Grand Rapids Magazine April 2021

LINCOLN ALEXANDER OF FLOUR HOUSE CAKES P L U S FA M I L Y F U N

BLACK CALDER BREWING

GRNOIR

[ Unique Grand Rapids activities that will keep you busy all year.

Yoga on a paddleboard?

Sure! Try it out on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids.

PLUS

Caring for your pets TIPS ON HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR PETS AS THEY AGE.

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Feeling Abandoned?

97% OF PEOPLE LEAVE YOUR WEBSITE WITHOUT TAKING ACTION. How do you get those prospects back? By grabbing their attention! It’s called retargeting and we’ve been doing it for years. You’ve seen those ads that seem to follow you around the internet, offering just what you were previously searching for. We know it’s a little strange, but let’s face it, it’s effective! Targeted Display Advertising focuses on users who previously visited your website.

As your future customers browse the Internet, we will display your ad message to remind them of your brand. When they’re ready to make a purchase, customers will remember your business above other options. Another painful statistic – 72% will abandon their cart with items in it.

Without retargeting, only 8% will go back to complete a purchase. With retargeting, 26% will return! Successful marketers spend 10 - 50% of their digital budgets on retargeting and 7 out of 10 business owners currently use retargeting. Will those customers be returning to you?

Adding digital marketing to your campaigns will increase your touch points and ROI. https://www.grmag.com/digital-studio

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contents APRIL 2021 VOLUME 58, ISSUE 4

FEATURES

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UNIQUELY GR 25 AC TI V I T I E S EVERY GR A ND R A P IDIA N S H O U LD T RY.

BY SARAH MARILYN

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AGING PETS H ELP YO U R P ET AGE GR ACEF U L LY.

BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

P H OTO G R A P H CO U R T E SY F E S T I VA L O F T H E A R TS

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COVER ISTOCK/TUUTIKKA

3/9/21 8:01 AM

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contents / ap il

every issue 6 55 72

editor's letter dining guide

A guide to the area's best eateries

gr gems

Discover Mary Jane Dockeray's legacy

people + places 8

city

9

profile

12

14

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30

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Windows GR exhibit and Ten for All Festival Meet the men behind Black Calder Brewing

issues

Tiffany Townsend delivers with midwifery practice

voice

Bethany Hall opens Healing Connection to help kids

guide

Socially distanced activities for your kids this spring break

look + feel

18

home

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expert

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Create a dreamy bedroom retreat Indoor plants will perk up your pad this month

wellness

Addressing the educational needs of kids with autism at home

style

Pastel power

food + drink

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table

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create

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Flour House Cakes and Co. Spice up dinner time with this udon noodle salad

cheers

Jazz and wine at GRNoir

must-try

Driftwood serves up a taste of Texas

BAGELS BRYAN ESLER MIDWIFE QUINN KIRBY RUNWAY COURTESY ERDEM

3/9/21 8:01 AM

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964

www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com Publisher: John Balardo | Associate Publisher: Jason Hosko

We asked our staff: Here at GR Magazine, we have a soft spot for pets.

Tell us about your pet(s)!

Although she is no longer with us, I fondly remember my Border Collie, Tasha.

As a wee pup at the farm where we found her, she was Freckles, but my father refused to call out such “a silly name in public.”

Oh, the mortification!

Anyway, finally she was brought home and was bestowed with the noble name of Tasha. She was indeed a sheep dog but since there was no livestock in our household, she settled for herding small children, seagulls and running in circles around swimming pools and fields, which she did with mad panache.

She truly kept our house lively!

JACQUI OAKLEY

My baby girl’s name is Tala and she is my WORLD! She’s a 2.5-year-old Shepsky (German Shepherd/ Siberian Husky). She’s the sweetest pup you’ll ever meet! She LOVES to snuggle, to cuddle and to give lots of kisses. Winter is her season and she’s in her element when she’s running through the snow. It’s so hard to get her to come back inside! We eventually want to buy a one-dog sled and teach her to mush!

MARIAH KNOTT

Editorial Editor: Tim Gortsema Managing Editor: Charlsie Dewey Digital Editor: Tom Mitsos Contributors: Ann Byle, Sam Easter, Deidre Remtema, Pasha Shipp, Samantha Suarez, Julie Tabberer, Chuck Warren Intern: Sarah Marilyn Design Creative Director: Lindsay Richards Associate Art Director: Keagan Coop Graphic Designer: Robin Vargo Contributors: Angela Ciccu, Bryan Esler, Stacy FeyerSalo, James Heimer, Quinn Kirby, Jacqui Oakley, Jennifer Pickering, Ashley Wierenga Sales General Inquiries: Advertisingsales@grmag.com Advertising Director: Jenn Maksimowski Account Executives: Todd Anderson, Jessica Laidlaw, Renee Looman, Maddy Messerly Office Assistants: Elissa Stong, Katrina Peshka To Order Reprints: Receptionist – (616) 459-4545 Production Production Director: Jenine Rhoades Senior Production Artist: Robert Gorczyca Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel Advertising Coordinator: Danielle Szatkowski Advertising Designers: Daniel Moen, Amanda Zwiren Web Digital Director: Nick Britsky Web Project Lead: Matthew Cappo Web Project Assistants: Mariah Knott, Luanne Lim, Bart Woinski IT IT Director: Jeremy Leland Circulation Director Of Audience Development: Michelle VanArman Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers Circulation Customer Service: (866) 660-6247 Marketing Marketing & Events Director: Mary Sutton Marketing & Events Interns: Madison Henson, Megan Kusulas, Benjamin Nicol Administration Director Of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki Publishing Coordinator: Kristin Mingo Accounting Associates: Natasha Bajju, Andrew Kotzian, Katie West

We have a 4-yearold English yellow Labrador named Lizzy, she is such a love! I will never forget the day we met her, as it was the day after we brought home our oldest son from having a benign mass removed from his brain. Bringing her home, and her birthday every summer, reminds us of the joy that can be had after going through a challenging time. She is a cherished member of our family.

2020-21 Readers Poll

DEIDRE REMTEMA

Stella was a gift from an ex-boyfriend to lift my spirits as I was teaching full-time and finishing up my master’s degree. She was supposed to be a Yorkie-Poo, but I had doubts after she failed puppy school (although she was awarded the “fastest” dog) and seemed a bit larger than any YorkiePoo I’d ever met. I ended up getting a DNA test done and found out that Stella is actually a mix of six different dog breeds!

After three trainers later, she and I are now best friends. It will definitely be an adjustment when the world opens back up and we aren’t together 24/7. Now, if only she would wear the custom MSU cheerleader outfit I had created for her!

Frustrated with your web site’s search results?

We have ideas that work.

AMANDA ZWIREN

Published By Gemini Media, LLC CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo

Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Media. Publishing offices: 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331 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 and at additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2019 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St., SW, Suite 331, 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 $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

For digital advertising solutions call 248-268-8026 COMPASSMEDIA.COM

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editor's letter / connect

Next issue

In our May issue, we hear personal stories from doctors, nurses and other hospital staff on how COVID-19 has impacted their lives and work over the past year.

Choose your own adventure

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Grand Rapids has so many activities to choose from, sometimes it can feel overwhelming to decide just what to go do. So, we’ve put together a list of “25 activities every Grand Rapidian should try” and we split them up into seasons to help you pace yourself in tackling this list.

This month we also delved into the world of pet ownership with a feature on caring for your senior pets. We spoke with local vets, a pet nutritionist and more to find out how to best care for our pets as they age. As the owner of an almost-18-year-old cat, I had to adapt to many changes over the years as my cat aged to help ensure her quality of life continued. Sadly, while working on this issue, I had to say goodbye to her, but I'm thankful she lived such a healthy, happy life for so long.

Unfortunately, we aren’t back to our normal lives yet, so we continue to look at socially distanced activities you and your family can enjoy in our Guide, and we rounded up a selection of to-go cocktails offered by local restaurants. And don’t forget to check out newly opened GRNoir, a jazz and wine bar that has been selling wine to-go since opening late last year.

The pandemic has not stopped new businesses from opening.

We introduce you to the guys behind new brewery Black Calder Brewing, a new food startup called Driftwood and Terra Bagels, the newest venture from Terra’s owner and executive chef.

This issue also contains tips on updating your main bedroom and decking out your pad with plants to perk up your mood this spring.

Chuck Warren moved to West Michigan from the Florida Keys in 1998 after falling in love with the lakeshore he now calls home. Currently a writer and captain for hire, Chuck lives on his 40-foot Sea Ray in the summer while winters are split between the West Michigan Lakeshore and wherever his 33-foot motorhome takes him.

Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

There are tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Email: cdewey@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. @grmag @grmagazine @grmagazine Or follow us online at grmag.com or on social media:

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EDITOR TERRY JOHNSTON CONTRIBUTOR COURTESY CHUCK WARREN

3/9/21 7:59 AM

people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

Black Calder Brewing launched its operations late last year, making it the state's first Black-owned brewery.

» PLUS: HEALING CONNEC TION DE L A FLOR MIDWIFERY SPRING BREAK GUIDE

PROFILE

Black-owned brewery page 9

P H OTO G R A P H BY AS H L E Y W I E R E N GA GR M AG .CO M

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people + places / city

Local playwright festival

Local playwrights will see their work performed on the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre stage from April 9-11 as part of the theater’s Ten for All Festival.

The playwrighting contest kicked off in March with semifinalists selected in four categories: comedy, drama, youth and wildcard. The top scoring semifinalist in each category was invited to move on to the final round.

The finalists’ works will be performed backto-back as an hourlong program at the Meijer Majestic Theatre.

Audience members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece, and one play will receive the honor of Audience Choice. Cash prizes are being offered for the Audience Choice winner, finalists and semifinalists.

“West Michigan is home to so many truly gifted artists and playwrights,” said Allyson Paris, associate director of GRCT. “We are eager to lend their voices a platform and to open our space to them.

Our community is at the core of our mission, and this is a unique opportunity for us to showcase that.”

Visit grct.org/tenforall for more information.

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Preserving stories with art On May 30, 2020, a peaceful protest in support of Black Lives Matter was held in downtown Grand Rapids in response to the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, 2020. Following the protest, riots broke out causing damage to vehicles and buildings. As a result, Windows GR was created. It was a collaboration with Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts and a group of creatives who sought to use the plywood-covered windows as blank canvases, allowing artists to paint pieces to speak out against systemic racism as well as provide a new platform for Black and brown artists' work to be seen and appreciated.

Now, three of those artworks (created by artists Jalexia Stoutmyre, DeVante Barnes and Guillermo Sotel) have found a home

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2021

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"Urban Funeral" by DeVante Barnes

CITY

among the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s permanent collection and will be on display on the second floor of the museum.

The artifacts also can be explored on the museum’s online collections database, available at grpmcollections.org.

“The protests and riots that took place in Grand Rapids this past summer are part of the history of the city. It is the privilege and place of GRPM to preserve the stories of our community,” said Dale Robertson, GRPM president and CEO. “To that end, these local artists’ statements speak to us on the ideals of justice, of systemic racism and on racial reckoning. They represent and memorialize the community response to the destruction to our downtown which occurred at first light the following day.”

“The protests and riots that took place in Grand Rapids this past summer are part of the history of the city. It is the privilege and place of GRPM to preserve the stories of our community.”

Dale Robertson

ARTWORK COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM

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Jamaal Ewing (left) and Terry Rostic (right) of Black Calder Brewing.

PROFILE

A new brew

Terry Rostic and Jamaal Ewing launched Black Calder Brewing late last year.

BY SAM EASTER

// PHOTOS BY ASHLEY WIERENGA

Terry Rostic and Jamaal Ewing, the newest craft brewers on the Grand Rapids block, met about four years ago. The two were at an event to help minority subcontractors — veterans, women, people of color — land more work, Rostic recalls.

They hit it off right away.

“I didn’t know him from Adam,” Rostic says of Ewing now. But Ewing had already made an impression at the event as a sharp business mind. “I kind of just went up to him and introduced myself, and you know, basically asked, like, ‘Hey, do you want to start a brewery with me?’”

Just a few years later, Black Calder Brewing is turning out 10-barrel batches of beer — and selling them out — with thousands of followers on Facebook. Its menu boasts the Bishop, a “double juicy IPA,” per its website, and the BOUGIE S’more Stout, “brewed with graham cracker, dark chocolate, marshmallow and peanut butter with a yeast strain that studied abroad.”

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And Black Calder is something of an oddity in the overwhelmingly white world of craft brewing — a Black-owned operation, and unashamedly so.

Rostic laughs now when he remembers meeting Ewing for the first time — the suddenness of it, the audaciousness of jumping into business with someone he’d just met. But he’s a Grand Rapids guy who got his business degree from Cornerstone University. He sees a little providence in the meeting, too.

“He was like, ‘Why’d you ask me that?’”

Rostic said, laughing. “And we got to talking, and over time we kind of developed a friendship. We were both there trying to support other minority businesses. … Even when we first met, our mission pretty much aligned. We were there to help folks break into industries and get opportunities they typically don’t have.”

Things haven’t been easy. Both Ewing and Rostic describe a daily grind, balancing a scramble for funding and brewing their early batches alongside day jobs and families.

When they get asked how big their operation is — how many employees, buildings, that kind of thing — the answer is still zero.

For now, they’ve got contracts to get them started brewing their product on more established local breweries’ equipment.

Things have been doubly hard amid the pandemic, which has spawned tumult throughout the bar and restaurant and brewing industry. Fortune reports that 110,000 bars, restaurants and similar places shut their doors for good in 2020. In many cases, breweries have had to pivot to survive — just like Rostic and Ewing, who had to scrap plans to sell their beer in kegs and quickly scramble into selling by the can.

“You just keep looking ahead — looking ahead at what you want to accomplish,” Ewing said, pointing out that both of them still have day jobs and responsibilities to families at home. “It’s either do or die.

You’ve got to get out there and put the work in or you’re not going to see results.”

Black Calder Brewing also is a self-styled Black business. It’s in the name, sure, but it’s in the logo, too: an African woman, drawn in gold on a black background, with huge, leafy hops standing in for a pile of tied-back hair. It’s part of its social media — with the company Facebook page posting an old Jet Magazine cover, constant wishes for a happy Kwanzaa and a story of an early Black brewer.

Brewing, in general, has historically been overwhelmingly white — and craft 10

Black Calder Brewing had to pivot from kegs to cans due to the pandemic.

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people + places / p ofile

Terry Rostic (pictured) and Jamaal Ewing are making a name for themselves in an industry that has struggled to support people of color.

brewing remarkably so, with a 2018 Brewers Association report putting non-white craft beer consumption at about 14.5% of drinkers.

That’s perhaps no surprise. Nathaniel Chapman and David Brunsma, sociologists and authors of the book “Beer and Racism” — a racial history of the industry — wrote in October for “Transforming Society,” that the modern beer industry was a particularly hard market for Black outsiders to crack.

“In the Jim Crow era, the three-tier system (brewing, distribution and sales) effectively operated as a gatekeeping mechanism,” they wrote. “Industry insiders, brewers and wholesalers could decide who became a brewer, a distributor or a consumer of craft beer.”

And racism in the craft beer industry remains a difficult part of its modern history.

In 2019, an employee of Founders Brewing Co. reached an undisclosed settlement with the company after a lawsuit alleging a “racist

internal corporate culture” at the company.

The case gained national attention when a deposition surfaced detailing a taproom manager refusing to say whether the Black employee pressing the suit was, indeed, Black — and would not say if other well-known Black men, like Barack Obama, were as well, because he had not met them.

Ewing and Rostic, though, say they’ve received nothing but support from the Michigan craft brewing industry so far from all of its biggest names — and they say they’re looking forward to pressing ahead.

They’re not only founding a Black-owned brewery; they’re building a top-tier brewery in its own right.

“I always like to say, ‘people are drinking your dream in a glass,’” Rostic said. “But, you know, my whole mission in life was to do things that haven’t been done and to help out, and this is what’s been a great way to do that.”

“Even when we first met, our mission pretty much aligned. We were there to help folks break into industries and get opportunities they typically don’t have.”

Terry Rostic

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people + places / issues

ISSUES

Enriching the childbirth journey Tiffany Townsend’s midwifery practice provides an alternative to the hospital environment.

BY PASHA SHIPP

// PHOTOS BY QUINN KIRBY

Tiffany Townsend is the certified professional midwife behind De la Flor Midwifery. Her foray into the craft began when she herself was searching for a midwife and couldn’t find what she was looking for.

“In my own experience when I started looking for a home-birth midwife, I was looking for someone who I didn’t have to explain my ‘isms’ to,” Townsend said. “I couldn’t find a Black midwife here that offered home birth, so I said, ‘I’ll do it.’

I was already doing doula work, I was 12

already teaching lactation and things like that in the community — holding support groups for Black and Latinx communities, and that’s what brought me to serve in my community in this capacity.”

In addition to prenatal visits, home births and postpartum care, De la Flor Midwifery offers clients lactation support, fertility counseling, pap smears and other unique services.

“I offer placenta encapsulation, which helps with the production of oxytocin, it helps decrease stress hormones, it helps

Left to right: birth assistant Cassandra Narvaiz-Stott, owner Tiffany Townsend and birth assistants Brittany Carmona-Holt and Mariah Eldridge sit together in De La Flor Midwifery's office space.

with iron levels,” Townsend said. “I’m a Reiki master, too, so, it depends on who I’m working with and what they need. It’s hard for me to put into words all the things that I offer because sometimes things just come up and I’m like, ‘Oh, hey, yeah, I know how to do this, and it seems like you would benefit from that, so let’s incorporate that into your care as well.’”

The fear of complications during a home birth is not unusual in midwifery, but Townsend said complications actually are pretty rare. Still, she comes prepared — equipped with everything she needs to handle an assortment of situations. Her priority is providing the best care possible.

“A lot of the fears are, ‘What if something bad happens?’” she said. “What I usually tell people is, the biggest complications that we see in birth are hemorrhages, babies

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Tiffany Townsend takes first-time mother Teiah Faulk's pulse before checking fetal health.

that need to be resuscitated and shoulder dystocia. I just talk them through my personal experience, I let them know that I do carry medications — the same ones that the hospital carries for hemorrhages — and I can do a shoulder dystocia management with my eyes closed because I just have a lot of experience,” she continued. “I bring resuscitation equipment — oxygen for mom and baby — and we’re prepared for the emergencies if they happen, but the reality is that 95% of the time, they don’t.”

Townsend’s midwifery practice focuses on treating the whole person, in addition to caring for the baby. She engages on a personal level with expectant mothers to ensure they feel supported and heard.

“The reason some people use midwives over physicians is because first and foremost, OB-GYNs are surgeons, and there’s a certain level of care that a surgeon is able to provide, but they’re ultimately surgeons,” she said. “Midwives see pregnancy as a normal, physiological process that is spiritual, emotional and physical, and so in the care that they give, they’re addressing those things. ‘How are you coping, how is your stress level, do you feel ready to adapt to a new baby?’” she continued. “A lot of OB-GYNs don’t have the time or capacity to have those kinds of conversations because they’re in highvolume practices that really allot for them 15 minutes or so to see a client.”

In the era of COVID-19, opting for a midwife might be the more attractive option for couples who want to experience their pregnancy together, without having to navigate the restrictions the virus imposes on health facilities.

“With the state of the country with COVID, the biggest thing that is turning people away from the hospital is that they’re like, ‘Hey, this is my first pregnancy, and my partner can’t come into the visits with me, and I don’t want to do this by myself,’” Townsend said. “In my practice, they are able to bring their partners because if they live together, they’re not bringing additional germs into any setting.”

Her position is clear on stigmas and assumptions — giving birth at home isn’t exclusive to any one racial, ethnic or social group. It’s an option for anyone who wants to experience it.

“To say that home birth is only for a certain demographic like, ‘Home

“Midwives see pregnancy as a normal, physiological process that is spiritual, emotional and physical, and so in the care that they give, they’re addressing those things."

Tiffany Townsend

birth is only for rich white people’ — that’s probably the most common thing that I see and hear, and that’s just not the case,” Townsend said. “Most of my clients are not rich. I work with white, Black, Asian, Latinx communities — the clients that I serve are really diverse and they come from all kinds of socioeconomic backgrounds. Home birth is not just for hippies, it’s really for anybody who wants to experience birth in a different way.

No matter what you decide, Townsend said knowing your options is key to having the kind of birth experience that’s right for you.

“Home birth is a safe alternative to the hospital, but regardless of your birthing space, whether home, hospital, birth center or in your backyard, it’s really important for people to be educated and know that they have autonomy over their birth and that they should be really well-informed about the decisions that they make and understand what it means to make certain decisions,” she said.

“I don’t think that home birth is the only right way to birth. There might be somebody that needs to be in the hospital, so they should be able to have the loving, comforting, nurturing experience that you have at home at the hospital as well.”

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Childhood trauma can have long-lasting impacts. Healing Connection works to help kids and their families heal.

VOICE

Dealing with childhood trauma Healing Connection helps identify trauma and provides resources to heal.

BY SARAH MARILYN

// PHOTOS BY ASHLEY WIERENGA

Bethany Hall is a former pediatric nurse advocating for proper training and education in childhood trauma. Through her platform Healing Connection, she supports children and adolescents who have experienced childhood trauma by raising community awareness. Healing Connection provides online or in-person support and training for parents, guardians, educators, social workers and caretakers.

“We are able to identify the needs of children suffering from trauma, including Complex Developmental Trauma (CDT), the most severe and detrimental form of trauma, caused during a child’s first three years of life,” Hall said.

What inspired you to start Healing Connection? As a member of the greater medical community and as an adoptive mother, I look back and realize how much I didn’t know; how much I wasn’t taught in my medical training or in the courses we took with our adoption agency.

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I have witnessed how the lack of knowledge in this area can lead to poor outcomes both in the medical field and in families, and conversely, the great healing that can come with knowledge.

Bethany Hall (right) talks with Jorgen (left), Michael and Liz Noah.

When did you discover the need for Healing Connection? As a nurse practitioner in the Emergency Department, I had a front row seat to the sheer volume of children and adolescents regularly experiencing a mental health crisis, as well as the significant gaps in access to care and trauma-competent caregivers. As an adoptive mother, I was raising my daughter the way that I was raised, and it wasn’t working well. It was then that I began devoting myself to the study of trauma and how it affects children across their lifetime.

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people + places / voice

Bethany Hall (left) started Healing Connection to help children and families like Jorgen and Michael Noah (center).

Finally, there are many long-term health consequences as evidenced by the Adverse Childhood Experiences study such as increased high-risk behaviors, chronic illnesses, cancer and even premature death.

What are the two most likely behaviors that lead to a CDT diagnosis? CDT often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed as other mental health disorders such as Bipolar Depression, ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder, especially in younger children. It should be evaluated for children that have difficulty regulating or controlling behavior, engaging in risky behaviors, or showing persistent difficulty in his/her relationship with others. They may also have difficulty regulating bodily states and emotions, including problems with sleep, eating, sensory processing, and/or difficulties with regulating or identifying/expressing feelings.

What are some of the methods and treatment options you recommend for children that have experienced CDT? One of the most important things that we can do is routine screening, providing early detection and early intervention because young children’s brains are still very neuroplastic, meaning they can be “rewired” if we intervene early enough.

"I have witnessed how the lack of knowledge in this area can lead to poor outcomes both in the medical field and in families, and conversely, the great healing that can come with knowledge."

Bethany Hall

What are some of the outcomes that stem from childhood-related traumas?

Childhood trauma can cause significant physical changes — the brains of these children are actually smaller in mass and have a lack of critical development of the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain involved in regulating emotions, language, cognition and abstract thought. Failure to attach to a primary caregiver can have a lifelong effect on future relationships, self-regulation, cognition and learning, self-concept and future orientation.

Have you had success in mitigating the effects of long-term outcomes such as chronic and acute trauma? A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine showed that providing parenting education, mental health counseling, social service referrals or social support can reduce the impact of trauma on child behavioral/mental health problems and improve the parent-child relationship for children aged 0-5 years. In my years of working in this field, I have repeatedly seen the transformation and healing that occurs as a result of these interventions.

How can the community offer its support and become educated? Raising community awareness is key and it starts with individuals becoming educated and being agents of change in their own spheres of influence.

Visit myhealingconnection.org.

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people + places / guide

GUIDE

Your guide to a socially distanced spring 6 things to do with your child while staying safe.

BY SARAH MARILYN

Spring fever is hitting hard — a year of quarantining hasn’t helped. So, we’ve compiled a fun list of socially distanced activities your kids can enjoy this month.

Swimming lessons Goldfish Swim School is a learn-to-swim facility for kids ages 4 months to 12-yearsold. It offers a shiver-free pool heated to a comfortable 90 degrees to keep your little swimmer comfortable. The swim school has implemented safety measures like Plexiglass barriers and teachers are masked. For the parents, the observation area has spaced out seating. Goldfish Swim School offers a safe place for children to learn how to swim and to have fun while doing it. You can sign up and book lessons at goldfishswimschool.com.

Riding lessons Highpointe Farm is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of wildlife and trails.

Owner Jill Herweyer’s love and passion for animals is reflected in the care she takes in the stables. As a mother, Jill started to offer mommy and me classes knowing the importance of connecting with your children through animals. Highpointe Farm has onetime ride options as well as season classes.

Either way, your child will be introduced to the outdoors and learn how to take care of the horses. Find out more at facebook.com/ highpointefarms Highpointe Farm

Goldfish Swim School

Petting zoo Spring Fling week, April 3-10, at the Critter Barn in Zeeland is an incredible time to visit and view the changing of the seasons at the farm. The new life of various animals impacts visitors, as some witness a live birth or see young animals attempt to stand for the first time. Bring your family to meet the spring babies, which include ducklings, chicks, bunnies, lambs, kids and calves. There also is an opportunity to bottle feed the newest members of the farm. Amenities include heated rooms for when the weather is chilly.

Critter Barn is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit critterbarn.org for more information.

Visit Lookout Park The newly remodeled Lookout Park is a great spot to fly a kite, picnic and take in the breathtaking views of Grand Rapids. Lookout Park is located at 801 Fairview Ave. NE.

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Bowling The recently renovated Spectrum Lanes offers hours of fun for the whole family.

This is a great option for families who wish to social distance. Bowling is a fun way for families to come together for a friendly, competitive game and to bond in a large, spaced out facility. Call to reserve your lane or visit sec300.com.

Golf lessons Egypt Valley Country Club offers golf lessons for children. Membership is not required. While the weather is warming up, bring your family to practice their swing. Golfing is a great way to get the whole family active and outside. Spring also is a beautiful time of year to hit the course as the flowers and trees are beginning to bloom. Visit egyptvalley.com for more information.

HORSES COURTESY HIGHPOINTE FARM SWIMMING COURTESY GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

3/10/21 12:55 PM

look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

Amelie A-line shorts, $78, Free People

STYLE

Spring color page 22

» PLUS: INDOOR PL ANTS BEDROOM DESIGN HOME SCHOOLING AND AUTISM

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look + feel / home

HOME

Bedroom bliss

100% Down Duvet

Dreamy details for the most personal room in the home.

Nothing feels better than a down duvet on a cold night. Change out the covers for a new look or go for all white which is always classic.

BY DEIDRE REMTEMA, PRINCIPAL AND INTERIOR DESIGNER OF DEIDRE INTERIORS

Designing a beautiful bedroom will produce benefits far beyond the visual appeal. We all know getting good sleep is important and having a bedroom we love to relax in helps us wind down and shift into nighttime mode. General lighting should be dimmable, with reading lamps available, soft linens, colors that you find soothing, and don’t forget the sound machine!

Perhaps you love the look of a low modern bed or a canopy frame with fabric, either way your bedroom should be a relaxing, comfortable, stylish and functional retreat.

Custom Pillows

Handmade pillows create the ability to customize your bed in unlimited ways. The choices of trims, fabrics and shapes come together to create a room that looks well-appointed.

Keeping it simple with two larger Euro size pillows is easier to maintain and a more current approach.

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Original Art

Natural Textures

Bring the outside in with a natural looking textural floor covering. This is a flat weave carpet, which works well for layering rugs on top of it. A cozy look and feel!

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Original art by Grand Rapids-based artist Ray Anne Barker above the bed.

Original art adds a layer of texture and love to a home like nothing else can. The abstract nature of these pieces juxtapose the traditional form of the metal canopy bed.

Antique Bedside Tables

Using vintage furniture adds depth and longevity to a home. These Italian bedside tables were purchased through chairish.com, the rich inlaid walnut and antique brass hardware show the quality of carefully crafted handmade furniture.

BEDROOM, PRODUCTS COURTESY DEIDRE INTERIORS

3/9/21 8:16 AM

look + feel / expe t

EXPERT

Perk up your home with indoor plants Plants can provide the perfect pick-me-up.

BY ANN BYLE

Pandemic. Quarantine. Long winter days.

All recipes for the blahs as we look for the first signs of spring. The surprise cure?

Plants. Yes, those green luxuries that seem to breathe life and color into a room.

Plants indeed breathe into a room.

According to Danny Parker, owner of The Plant Parlor, plants remove chemicals from the air using their natural respiration processes. Studies, he said, show that plants reduce dust in a room by up to 20% by adding humidity to the air.

If that’s the case, The Plant Parlor, the business he opened in late 2018, has got the cleanest air around. Parker has filled the small store on Wealthy Street with a wide range of tropical plants from Piper Peperomia to Aglaonema, from cacti to Snake Plant. Prices range from as low as $6 for a tiny succulent to as high as $375 for a giant cactus.

“My motto is ‘right plant, right place,’” said Parker, who has a background in commercial plant production. He did his higher education in Orlando after graduating from South Christian High School here in Grand Rapids.

“Plants have exploded over the last couple of years. My personal view is that millennials can’t afford children, so plants are something to nurture and care for,” he said. “Also, social media keeps the trend going as one person sees posts about plants and then wants to have plants, too.”

While Parker may be tongue-in-cheek about plants and millennials, he’s serious about the physical and mental benefits of adding plants to any home. “Indoor air pollution is usually up to three times higher inside than outside due to off-gassing from building materials, furniture, carpet, flooring and flame retardants,” he said. “Plants help remove those chemicals from the air.”

There also can be mental health benefits.

“Having something to nurture and be responsible for can have wide-ranging benefits,” he said. “Self-esteem grows when PLANTS ISTOCK/SVETLANA GLAZKOVA

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“Having something to nurture and be responsible for can have wide-ranging benefits.”

Danny Parker

a plant flourishes, anxiety and depression can be reduced as you care for the plant, and plants can bring back a connection with nature.”

Parker says he hasn’t seen a decrease in sales throughout the pandemic. In part he credits workers who saw plants at work moving home and wanting to replicate that look in their homes.

“Once a person brings a plant into his or her home, he begins to see the aesthetic value of plants and how they liven up a room,” he said.

The Plant Parlor is the only solely tropical indoor plant store in Grand Rapids, selling plants through the physical store and online (theplantparlor.com) and offering a loyalty program. Parker doesn’t sell annuals such as begonias or petunias — those are cheaper at a greenhouse — nor orchids, but this spring he will have citrus trees, olive trees and herbs added to the mix of tropical plants.

For those interested in adding plants to a home, “my advice is to talk to someone who is knowledgeable to maximize your chance of success,” said Parker. “This can help with in-depth information when buying, as well as afterward if you have a problem with your plant.”

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look + feel / wellness

WELLNESS

Autism therapies Meeting needs despite quarantine barriers.

BY ANN BYLE

// ILLUSTRATIONS BY JAMES HEIMER

Children, especially those with an autism diagnosis, most often thrive on routine. Knowing that lunch comes after recess or bedtime comes after brushing teeth. Having a predictable daily routine.

But routines got tossed out the window thanks to a global pandemic and quarantine. No daily school routine, no seeing teachers and friends, and a move to virtual learning.

“Every student has been suffering and faced major barriers, but for those with autism certain structures weren’t there.

The change was hard,” said Gary Walsh, supervisor of special education at Grand Rapids Public Schools.

For GRPS, which has 18 classrooms throughout the district for children diagnosed with autism and other needs, teaching during a pandemic meant breaking down the barriers to learning in a new environment.

“For some students, the change to the virtual environment was easier and we could see signs of growth and strength,” he said. “But some had to build up the stamina to sit at a computer.

We had to work with parents too, because just turning on the computer so they could hear and see the teacher was harder for some children.”

Stephanie Sweebe, assistant clinical director at Gateway Pediatric Therapy, has seen the same issues with upset routines in the children serviced by the clinic. Gateway provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children diagnosed with autism up to age 21. ABA is an evidence-based treatment in which behavior analysis (the science) is applied to every aspect of life.

“There is always a relationship between skill deficit and challenging behaviors,” said Sweebe. “The treatment goal is to alleviate those deficits. Each child has an individualized plan in which we look at the behaviors, issues related to the behaviors, and create a program to help them overcome those behaviors.”

Consistency is key, she said, and it’s been taken away during the pandemic. “Parents are trying to identify how a child can receive the level of support they got at school. They have to figure out how to get speech and occupational therapies, etc.”

This has prompted lots of inquiries from families about how to support their child’s online learning, about how they can help their child be successful with this new way of doing school.

Gateway, which opened its Grand Rapids office in March 2020 but began seeing clients in the fall of 2020 due to COVID-19, does not do diagnostic evaluations so families must come in with an autism diagnosis before an intake evaluation is completed. ABA best practices has specialists “looking at the underlying reason

New challenges

Children diagnosed with autism have dealt with quarantine-specific issues such as not tolerating increased hand-washing, mask wearing, sitting for longer times in front of a computer, and understanding how to use a laptop or virtual platform.

“New forms of communication mean new barriers to overcome,” said Stephanie Sweebe of Gateway Pediatric Therapy. “Children must learn how to respond to a teacher, how to raise a hand during virtual school, use the chat function. We can coach families by observing and identifying tools to work on so the child can be more independent.”

Grand Rapids Public Schools sent whiteboards, markers, books and other classroom materials to children with an autism diagnosis. “Our teachers went above and beyond, scheduling time with families outside of school hours. They went out of their way to keep that growth going,” said Gary Walsh of GRPS.

for the challenging behavior,” said Sweebe.

She says the field is ever-evolving with staff constantly looking at new research, new assessment tools and new teaching strategies. One of the newest advances is addressing problem behaviors in a trauma-informed way, understanding and alleviating problem behaviors in a way that keeps everyone safe and conflict low.

Sweebe also mentioned therapies that involve mindfulness, acceptance, and ABA, and combining ABA with other sciences to enhance treatments and outcomes.

"There is always a relationship between skill deficit and challenging behaviors.

The treatment goal is to alleviate those deficits."

Stephanie Sweebe

Increased parent support is key to success both at Gateway and at school, especially amid the pandemic and the different learning circumstances it has prompted. Teachers are adapting, as are parents, to the new protocols.

“In the teaching courses, there is no Pandemic Shutdown section. We reinvented the wheel and made it happen,” said Walsh.

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look + feel / style Mach Kate Hoops, $58, Mason Jones

STYLE

Pretty in pastel Get creative with pastels this season and rock this style.

WRITTEN AND STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING

Free People Lace Henley, $78, The James Boutique

Amen Graphic Tee, $26, Adored Boutique

Stovepipe Overalls, $148, Madewell

// PHOTOS BY ANGELA CICCU

When we think of pastels, we think of spring. Nothing quite says spring like a pretty pastel. This season, try a new take on pastels with shades of soft rose, buttercup yellows, peony pinks, light lilacs and subtle bluebells.

The more creative you are, the better styled this trend is! Try a head-to-toe look, or, if color isn't your thing, choose a neutral look with a pop of color. An easy way to do this?

Pair a pastel top with your go-to jeans and accessorize with shoes in another pastel.

Lace Bralette, $29, Dear Prudence

Grade & Gather Petal Top, $49, Dear Prudence

(Re)sourced Cotton Sweatshorts, $55, Madewell

Gola Bullet Pearl Peach Sneaker, $85, Iris Boutique

Little Lies Knit Sweater, $75, The James Boutique Maggie MidRise Straight Leg Jean, $78, Free People Melie Bianco Nicole Bucket Tote, $89, Iris Boutique

Nat + Noor Barrettes, $12.95, Rebel

Amelie A-line Shorts, $78, Free People

Max Mara's Spring/Summer 2021 collection

Freedom Moses Two Band Slide, $40, Evereve

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RUNWAY COURTESY ERDEM JEANS, MODEL COURTESY FREE PEOPLE OVERALLS, SHORTS COURTESY MADEWELL SLIDES COURTESY EVEREVE

3/9/21 4:44 PM

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

Happy hour has moved from the bar into people's living rooms this past year.

Find out where to buy cocktails to-go.

» PLUS: FLOUR HOUSE C AKES & CO. WINE AND JAZZ AT GRNOIR DISCOVER KOL ACHES

TOP 5

To-go drinks page 31

P H O T O G R A P H B Y S TA C Y F E Y E R - S A L O GR M AG .CO M

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Lincoln Alexander learned many tricks of the trade while watching his mom bake in the kitchen.

The art of cake TABLE

Lincoln Alexander creates more than delectable goodies; his cakes are sculptural feats.

BY CHUCK WARREN

// PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO

They say that when you do what you love, the clock seems to stop. For Lincoln Alexander, the opposite is true. Counting the minutes until the timer goes off is a big part of his passion — baking inventive, artistic cakes.

Alexander admits he was a handful as a child, with lots of timeouts spent in the kitchen under his mother’s watchful eye. Although she worked as an accountant, baking was her passion, and she didn’t realize her son was watching closely as she worked.

At the age of 8, he asked to help as she created edible delights with recipes handed down through her family’s generations.

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3/9/21 8:09 AM

food + drink / table

"She [my mother] always told me to retool and rethink, but never copy. She told me my creations were my legacy so to never fear to make them my own."

Lincoln Alexander

“My mom was blown away that I knew how to do so much, and she started nurturing the process,” said Alexander.

At 14-years-old, Alexander began to try his hand at the craft alone, quickly acquiring a reputation among his friends for his custom birthday cakes. “They weren’t pretty,” he said, “but I must have been doing something right because people kept coming back.”

As his skill grew, so did his mother’s guidance. Asked where he received his inspiration, he answered: life and the things around him. However, his mother’s message still rings in his ears.

“She always told me to retool and rethink, but never copy.” said Alexander.

“She told me my creations were my legacy so to never fear to make them my own.”

Lincoln Alexander creates intricate designs and his creativity is inspired by life.

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Lincoln Alexander enjoys using fondant icing to bring his creations to life.

"I get my ideas from life, some trends and the world around me. My clients give me some input, but you wouldn’t tell an artist what to paint, would you?"

Lincoln Alexander

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He never stopped baking, continuing to create more intricate designs all through school.

“I baked all the way through high school and college, always one step short of a small business,” said Alexander. “I created something like 50 cakes in college alone.”

His parents also instilled in him the value of a good education, driving him to earn master’s and then doctorate degrees in health and public health.

“My parents were really big on education,” said Alexander. “I wanted to bake but they pushed me to go to college.

Now I have a steady career that allows me to follow my passion.”

Currently the man in charge at Ferris State University College of Health Professions, Alexander is known as the “Baking Dean” — providing staff members with a custom cake for milestone events such as birthdays and graduations.

While running a college might seem like enough responsibility, Alexander spends a substantial number of hours a week baking in his home kitchen and studio, depending on the time of year.

“I devote maybe 40 hours a week to baking on average,” said Alexander.

“Although, there are a lot more during wedding season.”

Alexander’s preferred artistic medium is fondant icing, a thick sugar and corn syrup mixture that resembles pie dough and can be cut, flavored, colored and used to cover the cakes, or can be sculpted into the intricate decorations that bring his creations to life.

His designs vary from ornate but traditional wedding styles, to realistic looking geodes, and can even take the shape of sports figures, treasure chests and cartoon characters.

Asked about his inspiration, and whether clients have any control over it, Alexander smiled as he replied, “I get my ideas from life, some trends and the world around me. My clients give me some input, but you wouldn’t tell an artist what to paint, would you?”

His clients also must be prepared for the pricing for his imaginative designs, Alexander chuckled and said, “You know the saying, if you have to ask…”

Although Alexander has no intention of retiring any time soon, he does hope to pass on his skills to one of his three kids to keep his great grandmother’s secrets alive and available for future generations.

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3/9/21 8:09 AM

food + drink / table

What is fondant?

“I come from a long lineage of bakers who did it for love and not money, and I want to continue that tradition,” said Alexander.

Of his 14-year-old daughter and his 8- and 12-year-old sons, he’s not sure if all three apples have fallen too from the tree.

However, his kids live in Toronto where they are not exposed to dad’s passion or skill with flour and sugar very often.

“Right now, none of the three seem to be very interested,” chuckled Alexander.

Asked about the future and if a storefront could be in the plans, Alexander replied, “Grand Rapids is my home. I have family here and on the east side of the state. If things continue to grow I would entertain the thought. However, my mom’s dream was to have a dine-in dessert shop. If I could do that, I know I’d make her proud.”

Visit Flour House Cakes & Co. at flourhousecakes.com.

Fondant icing, or just fondant, is a thick mixture usually made with sugar, water and corn syrup. It can be flavored, colored, rolled, cut into strips, and draped over finished baked goods to create incredibly detailed but edible decorations.

Fondant is prized for its ability to be molded and sculpted into almost any shape, such as the detailed floral designs that adorn wedding cakes or the components that make up more inventive creations.

Fondant also is valued for its ability to withstand changes in temperature and hold up under duress when cakes are delivered from bakeries to their final destination.

More complicated cake designs often are shipped in pieces in specially designed cake holders and then constructed on site.

The sturdy mixture helps hold things together but also can be used to create new decorations that hide accidental damage during transportation or construction.

Interestingly, fondant is not often prized for its flavor the way buttercream frostings are. Some people even prefer to peel off the protective outer coating and eat the cake inside without it.

However, some newer, handmade fondant is created from melted marshmallows to enhance flavor while still enabling the baker to add creative aspects to finished cakes.

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food + drink / c eate

CREATE

Udon noodle salad This dish is perfect for dinner and tomorrow’s lunch.

BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

Dottie Rhodes works as a creative director for law firm Thacker Sleight by day and then likes to get creative in the kitchen during her evenings and weekends. She’s sharing her spicy udon noodle salad recipe. "Put on some good music, pour yourself a drink and enjoy the process of making something delicious and good for you and your people. Enjoy!"

Ingredients: ¾ cup smooth peanut butter ¼ cup Bragg’s liquid aminos or tamari 2 tbsp rice vinegar 2 tbsp sriracha 3 garlic cloves, minced ½ cup water 1 tsp of sesame oil 12 ounces udon noodles (linguine works if you can’t find udon) 1 large carrot, shredded 2 cups cored and finely shredded cabbage (I use regular, but Napa is lovely too).

Use more cabbage if you want to bulk up your veggies.

1 red pepper, seeded and cut into matchsticks

Preparation: In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, aminos, vinegar, sriracha and garlic, stirring to blend well. Add the water, whisking to make a thick sauce.

Cook the noodles until just tender — do not overcook! Drain and rinse under cold water, spin the water out and transfer to a large bowl and toss with sesame oil to coat.

Add the carrot, cabbage and bell pepper to the noodles, with enough peanut sauce to coat. Serve at room temperature.

I serve this in individual bowls with fresh cilantro, a handful of roasted peanuts, a big wedge of lime and another squeeze of sriracha for heat.

Tip: Combine and add peanut sauce to just what you will be immediately eating. It stays fresh if you keep the veggies, noodles and sauce separate and toss when ready to eat.

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food + drink / chee s

The bar at GRNoir (top), which officially opened in February after a long delay.

GRNoir offers a wine club and wine to-go (bottom).

CHEERS

Downtown hotspot GRNoir celebrates Black excellence through wine and jazz.

BY SAMANTHA SUAREZ

// PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO

GRNoir was on track to open in the spring of 2020 until the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its plans. After months of uncertainty, it began operations in December 2020 by offering curbside pickup and delivery before finally celebrating its grand opening on Feb. 1.

Today, GRNoir is a downtown hotspot for visitors to enjoy wine from a global selection of over 100 labels, listen to live jazz by local artists and pair drinks with tasty small plates that range from brisket sliders to banana pudding.

As Grand Rapids’ first Black-owned wine and jazz bar, GRNoir intentionally highlights Black-owned wines and Black musical talent. Founders Shatawn and Nadia Brigham also taste every wine and research each winemaker they consider for their menu — including how they treat their staff and the environment — to ensure that equity is weaved into the fabric of GRNoir.

Beyond red, white and rosé Surprising as it may seem, the Brighams did not taste wine until their mid-thirties. “Growing up, wine was associated with being rich or looking a certain way. It wasn’t accessible and everyone around me only drank beer or spirits,” said Shatawn. “That first glass of wine was phenomenal, and I still keep that experience with me today. I want to share that with others that might be intimidated by wine.”

That first bottle was an Italian wine called Tintero Muscato D’Asti and was featured in GRNoir’s wine club selection this past February.

After that first taste of wine, the Brighams were hooked. They did plenty of research, travel and consulting before eventually opening GRNoir with the goal of making wine and jazz accessible to all. “We pride ourselves on ensuring that — whether it’s your first glass or your hundredth — you are welcome here,” said Shatawn.

Presently, Shatawn Brigham is Grand Rapids’ first Black sommelier.

“Wine doesn’t have to be snooty,” said Nadia. “People have had their tongues their whole lives. They know what they like and what they don’t. If you help people use their tongues as a tool, they’ll be more willing to try new things. So, what if you don’t know how to say the name? We’ll figure it out together. In the meantime, let’s do some tasting!”

All for wine and wine for all While the Brighams designed GRNoir with the intention of celebrating Black culture, the space itself welcomes everyone.

“We were once asked if GRNoir is just a space for Blacks,” said

"That first glass of wine was phenomenal, and I still keep that experience with me today. I want to share that with others that might be intimidated by wine."

Shatawn Brigham

Shatawn. “You never go into an Italian restaurant and ask if it’s an Italian-only space. We are Black-owned and make no apologies about being Black, but we are allinclusive. We engage with everyone but also want to highlight Black excellence through wine and jazz.”

As for the future of GRNoir, Shatawn is preparing for his level 2 sommelier certification. He and Nadia also plan to label and bottle wine for GRNoir.

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food + drink / must-t y

"I branded the business as Driftwood because it not only represents a part of my Michigan roots, but also the transformation we all experience as we navigate and live life."

Noel Rydecki Driftwood's Kick It Up a Notch kolache is made with sausage and jalapeño pepper jack cheese.

MUST-TRY

Texas tradition Kolaches meet your sweet or savory craving.

BY SARAH MARILYN

// PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER

Driftwood is a new food start-up business specializing in kolaches (pronounced ko-LAH-chees) and operating out of a commercial kitchen space in Grand Rapids.

A kolache is a semi-sweet baked good that is made with a yeasty dough that is soft, airy and flavorful. They can be made with sweet or savory fillings, to satisfy any craving.

Kolaches originated from the currentday region of the Czech Republic and were traditionally served at weddings as a dessert. Kolaches made their way to the United States by way of Czech immigrants arriving in Texas starting in the late 1800s.

Kolaches are best fresh, but they may be reheated. Beyond flavor, they are extremely convenient to eat (think grab-n-go) and the broad array of flavors offered by Driftwood “allows a foodie to substitute any meal of the day with a couple kolaches.”

Baker and owner Noel Rydecki, who discovered kolaches while living in Texas, launched Driftwood after nearly six months of perfecting his kolache dough and filling recipes.

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“I branded the business as Driftwood because it not only represents a part of my Michigan roots, but also the transformation we all experience as we navigate and live life,” Rydecki said.

Due to the pandemic, the business is using a “milestone” system for orders, which means a certain threshold of orders needs to be met before an order is produced.

According to the website, this means, “We set a certain target of how many kolaches we want to bake for each milestone, announce the milestone on our website and social media platforms, and request those interested in submitting a pre-bake order to email us (driftwood.michigan@gmail.com).

“If we reach our milestone target by the deadline, the kolache bake is on! If not, our dough doesn't get all knotted up, we just plan for the next milestone bake date. Once a milestone bake is achieved, those who submitted pre-bake orders will receive a draft order to confirm their order details and submit electronic payment. Hence, we only charge you when we guarantee

Noel Rydecki spent six months perfecting his kolache dough recipe.

a kolache milestone bake and we will communicate with you the same (even if we don't achieve the milestone).”

Driftwood announces its milestones every 2-3 weeks. Each milestone features a rotating variety of kolaches from its menu. Orders need to meet the minimum value of $20.

Visit driftwoodmi.com

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editor's pick

Center drink: One Bourbon's Burnt Orange Vanilla Old Fashioned cocktail kit (comes with a bottle of bourbon, simple syrup and candied oranges).

TOP 5

Cocktails to-go Enjoy a cocktail with your takeout.

BY SARAH MARILYN

// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

Many restaurants are now selling cocktails to-go as part of their survival strategy. So the next time you order carryout, enjoy a margarita, old fashioned or Blue Hawaiian with your order.

Savor the One Twenty Three Old Fashioned Signature from One Twenty Three Tavern.

This cocktail is made with Yellowstone Select Bourbon, brown sugar

simple syrup, orange bitters and topped with a candied black cherry and orange peel.

If you’re looking for a drink that's both spicy and sweet to take home, try Donkey Taqueria’s Prickly Pear Margarita.

The Aperol Spritz from Reserve is a delectable, low-calorie take-home option to be enjoyed on a spring evening. The

ILLUSTRATION RACHEL IDZERDA BAGELS BRYAN ESLER

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Aperol Spritz is made with Aperol, sparkling wine, soda and lemon.

If you're looking to escape to paradise, Max’s South Seas Hideaway offers an array of tropical drinks.

One of its signature drinks is the Blue Hawaiian, available in a pitcher or by the glass.

This drink offers flavors of pineapple and lemon and is made with vodka,

Despite the pandemic, Ken Sung and Clark Frain, the owner and executive chef of Terra, followed through with plans to open Terra Bagels.

The eatery opened in September at 1413 Lake Drive SE. The bagel shop is located a few doors down from Terra and offers an array of bagels and schmears as well as half a dozen kinds of bagel sandwiches.

The space is filled with natural light thanks to large windows that overlook the busy Eastown community.

White walls along with wood and metal accents give this place a clean, crisp feel.

While the restaurant has a smattering of tables throughout, it is primarily a place to order and go.

The new bagel shop fills a muchneeded hole left by GR Bagel, which shut its doors in the neighborhood over the summer due to the pandemic.

CHARLSIE DEWEY MANAGING EDITOR, GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE

house coconut cream and blue mix.

Looking to make your own cocktail at home and just need the bourbon?

One Bourbon has a selection of take-home kits featuring your choice of bourbon. Try the Pecan and Peach Old Fashioned Kit with toasted pecan and fresh peach old fashioned syrup and candied roasted pecans for garnish.

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P R O M OT I O N A L C O N T E N T

EXPERT Q&A

NO NEED TO DYI — These Experts Are Here to Help!

Q:

How can home buyers write a more successful offer in a competitive, seller’s market?

A: One of the bigger issues buyers are facing in the current West Michigan real estate market is being repeatedly outbid on their offers—even when those offers are tens of thousands over the asking price. It’s frustrating, to say the least. Nobody want to see their dream home slip through their fingers. The right Realtor® can’t necessarily ensure that this won’t happen, but they typically do have signature strategies that can give buyers the edge.

When choosing a Realtor®, buyers will want

Q:

Home ownership is one of the bigger investments and responsibilities in life, and with it can come with many questions and uncertainties. If you’re buying your first home, those ambiguities can be heightened so having a specialist in your corner can be of immeasurable benefit.

Even if you’re a seasoned homeowner, the current buying and selling conditions in the local housing market are creating new, unforeseen challenges that an experienced Realtor can help you more easily overcome.

When it comes to other household needs, whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, or replacing old or non-functioning fixtures, knowing some tips for furnishing your home is critical. Shopping for appliances today is more complicated than ever, with innumerable options, brands, and styles to choose from. Making the right choice will affect your lifestyle for years to come, so it makes sense to consult with a trusted professional.

The experts in this section have been the “go-tos” in the community for years, offering sound advice and answering questions that concern you the most. ■

to secure a seasoned professional, like those on the team at Romanowski Homes - Greenridge Realty EGR. Years of experience count, but so do relationships—and a well-established, well-known, well-connected agent is likely to have more leverage in trickier bidding scenarios.

This is not only because of who they know, but what they know. Being able to get intel on the sellers’ other motivating factors or intangible, non-financial needs is key—and can make all the difference in making an offer that gets accepted.

Janet Romanowski

Realtor®, ABR Greenridge Realty EGR Romanowski Homes 2213 Wealthy St. SE East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-458-3655 romanhousekey.com

What are some tips for shopping for new appliances?

A: For starters, we strongly recommend seeking out an appliance-only retailer, like Gerrit’s Appliance. Because we specialize in appliances and don’t dabble in a broader range of home items, such as electronics or furnishings, we have a hyper-focused knowledge of the brands and products we sell. When you shop with us, you’re truly getting expert advice—in some cases from staff members who have been on the service or installation side and know all the ins and outs of the process.

Beyond that, one of the more important things to know is that appliances aren’t all stan-

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dard sized. So, knowing the dimensions—and limitations—of the space where your new stove, refrigerator, washer, or dryer will be installed is critical to your search. Gerrit’s Appliance staff will help you find the right fit for your needs, not just space-wise, but for your lifestyle as well.

Number and age of people in the household will determine capacity requirements, as well as appropriate choices for finishes. In homes with small children, for example, a fingerprint-resistant stainless may be a wise choice. Our job is to learn as much as we can, so we can help you make the most informed, practical choices.

Curt Geers

President Gerrit’s Appliance 2410 28th St. SW Wyoming, MI 49519 616-532-3626 gerritsappliances.com sales@gerritsappliances.com

3/9/21 8:37 PM

Have you fed a giraffe? Watched the fish jump? Hung out with baby lambs?

In compiling this list, Grand Rapids Magazine sets out to define the essential experiences that every Grand Rapidian should try. From snowshoeing at Blandford Nature Center to attending the annual Festival of the Arts, there is no shortage of fun. Whether you're a native or visiting, it's time to start traversing Grand Rapids. Here's your guide:

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These unique activities are what make GR special.

By Sarah Marilyn

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1. Visit Fish Ladder Park

Built along the west bank of the Grand River in 1974, this popular site allows visitors to watch fish jump up the “ladder” during seasonal migration in the spring and late summer. The Fish Ladder is free to visit and is located at 606 Front Ave. NW. Bring your fishing pole, as Fish Ladder Park also is a familyfriendly fishing spot to catch salmon, trout and steelhead.

2. Visit baby animals at the Critter Barn

Each May, at the Critter Barn in Zeeland, baby lambs are released to run freely outside for the first time since birth. This is a great opportunity for adults and children to interact with baby lambs up close. Each year the lambs at the Critter Barn are born in March, and during the months of March and April, you can visit and experience holding a variety of baby animals. Visit critterbarn.org/ running-ofthe-lambs.

3. Celebrate Tulip Time in Holland

The largest tulip festival in the United States is in full bloom May 1-8. Tulip Time offers activities for all ages to enjoy and create everlasting memories. Experience the Tulip Time Run, Artisan Market, Tulip Garden and Tulip Parade. It’s an entertaining way to learn about Dutch heritage and culture.

This festival takes place on the shores of beautiful Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan at 42 W. 8th Street in Holland.

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4. Bike, walk or run the White Pine Trail from Riverside Park to Rockford

This paved former railway cuts a 17.5mile path through small towns and communities, going through scenic forests and backyards. The White Pine Trail is intended for hiking, walking, rollerblading and biking. The trail extends from northern Grand Rapids to Cadillac.

The path lies on the original track graded for the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad. Plan your trip ahead of time and consider arranging a pickup spot if you don’t want to pedal back to where you started.

Maps can be found at whitepinetrail. com/map.

Top left: Baby lambs nuzzle together at the Critter Barn.

Bottom left: Tulip Time takes over Holland.

Right: Grand Rapids Beer Trolley makes a stop at Founders.

LAMBS COURTESY CRITTER BARN TULIPS ISTOCK/LIVESLOW TROLLEY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS/PAUL JENDRASIAK

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5. Experience "Beer City" with Grand Rapids Beer Trolley or Great Lakes Pub Cruiser

These pubs on wheels allow you to hang out and work off the calories instantaneously! Both Grand Rapids Beer Trolley and Great Lakes Pub Cruiser offer a unique experience to sightsee and tour downtown Grand Rapids. Try the Great Lakes Pub Cruiser, which seats up to 16 guests. Need accommodations for a larger party, the Grand Rapids Beer Trolley is a great option. grbeertrolley. com; greatlakespubcruiser.com

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6. Snap a pic of yourself at three of Grand Rapids’ oldest public artworks

"La Grande Vitesse"

by Alexander Calder.

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“La Grande Vitesse” at Calder Plaza, “Motu Viget” (aka the tire swing) and “Lorrie's Button” in Ah-Nab-Awen Park are three landmarks that by themselves are destinationworthy. The pieces all are within walking distance of one another making

them easy to visit during a single outing downtown.

"La Grande Vitesse" is a 43-foot-tall red sculpture located in the heart of downtown, at 525 Ottawa Ave. NW, and was created

by French artist Alexander Calder to represent the great swiftness which translates from French to English as Grand Rapids.

Just a few feet from "La Grande Vitesse," the "Motu Viget" sculpture is a sight to behold.

This sculpture was created in 1977 by artist Mark Di Suvero using steel and rubber — properly earning it its nickname: the tire swing. Located in Ah-Nab-Awen Park is a sculpture designed with children in mind. In 1976, artist Hy Zelkowitz created "Lorrie's Button," a sculpture intended for children to climb and play on. This big red button is made from painted fiberglass and urethane foam and sits on a tilted axis, making it easy for small children to climb.

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7. Feed the giraffes at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park

Tucked away in a remote area in Alto is an animal park that is inhabited by 1,500 animals and over 180 different species. This park allows the animals to wander in large, open spaces with a natural environment that makes them feel at home. If you or your child have never fed a giraffe or seen a kangaroo, this is a fun way to spend the afternoon.

The Safari Bus Tour is a must, taking you on an adventure that includes seeing zebras, antelope, buffalo and more. Visit boulderridgewap.com.

PAINTING COURTESY FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

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8. Paddleboard on Reeds Lake

Beginning in late spring/early summer, Funky Buddha Yoga takes its yoga practice to the water. Yogis have the opportunity to paddleboard while doing yoga in the sunshine on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids. Zen out by listening to the movement of the water. Catch a tan at the park where the class meets.

Paddleboards are provided and sign up is available at yogahothouse.com.

9. Enjoy an outdoor symphony

Traditionally, Grand Rapids Symphony hosts its annual Picnic Pops concert series at Cannonsburg Ski Area. Due to COVID-19, this year's series may not take place. Instead, the symphony is offering Sidewalk Serenades (a small ensemble will play in your driveway or backyard) or Pop-Ups in the Park (short concerts at city parks). grsymphony.org

10. Kayak, canoe or tube down one of Grand Rapids’ many rivers

If you are looking to be adventurous, explore the sounds of nature by spending the day floating down the Rogue River in Rockford.

Located at 18 S. Squires St. and 525 Northland Drive, A.A.A. Canoe Rental is a great resource that offers canoes, kayaks, tubes and life jackets. The float trips last around 2 hours, and A.A.A. Canoe Rental provides transportation to your starting point.

Take advantage of downtown Rockford’s restaurants, specialty shops and landmarks after you depart your water craft. Additional information can be found at aaacanoerental.com.

11. Spend the day at Festival of the Arts

Support the Grand Rapids arts community by taking part in the Festival of the Arts, June 4-6. Festival of the Arts surrounds Calder Plaza for one weekend each summer, offering displays of art, food, music and performances over three days. Festival of the Arts’ mission is to promote inclusiveness and diversity. Support local artists and businesses by attending and experiencing West Michigan culture.

This summer’s Festival of the Arts celebration will be a little different. It will be a “plein air” event held throughout downtown social zones with musicians playing and artists working to capture the urban landscape.

Festival’s iconic Calder performance stage and artisan village will be rescheduled for Sept. 17-19, which is the first weekend of ArtPrize.

Festival of the Arts offers activities for the whole family to enjoy.

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Aman Park Trail is a scenic trail located within Indian Trails Camp. It's open to the public for hiking and crosscountry skiing.

View of the Grand River from the Riverwalk.

15. Attend the Three Fires Pow Wow

12. Trick or Treat at John Ball Zoo

One way to have a unique Halloween experience is to attend the annual John Ball Zoo Goes Boo event.

Once a year, the zoo transforms into the ultimate Halloween destination incorporating candy, decorations and costumes, and allowing the public to see the zoo reimagined for the spooky holiday. This is a great family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween while seeing incredible animals. Check out jbzoo.org/event/ zoogoesboo for dates, times and additional information.

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13. Learn to make fresh pasta at The Local Epicurean

Looking for a fun date night idea? The Local Epicurean has a variety of options to make an impression.

Sign up for one of its many local pasta making classes and learn the art and craft of pasta making.

Don't feel like cooking? Try picking up a handmade box of chocolates and ask the staff for help pairing a hand-selected bottle of wine. Contact The Local Epicurean for class details and find additional information at thelocalepicurean.com.

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14. Attend a drag queen show or drag brunch Be dazzled by a MI Drag Brunch performance filled with fashion, theater, quick costume changes, dancing and good music. MI Drag Brunch offers a unique twist on the traditional drag show (which usually occurs at night in club environments) offering cocktails and yummy brunch eats with the performance. Watch these fantastic actors perform in all their glory by attending one of the shows or brunches. Locations change with different restaurants hosting the party each weekend. Visit midragbrunch.com to reserve your ticket.

In early September, the annual Three Fires Pow Wow takes place at Riverside Park remembering the history of Native American heritage in the region.

Around 1700 A.D., over 1,300 Native Americans inhabited the lands along the Grand River from Grand Haven to Lansing. Where downtown Grand Rapids high-rises currently stand, is the former location of the Potawatomi Indians’ largest village and gathering place before being forced to relocate in 1821. The original settlers consisted of Three Fires — the Ottawa (Odawa), Chippewa (Ojibwa) and Potawatomi Indians. The event at Riverside Park features traditional Native American music, dancing, arts and a chance to learn about the heritage and culture. Dates for the 2021 event have not been announced.

16. Explore nature with the West Michigan Trails Challenge

If you have a love for trails and the outdoors, the West Michigan Trails Challenge may be for you. Walk, hike, bike, run, ski, paddle, skate or snowshoe your way through this challenge. The goal is just to get you outdoors, moving

and enjoying the West Michigan scenery. This challenge occurs from Sept. 1 through Dec. 31 and provides a list of “must-visit” trails to check off your adventure list.

Once you explore at least 20 trails, you will receive a finishers medal to display your hard work.Sign up at runsignup.com/Race/ TRAIL EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

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18. Volunteer for the Mayors’ Grand River Cleanup

The weeklong annual Mayors’ Grand River Cleanup is a campaign for the community to come together and clean up streets, storm drains, streams and the Grand River.

The mission is to protect the Grand Rapids water supply by eliminating trash and debris.

The cleanup takes place during early fall and WMEAC provides supplies to volunteers throughout the communities of nearby Grand Rapids. You can take part in this fun community event by registering at wmeac. org/mayors-grandriver-cleanup/.

Info/MI/GrandRapids/ WestMichigan TrailChallenge.

17. Visit SiTE: LAB’s exhibit at The Highlands

SiTE:LAB is a nomadic allvolunteer, artist-led initiative that has organized over 20 projects primarily in underutilized sites in Grand Rapids. The collective is taking RIVER EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

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over The Highlands, a 121-acre former golf course, this fall for its latest project.

The Highlands is the ancestral land of the Anishinaabe that is now being restored to a more natural state. The project will include installations and performances sited in and inspired by the changing environment at The Highlands. While

it will not be an official ArtPrize venue, SiTE:LAB said on its Facebook page it will “provide an additional art viewing opportunity for ArtPrize visitors.”

SiTE:LAB will provide more details as the exhibit is developed.

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19. Cut your own Christmas tree at Vormittag Tree Farm

This family operated business offers acres of choose-and-cut Christmas Trees, along with handmade wreaths, tree drilling and wrapping on site.

Vormittag Tree Farm has a variety of trees available, including Scotch, White Pine, Balsam, Fraser Fir, Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce and White Spruce. Saws are available upon request. Located at 9921 Linden Drive NW, Vormittag Farms opens for the season the day after Thanksgiving and operates through Christmas Eve.

20. Shop the UICA Holiday Artist Market

Check off your holiday gift list by supporting your community and shopping for beautifully crafted gifts and goods from dozens of regional artists, including jewelry, home goods, fine art, holiday cards, accessories and toys.

Enjoy live music and local food and beverage vendors while you shop for handmade gifts for your friends and family. Additional details can be found at uica.org/holidayartists-market.

21. Take a horse and carriage ride around downtown

Classic Carriage LLC offers a unique way to tour downtown Grand Rapids and see the holiday lights. Your horse and carriage journey can last either a half-hour or hour. The carriage features comfortable accommodations for four adult passengers, authentic Amish lap blankets, electric carriage lamps and a convertible top to cover the passenger area of the carriage, which may be set in the up or down positions depending on weather conditions. You can reserve a spot for your special occasion at classiccarriagellc. com/DowntownGR.

Blandford Nature Center offers snowshoeing opportunities throughout the winter. You can bring your own snowshoes and explore the trails or sign up for one of the special snowshoe hikes.

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22. Celebrate ‘Christmas Around the World’ at Meijer Gardens

From late November through the New Year, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park celebrates the Christmas season with over 300,000 lights, strolling carolers, rooftop reindeer and 46 international holiday decorated tree displays. Meijer Gardens focuses on the authenticity of holiday traditions, meaning you’ll find a Germanthemed tree adorned with handmade glass ornaments and homemade springerle cookies, an English tree with antique Christmas cards and mistletoe, and the beautiful Eid al-Fitr display, which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Follow the Christmas Train on its path through the Railway Garden spanning multiple rooms. Visit Meijer Gardens, at 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE.

23. Snowshoe at Blandford Nature Center

Listen to the crunch of snow, whispers of the wind and the sounds of animals while you snowshoe in a safe, supervised environment.

Blandford Nature Center offers 264 acres of natural land as a resource for West Michigan families to enjoy outdoor recreational activities. Bring your whole family out to test-drive a pair of snowshoes and to practice your snowshoe skills while discovering the secret world hidden within the winter wonderland that is Blandford Nature Center. Book a guided tour and experience the winter forests and fields. This go-atyour-own-pace hike includes beginner and intermediate hikers alike. Blandford Nature Center is located at 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW.

24. Light a candle at one of GR's oldest churches, St. Andrews With its Grand River limestone exterior, intricately carved pillars, stone carvings, stained glass adornments and towering spires, St. Andrews is striking. It also is one of the oldest churches in Grand Rapids, completed in 1850. In the early 2000s, the Lètourneau organ builders of Quebec installed the gallery organ composed of walnut, ash and bone. The gallery organ is the largest instrument in the choir loft, which boasts 56 stops and 72 ranks. Light a candle during the winter season at this historical property that stands tall in the heart of Grand Rapids, at 215 Sheldon Blvd. SE.

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Editor’s Note: Due to the pandemic, some of these activities may be postponed this year or have certain restrictions. Please check individual websites for up-to-date information.

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25. Tubing at Cannonsburg Ski Area

Cannonsburg Ski Area offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing areas.

Take advantage of this local winter destination.

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Bring your family and friends because tubing is a fun activity that caters to all ages. Cannonsburg features a magic carpet ride that pulls you up the mountain, ensuring your tubing experience is fast and fun. Around the lifts, there are plenty of seating options that are located next to wood-burning fires to ensure warmth.

As you are having fun in the snow and working up an appetite, there are plenty of outside food and beverage options that include a fullservice bar and food truck. Reserve your tickets at cannonsburg. com/tubing/.

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Taking care of aging pets As pets age, focusing on their quality of life is most important.

By Charlsie Dewey illustrations by Jacqui Oakley

As pets age their needs increase.

Dogs are considered “senior” at around 7 years old, and even earlier for large-breed dogs, while cats fall into that category around the ages of 9-12. Our furry friends hit the geriatric mark at approximately 10-years-old for dogs (again, earlier for larger breeds) and 14ish for cats.

Just like with humans, dogs and cats experience changes as they age, including with their metabolism and activity levels, which means they can start packing on the pounds quickly, which in turn can lead to chronic issues and deadly diseases if untreated.

But, also like humans, there are many things pet owners can do to help their pets age gracefully and enhance their chances for a longer life.

“Certainly, like in people, our pets tend to slow down, and not be as mobile and active,” said Dr. Ryan Carpenter, veterinarian at Family Friends Veterinary Hospital. “Secondary to that, we tend to see some weight gain, so it is important

in our senior pets to keep them active with other variables. Whether stimulating them mentally through toys or regular walking, it is important to keep them stimulated and doing new things, active things, to keep their brain going.

“That gets to the weight point. If their metabolism is slowing and they’re less active, they tend to gain more weight, so it’s imperative that as a younger animal, dog or cat, that we keep their weight appropriate so when they get to the later stages they don’t pack on the pounds and then weigh too much that they can’t be active.”

Oftentimes, weight gain can impact joint issues as well. Carpenter said sore joints are common in aging pets. He noted if you start to notice your dog is having a difficult time rising from a laying position or not wanting to hop up on a couch or bed like he or she used to, it may be due to joint pain. He also said joint pain is treatable with supplements.

“Some of our senior foods have glucosamine, a joint supplement to keep them active and their joints lubricated,” he said.

Dr. Chelsea Grimes, a veterinarian with Cascade Hospital for Animals, said oftentimes people may notice their pets’ habits changing and just attribute those changes to old age and not mention the symptoms to their vet.

“But we can intervene and improve their lives,” she said. “Even if you think it’s minor, your vet can let you know if there’s things we can do to make your pet’s life better.”

Other issues that aging pets face can be managed as well, from hyperthyroidism to kidney disease and cognitive impairments.

“There are definitely some commonalities or common disease processes that we see among older pets,” Grimes said. “For dogs, a lot of cognitive dysfunction or decline, similar to people when they get dementia. Arthritis in dogs and cats. Some issues with urinary and fecal incontinence that can have to do with the cognitive decline more than anything else, or it also can be with arthritis if they are having a hard time posturing ... or getting in and out of the litter box for cats.”

Replacing a higher sided litter box with a lower sided one can help cats as can relocating a litter box from a basement to a main level if your cat is struggling to go up and down the stairs.

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How do you know if your pet has a disease?

Paying attention to your pet’s habits is one way to identify possible symptoms of a disease. Carpenter recommends periodically thinking about whether your pet’s habits have changed over a six-month period.

If your pet’s litter box use has increased substantially from six months ago, it could be a sign of a kidney issue. Or, if your dog easily trekked a mile six months ago, but now is struggling to go that distance, it might be joint pain getting in the way.

However, pets’ behaviors may change gradually as they age, so it can be harder to notice a symptom versus ordinary behavior sometimes. Carpenter and Grimes said because of this the best way to identify a disease is through biannual vet visits and regular blood work.

“I know it’s a bane of people’s existence and it is pricey,” Grimes noted, but she added it can save your pet’s life in some instances, including in her own case.

Grimes said she’d been doing regular blood work on her Golden Retriever, beginning at an early age, so she could create a baseline for the future. During one of these routine draws, she noticed one of his levels was off. “It was within the normal reference range for the lab, but for him it was a big jump, and I started to do some evaluating and it was cancer. I found it early enough that he made a fantastic recovery.”

She said without the blood work she

Don’t love your pet to death

A balanced diet goes a long way in keeping your pet healthy. By Charlsie Dewey

Y

ou probably know feeding your pet table scraps isn’t the best way to ensure a long, healthy life for them. But when they are sitting at your feet begging, it can be hard to resist the instant gratification of giving them a taste of your dinner.

Fortunately, Samantha Henson, who owns and operates Next Generation Pet Wellness, said you don’t have to abandon sharing food with your pet altogether, you just have to make sure you are sharing the right types of foods with them.

Henson, a clinical pet nutritionist, works with clients on how to best feed their pets to maintain a healthy weight

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wouldn’t have caught the cancer when she did and the outcome for her dog may have been different.

Another regular vet procedure both Grimes and Carpenter encourage is dental cleanings.

“Dental disease is common in older pets. It is good to start out brushing their teeth and having that checked when they are at their veterinarian,” Carpenter said.

Grimes noted, “Periodontal disease can be linked to systemic illness and that can affect kidneys, liver, heart and lungs.”

Who’s going to pay for all this?

As pets age, they often become more expensive to care for. According to an article published in the American Kennel Club, dogs can cost around $15,000 over their lifetime and typically between $700-$1,500 annually just in health care costs alone, depending on your dog and where you live.

While pet insurance does exist, Carpenter said it works best for emergency situations.

“I think in most instances it works well for emergencies. If your pet gets hit by a car or breaks a leg or has some sort of emergency surgery, that is when it seems to help the most.

[There are] not a lot of preventive care routine plans that are cost-effective at this moment.”

Instead, he recommends starting a savings account for your pet early on and building a fund that you can use in the future as your pet ages.

While most pet owners would like to be able to spend any amount of money to extend their pet’s life, budgets can become a factor. Grimes said she often discusses the likelihood of a positive outcome with pet owners trying to make tough financial choices around caring for their pets.

“What are the odds that this is going to have a good prognosis? Like chronic kidney disease in cats, we can do a lot of things to help manage them,” she said. “They often won’t succumb to kidney disease. They might pass away from other reasons.

“If they are suspicious of something more geared toward senior or geriatric pets with a good outcome prognosis, then I might encourage them to go forward and work up and find out what we’re dealing with.”

There is also the fact that our pets will one day pass away and making the decision of when that time has come can be difficult.

Grimes and Carpenter said evaluating quality of life is the best way to determine when that time has come for your pet.

Grimes encourages pet owners to consider five quality of life categories. “They should

and lifestyle. That includes selecting the right foods and treats — and even table scraps — to keep your pet healthy.

She said for senior pets, that means making sure your pet is getting a moisture-rich diet with lots of high-quality protein, limited calories, joint supporting supplements and that is low in sodium and sugar.

So, if you want to share your dinner with your cat or dog, Henson said, stick with foods that are natural to their diet, noting “the standard American diet is terrible for a dog or cat."

“If you like the act of sharing food with your cat, find a people food that is fine for your pet,” she said. “You can do plain chicken breasts, cut them up tiny and keep them in a bag in your fridge. If you want to give them something, give them some of that … if you are making a hamburger, make a tiny one for your dog. That is fine.”

She said to remember that a small taste goes a long way with your pet, and that goes for dog- or cat-specific

treats, too.

“A milk bone is like the equivalent of a whole hotdog for a 40-pound dog,” Henson said. “So, if they are getting one every time they go to the bathroom, that is a ton of calories.”

She added, “We tend to treat our pets to death in this country.”

When it comes to choosing a daily pet food, Henson said to stay away from the grocery store aisle. “There are plenty of foods you can buy, but not at the grocery store. Grocery store food is not the best food. A lot of pet stores, especially the locally owned stores, have some good foods, but mostly at the smaller ones. You can also usually return the foods at most of them if they don’t like it. There are even dry kibbles I’d recommend.

“What I focus on is finding something for any budget and level of busyness. I have three kids, two dogs and two cats, so ours is as good of a diet as we can get with the

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meet at least three out of five consistently.

“Being able to eat or drink. Breathing with ease and (not in) excessive pain. Urinating and defecating normally, including the ability to posture without falling over or experiencing pain. Four and five, you should identify for your own pet. What do they get up for and what makes them happy?”

Grimes said, as an example, if your pet used to eagerly greet you at the door ready to play, but now isn’t able to do that anymore, or if your cat used to love to snuggle in bed and be petted, but no longer enjoys being touched, those can be signs that their quality of life has declined.

“Four and five are specific to your own pet,” she said. “Once they start to fail to meet three out of five, that is helpful in making the decision.”

Saying goodbye

Making the decision to say goodbye to your beloved pet and long-time companion is hard. Heaven at Home, an end-of-life pet service, can help. The organization offers quality of life consultations, hospice and palliative care, and euthanasia at home.

“Our goal is to help pet-loving families provide a peaceful, pain-free end to their pet’s life story, with the respect and dignity they deserve after a lifetime of love and devotion to their family. Our doctors will come to your home to help you say goodbye to your beloved pet, where they are most comfortable and relaxed,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, veterinarian and founder of Heaven at Home.

She added, “When families are uncertain if there is more that can be done to keep their pet comfortable as they age or when they’ve been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, we offer hospice and palliative care consultations in the local Grand Rapids area.

We will work with your regular veterinarian, if appropriate, to provide continuity of care.”

Pet hospice is similar to human hospice care.

“We are no longer trying to diagnose the illness but want to keep your pet as comfortable and pain-free as possible until the time to say goodbye has come,” Brush said. “This can be done through medication adjustments, adding in new medications, environmental adjustments within the home, specialized harnesses to help with mobility, incontinence aids and even nutritional changes.”

Hospice care varies in duration; Brush said her organization has cared for pets from a couple of days to over a year.

“It varies quite a bit depending on the disease the pet has, the pain they are experiencing, and if there are medications

Humane Society of West Michigan’s

“10 reasons to adopt a senior pet” 1 Despite the myth, you can teach an old dog new tricks. At almost 14-years-old, Tiki, one of our senior dogs, was adopted and passed her canine good citizen test.

2 With senior pets, you see what you get. There are very few surprises in store for you when you get them home and adjusted.

3 Senior pets are so grateful and appreciative.

Most just want a soft place to relax.

4 Older pets tend to come trained and housebroken.

Your carpet and furniture will thank you!

5 Senior pets are ready to start living their life with you immediately.

6 Senior pets would love to binge-watch your favorite TV show with you all day long.

7 You would be an instant hero. Many senior pets are overlooked and spend a very long time in shelters.

8 Senior pets are less demanding and more appreciative of your time.

time that we have. I can’t make my dog food all the time.”

For senior pets, Henson said it’s especially important to provide moisture-rich foods. “When a cat and dog are on a dry kibble for their whole life, by the time they hit senior-hood their organs are tired. They’ve had to make up for a lack of moisture in the diet for so long and what happens is the body will pull moisture from the kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, just to break down a food. When you do that for 10 years, you’re tired. So, make sure they are getting either a raw diet or a canned food, even in addition to their regular kibble.”

She said a few ways to accomplish this are by adding water or bone broth to your pet’s meals.

“If your dog or cat is at the water bowl all day that’s not a good sign,” she noted. “We don’t want that. …

We want them getting a lot of their moisture content from food because that’s how they’d naturally get it.

Cats were desert animals. They didn’t have access to a

bowl of water as they were evolving.”

Aging cats and dogs also require more protein in their diets. Henson said you should look for ingredients like chicken meal or beef meal and avoid ingredients such as poultry meal or animal digest.

“You want to look for foods that aren’t loaded with grains, corn, rice, etc.,” she said. “There can be a little, but when the first ingredient is corn meal, or some are even corn starch, those we want to avoid. Making a senior dog’s body work harder in their senior years is the opposite of what we want.”

Overall, Henson said the best way to help your senior dog (or cat) is to set them up with a healthy diet while they are young. “We want to raise our dogs as lean as possible because that is what is going to set them up for success later in life.”

Visit nextgenerationpetwellness.com

9 The training process is typically much easier when it comes to a senior pet.

10 Unconditional love and fixing a broken heart.

Most of these pets had a home and now need someone willing to be generous enough to show them love for the remainder of their life.

GR M AG .CO M

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3/9/21 8:20 AM

Dog days

An itinerary for spending the day treating your pet.

S

tart your day off at Shaggy Pines Dog Park, 3895 Cherry Lane in Ada. This 16-acre park is filled with lush pine trees, rolling hills and wide-open fields — all fenced in.

Your dog can dig in the sand pile, swim in the doggy pond or just run wild with other pups. If you want to get in on the action, the park offers a one-mile jogging/hiking trail. There is also a deck with music and lounge chairs and a coffee bar and lounge area.

After a morning of fun, head into the city and stop at Furniture City Creamery, 958 Cherry St. SE, and share a cone with your furry buddy.

Furniture City Creamery churns out ice cream for dogs as well as humans.

Next, visit Fido and Stitch, 820 Monroe Ave NW #140, to stock up on some new toys for your pet. You also can treat your pup to a spa day.

Fido and Stitch offers grooming that includes baths, nail trimmings, teeth brushing and even nail painting.

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or tools to help maintain their quality of life.

Hospice care is most successful when we start addressing issues early on, when they are first noticed,” she said.

When the time does come to say goodbye, Brush said many people appreciate being able to do so from the comfort of their own home. “Being at home removes any fear and anxiety they might have going to the veterinary clinic and provides the peaceful transition we all want our pets to experience.

It also provides privacy and space to grieve for you and your family at a very difficult and emotional time.”

Grieving your pet

Heaven at Home also can help set families up with grief organizations. Brush said locally, Ginny Mikita, a death and grief studies certification candidate at the Center for Loss, a Master of Divinity, and a lawyer at Mikita Kruse Law, hosts a pet loss grief support group on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Currently those meetings are being done via Zoom but they may move outside when it’s warmer. Pet owners can contact Heaven at Home for more information.

There are online support groups available as well, at www.rainbowsbridge.com or through the Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement, at www.aplb.org. Pet Loss Support Hotlines are available through Tufts University, (508) 8397966, and Cornell University, (607) 218-7457.

“We have grief support material available for children as well,” Brush said. “It includes ways children process their grief at different ages, which may be helpful for parents to understand what they might be going through and what to expect. We have a book

list for children, teens and adults, as well as suggestions on how to memorialize your pet.”

Brush said there are several local businesses that help families memorialize their pets. Heaven at Home provides a pawprint “every time we help a family say goodbye — it comes in a nice little keepsake box and has a place for your pet’s photo.”

She also recommends Tracy Van Horn, “a talented artist in town that does beautiful pet portrait sketches — you can find her on Facebook at Tracy Van Horn Studio. Cameo Anderson also does wonderful pet portrait paintings, cameoanderson.com. There are many local artists and photographers that provide wonderful keepsake memories — too many to name!”

You also can memorialize your pet by planting “a tree or special flowers where you bury your pet or spread their ashes; creating an ‘inspiration station’ on a shelf or in a special place, with photos of your pet, their collar, toys, a fur clipping — anything that touches your heart and brings a smile when you see it,” she said.

Finding a supportive friend or family member also is important in getting through the grieving period.

“Most importantly, pet owners should have someone they can talk to and receive acknowledgement that their grief is real and that it can be just as hard, if not harder, than losing any family member or dear friend,” Brush said.

Editor’s Note: Heaven at Home is currently offering many of its services through Zoom due to the pandemic.

5 dog parks where your pet can play Hillcrest Dog Park 1415 Lyon St. NE

Downtown Dog Park GR 210 Market Ave. SW

Fuller Park Dog Park 300 Fuller Ave. NE

The Pack Indoor Dog Park 5205 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park

Grand Ravines Dog Park 3991 Fillmore St., Jenison

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2021

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3/9/21 8:20 AM

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Top Chiropractors 2021

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TopChiro_Section_GRM_0421.indd 47

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3/12/21 1:32 PM

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Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE Paul Aalderink

Joshua Cebula

Win-Chi Fan

Balanced Health Chiropractic Center of

All About You Chiropractic

Atlas Family Chiropractic Clinic

West Michigan PLC

Holland

Grand Rapids

Zeeland Krystal Czegus

James A. Farmer III

W. Garth Aamodt

Clear Connections Chiropractic

James A. Farmer III, DC

Aamodt Chiropractic Clinic

Grand Rapids

Comstock Park

Grand Rapids Eric DeLamielleure

Brit Finkbeiner

Courtney Acton

Chiropractic Unlimited

Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center

Acton Family Chiropractic

Kentwood

Grand Rapids

Grandville Adrian J. den Boer

Stacey L. Fischer

Kyle Banner

DBC Natural Holistic Health Center

DBC Natural Holistic Health Center

Banner Chiropractic & Rehabilitation PLC

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Ada Matt DeVreugd

James Friess

Matt Barton

Almond Leaf Chiropractic

Parkhurst Chiropractic

Barton Chiropractic

Rockford

Holland

Grand Rapids Doug deVries, D.C. Grand Rapids Wellness 435 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-233-0960 grwell.com

Steve Barton Barton Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Benjamin Gillis Gillis Family Chiropractic Wyoming Michael Halliday

Louis C. Boven

The Chiropractic Doctor, Home of Halliday

AK Chiropractic Research Center

Health Solutions, LLC

Holland

Wyoming John Deyo, D.C. Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon Pkwy. SW Wyoming, MI 49509 616-301-8300 info@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

J. David Britt Britt Chiropractic Holland Mark Brusveen

David Harrison Harrison Chiropractic Center Grand Rapids Eric R. Hartman Hartman Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Brusveen Chiropractic Clinic and Therapy

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Grand Haven

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Rebecca Deyo (Warnecke) Michael T. Burcon

Hartman Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Burcon Chiropractic

Jenison Matt Dirkse

Kevin Burkhart

Health Zone Chiropractic

Rockford Chiropractic Clinic

Grand Haven

Platinum Chiropractic

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Daniel Judge Judge Chiropractic Grand Haven

Rockford James M. Elliott Aaron J. Buys

Dr. James M. Elliott, Practice of Chiropractic

Buys Chiropractic PLLC

Grand Rapids

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Paul Kaminski Kaminski Chiropractic PLLC Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids David Estefan Candy R. Carter

Lakeshore Chiropractic

AK Chiropractic Research Center

Jenison

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Mark Kline

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Cascade Chiropractic Clinic, P.C. Grand Rapids

3/10/21 3:45 PM

Chiropra

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Dr. Matthew Phinney

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CORRECT SPINAL ALIGNMENT cannot only improve your quality of life, it can also unlock your body’s full potential.

The Chiropractic Doctors in Cascade treat more than just the typical issues that bring patients to chiropractic care, such as back pain, neck pain, sciatica, headaches, sports injuries, and carpal tunnel. They also provide continuing preventative and wellness care that includes lifestyle advice, nutritional counseling, corrective exercises, and massage therapy — all with the goal of getting patients “on the road to wellness,” and also keeping them on that path.

“We’re able to make the most progress when we’re teaching people in the community how to apply the principles of true health and healing for the rest of their life,” says Dr. Matthew Phinney, owner of The Chiropractic Doctors in Cascade.

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“Our mission is to help every person in the greater Grand Rapids-Cascade area reach their optimal health potential.”

The Chiropractic Doctors has been a fixture in West Michigan for more than 35 years and has maintained their focus on the five key essentials of health: diet, rest, exercise, attitude, and maintenance.

The Cascade location, where Dr. Phinney serves, features 2,000 square feet of up-todate, aesthetically pleasing space with stateof-the-art digital X-ray technology and premier clinic and rehabilitation facilities.

When With a genuine concern for the community’s health and well-being, Dr. Phinney and the staff at The Chiropractic Doctors in Cascade are dedicated to providing the highest quality, individualized care and helping their patients achieve their health and wellness objectives. They offer decades of experience — and proven

results in their many success stories.

“Chiropractic care is more than just eliminating pain,” Dr. Phinney says. “It’s Featured Physicians Dr. Name Herefor ongoing wellness and it’s a solution suitable for people of all ages, from infants to elderly.”

If you’re ready to address your health concerns, schedule a complimentary consultation with The Chiropractic Doctors today.

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The Chiropractic Doctors 5747 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-432-3103 bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com

3/10/21 3/4/21 2:52 3:45 PM

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ERIK KOWALKE, D.C.; JOHN DEYO, D.C.

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OST PEOPLE of associate chiropractic care with the treatment of headaches, neck pain, and back pain, but you might be surprised to learn that the right chiropractic techniques and approaches can address a host of ailments you might not realize are related to the spine and nervous system. And, just as there are misperceptions about what chiropractic care can and can’t do, there’s also a

widespread belief that it requires jarring and uncomfortable twisting, cracking, and popping of the body to get results.

These misperceptions may keep those in need of relief from seeking chiropractic help. The team at Higher Health Chiropractic takes a completely different approach than the traditional practitioner, and it’s demonstrated in the many satisfied patients who rave about the transformations in their lives after

receiving their specialized care.

“Our method to figuring where misalignments are in the spine and specifically how they affect the brain and the nervous system is distinctive to our practice,” says Dr. Erik Kowalke, founder of Higher Health Chiropractic. “We use specific technology to measure stress on the body and the nervous system — and overall function of organ and muscular systems — that gives us objective data to

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HigherH

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find root causes of problems and address and improve them.”

The outcome for many patients is that they not only see improvement in their primary concern, but also in conditions such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. They often experience better sleep, greater energy, and lowered anxiety as well. “Our office provides hope for a lot of people who are looking for a

solution other than drugs or surgery, or for those who have taken the path of drugs and surgery and are frustrated with the results,” Dr. Kowalke says.

The team of six doctors at Higher Health hiropractic are all certified in orque elease echnique, hich emplo s a specific tool, called an integrator, that allows them to adjust precise segments of the spine in a gentle, et highl e ective manner.

With just a click on an exact vertebra, they achieve alignment and improved function of the nervous system, without the other procedures that come with traditional chiropractic adjustments. There are only about o ces in the countr that use this revolutionary technique.

What’s especially exciting about this method is that it opens the door to more pediatric care. Nearly 40 percent of patients at Higher Health Chiropractic are children under 16. Keeping their spines and nervous systems functioning well ultimately gives them the best chance of having a healthy life and preventing issues that could arise years down the road.

This proactive approach has earned Higher Health the honor of being the No. 1 Pediatric Chiropractor by GR Kids, several years running. “That award is voted on by moms and dads of greater Grand Rapids, and it’s something we’re really proud of,” Dr. Kowalke says.

“We strive to create an extraordinary experience, and a big part of our mission is raising up a drug-free generation.”

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Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex.

Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit.

Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-

LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in.

Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue.

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Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

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ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum.

Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.

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finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus.

Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum.

Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.

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erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam

Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon Pkwy. SW Wyoming, MI 49509 616-301-8300 gethigherhealth.com

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3/8/21 11:38 3/10/21 3:45 PM AM

P R O M OT I O N A L C O N T E N T

Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE Mark Koldenhoven

Linda M. Kunce

Kevin Manser

Kooistra Chiropractic

Linda M. Kunce, D.C.

Chiropractic Unlimited

Wyoming

Grand Rapids

Kentwood

Michael Kwast

Ann McAlpine

iChiro Clinics

McAlpine Chiropractic Group

Grand Rapids

Holland

Alexander Le Bon

Reid Meador

Simple Truth Chiropractic

Chiropractic Unlimited

Grand Rapids

Kentwood

Lisa Konynenbelt, D.C., B.S. Novo Chiropractic Sports & Wellness Center 5570 Wilson Ave. SW, Ste. M/N Grandville, MI 49418 616-259-9835 novograndville@novochiropractic.com novochiropractic.com

Wade L. Lowery

Sandra Moore

Jared Kooistra

Lowery Chiropractic

Lakewinds Chiropractic Center

Kooistra Chiropractic

Grand Rapids

North Muskegon

Kate Lyzenga

Scott A. Newquist

DBC Natural Holistic Health Center

ChiroPros

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Phillip Maletta

Colleen O’Hara

McAlpine Chiropractic Group

ChiroHealth Rockford

Holland

Rockford

Wyoming

Erik Kowalke, D.C. Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon Pkwy. SW Wyoming, MI 49509 616-301-8300 info@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

DR. LISA KONYNENBELT

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R. LISA KONYNENBELT AND HER TEAM AT NOVO CHIROPRACTIC have a passion for and a driving purpose to help their community be healthy naturally with chiropractic care. In business for five years and with four locations, they specialize in migraine relief, neck and low back pain, pregnancy support, pediatric and senior care, and treating sports injuries — all with a goal of avoiding unnecessary medications and surgeries.

Those unsure if chiropractic care is the right path can have a complimentary, introductory consultation with a Novo Chiropractic doctor to understand if there is a chiropractic solution for their needs.

A large part of Novo Chiropractic’s practice is preventive care — training and educating patients on ways to stay well, stay healthy, and stay out of the hospital. Ongoing, proactive maintenance care to increase mobility, reduce pain, and lower the risk of injury is also provided for patients to remain in peak health and wellness.

TopChiro_Section_GRM_0421.indd 52

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Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex.

Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit.

Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-

LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in.

Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue.

Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero.

Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum

ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum.

Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.

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Novo Chiropractic Sports & Wellness Center 5570 Wilson Ave. SW, Ste. M/N Grandville, MI 49418 616-259-9835 novochiropractic.com erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam

3/12/21 2:13 PM

P R O M OT I O N A L C O N T E N T

Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE Theresa Osmer

Jason Ross

Ryan Sorrell

Flow Chiropractic

Train Out Pain, LLC

C & R Family Chiropractic Center

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids

Karla Parkhurst

Andrew Schafer

Blake R. Spooner

Parkhurst Chiropractic

Schafer Chiropractic, PC

Lakeshore Family Chiropractic

Holland

Kentwood

Holland

Vince Scheffler

Sandra Stanton

Chiropractic Unlimited

ChiroHealth Rockford

Kentwood

Rockford

Eric Seif

Don Steketee

Seif Chiropractic

West Michigan Chiropractic & Sports of Jenison

Caledonia

Jenison

Matthew Phinney, D.C., BSc The Chiropractic Doctors PLLC 5747 28th St. S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-432-3103 drmatthewphinney@gmail.com bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com

Kirk Semlow

Alan Szagesh

Monica Rasmussen

Semlow Peak Performance Chiropractic

Advanced Spine & Posture

Gaslight Family Chiropractic

Grand Haven

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids Joe Shuluga

Steve Szatkowski

Kaitlynn Rosier

Shuluga Chiropractic Center

Fruitport Chiropractic Center

Kooistra Chiropractic

Holland

Fruitport

Wyoming

DR. DOUG DEVRIES, D.C.

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AKING A MULTIDISCIPLINARY approach through chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage services, Grand Rapids Wellness provides compassionate, holistic health care to help patients heal their body, mind, and spirit. They offer natural, drug-free options to pain relief in a warm, welcoming environment and are dedicated to keeping GR well — not just for immediate improvement, but for the long-term good health of patients over their lifetimes.

Dr. Doug deVries, D.C., co-owner, is a Grand Rapids native who got his start at Butterworth Hospital. He has more than 20 years experience in health care, and is a skilled diagnostician who is well known for treating complicated cases. He and his wife Kristin Swann, MS, LAc, opened the practice together to meet the wellness needs of the residents of Grand Rapids. The staff at Grand Rapids Wellness customizes treatments to the individual and strives to fully understand patients’ concerns and support each person in their journey to “Get Well, Be Well, and Stay Well.”

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Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex.

Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit.

Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-

LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in.

Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue.

Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero.

Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum

ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum.

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Grand Rapids Wellness 435 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-233-0960 grwell.com erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam

3/10/21 3:46 PM

P R O M OT I O N A L C O N T E N T

Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE Ryan Thornton Byron Center Chiropractic Byron Center

Stay in the know on all things GRAND RAPIDS

Trent Tilton Tilton Chiropractic Grand Rapids Daniel G. Van Gessel Family Chiropractic Healthcare Center Grand Rapids

Follow us for the latest news, events, and happenings in the city!

Adam T. Van Gessel Family Chiropractic Healthcare Center Grand Rapids David Ward Active Life Chiropractic Grand Rapids Randy Wilcox Wilcox Family Chiropractic Kentwood Kelli Wilcox-Degraaf Alpine Chiropractic Comstock Park Mark Wolfman Rivertown Family Chiropractic Grandville Jeffrey L. Zehr Zehr Chiropractic Norton Shores SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex.

Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit.

Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-

LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in.

Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut.

Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue.

Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero.

Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare.

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3/10/21 3:46 PM

dine / estau ants

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2021 DINING AWARD WINNER

OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES For any additions or changes: // Please email cdewey@geminipub.com or write to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o Dining Guide, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Downtown GR ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ APERITIVO A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave. SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ ART CARIBBEAN FUSION CUISINE Featuring a Caribbean menu with items like empanadas, croquettes, mofongos, Cuban sandwiches and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 55 Monroe Center NW, 724-4370. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire.

Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar.

Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 2266928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BULL’S HEAD TAVERN Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern.com.

Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$ CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CITYSEN LOUNGE Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine; happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily. // CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 6081725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rapids.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ COTTAGE BAR Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz.

Lunch, Dinner $ DIVANI European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. Dinner $$-$$$

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

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FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ This farm-to-table breakfast and lunch spot offers allday breakfast items like breakfast burritos and skillet meals as well as lunch items including sandwiches, soups, salads and toasts. It also offers an array of pastry items including croissants, muffins and tarts. On weekends brunch is available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 820 Monroe Ave NW Suite 100, 616-608-4533. fieldandfire.com. Breakfast, Lunch $-$$ FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Open Daily. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FORTY PEARL A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats and cheeses, baked goods and sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily. // 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GILLY’S SMOKEHOUSE Twelve rotating craft beers from The B.O.B’s Brewery paired with smokehouse fare, including smoked beef brisket, Amish chicken, pork butt and more.

Closed Sun-Mon. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/gillysrestaurant. Dinner $-$$ GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ GP SPORTS Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-yourown pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports.

Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-totable menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. // 1 Ionia Ave GR M AG .CO M

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SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (SatSun), Dinner $-$$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar.

Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLEBIRD Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries.

Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER HERITAGE HILL PIZZA Offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily with a few tables for dining in. // 340 State St SE, 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet.

No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ JAMAICAN DAVE’S Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ J. GARDELLA’S TAVERN Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating. Closed Sun. // 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastavern.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $

LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEWAY A tiki-themed restaurant that includes a raw bar, hot appetizers, salads, sides, land and sea dishes, and vegan options. Appetizers include ceviche and puhahana rock shrimp, and entrées include a poke bowl, citrus-glazed faroe and an island lobster roll.

Full bar. Open daily. // 58 Ionia Ave SW, 551-0016. maxstiki.com. D $$-$$$ MDRD Overlooking the Grand River from its location on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza, this restaurant serves modern Spanish cuisine including tapas and paella. Reservations available.

Closed Sun and Mon. // 187 Monroe Ave. NW, 776.6425. amwaygrand.com/dining. Dinner $$$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER JUDSON’S AT THE B.O.B. Award-winning steakhouse offers steaks, seafood and chops. Notable wine list. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse.

Dinner $$$ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ LEO’S Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm MonFri. Closed Sun. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

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MERTENS PRIME French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates.

Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. mertensgr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MEXO Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com.

Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR & RESTAURANT Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat.

Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$ ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dog- friendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 136 E Fulton St, 2357669. onetrick.biz. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN Part of Studio Park, One Twenty Three Tavern offers starters, small plates and handhelds, large plates, and a kids menu. Offering elevated American fare, including a fried chicken sandwich, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl and more. Full bar.

Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$$ OSTERIA ROSSA Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Open daily. // 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$ PALACE OF INDIA Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIND INDIAN CUISINE A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ RESERVE Wine bar offers extensive by-the-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie.

Closed Sun. // 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ ROAM BY SAN CHEZ BISTRO The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ ROCKWELL REPUBLIC Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand

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

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Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SANDY POINT BEACH HOUSE GR Originating in West Olive, dishes include “traditional beach house favorites,” such as prime beef burgers, fresh halibut, steak and frites, and roasted chicken and mussels. Full bar. Open daily. // 822 Ottawa Ave. NW, 828-1118, sandypointbeachhouse.com. Brunch (SatSun), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SLOWS BAR-B-Q Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides.

Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SOCIAL HOUSE A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters such as veggie, meat and cheese shared platters, goat cheese fritters, spicy tuna wontons and avocado toast; soups and salads; burgers and sandwiches; and pizza. Full bar.

Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$ SPARKS BBQ Offering barbecued meats by the pound, à la carte, sandwiches, appetizers, salads, sides, specialty entrées and desserts. Sparks BBQ originated in Traverse City. Full bar. Open daily. // 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 888-2170. home.eatsparksbbq.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SPEAKEZ LOUNGE Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ STELLA’S LOUNGE Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 7424444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating.

Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ Z’S BAR & RESTAURANT Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups,

salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 4543141. zsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

West Side ANDO SUSHI + BAR Asian fusion eatery featuring small plates, bentos, rice bowls, raw bar, noodles, soup, salad and more. Wide selection of wine, plus local, domestic and international beer. Full bar. // 415 Bridge St NW, 608-0789. andosushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BLUE DOG TAVERN West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ BROADWAY BAR & GRILL Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BUTCHER’S UNION Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ EL GRANJERO Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ EL SOMBRERO Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ HARMONY HALL West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves comfort food including sloppy joes, grilled cheese sandwiches, hamburgers and a variety of dishes based on French fries, including poutine.

Sausage menu. Vegan and vegetarian options for every dish on the menu. Open Thurs.-Sat. // 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/harmony-hall.

Dinner $-$$ THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily.

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

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// 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $ JOLLY PUMPKIN PIZZERIA & BREWERY Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LONG ROAD DISTILLERS Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers. com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering.

No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com.

Dinner $-$$ O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PEARL STREET GRILL Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go.

Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking GR M AG .CO M

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Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$ THE SOVENGARD Midwest heart meets New Nordic spirit. This cozy West Side farm-to-table restaurant focuses on seasonal and local sourcing and offers two separate dining spaces/ menus with an outdoor biergarten. Closed Mon. and Tues. Open for brunch Sat. and Sun. Reservations accepted. // 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. Dinner $-$$ TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available.

Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$ WESTSIDE SOCIAL “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Uptown BOMBAY CUISINE Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. // 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BREWERY VIVANT Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel.

Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$ BRICK ROAD PIZZA Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (glutenfree crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $ CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options.

Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE COMMONS

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1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails.

Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ CURRY KITCHEN Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu.

Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. // 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DANZÓN CUBANO Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas.

Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. // 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station.

Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST WEST BREWING CO. Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. // 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (Fri-Sat), Dinner $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available.

Open daily. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ELK BREWING CO. Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. // 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com.

Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $ ERB THAI Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. // 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopian cuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ THE GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB Not your run-of-the-mill New American fare. Full bar with more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local

breweries. Open Tue–Sun. // 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HANCOCK Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HARMONY BREWING CO. Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KCM A Japanese/Korean fusion restaurant specializing in sando (Japanese cut white bread sandwiches or openfaced toast with meat, egg salad or other filling); curry and other rice bowls; tonkatsu (Japanese deep-fried tenderized pork loin, tenderloin and shoulder cutlets); chicken katsu; and kimbap (Korean-style fish and vegetable hand rolls wrapped with seaweed). Open Tues.-Sun. // 209 Diamond Ave. SE. kcmgr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only.

Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MARU SUSHI & GRILL Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options.

Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts.

Carry-out available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER QUARANTINO’S Detroit-style pizza restaurant offering unique pizza options finished with Satori Wisconsin Parmesan.

Vegan and gluten-free options are available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 1444 Lake Drive SE, 734-6833. quarantinosgr.com. Dinner $$ THE PUB AT PADDOCK “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegilmorecollection.com/pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. //

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

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1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu.

Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WIKIWIKI POKE SHOP Fast-casual seafood restaurant featuring customizable poke bowls, plus oyster bar and rotating specials.

Carry-out available. Closed Sun. // 1146 Wealthy St SE, 288-5646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar.

Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ YESTERDOG Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ZIVIO Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily.

Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids BIG BOB’S PIZZA Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com.

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

Dinner $$

JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ OLIVE’S Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar.

Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ OSTA’S LEBANESE CUISINE Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available.

Closed Sun-Mon. // 2228 Wealthy St SE, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. Lunch (Tue-Fri), Dinner $-$$ ROSE’S Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

Northeast GR 7 MONKS TAPHOUSE Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BIRCH LODGE Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BLUE WATER GRILL Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater.

Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available.

Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$ CHEER’S GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open

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

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daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ CRESTON BREWERY More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ DETROIT WING CO. Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available.

Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar.

Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NEW LISTING! GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE . Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $ GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes.

Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ JAKU SUSHI Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of GR M AG .CO M

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sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 6490407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KITCHEN 67 Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full bar with craft beers.

Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA HUASTECA Authentic Mexican restaurant offering burritos, tacos, enchiladas, flautas and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook.

Lunch, Dinner $ LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ LUCY’S CAFÉ Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods.

Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MING TEN All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 3653989. mingtenrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NICK FINK’S Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. // 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. Dinner $$

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

Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

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

Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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

REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol.

Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar.

Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$ THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$ THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ VANDER MILL Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. // 505 Ball Ave NE, 2598828. vandermill.com. Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$-$$$

Northwest GR 2021 DINING AWARD WINNER

POKE TOKI Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available.

Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts.

Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 7855344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$

DEHOP’S BREWING CO. AND CAFÉ Specialty and build-your-own burgers, “authentic Mexican” tacos, salads and sharable appetizers. Closed Sun-Mon. // 363 Cummings Ave NW, Walker, 8053363. dehops.com. Dinner $$ EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 7858880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRANCO’S PIZZA Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. Dinner $-$$ FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar.

Closed Sun. // 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. Dinner $-$$ HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. // 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at.

Lunch, Dinner $$ HOME TEAM GRILL Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. // 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill. wordpress.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HUMMUS & FALAFEL MIDDLE EASTERN GRILLE Located near the Allendale campus of Grand Valley State University, eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 10897 48th Ave., Suite B100, Allendale. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE LANDING Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. AllAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131),

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

3/9/21 8:18 AM

363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landingrestaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ MR. GYROS Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. // 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 7916660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SWAN INN RESTAURANT Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. // 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar.

Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$

Southeast GR 7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast.

No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ASIAN PALACE Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BELTLINE BAR Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos.

Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BRASS RING BREWING Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BROAD LEAF LOCAL BEER Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Open daily. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com.

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

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CAFÉ DE MIRO A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. The menu consists of traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes, such as skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 7191462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $ CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$ DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet.

No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas.

Open daily. // 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol.

Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne &

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

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Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111.

Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ GOLDEN GATE Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook.

Lunch, Dinner $ GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ HALL STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ INDIA TOWN Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA TAQUERIA SAN JOSE Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting.

No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1338 S Division Ave, 2842297. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com.

Lunch, Dinner $ LE KABOB Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI TIERRA Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MIKADO SUSHI Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com.

Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet.

Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

WEI WEI PALACE Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$

PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials.

Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

YUMMY WOK Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068.

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SHANGHAI ICHIBAN Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol.

Open daily. // 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare.

Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 2414141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ TAQUERÍA EL RINCÓN MEXICANO Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2055 28th St, 246-7000. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $

Southwest GR 84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRANKIE V’S PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800.

Lunch, Dinner $$

TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

KITZINGEN BREWERY German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed Sun-Mon. // 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingen-brewery.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu.

Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET PUB Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. mainstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI CASA RESTAURANTE Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominicanthemed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol.

Closed Mon-Tues. // 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOBLE Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 18 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling.

Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar.

Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ARYANA RESTAURANT & BAR Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. // 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

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

3/9/21 8:19 AM

BIG BOILER BREWING Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. // 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com.

Dinner $$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails.

Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ EMONAE KOREAN BBQ Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. // 6246 28th St SE, 649-3984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full

bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection.com/ flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HAMBURGER MARY’S This LGBTQ-friendly burger franchise offers an open-air burger bar along with 40 beers on tap. Drag events such as karaoke, game night and trivia night, as well as drag shows, occur most days of the week. Outdoor patio seating. Full bar. Open daily with brunch hours on Sat and Sun. // 6240 28th St. SE, 551-2305. hamburgermarys.com. Dinner $$ JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets.

Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items.

Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine.

Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering.

Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar.

Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch. Full bar. Takeout menu. Closed Sun. // 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

2021 DINING AWARD WINNER NOCO PROVISIONS Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine.

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F Sport & options shown. 2021 NX 300 F Sport AWD starts at $42,135.* *Prices are plus tax, title, plate & fees to qualified buyers. Options are additional.

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

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Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch TuesSat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$

Grandville/Hudsonville Area BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE DUNGEON Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu.

Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 5381360. villadungeon.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$

NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$

EL BURRITO LOCO More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 5309470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRANDVILLA Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

HUDSONVILLE GRILLE Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast.

Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. // 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbeque theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$

SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert.

Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$ TRAILHEAD CAFÉ Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. // 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ VINTAGE PRIME & SEAFOOD Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com.

Dinner $$$ ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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OSGOOD BREWING CO. Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu. Open daily. // 4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIKE 51 BREWING CO./ HUDSONVILLE WINERY Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RAINBOW GRILL Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 8960033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

SONDER EATERY Focused on fresh foods including greens, sandwiches and shareables. Items include deviled eggs, chicken and waffles, sloppy Joes and more. Full bar. Daily specials and weekend brunch. Closed Mondays. // 3380 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 616-202-6379. sondereatery.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ WHITE FLAME BREWING CO. Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WIN TAVERN A family-friendly restaurant offering fresh ingredients and cooked-to-order meals, including starters and salads, burgers, sandwiches, and steak and onion meals. It also offers a Sunday breakfast from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with a build-your-own hash bar and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

Rockford Area BOSTWICK LAKE INN Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck. Full bar. Open daily. // 8521 Belding Rd, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$ BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. // 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/ restaurant. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CEDAR SPRINGS BREWING CO. German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. // 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRILL ONE ELEVEN American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONEY CREEK INN Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches.

Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com.

Lunch, Dinner $

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

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RAMONA’S TABLE Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Open daily. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonastable.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com.

Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TIMBERS INN Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$ THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-512-9314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Multiple Locations ANNA’S HOUSE Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT Breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches.

Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ BIG E’S SPORTS GRILL Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées. Full bar includes a variety of Michigan-made beer and cider. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2321 East Beltline Ave SE, 608-8825. 710 Monroe Ave NW, 512-5716. bigessportsgrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 401 Leonard St NW, 4549368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIRST WOK Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 9303596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 7731895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171; 434 Bridge St NW, 855-6907. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ MR. BURGER Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 662-5088. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 2595353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE,

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

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Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ PITA HOUSE Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $ REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $ RED GERANIUM Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$ TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol.

Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ TACOS EL CUÑADO Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare.

No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GR M AG .CO M

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3/9/21 8:19 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

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3/9/21 9:19 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

2020-21 Readers Poll

ALMASSIANJEWELERS.COM

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3/9/21 9:22 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best Uniquely

Delicious • The Salted Cupcake (choc/pb) • Red Velvet • Salted Caramel Vanilla Bean • Death by Chocolate

• Pupcakes (for dogs!)

• Cookie Dough • Vegan Chocolate Oreo • Wheat Free

thesaltedcupcake.com 2481 32nd St. SE, Kentwood, MI 49512

Voted Best Steak Grand Rapids!

thechophouserestaurant.com | 190 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | (888) 456-3463

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3/9/21 9:31 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

CORN. RYE. BARLEY. IT’S NOT COMPLICATED. BUT IT’S NOT SIMPLE.

Our Michigan Straight Bourbon is the signature spirit of our distillery — the purest representation of our passion.

We started in 2014 to produce premium spirits with Great Lakes pride and to create a bourbon that Michiganders could call their own. When you pour a glass, you’re greeted by the subtle aroma of citrus as hints of dark chocolate and vanilla invite you to taste. Sourced from Great Lakes water, with sweet and light notes that offer a unique flavor profile and a smooth, balanced finish. We’ve created a bourbon to be sipped with the best. Right here in Grand Rapids.

E A S T E R N K I L L E .C O M

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3/9/21 9:36 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

Voted Grand Rapids’ Best Seafood Restaurant Leo’s is the premier dining destination for exquisite seafood, classic cuisine, decadent desserts, and a world-class wine list.

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan since 2004, Leo’s has stayed committed to always sourcing fresh quality ingredients, carefully crafting each menu, and delivering an extraordinary experience to each and every guest.

(616) 454-6700 | LeosRestaurant.com 60 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

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3/9/21 9:39 AM

Special Advertising Section

Voted The Best

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST ICE CREAM

OF GRAND RAPIDS

FOR10 YEARS

IN A ROW!

East Grand Rapids Downtown GR 2226 Wealthy St., SE 146 Monroe Center 616-649-0288 616-608-6574 Locally Owned and Operated

BEST Ice Cream for the last 10 years Voted the city’s Best Ice Cream for the last 10 years

East Grand Rapids Downtown GR 2226 Wealthy St., SE 146 Monroe Center 616-649-0288 616-608-6574 Locally Owned and Operated

652 CROSWELL AVE. SE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 | 616-458-4107 | JERSEYJUNCTION.COM

The best confections you will ever enjoy!

Downtown GR East Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids Downtown GR 146 Monroe Center 2226 Wealthy St., SE 616-608-6574 616-649-0288 Locally Operated 2226 Wealthy St.,Owned SE and 146 Monroe Center

616-649-0288 East Grand Rapids Downtown616-608-6574 GR Locally and Center Operated 2226 Wealthy St., SE Owned 146 Monroe 616-649-0288 616-608-6574 East Grand Rapids Downtown GR Locally Owned and Operated 2226 Wealthy St., SE 146 Monroe Center

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3/12/21 10:05 PM

gr gems / histo y

Rock enthusiast Blandford Nature Center founder was a hidden gem.

BY JULIE TABBERER, GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

Many of Mary Jane’s papers were placed in the archives at the Grand Rapids Public Library, including notes, photographs, scrapbooks and a sampling of her slide collection. You can also learn more about her in her memoir, “Rock On, Lady…”

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It’s possible that there isn’t anyone who loves rocks more than Dr. Mary Jane Dockeray did. Dockeray (1927-2020) was widely known and loved as a science educator and founder of Blandford Nature Center. She had a deep love for nature and wildlife, and especially geology. She was hooked when, at the age of six, she learned that every rock has a name. She studied geology for the rest of her life, and her rock collection was both large and well cataloged.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2021

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Dockeray was a talented public speaker and was particularly good at translating science into everyday language. Over the seven decades of her career, she shared her love for geology and nature with countless people. (In just one year she gave 587 presentations to over 40,000 kids in Grand Rapids Public Schools). Dockeray preached a message of conservation, encouraging people to see, appreciate and care for the natural world around them. It didn’t ever feel like preaching, though. People said that she made nature come alive, that they truly enjoyed listening to her. Dockeray’s legacy lives on through Blandford, and through all the kids and adults she inspired.

ROCKS COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

3/9/21 8:17 AM

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3/3/21 8:57 AM

WE LOVE THE EAST GRAND RAPIDS LIFE

Katie-K Team 616.575.0119 Katie@Katie-K.com 1555 Arboretum Dr. SE, Suite 101, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

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2/24/21 3:29 PM