ Costa aZuL — american/latin fusion and fresh-made Mexican fare in the unassuming former JoJo’s americana supper Club space, 107 blue star highway, douglas, (269) 857-1523. facebook. h, d, C (wine/beer), v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ doWntoWn trInI’s — sparta’s destination for Mexican food. Traditional taco, fajita and wet burrito offerings are augmented with other creative dishes. gigantic portions; full bar. Closed sun and Mon. 134 e division ave, sparta, 887-2500. downtowntrinis.com. h, l, d, v, MC, ds ¢-$ eL arrIero — authentic taste of Mexico in an airy location near Woodland Mall. extensive menu offers favorites and specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, great Margaritas. 2948 28th st se, 977-2674. h, l, d, C, v, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ eL burrIto LoCo — More than 70 authentic, affordable Mexican selections in contemporary surroundings. Complimentary chips and salsa;

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City Guide: Fresh Hops

Living well at Vivant

Photography by Michael buck

by Jon C. Koeze

Brewery Vivant is unique. Located at 925 Cherry St. SE, it isn’t a restaurant with a brewery, and it doesn’t try to be a big regional brewery. It focuses on one particular style of ale. The ambiance of the tasting room, formerly a funeral chapel, is similar to that of a European public brew house.

“We have three main passions for doing this,” said owner Jason Spaulding, co-founder of New Holland Brewing. “First, we are inspired to create the finest handcrafted French/Belgium ales that we can. Second, we want to be a local business that supports the community and is sustainable in everything we do. Third, we want to explore the relationship between ale and food to enhance the experience of both.”

Belgium ales are famous for their handcrafted and often secret recipes. They are consumed like wines and are often the product of cloistered religious societies, such as the Trappist monks of Chimay, who produce the fabulous ale of the region (www.chimay.com).

While some styles of beer are valued for simplicity and consistency, Belgium ales are appreciated for their artistic variation. They tend to be unique from one brewery to another, and even between batches. The ales of Brewery Vivant are not yet as sophisticated as those legendary ales of Belgium, but are comparable to the wonderful ales of Europe.

A visit to the brewery found three very good ales on tap. Triomphe Ale, described as Belgian IPA, is groomed for the popular IPA market. You’ll find this IPA to be less hopped than the super bitter IPAs found in other local breweries. The flavors of this IPA — and all the ales here — are subtle, complex and balanced.

It is made with three types of American hops and with strains of Belgium Ardennes yeast, and is 6.5 percent alcohol by volume.

Farm Hand is described as a French-style farmhouse ale. This is a light wheat-style mockup of ale you might have found 100 years ago served on a Belgium farm. It is very flavorful and drinkable at 5.5 percent abv.

Abbey Ale is described as a Belgian amber ale. This ale is a successful attempt at recreating the kind of ales often produced in Belgium by religious communities. It is dark amber in color with a distinct roasted caramel flavor.

It is 6.5 percent abv.

“Our Belgium ales are yeast-forward in flavor,” said Jacob Derylo, brewmaster at Brewery Vivant. “Where other breweries are focusing on powerful hops flavors or barrel-aged fermentation, we are looking for the subtle flavors of yeast to add character to our ales.”

These are the three beers that will anchor the tasting room tap; small batch ales will be added once the brewery operation is in full swing. The bar is equipped with 14 tap handles but it takes time to brew that much and keep it pouring every day.

Also on the drink menu are two varieties of hard cider produced by Vander Mill Ciders in Spring Lake and a single red and single white wine, also made locally but offsite.

Jon Koeze is cable television administrator for the city of Grand Rapids. He has made and tasted beer since 1980.

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9 Locations Throughout West Michigan!

The best that Italy has to offer in the heart of Grand Rapids...

AWARD WINNING

LUNCH Mon - Fri 11:30-4:00 PM DINNER Mon - Thurs 4:00-10:00 PM Fri 4:00-11:00 PM Sat 5:00-11:00 PM

616. 7 7 4 . 20 0 0 a m way g r a n d . c o m

www.PaneraBread.com

122 MONROE CENTER, ST NW DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 616-235-9339 www.trecugini.com

Wi n e r y & Ta s t i n g R o o m

• Winery Direct Discounts • Retail Sales • Tours Available, call for more information • Free Wine Tasting at the Winery or at our Tasting room in downtown Saugatuck.

The Lake Effect Everyone Loves.

6130 - 122nd Ave. Fennville, MI 49408 I-196 exit 34, follow the “winery” signs.

Open year around, check our website for hours.

800-432-6265 • winery@fennvalley.com www.fennvalley.com

xo

Thai, Japanese, Chinese

Award Winning in Cascade

Business luncheons, intimate dinners, appetizers and cocktails. Or, our award winning Sunday brunch. Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring your visit is excellent.

Mon - Thurs 11:30 - 10 and Fri 11:30 - 11 Sat 4:30 - 11 (no lunch) Sun Brunch 10 - 3, Dinner 4:30 - 9

to the

Public Mon-Thur 11:30-10 | Fri-Sat 11:30-11:30 | Sun 10-8

asian Cuisine

58 Monroe Center • Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 235-6969 www.xoasiancuisine.com

Open

www.watermarkcc.com • 616.949.0570

• Sushi Bar half price every Tuesday (Dine-in only) • Full service bar

Buy one dinner enTrée, geT one Free!

63 Market St., Downtown Grand Rapids 616.459.2500 www.muer.com

(Up to $13.00) Dine in only, not valid on Holidays.

One coupon per table | Expires 12-30-11

Fine Persian Cuisine

Restaurant and Banquet 2739 BRETON ROAD SE ~ GRAND RAPIDS NW CORNER OF BRETON & 28TH ST. MI 49546 ~ Phone (616) 949-7447 For full menu, upcoming events and specials, subscribe to our website at

Inspiration through Fermentation.

HopCatGR.com 451-HOPS (4677) . 25 Ionia Ave.

#&&3 t &7&/54 t 1"35*&4 t %*/*/( t #&&3

www.shirazgrille.com 76 Grand rapids March 2011

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City Guide

VOTED BEST PIZZA 6 YEARS IN A ROW! PIZZA AND A WHOLE LOT MORE!

400 Ada Dr. SE (in the thornapple village)

676-5400

www.vitalesada.com

Now is the time for change Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner

310 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids

616-235-1342 complimentary parking

Great Eats!

Where you find monthly information about your favorite restaurants!

To advertise, call Karla Jeltema at (616) 459-4545

beer, wine and good margaritas from the full bar.

Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-0415; 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470; 4174 Alpine Ave NW, 785-4102. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

enchiladas and other traditional Mexican dishes from Spanish-speaking staff whether dining in or driving through. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533.

H, L, D, V, MC ¢

EL GRANJERO — Generous portions of tasty Mexican fare, from steak and shrimp dishes and dinner platters to à la carte selections and traditional menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢

SAN MARCOS — Mexican Grill with extensive menu. Top-shelf tequilas, complimentary chips/ salsa, kids menu, lunch specials, desserts and veggie plates. Mariachi band plays monthly. Open daily. 9740 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 8912511. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$$

EL SOMBRERO — Offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. Weekly specials. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. H, L, D ¢

SU CASA — Full array of Mexican choices with burritos especially popular. Breakfast served beginning at 8:30 am; open daily in the Super Mercado, 306 W Main St, Fennville, (269) 5615493. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

GRAND VILLA DUNGEON — Mexican food is the specialty. 40-inch TV screen broadcasts satellite programs and sporting events. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. grandvillarestaurants. $ com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS GRINGO’S GRILL — Latin American-inspired fare such as scallop or sticky-shrimp tacos, burritos, empanadas, chiles rellenos, chicken and seafood dishes and filet medallions served with polenta and fried goat cheese. Open daily at 11 am. 2863 West Shore Dr, Holland, (616) 994-9722. gringos $-$$ grill.net. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS JAMAICAN DAVE’S — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curry goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and spicy “escoveitched” fish; tofu-with-veggies; plus Jamaican fruit cake. With only a couple tables, takeout is the best bet. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves.com. H, L, D, 3 ¢ JOSE’S RESTAURANTE — Authentic Mexican fare in a low-key locale with jukebox, pinball and a video game. Patrons crave their chalupas, burritos and tostadas. Open daily. 3954 S Division Ave, 530-7934. H, L, D ¢ LAS CAZUELAS — Opens for breakfast at 10 am, serves lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Genuine flavors from Hispanic kitchen features chalupas, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, carne asada, fajitas, tampiquena and more. 411 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 726-6600. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ LINDO MEXICO — Daily specials feature true Mexican fare, including specials such as tacos de barbacoa, tripitos or lengua. Enchiladas, burritos, combo plates and more. Open daily. 1292 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicorestaurant.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ LITTLE MEXICO CAFÉ — All new space at its original location offers some of Grand Rapids’ most beloved traditional Mexican food and cocktails.

Favorites include fajitas, burritos and margaritas.

Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 456-0517. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN — Authentic Mexican food, homemade with a lighter taste in bright café setting. Breakfast, too. Cafeteria-style ordering. 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. H, B, L, D ¢ MEXICAN CONNEXION RESTAURANTE — Mexican favorites in large, inviting surroundings.

Open daily. 131 S Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-4403. L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MICHOACAN — Restaurante y taqueria offers a huge selection of Mexican dishes plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. Jukebox and flat screen TV. Open daily at 9 am, breakfast options.

334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MI TIERRA RESTAURANT — Tacos, burritos,

TACO BOB’S — Fresh-Mex tacos, burritos, quesadillas, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell taco wrapped in a soft shell, with nacho cheese in between. 250 Monroe Ave NW, 458-1533. tacobobs.com. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ TACO BOY — Burritos, tacos, enchiladas, tostadas to combination plates. 3475 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-7111; 6539 28th St SE, 956-3424; 509 44th St SE, 257-0057; 2529 Alpine Ave NW, 3659255. tacoboy.biz. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ TACOS EL CAPORAL — Two locations serving generous portions of Mexican fare with menudo served Sat and Sun. Open daily; quick takeout.

1024 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ TACOS EL RANCHERO — Mexican fare in lowkey surroundings to eat in or take out. Cash only. ¢ 1240 Burton St SW, 245-6514. H, L, D TRES LOBOS GRILL & BAR — Lobster fajitas and parrilladas. Full-service bar has 10 Mexican beers, top-shelf tequilas. Lunch ’til 4 pm daily in GR; closed Mon in Holland. 825 28th St SE, 245-5389; 381 Douglas, Holland, (616) 355-7424. treslobos restaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

Dining Guide Legend GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers.

H — Handicapped accessible B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner C — Cocktails 3 — Checks accepted V — Visa MC — MasterCard AE — American Express DC — Diner’s Club DS — Discover Card RSVP — Reservations preferred

¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)*

$ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (Over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée.

- — Reviewed in this issue

➧ — New listing . — Listing update O — GRM’s 2010 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2010 Award of Excellence

— Chef Profile in this issue Additions, corrections and/or changes must

be submitted for the editors’ consideration by calling Grand Rapids Magazine, 459-4545, or write: The Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503.

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10 days…Over 20 locations…Over 50 Artists.

March 10 – 20, 2011 GRand RaPIds, MI

If it has to do with funny…you will find it at LaughFest – a 10-day festival of stand-up comedy, improv, live shows, films, authors, community showcases (featuring you!) and a variety of other seriously funny stuff.

IndIvIdual tIckets On sale now!

the Bob & tom show comedy all stars showcase stand-up competition

Health and Humor authors

clean comedy showcase

Films that Make you laugh

Best of the Mid-West

community talent showcases

Family entertainment Hen sapp – Out of the Box comedy show

Pets and People

Myq kaplan

Roy Wood, Jr. kevin Hart

Gabriel Iglesias

Michael Jr.

chonda Pierce alan Zweibel

COmedY…enTerTAInmenT… And A whOLe LOT mOre!

stephen lynch

kathleen Madigan Brad sherwood

Mike Birbiglia

Margaret cho Mac king

colin Mochrie

Bill cosby Rachel Feinstein

Visit Ticketmaster.com. (Search for LaughFest).

Join us for the gilda’s Club grand rapids 10th Anniversary Celebration featuring

“an evenInG WItH Betty WHIte” devos Place tuesday, March 15, 2011 Tables available for sponsorship (616)453-8300 or white@gildasclubgr.org Limited individual seats available while supplies last.

Visit Ticketmaster.com (Search for LaughFest).

Rocky Horror show River city Improv

laughfestgr.org

CeLebrATIng LAughTer FOr The heALTh OF IT!

ALL PrOCeedS wILL beneFIT The CAnCer, grIeF And SuPPOrT PrOgrAmS OFFered ThrOugh gILdA’S CLub grAnd rAPIdS. PremIere SPOnSOrS

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City Guide CALEnDAR OF EVEnTS Grand Rapids Magazine is pleased to provide this extensive list of area events. commonly requested venue and ticket outlet information is at the end of this listing.

– ms, ety

Special Events Mar - SUGARBUSH: Blandford Nature Center’s annual maple sugar festival with a trail hike that shows how maple syrup is tapped and bottled.

Guided tours noon-5 pm each Sat ($3). Mar 26 Pancake Breakfast. 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 7356240, www.blandfordnaturecenter.org.

Mar 2 - TOP WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES: GR Business Journal celebrates women entrepreneurs at a luncheon. Keynote speaker: Bena Burda, founder, Maggie’s Organics. 11 am-1:30 pm. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. $60 (459-3222 or grbjtwob11.eventbrite.com).

Myq kaplan

Mar 3-6 - WEST MICHIGAN HOME AND GARDEN SHOW: More than 350 exhibitors of home products and services, remodeling, new construction, interior design, landscaping and retail garden centers. 3-9:30 pm Thu, noon-9:30 pm Fri, 10 am-9:30 pm Sat, 11 am-6 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $9 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). www.grhome show.com.

Gabriel Iglesias

Mar 4-6 - GIRLFRIENDS WEEKEND: Downtown Holland hosts its three-day event for girlfriends, sisters, mothers and daughters. Wine tasting, evening entertainment, breakfast fashion show and more than 40 in-store activities. $80 weekend, $45 Sat only. www.girlfriendsweekend.org.

Mar 8 - DOUGLAS MARDI GRAS PARADE: New Orleans-style parade through downtown Douglas ends at local restaurant and bar for prizes and dancing. 7 pm. (269) 857-1438.

Mar 8 - MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION: Women’s City Club hosts New Orleans buffet and jazz with The Wolverines. 5 pm social hour, 6 pm buffet, music to follow. 254 E Fulton St. $30 (reservations required: 459-3321).

Mar 10-13 - SALADIN SHRINE CIRCUS: Elephants, tigers, tightrope walkers, acrobats and clowns, plus pony rides, petting zoo and moon bounce. 11:30 am and 7 pm Thu; 10:30 am, 4 pm and 7 pm Fri; 10 am, 2:30 pm and 7 pm Sat; 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm Sun. DeltaPlex. $10-$16, $14 seniors (Ticketmaster).

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PhotograPhy courtesy erinn chalene cosBy

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Mar 10-20 - LAUGHFEST: Gilda’s Club celebrates its 10th anniversary with a 10-day, 20-plus venue festival of laughter. Comedians include Bill Cosby, Betty White, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho, Kathleen Madigan and Dan Zanes and Friends and many more. $7-$77 individual tickets, $250 festi val passes. www.laughfestgr.org.

Mar 11-12 - ST PATRICK’S PARTY: Muskegon hosts live music, Irish dancers, corned beef, silent auction, Guinness and more. 5:30 pm-midnight. Fricano’s Event Center, 1050 W Western Ave, Muskegon. $6 at door. www.michiganirish. org.

Mar 11-13 - SPRING BRIDAL SHOW OF WEST MICHIGAN: One-stop wedding shopping. 5-8 pm Fri, 10 am-8 pm Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $8 (at door). www.kohlerexpo.com.

Mar 11-13 - WEST MICHIGAN WOMEN’S EXPO: More than 400 exhibits and seminars for women.

Laughter is the best medicine

B

ill Cosby answered his phone on the first ring.

“You’re early,” he said in that distinctive voice that has delivered so many memorable stand-up routines. The voice of Dr. Cliff Huxtable, the wise but funny dad of “The Cosby Show.” The voice that made people giggle for Jell-O. The iconic actor/comedian chuckled, then reminisced about growing up in the Philly projects, the early years of comedy (“the word ‘hell’ was a curse word and ‘damn’ was cutting edge and rough”) and the joy he still feels when he’s performing.

And he talked about coming to Grand Rapids for LaughFest, a festival organized by Gilda’s Club “celebrating laughter for the health of it.”

More than 50 comedians will perform during the 10-day extravaganza that will include live shows, films, guest authors, laughter yoga, funny pet contests, a bra auction, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” on stage, and a variety of comedy showcases in 20 locations around the city.

Besides Cosby, headliners at the March 10-20 festival include such top comedians as Betty White, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho and Kathleen Madigan.

“Our goal was to do something really special for our 10th anniversary,” said Leann Arkema, president and CEO of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. “We want to create visibility and awareness for Gilda’s Club and to start the dialogue about the importance of emotional health.”

Gilda’s Club is named for comedian Gilda Radner, an original member of “Saturday Night Live,” who died of ovarian cancer in 1989. “She used to say, ‘Cancer is so unfunny, it needed me to give people permission to laugh,’” Arkema said. “Laughter is a great bonding force.”

That’s something Cosby understands very well.

When his son, Ennis, was murdered 14 years ago, Cosby immediately cancelled upcoming performances and grieved privately with his family. But a chance encounter with strangers changed his mind.

“They looked at me, and my immediate reaction was to smile. And they smiled — but only for a fraction of a second before they remembered, and then their faces dropped. And my face dropped. When I got home, I told my wife, ‘I’m going back to work.’”

He was ready to make people laugh again.

As he walked on stage for the first time, “The audience paid their appreciation with a standing ovation,” he recalled. “I paid them by ripping the room up — just being funny. The only tears were tears of laughter. When I came off, I felt that I had given these people and myself a release.”

For a full lineup of shows and activities, go to laughfest.org or call (616) 735-4242.

See Special eventS

Mar 12 - SAUGATUCK ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL: Sixth annual parade in Saugatuck and Douglas. 2 pm. (269) 857-1701, www.saugatuck.com.

Mar 12-13 - MAPLE SUGAR FESTIVAL: Kalamazoo Nature Center hosts its 46th annual festival with treats, activities, hike through the woods, carnival and bird of prey presentation. Prices vary by activity. 9 am-5 pm. 700 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org.

Mar 12 - STEPPING STONES MONTESSORI FUNDRAISER: Cocktails and dinner featuring Chef Tommy Fitzgerald, silent and live auctions, dancing and live music. 6-11 pm. Goei Center, 818 Butterworth SE. www.ssmsauction.org.

Mar 12-13, 19-20 - MAPLE SUGAR TIME: DeGraaf Nature Center shows how to tap a tree, gather sap and make maple syrup. Ice cream, maple candy, granola, nuts and syrup for sale. 11 am-4 pm Sat, noon-4 pm Sun. VanRaalte Farm, 1076 16th St,

10 am-8 pm Fri and Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $8, $6 children 6-14 (at door). www. kohlerexpo.com.

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City Guide Holland. $1 at door. www.degraaf.org.

Mar 16 - PILLAR AWARDS LUNCHEON: Women’s Resource Center honors efforts to recruit, train and advance women in the workplace. 11:45 am-1:30 pm. Ambassador Ballroom, Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW. $50 (4585443). www.grwrc.org/events.

Mar 17 - WEARIN’ OF THE GREEN: Conklin’s St Patrick Day parade starts at 10:55 am, followed by all-day Irish “Hooley” with music, song and dance.

No cover charge. Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St, Conklin, (616) 899-2640, www.feniansirish pub.com.

Mar 17-20 - ULTIMATE SPORT SHOW: More than 350 exhibitors with the latest outdoor gear, travel info, fishing boats and RV’s. 3-9:30 pm Thu, 11 am-9:30 pm Fri, 10 am-9 pm Sat, 10 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $10 adults, $4 ages 6-14. www. ultimatesportshow.com.

Mar 18-19 - AFTERNOON OF FASHION AND TEA: Guided tour of the opulent Victorian-era Voigt home, plus tea and sweets in the formal dining room. Reservations required (456-3977). 1-2:30 pm. Voigt House, 115 College Ave SE, 456-4600, www.grmuseum.org. $12, $10 members.

Mar 19 - MONOPOLY TOURNAMENT: Epilepsy Council of West Michigan presents 3rd annual tournament w/silent auction. Lunch provided. Winner gets a $500 debit card good at any Spartan store.

10 am registration; play begins 10:30. No fee, donations accepted. Christ Church, 2500 Breton Rd SE. www.epilepsycouncil.org.

Mar 19 - ROCKFORD COMMUNITY EXPO: More than 180 booths of local businesses, food, entertainment, workshops and more. 9 am-3 pm.

Rockford High School, 4100 Kroes. Free.

Mar 19-20 - KALAMAZOO LIVING HISTORY SHOW: Largest nationally recognized juried show in the US devoted to pre-1890 living history supplies, accoutrements and crafts. 9 am-5 pm Sat, 9 am-4 pm Sun. Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St. $7, $10 two-day pass, children 12 and under free with adult (at door). www.kalama zooshow.com.

Mar 25-27 - COTTAGE & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW: Featuring designers, furnishings, lakefront builders and realtors, boats and docks, vacation home services and financing. 3-9 pm Fri, 10 am-9 pm Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $9 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). www.showspan.com.

Mar 25-27 - KALAMAZOO FRETBOARD FESTI­ VAL: Celebration of stringed-instrument design and manufacture includes instrument designers, performances and workshops. Begins 7:30 pm Fri, 11 am-6 pm Sat, 1-4 pm Sun. Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, (800) 7723370, www.kalamazoomuseum.org. Free.

Mar 26 - LOWELL COMMUNITY EXPO: Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce spotlights 150 area businesses, service groups, churches and government agencies, plus entertainment, giveaways and food. 9 am-3 pm. Lowell High School. Free. www.lowellchamber.org.

Mar 29 - SALUTE TO WOMEN: Reception honors GRCC women who are exemplary in their roles as professionals, volunteers or agents of change.

1:30-3:30 pm. GRCC Applied Technology Center.

Free.

Shop, live and learn at Women’s Expo Melinda Myers describes herself as a “plant geek.”

It’s a title the Midwesterner earned after 30 years of horticulture experience, writing 20 gardening books, hosting radio and TV programs and appearing at major flower and garden shows.

She’ll be in Grand Rapids this month to present a seminar on “Birds, Butterflies and Blossoms” at the West Michigan Women’s Expo. The annual event, March 11-13 at DeVos Place, will feature more than 400 exhibits and seminars aimed at women and families.

“I’m very passionate about what I do,” Myers said. “I’m always learning things that I can pass along to others.”

Myers, who lives in Milwaukee, will talk about adding feeders and water features to a yard, and what to plant to attract birds and butterflies. She’ll offer tips for minimizing the negative aspects of backyard critters — “we love to watch the deer only when they’re eating in the neighbor’s garden!”

And while Myers is talking plants, Andy Paige will present a “Beauty Boot Camp.” The beauty and style expert — she’s part of the Glam Squad on TLC’s “Ten Years Younger” — will give tips on fashion and style.

“I tell women how to look great without spending a lot of money,” Paige said. “Like cleaning out the closet and knowing what to get rid of and what Melinda Myers to keep.”

She’ll also sign copies of her book, “Style on a Shoestring,” and offer advice on everything from choosing the perfect bra to updating a wardrobe with accessories.

The three-day expo will have info on health care, finance, education, travel, interior decorating, home improvements and more. There’ll be on-site spa services, haircuts and a cooking stage.

For more information on the three-day event, visit www.kohlerexp.com.

See Special Events

Music Mar - CALVIN COLLEGE CONCERTS: 7:30 pm Mar 1 Lake Effect Saxophone Quartet (free). 8 pm Mar 5 Calvin Orchestra Concerto Concert (free).

7:30 pm Mar 8 John Varineau, clarinet ($10).

8 pm Mar 11 Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band (free). 7:30 pm David Reimer, violin ($10).

Calvin FAC. All tickets available at box office or 526-6282.

Mar - FRIDAY NIGHTS AT GRAM: GR Art Museum hosts live music, social games, cash bar and dinner options 5-9 pm every Fri. March theme: design. Mar 4 The Art and Commerce of Graphic Design. Mar 11 Interior Design: Textiles, Talent and Tenacity. Mar 18 GR Design Community: Conversation and Mixer. Mar 25 History of Furniture Design in Grand Rapids. $5 nonmembers, members free. www.artmuseumgr.org.

Mar - THE INTERSECTION: Nightclub hosts local and national music. Mar 24 The Band Perry. See website for updates. Ticket prices vary (Beat Goes On, Purple East, Vertigo Music, Intersection box

office or Ticketmaster). 133 Grandville Ave SW. www.sectionlive.com.

Mar - MUSIC AT MID-DAY: Free concerts 12:1512:45 pm every Tue. Mar 1 Jim Metzler, organ. Mar 8 Bruce Robey, tenor. Mar 15 David Schout, organ.

Mar 22 Kim Hall, piano. Mar 29 Kevin Soodsma, organ. Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Place NE. www.parkchurchgr.org.

Mar - ONE TRICK PONY CONCERTS: Restaurant offers live music at 8 pm. Mar 12 Natchez Trace.

Mar 17 The Willeys. Mar 26 Dennie Middleton and B-Rad. See website for updates. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. www.onetrick.biz.

Mar 1 - LADY GAGA: Pop superstar with hits such as “Just Dance,” “Poker Face,” “Paparazzi,” “Bad Romance” and “Telephone,” with special guest Scissor Sisters. 8 pm. Van Andel Arena. $52$177.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 1, 15 - FARM MUSEUM JAM NIGHT: Bring your guitar, fiddle or other non-electric instrument. Singers and listeners welcome. 6-9 pm,

Photography Courtesy Mark Avery

Mar 15 - STORY SPINNERS: Folk tales and original stories for all ages. 7 pm. Terraces of Maple Creek, 2000 32nd St. www.storyspinners.net. Free.

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City Guide doors open 5 pm. Coopersville Farm Museum, 375 Main St, Coopersville. Free with admission ($4). www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org.

Mar 2 - “SWINGTIME!”: Cornerstone University vocal concert plus special guests River City Jazz Ensemble. Also beverages, desserts and dancing. 7 pm. Corum Student Lounge, Cornerstone University. Free.

Mar 2 - TAIZE SUNG PRAYER SERVICE: Taize worship consists of repeated choruses, often accompanied by instruments, vocal solos. 7 pm.

First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc.org.

Mar 3 - CHANTICLEER: Twelve male vocalists, ranging from countertenor to bass, perform songs from Renaissance, jazz, gospel and new music.

7:30 pm. Calvin College FAC. $35-$45 (Calvin box office or 526-6282).

Mar 3-4 - “BACH MEETS VIVALDI”: GR Symphony Rising Stars concert. 7 pm Thu, 8 pm Fri. Royce Auditorium, St Cecilia Music Center. $18-$28 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

Mar 3-30 - BACH FESTIVAL: Various concerts in Grand Rapids celebrate the music of Bach.

Complete schedule and info: grbachfestival.org.

Mar 4 - AN DRO: Traditional acoustic music with a twist, including influences from Irish melodies, Latin rhythms and African drums. 7:30 pm.

Howmet Playhouse, 304 S Mears Ave, Whitehall. $10 (City Hall or at door). www.howmetplayhouse. org.

Mar 4 - “BACH AND VIVALDI”: GR Symphony Coffee Classics concert with guest conductor Jeannette Sorrell. 10 am. Royce Auditorium, St Cecilia Music Center. $10 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsym phony.org.

Mar 5 - “DAVE BENNETT AND FRIENDS”: First United Methodist Church presents Bennett and his quartet performing Benny Goodman hits and swing-era classics. 7 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. Free-will offering.

Mar 6 - HYMN FESTIVAL: 175th anniversary concert of choirs and instrumental ensembles per­ forming historic hymns. 4 pm. First United Meth­ odist Church, 227 E Fulton St. Free-will offering.

Mar 6 - SACRED SOUNDS OF ST MARK’S: GR Symphony Youth Chorus performs. 5 pm.

St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave, www.stmarksgr.org. Free.

Photography Courtesy Mark Avery

Mar 7 - “MUSICAL SHOWCASE”: Hope College presents a collage concert of ensembles, student soloists and chamber groups performing classical, jazz, opera and musical theater. 8 pm. DeVos Hall, Hope College. $10 (Hope College DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu.

Mar 8 - HOPE COLLEGE GUEST ARTIST: David Burgess, guitar. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theater, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children (Hope College DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu.

Mar 8 - JAMES TAYLOR: Grammy-award-winning singer/songwriter appears with son Ben Taylor.

7:30 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $45-$99.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 11 - MAJIC CONCERT SERIES: Musical Arts

for Justice in the Community hosts soprano Diane Penning. 7 pm. Bethlehem Church Sanctuary, 250 Commerce Ave SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit GR Coalition to End Homelessness. www.grmajic.org.

Mar 11-12 - “LATIN FIRE”: GR Symphony presents a collage of Latin music with four soloists and a flamenco dancer. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

Mar 11-12 - MIGHTY WURLITZER CONCERTS: Organ concerts with guest musician Scott Smith.

7-9 pm Fri and 2-4 pm Sat. Public Museum. $10 adults, $5 children; $8/$4 members (456-3977, www.grmuseum.org or at front desk).

Mar 11, 25 - ALLEY DOOR CLUB: Jazz, blues and folk music in downtown Muskegon 2nd and 4th Fri. Mar 11 Vincent Hayes Project. Mar 25 Warnaar Band. 7-10 pm (doors open 6 pm). Frauenthal Theatre, Muskegon. $6 at door or in advance (231-727-8001).

Mar 15 - LUNASA: Concert by Irish acoustic band called “Ireland’s newest supergroup.” 8 pm.

Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St, Conklin, (616) 899-2640, www.feniansirishpub.com. $35.

Mar 17 - BACH COLLEGIUM JAPAN: Baroque orchestra and choir perform music from Bach and his contemporaries. 7:30 pm. Calvin College FAC. $35-$45 (Calvin box office or 526-6282).

Mar 17 - SUGARLAND: Multi-platinum award-winning country music duo performs The Incredible Machine Tour. 7:30 pm. Van Andel Arena. $24.50$54.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 17 - YING STRING QUARTET: St Cecilia’s Jazz Series brings this award-winning quartet, playing works by Mozart, Beethoven and Enescu.

7:30 pm. St Cecilia Music Center. $30-$35 adults, $10 students; pre-concert wine and appetizer reception $15 (459-2224). www.scmc-online.org.

Mar 18 - “DIVAS AND DIVOS”: Concert by the Holland Chorale features solo and small group performances of popular opera and musical theater selections. 7:30 pm. Third Reformed Church, 111 W 13th St, Holland. $20 adults, $17 seniors, $12 students. www.hollandchorale.org.

Mar 18 - KENT PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA: Annual concert. 7:30 pm. St Cecilia Royce Auditorium. Free. www.grcc.edu.

Mar 18-20 - “CELTIC CELEBRATION WITH LEAHY”: GR Symphony celebrates St Patty’s Day with eight musical brothers and sisters playing fiddles, dancing and singing. 8 pm, 3 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

Mar 19 - JAZZ VESPERS: Live jazz with Robin Connell Jazz Trio. 6 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc. org. Free.

Mar 19, 26 - ACOUSTIC SATURDAY NIGHTS: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts singers and songwriters. Mar 19 Carol Johnson. Mar 26 Bill Staines. 8 pm. Wealthy St Theater, 1130 Wealthy St SE. $12 adults, $10 students/seniors, $9 members, $3 children (at door). www.grfolkarts.org.

Mar 20 - HOLLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: The Composite Symphony family concert includes

movements by Bach, Beethoven, Schubert and Borodin. 3 pm. Zeeland East High School. $17 adults, $14 seniors, $5 students. www.holland symphony.org.

Mar 21 - JAZZ GUMBO: West Michigan Jazz Society presents cabaret concerts every third Monday. 6:30-8:30 pm. Kopper Top Guest House, 639 Stocking Ave NW. $12 includes gumbo or chili; other food available. Cash bar.

Mar 21 - JOE BONAMASSA: Award-winning blues/rock guitarist and singer-songwriter. 8 pm.

DeVos Performance Hall. $39-$69 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 22 - “WINTER JAZZ NIGHT”: An evening of jazz from Shades of Blue Vocal Jazz Ensemble and GRCC Jazz Orchestra. 7:30 pm. St Cecilia Royce Auditorium. Free. www.grcc.edu.

Mar 23 - MICHAEL BOLTON: Grammy-awardwinning singer. 7:30 pm. Forest Hills FAC. $46$60 (in person at box office or Ticketmaster). www.fhfineartscenter.com.

Mar 25-26 - “SEASCAPES”: GR Symphony presents music inspired by the sea, including Bax, Britten and Vaughan Williams. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www. grsymphony.org.

Mar 25-26 - “SUSTAINABILITY: A WEST MICHIGAN JOURNEY”: West Michigan Symphony presents a multimedia collaboration with GVSU that includes nature-inspired music by Beethoven, Smetana and Liadov. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $10-$35 (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets).

Mar 27 - PERUGINO STRING QUARTET: First United Methodist Church presents GVSU’s quartet in residence performing a wide variety of music. 3 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. Free-will offering.

Mar 27 - “WINTER JAM 2011”: Christian music concert featuring Newsboys, David Crowder Band, Kutless, Francesca Battistelli, RED, KJ-52, and guest speaker Tony Nolan. 6 pm. Van Andel Arena. $10 (at door).

Mar 28 - “SONGS FROM THE STAGE”: Muskegon Community Concert Association, featuring Indianapolis Opera Ensemble Voices, presents opera and Broadway stage classics.

7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $15 (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets).

Mar 31 - “ALL SHOOK UP”: More than 24 Elvis hits and a zany story of love, mistaken identities and more. 7:30 pm. Van Singel FAC. $39.50 adults, $22.50 students (878-6800, www.vsfac. com).

Mar 31 - ROSE ENSEMBLE: Hope College Great Performance Series presents this vocal group performing “Music from the Land of Three Faiths.”

7:30 pm Fri, 1 pm Sat. DeWitt Studio Theatre, Hope College, Holland. $18 adults, $13 seniors, $6 children (Hope College DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu.

Mar 31-Apr 2 -“INSPIRED BY MOZART”: GR Symphony’s Rising Stars presents music

by Sibelius, Mozart and Kevin Puts, with Bella Hristova on violin. 7 pm Thu, 8 pm Fri and Sat. DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland East High School. $18-$28 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

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City Guide: Clubs ’n’ Pubs

Miracle off 28th Street Schmohz may be one of the smaller brew pubs in town but it is unrivaled for friendliness. By Erin Price

Photography by Michael Buck

J

im Schwerin dreamed of opening a brewery.

So in September 2004, he and some of his former Michigan Tech classmates and drinking buddies purchased a building and officially launched Schmohz Brewing Co. three months later.

“We call it ‘the miracle off 28th Street’ and named our old-style ale the same, because it was a miracle we got it up and running as quickly as we did,” explained Chas Thompson, brewer for Schmohz.

The brewery is located in the building that formerly housed the Robert Thomas Brewing Co. on Patterson Avenue SE, between Burton and 28th Street.

On a Tuesday night at the fairly early hour of 8 p.m., Schmohz is in full swing.

Picture “Cheers” meets “Northern Exposure” and you’ll have some idea of the atmosphere of this small brew pub. Comand can attend private Mug Club parties ing in from the cold, patrons shake hands on Sundays. and hug in greeting as they take off their Schmohz Brewing Co. Schmohz also makes its own “oldcoats and prepare to settle in. Seating at Location: 2600 Patterson Ave. SE fashioned” (more flavor, less carbonation) the copper-topped bar is taken, but there Hours: 2-10 p.m. Mon. and Tue.; 2 Sammi Rae Root Beer and Black Cherry are plenty of high and low tables at which p.m.-midnight Weds. and Thu.; noonSoda. A portion of the proceeds go to local to sit. midnight Fri. and Sat.; closed Sun. charity the Sammi Rae of Hope FoundaThe crowd is lively but intimate, with Contact: (616) 949-0860, tion, which helps parents of terminally ill friends gathered at tables playing board www.schmohz.com. children pay for monthly expenses such games and snacking on the free popcorn Features: Mon.: Mug Club night, $2.50 as mortgage payments or other household and pretzels. There’s no cocktail waitpints; Tue.: Ladies Growl and Gulp — bills. ress, so customers make their way to the fill a growler, get a pint for $1; Wed.: Saturdays are busy for Schmohz, as crowded bar to order selections from the Brewer’s Choice $2.50/pint; Thu.: $10 Patterson Ice Center is right next door. busy but calm and capable bartender, pitcher specials; Fri.: noon-3 p.m. 50 cents off pints; Sat.: root beer floats $2.

“While the kids are next door skatgreeting old friends and making new ones ing, the hockey parents are here unwindas they wait for their beers.

Drink Prices: Beer: $3.75/pint, $13/ ing,” Thompson said. “And then when the pitcher; growlers to go: $10.50, $7.50 There are a variety of Schmohz brews for refills; 6-packs to go: $8. hockey’s done, the kids come over, too, to choose from, with names like “Pail and enjoy a root beer or a soda.”

Ale,” “Bone Crusher Stout” and “Pickle Root beer floats are just $2 on Saturdays. “You haven’t lived Tink Ale,” all brewed on site.

“We’ve had some late-night brainstorming sessions that are if you haven’t tried our root beer float,” Thompson added.

There are definitely bigger brew pubs in town with more fairly well-lubricated,” Thompson said, “and out came the name amenities, but there’s something about the neighborly, close-knit of our beers and our brewery.”

If it’s too hard to choose, you can order a “Taster’s Selec- feel of Schmohz that keeps people coming back — that, and the tion,” a sampling of five brews for the price of a pint. Schmohz beer, of course.

“We started Schmohz because we wanted to make beer for also offers six-packs and growlers to go.

Those who decide they love the beer and want it on a regular our friends and neighbors,” Thompson explained. “And that’s basis can join the “Mug Club”: $45 for the first year and $40 after what we’ll continue to do.”

GR that. Mug Club members enjoy discounts on pints and growlers 82 Grand Rapids March 2011

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City Guide

Look Good. Feel Good.

Art Mar 12 - SPRING ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW: Sunshine Community Church hosts more than 80 booths of hand-made arts and crafts. 9 am-3 pm.

3300 East Beltline Ave NE. Free.

Mar - AQUINAS COLLEGE GALLERY: Thru Apr 1, All-Media Juried Student Show; closed Mar 5-13.

Aquinas Art & Music Center (enter off Fulton St), 632-2408, www.aquinas.edu/art/gallery.html.

Mar - BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN CHURCH: Thru Mar 31, Musical Arts for Justice in the Community presents Alynn Guerra, printmaking. 250 Commerce Ave SW, 456-1741, www.grmajic.org.

Mar - CALVIN CENTER ART GALLERY: Thru Mar 18, Art Faculty Exhibition, and Transformation Tools: Alutiiq Masks of Kodiak Island by Perry Eaton. Mar 28-Apr 30 Light on New Netherland; reception 8 pm Mar 31. Calvin College Covenant FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 526-6271, www. calvin.edu/centerartgallery.

Mar - DEPREE GALLERY: Thru Mar 18, Thomas Allen: Paper Cuts. Hope College, Holland, (616) 395-7500, www.hope.edu.

Mar - DESIGN QUEST GALLERY: Thru Mar 13, Hugh Acton copper sculpture and jewelry, plus mid-century modern furniture designs, an extendable Christmas tree and The Flower Tower. Mar 17-May 1 Furniture Competition; reception 6-8 pm Mar 17. 4181 28th St SE, 940-0131, www.d2d2d2. com.

Botox | Facial Fillers | Laser Hair Removal | IPL | Sclerotherapy Clinical Facial Treatments | Latisse | Jane Iredale Mineral Make-Up 6290 Jupiter Ave Suite D Belmont MI 49306 jupitermedicalaesthetics.com 616-301-2503 Dr. Rose Ramirez MD, Dr. Lisa Hoekstra MD

Mar - FIRE AND WATER GALLERY: Mar 1-31 Janet Johnson, watercolors; reception 5:30-7 pm Mar 3.

219 W Main St, Lowell, 890-1879, www.fire-andwater-art.com.

Mar - FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Thru Mar 9, 38th Anniversary of Celebration of the Arts, a juried exhibit of spiritual and sacred art. 227 E Fulton St, 451-2879, www.thecelebra tionofthearts.com.

6th Annual

Mar - FOREST HILLS FAC: Mar 1-29 David Warmenhoven, mixed media painting; reception 6-7:30 pm Mar 10. 600 Forest Hill Ave SE, 4938965, www.fhfineartscenter.com.

Camp & Summer Adventure Expo

Mar - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Thru May 8, Jim Dine: Sculpture.

Permanent exhibits include more than 100 worldclass sculptures indoors and in the 30-acre park.

See Museums & Attractions.

Mar - GAINEY GALLERY: Thru Mar 20, paintings

by Laurel Dugan. Mar 21-Apr 27 Rich Francisco.

Van Singel Fine Arts Center, 8500 Burlingame SW, Byron Center, (616) 878-6800, www.vsfac. com

Photography by Michael Buck

Mar - GALLERY UPTOWN: Mar 2-30 Sheri Woodard, Helen Lystra and guests; reception 4:30-8 pm Mar 4. 201 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-5460, www.galleryuptown.net.

Mar - GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Thru Mar 20, Class Pictures: Photographs by Dawoud Bey. Mar 22-29 GRPS Citywide Exhibition. Mar 31-May 22 Ladislav Hanka: Meditations on Michigan’s Land, Lakes and Rivers. 10 am-5 pm Tue, Wed, Thu and Sat; 10 am-9 pm Fri; noon-5 pm Sun; closed Mon. General admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors/students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www. artmuseumgr.org.

Mar - GVSU ARTISTS: Thru Apr 29, Cyril Lixenburg: Selections from the Print and Drawing

In Partnership with the Grand Rapids Community Foundation

You’re invited!

Join the fun!

Parents and Children: This is your opportunity to visit a great selection of camp & summer adventure booths to gather information & learn more from the directors/representatives from each camp!

Don’t miss it — mark your calendar today!

7th Annual

Camp & Summer Adventure Expo Breton Village Mall

Corner of Breton & Burton • Grand Rapids, MI Saturday, March 19, 2011 10 am – 3 pm March 2011 Grand Rapids 83

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City Guide Cabinet, Kirkhof Center, Allendale campus. Thru Apr 29, GVSU Print and Drawing Cabinet: A Decade of Collecting, Pew campus, downtown Grand Rapids. www.gvsu.edu/artgallery.

Mar - HOLLAND AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru Mar 5, Studio Recreation/Re-creation by Wade Eldean and friends. Thru Mar 5, while we tap our feet or shift our weight, installation by Meridith Ridl and Lisa Walcott. 150 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 3963278, www.hollandarts.org.

Mar - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Thru Mar 19, Be Prepared! Celebrating a Century of Scouting. Thru May 22, The Cat Under the Hat: The Secret Art of Dr Seuss. Dutch Galleries exhibit 17th- to 20thcentury Dutch paintings and cultural objects. See Museums & Attractions.

Mar - KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Thru Apr 10, Familiar Surroundings. Thru Apr 17, The Wyeths: America’s Artists. Thru Apr 24, Ukiyo-E Redux: Contemporary Japanese Prints.

Interactive gallery for kids. 10 am-5 pm TueSat, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $8 adults; $6 students, seniors; $4 members. 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, www.kiarts.org.

Mar - LEEP ART GALLERY: Thru Apr 4, Healing Reflections by Pamela Alderman. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, 300 68th St SE, 222-4530.

Mar - LOWELL AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru Apr 7, West Michigan Regional Competition, reception 2-4 pm Mar 6. 149 S Hudson St, Lowell, 897-8545, www.lowellartscouncil.org.

Mar - MERCURYHEAD GALLERY: Thru Mar 31, featured artist Richard Brinn. Also works by Al Cianfarani, Charles LaRue and Rex Tower. 962 E Fulton St, 456-6022.

Mar - MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Thru Mar 13, We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball. Thru Apr 11, Upcycling: Creating More with Less. Thru Apr 10, Primal Inspirations/ Contemporary Artifacts. Mar 22-May 1 Jest for Fun: Playful Works from the Permanent Collection.

Mar 24-Apr 17 Expressions 2011: 29th Annual Muskegon Area Student Art Exhibition. Noon-4:30 pm Sun; closed Mon and Tue; 10 am-4:30 pm Wed, Fri and Sat; 10 am-8 pm Thu. $5 adults (Thu free); members, students, kids under 17 free. 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, www. muskegonartmuseum.org.

Mar - TERRYBERRY GALLERY: March artist: Angel Yandy Lopez Manes, oils; reception 6-9:30 pm Mar 18. Lower floor, St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE, 459-2224, www.scmsonline.org.

Mar - UICA: Mar 5-31, 19 Holes: Artist Designed Mini-Golf. Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, 41 Sheldon Blvd SE, 454-7000, www.uica.org.

Film Mar - CELEBRATING THE CLASSICS: Film reviewer John Douglas introduces the Tue and Thu 3 and 5:45 screenings of Hollywood classic films, which show at 12:15, 3 and 5:45 Tue and Thu, plus Sat and Sun matinees (check website for times). Mar 1-6 “Treasure of the Sierra Madre”; Mar 8-13 “Way Out West”; Mar 15-20 “Abbott and Costello Meet the Keystone Cops”; Mar 22-27 “Sullivan’s Travels”; and Mar 29-Apr 3 “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane.” Celebration Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Dr NE. $4. www.celebra tioncinema.com/classics.

Mar - UICA: Urban Institute for Contemporary

Art shows independent, foreign and documentary films. Call for schedule, times. $4-$7 (454-7000, www.uica.org). Also: 2:30 pm Mar 20, Chiaroscuro Foreign Film Series, Women Behind the Cameras: “Bluebird” (free).

Stage Mar - DR GRINS COMEDY CLUB: Stand-up comedians perform 9 pm Thu, 8 pm and 10:30 pm Fri and Sat. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. $5 Thu, $10 Fri and Sat (356-2000, www.thebob.com).

Thru Mar 19 - “HELLO, DOLLY!”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents the musical adventure about America’s beloved matchmaker. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. 30 N Division Ave. $16-$30 (Civic box office or Star Tickets). www.grct.org.

Mar 1-6 - “GREASE”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents bad boy Danny and girl-next-door Sandy as they fall in love to the songs “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’” and “We Go Together.” 7:30 pm Tue-Thu, 8 pm Fri, 2 pm and 8 pm Sat, 1 pm and 6:30 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $27.50-$55 (DeVos, Van Andel and Broadway GR box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 3-5 - “REASONS TO BE PRETTY”: GRCC Players present a love story about a boy who loves his girlfriend, but when he mentions her imperfections, all hell breaks loose. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater. $10 adults, $3 students (234-3946). www.grcc.edu/theater.

Mar 4-5, 10-12 - DANCE 37: Presented by Hope College. 8 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children (Hope College DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope. edu.

Mar 5, 18 - RIVER CITY IMPROV: Calvin College alumni improv team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. 7:33 pm (doors open 6:30 pm). Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. $8 (at door or Calvin box office). www. rivercityimprov.com.

Mar 11-12 - CONTENTS UNDER PRESSURE: Master Arts Theatre comedy improv team performs. 7 pm. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $7 (455-1001, www.masterarts.org).

Mar 12 - “BEHIND THE SCENE OF THE REAL FAKE NEWS”: “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” correspondent Aasif Mandvi presents a multimedia show about writers and correspondents analyzing the best and worst of each day’s news.

8 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $25-$35 adults, $20 college students (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets). www.fakenewsguy.com.

Mar 18-26 - “SING ON!”: Lowell Area Arts Coun­ cil’s Thebes Players present a dinner theater production. 6:30 pm dinner, 7:30 pm show Fri and Sat; 1:30 pm dinner, 2:30 pm show Sun. Larkin’s Other Place, 301 W Main St, Lowell. Show only: $8 in advance (897-8545 or www.lowellartscouncil.org), $10 at door. Dinner and show: $21 in advance only.

Mar 24-Apr 2 - “THE SWEETEST SWING IN BASEBALL”: Actors’ Theatre presents the story of a struggling artist who ends up in a mental ward and then doesn’t want to leave. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St NE. $24 adults, $20 students and seniors (234-3946). www.actorsthe atregrandrapids.org.

Museums & Attractions Mar - AIR ZOO: More than 50 rare aircraft,

plus exhibits and educational activities, fullmotion flight simulators, 4-D Missions Theater, Magic Planet, Space Ball, Zero G, Michigan Space Science Center. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. 6151 Portage Road, Portage, (269) 3826555, www.airzoo.org. See website for admission prices.

Mar - BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER: See Sugarbush in Special Events. 143 acres of diverse ecosystems, trails, natural history exhibits, Heritage Buildings (log cabin, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse). Interpretive Center open 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 735-6240, www. blandfordnaturecenter.org. Free.

Mar - CAPPON & SETTLERS HOUSE MUSEUMS: Restored Cappon House is the Italianate Victorian home of Holland’s first mayor. Tiny Settlers House recalls hardships of early settlers. Noon-4 pm Fri and Sat. For admission prices, see Holland Museum. Cappon House, 228 W 9th St, Holland.

Settlers House, 190 W 9th St, Holland, (616) 3926740, www.hollandmuseum.org.

Mar - COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM: Dolls of Our Lives exhibit through Apr. Regular exhibits include tractors from 1930 to present, an eclipse windmill, 100-year-old barns, interactive kids area. 10 am-2 pm Tue, Thu and Sat. $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children 3-18, under 3 free. 375 Main St, Coopersville, 997-8555, www.coopers villefarmmuseum.org.

Mar - DEGRAAF NATURE CENTER: See Maple Sugar Time in Special Events. 18-acre preserve includes Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch (images of earth and the universe) and more than 240 plant species. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 9 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 10 am-5 pm Sat, closed Sun, Mon and holidays. 600 Graafschap Rd, Holland, (616) 355-1057, www. degraaf.org. Free.

Mar - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Thru Apr 30, Butterflies Are Blooming features hundreds of butterflies and moths (more than 40 species) from tropical regions flying freely in the conservatory. New this year: Other indoor gardens will feature butterflies in various stages of metamorphosis, including caterpillars and cocoons. Outdoor exhibits include Children’s Garden, Michigan’s Farm Garden, 30-acre sculpture park, boardwalk nature trail, tram tours, themed gardens. Indoors has sculpture galleries, tropical conservatory, carnivorous plant house, Victorian garden, café and gift shops.

9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 9 am-9 pm Tue, 11 am-5 pm Sun. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students with IDs, $6 ages 5-13, $4 ages 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 957-1580, www.meijergardens.org.

Mar - GERALD R. FORD MUSEUM: Mar 17-Jun 17, The American Soldier: A Photographic Tribute to Soldiers and Marines from the Civil War to Iraq. Permanent exhibits include The 1970s, An Overview; video history of the Watergate scandal; replica of the White House Oval Office; New Mood at the White House, a holographic presentation. 9 am-5 pm daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 college students, $3 kids 6-18, 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St NW, 254-0400, www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

Mar - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Cultural attractions from the “old country” and exhibits that explore local history. I Spy Adventure and activities in Mark’s Room for children. 10 am-5 pm Mon, WedSat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, children 5 and under free, members free. 31 W 10th St,

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City Guide Pumping Essentials ($25). Both at Baby Beloved, 555 Midtowne St NE, Ste 100. Also, 9 am-noon Mar 12, Fussy Baby 911: Why babies cry and how parents can help soothe them ($20/couple).

Women’s Health Clinic, lower level, 555 Midtowne St NE. 9775683, www.babybelovedinc.com.

Holland, (888) 200-9123, www. hollandmuseum.org.

Mar - JOHN BALL ZOO: Zoo reopens Mar 1. 10 am-1 pm Mar 5, Celebration with zookeeper talks, giveaways, discounts and activities. Attractions include: colubus monkeys, New Guinea baboons, ring-tailed lemurs, Lions of Lake Manyara, penguins, Komodo dragon, Mokomboso Valley chimps, Spider Monkey Island and Living Shores Aquarium. 10 am-4 pm daily. $3.50 adults and seniors over 62, $3 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www.johnballzoo society.org.

Mar - KALAMAZOO NATURE CENTER: See Maple Sugar Festival in Special Events. Also this month: maple sugar tours on weekends. 1,100 acres of forests, prairies and wetlands. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 1-5 pm Sun. $6 adults, $5 seniors 55 and over, $4 children 4-13, children under 4 free. 700 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecen ter.org.

Mar - KALAMAZOO VALLEY MUSEUM: Thru Apr 10, Michigan Eats: Regional Culture Through Food. Thru May 30, Playing with Time. Permanent exhibits include simulated mission to space, 2,300-year-old mummy and Science in Motion.

See website for planetarium shows ($3) and activities. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Thu and Sat, 9 am-9 pm Fri, 1-5 pm Sun. 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, (800) 772-3370, www.kalamazoomuseum.org. Free.

Mar - LAKESHORE MUSEUM CENTER: Permanent exhibits include Michigan Through the Depths of Time; Body Works: It’s All Up to You; Habitats and Food Webs; Science Center; and Voices of Muskegon. 9:30 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri, noon-4 pm Sat-Sun. 430 W Clay, Muskegon, (231) 722-0278, www.muskegonmuseum.org. Free.

Mar - LOWELL AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits about Lowell history, and a Victorian parlor, dining room and porch. 1-4 pm Tue, Sat and Sun, 1-8 pm Thu. $3 adults, $1.50 children 5-17, under 5 free, families $10 max. 325 W Main St, 897-7688, www.lowellmuseum.org.

Photography Courtesy DeVos Performance Hall

Mar - MEYER MAY HOUSE: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house, meticulously restored by Steelcase in 1986-87, features many original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 am-2 pm Tue and Thu, 1-5 pm Sun (last tour begins one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free.

Mar - PUBLIC MUSEUM: Thru May 1, Bodies Revealed, human skeletal, muscular, nervous, digestive, respiratory, reproductive and circulatory systems ($15 adults, $14 seniors, $10 children; includes general admission). 6-9 pm Mar 23 Life Drawing Night. Permanent exhibits include: Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers, The People of This Place; Anishinabek, The People of This Place; 1928 carousel ($1). 9 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat, 9 am-8 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun; open until 9 pm Mar 14-18. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 ages 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St NW, 456-3977, www.grmuseum.org.

Mar - ROGER B. CHAFFEE PLANETARIUM: Stateof-the-art, 3-D, Digistar-powered shows. 2 pm

Mar - ENHANCEFITNESS: Seniors Neighbors fitness program increases strength and improves balance. Varying times and locations in Kent County. (616) 2330283 or www.seniorneighbors. org. $2 suggested donation.

Joe cool Guitar prodigy Joe Bonamassa began opening for BB King at age 12.

Now, 20 years later, he is on a tour that will play DeVos Performance Hall March 21 and eventually move on to Scandinavia, Paris and Australia. Not surprising for someone who, in 2009, sold out London’s Royal Albert Hall in less than a week. What’s surprising is that there are still blues-rock aficionados who don’t know Bonamassa’s gravelly voice and fiery riffs that rival his heroes: Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jeff Beck — to name a few.

March’s prodigious musical lineup also includes Lady Gaga, Sugarland, James Taylor, Michael Bolton and Christian music’s Winter Jam 2011.

See Music

daily, 7 pm and 8 pm Tue, 1 pm Sat and Sun, “Our Bodies in Space,” museum admission plus $3. 3 pm Sat and Sun “Under Starlit Skies,” free with admission. Saturdays thru Apr 30, laser light shows: 9 pm “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd, and 10 pm “Rush: Greatest Hits.” Mar 19 Spring Equinox Light Show Festival: 8 pm “Led Zeppelin Greatest Hits,” 9 pm “Dark Side of the Moon” by Pink Floyd, 10 pm “OK Computer” by Radiohead, museum admission plus $7. Van Andel Museum Center (see Public Museum).

Mar - TRI-CITIES HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits include a train depot display, Michigan Logging and Early Pioneers. 9:30 am-5 pm TueFri, 12:30-5 pm Sat and Sun. 200 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, 842-0700, www.tri-citiesmuseum. org. Free.

Lectures & Workshops Mar - BABY BELOVED CLASSES: 5:30-8:30 pm Mar 16, breastfeeding basics and pumping info; registration required ($40). 10 am-noon Mar 26,

Mar - FOUNDATION FOR WELLNESS PROFES­SIONALS: Free community workshops: Mar 8 Detoxification: Reduce Toxins and Lose Weight Through Nutritional Cleansing. Mar 10 Trigger Point Massage. Mar 22 Fibromyalgia. 6 pm. 4150 East Beltline Ave NE, Ste 4. Reservations: 447-9888. Seating limited to 30.

Mar - GRAND RIVER FOLK ARTS SOCIETY: Dance instruction events. 7:30 pm Mar 4, First Friday Dance with Hawks and Owls and caller Glen Morningstar, 5th St Hall, 701 5th St NW, $8 adults, $7 students/seniors, $6 members. 7 pm Mar 11, Second Friday International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St SE, $5. 7 pm Mar 25, 4th Friday Contra Dance with music jams, 5th St Hall, 701 5th St NW, $6. www.grfolkarts.org.

Mar - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: 7:30 pm Mar 3 Artist Critique Night. 7:30 pm Mar 10 Program Night. Free and open to public. GVA Gallery, 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Ste 130, www.grandvalleyartists. com.

Mar - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Programs include: adult computer classes; From the Words of the Soldiers: The Story of Annie Etheridge, Civil War Nurse; Hiking the Appalachian Trail; Ladies of the Lights: Michigan Women in the U.S. Lighthouse Service; book clubs and kids activities (see Kidstuff). Complete schedule at GRPL Main Library, 111 Library St NE, or www.grpl.org. Free.

Mar - GR TANGO: Beginner and intermediate dance lessons 8-9:30 pm every Thu, followed by free practice 9:30-10:30 pm. Richard App Gallery, 910 Cherry St SE, www.grtango.org. $12 drop-in.

Mar - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Programs include book discussions, computer classes, Early Childhood Essentials, Going Green, writers groups and kids activities (see Kidstuff). www.kdl.org.

Mar 1-22 - TOPICS IN HEALTH CARE: GR Public Museum presents three lectures and discussions: 7 pm Mar 1, “New Techniques for Knee Replacements” by Dr Gregory Golladay, Orthopaedic Associates of Grand Rapids. 1 pm Mar 19, “Allergies” by Dr Dick Townley. 7 pm Mar 22, “New Techniques for Lower Spine Surgery” by Dr Bruce Dall, Bronson Hospital. Free with admission. www.grmuseum.org.

Mar 5 - FASHION SHOW: Women’s City Club hosts Chico’s “Take the ‘Not’ Out of ‘What Not to Wear.’” 11 am brunch; fashion show to follow.

254 E Fulton St. $20 (reservations required: 4593321).

Mar 5 - DAVE ZUIDERVEEN: Northwest Men’s Group hosts Dave Zuiderveen, Ferris Bulldogs March 2011 Grand Rapids 85

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City Guide football player drafted to Atlanta Falcons.

Includes breakfast at 7:30 am. $5 donation.

Westwood Church, 2828 Richmond St NW. 616550-2259.

Mar 5, 12 - SECRETS FOR SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE: How to grow your relationship in preparation for marriage. 8:30 am-12:30 pm. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St SE, Cutlerville. $100/couple (455-5279). www.pinerest.org.

Mar 10 - PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE: “St Vincent and the Grenadines: Caribbean Jewels”

by Steve Gonser. 7:30 pm. Covenant FAC, Calvin College. $5 adults, $2.50 students (Calvin box office or 526-6282).

Mar 12-18 - MASON ST WAREHOUSE AUDITIONS: Actor auditions for the 2011 season: Mar 12 Grand Rapids, Mar 13 Saugatuck, Mar 16 and 18 Kalamazoo. Info and appointments: (269) 8574898 or www.masonstreetwarehouse.org.

Mar 15 - NOURISHING WAYS OF WEST MICHIGAN: “Nourishing Our Children” by Donielle Baker.

7-8:30 pm. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave, www.nourishingways.org. Free.

Mar 16 - GRCC DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES: “A Thousand Sisters: My Journey Into the Worst Place on Earth to be a Woman” by author/activist Lisa Shannon. 7 pm. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St NE. Free. www.grcc.edu/lecture.

Mar 17-18 - INSTITUTE FOR HEALING RACISM: Two-day workshop focuses on becoming positive agents for change. Exercises, dialogue, videos and storytelling. GRCC Diversity Learning Center. $200-$300 (234-4497, www.grcc.edu/ihr).

Mar 19 - DANCEgr: Ballroom dance lesson followed by social dance that includes East and West Coast swing, salsa, tango, waltz, cha cha, rumba, foxtrot and more. 7-8 pm lesson, 8-11 pm dance. Women’s City Club, 254 E Fulton St, www. dancegr.com. $10 lesson, $11 dance, $16 both.

Mar 23 - GROWING INTIMACY, FINDING CLOSENESS: A marriage workshop for spouses who want to grow and strengthen their marriage. 6:308:30 pm. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St SE, Cutlerville. $45/couple (455-5279). www. pinerest.org.

Mar 28 - GR AUDUBON CLUB: “Ecosphere Biodiversity” by Steve Mueller, author, ecological researcher and environmental education consultant. 7 pm social, 7:30 pm presentation. Orchard View Church, 2777 Leffingwell NE. Free. www. glsga.org/grac.

Mar 28-29 - HOPE VISITING WRITER SERIES: Ben Percy, fiction and nonfiction writer. 6:30 pm jazz, 7 pm readings. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. Free.

Mar 29 - CROSSROAD BIBLE INSTITUTE: “Prison Congregations: A Win-Win Proposition”

by Mary Mortenson. Noon-1:30 pm. Crossroad Bible Institute, 2976 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville.

Register by Mar 22 (616-530-1300 or www.cbi. fm). Free.

Mar 29 - HIMALAYAN ADVENTURE: Women’s City Club hosts Dr Craig Benjamin, GVSU assistant professor. 5 pm social hour, 6 pm dinner; program to follow. 254 E Fulton St. $25 (reservations required: 459-3321).

Sports Mar - GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS: Grand Rapids’

American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. Home games: Mar 3-4 vs Rochester Americans. Mar 16 vs Oklahoma City Barons. Mar 18 vs Lake Erie Monsters.

Mar 19 vs Rochester Americans. Mar 20 vs Rockford IceHogs. Mar 23 vs Toronto Marlies.

Times vary. Van Andel Arena. $13-$30 (Van Andel box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). www. griffinshockey.com.

Mar 17 - ST PATTY’S PACER 5K FUN RUN: Course begins and ends in Centennial Park, Holland, and includes food, music and contests.

Supports Community Action House of Holland.

Race begins 6 pm. $20 adults, $10 kids 12 and under, $50 families. www.gazellesports.com.

Mar 19 - SPECTRUM HEALTH IRISH JIG: 5K run in EGR, starting at Lovett/Wealthy. 8 am. www. classicrace.com.

Mar 25-26 - SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN STATE BASKETBALL FINALS: GR Jaycees hosts more than 50 statewide teams. Games to be played at various Rockford schools. Also arts and crafts, movies, health screenings and an athlete dance. More info: grjaycees.org.

Mar 26 - KILLER GRAVEL ROAD RACE: Gravel road bicycle race with 23-, 35- and 65-mile options. Middleville. www.barry-roubaix.com.

Kidstuff Mar - ALL DAY WITH THE ARTS: GR Art Museum offers family programming every Sat, including art-making activities, family activity guides and garden room art stations. Kid-friendly tours 11 am and 1 pm. Free with admission.

Mar - DEANNA’S PLAYHOUSE: 15,000-squarefoot play environment includes art room, imagination village, performing arts stage, music room, infant-parent area, café and more. 10 am-3 pm Mon-Sat. 11172 Adams St, Holland, (800) 5777661, www.deannasplayhouse.com. $5.

Mar - FINE ART FOR KIDS: Cynthia Hagedorn’s studio offers themed fine art time for kids. 194½ S River Ave, Holland, www.cynthiahagedorn.com.

Mar - GRAND RAPIDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Thru Jun 5, Izzy’s World of Shapes. Permanent exhibits include Mercantile Wee Bank, Spin Table, Buzzy Beehive, Mom and Pop Store, Funstruction.

Toddler Tue for ages 3 and under (10 am-noon).

Thu Family Nights (5-8 pm) $1.50 admission. 9:30 am-5 pm Tue-Sat, until 8 pm Thu, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $6.50, under 2 free. 22 Sheldon Ave NE, 235-4726, www.grcm.org.

Mar - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Literacy classes for babies, toddlers and kids include storytelling, music, dramatic play and art activities. Special events: Celebrate Arthur’s 35th Anniversary with a Visit from Marc Brown, and Legos with Bricks 4 Kidz. Times and locations vary. Complete schedules at any branch or www.grpl.org. Free.

Mar - GYMCO: Events include: Mar 4, Kids Night Out. Mar 5, Tramp N Tumble and Family Open Gym. Mar 11, Flip Flop Shop. Mar 15, Gymtime.

Mar 25, Princess Party. Mar 31, Gymtime. Gymco Sports, 2360 Camelot Ridge Ct SE, 956-0586, www.gymco.com.

Mar - HOP SCOTCH CHILDREN’S STORE: Free family events every Mon at 10:30 am. Mar 7, Learn What Your Name Means Day. Mar 14, National Children’s Craft Day. Mar 21, Carol Johnson, local children’s musician. Mar 28, TBD. 963 Cherry St

SE, 233-4008, www.hopscotchstore.com.

Mar - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Story times for young children plus Magical Creatures, Max and Ruby Party, Lego Party and Ruff Readers.

Teen programs include Gaming and Manga. See www.kdl.org for dates and locations.

Mar - KINDERMUSIK: Playgroup for ages 2-4 with music, stories, crafts and snack. 9-11:30 am or 12:30-3 pm every Wed. $63 for four weeks (4506995 or kindermusikwithtrish@gmail.com).

Mar - SMALL TALK FOR KIDS: Language classes in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese or French at six locations for up to age 5. $195 (990-2591, www. smalltalkforkids.com).

Mar - STORY TIME WITH A TWIST: Caledonia Dance Center hosts free preschool story times with music, dance, rhymes, instruments, finger plays and more. 9:30-10 am Mon. 131½ E Main St, Caledonia, 891-1606, www.caledoniadancecenter. com.

Mar 1-31 - AMERICAN GIRL PARTY REGISTRATION: Register for American Girl Party for moms and daughters (6 and older). Takes place 6:30-8 pm Apr 12 , Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. $5 per child (616532-9422, ext 6, or resourcecenter@homeschool building.org).

Mar 4-5 - HEALTH CAREER EXPLORATION DAYS: Medical science and health services career exploration event focusing on bio-technology, research and allied health services for students in middle school through college. 10 am-2 pm Fri, 11 am-4 pm Sat. GR Public Museum. Free with admission.

Mar 5 - FIRST SATURDAY FOR KIDS: Literary Life Bookstore hosts Story Spinners. 11 am. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418.

Mar 8 - LATINO YOUTH CONFERENCE: 12th annual conference for 8th-grade KISD students.

9 am-2 pm. Ford Fieldhouse, GRCC. Free. www. grcc.edu/dlc.

Mar 8-9 - “MADAGASCAR LIVE!”: Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, Gloria the hippo, King Julien and the crafty penguins in a live performance. 7 pm Tue, 4 pm and 7 pm Wed. Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo. $15-$85 (box office, 269-387-2300 or www.millerauditorium. com).

Mar 10-13 - “DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS PRINCESS WISHES”: Tinker Bell hosts Disney stories featuring Ariel, Snow White, Jasmine, Cinderella, Belle, Aurora and Mulan. 7 pm Thu and Fri; 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun. Van Andel Arena. $15-$55 adults, $12 children (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).

Mar 18-26 - “BELLES ON THEIR TOES”: Master Arts Theatre presents its winter youth production of the sequel to “Cheaper by the Dozen.” 7:30 pm Fri and Sat, 2 pm Sat, 3 pm Sun. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $15 adults, $13 seniors and students (455-1001, www.masterarts.org).

Mar 19 - “FIDDLE-DEE-DEE! AESOP’S FABLES AND MORE”: GR Symphony’s Lollipop concerts are 45-minute musical stories for kids ages 3-6.

10:15 am and 11:15 am. Sunshine Community Church, 3300 East Beltline Ave NE. $5 (GR Symphony box office or Ticketmaster). www. grsymphony.org.

Mar 19 - KIDS IN THE KITCHEN: Square Peg Events hosts event for kids 6-12: Touring Asia! lets

86 Grand Rapids March 2011

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City Guide

Your masterpiece is our canvas!

Create with the best from Old World Olive Press.

Visit our tasting room and sample award winning olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world.

kids make and sample sushi, explore Japanese calligraphy and create Japanese kakemono (hanging objects). 2-3:30 pm. CityVu Bistro, fifth floor, CityFlats Hotel, 61 E 7th St, Holland. $25 (kidsinthekitchencityvu.eventbrite.com).

Mar 19 - “SLEEPING BEAUTY”: West Michigan Youth Ballet presents the children’s classic. 1 and 4:30 pm. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth SE. Tickets TBD. www.wmyb.org.

Mar 24 - RINGLETS: Embellish Handbell Ensemble presents a children’s concert with hands-on activities. 6:30 pm. GR Children’s Museum, 22 Sheldon Ave NE. Free with admission. www.embellish.ws.

Mar 24-25 - CLUB AQ: High school seniors can spend the night on the Aquinas College campus, participate in campus activities and explore academic options. Registration: 732-4460 or www. aquinas.edu.

Calendar Legend

65 E. Bridge Street, Rockford Phone (616) 884-0107 www.oldworldolivepress.com

Commonly requested venue and ticket outlet information follows.

Venues Aquinas Performing Arts Center, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 456-6656 The DeltaPlex Entertainment & Expo Center, 2500 Turner Ave. NW, 364-9000, www.deltaplex.com DeVos Place (DeVos Performance Hall), 303 Monroe Ave. NW, 742-6600, www.devosplace.org Forest Hills Fine Arts Center, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8966, www.fhfineartscenter.com Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon, (231) 722-9750, www.frauenthal.info Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580 (main), 975-3147 (class registration line), www.meijergardens.org Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www.artmuseumgr.org Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave., 222-6650, www.grct.org Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, www.grmuseum.org St. Cecilia Music Center, (Royce Auditorium, Dexter Ballroom), 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, www.scmsonline.org Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE, 234-3946 Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA), 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 454-7000 (film hotline 454-3994), www.uica.org Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St., 742-6600, www.vanandelarena.com Van Singel Fine Arts Center, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, www.vsfac.com

Ticket Outlets

Grand Rapids Symphony office, 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, 454-9451, www.grsymphony.org Star Tickets, (800) 585-3737, www.startickets.com Ticketmaster, 456-3333, www.ticketmaster.com

List your event Calendar items must be submitted two months prior to the magazine issue date. Please send submissions for the May calendar no later than March 15.

E-mail caleditor@geminipub.com, fax (616) 4594800 or mail to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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Store locations: Rockford • Plymouth • Birmingham

Reduce youR legal fees. Not youR expectatioNs. Not all law firms are created equal.

Avanti Law Group was created with you and your budget in mind. That’s why at Avanti, we focus on you, your goals and your budget to deliver the most innovative and cost effective solution to your legal needs.

Quite different. And better.

Se habla español • Immigration • Family Law • Business and Corporate Law • Labor and Employment Law • Crimininal Defense

Avanti Law Group, PLLC Holland • Wyoming • Grand Rapids (616) 257-6807 • www.AvantiLaw.com

THAI, JAPANESE, CHINESE

Asian Dining Award of Excellence 4 years in a row!

xo

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE

• Full service Sushi Bar

(Half-price every Tuesday, dine in only).

• Beer and Wine & Spirits Available

ASIAN CUISINE 58 Monroe Center Phone (616) 235-6969

www.xoasiancuisine.com

March 2011 Grand Rapids 87

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City Guide: Hot Shots

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Two big events help feed the hungry

1. Marcus Bradman and Lisa Verhil

2. Bowls at the event

The 13th Annual Soup’s On for All! benefiting God’s Kitchen 3. Alicia Patch Oldham featured 28 soups at The BOB. Sponsored by Catholic Charities and Mary Oldham West Michigan, the Jan. 24 event raised an estimated $113,000 to 4.

Parris McMurray help feed the hungry. God’s Kitchen has served around 3 million and Crystal Hilliard people in the past 40 years “warming hearts one bowl at a time.”

5. Carly Munoz and Local bands and performers provided entertainment, while guests Morgan Lind sampled soups, breads and desserts donated by local restaurants 6. Kegan Gates and and businesses.

Ashley Hileski Tommy Fitzger5 7.

Tommy Fitzgerald ald, chef and owner and Sarah Solowiej of Café Stella, cele8. Cassidy Bradley brated his 41st birthand Matt Steewyk day Jan. 8 by throwing Big Top Juice Ball 2011, raising enough money to buy 244,000 juice boxes for Kids’ Food Basket. More than 2,500 revelers in circus theme costumes attended the second annual ball at the JW Marriot. Kids’ Food Basket is a nonprofit organization that distributes sack suppers to 3,200 children per day in the greater Grand Rapids area.

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Photography by Johnny Quirin

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88 Grand Rapids March 2011

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Leo’s Guide To An Impeccable Dining Experience.

Begin with the Oooohs...

End with the Aaaahs!

At Leo’s, we promise an unforgettable experience, from appetizer to dessert, and every delicious bite in-between.

And those in-betweens are what we’re most known for, like our popular Surf and Turf, Chargrilled Sea Scallops, our one-of-a-kind Bouillabaisse or Fresh Lake Perch. Also, for those who prefer, we offer a wonderful complement of classic dishes including New Zealand Rack of Lamb, 14 oz. New York Strip, Cajun Chicken Tortellini and many more.

Relax, enjoy the casually elegant atmosphere, impeccable service and a meal that will take your breath away.

Leo’s Gift Certificates Available Online leosrestaurant.com

60 Ottawa NW | Downtown Grand Rapids | 616.454.6700 Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30-4:30 pm Dinner Monday-Thursday 4:30-10:00pm Friday & Saturday 4:30-11:00pm Closed Sunday

“Best Seafood Restaurant” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 “Readers Poll”

“Restaurant of the Year” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2009 “Dining Awards”

Join us for happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday–Friday and enjoy $2 draught beers and $5 martinis.

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A fresh twist on Thai.

NEW THAI CHOPPED CHICKEN SALAD Sometimes really great food can take you on a journey. Just one bite of our New Thai Chopped Chicken Salad and you’re halfway across the world. Layered with tender, all-natural chicken, Thai spiced cashews & fire roasted vegetables with hints of lime & cilantro. Then it is tossed with our Thai chili vinaigrette & drizzled with our peanut sauce to really round out the salad. It’s like heading to Thailand for lunch, without the passport.

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panerabread.com 1/24/11 7:47 AM