OFFICIAL 2012 WEST MICHIGAN HOME & GARDEN SHOW PROGRAM CELEBRATING CITY LIFE
MICHIGAN’S COLD CASE EXPERT
TWO PLATE: XO ASIAN CUISINE www.grmag.com
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DESIGN CENTERS 100 BRANDS Gorman’s IS Michigan’s recognized leader for style-leading, quality home furnishings. A store full of ideas for the way you want to live. Gorman’s Grand Rapids now offers a one-stop resource for your home furnishing solutions. With the 100 Best Brands in furniture all in one place, furnishing your home has never been easier. Add Gorman’s National Low Price Guarantee, Gorman’s “MUST BE RIGHT” policy, and our experienced, schooled professional Interior Designers to help you put it all together, and there’s no reason to shop anywhere else. Gorman’s has it all.
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VoluMe 49 NuMber 3
March 2012 FEaTurEs 32th annuaL Dining aWarDS
Top nine restaurants for 2011, including the Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year, plus seven honorable mentions. ............................. 32
JuStiCe DeLiVereD
David Schock turns his camera on unsolved West Michigan murders, bringing new information to light in hope of finding justice for the victims and their families. .............48
2 Grand rapids March 2012
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The Art of Living
Centuries of Craftsmanship and Art In a small town in the Alsace region of France, the Seltz family continues a tradition of over 400 years of furniture making history. Bring the look of the sea into your dining room and at the same time enjoy the craftsmanship developed over centuries by the Seltz family. The design underlines the beauty of the solid steamed beech wood grown in the French countryside while kindling your longing for the tranquility of the tropical sea. The Antigua Dining Table features an art glass top that slides back to reveal the ingenious built-in, self-storing, solid beech extension leaf. Also available in red or white art glass.
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DESIGN QUEST速
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Volume 49 Number 3
March 2012 on the cover:
69
28
Photography by Johnny Quirin of Aaron Van Timmeren
In Every Issue Life & Style
Tangerine tango; Eighth Day Farm; Abby Has Issues; Ross Timyan; JB & Me. ............................9-16 Profile
Leann Arkema jumped at the chance to head up Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. ........... 20 Design
Eastown’s Kingsley Building is being historically rehabbed for retail and residences. . .................... 25-30 City Guide
Restaurant listings; jazz at Ottawa Tavern; Hot Shots at local events and more. . ..................... 54-88
Speaking Up Etc.
By Carole Valade..................... 7 Grand Times
By Gordon G. Beld Two lady soldiers brought the Salvation Army to Grand Rapids in 1883. . ................... 18 Art Appreciation
By Joseph Antenucci Becherer The horses of Deborah Butterfield. ........................... 28 Critic’s Choice
By Mark F. Miller, AIA Fulton Street Farmers Market is getting a new look. .............................. 30 Fresh Hops
By Jon C. Koeze It’s all about Guinness........69
Calendar of Events. ............56 Grand Vine
By A. Brian Cain Obscure wines worth sipping. .................................. 78
20 4 Grand Rapids March 2012
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Best of 2011-12 Readers Poll
Dr. Crete’s patient before treatment.
Voted Grand Rapids Best Dentist. Grand Rapids Magazine 2011-2012 Readers Poll. T hank you! We strive to be the practice that sets the standards for excellence in comprehensive, cosmetic, and restorative dental care in the Grand Rapids area. Let us help you achieve and maintain optimum oral health for each day of the rest of your life with the latest in dental technology.
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616-534-0135 | www.rivertowndental.com GRM_03.12_Sec02_PG01.07.indd 5
Dr. Mike Crete
2/3/12 11:06 AM
Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964
www.grmag.com
info@grmag.com Publisher
John H. Zwarensteyn: jzwarensteyn@geminipub.com Editor
Carole Valade: cvalade@geminipub.com Managing Editor
Marty Primeau: mprimeau@geminipub.com Copy Editor
Donna Ferraro: dferraro@geminipub.com Contributing Editors
Matt Baker, Joseph A. Becherer, Gordon G. Beld, A. Brian Cain, Ira Craaven, Mark F. Miller, AIA, Jon C. Koeze Contributing Writers
Julie Burch, Alexandra Fluegel, Tricia van Zelst Editorial Interns
Peter Frost and Katelyn Sandor Design Panel
Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry, Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Oliver Evans, James Ludwig, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen Design & Production Manager
Scott Sommerfeld: ssommerfeld@geminipub.com Assistant Design & Production Manager
Chris Pastotnik: cpastotnik@geminipub.com Art Coordinator
Kelly J. Nugent: knugent@geminipub.com
Custom Design Furniture 2875 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE | Grand Rapids, MI 49512 Phone (616) 575-9004 | Fax (616) 575-9008 www.customdesignfurnitureinc.com
Designers/Production Assistants
Melissa Brooks: mbrooks@geminipub.com Robin Vargo: rvargo@geminipub.com Contributing Photographers
Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Alissa Lane, Jack Poeller, Johnny Quirin General Sales Manager
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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 © 2012 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $3.95 (by mail $6); back issue $6 (by mail $7.50), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at www.grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.
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6 Grand Rapids March 2012
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Etcetera
Craving the best of the best
by Carole Valade
Photography by Johnny QUirin
Grand Rapids Magazine has for the first time in 25 years revamped its annual dining awards, though the purpose remains: to recognize the challenges and champions of an industry regarded around the world as one of the toughest. What gets anyone’s attention is what comes from the kitchen, but we can count dozens of chefs and restaurant owners from whom we’ve begged for more — only to weep at their demise. What comes from the back room to support the business is as important as what comes from the kitchen — and that, too, is celebrated as we announce the best of the best in this issue. The magazine staff notes here the outstanding work of the Amway Grand Plaza’s The 1913 Room, which held title as Michigan’s only fivestar restaurant but was closed last spring. Management found the restaurant was often the choice of local residents for special occasions, but visitors from beyond the region were unfamiliar with the name and were rarely patrons. Grand Rapids is one of the nation’s restaurant test markets, and for good reason. It can be a finicky market of really varied tastes, but it is important to note that it also is a community that heartily supports local restaurateurs. So, too, does Grand Rapids Magazine, considering only local restaurants for these annual awards. This year, just one award is made in New American and in Classic American, and one each in four ethnic categories. New this year, we also selected the top restaurant along the lakeshore and the best new restaurant of the year unrelated to category. And there is still just one king of the hill: the Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year.
Another big change was the decision to name the winners in the magazine, not at a public event, which in the past has been held to benefit the Grand Rapids Community College hospitality education program. This year the winners learned of their awards in person. Don’t miss the fun on Facebook and Twitter. And tell us which restaurant tops your list!
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. March 2012 Grand Rapids 7
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Life & Style Tangerine tango Punch up your wardrobe with a dash of citrus. » pg10
Photography by Alissa Lane Modeled by Christine Warner hairstyling by Monica Ybarra makeup by Aimie Vredevoogd
Inside » Tangerine Tango 10
» Eighth Day Farm 11
» Abby Heugel 12
» Crystal Clean 14
» JB & Me 16
March 2012 Grand Rapids 9
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Life & Style
Link necklace by Kenneth Jay Lane Jewerly, $83; skinny jeans by SOLD, $108; Tory Burch purse, $395, and ballet flats, $250, all from Leigh’s in Breton Village. Ivory shirt by Ya, $39, from Swirls Boutique, 963 Cherry St. SE. Lipstick by Stila from Smooch in Gaslight Village.
This year, the new shade to wear is tangerine tango, Pantone’s 2012 color of the year. Wondering how to wear the vibrant hue without looking like a fruit salad? One simple rule: Less is more. Find one great statement piece (we love these trendy tangerine jeans) and choose one fun accent, like this chunky chain-link necklace. Be sure to mix in other colors, textures and patterns. We added a bright blue purse and jute ballet flats to finish the look. Just need a smidge of orange? Add some tangerine flare to lips, nails or cheeks. For more fashion and style advice, check out TheMode Life.com — Tiffany Skilling
Photography by Alissa Lane
Nothing perks up a wardrobe faster than a splash of orange.
10 Grand Rapids March 2012
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Life & Style
Eighth Day Farm After eating a typical American diet growing up, Jeff Roessing discovered an urge to grow and eat good food. “I like my hands in the dirt,” said Roessing, a graduate of Western Theological Seminary. “In seminary, we had many discussions about the social justice and environmental issues at stake in farming that pushed me into wanting to get more into that scene.” In 2010, he and his wife, Melissa, launched Eighth Day Farm, a commercial-size urban gardening project in Holland. Besides delivering vegetables to subscribers of the farm’s Community Supported Agriculture program, the couple also is building community partnerships and outreach initiatives. This year, Eighth Day Farm, at 709 Pine Ave., will become a nonprofit organization with gardens and farm stands both on Pine Avenue and at Holland Town Center, where developer Mike Bocks has carved an acre of land out of the parking lot for the farm. The outreach arm of the nonprofit will be supported by growing and selling “safe produce through earth-friendly farming techniques,” said Roessing. He’ll use the proceeds to improve the community, from field trips for elementary students to give kids hands-on experience in a Jeff Roessing gets help turning the garden, to growing flowers to cheer residents in nursing homes. farm’s compost pile that nourishes the Roessing also plans to establish a paid internship program for three high school students gardens; eating dinner with wife Melissa from Holland’s core city to give them the and their two children; explaining how skills to host a week-long summer camp for potatoes grow to students in a Hope elementary kids. College summer program. Citing money and time as his greatest challenges, Roessing believes there are “strong philosophical reasons for doing this work. As we go along and things grow, we can be an educational resource to help influence people to turn to this sort of agriculture.” While Melissa is busy with their two children and growing a third, Roessing will be assisted by his first paid staff member, Josh Hauch, who will handle marketing and community liaison. For more information, visit www.eighthdayfarm.com. — Kate Dernocoeur
Photography by Jim Gebben (top and center); Courtesy eighth Day Farm (bottom and Background)
Photography by Alissa Lane
March 2012 Grand Rapids 11
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Abby has issues “I run mental marathons in yoga pants, eat green things from the ground and document my brilliant insights. I make you feel normal.” Already you’re chuckling and that’s just a blurb on the cover of “Abby Has Issues,” a compilation of snarky essays by Abby Heugel, a professional editor for national trade publications who lives in Grand Rapids. While she writes serious stuff by day, at night she blogs about the funny, sometimes poignant, side of her life. “Everybody has issues, but it’s so much easier when you can laugh about them,” said Heugel. “Laughter is a great way to handle any situation.” Her topics include everything from several “Senior Moment” blogs centered around her 90-yearold grandmother, to everyday observations. She outlines the proper etiquette for shopping at farmers markets and offers suggestions to her coworkers “who choose to procreate.” She even tosses in a few poems. “Writing helps me work through things,” she said. “And I’ve been amazed by the reaction of readers who tell me they can relate to my experiences.” Heugel originally decided to self-publish her book of blogs as a gift to her mother, who has encouraged her creative endeavors. She also decided that any proceeds would go to the Humane Society of Kent County, where Heugel once worked as an adoption counselor. “All of our pets have been rescue animals, so it just seemed right. Buy a book, save a kitten.” One blog covers a job interview Heugel missed because she was compelled to rescue a sad, abandoned dog on the side of the road. Luckily, she writes, the interview was rescheduled, she got the job — and the dog found a home. Some of the most entertaining blogs are about her trips to the assisted living home to visit her grandmother. “Fill a dining room with 25 old people, dementia, 20 wheelchairs, chair alarms,
“Writing helps me work through things. and i’ve been amazed by the reaction of readers who tell me they can relate to my experiences.” — abby heugel oxygen tanks, clothing protectors (bibs), dietary restrictions and no verbal filter within a 50-foot radius and you have yourself a reality show that will never be made, although perhaps it should.” One example: “In reference to his hot dog dinner, 85-year-old Leon will proclaim that ‘his wiener is limp.’ His wife will reply with, ‘It has been for years, but I stuck around anyway.’ True love.” For more of Abby and her issues, visit www.abbyhasissues.com. The book is available at Schuler Books and Amazon. — Marty PriMeau
PhotograPhy by JiM gebben
The New 2012 Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan
12 Grand rapids March 2012
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PhotograPhy by JiM gebben
– Matt Schmuker, designer/consultant
adam beasley adam@visualalchemy.net phone 616 446 4735 visualalchemy.net
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Ross Timyan really knows clean. Timyan’s business, Crystal Clean Auto Detailing, takes cleaning to new heights as he and his team bring cars, SUVs — even RVs and boats — to as close to new as possible. “We don’t just clean, we restore,” boasts Timyan, self-described chief crusader and founder. “And I think our customers really appreciate that.” Crystal Clean, 3413 Eastern Ave. SE in Grand Rapids, was formed by a teenage Timyan in a two-stall garage in 2007 after his customers at Todd Wenzel Buick/GMC requested help in making their cars presentable for sale on eBay. Business has been booming ever since. To keep his 43-employee operation growing, the now 23-year-old Timyan believes the best way to grow a niche business like his is to invest in both people and technology. He prefers to hire inexperienced detailers to his team since they have no steve lyons hands over his car keys to ross timyan at gerald r. Ford international airport. bad habits to break. In 2011, that timyan’s crystal clean auto Detailing provides philosophy was rewarded when one an airport valet service. of his hires, Chad Cornell, was voted Most Valuable Carwasher by Professional Carwashing & Detailing Magazine, an award that was handed over on the deck of the USS Midway in San Diego. Timyan expects to hire another 10 to 15 employees by spring. In terms of technology, Crystal Clean has incorporated iPhones, iPads and customized web portals to handle quotes and estimates. Timyan also uses professional photography and software to upload photos of his firm’s work to his customer’s websites. This combination of technology and people helped land Timyan on Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Business Leaders list last fall, and he was a finalist for the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce’s Epic Award as best young entrepreneur. Of course, car detailing isn’t the only thing Crystal Clean is doing to keep the business thriving. Timyan also launched an airport valet service that details and stores cars while customers are away. He hopes to expand his business into larger markets outside West Michigan. As time permits, he’d also like to finish his degree at Grand Valley State University. Visit Crystal Clean’s website at www.crystalclean autodetailing.com. — JiM ideMa
PhotograPhy by Michael bucK
detail-oriented
14 Grand rapids March 2012
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Excellent Food. Exciting Entertainment. Exceptional Shopping. Woodland Mall is the one destination with everything you need for an exceptional night out on the town. Come enjoy dinner, a movie and shopping! Celebration! Cinema Bar Louie Red Robin Restaurant Olga’s Kitchen On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina And our newest addition: Pottery Barn
PhotograPhy by Michael bucK
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Life & Style
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Come see why discerning homeowners, architects, builders and interior designers insist on working with us. We treat each and every project as if it were our own home. Come visit us in our “lifestyle” showroom conveniently located on the mezzanine level of the Breton Village Mall in East Grand Rapids.
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“It was on an Amtrak trip home from a shopping trip in Chicago that we brainstormed about opening our own store.” — Jamie Grasman Photography by Alissa Lane
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They make an ideal partnership — a mom and daughter who share the same interests and tastes. And since 1997, Maribeth Van Zalen and Jamie Grasman have shared a clothing business in Holland. This month, the owners of JB & Me are opening a second boutique in Breton Village, featuring women’s clothing and accessories, some home décor and a personal shopping service. “When I was growing up, mom and I went shopping every Saturday,” Grasman said. “As I got older, we realized there were things we weren’t finding in Holland and services that weren’t offered. It was on an Amtrak trip home from a shopping trip in Chicago that we brainstormed about opening our own store.” The first JB & Me was 1,400 square feet. Two moves later, they now oversee 8,200 square feet at the corner of Eight Street and River Avenue in Holland. At 4,700 square feet, the Breton Village store will be smaller, but it’s a very workable space, said Grasman, 30, who has a marketing degree from Grand Valley State University. While each store will have a team of employees, mother and daughter will handle all the buying and merchandising. They look for unique, affordable items — “denim and shoes are a big part of what we do,” Van Zalen said. “What we love is the search.” And, of course, they do it together. “If we do it separately, it’s like half our brain is missing.”
16 Grand Rapids March 2012
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history: grand Times
P
When the Army arrived by gorDon g. belD
Ro
Jennie hall, a lieutenant in the salvation army, helped establish a chapter in grand rapids in 1883.
deprived. A big step in that direction came five years after the arrival of McCracken and Hall. That’s when a home for unwed mothers, the first one in the Midwest, opened at the corner of Pine Avenue and Second Street. An improved facility was constructed in 1912 at the corner of Fulton Street and Fuller Avenue where the Army’s Booth Family Services operations now are based. For its dedication on Oct. 29 of that year, General Evangeline Booth, commander of the Salvation Army in the United States, was guest speaker. In her honor, the new facility was named The Evangeline Home. Gordon G. Beld has written more than 250 historical features for newspapers and magazines since the 1960s.
18 Grand rapids March 2012
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Credit: Timothy White
IT’S BEEN A CENTURY and a quarter since the Salvation Army’s tiny invasion force arrived in Grand Rapids and launched a crusade to make the city a better place. Its headquarters was established in November 1883 at a rental room on Pearl Street at the site of today’s Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. The unit was the Army’s first corps to be established in Michigan and its officers were a pair of ladies: Captain Jane McCracken and Lieutenant Jennie Hall. Their new outpost wasn’t impressive. An old stove was procured to take the edge off autumn frost, and kerosene lamps hung above seats made of boards. The single frill was a bass drum, and that wasn’t especially appreciated by many locals. It became the prime mover for noisy street processions, and its continuous thumping brought complaints to the police. On several occasions some participants were arrested and imprisoned. After the city tried to block the parades, the State Supreme Court ruled the marchers had a constitutional right to continue without hindrance. When the ladies arrived at the train depot, wagon driver Casey De Blond delivered their only possessions — an ancient trunk and a suitcase — to the cheap lodging place that had been arranged for them. On the way, he became aware they were members of the Salvation Army and, being accustomed to consuming alcohol rather liberally, he made a quick escape to avoid chastisement, not even pausing to collect his 5-cent fee. Surprisingly, however, he showed up at the Army’s first official meeting — probably out of curiosity — and became a convert, the first Salvation Army recruit in the city. The Army’s evangelistic outreach typically used outdoor meetings to attract prospects. A city ordinance at the time permitted marching and music on streets during the week, but not on Sundays. The soldiers, however, ignored the law and were jailed. Women in the group were released but demanded that if the men were kept in the jail, they’d stay there, too. So the services left the street and resumed in the jail, prompting officials to hasten the trial. Though it was a struggle for the Army to gain acceptance, it now is recognized as a leading provider of services for the desolate and
PhotograPhy courtesy granD raPiDs history & sPecial collections, archiVes, granD raPiDs Public library
though it was a struggle for the army to gain acceptance, it now is recognized as a leading provider of services for the desolate and deprived.
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Credit: Timothy White
PhotograPhy courtesy granD raPiDs history & sPecial collections, archiVes, granD raPiDs Public library
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The Verve Pipe Hannibal Buress
Drew Hastings
Jimmy Pardo
Amy Schumer
Jimmy Shubert
TickeTs on sale now!
Martin Short
Ticketmaster.com (Search for LaughFest)
CELEBRATING LAUGHTER FOR THE HEALTH OF IT! All proceeds will benefit the cancer, grief and support programs offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.
For information, visit laughfestgr.org or call 616.735.HAHA(4242) Anthony Jeselnik
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facebook.com/laughfest
@LaughFest
Sinbad
2/3/12 11:13 AM
Profile: Influential
Finding support in laughter Leann Arkema jumped at the chance to head up Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, which she says represents all the values she holds dear. By Alexandra Fluegel
M
ichigan native Gilda Radner, known for roles she created as an original cast member on “Saturday Night Live,” was seriously funny. She had an uncanny ability of making people laugh, until the late ’80s when a cancer diagnosis caused her to lose her funny — something Leann Arkema knows all too well. Arkema, president and CEO of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, said Radner’s experience of losing her way resonates with her, as
she had the same feelings after the sudden death of a close friend at 32. “I was faced with the death of someone I loved very deeply. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t know where to go. I didn’t know how to deal with it,” she said. For Radner, solace came through finding a group of people who were enduring their own cancer journeys. As for Arkema, she decided it was time to make a change. “It made me slow down and realize that life is not a given, and I was searching for that next step, personally and professionally. Once you have an experience like that, you don’t go back,” she said. Shortly after making this decision, Arkema saw a posting for the executive director position at the fledgling Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. “I jumped at the chance,” she said. “Gilda’s Club represented all the values that I hold dear as a person. We all laugh, we all cry, and we all need each other when we are going through big things in life.” Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is a free cancer support community that provides emotional health care for children and adults dealing with disease (cancer), disability and death. “It’s a place where people can be real, and they can find their smile and their laughter in the midst of all that’s happening in their lives,” she said. Arkema said the club honors Radner’s legacy of finding emotional health. “What a lot of us need to know is we are not alone — and share a laugh. We provide a place where people can find what they need emotionally and be with other people.” Early in her professional life, Arkema told
Leann Arkema Organization: Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Position: President and CEO Community Involvement: Economic Club of Grand Rapids board of directors. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Calvin College; Master of Arts in nonprofit administration, Michigan State University.
Photography by Jim Gebben
Residence: Grand Rapids
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Photography by Jim Gebben
Photography by Jim Gebben
Profile: Influential
herself, “Make sure wherever you go and whatever you do, keep your eyes open to be more inclusive,” a sentiment that arose after she arrived in West Michigan as a college student and noticed a drastically different landscape in terms of diversity. “I had a reverse culture shock. I had never seen so many blonde-haired, blueeyed people in my life,” the New Jersey native said. “I grew up in a very diverse neighborhood where I was a minority as a white kid.” Arkema vowed to try and reach out to people who might not always feel included. “As a leader, I’m honored and humbled by the work we do,” she said about Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, which serves more than 10,000 children and adults in 33 counties each year. There are two clubhouses and programs in more than a dozen schools and five inner-city community centers. Arkema, who has a master’s degree in nonprofit administration, said she believes in the nonprofit business model. “Nonprofits need to hold themselves to a higher standard in terms of innovation because there’s more at stake,” she said. “To have a thriving, healthy community, you need successful businesses and thriving nonprofits.” Last year, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids commemorated its 10th anniversary by hosting LaughFest, a 10-day festival celebrating “laughter for the health of it.” Although the festival was a great success, Arkema explained the idea didn’t happen overnight. “Our committee met for a year and a half and literally had no good ideas,” she March 2012 Grand Rapids 21
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Profile: influential
said with a smile. Then one night over a glass of wine, Arkema said a friend and cancer survivor suggested a comedy festival “and it all just fell into place.” The committee put together a “dream list” of talent and began contacting talent agents and managers. “We wrote letters, had conversations and were persistent on all fronts,” she said. “We wanted a way for anybody in the community to come out and enjoy laughing with other people and experiencing those same benefits that people at Gilda’s experience every day.” Last year’s LaughFest line-up of 40 comedians included comedic legends Betty White and Bill Cosby. Special events were put on by area organizations and businesses. It was more than a successful festival and fundraiser. “It delivered an experience of being together and sharing in laughter in a way this community has never seen, and it helped us begin a conversation about emotional health,” Arkema said. Tickets for last year’s LaughFest were sold to people in more than 25 states, and Arkema said this year’s festival — taking place March 8-18, with such headliners as Whoopi Goldberg, Martin Short and Kevin Nealon — is on track to be bigger and better. “We can teach society how to be emotionally healthy. If we can get people to laugh, we can get people to listen.” gr
PhotograPhy by JiM gebben
“We all laugh, we all cry, and we all need each other when we are going through big things in life.” — leann arkema
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Design
The five-story storage building at the junction of Lake Drive and Robinson Road in Eastown is getting a facelift and a new identity. » pg26
Photography by Michael Buck
Inside » Legacy: Kingsley Building 26
» art appreciation 28
» Critic’s choice 30
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Design: Legacy
Return of the Kingsley The bunker-like building at Lake Drive and Robinson Road is being historically rehabbed for mixed use, with living spaces planned for the upper floors. By Kate Dernocoeur
A
facelift and a new identity as the Kingsley Building has people talking about the unusual five-story structure at the junction of Lake Drive and Robinson Road in Eastown. Designed by famed warehouse architect George Kingsley (1870-1956) and known for several generations as the Zondervan or Kent Records building, the 103,000-square-foot, right-angle trapezoid is being restored to its historical appearance. Rehab of the building at 1415 Lake Drive SE began in March 2010 and is being done by Bazzani Associates. The firm, noted for its commitment to sustainable (green) building, is the contract
developer for design and construction and real estate leasing agent for the owner group, Offsite Lake Drive LLC. Bazzani Associates is working with Dixon Architects on the project. Constructed in 1927 for the Grand Rapids Storage & Van Co., the building integrated first-floor retail with upperfloor storage, but looked nothing like a modern warehouse. Kingsley was famous for his distinctive and beautiful storage buildings. “He created beautiful architecture in the process of building warehouses,” said Baird Hawkins, who, as co-developer with Bazzani for the project, knows the building inside and out. “Just because they
Photography by Michael Buck
“He created beautiful architecture in the process of building warehouses. Just because they were warehouses, it didn’t mean they had to be ugly.” — Baird Hawkins
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Design: Legacy
Photography by Michael Buck
Photography by Michael Buck
were warehouses, it didn’t mean they had to be ugly.” Other notable Kingsley buildings — many from the 1920s and 1930s — still stand in Chicago, Philadelphia, New York and elsewhere. Kingsley was a “master of taking different classical elements and putting them all together so that it looked nice when it was done — like the pieces belonged together,” said Guy Bazzani. For the Eastown building, Kingsley used eye-catching art deco-style. The exterior is plate glaze terra cotta — a shiny finish — from the ground to the expression line at the bottom of the second floor, then regular terra cotta on brick above that. The windows were fireproof, and a large clock hung outside the fifth floor facing Lake Drive. “The Kingsley Building was state of the art when it was built, including indoor loading docks. It’s made of cast-in-place concrete. Basically, it’s a bunker,” said Hawkins. The interior was laid out strictly for storage. It had silver and fur vaults, piano vaults and more. Cars were stored in the basement.
Built as a warehouse in 1927, the Kingsley Building in Eastown is being renovated to feature retail and residential spaces.
gation room is still there, with its vacuumsealed doors and pipes. In 1954, the local publishing company Zondervan Corp. took possession of the building. “The company was young then,” said Bazzani. “This was only their second location, and they didn’t have a lot of money. The trend in those days was to strip the facade off of buildings to make them look modern.” Instead, Zondervan did the building a favor by covering over the original facade. “The net effect of the outer skin was that they protected the building,” said Bazzani. When it was removed, it became clear that the original face of the building had been covered longer than it had been exposed to the elements. Bazzani’s work has been to take the building back to what it was 87 years ago. Bazzani Associates pays strict attention to the process of adapAllegro Coaching, a corporate wellness/fitness studio, tive reuse of historic properties, was the first tenant to open in the building at Lake Drive or “historical rehab.” This buildand Robinson Road. ing has proven to be a joy for Kingsley understood that the space Bazzani, who said that the concrete work had to be “dustproof, waterproof and “was done very well. The tops of the colmothproof,” Hawkins said. The building umns are perfect — no gaps, no inconsiseven had a fumigation room to sterilize the tencies. Whoever poured it really knew furniture. “In the basement, there’s the their stuff. They must have employed hun‘breath of death room.’ Everything in those dreds of masons.” No hazardous materials were found days was made with natural materials such as horsehair and leather and carried except for a small amount of asbestos all manner of pests, so everything went tile from the 1950s. Otherwise, the whole through that room and was fumigated building got a clean bill of health — “which before being sent into storage.” The fumi- is more than amazing,” said Bazzani.
Another priority for Bazzani is to rebuild with sustainability and environmental consciousness in mind. The firm has insulated the building with foam in the walls and in the ceiling of the first floor. The building is also insulated for sound and heat, and has heating and cooling systems that operate at an efficiency of 94 percent, according to Bazzani. The top three floors will remain undeveloped until the market for apartments or condos improves. The Kingsley Building will be “the only residential building with an elevator outside of downtown,” said Bazzani. “People like living in a neighborhood, and they like retiring into neighborhoods. This building should be something special in a place like Eastown,” known for its hip, eclectic style. Meanwhile, two tenants are already in business on the first floor. On the Robinson Road side, Allegro Coaching, a corporate wellness/fitness studio, offers everything from boxing to Pilates, as well as onsite coaching and wellness services for local businesses. Next door is Icapsa Used Books, which uses the Kingsley Building’s second floor for book storage. Scheduled to open in June is a new neighborhood eatery, a farm-to-table restaurant by Trillium Haven, the Jenison farm. Owners Anja Mast and Michael VanderBrug provide organic produce to several groceries and farmers markets. The restaurant will occupy the space that once served as the offices for the original building owners, and will include outdoor seating along a quiet side street. GR March 2012 Grand Rapids 27
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Design: Art Appreciation
An equine illusion
Even up close, it is obvious Butterfield has invested great time and sensitivity in translating perishable wood into bronze so that the sculpture will survive outdoors.
Equine imagery has played a major role in the history of world art since the Paleolithic era. As a subject, the horse has been second only to the human figure in painting and sculpture. No artist has rendered the horse in such compelling ways as American sculptor Deborah Butterfield, whose works are found in major public collections around the world. “Cabin Creek,” at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, was installed in 1999. The appeal of this work is widespread as it speaks to audiences of every age and experience from a variety of interrelated vantage points. Whereas abstracted imagery can often seem distant or foreign to many, most viewers enjoy the visual challenge of this particular horse — even if it is not described in highly realistic terms. Butterfield has masterfully presented the general shape and form of a horse — some would even say the attitude or disposition of the animal, as well — but in a rather unorthodox way.
“Cabin Creek” appears to be made of branches, logs and old wooden barn planks replete with rusty nails. Muscle and flesh it is not, but the suggestion of a noble creature it most certainly is. But the delight of the viewer does not end here because “Cabin Creek” is actually a work in bronze. From a distance, but even up close, it is obvious Butterfield has invested great time and sensitivity in translating perishable wood into bronze so that the sculpture will survive outdoors. Not only have the shapes and textures of the original materials been replicated, but the surface coloration, as well. Allusion and illusion combine with integrity and force. Butterfield’s passion for horses began during childhood in Southern California and continued at the University of California, where she was torn between studying veterinary medicine and art. The latter won out. Gradually, the horse emerged as a theme in her work, and she began to experiment with natural materials such as mud, straw and sticks. An exquisite example of her more fragile early work is found in the interior of Meijer Gardens’ main building: “Small Dry Fork Horse.” For the artist, the work was not about horses, in general, but specific in message and in homage. Butterfield has chosen to focus largely on the mare, acknowledging that much of art history has been populated by the stallion and warhorse. Likewise, many of her sculptures are “portraits” of horses she has known. Although the form may not represent a likeness, it is the spirit and attitude of a specific creature she hopes to convey. Contributing editor Joseph Becherer is a professor at Aquinas College and curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Essence: The Horses of Deborah Butterfield, an exhibition highlighting the sculptor’s work since the mid-1970s, runs through April 29 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. See meijergardens.org. This month’s events include: March 2, noon: The Horse in Art, a lecture by Dr. Craig Hanson of Calvin College, who will highlight Butterfield’s work and consider other famous horses in the history of art. March 9, noon: Gallery Walk with Kathy Ryan, executive director of Equest Center, who will talk about how equine-based therapy can improve the quality of life for physically, mentally and socially/emotionally challenged individuals.
Photography by William J. Hebert
By Joseph Antenucci Becherer
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Design: Critic’s Choice
To market, to market By Mark F. Miller, AIA
Want to help?
During the past 80 years, the market’s operations have adapted to changing economic and social trends while maintaining a solid urban presence near the corner of Fulton Street and Fuller Avenue. A turning point occurred in 2005 when the Midtown Neighborhood Association took control of operations. By 2007, this grassroots organization had firmly established the priority of updating the market as part of the Brikyaat Redevelopment Plan, an amendment to the city of Grand Rapids’ master plan. This neighborhood Area Specific Plan became a catalyst for a four-year process of public input, economic feasibility studies, urban strategy and architectural design that is now being implemented, as a completely re-envisioned market rises from the ground.
renderings courtesy Lott3Metz Architecture
This renewal endeavor is being supported primarily by private funds that have been raised through the Our Goodness is Growing campaign. While this fundraiser has raised about 80 percent of the overall budget, it still needs an additional $500,000 to realize the full potential of the design. Several funding opportunities are still available, including naming opportunities. For information, visit ourgoodnessisgrowing.org.
Established in 1922, Fulton Street Farmers Market brings farmers, chefs and locovores together in a lively outdoor market that brims with an array of seasonal produce, meats and other locally produced provisions. The market — the oldest and largest in Grand Rapids — is nestled in the Brikyaat quarter of the Midtown Neighborhood. Originally known as the East Side Market, the site was originally created by the city as a parking lot to ease the traffic congestion caused by farmers selling their produce block-by-block. By 1926, as produce sales increased, a more permanent arrangement was necessary and the current brick structure at the southeast corner of the site was constructed as an office, establishing the existing physical framework of the facility.
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design: critic’s choice
renderings courTesy loTT3MeTz archiTecTure
renderings courTesy loTT3MeTz archiTecTure
Safe at home With an investment of about $2.5 million, the market will improve the historic site while enhancing the adjacent business district. Designed by Lott3Metz Architecture and built by Rockford Construction, it will feature improved vehicular access, an update of the 100-year-old stormwater system that has caused flooding, and a complete re-grade of the steeply sloped site to accommodate universal accessibility. Best of all, the market — expected to be finished by May 1 in time for the 2012 season opening — will have a completely covered outdoor area that will give vendors and customers a reprieve from inclement weather. This linear shed, stretching from north to south, will replace the former steel structure that was used as an ad-hoc framework for hanging tarps. The shed, which covers about 120 stall spaces, is anchored at the Fulton Street edge by a new single-story building and adjacent plaza that establish the front door of the market. This building will include an office, an ATM machine, modern restrooms and additional vendor space that will enable the market to truly become a year-round center of commerce. As part of the plaza, the architect has skillfully woven a bus shelter into the design, further enabling the market to be a place to accommodate all comers while promoting an urban atmosphere. Contributing editor Mark F. Miller, AIA, is an architect and urban designer at Nederveld.
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C
Choosing the best restaurants in Grand Rapids sounds like an easy assignment. It’s not. This city has so many great places to eat that narrowing the list to just nine favorites was truly difficult. But we were up to the challenge. For several months last year, we dined and drank our way through some amazing menus. We asked our esteemed dining panel for input and quizzed local culinary experts. Then we haggled about whose cuisine was most innovative and which places offered the best service.
The “A” list
Photography by Johnny Quirin (page 33); michael buck (page 32)
Hip and trendy or tried and true, here are Grand Rapids Magazine’s 2011 best restaurants.
What it came down to was this: Where do we return again and again because we love the food and ambience? One place stood out as a top eatery on everyone’s short list: Bistro Bella Vita, the urban restaurant that dishes up Mediterranean country cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. That farm-to-table theme is evident in many of the winners, from Grove — voted Best New Restaurant — to six.one.six in the JW Marriott, which took top honors in the New American category (defined as upscale, contemporary cooking, including ethnic twists on familiar standbys). Best Lakeshore Restaurant is Everyday People Café in Douglas, which relies heavily on locally sourced ingredients. Classic American refers to restaurants serving traditional dishes (the kind that don’t require a culinary dictionary). Our fave is Leo’s, the downtown eatery that specializes in seafood and does a remarkable job of preparing meats, pastas and homemade desserts. In the ethnic categories, we also found winners —and often close seconds. The venerable Tre Cugini edged out newcomer Amore Trattoria in European, while authentic Mexican fare at El Granjero won in the Latin American category. Seoul Garden, with its Korean specialties and fresh sushi (firecracker roll, anyone?) grabbed the Asian honors. Shiraz Grille’s Persian specialties finished at the top in Middle Eastern. No, the decisions weren’t easy. For that reason, we’ve included some honorable mentions to acknowledge some of our old and new favorites. GR
The best restaurants in Grand Rapids offer a combination of great food and welcoming ambience. Opposite page is the Banh Mi appetizer at Grove, featuring Creswick pork belly and poached Laughing Bird shrimp. Above, Sushi chef Joo Kim at Seoul Garden, and below, dining at Bistro Bella Vita.
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“We’re always striving to find ingredients from the little guy, the farmers who are doing it right with certified organic or heirloom seeds.” — Aaron Van Timmeren
The house-made Four Cheese Ravioli at Bistro Bella Vita is a spinach and cheese filled pasta in a roasted tomato butter sauce with balsamic reduction.
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Bistro Bella Vita Restaurant of the Year
Inspired, sustainable cuisine
W
Photography by Johnny Quirin (pages 34-35)
hat makes Bistro Bella Vita No. 1 in the city? We could rave about the innovative Mediterranean country cuisine, the commitment to local farming and the vibrant, big city vibe. Or we could tell you what the staff thinks: It’s all about teamwork. No one knows that better than Aaron Van Timmeren, who has been cooking at Bistro for 11 years and took over as chef de cuisine last April. Every day he and his staff brainstorm to create up to 18 specials using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Most challenging are the nights when the 400-seat restaurant is filled to capacity with a private banquet scheduled in the back. “It can get really complicated,” he said. “But at the end of the night, there’s a feeling of ‘Wow, how did we do that?’ And then we do it again.” He grinned. “I love coming to work every day. We have a talented team and we enjoy what we do — and we’re always pushing to be better.” Bistro opened in 1997, the first eatery in what became the Essence Restaurant Group, joined by The Green Well Gastro Pub in 2007 and Grove last year.
Originally a martini bar, Bistro quickly transitioned to a restaurant devoted to creative Mediterranean cuisine, integrating a nice wine list and 100 beers by the bottle. The restaurant also established a relationship with Ingraberg Farms in Rockford to offer farm-to-table dishes. Fifteen years later, the restaurant now works with several other farms and local producers of meats, poultry, cheeses and more. “We’re always striving to find ingredients from the little guy, the farmers who are doing it right with certified organic or heirloom seeds,” Van Timmeren said. “We want to support people like the Schierbeeks from S&S Lamb in McBain, or the farmers at Earthkeeper Farm in Kent City. It would be easy for us to buy from Cisco or Gordon’s. But we like helping the local farmers. It puts the emphasis on us to be respectful of the product.” He’s also careful to clarify that supporting West Michigan farms doesn’t mean everything on the menu is grown right here. “Face it, in winter there’s not a lot coming out of the ground. But we support farms like Ingraberg who go to the farmers market in Chicago to get produce.” Then the magic happens. Based on the ingredients on hand, the kitchen staff meets to create unique dishes. One of the best ways to experience the many choices is Bistro’s tasting menu, available Sunday to Tuesday. For $25, diners can pick any three items from a generous list of antipasti, first and second courses. Add $13
From the top: Server Derek Larwin waits for his food orders to come up; Chef Aaron Van Timmeren; the Bistro team — Van Timmeren, Jason Kunze, Ginger Gryka and Nick Nelson — in a pre-meal meeting to go over the daily specials. Bottom left: Server M.J. Jones waits on a table.
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chili jam — paired with a San Lorenzo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Other choices included Braised Onion Ravioli, Pappardelle with S&S Lamb Ragout, and Creswick Pork Scaloppini. It wasn’t an easy choice. For the final course, we picked the Coq au Vin. The kitchen’s interesting version of the classic red-wine-braised chicken dish included polenta, Brussels sprouts, house-made pancetta, mustard greens and natural jus. The wine pairing was a merlot from California’s Montevina Winery. “We are definitely food driven,” said Bradley Teachout, who has been Bistro’s general manager for a decade. “We’ve created a culture of sustainable cuisine and invested in our staff. We have servers who’ve been here 10 years.” The staff listens to feedback from customers, he said, “and we keep an open mind.” Van Timmeren, who is a Rockford native and graduate of the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College, admits to being an “Internet junkie” whose hobby is reading food blogs. “I love to surf the web to read The New York Times or “Food and Wine” to find inspiration for an ingredient I’ve never heard of or a new process. Then I can take that and give it our Bistro spin.”
Top, Kami Roach and Nick Elzinga enjoy dinner at Bistro Bella Vita. Above, paella is a menu staple. Bottom left, Brad Teachout has been Bistro’s general manager for a decade. Photography by Johnny Quirin
and they’ll add beverage pairings for each one. And these aren’t skimpy portions. Here’s a recent typical three-course meal. For a starter, the beet salad was a combination of golden and red beets, butternut squash, hazelnuts, gorgonzola dolce and arugula in a grape-blackberry vinaigrette — paired with a Riesling by Mercer, Yakima Valley, Washington. Next course: Ricotta Gnocchi with braised pork belly, hedgehog mushrooms, squash, greens and onions with apple-
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Grove Best New Restaurant
Golden touch
Photography by Michael Buck
S
ince opening last April, Grove has received rave reviews. We expected nothing less of Patrick Wise, the young chef with the golden touch who admittedly “grew up” at Bistro Bella Vita and opened The Green Well Gastro Pub, the first two eateries in the Essence Restaurant Group. He was 19 when he started at Bistro, the 400-seat downtown restaurant where he and his team partnered with local farms to introduce the farm-to-table concept to Grand Rapids. At Green Well, Wise created hearty comfort foods to pair with beer. Now he’s honing in on what he dubs “creative conscientious cuisine.” Wise explained that every day is a challenge to dream up something spectacular using available seasonal ingredients and all parts of an animal so nothing goes to waste. At Grove, the food is inspired, the atmosphere is upscale and the service is superb. As a managing partner of Essence, he has partnered with Real Time Farms, a national website that allows customers to see exactly where their food originated.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Even as a teenager, Patrick Wise knew his way around a kitchen. As one of the managing partners of the Essence Restaurant Group, the 31-year-old chef is focused on Grove, the East Hills restaurant serving his “creative conscientious cuisine.”
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Honorable mention
While her authentic regional Italian fare also relies on local products to the fullest extent possible, what we really admire about Chef Jenna Arcidiacono is her magnetic personality and culinary passion that translates to marketing magic. Despite its off-the-beatenpath location, diners have had no problem discovering (and returning for) the delights of Amore Trattoria Italiana, co-owned by Jenna and her husband, Maurizio. This uber-chef has participated in a myriad of community fundraisers and has appeared on Fox 17’s “The One Seven,” WZZM 13’s “What’s Cooking” and WOOD TV 8’s “Eight West.” When things slow down in the kitchen, Jenna’s gracious dining room circulation makes a visit to the restaurant feel akin to dining at a friend’s home — bellisimo! (5080 Alpine Ave. NW, Comstock Park, 785-5344; amoretrattoriaitaliana.com)
six.one.six New American
Innovative cuisine
A chocoholics delight, chocolate³ at six. one.six includes milk chocolate mousse, peanut butter crunch and malted crème anglaise. Opposite page is Harrieta Hills Trout Neuniere, with crisp potatoes, pickled shallots, cauliflower and arugula.
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ne of the best things to happen to this JW Marriott eatery was the arrival of Executive Chef Justin Dalenberg. Dalenberg, who left Aspen, Colo., a year ago to move to Grand Rapids, has taken the restaurant’s food to new levels. Especially nice: He’s big on sourcing Michigan ingredients. The menu offers a mix of small and sharable plates as well as a wide selection of entrees. We also like the flatbreads and the house-made sushi, such as Dalenberg’s spicy Atomic Shrimp tempura roll. The daily specials are always a treat. One example: Braised Rabbit Cannelloni served with a smoked tomato broth and garnished with micro-arugula and black truffle pecorino, offered as an appetizer or main course. The kitchen staff rolled fresh pasta dough and filled it with braised rabbit, flavored with tomato, fennel, red wine and balsamic, plus three cheeses and a mushroom ragout. An outstanding dish. When the weather is warm, you can dine outdoors at the Jdek, a stylish patio with great views of the Grand River.
Photography by Michael Buck (pages 38-39)
Marketing magic Amore Trattoria Italiana
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Photography by Michael Buck (pages 38-39)
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Honorable mention Leo’s Classic American
Seafood is king
Although a relative newcomer to the Grand Rapids dining scene, Kris and Jason Spaulding’s Brewery Vivant has already been recognized by Midwest Living magazine for its downright cool atmosphere. Housed inside a former funeral chapel on the nicely redeveloped Cherry Street, the brews take their cues from Belgian and French traditions, while head chef Drew Turnipseed has created a companionable Belgium- and northern France-influenced menu aimed to heighten the microbrew experience. (925 Cherry St. SE, 719-1604, breweryvivant.com)
Local, fresh, seasonal Mia & Grace The husband-and-wife team of classically trained chefs, Jamie and Jeremy Paquin, were among the first to bring their passion for farm-to-table fare to full fruition with Mia & Grace in downtown Muskegon. Everything on the daily breakfast/lunch menu is locally sourced, fresh, seasonal and simply delicious. Although the locovore movement has since become more mainstream, we salute Mia & Grace for jumping in the deep end while others were still dipping their toes to test the waters. The restaurant stages special evening meals during the growing season. (1133 Third St., Muskegon, (231) 725-9500, miaandgrace.com)
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e can list so many reasons Leo’s is one of the best restaurants in the city, from the jet-fresh seafood to the elegant, open dining room. But when it comes down to one thing that makes Leo’s really special, we’d have to say it’s Leo Beil himself. The personable owner can be seen welcoming new customers, chatting with regulars and making sure service in the downtown eatery is top notch. Executive Chef Bernard Lucas oversees the kitchen, where seafood is flown in daily from around the world — and prepared just the way you like it. But while seafood is king, Leo’s also has plenty of great landlubber fare and pasta dishes, as well as some of the tastiest desserts in the city. Worth the splurge is Treasure Chest, a “coconut-macaroon crust layered with chocolate ganache, flourless chocolate cake, chocolate and vanilla Bavarian cream, wrapped in chocolate ganache, topped with whipped cream, served on chocolate sauce and creme anglaise.” All that and a wellstocked bar makes Leo’s a perennial favorite. Since opening in 2004, Leo’s has received four Grand Rapids Magazine Restaurant of the Year awards.
Photography by Michael Buck (pages 40-41)
Cool Atmosphere Brewery Vivant
Leo Beil, center, likes to greet and chat with customers at his downtown restaurant. Here he talks to Chris Williams and Lindsey Erickson. One of Leo’s seafood specialties is Jambalaya, featuring Gulf shrimp, sea scallops, salmon and mussels simmered in a traditional Jambalaya sauce and served with Cajun rice.
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Photography by Michael Buck (pages 40-41)
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Tre Cugini European
Always elegant
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Tre Cugini serves inspired Italian cuisine, including such dishes as Costoletta di Vitella alla Milanese, pan-seared breaded veal chops topped with greens. A favorite dessert is Sfogliata di Cioccolato Al’Amaretto, chocolate sheets and amaretto chocolate mousse garnished with fresh berries.
n an era when fine dining establishments are disappearing, we’re delighted that Tre Cugini has maintained its standards of excellence, from the crisp linen tablecloths and neo-rustic décor to the menu of authentic Italian cuisine. Ten years after opening in downtown Grand Rapids, Tre Cugini continues to offer the ambience of a fine European eatery. The classic Italian dishes are spot on, featuring some wonderful pasta variations and inventive seasonal specials. Italy is all about fresh seafood, and Chef Joe Frizzell knows how to combine interesting flavors. One menu staple is the Marinated Swordfish and Jumbo Shrimp with a spicy fresh tomato sauce. We also love the risotto with lobster, roasted tomatoes, truffle oil and sweet basil. Don’t ignore such meat options as Osso Bucco or the tender filet mignon. Wine connoisseurs will appreciate the wine list, with an ample selection of regional Italian vino. Tre Cugini also hosts a monthly food and wine pairing dinner. Best of all, when weather permits, we love dining al fresco on the patio, watching all the activity along Monroe Center and Rosa Parks Circle.
Photography by Michael Buck (pages 42-43)
Honorable mention Artsy, urban ambience San Chez, A Tapas Bistro We’d be remiss not to mention our adoration of local legend San Chez, A Tapas Bistro. Not only did San Chez introduce our city to the flavorful delights of smallplate dining, but owner Dan Gendler also laid the groundwork and then paved the way to making downtown Grand Rapids a hot dining destination. With a winning combination of artsy urban ambiance, superb service, an open kitchen and a splendid Spanish bill of fare, it has maintained its cutting-edge relevance for over two decades. (38 W. Fulton St., 774-8272, sanchezbistro.com) March 2012 Grand Rapids 43
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Seoul Garden Asian
Perhaps best known for its Korean fare, Seoul Garden also serves a wide variety of sushi and sashimi, ranging from basic to creative preparations. Chef Kim Cho presents a plate to Matt and Alicia Landheer. Below is a Seoul Garden sashimi platter.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Creative fare
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here’s certainly no shortage of Asian eateries in Grand Rapids, from Japanese sushi bars to expansive Chinese buffets. But the place we count on for consistently high quality food and a serene ambience is Seoul Garden. While renowned for authentic Korean fare, there’s something to please every taste, from spicy to mild. One of our favorites is the Beef Bul Go Ki, also known as Korean barbeque, a sliced rib-eye beef marinated in a sweetened soy-flavored sauce and sautéed with white and green onions. There’s also a wide selection of traditional Chinese and Japanese dishes, including a fresh sushi menu that ranges from simple to “creative” and “executive.” As for beverages, the full bar menu includes a decent wine list, specialty martinis and international and domestic beers — plus a fine sake selection. Even the desserts are fun, like the Tempura Ice Cream (vanilla ice cream wrapped with cake and a touch of honey). The staff aims to please and we can’t say enough about the ambience. The spacious dining room is divided into cozy seating arrangements that can handle a party of two or a large group.
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sHiraZ Grille miDDle easteRn/meDiteRRanean
Delectable dining
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at Shiraz grille, an assortment of kabobs, including beef, chicken, seafood, cornish hen and lamb are grilled over an open flame and served with grilled tomatoes, green peppers and basmati rice. the menu features a variety of Persian specialties.
PhotograPhy by Michael buck
PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin
ive Ali Ghebleh a skewer and the owner of Shiraz Grille will create a truly delicious kabob. We love ’em all, from the fork-tender filet mignon to the Cornish hen. And kabobs are just one of the many inspired dishes at this Persian jewel, from baba ghannouj to the house specialty: shank of lamb. A native of Iran, Ghebleh has said his goal was to introduce Persian food to West Michigan. He’s accomplished that with his authentic soups and stews, such as Gheymeh Bodemjon, featuring braised beef, yellow split peas and eggplant in a cinnamon tomato sauce with Persian sundried limes. Or Chicken Fessenjan, poultry sautéed in onions and garlic and simmered in a pomegranate sauce. Perhaps just as amazing is the basmati rice with a subtle dash of saffron served with most dinners, as well as several specialty rice dishes. For a real Persian adventure, ask about the “delectable dish” of the day. There’s a full bar and a nice wine list that pairs well with the food. Most of all, we enjoy the warm and welcoming vibe — go on Thursday nights to catch the belly dancing.
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Honorable mention El Granjero Mexican Grill Mexican/Latin American/Caribbean
Truly authentic
Longtime favorite Downtown Trini’s Who would have thought that the little burg of Sparta would become known as a dining destination? Thanks to brothers Joe and Trini Paiz and their much-loved Mexican restaurant, Downtown Trini’s, Sparta is well ensconced on the culinary map. The atmosphere is fun, the portions are gigantic, and the made-from-scratchdaily menu is served with a heap of hospitality. Crowds have been queuing up for a taste of Trini’s for close to 20 years. (134 E. Division Ave., Sparta, 887-2500, down towntrinis.com)
Taste bud tantalizer Marie Catrib’s Another culinary pioneer, Marie Catrib’s offers something for everybody. Vegans, vegetarians, celiacs and just plain foodies can find something to tantalize their taste buds in this LEED-certified eclectic eatery in East Hills Center (of the universe). Marie’s self-described “care-free food” includes Middle-Eastern-leaning fare, and she recently expanded the operation to include a new deli and Marie’s Marketplace, offering everything from bread and muffin mixes to frozen family dinners and a variety of vegan and glutenfree baked goods and single-serving meals for takeaway. (1001 Lake Drive SE, 454-4020, mariecatribs.com)
Mercedes Lopez, owner of El Granjero, displays the restaurant’s specialty, El Molcajete, a Mexican feast with grilled shrimp (or steak), grilled cactus and green onion, chorizo and grilled white cheese. The menu offers a variety of authentic fare and Tex-Mex favorites.
Photography by Johnny Quirin (center); michael Buck (left)
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his is the category that always inspires heated discussions. We all have our favorite Mexican hangouts, from Beltline Bar with its festive atmosphere and tasty margaritas to Maggie’s Kitchen, where owner Maggie Ramirez still refuses to serve a wet burrito. But top honors go to El Granjero Mexican Grill. After working at the former Tacos El Granadero, Mercedes Lopez purchased the restaurant five years ago when the previous owner retired. She gave it a new name and tweaked the menu, serving such authentic dishes as barbacoa and cow tongue. The house specialty is El Molcajete — marinated grilled steak or shrimp, chicken breast, grilled cactus and green onion, chorizo and grilled white cheese served with rice, beans and avocado. Yet Lopez also caters to American palettes with Tex-Mex favorites. And yes, she will serve a wet burrito, though she’d never heard of such a thing before moving to Michigan. We admit, despite the colorful furniture, the place isn’t fancy. (And we’d love to order a Corona with our enchiladas.) But overall, the family-run restaurant offers great food and service.
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Everyday People Lakeshore
Deliciously hip
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The food is great at Everyday People and so is the atmosphere. At left, server Stephanie Rhoda pours a martini for Jennifer Weyenberg. Many menu items are made with locally sourced ingredients. Above is the Asian braised natural beef short rib with stir fried rice noodles and shitake scallion salad.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Photography by Johnny Quirin (center); michael Buck (left)
s the name suggests, the atmosphere at this popular Douglas eatery is hip and casual, serving food that’s innovative and top notch. Add in friendly service and you’ll see why it’s a lakeshore standout. We love that the kitchen utilizes several locally farmed ingredients, like our winter favorite — Roasted Pumpkin Pierogi with pumpkin from S&V Farm in Holland and organic gouda made at Grassfields Farm. Or the lamb chop dish consisting of three char-grilled Spanish style marinated chops, locally made Spanish-style chorizo-potato gratin served with Visser Farm spicy golden beet-apple salad. The kitchen has perfected the Spanish Tapas, an appetizer plate heaped with a variety of tastes and textures: leek tart, sherry-glazed figs, shrimp, red pepper relish, cured meat, Spanish cheeses, olives and more. During the summer months, diners are willing to camp outside an hour before opening to snag a table. When the temperature dips, they simply crowd into the bar, creating a congenial atmosphere. Everyday People also has wine dinners plus live jazz and blues in the outdoor wine garden.
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Justice delivered David Schock turns his camera on unsolved West Michigan murders, bringing new information to light in hope of finding justice for the victims and their families. By Tim McAllister Photography by Johnny Quirin
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t doesn’t look like the home of a man with such a gruesome obsession. The main floor is brightly lit, with shining wood floors, a grand piano, tastefully framed artwork and impressive books under glass. A friendly little dog nudges one’s shin, begging to be petted. Across the large, open room, the Grand River is visible, sparkling in the moonlight beyond several large windows. There is no hint of evil, rage, secrets, death. Nothing screams “Murder most foul!” Until you enter the basement.
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Documentary filmmaker David Schock poses at the Holland site where Janet Chandler was murdered.
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“Somebody ALWAYS knows somethin’.”
David Schock’s website, www. delayedjustice.com, includes a section called “We Remember.” It’s a list of names, stories, articles and photos of several Michigan cold case murder victims. “This website is intended to deal with murder, brutality, corruption and hatred — all falling under what we call acts of injustice,” Schock writes. “We tell the stories of open and unsolved homicides — what are called ‘cold’ cases. “We also memorialize those whose lives have been taken from them in hope that somebody will come forward to tell the truth.” Here are highlights from two of those stories. Anyone with information about these slayings is asked to contact Silent Observer at (616) 7742345 or visit silentobserver.org. Robin Wellso, a 22-year-old MSU graduate, was last seen alive Dec. 29, 1984. Her partially clothed body was found two days later on the back porch of a vacant house at 436 Charles Ave. SE. She had been beaten and stabbed to death. Wellso, an Okemos native, was spending an evening in Eastown with two friends. They went to the Intersection bar at 1520 Wealthy St. SE. Wellso decided to leave the bar to walk home to her apartment at 723 Lake Drive SE. A woman matching Wellso’s description entered the Domino’s Pizza, 1335 Lake Drive SE, at around 2 a.m., and asked for directions to the Intersection. This was the last time Wellso was seen alive. Joel Battaglia was 23 when he was found beaten to death on the sidewalk five blocks from his house. Battaglia, the 1985 prom king at Catholic Central High School, was a senior at Aquinas College. On June 10, 1990, Battaglia went for drinks at Mulligan’s Pub, 419 Norwood Ave. SE. He left the bar on foot around 1:45 a.m. At 2:30 a.m., a passing motorist noticed an unconscious man lying on the sidewalk in front of Trinity United Methodist Church, 1100 Lake Drive SE. According to press reports, he had been “struck in the forehead with a blunt instrument.” Police still have no idea who killed Joel Battaglia. His family has put up billboards and offered thousands of dollars in reward money for clues, but nothing has turned up.
As David Schock leads the way down the stairs into his inner sanctum, the eyes have to adjust. The basement is dark, like a dank cave or a morgue. A state-of-the-art computer sits on a small desk, the screensaver casting a small amount of wobbly light. Various awards and diplomas are framed on the wall. This is where Schock creates his “cold case” murder films — three full-length endeavors so far, including one just completed in December — that focus on unsolved West Michigan murder cases. Schock’s most notorious film is his first: 2004’s “Who Killed Janet Chandler?” which led to the solving of a 25-year-old murder case. “I had a group of students at the Holland cop shop,” the former Hope College associate professor of communications said. The journalism class was at the police department to learn how to develop and maintain relationships with local law enforcement. “As usual, I was running my mouth, and when we got done, we were talking with Capt. Bob DeVries, who was the public information
officer. He said he was retiring. And my question to him was, ‘You’ve been doing this for 30 years, what was the one that got away?’ “Without hesitation, he said, ‘Janet Chandler. That’s the one that keeps us all awake at night. … How did she die? Who killed her?’ And I said, ‘Janet who?’ I had no idea who she was, no idea at all. But when he gave her name to me, the only way I’ve been able to put it that makes sense is, he inscribed her name on my heart. He handed it over to me, I felt.” This led Schock to embark on a new direction in both his filmmaking and his teaching career. “When fall rolled around, I was teaching a documentary class for the first time. I told my students, ‘You’re going to make three documentaries for me. In addition to those three, would you like to walk with me as I make a film?’” Incidentally, Schock did not go to film school, and thus he is a rarity in his industry: an entirely self-taught filmmaker. “Nope, no film school,” he said. “I’m just a rural Michigan guy who makes films.”
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“There is no such thing as closure in these cases. You might get some answers, but there is no way to make it just.” — David Schock
Like the students who helped make the film, Janet Chandler attended Hope College. A deeply religious young woman, Chandler was a gifted singer and came from a closeknit family. At the time of her death on Jan. 31, 1979, Chandler was working the nightshift as a front desk clerk at the Blue Mill Inn in Holland. Her body was found near South Haven early the next morning. Her murder remained unsolved for 25 years. It wasn’t until Schock’s film was completed and shown on PBS in 2004 that people started coming forward, and the case was finally solved. “In all, there were probably 12 to 15 men who raped Janet,” he said. “There are five men in prison now, four of them for life.” Glenna Chandler, Janet’s mother, was pleased by Schock’s film about the case. “(He) and the kids put every effort into that movie,” Chandler said. “Without him, I don’t think it would’ve been solved, because that brought it to the forefront.” Simply put, a “cold case” murder is an unsolved murder. Somebody has been killed, and there are no known suspects. Sometimes even the victim’s identity isn’t known. “You have about a 50/50 chance of getting away with murder in Michigan,” Schock said, referring to the state’s 52 percent clearance rate on murder cases in 2010. In the United States, 62 percent of murders have been solved, according to the most current FBI statistics available, from 2009. “Cases grow cold because there’s no new information,” Schock said. “The police are only able to work with the cooperation they’re given.” Schock has a website (www.delayedjust ice.com) devoted to cold case murders in Michigan. On the website are the stories behind all of his films — DVDs of which are available — as well as a “We Remember” page with details about 104 more unsolved Michigan murders. Schock’s time spent hunting down murderers has lent him a rather cautious attitude toward strangers. For example, when he received a telephone call during the interview, he clearly and deliberately told the caller who was in his house twice during the conversation. But Schock doesn’t come off as a suspicious or a frightening man. He has a warm, friendly, open demeanor, and he speaks intelligently and articulately on a range of subjects. In addition to Schock’s career as a filmmaker, he is an author, has worked as a newspaper reporter, is a self-described “semiprofessional” musician (he composed and performed the scores to several of his films
and has recorded a few jazz CDs), and until recently, was an associate professor at Hope College. “I did not retire, I assure you,” Schock said. “I gave my department chairwoman a choice: I could either stay or go. She said it wasn’t that simple. I told her it was. Either she wanted me there or she didn’t, and if she didn’t, why would I stay some place I wasn’t wanted? She said she didn’t, so I chose to leave — to not seek a renewal of my contract. And folks at the college may not have taken well to the idea that, ‘Dr. Schock, the police were here to visit you again.’” Unsolved murders aren’t Schock’s only cinematic subjects. He has made more than 50 films on topics ranging from online bullying to “Star By Star,” an entertaining documentary about Naomi Long Madgett, the poet laureate of Detroit. That film won the outstanding documentary award from the Historical Society of Michigan. However, it is his cold case murder films for which he is best known and that have most impacted the West Michigan community. “So much that passes for film nowadays is so bad,” Schock said, “but I enjoy this kind of stuff. It’s terribly compelling.” Captain Jeffrey Hertel, a 20-year veteran of the Grand Rapids Police Department, has been commander of the Investigative Division since 2003. Hertel finds Schock’s films helpful to the department’s investigations. “His films highlight cases that we feel comfortable giving him to do,” Hertel said. “He presents the information we want presented, but with much more detail.” Hertel’s implication that the GRPD assigns cases to Schock isn’t entirely accurate, however. Instead, when Schock contacts the GRPD for information about an unsolved murder, Hertel decides on a caseby-case basis whether or not he’ll share that information with Schock. “After all traditional means of investigation are exhausted and the case has sat open with no development for a long time, we may give Schock the case,” Hertel said. “We give him very few guidelines, and he doesn’t ever step on our toes.” According to Hertel, when starting one of his investigations, Schock travels from his Ottawa County home to the GRPD building downtown. He is given access to a small conference room and all of the material related to the case he’s pursuing. He is then allowed to make scans of all the documents and information he thinks he might need, and uses the computer files to aid in his cinematic investigation. One of the “very few guidelines” Hertel
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David Schock talks to a Holland woman about the Chandler case he helped solve. In his basement office, the filmmaker does research on Michigan cold cases. So far, he has completed three full-length films.
“Cases grow cold because there’s no new information. The police are only able to work with the cooperation they’re given.” — David Schock
alluded to is a code of silence about what he calls “hidden case facts.” “Everything is case-dependent,” Hertel said, “but sometimes we have hidden case facts that, if given out, could make it more difficult to prosecute. I trust Schock not to use those in his movies. I trust him.” Obviously, the police spend the majority of their time investigating the most recent crimes. Cold cases, however, are never actually allowed to go cold. They are currently handled by a multi-agency task force, the Kent Metro Cold Case Team. There are two GRPD detectives on permanent assignment there, as well as two sheriffs and a State Police sergeant. The KMCCT is based out of the Kent County Sheriff’s office at 701 Ball St. in Grand Rapids. “The county police chiefs devised this team for two reasons,” Hertel said. “One, the cases often cross jurisdictions. And two, it can help to get new eyes on the cases.” In addition to this countywide team, each year Hertel assigns two detectives from the GRPD Major Case Unit to concentrate on cold cases, isolating them from current cases for a two-week period. “We’ve had a lot of success with that,” he said. Schock is appreciative of his special access and doesn’t have any illusions about his place in the law enforcement community. “I am not a cop and I don’t want to be,” Schock said. “All I am is a storyteller.” Schock’s most recent project, “Into the Dark,” is a film about the unsolved 1989 murder of 18-year-old Shannon Siders, a Newaygo resident. “She was a typical kid, close with her family, especially her cousin and her dad. She was a girl trying to find herself, ” Schock said. Siders was hanging out with friends one July evening when she vanished. In the autumn of that year, a hunter discovered her
corpse five miles away from where she was last seen. The autopsy revealed that Siders had been brutally assaulted. The small town of Newaygo has been swirling with rumors about the killing ever since. “Somebody definitely knows what happened,” Schock said. Newaygo’s police chief, Patrick Hedlund, says during an interview in the film that there are several individuals being investigated in connection with Siders’ murder. To date, however, nobody has been charged with the crime. Schock premiered “Into the Dark” in December at Newaygo High School, where Siders had been a student. “It was standing room only,” Schock said. “In the audience were the cops, the whole cold case team, the family members — some of whom drove over eight hours to be there — friends, people from the community, but also the suspects and the suspects’ families. What was it like in that room? You could cut it with a knife. Chief Hedlund said we set that city on its ear. The cops were writing tips as fast as they could hear them.” Even when there is a prosecution in a murder case, Schock is skeptical about it bringing the victim’s family peace of mind. “There is no such thing as closure in these cases,” Schock said. “You might get some answers, but there is no way to make it just. I do the best I can to create as much justice as possible.” In the end, Schock’s main focus is the victim’s family. “My loyalty is to the families, not the police,” Schock said. “The most important thing is Shannon Siders, not the making of the film about her murder. Her life matters most, not her death.” GR Freelance writer Tim McAllister is a recent graduate of Western Michigan University.
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GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL is pleased to announce that Susan Ford Bales will be returning to Grand Rapids as the keynote speaker for the biennial “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan” luncheon event. Please join us on March 7, at the newly-remodeled Ambassador Ballroom at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, as we celebrate the achievements of Susan and her mother, Betty Ford, and honor “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan.” Reserve your seats now at grbj50.eventbrite.com. Keynote Address by Susan Ford Bales
March 7, 2012
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in the Ambassador Ballroom 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
grbj50.eventbrite.com
For additional event information, contact Jocelyn Burkett at 616.459.3222 or jburkett@geminipub.com
PREMIER SPONSOR:
GOLD SPONSORS: CHEMICAL BANK FIFTH THIRD BANK MEIJER MICHIGAN BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION WELLS FARGO INSURANCE SERVICES/WELLS FARGO BANK
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
WEST MICHIGAN WOMEN’S EXPO
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City Guide Get ready to giggle She can’t wait. “Grand Rapids is just a perfect city for this festival,” Madigan said in a phone interview from her hotel room in New York City. “Other places have tried, but it just doesn’t work as well. It was nice that everything was downtown and we were able kathleen to walk around. It was delightMadigan ful.” And Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is delighted that Madigan is again headlining at the 10-day extravaganza created to start a dialogue about the power of laughter and emotional health. “It’s not a comedy festival. We’re very clear about that,” said Leann Arkema, president and CEO of the cancer and grief support community named for the late comedian Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer in 1989. “I think it’s our message that has attracted such great talent.” This year’s impressive line-up includes Whoopi Goldberg, Martin Short, Kevin Nealon, Sinbad, Mike Epps, Rodney Carrington, Jim Gaffigan and Alan Zweibel, an original writer for NBC-TV’s “Saturday Night Live.” Arkema said Madigan was “someone we knew we wanted to invite back. She was our first
INSIDE » FRESH HOPS 69
sold-out show last year, and we received wonderful feedback on her show. She really engaged the community.” As a stand-up comic for 22 years, Madigan performs more than 100 gigs every year and is a frequent guest on late-night talk shows. She starred in her own “Gone Madigan” special on Showtime TV and entertained troops in Iraq and Afghanistan on two USO tours. Honors include an American Comedy Award and a Phyllis Diller Award, both for Best Female Comedian. Madigan defines comedy as “talking about what everybody is experiencing and nobody is saying out loud. I like to talk about the stuff that interests me — sports, politics. But I don’t delve into celebrity like Kathy Griffin does. I’ve never seen an episode of the Kardashians and I don’t know why I should be interested in a family of morons. If I want to laugh, I can hang out with my own family.” That’s something she does a lot. Raised in St. Louis with six siblings, Madigan said she spends most of the winter back home, crashing at her parent’s place or popping in on her sisters. “Between gigs I go to LA. I bought a small home there so I’ll have something to sell if I decide to leave. But I like to hang out in the Midwest.” She believes Midwesterners are folks with a realistic perspective of the world. “People in the Midwest like to sit around watching the world a little removed, not like the people in New York and Los Angeles who think they are the world.”
PhotograPhy Courtesy BrIaN FreIDMaN
AFTER TWO SOLD-OUT performances at last year’s LaughFest, comedian Kathleen Madigan is returning this month for the second festival of laughter.
» GRAND VINE 78
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City Guide Don’t We Boys
PhotograPhy By JohNNy QuIrIN
Don’t We Boys, a sketch comedy group based at Dog Story Theater in Grand Rapids, performs darkly comic material. The group has three members: Joe Anderson is a veteran of Second City in Chicago, works as a stand-up comedian and voices “Big Boy” in that restaurant’s TV commercials. Matt Sterenberg has performed with several local improv groups. Dave Lyzenga is an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry. “People are used to seeing comedy sketches set at a store,” Anderson said. “Or an office!” Lyzenga added. “We made a decision to pursue as many ‘high-stakes’ situations as we could,” Anderson said, getting the others started. “Like on a desert island! Or in space!” Lyzenga said. “Grand theft auto!” Sterenberg said, giggling maniacally. “A haunted house!” Lyzenga said, finally stumping the others. You get the picture. Rather like The Beatles, each of the Boys has a different, yet complementary, personality. Lyzenga always seems ready to explode into torrents of comedy and only barely contains himself. Sterenberg is the group’s secret weapon, dropping sarcasm into any moment of silence. Anderson, most likely due to his advanced age, seems to be the group’s leader and offers wry commentary. “Our show — it’s kind of like the first time you hear a fourth-grader swear,” Lyzenga said. “It’s so awkward.”
Sister Sue Tracy isn’t a traditional nun. “I respect those women tremendously, but that life just wasn’t for me,” she said with a mischievous grin. As a member of the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters for more than 50 years, Tracy’s spiritual beliefs have always been served with humor, flair and attitude. Her passion for laughter began in 1959 while she was a student at Aquinas College thinking about her future and whether to join the Marywood Dominican Sisters. “I had a huge decision to make: Hollywood or Marywood,” she said. “Some of the sisters say that I brought Hollywood to Marywood.” Her love of laughter has translated into an unexpected career as a public speaker, allowing her to share her humorous perspective on life around the country. “I’m at home with people. I come alive in front of them,” Tracy said. After becoming a member of the World Laughter Tour and a certified “Laughter Leader,” she speaks at more than 60 events each year. Tracy said her sense of humor has allowed her to overcome obstacles — she’s a four-time cancer survivor — and share her personal experiences with others. As an oncology chaplain at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids for the past 15 years, Tracy said she understands the challenges of the disease. “I promised myself I would not let cancer take my humor away,” she said, “and that I would look for lighter sides wherever I could find them.”
MORE THAN 60 HEADLINERS MORE THAN 40 LOCATIONS MORE THAN 250 EVENTS
2012 LAUGHFEST
PhotograPhy Courtesy BrIaN FreIDMaN
A trio of laughs
The funny nun
KATHLEEN MADIGAN:
MON., MARCH 12 • 7 P.M. AT FOUNTAIN STREET CHURCH
DON’T WE BOYS:
WED., MARCH 14 • 7 P.M. AT LADIES LITERARY CLUB
LAFF JEST FOR THE HEALTH OF IT WITH SISTER SUE TRACY:
WED, MARCH 14 • 7 P.M. AT CATHOLIC INFORMATION CENTER
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF SHOW TIMES & EVENTS LOG ON TO LAUGHFESTGR.ORG
10 days of non-stop laughs!
sister sue tracy
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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.
Mar 1-4 - 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 pm Thu, noon-9 pm Fri, 10 am-9 pm Sat, 11 am-6 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $9 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). www.grhomeshow.com. Mar 2 - EAT, DRINK, BE MERRY: St Cecilia Music Center’s benefit includes wine tasting by Martha’s Vineyard and silent auction. 6:30 pm. 22 Ransom Ave NE. $35 (scmconline.org). Mar 2-3 - SUNSHINE MOPS CONSIGNMENT SALE: Kids’ clothing, toys, books, baby equipment and maternity clothes. 9 am-3 pm Fri, 9 amnoon Sat. Sunshine Community Church, 3300 East Beltline NE. Free. Mar 2-4 - GIRLFRIENDS WEEKEND: Downtown Holland hosts three-day event. Wine tasting, dueling pianos, belly dancing lesson, breakfast fashion show, in-store activities. $100 weekend, $55 Sat only. www.girlfriendsweekend.org. Mar 8 - ASIAN GALA: Third annual gala sponsored by West Michigan Asian American Association, keynote speaker Gov. Rick Snyder. 5:30 pm. Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW. Tickets TBD. Mar 8-18 - LAUGHFEST: Gilda’s Club celebrates its 11th anniversary with a 10-day, 40-venue, 60-artist festival of laughter. Comedians include Whoopi Goldberg, Martin Short, Kevin Nealon, Alan Zweibel, Bob and Tom Comedy All-Stars, Kathleen Madigan, Sinbad, Jim Gaffigan, Anthony Jeselnick, Amy Schumer, Laurie Berkner Band and many more. Individual event and festival passes: www.laughfestgr.org.
The Freedom Riders Exhibit, opening March 6 at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, captures the powerful images and experiences of the 1961 Freedom Rides, a pivotal chapter in the Civil Rights Movement. Between May and November of that year, men and women defied segregation laws and racial inequality on a series of bus rides throughout the South. Many faced violence and imprisonment, risking their lives to fight for equality. Their tenacity led the Interstate Commerce Commission to issue an order to repeal bus and train segregation laws. The exhibit — more than 60 feet long — is enhanced with recorded messages of Riders who endured racism and savage beatings. “We are hoping this exhibit will put together some of the pieces of the Civil Rights Movement for those that weren’t alive then and continue the dialogue about race in America,” said Linda Kennedy, development coordinator at WGVU and a member of the committee that is bringing the exhibit to Grand Rapids. Planned events include screenings of the documentary “Freedom Riders” and activities for students. There is no admission fee and the museum will extend hours to See MuSeuMS & AttrActionS allow more people access to the exhibit.
Special Events Mar - SUGARBUSH: Blandford Nature Center’s annual maple sugar festival inclues trail hike that shows how maple syrup is tapped and bottled. Guided tours 2-5 pm Thu and noon-5 pm Sat ($6, $5 members). 9 am-5 pm Mar 24, Sugarbush Festival and Pancake Breakfast ($10 adults, $5 kids). 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 735-6240, www. blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Thru Apr 6 - RUMMAGE SALE REGISTRATION: Register now to sell clothes, toys, books, jewelry, outdoor items, crafts, baked goods and more. Sale takes place 9 am-3 pm Apr 14, Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. $20/table or $15/space/bring your own table (616-532-9422, ext 6, or resourcecenter@home schoolbuilding.org).
Mar 9-11 - MONSTER JAM THUNDER NATIONALS: Monster trucks peform. 7 pm Fri, 2 and 7 pm Sat, 2 pm Sun. Van Andel Arena. $15-$40 adults, $10 kids (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). Mar 9-11 - 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 9-11 - WEST MICHIGAN WOMEN’S EXPO: More than 400 exhibits and seminars for women. 10 am-8 pm Fri and Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $8, $6 children 6-14 (at door). www. kohlerexpo.com. Mar 10 - DAY OF ARTS: Girls Choral Academy, VSA Grand Rapids and GR Ballet Company host free day of arts with workshops on ballet, singing and hip-hop; crafting stations; student art exhibit; and performances by all three organizations. 9 am-2 pm. GR Ballet Company, 341 Ellsworth SW. Mar 10 - SAUGATUCK ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL: Annual parade in Saugatuck and Douglas. 2 pm. www.saugatuck.com. Mar 10 - SOUP AND SLIDER FESTIVAL: Third annual competition for best burger and soup from area restaurants; benefits relief fund for families that have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Begins at noon, 7 pm judging, 7:30 pm-midnight live music. 20 N First St, Grand Haven. Free admission; food sampling prices TBD. More information: www.visitgrandhaven.com or Veterans of Foreign Wars (616-842-6210). Mar 10-11, 17-18 - 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
PhotograPhy Courtesy BIrMINghaM CIVIL rIghts INstItute/JosePh PostIgLIoNe
Honoring the Freedom Riders
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nothing like
S:9.875”
juicy Photography Courtesy BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE/Joseph Postiglione
gossip over a
filet with the girls.
Grand Rapids | 616.776.6426 | Inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel | ruthschris.com
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City Guide
And all that jazz
16th St, Holland. $1. www.degraaf.org. Mar 13 - STORY SPINNERS: Folk tales and original stories for all ages. 7 pm. Meijer Gardens Café, 1000 East Beltline Ave NE. www.storyspinners. net. Free. Mar 14 - PILLAR AWARDS LUNCHEON: Women’s Resource Center honors efforts of West Michiganbased employers who empower women at work. 11:45 am-1:30 pm. JW Marriott Hotel, 235 Louis St NW. $50 (458-5443). www.grwrc.org/events. Mar 15-17 - JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS SALE: Kids clothes, maternity wear, baby equipment, books, toys and more. 9 am-7 pm Thu-Fri, 9 am-2 pm Sat. DeltaPlex. $3 Thu, free Fri-Sat. Mar 15-18 - 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 16-17 - AFTERNOON OF FASHION AND TEA: Guided tour of 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, www.grmuseum. org. $12, $10 members. Mar 17 - IRISH ON IONIA: This second annual day-long event begins at 7 am with Irish breakfast at McFadden’s and continues with live music and special events at Ionia Ave establishments McFadden’s, HopCat, Stella’s Lounge and The Viceroy, as well as a beer tent (profits from beer tent go to The Dwelling Place). Admission wristband (needed after 10 am): $10 in advance at participating venues or www.ticketweb.com. For more info, see Irish on Ionia on Facebook. Mar 17 - 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 17 - WEARIN’ OF THE GREEN: Conklin’s St Patrick’s 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,
tion on the concept, aiming to create a venue — and line-up — that satisfies the listeners and the musicians. The main stage is located on the Bite restaurant side, which will continue its breakfast and lunch operations, and a second stage is located on the tavern side. The big screen TV’s are gone, and though the place may look different, it maintains the coolly casual atmosphere and continues to offer fast and knowledgeable service. The menu also has undergone a facelift with new features including pizzas and a variety of small plates. Music begins at 5 p.m. and acts alternate between stages all night long. Live music will be offered each night of the week — and best of all: no — Alexandra Fluegel cover.
19683 Main St, Conklin, (616) 899-2640, www. feniansirishpub.com. Mar 17-18 - 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 17-18 - MAPLE SUGAR FESTIVAL: Kalamazoo Nature Center hosts its 47th annual festival with treats, activities, hikes, carnival, birds of prey presentation. Prices vary by activity. 9 am-5 pm. 700 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org. Mar 17-18 - USED BOOK SALE: Kent District Library Cascade Branch hosts a book sale with thousands of used books. 10 am-4 pm Sat, 1-4 pm Sun. 2870 Jacksmith Ave SE. Mar 23 - BODIES OF ART FASHION SHOW: Kendall College of Art & Design’s annual fashion show of student designs with theme “Forest Floor.” Designs range from evening gowns to everyday wear. Doors open 7 pm, show begins at 8. Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW. Tickets in advance: $10/students, $15/nonstudents (at Kendall); at door $15/$20. Student ID required for student price. Mar 23-24 - KALAMAZOO FRETBOARD FESTIVAL: Celebration of stringed-instrument design and manufacture includes designers, performances and workshops. 7 pm Fri kickoff concert with Ninth Street Bridge, 11 am-6 pm Sat. Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, (800) 772-3370, www.kalamazoo museum.org. Free. Mar 23-25 - COTTAGE & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW: 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 24 - LOWELL COMMUNITY EXPO: Lowell Area Chamber spotlights 150 area businesses,
service groups, churches and government agencies, plus entertainment, giveaways and food. 9 am-3 pm. Lowell High School. Free. www.lowell chamber.org. Mar 31 - GR CLASSIC TOY COLLECTIBLES SHOW: More than 150 dealers and toy collectors. 9 am-3 pm. Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW. $3 adults, kids 12 and under free.
Music Mar - FRIDAY NIGHTS AT GRAM: GR Art Museum hosts live music, social games, gallery talks, cash bar and dinner options 5-9 pm. Theme: Arrangements and Juxtapositions. Mar 2, film: Rauschenberg “Synapsis Shuffle.” Mar 9, The Art of Comedy: Celebrating Gilda’s LaughFest. Mar 16, Art in Bloom: Flower Arranging Tips. Mar 23, Rauschenberg Revisited: Gallery Talk with artist Katherine Sullivan. Mar 30, Merce CunninghamInspired Dance Presentation with Amy Wilson. See website for details. 101 Monroe Center. $5 adults, members free. www.artmuseumgr.org. Mar - THE INTERSECTION: Nightclub hosts local and national bands. Mar 1, Mutemath. Mar 2, Mega 80s Night. Mar 3, Flashing Blue Lights. Mar 9, Matt Nathanson. Mar 12, Reverand Horton Heat. Mar 13, Whitechapel. Mar 17, Mega 80s Night. Mar 21, The Milk Carton Kids. Mar 23, Uncle Kracker. Mar 24, Stockton. Mar 26, Needtobreathe. Mar 31, Mega 80s Night. 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 6, Larry Visser, organ. Mar 13, Northern Sounds and Songs Baroque Recital. Mar 20, David Schout, organ. Mar 27, David Hall, marimba. First Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Place NE. www.parkchurchgr. org. Mar - ONE TRICK PONY: Downtown restaurant features live music (Acoustic Stew) every Thu, plus some Sat evenings. Mar 1, Valentiger. Mar
Photography by johnny Quirin
Calling all cool cats: There’s a new spot in town if you’re looking for “all that jazz.” Well, sort of. The Gilmore Collection’s Ottawa Tavern and Bite are sporting a fresh look, transformed into “GR’s New Adult Playground” featuring two stages and a laidback cosmopolitan feel. The tavern has been offering live jazz acts since the beginning of the year, drawing a diverse crowd of music lovers and giving jazz aficionados a new place to call home. This month marks the jazz club’s grand opening, unveiling a swanky new look and a full calendar of some of the area’s best jazz talent. And possibly a new name, but by press time, no announcement had been made. Local musicians collaborated with the Gilmore Collec-
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20% OFF
reserve your table by calling 616.242.1448. Bring this coupon in to receive 20% off of your next bill at six.one.six. 2 3 5 Lo u i s s t r e e t N W g r a N d r a p i d s m i c h i g a N i Lov e 6 1 6 . c o m 6 1 6 . 24 2 . 1 4 4 8
valid march 1–31, 2012. does not apply with any other discounts or offers. an 18% gratuity is added prior to discount. Located in the JW marriott grand rapids.
valid for dinner only
Photography by johnny Quirin
EAT. DRINK. CONNECT. Serving American food, bistro-style, whether it’s grab-and-go for someone on-the-run or guests dining in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The Bistro offers fresh seasonal options that are satisfying favorites.
Located inside the downtown courtyard by marriott
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City Guide
Mar - THE PYRAMID SCHEME: Pub and music venue in Heartside. Mar 1, The Twilight Sad. Mar 4, Karma to Burn and Truckfighters. Mar 6, Corrosion of Conformity, Torche, Valient Thorr and A Storm of Light. Mar 7, Lower Dens. Mar 24, Ragbirds and Funktion. See website for updates. Ticket prices vary (Vertigo Music or www.ticketweb.com). 68 Commerce SW. pyramidscheme bar.com. Mar - SUNDAYS AT GRAM: GR Art Museum hosts classical chamber music 2-3 pm every Sun. Mar 4, Clifford Music Group. Mar 11, Castalia Quartet: A Concert of Women Composers. Mar 18, Works by Boccerini, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. See website for details. 101 Monroe Center. Free with admission. www.artmuseumgr.org. Mar 2-3 - WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY: Cirque de la Symphonie. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $28-$54 adults, $15 students (231726-3231 or www.westmichigansymphony.com). Mar 3 - BANDS ON THE GRAND FESTIVAL: Concert band music performed by bands from communities around Michigan. 9 am-5:30 pm. Forest Hills Eastern High School, 2200 Pettis Ave NE, Ada. Free. Mar 3 - SYMPHONY WITH SOUL: GR Symphony and GRS Community Chorus present 11th annual celebration of African-American musical expression, with guest vocalist Dianne Reeves. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices; 454-9451, ext 4; or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Mar 4 - GR YOUTH SYMPHONY AND CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA: Youth Symphony concert. 3 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. Tickets TBD (8666833). Mar 6 - BLUES BROTHERS ORIGINAL TRIBUTE: Soul and blues favorites including “Shake a Tail Feather,” “Sweet Home Chicago” and “Gimme Some Loving.” 7:30 pm. Forest Hills FAC, 600 Forest Hill Ave SE. $38-$50 (box office, 493-8966 or Ticketmaster). www.fhfineartscenter.com. Mar 6 - LUNASA: Traditional Irish music. 8 pm. Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St, Conklin, (616) 899-2640, www. feniansirishpub.com. $35.
Mothers and nature The West Michigan Environment Action Council and Grand Valley State University are partnering to present the first Women and Environment Symposium, a forum centered on the dynamic between the environment and issues that impact women. The first event of its kind in West Michigan, the symposium will provide an opportunity for discussion, exploring the links between environmental concerns and issues such as women’s and children’s health and sustainable living. The symposium will be held noon to 9 p.m. March 29 at the L.V. Eberhard Center on the GVSU downtown campus. For ticket information and to register, visit wmeac.org/women. See Lectures & Workshops Mar 6, 20 - FARM MUSEUM JAM NIGHT: Bring your guitar, fiddle or other non-electric instrument. Singers and listeners welcome. 5 pm doors open, 6-9 pm jam. Coopersville Farm Museum, 375 Main St, Coopersville. Free with admission ($4). www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Mar 7 - TAIZE SUNG PRAYER SERVICE: Repeated choruses accompanied by instruments and vocal solos. 7 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc.org. Mar 8 - APOLLO’S FIRE: St Cecilia’s Chamber Series presents a baroque orchestra. 7:30 pm. St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE. $35 adults, $30 seniors, $10 students (459-2224, scmconline.org). Mar 9 - MAJIC CONCERT SERIES: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts Cabildo. 7 pm. Bethlehem Church Sanctuary, 250 Commerce Ave SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit GR Coalition to End Homelessness. www. grmajic.org.
Mar 9 - USTAD SHAFAAT KHAN: Indian classical music presented by Hope College’s Guest Artist Series. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children 18 and under. Mar 9-10 - MIGHTY WURLITZER CONCERTS: Organ concerts with guest musician Steve Schlesing accompanying two Laurel and Hardy films: “Wrong Again” and “Habeas Corpus.” 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 9-10 - “RACH 2 MEETS SIBELIUS”: GR Symphony presents Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No 2 and Sibelius’ Symphony No 2. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices; 454-9451, ext 4; or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Mar 9, 23 - ALLEY DOOR CLUB: Jazz, blues and folk music in downtown Muskegon 2nd and 4th Fri. Mar 9, Big Daddy Fox. Mar 23, Vincent Hayes Project. 7-10 pm (doors open 6 pm). Frauenthal Theatre, Muskegon. $6 at door or in advance (231-727-8001). Mar 10 - HARK UP IN MUSIC CONCERT: Marne United Methodist Church celebrates its 150th anniversary with the introduction of the historical book “Soil, Soul and Simplicity.” 14861 Washington, Marne. Mar 10 - TURTLE ISLAND QUARTET: Contemporary classical string concert presented by Calvin College. 8 pm. Calvin FAC. $35 (Calvin College box office or 526-6282). Mar 10, 17, 31 - ACOUSTIC SATURDAY NIGHTS: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts acoustic folk concerts. Mar 10, Anne Hills. Mar 17, Mustard’s Retreat. Mar 31, Bill Staines. 8 pm. Wealthy St Theater, 1110 Wealthy St SE. $12 adults, $10 students and seniors, $9 members, $3 children (at door). www.grfolkarts.org. Mar 13 - CAMPANA: Embellish Handbell Ensemble’s companion ensemble presents a mini concert. 7 pm. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1100 Lake Dr SE. www.embellish.ws. Free. Mar 13 - EISLEY: Calvin Student Affairs hosts musical guest Eisley, plus The Marksmen and Christie Dupree. 8 pm. Calvin FAC. $15 adults, $5 students (Calvin College box office or 526-6282). Mar 15 - SLIDE: Traditional Irish music. 8 pm. Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St, Conklin, (616) 899-2640, www.feniansirishpub.com. $20. Mar 16 - JAZZ VESPERS: Live jazz by Jim Cooper Trio. 6 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E
Paint the town green This St. Patrick’s Day, Ionia Avenue is going green again for the second annual Irish on Ionia Festival. The day-long celebration of Irish food, dancing, music and culture kicks off at 7 a.m. with a Kegs and Eggs Breakfast at McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon. At 10 a.m. the festival officially opens with live entertainment by Celtic bands and dancers, plus drum and pipe players.
Ionia will be closed between Weston and Oakes streets to accommodate an outdoor stage, beer tent and Irish food pavilion. Instead of a cover charge, $10 “all access” tickets are available online at www.ticketweb. com and at participating establishments: McFadden’s, Stella’s Lounge, HopCat and The Viceroy. Tickets on March 17 will be $15. See Special Events
Photography Courtesy istockphoto.com/Marco Rossetti
10, Mary Rademacher. Mar 17, The Willeys. Mar 22, Nick Thomasma. Mar 31, The Trace. Check website for updates. Reservations recommended. 136 E Fulton St. www.onetrick.biz.
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City Guide Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc.org. Free. Mar 16-18 - “LIVE AND LET DIE: THE MUSIC OF PAUL MCCARTNEY: GR Symphony’s pops concert features Tony Kishman singing hits from the Fab Four to McCartney’s solo work. 8 pm Fri and Sat, 3 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices; 4549451, ext 4; or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony. org. Mar 18 - BLACK KEYS: Blues rock duo. 7:30 pm. Van Andel Arena. $29.50-$49.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). Mar 18 - FOLIAS TANGO QUARTET: Three guitarists and a flutist feature original arrangements of traditional tangos as well as music by Astor Piazzolla. 5 pm. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave. www.stmarksgr.org. Free. Mar 18 - HOLLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: Family concert with Holland Area Youth Orchestra and 2012 Norbert Mueller Concerto Winner. 3 pm. Zeeland East High School DeWitt Auditorium. $18 adults, $15 seniors, students free (796-6780, www.hollandsymphony.org). Mar 18, 23 - GR CHOIR OF MEN AND BOYS: Lenten Stations of the Cross. 5 pm Mar 18, St John’s Episcopal, 524 Washington, Grand Haven. 7 pm Mar 23, Cathedral of St Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd, Grand Rapids. www.grcmb.com. Free. Mar 21 - JANE’S ADDICTION: Alternative rock band performs Theatre of Escapists Tour. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $29.50-$59.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Mar 22-23 - “COLORFUL CONTRAST”: GR Symphony’s Rising Stars presents music by Corigliano, Beaser, Schoenberg, De Falla and Prokofiev. 7 pm Thu, 8 pm Fri. St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE. $18-$34 (box office; 454-9451, ext 4; or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Mar 23 - “THE GREAT SHOWSTOPPERS”: Holland Chorale presents blockbuster showstoppers. 7:30 pm. First Reformed Church, Holland. $20-$28 adults, $17-$25 seniors, $12-$20 students. www.hollandchorale.org.
Photography Courtesy istockphoto.com/Marco Rossetti
Mar 23-24 - WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY: Beethoven and Blue Jeans. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $15-$42 adults, $5 students (231-726-3231 or www.westmichigansymphony. com). Mar 25 - “MUSIC OF THE RENAISSANCE”: Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids with guest choir Catholic Central High School. 3 pm. St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students (www.chamberchoirgr. org). Mar 27 - “BALLROOM WITH A TWIST”: GR Symphony SymphonicBoom concert accompanies dance pros from “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” 7:30 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $32-$90 (Grand Rapids Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Mar 27 - ROSIE THOMAS: Calvin Student Affairs hosts American singer/songwriter. 9 pm. Calvin FAC. $15 adults, $5 students (Calvin College box office or 526-6282). Mar 30-31 - “BEACON OF HOPE”: GR Symphony’s Classical Series presents “Rainbow Body” and “Butterfly Lovers Concerto,” in addition to Copland’s Symphony No 3. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and
DeVos Place box offices; 454-9451, ext 4; or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Mar 30-31 - CASHORE MARIONETTES: Hope College Great Performance Series presents Jospeh Cashore’s incredible marionettes in scenes set to classical music. 7:30 pm Fri (“Life in Motion”), 2 pm Sat (“Simple Gifts”). Dimnent Chapel, Holland. $18 adults, $13 seniors, $6 students and children 18 and under (DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu.
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Art Mar 1, 8 - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: 7:30 pm Mar 1, Artist Critique Night. 7:30 pm Mar 8, Program Night. Free and open to public. 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Ste 130, www.grandvalleyartists.com. Mar 24 - ALLENDALE SPRING THING!: Home business and craft show with more than 50 vendors, face painting and silent auction. 9 am-7 pm. Allendale Middle School. Free. Mar - AQUINAS COLLEGE GALLERY: Thru Mar 23, Madeline and Darlene Kaczmarczyk, ceramics and photography. Closed Mar 3-11. Aquinas Art & Music Center (enter off Fulton St), 632-2408, www.aquinas.edu/art/gallery.html. Mar - CALVIN CENTER ART GALLERY: Mar 2-Apr 28, Work: Curse or Calling? and Bible Doodles: Graphic Novel Illustrations by Craig Thompson. Calvin College FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle, 5266271, www.calvin.edu/centerartgallery. Mar - DEPREE GALLERY: Thru Mar 24, The Sense of Book: Rare Books from the Hope College Collection. Mar 30-May 6, Graduating Senior Art Show. Hope College, Holland, (616) 395-7500, www.hope.edu. Mar - DESIGN GALLERY: Thru Mar 11, Cedar Lake, handcrafted artisan boats by John Hamelink. Mar 15-May 15, Chris Triola Retrospective and Trunk Show, textiles. Design Quest, 4181 28th St SE, 940-0131, www.d2d2d2.com. Mar - FIRE AND WATER GALLERY: Thru Mar 31, Marylu Dykstra, mixed media, plus local artists’ art, jewelry, sculpture and photography. 219 W Main St, Lowell, 890-1879, www.fire-and-waterart.com. Mar - FOREST HILLS FAC: Mar 1-26, TJ Aitken, sculpture; reception 6-7 pm Mar 8. 600 Forest Hill Ave SE, 493-8965, www.fhfineartscenter.com. Mar - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Thru Apr 29, Essence: The Horses of Deborah Butterfield. Permanent exhibits include world-class sculptures indoors and in the 30-acre park. See Museums & Attractions.
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Mar - GALLERY UPTOWN: Thru Mar 31, Seasons on the Grand, fine arts show and sale to benefit Grand River Greenway; reception 5-8 pm Mar 2. 201 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 8465460, www.galleryuptown.net. Mar - GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Thru Apr 22, Michael Pfleghaar: Reinforcing Objecthood. Thru May 20, Robert Rauschenberg at Gemini and Robert Rauschenberg in Context. Mar 3-May 20, Robert Rauschenberg: Synapsis Shuffle. See Music for Friday Nights at GRAM and Sundays at GRAM. 10 am-5 pm Tue, Wed, Thu and Sat; 10 am-9 pm Fri; noon-5 pm Sun; closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 8311000, www.artmuseumgr.org. Mar - GVSU ART GALLERY: Thru Mar 1, Saudi
616.956.3070 woodwayscustom.com March 2012 Grand Rapids 61
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City Guide Arabia: 1946-1954 by Ilo Battigelli, and Mar 10-Jul 6, Focus: Photography Program Student Exhibit and Student Scholarship Day, Red Wall Gallery, Lake Ontario Hall, Allendale campus. Thru Apr 28, PIC’s Pics: A Study Abroad Photo Contest, Faculty/Staff Dining, Kirkhof Center. Thru Apr 28, Tjukurrpa: Aboriginal Dreamtime Paintings: Works from the GVSU Permanent Collection, West Wall Gallery, Eberhard Center. Thru Mar 23, Regionalism and Art of the WPA: Selections from the Muskegon Museum of Art, 1121 PAC, Allendale campus. www.gvsu.edu/artgallery. Mar - HOLLAND AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Mar 15-Apr 28, Debut 2012: Annual Area Juried High School Exhibit. 150 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 3963278, www.hollandarts.org. Mar - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Dutch Galleries exhibit 17th- to 20th-century Dutch paintings and cultural objects. See Museums & Attractions. Mar - KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Thru Mar 4, The Strange Life of Objects: The Art of Annette Lemieux. Thru Mar 18, Infrared Photography by Christopher Light. Thru Apr 7, Hefner Collection of East Asian Art. 10 am-5 pm Tue-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. Free; $5 suggested donation. 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, www.kiarts.org. Mar - LEEP ART GALLERY: Thru Apr 3, Unspoken by Julie Quinn. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St SE, 222-4530, www.pinerest.org. Mar - LOWELLARTS!: Thru Mar 14, Punch Line; reception 6-7:30 pm Mar 14. Mar 20-Apr 26, 26th West Michigan Regional Competition. 149 S Hudson St, Lowell, 897-8545, www.lowell artscouncil.org. Mar - MERIZON STUDIO: Mar 17-Apr 29, The West Michigan Eight: Larry Blovits, Jack Brouwer, Carl Forslund, Collin Fry, Jim Markle, Jon McDonald, the late Armand Merizon and Chris Stoffel Overvoorde; reception 2-6 pm Mar 17. 9087 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Caledonia, 485-5752, www.merizonstudio.com. Mar - MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Thru Apr 8, Expressions 2012: Muskegon County Student Art Exhibit. Thru May 6, 1934: A New Deal for Artists. Noon-4:30 pm Sun; closed Mon and Tue; 10 am-4:30 pm Wed, Fri and Sat; 10 am-8 pm Thu. $7 adults (Thu free); members, students, children under 17 free. 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, www.muskegonartmuseum.org. Mar - SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Thru Mar 9, Small Towns/Big Picture: The Bill Simmons Photographs of Saugatuck & Douglas, 1941-1960. 400 Culver St, (269) 857-2399, www. sc4a.org.
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Mar - TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Mar 1-31, Jeremy Mason, new works in oil, featuring the Pastiche Series; reception 5-7 pm Mar 10. Lower floor, St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE, 4592224, www.scmsonline.org. Mar - UICA: Thru Mar 18, Dragana Crnjak, New Works; i.e. group exhibition, hiatus; Thea Augustina Eck, Providence; and Jesse Harrod, Frosted Pink Lipstick Smeared Across His Face. 2 W Fulton St, 454-3994, www.uica.org. Mar - VAN SINGEL FINE ARTS CENTER: Thru Mar 16, Paintings by Tim Kranz; reception 10-11 am Mar 16. Mar 20-Apr 27, The Art of Byron Center Fine Arts Staff, mixed media; reception 6:30-8 pm Mar 26. 8500 Burlingame SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, www.vsfac.com.
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Film Mar - UICA: Urban Institute for Contemporary Art shows independent, foreign and documentary films ($8, $4 members). Special this month: 7 pm Mar 6, “Hell and Back Again” (free); Chiaroscuro Film Series, 2 pm Mar 18, “Coffee Shop: A Musical” (free). 2 W Fulton St, 454-3994, www. uica.org. Mar 8 - “TABLOID”: Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Real to Reel series presents the story of a former Miss Wyoming accused of kidnapping an American missionary. 7 pm. 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. $7 adults, $5 members. www.sc4a.org.
Stage Mar - COMEDY MONDAYS: Dog Story Theater presents improv, standup, sketches, films, music, puppets, magic, one-act plays at 8 and 9 pm ($5); free, open improv jam at 10 pm. 7 Jefferson Ave SE. www.dogstorytheater.com. Mar - DR GRINS COMEDY CLUB: Stand-up comedians perform 9 pm Thu, 8 and 10:30 pm Fri and Sat. Mar 1-3, Auggie Smith. Mar 8-15, LaughFest. Mar 22-24, Josh Sneed. Mar 29-31, Costaki Economopolous. See website for updates. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. Ticket prices vary (3562000, www.thebob.com). Thru Mar 18 - “BYE BYE BIRDIE”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents musical about a rock-androll singer in the 1950s. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. 30 N division Ave. $16-$30 adults, $16 students (box office or Star Tickets). www.grct.org. Mar 1-3 - DANCE 38: Hope College presentation. 8 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children 18 and under. Mar 1-3 - “FOR BETTER”: Presented by GRCC Players. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St NE. Tickets TBD. www.grcc.edu/theater. Mar 2-10 - “THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON MAN-IN-THE-MOON MARIGOLDS”: Central Park Players present the story of an embittered women and her two teenage daughters. Time TBD. Lakeshore Middle School, 900 Cutler St, Grand Haven. $14 adults, $11 seniors and students (850-6566, www.centralparkplayers.org). Mar 3, 17, 31 - RIVER CITY IMPROV: Calvin College alumni improv team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. 6:30 pm doors open, 7:33 pm show. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. $10 (at door or Calvin box office). www.rivercityimprov.com. Mar 9 - UPRIGHT CITIZEN’S BRIGADE TOURING COMPANY: Calvin College Student Affairs presents an evening of improv. 8 pm. Calvin FAC. $12.50 adults, $5 students (Calvin College box office or 526-6282).
Mar 22 - “HONKY TONK ANGELS”: Three young women make their way to Nashville to become country stars in this musical featuring songs from Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Tammy Wynette. 7:30 pm. Van Singel FAC, 8500 Burlingame SW, Byron Center. $29.50 adults, $17.50 students (878-6800 or www.vsfac.com). Mar 22-31 - “AMPERSAND”: Actors’ Theatre presents a fast-paced dark farce about a couple who fly to Switzerland to rehabilitate their marriage. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St NE. $24 adults, $20 students and seniors (2343946). www.actorstheatregrandrapids.org. Mar 29-Apr 22 - “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”: Presented by Cornerstone University. 7:30 pm, 2:30 pm Apr 1, Apr 15, Apr 21-22. Matthews Auditorium, GR Theological Seminary, 3000 Leonard St NE. $12 adults, $10 seniors and students (516-0000 or www.cornerstone.edu/theatre). Mar 30-Apr 7 - “ANTONA GARCIA”: GVSU Opera presents the Spanish story of Antona Garcia and her wild quests under the Spanish flag of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. Louis Armstrong Theatre, PAC, GVSU Allendale Campus. $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students (331-2300 or www.gvsu.edu/theatre).
Museums & Attractions Mar - AIR ZOO: More than 50 rare aircraft, plus exhibits and educational activities, full-motion 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. Mar - BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER: See Sugarbush in Special Events. 5-7 pm Mar 1, Backyard Maple Sugaring ($12 adults, $10 members). 6-7:30 pm Mar 15, Three Season Gardening ($6 adults, $5 members). 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.
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Mar - CAPPON & SETTLERS HOUSE MUSEUMS: Restored Cappon House is the Italianate Victorian home of Holland’s first mayor, 228 W 9th St, Holland. Tiny Settlers House recalls hardships of early settlers, 190 W 9th St, Holland. For admission prices and hours, see Holland Museum. (616) 392-6740, www.hollandmuseum.org.
Mar 16 - SANDY HACKETT’S RAT PACK SHOW: Theatrical performance featuring the Rat Pack’s swagger, songs and non-stop party. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $19-$30 (box office or Star Tickets).
Mar - COOPERSVILLE & MARNE RAILWAY: Restored 1920’s-era railway features 80-minute Bunny Train ride starring the Easter Bunny, Wacky Duck, Lucky Lamb and a story-telling princess. 11 am and 2 pm Sat, 1 pm and 3 pm Sun. $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors 60 and over, $12.50 kids 2-12, under 2 free. 311 Danforth St, Coopersville, 997-7000 (for advance tickets), www.coopersvilleandmarne.org.
Mar 17 - “A PARABLE ABOUT THE KING”: Hearts in Step Christian Dance Ensemble presents an original ballet about a young princess who runs away only to discover that freedom comes at a cost. 3 pm and 7 pm. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth Ave SE. $11 adults, $6 students (box office or www.dcaw.org); $15/$8 (at door). www.heartsinstepdance.org.
Mar - COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM: Thru Mar, Dolls of Our Lives exhibit. Regular exhibits include tractors from 1930 to present, 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. March 2012 Grand Rapids 63
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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. See Art for sculpture exhibits, and events in Lectures & Workshops. 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, 9571580, www.meijergardens.org. Mar - GERALD R. FORD MUSEUM: Opening Mar 6, Freedom Riders, a traveling exhibit. Exhibits include The 1970s; Watergate scandal; White House Oval Office. 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.fordlibrary museum.gov. Mar - GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM: Thru May 6, Facing Mars ($4 plus general admission). 5-9 pm Mar 13-16 and Mar 30-Apr 7, Mars Madness Nights include general and exhibition admission, dinner and planetarium show ($12, $6.50 members). 11:30 am-3 pm Mar 17, Martian Mania Activities with space-themed activities (free with admission). Thru April 22, Thank God for Michigan: Stories from the Civil War. Also see Career Exploration Day in Kidstuff. Permanent exhibits include Streets of Old Grand Rapids and 1928 carousel ($1). 9 am-8 pm Tue, 9 am-5 pm Wed-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 ages 3-17. 272 Pearl St NW, 4563977, www.grmuseum.org. Mar - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Thru Aug 5, Wish You Were Here: Selections from the Mike Van Ark Postcard Collection. Thru Sep 2, Before the Festival: The Improbable Journey of Holland’s Favorite Flower. Cultural attractions from the “old country” and local history exhibits. I Spy Adventure and kids activities in Mark’s Room. 10 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, children 5 and under free, members free. 31 W 10th St, Holland, (888) 200-9123, www. hollandmuseum.org. Mar - JOHN BALL ZOO: Zoo re-opens Mar 1. 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. $5 adults and seniors over 62, $4 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www. johnballzoosociety.org. Mar - KALAMAZOO NATURE CENTER: See Maple Sugar Festival in Special Events. 1,100 acres of forests, prairies and wetlands. See website for programs. 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, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org.
Bodies of Art Fashions with a “Forest Floor” theme — think romantically soft to afterdark eerie — will be on display at this year’s Bodies of Art fashion show March 23 at the Goei Center, hosted by the Fashion & Design Collective at Kendall College of Art & Design. Students have created designs ranging from everyday wear to elaborate evening gowns. For info, visit the Bodies of Art Facebook page.
Mar - KALAMAZOO VALLEY MUSEUM: Thru May 28, Disease Detectives. Thru Jun 17, Remember Me: Civil War Portraits. Permanent exhibits include simulated mission to space, 2,300-yearold 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: Exhibits include Coming to the Lakes; Michigan: From the Depths of Time; Habitats and Food Webs; Science Center; Voices of Muskegon. 9:30 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri, noon-4 pm Sat-Sun. 430 W Clay, Muskegon, (231) 722-0278, www.muskegonmu seum.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. Mar - MEYER MAY HOUSE: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house 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 - ROGER B. CHAFFEE PLANETARIUM: Stateof-the-art, Digistar-powered sky shows. 11 am and 2 pm Sun and Tue-Sat; 6 pm and 7 pm Tue; 1 pm Sat-Sun: “Our Bodies in Space.” 3 pm Sat-Sun, “Under Starlit Skies.” Laser light shows thru Apr 7: 9 pm Pink Floyd “Dark Side of the Moon,” 10 pm Radiohead “OK Computer.” GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St NW. See website for prices. www. grmuseum.org. Mar - TRI-CITIES HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits include train depot, Michigan Logging and Fur Trading. 9:30 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 12:30-5 pm Sat and Sun. 200 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, 8420700, www.tri-citiesmuseum.org. Free.
Lectures & Workshops Mar - GRAND RIVER FOLK ARTS SOCIETY: Dance instruction events. 7:30 pm Mar 2, First Friday Dance, 5th St Hall, 701 5th St NW, $8 adults, $7 students/seniors, $6 members. 7 pm Mar 9, Second Friday International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St SE, $5. 7 pm Mar 23, 4th Friday Contra Dance with music jams, 5th St Hall, 701 5th St NW, $6. www.grfolkarts.org.
Mar - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Programs include It’s Tom Rademacher, “Knocking at Your Door;” Humorous Speech Contest; Exploring Michigan: Hiking, Canoeing, Wandering; adult computer classes; reading clubs; and kids activities (see Kidstuff). Also see Ask-the-Lawyer Series below. 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 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, career transition workshops, Early Childhood Essentials and kids activities (see Kidstuff). Complete schedule at www.kdl.org. Mar - MEIJER GARDENS PROGRAMS: Noon Mar 2, Lecture: The Horse in Art by Craig Hanson, Calvin College. Noon Mar 9, Gallery Walk with Kathy Ryan, executive director, Equest Center, with Linda Godlewski and John Agar, riders. Noon Mar 16, Gallery Walk: Perspectives by Wendy Pektunis, manager of indoor horticulture; Dawn Kibben, VP of finance and administration; and Roger Bleiler, director of communications. See meijergardens.org for more info. Mar - TRENDZ CLASSES: Architectural Surfaces Studio and School offers DIY and professional-level classes. 1-4 pm Mar 17, The Healing Benefits of Natural Clay Plasters in Your Home, Evolve Center for Success, 1031 Wealthy St SE. 6:30 pm Mar 22, How to Paint the Healthy Way, and 6:30 pm Mar 29, Natural Clay Plasters, HWC Homeworks, 2010 Porter St SW, Wyoming. (269) 967-7773, www. eco-trendz.com. Mar 8 - GREATER GRAND RAPIDS WOMEN’S HISTORY COUNCIL: “WWI, Women and the Rise of Grand Rapids Farmers Markets” by Jayson Otto, GVSU. 7 pm. GR Ford Museum, 303 Pearl St NW. Free. www.ggrwhc.org. Mar 8 - GREAT START PARENT COALITION: Kent County Coalition’s monthly meeting: Legislative Night. Free dinner and child care. RSVP: 6321007. 5:45-8 pm. Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. www.greatstartkent.org. Mar 8, 22, 27 - BOOK SIGNINGS: Literary Life Bookstore hosts several book signings. Mar 8, “The World a Few Minutes Ago” by Jack Driscoll. Mar 22, “Art That Tells the Story” by Christopher Brewer. Mar 27, “Pot Farm” by Matthew Gavin Frank. 7-8:30 pm. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418, www.literarylifebookstore.com. Free.
Photography courtesy Global Fashion News/Glamourama Films, Inc.
Mar - DEGRAAF NATURE CENTER: See Maple Sugar Time in Special Events. 18-acre preserve includes Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch 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.
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City Guide Mar 13 - TORCH CLUB: “Dr Rylko and Her Imprisonment During WWII: Memoir of Her Mother” by Barbara Rylko-Bauer. 5:30 pm social hour and dinner, program to follow. Reservations required, guests welcome. University Club, 111 Lyon St NW. $28 (www.torchclubgr.org).
After the storm, a rainbow.
Mar 14 - BABY BELOVED CLASS: Breastfeeding: Getting a Strong Start. Registration required. 6-8:30 pm. 555 Midtowne St NE, Ste 100, 9775683, www.babybelovedinc.com. $40. Mar 14 - GRCC DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES: “Beyond Victimization: The Beauty Myth Revisited” by Naomi Wolf, author, social critic, political activist. 7 pm. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St NE. Free. www.grcc.edu/lecture. Mar 15 - DIVORCE SEMINAR FOR WOMEN: Monthly seminar provides basic legal, psychological and financial info about divorce. 6 pm. Forest Hills Aquatic Center, 660 Forest Hill Ave. $55 (www.divorceseminar.org).
We’ll watch your back during the storm.
Mar 15 - DYSLEXIA SEMINAR: New Chapter Learning offers info on thinking styles, learning differences and gifts of visual thinkers. 6:30 pm. Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave, Grandville. Registration: 534-1385. www.new chapterlearning.net. Free. Mar 17 - WOMEN’S CITY CLUB: St Patrick’s Day Celebration with Irish dinner and entertainment by Irish/Celtic duo Gasta. 5 pm social, 6 pm dinner, music to follow. Reservations required. 254 E Fulton St. $35, $30 members (459-3321).
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Mar 20 - ASK-THE-LAWYER SERIES: GR Public Library and GR Bar Association present a legal series. This month: attorneys answer questions about tenants’ rights. 6:30 pm. 111 Library St NE. www.grpl.org. Free. Mar 20 - NOURISHING WAYS OF WEST MICHIGAN: “Get the Skinny on Fats and Oils.” 7-8:30 pm. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave, www.nourishingways.org. Free.
Photography courtesy Global Fashion News/Glamourama Films, Inc.
Mar 21 - AQUINAS LECTURE: Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center and the Center for Sustainability presents “Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry” by Stacy Malkan, author and co-founder of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Noon luncheon presentation ($50). 7 pm lecture (free). Wege Ballroom, Aquinas College. 632-2979, aquinas. edu/womenscenter/programs.html. Mar 22-23 - INSTITUTE FOR HEALING RACISM: Two-day workshop focuses on becoming positive agents for change and allies in building an inclusive and anti-racist community. GRCC Diversity Learning Center. $200-$300 (234-4497, www. grcc.edu/ihr).
800-318-3019 One and two week intensives
Credit & Non-Credit
June 3 - August 18, 2012
Mar 26 - GR AUDUBON CLUB: “Storm Chasing: The Power of Wind” by Tom Oosterbaan. 7 pm social, 7:30 pm program. Orchard View Church, 2777 Leffingwell NE. Free. www.glsga.org/grac. Mar 28 - CALVIN PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE SERIES: “Mongolia: Land of Genghis Khan” by Buddy Hatton. 7 pm. Calvin FAC. $5 adults, $2 students (at door, box office or 526-6282). Mar 29 - CONVERSATIONAL AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: Deaf Expressions’ eight-week class. 6:30-8 pm Thu. 2133 McKee Ave SW. Registration required (deafexpressions05@gmail.com). $130 includes workbook. www.deafexpressions.net. Mar 29 - WOMEN & ENVIRONMENT SYMPOSIUM: West Michigan Environmental Action
Marilyn E. Hazard, GRI 630 Kenmoor SE Grand Rapids, MI
616.299.9944 www.marilynhazard.com
Everything ICalltouch turns to SOLD! The Hazard Team for a private market evaluation March 2012 Grand Rapids 65
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City Guide Council and GVSU’s Women’s Center and Sustainable Community Development Initiative explore the intersection between women’s issues and environmental concerns. Luncheon panel, afternoon breakout sessions, keynote speaker, evening reception. Noon-9 pm. GVSU Eberhard Center, 301 W. Fulton St. Registration: wmeac. org/women. Cost: Panels and keynote free; $25/ lunch, $15/reception, or $35/both. Mar 31 - DANCEgr: Foxtrot dance lesson (7-8 pm), followed by social dance (8-11 pm). Social Dance Studio, 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, www. dancegr.com. $10 lesson, $11 dance, $16 both.
Sports
Come visit us, the “safe wash” experts!
Mar - GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS: Grand Rapids’ American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. Home games: Mar 2 vs Rochester Americans. Mar 3 vs Oklahoma City Barons. Mar 16 vs Toronto Marlies. Mar 17 vs Hamilton Bulldogs. Mar 30 vs Charlotte Checkers. Mar 31 vs Oklahoma City Barons. Times vary. Van Andel Arena. $13-$30 (Van Andel box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). www.griffinshockey.com. Mar 3-4 - TULIP CITY INVITATIONAL: Fifth annual women’s gymnastics competition. West Ottawa High School, 3685 Butternut Dr, Holland. Tickets TBD. www.tulipcityinvitational.com.
Full Service Detailing
$3.99 Exterior Washes Available Interior and Exterior starting at $14.99
(616) 447-9560
Located in front of Celebration Cinema IMAX on Eastbeltline NE at the corner of Knapp.
Mar 10-31 - GOLDEN GLOVES TOURNAMENT: Mar 10, Mar 17 and Mar 23, West Michigan Championships. Mar 30-31, Michigan State Championships. Grand Valley National Guard Armory, 1200 44th St SW, Wyoming. www.michi gangoldenglovesboxing.com. Mar 15 - 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. $25 adults. www.gazellesports. com. Mar 17 - SPECTRUM HEALTH IRISH JIG: 5K run in EGR, starting by the high school gym. 9 am. $25 adults, $20 kids 14 and under. www.spec trumhealth.org/irishjig. Mar 24 - KILLER GRAVEL ROAD RACE: Gravel road bicycle race with 23-, 35- and 61-mile options. Middleville. www.barry-roubaix.com.
Kidstuff Mar - ALL DAY WITH THE ARTS: GR Art Museum offers drop-in art-making activities in the Education Studio 10 am-3 pm every Sat. Mar theme: Peculiar Plants. Kid-friendly tours 11 am and 1 pm. 101 Monroe Center. Free with admission. Mar - GRAND RAPIDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Thru Apr 16, Open Wide, dentist exhibit. Permanent activities include Aunt Daisy’s Farm; Light Table; Bubbles, Bubbles, Bubbles; Wee Discover; Mom and Pop Store; Giant Lite Brite; Amigo Amphitheater; and Buzzy Buzzy Bees. Toddler Tue for ages 3 and under (10 am-noon). Thu Family Nights (5-8 pm), $1.50. 9:30 am-8 pm Tue, Thu; 9:30 am-5 pm Wed, Fri-Sat; noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $7.50, under 1 free, $6.50 seniors. 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. Also, Don’t
Let the Pigeon Fall Down Laughing: A Celebration of Everything Mo Willems, Teen Improv Night, Spider Spectacular, and The Hunger Games Lockin. Times and locations vary. Complete schedule at any branch or www.grpl.org. Free. Mar - GYMCO: Noon-2 pm Mon-Sat, Lunch Bunch. Noon-1 pm Mon-Sat, Open Gym. 5:309:30 pm Mar 9, March Madness Sports Event: Kids Night Out. 6-9 pm Mar 31: Circus Night: Kids Night Out. See website for prices. Gymco Sports, 2360 Camelot Ridge Ct SE, 956-0586, www. gymco.com. Mar - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Story times for young children, The Lorax, Ruff Readers, Super Heroes Away and Explore the Mitten. Teen programs include Wii games. See www.kdl.org for complete schedule with dates and locations. Mar - STORY TIME WITH A TWIST: Caledonia Dance Center hosts a free storytime with music, dance, rhymes, instruments and finger play. 9:30-10 am Mon. 131½ E Main St, Caledonia, 8911606, www.caledoniadancecenter.com. Mar - STORY TIME WITH THE MIGHTY WURLITZER: Characters and animals from the pages of storybooks are brought to life through the tweets, whistles, wheezes and bangs of the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Every Wed at 10:30 am, 11:15 am and noon. Public Museum. Free with admission. Mar 2, 30 - HOPE COLLEGE VISIT DAYS: Prospective college students and families can tour campus, attend classes; complimentary lunch in dining hall. Mar 30 is Junior day. Preregistration requested (616-395-7850 or www. hope.edu/admissions/visit). Begins 8:30 am. Maas Conference Center, 11th St and Columbia Ave, Holland. Free. Mar 3 - CAREER EXPLORATION DAY: GR Public Museum offers a chance to meet industry professionals and learn about science, technology, engineering and math careers. 10 am-2 pm. Free with admission. www.grmuseum.org Mar 3 - FIRST SATURDAY FOR KIDS: Literary Life Bookstore hosts a story time. 11 am. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418, www.literarylifebook store.com. Mar 6 - LATINO YOUTH CONFERENCE: 13th annual conference for 8th-grade KISD students. This year’s theme: The Power of Dreams. 9 am-2 pm. Ford Fieldhouse, GRCC. Free. www.grcc. edu/dlc. Mar 11 - LAURIE BERKNER BAND: Kids music concert featuring favorite songs such as “Victor Vito,” “We Are the Dinosaurs” and “The Goldfish.” 1 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $27.50-$32.50 adults, $22.50-$27.50 kids (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Mar 13 - AMERICAN GIRL PARTY: Home School Building Bookstore and Library hosts an American Girl party for moms and daughters (6 and older) with crafts, history-focused games, snacks and a doll parade. 6:30-8 pm. Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. Registration: $5 per child (532-9422, ext 6, or resourcecenter@homeschoolbuilding.org). Mar 14-15 - DISCOVERY DAYS: OWLS IN MICHIGAN: Ada Township Parks presents a family program with indoor and outdoor activities. 10 am-noon. Ada Township Park, 1180 Buttrick Ave. $5/child (676-0520). Mar 15 - RINGLETS: Embellish Handbell Ensemble
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City Guide presents a children’s concert. 6:30 pm. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 22 Sheldon Ave NE. www.embellish.ws. Free with admission.
Create ...
Mar 17 - “DR SEUSS’ GREEN EGGS AND HAM”: GR Symphony presents a 45-minute Lollipops concert for kids ages 4-7. 10:15 am and 11:30 am. Sunshine Community Church, 3300 E Beltline Ave NE. $5 (Symphony box office or Ticketmaster). Mar 18-19 - CLUB AQ: High school seniors spend the night on the Aquinas College campus, participate in campus activities and explore academic options. Registration: 732-4460 or www.aquinas. edu. Mar 20 - A BIRD’S EYE VIEW: Ada Township Parks hosts a live birds of prey presentation with hawks, owls and falcons. 6:30-7:30 pm. Ada Township Park, 1180 Buttrick Ave. Pre-registration requested: 676-0520. $5 adults, $3 children. Mar 22-25 - DISNEY ON ICE: “Mickey and Minnie’s Magical Journey” includes travel into the worlds of “The Little Mermaid,” “The Lion King,” “Peter Pan” and “Lilo & Stitch.” 7 pm Mar 22-23; 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm Mar 24, 2 pm Mar 25. Van Andel Arena. $15-$55 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).
An Impression
Registered Landscape Architects 4353 Three Mile Road N.E. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 616-363-6400 www.kappeslandscapes.com
Mar 24 - “OUT OF THIS WORLD: SPHERE OF LIFE”: West Michigan Youth Ballet presents a contemporary original ballet along with Joplin Ballet. 1 pm and 4:30 pm. Calvin College FAC. $15 adults, $6 children (box office). www.wmyb.org.
calendar Legend COMMONLY REQUESTED VENUE AND TICKET OUTLET INFORMATION FOLLOWS.
Discover
Award Winning Dining
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 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), 2 W. Fulton St., 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.
SiNcE 1968 . . .
WELCOME HOME INDIVIDUALITY. DISCOVER AND CELEBRATE your inner design style at Alexis Designs. Explore our store of inspiration.
I I I I I I
ENJOY A LATTE and in-store consultations, our compliments. Most Romantic Dining 2012 Chef of the Year 2011 Fine Dining – 2008, 2009, 2010 Best New Restaurant 2007 Michigan’s #1 Outdoor Dining Michigan’s Notable Wine List
8 E Bridge St. | Rockford MI 616.863.8181 www.reds-live.com
Alexis Designs Home of the Design Cafe
Located in Downtown Grandville 4187 Chicago Drive, Grandville, MI 616-531-7576 | www.alexisdesigns.net MarCh 2012 Grand rapids 67
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The best that Italy has to offer in the heart of Grand Rapids... AWARD WINNING
616-855-WINE (9463) WWW.RESERVEGR.COM LUNCH Mon - Fri 11:30-4:00 PM
CHINESE RESTAURANT
DINNER Mon - Thurs 4:00-10:00 PM Fri 4:00-11:00 PM Sat 5:00-11:00 PM
/ Mandarin / Hunan / Szechwan Special OccaSiOn catering available
CORNER OF MONROE AVE. & LYON
3 locations • Open 7 days a week
www.firstwokgr.com
122 MONROE CENTER, ST NW DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 616-235-9339 www.trecugini.com
Business luncheons, intimate dinners, appetizers and cocktails. Or, our award winning Sunday brunch. Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring your visit is excellent.
Fine Persian Cuisine
Mon - Thurs 11:30 - 10 and Fri 11:30 - 11 Sat 4:30 - 11 (no lunch) Sun Brunch 10 - 3, Dinner 4:30 - 9
Restaurant and Banquet
2010 Dining Award of Excellence NW corner of Breton & 28th St. • Grand Rapids
(616) 949-7447 For full menu, upcoming events and specials, visit our website www.shirazgrille.com
63 Market St., Downtown Grand Rapids 616.459.2500 www.muer.com
Friday Fish Features
THAI, JAPANESE, CHINESE
2 courses featuring the freshest seafood available, going from sea to plate in 24 hours. $22 per person The B.O.B. / 20 Monroe / Grand Rapids 616.356.2000 / thebob.com
• Sushi Bar half price every Tuesday (Dine-in only) • Full service bar
Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner
310 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids
616-235-1342 complimentary parking
xo
ASIAN CUISINE
58 Monroe Center • Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 235-6969 www.xoasiancuisine.com
An exquisite dining experience set in a casual yet elegant atmosphere.
“Restaurant of the Year” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 “Dining Awards”
60 Ottawa NW | Downtown Grand Rapids | 616.454.6700 www.leosrestaurant.com
ContaCt Karla at
(616) 459-4545
for more information
Inspiration through Fermentation. HopCatGR.com 451-HOPS (4677) . 25 Ionia Ave.
#&&3 t &7&/54 t 1"35*&4 t %*/*/( t #&&3
advertise your restaurant
Here
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City Guide: Fresh Hops
It’s all about Guinness
Photography by Michael Buck
by Jon C. Koeze
A few months ago, I wrote that it is impossible to talk about stout ale without mentioning Guinness, manufacturers of the most popular and widely recognized stout beer in the world. It occurs to me that this is also true when talking about Irish beer: Guinness stout is to Ireland like Miller/Budweiser is to the United States. I like Guinness products — particularly on St Patrick’s Day. Guinness is a big commercial brewery and, if you’ve read the column for a while, you know I’ve never had much good to say about big brewery operations. Nevertheless, there is a big difference between the commercial breweries of America and those of the Emerald Isle. Many people think Guinness is one beer: a black foamy mixture of dirty malt barley that is over the top in flavor. The truth is that Guinness makes several beers covering the full spectrum of flavor experience. Here are some Guinness products available in Michigan. Harp Lager is not a stout; it is a full-flavored lager designed to appeal to the bottledbeer crowd. It pours out light with a sticky head and finishes clean and dry. Get a six-pack and sit down in front of the telly to watch a game of Irish hurling, the curious game that is a cross between lacrosse and hockey. One step up is the amber-colored Smithwick’s Ale (pronounced Smiddicks). This is a little bit sweeter than the Harp with a deep, toasty flavor. Try this if you’re not ready for a stout but still want to sip instead of guzzle. Guinness Black Lager is new to the American beer market. It’s a new style that’s a cross between a lager and stout. This often happens in microbreweries but is risky for big commercial breweries. The fact that Guinness has embraced this recipe indicates it will be around for a while. I think it was developed to appeal to stout drinkers who want to drink black beer but don’t want to get too full. Despite its color, it’s not really a sweet beer and has a clean, crisp finish, similar to other lager beers. There are three recipes of Guinness stout available locally: Guinness Draught, Guinness Extra Stout and Guinness Foreign Extra Stout. Guinness Draught is usually found on tap in bars and restaurants but is also served in cans
and bottles. This is perhaps the most approachable stout on the market today. Fencesitters who don’t appreciate full-flavored stouts should try this first. It is the least sweet of the three with a bold, dry finish, and tastes best served cold and in a pint glass. Extra Stout is supposedly the old recipe that made Guinness famous. I say this with apprehension, because I remember Extra Stout when it was served in little 10-ounce bottles. That stout was incomparably rich and syrupy with very little carbonation — not the flavor profile of the Extra Stout served today. Still, Guinness Extra Stout is a unique and distinct ale that defines the Irish stout style of sweetness balanced with dry hops for the finish. Foreign Extra Stout has been enjoyed in other lands for decades. It was recently added to the American market, perhaps to compete with our dynamic microbrew culture. It is similar to the Extra Stout recipe with the sweetness kicked up a few notches, making it more familiar to the beer I remember in my youth. I actually prefer this stout to the others listed above. Another interesting feature of Guinness products is the frequent use of nitrogen instead of oxygen to pressurize kegs and canisters. I used to wonder how they would get that distinctive boiling, foamy head in a freshly poured pint. The answer is the application of pressurized nitrogen to pump out of the keg. Guinness Draught in cans achieve this same foamy head by inserting a nitrogen-filled capsule inside the bottle. When it is opened, the release of pressure explodes the capsule and the nitrogen is injected into the container. Sláinte! Contributing editor Jon C. Koeze, cable administrator for the city of Grand Rapids, has made and tasted beer since 1980.
Many people think Guinness is one beer: a black foamy mixture of dirty malt barley that is over the top in flavor. The truth is that Guinness makes several beers covering the full spectrum of flavor experience.
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City Guide
Dining listings
Dining listings are not determined by advertising. While the The recommendations and periodically, reviews in the are magazine staff updates listings callslistings to confirm the opinionsare of recommended. the editors. Restaurants are by virtue of overall quality. We have created information If you know ofincluded any additions or corrections, please email mprimeau@ symbols to areaSymbols restaurant are legend at the end of this listing. geminipub.com. areamenities, defined in awhich legend at defined the end in of athis 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. 25 Ottawa Ave SW, 805-5581. twentyfivegr. com. L, D $-$$ BAR DIVANI — Wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. European-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrees. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. bar-divani.com. L, D $-$$ OBISTRO 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, 2224600. bistrobellavita.com. L, D $ 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. thegilmorecollection. com/bluewater.php. L, D $-$$ ➧BREWERY VIVANT — House-made beer and food in the style of traditional French and Belgian country dishes. The East Hills pub/brewery is housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes are made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. L, D $-$$ _ CITYSEN LOUNGE — Limited but tantalizing selection of soup, salads, sandwiches and sharable small-plate creations. Happy Hour daily 4-7 pm. CityFlats Hotel, 83 Monroe Center, (866) 609-CITY. cityflatshotel.com. L, D ¢-$ COBBLESTONE BISTRO — Eclectic, globally inspired menu executed with pizzazz in attractive surroundings, complete with fireplace, waterfalls and koi pond. 9818 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 588-3223. mycobblestone.com. B (weekends), L, D $ CYGNUS 27 — Stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. 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. D $$
GRAYDON’S CROSSING — English pub serves Indian food with a British influence. Full bar features impressive array of specialty beers. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing. com. L, D $ GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB — Daily menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. the greenwell.com. L, D $-$$
SCHNITZ ADA GRILL — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. 97 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzdeli.com. L, D ¢-$$ FSIX.ONE.SIX — Contemporary American fare. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilovethejw.com. B, L, D $-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE — Tapas-style fare plus house specialties. Patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavernonthesq.com. L, D ¢-$ WINCHESTER — Locally sourced menu aims to reinvent bar food in reclaimed century-old space with shuffleboard court-patio. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. L, D ¢-$
Classic American Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country.
GRILL ONE ELEVEN — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Sunday Brunch buffet 10 am-2 pm, otherwise opens at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, Rockford 863-3300. grilloneeleven. com. B (Sun), L, D $-$$
ACORN GRILLE AT THOUSAND OAKS — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaksgolf.com. L, D $$
FGROVE — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course meals with a tilt toward sustainable seafood. Open 5-9 pm Tue-Sat. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. D $$
ARYANA RESTAURANT & BAR — Comfortable dining room in the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and fine dining selections from an extensive seasonal menu. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1770. mainstreetmedia group.com. L, D $-$$
THE HERITAGE — GRCC culinary arts students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan fare at a reasonable cost. Menu changes weekly. Wine available with dinner. Open Tue-Fri during academic year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$
BENTHAM’S RIVERFRONT RESTAURANT — Upscale selections served in casually elegant surroundings. Open daily in the Amway Grand Plaza, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com/benthams.html. B, L, D $
MARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO — Frenchcountry-casual offers creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$
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. D $-$$
OLIVES — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$
BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant serves a varied menu with golf-course views from inside or on the deck. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com. L, D ¢-$
ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM — Eclectic menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Occasional live music. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$
BRANN’S SIZZLING STEAKS AND SPORTS GRILLE — Famous sizzler steaks with grill items and salads, baskets, Mexican entrees and bar munchies. Brann’s of Grandville, 3475 Fairlanes, Grand Village Mall, 531-6210; Mike & Johnny Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; John Brann’s of Cascade, 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800; Brann’s of Holland, 12234 James St, (616) 393-0028; Brann’s of Muskegon, 5510 Harvey St, (231) 7981399; Brann’s of Portage, 700 Martin Luther King Dr, (269) 321-8852; Brann’s Caledonia, 6450 $ 100th St, 891-6055. branns.com. L, D
RESERVE — Wine bar with extensive by-the-glass selections and culinary options to match. Opens at 4, closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. D $-$$ ROCKWELL-REPUBLIC — Diverse menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from sushi to creative comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. 45 S Division Ave, 608-6465 or 551-3563. republicgrandrapids.com. L, D $-$$
ELECTRIC CHEETAH — Eclectic menu changes weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations in urban setting. Unique Sunday brunch. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 4514779. electriccheetah.com. L, D ¢-$
ROSE’S — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with a varied menu and a three-season porch. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Takeout at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646. thegilmore collection.com/roses.php. B (weekends), L, D $
GILLY’S AT THE BOB — Innovative takes on seafood on the 1st floor of The BOB, complete with raw bar. Seasonal menu offers cutting-edge fare. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. L (Sat), D $-$$
SAN CHEZ, A TAPAS BISTRO — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. Extensive wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W Fulton St, 774$-$$ 8272. sanchezbistro.com. L, D
BULL’S HEAD TAVERN — A dozen appetizers from brie to pot stickers. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern.com. L, D $ CASCADE ROADHOUSE — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE (at Old 28th St), 9491540. L, D $-$$ 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
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City Guide Steamer Bar has its own menu. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com. L, D, C $-$$ THE CHOP HOUSE — In the tradition of the best American chophouses with aged prime beef and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 4516184. thechophouserestaurant.com. D $$ DUGAN’S PUB & GRILLE — Casual dining with 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. L, D $-$$ FALL CREEK — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas and creative entrées. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. fallcreekdining. com. L, D ¢-$ FIREROCK GRILLE — Country club dining plus option to cook your own filet, shrimp or ahi tuna on a 500-degree stone. Open daily. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. stonewatercc. com. L, D $ FLAT RIVER GRILL — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building on the river. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver.php. L, D $-$$
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GREAT LAKES SHIPPING CO. — Everything from beef, seafood and beyond in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. No lunch, but open Sun afternoons. 2455 Burton St SE, 9499440. greatlakesshippingcompany.com. D $-$$ GRILLE 29 — Menu includes specialty panini and a variety of entrées. Full-service bar. Open daily for breakfast and dinner. Holiday Inn Select, 3063 Lake Eastbrook SE, 285-7600. holidayinn.com. B, D $
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GRILLE AT WATERMARK — Innovative menu in relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf course. Mon-Sat; Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. watermarkcc.com. L, D $-$$ GRILL HOUSE & ROCK BOTTOM BAR — Grillyour-own steakhouse with grillmasters on call. Bottomless salad bowl and potato bar. 1071 32nd St (M-40), Allegan, (269) 686-9192. grillhouse. net. L (downstairs), D $-$$ HONEY CREEK INN — Daily specials are the highlight, mixed with traditional fare. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. honeycreekinn.com. L, D ¢-$ HUDSONVILLE GRILLE — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Suite F, Hudsonville, 6629670. hudsonvillegrille.com. B, L, D ¢-$ J BAR — The BOB’s steakhouse restaurant. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. the bob.com. D $$ KOPPER TOP — Raw copper tops the bar and tables at this GR staple with a long-standing tradition of seasonal decorations. No lunch Sat, closed Sun. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 459-2001. Facebook. L, D ¢ THE LANDING — Nautical décor with windows
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GRAND VILLA — Longtime favorite serving prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar, full service bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. grandvillarestaurants.com. L, D $
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Grand Rapids • 1500 Kalamazoo SE • (616) 241-2655 www.modernhardware.com March 2012 Grand rapids 71
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City Guide
Under the Vines
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. radis $ son.com/hotels/migrapno/dinings. B, L, D FLEO’S — Combines fine dining (fresh seafood is the specialty) and casual comfort. Street level in parking ramp at Ottawa and Louis. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant. $-$$ com. L, D LOUIS BENTON STEAKHOUSE — Features premium Buckhead beef, wet- and dry-aged steaks and more. Closed Sun. Free valet parking at Ionia entrance. 77 Monroe Center Ave NW, Suite 100, 454-7455. louisbenton.com. L, D $-$$ MAXFIELD’S — Vast lunch and dinner menus are enhanced by daily feature buffets. Open Tue-Sun. 11228 Wyman Rd, Blanchard, (800) 550-5630. $$ maxfieldsrestaurant.com. L, D MEADOWS RESTAURANT — GVSU’s professional and student-staffed restaurant; patio and dining room overlook golf course. Full menu offers everything from burgers to NY strip steak. Seasonal hours; closed Sun. 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale, 895-1000. gvsu.edu/meadows/. L, D $-$$ MIDDLE VILLA INN — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands. Banquet rooms available. Closed Mon and Wed. 4611 N Middleville Rd, Middleville, (269) 795-3640. middle-villa-inn.com. L, D $ PEARL STREET GRILL — Bright, airy restaurant in the downtown Holiday Inn. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-7611. guestservice@higrdt.com. B, L, D $ RED JET CAFÉ — Gilmore Collection restaurant in the former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar and menu ranging from omelets to specialty piz-
zas. Full bar; opens 7 am. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/redjet.php. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ REDS ON THE RIVER — Located on the Rogue River, Reds combines casual sophistication with Tuscan sensibilities. Closed Sun. 2 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. L, D $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266; 1820 44th St SW, 534-0704. michiganmenu.com. L, D $-$$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. L, D $ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE — The classic American steakhouse now in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s fully renovated former 1913 Room. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amway grand.com. L, D $$
The inventory includes Benjamin Twiggs cherry products, Awesome Chocolates, Grand Rapids Coffee Roasters coffee, Swanson’s cherry juice and Dip Sensation’s single-serving soup mixes. Under the Vines also offers customized gift baskets. As soon as the state approves a liquor license, Kidner-Otte plans to offer tastings of Michigan wines and hard ciders. She said she wants people to leave the store in a better mood than when they arrived. “I try to pick things that will bring a smile to people’s faces.” Under the Vines is located at 959 Cherry St. SE. For information, visit the shop’s Facebook page or call (616) 356-1986. — Alexandra Fluegel 40 Pearl St NW (breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Tue-Sat), 776-1616. 4gr8food.com. B, L, D $ SWAN INN RESTAURANT — Home-cooked meals such as pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles, dinner menu. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. B, L, D ¢-$ TERRACE GRILLE AT BAY POINTE INN — Casual gourmet dining, martini bar and lakeside terrace. Seasonally changing menu emphasizes regional fare. Sunday brunch. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville (off US 131), (269) 672-5202 or (888) GUN-LAKE. $-$$ baypointeinn.com. L, D TILLMAN’S — Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. L, D $-$$ TIMBERS INN — Menu ranges from appetizers to wild game offerings and meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Sunday omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn. net. L, D ¢-$
SAM’S JOINT — Award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. Extensive menu includes Mexican selections; full bar. 2412 Briggs Rd, Gun Lake, (269) 795-3965; 7449 68th St, Dutton, 698-1833; 107 E Main St, Caledonia, 891-1128; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-3324; 6618 Old Grand Haven Rd, Norton Shores, (231) 7987155; 15520 48th Ave, Coopersville, 837-8558; 1665 Viewpond SE, Kentwood, 455-2111. L, D $
TULLYMORE — Restaurant at Tullymore Golf Club offers seasonal menu in beautiful surroundings. Large patio for outdoor dining. 11969 Tullymore, Stanwood, (800) 972-4837. tullymoregolf.com. $-$$ L, D
SPINNAKER — Menu features seafood and landlubber entrees. Sunday brunch. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton Grand Rapids Airport), 957-1111. thehilton. $-$$ com. B, L, D
TWISTED ROOSTER — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar featuring 18 beers on tap, local beers/wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twistedrooster.com. L, D ¢-$$
SUNDANCE GRILL — Breakfast-and-lunch spot also offers a dinner menu in the California/ Southwestern tradition with a margarita bar. 5755 28th St SE (Esplanade Plaza), 956-5644;
WALLDORFF BREWPUB & BISTRO — Microbrewery with varied menu. 105 E State St, Hastings, (269) 945-4400. waldorffbrewpub.com. L, D ¢-$
Photography by Alissa Lane
David and Sandra Kidner-Otte
Want a little cheese with that wine? If you answered yes, the newest addition to the East Hills business district, Under the Vines, has you covered. The wine shop and tasting room carries everything from handmade wine stoppers to organic cheeses — a perfect mix of sass and sophistication. “It’s about bringing happiness to people — allowing them to pamper themselves,” said owner Sandra Kidner-Otte, who opened Under the Vines with husband David. In addition to the oenophile-oriented wares, the shop carries a variety of trinkets and kitchen apparel, as well as local goodies. “I aim to carry as many Michiganmade products as possible,” she said.
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City Guide WINTER INN — Seafood, steaks and prime rib along with seafood specialties in historic inn setting. Banquet facilities. 100 N Lafayette St, Greenville, (616) 754-7108. thewinterinn.com. L, D $
Daytime casual Eateries that specialize in breakfast and lunch.
ANNA’S HOUSE — Family dining with breakfast and lunch until 2 pm. 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 3618500. B, L ¢ CHERIE INN — Relaxed setting for upscale breakfasts and innovative specials, served until 3 pm. Closed Mon. 969 Cherry St SE, 458-0588. Facebook. B, L ¢ FAT BOY BURGERS — Legendary burger joint in the Cheshire neighborhood offers breakfast 6-11 am weekdays (7 am Sat) and lunch until 3 pm. Closed Sun. 2450 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-7075. B, L ¢
Creating Beauty
since 1956
THE GATHERING PLACE — Cozy setting and imaginative menu, including homemade soups and dessert selections. Open daily until 2 pm. $ 6886 Cascade Rd SE, 949-3188. B, L OMELETTE SHOPPE & BAKERY — A plethora of omelets, along with pecan rolls, pastries and more. Open daily til 3 pm. 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. omletteshoppe.com. B, L ¢-$ REAL FOOD CAFÉ — Open early for breakfast and lunch. Open until 2 pm; closed Mon. 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 5430 Northland Dr NE, 361¢ 1808. Facebook. B, L RED GERANIUM CAFÉ — Popular spot for specialty omelets, homemade soups, breads and desserts. Two locations: 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave. 532-8888. redgeraniumcafe.com. B, L ¢ SUSIE’S CAFÉ — Breakfast served through lunch. Sandwiches, soups and burgers from the grill with malts, smoothies and ice cream. 1120 Knapp St NE, 363-1530. B, L ¢ WOLFGANG’S — Popular Eastown spot renowned for breakfasts. Lunch includes salads, sandwiches. Open 6:30 am-2:30 pm daily. 1530 Wealthy St SE, 454-5776. mattwolfgang.com. B, L ¢
Vegetarian ➧BARTERTOWN DINER — Vegetarian/vegan/ raw offerings in worker-owned and -operated diner. Promotes use of fresh, local ingredients. Sandwiches, tacos, pizzas, entrees. Open daily (hours change seasonally, check website). 6 Jefferson Ave SE, 233-3219. www.bartertowngr. com. L, D $
Weekly Maintenance service available
7884 eastern avenue se Phone (616) 698-8064 • www.everettslandscape.com
Something to Feel Good About! Over 400 Exhibits and Seminars. Open to the public Tickets at door or advance discount at Meijer
March 9-11, 2012 www.kohlerexpo.com
Featured Presenters
Photography by Alissa Lane
GAIA CAFÉ — Totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. No alcohol. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. Facebook. B, L ¢
Pubs & Taverns 84th STREET PUB AND GRILLE — Menu offers American fare from pizzas to steaks in laidback surroundings with flat-screen TVs and full-service bar. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr, Byron Center, 5831650. 84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ BAR LOUIE — Urban décor at Woodland Mall, with sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and hearty
Ali Vincent Meet & Greet NBC’s First Female Winner “Biggest Loser” Champion “Believe It – Be It” Follow us on facebook
Jeffrey Zaslow Author Meet & Greet “The Magic Room,” Girls from Ames, The Last Lecture & The Gabrielle Giffords Story
Shari Steinbach, MS RD Meijer Healthy Living Manager Meijer Healthy Living Cooking Stage Easy Meals for Healthy Families
Elizabeth Ann Wertenberger Miss Michigan “Continue to Dream” Sponsored by Dr Pepper Snapple Group Sponsor:
March 2012 Grand Rapids 73
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City Guide
Fine Persian Cuisine
Restaurant and Banquet
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. L, D $-$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE BOB — Grill on 2nd floor of The BOB offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale 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. L, D $ BUD & STANLEY’S — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. TVs galore and takeout available. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. L, D ¢-$ CASCADE SPORTS GRILL — Varied menu and sizable bar with 10 brew taps and extensive martini menu. Games, TVs and live DJ Sat night. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338. $ Facebook. L, D
Banquet room available for private parties, corporate events and wedding receptions Fire-grilled kabobs, gourmet stews, variety of rice and vegetarian dishes Full bar with unique martinis and a large wine selection Lunch, Dinner & Take-Out Weekly entertainment: Violin, Middle Eastern Dance, and Monthy Wine Dinners
CHEERO’S SPORTS & SUSHI GRILL — Japanese fare along with pizza, burger and microbrew. Several TVs and outdoor patio next to Michigan Athletic Club. Open daily. 2510 Burton St SE, 6083062. cheerosgrill.com. L, D ¢-$ CHEERS — Popular neighborhood spot with something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. B, L, D ¢ CORNER BAR — Rockford’s spot for a brew and a chili dog. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. ¢ rockfordcornerbar.com. L, D COTTAGE BAR — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili and more. Closed Sun. 8 LaGrave Ave SE, 4549088. cottagebar.biz. L, D ¢ DERBY STATION — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derbystation.com. L, D $ ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL — Cozy neighborhood watering hole serves burgers, nachos and more. Games and jukebox. 501 Fuller Ave NE, 454-6666. L, D ¢-$ FLANAGAN’S — Popular Irish pub. Imported beers, 20 on tap. Entrees with an Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. — Sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Covered (heated) porch. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 7761195. foundersbrewing.com. L, D ¢
2010 Dining Award of Excellence! 2739 BRETON ROAD SE ~ GRAND RAPIDS NW CORNER OF BRETON & 28TH ST. ~ Phone (616) 949-7447 For hours, full menu, upcoming events and specials, visit our website at
www.shirazgrille.com
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. L, D ¢-$ GP SPORTS — Sports bar and restaurant with three big screens and 40 flat-screen TVs. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, along with salads and sandwiches. Closed Sun. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6495. amway grand.com. L, D $ 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. L, D $-$$ HOLIDAY BAR — Classic horseshoe bar with 12 beers on tap, bar food, pool tables, darts and more. 801 5th St NW (at Alpine Ave), 456-9058. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ HOLLY’S BACK DOOR BAR & GRILL — Full menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. B, L, $ D HOPCAT — Crafted brews with close to 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com. L (Sat-Sun), ¢-$ D HUB’S INN — Sandwiches, wet burritos and thincrust pizza. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. L, D ¢ INTERSECTION CAFÉ — Roomy entertainment venue offers sandwich wraps, burgers, vegetarian options and more. 133 Grandville Ave SW, 4590977. sectionlive.com. L, D ¢ JD REARDON’S — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. B, L, D $-$$ J. GARDELLA’S TAVERN — Massive 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. jgardellastavern.com. L, D ¢ LOGAN’S ALLEY — Free popcorn complements a premium-libation special. Sandwich-and-appetizer menu. Seasonal deck seating. 916 Michigan St NE, 458-1612. logansalley.com. L, D ¢-$ MAIN STREET PUB — Large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Open 11 am daily; breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. B (Sun), L, D ¢-$ MILL CREEK TAVERN — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, from-scratch daily soups, sandwiches as well as full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, ¢-$ 784-3806. L, D MOJO’S — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, 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, 7769000. mojospianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$ NICK FINKS — Mexican fare and drinks in historic tavern, part of The Gilmore Collection. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Occasional live music, open mic nights. Daily happy hour 3-6 pm. 3965 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7849886. thegilmorecollection.com. L, D $ NITE CAP BAR & GRILL — Roomy with outdoor patio, pool tables, video games, big-screen TVs, Keno and karaoke Thu-Sat evenings. Soups, salads, sandwiches, flame-broiled burgers, Mexican selections and dinners. 801 W Fulton St, 4514243. nitecapbar.com. L, D ¢ O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a
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City Guide mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D ¢-$ .OTTAWA TAVERN — Sports bar/restaurant shares space with deli sister Bite for breakfast and lunch. Rebranding into upscale jazz club/restaurant with live jazz nightly, new menu. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. thegilmorecol lection.com/ot.php. D $-$$ PEPPINO’S RISTORANTE PIZZERIA AND SPORTS LOUNGE — Italian specialties, Sicilianstyle steak and chicken, burgers, etc. Separate sports bar. 5053 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615. Family-friendly Peppino’s Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 4568444. peppinospizza.com. L, D ¢-$$ PUB 43 — Caters to all, but is especially popular with gay crowd. Board games, TVs, fully stocked bar. Menu ranges from burgers to upscale items. Jukebox, occasional live entertainment. Open daily at 3 pm. 43 S Division Ave, 458-2205. ¢-$ D
A beautiful smile can be easy ...
QUEEN’S PUB SPORTS BAR — Adjacent to Bombay Cuisine in Eastown with English pub grub, full bar and lots of beers on tap. Pool table, dart boards, WiFi. 1420-1424 Lake Dr SE, 4567055. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ QUINN & TUITE’S IRISH PUB — Large selection of Irish whiskies and Guinness on tap. Typical bar fare. Irish music, live bands Sat. 1535 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-8380. quinnandtuites.com. L, D ¢-$ ROCKY’S BAR & GRILL — Burgers, appetizers and more. Art Deco bar, pool table. Kitchen open late; some evening entertainment. Open Sun at 5 pm with $1 beer specials. 633 Ottawa Ave NW, 356-2346. myspace.com/rockysgr. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $ THE SCORE — Restaurant and sports bar with varied menu. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ SHAMROCK BAR & GRILL — Diverse menu includes special burgers and a wide range of entrees. 2501 Wilson Ave NW, 735-3888. L, D ¢-$ SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN — Bar food with flare, from appetizers to Kobe top sirloin. Open daily. Weekday happy hour specials 3-6:30 p.m. Cascade Center, 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
CARROLL FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY
Joel T. Carroll, D.D.S.
4310 Leonard St. NW, Suite 202, Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 453-6323
carrollfamilydentistry.com
Complete Dental Services Available: • Free Cosmetic Consultation • Gentle Dentistry for Children and Adults • Immediate Emergency Treatment • Latest Laser Technology • Dentures (Same Day Repair) • Cosmetic Dentistry, Bleaching CROWNS THE SAME DAY OF APPOINTMENT HOUR USING E 4D TECHNOLOGY
Pain free dentistry is our goal!
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. L, D TEAZERS BAR & GRILL — Burgers and pastas, sandwiches, salads and Southwestern bites. Kids menu. Look for live music on the stage. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 459-2481. teazersbar. com. L, D ¢-$
Japanese Steak House & Asian Bistro
VILLAGE INN PIZZA PARLOR — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican and more. Karaoke nights Thu-Sat. Open daily; weekday lunch buffet. 2215 44th St SE, Kentwood, 281-1444; 934 Washington St, Holland, (616) 392-1818. vipizza.net. L, D ¢-$
Flash and Flavor Habachi • Japanese • Chinese • Thai • Sushi Bar
VITALE’S SPORTS LOUNGE & PIZZERIA — Pizza and pasta plus panini sandwiches and wraps in sports-centric surroundings. Multiple screens, outside deck, live entertainment. Open daily.
1501 East Beltline, NE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-719-1859 March 2012 Grand Rapids 75
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City Guide 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7842526, takeout 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ WEST SIDE BAR — No-frills neighborhood tavern with bar-food menu. Live entertainment weekends. 1568 Broadway NW, 459-1240. L, D ¢ WOODY’S PRESS BOX — Complex includes two bars, a patio and bowling. Menu offers sandwiches and shrimp, barbecue fare. Breakfast and lunch only Sun). 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530$ 3242. spectrumlanes.com. B, L, D 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. L, D
Delis, Dogs & Bagels
Places that serve sandwiches, bagels and/or hot dogs. BAGEL BEANERY — All locations serve breakfast and deli sandwiches plus specialty coffees. Vegetarian options. Catering, kids meals, free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating. 455 Michigan St NE, 2357500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, 249-9500. bagelbeanery. com. B, L, D ¢-$ BIG APPLE BAGELS — Fresh bagels and 15 cream cheese mixtures. 3915 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-1919; 2058 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-2390; 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 554-7915. babcorp. ¢ com. B, L, D
CRAZY CHARLIE’S — Coney Island-style dogs and more. 2184 Wealthy St SE, 451-6720. L, D ¢ DAM DOGS — On the dam in downtown Rockford serving several hot dog plus ice cream. 25 Squires St, Rockford, 863-9565. L, D ¢ THE DOG PIT — Several hot dog variations with house-made chili topping and variety of condiments. Also daily soups. Closed Sun. 132 Monroe Center NW, 988-1508. Facebook. L, D ¢ THE GRAND CONEY — Home-style dinners, Mexican fare and all-day breakfast in addition to Coney Island dogs. Open 24/7. 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ JONNY B’Z DOGS AND MORE —All-meat dogs, burgers and sandwiches, plus vegan options. Closed Sun, open until 2 am Thu-Sat. 638 Wealthy St SE. Facebook. L, D ¢ JW’S — Art gallery meets coffeehouse with rotation of local artists’ works. Light fare plus coffee drinks. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 285-1695. Facebook. B, L ¢ KAVA HOUSE — Popular Eastown spot with bakery items (from scones to spinach pies) and java served in bowl-sized cups. 1445 Lake Dr SE, 4518600. On Facebook. B, L, D ¢ LOCAL MOCHA — Downtown location offers coffee specialties and smoothies as well as grilled breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 96 Monroe Center NW, 459-0082. localmochagr.com. B, L ¢
Vegetarian options. Free Wi-Fi. Closed Sun. 608 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. com. B, L ¢ WG GRINDERS — Variety of grinders plus 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. L, D ¢-$ WINDY CITY GRILLE — Chicago-style gyros, Italian beef, dogs and more. Closed Sun; will cater. 5751 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, 2612489. Facebook. L, D ¢ WIRED ESPRESSO BAR — Coffee concoctions, baked goods, sandwiches and more in Creston Business District. Free Wi-Fi and occasional weekend entertainment. 1503 Plainfield Ave NE, ¢ 805-5245. wiredgr.com. B, L, D YESTERDOG — Hot dogs in a fun, nostalgic Eastown setting. Closed Sun. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 262-3090. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢
Family Casual ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. No alcohol. 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. B, L, D $
NUNZIA’S CAFÉ — Combo specials plus Italian dishes. Open 8:30 am-2 pm weekdays. In Merrill Lynch building, 250 Monroe Ave NW, No. 140, 458-1533. B, L ¢
THE BISTRO — Urban décor with large-screen TVs, wraparound bar and barrista serving Starbucks. Casual menu covers all tastes. Open daily. Marriott Downtown Courtyard Hotel, 11 Monroe Ave NW, 242-6000, ext 6646. marriott. com. B, L, D $
ONE STOP CONEY SHOP — Hot dogs plus salads, sandwiches, fries and house-made condiments in downtown GR. Open 11 am-7:30 pm Mon-Fri. 11 am-3 pm Sat. 154 E Fulton, 233-9700. onestopconeyshop.com. L, D (M-F) ¢
BRANDYWINE — Café atmosphere, with extensive breakfasts, innovative lunches with vegetarian choices, dinner selections from Mexican to beef Wellington. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-1723. B, L, D ¢-$
RICO’S DELI — Large array of breakfast and lunch items, coffees and teas. Vegan-friendly. Closed Sun. 940 Monroe Ave NW (in The Boardwalk), 451-0225. Facebook. B, L, D ¢
CAJUN CAT — Cajun-influenced menu features seafood selections, gumbo, sandwiches. Takeout or small seating area. 3280 Remembrance Rd, Walker, 735-2416. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
BITTER END —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, 451-6061. B, L, D ¢
RITZ KONEY BAR & GRILLE — Hot dogs, gourmet sandwiches and more. Full bar with limited wine list. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 451-3701. ritzkoneybarandgrille.com. L, D ¢-$
BOARDWALK SUBS — 20 huge Jersey-style subs in addition to familiar choices. Catering and delivery. Open daily. 5422 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 724-2492. L, D ¢
RIVERFRONT CAFÉ @ THE BLUE BRIDGE — Breakfast plus sandwiches, soup and salads in Plaza Towers complex. Ferris coffee drinks served. Art of the Table sells gourmet foods. 235 W Fulton St, 459-6257. riverfrontcafegr.com, ferris ¢-$ coffee.com. B, L, D
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. L, D ¢-$
BIGGBY COFFEE — East Lansing-based chain offers specialty coffee and non-coffee drinks, baked goods, fruit cups, yogurt parfaits, bagel sandwiches. Wi-Fi. For locations, see biggby. com. ¢ .BITE — Coffee shop and deli side of Ottawa Tavern. Large selection of sandwich wraps, soups and salads, Craft Artisan Bakery brownies, cookies, muffins. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. Thegilmorecollection.com/bitesoup kitchen.html. B, L ¢
CAFÉ AROMAS — Sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups plus a variety of coffee drinks. Open 6:30 am-5:30 pm Mon-Fri. 880 Grandville Ave SW, 245-7379. tastycafearomas.com. B, L ¢ 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. L, D CHICAGO STYLE GYRO — Gyros, salads, sandwiches, shish kebab and more, plus Kurdish tea made from a secret family recipe. Open 11 am-7 pm Mon-Sat. Delivery available. 539 Leonard St NW, 451-0021. chicagostylegyro.us. L, D ¢ CORNUCOPIA — Bakery, sandwichs, pizza, takehome specialties, coffees, one-of-a-kind wine selection. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6428. amwaygrand.com. B, L, D ¢-$
SCHNITZ DELICATESSEN — Deli with a German flair. Ada location has full bar. 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. L, D (Ada only) ¢-$ URBAN MILL CAFÉ — Deli-style specialty sandwiches, soups and salads plus baked goods. 629 Michigan St NE, 855-1526. urbanmill.com. B, L, D ¢-$
COUSIN’S TASTY CHICKEN — Local alternative to the chains with tasty fried chicken and side dishes. Also seafood and other fried fare. Closed ¢-$ Sun. 1209 Leonard St NE, 456-5244. L, D FLEETWOOD DINER — Extensive diner-style menu with Greek influences. Open 6:30 am for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun), serving dinner until 8 pm Mon-Thu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. B, L, D ¢-$ FOREST HILLS INN — A casual neighborhood favorite with a broad menu, excellent pizza. Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. B, L, D $
VANILLAS COFFEE TEA CAFÉ — Gourmet coffees, teas plus special-order bakery for cakes, cookies, cupcakes. Closed Sun. 3150 Plainfield Ave NE, Plainfield Plaza, 447-0080. vanillascafe. com. B, L, D ¢
FRY DADDY’S FRESH FISH — Fried fish, wingdings, walleye, orange roughy, catfish, blue gill, perch, smelt and shrimp, by the pound or in baskets with fries. Also to go. Closed Mon. Trinity Plaza, 1720 44th St SE, Kentwood, 455-FISH. L, D ¢-$
WEALTHY STREET BAKERY — Fresh breads, pastries with sandwiches and daily soup specials.
GRAND TRAVERSE PIE CO. — Bakery and café offer extensive menu, with quiche, soups, salads,
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City Guide sandwiches and pastries. Open daily. 3224 28th St SE, 977-7600. gtpie.com. B, L, D ¢-$ ➧GREEN RESTAURANT — Sandwiches, salads, burgers and seafood with an emphasis on farms with sustainable practices and humane treatment of animals. Menu includes ostrich and elk burgers. $ 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-8294. L, D THE LYON DEN — Bakery, deli and convenience store with breakfast burritos, baked goods, salads, sandwiches, hotdogs, pizza bar and cotton candy. Also gluten- and sugar-free selections. Open daily. 200 Ionia Ave NW, 805-5692. thelyon dengr.com. B, L, D ¢ MAMA’S PIZZA & GRINDERS — Thornhills Plaza eatery offers grinders, pizza, salads and pastas. 6504 28th St SE, 954-1964. mamaspizzaand grinders.com. L, D ¢ 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. B, L, D ¢ NOEL RESTAURANT — Christmas year-round in this former church and parsonage. Family-style dinners, lighter fare on lunch menu. Gift shop. Hours by reservation only; parties of 10 or more preferred. 2371 Riley St, Jamestown, 896-6427. ¢-$$ noelrestaurant.com. L, D OLGA’S KITCHEN — Greek-style sandwiches, salads, desserts and smoothies. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 456-0600; 3195 28th St (Woodland Mall), 9428020; 3700 Rivertown Parkway SW, Grandville, 531-6572. olgaskitchen.com. L, D ¢ PAL’S DINER — A real diner with breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, ¢ 942-7257. palsdiner.com. B, L, D POP’S FAMILY RESTAURANT — Breakfast all day long, plus classic comfort food and Mexican specialties. 1339 Walker Village Dr NW, 4539339. B, L, D ¢-$ RAINBOW GRILL — Breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. B, L, D ¢-$ RAMONA’S TABLE — EGR deli with made-fromscratch soups, sandwiches, salads, baked items and meals. Takeout and catering. Closed Sun. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 459-8500. ramonastable. com. B, L, D ¢-$ RUSS’ RESTAURANTS — Fast service, 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 ¢ SANDI’S FAMILY RESTAURANT — Home-cooked meals in casual surroundings. Daily specials; allyou-can-eat ocean perch Fri. Senior discount Mon-Tue. Closed Sun. 6597 S Division Ave, 2813160. sandisfamilyrestaurant.com. B, L, D ¢-$ THAT PLACE ON PLAINFIELD — Classic American diner food along with some ethnic and vegetarian dishes. Closed Sun. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 365-6669. B, L, D ¢
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D O N ’ T M I S S I T - M A R K Y O U R C A L E N DA R S TO DAY !
2012 Camp Expo & Education Fair NEW for 2012, Grand Rapids Family Magazine brings you the Annual Camp Expo PLUS our Education Fair!
This event is open to the public giving West Michigan families a convenient way to connect with camps & gather information about educational opportunities. FREE ADMISSION & PARKING
Grand Rapids Public Library
111 Library St. NE, GR, MI 49503
Saturday, March 24th, 2012 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sponsored by the Grand Rapids Public Library, Grand Rapids Public Schools and The Early Childhood Investment Corporation
Call Grand Rapids Family Magazine at (616) 459-3131 for more information or visit www.grfamily.com! March 2012 Grand Rapids 77
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City Guide: Grand Vine
Obscure wines worth sipping “... I decided to serve wines that most of the attendees had never heard of, and if they had, probably would never pick to pair with Italian cuisine.”
by A. Brian Cain
A few months ago, I was racking my brain to come up with a tasting event for regular wine drinkers who’d rather be having a good time drinking wine than sitting in a classroom dissecting the intricacies of Napa Valley Cabernet or Chardonnay. The venue was a party with interesting Italian foods, so I decided to serve wines that most of the attendees had never heard of, and if they had, probably would never pick to pair with Italian cuisine. With artichoke crescents, stuffed mushrooms, prissy pecans and olive/tomato cream cheese with pita chips, we served Prosecco and Michigan Meritage. Prosecco is a simple, direct, un-aged sparkling wine from the Veneto region of Italy. It is much softer and fruitier
than Champagne, Cava or other bottle-fermented sparkling wines. Most of us think of California’s top red wines when we think of Meritage (rhymes with heritage). However, Meritage wine can be made anywhere in the world; the famous Bordeaux heritage grapes now are grown just about everywhere. What is great about Michigan’s Meritage wines is that although they pack a mouthful of well-textured tannins and complex fruit notes, they are never heavy or fat, so they make a great accompaniment to appetizers. With oeufs a la Russe (hard-cooked eggs stuffed with mixed vegetables in mayo), we served Italy’s first DOCG wine (Italy’s equivalent to France’s Grand Cru status). Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine from Tuscany, is much rounder than most Pinot Grigio wines, yet still offers fresh light flavors suitable for a first course. Next, we served a refreshing orange-marinated shrimp cocktail. Citrus can be a tricky wine pairing, but Argentina’s demonstratively aromatic dry white Torrontes was up to the task. Think of Gewurztraminer, but drier and crisper. Our entrée was a pesto-stuffed chicken breast with couscous. We decided on Pinotage from South Africa. We wanted something rich, complex and slightly heftier than Pinot Noir, but not as big as Cabernet nor as ripe and fruity as Syrah or Zinfandel. Tableside Caesar salad is another tricky pairing. We wanted something refreshingly fruity, but not so over the top as Moscato or Gewurz. We decided on Viognier for its exotic floral aroma and steely fresh palate. With a selection of Italian cheeses, we could have served just about anything and made our guests happy. But we trotted out a pair of South American Meritage varietals. We chose two that are nearly extinct in Bordeaux today, although they thrive in South America. Carmenère offers up a Shiraz-like ripe, fruity, succulent texture, complex earthiness and a Merlotlike chocolate component to boot. Malbec, often referred to as the lost grape of Bordeaux, is used in Argentina to make the most compellingly vivid black red wines more reminiscent of Rhone than Bordeaux.
Photography by Johnny Qurin
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Photography by Johnny Qurin
City Guide: Grand Vine To top off the evening, we served angel cake with lemon sauce accompanied by Australian Tokay. Here are the specific wines we enjoyed: Ruffino Prosecco Extra Dry, Veneto, Italy, $14. “Extra dry” — that is, sweeter than Brut, so the pleasant juicy texture accompanies all sorts of savory appetizers. Fenn Valley Meritage (Cab/Merlot blend) Lake Michigan Shore, $15. I am surprised by the quality of this wine every time: consistently broad in the mouth with slight chocolate/vanilla nuances and persistent raw, red fruit on the finish. La Rote Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy, $15. An ideal white wine to serve with a small course; the complex, mineral-laden aroma invites competing flavors and finishes softly. Desino Torrontes, Mendoza, Argentina, $13. The aromatic profile is as potent as a Moscato, yet the spicy, dry, fruit purity on the palate rings with refreshing acid and white fruit clarity. Nederburg Pinotage, Western Cape, South Africa, $12. A great alternative to predictable Cabernet and Merlot. Rich, earthy, African terroir makes this wine unique; surprisingly light for so much flavor. Cline Viognier, California, $11. This is a pretty wine. The elegant, floral fruit matches the fresh, spicy, nectar-like finish while remaining clean and dry. Natura Organic Carmenère, Colchagua, Chile, $11. This is another wine that never ceases to surprise and please the palate. Just as one starts to feel the rich Cabernet-like texture, it plumps up with cherry cordial-like ripeness, finishing with exotic, earthy nuance. Molto! Seppi Vineyard Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina, $9. Vibrantly fresh, edgy fruit hits the tip of the tongue, quickly changing to mouth-filling, ripe berry fruit, finishing with a hint of jam. Campbell’s Rutherglen Tokay, Victoria, Australia, $18, (375ml). The 17.5 percent alcohol volatilizes a smorgasbord of caramel, toasted nuts, crème Brûlée and strong tea, while the mouth-coating sweet and sticky texture tames it to beautifully accompany dessert or enjoy with a cigar. Contributing editor A. Brain Cain is a certified wine educator.
Create Memories! Let ABC Wine & Spirits’ experts help you to choose wine, beer and spirits to make everyday, every moment and every occasion special for you. Cheers!
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City Guide
Calling all foodie entrepreneurs German native Bea Jockusch recently invented the unique treat after taking a class at Secchia Institute for Culinary
Bea Jockusch flips pretzel dough at Kitchen Sinc, a new incubator kitchen inside the Shops at MoDiv.
Education. Now she’s making her pretzels at Kitchen Sinc, downtown’s first shared-
Italian/ European AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA — Regional Italian dishes using some local products as well as Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs a specialty. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon; no lunch Sat. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitalia na.com. L (not Sat), D $ ANGELA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA — Italian dinners, pizza, stromboli, subs and desserts. Lunch buffet, full-service bar. Delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 240 E Division, ¢-$ Sparta, (616) 887-1913. L, D BIG BOB’S PIZZA — A neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village with wine and beer on tap, available to go. 661 Croswell SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. L, D $
use community kitchen fully licensed by the Michigan Department of Agriculture. “When I heard about the commercial
BELLA MIA PIZZERIA & ITALIAN GRILL — Italian dishes and New York-style pizza. Daily lunch buffet. 6333 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Suite 450, 5549930. L, D ¢-$
kitchen, I was so excited,” Jockusch said. “It’s helped me launch my business.” Kitchen Sinc owner Kathleen Schiefler
BRICK ROAD PIZZA — Specializing in gourmet, traditional and vegan pizzas. Gluten-free crusts available on request. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroad pizza.com. L, D ¢-$
showed the aspiring baker how to set up her LLC — Baked by B — that will allow her to sell her goods at area stores. Shared-use kitchens, a.k.a. test-kitchen incubators, are designed to give food entrepreneurs a chance to develop culinary and business skills. The space and equipment is rented out to different users at various times day and night. And that’s important, Schiefler said, because without a licensed kitchen, foodies can’t legally produce or sell food. Michigan’s “cottage law” allows people to make goods in their home to sell at farmers markets or person-to-person. “But when they’re ready to take that next step, they need a licensed kitchen.” In Eastown, a similar kitchen has just been opened by Kelly LeCoy. The recent Calvin College grad’s idea for an incubator kitchen won $9,000 in three local business plan competitions that she is investing in her Uptown Kitchen. Even before the doors opened in February, she had a slate of entrepreneurs renting time to cook — like Andrea Pierret, who sells ready-to-bake entrees and offers personal chef services as The Gourmet Valet. “I didn’t have the capital to launch a business on my own,” Pierret said. “I wasn’t ready to assume the risk. So when I came across Uptown Kitchen, it seemed like a perfect fit.” LeCoy said the idea of an incubator kitchen started as her college thesis. “The business model is being used all over the country. As I saw how it was working in other cities, I realized there was a gap in the market in Grand Rapids.” And now there are two. For information on Kitchen Sinc, visit kitchensincgr. com. Uptown Kitchen is on Facebook and at uptownkitchengr.com.
— Marty Primeau
FLORENTINE PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE — Spacious location features Italian fare with American and Mexican choices, thin-crust pizzas. Big-screen TVs, pool tables, darts, video games, Foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. ¢-$ florentinespizza.com. L, D 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. florentinein grandville.com. L, D $ FRANCO’S PIZZERIA — Spaghetti, manicotti, lasagna, stromboli plus pizza and subs with fresh ingredients. Limited seating, takeout available (delivery offered). No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. L, D ¢-$ FRED’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN RESTAURANT — Long-time favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. D ¢-$ G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. Delivery Thu-Sat until 2:30 a.m. No alcohol. Open daily, with a handful of tables for dining in. 340 State St, (616) 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net. H, L, D ¢-$ MANGIAMO — Historic mansion houses familyfriendly Italian eatery. Italian fare plus steaks and seafood. Extensive wine list, evening entertainment. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmorecol lection.com/mangiamo.php. D $-$$ MARINADE’S PIZZA BISTRO —Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches and more. No alcohol. Catering available. 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D ¢
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Ever tasted a pretzel croissant? Probably not.
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City Guide
“The 18th best detour in the Entire United States” is now in GR! — Esquire Magazine
MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL AND SPORTS BAR — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus familyfriendly dining room with fireplace. 5675 Byron Center Ave, Wyoming, 530-9700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING — Elegant décor and extensive menu. Special wine cellar dinners in unique surroundings; lounge menu features light fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RISTORANTE — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu, meeting room and takeout available. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. rcfc.com/pietros. L, D $ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $ FTRE CUGINI — Innovative Italian menu, impressive wine list, fresh daily pastas and risotto specialties. Outdoor seating in mild weather. Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, 235-9339. trecugini. com. L, D $-$$ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE — Pizzeria, grill and sports lounge. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 9542002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor SE, 891-5958. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ VITALE’S — Serving traditional regional dishes from family recipes since 1966. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368 (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 458-2090), takeout 458-3766. theoriginalvitales. com. L, D ¢-$ VITALE’S OF ADA — Multi-regional, upscale dishes made from scratch. Family-friendly; microbrews to martinis in separate sports pub. Open
daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitalesada. com. L, D ¢-$ 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, 5308300. vitales.us. L, D ¢-$
Asian
Including Thai and Indian fare. AKASAKA SUSHI — Sushi plus Korean and Japanese offerings in low-key atmosphere in Cascade Centre. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444. L, D ¢-$ AKITA BUFFET — Across from RiverTown Crossings Mall, with sushi bar, hibachi grill and Chinese buffet with set price for lunch and dinner. Serves alcohol. 3540 Rivertown Point Ct SW, 2577777. L, D ¢-$ ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ — Extensive Thai fare; menu includes a your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian-friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe. com. L, D ¢-$
BANGKOK VIEW — Thai food and Chinese fare. Lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1233 28th St SW, 531-8070. bangkokviewthaifood.com. L, D ¢-$
You will also find: • Best-priced hand cut steaks • Summer Sausage, Beef Sticks, Brats and Hotdogs • $1.99/lb Lunchmeat • Smoked & Aged Cheeses • Spices, Rubs & Sauces
BEIJING KITCHEN — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch specials. No alcohol. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchengr.com. L, D ¢-$
and of course… • THE Dublin Jerky Dip
ASIAN PALACE — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each cuisine. Family owned and operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. L, D ¢-$ BANGKOK TASTE — Thai fare with lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550; 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. L, D ¢-$
BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market strip mall), 261-8186. bluegingergr.com. L, D ¢-$ BOMBAY CUISINE — Indian fare includes tandoori and vindaloo dishes. Full bar service, live music Thu-Sat eves. Takeout available. Closed Tue. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. Facebook. L, D $ CHINA CHEF — Family-style Chinese restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin
PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin
CHINA CITY — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 5299 Eastern Ave SE, 257-7038. L, D ¢-$ CHINA GOURMET BUFFET — Daily lunch and dinner buffets with more than 100 items. Dinner buffet served all day weekends; discount for seniors and children 10 and under. No alcohol. 2030 28th St SW, 252-1379. L, D ¢-$
tre cugini
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Over varieties of Jerky
We ship every variety nationwide. FREE Shipping offered to Grand Rapids Magazine Subscribers.
www.dublinjerky.com 4763 Wilson Avenue Grandville, Michigan Tel: 616-726-7900
Located across from Rivertown Crossings Mall (Next to Costco)
CHINATOWN RESTAURANT AND JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE — Chinese and Japanese cuisine with tabletop, Benihana-style meals available. Lunch and dinner buffets. Full bar. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. chinatowngrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ March 2012 Grand rapids 81
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City Guide CHINA YI WANG — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan dishes. No alcohol. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. L, D ¢-$ EAST GARDEN BUFFET — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. L, D ¢-$ EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II — All-you-can-eat Chinese buffet served all day. Special seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Delivery available. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. www.empirebuffet.net. L, D ¢-$ ERB THAI — Traditional Thai fare, will accommodate special diets: vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. 950 Wealthy St SE, Suite 1A, 356-2573. L, D ¢
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FAR-EAST RESTAURANT — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes; vegetable-oil-only cooking. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D $ FIRST WOK — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Dine-in and take-out. Full bar. Three locations: 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 5759088. firstwokgr.com. L, D $ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO — Hibachi grill tables with show-chef preparations, or eat in the dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. lets eat.at/fujiyama. L, D ¢-$ FORTUNE CHEF — Chinese and American fare. Opens 6 am weekdays, 8 am weekends with breakfast served all day. No alcohol. 9353 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1388. fortunechef caledonia.com. B, L, D ¢-$ GOLDEN 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin cuisine complemented by a Vietnamese menu. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 627 28th St SW, Wyoming, 531-2800. L, D $ GOLDEN DRAGON — Chinese, Mandarin and Japanese cuisines with Japanese steakhouse. Full bar. 3629 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1318. golden dragongr.com. L, D $ GOLDEN GATE RESTAURANT — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, egg rolls, sweet-and-sour dishes, with some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢ GOLDEN WOK — Knapp’s Corner eatery offers lunch and dinner options, including Hunan-spiced dishes. No alcohol. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-8880. L, D ¢-$ GRAND LAKES — A wide selection of Chinese dishes and specialties, along with daily lunch combination plates. No alcohol. Next to Breton Village D&W. 1810 Breton Rd SE, 954-2500. L, D ¢-$ HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET — PanAsian cuisine from sushi to buffet, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American dishes. No alcohol. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Ridge Shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/ hibachigrillsupremebuffet. L, D ¢ HONG KONG EXPRESS — Szechuan and Cantonese for dine-in or carry-out. All-you-caneat lunch buffet. No alcohol. 150 E Fulton St, 2353888. B, L, D ¢-$
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Gary Byker/BUILDER 616-292-1398
HUNAN — Full menu of Chinese options, house and family dinners for groups. No alcohol. 1740 44th St SW, 530-3377; 1263 Leonard St NE, 4580977. hunangr.com. L, D $
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City Guide INDIA TOWN — Indian fare in a humble atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed Tue. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatown4u.com. L, D ¢-$
Dancing
JADE GARDEN — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 4558888. L, D ¢-$
Pepperoncinis
JU SUSHI & LOUNGE — Sushi and sashimi selections, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrees in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquet space. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$
at Tre Cugini
LAI THAI KITCHEN — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. Facebook, laithaikit chen.com. L, D ¢-$ MANDARIN — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine; buffets at lunch, dinner and all day on weekends. Cocktails. Open daily. 2460 28th St SE, 5303300. L, D ¢-$ MARADO SUSHI — Sushi bar offers a wide selection of Japanese fare and a few Korean specialties. No alcohol. 47 Monroe Center, 742-6793. ¢-$ Closed Sun. L, D MIKADO SUSHI — Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ MING TEN — All-you-can-eat buffet: Japanese, Chinese, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. A la carte sushi. No alcohol. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), (616) 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$
AlwAys fresh, creAtive And Authentic …the true nature of fine Italian cuisine. Four time winner of Grand Rapids Magazine’s Award of Excellence.
www.trecugini.com Authentic Italian
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122 Monroe Center St. NW (616) 235-9339
MYNT FUSION BISTRO — Asian fare that includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ NING YE — Family-owned Chinese restaurant also serves Korean fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun during winter. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. ningye.info. L, D $ NU-THAI BISTRO — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, curries and noodle dishes; seafood and duck specialty plates. No alcohol. 2055 28th ¢-$ St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. L, D
310 Pearl St. NW Grand Rapids
PALACE OF INDIA — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO — Upscale chain known for modern Chinese dishes from Mongolian Beef to Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Cocktails, beer and wine. Order online for takeout. The Village at Knapp’s Crossing, 2065 Apple Orchard Ave, 447$ 2060. pfchangs.com. L,D PHO SOC TRANG — Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. B, L, D ¢ RAK THAI BISTRO — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences. No alcohol. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthaibistro. com. L, D ¢-$ RED SUN BUFFET — All-you-can-eat international buffet: sushi, Chinese, American, Italian and Japanese selections. No alcohol. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9999. redsunbuffet.com. L, D ¢-$ FSEOUL GARDEN — Chinese and Korean cuisine
Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner
EASTER BRUNCH BUFFET Join us for Easter Brunch April 8th • Seatings from 11am-2pm COMPLIMENTARY PARKING
Buffet price: $19.95 – Adults; $9.95 for kids 5-10 (4 and younger FREE) Kids craft table • Visit from the Easter Bunny (bring camera)
Call for reservations 616.235.1342 Visit us for our fish features every Friday in March and April March 2012 Grand Rapids 83
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City Guide with full bar. Banquet and catering facilities available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. grseoulgarden.com. L, D $-$$ SHANG HAI ICHIBAN — Chinese and Japanese cuisine; food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE (at 29th St), 773-2454. shang $-$$ haiichiban.com. L, D SOC TRANG — Wide selection of Chinese and Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. 1831 Market Place Dr, Caledonia, 871-9909. gosoctrang.com. L, D ¢-$ SUSHI KUNI — Japanese and Korean cuisine, plus fusion fare. Private groups can eat in traditional Japanese tatami room. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushi kuni.net. L, D ¢-$$ SZECHUAN GARDEN — Diverse Chinese menu in Eastown. Lunch specials daily 11 am-4 pm. No alcohol. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 456-9878. L, D ¢-$ THAI EXPRESS — Thai specialties, spiced to specification. No alcohol. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. L, D ¢ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare, with daily lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, Target Plaza, 785-3888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI — Japanese tatami rooms, sushi bars. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, plus Japanese and American beer and wine. Closed Sun. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. L, D ¢-$
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CHINESE RESTAURANT full Service bar
/ Mandarin / Hunan / Szechwan Special OccaSiOn catering available
2301 44th St SE • 281-0681 (Breton Meadows Mall)
6740 Old 28th St. SE • 575-9088 (1Blk. W. of Cascade Rd)
3509 Alpine Ave. NW • 784-1616 (Highpoint Center)
Open 7 days a week
www.firstwokgr.com
Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE in EGR, ¢-$ 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. L, D PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE — Mediterranean appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos of chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian entrees, kabobs and more. No alcohol. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ PITA HOUSE — Gyros and other Middle East specialties. No alcohol. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 4541171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029; 4533 Ivanrest Ave SW, 261-4302; 134 Monroe Center NW, 233¢ 4875. thepitahouse.net. L, D FSHIRAZ GRILLE — Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, khoreshts, vegetarian options. Full bar, wine list, martinis. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. L (Sun), D $ ZEYTIN — Turkish-American cuisine with extensive beer and wine lists. Takeout available. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestau rant.com. L, D $
African LITTLE AFRICA CUISINE — Humble storefront café offers hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. No alcohol. sCash or checks only. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222¢ 1169. Facebook. L, D
WEI WEI PALACE — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. Serves beer. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. L, D $
➧GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI — Authentic, homemade Ethiopian dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew-like) dishes served with injerra flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Tue-Fri lunch buffet, dinner 5-8 pm; Sat buffet 4-8 pm; closed Sun and Mon. 421 Norwood SE (Eastown), 459-3383. www.gojoethiopiancuisine. $ com. L, D
WONTON EXPRESS — No-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare from spicy Hunan and Kung-Po dishes. No alcohol. 6719 S Division Ave, 281-8816. L, D ¢-$
Mexican/Latin American/ Caribbean
XO ASIAN CUISINE — Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine in downtown GR with full service bar. Vegetarian options and lunch specials MonSat. Free valet parking with $30 purchase. Will deliver. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasiancui $-$$ sine.com. L, D
7 MARES — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$
YUMMY WOK — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. L, D ¢-$
Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean MARIE CATRIB’S — Middle-Eastern fare with onsite bakery, seasonal specialties and Turkish coffee. Vegetarian options. Breakfast 7 am Mon-Fri, 8 am Sat. Lunch/dinner starts 11 am weekdays, noon Sat. Closed Sun. No alcohol. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. B, L, D ¢-$ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL — Gyros, kabobs, shwarma, falafel, fattousch, hummus, kafta. All meats are halal, in accordance with Islamic requirements. Closed Sun. No alcohol. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. L, D $ OSTA’S LEBANESE CUISINE — Lebanese cuisine, from grape leaf appetizer and tabbouleh to shish kebob, falafel and baklava. Takeout and catering. Features Lebanese beer and wine.
ADOBE IN & OUT — Mexican offerings served quickly (Grandville location is drive-through only). 617 W Fulton St, 454-0279; 1216 Leonard St NE, 451-9050; 4389 Chicago Dr, Grandville, 2577091. L, D ¢ BELTLINE BAR — Americanized Tex-Mex menu; wet burritos are the claim to fame. Full bar. The Big Enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it delivered to your car. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. L, D $ CABANA TRES AMIGOS — Authentic Mexican fare with full bar, take-out service, vegetarian selection. Spacious with fireplaces and Mexican décor. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. L, D ¢-$ CAFÉ SAN JUAN — Puerto Rican, Mexican and Cuban menu. No alcohol. 3549 Burlingame Ave SW, 530-2293. cafesanjuan.net. B, L, D ¢-$ CANCUN RESTAURANT — Neighborhood eatery specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of fare. 1518 Grandville Ave SW, 2482824. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ CANTINA — Extensive menu of Mexican specialties with full-service bar. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. L, D $ CHEZ OLGA — Caribbean and Creole fare.
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City Guide
Together Overhead Door and Calumet Building Group bring you “one-stop-shop”
Vegetarian/vegan options. Lunch specials. No alcohol. Open until 2 am Fri-Sat, closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢
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CINCO DE MAYO — Mexican eatery offers the usual fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar service. 123 Courtland St, Rockford, 866-3438; 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2404. L, D $ CORAZON — Authentic Mexican food in stylish surroundings on the Avenue for the Arts. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 122 S Division Ave, 454-3847. L, D ¢ DOWNTOWN TRINI’S — Sparta’s destination offers traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun and Mon. 134 E Division Ave, Sparta, 887-2500. down towntrinis.com. L, D ¢-$
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EL ARRIERO —Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, Margaritas. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. L, D ¢-$ ®
EL BARRIO MEXICAN GRILL — Tasty and creative twists on otherwise-traditional Mexican. Full bar. 545 Michigan St NE, 301-0010. elbarriomexi cangrill.com. L, D ¢-$ EL BURRITO LOCO — More than 70 authentic Mexican selections. Complimentary chips and salsa. Full bar. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 4470415; 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470; 4174 Alpine Ave NW, 785-4102. L, D ¢-$
Calumet Building (616) 261-0500 Overhead Door (616) 261-0300 www.calumetbuilding.com www.overheaddoorgr.com
FEL GRANJERO — Mexican fare, from steak and shrimp dishes to à la carte selections and menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. B, L, D ¢ EL SOMBRERO — Offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. L, D ¢ GRAND VILLA DUNGEON — Mexican food is the specialty. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. villadugeon.com. L, D $ JAMAICAN DAVE’S — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curry goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and “escoveitched” fish; tofu-with-veggies. Limited seating; takeout is best bet. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves.com. L, D ¢ JOSE’S RESTAURANTE — Authentic Mexican fare, with jukebox, pinball and video game. No alcohol. 3954 S Division Ave, 530-7934. L, D ¢ LAS CAZUELAS — Open for breakfast at 10 am, serves lunch and dinner daily. Genuine Hispanic flavors.411 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 726-6600. B, ¢ L, D
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LINDO MEXICO — Daily specials, including tacos de barbacoa, tripitos or lengua. No alcohol. 1292 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicorestaurant. com. L, D ¢-$ LITTLE MEXICO CAFÉ — Traditional Mexican food and cocktails. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 456-0517. L, D $ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN — Homemade Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. 36 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. B, L, D ¢ MICHOACAN — Mexican fare plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. No alcohol. Open at 9 am. 334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. B, L, D ¢-$ MI TIERRA RESTAURANT — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive through. No alcohol. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢
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616-364-6222 | www.starcollision.com On the corner of Lafayette & Plainfield March 2012 Grand Rapids 85
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City Guide TACO BOB’S — Fresh-Mex offerings, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell wrapped in a soft shell, with nacho cheese in between. No alcohol. Open 11 am-2 pm, Mon-Fri. 250 Monroe Ave ¢ NW, 458-1533. tacobobs.com. L
SALT OF THE EARTH — Rustic fare and bakery emphasize locally sourced products ranging from wood-fired pizzas to affordably priced entrees. Full bar. 114 E Main St, Fennville, (269) 561-7258. saltoftheearthfennville.com. D ¢-$
TACO BOY — Traditional Mexican offerings. No alcohol. 3475 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-7111; 6539 28th St SE, 956-3424; 509 44th St SE, 257-0057; 2529 Alpine Ave NW, 365-9255; 180 Monroe Ave ¢ NW, 233-0701. tacoboy.biz. L, D
THEODORE’S — Eclectic menu features American/Spanish/Mediterranean-influenced dishes in stylish surroundings with granite bar, glassed-in wine cellar and outdoor patio. Open Thu-Sat at 5 pm. 217 E 24th St, Holland, (616) 392-6883. theo doresholland.com. D (Thu-Sat) $-$$
TACOS EL CAPORAL — Two locations serving Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. Takeout. No alcohol. 1024 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. B, L, D ¢ TACOS EL RANCHERO — Mexican fare in low-key surroundings to eat in or take out. Cash only. No alcohol. 1240 Burton St SW, 245-6514. L, D ¢
WILD DOG GRILLE — Appetizers, salads, sandwiches, stone-baked pizzas and entrees marry a complexity of flavors. Closed Mon in winter. Full-service bar. 24 Center St, Douglas, (269) 857-2519. thewilddoggrille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$
TRES LOBOS GRILL & BAR — Lobster fajitas and parrilladas. Full-service bar. Lunch ’til 4 pm daily. 825 28th St SE, 245-5389. treslobosrestaurant. com. L, D ¢-$
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BLUE HOUSE BISTRO — Neo-American Creole fusion fare from New Orleans-trained chef/owner. Also, appetizers, soups, sandwiches/wraps and pizza. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 220 W 8th St, Holland, (616) 355-1994. bluehousebistro.com. L, $ D
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8TH STREET GRILL — Entrées range from meatloaf to ribs, with sandwiches, salads and pasta also on the menu. Beer and wine served. Closed Sun. 20 W 8th St, Holland, (616) 392-5888. 8thstreetgrille.com. L, D $ 84 EAST FOOD & SPIRITS — Neat restoration lends atmosphere. Varied menu includes unique pasta dishes and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Closed Sun. 84 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 3968484. 84eastpasta.com. L, D ¢-$
BUTCH’S — New York-style deli by day, fine 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. L, D $$ – CITYV U BISTRO — Top-floor restaurant in Holland’s City Flats Hotel specializes in creative flatbreads and small-plate fare with emphasis on seasonal ingredients. 61 E 7th St, Holland, (616) 796-2114. cityvubistro.com. B, L, D $-$$
ARBOREAL INN — New England-style inn offers fresh whitefish, Alaskan king crab, tournedos Oscar and more. Separate dining and bar area. Closed Sun. 18191 174th Ave, Spring Lake, (616) 842-3800. arborealinn.com. D $$
FEVERYDAY PEOPLE CAFÉ — Changing bistro menu from appetizers through dessert. Impressive wine list with appropriate food pairings. 11 Center St, Douglas, (269) 857-4240. everydaypeoplecafe.com. D $-$$
BIL-MAR RESTAURANT — Beachfront dining with a great view of Lake Michigan. Wide selection of fine-dining entrées. Full bar. 1223 S Harbor St, Grand Haven, (616) 842-5920. bil-margrand haven.com. L, D $$
LAKE HOUSE WATERFRONT GRILLE — Overlooks Muskegon Lake. Small plates, salads, pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, specialty burgers. Live entertainment. 730 Terrace Point, Muskegon, (231) 722-4461; thelakehousemi.com. L, D $-$$
BOATWERKS WATERFRONT RESTAURANT — Vintage ambiance overlooking Lake Macatawa. Spacious patio. Two menus: casual in main dining room, bar and patio, with another room for fine dining. 216 Van Raalte Ave, Holland, (616) 3960600. boatwerksrestaurant.com. L, D $-$$
MIA & GRACE BISTRO — Husband/wife chef/ owners serve locally grown products in artsy space. Breakfast/lunch year-round, special dinners during growing season. Bakery, too. No alcohol. 1133 Third St, Muskegon, (231) 725-9500. miaandgrace.com. B, L, (D) $
BEAR LAKE TAVERN — Historic North Muskegon tavern fare ranges from yellowbelly lake perch to wet burritos. 360 Ruddiman Rd, North Muskegon, (231) 744-1161. thebearlaketavern.com. B (weekends), L, D ¢-$
BONFIRE GRILL & PUB — Muskegon smokehouse. Rotisserie chicken, ribs and brisket are claim to fame; extensive menu with items such as lobster tacos, alligator snaps, creative “samiches,” specialty dogs, burgers. 2536 Henry St, Muskegon, (231) 760-5204; bonfiregrillpub.com. L, D $-$$
PIPER — Lake view and a menu with everything from appetizers, pasta and wood-fired pizza to creative entrées and homemade desserts. Large selection of beer, wine, martinis. Closed Sun and Mon during winter. 2225 South Shore Dr, Macatawa, (616) 335-5866. piperrestaurant.com. D ¢-$$
C.F. PRIME CHOPHOUSE & WINE BAR — Prime NY strips, seafood, vegetarian options and desserts made on-site. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 950 W Norton, Muskegon, (231) 737-4943. cfprime.com. D $-$$
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. L, D $
CRAZY HORSE STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Southwest style family-friendly eatery, known for steaks and prime rib. 2027 North Park Dr, Holland, (616) 395-8393. crazyhorsesteakhouse. com. L, D $$
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City Guide DEE-LITE BAR & GRILL — “Fresh-Mex” dinner selections, plus American fare. Diner-style breakfasts. Live music and martinis in the Theatre Bar. Sun brunch. 24 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 844-5055. harborrestaurants.com/dee lite/. B, L, D $
THE CURRAGH — Downtown Holland Irish pub features foods, spirits, music and environment of Old World Ireland. Authentic Irish fare from a full menu. Outdoor seating, live entertainment, valet parking. 73 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-6340. curraghholland.com. L, D ¢-$$
DINING ROOM AT CLEARBROOK — Menu features locally grown products. More casual dining in The Grill Room. Open daily in summer. Clearbrook Golf Club, 6594 Clearbrook Dr (just north of Saugatuck), (269) 857-2000. clearbrook golfclub.com. L, D $-$$
NEW HOLLAND BREWING CO. — Gourmet pizzas, salads and sandwiches augment handcrafted beer and artisan spirits. Live music every Fri and Sat. 66 E 8th St, Holland. (616) 355-6422. newhol ¢-$ landbrew.com. L, D
DOCKERS FISH HOUSE & LOUNGE — Waterside dining on Muskegon Lake with summer tiki bar. Seafood and land-lubber options. Full bar. Dockhands assist with boat tie-up. Closed OctMar. 3505 Marina Point View, Muskegon, (231) 755-0400. dockersfishhouse.com. L, D $-$$ FALCON’S NEST — Creative lunch menu with hot and cold sandwiches, barbecue ribs, appetizers, chili and salads. Open 11 am-7 pm. 17000 Lincoln Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 842-4040. grandhaven golfclub.com. L, D ¢-$ GRAND SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR — In Grand Haven’s former Grand Theatre. Oyster and sushi bar, seafood and steaks. 22 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 847-8944. harborrestaur ants.com/thegrand. D $-$$ THE GRILL ROOM — Aged steaks and chops, fresh seafood and fine wines in top chophouse tradition. Closed Sun during winter. Kirby House, 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmoreollection.com.grillroom.php. D $$ HANDSOME HENRY’S — Big-city vibe dining room and sports bar offer signature twists. Extensive menu ranges from pizzas to hand-cut, aged steaks. 3065 Henry St, Muskegon, (231) 747-8583. L, D $ JACK’S — Breakfast and lunch, plus dinner menu with wide range of entrées, wine by the glass. On Grand River at Waterfront Holiday Inn. 940 W Savidge St, Spring Lake, (616) 846-1370. higrand haven.com. B, L, D $-$$ KIRBY GRILL — Casual side of the Kirby House offers innovative touches to the American menu. Family-friendly dining upstairs. 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorecol lection.com/kirby.php. L, D $ ROSEBUD BAR AND GRILL — Sandwiches, soups and pizza for lunch; steaks, ribs, pasta and pizza for dinner. Open daily. 100 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-7788. rosebudgrill.com. L, D ¢-$ WEST COAST GRILLE — Daily breakfast buffet, lunch fare and dinner menu ranging from quesadillas and burgers to prime rib and seafood. Open daily. Doubletree Hotel, 650 E 24th St (just off US 31), Holland, (616) 394-0111. holland.doubletree. com. B, L, D $
Lakeshore: Pubs & Taverns CHEQUERS — Creative cuisine with British flair ranges from beef tips Sherwood to Welsh rarebit and shepherd’s pie. Imported beer served in English pub atmosphere. Open daily in summer. 220 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-1868. L, D $
Lakeshore: European ALPENROSE — European fare ranges from Certified Aged Black Angus steaks to poultry and fish dishes. Five private dining rooms, banquet facility, bakery and café. Sun brunch buffet. 4 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-2111. alpenroserestau rant.com. B, L, D ¢-$$ MARRO’S — Italian fare and house-baked goods, extensive array of pizza toppings. Open mid-April through autumn; closed Mon. 147 Waters St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-4248. L, D $-$$ PEREDDIES — Italian fine-dining and deli with baked breads, salads, meats, pâté, desserts and imported food. Wine list, full bar, wine to go. More casual fare in Scusi lounge. Closed Sun. 447 Washington Ave, Holland, (616) 394-3061. pered $-$$ diesrestaurant.com. L, D RESTAURANT TOULOUSE — Seasonally inspired menu with French classics such as cassoulet and bouillabaisse. Award-winning wines. Hours vary seasonally; private parties can be arranged. Sun brunch during summer. 248 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-1561. restauranttoulouse.com. L, D $$ TWO TONYS TAVERNA GRILLE — Italian, Greek and American specialties with full-service bar, extensive wine list. Menu includes wood-fired pizzas and nightly specials. Open kitchen, large patio. Closed Sun. 723 E Savidge Rd, Spring Lake, (616) 844-0888. L, D $
Dining Guide Legend GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers.
B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (Over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. - — Reviewed in this issue ➧ — New listing . — Listing update O — GRM’s 2011 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2011 Dining Award Winner — 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. March 2012 Grand Rapids 87
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Feeding hungry kids; celebrating art, wine
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Chef Tommy FitzGerald once again celebrated his birth1. Tommy Fitzgerald and day in style by hosting the third Juice Ball, a party benefiting Sister Mary Colman Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Food Basket. The Renaissance-themed event held Jan. 7 at 2. Kim Phillips, Tina and the JW Marriot raised about $30,000 to purchase the 100-perAllen DeRussha and Shawn cent fruit juice boxes that KFB includes in 4,700 sack suppers Phillips sent home with students in Greater Grand Rapids each day. At 3. Rich and Angie Haralson the ball, guests dressed in medieval attire and listened to per4. Jessica Stone, Pat Miles formances by Ralston Bowles, Funktion and other local bands. and Melissa Thorndil Adding to the merriment were face painters, jugglers and a spit5. Gwen Moeggenborg roasted pig. To learn more about Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Food Basket and how to and Kara Riemersma donate, go to kidsfoodbasket.org 6. Sarah Hesse and There was no whining in Grand Haven in January as the Jackie Root third annual Wine about Winter event attracted lots of art and 7. Mary Zeppenfeld wine enthusiasts to the Downtown and 5 Centertown districts. Stores and businesses hosted one or more West Michigan artists and offered wine tasting and a sampling of foods prepared by local restaurants. The sip and shop event was sponsored by the Grand Haven Main Street Downtown Development Authority.
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Savor the Moment Each bite of our pristine seafood will create an everlasting memory. Join us for an exquisite dining experience set in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. Treat your senses to all that is Leo’s in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
“Restaurant of the Year”
60 Ottawa NW | Downtown Grand Rapids | 616.454.6700 | www.leosrestaurant.com
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Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 “Dining Awards”
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637 Leonard NW Just West of US 131 Grand Rapids 616.454.4439
www.nwhomefurnishings.com
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