CARRYOUT THE CITY’S FAVORITE FOOD TO-GO PLUS LANDSCAPING
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CAMPING With a stressful start to the year, we’re ready to unwind at these destinations
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Grand Rapids families share their favorite things about the city
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contents JUNE 2020 VOLUME 57, ISSUE 6
FEATURES
38
SUMMER C AMPING MICH IGA N O FFER S U N IQ U E EX P ER IE N C E S FO R A NY T Y P E O F C AM P E R .
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FAMILY LIFE LO C AL DA DS SHARE THEIR FA MILIE S ' FAVO R ITE T H IN GS A B O U T GR A N D R A P I DS . BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
P H OTO G R A P H BY A N N A C R A H A N
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
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contents / june
every issue 8 69
editor's letter dining guide
84
gr gems
A guide to the area's best eateries
Discover how Grand Rapids survived the Great Depression
people + places 12
city
13
guide
14
voice
16
issues
18
34
"Hungry for Harbor Country," Urban Roots and Toys that Move Your guide to Pride Month in Grand Rapids
Lauren Befus takes clients down 'Memory Lane' Grand Rapids Pride Center looks to the future
profile
Alice Jasper produced "Color Out Here" for WGVU
look + feel
22
22
wellness
24
gear
25
home
26
expert
Dreamgoats fulfills your dream of hiking with the "kids" Pack the new Yeti cooler for a weekend of adventure Landscape looks that suit your home's style Bee keeper Chuck Bauer shares tips to help colonies thrive
food + drink
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
14
30
table
34
create
35
cheers
36
must-try
These restaurants have the answer to "what's for dinner?" Summersong punch is your welcome to summer drink Inbooze helps with happy hour Making Thyme Kitchen preps for dinner COCKTAIL STACY FEYER-SALO BOOKS COURTESY MEMORY LANE JANE GOAT COURTESY DREAMGOATS
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editor's letter / connect
"I miss going out to my favorite restaurants and gathering with my friends to enjoy the variety of events that take place every night around the city. I miss seeing our city bustling with activity." Charlsie Dewey
COMMUNITY HELP
Grand Rapids' new normal As I write this, Grand Rapids is not the bustling city I’ve come to know. Instead, COVID-19 has turned our city into a town where families are sequestered at home for the most part. None of us know when the stay-at-home order and social distancing recommendations will end. But our city is rising to the challenge. People are stepping up to help one another, whether it’s sharing a roll of now scarce toilet paper with a friend, donating money to a local food bank or trying to patronize small shops and restaurants through curbside orders. My hope is that when this issue arrives in your mailboxes at the beginning of June, we will see a light at the end of the tunnel. I miss going out to my favorite restaurants and gathering with my friends to enjoy the variety of events that take place every night around the city. I miss seeing our city bustling with activity. The June issue is a celebration of living in Grand Rapids. In our "Family living" feature, we spoke with three local dads about raising their kids in Grand Rapids and how their families enjoy the city. We also compiled a list of 15 family-friendly activities for you to enjoy this summer. Camping is a popular summer activity in Michigan, but if roughing it isn’t exactly your style, you can try glamping. The Fields in South Haven offers tents decked out with amenities so all you have to do is show up and enjoy your vacation. You also could try Camp Forever Fun, a weekend summer camp designed for adults. This summer camp experience is a great way to meet new friends the way you did as a kid, by having fun together over a variety of summer camp activities. In this issue, we also look at our favorite takeout restaurants around town. While many of our restaurants have scrambled to transition to takeout only service, these restaurants have been winning the takeout game for a long time. Make sure to support them during this tough time. Stay safe.
Eastern Kille Distillery is one of a handful of distilleries in Grand Rapids making hand sanitizer for doctors, nurses, first responders and essential workers.
Next issue
July is our annual City Guide issue. This year, learn where to go for happy hour, the city's best shopping corridors, and more.
On the radio
Join Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays, as she presents the Weekend City Guide with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.
On TV
Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey joins Shelley Irwin each month on WGVU’s “Community Connection” program to discuss what’s inside Grand Rapids Magazine. FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR
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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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
Sam Suarez was born in Illinois, grew up in the Philippines, attended college in Sydney, Australia, and is now living in Grand Rapids. She is currently the communications specialist for the city-building nonprofit organization Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.
EDITOR TERRY JOHNSTON HAND SANITIZER COURTESY EASTERN KILLE DISTILLERY CONTRIBUTOR COURTESY SAM SUAREZ
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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964
www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com Publisher: John Balardo | Associate Publisher: Jason Hosko
We asked our staff: What's one thing you have been making at home lately?
Editorial Editor: Tim Gortsema Managing Editor: Charlsie Dewey Digital Editor: Tom Mitsos Editorial Intern: Robin Gould Contributors: Ann Byle, Terri Finch Hamilton, Sam Easter, Tory O’Haire, Adam Russo, Samantha Suarez, Julie Tabberer, Tricia van Zelst
A drink a day keeps the doctor away, right? My new mango margarita and red sangria recipes have been helping me to keep that statement true! I've also been testing my hand at gluten-free baked goods, such as homemade pop tarts and coffee cake!
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We have ideas that work.
CHARLSIE DEWEY
My go-to is making crock pot meals like stews and ramen. Pinterest has a lot of yummy recipes you can use with limited ingredients. They're also low maintenance and great for leftovers! BRI RODRIGUEZ
I dug out my sewing machine and started making fabric face masks for family, friends and neighbors! The first masks I made were created using clothes that had sentimental value, which makes them kind of special.
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IT IT Director: Jeremy Leland
Marketing Marketing & Events Director: Mary Sutton Marketing & Events Manager: Andrea Straw Digital Marketing Coordinator: Asia Jones Hot apple cider! It’s fruity and light, but still warm and comforting to drink on those cold Michigan days!
I've been enjoying cooking. Some of my best culinary feats include veggie soup, pineapple and shrimp fried rice, stuffed mushroom pizzas, and peanut butter cookies. My refrigerator has never been this full before.
& ARTFUL EXPERIENCE Lists! TONS of them, actually; places I want to visit, races I want to run, habits I want to develop and build on. (Can you tell all of this selfisolation has given me time to think?!)
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Published By Gemini Media, LLC CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo
JULY 3 & 4, 2020 Downtown Muskegon FOR THE LATEST FESTIVAL UPDATES: 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.
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WE’LL STILL BE HERE WHEN THIS IS ALL OVER.
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people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
Level up your Sunday brunch with the ladies from MI Drag Brunch.
Pride guide GUIDE
page 13
» PLUS: GR AND R APIDS PRIDE CENTER OUTDOORS WITH ALICE JASPER MEMORY L ANE JANE
P H OTO G R A P H CO U R T E SY M I D R AG B R U N C H GR M AG .CO M
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people + places / city
CITY
Urban Roots
Urban Roots is expanding its YOUR Compost collection service to the Creston, Belknap, Highland Park, Auburn Hills and Northeast Citizens Action neighborhoods. “In the past few years, Grand Rapids has kindly given us their rotten pasta and coffee grounds; and through the process of composting we have ended with rich, fertile humus to use at our Urban Farm in Madison,” said Levi Gardner, Urban Roots founder and co-executive director. “Since our humble beginnings with a bicycle and some buckets a few years ago, we’ve diverted more than 65,000 pounds of organic waste, expanded our service area twice, and partnered with organizations like Fulton Heights to establish additional hub sites throughout the city. We’re looking forward to increasing the positive impact we can have on the city’s overall waste stream." The typical service cost is just under $21 per month for weekly pickup.
Toys that move
A large donation of toys that move has made its way into the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s permanent collection. The collection comes from Beth Schwartz, who began toy collecting in the early 1990s when she was traveling the country as an actress/singer working in touring Broadway shows. She loved searching out new pieces for her collection, especially Fisher-Price pull toys and antique wind-ups. “We are so grateful to the family of Beth Schwartz for donating her amazing toy collection to the museum. Although Beth passed away in 2011, her collection will continue to delight and inspire children of all ages who visit,” said Alex Forist, GRPM’s chief curator. Toys that Move will be on display on the second floor of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Summer cooking
Southwest Michigan is in the spotlight as part of a new cookbook being released just in time for “summer days on the lake.” “Hungry for Harbor Country: Recipes and Stories from the Coast of Southwest Michigan” by Lindsay Navama was released last month by Agate Publishing. The new cookbook highlights one of the Midwest's most beloved vacation destinations (Harbor Country encompasses eight small towns along the Lake Michigan coast) and profiles the region's best farms, markets, bakeries, distilleries and other local artisans. Whether home cooks are looking for hearty entrees for cold winter nights, sunset cocktails, sweet seasonal treats or a healthier take on classic favorites, this cookbook has something for every craving — and it will have you thinking about what you're truly hungry for, in the kitchen and beyond.
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
COMPOST ISTOCK TOYS COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM COOKBOOK COURTESY AGATE PUBLISHING
people + places / guide
MI Drag Brunch entertains guests every Sunday. The entertainers perform at different restaurants around the city.
GUIDE
Your guide to GR’s LGBTQ businesses Celebrate Pride Month by supporting these stores. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
June is Pride Month, and in Grand Rapids you will likely see Pride flags lining several retail corridors in celebration and acknowledgement of the city’s LGBTQ community. Pride Month is a great time to support these businesses, and LGBTQowned businesses in particular, but don’t forget to support these spots year-round. Brunch is the most important meal of the weekend, and MI Drag Brunch should be your first stop. Every Sunday, the divas from MI Drag Brunch perform at a different restaurant around the city. You’ll enjoy a fixed menu and plenty of cocktails while being entertained by some of West Michigan’s best drag queens. These shows often sell out, so get your tickets in advance. For a more chill start to your morning, visit Outside Coffee Co. to score your first DRAG SHOW COURTESY MI DRAG BRUNCH
The Apartment Lounge is an inviting place to share a cocktail before or after a show.
cup of java. As its name suggests, Outside Coffee Co. is an entirely outdoor coffee shop with a variety of seating options, including hammocks and benches. In the winter, Outside Coffee Co. installs several geo domes affixed with heaters to keep you toasty. Another plus, your pooch is welcome to join you for coffee. Next door to Outside Coffee Co., you’ll find Woosah, an art and apparel store. Owner Erica Lang’s woodcuts are popular items, as are her T-shirts and hoodies adorned with the Woosah brand. Because of its limited-edition product runs, there is always something new to discover here. If you are looking for home décor or a gift, Rebel has you covered. It’s got cards for every occasion, from the comedic to sentimental, and gifts for baby showers, wedding showers, birthdays, anniversaries and basically any other event you are celebrating. Rebel is owned by Dan Boyles and Chip Minor, who curate this shop to perfection. You also should pop into holistic health and wellness shop Spirit Dreams if you are looking for a unique gift. Jaye Van Lenten and Jackie Bess opened the shop more than 25 years ago. Customers can find a wide selection of gemstones, natural aromatherapy, jewelry, cards and unique gifts, in addition to services including psychic readings and reiki practitioners. In the evening, start your night with a visit to The Apartment Lounge, the longest operating LGBTQ establishment in town. Located next to Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, The Apartment is an inviting place to share a cocktail before or after a show. Owner Bob Johnson purchased the bar from friends and mentors Milt Lenox and Ed Ladner in 2013 and is committed to keeping their legacy alive. Johnson also owns West Michigan Caterer and the Laketown Golf and Conference Center in Saugatuck. If you still are looking for fun around midnight, you’ll want to head over to Rumors nightclub, the only LGBTQ dance club in town. Resident DJs Monica Parker and Timmy T play great dance music. You also can enjoy karaoke nights and Sunday night drag shows. GR M AG .CO M
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people + places / voice
Lauren Befus is on a mission to help people share their stories. She interviews her subjects (top left), gathers information and turns their memories into books they can share with their family (bottom left and right).
VOICE
A legacy of life stories Everyone has a story worth sharing. BY ANN BYLE
Lauren Befus started her career as a reporter for this magazine, then the Greenville Daily News and later Mercy Health. Along the way, she heard story after story from World War II veterans, patients, doctors and ordinary folks living their lives. Those interviews inspired the idea that stories are worth preserving. In fall 2017, she launched Memory Lane Jane, a local life story writing company.
"You might think you don’t have a story, but what you lived through is important to your family." Lauren Befus
What was the inspiration behind Memory Lane Jane? I’d been writing about people for years as a reporter, but in 2010 my husband’s grandfather approached me about writing his story. We didn’t tell anyone as we spent a year recording his story, searching through boxes of pictures, mementos and files, and researching at the Grand Rapids Public Library. At Christmas 2010, he gave books to everyone. We all opened them at the same time, and it brought the house down. That was when I knew this is what I wanted to do. Why did you choose that name for your business? My grandmother’s name was Jane, and I would do anything to go down memory lane with her. I can’t because she’s gone. When I launched my youngest child into kindergarten in fall 2017, it was go-time. I’ve finished eight life story books since then and have eight in process now. How do you gather the information you need? I start with interviews. I record the interviews and record videos of the person, then send the voice recordings to a transcription service, then to a person who helps me organize the information. I like to do all the interviews in person because of the connections that happen when I do, and to go through pictures and mementos, then do any other work via phone or Skype. The
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books are full-color and include photos, documents, lists of their favorite things, favorite recipes, things going on in history at that time and more. How much does a memory book cost? There’s a range from as low as $2,000 to as high as $20,000 depending on what the family wants. What do you love most about your job? There is something so sacred about sitting down with someone for hours and hearing them talk about their experiences, the good stuff and the hard stuff. I get to sit at the feet of people who have done the most incredible things. And every story is worth telling. You might think you don’t have a story, but what you lived through is important to your family. How do people respond when they see the book? The actual presenting of the book is so emotional, when they get to see what they’ve done in book form. We both cry. The book is a validation of a life. It’s your legacy created while you’re still alive, and it’s a priceless gift to your family. Visit www.memorylanejane.com. Editor’s note: This interview has been edited and condensed for space and clarity. LAUREN BEFUS, BOOKS COURTESY MEMORY LANE JANE
PHOTO CONTENT PHOTO CREDIT
GR M AG .CO M
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people + places / issues
ISSUES
Showing its pride Grand Rapids Pride Center looks toward future. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
In a way, the Grand Rapids Pride Center has come out of the closet. The 32-yearold organization has served the queer community since its founding in 1988 from its home at 343 Atlas Ave. SE in Eastown, but for years the building had a tuckedaway feeling with windows blacked out and a shabby interior that felt more depressing than affirming. Today, the windows are streaming light into a more vibrant space that now has a comfortable waiting room with a couch and coffee table, giving it more of a living room feel than an office vibe. The library is equipped with computers and bookcases filled with books that document LGBTQ history, and both spaces are decked out with furniture donated by Steelcase. The large gathering space in the back of the building offers comfortable seating that easily can be rearranged to fit the needs of the many different social groups that meet throughout the month at the center. It’s a sign of the times. The culture has shifted. Gay marriage and the fight for that right drastically changed the LGBTQ experience. So much so, that some people wonder if LGBTQ spaces are as necessary as they once were. The answer is yes. Queer people always will need dedicated spaces, particularly those whose identities are still maligned more often than not in society, like transgender and nonbinary persons and LGBTQ people of color. The Pride Center (formerly known as The Network) celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018 with a massive Pride celebration at Calder Plaza. That milestone meant looking back. Seeing where the Pride Center had been and acknowledging the struggles the center has faced. 16
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As executive director, Thomas Pierce is ready to move the Grand Rapids Pride Center forward.
Interim Board President Tommy Allen stands next to a poster from the 1987 March On Washington for lesbian and gay rights. The poster hangs in the Pride Center's office. THOMAS PIERCE, TOMMY ALLEN COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PRIDE CENTER
"We are now stable, and I feel we can begin to look to the future." Tommy Allen
At the time, the center was in the midst of some serious financial challenges, so much so there was a question of whether the organization could or should continue. So, in 2019, Thomas Pierce, Pride Center executive director, said the Pride Center staff and board focused on stability. The year was a turning point for the organization. Pierce said the center is now poised for the future. This year, the Pride Center is looking at where and how to grow. Listening sessions are planned to help the center develop a strategic plan and direction. “We are now stable, and I feel we can begin to look to the future,” said Tommy Allen, interim board president for the Pride Center. “We are listening to the community, being intentional.” Most likely that will include more health care and wellness services. The LGBTQ community suffers from terrible health outcomes, often due to discrimination or fear of discrimination. People are afraid to seek services, or they don’t have the financial ability to seek out care. “Proud To Be Healthy is our health access program,” Pierce explained. “When I started over two years ago, and I started asking people what we needed to do, people overwhelmingly asked for more health care access. “How do we develop communities where in the future it’s easier for queer folk to be healthy,” Pierce asked. “We recognized we had to develop some intervention-based programs because people aren’t getting any healthier. We launched Proud To Be Healthy; its main mode is to intervene. People can come and get a service to help. Leslie, our Proud To Be Healthy coordinator, they are trained to register people for Marketplace, Medicaid, etc.” When Grand Rapids Magazine spoke to the Pride Center this spring, it was in the middle of hiring a clinician to provide clinically based services and support groups. “This person will also provide free therapy for someone who needs therapeutic services,” Pierce said. A local family foundation provided the grant money to fund the position. “We are getting more and more complaints from folks receiving therapy,” Pierce said. “One disturbing one was this person was seeing a therapist and realized within a month they were doing some subtle conversion therapy.” Pierce said he hopes continued work with local health care systems will lead to solutions.
How COVID-19 is impacting the Grand Rapids Pride Center’s plans for 2020 How is the current situation uniquely impacting LGBTQ+ people? What we’re seeing now is a doubling down of the obstacles that LGBTQ+ people have faced before. While the stay-at-home orders are necessary to promote good public health as it slows the spread of COVID-19, these orders have created more barriers for LGBTQ+ folk by eliminating access to resources that were readily available before sheltering in place. GRPC is working at the very base level via our digital social spaces to intently listen to our LGBTQ+ folk, who are in large numbers isolated and alone. Is the Pride Center using online tools to convene its social groups? GRPC has reimagined and migrated nearly all of our social and support groups to an online format. How will this impact the Proud To Be Healthy program and the newly created clinician position? We’re happy to say that the Proud To Be Healthy program is operating fully in a virtual space. Community members can make an appointment at grpride.org/ptbh. Our community wellness coordinator position is currently on hold as we evaluate next steps on an operational and financial level. Find out how you can help at grpride.org.
“Health equity and health care disparities are something we are going to have to continue to work through. We host the LGBTQ health care consortium here at the Pride Center.” He said the consortium includes representatives from all the major health care systems, mental health care providers and health care nonprofits in the area. “We are trying to figure out how to work together and reduce health care disparities for queer folks (by) formalizing that into an actual group that will be housed here at the Pride Center, but separate.” Pierce compared the Pride Center’s role to providing triage services. “We don’t have a physician on site or housing on site; we connect people with services. You come here and we will help you get where you need. The things we are providing in-house that we don’t have enough people doing out there. That’s why we made such a large push to have therapy here. There’s not enough free therapy out there.” As the Pride Center looks to the future, it also is looking at the possibility of a major renovation of its space. While the building has a fresher look and feel than in years past, it still is outdated in many ways. Pierce said discussions about a possible capital campaign are underway. That could result in a full refresh of the existing space as well as an addition to the building. “We’d like to expand that space and make it a clinic,” Pierce said. Future plans also include finding new ways to connect with different groups of people. “We are looking into some programming around intersectionality — what communities are we not reaching? So, the Latinx community, we are starting to have conversations with other organizations about how we start engaging those communities because we know our organization hasn’t been the best about doing that in the past. We want to be intentional about doing that.” And LGBTQ youth remain a priority. “In 1988, we started our youth group … that is still the same youth group we run today,” Pierce said. “The group attracts 55-60 kids each week. There is also a trans youth group for ages 12-17, a young adult group for ages 18-24 and a young adult group for people of color that operates at the nonprofit HQ .” Pierce summed up the Pride Center’s future vision this way: “Everyone wants to be heard on some level and they are afraid they won’t be heard, so how do we create space for everyone within the work we are doing?” GR M AG .CO M
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Michigan's Upper Peninsula was the catalyst for Alice Lyn Jasper's journey outdoors. Now she's hoping other people of color will follow.
A colorful trail PROFILE
Why Alice Jasper is on a mission to lead people of color into the outdoors. BY SAMANTHA SUAREZ
When Alice Lyn Jasper moved from Brooklyn to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for school, it was the perfect opportunity to dabble in outdoor recreation. But there were a few setbacks: she was new at it, and she’s a woman of color. “A lot of people made me feel like an outsider for being a city girl and for being inexperienced and not knowing all the technical skills. I enjoyed being outside and wanted to learn, but felt I didn’t fit into this bucket of ‘outdoorsy,’” Jasper said. “It wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized that’s not OK.” The fact is, for many people of color, the outdoors is not an escape. The outdoors has historically been a white-dominated space and that history trickles down to the present day, where people of color make up a small percentage of visitors to America’s national parks and monuments. Unfortunately, the solution to this isn’t as simple as “just going outside” and “ignoring the fact that no one else looks like you.” Trying something new that requires skill and strength is challenging enough, but adding the weight of being the only minority can make for a very stressful experience. As they say, there is safety in numbers. 18
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
OUTDOORS COURTESY KEVIN HUVER
people + places / p ofile
So, when Jasper received the opportunity to produce and host a television show through WGVU’s Shaping Narratives program, she decided to use her new platform to reframe what being “outdoorsy” looks like and help lead people of color into the outdoors. Earlier this year, the pilot episode of her show “Color Out Here” came to life.
In short, the reason you don’t see as many people of color outside is a culmination of many different layers. “Color Out Here” intends to pick those layers apart and share the narratives of people of color taking space outdoors — while acknowledging the fact that we are on colonized lands, founded on the displacement of indigenous people.
Breaking barriers Tourism scholars propose multiple explanations behind the overwhelming whiteness of outdoor recreation. The first is historical. It is essential to acknowledge that our national parks originally excluded people of color. “Some of the leaders in conservationist work in America were huge advocates for eugenics and didn’t want to keep this pristine space for people of color,” said Jasper. “Even within my lifetime, Native Americans have been killed over fishing rights. “While things are generally safer than they were a few decades ago, there’s transgenerational trauma. People pass those fears onto their kids and grandkids. Even if the younger generations can’t pinpoint where those fears come from, we’re raised to have it.” The second barrier is financial. “It costs money to have the necessary gear to do outdoorsy things. You also usually need a car to get to those trails and public parks,” said Jasper. “There’s a lot of privilege that goes into outdoor recreation.” The third barrier is the absence of representation. Whether we like it or not, the perception of outdoor recreation correlates to advertising used to sell outdoor gear. Activities like hiking and camping have long been marketed as “things white people do.” When a brand’s Instagram feed is filled with images of fit white people, it sends a subliminal message that outdoor recreation is only meant for people that look like that. The fourth barrier is our society’s rigid idea of what it means to be outdoorsy. “Outdoor recreation doesn’t have to be a 10-day backpacking trip in the backcountry; it can be a walk or bike ride through your city park. We need to redefine what we see as outdoor recreation,” said Jasper. “You don’t have to be in Patagonia attire to be outdoorsy. Do I have to wear my Chacos with socks every time I go outside? No. I have meetings to go to and work to do. Sometimes, I like to get dressed up and be outside in my office attire. Other times, I’ll go into the woods and come back with twigs in my hair. You can be both. It’s not one or the other.”
Everyone outside In preparation for Jasper’s new show, she went on a 10-day backpacking trip led by the National Outdoor Leadership School. It was the first time it taught a course exclusively for people of color. “The landscape was beautiful, I learned a ton about outdoor leadership and technical backpacking skills — but the most profound part was the community building,” said Jasper. “I don’t know if or when I’ve ever been with people of color for 10 days straight in my life!” The backpackers still keep in touch to this day — mostly online — and continue supporting each other’s journeys in outdoor recreation. “We’re all reading Adrienne Maree Brown’s book ‘Pleasure Activism.’ In it, she talks about the concept of joyful solidarity, which is solidarity built out of positive experiences together rather than out of resistance to trauma. That’s something I gained from my trip and that I carry with me today. I want to use this show as a platform to help other people see that it can happen for them, too, and increase visibility where it’s already happening today.” The importance of welcoming everyone to the outdoors extends beyond social justice. Excluding people of color from outdoor spaces means that fewer people join political fights for environmental justice. People don’t protect places they don’t have a connection with, and folks who hike, bike, climb or kayak are more likely to take actions that promote sustainability. For well-meaning white folks looking to be better allies, Jasper said, “Leverage your privilege to help other people and elevate their narratives. Remember that your way isn’t the only way, there’s not a certain type of person that should or should not be in the outdoors, and, for people of color, it isn’t as simple as just going outside.” For those in underrepresented groups looking to develop a connection with the outdoors, Jasper encourages joining an affinity group to gain a sense of community and get guidance on the technical aspects of outdoor recreation. Happy hiking, friends.
ALICE JASPER COURTESY DAVID SPECHT
Check out Alice’s suggestions for outdoor groups: Unlikely Hikers @UnlikelyHikers Brown Girls Climb Browngirlsclimb.com Outdoor Asian Outdoorasian.com Outdoor Afro Outdoorafro.com Melanin Base Camp Melaninbasecamp.com Latino Outdoors Latinooutdoors.org
“It can be a walk or bike ride through your city park. We need to redefine what we see as outdoor recreation.” Alice Jasper
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VOTING ENDS AUGUST 7, 2020
Winners will be announced in the January 2021 issue of Grand Rapids Magazine!
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look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY
EXPERT
Our bees are at risk
page 26
» PLUS: L ANDSC APING TIPS HIKING WITH GOATS YETI'S NEWEST COOLER
Bee keeper Chuck Bauer talks about ways to support bee colonies with your summer plants. P H OTO G R A P H BY I S TO C K GR M AG .CO M
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look + feel / wellness
Leah Sienkowski runs Dreamgoats and serves as part of Ada Christian School's outdoor education program.
WELLNESS
Take a hike with Nubian goats Dreamgoats offers several opportunities to enjoy the companionship of goats. BY ROBIN GOULD
At first glance, Ada Christian School looks like a normal elementary school. The sound of goats bleating, however, says otherwise. Hidden in the school’s backyard sits a small farm with Nubian goats, chickens, a vegetable farm and selfproclaimed Herd Queen Leah Sienkowski. In 2016, Sienkowski decided she wanted to share and grow her passion for goats and farming. Using the crowdfunding website Kickstarter, Sienkowski was able to raise enough money to start her own farm, Dreamgoats. Now, it is benefitting students, teachers and the community. Sienkowski’s passion radiated as she gave one of her goats, Joy, a good scratch behind the ear. She laughed as Joy nudged her hand for more attention, “Goats are hard not to like and they each have their own personality.” She currently has five female goats: Franny, Rain Dance, Beau, Belle and, of course, Joy. Most of them are in heat. For Sienkowski, breeding season is her favorite time of the year. She explained, 22
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“When I worked on another farm prior to this, I stayed around for kidding season and saw the magic of baby goats.” This led her to want her own herd. Sienkowski recently joined Ada Christian’s outdoor education program. Part of her job is to make sure each grade completes its weekly farm responsibilities. The third graders feed the chickens, fourth grade tends to the vegetable garden and the fifth graders care for the goats in specific chore teams. This is therapeutic and educational for all the students. Anna TerBeek, whose daughters went through the Dreamgoats program, fell in
love with it. “I saw what a great experience my daughter was having being involved with goat care. She was learning to love and care for the goats and, along with that, she was learning more about farming, sustainability and all things outdoors,” explained TerBeek. The family eventually decided to get its own goats and adopted Joy’s kids, Willow and Walnut. TerBeek believes the goats have encouraged her kids to be outdoors more often and sees it as a huge health advantage. “As a family, we have spent more time outside since we have had goats,” she said. “They join us on hikes through the woods SIENKOWSKI COURTESY DREAMGOATS
Dreamgoats offers a handful of opportunities to spend time with its goats, whether you want to take a walk with them or purchase a bar of soap made from goat's milk.
“Goats are hard not to like and they each have their own personality.” Leah Sienkowski
GOATS, SOAP COURTESY DREAMGOATS
around our property, play in the snow and go sledding with us in the winter, join us for bonfires, and more.” Along with getting outside, the goats have given the family a calming presence. “If any of us are having a rough day, it always seems to be a little brighter after spending some time with Willow and Walnut,” TerBeek said. Fortunately, you don’t necessarily have to start your own goat farm to enjoy the health benefits of goats. Dreamgoats makes its goats available to the general public with a handful of opportunities. There are many ways you can get involved. Many people have volunteered to be milkmaids, which
means they care for, feed, check in on and milk the goats when needed. You and your family also can own your own herdshare. Last year, Dreamgoats provided fresh milk to 20 families. The most popular way to experience time with the goats is to take part in Sunday Goat Hikes. With the guidance of a goat herder, walk 45 minutes of trails with your friends and the best walking partners in town. The goats love their walks, where they get to stretch their legs, scratch their backs on the trees and enjoy snack time throughout the trails. Imagine taking your dog to the dog park, but with goats instead. It is a dreamy experience. If one-on-one time with goats isn’t your thing, but you’d still love to support Dreamgoats, look into purchasing all-organic goat milk soaps made right in the barn. The fatty acid and Vitamin C moisturizes while giving you a fresh, deep clean. Experience farm life first-hand and plan a visit today at dreamgoats.com. Located at 6206 Ada Drive SE. GR M AG .CO M
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GEAR
Stay cool Yeti's newest cooler is the perfect companion for your next journey. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
Improving on its Roadie 20 Cooler, the Roadie 24 Hard Cooler is Yeti's answer to several customer suggestions. The cooler is lighter, has a greater capacity and keeps beverages colder for longer. It also fits better behind the driver's or passenger's seat, and it incorporates a more comfortable handle for easier carrying. This cooler is ready to accompany you wherever you travel this summer.
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Roadie 24 Hard Cooler, $199.99, yeti.com
COOLER COURTESY YETI
look + feel / home
Period style homes For period style homes, the Georgian, Italianate, Craftsman or Cape Cod, gardens usually work the best. Squires explained, “Formal gardens being well rooted in history serve period homes well. ‘Formal’ does not necessarily mean having your own personal Versailles; rather, a formal landscape tends to draw from the use of symmetry, a central axis or defined garden beds. Think clipped boxwood hedges bordering a cottage garden bed. You can really play with color.”
HOME
3 landscape looks Bring your home’s style outdoors. BY ROBIN GOULD
After pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fisheries and wildlife from Michigan State University, Amy Squires was asked the question, “How can I create a backyard haven that will promote wildlife?” She was intrigued and further pursued her education, earning a master’s degree in landscape architecture from the University of Michigan. Now a successful landscape architect, Squires’ passion lies with environmental sustainability and how one can transform their outdoor space into a wildlife sanctuary. For those with a brown thumb, even you can design the garden of your dreams, according to Squires. It is important to ask questions, study your space and where the sun/shade appear in your yard. Squires recommends you experience your space before designing and explore the views from the inside to the outside. Do you want to see your kids playing outside or look out into a garden? Figure out your priorities before designing. Squires uses the SketchBook app with an electronic pen. The first year is crucial for plant life, so make sure to read plant journals and charts at your local garden center to properly plant your garden. “When choosing a landscape to complement your home, there really is no one-size-fits-all,” Squires said. “The home’s architecture, the natural surroundings and your lifestyle should be woven into the surrounding landscape.” Squires spoke about three types of homes, giving landscape ideas for each. LANDSCAPING, FLOWERS ISTOCK
Amy’s favorite garden picks
‘Purple Sensation’ Allium aflatunense Full sun “These beauties are full of whimsy and come in many varieties. Kids love them!”
Modern homes When creating a garden for a modern home, Squires’ advice is to stick to the formal structure of the home. “A modern landscape lends itself well to the simple, straight lines of modern homes. Landscapes may still have a formal structure but have a more restricted palette either in color, form or texture. These landscapes favor structure over whimsy and lack the impressionistic color palette. Try planting plant varieties in large masses for impact.”
‘Bulthouse’ Buxus microphylla Sun/partial shade “Try using these in a spherical shape rather than a hedge for an updated look.”
Mid-century modern homes These homes are unique, and the landscape shouldn’t be any different. “These, too, have a minimalistic plant palette,” Squires said. “If the region supports, these homes do well with large statement plants and the use of negative space. But the use of native grasses does remarkably well. Explore the use of long lines to help strengthen the lines of the architecture.”
‘Orange Flame’ Acer palmatum Full sun “Beautiful upright maple with fall leaves that look like flames.”
“When choosing a landscape to complement your home, there really is no one-size-fits-all.” Amy Squires
Plant options, structures and layout designs are endless, so do not be afraid to open yourself up to experimenting. If you just want something simple, the naturalistic or “modern prairie” garden is common and can be used for any type of home design. The most important thing about landscapes is to create something you love and to have fun while doing it.
Japanese forest grass Hakonechloa macra Part sun/shade “Brightens up shady spots with a tropicallike lushness.”
Black Eyed Susan Rudbeckia fulgida var fulgida Full sun “A happy flower with plenty of nostalgia.” Purple moor grass Molinia caerulea Sun/light shade “Has a wonderful vertical structure with delicate seed heads that seem to dance in the sun.” GR M AG .CO M
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look + feel / expe t
"Bees need wild blooming flowers and trees to achieve a varied diet just like we need a varied diet. They can't survive on one plant type." Chuck Bauer
EXPERT
Bee friendly Turn your landscaping into a bee haven. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
Chuck Bauer, president of the Grand Rapids Bee Club, has been a beekeeper for 12 years. He currently cares for 24 hives. “I can track my interest in honeybees back to when I was 8 to 10 years old and our family visited a nature center that had an ‘observation beehive,’” he said. “Of course, I always liked bugs anyway. I used to catch honeybees in a glass mayonnaise jar in the school yard by our house.” As honeybees face increasingly challenging circumstances — bee populations are declining at a rapid rate — there has been an increased focus on how to help bees survive. 26
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Bauer said it’s not just honeybees either. “All bees are in trouble, all pollinators are in trouble, loss of habitat, pesticides, parasites, some say climate change, and some say the cell phone signals might be causing problems,” he said. “I think it’s mostly habitat loss, pesticides and in the honeybees’ case, the varroa mite, a parasite that lives on the honeybee, introduced to the United States in 1986. The varroa mite can kill a colony of honeybees in several months.” So why have the honeybees gotten the majority of the attention? “The biggest difference between the honeybee and
‘other bees’ is the honeybee lives in huge colonies, 60,000 to 80,000 members in the summer months. Because of their large colony size, they are much better pollinators. Our orchards, blueberries and other cultivated crops need 1-2 beehives per acre to achieve ‘good’ pollination. The other bee types such as the mason bees or solitary bees have very low colony sizes, but they are still beneficial pollinators.” This summer, as you begin to plant your flowerbeds, window boxes and even produce gardens, Bauer said there are several things to keep in mind that can help bees. “When purchasing plants, check the label for pesticides that are used. Some nurseries have plants labeled ‘pollinator friendly,’” Bauer said. “Some nursery plants are treated with a systemic pesticide (that) turns the entire plant into poison. The bee takes up the pollen and nectar and if the bee gets back to its colony, more bees consume the poison and it will probably kill them. Most of those poisons are known as neonicotinoids — most corn and soybeans seeds contain it.” Other suggestions include, “avoiding mowing in ditches, don't plant the crops all the way to the fence, leave a ‘fence row’ of wild plants for the pollinators. Plant white Dutch clover in your lawns, and don't use weed killers.” Additionally, Bauer said bees need "wild blooming flowers and trees to achieve a varied diet just like we need a varied diet. They can't survive on one plant type." HONEYBEES ISTOCK
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food+drink DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS
El Granjero Mexican Grill's shrimp tostada
» PLUS: SUMMER SIPS MAKING THYME KITCHEN TABLE
Great carryout page 30
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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The Mitten Brewing Co.'s Curse of the Goat pizza is made with tomato basil sauce, house handpinched sausage, goat cheese, fresh basil and peppadew peppers.
What’s for dinner? TABLE
The best takeout restaurants around town. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
// PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO
Under normal circumstance, our Table piece is devoted to a local restaurant, but as our June issue went into production, we were staring at an unfamiliar scenario. All of our restaurants were under orders to operate as carryout-only businesses due to COVID-19. When this magazine reaches your mailbox, we don’t know if restaurants will be open for dine-in service again or if they will still be operating as carryout-only spots — or if some of them will have succumbed to the economic ripple effects of the virus. So instead of offering you a profile of one restaurant, we decided to take a look at some of the city’s best carryout spots and what makes them so great. We hope that all of these locations have weathered the storm and thank all of the food service professionals for their service. 30
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food + drink / table
The restaurant is known for its tortilla chips, which it makes on site using locally sourced tortillas from El Milago. WEST SIDE El Granjero Mexican Grill 950 Bridge St. NW Owned by mother-daughter team Mercedes Lopez-Duran and Paola Mendivil, this Mexican hotspot is located on Grand Rapids’ West Side. Though customers often fill El Granjero’s dining room, the restaurant has a robust carryout service — it even has a drive thru window for to-go orders. The restaurant is known for its tortilla chips, which it makes on site using locally sourced tortillas from El Milago — cutting them into wedges and then frying them until they are lightly crisped. It also offers authentic Mexican dishes, some of which are prepared using ancient tools like the molcajete (a large mortar and pestle). The Mitten Brewing Co. 527 Leonard St. NW The Mitten is a great spot for takeout on the city’s West Side. Not only can you order one of its creative pizzas, like the popular Westerdog, but the restaurant recently added new equipment behind the bar that allows it to offer 16-ounce cans of any of the beers on tap, in addition to already packaged beer. So, grab a pizza and your choice of beer on your way out.
Popular items from El Granjero Mexican Grill include barbacoa tacos, homemade chips and guacamole (top). New Hotel Mertens is offering a rotation of its risottos to-go each week, including the mushroom risotto (right).
MIDTOWN Erb Thai 950 Wealthy St SE Erb Thai celebrated its 10th anniversary in April. The Thai restaurant is a popular spot for takeout along the Wealthy Street corridor, offering gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside traditional favorites. It has an extensive menu for a carryout restaurant. If you are short on time, this is a great option as most orders are ready within 10 minutes. GR M AG .CO M
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food + drink / table
The deliveries are made by an in-house team, rather than a third-party service.
El Granjero Mexican Grill's Enfrijoladas (above) consist of tortillas dipped in bean sauce, filled with shredded chicken and topped with chorizo and cheese. This dish is served with rice and beans.
SOUTH SIDE Mudpenny Café 570 Grandville Ave. SW A relative newcomer, Mudpenny Café is located on the city’s southwest side. The café serves up breakfast and lunch items like sandwiches, wraps and salads. If you’re stopping in for takeout on the way into work, it has great pancake options as well as a build-your-own breakfast sandwich. And, of course, a coffee to-go is a great addition to your order. Mudpenny has plans to open a second location this summer in Ada, too. Taqueria San Jose 1338 S. Division Ave. A Mexican taco stand housed in a converted gas station, Taqueria San Jose is a delicious takeout option. It’s also a budget-friendly option, with everything on the menu priced under $10. While this taco shop might look small, it’s menu is mighty, offering everything from pork, steak, beef and fish to goat, tongue and tripe, as well as veggie options. On a nice day, you can take your takeout directly outside and find a spot on one of several picnic benches set up for guests. This is a great outdoor communal dining spot.
New Hotel Mertens' Steak Frites meal includes a steak topped with maitre d'hotel butter, french fries and a watercress arugula salad.
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NORTH SIDE Field & Fire Café 820 Monroe Ave. NW This bright café located in the North Monroe neighborhood offers breakfast and lunch options. The pastry case is stocked daily with croissants, muffins, macarons and more, plus enjoy breakfast items like a breakfast burrito or skillet. If you are looking for heartier fare, choose from Field & Fire’s sandwich, salad or bowl options. And make sure to check out the daily specials.
DOWNTOWN New Hotel Mertens 35 Oakes St. SW New Hotel Mertens is located in the midst of downtown Grand Rapids and is owned by Anthony Tangorra. The French restaurant includes an adjoining bakery where you can pick up a variety of pastry options to go. The restaurant also began offering a delivery service for its bakery items in August 2019. The restaurant aims to compete with national chains for the lunch crowd, offering delivery services during the morning and afternoon hours. The deliveries are made by an in-house team, rather than a thirdparty service. New Hotel Mertens Bakery offers items such as breakfast sandwiches, croissants, breads, build-your-own chopped salads, coffee and specialty French candies.
EASTOWN & GASLIGHT VILLAGE Harmony Brewing Co. 1551 Lake Dr SE Pizza and beer are a perfect pairing and Harmony Brewing Co. delivers both. Eastown’s Harmony enhanced its takeout service a few years ago with an expansion to accommodate carryout orders, and it added delivery service, as well. The service is offered seven days a week from noon to 8 p.m. to the surrounding community. The brewery is known for its creative pizza options with a menu that includes 20 different pizzas, as well as several different beer options. Yesterdog 1505 Wealthy St. SE If you are looking for a hotdog fix, there is no better option than Yesterdog. An Eastown staple since 1976, this restaurant is a no frills location that is full of charm. Your dog will be smothered in the toppings of your choice and is sure to leave you full. This also is one of your best bets if you are looking for latenight carryout. Yesterdog is open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Grand Rapids has a plethora of great takeout options. Order your next meal from one of these top spots.
Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine 2228 Wealthy St. SE Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine offers Mediterranean fare focused on “fresh greens, hearty grains and aromatic spices.” The restaurant is located in Gaslight Village and offers grilled meat dishes as well as a vegan/vegetarian menu. The restaurant is family owned and has its beginnings in Beirut, Lebanon. GR M AG .CO M
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CREATE
Summersong punch Try this cocktail on a warm summer afternoon. BY TORY O’HAIRE
// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO
Here’s a pretty cocktail to help you greet a sunny afternoon, and to christen your patio or garden for the summer season. Ingredients: Single serving: 1 ounce cognac or brandy ½ ounce apricot liqueur (or in a pinch, melt and strain some apricot jam and skip the simple syrup in the cocktail) ¼ ounce simple syrup ¾ ounce lemon juice 1 strawberry, diced A few mint leaves Champagne, to top Lemon slices, strawberry and mint to garnish Ratios for a party-size batch: 5 ounces cognac or brandy 3 ounces apricot liqueur 1.5 ounces simple syrup 3 ounces lemon juice 1 bottle champagne Preparation: Combine initial ingredients with mint and strawberry in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake gently to chill and muddle the fruit and mint. Strain into a punch glass and top with champagne. Garnish and go sit in the sun.
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food + drink / chee s
The Apple Pie InBooze kit (right) is perfect for creating seasonalflavored drinks (below).
CHEERS
InBooze your own adventure
Cocktail infusion kits make mixing drinks easy. BY ADAM RUSSO
Blackberry Gin Smash 1. Fill a container with two or more cups of gin. 2. Place the infusion bag into the alcohol. 3. Put a lid on the container. Let sit for two to three days. 4. Remove the infusion bag and strain. 5. To serve, pour the infused gin over ice, top with lemon-lime soda or sparkling water and garnish with a lemon wedge.
Add a splash of spirited flavor to your next cookout, dinner party or game night. InBooze infusion kits are a fresh take on the handcrafted cocktail. The teabag-style pouches simplify the flavor infusion process and leave out the extra sugar, preservatives and chemicals found in traditional mixers. “I’ve always been known as someone who can make a great drink,” InBooze founder Ashleigh Evans said. “With a background in hospitality, I enjoy keeping up with the latest cocktail trends and techniques.” Before starting InBooze, Evans regularly created “Saturday Sip” content on Snapchat. Each week, she demonstrated a different drink recipe. Followers frequently commented that the drinks looked delicious but were too complicated to make at home. As a result, InBooze was born. InBooze contains pre-stuffed pouches filled with just the right blend of dehydrated fruits, vegetables or herbs required to make classic cocktail recipes like a Margarita, Old Fashioned or Moscow Mule. Seasonal flavors like mulling spice also are available. The majority of the ingredients are sourced from Michigan, including Traverse City cherries. Herbs, berries and even the jalapenos also are from the Mitten State. “Essentially, everything except the citrus is sourced from Michigan,” Evans said. “As a small business, it’s important that I support local products.” The concept is catching on. InBooze sales have quadrupled in the past year and Evans is hosting more retail popup events. InBooze has become a staple for bachelorette parties, housewarming gift baskets and stay-at-home date nights. Some infusers have created their own unique combinations, like using Berry Lavender Lemonade to make a fun summer sangria with rosé and vodka. For people who don't like tequila but enjoy sweet drinks, many have infused rum with the Strawberry Margarita kit to create a daiquiri. Evans encourages the creativity. “The apron I wear says ‘InBooze Your Own Adventure,’ inspiring people to have fun with their infusions,” she said.
KIT AND DRINK COURTESY SAMANTHA RUTH PHOTOGRAPHY GIN SMASH COURTESY ASHLEIGH EVANS
InBooze contains pre-stuffed pouches filled with just the right blend of dehydrated fruits, vegetables or herbs required to make classic cocktail recipes.
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MUST-TRY
Making time Making Thyme Kitchen to the rescue. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
Maybe you planned to cook dinner, but your day got busy and by the time you left work, those grand dinner plans were out the window. That’s where Making Thyme Kitchen, 2409 Eastern Ave. SE, is ready to step in. The prepared meal company offers oven-ready entrees, side dishes, salads and sweets from its Alger Heights location. It also has a weekly meal delivery service. “We help planners stock up for a couple of weeks, provide dinners for tonight because the day was crazy, cater healthy lunches for business meetings,” explained Ken Bryan, who co-owns Making Thyme Kitchen with his wife Karen. “Customers buy salads and sides to go with something they are preparing or stock up on our pasties for a rainy day. We also help small households of one or two people and seniors who have a hard time shopping and preparing meals.” The business celebrates 15 years this year. It got its start at Fountain Street Church, then spent time on Cherry Street and at the Downtown Market before settling into its home in the Alger Heights neighborhood in fall 2018. Making Thyme is similar to meal kit delivery services but without the prep work. All of the food is delivered ready to pop in the oven. “Customers come to us because we make everything from scratch, using fresh whole foods prepped in a kitchen they can see, and we are local.” During the spring, Making Thyme saw an uptick in orders due to COVID-19, but Bryan thinks the trend for prepared meals will continue to increase in the future to meet families’ hectic lives. “When we started, it was hard to get customers to understand the value of home delivery — that isn’t a hurdle anymore. While these trends (meal kit services) are positively impacting our business — with awareness — they are also providing us with customers 36
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Making Thyme Kitchen offers prepared foods like its popular Cubano stuffed buns (pictured here) and an assortment of entrées (below).
who don’t want to do the prep work; don’t want all the packaging; and who don’t want what is essentially still ‘factory’ food.” Bryan is hopeful that the business soon will be able to offer a wider selection of products and outdoor seating. “We are really grateful for the support we have received since our move to Alger Heights, from our existing customer base and from the new neighborhood customers.” He added, “To have achieved 15 years in business and to have owned and operated as a married couple feels like a real accomplishment.”
Making Thyme is similar to meal kit delivery services but without the prep work.
PREPARED FOOD COURTESY MAKING THYME KITCHEN
TOP 5
Perfect patios Soak up the summer sun. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
Summer is patio season and Grand Rapids is bursting with places to dine al fresco. Here are a few of our favorites throughout the city. Nestled along Reeds Lake, Rose’s outdoor patio ensures a beautiful view any time of day. From boats to birds, you’ll be entertained as you bask in the sunlight. If it gets a little too toasty, the patio is equipped with large umbrellas.
In Uptown, visit Maru for lunch or dinner and enjoy the sunshine. The Maru patio overlooks the entryway to Brewery Vivant and gives you a glimpse of people strolling along Cherry Street. Several of the tables come equipped with umbrellas in case you need a break from the sun’s direct rays. Butcher’s Union offers two outdoor patios. Sit out front on the sidewalk
and enjoy the bustle of Bridge Street or relax in the restaurant’s more shaded courtyard out back. The courtyard offers a more intimate feeling and is perfect for some lunchtime gossip. Monroe Center is always busy during the summer months and The Littlebird’s patio gives you a front row view. Sit here and you’ll likely see friends or co-workers passing by. This is a
Rose's lakeside patio is a popular spot during the summer months.
ROSE'S PATIO COURTESY THE GILMORE COLLECTION LIZ DELLA CROCE COURTESY THE LEMON BOWL ILLUSTRATION RACHEL IDZERDA
great choice when Rosa Parks Circle has a band or other entertainment taking place. You can still hear the entertainment while enjoying a meal. Outdoor seating in the Creston neighborhood can be found at Lucy’s. This is a great spot to go if you want to dine outside while enjoying brunch. Offering plenty of tables, Lucy’s outdoor patio overlooks Plainfield Avenue.
editor's pick I do a lot of cooking at home, but I tend to find myself rotating between a handful of the same recipes. It can be hard to stay creative with meal options with a fulltime job and busy social life. So, I often turn to food blogs or googling recipes for new ideas. One great local source for recipes is The Lemon Bowl. Since 2010, Grand Rapids resident Liz Della Croce has been posting recipes, travel and fitness information on her food and lifestyle blog. The great thing about Della Croce’s site is how easy it is to navigate and search for recipes. Her extensive recipe index includes over 40 categories, including “5 ingredients or less,” “Bbq and grilling,” “Kid and toddler friendly recipes,” “Seasonal recipes” and more. So, if you are trying to answer the question “what’s for dinner?” visit The Lemon Bowl, thelemonbowl.com.
CHARLSIE DEWEY MANAGING EDITOR, GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE GR M AG .CO M
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TWO FUN WAYS TO
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THIS SUMMER Camping is a favorite Michigan summer pastime, but in recent years, innovative Michiganders have been taking camping to another level by adding amenities and finding ways to increase social activities. From glamping to adult summer camps, this summer’s camping trip promises to be even more enjoyable.
LAKE SCENE ISTOCK
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The Fields in South Haven offers an amenity-filled experience that levels up your camping trip.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FIELDS
SUMMER GLAMPING
No need to pack a tent for your trip to The Fields.
BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON
JOEY’S HERE, the vintage pick-up truck that will tote you back to your tent for the weekend. You’re just in time for Pie Happy Hour. It’s fresh-baked. Strawberry-rhubarb, maybe, or peach. A cattle farmer named Dave will have your campfire started. S’mores? Your marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate bars are served on a plate. Sure, this is camping. Sort of. Well, not really. It’s luxury camping at The Fields in South Haven. Call it “glamping,” a trendy blend of glamour and camping. Your tent features a king-size bed with luxury linens, a private bath with sink, shower, towels and high-end toiletries. Leave your Coleman lantern at home. These tents boast lamps and chandeliers. The high-end tents are situated on a 10-acre working blueberry farm. “It has everything you need,” said Irene Wood, The Fields owner and your host. HERE’S A SNEAK PEEK OF YOUR WEEKEND How will a weekend at The Fields unfold? Friday night, after Pie Happy Hour with live local music, you can order dinner prepared by a chef who used to work at the Ritz Carlton. Or order a dinner kit to grill yourself. Enjoy a campfire, roasted marshmallows, smoosh some s’mores. Most guests hit the hay by 10 or 11, Wood said, tired from traveling. Saturday starts with complimentary breakfast, then head out to enjoy your day. Maybe bike to the South Haven farmers market, then take a winery tour. How about a workshop at the Ox-Bow School of Art, or a retro boat rental? Wood can recommend one of her favorite restaurants for dinner out. When you return for the evening, your room is ready, and your campfire is roaring. Sunday morning might start with yoga, followed by a late breakfast. Check out is 11 a.m. Wood sees a lot of guests exchanging contact info before they leave. She loves that part. “I’m a connector,” she said. “My favorite kind of weekend is when nobody knows each other.”
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WHO’S IN THE TENTS? On a full weekend, about 30 guests are lounging around, staying in 15 tents. “We know them by name,” Wood said. “It’s very intimate. They send us Christmas cards and handwritten thank you notes.” Last year she hosted 1,200 guests, most of them age 40-70 who didn't bring kids. But kids are welcome. Dogs, too. “Most of our guests are not campers,” she said. “Campers find it hard to justify a $300night stay. Our guests don’t want to pitch their own tent, blow up their mattress or buy a bunch of gear. They want more solitude than a crowded campground. They want the finer things. They want to be served.” PREPARE TO BE PAMPERED “Your bed is made, your food is delivered, your campfire is started, your s’mores ingredients show up on a plate,” Wood said. “Just turn off your brain and enjoy. “When you go regular camping, the list of things you have to bring is so long,” she said. “When you come here, just throw a few clothes in a bag. Bring sunglasses, a hat, your swimsuit, some flip flops. A basket if you want to pick blueberries. You can fit it all in a duffle bag.” Forget your blueberry basket? She’ll give you a zip-lock bag. “It’s seamless,” she said. Wood doesn’t have a liquor license yet, so it’s also BYOB. YOUR ITINERARY, SIR Part of the pampering is the itinerary Wood creates for you. No wandering aimlessly around town looking for stuff to do and places to eat. Unless that’s what you want. “We’re constantly on the lookout for cool things to do in town,” she said. Wood will chat with you for an hour on the phone when you book your stay so she can whip up your perfect itinerary. A walking meditation on a farm? Goat yoga? Retro boat rental? Art class? A drumming circle? Sheep shearing? Wine tasting? A bike rally? “We know all the hidden gem places to send guests,” she said. “It’s like we’re hosting them at our own home. It’s like an outdoor B&B.” She loves showing off South Haven. “South Haven is just as pretty as Telluride, just as pretty as Aspen, just as pretty as Big Sky, Montana,” Wood said. “I’ve been to all those towns.” She’ll even suggest cool stops along the way from Detroit or Chicago, or wherever you’re coming from. A winery here, a brewery in an old church there. 42
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Irene Wood parlayed a past career in event planning and bartending into creating high-end glamping experiences for guests. Using her blueberry farm as a backdrop, guests enjoy Pie Happy Hour (top left), bonfires with s'mores (top right), local wine tastings (bottom left) and biking excursions (bottom right).
MEET IRENE Who is this woman who turned a blueberry field into a luxury camping destination? There’s no simple answer. She used to work in automotive engineering and pharmaceuticals but loves art history and women’s studies. She was a single mom at age 19. She’s traveled the world, visiting nearly every continent. She has four kids, ages 18 to 30, and three dogs. She bartended through college at Western Michigan University. “Bartending is the art of hosting,” she said. “It’s more intimate than just serving.” Wood grew up in South Haven, splitting time between her divorced parents. Her mom lived in town, her dad farmed corn and soybeans and raised pigs.
“I grew up groomed to work,” she said, doing chores on the farm. But she loved city life, too, living two blocks from the candy store and the movie theater. Combining luxury with a night outside under the stars makes sense to her. After she met her CEO husband, Cary Wood, she moved to Chicago and made a career of event planning. When he traveled the world for work, she went, too, meeting rice farmers in the paddies with their water buffalo and chatting with women selling ducks along the side of the road. “I fell in love with authentic, cultural travel,” she said. When her dad decided to sell his farm PHOTOS (BOTH PAGES) COURTESY OF THE FIELDS
AROUND THE STATE Michigan is filled with
camping options.
BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON
five years ago, she bought it, converted it to grapes, restored the falling-down 1880s barn, and rented the farmhouse out to tourists, who loved feeding the chickens and gardening during their stays. It was authentic. Just like the travel experiences she loved. A night in Montana sleeping in a luxury tent got her thinking. “I thought, I could do this. What kind of experience could I create that only I can do?” Her own farm didn’t meet zoning requirements. So, she bought a blueberry farm three miles down the road, equipped it with luxury tents, an attentive staff, an accomplished chef and fresh-baked pies.
Soon, she’ll add a small chapel. “Wedding planners love us,” she said. “The bohemian daughter has a space that suits her, but her parents still have luxury for their friends.” THE PRICE The cost for a night in a luxury tent at The Fields starts at $329 for two adults and varies from weekdays to weekends and depending on the season. There’s an additional charge of $100 for each child 12 or younger. “People come here if they’re looking for an experience they can’t get anywhere else,” she said. “It’s not just a place to sleep. “You wake up in a blueberry field.”
PREFER YOUR TENT with a chandelier, fresh, fluffy towels and scented soaps? Or so rustic there’s raccoon tracks on your sleeping bag? Either way, Courtney Sheffer can set you up. Michigan has a camping experience for everybody, said Sheffer, marketing director at the West Michigan Tourist Association. Including campers who don’t want to get their hands dirty. “We’ve definitely seen growth in the past couple years in the glamping lifestyle,” she said. “There are people who want to get outside and experience the gorgeous nature we have in Michigan, but without giving up their creature comforts. It opens up camping to a much wider audience — to people who don’t want all the nitty-gritty of nature.” She recommends The Fields in South Haven as the most high-end camping experience. “The Fields is such a unique offering right now, even among high-end glamping experiences,” Sheffer said. “It’s the most allinclusive experience. They’ll customize your visit for you. You won’t find that other places. “It’s an Instagram-worthy glamping trip.” She also steers luxury campers to the St. Joseph KOA, which offers raised platform glamping safari tents with a queen bed, futon couch, lighting, mini-fridge, air conditioning and paved patio. Timber Ridge RV and Recreation Resort in Traverse City offers deluxe yurts, Sheffer said, complete with beds, equipped kitchens and bathrooms with showers. Too fancy? Choose from 364 state park campgrounds or more than 1,000 privately run spots, she said. “The variety is huge,” Sheffer said. “From rustic campgrounds where you pack everything in and pack everything out to a high-end RV park you can rent for the whole summer.” Want to camp in the woods? Along the shore of a lake? Close to a quaint downtown? Where you can rent a kayak or canoe on site? Check, check, check and check. “We’re seeing continued growth on our website with people looking for camping experiences,” Sheffer said. “But the popular ones fill up fast.” Need help planning your camping or glamping adventure? Visit wmta.org. GR M AG .CO M
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ADULT SUMMER CAMP Summer camp is no longer just for kids. BY SAM EASTER
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THE INSPIRATION for Joel Reisig’s adult summer camp came, of all times, during a movie shoot. Reisig, an Ann Arbor-bred producer, was shooting a film in 2014 at Black River Farm and Ranch — a summer horse camp for girls — about 90 minutes north of Detroit. The movie’s cast and crew stayed on location for weeks, and Reisig and the others invested in making the experience feel like home. They threw dance parties; they played glow-in-the-dark sports; they sat around a bonfire at night. "And I thought, why in the world aren't I doing this, not just as a side effect of a movie that I'm shooting, but as an actual business?” Reisig said. “Because I think just about everybody I can reach who knows anything about it says, ‘Oh my gosh, I need that.’" By 2016, Reisig had launched Camp Forever Fun, a once-a-year weekend that hosts dozens of adults — usually in their late 20s or early 30s — to remake the summers of their childhood. The first year drew just 18 guests, but he said that number has since soared, and he hopes to have a sellout of 66 guests at this year’s camp, set for July 31-Aug. 2 in Bloomingdale. "My theme is, ‘Everything you love as a kid, plus craft beer,’” Reisig said. And the website more or less bears that out: Guests are seen in a promotional video shooting a bow, eating s’mores, doing lakeside yoga, paddling a canoe and waving sparklers at the campfire. And lest someone think the camp is just for young adults, Reisig stresses that “there are no ages” at Camp Forever Fun — “everybody at camp is 30.” He explains the aphorism cuts both ways: while the camp is open to adults of all ages, with some guests in their 60s attending, he’s also tried to cultivate a more relaxed atmosphere. This is not the kind of camp where the kids party late and wake up with hangovers. Though the business model has a more or less tried and true formula — adventure, alcohol and a half-ironic, half-nostalgic wink — there are countless variations, many of which came to the fore over the past decade. Camp No Counselors, a New York City-based brand, holds nationwide camps throughout the year, from Florida to Los Angeles. Camp Grounded — where guests shed their digital devices for the experience — is expected to offer sessions in CANOES ISTOCK
Camp Forever Fun encourages guests to take part in a slew of camp activities, but the real goal is forging new friendships and taking time to enjoy life out of an office. Adult summer camps are particularly popular with Millennials — many of whom are putting off marriage and families into their late 20s or 30s — looking for connection.
Northern California this summer. (Reisig, for his part, likes to describe Camp Forever Fun as splitting the difference between the camps that forbid phones and those that emphasize partying). "I don't take away people's cell phones, but I really encourage limited cell phone use,” he said. “Camp is not a spot for sharing funny YouTube videos. It's not a spot for doing Facebook for hours. And most people don't want to do this, because most of the time these people are stimulated in real life in a way they're usually not." And as adult summer camps flickered to life during the 2010s, more than a little ink has been spilled in trying to understand why the phenomenon is happening now — and why Generation X, for example, wasn’t spending a Saturday with arts, crafts and beer 20 years ago. BuzzFeed News, in a 2016 dispatch from a camp just north of Toronto, ARCHERY ISTOCK BONFIRE ISTOCK FLOAT ISTOCK
traced the allure through the alienating experience of young adult life. Suddenly thrust into the working world and out of the easier friendships of college living, millennials, mostly, are looking for a way to make genuine human connections. The Washington Post, quoting a camp director, puts a similar sentiment a bit more pithily: “Nostalgia is a hell of a drug for the 21-to-32 age demographic.” And Mel Magazine makes maybe the most clinical diagnosis, quoting psychologist Krystine Batcho of New York State’s Le Moyne College. Millennials, she told the magazine last year, are yearning for the kinds of interactions they’d traditionally get from the structure and routines of having a family — but instead are putting off until they’re older. “Millennials, in delaying marriage and having kids, need an alternative,” she said. “Adult summer camps are one way to fill
that hole.” Reisig prefers not to wade too far into these sociological weeds. "If something was really enjoyable, then why do we want to stop enjoying it?" he asked. He does acknowledge the attraction of a weekend forging genuine, face-to-face connections with people, though. “Postcollege, not a lot of us make friends. We become acquaintances with the people we work with, which is different than the way we meet people when we're in college.” That’s also why Reisig said that those who come alone often get more out of the experience. Camp Forever Fun’s premise isn’t as much about doing the activities, per se, as it is about experiencing new people and new connections in a way that guests don’t often do in their daily lives. "I would absolutely love to run multiple sessions all summer, and perhaps in multiple areas,” Reisig said. GR M AG .CO M
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amily F living
GR DADS SHARE HOW THEIR FAMILIES ENJOY THE CITY. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
WITH FATHER’S DAY TAKING PLACE ON JUNE 21, WE THOUGHT IT WAS THE PERFECT TIME TO TALK TO SOME GRAND RAPIDS DADS ABOUT HOW THEIR FAMILIES ENJOY THE CITY AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE MANY UNIQUE THINGS IT HAS TO OFFER.
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
TOP ROW (MIDDLE) AND MIDDLE KELLY SWEET ALL OTHERS ISTOCK
Todd Ernst
DAD: SPOUSE: BECKY ERNST KIDS: GAVIN, 18, JORDYN, 17
PETS: SKYLAR, 4-YEAR-OLD BLACK LAB; MEADOW,
2-YEAR-OLD GOLDEN RETRIEVER MIX NEIGHBORHOOD: ADA
T
odd and Becky Ernst both grew up in the Grand Rapids area, attending East Kentwood High School. The pair dated for three years during high school and then parted ways, reconnecting 12 years later, and marrying in 2001. Todd attended Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University, and Becky attended GRCC before the pair started their careers. Today, Todd is a broker/owner of River Grand Properties, a boutique real estate brokerage, and he owns a small events production company and the DJ collective Soundscape Design. Becky has been a pre-construction administrator at Rockford Construction for over 20 years. Though the couple thought about relocating to Chicago, when Becky discovered she was pregnant with their son, they made the decision to stay in Grand Rapids.
Q: What is one of your family’s favorite activities? I guess
it’s hard to say we have a singular favorite activity in GR, but we have always enjoyed urban exploration and roaming what some might consider the grittier parts of downtown. Since I am such an event-minded person, we always enjoy new ideas and attending events born out of the creative community.
PORTRAIT COURTESY TODD ERNST
Q: What’s a typical weekend like for your family?
I feel like much of parenthood on weekends has been attending our kids’ activities. Our son has always been on travel baseball teams, and our daughter on competitive dance teams. It’s been pretty intense at times with all of the travel, but the structure and discipline provided by each has paid dividends for itself. When baseball or dance is not happening, I hate to admit we often just enjoy a quiet weekend at home knowing that the busyness will be upon us before too long.
Q: How does Grand Rapids meet your family’s needs?
At heart both Becky and I are big city people. So much so we got married on the beach in South Beach, Miami, and really crave the electricity of places like Chicago, Las Vegas and even the grittiness of Detroit. That said, something you hear often about Grand Rapids is that it is the largest small city you will ever experience. Grand Rapids really can and does provide almost everything a person could want, and with organizations like DGRI leading the charge, there are always new and interesting activities coming forth.
Q: As your kids grow up, what do you love about Grand Rapids serving as the backdrop to their growth? As our kids
have grown what we love about Grand Rapids is the diverse nature of experiences, whether that is minor league sporting events, global touring acts coming through Van Andel Arena or the proximity of outdoor activities like Lake Michigan or ski resorts. Fun fact: Our son is the football player on the side of Kendall College. That came about via Rich App in the early ArtPrize years.
Q: What improvements does GR still need? Grand
The Ernst family (left to right): Jordyn, Becky, Todd and Gavin.
Rapids still has a lot of work to do on things like racial, gender and LGBTQ equality, but there are a handful of people doing great work and sometimes it just takes time to put points on the board, so to speak.
Q: What’s your family’s favorite takeout restaurant? Vitale’s Ada.
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The Fisher family (left to right): Faten, Ruby, Jordan and Lara.
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PORTRAIT KELLY SWEET
DAD:
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Jordan Fisher
SPOUSE: FATEN FISHER
KIDS: LARA, 3½ AND RUBY, BORN IN MARCH NEIGHBORHOOD: ADA/CASCADE
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ordan Fisher was born in one of Chicago’s northern suburbs, while his wife Faten was born in Beirut, Lebanon, but both of them grew up in Grand Rapids. A great job opportunity led the couple to Seattle, but they relocated a couple of years ago and are excited to be back in Grand Rapids. “We decided to move back to Grand Rapids after the sale of our home and a news article featuring the renovation of a desired building in the Wealthy Street corridor,” Jordan said. He turned one of the units in that “desired building” into Thelma’s Flowers, a flower shop serving the West Michigan community and named after his grandmother.
Q: What is one of your family’s favorite activities in GR? One of our
Q: Where is your family’s favorite takeout place?
Q: How does your family typically spend a weekend?
Q: What’s your favorite restaurant to go to as a family? Some
favorite activities is going to Griffins hockey games.
Our family typically spends a weekend opening Thelma's Flowers early Saturday morning with help from Lara Bear. We celebrate with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, massive coloring projects and puzzles that are celebrated with taco-time at Donkey. Sundays we relax, take care of home projects while visiting our local Ace Hardware and enjoying a clean car at Mister Car Wash before making forts and watching movies.
WAKE BOARDING COURTESY ACTION WAKE PARK
First Wok, Jet's Pizza, Tacos El Cuñado and Le Kabob.
of our favorite restaurants are Nonna's, Matchbox Diner, Donkey and The Chop House.
Q: What do you enjoy about the neighborhood you live in? We truly
enjoy the absolute convenience of our neighborhood and close proximity to nearly everything. From the airport, to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, you name it, we got it.
Q: As your kids grow up, what do you love about Grand Rapids serving as the backdrop to their growth?
We look forward to our children's development in a diverse society that allows them opportunity for growth with equality and respect for different cultures and beliefs.
Q: What would you like to see improve within the city/what does the city need more of for your family? The city
of Grand Rapids has a plethora of activities for families just not enough time in the day to enjoy them all. Note to the mayor: Scientifically find a way to add more time to each day for the citizens of Grand Rapids!
activities for you and your family GET OUT AND ENJOY THE CITY THIS SUMMER. BY ROBIN GOULD
Just as you welcome the first official month of summer with open arms, so do your kids. When the weather warms up, kids crave play. Fortunately, this top 15 family-fun activity guide is your new lifesaver. From water skiing to bottle-feeding calves, West Michigan has some of the best places for adventure.
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Critter Barn, 9275 Adams St. in Zeeland, has friendly critters for all ages. Children can hold baby chicks, milk a dairy goat, bottlefeed calves and learn about Michigan’s agriculture through numerous classes. For the general public, visiting the farm is donation based. Critter Barn is fun and educational, making this an easy decision for parents. The fresh lakes that surround the area are truly one of a kind. At Action Wake Park, 3320 Hudson Trails Drive, experience the water like never before with Michigan’s first and only cable park. Instead of boat towing, the rider is pulled around the lake with an overhead cable system. Learn to wake board, water ski and knee board in a controlled environment. The park is for all skill levels. It offers experienced coaches for first time riders and summer kids camps. Parents can watch their kids from the picnic area, which has patio seating and on-site food. For a state with so much water, take Action Wake Park advantage and learn to ride.
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Steven DePolo
DAD: SPOUSE: CAROLINE CLARK KIDS: LOURDIE, 14, QIQI, 18, TIFFANY SULLIVAN, 36 PETS: KAI, A HAVANESE RESCUE; K2, A TERRIER MIX NEIGHBORHOOD: EAST HILLS
S
teven DePolo grew up in the Detroit area. He attended graduate school in Philadelphia followed by a 10-year stint in New York City. “I moved to Grand Rapids after getting laid off in 2001 to be closer to my mother and sister who had moved to the area,” he said. Meanwhile, his wife Caroline grew up in Santiago, Chile. She did a high school exchange program in Zeeland, eventually moving to the area with her sister and attending Grand Valley State University, where she received her LMSW. Today, Caroline is enjoying her retirement, while Steven serves as the director of development for Covenant House Michigan in Grand Rapids. The couple’s kids attend Grand Rapids Public Schools and are involved in several activities.
Q: What made you decide to stay in Grand Rapids? TreeRunner Adventure Park
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TreeRunner Adventure Park, 2121 Celebration Drive NE, lets you travel through the trees and climb high with the various climbing courses, seven aerial trails and a 365-foot Mega Zip Line. With over 30 obstacles and three difficulty levels, even Tarzan can’t keep up. It also has a Junior Park for kids ages 4 to 7. There are two special events that happen each month. The most popular is Glow Nights. Once a month the park glows with colored LED lights and music. The colored forest will light your path. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance because they sell out quickly.
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Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road, does not close its doors when summer arrives. In fact, the snow globe turns into a summer fun land, offering a zipline adventure tour and 11 miles of free and safe woodland trails. In the evenings, join the Grand Rapids Symphony for a Picnic Pops concert.
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I wanted to stay in the area to be closer to my family, which included my nephews. But I also found it to be a friendly community that makes it easy to make a difference. The ability to enjoy an urban lifestyle while having hiking trails and Lake Michigan beaches within an hour is amazing. The generosity of the community is amazing, which helps my career in nonprofit development.
Q: What do you enjoy about the neighborhood you live in? It is very
walkable. Nearly everything we need is within walking distance. Groceries at Wealthy Market, good food at the Green Well Gastro Pub, coffee at The Sparrows and wine and kitchen staples at Art of the Table.
Q: What is one of your family’s favorite activities in GR? Three or four
times a week, my wife and I like to walk our dogs along Wealthy Street to Eastown and then back down Lake Drive. It's a great time to catch up, get healthy and see how the neighborhood is evolving. I also try to take my camera if there is some light to practice my photography skills.
Q: How does your family typically spend a weekend?
We really enjoy all of the trails surrounding Grand Rapids. Some of our favorites are in Seidman Park, Plaster Creek and Provin Trails. My wife calls it forest bathing. We hike them in the warmer months and cross country ski them in the winter — at least my wife does; I fall mostly.
Q: Have any of your kids participated in any sports, clubs, etc.? Lourdie
has played soccer through Grand Rapids Parks and Rec since she was 5 years old. She has played basketball, volleyball and baseball through school, and she has sung with Girls Choral Academy for five years. She has also performed in several productions with Stage GR. Theater is lots of work and I'm a proud stage dad. My daughter Qiqi took karate at a dojo in Eastown and practiced aerial gymnastics for several years in addition to playing soccer in school.
Q: What’s your favorite restaurant to go to as a family? I have taken
Lourdie, who we adopted from Haiti, to Chez Olga for Haitian food nearly every week for 10 years. Olga is like an aunt for Lourdie.
Q: What would you like to see improve within the city/ what does the city need more of for your family? There
needs to be more low-income housing so families can be safe and secure in their own homes. We can't push people out of Grand Rapids through gentrification, but integrate the city with low-, mediumand high-income people living together.
Q: As your kids grow up, what do you love about Grand Rapids serving as the backdrop to their growth?
I love that there are many resources for my children to complement their education and grow in their interests, from sports to an excellent library system. The streets are safe, the parks are convenient (and) having City Middle High School as an option for children with the drive and ability to excel academically.
GLOW TREE COURSE COURTESY OF TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARK
The DePolo Family (left to right) Steven, Caroline and Lourdie.
PORTRAIT KELLY SWEET
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If sculpture and garden parks intrigue you, hop over to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. You can enjoy various concerts at the Fifth Third Bank pavilion throughout the summer, too. Don’t miss out on your favorite musician. There also are many activities for kids such as Grandparent and Me and Silly Sculpture. Deer Tracks Junction
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Deer Tracks Junction, 7850 14 Mile Road, is all about ice cream and animals. You’ll find an ice cream shop, animal park and a chance to feed animals when you visit. You can race rubber ducklings in the duck race tank or pet animals such as camels, alpacas, deer, elk, donkeys, bunnies and more. The creature list is endless. There are different play areas that involve tunnels and giant slides, as well.
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There are many camps and classes available at John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton St. Kids ages 3 to 15 can join the zoo’s summer camp. With educational classes, including keeper for half a day, scout programs and overnight adventures, John Ball Zoo offers so many opportunities. You also can spend a day at the zoo and experience animal species from all over the world.
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Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, gives back to nature. For a $3 entry fee, you can experience trails, wildlife and farmland. If you have middle school girls, sign them up for STREAM Girls. The week of June 15, Blandford partners with Trout Unlimited and Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds to offer young women a STEM-based watershed educational experience. According to Blandford’s website, “Girls assess a community stream, sample macroinvertebrates, journal and sketch their experiences, tie a fishing fly, and learn to cast a fly rod.” It is $160 per participant. Scholarships are available.
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One of the best indoor playgrounds is Catch Air, 2978 28th St. SE. Featuring ball pits, slides, bubble dance parties, a three-story soft play castle and many interactive toys, Catch Air is an enhanced playground. It is best known for throwing the most memorable birthday parties, too. So, grab your socks and catch some air! Higher Ground Rock Climbing, 851 Bond Ave. NW, is one of just a few rock climbing places in Grand Rapids. From group climbing, youth climbing, rentals and day passes, rock climbing has never been this easy to access. Trust the belayers and watch your kids climb to the top.
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You don’t have to drive 30 minutes or more to the beach when Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, is so close. Tucked within Johnson Park, this city beach has campgrounds, a splash pad, boat rentals and long, paved trails. There are daily admission and season pass options. Blandford Nature Center
If drama and art are more your thing, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave., has multiple kids’ productions with open auditions such as “The Wiz,” “High School Musical” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” There also are camps available for learning acting skills and more about the aspects of all things theater. So, see a show as a family or encourage your kid to be in the spotlight. Teach your kids the importance of fitness. MVP Sportsplex, 4035 Burton St. SE, has supervised kids’ zones for members. There are day camps and summer camps, too. There also are swimming clubs and lessons, not to mention the many sport lesson opportunities including tennis and volleyball.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, offers three floors of history and excitement, featuring a 1928 carousel and a variety of new exhibits including Grand River Fish and Design Zone. The museum always is changing and offering new activities, especially for kids. Check out Camp Curious on its website to find a camp that fits your child's interests and age group. This is a great place for educational challenges and learning something new. It also has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
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Launch Family Entertainment Park is a trampoline park located at 3681 28th St. SE. Some attractions include trampoline courts, dodgeball, cliffhanger, krave, battle pit and fury laser tag. Pricing ranges from $22-$119 depending on group size and package. If you have smaller children, check out Toddler Time.
BUCK COURTESY OF DEER JUNCTION RIVER COURTESY OF BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER
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K
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eeping It Close to Home
T
he beauty of appliances, whether for the kitchen, laundry room, or even an outdoor patio, is that while their first role may be function, they can also add flair to home décor and convenience through advanced features. Style, color, and finish can play big parts in choosing appliances, as can size, capacity, lifestyle, and maintenance factors. Shopping for appliances for a newly-built home, a new-to-you home, or a remodeling project can be exciting — but also daunting. An experienced professional can guide you through the process in ways a big box store associate assigned to the appliance department on any given Saturday simply can’t. A local, family-owned business that’s been serving West Michigan for 70-plus years, Gerrit’s Appliance provides homeowners that
peace of mind — and more. In 1948, Gerrit Geers founded the store, which has since been passed down to his sons and grandsons. Today, even great-grandchildren are getting involved. “You can come in and see one of the owners pretty much any day of the week,” says Curt Geers, one of four grandsons who currently run the business. “We’re a high-functioning, established family business and we have a great family dynamic and excellent, knowledgeable staff. Some of our customers have parents who dealt with our dads or grandparents, and now they’re the next generation coming back.” Aside from their decades upon decades as a fixture in the community, what also sets Gerrit’s
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**As compared to a Bosch refrigerator without FarmFresh System™. Results may vary among different foods.
www.gerritsappliances.com Wyoming Location - 616-532-3626 | Kentwood Location - 616-532-4131
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Appliance apart from its competitors is that they only sell appliances, keeping their attention on what they do best. “We’re wholly an appliance specialty store, and we’re proud of that,” Geers says. “We don’t try to be a major player, offering furniture, computers, paint, lumber, or mattresses. Selling, installing, and repairing appliances is all we do.” That focus, along with the store’s established staff — some of whom have been with the company for 10 to 20 or more years — pays off in greater confidence for their customers. Whether it’s for a new build or a refresh,
homeowners who visit a Gerrit’s Appliance will receive expert consultation as well as the option to choose from package deals that include a set of coordinating appliances in a selection of color schemes. Packages can help take the guesswork out of the process, while also saving money through discounts and rebates. No matter what, the approach is never onesize-fits-all. Gerrit’s sales staff works with homeowners to customize selections, offering hand-picked suggestions whenever possible.
“We’re wholly an appliance specialty store, and we’re proud of that. … Selling, installing, and repairing appliances is all we do.”
Curt Geers
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“We look at the whole situation, pinpointing the homeowner’s individual needs and making recommendations based on factors such as family size, ages of children, and ability to upkeep appearance,” Geers says. “For example, stainless steel is appealing to many, but it shows fingerprints easily and may not be practical for some households.” Some shoppers are partial to certain brands and come in knowing exactly what they want for their homes. Two brands Gerrit’s Appliance has hung their hat on are Bosch for dishwashers, and Speed Queen for washers and dryers. Both are highly sought-after and known for their exceptional performance. Speed Queen, American-made and headquartered in Ripon, Wis., offers the old-school familiarity of top-loading machines and simple, hassle-free features that are hard
to come by these days. You won’t find them at big box stores, but you will find them at Gerrit’s. In addition, Gerrit’s carries favorite brands such as General Electric, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid, as well as Thermador, JennAir, Sub-Zero, and Wolf on the higher end. With about 500 items on display at their Wyoming showroom, Gerrit’s Appliance has an in-depth selection with a variety of choices. Even special colors beyond the standard blacks, whites, and slates are available. “Some of our manufacturers offer reds, yellows, blues, and greens — and different finishes, too, from glossy to matte,” Geers says. “If a homeowner wants to make a statement, they might choose all stainless and then pick a range
“We’re a high-functioning, established family business; we have a great family dynamic and excellent, knowledgeable staff.” Curt Geers
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Design Your Own Patio Space Today! 616-226-3891 | EastbrookHomes.com
“We had a great experience, we would not have trusted anyone but Eastbrook Homes to build our home! We have and will continue to recommend them to others!” — Michelle
YOUR NEW HOME IS A CLICK OR CALL AWAY. Visit romanhousekey.com or call 616-318-0065 today. Our team of experienced realtors and specialists at Romanowski Homes have extensive knowledge of the West Michigan housing market, and we provide exceptional service to our clients in the buying or selling process and beyond.
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and hood in red, and that becomes the focal point in the kitchen.” Gerrit’s Appliance also has the only showroom in West Michigan to offer The Living Kitchen — a Wolf and Sub-Zero co-branded store-within-a-store. “It’s like a Cadillac dealership within a Chevy dealership, if you will,” Geers says with a smile. “With a higher-end product like this, people want to see what it looks like installed in a realistic setting. With gas and power hooked up, they can also test out the features and make informed decisions before they buy.” It’s an experience that can’t be had shopping from a catalog or online, and it makes all the difference for many. But, don’t get them wrong: Gerrit’s isn’t only for premium shoppers; they cater to all budgets. Just as they carry options with every bell and whistle, they also offer quality, basic appliances that are a great value for cost-conscious, first-time homebuyers and real estate investors who want a lower upfront expenditure.
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INSPIRING ENVIRONMENTS Always deeply personal and vastly different for every client and budget. Jennifer Gesik, Owner/Broker of Crown Real Estate Partners, Inc. understands this and makes it her promise to each client. With 13 years of experience helping clients buy and sell, you’ll find her boutique approach in servicing her clients both refreshing and authentic.
Jennifer Gesik Owner | Broker crowngr.com | gesik@grar.com | 616-292-8793
Detroit Remembers! If you recall the J.L. Hudson Thanksgiving Day Parade, visiting the Children’s Zoo at Belle Isle, taking in a flick at downtown’s Madison Theatre, scarfing down a hot-fudge sundae at Sanders, rocking out at the Grande Ballroom, or cheering on the Red Wings at Olympia Stadium, The Way It Was, Part 2 will elicit warm memories of Detroit. This book’s vivid photos and evocative text will take you on a nostalgic journey into the city’s past.
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From the Editors of Hour Detroit Hardcover | 160 pages
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“We want an appliance that’s going to operate well for the customer, that we’re not going to have a lot of callbacks or problems with. What serves them serves us, too.”
Curt Geers
Helping customers choose the right appliance is only part of the story. Gerrit’s is especially selective about the brands they carry because they also install and service what they sell. Full-service installation can include simpler tasks such as hooking up water and gas connections or venting, as well as more complex undertakings such as fitting built-in applications and chimney hoods. “We want an appliance that’s going to operate well for the customer, that we’re not going to have a lot of callbacks or problems with,” Geers says. “What serves them serves us, too.” Gerrit’s is also an authorized servicer for most of their products. They’ve created strong relationships with many manufacturers, which can be of great
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benefit if a problem arises. With a lot of companies, if something goes wrong or “Everyone assumes we’re going to have a lot higher price. a repair is needed, … We’re very competitive from a value standpoint; if we the customer is left weren’t, we wouldn’t still be in business after 70 years.” to call a 1-800 Curt Geers number and likely has to deal with the factory. “At Gerrit’s Appliance, the homeowner can call us directly and we can typically store going to be undersold by big box comprovide full service and parts — or at least be a petitors? “Everyone assumes we’re going to have liaison, in the event that there are continued a lot higher price, and though I can’t say we’re issues,” Geers says. “From installing it to the going to have the lowest prices in town, we’re end of its life, we’re here to help ensure your usually one of the best values when it comes to appliance is running correctly.” the full picture,” Geers says. “We’re very comThere are a lot of benefits to working with a petitive from a value standpoint; if we weren’t, local, well-established business, but isn’t a local we wouldn’t still be in business after 70 years.”
EXPERT Q&A
Build Confidence with Input from
Trusted Advisers
In times when it’s unclear what the next day will bring, a little sound advice from the experts can be a welcome beacon to keep you on course — and prepare you to make informed choices when the right time arises. Maybe you’re navigating important decisions, such as how to conduct your banking remotely, or looking for best practices for putting your home on the market, shopping for a new home,
or both. Or, you could simply be dreaming about fun summer adventures out on the water and in Michigan’s charming lakeshore towns. Birthdays and anniversaries will keep coming, too, and searching for a meaningful fine jewelry gift that will be cherished years from now is infinitely easier with a knowledgeable partner to guide you. These past couple of months, you’ve probably felt as though life was on hold — but it doesn’t
have to be. Resourceful minds at many local businesses have been working hard to find creative ways to serve you today and beyond, whether it’s for business or pleasure. The trusted advisers in this section are here for you and excited to share their ideas, recommendations, solutions, and information, so you’ll have the confidence you need in life’s most significant moments. ■
EXPERT Q&A Q:
In light of current events, how will the buying and selling of real estate change going forward?
A: “In my more than 30 years in real estate, the only constant I’ve seen is change,” says Katie Karczewski, of Katie-K Keller Williams Realty. “When we talk about a new normal coming, I have to ask, What is normal? Every aspect of our lives is ever-evolving, and real estate is no different. When I first started in this business, I couldn’t imagine the place we’re in today — regardless of these particularly unparalleled times. “When we need something badly enough, we adapt. In many cases, those steps to adjust our current ways can bring about exciting and innovative solutions that we may never have
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Katie-K Keller Williams Realty
Katie Karczewski Principal Partner, Realtor 1555 Arboretum Dr. SE, Ste. 101 Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-575-0119 katie-k.com katielanek@katie-k.com Advertisement on Inside Front Cover
Should I consider buying a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RIB)?
A: According to Jon Marcus and Rob Everse, of West Michigan Yacht Sales, one of the most compelling developments in the marine industry and recreational boating has been the emergence of rigid-hull inflatable boats (RIBs). When Marcus and Everse partnered with BRIG, the world’s largest producers of this product, they knew they were embarking on a great adventure, and couldn’t wait to introduce the next generation of watercraft to West Michigan. The benefits are undeniable. Not only are BRIG’s attention to detail and quality craftmanship second to none; the boats are lightweight, safe, and easily maneuverable. The inflatable collar around the hull makes
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been challenged enough to try,” she adds. For instance, Karczewski says virtual showings aren’t only possible; they can and have resulted in sales — a win for both buyer and seller. Now that people know it can be done, industry experts are seeing advantages that extend beyond current events. This is especially true for out-of-town buyers, who, through virtual viewings, are able to save thousands in travel costs and hours of personal time. Says Karczewski: “At Katie-K, we embrace change as the inevitable that it is, and we’re constantly looking forward, seeing opportunities to grow in every new development.”
them very responsive, acting as a shock absorber for a smooth, extremely stable ride. With chambered tubes, they’re also practically unsinkable. Lighter weight than a traditional fiberglass boat, RIBs require very little horsepower and they’re easy to trailer without the need for a big vehicle. Their fuel-efficiency allows for higher speeds and greater time out on the water — ideal for enjoying long summer days. More than just for cruising, these boats are well-equipped for a range of watersports and when the season’s over, they store with ease. Visit West Michigan Yacht Sales’ new downtown showroom to see for yourself!
West Michigan Yacht Sales & Brokerage Jon Marcus and Rob Everse Owners 139 South River Ave. Holland, MI 49423 616-848-7020 wmyachtsales.com hello@wmyachtsales.com
This year we’re vacationing in Michigan because of travel uncertainty. How can I get my family excited about staying close to home?
A: You’re smart to consider keeping to your own backyard — or within a couple of hours from home. With so much insecurity and the potential risks associated with making faraway travel plans, Michigan makes an ideal vacation setting. Not only is a trip within the Mitten more convenient and affordable than a distant destination, but there’s so much to do and see in our beautiful state — from glistening lakes to crisp shores and wooded forests. Ludington is a perfect in-state vacation destination. Mason County has 28 miles of
Lake Michigan shoreline, 2,000 miles of streams, and 40 inland lakes. Top it off with two lighthouses plus 5,300-acre Ludington State Park, and you’ll have a full agenda. And that’s not including attractions like the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum and Sandcastles Children’s Museum. Hop on the highway, and in less than 100 miles from Grand Rapids, you’re transported to a quaint beach town that feels like an oceanside getaway. When it comes to an affordable vacation that can be planned on a moment’s notice, Ludington is a convenient, adventure-fi lled choice.
Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Brandy Miller Executive Director 5300 W. US 10 Ludington, MI 49431 800-542-4600 pureludington.com brandyh@ludington.org
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EXPERT Q&A Q:
I need to shop for a fine jewelry gift, but I’m unable to do so in-store. How can I feel confident in my purchase?
A: Just as milestones and special occasions don’t take a pause, Paul Medawar Fine Jewelry continues providing the same service you’d receive when shopping face-to-face. “We’ve adapted to the changing times and evolving needs of customers by incorporating online and digital options to enhance your shopping experience,” Dan Medawar says. “When you need to find the perfect gift but just can’t make it to our store, our team will strive to make your experience personal, meaningful, and tailored to your needs.” As a third-generation family-owned business operating for over 90 years, Medawar Fine Jewelry has earned recognition for its
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Paul Medawar Fine Jewelry Dan Medawar
Graduate Gemologist (GIA) Certified Gemologist (AGS) Paul Medawar Fine Jewelry 4518 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-363-4902 shopmedawar.com info@paulmedawar.com Advertisement on page 5
I really like using mobile banking to deposit checks or check my balance. Are there any services I must do in person at a branch office?
A: That’s a common question, and the short answer is this: virtually none. “I tell our customers we love having them visit us in person, and quite a few clients stop by regularly to have a cup of coffee or just to read the paper, yet practically all of Northpointe Bank’s products and services are available online with our mobile banking app,” says Michael Winks, president of lending and retail banking at Northpointe. “Our mission goes back to our founding in 1999: offer better interest rates than traditional brick-and-mortar banks and credit unions. Having fewer branches, with lower overhead, allows us to pass this benefit on
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expertise and service. The team consists of top-level jewelers, gemologists, custom-design specialists, and watchmakers. In the pursuit of excellence, they align themselves with designers who have the same mentality. “We’re proud to showcase the highest-quality brands, yet we’re local to Grand Rapids,” Medawar says. “You’ll have peace of mind that your gift comes from a place that’s close to home.” Whether it’s at their Plainfield Avenue storefront or virtually via phone, text, email, or video-conference, Medawar’s experts want to build a genuine relationship and put you at ease. They’re passionate about their craft and are available at your convenience.
to our customers with a higher savings rate.” Northpointe Bank’s customers are reimbursed up to $15 per month when using other banks’ ATMs, giving them more convenient options to withdraw cash. Essentially, the only services customers need to do in person are to deposit cash, access a safe deposit box, or meet in person with a Northpointe Bank adviser. Winks says that in the past three months, more than 17,290 customers have signed up for new user accounts with Home, Northpointe Bank’s mobile web app for mortgage loans, at myloan.northpointe.com.
Northpointe Bank
Michael Winks President, Lending & Retail Banking 3333 Deposit Drive SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 888-672-5686 northpointe.com
What does your jeweler want you to know?
A: Your jewelry should be inspected regularly — at a minimum, once per year (use your anniversary or birthday as a reminder). These days we’re constantly washing our hands, and soap, lotion, and sanitizers are taking their toll, especially on our rings. Some signs your jewelry needs more
frequent attention are when fibers begin catching on the piece, or the gem rattles. Metal Art Studio’s repair shop is right inside their store, and in-house expert jewelers can check and tighten gems, clean and polish all surfaces, and make them sparkle like new. Stop in with your jewelry; repair estimates are always free.
Metal Art Studio Fine Jewelry
Carol Wagen Co-Owner 978 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-459-5075 metalartstudioinc.com Shop@metalartstudioinc.com Advertisement on page 81
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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 $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$-$$$ CHARLEY’S CRAB Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Gluten-free menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. // 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com/ charleys-crab. 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 $$-$$$ FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. // 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,
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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 $$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-totable menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. // 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$ 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. Year-
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round alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $
cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dog- friendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 136 E Fulton St, 2357669. onetrick.biz. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
MARCONA ON LYON “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarianand vegan-friendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
2020 BEST NEW RESTAURANT
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 $ 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 $$$ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ LEO’S Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm MonFri. Closed Sun. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER
MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ 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. 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 $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR & RESTAURANT Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER
LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
NEW HOTEL MERTENS French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens. Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. newhotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$
LITTLEBIRD Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu,
ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European
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2020 DINING AWARD WINNER OSTERIA ROSSA Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Open daily. // 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$ 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 Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SANDY POINT BEACH HOUSE GR Originating in West Olive, dishes include “traditional beach house favorites,” such as prime beef burgers, fresh halibut, steak and frites, and roasted chicken and mussels. Full bar. Open daily. // 822 Ottawa Ave. NW, 828-1118, sandypointbeachhouse.com. Brunch (SatSun), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SLOWS BAR-B-Q Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$$ SOCIAL KITCHEN & BAR Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu. Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. socialkitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SPARKS BBQ Offering barbecued meats by the pound, à la carte, sandwiches, appetizers, salads, sides, specialty entrées and desserts. Sparks BBQ originated in Traverse City. Full bar. Open daily. // 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 8882170. home.eatsparksbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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WHEELHOUSE KITCHEN AND COCKTAILS Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. // Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ Z’S BAR & RESTAURANT Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 4543141. zsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $
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. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$
JOLLY PUMPKIN PIZZERIA & BREWERY Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
2020 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
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 $ 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 $-$$ MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $
EL SOMBRERO Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $
ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$
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 $$
O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
HARMONY HALL West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. // 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/harmony-hall. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
PEARL STREET GRILL Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
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. Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner. Brunch on Sundays. Reservations accepted. // 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. Lunch, 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 $-$$ BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $ CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ CURRY KITCHEN Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. // 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $$ DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER 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 $$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopian cuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ HARMONY BREWING CO. Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
NEW LISTING! JIMMY BERGER’S CHICKEN SHACK Chicken-focused menu with items including various rubroasted chickens and parmesan chicken sandwiches. The restaurant serves Southern side dishes, ranging from baked beans, hand-cut waffle fries and other favorites. Offers fast casual seating, carryout and catering. Open Fri, Sat, Sun. //919 Cherry St, 616-454-1000. jimmybergers.com. Dinner KINGFISHER RESTAURANT & DELI This “vegetable-forward,” Mediterranean-influenced restaurant offers starters, omelets, bowls and hash, soups and salads, toast and sandwiches, sweets and pastries, and sides. Many of the offerings are available to be made vegetarian-, vegan- or gluten-free. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1001 Lake Dr SE, 734-6833. kingfishergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MARU SUSHI & GRILL Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carryout available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 7748641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ THE PUB AT PADDOCK “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 3562627. thegilmorecollection.com/pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$
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2020 DINING AWARD WINNER TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
CHEER’S GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
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CHESHIRE GRILL Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. // 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$
You are the reason we continue to be here, providing exceptional travel experiences for individuals and groups in West Michigan and beyond, for more than 45 years.
CRESTON BREWERY More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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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 $
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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 $-$$
3250 28th St SE, Grand Rapids • 616.942.5112
FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
KITCHEN WEST DESIGN STUDIO MARILYN ALLEMEIER NAGELKIRK, CKD LAURAH BOOGAARD, AKBD
NKBA AFFILLIATED SHOWROOM
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
150 CENTER STREET DOUGLAS, MICHIGAN 49406 269.857.8880 www.kitchenwest.com GR M AG .CO M
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JAKU SUSHI Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 6490407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
NICK FINK’S Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. // 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. Dinner $$
style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. // 505 Ball Ave NE, 259-8828. vandermill.com. Lunch, Dinner (MonSat) $$-$$$
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 $-$$
POKE TOKI Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
Northwest GR
LA HUASTECA Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. 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 $-$$ MING TEN All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 3653989. mingtenrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$
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PALIO Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$ CHINA CHEF Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHINA CITY Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 805-3363. 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 $-$$
THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 $$
THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ VANDER MILL Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family
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 $-$$ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily.
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
// 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE LANDING Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/ dining/the-landing-restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ MR. GYROS Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. // 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 7916660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 7919922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$
Southeast GR 7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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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 $-$$ CAFÉ DE MIRO A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. The menu consists of traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes, such as skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $ CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$ DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol.
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Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ GOLDEN GATE Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $ PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $$-$$$ SHIRAZ GRILLE Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. Lunch (FriSun), 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 $-$$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
TAQUERÍA EL RINCÓN MEXICANO Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2055 28th St, 246-7000. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $
THERE’S NEVER E N O U G H T I M E.
THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ YUMMY WOK Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
Southwest GR 84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
You’ve worked hard your whole life. Now’s the time to do what you want to do. The Vistas at Beacon Hill is a new way of retirement living in Grand Rapids with an impressive list of unexpected amenities — so you can do a lot of what makes you happy. It’s up to you.
EXPECT TO BE SURPRISED. 1919 BOSTON STREET SE | 616-608-8254 | BEACONHILLGR.ORG
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ MAIN STREET PUB Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // 1730 28th St SW, 5322510. mainstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI CASA RESTAURANTE Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed MonTues. // 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 $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
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TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 15 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 $$
Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ARYANA RESTAURANT & BAR Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. // 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BIG BOILER BREWING Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. // 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com. Dinner $$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ DAN’S DINER Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retro-style diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOCO PROVISIONS Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch TuesSat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
“Nest” necklace in 22K gold with Golden South Seas pearl and diamonds, by Scott Carey. fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$ OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$ 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 $$$ ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
Grandville/Hudsonville Area BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE DUNGEON Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty
burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ GRANDVILLA Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HUDSONVILLE GRILLE Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. // 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 6629670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ OSGOOD BREWING CO. Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu. Open daily. // 4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ SONDER EATERY Focused on fresh foods including greens, sandwiches and shareables. Items include deviled eggs, chicken and waffles, sloppy Joes and more. Full bar. Daily specials and weekend brunch. Closed Mondays. // 3380 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 616-202-6379. sondereatery.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$
Design • Repair • Celebrate
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,
978 Cherry St SE, GR MI (616) 459-5075 shop@metalartstudioinc.com Park free in our lot!
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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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 $-$$ HOT BOX BBQ Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. // 110 Courtland St, 951-7160. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $ 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 $-$$
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ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 249-9500. 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 $-$$ BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies.
Full bar. // 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 9303596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ 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, 532-8888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON.
TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ TACOS EL CUÑADO Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 7267300. 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 $-$$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
PURELUDINGTON.COM $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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gr gems / histo y
Back to work
Unemployed workers were given jobs during the Great Depression. BY JULIE TABBERER, GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY
A scrip labor crew works at grading Union Avenue NE at Cedar Street in 1932.
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During the Great Depression, there were many approaches to meeting the needs of people suffering economic distress. In Grand Rapids, City Manager George Welsh started a municipal scrip labor program for unemployed workers. Between December 1930 and January 1933, the city employed thousands of men in various public works projects. They worked on everything from grading roads and improving parks to cleaning up the banks of the Grand River. They also built the pool at Richmond Park
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / JUNE 2020
and constructed Welsh Auditorium (now part of DeVos Place). Instead of cash, the men received scrip — a temporary form of currency that could be redeemed at city stores for groceries, clothing, shoes and other basic supplies. The program was far from perfect. Across the nation, relief programs excluded or limited relief provided to people of color, furthering economic inequality. Locally, scrip labor was also limited to men with families and the scrip could not be used to pay for necessities like rent. Despite the shortfalls of scrip labor, the program provided work for many and tangible improvements to public spaces. We can build on those ideas and improve them and, hopefully, provide better care for our citizens and neighbors today. ROAD GRADING COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY
$1,995,000 $1,995,000 MLS 458886 $1,995,000 458886 Exquisite waterfront home with outstanding, unobstructed sunset viewsMLS of Lake Charlevoix.
The house is elevated perfectly to maximize these views on over 3 acres with 140’ of frontage. TheMLS architecture is incredible with 458886 Exquisite waterfront home with outstanding, unobstructed sunset views of Lake Charlevoix. every inch designed to be eye-catching. The landscaping has been tastefully created by the owners consisting of many colorful The house isand elevated perfectly to maximize views over 3 acres with frontage. The architecture is incredible with Exquisite waterfront home withthese outstanding, unobstructed sunset of Lake Charlevoix. perrenials strategically placed seagrass plants alongonthe waterfront side.140’ Theof kitchen isviews bright and lively with warm tones every inch designed to be eye-catching. The landscaping has been tastefully created by the owners consisting of many colorful The living room to hasmaximize a fireplacethese and aviews viewon thatover spans acrosswith the 140’ lake.of The main-floor bedroom is peaceful Thethroughout. house is elevated perfectly 3 acres frontage. The master architecture is incredible with perrenials and strategically placed seagrass plants along the waterfront side. The kitchen is bright and lively with warm tones and roomy, with a luxurious bath. Upstairs has three generously sized bedrooms, a loft sitting room, and a second laundry. The every inch designed to be eye-catching. The landscaping has been tastefully created by the owners consisting of many colorful throughout. living- room has aseagrass fireplace and a along view that the lake. The bedroom isspacious peaceful lower level isThe astrategically haven family & game room, bedroom, and sauna.across An apartment overmain-floor theisdetached garage boasts perrenials and placed plants the spans waterfront side. The kitchen brightmaster and lively with awarm tones and roomy, with a luxurious bath. Upstairs has three generously sized bedrooms, a loft sitting room, and a second laundry. The room, bedroom/office, kitchenette and bathroom. From private balconies to geometrical ceilings, this home is simply fantastic. throughout. The living room has a fireplace and a view that spans across the lake. The main-floor master bedroom is peaceful lower level is a haven family & game room, bedroom, and sauna. An apartment over the detached garage boasts a spacious and roomy, with a luxurious bath. Upstairs has three generously sized bedrooms, a loft sitting room, and a second laundry. The room,level bedroom/office, kitchenette androom, bathroom. From and private balconies to geometrical ceilings, this home simplyafantastic. lower is a haven - family & game bedroom, sauna. An apartment over the detached garageisboasts spacious room, bedroom/office, kitchenette and bathroom. From private balconies to geometrical ceilings, this home is simply fantastic.
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WHEN YOU’RE SERIOUS CALL MOSAIC WEALTH MANAGEMENT Theodore J. Vogt Carol A. Dehen
616-949-0900 866-949-0907
www.mosaicwealthmanagment.com
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC