Grand Rapids Magazine July/August 2022

THE FASTEST GROWING SPORT PLUS MAYOR ROSALYNN BLISS

CANNABIS

Great nights out.

GROVE

Heritage Hill

A VIEW OF GR’S HOUSING ISSUES THROUGH THE HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD

Where to enjoy your evening in the city.

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BACON AND THEN, SURE, THE DIEM TOO

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contents JULY/AUGUST 2022 VOLUME 59, ISSUE 4

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. and Grand Rapids is a hotbed.

FEATURES

38

PICKLEBALL GR ' S P IC K L E BA L L S CEN E IS H OT.

BY PAT EVANS

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HERITAGE HILL A LO O K I NTO T H E N UA NC E S O F T H E HI STO R IC N EIGH B O R HOOD

BY SAM EASTER

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NIGHTLIFE A S ELEC T I O N O F GR EAT S POTS TO S P EN D A N I GH T.

BY PAT EVANS

P H OTO G R A P H BY T E R I G E N OV E S E

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COVER HANNAH RUSHTON

6/10/22 9:52 AM

SUMMER ADVENTURE STARTS HERE.

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contents • july/august

every issue 8 97

editor's letter dining guide GR's restaurants

120 gr gems

A peek into GR history

people + places 12

city

13

guide

14 16

14

28

17 20

City High hits new heights Fulton Street Farmers Market

voice

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss

spotlight

Space time at the GR Museum

issues

River restoration updates

profile

Schubert Male Chorus

look + feel 26 28 30 31 34

wellness

West Michigan's marijuana boom

style

Icy cool summer style

expert

How to wade into weed

experience

Art from everyday objects

home

A homemade backyard oven

food + drink 80

table

84

cheers

85

80 6

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86 88

Grove's back open Scotch, on the rocks

create

Tacos al pastor

must-try

Spicy comfort at Chez Olga

on-the-go Tamales!

MAYOR BLISS KRISTEN NORMAN FOOD S TACY FEYER-SALO SHOPPING MICHELLE CUPPY

6/10/22 9:52 AM

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com Publisher: Jason Hosko

Editorial Gemini Media Editor: Tim Gortsema Managing Editor: Pat Evans Digital Editor: Ehren Wynder Contributors: Kelsey Dunneback, Sam Easter, Kathy Gibbons, Alex Lukens, Pasha Shipp, Julie Tabberer Design Creative Director: Lindsay Richards Contributors: Arrae Creative, Michelle Cuppy, Bryan Esler, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Teri Genovese, Kristen Norman, Alfield Reeves, Hannah Rushton, David Sparks, Ashley Wierenga Sales General Inquiries: Advertisingsales@grmag.com Advertising Director: Jenn Maksimowski Account Executives: Todd Anderson, Nick Irwin, Jessica Laidlaw, Maddy Messerly Office Assistants: Kerry Gerwatowski, Elissa Stong To Order Reprints: Receptionist – (616) 459-4545 Production Production Director: Jenine Knox Senior Production Artists: Stephanie Daniel, Robert Gorczyca Advertising Coordinator: Amanda Kozlowski Graphic Designers: Jim Bibart, Colin McKinney

Circulation Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers a that he wanted to be Justin always knew Circulation Customer Service: (866) 660-6247 But did he have sional hockey player.

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Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published bimonthly 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, 1965 E Avis Dr., Madison Heights, MI 48071. 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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6/9/22 3:34 PM

editor's letter / connect

From Heritage Hill to pickleball, we’ve got it all Somehow, we’re deep into summer 2022. How’d that happen?

In any case, don’t blink or we’ll be back in the depths of winter and wishing we’d enjoyed the warm weather a little bit more. So, we’re here to help you do that (Hint: Take that trip to the beach this weekend).

To kick off the issue, head toward the back, check out the ice cream selections, pick one and grab a cone before diving into the rest of it.

There’s a guide to the Fulton Street Farmers Market, which celebrates its 100th summer this year. If that’s not a weekly shopping trip, you’re probably doing summer wrong. We highlight an amazing woman who built her own backyard pizza oven — and is starting on her second.

The Beer City Open is in July, so we check in with a sport readers should definitely try if they haven’t already: pickleball.

It’s also the nightlife issue, so there’s a breakdown of where to go for whatever vibe the night calls for. It’s also the cannabis issue, so we check into how to get started on a cannabis journey and the struggles still surrounding the industry.

We visit Grove, a multi-time winner of Grand Rapids Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year, and it did not disappoint.

While we explore plenty of fun topics, this issue also touches on some more serious subjects.

We chat with Mayor Rosalynn Bliss to see where she currently sees the city and what the future will bring. We also highlight some of the exciting happenings with the river — you know, the one the city is named after?

Writer Sam Easter dives into everyone’s favorite neighborhood, Heritage Hill, and how that amazing section of the city also acts as a microcosm of the region’s housing issues.

All in all, it was a fun issue to put together, so I hope you enjoy it before football season starts and the kids head back to school.

Next issue

We dive into the amazing arts scene and education options in West Michigan.

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Kathy Gibbons What's your favorite thing about Michigan in the summer?

I love Michigan summers for the weather, being outdoors, eating al fresco, great beaches and nice, long days. The worst thing is they just don’t last long enough.

What is your favorite thing to buy at the Fulton Street Farmers Market?

I'm a sucker for the small heirloom tomatoes that several vendors sell.

They literally taste like candy to me. Doesn't get any better.

Pat Evans 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: pevans@geminipub.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or @grmag @grmagazine @grmagazine follow us online at grmag.com or on social media:

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EDITOR COURTESY PAT EVANS CONTRIBUTOR COURTESY OF KATHY GIBBONS

6/9/22 3:23 PM

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

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A DINING EXPERIENCE...

FOR EVERY OCCASION!

Scan to see our menus and plan YOUR NIGHT OUT! Must be 21 or older with valid photo ID. Certain restrictions and availability may apply. ©2022 Gun Lake Tribal Gaming Authority.

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6/1/22 4:53 PM

people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

SPOTLIGHT

Changing city page 14

» PLUS: GUIDE TO THE FAR MERS MARKET RIVER UPDATES SINGING MEN

Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss chats about the past few years of city challenges.

P H OTO G R A P H BY K R I S T E N N O R M A N GR M AG .CO M

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6/9/22 5:12 PM

people + places / city

City’s high marks

Grand Rapids continues to have one of the best high schools in the country: Grand Rapids Public Schools’ City High.

U.S. News & World Report ranked it as Michigan’s top high school and the 18th-best in the United States. That makes sense as it was created by the school district in the 1970s for the city’s “highly motivated or academically gifted” students.

“We could not be prouder of our scholars, staff, district and community for this achievement,” City High Principal Ryan Huppert said. “The inspiration that this accomplishment provides is worth so much to our community right now. These rankings reflect all the hard work that scholars and staff put forth to succeed here. Seeing those efforts translate into such a high level of success and recognition means the world to our school.”

The school ranked in the top five among the state’s high schools in the publication’s five categories, including best in performance and tied for the highest graduation rate.

The rest of the state’s top 10 schools are on the east side of the state, according to U.S. News & World Report. East Grand Rapids High School was No. 2 in the Grand Rapids metro area and No. 13 in the state, while Holland’s Black River High School, Forest Hills Northern High School and Byron Center High School round out the top five in the area.

CITY

Ocean fresh downtown

Real Seafood Company is Mainstreet Venture Restaurant Group's third Grand Rapids restaurant.

Real Seafood Company, 141 Lyon St. NW, opened in late May serving up “contemporary” seafood from across the globe.

“It’s a special space, and I think people are real excited to come see it and enjoy it,” said Kevin Gudejko, president and CEO of Mainstreet Ventures Restaurant Group, the company that owns Real Seafood. “We’ve been working on it a while, and we’re ready to go.”

Mainstreet Ventures also owns The Chop House and Palio in Grand Rapids. It’s Mainstreet’s fifth Real Seafood location, joining Toledo, Bay City, Ann Arbor and Naples, Florida.

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Gun Lake Casino expansion In May, Gun Lake Casino broke ground on a $300 million expansion project that adds a 15-story, four-diamond hotel and resort, complete with an aquadome.

The hotel includes 252 rooms and features a two-story suite at the top. The aquadome is a 32,000-square-foot glass dome with multiple pools, swim-up bar, live palm trees and live entertainment space. It will be maintained at 85 degrees year-round.

It is the fifth phase of the casino expansion. It recently opened three restaurants: CBK, Shkode Chop House and 131 Sportsbar and Lounge.

RESTAURANT MAINSTREET VENTURES GUN LAKE CASINO GUN LAKE CASINO

6/9/22 3:31 PM

people + places / guide

The farmers market is an extremley vibrant, bright and colorful place in the summertime.

GUIDE

Farm fresh

A guide to mornings at Fulton Street Farmers Market.

BY KATHY GIBBONS

// PHOTOS BY ASHLEY WIERENGA

It’s 6:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning and Fulton Street Farmers Market is just waking up.

Vendors arrive, one by one, setting out produce, food products and wares. Though the market doesn’t officially open until 8 a.m., shoppers start to arrive at 7, strolling by and offering greetings as they go.

Before you know it, the market is alive in full force. Musicians are playing and concessions and food trucks send out delectable scents that lure like the Pied Piper.

Most stalls are occupied, and the market becomes jammed with couples, groups of friends, parents with strollers and

multigenerational families out for what is for many a Saturday ritual.

I love Fulton Street Farmers Market, where I started as a vendor around 2009 and attended for several summers, making mozzarella cheese in a rented kitchen to sell there on Saturdays. Eventually I moved away and did other farmers markets that were closer to home. They were also wonderful — all of them are, with that spirit of enthusiasm and openness to trying new things and desire to support farmers and food producers.

But last year I was able to return to Fulton Street and it felt so good to be back.

There was Juliana, who’s been selling her Hungarian pastries at the market for 30 years.

The Visser Farms display was as artful as ever — a treat for the eyes and senses with its robust selection of fruits and vegetables, packed to the brim.

Depending on the time of year, you’ll find booth after booth of glistening asparagus, ruby-red strawberries and heirloom tomatoes that are better than candy, as well as shrubs, herbs and fresh cheeses.

A new discovery was Grampa’s Pastys — in a variety of flavors and, oh, so good.

It was a joy to work next to Mikayla from Stillwind Farm for several weeks. A firstgeneration farmer, it was her first season at the market and her enthusiasm for the fresh, sustainable produce she was finally able to share with the public was inspiring.

Yes, it’s tiring for vendors, getting up that early — some earlier than others to harvest veggies and fruit, lugging it all to the market, unpacking, waiting on customers and then packing up again to head back home with, you hope, a much lighter load.

But it’s the best thing there is, too, knowing that you’re feeding people who really, really appreciate that you’re there and what you’ve brought to sell.

Fulton Street Farmers Market runs from 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from May through October.

Fulton Street Artisans Market is open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays through the end of September. This year, the market is celebrating its 100th anniversary. More information is at fultonstreetmarket.org.

Kathy Gibbons is a Traverse City-based freelance writer and owner of Buzzelli Foods.

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6/9/22 5:12 PM

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss photographed in her office. There have been numerous challenges for Bliss the past several years.

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6/9/22 5:11 PM

people + places / voice

VOICE

A city in motion GR Mayor Rosalynn Bliss reflects on her tenure and her hopes for the city’s future.

BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTO BY KRISTEN NORMAN

Rosalynn Bliss has seen numerous changes in her seven years as mayor of Grand Rapids.

There have been plenty of ups and downs, particularly in the past two years, but as Bliss closes in on the end of her eight-year tenure, she said she hopes Grand Rapidians can see the progress the city made under her leadership as the first female mayor in the city’s history.

“My hope is that people in our community, even with the challenges we face, remain hopeful that our city is moving in a positive direction and that even through tough times, we can figure out how to learn and identify ways that we can be a better city for everyone,” Bliss told Grand Rapids Magazine in May. “And I hope people feel that there’s a lot of dedicated people who care deeply about this community who continue to show up and want to be a part of solutions.”

Bliss took office in 2015 amid a period of unprecedented growth in Grand Rapids. The downtown skyline has changed dramatically under her watch, while surrounding neighborhoods have exploded to become vibrant communities of their own.

But it’s the undercurrents of how the city works that she hangs her hat on — whether it’s the Office of Equity and Engagement, or the Office of Public Oversight and Accountability or the Affordable Housing Fund to help solve the housing crisis in West Michigan.

“When I look around our entire city, there's a lot of things I'm proud of,” Bliss said. “But I think I'm proud of probably some of the things that people don't always recognize. I see that all of those efforts are moving our city forward in a really meaningful way.”

She was at the helm of the city through what is unquestionably one of the hardest situations many leaders could face during a tenure: a worldwide pandemic. Her main mission during that time was to help the frontline workers, those who lost loved ones and business owners manage the catastrophic

changes as best as possible.

“I had a lot of meetings and conversations with so many people impacted in different ways, and it was just hard for me to know what I could do to be most helpful and supportive when so many people were struggling,” Bliss said. “Personally, that was hard. And then just trying to navigate through and balance out how do we be realistic about the challenge, but also hopeful that we're gonna get through it? Balancing that was a daily struggle at times.”

With the pandemic largely in the rearview mirror, Bliss now is facing another balancing act: guiding the community through a contentious relationship with the police.

As the city’s top executive, she has the unenviable task of being the authority figure atop a police force much of the city distrusts.

An issue for most of her mayorship — and also the 10 years prior when she was a city commissioner — Bliss recognizes Grand Rapids is not alone in the nationwide problem.

“I’d say, in the last five years, under the leadership of City Manager (Mark) Washington and the current city commission, we’ve made some significant strides with the creation of the Office of Public Oversight and Accountability, some of the policy changes we’ve made and some of the work we’ve done in partnership with the community,” Bliss said, roughly a month after the killing of Patrick Lyoya. “The recent tragic officerinvolved shooting really amplifies that we have a lot more work to do, especially around building trust in this community.”

That trust-building process will include creating safe spaces for the community to express fear, anger and concerns, she said.

“How do we build trust that was never there in the first place?” she said. “How do we really develop meaningful relationships between police and community? How do we take a hard look at our internal policies and procedures and make changes based on not just what we learned from this tragic

incident, but from past incidents or from other cities, and how do we really take on police reform in a meaningful way that results in meaningful systemic change?”

Beyond fundamentally changing how the city’s residents feel about the Grand Rapids Police Department, Bliss has a slew of other projects she wants to finish before she completes her term. One of them is working to further solve the affordable housing crisis.

The Affordable Housing Fund kicked off with $6 million, but if the 11-acre sale of property for the downtown, riverside amphitheater goes through, that will likely add another $10 million to the pot.

“I’d like that Affordable Housing Fund to be closer to $20 million, which would allow us to, I think, do some really creative initiatives, especially around smaller-scale infill for affordable housing,” she said.

“I'm hopeful that along the housing front, working with Housing Kent to start to do more preventive work, to make sure that we have good support in place so that people don't lose their housing in the first place.

That’s a huge gap in our community.

“We don't help people until they’re in crisis. We need to be doing much more to help people stay in the housing that they do have.”

Also on the docket is a plan for reaching a goal of 100% renewable energy. Bliss said she believes that’s an achievable target within the next few years and mentioned the recent ribbon cutting for a solar array at the Lake Michigan Filtration Plant. She also said she hopes the city’s biodigester project soon will be fully operational and is excited to see a solar array at the Butterworth Landfill.

Then there’s continued economic development in Grand Rapids, a process that will never end, but she said she plans to leave the city in a better place than when she took office.

“Continuing our work to support local businesses, businesses that are owned by people of color and women and then trying to get larger companies to shift those dollars to procurement, to support our local businesses,” Bliss said. “Trying to get more of our big companies who are spending millions of dollars to support our local businesses when they’re identifying people to do their work. And then our continued work with The Right Place and attracting headquarters and companies to our city, but also how we continue to support the companies that are here.”

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6/9/22 5:12 PM

people + places / spotlight

SPOTLIGHT

Staring into space

Grand Rapids Public Museum - Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium

An experience that is out of this world.

BY PAT EVANS

A perhaps hugely underrated piece of the city’s entertainment landscape is the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.

The theater in the museum offers an immersive experience into the universe, and recently added a new hearing loop system, which provides an effective way to broadcast information to visitors who are hard of hearing.

Along with offering a variety of shows about space and the atomic world, the planetarium also features “Dark Side: The Light Show,” set to the Pink Floyd’s “The Dark of the Moon” at 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

Beyond the regular showings, the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association also hosts events with the planetarium. The two organizations also partnered for public observation nights that started in April and run through early November at the James C. Veen Observatory, 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. in Lowell Township.

Dates align with optimum moon phases and are posted on GRAAA.org but could be canceled if there is cloud cover. Updates will be posted at 6:30 p.m. the night of the event.

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PLANETARIUM EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

6/9/22 5:11 PM

Family hanging out in downtown Grand Rapids at Ah-Nab-Awen Park

ISSUES

Rapid changes

Shift to making Grand River center of the city continues.

BY PAT EVANS

T

his spring, a major development along the banks of the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids stirred plenty of excitement.

The city approved the sale of an 11.6-acre property at 201 Market Ave. SW in April.

That site could be home to a 12,000-seat amphitheater that would host a huge array of musical acts that come through town and help further activate the Grand River in the downtown area.

The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority must secure the $116 million needed for the purchase, but the deal could be yet another transformational project for the city — much like the CAA’s Van Andel Arena was just over 25 years ago.

The amphitheater would be a part of a larger 31-acre development featuring 1,750 apartments, retail space and more green space between Fulton and Wealthy streets along the Grand River.

RIVERBANK EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

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GR M AG .CO M

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6/9/22 5:11 PM

people + places / issues

While the project to restore the Grand River's rapids waits for shovels in the water, plenty of plans for its shores are laid.

There’s hope, including from Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, that construction on the Grand Rapids Whitewater river restoration project could start within the year, setting off a domino effect of major public-private projects ready to reshape the riverfront.

“I'm still hopeful that we'll be in the river within the next 12 months,” Bliss said. “Then you have the 201 Market development.

We’ve been talking about moving the city off of that 18-acre lot along the river for decades. We know it's not the highest and best use. If we're able to move forward with a 12,000-seat amphitheater and a park and a pedestrian bridge over to the West Side, that is going to be a huge catalyst for that entire southeast part of downtown.”

Beyond those two projects, there also is 18

a project to connect trails along the Grand River, including a section from Leonard to Ann streets that would connect Lyon Square to the White Pine Trail. A hiker or bicyclist could go from downtown Grand Rapids all the way to Cadillac. Another connection to the west side of the river could take someone from downtown to Lake Michigan.

“When you take those three significant public-private projects together, you have not only hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of investment, but we know that that kind of investment will drive additional economic development,” Bliss said. “But (it) also will support all of our small businesses that are currently here. And it'll create additional vibrancy, kind of like what we've seen happen at Studio Park.”

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Public-facing projects like the amphitheater that would help make the river the city’s focal point — rather than just a namesake — excite the leaders at Grand Rapids Whitewater, the organization leading the efforts to restore the Grand River to a more natural state.

“We’re so in the weeds with the technical elements, when you back out to the ‘50,000foot level’ and look at the improvements to parks and trails and green spaces, granted it happens over 20, 30 years, if these projects come to fruition it’s an incredible asset to West Michigan,” said Matt Chapman, project manager for Grand Rapids Whitewater. “We really have an opportunity to bring nature and these outdoor environments to the downtown urban setting.”

RENDERING COURTESY OF GRAND ACTION 2.0

6/9/22 5:11 PM

While the public gets excited over the potential for projects like the amphitheater, it’s the river restoration project that truly has spurred the riverside development talk over the past decade.

For years, the project has been sort of a pie-in-the-sky dream, including for founders Chris Muller and Chip Richards. Now, however, those big ideas are gathering speed.

The project is currently in the permitting process with seven state and federal agencies.

One permit was awarded as of March, which is a federal permit to work around endangered mussels.

“They’re just complex processes with a lot of laws and a lot of interpretations of laws,” Chapman said.

With planning largely finished, the permitting is a huge milestone, he said.

The first construction project is the Lower Reach section, which stretches from Bridge Street to Fulton Street, and removes four dams while installing new rocks and boulders. The funding and design processes for the Lower Reach are completed.

The second construction project is the Upper Reach, from Ann Street to Bridge Street, that would remove another dam and surface some limestone bedrock, while ensuring invasive species control. A crucial piece of the Upper Reach is underway to evaluate alternatives to control the invasive sea lampreys.

In all, the project would return the Grand River to a more natural state, which helps the aquatic habitat, while also creating more recreational opportunities for humans and creating a more vibrant atmosphere RENDERING CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS PHOTO EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

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Inset: A rendering of the proposed riverside ampitheater.

Right: Hotels and Grand Rapids Public Museum - Downtown Skyline, 2021.

for Grand Rapidians. An Anderson Economic Group study projects the development could create a $15 million to $19 million annual economic impact with another $250 million in capital investments in the 10 years following its competition.

There will be public hearings for construction pieces moving forward, which Chapman said would benefit from community support. He also said at some point, public participation might be needed to help with endangered mussel relocation, which he said also would be a form of community education.

The river restoration project has been a lot of work for those involved, and a lot of waiting for the rest of the community. Now, the reality could be here soon, which might happen at a rapid clip.

“We hope it’s one of those go-slow-to-go-fast situations,” Chapman said.

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people + places / p ofiles

PROFILES

On key

The Schubert Male Chorus sings at its spring 2022 concert.

The Schubert Male Chorus has sung for Grand Rapids since 1884.

BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTOS BY DAVID SPARKS

For 39 years, John Pesano has performed as part of the Schubert Male Chorus.

Pesano’s a long-tenured member of the chorus, but his stint pales in comparison to the entirety of the group’s history.

Since 1884, the Schubert Male Chorus has performed at least once a year in Grand Rapids. Most years, those concerts are in person, but the streak was kept alive during the pandemic with two online performances for the 2020 Christmas show and 2021 spring concert.

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Since 1884, the Schubert Male Chorus has hosted at least one concert in Grand Rapids.

The only membership requirement, according to Pesano, is being a man who likes to sing.

“You have to like to sing,” said Pesano, who joined after learning about the chorus from a friend as it prepared for its 100th anniversary in 1983. “We’re serious about singing, but it’s all about having fun. It’s the camaraderie, the fellowship.

We hang out a lot. We have rehearsals on Monday nights, have a beer or two and shoot the bologna.”

When the Schubert Male Chorus is doing well, it stays at a consistent membership of 35-40. As the pandemic kept the chorus from meeting in person, however, membership fell off. Now, there are only about 28 members.

And it’s not looking bright for the future, either, as the current membership continues to age.

“We’re at the point, we’re getting pretty old,” Pesano said. “With so many things for the younger generation to do, it’s hard to get younger guys. We try to recruit when we go out and sing, but it’s tough to go out and sing.”

Pesano spoke with Grand Rapids Magazine shortly before the group’s spring concert in May. The chorus will resume practices in September, and Pesano said he hopes there might be some new interested singers ready to join.

Younger members would be key to keeping the long-running organization active well beyond its 140th anniversary, which is fast approaching.

Its history is deeply rooted in a familiar organization in West Michigan: St. Cecilia Music Center.

Schubert Male Chorus was started

by Henry C. Post, whose aunt was one of the nine women who founded St. Cecilia’s in 1883.

In addition to the traditional spring and Christmas shows, the Schuberts perform at a wide array of venues when asked.

They have performed at the dedications of the original City Hall in 1885, East Grand Rapids High School in 1929, the city-county complex in 1969, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and DeVos Hall.

They’re also a regular at Festival of the Arts

“We’re serious about singing, but it’s all about having fun.

It’s the camaraderie, the fellowship.

We hang out a lot. We have rehearsals on Monday nights, have a beer or two and shoot the bologna.”

John Pesano

and like to sing, often more than 20 times a year, at retirement and nursing homes in West Michigan.

But perhaps Pesano’s favorite performances are ones the chorus has not had the pleasure of presenting in the past two years: singing at the immigration and naturalization ceremonies for new U.S. citizens.

“We’re hoping we can start doing that again soon. That was always really moving to everyone,” he said. “We used to do that four times a year.”

He also remembers a rousing standing ovation for “Old Man River” at the 87th Annual Convention of The National Garden Clubs.

The performances run the gamut, from patriotic tunes and glee club music to light rock and folk music, Pesano said. While it’s often just the men singing, he did say musicians will join the chorus from time to time — like the violinist who joined them in May. There’s a member who’s also a ventriloquist, so that will pop up on occasion and provide some comedic relief, he said.

The mood of the chorus also depends on the director, a position that has revolved over the years. Some are “more strict than others,” Pesano said.

Pesano said he has made a lot of friends and memories over the years and he’s hopeful the chorus will continue for the men of Grand Rapids. He’s sure there are plenty of potential members who need an outlet for their voice.

“You should have some sort of musical background, but it’s not necessary that you have to be a professional singer; 90% of us are neophytes at that sort of thing,” he said.

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RISE &

DINE T H E G R I N D C A N WA I T

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look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

STYLE

Inked en route page 31

» PLUS: TRYING C ANNABIS COOL STYLE HOMEMADE PIZZA OVEN Everyday items can easily become art.

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look + feel / wellness

Darel Ross of Forty Acres Consulting.

The canna biz WELLNESS

West Michigan is learning to live with legal cannabis, but challenges persist.

BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTOS BY ALFIELD REEVES

Marijuana was once taboo, an illicit drug that still has millions of people behind bars.

Children were told it was something to avoid at all costs, that it would rot brains and act as an entry to a world of other harmful drugs.

Now, however, states are legalizing the natural substance and a federal 26

movement is making strides — in April, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a landmark bill. While the measure did not pass the Senate, the action shows there is promise for legislation that legalizes marijuana, eliminates criminal penalties involving the substance, taxes its products and creates procedures to expunge previous convictions.

For now, marijuana remains a Schedule 1 illegal drug on a national level, but many states, including Michigan, have made it perfectly legal to partake — both for medicinal and recreational purposes.

Michigan voters approved legalized marijuana in 2018.

Michigan cannabis sales totaled more than $1.3 billion in 2021, according to the Cannabis Regulatory Agency. That resulted in more than $42 million in tax revenue for the state.

Michigan, as it turns out, could be a pivotal state in helping shape how the rest of the country legalizes marijuana, according to Alex Todd, co-founder of Saucey Farms and Extracts, a national brand that recently entered the Michigan market through Lake Life Farms.

“The whole market is still very young, and we’re excited to see the market mature as more stores open up,” Todd said.

“Continuing to show up in new spaces like this is our way of growing with a maturing legalized cannabis market.”

While it might seem to some there’s already an abundance (potential oversupply) of cannabis shops in West Michigan, there are many in the industry who see there’s still lots of growth that can happen in the industry.

Last year, Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with former radio DJ Drew McCarthy, now the general manager at the marijuana dispensary Gage, about the industry. As the stigma fades, McCarthy said he sees the potential for marijuana to be talked about as casually as beer is here in Beer City, USA. “The biggest thing: marijuana is legal,” he said. “Some of my friends and family, you light a joint and they worry if someone will smell this? I hope so, I spent money on it.

First time I lit one of our Cookies Georgia Pie, my wife, she went, ‘Oh, my God, that smells like a cigar.’

“That’s where this industry is going. Talk about it like it’s a normal thing, just like it’s beer.”

Like McCarthy, many feel marijuana might even be less harmful than alcohol.

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Both substances can lead to detrimental effects because of altered states of mind.

Unlike alcohol, however, which can lead to death from overconsumption, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said marijuana cannot lead to death from overuse. The CDC reports more than 30,000 annual deaths from health effects related to alcohol, while it doesn’t have a comparable marijuana category.

There also is evidence drinking alcohol is more harmful long-term to the brain.

There are even studies that suggest there are nueroprotective qualities to marijuana — meaning it might be good for the brain.

It’s not all good news for the marijuana industry, however, as it still faces plenty of

Laura Bywalec of Joyology.

opposition and negative news stories. In May, a fifth-grader at a school in Livonia brought marijuana gummies to school and shared them with a classmate. Both were rushed to the emergency room.

Likewise, Michigan lawmakers are working to limit the exposure of marijuana advertising to children and local municipalities are battling the idea of dispensaries opening within their limits.

Plenty of opportunity While there are hurdles impeding the cannabis industry’s growth, there also is hope, said Darel Ross, founder of 40 Acres Consulting. Ross started in the cannabis industry by consulting with people around

licensing, prequalification, real estate options and land development.

A big hurdle in the licensing realm is the real estate and business must meet qualifications determined by the state and local municipalities. If it doesn’t meet all the ordinance requirements, the business is a no-go.

“If there’s no real estate that fits that criteria, you have no opportunities,” Ross said.

Ross said there is quite a bit of money flowing into the cannabis industry in Michigan, including from private investment dollars, credit unions and depositories.

“There is more demand than there are opportunities,” he said. “A lot of that is the unintended consequences of the policies that municipalities (have) limit the physical locations.

“But there is a lot of momentum, a lot of money and still a lot of opportunity to be found.”

Marketing problems Because marijuana is still an illegal drug at the federal level, one of the hardest aspects for the industry is marketing.

For Laura Bywalec, the marketing coordinator at Joyology, her job is largely focused around breaking down the stigma of marijuana — that it’s “bad” or just used to get “high.” The Joyology brand is built on the feeling of happiness and incorporates lots of colors and bubbles.

Bywalec said many of the dispensary’s customers are using marijuana for medical purposes and just the ability to function daily.

“It’s not just the stereotype of sitting on the couch, doing nothing,” Bywalec said.

“My job is to showcase to other people who we are and what we’re doing.”

When she first started in her position last year, it was hard to even advertise anywhere. Joyology has had Instagram pages taken down.

“You can show someone consuming alcohol, but not cannabis,” she said.

In May, Bywalec said Joyology started airing a commercial on FOX 17. That commercial, however, could not say the business is a dispensary, say the word cannabis or showcase products.

“It’s focused on brand awareness, and you have to leave it up to the customers. You’re very limited to what you can say and can’t say,” she said.

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look + feel / style

Noah Baldwin, a design engineer at Steelcase, spends his days solving puzzles and designing solutions.

He loves exploring aesthetics and thinking outside the box, and his fashion is no exception.

Whether he’s working as a stylist for his family band, 10K to Flight, or crushing his pals in a rousing game of “Super Smash Brothers Ultimate,” Baldwin puts his best foot forward, mixing colors, patterns and letting his style speak for itself.

Grand Rapids Magazine sat down with him to talk inspiration, fashion favorites and more.

Grand Rapids Magazine: What does fashion mean to you?

Noah Baldwin: Exercise and fashion actually go hand-in-hand in making me who I am today.

I used to be a very quiet and shy person and always got stressed stepping out of my comfort zone. Now, I am a very outgoing person who loves to make new friends. Much of that came from the confidence I gained from working out and consistently stepping out of my comfort zone with new fashion items and styles.

GRM: Where do you get inspiration for your looks?

NB: Honestly, it comes from color combinations.

I mean, a lot of people will say it comes from designers or something, but I actually tend to take mine more from digital art. If I see a cool background on a computer or something, I’ll try to match colors with that background. It’s a little unique, but it’s really fun to do.

GRM: What prints are you into right now?

NB: I love ’70s style, especially bell bottoms.

I like the modern style a little bit more. They don’t flare quite as much, but I have a pair that I wear to work fairly often that have the plaid look, the faded color, and they fit really nicely and complementary. I’m really getting into ’70s-style checkered patterns, lines — just fun. They pair well with solid-colored shirts and jackets and things like that.

STYLE

Noah Baldwin keeps his cool at Tanger Outlets in Byron Center.

Steely style

Design engineer Noah Baldwin keeps an active approach to his wardrobe while solving problems.

WRITTEN BY PASHA SHIPP

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// PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CUPPY

GRM: Let’s say you could create your ideal jacket. What would it look like?

NB: This is like asking a parent who their favorite kid is; you love them all. I will say I love the classic black leather jacket — the biker style with the diagonal zipper on it, but I also love the color burgundy. I have this light bomber jacket in a deep burgundy color. I think if you could mix those — that color and that texture is really fun for me.

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look + feel / expe t

EXPERT

How to: Jump into cannabis Breaking down the stigma of marijuana.

BY PAT EVANS

Recreational cannabis legalization is stretching across the United States, including Michigan.

While the once-taboo drug winds its way into the mainstream, there still are plenty of hesitancies about the use of marijuana. Whether you are a person who once was against its use but are now curious, or a newbie simply unsure where to start, it’s important to realize there are people willing to help and be a guide.

There are numerous uses for marijuana, whether for wellness or simply looking to wind down.

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Perhaps a fundamental piece of the process is finding a dispensary that works for the consumer. From there, trust can be established with the marijuana retail employees, also known as bud tenders.

“They’re trained to be educated and make recommendations to use marijuana,” said Jamie Cooper, Michigan market director for Sensi Magazine.

Cooper recently spoke to a group of more than 40 women who were age 75 or older about the broader handling of marijuana. She said the women were surprised to learn about all the uses and

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how it’s not just “to get high.”

Beyond those at the dispensaries, Cooper said people should tap into their own network of friends and family who might be users. But, she cautioned, everybody is different and how one person handles a 10 mg cannabis dose (a standard measure of an edible at dispensaries) may be different from how the next user experiences it.

“You have to experiment for a while to find that sweet spot; start low and go slow,” Cooper said. “If you smoke, start with a hit or two, not a whole joint. Same with edibles. Most adult packages are 10 doses of 10 mg. That’s how it’s marked, but start with 2.5 or 5 mg. Start with half of one and see how it affects you.

“Be aware of how long it takes to hit the body, too.”

If the “start low and go slow” path still ends up a little fast and the mind starts to go a bit wild, some CBD oil might help alleviate those feelings, as does the passage of time. Chewing on a black peppercorn — however bizarre that sounds — also might help.

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look + feel / expe ience

Jenny Roberts makes life's everyday objects into artwork.

EXPERIENCE

Art that’s hardly mundane

Jenny Roberts explores the simple things in life through her work.

BY PASHA SHIPP

// PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CUPPY

J

enny Roberts is an artist, poet and Chicago transplant living in West Michigan whose work examines the subtleties of life. Paintings of stairwells and light switches, collages of reimagined checkerboards and shadows of signposts and plants painted on sidewalks are just a few of the ways Roberts studies everyday objects. While she didn’t explore visual art until later in life, Roberts is not a firsttime creator.

“It’s kind of unusual because I never identified as an artist until I was pretty old,” Roberts said. “I was really more of a writer, a poet. But I’ve always written poems and I always loved art, too. I made art for a while and then decided it would be more engaging and it would make me take it more seriously if I went to school, so I applied and got into the University of Chicago’s MFA program.

“They happened to be open to people who did not have a B.A. in art making before that, so they GR M AG .CO M

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Top : 12 “Memory of a Stain"and below: “Junk Mandala 3."

were more interdisciplinary. It was really intense and fun and engaging and scary, but I loved it, and since then, I’ve been making art pretty continuously.”

Simple things that are easily overlooked and routine experiences are what Roberts is most interested in capturing in her work.

“I feel a need for awareness myself of this banality that takes over, and I want to look at it anew,” she said. “I just want to reconfigure these small things that we don’t pay attention to and let them speak in a different way. That really intrigues me, and most of what I do has a route in that.”

First, she starts with an idea, pulling something from the world around her and imagining how it could come to life.

“I try to find something that will help me realize the idea as well as I can,” Roberts said. “I like painting with oil paint, but I’m not good at it. I try to make it work so that I can convey the imagery or the idea I have,” she continued. “It’s always an interesting process because I think of myself as a conceptual artist, which means, I suppose, the idea is first. But every time I make something, it changes in the process.”

Though capturing the subject matter the way she imagines it is part of her process, what’s most important to her is enjoying the work she’s doing.

“When I’m making something that amuses me, and I get a lot of energy from the urge to share that amusement, that is enlivening,” Roberts said. “Making it makes me feel happy, and it’s the highest form of a thought and feeling for me. Sharing it, the potential to share it, makes me happy.”

Back when she lived in Chicago, Roberts thrived on the urban environment, using the public spaces around her as her canvas.

She chased the sun as she painted shadows and hastily put up signs she’d made on the walls of the train.

“When I was in Chicago for years, I did a lot of projects that were in public spaces, 32

"Art provides a space for the imagination to exist."

Jenny Roberts

but not through an institution,” she said. “I would do sidewalk pieces and just let people find it or not. I did a black hole project where I just painted black holes throughout the city. One thing that was always important to me in doing those kinds of things was, I wanted it to be a guerilla action.

“It was never sponsored by an institution. Maybe I was afraid of meeting the expectations of an institution, but also, it felt freer. It felt more philosophically, politically authentic to me.

Since her move to Grand Haven, Roberts has been taking a different approach, focusing mostly on her studio work and revisiting her poetry.

“When I started making art, I didn’t write for a long time, but last year I wrote a book and it’s all joke poems,” she said. “The earlier book I did was odes to everyday things. I go to poems still, I go to poetry, and I’m never sure where it’s going to come from or when it’s going to happen, but art and poetry are both there for me somehow in the background.”

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Frosted quartz earrings in yellow gold with green & white diamonds, handmade by Scott Carey.

Poetry has played a pivotal role in Roberts’ experience, giving her an avenue to connect in a way that feels meaningful for her.

“I’m a very shy person,” she said.

“My way of connecting with the world has sometimes been very solitary, so I think that I’m interested in where communication fails. In my poetry, I think about the experiences that are almost incoherent. I’m just really intrigued with that space and translating experience, transforming it.”

Every artist has their raison d’être, and Roberts is no different. She sees art as a fundamental part of the human experience.

“Art provides a space for the imagination to exist,” she said. “Art is essential to human life. It creates an intensity and a space that we all need, which can transform you in a small way — I’m not saying it’s going to go,

‘Whoa, my world has changed’ — sometimes that happens, but it’s rare.

“Just opening up to that possibility, it’s almost a political act. I’ve always had the intuition that all art is political, but maybe in a broader or a more complex way than through speaking about ideas because it contains more.”

Roberts describes herself as not being “good” at certain aspects of art, but nevertheless, she enjoys creating. To her, the richness of life is lost when we limit ourselves and our experiences.

“That’s actually something really profound about American culture in general is how obsessed we are with, ‘You have to be good at something or you can’t do it,’” she said. “Like, ‘I can’t sing because I don’t have a good voice.’ You narrow down your life so much. Resisting that is scary.

You risk failing, but I think it’s better that

“Vent” and “Switch" are household items seen every day, but here, they are art.

Designer jewelry made in Grand Rapids.

Shop in-store or on-line.

Mark your calendar for our Space in the Case Sale!

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look + feel / home

She went on to become the first in the state to successfully obtain an annulment for such an arrangement.

“Now that I am no longer subjected to someone else's rule, I continue to create as an expression of freedom and continued self-empowerment.”

Here, that translates into a 36-inch pizza oven that has become the focal point of gatherings since she finished it in 2020.

“The design follows a very traditional cobb oven shape,” said Van Harn, who also works full-time and is going to college.

Cobb is a building material made from clay, sand, straw, water and soil, similar to adobe.

“One thing I did follow was the dimensions have to be very specific as far as the height versus circumferences versus the door height in order to get that proper air flow — almost convection — going,” she said. “It’s really cool when the air is getting sucked in and smoke rises to the top and you see this very distinct line where the smoke doesn’t go down because cold air is coming in and pushing it up. That’s how you know you got it right.”

HOME

Planting an oven in the ground Pizza becomes expression of self for Wyoming woman.

BY KATHY GIBBONS

// PHOTO BY DAVID SPARKS

When friends come to visit Nina Van Harn during decent weather, the first place everyone heads is to the backyard.

The 39-year-old Wyoming single mother of three decided to build a clay pizza oven all on her own, inspired by Pinterest and drawings on YouTube, miscellaneous other sources, ingenuity and a little luck.

“Ever since I was young, creating, building or improving something has been my coping strategy for feeling powerless,” said Van Harn, who grew up in a fundamentalist Christian family in rural West Michigan and was forced into an arranged marriage at age 19.

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Van Harn used scrap for pretty much all of it except the fire brick for the floor of the oven itself. The base is composed of old pavers, dirt and wood, and filled with soil, glass wine bottles and fine-grain sand.

“Everything else I just sourced and recycled,” she said. “Most of it came out of my yard, including the dirt for all of it. The clay came out of one of my best friends’ yards because hers is all clay. The straw I procured from a friend in Ada, who has goats.”

Building a mold from sand, bricks and bottles and layering newspaper to create

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Basic Pizza Crust 2¼ to 2¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt 1 package fastacting yeast 1 cup water 4 tbsp olive oil or oil

Directions

an inner barrier, she worked the cobb until it was six inches thick. Then she had to let it dry for a few weeks.

Finally, Van Harn began experimenting with pizza making. It took some doing to get a handle on managing the heat to determine optimum times for baking pizzas.

“You can get it too hot where the crusts will burn before they bake,” Van Harn said.

“It’s a lot of trial and error.”

She not only learned to successfully make wood-fired pizzas in just a few minutes but captures the residual heat to bake roasts and other foods that can cook overnight in the leftover heat.

“There’s a life cycle,” she said. “As it’s warming up, you can grill corn, roast garlic. At the hottest point, you can cook your pizzas.

“As it’s cooking down, I put a grate in there to grill up steaks, chicken, fish. Then once the coals have started to cool down, I fill it with clay pots of meat, shut the door and pull it out in the morning … we’ll have tacos for breakfast, or we’ll make pork butt and have carnitas.”

Along the way, Van Harn discovered that the pizza oven became a sort of

glue that brought people together for companionable backyard gatherings.

“It really became a draw for people,” she said. “My friends come out for a pizza night, and we can sit out on the patio afterwards and have a fire.”

Her close friend Meghan Bozman just moved from the Grand Rapids area to Texas but used to attend frequently.

“We spent a lot of time out there drinking wine, coffee, just hanging out with friends,” Bozman said. “I’d bring my dogs over and they would just play. Then we would have pizza parties, and at some point, we’d all be sitting around cutting up vegetables and meats and cheese, prepping it all while Nina put together homemade dough, every time, never store-bought. And we’d assemble it outside.”

Ever the perfectionist, Van Harn plans to replace her oven with a new, 48-inch model she’s building — also from scratch — that she said will make it possible to bake larger pizzas. It’s all in the interest of enhancing what has become a tradition in her backyard.

“It feels homey,” she said. “It’s just a celebration of something very simple.”

Nina Van Harn prepares the crust for her backyard pizza oven, with a delicious spread of toppings.

In large bowl, combine 1½ cups flour, sugar, salt and yeast; mix well. In small saucepan, heat water until very hot (120 to 130 F). Add warm water and oil to flour mixture. Blend at low speed until well moistened; beat 2 minutes at medium speed. By hand, stir in a half to three-quarters cup of flour until dough pulls cleanly away from the sides of bowl.

On floured surface, knead in one-quarter to one-half cup of flour until dough is smooth and elastic, about 3 to 5 minutes. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and cloth towel. Let rise in warm place until light and doubled in size, about 30 minutes Place oven rack at lowest position. Heat to 425 F. Grease two 12-inch pizza pans. Punch down dough several times to remove air bubbles.

Divide dough in half and press into greased pizza pans. Bake at 425 F on lowest oven rack for 15 minutes. Top with favorite toppings. Bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are thoroughly heated. Van Harn’s favorite toppings are olive oil, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, fresh basil and oregano.

—Adapted from “The Complete Book of Baking” by The Pillsbury Company, 1993

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Pfeiffer Lincoln also offers maintenance pickup, should your vehicle need routine maintenance or repairs. We’ll retrieve it and return it, and even leave you a loaner vehicle so you won’t miss a beat. At Pfeiffer Lincoln, our goal is to make vehicle ownership easy and effortless.

Jeanette Parmelee,

New Car Manager Pfeiffer Lincoln 2424 28th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-949-7800 pfeifferlincolnofgrandrapids.com

Q: I want to have a more active life, but pain keeps limiting me. What action can I take to achieve my goals?

A: You can start by consulting with an expert. At KinetaCare Physiotherapy, we see every client as an athlete—from the young student athlete to the grandmother who wants to be active with her friends and family.

Weakness and poor control of movement are the greatest causes of discomfort in all types of athletes and activities. To improve movement control, as clinicians, we must determine what’s limiting that control.

After a complete assessment, we determine what hands-on treatments are appropriate to get our clients moving comfortably and efficiently, and then work to progress them to greater strength and

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endurance. Part of this assessment includes detailed movement and tissue analysis. This helps us target the science of normal versus abnormal pain and discomfort in our clients.

Resulting treatment may include: • Manual, hands-on techniques, such as functional dry needling for muscle reset • Class IV Cold Laser to facilitate healing • Certified exercise education to reinforce improved movement • Guidance in nutrition for recovery and training regimes Interested in seeing how we can help you break free from limiting pain? Call us to schedule a FREE Injury Screen today!

Dr. Edo Zylstra

PT, DPT, Owner KinetaCare Physiotherapy 4676 32nd Ave Suite C Hudsonville, MI 49426 616-263-6161 info@kcarephysio.com kcarephysio.com

5/31/22 12:51 PM

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Q: What are some adult-oriented activities in and around Ludington this summer?

A: For couples seeking a relaxing weekend away or friends groups looking for a fun outing, the Ludington area has plenty to offer. Craft beer enthusiasts can check out the ever-popular Ludington Bay Brewing Company, Jamesport Brewing Company, and The Mitten Bar—plus there’s the Suds on the Shore Craft Beer & Wine Festival in August and the Octoberfest Music & Craft Beer Festival in September. Oenophiles can enjoy wine tasting at Love Wines, North Branch Winery in Scottville, and Pere Marquette Winery near the Lake Michigan shoreline.

For lodging, there are a number of options, many of which are adult friendly

and, in some cases, adults only. Summer’s Inn is a renovated mid-century motel that accepts guests age 16 and older and features a serene courtyard, wine tasting, and a garden room for mingling. Groups especially love Barothy Lodge for their fully-equipped lodges—complete with fireplaces, kitchens, hot tubs, and more.

They also book river fishing excursions right from their property, set on the Pere Marquette River. Cozy B&Bs, including Cartier Mansion, The Inn at Ludington, The, Lamplighter Bed and Breakfast, and The Ludington House are also favorites.

Learn more at pureludington.com!

Brandy Miller

Executive Director Ludington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 5300 W. US 10 Ludington, MI 49431 (800) 542-4600 pureludington.com

Q: I’m thinking of converting my guest bedroom to a home office. What are some tips for maximizing space?

A: When it comes to making the most of precious square footage, consider combining guest space and a home office, by planning strategically and using vertical space to your advantage.

Incorporating a built-in Murphy Bed with pivoting desk surface—like the models we offer from ORG Home—is a great way to add function and hide your guest room when you’re in work-mode. The Murphy Bed, with integrated linen storage, pulls down from the wall when needed and tucks away when not in use. Make sure to add task lighting, a great

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office chair, and adjacent file storage, and you are ready to tackle the day’s work.

Another idea is to convert the guest room closet to a hidden home office by removing any existing closet rods or shelves, and using the vertical plane within the closet to create a functional work wall—complete with built-in surfaces for technology and writing, designated places for equipment, and customized cabinetry and shelving for extra storage. Personalize the area with a daybed and additional seating and you have a casual lounge space, guest room, and home office!

Jill Burton

Creative Director Studio G Inc. Showroom: 14964 Cleveland St, Suite B Spring Lake, MI 49456 616-842-3740 studioginc.com

5/31/22 12:51 PM

BEER B Y P AT E VA N S

CITY PICKLE GRAND

RAPIDS IS THE REAL ‘ D I L L’

Kristin Trieu, an avid pickleball player and Grand Rapids Pickleball Club member.

WHEN IT COMES TO PICKLEBALL.

PHOTOS BY TERI GENOVESE

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Paul Richards,Beer City Open co-founder and director.

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here’s a sport taking the United States by storm: pickleball.

And it just so happens one of the largest tournaments in the Midwest is right here in West Michigan, the Beer City Open.

The tournament takes place July 20-24 at Belknap Park and sold out in 12 minutes when registration opened in April.

There are players from 40 states and six countries coming to Grand Rapids to play the quirky sport, said George Aquino, vice president and managing director of AHC Hospitality, the presenting sponsor of the Beer City Open and avid pickleball player.

“It’s pretty amazing,” Aquino said of the geographic representation, adding the age range is 14 to older than 80. “There’s a broad range of skills, but everyone is playing on the same courts as the pros, so you feel like an athlete.”

The sport is succinctly summed up as a hybrid of tennis, badminton and ping pong, but it really plays largely like a giant game of ping pong. Players hold paddles, dinking whiffle balls back and forth. (Editor’s note: the writer became a fervent player while living in Las Vegas.)

To an outsider, pickleball can appear to be an easy, leisurely sport, and while it is extremely accessible for beginners, it quickly can become a serious and difficult activity to master.

“As a tennis player, that’s very competitive and takes a lot of time to develop the game; in pickleball, you can start playing and learn how to play from day one and improve really quickly,” Aquino said. “There are stereotypes, and yes there are a lot of seniors that play and popularized it, but in Grand Rapids, most people seem to be young. Even in the Beer City Open, 43% of players are under 50.”

The Beer City Open started in 2018 and has grown quickly. It now offers a $90,000 prize pot and carries sponsors like AHC, Perrin Brewing, Priority Health, Elders Helpers and McClure’s Pickles.

Pickleball might be a relatively new sport to the public consciousness, but

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Grand Rapids Pickleball Club member Pati Sheldon is at the courts almost daily playing with Jeffrey Howlett, a Grand Rapids Pickleball Club board member and co-chair of the Belknap Enhancement Committee, which is overseeing the renovations to add a stadium court and five other courts.

some players can make serious cash. Ben Johns, the No. 1 player in the world, made approximately $250,000 playing the sport last year, according to Axios.

The rapid ascent up the pickleball skill ladder can be seen simply by looking at Andrea Remynse Koop, the tournament director of the Beer City Open. The former NCAA championship tennis player at UCLA has turned into a top pickleball player after starting to play in 2017.

“It’s a smaller court (than tennis), easier to make contact and easier to be good at in the beginning,” Remynse Koop said. “Maybe you don’t need to move around as much.

It’s easy to make contact with a whiffle ball and it makes it much more forgiving for the average individual who wants to play a competitive game.

“But when you get to the higher levels, you need faster reflexes than tennis. When I switch back and forth, on the tennis court I feel like I have 20 minutes to hit. It’s more accessible at the lower levels, but as you advance, it’s not any easier.”

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Grand Rapids will host the Beer City Open in July, one of the premier pickleball tournaments in the United States.

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Pickleball is an accessible sports with friendly communities across the country, but the skill level required quickly ticks up with experience.

PICKLEBALL IS HUGE!

Pickleball was invented in Bainbridge Island, Washington, during the summer of 1965 by a group of fathers, including former U.S. Rep. Joel Pritchard. But an official rulebook wasn’t written until 1984, and it was 2005 before USA Pickleball formed to provide a national overview of the sport.

It wasn’t until the pandemic that the sport really caught mainstream attention — it has been the fastest-growing sport two years in a row, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, growing 42

39%. There are now at least 4.8 million pickleballers, according to USA Pickleball, including a variety of celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio, George Clooney and even tennis great Serena Williams, who gushed about the sport on an afternoon talk show this spring.

In February, the New York Times ran a good-sized spread on the sport with the headline, “Pickleball is Ready for Prime Time.”

Remynse Koop said racquet sports saw a massive increase in participation during the pandemic, and not just pickleball, but

tennis, too. That’s likely because they are outdoor sports with plenty of free courts across the country. Perhaps more than being accessible for early levels, however, pickleball also offers a community of friendly players.

That’s including Grand Rapids, Remynse Koop said.

“What happened to me is I met a community and friends and it’s fun,” she said. “It’s going to hang out with friends.

Then after we play at Belknap, we stay after and go drink a beer at City Built and have tacos. It’s a really social group.”

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Paul Richards prepares to return a shot at Belknap Park's pickleball courts.

There are courts designated for various skill levels, but everyone is willing to play with whoever shows up on any given day.

NOT JUST SENIORS

The game’s easy pace did catch on with senior citizens early in its history. Now it’s catching on as a luxury amenity. Barron’s ran an article earlier this year detailing the mass adoption of pickleball courts in upscale retirement homes, mixed-demographic housing developments and private clubs.

Meanwhile, Life Time Fitness is adding more than 700 courts across the country.

It’s not all fun and games for everyone, however, as this spring the CBC reported the city of Victoria, British Columbia, has banned the sport in several parks because of noise complaints. That might be because the sport does get heated at times.

While the sport is a leisurely fitness activity for some, it’s a cutthroat competition for others. There currently are three startup pickleball leagues: • Professional Pickleball Association • Association of Pickleball Professionals • Major League Pickleball The leagues also have garnered significant attention from some big-time investors and sponsors.

R E TA I L E S TA B L I S H M E N T S

GR PICKLEBALL COMMUNITY

In the past three or four years, the Grand Rapids pickleball community has exploded, according to Aquino.

The epicenter is Belknap Park, where there are almost 20 courts, ready to see plenty of action.

It’s the home of the Grand Rapids Pickleball Club, which has more than 1,000 members. While it costs $100 per year, the community is very active and friendly, Aquino said. The proceeds largely go back into Belknap Park.

Before long, there might be retail establishments popping up to cater to players while providing an overall fun night out. In Columbus, Ohio, the first Real Dill Pickleball Club is opening next fall.

In Charlotte, North Carolina, a 1.9-acre Rally pickleball complex soon will open, with eight courts — indoor and outdoor — and a full-service restaurant and bars.

Other options that could spread across the country include the Electric Pickle in Arizona, with its nine pickleball courts, bar, restaurant and entertainment stage, and Chicken N Pickle, a chain with indoor and outdoor courts, bars and restaurant with locations in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.

While there are not any current public plans for an establishment like those in Grand Rapids, there is some pickleball business emerging from West Michigan.

Aquino has co-founded a pickleball-focused hospitality company called 20 x 44 Sports — named after the size of a pickleball court.

The company helps host tournaments, camps and travel associated with the sport.

E C O N O M I C I M PA C T

Sporting events in Grand Rapids bring plenty of visitors to the city, which is a major reason AHC Hospitality sponsored the Beer City Open. Visitors to the tournament might reserve two or three nights in hotels around town and spend across the local hospitality industry.

“The West Michigan Sports Commission is excited to see the growth of the Beer City Open as a prominent pickleball tour stop on the Association of Pickleball Professionals Tour,” West Michigan Sports Commission President Mike Guswiler said. “This event has sold out every year and now with increased local support and greater efforts to increase Belknap Park into a top pickleball facility in the Midwest, this event will continue to be one that pros and amateurs alike will look forward to.

“Not only will the competitors and spectators be treated to the finest craft beer in the country here in Beer City, USA, but the region will benefit from the nearly $1 million in visitor spending anticipated from this growing and impactful event.”

Perhaps the cherry on top of the whole pickleball craze in Grand Rapids is the new rooftop pickleball courts at the Amway Grand Plaza.

That venue, among others, is just one example of the impact pickleball is having on Grand Rapids.

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Grand Rapids' beautiful, historic Heritage Hill neighborhood is a microcosm of the region's greater housing crisis.

ndrew Straatsma said he and his fiancée are among the lucky ones.

They’ve been living in Heritage Hill, the east side downtown historic district, for about three years now. But despite a surge in housing costs around Kent County, their rent still is manageable — only a little more than $1,000 a month for a two-bedroom apartment. They have a good relationship with their landlord, Straatsma said, and an agreement to take care of the property.

But not everyone is so fortunate. Straatsma recalls a neighbor who was driven out of Heritage Hill by monthly rental fees that surged hundreds of dollars in recent years. They’re almost certainly not the first, with rents rising in Kent County by an average of 16.6% since 2019 — among the fastest rates in Michigan.

Now, Straatsma said, he and his fiancée are looking for a home, and they’ve come to realize exactly how competitive the market in Grand Rapids can be — both in Heritage Hill and beyond.

“We'll put an offer in on (a house) without even looking at it — just because we like the photos. And then we get a response back that it’s already been bought out, cash price, $50,000 over asking, no questions asked, waived inspection,” Straatsma said. “It’s impossible.”

Heritage Hill is a jewel in the city’s architectural crown — a preservation district that lies just east of downtown Grand Rapids, stretching from roughly Michigan Street south past Wealthy Street. On a sunny, spring day it’s a marvel, with cherry blossoms drooping past corniced mansions and towering turrets.

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Vineyard, the locally famous gourmet grocer and wine shop, as well as a bakery and a butcher and more.

But the prices make it all but impossible.

“There's no way we're ever going to be able to buy a house here,” Straatsma said. “It's just too competitive.”

R E N E WA L R O O T S

Along with blocks of residential units, Heritage Hill also is home to vibrant retail sectors.

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But it’s also a microcosm of Grand Rapids’ bigger housing problem, in which housing costs are rapidly increasing and placing increasing pressure on low-income families in search of a home. Kent County is one of the fastest-growing parts of Michigan — and there’s already a lack of housing supply.

“In the city of Grand Rapids alone, there is a need for 9,000 additional housing units above and beyond all of the housing units that we have in the community today,” said Ryan Kilpatrick, executive director of Housing Next, a West Michigan group focused on housing needs. He points out that, in coming years, Grand Rapids will have to not only address that problem, but continue to build housing for thousands more new arrivals.

Housing costs in Grand Rapids are responding. Federal statistics show that prices in Kent County’s housing market grew an explosive 49% from 2016 through 2021, fueled especially by low pandemicera interest rates and surging nationwide demand. The jump in prices in 2021 alone appears to have been about 14%.

Straatsma said his sister is soon moving to the area from Cincinnati, and he’s been helping them shop for homes. After taking a look, his sister gives the green light for an offer, but sometimes it’s too late — the house already has sold.

So, despite Straatsma’s hope that he might someday buy a home in Heritage Hill, he’s staying realistic. Yes, the hill at the foot of downtown is easily walkable and bikeable.

And it’s just steps away from Martha’s

The Heritage Hill Association was formed in 1968, in the midst of urban renewal projects that attempted to remake city centers across the country — many of which had suffered the consequences of white flight or were otherwise in deep urban decay. The group was astonishingly successful in revitalizing the neighborhood, securing a historical preservation designation and saving swaths of it from construction crews.

That story, told in Thomas Logan’s 2004 book, “Almost Lost,” recalls that the group created a foundation to help them flip homes out of deep disrepair. Racist housing policies also made it hard to secure mortgages in the area, so “professionals with good credit standing” would co-sign loans.

But those challenges were decades ago.

In the years since, Heritage Hill has been wildly successful, fashioning itself as one of the city’s premier central neighborhoods, filled with history and just steps away from downtown. Its annual tour — inviting excited visitors inside its stately homes — draws thousands each year.

Barbara Draughon is the executive director of the Heritage Hill Association. In late April, she spoke from her office, tucked into the first floor of a modest historic home on College Avenue SE. She’s well aware of the pressures on housing all around the city.

In Heritage Hill, Draughon said, there’s already questions of what comes next.

There’s increasing pressure to boost local “accessory dwelling units,” or ADUs, which often are a living space over a garage or in a backyard outbuilding. Those boost housing density, but they also raise questions about parking availability, Draughon said, and the possibility that some could just become short-term vacation rentals. That’s before the question of historical authenticity.

“When I had a performance review with the chairman of the board last fall, her final question was, ‘What do you think is the biggest issue we’re facing in the next couple

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27 College Avenue home interior, home of James Payne who is part of the Heritage Hill Home Tours.

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Heritage Hill homes are now mixtures of multi-unit apartments and single-family homes.

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years?’” Draughon said. “And I said, ‘Density conversations.’”

But Draughon said Heritage Hill leaders are well aware of the situation, and she mentioned recently meeting with developers about different parts of the district — once about a vacant lot. And she also points out that Heritage Hill, according to one analysis of census data, already is among the most dense neighborhoods in the city.

“Our mission isn't anti-development or whatever, or to preserve at the expense of everything else,” she said.

A necessary quirk of Heritage Hill is its dedication to historical preservation, which often means local residents need to make expensive investments in the name of keeping up appearances. Bob Mueller lives in a historic home on Union Avenue NE and points out how much cheaper it would be to replace historic siding — which he said requires regular expensive coats of paint — with something more modern.

It’s not unlike the notably higher property tax rates in East Grand Rapids, Mueller said, which can put de facto income restrictions on residents who would like to live there.

That raises questions about who gets to live there. As prices go up, are residents of color being pushed out or denied access?

“We talk about that all the time,” Draughon said. “We're at the risk of losing (our) diversity as prices go up. We're having the same conversation that other communities are. We value that in Heritage Hill.”

MARKET REALITIES

Heritage Hill, of course, is just one example — Grand Rapids has been grappling with a tight citywide housing market for years.

Recently, the City Commission passed key zoning changes to help make housing more widely available — loosening the rules on multifamily units and ADUs and creating incentives to build affordable housing.

But it looks increasingly likely that it wasn’t enough.

Mark Brace is the owner of Brace Homes, a real estate firm in the Grand Rapids market. He said the market in 2021 was even tighter than 2020, with less inventory and significant demand. There’s a lot of factors behind all that pressure — from demographics tipping the number of young homebuyers upward to supply chain issues tamping down new construction.

“The real estate market is an 80-milean-hour train, and you can get on now

or later,” he said. “If you get on now, your interest rate is going to be lower and it’s going to be cheaper.”

Lindsey Reams, executive director of the Grand Rapids Housing Commission, said only about 40% of participants in the local Housing Choice Voucher Program find housing after six months.

“I think the national average is above 80% (voucher) success rate for housing,” Reams said. “I wouldn’t say that this is just Grand Rapids, because I’m actually at a state conference right now with other housing agencies throughout the state. And some of them have success rates lower than 40%.”

Grand Rapids’ high housing costs also come as national housing costs soar, buoyed by a nationwide phenomenon of cheap

“I THINK WE'VE SEEN THE COST OF HOUSING RISE ALL OVER THE C O U N T R Y. A N D IT'S NOT JUST I N C I T I E S T H AT LOOK LIKE GRAND RAPIDS. IT’S IN MOST CITIES." — Kyle Van Strien

credit and high pandemic demand. A New York Times analysis shows that American homeowners have realized $6 trillion in housing equity growth during the last two years. That’s good news for some — but for renters and others left behind, it means ballooning costs to buy into the market and the risk that many will find it out of reach.

Connie Bohatch, managing director of community services for Grand Rapids, said it’s affordable housing that’s a “real pain point” for the city right now.

“We get calls all the time about (how) folks can’t find someplace they can afford to rent, or a home to buy,” she said. “We want housing at all price points though, right?”

Kyle Van Strien is the head of the Grand Rapids Planning Commission. He said he’s closely watching as other cities grapple with their own housing costs, places like in

Minneapolis, where the City Council voted to end single-family zoning in 2018 in favor of building denser housing citywide.

“I think we've seen the cost of housing rise all over the country. And it's not just in cities that look like Grand Rapids. It’s in most cities,” Van Strien said. “I think there are some cities that are taking some really proactive approaches to helping to address the issue. I think the jury's still out on how effective those methods will be.”

The city has a “master plan” document to steer the future of the city’s urban planning — a sprawling document that covers land use, future development and more.

But it’s two decades behind many of the challenges that now are facing the city. The housing supply crunch, for example, is far further along now than it was in 2001, with a roughly 74% increase in housing costs over the last two decades (and a roughly 95% increase since housing prices hit postrecession lows in the early 2010s). And the 2020 census data shows Ottawa and Kent counties saw the first- and third-highest growth rates, respectively, in the state over the prior decade.

Now, city leaders are in the midst of a new planning process, meant to chart out what comes next for Grand Rapids. That’s been in a “pre-planning” phase since early 2020, but soon will move into a “community input phase” this year, as the city hires a consultant to help lead the process. A mayor-appointed steering committee of four dozen members is expected to help guide the process toward adoption in early 2024.

For many observers, one of the obvious answers is Grand Rapids has to become denser — which means single-family lots subdivided into apartments, high-rises and more.

“I think that density is one part of a solution. I don't think that it’s the silver bullet by any stretch,” Van Strien said.

“But I think, you know, locating density in appropriate locations makes a lot of sense.”

Kilpatrick said some of the “most significant tools” for future housing market management include development in major commercial areas and roadways.

“Now, this is also going to be important across the region, right?” he said. “So Grand Rapids is one component of the broader West Michigan region and the housing markets across each community are tied to one another. So, this isn't necessary in Grand Rapids alone, but frankly, in each of our communities in West Michigan.”

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Night out in Grand Rapids

Brent Temple, bartender at SideBar.

BY PAT EVANS

PHOTOS BY HANNAH RUSHTON

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Where to make the most of an evening downtown.

Ghouls Gold, a cocktail from SideBar.

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Karaoke in a private room at K-Rok, which allows singers to hit the high notes.

W ith the beautiful summer evenings making it easy to stay up well past bedtime, options abound for where to spend those “extra” hours.

While Grand Rapids has a relative lack of traditional nightclubs, there are many amazing establishments for most moods.

The 2 a.m. closing time is out of reach for many bar-goers in West Michigan, and downtown still tends to largely clear out by then, but even for those wanting a latenight tipple, there are options.

For our nightlife purposes, this time around we’ll avoid the breweries and distilleries that help shape what Grand Rapidians drink.

(Editor’s note: They’re the focus of our November/ December issue.)

Instead, we’ll shine a light on some of the places that put an emphasis on various aspects of a great night beyond dinner.

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Raucous karaoke

There are some people who just can’t help wanting to perform. There are likely dozens of places in the Grand Rapids area that allow patrons to belt out their favorite tunes, but these two spots in the heart of downtown do so with style.

K-Rok, 169 Louis Campau Promenade A recent addition to the Grand Rapids dining scene, the Korean BBQ and karaoke joint is a perfect spot to let the tunes fly.

Unlike American karaoke, Korean karaoke puts groups in private rooms for more intimate performances.

Z’s Bar & Restaurant, 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW Z’s is a staple of the downtown bar scene, and its karaoke is a major reason why. It’s also one of the few bars in the area to stay open until 2 a.m. almost every night of the week— except Sunday, when it closes at 1 a.m.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, karaoke is center stage from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Z’s. The bar also offers trivia at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays.

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Time for a cold one?

There are plenty of bars in the downtown area and all of them offer up cold beer. These are particularly atmospheric spots to grab a pint. Whether it’s one of the oldest establishments in Grand Rapids, a goofy take on a dive bar or a true craft beer hot spot, these are favorite downtown stops for a brew.

Garage Kitchen & Bar, 819 Ottawa Ave. NW A bit off the beaten path from the core of downtown, the Garage is a cool dive bar without being a real dive. The location has been a bar for decades (remember Teazers?), but its time as the Garage started in 2014.

The Garage has a 2-3-4 special all day, every day — a $2 draft beer, $3 well drink and $4 glass of wine. The food is good and the drinks are cold. The best part? The beers are served in reusable red plastic cups.

HopCat, 25 Ionia Ave. SW What’s a better spot for a beer than the place that made Grand Rapids Beer City?

HopCat has in many ways grown beyond what once made it special, but the roots are still there.

The beer menu is still large with plenty of great options not found in most bars downtown. It’s well worth the stop if you’re looking for a special beer.

The Garage, above and below, a classic place to grab a pint.

Cottage Bar, 18 LaGrave Ave. SE The oldest pub in Grand Rapids is a must-stop for Grand Rapidians. It opened as a sandwich shop in 1927, but it’s been licensed for beer and wine since the repeal of Prohibition.

Now, it’s still one of the coziest, warmest places to grab a beer or cocktail in downtown.

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Musically inclined?

For those who don’t want to sing and would rather listen, these spots are great for the wallflowers.

Grand Rapids has a great music scene, whether it's local bands or touring acts making a stop in town.

Here are a few of the great venues in downtown offering up live tunes.

Turnstiles hosts music every night of the week.

The Intersection, 133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW A staple in the Grand Rapids music industry since it was located in Eastown, its downtown location is a touring stop for many bands across the country.

Whether it’s hip-hop, rock, country or metal, the shows at the Intersection run the gamut.

There are five stages with varying capacities, so you never know what kind of atmosphere might be rocking on a given night.

Turnstiles Bar, 526 Stocking Ave. NW A recently opened neighborhood haunt, Turnstiles provides Grand Rapids with “live music, craft cocktails and friendly faces.”

The bar offers live bands on the weekend, open mic night on Thursday, a singer-songwriter series on Tuesday and a variety of other themed nights throughout the month.

The Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce Ave. SW In the front, The Pyramid Scheme is a heck of a bar in its own right, complete with a massive collection of pinball machines that host the Grand Rapids Pinball League on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. There also is all-ages pinball from 4-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

But the real draw to The Pyramid Scheme is the music. Since its opening in 2011, many great bands, artists and comedians have hit the stage at the venue.

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Smoked Old Fashioned from Sidebar

Easy nightcap

Sometimes, a great dinner calls for a light stroll to a new location and a fancy cocktail to top off the meal. Sure, a fantastic restaurant will likely have a nice pour of your favorite whiskey or digestif, but a change of scenery really helps digestion.

SideBar, 80 Ottawa Ave. NW When SideBar first opened in 2015, it

was at the front end of a new cocktail movement in Grand Rapids. Since then, it has continued the boundarypushing beverage vibes. The 18-seat bar is cozy, but the vibe is lively and helps foster conversation.

The menu changes each season, but you can count on a wide selection of modern and classic cocktails. The talented bartenders also will happily craft a cocktail to individual tastes.

The Lumber Baron, 187 Monroe Ave. NW This small bar in the Amway Grand Plaza calls to mind drinks inside a cozy study located within a stately mansion. The atmosphere is warm, and while it can at times feel a little stiff, it also screams “after-dinner drink on a fancy date night.”

The menu has all the classics and some new twists, while also providing an extensive whiskey list. Plus, they cap off the experience with little chocolate coins!

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Up for an adventure There are some unique spots downtown that offer visitors everything from international flair to intentional intrigue.

Max’s South Seas Hideaway, 58 Ionia Ave. SW There’s something about a tiki bar that screams “good time” for a significant portion of the population. This place has three separate bars and plenty of room to check out the various vibes.

Be aware, however, that the drinks are high octane — as is the tiki way. But they are delicious and created by awardwinning cocktail author and rum expert Martin Cate.

Stella’s Lounge, 53 Commerce Ave. SW This hip spot is full of entertaining attractions. From giant, stuffed burgers 56

Max's South Seas Hideaway

to its equally giant list of whiskies, Stella’s keeps visitors happy in a variety of ways.

Enjoy the vintage arcade games and TVs featuring classic shows, and don’t miss Thursday Burger Nights when the signature sandwiches are $5 off with the purchase of a drink.

IDC, 187 Monroe Ave. NW To get into IDC, you need a password. To get that password — one that changes monthly — you need to sign up on the website.

It’s a private, covered balcony bar that’s part of the Amway Grand Plaza. That’s all we’ll tell you for now.

Knoop, 131 Ionia Ave. SW Knoop is one of the swankiest spots in Grand Rapids. The location is awesome, at the top of a building in Studio Park.

The design is chic, basically made for Instagram.

But aside from the great location, the food and drinks are pretty awesome, too.

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Shots galore

This is the category many younger professionals might be thinking when they want a night out on the town. The closure of The B.O.B. really put a damper on a central place to congregate for a fun night out. But these stops are fully up to the task of keeping the party alive.

New Holland's The Knickerbocker

Cool outdoor vibes

The seasons are not long in West Michigan, so sometimes it feels extra important to make the most of the weather when you can.

The Sovengard, (New location address: 1213 Bridge St. NW ) The Sovengard is in the midst of moving, but the new space promises to keep the old vibes in check - which is important with the amazing outdoor space the business established.

Named one of our best restaurants in 2022, The Sovengard's drinks are also incredible and can help make a day last into a beautiful summer night real easily.

The Knickerbocker, 417 Bridge St. NW When New Holland Brewing opened up its Grand Rapids location, its size was eye-popping.

The best part of it, however, might just be the enormous outdoor space that serves up beer and cocktails.

Flanagan’s Irish Pub, 139 Pearl St. NW Downtown’s classic Irish pub has been a local watering hole for ages. The pub is a restaurant by day, with all the Irish fare one could hope for (try the shepherd’s pie).

While the food is tasty, this place — like most Irish pubs — cranks up the fun meter after normal dinner hours. Of course, one should be drinking Guinness and Smithwick’s at Flanagan’s, but shots of Jameson and Bushmills probably aren’t far behind.

Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar, 180 Monroe Ave. NW Mojo’s is among Grand Rapids’ longeststanding nightlife staples now and is the definition of socialization. It opens at 6 p.m. and the music goes all night long. (It is a piano bar, after all.)

Dueling pianos start at 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday, with a $5 cover charge on Friday and Saturday starting at 9 p.m.

The second floor has a DJ on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights.

One thing is for sure: The drinks are priced right, from a $4 tequila sunrise to the $7 martinis.

Grand Woods Lounge, 77 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW Like most of the late-night hot spots in Grand Rapids, Grand Woods Lounge also serves up a variety of lunch and dinner options.

But the Woods ends up being a place people line up for late into the evening, and like some of the best college bars in the state, it serves up 84-ounce buckets of cocktails.

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SEAL THE

DEAL

with an All Star by your side

O

wning a home is still very much a part of the American dream, and it has its financial advantages as well—especially with inflation on the rise. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or you’re selling your existing home and either upgrading or downsizing, there are a lot of factors at play in the current West Michigan market. One of the most important decisions both buyers and sellers can make is choosing the right agent to work with. Their personality, the approach they take, and the

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experience they bring to the table all matter—to your working relationship as well as the outcomes you desire.

In this section, you have the opportunity to preview some of the top brokers and agents in the region. They’re what we call Real Estate All Stars, and they’ve earned that designation strictly through results. With total sales volumes in the top 5%, as determined through a survey by a private research company, they’re the ones one want to have in your corner when it’s time to make a move.

6/13/22 9:16 AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Nick Adado Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Cindy Barton Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia

Timothy Bowditch RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Tyler Addington RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Julie Bays Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia

Mark Brace Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Dwight Berens RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Scott Bradford RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Vanessa Alt RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-884-2078 vanessaalt@remax.net vanessaalt.com

Katie Ambrose RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Ingrid Anastasiu Anastasiu Homes Keller Williams Grand Rapids 1555 Arboretum Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-304-9387 ingridanastasiu.com

Donna Anders Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Dustin Anderson Five Star Real Estate Grandville Gretchen Arkins Greenridge Realty, Inc. South Haven

Kathy Berles Duisterhof GreenSquare Properties LLC 2618 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-262-5254 kathy@greensquaregr.com greensquaregr.com

Sheree Broussard Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Mark Blashkiw Blueprint Properties Grand Rapids

Geoff Brown City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale

Justin Blevins Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Bob Budreau Greenridge Realty, Inc. Ludington

Brandi Block Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Tammy Jo Budzynski Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids

John Bodien Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Juanita Buskard Buskard Group Real Estate Grandville

Blake Boehm Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Todd Buskard Buskard Group Real Estate Grandville

Ross Bacon RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

John P. Boggiano Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Brad Baker Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Drew Born RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Brian Bartholomew RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Justine Born RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

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Kristine Brady Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Kristin Carlson Keller Williams GR East 1555 Arboretum Dr. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-822-5660 kristincarlson@kw.com behometeamgr.com

Patricia Caston Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

6/13/22 9:18 AM

EXP EXP Realty Realty isis one one ofof the the fastest fastest growing growing real real estate estate brokerages brokerages inin the the world. world.

WithWith overover 82,000 82,000 agents, agents, EXPEXP Realty Realty is quickly is quickly becoming becoming a household a household name. name.

As the As the industry's industry's firstfirst virtual virtual brokerage, brokerage, theythey have have leveraged leveraged innovation innovation andand technology technology to bring to bring incredible incredible support support andand services services to their to their realreal estate estate agents. agents.

In addition In addition to top to top notch notch technology technology andand world world class class training, training, EXPEXP agents agents earnearn stock stock in the in the publicly publicly traded traded company company andand have have opportunities opportunities to generate to generate additional additional revenue revenue on top on top of their of their commission. commission.

WithWith so many so many benefits, benefits, it isitno issurprise no surprise thatthat these these local local agents agents left left their their independent, independent, national national andand small small brokerages brokerages to join to join the the EXPEXP model. model.

EXPEXP Grand Grand Rapids Rapids agents agents are are wellwell equipped equipped to give to give their their buyers buyers & sellers & sellers the the bestbest of service, of service, marketing, marketing, andand an overall an overall rewarding rewarding experience experience in their in their transactions. transactions.

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1680 1680 EastEast Paris Paris AveAve SE, SE, Grand Grand Rapids, Rapids, Mi. Mi. 49546 49546 | Office: | Office: 616-901-3620 616-901-3620

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22 AM

Meet our Agents

Allyson Allyson Fea Fea

Andy Andy Smith Smith

BenBen Vander Vander Hill Hill

Courtney Courtney Harding Harding

Duke Duke Gray Gray

1 YEAR 1 YEAR GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

8 YEARS 8 YEARS HUDSONVILLE HUDSONVILLE

4 YEARS 4 YEARS HUDSONVILLE HUDSONVILLE

2 YEARS 2 YEARS DORRDORR

18 YEARS 18 YEARS KENTWOOD KENTWOOD

Emily Emily Martin Martin

ErinErin Donohue Donohue

ErinErin Fester Fester

JodiJodi Smith Smith

JoniJoni McArthur McArthur

3 YEARS 3 YEARS HOLLAND HOLLAND

1 YEAR 1 YEAR GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

18 YEARS 18 YEARS FOREST FOREST HILLSHILLS

27 YEARS 27 YEARS GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

8 YEARS 8 YEARS ROCKFORD ROCKFORD

KariKari Kippen Kippen

Krista Krista Ghafari Ghafari

Lance Lance Tiffany Tiffany

23 YEARS 23 YEARS ROCKFORD ROCKFORD

4 YEARS 4 YEARS GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

9 YEARS 9 YEARS ROCKFORD ROCKFORD

6 YEARS 6 YEARS CALEDONIA CALEDONIA

5 YEARS 5 YEARS HOLLAND HOLLAND

NickNick Holtrop Holtrop

Rachel Rachel BonzelaarBonzelaarGallegos Gallegos

Renee Renee Privette Privette

Ryan Ryan OgleOgle

SethSeth LergLerg

2 YEARS 2 YEARS GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

22 YEARS 22 YEARS GRAND GRAND RAPIDS RAPIDS

6 YEARS 6 YEARS CALEDONIA CALEDONIA

6 YEARS 6 YEARS HUDSONVILLE HUDSONVILLE

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5 YEARS 5 YEARS HOLLAND HOLLAND

Mark Mark VanderWal VanderWal Nate Nate Broekhuizen Broekhuizen

6/8/22 6/7/22 3:189:23 PMAM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Micah Childress Five Star Real Estate Grandville Patrick Clark Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven Doren Colley RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Amy Conley Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood Trisha Cornelius Novosad Realty Partners LLC Grand Rapids Bruce Cornell Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Abby Cribbs RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Andrea Crossman Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Holland

Mollie Dauser RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE. Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-884-2075 molliedauser@remax.net molliedauser.com

David DeBruyn Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood Julie DeDoes Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven Mark Deering RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Sandie DeHamer Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Evan DeVisser Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Guy DeVries Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids John DeVries RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Corin Dickerson City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale Pat Doezema Greenridge Realty, Inc. Wayland Mark DuBridge Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Laura Durham Mill Pond Realty, Inc. Saugatuck Chris Dykema Greenridge Realty, Inc. Whitehall Lindsey Dykstra Five Star Real Estate Rockford Steve Earls Greenridge Realty, Inc. South Haven Bridget Eklund Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Laura Ensley Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs

Anne Espinoza Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood Christine Estep Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven Brandon Faber RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Patrick Fase Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Laura Featherston Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids Gerald Feenstra RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Todd Fencil RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Erin Fester eXp Realty Grand Rapids Alicia Fisher Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Chuck Fisher Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids Willie Friend RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Chuck Gallagher Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids Jess Garrison Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Grand Haven

6/9/22 10:01 AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

Greenridge Realty – Becca Greenhoe, Realtor 4250 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-308-6120 | greenridge.com Real estate has always been more than just transactions and numbers for Becca Greenhoe, who firmly believes it’s really about the people. Calling on her extensive background in customer service, she creates a personal experience for her clients and truly enjoys being part of their journey, whether they’re buying or selling a home.

While many agents have teams and coordinators, Becca works directly with her clients, taking a very hands-on approach and walking them through every aspect of the process. With seven years of experience in the real estate realm, she’s adept at negotiating and has built strong relationships with other agents and contractors to create a smooth, seamless process that earns her plenty of referrals and repeat business.

“It’s hard work, especially in this market, but it’s very rewarding,” Becca says. “It’s like Christmas morning, but for adults — and when they close on their perfect house, that’s the part I love most.” ■

RE/MAX Of Grand Rapids – Yordanos (Jordan) Torrez, Realtor 4362 Cascade Rd. SE, Ste. 208, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | 616-272-6996 | yordanosjordan.remax-michigan.com In her six-year career in real estate, Jordan Torrez has worked with a wide range of buyers and sellers. Experienced and well-educated in the complexities of the industry, she listens to what her clients are looking for — and she’s driven to help them achieve it.

In a challenging market, emotions can be especially high, but Torrez remains evenkeeled and keeps her clients motivated and excited. She also helps them set realistic expectations and prepares them for what’s next.

“Part of the strategy for me is clearly understanding our end goal and always putting my clients’ best interests first,” she says. “Knowing that every buyer and seller is different, I work to prepare a personalized game plan that’s unique to their situation. It’s a part of the process I truly enjoy.”

Torrez is a graduate of the Greater Regional Alliance of Realtors® Leadership Academy (GRARLA). Originally from Eritrea, she’s fluent in Tigrinya. ■

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6/9/22 10:02 AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Brenda Gartzke RE/MAX United 4150 E. Beltline NE. Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-884-2240 brendagartzke@remax.net brendagartzke.com

Michelle Gaudreau Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia Ashley Gauthier Coldwell Banker Sneller Real Estate Allegan Ami Giusti Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Barb Glashouwer Novosad Realty Partners LLC Grand Rapids Justin Glover RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Nancy Gregus Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Josh Howard Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Steve Grilley Five Star Lakeshore Holland

Lucas Howard Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Jeremiah Gruchow RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Dwayne Huff RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Michele Hanmer Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia

JP Huntington Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven

Scott Harestad Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven Sharon Harig RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Brenda Harris Five Star Real Estate Norton Shores

Kim Hensley Cheryl Grant Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids Jack Grashuis Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood

RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-884-2059 kimhensley@remax.net kimberlyhensley.com

Andrew Grashuis Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Ryan Hesche Greenridge Realty, Inc. Lowell

Ken Grashuis Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Cindy Hodges Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Becca Greenhoe Greenridge Realty 4250 E. Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-308-6120 bgreenhoe@greenridge.com letmetakeyouhome.com

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Benjamin Iwema RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Lisa Jabara Newell Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids Kamie Jakeway Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Sherlynn James RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Leann Johnson Greenridge Realty, Inc. South Haven

Sandra Johnson Greenridge Realty 9175 Cherry Valley Ave. SE, Ste. 12 Caledonia, MI 49316 616-292-4753 sljohnson@greenridge.com greenridge.com

Phil Hooker Greenridge Realty, Inc. Lowell

Heather Jones Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Mark Hoskins Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Rockford

Jeanne Jonker Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

6/8/22 3:19 PM

RE/MAX

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS 2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

RE/MAX United

West Michigan’s real estate market continues to be extremely competitive, and that means choosing the right real estate agent is more important than ever. Buyers and sellers need a trained, experienced agent with strong negotiation skills who can help them achieve the most favorable transaction — and that’s not always the highest price or offer. Possession and financing terms can also come into play, as do many intangibles. The team at RE/MAX United dedicates several hours a week to analyzing, adapting, and innovating new processes to stay up to date on the latest changes and methods in the region’s current marketplace.

RE/MAX United’s 2022 Real Estate All Stars are Tracie Rich, broker and owner of RE/MAX United, who has more than 25 years of experience; Karla Karamol, Realtor, with nine years of experience; Kim Hensley, Realtor, with 10 years of

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experience; Brenda Gartzke, who has more than 27 years of experience; Mollie Dauser, with nine years of experience; Vanessa Alt, with 25-plus years of experience; and Jody Bernhardt Schwalm, with five years of experience. All approach a sale the same way: by really delving into what the buyer or seller needs. Each has earned the Real Estate Negotiation Expert designation, and the proof of their skills is in the results they attain for their clients.

Education is part of the core philosophy of RE/MAX United, which has locations in Rockford, Grand Rapids, and Greenville — and it’s what sets these All Stars apart from others in the field. They live, work, and serve in our local communities and have the expertise to get the job done.

In addition to exceptional marketing strategies to help sell a home quickly, RE/ MAX United offers the latest technology to make the process of finding a home

easier. Clients enjoy access to cuttingedge map search technology, a state-ofthe-art mobile app, current market stats, and more. ■ Tracie Rich, Broker and Owner Karla Karamol, Realtor Kim Hensley, Realtor Brenda Gartzke, Realtor Mollie Dauser, Realtor Vanessa Alt, Realtor Jody Bernhardt Schwalm, Realtor

RE/MAX United Rockford Office 28 N. Monroe Rockford, MI 49341 616-866-5800 remax-united-mi.com

5/19/22 8:43 AM 6/8/22 3:20 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Michael Karel RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Chris Konyndyk RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Anthony Lewis RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Timothy Katerberg RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Scott Koop Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Brian Lorenz RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Wendy Katerberg RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Patty Koval Greenridge Realty, Inc. Wayland

Giuseppe Lupis Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Sherri Keen Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grandville

Diana Kovalcik Greenridge Realty, Inc. Ludington

Beth Mans Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Rachel Kegley Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Brooke Krebill Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Laura Marcus-Nolan Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven

Scot Kellogg 616 Realty, LLC Grand Rapids

M. Dean Kreps Greenridge Realty, Inc. Holland

Kyle Kimble RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Kevin Kroondyk Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood

Don King Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Elizabeth Krueger eXp Realty Alto

Keith King Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Kari Kippen eXp Realty Grand Rapids

Gary Langlois Greenridge Realty, Inc. Muskegon Leo Langlois Greenridge Realty, Inc. Muskegon

David Kirchgessner Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Paul Leason Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia

Liz Klinzing Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Kevin Lee RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Hope Kolker Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Sara Lewis Century 21 Affiliated Grand Rapids

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Dave Martin Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Wyatt Martin Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids James Maxim Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia Joshua May RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Kevin McCarty Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Joshua McCracken Greenridge Realty, Inc. Lowell Melissa McDermott Keller Williams Rivertown Grandville

6/10/22 2:21 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Sarah Medina GreenSquare Properties LLC 2618 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 269-929-1373 hello@sarahmedina.realtor sarahmedina.realtor

Daniel Mehney Greenridge Realty EGR 2213 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-446-9161 dmehney@greenridge.com danmehney.greenridge.com

Chris Mendels Greenridge Realty, Inc. Holland

Travis Moelker RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Tom Monette Greenridge Realty, Inc. Muskegon Cheryl Morehouse Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia Ken Murillo eXp Realty

Ingrid Anastasiu, Realtor Anastasiu Homes Keller Williams Grand Rapids 1555 Arboretum Dr. Grand Rapids, MI 616-304-9387 Ingrid.a@kw.com ingridanastasiu.com

Angela Musk Greenridge Realty, Inc. Whitehall Mara Musser Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia Dana Myers Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia

Karl Menzies Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Pamela Merriman 616 Realty, LLC Grand Rapids

Ingrid Nelson Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Melissa Mitchell, GRI, SRES GreenSquare Properties LLC 2618 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-308-6304 melissamitchell@grar.com greensquaregr.com

Kim Nelson Greenridge Realty, Inc. Whitehall

#1 West Michigan REALTOR. Specializing in waterfront and luxury homes.

Andrea Crossman

Buyers and Sellers looking for a Realtor need only to read her numerous five-star reviews to know that working with Ingrid Anastasiu gets results.

Knowledgeable, creative, driven, and hardworking, she goes the EXTRA MILE for her clients and, in her own words, she’s “In-to-Win.” She earned the designation of Top 1% Producer in 2021 and receives more than 70% of her business from referrals from happy customers who trust she’ll treat their transaction as if it were her own investment. Ingrid also has special expertise in Relocation for National and International clients and is fluent in English, Spanish, and German. ■

Andrea Crossman Group - Coldwell Banker 466 E 16th St, Holland, MI 49423 | 616-218-0267 andrea@andreacrossman.com | andreacrossman.com

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6/10/22 2:24 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Mary Noles RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Christopher Peel Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven

Jody Ribbens RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Bob Novosad Novosad Realty Partners LLC Grand Rapids

Scott Perschbacher Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

John Rice Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia

Lisa Novosad Novosad Realty Partners LLC Grand Rapids

Jacob Peterson RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Roxanne O’Brien RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Lisa Piskin Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Jeff Platko Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Michael P. O’Hara Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Ryan Ogle Blu House Properties 1680 East Paris Ave. SE Ste. 200 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-901-4541 ryan@thinkbluhouse.com thinkbluhouse.com

John Oleck Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids David Oom Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia Beau Otis Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids Kim Paavola Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia Adam Palaske RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Michelle Parent Greenridge Realty, Inc. South Haven

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Randy Poll Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids John Postma RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Brenda Pratt Keller Williams Grand Rapids North Grand Rapids Sue Prins Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids Daniel Rabourn RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Kelley Rahilly RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Gary Raska Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Rockford Kindell Rerucha Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Christina Rice Ensley Real Estate Cedar Springs

Tracie Rich RE/MAX United 28 N. Monroe St. Rockford, MI 49341 616-844-2056 tracierich@remax.net tracierich.com

Rick Rico Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Sarah Riehl Greenridge Realty, Inc. Whitehall Brian Riley Greenridge Realty, Inc. Ludington Susan Ring Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Nicole Rinks Century 21 Affiliated Grand Rapids Theresa Robinson 616 Realty, LLC Grand Rapids Julie Rockwell Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids Jamie Rodriguez Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

6/8/22 3:21 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Amanda Rogers Rogers Neighborhood Realty Lowell

Janet Romanowski Greenridge Realty, Romanowski Homes Inc. 2213 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-318-0065 janet@romanhousekey.com romanhousekey.com

Nina Schillman Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Rockford Tony Scholten RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Brook Sharp Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Malinda Root Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Ashley Shaw Greenridge Realty, Inc. Holland

Julie Rossio Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Brit Shearer Greenridge Realty, Inc. Holland

Mike Rundhaug Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Mary Siemer Greenridge Realty, Inc. Whitehall

Leslie Ruppel JH Realty Partners Ada Kristin Ruther RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Lisa Sabo Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Haven

Kim Salvaggio Johnson Greenridge Kentwood 1401 60th St., SE. Kentwood, MI 49508 616-460-1783 kjohnson@greenridge.com greenridge.com

Mike Satterlee Greenridge Realty, Inc. Greenville

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Adam Sims RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Lindsay Slagboom Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Brandon Snellink RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Rebecca Snider RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Henry Steffes Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grandville Katie Stein Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Lisa Stewart Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Karen Storms RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Stephen Stuckey Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grandville Dale Stuckey Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

Tim Slot Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood

Pau Ngaih Suan Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Caledonia

Mike Smallegan Keller Williams Grand Rapids East Grand Rapids

Chad Sytsma Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Brenda Smith City2Shore Gateway Group Allendale

Nora Tan Greenridge Realty, Inc. Holland

Frederick Smith RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Megan Tefft Century 21 Affiliated Grand Rapids

Carol Sneller Coldwell Banker Sneller Real Estate Allegan

Paul Ten Eyck Greenridge Realty, Inc. Grand Rapids

6/8/22 3:21 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

GreenSquare Properties GreenSquare Properties is a locally owned and operated real estate brokerage dedicated to providing unparalleled service within the industry. Offering a concierge experience for their clients, with a more personal, service-oriented approach, the team at GreenSquare delivers big results from their small office. A testament to that capacity is in the Real Estate All Star designation earned by four agents at their office.

Scott West has been in the real estate industry for nearly 20 years.

He has made the All-Stars list four years running, as well as earning the GRAR Top100 designation. Scott attributes his success largely to his love for the work he does. His passion for serving others is infectious and is evident to both his clients and employees. As Broker/ Owner of GreenSquare, Scott seeks to surround himself with likeminded agents who have the same level of talent, attention to detail, and client care that he possesses.

Kathy Berles Duisterhof was raised in East Grand Rapids and has lived in and loved the Grand Rapids area since. She joined GreenSquare Properties in 2017 and has a great appreciation for the integrity and culture of the small, relationship-based real estate brokerage. Prompt communication, client education, attention to detail, and a relaxing sense of humor are key to her practice, whether it’s working with a first-time buyer or an experienced seller. Her friends become clients and her clients become friends.

Making a transition from healthcare to real estate, Sarah Medina continues to support the Grand Rapids community by helping families upsize in West Michigan. With five years’ experience as a real estate agent, she helps growing families assess their needs to find the best-fit, long-term home solutions. Recently obtaining her broker’s license, Sarah focuses on continuing education, providing her clients with the most up-to-date information during their home buying and selling process. Adding a personal touch for her clients, Sarah enjoys being able to share all she loves about Grand Rapids.

Melissa Mitchell is an EGR resident who joined GreenSquare in 2019 after working several years for a large brokerage in West Michigan.

Melissa is an Associate Broker and a trusted Senior Real Estate Specialist providing personalized, concierge client experience. Known for her compassion, patience, and honesty, Melissa works with seniors and their family members to overcome the anxiety and worry of selling and right-sizing. Melissa brings deep industry experience, market knowledge and cutting-edge technology to meet her client’s unique needs, even in complex situations.

GreenSquare’s dedication to advanced training, education, and client communication is paramount to its success. This focus continues to produce top performing agents who are leaders within our real estate industry. Trust GreenSquare’s agents to deliver an unparalleled real estate experience. ■

GreenSquare Properties 2618 East Paris Ave. SE, Ste. A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-285-9305 greensquaregr.com

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PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

Pictured left to right, above: Scott West, Broker/Co-Owner, Kathy Berles Duisterhof, Realtor, Sarah Medina, Associate Broker, Melissa Mitchell, Associate Broker.

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PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS Emmett Terbeek Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids

Heather VanderVeen RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Douglas Todd Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

David VanderWoude RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming

Jolane Tomlinson Buskard Group Real Estate Grandville

Yordanos Jordan Torrez RE/MAX of Grand Rapids 4362 Cascade Rd SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-272-6996 Jordan@yjthomes.com yordanosjordan.remaxmichigan.com

Alexandra Tremain Greenridge Realty, Inc. Kentwood Ashleigh Van Duinen-Leistra RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Wyoming Lindsay Van Duinen-Scully RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Brad Van Oostenbrugge RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

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Dave VanKeulen Greenridge Realty, Inc. Lowell Tyler VanWingen Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids Annie Vecziedins Keller Williams Realty Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Rachael Veldkamp RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Scott West GreenSquare Properties LLC 2618 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-550-4016 swest@greensquaregr.com greensquaregr.com

Alyssa Wiederhoeft Greenridge Realty, Inc. Muskegon Steve Winczewski Greenridge Realty, Inc. Ludington Caitlyn Wisniewski 616 Realty, LLC Grand Rapids Sheila Workman Greenridge Realty, Inc. Caledonia

Pat Vredevoogd Combs Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate Grand Rapids

Rob Young 616 Realty, LLC Grand Rapids

Marilyn Wagner RE/MAX of Grand Rapids Grand Rapids

Jane Zawacki Greenridge Realty, Inc. East Grand Rapids

Dan Way Greenridge Realty, Inc. South Haven

Laurie Zokoe Five Star Real Estate Grand Rapids Laurel Zwit Greenridge Realty, Inc. Montague

6/9/22 10:03 AM

My pre-qualification letter from LMCU made buying my home stress free.

— Shannon, LMCU member

Buy your home with as little as 0-3% down* and open the door to your new address.

Get pre-qualified today.

Call (844) 754-6280 or visit LMCU.org/Mortgage.

*For well-qualified borrowers. NMLS #442967. Shannon is an LMCU member and was compensated for her participation.

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5/31/22 6/8/22 9:55 3:24 AM PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS — MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS Grant Alexander Rapid Home Finance Grandville

James Eerdmans My City Mortgage Grand Rapids

Bob Hein Priority Mortgage Grandville

Jonathan Arnold Inlanta Mortgage Ada

Zac Ellerbroek Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids

Pat Helder Northern Mortgage Grandville

Stephanie Axdorff Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Brian Ferrick Inlanta Mortgage Ada

Bill Herceg The Federal Savings Bank

Steve Axdorff Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Zack Foster Lake State Mortgage Grand Rapids

Julie Bacon VanDyk Mortgage Wyoming

Adam Fuller Mortgage 1, Inc. Grand Rapids

Mike Bartels Old National Bank Grand Rapids

Ryan Gardner Northpointe Bank Grand Rapids

Seth Bellas Churchill Mortgage Grandville

Craig Gebben Old National Bank Holland

Tom Boorsma Churchill Mortgage Grand Rapids

Lisa German Lake Michigan Credit Union Muskegon

Nathan Bylsma Finance of America Mortgage Grandville

Tom Girardot Team Mortgage Company Grand Rapids

Daniel Cavanaugh Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Cesar Gonzalez Mercantile Bank Wyoming

Chris Dennison Mortgage 1, Inc. Grand Rapids

Dale Hamill Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids

Holly Dewitt VanDyk Mortgage Wyoming

Karri Hartman My City Mortgage Grand Rapids

Matt Dhaseleer Independent Bank Grand Rapids

EllenGrace Hauenstein Consumers Credit Union Grand Rapids

Alice Doherty Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Monica Hazel United Bank Grand Rapids

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Lynn Hoeksema West Michigan Community Bank Holland Pete Humphreys Independent Bank Rockford Lucas Igo Chase Bank Grand Rapids David Jackson Ruoff Mortgage Grand Rapids Jason Jenkins Cross Country Mortgage Grand Rapids Jerry Kamerman Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids Kevin Kelling Inlanta Mortgage Ada Pamala Kemp Consumers Credit Union Grand Rapids Stephen Kik Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids Ben Langenau Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids Peter Latvaitis Lake Michigan Credit Union Byron Center

6/9/22 10:03 AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS

CONGRATULATIONS on being chosen by Grand Rapids Magazine’s Real Estate All Stars as 2022 top mortgage professionals!

Matthew Dhaseleer

Bob Storrer

Pete Humphreys

Bernie Marvin

NMLS ID: 728203 616.819.9602 MDhaseleer@ibcp.com 4200 E. Beltline Grand Rapids, MI

NMLS ID: 498533 616.262.5963 Bstorrer@ibcp.com 6750 Cascade Rd. SE Grand Rapids, MI

NMLS ID: 630758 616.304.2009 Phumphre@ibcp.com 78 S. Main St. Rockford, MI

NMLS ID: 1227785 616.644.0195 BMarvin@ibcp.com 4200 E. Beltline Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Magazine and the top 5% of realtors in West Michigan have chosen these Mortgage Loan Officers for their accomplishments. Congratulations!

IndependentBank.com/Mortgages

CONGRATULATIONS REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS!

Thank you for being community partners and helping our neighbors find their happy place.

Stephanie Axdorff NMLS ID#: 1712192

Steve Axdorff NMLS ID#: 486542

Cesar Gonzalez NMLS ID#: 451361

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Daniel Cavanaugh NMLS ID#: 455018

Jerry Kamerman NMLS ID#: 486546

Alice Doherty NMLS ID#: 800681

Curt Stuck

NMLS ID#: 451361

6/8/22 3:25 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS — MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS Jennifer Leavenworth Lake Michigan Credit Union 2024 Celebration Dr. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-234-6512 jennifer.leavenworth@lmcu.org lmcu.org

Amanda Lehman Stockton Mortgage Grand Rapids Dave Lehner Michigan Mortgage Muskegon Rick Lewellyn Finance of America Mortgage Grandville Jason Lovell Union Home Mortgage Grand Rapids Bernie Marvin Independent Bank Grand Rapids Wade Monsma Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids Lou Moratti PrimeLending Grand Rapids Mike Morozowich Amerifirst Home Mortgage Grand Rapids Dann Mulder Lake Michigan Credit Union Byron Center Rick Murray Old National Bank Grand Rapids Ed Napieralski PrimeLending Grand Rapids Joshua Nawrot Northern Mortgage Byron Center

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Brendan O’Driscoll Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Gregg Teegardin Consumers Credit Union Grand Rapids

Kevin Polakovic Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Luther Trook Lake Michigan Credit Union Byron Center

John Polakovich Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Seth Vanderwey Churchill Mortgage Grand Rapids

John Seville Benchmark Mortgage Grand Rapids

Nick VanVorst Northern Mortgage Grand Rapids

Neil Siebert PrimeLending Grand Rapids

Dan Vaughan Revolution Mortgage Spring Lake

Becky Sims Lake Michigan Credit Union Byron Center

Richard Veldman Benchmark Mortgage Grand Rapids

Julie Smith Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Rick Veldman Benchmark Mortgage Grand Rapids

Jeffrey Steffens Finance of America Mortgage Grandville

Scot Veneklase Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Dave Stellin Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids

Jenny Wagner Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Brad Stinson Benchmark Mortgage Grand Rapids

Amber Wagner Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Bob Storrer Independent Bank Grand Rapids

Terry Wickering Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids

Mallory Strotheide Treadstone Mortgage Grand Rapids

Jake Williams Lake Michigan Credit Union Wyoming

Curt Stuck Mercantile Bank Grand Rapids

Stephanie Wood Inlanta Mortgage Ada

Zachary Tebos Lake Michigan Credit Union Grand Rapids

6/8/22 3:25 PM

THANK YOU TO OUR 2022 REAL ESTATE ALL-STARS!

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6/10/22 2:32 PM

Voted voted Best hangover food

by Grand Rapids Magazine readers

voted Best diner

voted Best Bloody Mary & best happy hour

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voted Best burrito

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

» PLUS: SCOTCH MUST-TRY

Caribbean flavors

TAMALES A DINING GEM IS BACK

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Chez Olga calls an iconic Eastown building home and serves equally spicy food.

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A selection of drinks and dishes at Grove, which reopened this spring.

A new groove TABLE

Restaurant strikes balance between breezy and elevated with revitalized concept.

BY KELSEY DUNNEBACK

// PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO

When East Hills favorite Grove, owned by Essence Restaurant Group, reopened this past spring, it was nearly unrecognizable from its former self.

And that was the exact intent after a two-year hiatus.

Grove’s pandemic-induced time away from the Grand Rapids food scene was intentional, grounded in the desire to reinvent itself with nothing to remain the same, from the chairs at the bar to the revamped menu.

Where moody booths and carpeted floors once presided, now there is overflowing bright light from large windows that illuminate reeded light wood accents. Walls lined with greenery fill the space, giving it a refreshing feel reminiscent of outdoor patios with fresh, Scandinavian design.

While contradicting its former self aesthetically, Grove has stayed true to its modern, progressive expertise by serving up premium culinary experiences to Grand Rapids.

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Christopher North, head chef, above, and Devin Cook, chef de cuisine

When Grove originally opened in 2011, it was designed to be a “chef ’s playground,” said Hillary Edwards, Essence managing director. With the novel concept of farm-totable cuisine, Grove tapped local farmers and fresh ingredients, prioritizing creativity and freedom in the design of the restaurant, as proven to this day.

“It’s really a space out of the group (of Essence restaurants) where we can push the boundaries and take risks,” Essence Executive Chef Jeremy Paquin said.

With this dynamic and ever-changing philosophy, Grove always has been open to change, evolving to best fit seasonality and new culinary explorations. However,

nothing had prepared them to evolve quite as much as when the pandemic hit in early 2020.

Forced to close their doors, Grove took the uncertainty and apprehension of the pandemic and reframed it as an opportunity to reassess what the restaurant’s next chapter could be. The past two years have completely changed the restaurant industry, and Paquin said it was a blessing in disguise to slow down.

“We worked on the menu for six weeks and played with food. You rarely have an opportunity like that. Most restaurants don’t have that gap and time to think about (reinventing themselves),” Paquin said.

In summer 2021, the Grove team traveled to leading foodie cities like New York and Chicago to conduct research on what markets were doing at the tail-end of pandemic lockdowns. As Paquin pointed out, restaurants and menus have evolved to be much more experimental and inventive.

“We were inspired and noticed that people weren’t eating like that in Grand Rapids. We thought about how they would want to eat moving forward.”

Grove’s renewed approach offers boundary-pushing dishes with quiet assurance, reflected in its distinguished new menu, which has evolved in a very intentional way.

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“This menu is a practice of restraint,” Paquin said. “I think that is going to be a mantra because where we went wrong in the past was trying to be everything to everyone.”

With an assortment of approximately 15 items that transition seasonally, Grove’s new menu is built completely on sharing, giving guests the opportunity to indulge in an assortment of different flavors or foods they might not have experienced otherwise. However, there’s still room to partake in snacks and cocktails if that’s more your speed.

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a sense of fun and lightheartedness with no delineation of appetizers or main entrees to follow or pressure to order in courses. The menu’s variety presents customers with flexibility and choice, and an opportunity to choose their own adventure.

“We want (the menu) to be trailblazing in certain ways, but not pushing anything on everyone. We want everyone to have a special experience,” Paquin said.

Grove’s team is well-versed in accommodating a range of dietary restrictions. Included are a variety of vegetarian-friendly options like the seasoned cauliflower with a rich brown

butter hollandaise sauce, adorned with tangy grapefruit and an unexpected hazelnut crunch.

Follow lighter dishes with options such as flaky potato-crusted fish with a hint of ginger, accompanied by tender bok choy or the fall-off-the-bone pork belly chop. And don’t forget to save room for dessert with an array of choices ranging from sweet chocolate to fresh fruit.

Sourcing the best ingredients locally is a top priority for Grove, so expect a transformative menu to experience and enjoy every few months. Accommodating the Midwest farming seasons ensures

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Opposite: Asparagus, english peas, parmesan, egg yolk.

Middle: Grove's bar.

Below: A variety of cocktails.

the freshest ingredients from family and sustainable sources.

The same intentional philosophy that the food menu embraces also is reflected in Grove’s new drink menu. Beverage Director and Chief Hospitality Officer Tristan Walczewski overhauled Grove’s beverage menu with an emphasis on creating a oneof-a-kind experience.

“We have a very small selection of vodka, gin and other spirits and chose those for specific reasons,” Walczewski said.

“I wanted to create conversation of why we picked those, and introduce guests to progressive options, such as female-owned

or Black-owned suppliers.”

Grove has leaned into new world wines and cocktails, partnering with small distributors and sustainable producers to push the boundaries of what’s expected in Grand Rapids. Prioritizing the freshest ingredients, Grove’s aim is to have an unmatched cocktail experience, leaving you yearning to experience it all over again. The purposefully curated lineup of beer, wine and cocktails intentionally complements the food menu.

Also available is an assortment of nonalcoholic cocktails, which is almost equal in variety to the number of

traditional cocktail offerings.

With a growing number of people transitioning to a sober or “sober curious” lifestyle, Walczewski said it was important to include nonalcoholic cocktail options.

“We wanted to promote accessibility of an enjoyable social experience for all guests to feel welcome and to create their own experience,” he said.

This summer, Grove is hosting a fourpart event experience series, which is an exclusive, ticketed dinner event designed to give guests a unique dining experience.

The events take place once a month on Tuesdays and run through September. Each experience is distinctive from the previous.

The July gathering is an intimate wine dinner with a famed vineyard proprietor from Snowden Vineyards in Napa Valley.

August will feature a menu centered on nostalgia and guests’ favorite foods from childhood. Rounding out the list is a farm-focused dinner highlighting all the purveyors Grove uses, with hopes of securing in-person visits to mingle with guests.

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food + drink / chee s

CHEERS

Slàinte mhath A quick guide to the language of scotch.

BY PAT EVANS

Scotch can be an intimidating beverage to start exploring, but the iconic drink is fairly accessible with a little bit of knowledge.

In a city like Grand Rapids, beer is king, but whisky is close behind. The first step to break down the barrier is heading to a solid bar with a good selection whiskies.

“A good whisky bar is the perfect place to start one’s whisky journey,” said Dan Crowell, a national ambassador for Glenmorangie. “A knowledgeable bar staff can effectively guide one’s first steps down that path. But whatever starting point one chooses, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no wrong way to drink whisky.

A curious mind and an adventurous spirit are all that is required in order to begin a whisky journey.”

For starters, there’s a misconception that all Scotch whiskies are smoky and peaty.

That’s not true and it’s easy to wade into that realm, if you want to get there. There are five main regions that make scotch, each with distinct characteristics. Sure, the most famous of scotches often carry heavy smoke notes, but Lowland whiskies are light bodied and often grassy, easy on the palate and perfect for a high ball. Speyside are sweet and crisp, taking plenty of vanilla from their aging process.

As a palate becomes more familiar, start jumping into Highland and Islay, which can carry heavier bodies and more smoke.

A quality bartender or liquor store owner can help guide you through bottles to ease into the liquid. But one thing’s for sure, it’s super fun to explore this spirit, because while Scotland is a small country, the many 84

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Scotch is great neat or on the rocks, or even in cocktails.

bottles of whisky produced there often can transport a drinker to the various, extremely unique areas of the nation.

“Just as bourbon is woven into America’s cultural identity, the same is true of Scotland and its whiskies,” Crowell said. “I’d ask the bourbon fan to look at single malt scotch with the same mindset he or she might apply to vacationing in another country. Seek out and experience the differences while celebrating the commonalities that unite us all.”

Whether it’s scotch or bourbon or another style of whisky, there’s a special language spoken through the liquid. It just takes a little bit of sipping to understand a conversation.

“That conversation tells not just the story of a distillery, but also of its natural surroundings, its history, its people, their skill, their vision, their dedication and their creativity,” Crowell said. “Whisky achieves its highest potential when it is consumed among friends.

In a communal environment, where a wide variety of impressions, tasting notes, insights and opinions are shared, one can truly appreciate the incredible depth and diversity of flavor that exists in single malts.”

So, raise a glass with the traditional Scottish toast of slàinte mhath (to “good health”) and explore the intricate language a good scotch has to offer.

DRINK ISTOCK/LUCENTIUS

6/10/22 1:25 PM

food + drink / c eate

It's summertime and when it comes to cooking at home, the grill is king.

Guests are showing up, so when the house is hot and there is a need for something tasty to serve to a crowd, chill out, crack a cold one and cook up one of my favorite summer staples. Getting outside and putting some tasty tacos al pastor over the coals can change a whole day for the better.

This recipe comes from many days spent outside with friends drinking and grilling, and it is a guaranteed party pleaser.

It’s a little spicy, very fresh, and an outstanding take on tacos!

Keep in mind that the longer you marinate, the more flavor you’ll pack into your pork, so don’t be shy about adding a prep day to your party planning. When it comes to grilling, I always like to go for a nice char. Go low and slow on the pork, but feel free to grill to your taste and even finish in the oven if necessary. Another key to successful tacos is slicing the pork against the grain. Very thin pieces will produce the most tender bites!

CREATE

A summer of tacos

Look to the grill for a fast, easy crowd-pleaser.

BY ALEX LUKENS PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

Meat: 5-6 lbs. boneless pork butt Marinade: 3.5 oz achiote paste 2 tbsp guajillo chili powder 1 tbsp garlic powder 1 tbsp oregano 1.5 tbsp cumin 1.5 tbsp salt 1 tbsp black pepper 1 cup white vinegar 1 white onion, sliced into thick rings 1 cup pineapple juice 1 pineapple, peeled, cored and sliced into rings 2 large cans chipotle en adobo 1/3 cup olive oil ½ cup finely chopped cilantro 12 grilled corn or flour tortillas Hot sauce of choice to taste Directions Gather all ingredients.

Cut pork butt down into equal manageable portions.

Mix all wet and dry ingredients into a freezer storage bag or plastic container and marinate the pork butt for at least four hours, but preferably 12. Preheat grill with or without a hotplate or cast-iron skillet to roughly 450 degrees — charcoal also is highly recommended for depth of flavor.

Grill your pork to an internal temperature of 155 degrees while also grilling the onion and pineapple rings for a nice char. Place pork on chopping board and very thinly slice against the grain.

Chop grilled onions and mix with cilantro.

Throw tortillas on the grill until warm and dress to taste!

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MUST-TRY

In the home of Olga A taste of the Caribbean in Eastown.

BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTOS BY ARRAE CREATIVE

Sometimes all it takes is once to make something feel like home.

That’s truly how a dining experience at Chez Olga, 1441 Wealthy St. SE, can make a customer feel. Whether the dining room is full or there’s just a lone table of visitors watching as the to-go orders cycle through the door while Olga stops to chat them up, the welcoming atmosphere is palpable.

Olga Benoit often is the lone worker, running the whole operation on her own. Which makes a lot of sense, since she will tell anyone to make themselves at home — because it’s her house.

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Chez Olga is a cozy Eastown eatery that serves up seriously spicy dishes.

That’s literally what Chez Olga means, in the home of Olga.

What Olga sets out to do is make it feel like a residential party of sorts, and she hits the nail on the head in the somewhat iconic building in Eastown. She’s incredibly welcoming and willing to chat with anyone in a caring, maternal way. One interaction with her and it will feel like you’re welcomed for life. She also will guide an uneasy diner through the food on her menu and make sure it’s enjoyed appropriately.

The quality of the food aside, a stop at Chez Olga is a necessity just to meet one of Grand Rapids’ shining personalities. The good news, however, is the food rates right up there with the hostess and is deserving of a stop in Eastown on its own. The good company is just a bonus!

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Inset: mango lemonade helps dampen the heat of the jerk chicken. Top right: plantains with a fiery slaw.

The Creole and Caribbean restaurant’s doors opened in 2010 and is run by a mother and daughter (Dodlie Benoit), perhaps made famous by a 2019 episode of the Food Network show “Restaurant Impossible.” This year, it was listed in Grand Rapids Magazine’s Best Restaurants issue as a gem to not miss.

That’s a definite recommendation for spice lovers. The restaurant’s slogan is “Taste the Caribbean Heat,” after all.

A good start for a visit to Chez Olga is the fried plantains, a Caribbean staple. Like a savory banana, the fried fruit is a load of crispy, salty goodness that pairs well with the spicy coleslaw it is served with.

Most of the items on the menu are delicious, but there’s one must-try on the menu: the jerk chicken.

The chicken leg is spiced to a diner’s desire, and it’s probably wise to start lower than you might otherwise think. If you love spice, you’ll be sure to book a return trip. The chicken is moist and succulent, accented by its coating of a coconut-based jerk sauce. The sauce then mixes with the side of red beans and rice, which would be a hearty meal in itself. It will make sweat bead on your forehead, but in a warm, flavorful way.

That heat is available on any of the dishes, from the gumbo to the curry to the simple and satisfying Broccoli Sensation dish.

A spicy meal at Chez Olga calls for a sweet, cooling drink, and there are plenty on the menu: the mango lemonade or one of the Haitian island drinks — papaya and mango, papaya and passionfruit or corossal.

The tall, chilled glass will make other diners salivate as they down their own spicy plates and look for liquid salvation.

The creamy rice pudding topped with coconut provides a soothing stomach coating and the Haitian coffee packs a delightful, caffeinated punch.

Be warned, however. As it says on the menu, the food is made to order by the incredibly small staff (again, sometimes just Olga, who also acts as the server) so patience might be required to fully enjoy the meal. But often, that’s the way Caribbean food should be enjoyed — at a slow and relaxed pace where every bite can be savored.

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ON-THE-GO

Tasty tamales

Tamales Mary serves up some delicious traditional fare.

BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER

With costs rising at restaurants across the country, it’s refreshing when a spot offers up affordable, yet delicious cuisine.

That’s why Tamales Mary, 1551 Wealthy St. SE and 1253 Burton St. SW, is a must-stop for a quick bite to eat.

For starters, the name is a great way to indicate the first order at Tamales Mary: tamales. They come in three meats flavors: spicy chicken, pork and beef; as well as bell peppers and cheese, jalapeños & cheese, pineapple and strawberry. A tamales meal drops in at $7.99.

The tamales are made by a fantastic woman named, you guessed it, Mary. Mary Martinez immigrated to the United States at 17 and worked at the Grand Rapids taco staple Tacos El Cuñado, which eventually started selling her tamales. Now, at her own restaurant, she makes more than 900 tamales every day.

Word on the street is the tacos are excellent as well, including steak, al pastor, chicken and chorizo.

The Wyoming location has a more extensive menu, including a lunch buffet. It also offers up a tamales meal special of $6.99 daily from 3-9 p.m.

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Tacos, tamales or chips and salsa are among the options for a quick and affordable lunch at Tamales Mary.

If the already affordable prices weren’t enough, Tamales Mary in Eastown has weekly specials that help fill up stomachs affordably. The weekly specials are: Tuesday: Tacos, three for $8.

Wednesday: Tamales, three for $8.

Thursday: Large quesadillas, $8.

Friday: Tostadas, three for $8.

Beyond the tamales, tacos and specials, the restaurant also offers elote, the incredibly tasty corn on the cob covered in butter, mayonnaise, cotija cheese and tajin. Once the Mexican cravings have been satisfied a few times at Tamales Mary, there’s also a great option to feed a crowd. It is just $30 for a dozen tamales.

Tamales Mary also has a food truck and offers full event catering.

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6/10/22 9:46 AM

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Find the People and Resources You Need to Make Your House a Home

Whether you’re in the market for buying a home or looking to update your current dwelling, there is much to consider for today’s homeowners. It can start with seeking sound financial advice and support from your mortgage lender, or securing a seasoned real estate professional who can help you get into the place of your dreams. Making wise decisions in these early stages of obtaining a home can benefit you in the months and years to come.

The same is true for finding a contractor or craftsperson

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to help you make renovations or beautify your home and property. Flexible storage and creative use of space can help you amplify the rooms you have, while upgrading fixtures, cabinets, flooring, tiles, and more can turn your humble abode into a veritable castle. And, what’s outside is just as important as the inside—so don’t forget the landscaping! A well-manicured, thoughtfully curated yard puts on the finishing touches and creates charm and curb appeal. Ready to get started? The experts in this section can help you from beginning to end.

6/10/22 2:08 PM

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

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At MODRN GR, we’re more than just a retail store; we’re a full-service studio providing CAD and renderings, as well as materials like semi-custom cabinets, hard surface countertops, upgraded flooring, and artistic tile. We offer the perfect finishing touches and accessories for your favorite place to be—home!

We’ll work with your individual style to create the home of your dreams, providing elevated design and curated options in an approachable and welcoming environment.

Our mission at MODRN GR is to make the experience fun—and for you to leave feeling like an interior enthusiast, while making friends in the process. ■

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1 Carlton Avenue SE, Ste. C, Grand Rapids, MI, 49506 616-265-4562 | modrngr.com

Photograph by: Leigh Ann Cobb.

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INJUSTICE JUSTICE $19

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Timothy Masters was only fifteen when he stumbled across a mutilated corpse lying in a field. For ten years, the police hounded him until – with the help of an astounding amount of misconduct – they finally succeeded in putting him behind bars. Drawn to Injustice recounts his journey to exonerate himself for a crime he didn’t commit.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY: LEIGH ANN COBB

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PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Greenridge Realty EGR - Janet Romanowski Romanowski Homes, 2213 Wealthy St. SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 | 616-458-3655 | romanhousekey.com Janet Romanowski, a fixture in Grand Rapids real estate for 20 years, understands that buying a home is one of the most important investments most people will make. She also knows that when clients hire her, they’re enlisting not just her skills and expertise, but also her level of service and commitment to every detail. Today, when clients decide to work with Romanowski Homes–Greenridge Realty EGR, they get Romanowski — period.

And that has made all the difference.

“With a smaller team, I can ensure my clients get complete communication and they don’t have to worry about anything being omitted or falling through the cracks,” Romanowski says. “I have high standards, and by being fully involved with my eyes on every contract — and making myself available essentially 24/7 — Romanowski Homes–Greenridge Realty EGR can live up to the reputation and trust I’ve built over the years.” ■

Registered Landscape Architects

4353 Three Mile Road NE | Grand Rapids 49525 | 616.363.6400 | www.kappeslandscapes.com GR M AG .CO M

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PROMOTIONAL SECTION

INSPIRED DESIGN

TO BRING KITCHEN AND BATH SPACES TO LIFE

~ Come explore ~ our new Design Center for kitchen and bath inspiration

~ Request a consultation ~ to discover how we can help you craft your dream living space

1600 E Beltline Ave NE | Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616.580.0816 DESIGN CENTER LOCATIONS Grand Rapids Byron Center 1600 E Beltline Ave NE 365 84th St. SW Ste. 1 Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Byron Center, MI 49315 616.580.0816 616.345.5508

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PROMOTIONAL SECTION

NORTHPOINTE BANK

100 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW, Ste. 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616-552-5705 | NMLS:447490 northpointe.com/grand-rapids-michigan Northpointe Bank works to be a different kind of bank with people at the center of everything they do. They customize products and services using a client-focused approach - which means listening and then developing a proposal to meet customers’ specific financing needs.

If you are purchasing a home that needs renovations, Northpointe offers a single loan to finance both the construction work and the home purchase at one low interest rate that gets the job done. Northpointe’s renovation program includes refinancing options for current homeowners, great for smaller remodeling projects like updating a kitchen or bath, to solutions for a full home renovation or adding a major addition.

Plus, for a limited time, the bank is offering $500.00 off closing costs for all purchase loan applications received on or before September 30th, 2022, and properties located in Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa and Shiawassee County.

More details can be found at northpointe.com/reno. ■

KSI KITCHEN & BATH

1600 East Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 | 616-580-0816 | ksikitchens.com Designers Ann Christensen, Sara Vander Molen, and Ben Rawlings help homeowners bring their dream living spaces to life at KSI Kitchen & Bath, an award-winning kitchen and bath design firm.

Whether remodeling or building a new home, KSI’s new design center provides homeowners with an elevated design experience through a five-step process called Bringing Design Home. The process begins with a consultation at the design center to explore client needs and inspiration, continues with best-in-class professional design services, and follows through with quality craftsmanship and attentive communication through every step of the project.

KSI’s showroom features a wide variety of elegant kitchen and bath displays ranging from the traditional and transitional to the contemporary. The breadth of cabinetry, thoughtful storage solutions, and mixed materials allow homeowners to gather inspiration for their project while exploring style and functionality.

While open to the public, appointments are encouraged – schedule your design consultation today!

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D O N ’ T S W E AT I T. R E N O VAT E I T. One loan, one low rate, and a home that’s uniquely yours.

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$ 500 OFF

CLOSING COSTS

$500 off closing costs for loan applications received on or before September 30, 2022 and properties located in Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa and Shiawassee County.*

*$500 off closing costs offer can not be combined with any other offers. If applying online, simply return the coupon offer with your signed applica�on disclosure documents. Closing cost discount will be applied as a rebate credit at loan closing. This is not a commitment to lend. All credit applica�ons are subject to credit review and approval.

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Member FDIC

5/26/22 10:14 AM

WORKING TOGETHER TO REALIZE YOUR DREAM.

Romanowski Homes, Inc. | Greenridge Realty EGR 2213 Wealthy St. SE | East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-318-0065 | romanhousekey.com

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PROMOTIONAL SECTION

STUDIO G

Showroom: 14964 Cleveland St., Ste. B, Spring Lake, MI 49456 616.842.3740 | studioginc.com HQ & Fabrication: 631 Commerce Ct., Ste. 10, Holland, MI 49424 616.994.7050 | studioginc.com At Studio G we are passionate about the details.

Specifically, the final interior details. The hole in one. The icing on the cake. The proverbial cherry on top.

These crowning elements are what make a house-a thoughtfully curated home, creating design rhythm & visual harmony, while carefully balancing color, texture, finish & craftsmanship.

We take great care of our client relationships & aim to provide high quality products & services that ‘Deliver on the Interior Details’ Studio G. Your preferred partner for Closets, Glass & Decorative Hardware. ■

Leading the evolution from House-to Home.

Closets | Glass | Hardware

Visit Our Showroom: M-F 8:00am-5:00pm 14964 Cleveland St. Ste. B Spring Lake, MI 49456 616.842.3740

HQ & Fabrication: 631Commerce Ct. Ste. 10 Holland, MI 49424 616.994.7050

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

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

Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ APERITIVO A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ BEACON CORNER BAR & COASTAL FARE Owned by the group behind San Chez and Roam, the restaurant offers up seafood from the three coasts: East, West and Michigan. // 38 W Fulton St, 383-3800. beaconcornerbar.com. Dinner, $$-$$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. //342 State St SE, 4588383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (Sun-Fri), Dinner $-$$

2022 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 $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Open Daily. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

BROOKLYN BODEGA BAGEL & DELI Bringing the bagel shops and delis of the East Coast to the third coast. Whether a bagel, egg and cheese or a hearty turkey sandwich, Brooklyn Bodega has it. Open Monday-Saturday // 10 Jefferson Ave. SE, (616) 7244275 Breakfast, Lunch $

FORTY PEARL A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats and cheeses, baked goods and sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily. // 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

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 $$$

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, 7761195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, 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 $$

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 $$

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 $-$$ COTTAGE BAR Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar. biz. Lunch, Dinner $ DIVANI European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. Dinner $$-$$$ FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ This farm-to-table breakfast and lunch spot offers allday breakfast items like breakfast burritos and skillet

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

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meals as well as lunch items including sandwiches, soups, salads and toasts. It also offers an array of pastry items including croissants, muffins and tarts. On weekends brunch is available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 820 Monroe Ave NW Suite 100, 616-608-4533. fieldandfire.com. Breakfast, Lunch $-$$

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 $$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-totable menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. // 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (SatSun), Dinner $-$$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live

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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-round alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. 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 $-$$ THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer.

Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/ heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet.

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

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

Notable wine list. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 3562000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse. Dinner $$$ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ LEO’S Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm MonFri. Closed Sun. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

2022 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 $-$$

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LITTLEBIRD Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $ 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 $-$$

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 $-$$

2022 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. D $$-$$$

2022 DINING AWARD WINNER MDRD Overlooking the Grand River from its location on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza, this restaurant serves modern Spanish cuisine including tapas and paella. Reservations available.

Closed Sun and Mon. // 187 Monroe Ave. NW, 776.6425. amwaygrand.com/dining. Dinner $$$ MERTENS PRIME French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates.

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

Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR & RESTAURANT Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$

ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dog- friendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 136 E Fulton St, 2357669. onetrick.biz. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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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 $$$

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 $$ ROCKWELL REPUBLIC Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ 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 $$-$$$

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

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Full bar. Open daily. // 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 888-2170. home.eatsparksbbq.com. 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 MISFITS An interesting concept mashing waffles with other foods. The waffles, whether sweet or savory, can be accompanied by creative cocktails. The business also introduces Great Lakes Coffee Roasters to town. // 43 W. Fulton St, 272-4984. thesocialmisfits.com.

Breakfast, 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 $-$$ TERRA BAGEL

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.

A quaint place to grab a bagel, a schmear and some coffee. The sister restaurant of Terra Bagel and Terra GR in Eastown. Open Daily // 40 Pearl St. NW, terrabagels.com, 616.465.4343 Breakfast, Lunch $

TURNSTILES Bodacious bar food in a music-themed atmosphere.

Cocktails, drafts, and the largest selection of nonalcoholic beverages in GR. Nightly live music with no cover. Free on-site parking. // 526 Stocking NW. turnstilesgr.com. 616-330-LIVE. Lunch, Dinner $ WAHLBURGERS Celebrity-owned (by Mark Wahlburg and brothers) burger joint offering up a fast-casual experience. // 10 Ionia Ave NW, 616-719-1788. wahlburgers.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 $$

EVENTS HAPPENING AT

FOOD, FUN,

and a roaring good time!

Spend your summer nights strolling the grounds with animal activities, music, craft beer and wines.

$24 per person

Includes entry into Zoo + access to games. Drink tickets + food are additional purchases.

6pm - 9pm Thursday, July 14th Thursday, July 28th Tuesday, August 9 Thursday, August 25 For 21 and up.

616.336.4300

INFO@JBZoo.org

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

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@johnballzoogr

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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 $

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 $-$$

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 $

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 $

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 $$

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 $-$$

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 $

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 $$

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

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

Dinner $-$$ THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com.

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

Lunch, Dinner $$ THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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Uptown BASALT Modern Tex-Mex cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu focuses on breakfast tacos, quesadillas and tortas.

Closed Mondays. // 1450 Wealthy St. SE, 719-2146. basaltgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Thurs-Sat) $ 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 $$-$$$

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 $-$$

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) $

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 $$

CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $-$$

2022 DINING AWARD WINNER THE SOVENGARD Midwest heart meets New Nordic spirit. This cozy West Side farm-to-table restaurant focuses on seasonal and local sourcing and offers two separate dining spaces/ menus with an outdoor biergarten. Closed Mon. and Tues. Open for brunch Sat. and Sun. Reservations accepted. // 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. Dinner $-$$ TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available.

Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$

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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 $-$$

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 $$ DANZÓN CUBANO Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas. Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. // 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ EAST WEST BREWING CO. Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. // 1400 Lake Dr SE, 2885250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (Fri-Sat), Dinner $-$$

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

6/9/22 3:28 PM

WELCOME TO THE NEXT LEVEL THE ALL-NEW 2022 LEXUS NX STARTING AT $39,025* Focus on what matters and it leads to amazing.

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*

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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 $

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 $$-$$$

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 $

MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $$-$$$ GROVE Fresh, farm-to-table unique takes on American fare in a presentation unlike most experienced before. Multipletime Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Award winner.

Open Wednesday-Saturday // 919 Cherry St SE, groverestaurant.com, (616) 454-1000 Dinner, $$$

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

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

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 $-$$

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 $-$$ ROSE’S Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$

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 $-$$

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 $-$$

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 $$

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 $-$$

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 $-$$

KCM A Japanese/Korean fusion restaurant specializing in sando (Japanese cut white bread sandwiches or open-faced toast with meat, egg salad or other filling); curry and other rice bowls; tonkatsu (Japanese deep-fried tenderized pork loin, tenderloin and shoulder cutlets); chicken katsu; and kimbap (Korean-style fish and vegetable hand rolls wrapped with seaweed). Open Tues.-Sun. // 209 Diamond Ave. SE. kcmgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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 $

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 $

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 $

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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 $$$

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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

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

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alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CAFÉ MAMO An American restaurant inspired by grandma's garden.

Classic Midwestern dishes paired with tasty wine in a warm, comfortable setting. Open daily. // 1601 Plainfield Ave. NE, 350-3430. mamohsp.com.

Brunch (Sat-Sun) Dinner (Mon-Sat) $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CHEER’S GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

a pub for food lovers

Lunch & Dinner | 28 Taps, Wine List, Craft Cocktails | Sidewalk Patio

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 $-$$

20 W. 8th St. | Holland, MI waverlystonepub.com @waverlystonepub

DETROIT WING CO. Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available.

Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian. net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE . Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $

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

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GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes.

Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com.

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

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

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

Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr. com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE,

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Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NICK FINK’S Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. // 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. Dinner $$ 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 $$ 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 $$$ THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$ THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol.

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

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

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VANDER MILL Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients.

Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. // 505 Ball Ave NE, 259-8828. vandermill.com. Lunch, Dinner (MonSat) $$-$$$

Northwest GR 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 $-$$ FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar.

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

Lunch, Dinner $$ HOME TEAM GRILL Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. // 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill. wordpress.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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HUMMUS & FALAFEL MIDDLE EASTERN GRILLE Located near the Allendale campus of Grand Valley State University, eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 10897 48th Ave., Suite B100, Allendale. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE LANDING Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. AllAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landingrestaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ MR. GYROS Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. // 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 7916660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SWAN INN RESTAURANT Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. // 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ASIAN PALACE Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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 $-$$

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 $$

WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar.

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

BRASS RING BREWING Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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BROAD LEAF BREWERY & SPIRITS Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more.

Open daily. Brunch on Sun. // 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 $$

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 $-$$

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, 81 8-5522. daddypetesbbq.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 $$

EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. 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 $

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 $-$$

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 $-$$

EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol.

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

Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées.

Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com.

Lunch, Dinner $$ FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan

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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 $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 4520065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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.

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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, 452-3228. 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 $$-$$$ STEAK & SPICE BY CURRY KITCHEN Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Open daily. No alcohol. // Located inside the Plaza Hotel Grand Rapids at 5700 28th Street SE. 957-1775. currykitchengr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare.

Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 2414141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ TAQUERÍA EL RINCÓN MEXICANO Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2055 28th St, 246-7000. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $ THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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

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

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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 $-$$ FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ 3 GATOS BREWERY German-style beers with Brazilian bar food Closed Sunday and Monday. // 1760 44th St SW, 307-2215. 3gatosbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ MI CASA RESTAURANTE Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominicanthemed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol.

Closed Mon-Tues. // 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOBLE Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 Plaza Hotel Grand Rapids offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. // 5700 28th St SE, 9571775. 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 $$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating.

Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads.

Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

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

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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, 6493984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection. com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HAMBURGER MARY’S This LGBTQ-friendly burger franchise offers an open-air burger bar along with 40 beers on tap. Drag events such as karaoke, game night and trivia night, as well as drag shows, occur most days of the week. Outdoor patio seating. Full bar. Open daily with brunch hours on Sat and Sun. // 6240 28th St. SE, 551-2305. hamburgermarys.com. Dinner $$

JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets.

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

Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine.

Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET BBQ Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/ delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. // 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com.

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch. Full bar. Takeout menu. Closed Sun. // 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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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 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 $$$ ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 6822222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 5381360. villadungeon.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$ EL BURRITO LOCO More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 5309470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbeque theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$ 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 $$

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

Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WIN TAVERN A family-friendly restaurant offering fresh ingredients and cooked-to-order meals, including starters and salads, burgers, sandwiches, and steak and onion meals. It also offers a Sunday breakfast from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with a build-your-own hash bar and more. Full bar.

Open daily. // 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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

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

Lunch, Dinner $

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

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

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

Multiple Locations ANNA’S HOUSE Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches.

Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ 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 $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily.

Cascade location closed on Sun. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779; 6450 28th St. SE, 265-5301. electriccheetah. com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIRST WOK Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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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, 7731443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171; 434 Bridge St NW, 855-6907. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ MR. BURGER Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 662-5088. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 2595353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ 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 $

SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$ TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol.

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

No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 18 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007; 1551 Wealthy St. SE, 724-4269. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 8911100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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, 3611808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $

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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 $

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

6/9/22 3:31 PM

Take a Different Approach to Wellness with Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care has come a long way in the last couple of decades, entering the mainstream and earning its place as legitimate treatment for a number of ailments—many not inherently associated with the spine. Though still sought out to ease back pain, neck strain, and headaches, it’s also viewed as an option for alleviating sleep issues, anxiety, and depression, pregnancy discomfort, and more. Even infants and youth can benefit, with techniques that can address urinary incontinence, ear infections, colic, ADHD, and sports injuries—to name a few.

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What’s most exciting for many is that chiropractic care can be an alternative to surgery and opioids pain management. Avoiding costly procedures with weeks of recovery, as well as potentially addictive painkillers, can sound pretty appealing.

The chiropractic professionals in this section are experienced and passionate about bringing greater health and wellbeing to the communities they serve. Is chiropractic care right for you? Set up a consultation with one of these practitioners today!

6/8/22 1:57 9:09 PM AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 TOP CHIROPRACTORS

Dr. Matthew Phinney - The Chiropractic Doctors 5747 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | 616-432-3103 | bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com Are you looking for a way to improve your overall health in just 15 minutes, twice a week?

Try Neurological Based Chiropractic care — it can change your life!

NBC is one of the most effective and safest ways to improve your well-being. It can help relieve pain, increase mobility, drastically improve mood, and help you feel better all around, with just two weekly sessions, 15 minutes each. Visit bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com and get a new appointment special. Check out the patient stories on how chiropractic treatments have empowered the people The Chiropractic Doctors have helped.

When you receive chiropractic care on a regular basis, you can experience these benefits and more. Call 616-432-3103 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Matthew Phinney and the team at The Chiropractic Doctors promises you won’t regret trying what they have to offer, and they guarantee the experience will be unlike any chiropractic visit you’ve ever experienced before.

They look forward to helping you improve your overall health. ■

Kooistra Chiropractic 2855 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI 49519 | 1680 East Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-532-2518 | kooistrachiropractic.com At Kooistra Chiropractic, the primary focus is patient-centered rehabilitation. “We tailor each patient’s rehabilitation to their individual situation,” says Jared Kooistra, clinic director. “We ask patients to be active participants in their treatment plan because the outcomes are better and longer-lasting.”

By using Active Release Technique, laser therapy, spinal manipulation, spinal decompression, and rehabilitative exercises, the team at Kooistra Chiropractic helps patients heal from repetitive stress injuries, disc-related conditions, and more. Collaborating with physical therapists, personal trainers, and pain management professionals, they work to meet their patients’ goals — whether that’s living with better function or less pain.

Founded in 1958, the practice is now run by a team of five chiropractors: Jared Kooistra, Mark Koldenhoven, Zach Vanderweide, Kaitlynn Rosier-Tefft, and Rob Flannigan. Each specializes in different areas and techniques. Kooistra Chiropractic has two locations to serve patients; one in Wyoming and the other on East Paris in Grand Rapids. ■

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Left to right; Mark, Jared, Zach, Rob, & Kaitlynn.

6/8/22 1:57 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 TOP CHIROPRACTORS Paul Aalderink

Dr. Marc DeMeester, DC

Balanced Health Chiropractic Center of West Michigan PLC Zeeland

Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon PKWY, SW Wyoming, MI 49409 616-301-8300 drmarc@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

W. Garth Aamodt Aamodt Chiropractic Clinic Grand Rapids

Rise Wellness Chiropractic PLC Grand Rapids

Dr. Katie DeMeester, DC Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon PKWY, SW Wyoming, MI 49409 616-301-8300 drkatie@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

Bobby Belmonte Woodland Family Chiropractic Kentwood

Stephan Bohemier Adrian J. den Boer

Mark Brusveen

DBC Natural Holistic Health Center Grand Rapids

Brusveen Chiropractic Clinic and Therapy Grand Haven

Doug deVries

Grant J. Buck

Grand Rapids Wellness, PC Grand Rapids

Cedar Springs Family Chiropractic Cedar Springs

Dr. John Deyo, DC Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon PKWY, SW Wyoming, MI 49409 616-301-8300 drjohn@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

Michael T. Burcon Burcon Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Kevin Burkhart Rockford Chiropractic Clinic Rockford

Joshua Cebula All About You Chiropractic Holland

James A. Chapp Chapp Chiropractic, P.L.L.C. Caledonia

Craig Cushman Greenville Chiropractic, PC Greenville

Krystal Czegus Clear Connections Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Eric DeLamielleure Chiropractic Unlimited Kentwood

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Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center Grand Rapids

Robert Flannigan Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming

Benjamin Gillis

Rachel Babbitt

Legacy Family Chiropractic Comstock Park

Lisa Finkbeiner

Rebecca Deyo (Warnecke) Hartman Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center Jenison

Gillis Family Chiropractic Wyoming

Eric Graf FLOW Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Jasmine Hornberger Everyday Alignment with Dr. Jasmine Grand Haven

Therese House-Vereeke Healthy Choice Family Chiropractic Hudsonville

Daniel Hungerford Platinum Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Phaedra Iafano Gaslight Family Chiropractic East Grand Rapids

Daniel Judge Judge Chiropractic Grand Haven

Paul Kaminski Kaminski Chiropractic PLLC Grand Rapids

David Estefan

Aly Klein

Lakeshore Chiropractic Jenison

Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center Grand Rapids

Win-Chi Fan

Connor Knapp

Atlas Family Chiropractic Clinic Grand Rapids

Knapp Family Chiropractic Grand Rapids

James A. Farmer

Mark Koldenhoven

James A. Farmer II, DC Comstock Park

Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming

Brit Finkbeiner

Lisa Konynenbelt

Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center Grand Rapids

Novo Chiropractic Sports & Wellness Center Grandville

6/8/22 1:57 PM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 TOP CHIROPRACTORS

Meet the Doctors at Higher Health For FIVE years running, Higher Health Chiropractic has been voted the Top Chiropractor for Families

by GRKIDS. As a practice specializing in pregnancy, pediatrics, and family chiropractic, they provide a crucial service to the greater Grand Rapids community. Even so, many individuals

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don’t realize how they and their families can benefit from this specialized care.

Although chiropractic is often associatedChiropractic is also becoming more commonplace for alleviating pain and discomfort related to changes in the body during pregnancy. Using the Webster Technique, the doctors at

Higher Health Chiropractic can provide safe and effective care for both the mom and her fetus. And, although pediatric, pregnancy, and family care are their passions, the Higher Health team treats patients of all ages — from two hours old to age 95. It’s all done without any of the jarring and uncomfortable twisting,

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HigherH

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 TOP CHIROPRACTORS

cracking, and popping typically linked to chiropractic care.

In fact, there are many assumptions and misperceptions that may keep people from seeking chiropractic help, and the team at Higher Health Chiropractic aims to educate the public so they can get the relief they need.

All six doctors at Higher Health are certified in Torque Release Technique (TRT), which employs a tool called an Integrator® that allows them to adjust precise segments of the spine gently, yet effectively. With just a click on a specific vertebrae, they achieve alignment and improved function of the nervous system,

without other procedures that come with traditional chiropractic adjustments.

“Our office provides hope for a lot of people who are looking for a solution other than drugs or surgery, or for those who have taken the path of drugs and surgery and are frustrated with the results,” says Higher Health’s founder, Dr. Erik Kowalke.

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

“Our method to figuring where misalignments are in the spine, and how they affect the brain and the nervous system, is distinctive to our practice,” Kowalke says. “We use a specific technology to measure stress on the body and the nervous system — and overall function of organ and muscular systems — that gives us objective data to find root causes of problems and address and improve them.. ■

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

9:47 AM

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6/8/22 2:00 9:47 PM AM

PROMOTIONAL CONTENT

2022 TOP CHIROPRACTORS Jared Kooistra

Dan Ohlman

Andrew Schafer

Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming

Chiropractic Plus Grand Rapids

Schafer Chiropractic, PC Kentwood

Theresa Osmer

Vince Scheffler

FLOW Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Chiropractic Unlimited Kentwood

Dr. Erik Kowalke, DC Higher Health Chiropractic 1027 Gezon PKWY, SW Wyoming, MI 49409 616-301-8300 drerik@gethigherhealth.com gethigherhealth.com

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

Linda M. Kunce Linda M. Kunce, D.C. Grand Rapids

Rivertown Family Chiropractic Grandville

Ryan Sorrell C & R Family Chiropractic Center Grand Rapids

Alan Szagesh

Michael Kwast

Brian Plummer

iChiro Clinics Grand Rapids

Holland Chiropractic Center Holland

Wade L. Lowery

Jackie Prins

Lowery Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Healthy Choice Family Chiropractic Hudsonville

Eric Main

Lindsay M. Rademacher

Rivertown Family Chiropractic Grandville

Balanced 4 Life Chiropractic Ada

Kevin Manser

Monica Rasmussen

Chiropractic Unlimited Kentwood

Gaslight Family Chiropractic East Grand Rapids

Reid Meador

John Ressler

Chiropractic Unlimited Kentwood

Inside - Out Clinical Nutrition Grand Rapids

Sean Medlin

Kaitlynn Rosier

Clear Connections Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming

Jean Mikula

Jason Ross

Mikula Chiropractic P.C. Grand Rapids

Train Out Pain Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Brian Mikula

Eric M. Russell

Mikula Chiropractic P.C. Grand Rapids

Eric M. Russell, DC Plainwell

Scott A. Newquist

Justin Ryder

ChiroPros Caledonia

Limitless Chiropractic Grand Rapids

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Danielle Sinclair

Advanced Spine & Posture Grand Rapids

Ryan Thornton Byron Center Chiropractic Byron Center

Trent Tilton Tilton Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Nicole Tilton Tilton Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Zach VanderWeide Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming

David Ward Active Life Chiropractic Grand Rapids

Kelli Wilcox-DeGraaf Alpine Chiropractic Comstock Park

Mark Wolfman Rivertown Family Chiropractic Grandville

Aaron Zimmerman Bear Chiropractic Grand Rapids

6/8/22 1:58 PM

Canna-Business Profiles

CANNABIS IN WEST MICHIGAN REACHES A HIGH POINT

I

t’s hard not to be curious about cannabis when seemingly everywhere you look in the greater grand rapids area there’s a dispensary or provisioning center. Once reserved for those with severe medical conditions, cannabis is now being sought out by the general public for all manner of medicinal uses— and, thanks to recreational legalization—for just plain enjoyment. With so many experts who are both enthusiastic and skilled in talking about cannabis’ benefits, combined with a wider availability of strains and delivery methods, it’s become much

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easier for consumers to dial in just the feeling they’re seeking. Whether it’s the relaxation effects of indica or the energizing vibe of sativa, or a little bit of both, cannabis is alleviating discomfort and bringing joy to the community.

Finding what’s right for you may take a bit of experimentation, but you won’t be alone in your journey. In this section, you’ll find some of the region’s leading cannabis businesses and experts who have the knowledge, resources, and products to help take you to the next level.

6/8/22 1:23 PM

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gr gems / histo y

Felipa Schwartz and her son, Tony, are reunited at the Kent County Airport on July 21, 1950.

Traveler’s Aid and the Grand Rapids Herald assisted the family in the months-long process of getting his travel approved.

Harrowing journey War brides overcame obstacles to settle in West Michigan.

BY JULIE TABBERER, GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

At the close of World War II, thousands of women came to the United States as war brides, mostly from Europe. Felipa Breguera was one of 2,215 Filipina women who immigrated to America between 19461950 under the War Brides Act. Felipa and her parents left their hometown of Burgos in the Pangasinan province of the Philippines when Japanese forces invaded. Living in Manila, Felipa met her future husband, Basil Schwartz, while he was serving there. Basil was born in Allegan and worked in a furniture factory in Grand Rapids before enlisting.

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Felipa must have faced a difficult decision when she decided to move to Grand Rapids in 1947. She was unable to bring her 5-year-old son, Tony, with her, and also moved away from her parents and sisters. As soon as she was eligible, Felipa became a U.S. citizen and began the paperwork to bring Tony, who was living with his grandfather, to America. On July 21, 1950, Tony arrived at the Kent County Airport after an 8,000-mile trip by plane from Manila. Felipa and Basil had three additional children and raised their family in the Wyoming area.

PHOTO COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

6/9/22 3:26 PM

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