WHAT'S INSIDE
JOSH VEAL , Managing Editor | josh@serendipity-media.com
Happy Birthday, Best of the West, and welcome to the double digits!
That’s right, it’s been 10 years of Revue’s annual readers survey, where the people of West Michigan choose their favorite restaurants, bars, musicians, attractions, people, artists and so much more.
We’ve gone from a couple thousand voters in the first year to more than 10,000 annually now. We’ve added dozens of categories and taken just as many away. We’ve created a second round of voting to shake things up. We’ve hosted one Best of the West Live, which was booked just a couple months before March 2020, and had to be delayed multiple years.
And now, over the course of a decade, we’ve had well over 1,000 first-place winners and thousands of top-three finalists— including a few people and places who have won their category every single year. We’re celebrating these unshakeable champions with Milestone Awards this year, and you can of course learn all about those, along with all of this year’s results, our Golden Certificate winners, and a few Staff Picks, in the pages ahead.
To everyone who has taken precious time out of their days to nominate their favs, to vote, to share the contest, to celebrate the winners: Thank you. Hopefully it’s clear by now how much Best of the West actually means to local businesses and people, and let’s be honest, that has nothing to do with Revue . They care because every nomination and win is a show of support from the community, from people like you—a message that someone out there thinks they are The Best of their kind across all of West Michigan.
So, for as long as you’ll have us, we’ll continue to change things up with Best of the West however we can to celebrate and support the people and places that make West Michigan the special community it is.
‘Til next time,
WHO'S WHO
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Managing Editor | Josh Veal, josh@serendipity-media.com
Art Director | Courtney Van Hagen
Marketing Specialist | Kelsey Shoemaker
Distribution | Kelli Belanger
Contributing Writers | Allison Kay Bannister, John Kissane, Eric Mitts, Michaela Stock
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Media Sales Manager | Kelli Belanger, kelli@revuewm.com
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WHAT’S GOING ON, AUG '25
8/7
TWO HEARTED DAY
Bell’s Eccentric Café
355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo Aug. 7, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. bellsbeer.com
Two Hearted Day is back, celebrating one of America’s most iconic IPAs with the return of a fan-favorite hazy to make things even juicier. Guests can enjoy Official on draft and in package, with a special pint glass giveaway for the first 100 pours of Two Hearted or Official at both 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. A Two Hearted Fish Paint Along with Maria kicks off at 7 p.m. (tickets required), along with a Two Hearted burger special, curated IPA flights, 10% off all Two Hearted merch and apparel, and plenty of giveaways throughout the day.
8/8
JOSH JOHNSON
GLC Live at 20 Monroe 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids Aug. 8 glcliveat20monroe.com
Josh Johnson is an Emmynominated writer, stand-up comedian, actor, and NAACP awardwinner from Louisiana by way of Chicago. His stand-up blends razor-sharp storytelling with deeply topical humor. In between specials, he’s became known for releasing a new 15–45 minute set nearly every week on YouTube—rapid-fire topical comedy that earned him praise like “the funniest guy on the internet” from WIRED
8/9
SUNSET CINEMA SERIES
Celebration Cinema Studio Park 111 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids August 9-23 studioparkgr.com
Every summer, Studio Park makes use of its outdoor piazza for free movie screenings. Movies start at 8 each Saturday—all you need to do is show up early with a blanket or low-rise camping chair to secure a spot. Feel free to bring snacks, and beverages are available for purchase. August’s lineup includes Dirty Dancing, Inside Out and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
8/14
A LIVE CONVERSATION W/ RAINN WILSON
DeVos Performance Hall
303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids Aug. 14, 7 p.m. devosperformancehall.com
Join for an unforgettable live conversation with the talented actor Rainn Wilson, the man behind the eccentric Assistant to Regional Manager, Dwight Schrute. Get ready to relive the magic of The Office with a special screening of one of the show’s most iconic episodes. Then Rainn Wilson will take the stage to share behind-the-scenes stories, memorable moments, and the secrets of bringing Dwight Schrute to life.
8/15
BREAKAWAY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Belknap Park
30 Coldbrook St. NE, Grand Rapids Aug. 15-16 breakawayfestival.com
Where top-tier talent collides with the hometown—Breakaway Music Festival brings globally recognized hip-hop and electronic talent to local cities, creating accessible and unforgettable live entertainment experiences. This year’s event at Belknap Park features Zedd, Gryffin, Rezz, Isoxo and many more.
YASSOU! GREEK CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 330 Lakeside Dr. NE, Grand Rapids Aug. 15-16 grgreekfest.com
“Yassou” means welcome—and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church invites the community to experience a vibrant celebration of Greek culture and tradition. The annual festival showcases the rich heritage of the Greek Orthodox people through lively music, traditional dances, unique gifts, and of course, delicious food. It’s a weekend filled with joy, hospitality, and a taste of Greece—Opa!
8/16
SUDS ON THE SHORE Rotary Park, Ludington Aug. 16 sudsontheshore.com
Suds on the Shore is bringing the party to Ludington, where more than 2,000 new friends are waiting and the taps are flowing. Spend the afternoon sipping your way through craft beers, local wines, ciders, and meads—plus food trucks, live music, and laid-back summer vibes. What more could you ask for?
GR8 TACO FEST
Riverside Park, Grand Rapids
Aug. 16, 2 p.m.
facebook.com/GR8foodtrucks
GR8 Taco Fest returns to Riverside Park in 2025 for a vibrant celebration of all things tacos! This free community event will feature a variety of food trucks and vendors showcasing their unique taco creations, including special offerings from trucks that don’t normally serve tacos.
8/18
FOXING
The Pyramid Scheme
68 Commerce Ave., Grand Rapids
Aug. 18, 7 p.m. pyramidschemebar.com
Foxing is a genre-blurring indie rock band from St. Louis known for their emotionally raw songwriting, cinematic soundscapes, and ambitious experimentation. Since their 2013 debut, The Albatross, they’ve evolved far beyond their emo and post-rock roots, embracing orchestral flourishes, synth-pop textures, and art-rock ambition. Whether playing in intimate clubs or sprawling festivals, Foxing delivers catharsis in every note.
8/21
HARDY - JIM BOB WORLD TOUR
Van Andel Arena
130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m. vanandelarena.com
Country rock artist Hardy, “the pride of Philadelphia, Mississippi,” has earned a reputation as “a promising purveyor of keeping the spirit of classic heavy Southern rock alive” ( American Songwriter ), “capable of writing the big hits for radio, obstinate enough to do something completely unexpected, and savvy enough to find the throughline for it all” ( Rolling Stone ).
8/23
BURNING FOOT BEER FESTIVAL
Pere Marquette Beach, Muskegon Aug. 23 burningfoot.beer
This is not your ordinary beer festival. Burning Foot is a celebration of beer, beach, art, and music. The festival is held in August along Lake Michigan’s beautiful lakeshore. Beach camping and barefoot entry make it unique, the Brewers’ Ring makes it extraordinary.
8/28
THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS
The Intersection
133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Aug. 28, 7 p.m. sectionlive.com
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus broke into the mid-2000s posthardcore scene with their explosive debut Don’t You Fake It, fueled by the hit single “Face Down” and its unflinching message against domestic violence. Blending emo intensity with pop-punk hooks and a touch of screamo, the Floridabased band became a staple of the alternative rock wave. Over the years, they’ve evolved their sound while staying true to emotionally charged roots and socially conscious lyrics, building a loyal fanbase and a reputation for passionate shows.
Josh Johnson, Suds on the Shore, Burning Foot Beer Festival, Foxing.
PHOTOS
BREAKING DOWN, GROWING UP, STARTING OVER: The Greeting Committee
| by Michaela Stock
Addie Sartino didn’t have a typical teenage experience. While her peers were focused on high school sports and college applications, she was getting permission slips signed to go on tour as the lead singer of The Greeting Committee, an indie rock band formed in Kansas City.
“I was 15 when the band started,” Sartino said. “I would say being 15 gave me the feeling that I’m indestructible, and that things were going to happen for me because I wanted them to happen.”
Sartino’s young age brought an edge that helped begin her career.
“What fueled me in my younger years was this determination. I think that really did lead to the luck and success we faced early on,” Sartino said. “I fully believe in manifesting.”
The Greeting Committee’s commercial ascent came quickly, with radio airplay and a majorlabel record deal leading to support slots on tour and sold-out shows of their own. But like most musicians, the band’s overnight success was the result of steady work–and was only the beginning.
“We got a seat at the table, but then it’s like, how do you work towards the center of the table? How do I get in even more?”
Sartino said. “It’s so much more than just getting a record deal. You then have to go make the music, and sell the tickets, and try to garner the success so that you can get more support.”
At first, Sartino and her three bandmates tried playing by the label’s rules to find growth.
“We were getting a lot of outside influence from the label and being told we really needed to write a certain way. We were being pressured into working with songwriters, so we went to LA. Nobody wanted to work with a full band, we were told, so our bassist and our drummer would stay back at the Airbnb while me and our guitarist would go write,” Sartino said.
“That was obviously really bad for group morale.”
As the band grew older, so did the resentment between them.
“I felt like I was pulling my bandmates on a sled, and I was being pulled by management and the label. I was, at the end of the day, just trying to do everything in my power to push us forward, and that meant I was not checking in and considering my bandmates as much as I should have.”
After attending group therapy, two members of The Greeting Committee decided to part ways with the project. This left only Sartino and multi-instrumentalist Pierce Turcotte in the band.
“Being a good leader really involves taking care of the people that are with you. When you’re 20 years old, that’s just not really a skill that you have formed. That led to some pretty large insecurity in who I am as a person, what kind of leader I am, and that was really difficult,” Sartino said.
“It was me and three teenage boys that I wouldn’t have chosen to necessarily start a business with. We chose to enter a band together. We didn’t think about how that is entering a business together.”
Despite the grief that came with these growing pains, Sartino and Turcotte opened a new chapter of The Greeting Committee, expanding their fanbase as they stretched their discography. Together, they wrote and released their latest album, Everyone’s Gone and I Know I’m The Cause
“I didn’t want to lock myself into a building and write a record. My inspiration lies outside of the studio. This last record was really a reflection of all of the music that Pierce and I were listening to at the time.”
Sartino also used this album cycle to find herself again as an artist.
“My interest in music was just wearing so thin, I was so burnt out. I was so emotionally exhausted and felt really injured, honestly. This was a healing process.”
From new beginnings to new releases, The Greeting Committee also found themselves a new hometown. But for Sartino, leaving Kansas City for Nashville brought mixed emotions.
“Moving to a city that is so career-driven means that not everybody is always going into things with the best intentions,” she said.
“I don’t feel like I’m going into
social situations thinking, ‘What can I gain from this?’ I’m not saying that everybody that lives in Nashville does that by any means, but it is more common than going out into Kansas City.”
Less concerned with fitting into Nashville’s scene, Sartino has been trying to find authentic relationships regardless of her work.
“I’m not worried about other people and how they’re going to fit into getting me something, or somewhere, in the industry. I’m just looking for friends.”
Sartino has also noticed a larger shift in how she connects with the concert-going community. She’s seen audience energy dip at shows everywhere, not just at her own, leaving her questioning why crowds have become less engaged.
“Somewhere between the audience and the stage, the disconnect is starting to feel larger and larger,” Sartino said. “My theory is that people are maybe just embarrassed to clap and jump and dance. Or they’re tired. Like, I get it. I don’t want to do that at every single show I go to. But let’s, you know, maybe smile.”
This has especially affected Sartino, who relies on her fans’ energy while performing.
“We’re mostly only having fun if you’re having fun. Otherwise it feels really empty,” Sartino said.
“As rooms get bigger, or as new people come along, I would just tell fans to do your best, and to bring your most human self into the room.”
Because that’s what Sartino has done from the start: approached her work with The Greeting Committee as her whole self. From adolescence to adulthood, she has formed a vision and followed it–fears, flaws and all.
“I can put in all of my anxiety and fear, and wear myself out, and cry myself to sleep, and want something so badly, and that gets me the same result as when I don’t make myself an anxious mess over this,” Sartino said.
“I had to get back to being that 15 year old that bluntly said, ‘I’ll make it happen.’” ■
THE GREETING COMMITTEE
The Pyramid Scheme 68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Aug. 9, 7 p.m. pyramidschemebar.com
LAUGHTER ON THE LAKESHORE: Wave after Wave of Laughs
| by Eric Mitts
Friendship is the foundation and the future of the Laughter on the Lakeshore Comedy Festival, returning for its second year in downtown Muskegon, Aug. 29-30.
Initially the brainchild of local comedian/promoter/producer Ricarlo Williams-Winston of RJN Comedy, Laughter on the Lakeshore took over four bars and businesses last summer as it welcomed comedy fans for a weekend filled with laughs, connection and beachside vibes.
“I feel like a lot of people came away from it with a different impression of Muskegon,” Williams-Winston told Revue . “Just being downtown and seeing all the shops that are open and everything that is going on. I think people who have never been here before, and they came in for the festival, they got to see another side of Muskegon.”
Aiming to grow with the city, Laughter on the Lakeshore’s return will expand to five different locations, all in downtown Muskegon.
comedians Cam Rowe, Robert Jenkins, and Kevin Johnson, who regularly perform with Williams-Winston as the Jokes On You Comedy Tour.
“That was the selfish reason that I even created the festival, because it’s just a great time being around all your friends and colleagues, and just great networking,”
Williams-Winston said.
“I’m most excited for the comedian brunch,” he added. “That is going to be an opportunity for the community to come and meet all comedians that are on the festival. We’re going to be doing an open mic during brunch. You can come out and have brunch with us. My goal for the festival is for every comedian to come away with at least five new fans or followers.”
Williams-Winston said another great thing about this year’s festival is that all five venues are right in downtown Muskegon and within walking distance of each other.
After running last year’s fest, and handling all of the submissions for this year’s lineup himself, Williams-Winston expanded the Laughter on the Lakeshore team, bringing Lucky Lee as a producer on Friday night’s closing show, Misti “Tinkerbell” Mahon for marketing and graphic design, Eric Wilson for street team support, and Scott Little for merchandise.
Featuring 25 regional comedians, Laughter on the Lakeshore will open at 6 p.m. on Aug. 29 with the LOL Showcase at Rake Beer Project, 500 W. Western Ave, at 6 p.m. That will be followed the Rolling On The Floor With Laughing ”at Earthwise Gallery, 1141 3rd St. at 7:40 p.m., and close with the night’s headlining show, For The Birds , a female-centric lineup produced by local comedian Lucky Lee, also at Earthwise, at 9 p.m.
Day Two of Laughter on the Lakeshore begins bright and early with the Open Mic Comedy Brunch starting at 11 a.m. at Early Owl Café, 451 W. Western Ave. The laughs continue all day, with the Family Comedy Show at The Bowl, 441 W. Western Ave., at 1 p.m., the Canna-Comedy Bash at Rake Beer Project at 2:20 p.m., another Rolling on the Floor With Laughing event at Earthwise at 4:30 p.m., another LOL Showcase at Unruly Brewing, 360 W. Western Ave., at 6:30 p.m., and the weekend’s headlining event, The Heavyweights , also at Unruly, at 9 p.m.
The Heavyweights will feature Michigan
“The businesses have been super excited for it to come back again,” Williams-Winston said. “We have four new venues that we’ve partnered with. It’s crazy we actually have venues reaching out to us at this point. We actually had to turn a couple venues away, but hopefully we can work with them on projects in the future, or next year’s festival, but that’s a good problem to have.”
“I think that’s going to just add to the energy and the excitement of the festival, because people will be able to leave one venue, you’ve got your group of friends together, and you head to the next venue. Maybe you pick up a comedian along the way, or they walk with you. So I think that’s going to be a great experience.”
Sponsored by VanDyk Mortgage Corporation, all the daytime events for Laughter on the Lakeshore will be free, with a $5 suggested donation. That donation will give attendees VIP status that includes a guaranteed seat at the show, and an exclusive meet and greet with comedians. Tickets for Saturday night’s Heavyweights show are $20.
“Having a sponsorship like that allows me to do more for the comedians and make the shows as affordable as possible,” Williams-Winston said. “To me, comedy’s never been about, ‘Oh I want to get rich.’ So if I cannot put barriers where barriers don’t need to be, I won’t do that. With today’s economy, finances are something that people are definitely thinking about. So I don’t want them to stress about the price of a laugh. Laughter should be free, and a chance to have a break from everything that’s going on. So even if you can’t make it to the $20 headliner show, hopefully you can make it to one of the free shows.”
“I put up just a general Facebook post asking who would like to be involved with the festival this year and I got flooded with responses,” Williams-Winston said. “I was really taken aback by it, like, ‘Wow, this many people would want to be involved with this little festival I put together myself.’ But it was great to see the response. A lot of people wanted to step up and help. There’s comedians from the Detroit area, people from Chicago, Indiana, so it really showed me how large and connected the comedy community really is. Sometimes we get stuck in our own little scenes, but at the end of the day, we’re all just chasing dreams and we love to make people laugh, so it’s great to see the community come together like that.”
Starting small and continuing to grow, Williams-Winston said his goal for Laughter on the Lakeshore is to bring in more sponsors and tie in with the city of Muskegon more. He has spoken with the mayor about the event, and would like to eventually expand to bigger venues, and host a big name headliner.
“I want it to get to the point where the summer hits and you’re counting down, Laughter on the Lakeshore is coming up, who have they got coming this year?” he said. “That’s my goal for the expansion and the future of this festival.” ■
LAUGHTER ON THE LAKESHORE COMEDY FESTIVAL Aug. 29-30
Multiple Locations, Downtown Muskegon Facebook.com/laughteronthelakeshore
Ricarlo Williams Winston.
YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO WHAT’S GREAT IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
PADDLE the Path Less Traveled
I’m always looking for spots to kayak besides the obvious big river we have right here in GR. For one, there aren’t a lot of rental options for paddling the Grand (except Parks & Rec, who recently took over the Saturday trips from GR Outside). Beyond that, every waterway has its own personality and scenery, and being able to experience different surrounds is part of the allure of kayaking!
A couple of summers ago, I found U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery out in Hastings, and it’s since become one of our go-tos. The first time we went, I planned to pick up a few of our group members on the way, and my first stop was in East Grand Rapids. Little did I know that there was a marathon happening that day, and there were road closures everywhere. There was no road that led to Rome, and they kept closing roads as I detoured, raising my angst exponentially.
I was seriously having a cow. Because, if you know me, you know I can’t stand to be late.
So, I was frantically driving in circles while also agitatedly calling my soon-to-be passengers and telling them what was happening. Okay, I was screaming into the dashboard, truth told. Anyway, it became evident at some point that my riders were going to have to walk to me. And everything was fine after that, except that my insane side was revealed to more people than I’d have liked. No one seeing this would have been preferred.
But, back to the otherwise uneventful—and very enjoyable— trip. U-Rent-Em rents canoes, kayaks, and tubes at a pretty reasonable rate for a three-hour trip. You just assemble your group, arrive, pay them in cash, and load up into their van, and they’ll drive you and your rented kayaks (with provided floatation cushions) to the put-in location.
It’s a pretty leisurely paddle on the Thornapple, and it takes you under bridges and past people fishing and through a mix of suburban and natural areas. You’ll
see lots of birds and wildflowers along the way, too. If you go late in the summer, you may encounter hordes of tubing college students having a last fling before heading back to school. This really only adds to the fun, I promise.
Next up are some things you should consider about any kayaking trip, but especially a longer one. The two obvious ones are insect repellant and sunscreen—applied liberally. I usually wear a zip-up rash guard to further protect against UV rays. A hat or visor helps, too, since it’s harder to notice the effects of the sun when on the water. Water shoes or sandals with straps are also a good idea.
Definitely bring a tall water bottle and some easy-to-access snacks to make sure you stay fueled and hydrated. Just remember: drinking lots of water comes with consequences, and you may have to disembark to go wading, if you know what I mean.
And, one last thing: consider a waterproof case of some kind
| by Allison Kay Bannister
to hold your keys, phone, and anything else you don’t want to potentially get wet. I usually pin my key fob to my collar because if that goes in, nobody in my group is going home anytime soon.
But, you may want to stay a little longer in Hastings, anyway. They have a cute downtown with local shops that they pride themselves on, and a great restaurant called Walldorff Brew Pub & Bistro that always manages to fit our group in for post-paddle bites and bevvies.
The food is delish, the draft selection is always interesting, and, like I said, they go out of their way to make room for a large party of weary of kayakers. It’s part of the reason we go back for this trip summer after summer. Hasting is only about 45 minutes from central GR, so it’s an easy day trip! Ready to go? Learn more and reserve your date and crafts at urentemcanoe.com. ■
10 NEW EATERIES in Kalamazoo
If you haven’t been to Kalamazoo lately, you’re missing out on a whole lot of new offerings.
From brunch cafés and cocktail bars to Turkish flatbreads and deep-dish pizza, the local dining scene has been buzzing with fresh flavors and creative concepts. Whether you’re craving chilaquiles and crab quiche, a round of duckpin bowling with cocktails, or a steak gyro burger followed by a strawberry malt, there’s a new place waiting for you to try it.
Here are 10 excellent eateries that have made their debut in the Kalamazoo area in the past year.
Kalamazoo’s brunch scene got a fresh new addition this June with the opening of Greenhouse Café at 505 E. North Street.
This cozy, farm-to-table spot puts a local twist on the classics, serving up everything from made-to-order omelets and seasonal specials to standout dishes like chilaquiles, crab quiche, and berry-studded French toast. Grab a cup of fresh-brewed coffee and settle in—whether you’re craving something hearty or light, the menu has plenty to dig into.
Crafted Copper opened doors in Kalamazoo at 229 E. Michigan Ave. Okay, it’s more cocktail bar than eatery, but they
do have snacks! Along with a tap wall and duckpin bowling. The cocktails span from classics like a Boulivardier to “Duckpond Group Cocktails” intended for 4 guests and more. The beer is all self-pour, meaning you can pick and choose exactly how much of each craft brew you want to drink. And the bowling is duckpin, so you don’t have to rent any special shoes or pick out the perfect ball for you—just walk up and get rolling on these smaller lanes with shorter pins.
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Alibi is a modern American eatery where expertly crafted dishes delight every palate. Step into a warm, inviting space and be welcomed by a team dedicated to making your dining experience exceptional. From luxurious Dry Aged Steak and fresh seafood to vibrant vegan dishes and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. The brunch menu features standout favorites like the unique Lobster Benny and signature Pork Belly Hash, perfect for a memorable mid-morning indulgence.
Opened in December 2024, and filling the void of the late Chicago Style Pizza, Kalako Pizza delivers original, thincrust and deep-dish pizza to Portage. The location also offers sandwiches, salads and appetizers. They’re always experimenting with new flavors, so you can build your custom creation, or try one of their fun features like the Potato Bacon, with thin-sliced roasted potatoes, thick-cut bacon, cream sauce, rosemary, olive oil and parmesan.
Craving’s Deli, inside of Pacific Rim Foods, is a Kalamazoo favorite thanks to its extensive menu of delicious Asian fusion cuisine, offering bao buns, banh mi, noodles, stir fry, poke, boba and so much more—all with fresh ingredients and at a reasonable price. So it only makes sense they’d expand to Cravings Corners , a standalone takeout joint in the Texas Corners area offering many of the same goodies.
Lee’s Burgers and Malts came to town at 5234 Portage Road, offering everything from juicy burgers and crispy chicken sandwiches to cheesy, chili-smothered fries, ribs, wings, and more. Try out their famous Steak Gyro Burger, which comes topped with savory gyro meat, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and signature tzatziki sauce, plus fries or tots on the side. Then you can pair it with a tasty chocolate, strawberry or vanilla malt!
by Revue Staff
Greenhouse Café, Crafted Copper, Alibi, Kalako Pizza, Cravings Corners, Lee’s Burgers and Malts, Ayasofya Turkish Restaurant, Simply Sweet Desserts.
The new Ayasofya Turkish Restaurant at 528 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo has gained a lot of fans in a short time with its authentic Turkish cuisine. This may not be exactly the Mediterranean food you’re used to—Ayasofya serves up dishes like Iskandar Kabab, meat served over pan-sauteed pita, topped with fresh tomato sauce & served with yogurt and bulghur rice. Or you can get a Pide, a Turkish flatbread (think pizza). And don’t miss out on a chance to try authentic Turkish coffee!
If you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, you’ll want to make a beeline for Simply Sweet Desserts at 5032 Gull Rd, now serving up fresh-baked goodness at their new retail spot in Kalamazoo. After debuting in 2023 with wholesale treats at places like Meijer, SpartanNash, and Horrocks, Simply Sweet has stepped into the spotlight with a fullfledged storefront. Now, you can pick up their cakes, cookies, pies, and other madefrom-scratch confections straight from the source—no special occasion required.
Downtown Kalamazoo got a little greener— Matchacita officially opened its doors at 120 South St., taking over the former Something’s Brewing spot. The café is the brainchild of Yazmine Vargas Root and Tyler Root, who first introduced Matchacita to the world in 2022 at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market. Now, they’re serving up their signature high-grade matcha alongside a lineup of vegan-friendly, dairy-free, and gluten-free treats. Whether you’re a matcha devotee or just looking for a bright, feel-good sip, this cozy new spot is worth a visit.
Mi Lindo Michoacán opened after years of preparation at 3104 Lovers Lane. Owner Fidencion Garcia named it after the state in Mexico where he grew up and where his parents still live. Here, you’ll find a large selection of delicious Mexican cuisine, including the usual tacos, quesadillas, tortas, burritos, gorditas, sopes, tamales, elote, enchiladas, molotes and so much more. ■
STRINGS, SCULPTURE AND SOLD-OUT SHOWS: A Meijer Gardens Summer
by John Kissane
Since its public opening on April 20th, 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has drawn visitors not only from west Michigan but from all over the world. Its beautiful, varied gardens and world-class sculpture collection are enormously popular; in February of this year, USA Today named it the best sculpture park in the United States.
If that weren’t enough, Meijer Gardens curates a series of events throughout the year. August is a particularly packed month, including the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens (FTBSCAMG for short), the Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club events, Sunday Strings performances, and the last full month of Busted: Contemporary Sculpture Busts
Eleven concerts will take place as part of the summer concert series; as of this writing, six of them have sold out. Taking place at the Frederik Meijer Gardens amphitheater (capacity: 1900), the shows allow for a relaxed, intimate experience with music in several genres. Guests sit, stand, eat, and drink; they see old friends and make new ones; and they hear great music in an intimate and beautiful venue as
the sun begins to descend.
Genres represented this year will include classic rock (Cheap Trick), jam bands (The String Cheese Incident, Umphrey’s McGee), gospel (The War and Treaty), country and folk (Mary Chapin Carpenter, Maren Morris, Charley Crockett), rock (Cake, Train), pop (Andy Grammer), and indie-folk (Crane Wives). Often, these bands cross genre lines themselves; Umphrey’s McGee takes on jazz, reggae, funk, metal, and more.
“Diversity of lineup is very important and intentional,” John VanderHaagen, Director of Communications, said. “We want to appeal to different audiences with a wide variety of acts.”
Meijer Gardens aims for a mixture of veterans and acts new to the venue. “We try to have a third that are brand new, a third returning, and a third that’s a combo, in the case of co-headliners or opening acts,” VanderHaagen said.
The approach is working; the morning tickets went on sale, 85% sold. Thousands of concert goers look forward to ticket release day every year. “We’ve very, very grateful for the support of the community,” he said.
The venue remains popular with musicians, too. “Almost to a T, acts rave about the amphitheater. It’s not often acts this big get to play such intimate shows at such a worldclass venue. They tell us we’re that circled date on their calendar.” They compliment the gardens themselves, the amphitheater, and the engaged, excited crowds.
While the Meijer Gardens series focuses on national and international acts, the Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club brings in local and regional musicians and cultural organizations. Taking place every Tuesday in June, July, and August, these events help shine a spotlight on terrific local acts. Tickets are usually free with admission; exceptions are noted on the venue’s website.
On August 5th, soul-pop group August will perform, as will songwriter and mental health advocate Hannah Rose. Classmates back in 1969, Franklin Park will take the stage on August 12th, performing their signature mix of cover songs from The Beatles, the Byrds, and more. All-female power trio The Accidentals August 19th; while tickets are required for The Accidentals, they remain available as of this writing. Finally, on August 26th, Grand Rapids Ballet will perform a mixture of contemporary and classical work, including choreography set to music by Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, and more.
Sunday Strings, started during the pandemic, is a series of intimate shows held indoors. Free with admission, the shows last about an hour; some guests choose to sit and listen to full shows, while others may listen to a section before exploring more of the gardens.
On August 3rd, Echoes of the Romantic and Beyond will be performed. Selections by Mendelssohn, Kapustine, and Auerbach will be played. Italian Serenade can be heard on August 10th and will include works by Tchaikovsky, Mozart, and Puccini. Chamber music is designed to be played by a small group of musicians in an intimate setting; the Huizenga Grand Room is the perfect place to hear it.
Finally, Busted: Contemporary Sculpture Busts is on display through September 21st. Gathering work by 21st century sculptors, it gathers together an extraordinary collection of accomplished, powerful, and even haunting works, works ranging from the sublime silliness of the Muppets to the deepest mysteries of the self.
On August 17th, a Meijer Gardens staff member will lead an all-ages event. After discussing the sculptures, the educator will run a surrealist art game in which participants help make a figure drawing one section at a time without having seen the previous addition.
“There’s something new every day,” VanderHaagen said. “And there’s always something we’re planning for the future. It’s just such a great place to work, surrounded by beauty and embraced by people across the world. To walk around and hear different languages being spoken—that’s pretty special.” ■
FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids meijergardens.org
BUSTED - CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURE BUSTS: Through Sept. 21
TUESDAY EVENING MUSIC CLUB: Tuesdays through August 26, 7-9 pm.
SUNDAY STRINGS:
August 3 - Echoes of the Romantic and Beyond
August 10 - Italian Serenade
FIFTH THIRD BANK SUMMER CONCERTS AT MEIJER GARDENS:
August 1 - The War And Treaty with Grand Rapids Symphony
August 3 - Train
August 7 - Mary Chapin Carpenter + Brandy Clark
August 11 - Cheap Trick (SOLD OUT)
August 14 - The String Cheese Incident (SOLD OUT)
August 17 - CAKE (SOLD OUT)
August 18 - Andy Grammer (SOLD OUT)
August 21 - Maren Morris
August 24 - Umphrey’s McGee
August 25 - Charley Crockett
August 28 - The Crane Wives
AUGUST
ARTSCalendar
AVENUE FOR THE ARTS avenueforthearts.co
THIRD THURSDAYS, August 21
BARN THEATRE
13351 West M-96, Augusta barntheatreschool.org
MY FAIR LADY, Aug. 5-17
HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING, Aug. 19-31
BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS
122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids broadwaygrandrapids.com
HAMILTON, July 22-Aug. 3
CIRCLE THEATRE
1703 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids circletheatre.org
GIRLS’ WEEKEND, Aug. 7-23
FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK
1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids meijergardens.org
BUSTED: CONTEMPORARY SCULPTURE BUSTS, Through Sept. 21
FIFTH THIRD BANK SUMMER CONCERTS AT MEIJER GARDENS, Through Sept. 14
TUESDAY EVENING MUSIC CLUB: TUESDAYS, through August 26, 7-9 pm.
SUNDAY STRINGS, Select Sundays through August
| by Revue Staff
GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM
101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org
DAVID LUBBERS: HAUNTED TERRAIN, Through Aug. 3
DAVID HOCKNEY: PERSPECTIVE SHOULD BE REVERSED, May 31-Nov. 2
THURSDAYS ON THE TERRACE, Through August
KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS
314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org
LEO VILLAREAL: INTERSTELLAR, Through Sept. 21
INK RHAPSODY: THE ART OF LINGNAN MASTERS IN HONG KONG, Through Oct. 26
MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART
296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon muskegonartmuseum.org
THE BENNETT PRIZE: RISING VOICES 4, Through Aug. 24
DENG SHIQING: THE COST OF LIFE, Through Aug. 24
HOLLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
96 W. 15th St. #201, Holland hollandsymphony.org
HSO WELCOMES MIDORI, Aug. 8-9
View our full arts and entertainment calendar at www.RevueWM.com/calendar
10 TH ANNUAL
In 2025, we’re celebrating 10 years of Revue’s Best of the West Readers Poll.
When we launched this contest a decade ago, we didn’t know if it would last beyond a year. Would enough people care to take time out of their busy schedule to comb through more than 100 categories and nominate their favorite people and places?
Turns out, the answer is very much “yes,” and the number of people getting involved has only grown every year. Thousands upon thousands of West Michigan residents now make their voice heard across two rounds of voting.
If you missed the voting, here’s how it works: The first round was for open nominations, meaning anyone could write in absolutely whoever they wanted. Then, we tallied up all those nominations and came out with a top three for every category. In the second round, readers simply voted for their favorites out of those groups of three!
The result is more than 100 winners and over 200 finalists across a huge variety of categories. Certain spots get a whole lot of love, which is why we have our Golden Certificate, which counts the Most Votes Overall across all categories. This year, the winner is once again City Built Brewing Co. , following up on their win from last year!
However, we’re also celebrating with another Golden Certificate this year, commemorating the Most Category Wins Overall. That one goes to Long Road Distillers , who won every category they were nominated for.
That’s not all—since it’s the 10th year, we of course wanted to do something extra special. So, we went back through all of the winners from every Best of the West to determine our Milestone Awards: The people and places who have won their category every single year, for a decade straight.
Considering the fierce competition, the changing times and the difficulties introduced by the pandemic, it’s a monumental feat to be voted “best” for 10 years in a row. Check out the 11 Milestone Awards here:
BOWLING: Clique Lanes
CASINO: Gun Lake Casino Resort
MOVIE THEATRE: Celebration Cinema North
BAKERY: Nantucket Baking Co.
FRIES: HopCat
HOT DOGS: Yesterdog
SUSHI: Maru
DISTILLERY: Long Road Distillers
CHEF: Jenna Arcidiacono - Amore Trattoria Italiana
VINYL RECORD STORE: Vertigo Music
GIFT SHOP: Rebel
BOTW
Best of the West means a lot to not just us here at Revue , but the local businesses and people who you nominate and vote for. There’s a reason they spend months asking for your votes on social media, and why there are Best of the West decals and certificates proudly displayed all around West Michigan— it’s because winning is a sign of love and a show of support from the community, and that’s the true highest honor for a local business.
*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
DINING
Dining is a defining aspect of any culture, going well beyond our biological mandate to eat.
The kind of food we have available to us is determined by access to fresh ingredients, population distribution, wealth, racial demographics, social trends, local taste and so much more—including the people who make it happen and the communities that support them.
All that to say: We’re darn lucky to have to such a fantastic variety of great dining across West Michigan, from local institutions to new restaurants, takeout joints and an ever-growing food truck scene. In fact, multiple of our finalists and even winners this year are food trucks, including the relatively new Taqueria Chilango.
Speaking of New Restaurants, our winner this year is Gin Gin’s , which comes as no surprise to us considering the near-legendary reputation of Butcher’s Union, from the same group. Gin Gin’s managed to capture the big city
feel of its older sibling around the corner while bringing a slightly more deluxe, but equally crowd-pleasing atmosphere and menu. Food, drinks, vibes, service—it’s all top of class.
Our finalists for new restaurant include The Sovengard , which is actually a return for the New Nordic, farm-totable eatery that loves to bring exciting new flavors to town, taking home first place for Most Innovative Cuisine as well. Then there’s SILVA , a shockingly unique, sprawling “dinnertainment” venue with high-quality bocce courts, billiards, dartboards, and a menagerie of performers— magicians, clowns, jugglers, stilt-walkers and more— roaming the space on weekends. Their menu is similarly eclectic, with cuisine from around the globe.
Since this is the 10th Annual Best of the West, we also have our Milestone Winners who have placed first every year since the contest began. For Fries, HopCat takes
it home once again, thanks to their iconic Cosmik Fries (tastefully renamed a few years ago) coated in a memorable seasoning blend that’s a bit salty, a tad peppery and a touch sweet. The reigning king of Hot Dogs remains Yesterdog , a cornerstone of the Grand Rapids food scene as evidenced by a history of visits from celebrities and politicians. Then Maru is the longstanding Sushi champion, thanks to a reputation for consistent quality over the years (and a nice space on Cherry).
To run a restaurant right now is a challenge. To open a new restaurant is a daring leap of faith and passion. To keep a restaurant going and maintain devotion for 10 years, through a global pandemic, supply chain issues and inflation, is a monumental feat well worth celebrating.
BEST RESTAURANT IN… GRAND HAVEN
The Unicorn Tavern theunicorntavern.com
Anna’s House
Noto’s at the Bil-Mar
BEST RESTAURANT IN… GRAND RAPIDS
Butcher’s Union butchersuniongr.com
Cafe Mamo
Gin Gin’s
BEST RESTAURANT IN… HOLLAND
New Holland Brewing Co. newhollandbrew.com
Hops At 84 East
Itty Bitty Bar
BEST RESTAURANT IN… KALAMAZOO/PORTAGE
Bell’s Eccentric Café bellsbeer.com
Brick + Brine
Principle
BEST RESTAURANT IN… MUSKEGON
Hamburger Mikey hamburgermikey.net
Capone’s Speakeasy & Pizzeria The Station Grill
BEST RESTAURANT IN… SAUGATUCK/FENNVILLE
The Southerner thesouthernermi.com
Salt of the Earth
Pennyroyal Café & Provisions
APPETIZERS
San Chez Bistro sanchezbistro.com
Café Mamo City Built Brewing Company
BAKERY
Nantucket Baking Co. nantucketbaking.com
Chartreuse Sisters Field & Fire
BBQ
Two Scotts Barbecue twoscottsbbq.com
The Pit Stop Two Bones BBQ
BREAKFAST
Lucy’s lucysgr.com
Anna’s House Wolfgang’s Restaurant
BRUNCH
Lucy’s lucysgr.com
Anna’s House SpeakEZ Lounge
BURGERS
Black Napkin blacknapkingr.com
Nonla Burger One Stop Coney Shop
CHINESE
First Wok
firstwokgr.com
Gaslight Kitchen Asian Cuisine
Red Bowl
COFFEE
Madcap Coffee madcapcoffee.com
Chartreuse Sisters
Morning Ritual
DESSERTS
Nantucket Baking Co. nantucketbaking.com
Chartreuse Sisters
Mokaya
DINER
76th Street Diner
76truckstopdiner.com
Good Truckin’ Diner
Matchbox Diner & Drinks
DONUTS
Marge’s Donut Den margesdonutden.com
Sandy’s Donuts Sprinkles
FOOD TRUCK
Taqueria Chilango instagram.com/taqueria_chilango_gr
Patty Matters
PizzaMI
FRIED CHICKEN
Hancock hancockgr.com
Cousin’s Tasty Chicken
The Southerner
FRIES
HopCat hopcat.com
Black Napkin
One Stop Coney Shop
HOT DOGS
Yesterdog yesterdoggrandrapids.com
Blue Dog Tavern One Stop Coney Shop
ICE CREAM/FROZEN TREATS
Frosty Boy Grand Rapids frostyboygr.com
Furniture City Creamery Love’s Ice Cream
INDIAN
Palace of India palaceofindiarestaurant.com
Pal’s Indian Cuisine
PIND Indian Cuisine
MEDITERRANEAN
Sheshco Mediterranean Grill sheshcogrill.com
616 Kabob Stop Zivio
MEXICAN
Tacos El Cunado Bridge St. facebook.com/ Tacoselcunadobridgestreet
Iker’s Tacos Taqueria Chilango
MOST INNOVATIVE CUISINE
The Sovengard sovengard.com
City Built Brewing Grove
STAFF PICKS
BAKERY - CHARTREUSE SISTERS
Frère Jacques, Frère Jacques, dormez vous? Well, if so, you'd better wake up. You don't want to sleep on this French-inspired bakery. The pastries on offer—which rotate, often including scones, cakes, cheesecakes, and more—are delicious, and so are their bright and inventive beverages. – John Kissane
NEW RESTAURANT
Gin Gin’s ginginsgr.com
Silva The Sovengard
PIZZA
The Mitten Brewing Co. mittenbrewing.com
PizzaMI Quarantino’s
SANDWICH/DELI
Two Beards Deli twobeardsdeligr.com
Boardwalk Subs
Schnitz Deli
SEAFOOD
Leo’s leosrestaurant.com
Fish Lads of Grand Rapids
Gin Gin’s
SOUP
Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop unclecheetahs.com
Horrocks Market
Pho Anh Trang
STEAK
Butcher’s Union butchersuniongr.com
Bowdie’s Chophouse Gin Gin’s
SUSHI
Maru marusushi.com
Ginza Sushi and Ramen Bar Jaku Sushi & Grill
COFFEE - MIDNIGHT EXPRESS CAFE
If you don’t attend GVSU or traverse West Fulton, it’s easy to miss Midnight Express, but this café easily has some of the best lunch in town. The Chicken Pesto Wrap is a wonderfully saucy, vibrant, proteinpacked feast that always heals my soul, whether it’s recovering from a hangover or fueling before the gym. Not to mention all the comfy seating, tons of natural light and great coffee. – Josh Veal
THAI Little Bangkok littlebangkokgr.com
Bangkok Taste Cuisine Thai Table
VEGETARIAN/VEGAN
Gaia House Café gaiahousecafe.com
Anna’s House Good Judy’s Market & Juice Bar
WINGS
Wing Doozy wingdoozy.com
616 Kabob Stop Mike’s Wings
MEXICAN - ASADA
Okay, Asada might actually be Tex-Mex, but close enough for my purposes! Basalt was always one of my favorite spots in GR, and Asada carries on the tradition of delicious, thoughtful, flavor-packed eats. The breakfast burrito remains iconic, but they also have stellar tacos, sides (like the Mac N Queso) and even smash burgers. Most important to me though is the Green Sauce. No matter what you order, the Green Sauce is mandatory. – Josh Veal
Lucy’s, The Unicorn Tavern, Gin Gin’s, Maru, The Sovengard. COURTESY PHOTOS
*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
DRINKING
The times, they are a-changin’, and nowhere is that more apparent in West Michigan than the drinking scene.
When we launched Best of the West a decade ago, craft beer was booming and it felt like a dozen new breweries were opening annually across the region. Now, we haven’t had enough options to host a New Brewery category for two years.
That isn’t to say they’re all gone. People still congregate to their favorite breweries and pick up six-packs of local IPAs
from the store, but we’ve seen a lot of consolidation and a shift of focus from the liquid itself to the community provided by beer. Not to mention the changing favorites—while Founders is certainly still a local institution, smaller spots like City Built and Archival have come to dominate in recent years.
But more than that, our palate seems to be expanding beyond beer. New wine bars like Chateau and Good Good Good have quickly become local favorites, offering something a little less filling and slower to sip. Then there are the cocktail bars and distilleries, like Long Road, which
has now won Best Cocktails every single year of Best of the West! In Uptown, you’ll also find Long Road’s Less Traveled cocktail bar, Eastern Kille Distillery’s smaller location, and Mammoth Distilling, all thriving in close proximity.
And at just about every one of these places, you’ll now find a concerted effort to offer quality non-alcoholic beverages as well. Craft beer itself may have settled down for now, but it’s clear gathering together to drink delicious beverages isn’t going anywhere.
BEST BAR IN… GRAND HAVEN
Tip-a-Few Tavern tip-a-few.com
Odd Side Ales
The Unicorn Tavern
BEST BAR IN… GRAND RAPIDS
SpeakEZ Lounge speakezlounge.com
Drip Drop Cocktail Room Pursuit of Happiness
BEST BAR IN… HOLLAND
New Holland Brewing Co. newhollandbrew.com
Hops at 84 East
Itty Bitty Bar
BEST BAR IN… KALAMAZOO/PORTAGE
Bell’s Eccentric Café bellsbeer.com
Kalamazoo Beer Exchange One Well Brewing
BEST BAR IN… MUSKEGON
The Deck thedeckmkg.com
Rad Dad’s Tacos & Tequila Unruly Brewing
BEST BAR IN… SAUGATUCK/FENNVILLE
Coral Gables coralgablessaugatuck.com
Sand Bar Saloon Wally’s Bar & Grill
STAFF PICKS
BEER BAR 7 Monks Taproom 7monkstap.com
HopCat Logan’s Alley
BOURBON
Long Road Distillers - Straight Bourbon longroaddistillers.com
Eastern Kille Distillery - Straight Bourbon Mammoth Distilling - Woolly Bourbon
BREWERY
Founders Brewing Co. foundersbrewing.com
City Built Brewing Co. Vivant Brewery & Spirits/Broad Leaf
CRAFT COCKTAILS - BUFFALO TRADERS LOUNGE
Since 2017, despite changing times and changing teams, Buffalo Traders Lounge has consistently brought us some of the best and most innovative cocktails in West Michigan. Curious what they have? You won’t find a menu online, because it’s regularly being refreshed with new offerings to meet the moment. It’s a place where staff are allowed to follow their creativity and bring their unique voices to the bar. Plus, the art deco vibes are great. – Josh Veal
CIDERY
Farmhaus Cider Co. farmhauscider.com
Pux Cider
The Peoples Cider Co.
CRAFT COCKTAILS
Long Road Distillers longroaddistillers.com
Drip Drop Cocktail Room
Eastern Kille Distillery
CRAFT LAGER
Founders Brewing Co.
- Solid Gold foundersbrewing.com
Cedar Springs - Küsterer Bohemian Pils
City Built Brewing - Alemania
DISTILLERY
Long Road Distillers longroaddistillers.com
Eastern Kille Distillery Mammoth Distilling
GAY BAR
General Wood Shop generalwoodshop.com
The Apartment Lounge Rumors Nightclub
GERMAN BEER
Cedar Springs Brewing Co.
- Küsterer Original Weißbier csbrew.com
Cedar Springs Brewing Co.
- Küsterer Märzen
City Built Brewing Co. - Marzanna
GIN
Long Road Distillers - MICHIGIN longroaddistillers.com
Eastern Kille Distillery - Barrel Finished Gin
New Holland Brewing Co. - Knickerbocker Gin
HAPPY HOUR
SpeakEZ Lounge speakezlounge.com
Birch Lodge Nightwatch Lounge
IPA
Founders Brewing Co. - Mortal Bloom foundersbrewing.com
City Built Brewing Co.
- Fifth Street Hooligans
Gravel Bottom Brewery - Dam Good IPA
SOUR BEER
Speciation - Genetic Drift speciationartisanales.com
Archival Brewing - Kettleena
City Built Brewing Co. - Blue Monroe
SPORTS BAR
The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar thescoregr.com
Peppino’s Pizzeria Sports Grille SpeakEZ Lounge
STOUT
Founders Brewing Co. - Breakfast Stout foundersbrewing.com
City Built Brewing Co. - Dark Shadows
City Built Brewing Co. - Alive On Arrival
VODKA
Long Road Distillers - Original Vodka longroaddistillers.com
Eastern Kille Distillery - Utility Vodka Bier Distillery - Heart Cut Vodka
WINE BAR
Chateau Grand Rapids chateaugrandrapids.com
Good Good Good Pursuit of Happiness Co.
WINERY
Robinette’s robinettes.com
Modales Wines St. Julian Winery
*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
MUSIC
Despite the looming threat of economic uncertainty darkening the otherwise bright outlook for our local music scene, the fans came out in force to vote for this year’s Best of the West Finalists, proving that passion goes a long way, both on and off stage.
And speaking of stages, we have to start by recognizing the tragic closing of one of West Michigan’s oldest stages, as the iconic Kalamazoo State Theatre shut down, hopefully temporarily, late last year. Losing one of the most historic venues in our area didn’t affect the results in our Best Music Venue category, however, as once again GLC Live at 20 Monroe took the top slot, with longtime Grand Rapids favorites The Pyramid Scheme and The Intersection returning as finalists.
The Electric Forest Festival also repeated as our Best Music Festival winner, with last year’s finalists, Breakaway and Upheaval, both held over the summer at Grand Rapids’ Belknap Park, landing as finalists this year as well. More than just a music festival, Electric Forest remains a one of
a kind experience for our state, and honestly the country, so its long-running dominance in this category isn’t likely to come to an end, with yet another massive crowd descending upon the illuminated trees of Rothbury for a weekend-long, all-night dance party earlier this summer.
In the Best Solo Musical Artist field, dobro wizard and Americana staple Mark Lavengood won the top spot. From collabs with his friend and superstar West Michigan native Billy Strings, in addition to hosting the fantastic Smiling Acres Festival, Lavengood more than deserves the high praise for his mind-blowing talent, infectious good vibes, and commitment to the community. He’s joined by two new finalists, soulful singer-songwriter Adrian Wright, and genre-defying performer CALV, showcasing the depth and diversity in our local scene.
Vinyl lovers once again showed their undying loyalty, with Vertigo Music holding strong as the champion of the Best Vinyl Record Store category for 10 years running. Black Dog Books & Records, which opened last year and focuses on used records and counterculture, enters our list for the first time, also joining longtime finalist, Corner Record Shop.
BEST COVER BAND
Brena brenaband.com
Project 90
Onager
BEST DJ
Adrian Butler – AB everythingab.com
Super Dre
Keller Shaw
BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL
Electric Forest electricforestfestival.com
Breakaway
Upheaval
BEST MUSIC VENUE
GLC Live at 20 Monroe glcliveat20monroe.com
The Pyramid Scheme
The Intersection
BEST ORIGINAL BAND
The Bootstrap Boys thebootstrapboys.com
Desmond Jones PHABIES
BEST SOLO MUSICAL ARTIST
Mark Lavengood marklavengood.com
Adrian Wright CALV
BEST VINYL RECORD STORE
Vertigo Music vertigomusic.gr
Black Dog Books & Records Corner Record Shop
| by Eric Mitts
And perhaps the most moving victory on our entire list came in the Best Original Band category where Grand Rapids’ The Bootstrap Boys brought home the number one spot. The Jammie Award-winning outlaw country group tragically lost guitarist Nick Alexander in January, so it’s a bittersweet celebration for the band as they continue to carry on while mourning the loss of their friend. They’re joined by past winner, GR jam favorites Desmond Jones, and indie outfit PHABIES, who just released their sophomore album, The Curse of Caring , earlier this summer.
With so many stories behind each and every winner, it remains our pleasure to share a glimpse into all the hard work that goes into making West Michigan such a great place for music every month, and to take a moment here each year to truly celebrate it all.
Breakaway, The Bootstrap Boys, Upheaval. COURTESY PHOTOS
STAFF PICKS
BEST ORIGINAL BAND
- LOW PHASE
Local alt-rock group Low Phase hit a new high point in an already stellar career with the release of their brand new EP, So Pretty It’s Perfect , last month. Living up to that straightforward description, the new record is packed full of gorgeous guitar-work, elevating the band to a whole new level, while echoing epic, ‘90s vibes around every corner. Just a viral hit away from blowing up, Low Phase won’t be at this level for much longer, so don’t miss out on the chance to see them up close on the smaller stages around town before they inevitably take off. – Eric Mitts
BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL
- SMILING ACRES MUSIC FESTIVAL
Placed on a pristine piece of property in Trufant, Michigan, and perfectly timed on the weekend after Electric Forest, Smiling Acres embodies all the best parts of summer festival season. Among the ever-increasing number of festivals highlighting local and regional talent, Smiling Acres has an undeniable sense of pure joy that grows bigger every year. As mentioned before, Mark Lavengood’s extensive involvement gives it a personal touch that feels like a warm hug, one that’s still welcoming even in the sweltering summer heat. Family friendly and full of late night adventures, it really offers something for everyone to enjoy. – Eric Mitts
*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
SHOPPING
When you want to set yourself apart from the crowd, you shop local.
Would you rather hear, “I love that shirt, where did you get that?” or “Nice top! I keep getting it in my Instagram ads.” When something is thrifted, or handmade, or highly curated, it becomes all the more precious because it’s so unique—and it doesn’t hurt that you’re supporting others in the community.
That’s a great mentality for gifts especially, which is why Rebel has won best Gift Shop all 10 years of Best of the West. It’s because they put thought and effort into their
ANTIQUE SHOP
Lost & Found Treasures of Old and New facebook.com/ lostandfoundtreasuresofoldandnew
Elevated Grand Rapids
Warehouse One
ATHLETIC GOODS STORE
Gazelle Sports gazellesports.com
Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus
Dunham’s Sports
2025 / revuewm.com
offerings, and work to truly be part of Grand Rapids.
The same goes for shops like Gazelle or Schuler or Fitzgerald’s , which may sell products from larger brands but also invest back into the community 10,000 times more than a big national chain. When you shop local, you’re making your own home better.
To support these efforts, we last year introduced a new category, Best New Store/Business. This year, the winner is Good Good Good , which is not only an all-natural wine bar but also a wine shop and florist, very quickly forming a tight bond with the community. They’re
fun, knowledgeable, passionate, and work hard to make everyone feel at home.
For the finalists, we have Cellar Bird Books , which immediately entered the top three for Best Bookstore as well, likely thanks to a similar amount of knowledge, passion and community building. Plus FERAL , which also joined the Hiking/Outdoor Gear category. At this unique shop, used outdoor gear is the main attraction, from backpacks to tents, harnesses, helmets and more—along with fashionable used apparel.
BICYCLE SHOP
Freewheeler Bike Shop
freewheelerbikeshop.com
Grand Rapids Bicycle Co.
Switchback Gear Exchange
BOOK STORE
Schuler Books schulerbooks.com
Books & Mortar
Cellar Bird Books
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Magnolia Bridal
magnolia-bridal.com
Renee Austin Wedding
Bridal Elegance
BUTCHER
Sobie Meats sobiemeats.com
Frank’s Market Louise Earl Butcher
CBD Store of Michigan
Love Supreme Craft Cannabis
COMIC BOOK STORE
Vault of Midnight
vaultofmidnight.com
Argos Book Shop
Tardy’s Collector’s Corner
FLORIST
Ball Park Floral & Gifts ballparkfloral.com
Mitten Floral
Southside Flower Market
GIFT SHOP
Rebel rebelgr.com
Roeda Studio Commune
GROCERY STORE
Bridge Street Market bridgestreetmarket.com
Good Judy’s Market & Juice Bar
Martha’s Vineyard
HEALTH FOOD STORE
Harvest Health harvesthealthfoods.com
Good Judy’s Market & Juice Bar Health Hutt
HIKING/OUTDOOR GEAR
Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus billandpauls.com
FERAL Switchback Gear Exchange
STAFF PICKS
MEN’S CLOTHING
Fitzgerald’s Mens Store fitzs.com
A.K. Rikk’s 2RST
NEW STORE/BUSINESS
Good Good Good goodwineandflowers.com
Cellar Bird Books FERAL
PET STORE
Chow Hound chowhoundpetsupplies.com
Fido & Stitch Your Pets Naturally
SHOPPING DISTRICT/ DESTINATION
Wealthy Street uptowngr.com
Breton Village Eastown
THRIFT/CONSIGNMENT SHOP
New 2 You new2youshop.org
Elevated Rock Paper Scissors
WOMEN’S CLOTHING
Basic Bee Boutique basicbeeboutique.com
Covet Leisure Lady Monarch
GROCERY STORE - KINGMA’S MARKET
Go here any day of the week, and you’re likely to run into me or my mister—or, often, both of us. They carry all kinds of specialty items that are hard to find anywhere else, including paneer for making Indian simmer, Ukrainian crepes, and local-ish tortillas. They have an exceptional wine selection with interesting picks on the endcaps, plus pre-made salads and sandwiches and pastries from local bakeries. Let’s not forget the big wall-o-bulk foods, from nuts to candies, dried fruits and more. – Allison Kay Bannister
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H*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
SERVICES & PEOPLE
aving a great community doesn’t just happen on its own—it takes a village.
In these categories, you’ll find some of our most precious relationships. Ron Swanson says, “The three most important people in a man’s life are his barber, his butcher, and his lover,” and that could just as easily extend to your tattoo artist, your masseuse and your dog’s barber.
BARBER SHOP
Henchmen House Barbershop thehenchmenhouse.com
Foremost Barbershop Punch Up Barber Shop
BARTENDER
Drip Drop Cocktail Room - Nick Adams dripdropcocktailroom.com
Maggie’s - Vito Fraccaroli Nightwatch Lounge - Rob Hanks
CATERING
Martha’s Catering marthascatering.com
Kangaroo Kitchen & Catering Two Scotts BBQ
CHEF
Jenna Arcidiacono - Amore Trattoria Italiana amoretrattoriaitaliana.com
Dave VanderLaan - Littlebird
Kirel Shaw - MIZIZI
It’s not surprising to see some of these returning champs, as spots like Sovereign Arms and Fido & Stitch remain community favorites—but with so much competition, we find it particularly impressive that Jenna Arcidiacono of Amore Trattoria Italiana has won Best Chef every single year we’ve run Best of the West.
Considering she opened the beloved eatery just 15 years
ago, that means Chef Jenna came out swinging and has stayed a favorite ever since. This is in no small part thanks to her nonprofit Food Hugs, which spreads love with free food and donated money. But it’s also thanks to her immense passion, infectious joy, and of course, that iconic pink coif.
DOG GROOMER
Fido & Stitch
fidoandstitch.com
Cats Vs. Dogs North Bark Groomers
EVENT PLANNER
Luxe Events luxegrevents.com
All Buttoned Up Events
Shoreline Event Design
FITNESS CLUB/GYM
MVP Sports Clubs mvpsportsclubs.com
IMPACT Fitness + Wellness
Lunar Cycle
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Delight in Designs delightindesigns.com
Deidre Interiors
Kathryn Chaplow Interior Design
STAFF PICKS
VET/ANIMAL CLINIC - FELINE WELLNESS CENTER
After bouncing around to different vets over the years and feeling frustrated with long waits and big bills, we ended up at Feline Wellness Center, which has now been caring for our son for the last couple of years. They are located in the former Crash’s Landing space, and Dr. Jen, the founder of that cat rescue, is the primary vet. It’s warm and welcoming, and has a super-cute mid-century kitsch décor. Most important, Dr. Jen is thoughtful in her care and conservative in suggesting any procedure that might not be necessary. They’re our vet for life! – Allison Kay Bannister
LAW FIRM
Warner Norcross + Judd wnjy.com
Mika Meyers LLP Varnum LLP
PHOTOGRAPHER
Leigh Ann Cobb leighanncobb.com
Holladay Photography NissaJ Photography
REALTOR
Pete Bruinsma - Grand River Realty grandriverrealty.com
Dan Farkas Realtor Garrett Senters - RE/MAX
SALON
Echo Salon echosalongr.com
The Hair Lab
Jeffrey Richard Salon
SPA
Woodhouse Day Spa woodhousespas.com
Ethos Day Spa Wanderlux
TATTOO SHOP
Sovereign Arms Tattoo Co. sovereignarmstattoogr.com
Balm Tattooing High Point Tattoo
VET/ANIMAL CLINIC
Eastown Veterinary Clinic eastownvet.com
Family Friends Veterinary Hospital Plymouth Road Animal Clinic
WELLNESS CENTER
Grand Rapids Wellness grwell.com
Salus Wellness Spa Sandbar Esthetics and Spa
YOGA
Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse yogahothouse.com
Kula Yoga Twisted Hot Yoga
Chef Jenna Arcidiacono, Lunar Cycle, Henchmen House Barbershop, Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse, Ethos Day Spa. COURTESY PHOTOS
W*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
ARTS &
ATTRACTIONS
est Michigan has enough arts and attractions on offer to stuff even the biggest piñata. Frederik Meijer Gardens , now 30 years old, continues to draw visitors from all over the globe, including through its much-loved summer concert series. But there’s lots more to see and do at USA Today’s #1 American sculpture park.
Trade The Big Lebowski quotes with your friends as you try for a 300 at Clique Lanes , then soothe your sadness— or celebrate your victory—at Gun Lake Casino . Feed body and soul on a Taste of GR Food Tour , or/and with a wildly entertaining Michigan Drag Brunch
There’s no better way to get your steps in while refreshing
ART MUSEUM/GALLERY
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park meijergardens.org
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Muskegon Museum of Art
BOWLING
Clique Lanes cliquelanes.com
Northfield Lanes
Wengers Bowling Center
CASINO
Gun Lake Casino gunlakecasino.com
FireKeepers Casino Hotel
Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort
EVENT/PARTY
Michigan Drag Brunch midragbrunch.org
Eastown Street Fair
Hipster Disco
GROUP ACTIVITY
Taste of GR Food Tours
tasteofgr.net
Break Room Therapy
Fowling Warehouse
LARGE SCALE ATTRACTION
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park meijergardens.org
Michigan’s Adventure John Ball Zoo
MOVIE THEATER
Celebration Cinema - Grand Rapids North celebrationcinema.com
Studio Park Wealthy Theatre
SMALL SCALE ATTRACTION
Blandford Nature Center blandfordnaturecenter.org
Break Room Therapy
Fowling Warehouse
THEATRE/ PERFORMANCE ARTS
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre grct.org
Broadway Grand Rapids Circle Theatre ■
your spirit than on the trails at Blandford Nature Center Centered once more, take in a flick at Celebration Cinema North —where you might be lucky enough to see the Odyssey trailer—or with a hugely entertaining show at the always reliable Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Michigan’s Adventures, Break Room Therapy, Michigan Drag Brunch. COURTESY PHOTOS
| by John Kissane
