COUNTERING POLLUTION KEEPING GR WATER CLEAN P LU S M A R AT HON T R A I N I N G
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Grand Rapids Magazine is proud to honor the region’s top nurses in 10 specialties for their extraordinary contributions to health care. Award finalists and winners will be selected by a panel of judges within the nursing profession. They will be featured in the July issue of Grand Rapids Magazine and celebrated at the inaugural dinner and awards reception in June.
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contents APRIL 2020 VOLUME 57, ISSUE 4
FEATURES
44 HOME DESIGN
GR A N D R A P I DS CO U P LE S T R A N S FO R M T H EIR C E N T U RYO LD H O M E S . BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON
55
HIDDEN GR GET TO K NOW S O ME OF GR A N D R A P I DS ' LESS ER - K NOWN P L ACES . BY CHARLSIE DEWEY AND ROBIN GOULD
Hidden gem: Chez Olga's black bean salad with Papaya Mango and Sour Sap drinks.
P H OTO G R A P H BY M I C H A E L B U C K
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
COVER ILLUSTRATION ISTOCK
contents / ap il
every issue 8 85
editor's letter dining guide
A guide to the area's best eateries
100 gr gems
Discover Robinson Studio
people + places 12
city
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, West Michigan
Potters Guild and John Ball Zoo
14
voice
18
issues
Chip and Dana Brown invite you to play The Rank Game Stormwater runoff impacts
14
36
local neighborhoods
20
guide
21
profile
26
moments
Your guide to an environmentally conscious weekend in GR Becky Vandenbroek created "girl power" brand Girlpalooza
Highlights from Grown Up Play Date and Love, Wine and Chocolate
look + feel
28
wellness
30
gear
31
home
32
style
33
expert
Tips to train for your first 5K or marathon Spring gardening gear Design an Airbnb guests will love Polka dots offer classic style Reduce, reuse, recycle with these tips from Goodwill
food + drink
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
32
36
table
40
create
41
cheers
42
must-try
Dining at Bowdie's Chophouse The Sparrows iced coffee Celebrate with Motu Viget Cakabakery celebrates 10 years
BOWDIE'S CHOPHOUSE STACY FEYER-SALO RANK GAME MATT LEVERE RUNWAY COURTESY ISIDORE MONTAG/GORUNWAY.COM
Detroit Remembers!
If you recall the J.L. Hudson Thanksgiving Day Parade, visiting the Children’s Zoo at Belle Isle, taking in a flick at downtown’s Madison Theatre, scarfing down a hot-fudge sundae at Sanders, rocking out at the Grande Ballroom, or cheering on the Red Wings at Olympia Stadium, The Way It Was, Part 2 will elicit warm memories of Detroit. This book’s vivid photos and evocative text will take you on a nostalgic journey into the city’s past.
R R
From the Editors of Hour Detroit Hardcover | 160 pages
Order now at momentumbooks.com
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editor's letter / connect
BEHIND THE SCENES
Discover hidden treasures of GR Grand Rapids is full of tucked-away places and cool history, and this month, we uncover some great destinations that typically fly under the radar. From diners and ethnic eateries to check out to local parks and downtown hidden gardens worth the walk, as well as some cool artifacts hidden among our local museums’ collections. If your family is on spring break, you might make a week of visiting some of these places for the first time — or save this article for a lazy summer day when you’re looking for something fun to do. Spring is in the air, and that often means time to undergo renovation projects around the house. We talk with two local families that purchased century-old homes and transformed them into functional modern-day escapes they can’t wait to return to. Even the most dilapidated house can become the perfect family oasis. Since Earth Day is April 22, we decided to check in with the folks at the West Michigan Environmental Action Council to talk about the environmental impact of urban water runoff on neighborhood streams and rivers. If you want to celebrate Earth Day, we also compiled a guide of some environmentally and socially conscious retailers and a few activities you can take part in to help the planet. One cool mom in Ada is making a difference and empowering girls. Becky Vandenbroek created Girlpalooza, a beauty brand aimed at tweens and teens that uses nontoxic ingredients and is a safer alternative to many of the products on the market. Vandenbroek uses empowering messaging to help girls feel good about themselves while having fun with bath bombs, lip glosses and more. If you’ve ever thought about lacing up your sneakers and joining the hordes of runners who take over the streets for the many different 5Ks, half-marathons and marathons that take place over the warmer months, our wellness column is the perfect place to start. We talk with a YMCA running trainer about training for your first race, and we check in with Shelley Irwin, of WGVU and Community Connection, who is an avid runner, about how she tackles training, where she has raced and more. Enjoy the spring weather!
Must have for photoshoots? Coffee! Our art team made a pit stop at Ferris Coffee's downtown location before heading to this month's photoshoot.
Next issue
Grand Rapids doctors are using the latest technology to improve diagnosis and patient care. Find out how in our May issue.
On the radio
Join Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays, as she presents the Weekend City Guide with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.
On TV
Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey joins Shelley Irwin each month on WGVU’s “Community Connection” program to discuss what’s inside Grand Rapids Magazine.
FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR
Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine
Robin Gould is Grand Rapids Magazine's spring intern. She is a professional writing major and currently in her last semester at Cornerstone University.
There are tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Email: cdewey@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. @grmag @grmagazine @grmagazine Or follow us online at grmag.com or on social media:
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
EDITOR TERRY JOHNSTON BEHIND THE SCENES KEAGAN COOP CONTRIBUTOR COURTESY ROBIN GOULD
School Age Summer Camp
Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964
www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com Publisher: John Balardo | Associate Publisher: Jason Hosko
We asked our staff: Assuming the snow is done, what is your favorite part of spring? I love the burst of renewed energy that comes with spring. Hopping back on my bike, soaking up the brighter days and observing all of the new growth in nature is all so inspiring and invigorating to me! TERI GENOVESE
PASHA SHIPP
Design Creative Director: Lindsay Emeigh Associate Art Director: Keagan Coop Graphic Designer: Robin Vargo Contributors: Michael Buck, Angela Ciccu, Bryan Esler, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Teri Genovese, James Heimer, Matt LaVere, Jennifer Pickering, Johnny Quirin, Werner Straube, Kelly Sweet Sales General Inquiries: Advertisingsales@grmag.com Advertising Director: Jenn Maksimowski Account Executives: Chelsea Carter, Jessica Laidlaw, Renee Looman, Craig R. Rich, Bri Rodriguez, Amanda Smiley Office Manager: Alisha Andres To Order Reprints: Receptionist – (616) 459-4545 Production Production Director: Jenine Rhoades Senior Production Artist: Robert Gorczyca Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel Advertising Coordinator: Robyn Bankston Advertising Designers: Melissa Flores-Loera, Christian Lott, Daniel Moen, Kendra Okamoto, Christopher Paluch, Marcus Thompson, Amanda Zwiren
After the long, dark winter months, spring is literally a breath of fresh air! I always plan many things for spring as it feels like a time of renewal. The first activity on my to-do list is a deep clean of my house. I’m also grateful that springtime means bike-riding season! I am looking forward to taking my bike to Freewheeler Bike Shop for a tune up and to ride the trails to Millennium Park!
Sleeping with the windows open and feeling the electric charge of a rumbling thunderstorm as it rolls through. KEVIN PELL
a that he wanted to be Justin always knew player. But did he have professional hockey Still, imes he wasn’t sure. what it takes? Somet ice the on — hard really he decided to work his dream come true. and in school — to make
HE
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THE JUSTIN ABDELKADER STORY By Justin Abdelkader Cindrich Illustrations by Mary
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Circulation Director Of Audience Development: Michelle VanArman Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers Circulation Customer Service: (866) 660-6247 Cover_Abdelkader2
I love the smell of spring! It means change is coming and I'll be able to be outside with my dog Ernie and visit places I've missed over winter, like my favorite restaurant patios and rooftops.
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JENN MAKSIMOWSKI
Web Digital Strategy Director: Nick Britsky Digital Operations Director: Gerald Blakeslee Web Project Lead: Matthew Cappo Web Project Assistants: Mariah Knott, Luanne Lim, Kevin Pell, Bart Woinski IT IT Director: Jeremy Leland
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School-Age Summer Camp (ages 6-10 years old)
My husband and I just bought our first house, and I am really excited to spend this spring working on outdoor projects. There is so much to do!
JUSTIN ABDELKAD ER
My favorite part of spring is the overall sense of renewal. We have just gotten through the harshest winter months and the promise of warm days, green trees and sprouting flowers is so hopeful. I grew up in Southern California so we didn’t really have seasons there. It’s lovely to be able to experience every season here in Michigan, and there are elements to appreciate for each one (even winter)! But there’s something so refreshing about the arrival of spring!
Editorial Editor: Tim Gortsema Managing Editor: Charlsie Dewey Digital Editor: Tom Mitsos Editorial Intern: Robin Gould Contributors: Jaye Beeler, Ann Byle, Terri Finch Hamilton, Austin Langlois, Megan Sarnacki, Pasha Shipp, Julie Tabberer, Tricia van Zelst
Marketing Marketing & Events Director: Mary Sutton Marketing & Events Manager: Andrea Straw Digital Marketing Coordinator: Asia Jones Marketing & Events Assistants: Lauren Krzisnik, Alexis Mellos Administration Director Of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki Publishing Coordinator: Kristin Mingo Accounting Associates: Natasha Bajju, Andrew Kotzian, Katie West
Putting away my Canada Goose and pulling out my sun dresses and sandals! NATASHA BAJJU
Published By Gemini Media, LLC CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Media. Publishing offices: 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331 Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag.com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI and at additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2019 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St., SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.
Justin Abdelkader always knew he wanted to be a professional hockey player. But getting into the NHL wasn’t without its obstacles. In his new book, he shares his story as a way to show young people that perseverance and hard work do pay off — that dreams do come true. Only $16.95
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GR M AG .CO M
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P R O M I N E N T LY R E P R E S E N T I N G T H E F I N E S T I N G R A N D R A P I D S R E A L E S TAT E F O R O V E R 3 0 Y E A R S 2 9 2 0 R E E D S L A K E B LV D S E — E A S T G R A N D R A P I D S D E S I G N E D B Y S WAT T S & C O
Katie-K Team 616.291.3552 Katie@Katie-K.com 1555 Arboretum Dr. SE, Suite 101, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
PROFILE
Beauty entrepreneur page 21
» PLUS: THE R ANK GAME MEIJER GARDENS CELEBR ATES 25 YEARS
Becky Vandenbroek created Girlpalooza with her daughter Lola in mind.
P H O T O G R A P H B Y K E L LY S W E E T GR M AG .CO M
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people + places / city
TOP EVENTS
Don't miss
We've rounded up our top events this month. COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
West Michigan Mom’s Sale
Circle Theatre Season Kickoff The kickoff to Circle Theatre’s 2020 season begins with American Graffiti in Concert, a fundraiser concert that includes trivia, contests, silent auction and hot dog roast. 7 p.m. April 17, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $25. circletheatre.org/ production/season-kickoff.
Score great deals on everything from clothing, toys, furniture, car seats, strollers, accessories and more April 4. There will be more than 200 booths participating. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. Free; $3-$5 donations at door. westmichiganmomssale.com.
Festival of Faith and Writing
Latin American Film Festival Elton John Elton John swings through Grand Rapids on April 23 for The Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. Catch him at 8 p.m. at Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $200 and up. vanandelarena.com. This show is sold out.
Calvin University presents its biennial event April 16-18 with speakers, concerts, workshops and film screenings. The Festival of Faith and Writing creates space for meaningful discussion and shared discovery among people with different religious beliefs and practices. Begins noon Thu. 3201 Burton St. SE. $235, $135 students. ccfw.calvin.edu/festival.
The 10th annual movie festival featuring awardwinning independent films by Latin American and Latino directors takes place April 3-5. See website for films and times. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. Free. grlaff.org.
Visit grmag.com for a complete list of upcoming calendar events and to submit events.
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
ELTON JOHN COURTESY VAN ANDEL ARENA MOM SALE ISTOCK WRITING ISTOCK
Catch the butterflies this month at Meijer Gardens.
Detailed Party designs for the Planet
CITY
Celebrating 25 years Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park opened to the public in April 1995. This month, from April 19-21, Meijer Gardens looks back at its 25-year history. Relive some of the highlights of the past 25 years through photos and displays around the gardens and sculpture park. The first 500 visitors on April 20 will receive a special gift. Guests will have the
opportunity to sign granite panels that are part of the ongoing Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love expansion project. This also is the 25th year of Meijer Gardens’ annual butterfly exhibition. The butterflies began taking flight in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory in March, and the exhibit continues through April 30.
BUTTERFLY COURTESY FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AND SCULPTURE PARK CERAMICS COURTESY JEFF HAM
Find unique items this month during the West Michigan Potters Guild Spring Show. Work for sale includes functional dinnerware, sculpture, one-of-a-kind jewelry and more from more than 30 Grand Rapids-area ceramic artists. The WMPG will be joined by the Woodland Weavers and Spinners Guild for the event. This year’s event takes place from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 25 at The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 East Paris Ave. SE.
There will be several Earth Day-related celebrations taking place this month, but one to watch for is John Ball Zoo’s Party for the Planet. Visit the zoo April 18 and learn about saving the world’s resources and protecting wildlife. There will be kids activities, too. This event takes place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 1300 W. Fulton St. $11 adults, $9 kids 3-12. jbzoo.org.
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people + places / voice
VOICE
New game, new connections Disney couple wants to get people talking again. BY ANN BYLE
// PHOTOS BY MATT LAVERE
Chip and Dana Brown are gamers. The hold-cards-in-your-hand, write-stuff-down kind of gamers. The lakeshore couple are creators of The Rank Game, a new game that has players talking, sharing opinions and building community. These former Disney employees are ready to put The Rank Game into stores around West Michigan and the country thanks in part to a Kickstarter campaign. When did you first get the idea for The Rank Game? Dana: More than 20 years ago, we started playing a verbal version whenever we found ourselves with time to kill. We would ask everyone to rank four classic rock bands: Beatles, Stones, Who, Zeppelin. Everyone had their preferred order — and defended their choices with passionate "arguments." We then made up hundreds of other simple, everyday categories. We gave these conversations “gamification” by having to guess one another’s preferred order.
Dana and Chip Brown have been perfecting The Rank Game for years.
“What sets The Rank Game apart is that it’s about you and your stories.” Chip Brown
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What was your process for creating the game? Chip: For the past five years, we have been prototyping and perfecting The Rank Game into something anyone can play any time through testing across the United States and in seven countries. We developed thousands of topic cards to arrive at the nearly 700 cards available in the main game and 11 expansion packs. How did your experience working for Disney influence the game and your creative process? Dana: Chip has been a producer at Disney Studios, a manager at Walt Disney World, and worked at Zondervan in Grand Rapids. I was a lead designer at Walt Disney Imagineering, designing theme park experiences. During development, we leaned on our training and practical knowledge of storytelling and creating experiences for guests. Everything about The Rank Game is designed to give players rewarding experiences with one another.
Where is it for sale locally? Chip: We’re starting to reach out to retailers, but some have already found us, such as Baker Book House, Out of the Box in Zeeland and both Cobblestone and Sandcastle in Holland. We had our first inventory ready to ship the first week of February. You can buy it now on TheRankGame.com. What other games are you developing? Dana: The Rank Game is the first of five games already developed and in our Storyastic "pipeline," all designed to be fun while also enhancing interpersonal relationships and growing the personal and social skills of players. These next four will be released over the next 15 months. Is there a future for hands-on games despite our love for phones and streaming services? Chip: Absolutely. There’s a paradox in telecommunication technology that is fueling a huge growth in hands-on games. Our smartphones, social media and screen time are designed to help us connect with each other when we're apart, but those same technologies tend to pull us apart when we’re physically together. What sets The Rank Game apart is that it’s about you and your stories. Our magic trick to help people relearn community is that you can’t win without looking at things through the perspective of other players. We’re seeing schools, companies and organizations use The Rank Game for organized events. It seems everybody wants to tech less and talk more. Editor’s note: This interview has been edited and condensed for space and clarity.
PHOTO CONTENT PHOTO CREDIT
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people + places / issues
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
ISSUES
Countering pollution How the rise of polluted water impacts our neighborhoods. BY MEGAN SARNACKI
// ILLUSTRATION BY JAMES HEIMER
Reaching for a glass of water when we are thirsty is often an unconscious and automatic response. But as the faucet fills our cups, we also are trusting in our communities that this water is, in fact, clean. “Stormwater runoff is not the sexiest topic,” said Elaine Sterrett Isely, director of water programs at West Michigan Environmental Action Council. “Water pollution is something that most people don’t want to think about. They want to turn on their tap and go fishing or kayaking, trusting that the water is in good shape. A lot of people think if there’s no big factory, there’s no big pollution, but we’re all contributing to water pollution. Everything that you do on the land will affect the water we drink.” While stormwater runoff in and of itself is a natural process, the rise of city structures and impervious surfaces in which rain cannot penetrate the ground poses harmful effects to bodies of water. Bill Wood, executive director of WMEAC, said the most dangerous pollution sources are not factories or industrial plants like most assume but, rather, nonpoint sources that cannot be identified from one cause. “Stormwater has a tendency to wash all of the nonpoint source pollution that accumulates throughout periods of time between rainfall straight into the storm sewer, which then enters the Grand River or its tributaries. That’s harmful for a number of reasons because you’re getting debris in the river, such as trash, chemicals and potential pathogens that can originate from people not cleaning up after their dogs to agricultural operations with cattle,” Wood said. While drinking polluted water or engaging in it for recreational activities can make us sick, those are not the only impacts that our neighborhoods see. Mixed with the rising number of impervious surfaces being built throughout the city, climate change also plays a factor in the escalation of severe storms. “We’re having these really intense precipitation events
“A lot of people think if there’s no big factory, there’s no big pollution, but we’re all contributing to water pollution. Everything that you do on the land will affect the water we drink.” Elaine Sterrett Isely
with rain and snow,” Wood said. “Both the natural world and human-built environment can’t handle that high volume of liquid coming down from the sky.” According to Isely, higher precipitation levels and less permeable surface levels often result in flooding, river cresting and erosion of land and dunes. “Stormwater runoff is the largest source of water pollution to our waterways nationwide,” Isely said. “But water is life. We’re drinking it, bathing in it, recreating in it — we cannot live without good quality water.” For Wood, stormwater management is key to help combat any further detrimental side effects that water pollution and climate change cause — no matter the season. In the summertime, for example, Wood said a parking lot could be baking in 85- or 90-degree temperatures, but once rainfall hits, stormwater runoff can alter the temperature of streams and rivers. Warmer levels of water produce unhealthy living conditions for sea creatures, and in Michigan, it presents a dangerous threat to the trout population. “A temperature change of just a degree or two can affect the trout, particularly during the season where they spawn,” Wood said. “If the temperature of a stream gets altered for a long period of time, you could drive trout out of that stream for a generation.” Less trout population in Michigan would not only endanger the ecosystem, according to Wood, but it also would threaten the state’s economy since Michigan is a popular tourist destination for sport fishing. To be proactive in dealing with water pollution, WMEAC believes long-term behavioral change results from educating the community on why it matters and providing them with tools that they accomplish themselves. Simple actions of keeping cars maintained so there is no leaking of chemicals, minimizing the amount of road salts used on driveways and sidewalks, and not mowing lawns below two inches so they can capture some of the rainfall can add up to make a big impact. Two proven strategies that WMEAC also recommends are implementing rain barrels and rain gardens throughout the community — both of which WMEAC can help with through workshops and installations. In addition to WMEAC, the Adopt-a-Drain Lower Grand River Watershed project also aims to cut down on the amount of trash entering the Grand River by providing community members the location of the nearest storm basin. By adopting a drain, members not only monitor the cleanliness of their basin by picking up trash near it, but each basin also can be given a birthday and name. As April 22 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Wood said it is the perfect time to start thinking about your relationship to the planet and how you can keep the environment strong. “We’ve got one city and one planet,” Wood said. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to look out for each other. If everybody does a little bit by trying to mitigate stormwater and flooding, we’re helping everyone out by providing clean water for future generations.” GR M AG .CO M
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people + places / guide
GUIDE
Going green Your guide to an environmentally conscious weekend in GR. BY ROBIN GOULD
April is home to Earth Day, and there is no better way to celebrate than with an environmentally and socially conscious weekend. Start your day sipping a cup of chai at Global Infusion, 143 Diamond Ave. SE. This eclectic fair-trade marketplace sells organic and local merchandise. It also is rumored to have the best chai tea recipe ever tasted. From there, “feel good in and about what you wear” and walk on over to Clothing Matters, 141 Diamond Ave. SE. This clothing and accessories store helps prevent pollution, conserve resources and connect with nature. Its products are made from nontoxic fibers, such as organic cotton, eucalyptus and hemp. Learn more about how the clothing industry emits more pollution in the world than any other industry by making a trip inside. While getting lost in sustainable fashion, do not forget about your manicure appointment at Apsara Spa, 1514 Wealthy St. SE. Apsara Spa offers many services, including vegan facials and natural spa sessions. Rejuvenate your balance and wellness with professional estheticians and massage therapists. Grab a friend and head to Brewery Vivant, 925 Cherry St. SE, for a pint of beer and “beer the change.” According to Vivant’s website, the brewery is “known as 20
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
Grab your reusable bags and head out for a day of environmentally conscious shopping.
Learn more about how the clothing industry emits more pollution in the world than any other industry by making a trip inside. the first LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, microbrewery in the world.” Brewery Vivant has incorporated many elements to reduce, reuse and recycle. Its beer comes in 16-ounce aluminum cans for flavor and sustainability. End the day by attending the Blue Tie Ball on April 22 at 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 103. This is West Michigan Environmental Action Council’s sixth annual fundraiser with cocktails, dinner and auction. It goes
from 6-10 p.m. Visit wmeac.org/bluetieball to learn more about the event. $90 admission, $75 for members. Another event for a green weekend is the Mayor’s Greening Initiative on April 25. This is the fifth annual Friends of Grand Rapids Parks community event to plant trees. It takes place from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Garfield Park, 2111 Madison Ave. SE. For more information, visit friendsofgrparks. org/mayors-greening-initiative. REUSABLE BAG ISTOCK
Becky and Lola Vandenbroek are the "girl power" behind Girlpalooza.
PROFILE
Girl power A local mom is creating safer beauty products for tweens and teens. BY PASHA SHIPP
// PHOTOS BY KELLY SWEET
The Michigan-born beauty brand for tweens, Girlpalooza, offers nontoxic hygiene products with a meaningful message. It all started when Becky Vandenbroek was getting ready for work one morning. Her daughter, Lola, wanted to try on some of her beauty products, but Vandenbroek was reluctant to use them on her. GR M AG .CO M
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Girlpalooza offers an array of products from nail polish to bath bombs for tweens and teens.
“I kind of hesitated and looked into the beauty product space a little bit more, just to find that it’s not very regulated by the FDA and that even some of the ingredients could possibly be harmful to her,” she said. “I started looking for products that would be safe, but that would also portray more of a ‘girl power,’ positive message, and I didn’t really find anything out there.” When she didn’t find what she was looking for, Vandenbroek decided to create it herself. She competed in Start Garden’s 100 Ideas competition with the hopes of securing enough funding to get the ball rolling. “I went down and pitched for a beauty skin care product line for teens and tweens and was picked as a 100 finalist,” Vandenbroek said. “It kind of took off from there.” She left her 15-year career to dedicate her time to building the Girlpalooza beauty brand, which she calls “a labor of love.” “I started out as a hospitalist physician assistant and then transitioned into outpatient internal medicine,” Vandenbroek said. “Once I became a mom, my focus shifted to my daughter and wanting to spend more time with her. My background in medicine has definitely come in handy when developing new product formulations.” Creating bath and beauty products for tweens is the perfect way for Vandenbroek and her daughter to spend more time together. “I love working for Girlpalooza because it allows me to work with my daughter,” Vandenbroek said. “She helps with everything from product development to picking out names for products.” The Girlpalooza product line includes lip gloss, bath bombs, body butter and a combination shampoo/body wash. Vandenbroek partners with labs in California and Oregon to produce the products. “I sat down with a chemist and told them what I wanted to develop as far as the initial product launch, which was a lip gloss,” she said. “We then formulated a custom formula. I got to control which ingredients I wanted in there and which ones I didn’t want. The ingredients are safe for kids, nontoxic and, as an added bonus, everything is cruelty-free and 100% vegan.” 22
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
“It is important for me as a mom to help other moms navigate the beauty industry and create products that are not only safe for their kids but that also promote a positive message.” Becky Vandenbroek
While the ingredients themselves are produced on the West Coast, Vandenbroek puts everything together herself in West Michigan. “They formulate and fill my lip gloss components and then they ship it back to me here in Michigan and then I label and distribute from my home here in Ada,” Vandenbroek said. “I fill everything here. I scent it myself, label and then ship from the home here. I’ve got it down to a science.” Vandenbroek built Girlpalooza from the ground up so she could choose her own ingredients, but she also wanted the brand to have a strong message for girls. “So, with having a daughter, I wanted to portray a positive, ‘girl power’ message through all of our branding,” she said. “And so that’s where we came up with the different names, such as Cherry Bomb Boss, Pineapple President, Lemon Drop Leader, Scent-Free Super Star and Mint Maven. Our lip glosses are named after prominent women throughout history, so we have Rosa, Amelia and Jane. It was just important for me as a mom to have that positive messaging and branding out there through our products.” Promoting positivity and offering products with nontoxic ingredients are important to Vandenbroek, but so is giving back to the community. “One of our bath bombs is a waffle bomb, and a portion of proceeds we donate to
people + places / p ofile
Kids’ Food Basket, which is an awesome local charity here in town,” she said. “When anybody buys a waffle bath bomb, being that it had that food component, we just thought it would fit perfectly with that charity, and we love to give back to any local organizations here.” In the short term, Vandenbroek wants to expand the product line to include new scents and lip glosses. “For our next launch, we’re actually going to do a lavender body butter and body wash because I’ve had really good feedback with the lavender bath bombs,” she said. “At bedtime, kids taking a bath, lavender can be calming, so our next body butter and body wash will be called Lavender Legend. We’re currently working on developing and launching a nail polish line, as well as a new shimmer gloss that’s geared more toward younger girls.” Bath products are just the beginning. Vandenbroek has teen skin care products and even apparel in her sights. “We would love to eventually launch a teen skin care line, which would definitely be directed more toward kids that have any acne issues,” she said. “And then eventually, possibly even do some clothing where we do, you know, different little girls’ spa robes, bathrobes, slippers ... basically a whole little spa package for girls.” Vandenbroek’s work with Girlpalooza may be different than when she was a GIRLS COURTESY GIRLPALOOZA
physician assistant, but she still enjoys helping people. “I am still helping people but in a different way,” she said. “It is important for me as a mom to help other moms navigate the beauty industry and create products that are not only safe for their kids but that also promote a positive message.” Above all, Vandenbroek wants to push
the message of self-care and positivity. “Our tagline is ‘Be Good to Yourself,’” she said. “So, that’s kind of our company motto, meaning use safe, clean ingredients, self-care ... just be good to yourself mentally and physically. That’s kind of what we’re all about as a company.” For more information about the product line, visit girlpalooza.com.
Girlpalooza plans to offer a skin care line for teens with acne. GR M AG .CO M
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Exploring Confli ing Visions for F ure Revel in creative pursuits, learn from nationally known thought disrupters, experience new ideas and voices, and sharpen your vision of community. At WMCAT’s new, immersive conference, you’ll engage with content centered on personal and community prosperity – with a fair amount of live entertainment, food, and fun throughout. Limited tickets on sale at wmcat2020.org. Thank you to Presenting Sponsor
June 4–5, 2020 WEST MICHIGAN CENTER FOR ARTS + TECHNOLOGY, 614 FIRST ST. NW, GRAND RAPIDS
Engage with local, regional and national voices such as B.A. Parker (known for her work with NPR’s This American Life), and Rev. Jim Wallis (New York Times bestselling author and international commentator). Two innovative thinkers will provide a framework for interacting with content at WMCAT 20/20: DR. MANUEL PASTOR Distinguished Professor of Sociology and American Studies & Ethnicity, University of Southern California Author Dr. Manuel Pastor writes and speaks widely on issues including demographic change, economic inequality, community empowerment, environmental justice, and social movements. Pastor’s current research culminates in his latest book, State of Resistance: What California’s Dizzying Descent and Remarkable Resurgence Means for America’s Future.
DR. ELDAR SHAFIR Professor of Behavioral Science and Public Policy, Princeton University Author Dr. Eldar Shafir focuses his research on cognitive science and behavioral economics, with particular interest in the application of behavioral research to policy. Shafir served as a member of President Barack Obama’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability, and was named one of Foreign Policy Magazine’s 100 Leading Global Thinkers in 2013. Shafir is also the co-author of Scarcity: Why Having Too Little Means So Much.
Check out wmcat2020.org for updates and speaker announcements.
moments / events
Around town Enjoying city life
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Grown Up Play Date
Love, Wine and Chocolate
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum hosted a grown up play date in February. The carnival-themed event brought out the kid in everyone.
Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery celebrated the Valentine's holiday with wine tasting and chocolate.
Pictured (left to right): 1 Ansgare and Lauren Strother 2 Stacy and Steve Huizinga 3 Glenn Morris, Cara Bixel and Carla Morris 4 Karleen Gusmano and Nicholas Steele 5 Jordan Freeman and Kyle Kennedy 6 Jonathan and Melissa Wilson 7 Cody and Katelyn Tanis 8 Paola and Alberto Mendivil
Pictured (left to right): 1 Claudia London and Rachel Ostrowski 2 Kare Greenup and Alicia Robinette 3 Ashleigh Justin and Olivia Satala 4 Rob and Tonya Moroney 5 Sara Dupuie, Jamie Dupuie, Amanda Lansdell, Tom Dupuie, Kyle Kolenda and Katie Swortwood 6 Josh Ferris, Madison Ferris, Lori Repp and Mitch Repp
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PLAY DATE JOHHNY QUIRIN WINE AND CHOCOLATE MICHAEL BUCK
look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY
Running for life WELLNESS
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» PLUS: AIRBNB DESIGN REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE GARDENING GEAR
Jim Patch is a running coach at the YMCA.
P H OTO G R A P H BY T E R I G E N OV E S E GR M AG .CO M
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look + feel / wellness
WELLNESS
Training for the big run These tips will have you lacing up your sneakers. BY ANN BYLE
// PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERI GENOVESE
Running coach Jim Patch hits the YMCA track.
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
Jim Patch, running coach at downtown’s David D. Hunting YMCA since 2007, said this about running: “Running is a sport you can do practically until you fall over. If you’re a high school student choosing between football and cross country, choose cross country because you can do it for life.” He should know. Patch has run full marathons, countless half-marathons and everything in between. He has run in the Amway River Bank Run 13 times over the years. He’s postretirement age but has no plans to stop tying on his shoes and heading out to run a few miles. Patch has trained runners just starting out and those who have some experience, and he has a wealth of advice to share. Training for the first long race: Start slowly, said Patch, and don’t try to do too much too quickly. “Two-thirds of people I coach who fail to meet their expectations, it’s because they over train; one-third under train. Ease into your training and gradually try to improve,” he said. Rest: The largest gains in fitness come largely from recovery, so don’t shortchange yourself on recovery. “You are asking your body to do something you’re not used to. When you stress muscles and then repair them with rest, the muscles are stronger,” Patch said. “Repair is essential. And walking as recovery isn’t cheating.” He recommends chocolate milk and pickle juice as good recovery drinks. Sports drinks? Not necessary but okay. Water? The best. Another piece of advice: get a good night’s sleep. Workouts: “A couple of hard workouts a week is enough,” Patch said. He encourages runners to push themselves a bit, to be “comfortably uncomfortable.” He also recommends cross-training, such as weightlifting, yoga, tennis, etc. “Find something you enjoy that’s different than running but that gets your body moving,” he said. He suggests one long run a week, three or four shorter runs, and a couple of days doing
Q&A with Shelley Irwin
Jim Patch coaches runners at the David D. Hunting YMCA. Whether it's a 5K or a marathon, he's ready to help.
nothing or doing another form of exercise. Training time: Three months to train for a shorter race, four months for a longer race. “It also depends on athletic ability, age, experience and competitiveness,” Patch said. “Running isn’t for everyone, so if you hate it, don’t do it. But it’s also an acquired taste, so don’t give up after the first time if you don’t like it.” Food: Patch is a proponent of science writer Michael Pollan’s eating plan: “Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.” Patch recommends consulting a dietician to get started on an eating plan. Advice for new runners: Go to Gazelle Sports or Striders and let a professional get you into a good pair of shoes. Patch suggests getting two pairs of the same shoes and alternating them. “Running shoes need to breathe,” he said. MARATHON COURTESY SHELLEY IRWIN
“Two-thirds of people I coach who fail to meet their expectations, it’s because they over train; onethird under train. Ease into your training and gradually try to improve.” Jim Patch
Motivation: The hardest thing about preparing for a race is staying motivated, Patch said. Running is an individual sport, so people can more easily get burned out or discouraged. “Fight that by running with a group,” he said. “You motivate each other and fight the loneliness. The best way to get better is to run with people who are a little faster than you.” Patch is a big proponent of races rather than just running long distances alone. There’s the free T-shirt, but also the electricity and excitement in the air thanks to the crowds lining the streets to cheer you on. “You can engage with family and friends in a way you can’t when just running for health,” Patch said. “And it’s a lot of fun afterward to sit around and talk about the run with your friends.”
Shelley Irwin is host and producer of the WGVU Morning Show and Community Connection, as well as an avid longdistance runner. She shares her thoughts on running and racing. What do you love most about running? It's my downtime — my time to listen to music, think, plan, release some endorphins and count each stride as a step toward my goal. How many races have you run? On average, I run 40 races a year — from indoor triathlons to marathons to Ironman 70.3s, which includes a 1.2mile swim, 56-mile cycle and 13.1-mile run. How many different countries have you run in? I’ve run half-marathons in Iceland, Jamaica, Spain and Canada, and World Championship Triathlons and Duathlons in Sweden, Switzerland and Spain. My favorite race city is Chicago — I enjoy the Chicago Marathon. What is the worst thing to have happened running? Having my music die and running while suffering from plantar fasciitis. What made you start running in the first place? I have always been active, but my running addiction began in 2001 when I moved to Grand Rapids and set my eye on my first 25K! What are your best prerace foods? Pizza! What is your best advice for those who want to start running? Just start. Sign up for a 5K, make a plan and tell a friend. What is the worst piece of advice you received about running/racing? Being told to slow down. How do you keep running when you feel like stopping? I turn up my music and think about the celebration that will come once I cross the finish line. GR M AG .CO M
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look + feel / gea
GEAR
In bloom Get your hands dirty with these gardening tools. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
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// STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
It's time to start plotting your spring flower beds and window boxes. These tools from area retailers will help ensure you are ready to turn "April showers" into "May flowers." If you're not ready to dig into the dirt, there are plenty of fun finds that offer flower motifs. Plant these items among your décor and enjoy the spring season.
Rifle Paper Canteen,$35, Kennedy's Flowers & Gifts, kennedyfloral.com; Little Birdie Michigan Pillow, $48, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Magnolia Home Bloom Candle, $12, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Cactus, $12.99, Romence Gardens & Greenhouses, romencegardens.com; Succulent, $19.99, Romence Gardens & Greenhouses; Silver Tin, $12.99, Romence Gardens & Greenhouses; Notepad, $8.95, Mason Jones, masonjonesshops. com; Seed Packets, $1.89/each, Flowerland, myflowerland.com; Fresh Cut Basil Hand Cream, $18, Mason Jones; Magnolia Home Bar Soap, $10, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Bolivian Jew Vine, $8.95, Rebel, rebelgr.com; Watering Can, $29.99, Flowerland; Flower Color Guidebook, $35, Rebel; Wild At Home book, $19.95, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; On Flowers book, $35, Rebel; Potted Fake Succulent, $15, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Magnolia Home Room Spray, $12, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Joules Gold Rain Boots, $79.95, Lee & Birch, leeandbirch.com; White Pot, $15.99, Flowerland; Bogg Garden Bag, $65, Kennedy's Flowers & Gifts; Bloom Kneeling Pad, $8.99, Flowerland; Slogger’s Garden Hat, $24.99, Flowerland; Bloom Gardening Gloves, $4.99, Romence Gardens & Greenhouses.
GARDENING ANGELA CICCU
look + feel / home
HOME
Designing a luxury Airbnb Tips for turning your cottage or rental property into a profitable investment. BY ROBIN GOULD
With West Michigan becoming one of the country’s favorite summer vacation spots, turning your cottage or other rental property into a luxurious Airbnb can be a smart and profitable investment. Grand Rapids-based interior designer Krista Price shares a few tips on how to turn your family’s cottage into a dream vacation rental.
Guests love staying at Airbnbs that are Instagramable. You can achieve this through design and sticking to the hottest trends.
AIRBNB INTERIORS COURTESY KRISTA PRICE
Community spaces The key to a successful Airbnb is to give your guests an experience. “Design matters more than you think, but experience is more important,” Price said. “The majority of people I host are larger groups. They are families who come for weddings who want to stay, cook and be together. The experience is to be with family.” One of the ways you can bring family together is by creating multiple community spaces. The latest Airbnb that Price designed featured one community space on each floor. It is important for families to reconnect away from their private rooms. Use comfortable seating such as day beds, couches and chairs. Providing couch covers can protect furniture and also add style to the room. If you are choosing hard flooring, find fluffy rugs to allow guests to sit on the floor. Stock the room with board games and fun activities in trendy wicker baskets or built-in wall shelves for a familyfriendly experience. Shop community space: Target, West Elm, IKEA
guest. Price said, “Some room types should include gender-neutral, feminine, masculine, kid-friendly room, and, of course, a luxurious master room with a walk-in shower.” Another important part of getting the design right is convenience. Price said providing each bathroom with colorassigned towels and two laundry rooms for fast turnovers and easy clean-ups are a few helpful options. Shop design: Vintage shops, Wayfair, World Market Comfort Guests are choosing Airbnbs now more than ever because people love to feel at home when on vacation. The biggest review complaints usually are about uncomfortable beds and outdated amenities, such as the bathroom. As an Airbnb host, consider sleep and shower as your top investment priorities. Along with comfort, make sure your guests have a variety of linen options and fluffy pillows. Consider a linen closet that allows guests to choose different sheets and pillows if they would rather have a certain material. Shop comfort: Westbound Linens, Overstock, Amazon
Design Guests love staying at Airbnbs that are Instagramable. You can achieve this through design and sticking to the hottest trends. The top trends are geometric and contemporary light fixtures, bohemian rugs, midcentury modern furniture and greenery such as macramé hanging plants. It also is important to capture different personalities to accommodate each GR M AG .CO M
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look + feel / style FP x Mercado Global Amulet Bag, $168, Free People
Model wearing polka dots in Adam Lippes' spring 2020 readyto-wear collection.
STYLE
Doting dots Spruce up your wardrobe with this classic pattern. WRITTEN AND STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING
// PHOTOS BY ANGELA CICCU
Polka dots always will be considered a classic trend that will never go out of style. The spring/ summer 2020 runways were filled with this spotty trend. Find this trend on everything from jumpsuits, jackets and dresses to tops, pants and accessories. There are many different takes on this popular trend. These dots can range from small to large scale. Black and white is the most popular color combination but you can find polka dots in a variety of other color combinations.
Polka Dot High Neck Dress, $70, Gina’s Boutique
Amuse Society Polka Dot Top, $66, Gina’s Boutique
Tasseled Suede Look Mule,, $29, Dry Goods
Spanx Faux Leather Pants,, $110, Lee & Birch
Luca Bracelet Stack, $34, Evereve
Necklace, $58, Lee & Birch
Esley Stripe & Polka Dot Jumpsuit, $76, Lennon & Willow Scrunchie Scrunchie, $6.95, Rebel
Sorel Kinetic Sneaker $148, Sneaker, Lee & Birch Pom Pom Bag, $74, Lennon & Willow
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RUNWAY COURTESY ISIDORE MONTAG/GORUNWAY.COM AMULET BAG COURTESY FREE PEOPLE TASSELED MULE COURTESY DRY GOODS USA BRACELET STACK COURTESY EVEREVE
look + feel / expe t
EXPERT
Reduce, reuse, recycle Tackle wishful recycling with donations. BY MEGAN SARNACKI
Reduce, reuse, recycle — three simple words taught to us at an early age to create a cleaner Earth. But for many of us, debating whether a container is recyclable and determining which bin to put it in can leave us with questions and uncertainty. While recycling is vital for both a healthier planet and future generations, “wishful recycling,” or tossing an item in the recycling bin in the hopes it ends up being recyclable, can contaminate the rest of the collection and add to the pileup of landfills. To avoid this contamination, the phrase, “When in doubt, throw it out,” has become a popular motto to eliminate wishful recycling. “We have become wasteful as a society, but the more people understand, the more they’ll push toward a change in product development and collection of resources. Doing your small part to make the best decisions for the products you purchase, donate and manage can have a world of impact,” said Nick Carlson, vice president of donated goods operations at Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids. As people seek to better understand how DONATION ISTOCK/RONSTIK
“We don’t accept mattresses as donations at all, but we receive approximately six mattresses every single night when no one’s around just so people can get rid of their materials.” Nick Carlson
to avoid wishful recycling, tending to the appropriate disposal of clothing, textiles and household items is not always discussed as frequently. Each year, the average person throws away 50 pounds of clothing, making up about 10% of our waste stream, according to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Because Carlson says there are not as many available recycle markets for these products, the best processes for household items, textiles and clothing are often either reusing or downcycling. While Goodwill has different methods for reusing and downcycling products, Carlson says 60% of its waste results from people dropping off items that are dilapidated or not accepted. “We don’t accept mattresses as donations at all, but we receive approximately six mattresses every single night when no one’s around just so people can get rid of their materials,” Carlson said. “That hurts Goodwill because we don't have the capacity to recycle those materials and they add to waste cost, which takes away from our mission to help get people into long-term competitive employment.” Not only is understanding what you’re donating and the quality of those items beneficial for the community, but Carlson adds buying used products can save the natural resources it takes to develop a new product. “If you're purchasing something that's used, you increase the life of that product,” Carlson said. “As a result, it helps reduce the production of brand new products. Reducing our own individual impact on waste through reusing and recycling couldn’t be more important for our continuous existence.” GR M AG .CO M
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food+drink DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS Seafood tower from Bowdie's Chophouse.
TABLE
Prime dining page 36
» PLUS: TOP 5 MEXIC AN RESTAUR ANTS CHEERS TO MOTU VIGET SPRING CUPC AKES
P H O T O G R A P H B Y S TA C Y F E Y E R - S A L O GR M AG .CO M
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food + drink / table
Begin your meal with the bone marrow starter.
TABLE
Chophouse dining Slow down for an evening at Bowdie’s Chophouse. BY JAYE BEELER
// PHOTOS BY STACY FEYER-SALO
The menu at Bowdie’s Chophouse in Gaslight Village offers a breathtaking page of delicious thrills with plenty to peruse, which is good because here you’re encouraged, expected really, to partake in the theatricality of chophouse dining. Besides, it takes a while to flame a 36-ounce tomahawk ribeye steak. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Don’t expect a quick night out or casual dining. Bowdie’s offers guests a chance to indulge 36
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
Top: The dining area offers a relaxing vibe with a hint of luxury. Bottom left: deconstructed crab cake Bottom right: seafood tower
in the dinner hour. Chophouse dining takes time, so settle in and plan on spending at least a couple of hours here. Everything is glamorous and under the microscope at Bowdie’s EGR — black tablecloth dining, winking candlelight and wait staff uniformed in starched white shirts and French aprons —knowledgeable, engaging and fitted with a crumb scraper. The restaurant offers an indulgently fun atmosphere, harkening to an evocative jazz speakeasy with expansive brick walls, curved tufted leather booths, tin ceiling, polished hardwoods and linear chandelier. An enchanting bank of wine lockers demarcating the dining room and bar is designed for regulars to store their carefully procured wines from the restaurant. “It’s all about taste here,” said Tyler Bowdish, vice president of the restaurant group started by his parents, Scott and Lisa Bowdish, in 2015. The pair opened the first Bowdie’s Chophouse in Saugatuck — a spot they loved for boating. Two years later, in 2017, Bowdie’s added a charming 38-seat restaurant in Lansing. And, a few months ago, Bowdie’s introduced its third steakhouse to Gaslight Village’s High Street. It’s a perfect fit for the wellheeled neighbors pining for a reason to sparkle, to dine in a gorgeous spot and to hang out bar side watching the overhead televisions and enjoying craft cocktails. Bonus: The chophouse validates parking in the car park nearby. The prime — as the steaks are called — number only five, perhaps six, including the nightly special. All designed for sharing. All the beef is masterfully cut and aged by Halperns' Purveyors of Steak and Seafood (now an acquisition of Gordon Food Service) at its Kalamazoo facility. “You’re not going to get this kind of simple perfection anywhere else but here at Bowdie’s,” executive chef Lilah Plaggemars said. At 17, this wunderkind dual-enrolled at Rockford High School and Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College. With a fresh GR M AG .CO M
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food + drink / table
Q&A with Tyler Bowdish, VP of Bowdie’s Chophouse collection Why open a chophouse when plant-based eating is trending? My dad has always loved the whole steakhouse thing, dinner as the event. This is all about real food, pure ingredients, wonderful cooking that renders the fat perfectly on the prime. We can accommodate allergies, gluten-free and intolerances in nearly every dish, but we know that 90% of our clientele come here for beef. On the weekends, we often do three covers a night because people crave being at a physical restaurant that offers warmth and welcome.” Other recommendations besides prime steak? Faroe Island salmon and roast half-chicken. These are the only mains that come with sides. Any advice for chophouse dining? It takes time to properly prepare a steak of this specification. We’re not trying to rush it. We guesstimate that groups of four or less spend two hours for dinner. Larger groups should plan to dine for two-and-a-half or three hours.
Top: Tyler Bowdish Bottom: Rum Old Fashioned with bruleed orange.
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culinary degree in 2017, Plaggemars headed for Hawaii, landing with Merriman’s in Kapalua. Once back in West Michigan, Bowdie’s hired her within two days of her job interview. “I got really lucky. (Bowdie’s) took a chance on a 20-year-old sous chef.” Every steak glistens with chive butter and can be dollied up with à la carte accompaniments such as homemade Worcestershire sauce — made with 34 ingredients and aged 30 days — or a lobster tail for a surf-and-turf option. Since the steaks are so thick, Plaggemars lets each steak rest six to eight minutes after searing to redistribute its juices, then pops them into the broiler for a split second to heat up the outside immediately before serving. For many regulars, the seafood tower — a tiered fantasy with oysters on the half shell, crab claws, shrimp and lobster — is the alpha and omega of dining at Bowdie’s, and it’s often all they order. The roasted (femur) bone marrow, similar to a bread-and-butter spread, tingles with marbled warmth, citrus salt and toasted crostini. The deconstructed crab cake tumbles together all the elements — sautéed jumbo lump crab meat, North African roasted pepper paste harissa, bread and arugula. On our visit to Bowdie’s, we ate too much: escargot (shells already removed — yay!) floating in butter spiked with garlic, shallots and chives; shrimp bisque, velvety with coconut milk; a fully grilled Caesar with raw egg and anchovies; bonein cowboy ribeye — smoky, salty, edged with marshmallow-y fat; truffle fries; and crème brûlée. We spent $108 — excluding beverages. Not bad considering casual chain steakhouses can add up fast — without all the delicious spoiling. Don’t forget dessert. Bowdie’s offers beignet-style doughnuts fried and dusted with powdered sugar; a warm fudge brownie with a peanut butter-whipped buttercream and chocolate sauce; and the chef ’s own carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting sans nuts and raisins. The three mainstays are made at the East Grand Rapids location and shipped to Saugatuck and Lansing. “I was a pastry chef at the very beginning when I was 13,” Plaggemars said. “I ran a business out of my parents' home making cakes, cupcakes and desserts for catering places. I still have a passion for pastries, and I’m fortunate enough to share that with our in-house pastry chef.”
Get to know the prime menu at Bowdie’s Chophouse: • 18-ounce Kansas City is a bone-in New York Strip. “The softness and flavor are fantastic,” Vice President Tyler Bowdish said. • Bone-in filet at 14 ounces. “Something that you don’t see on a lot of menus,” Executive Chef Lilah Plaggemars said. “You can only cut two bone-in filets per cow in the spec that we need.” • Bone-in ribeye tomahawk at 36 ounces, including the cap of the ribeye. It’s carved tableside into equal portions, so everyone gets a piece of the good stuff. “It’s a scene-stealer for sure,” Bowdish said. • 10-ounce filet mignon. The name means “tender filet” or “fine filet” and is “that barrel cut, straight in the middle, and you only get one, maybe two, out of the whole tenderloin,” Plaggemars said. • 26-ounce, bone-in cowboy ribeye, balancing fat, marbling and full-on flavor. “If animal fat is your thing, then this one’s for you,” Plaggemars said.
Bowdie's Chophouse's 36-ounce Tomahawk ribeye steak. GR M AG .CO M
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food + drink / c eate
CREATE
Second winter
Iced coffee is perfect for spring.
BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO
It’s finally starting to feel like spring, and for coffee drinkers, spring means the return of iced coffee at your favorite coffee shop. The baristas at The Sparrows shared their recipe for Second Winter, an iced coffee you can make at home. Ingredients The Sparrows coffee Water Ice 20 grams sweetened condensed milk Milk or alternative milk option
Hario pour over (12 ounces): Combine 26 grams coffee and 250 grams water poured over 200 grams ice. Stir 20 grams sweetened condensed milk (vegan coconut version available) into coffee. Top off with milk of your choice.
Drip coffee: Put half the needed water amount into the brewer and brew over ice in the pot. Ice should fill the pot to the halfway point. You may need an extra scoop or two of coffee depending on how strong you want it (The Sparrows suggests you add 1.5 times the normal amount of coffee). Stir 20 grams sweetened condensed milk (vegan coconut version available) into coffee. Top off with milk of your choice.
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food + drink / chee s
Left: Jonathan Jelks and Willie "The Kid" Jackson at Buffalo Traders Lounge with their spirit Motu Viget Brut. Right: Avani Supreme Vodka CHEERS
A powerful partnership Motu Viget sets out to shake up the spirits and wine industry. BY AUSTIN LANGLOIS
// PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER
Creating a drink label is no small feat. Yet, serial entrepreneur Jonathan Jelks and partners Jamiel Robinson and recording artist Willie "The Kid" Jackson seem to have successfully launched Motu Viget with pop-up events at local restaurants, strong social media activity and a presence at the Grand Rapids Wine, Beer and Food Festival. Motu Viget — which means “strength in activity” — is a Grand Rapids-based wine and spirits company that launched in 2019 with a unique approach to business and product development. In short, Jelks said they develop highquality products and put them on the market at an affordable, accessible price. Rather than taking on the work of a distillery or winemaker, Motu Viget partners with different beverage makers to create new products. "Partnering with different companies to create the products we have in the market has been a fun and exciting process," Jelks
"Partnering with different companies to create the products we have in the market has been a fun and exciting process." Jonathan Jelks
said. "We felt the best business model for us would be to work with established entities who can help us develop the highest-quality Michigan-made wine and spirits." The company’s first partnership was with Paw Paw-based St. Julian Winery for the Motu Viget Brut. Its second collaboration launched in February 2020 with local favorite Long Road Distillers to create Avani Supreme Vodka — a gluten-free, corn-distilled vodka made in Grand Rapids. "When developing a new product, we collaborate on everything with our partners, starting from where the ingredients are made to how each product will taste," Jelks said. "We are extremely hands-on and intentional about anything we release." One of the partners, Jackson, even designs all of the bottles. "We are extremely excited (about the launch of Avani) because vodka is a growth market," Jelks said. "We were able to take the learnings from all of our experiences from the last product release and apply them to our new vodka." The way Motu Viget releases new beverages also sets it apart from other companies; to unveil Brut, the team amped up the hype on social media and also partnered with local venues on what they call "tastemaker events." In a way, the entire ethos is reminiscent of how a recording company might collaborate with different artists to create albums with the social-first hype and a collaborative business model. GR M AG .CO M
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food + drink / must-t y
Jason Kakabaker
MUST-TRY
A decade of decadence BY CHARLSIE DEWEY
// PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER
Ten years ago, Jason Kakabaker began decorating cakes full-time out of his Heritage Hill home, launching his business, The Cakabakery. Two years later, he and his partner Peter had the opportunity to move the business into a storefront in Eastown. Today, The Cakabakery is housed at 919 E. Fulton St. in the Midtown neighborhood and in Holland at 82 W. 8th St. The bakery does everything from cakes to cupcakes to cookies and more. For spring, Kakabaker said customers can expect lighter and brighter flavors to fill the store. Look for lemon raspberry, strawberry champagne and vanilla blackberry chai. “With the warmer temperatures and the sun actually shining, we love to make 42
Try The Cakabakery's spring flavors.
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our lemon cupcakes topped with either raspberry or blueberry buttercream,” Kakabaker said. “We also love making our iced lemon, lime and grapefruit cookies.” Spring also is the start of graduation and wedding season. Kakabaker said if you are planning a special event and looking to place an order, make sure to plan ahead. “Please order out two weeks or more — we can do anything for your big event, though!” he said. Cupcakes continue to be a popular item at spring and summer events, and Kakabaker said you can expect to find vegan and gluten-free options from Cakabakery. “We are seeing that vegan and gluten free is not just a fad and is so important to have as an everyday option,” he said. “Also,
we have always taken pride in not using artificial flavors or colors in our frostings and cake batters.” Other trendy takes on cupcakes right now: “Savory takes on cupcakes have been very popular and are fun to experiment with: maple bacon, lavender lemon, salted chocolate rosemary …” Kakabaker said. While cupcakes remain popular, Kakabaker said not to forget about the many varieties of cookies and cake pops available this spring. Whether you are placing an order for a party or just stopping in for a spring treat, Cakabakery has plenty to enjoy. “We are so thankful for the support from Grand Rapids and in our Holland neighborhoods,” Kakabaker said.
TOP 5
Authentic flavors The taste of Mexico is in your backyard. BY ROBIN GOULD
On the outskirts of downtown, authentic Mexican food is waiting to be found. From traditional Jalisciense dishes to the best torta your taste buds will encounter, Mexico is quite frankly in your backyard (minus the warm weather). With over 1,265 Google reviews, Tacos El Caporal, 1717 28th St. SW, has the best tortas in town. The unique Hawaiian torta has ham, beef, cheese and pineapple, and is
TACOS ISTOCK MACARONS ISTOCK
topped with an assortment of goodies, like avocado. If pineapple is not for you, go for the vegetarian or shrimp option. Hop on over to El Globo, 2019 S. Division Ave., and experience “Michigan’s best traditional Jalisciense dishes.” Customers are raving about the delicious beef or steak taco fries topped with cheese, cilantro, jalapeños and onion. Try a traditional dish and
order Birria de Chivo, a homemade goat stew. Tamales Mary, 1253 Burton St. SW, has a restaurant and food truck. This restaurant lives up to its reputation. The mouth-watering, handmade tamales do not disappoint. Hurry in on your lunch break for the all-you-can-eat handmade tamale buffet. If you are craving an authentic taco, Tacos El Cuñado, 455 Burton St. SW, should be your first choice. Guests normally order the tacos trio or
tacos duo with a choice of protein. Pair it with a Jarritos soda. This is a meal you will tell your friends about. El Granjero Mexican Grill, 950 Bridge St. NW, is the home of the grilled or stuffed cactus. If this interests you, order the Arrachera, which is a skirt steak seasoned with grilled cactus, onions and topped with melted cheese. Or, try the Nopales Rellenos, a ham and queso frescostuffed cactus.
editor's pick Field and Fire Café in the Monroe North neighborhood is one of my favorite lunch spots in the city. Having worked in the neighborhood for a number of years, I quickly became a regular here. Even though our office has moved, I still find an excuse nearly once a week to pop in and order from the counter. The café has a small but substantial menu of soups, salads, sandwiches and daily specials. You also can get breakfast items, including a great avocado toast. I often make morning visits to grab a breakfast burrito to-go (yes, my co-workers are often envious of the savory smells coming from my desk). There are gluten-free and vegan options, too. If you can make it out of the shop without a few macarons or pastries, you have more willpower
than I have. The macarons are a delectable treat I can’t pass up; I usually order a trio for dessert. Since it’s a café, Field and Fire is a great place to get a little work done, as well. I often see people hovered over their keyboards during the lazy afternoon hours, and sometimes, I am one of those people. It’s a brightly lit, cheerful space with a nice view of the green space that sits across the street. The café has a white and red color palette and a modern French café feel.
CHARLSIE DEWEY MANAGING EDITOR, GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE GR M AG .CO M
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The main floor bedroom at the Carpenters' century-old Grand Haven home retains its cottage feel and serves as the perfect respite.
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The Remtemas' dining table pairs an older style table with more modern chairs.
a modern touch TWO CENTURY-OLD HOMES UNDERGO EXTENSIVE TRANSFORMATIONS.
BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY WERNER STRAUBE
MARATHON COURTESY SHELLEY IRWIN
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TWO CENTURY-OLD HOUSES. A family of opossums in the chimney. More than a thousand
salvaged bricks loaded into a Dodge Durango. A passel of renovation patience. In the end: Two lovely places called home. A family of opossums lived in the old white farmhouse in the Creston neighborhood before the Remtema family did, cozied up in the big brick chimney. Built in 1895, converted into apartments, abused by renters, the creaky house needed the kind of help a skilled architect and a professional interior designer could give. Lucky house. That’s exactly what it got with Deidre and Jeff Remtema. Now, instead of opossums in the chimney, there are boys clambering up into the attic playroom, swinging in the cool climbing harness while they read. It was a total restoration, gutted down to the studs and transformed into a warm and welcoming family home with an improved, open flow that fits a busy family lifestyle. Come on in. That delicious aroma is the pork roast Jeff is simmering to make Cuban sandwiches.
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The century-old home needed a lot of care and the detailed touch of Deidre, an interior designer, and her husband Jeff, an architect. Now the family takes advantage of the many transformed spaces, which meet this modern family's needs.
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Opposite page: The kitchen offers double the storage space and a modern design (inset shows previous kitchen). This page: The house offers plenty of space for the Remtemas' sons to enjoy, too.
Meet the family: Jeff and Deidre Remtema, owners of Deidre Interiors, an interior design and architecture firm based in their home; sons, Marek, 13, Bram, 11, and 3-year-old English yellow Labrador Lizzy, a snuggle bug who’s allowed on the furniture. How the story began: Jeff bought the rundown house in 2000, living on the top floor while renting out the bottom. Sure, there was termite damage and hornet nests in the walls. The kitchen was pretty weird. Plumbing, heating, electrical all needed upgrading. But it had good bones, the architect thought. After he and Deidre were married two years later, the restoration began. Fantastic feat: Jeff handmade nearly 200 molding trim pieces, replicating the few surviving ones left in the house, toiling in a makeshift workshop in the driveway. He also made about 1,000 linear feet of wood molding. “It started out as a labor of love,” Deidre said. “But by the end, it was more like, ‘Jeff, just get this trim done.’” Homey happenings: They tripled the storage in the cheerful kitchen, which boasts a charming farm sink, a roomy island and opens to the dining room, where a stunning frosted glass and brass pendant light fixture hangs. This is where Jeff bakes chocolate chip cookies Deidre calls “killer” and rustles up brown sugar-lacquered bacon to go with a big breakfast of waffles or pancakes. Natural light floods the library where the family watches TV or settles in with a book from the wall of shelves lit by stylish black picture lights. Jeff designed a huge front porch based on photos he found of the original because they love to sit outside. Shudder time: Bats shared the Remtema roost while Deidre and Jeff renovated. “That was the worst,” Deidre said. “I’d be lying in bed at night and hear something flying around.”
Once the house was sealed, no more bats. Personal touch: Framed black-and-white photos in the dining room show Deidre’s grandfather building the family’s lakeside cottage in 1955. Marek’s room features a huge black-andwhite photo of his dad as a teen skateboarder. Takeaway tip: “Older homes evoke a feeling in people, warm and inviting,” Deidre said. “You can add that soul in a new home if it reflects the experiences of the people who live there.” Anybody can furnish a room by shopping on the internet, she said. Dig deeper. “Do you love sports? Do you travel? Do you collect cars? Use your books, your artwork to help bring your personality to your house.” Renovation rewards: “Our house is a family member,” Jeff said. “When it gets sick, we fix it.” But a few boo-boos are OK. “The nicks and dings are memories built in,” Jeff said. “That dinged piece of trim is from the time Marek rode his BMX bike through the living room.” “A house should be a little imperfect,” Deidre said. “It’s a living thing.” GR M AG .CO M
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A wall of windows ensures the sun porch is always basking in sunlight — something the entire family enjoys.
THE RAMSHACKLE LAKESHORE COTTAGE, built in 1892, was a wreck.
But it had good bones. It overlooked Lake Michigan. And it was for sale. Steve and Nan Carpenter bought the place in January 2013 and spent the next 21 months completely renovating the Grand Haven cottage, adding a foundation and an additional walk-out level. They toted out monstrous piles of broken concrete, rubble and coal. Just as important is what they kept. Century-old pine for the floors. The original outline of the cottage. Character. “It’s intentionally not perfect,” Steve said. “Even though it’s a four-season home, it’s still a cottage. We wanted it to look like a cottage — not like a house that looks like it belongs in the suburbs.”
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A well-stocked library means there is always a great beach read available, and on winter days the library is the perfect place to curl up with a book. GR M AG .CO M
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Nan and Steve Carpenter turned this century-old cottage into their full-time home. They added an entire floor of living space and renovated the entire home to fit their needs.
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Meet the family: Steve and Nan Carpenter. Steve is a retired attorney and registered nurse. Nan is a retired Kent County family court judge. Their youngest son, Scot, lives upstairs while finishing his degree at Grand Valley State University. Two Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Chance and Roz, lounge in laps and live for treats. How the story began: Steve grew up visiting friends with cottages on the same stretch of Lake Michigan and fell in love. After the 2008 recession, cottages started popping up for sale. He pounced. Fantastic feat: Steve waded through hip-deep snow to handpick 1,200 centuryold Chicago Common bricks from the demolished Eagle Ottawa Leather Company’s riverfront factory in Grand Haven. He painstakingly sorted through for the perfect mix of pink-hued and yellow and dragged them across the snow to his Dodge Durango on a dumpster lid. They ended up as stunning flooring and backsplashes in the kitchen and kitchenette areas. Meanwhile, every bit of building material had to be hauled in from the parking lot 150 feet from the cottage. Crews built ramps and rigged pulleys to get their gear on-site. “Every step of the way was figuring things out,” Steve said. Shudder time: Where to begin? The cottage had no foundation. “One corner of the house was sitting on a log,” Steve said. Nan still gulps when she recalls the whole building held up on enormous jacks while they put the foundation, and a new walk-out level, under it. “That made me shudder a bit to think what might happen if one of the lifts gave way,” she said. A stairway in the living room that led upstairs was held together just by nails. A portion of the ceiling was separated from the rest of the cottage by about 6 inches. Holland builder Bosgraaf Homes faced a real challenge. “I said to my wife, ‘If we’re going to do this thing, we might as well make it our yearround home,’” Steve said. “We didn’t realize how significant a job it would be just to make it a cottage.”
While renovating the home, Steve Carpenter wanted to keep its cottage feel, while still modernizing the space. He used salvaged bricks and wood throughout the home.
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Homey happenings: Friends and family gather on the cheerful blue-ceilinged porch, scamper down to the beach and gather around the cozy fire pit for s’mores. Nan might rustle up chili-lime chicken breasts topped with strawberry avocado salsa or toss a salad with browned butter balsamic vinaigrette. There’s always mac ’n cheese for the grandkids. A game room stocked with board games encourages people to tuck away their phones for a spell. Each of the six bedrooms has a name — Beach, Boardwalk, Pier — and an artist painted a scene on each bedroom door to 54
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match its theme. Personal touch: Steve framed his mother’s beautiful needlework of birds and flowers. A piece hangs in every room and hallway. Takeaway tip: Steve was on-site every day, pitching in as needed. “If you want to turn a project over to a builder, fine,” he said. “But if you have an idea, you can’t put that idea in somebody else’s head. You have to be there. You have to get physically involved.” Renovation rewards: “People think we’re crazy,” Steve said. “They say, ‘How can you stand it in the winter? It’s so gray.’” Just look around, he says. Better yet, grab a pair of snowshoes they
An additional sunroom is a great hangout space for the family or visitors to play cards or board games. Both rooms overlook Lake Michigan.
keep by the entry in winter and head for the dunes. You’ll see. “There’s a whole panoply of colors,” Steve said. “It changes with the clouds and the light. “We absolutely love it here.”
Mural: Ellen Rutt, "Untitled," 2016
MURAL MATTHEW LAVERE
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Art GVSU Bob Dylan photographs
When photographer Douglas Gilbert was 21, he joined the staff of LOOK magazine in New York as the second-youngest photojournalist in the magazine’s history. He left LOOK and went on to publish photographs in publications such as LIFE, The Saturday Evening Post and Glamour. Gilbert grew up in Holland, Michigan, and now lives in Grand Haven. Last year, he gifted Grand Valley State University with the gift of a lifetime. The large gift of prints, negatives and slides, along with personal items such as letters to understand the collection, contained a subset of unpublished Bob Dylan photographs. Gilbert explained on his website, “In July of 1964, one year before his music changed from acoustic to electric, I photographed Bob Dylan for LOOK magazine. I spent time with him at his home in Woodstock, New York, in Greenwich Village, and at the Newport Folk Festival. The story was never published. After reviewing the proposed layout, the editors declared Dylan to be ‘too scruffy for a family magazine’ and killed the story.” Community members, with notice, can see the pieces at the Engagement Lab within the newly created Art Storage Facility on Winter Avenue in Grand Rapids. Gilbert's other images captured during trips to Italy over a 10-year period are among his personal favorites and are the subject of a Grand Valley art exhibition that runs through June 19 at the Blue Wall Gallery at the DeVos Center on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus. Visit douglasrgilbert.com.
Ebony Road Players
Ebony Road Players is a local theater company based in Grand Rapids with a mission to “inspire, educate and engage cultures of our community with highquality theater productions focused on the Black experience.” The theater group was founded in 2014 by Edye Evans Hyde to help provide youth in the community with a creative outlet. “The summer before, there had been a lot of shootings in the city involving young people in the inner city. I was heartbroken and was trying to figure out what our youth 56
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Ouizi, "Untitled," 2016
UICA’s Exit Space
Outdoor art is proliferating around the city. A lot of that has to do with the success of ArtPrize, which showed just how much Grand Rapidians enjoy seeing large-scale artwork on their daily commutes around town. Today, you can see outdoor art, including a number of murals, in every city neighborhood. A specific program that is responsible for many of the downtown murals is the UICA’s Exit Space program. To date, 15 murals have been created in outdoor spaces as a result of this program (another 31 public art projects have been created within the UICA as a part of this program). “Our city is changing at a rapid pace with new businesses and buildings being added to our skyline,” said Katherine Williams, education and community programs at UICA. “This growth presents a unique opportunity for our community to design spaces that are welcoming and create a sense of belonging through public art and activation.” Expect to see a new mural added to the collection this year. Dave Battjes, a local artist, was commissioned to install a “welcome wall” adjacent to the I-196 overpass at the Ottawa Street exit. The wall will feature the word welcome in all five of Grand Rapids’ Sister City languages. Find the full list of the UICA Exit Space pieces at uica.org/exit-space-project.
were missing that I had when I was growing up,” Hyde said. “I came to the conclusion that I had an outlet in the arts, which is something our community was missing. At this time, we had not had a Black theater company in Grand Rapids since the 1990s. With a city this size and the importance of art in the city, it was imperative to have an artistic outlet for underrepresented voices,” Hyde said. Ebony Road Players’ first production was held in 2014 and was a staged reading of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/ When the Rain” by Ntozake Shange. This past year, Hyde said the theater group was able to put on a full production of the show and had over 300 members of the community in attendance. This year, Ebony Road Players will continue its annual Loving Day celebration with a kickoff event, the Arts Advocacy Awards Ceremony on June 12 at the Gerald R. Ford Museum. The event will be a fundraiser and showcase. Hyde said attendees also will get a sneak peek of the upcoming show, “Anne and Emmitt” by Janet Langhart Cohen that will be showing at Wealthy Theatre June 18-20. “We are also hosting a series of other community events June 18 and 19. We are still in the planning stages for our fall production so be on the lookout for more details on that,” she said. Ebony Road Players produces its shows in a variety of venues around the city. Find more information at ebonyroad.org. MURAL MATTHEW LAVERE
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum’s permanent collection is full of treasures. If you are visiting the GRAM soon, here is a unique piece worth seeing. Basket by Kelly Church Kelly Church is a fifth-generation basket maker and member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in Michigan. “Church and her family harvest black ash trees in the swampy areas of rural Michigan in a time-consuming, traditional process, which are then woven into both utilitarian and decorative baskets,” said Elizabeth Payne, communications manager at GRAM. Church’s work ranges from traditional wedding baskets to other works such as baskets made from vinyl window blinds. Church’s piece is special to GRAM because it is a show of activism. This piece focuses on the preservation of the black ash basketry and educating the public about the emerald ash borer, an invasive pest that is decimating North American black ash forests. Church is using art and different materials to preserve a tradition loved by her culture to hopefully evoke change. Basket by Kelly Church
Mural: Eliza Fernand, "Grand Rapids Quilt," 2015 Inset: The fish mural by Paul Collins was unearthed when Gemini Handmade renovated the space.
Gemini Handmade
When Elyse Marie Welcher and Jacob Vroon, the couple behind Gemini Handmade, were renovating their shop’s current space at 963 Cherry St. SE, they discovered a piece of history that had been drywalled over. A giant fish mural created by Grand Rapids artist Paul Collins had been hidden for a number of years behind the drywall. The mural was created when the building was owned by Superior Fisheries. Collins created it back in 1952 when he operated a mural and graphics company. Collins has since become a well-known artist with other works displayed around the city. Today, the fish mural is prominently on display once again. Stop by Gemini Handmade to glimpse this cool artwork — and score leather goods and more created by local artists from the community.
MURAL MATTHEW LAVERE FISH COURTESY OF GEMINI HANDMADE BASKET COURTESY OF KELLY CHURCH/GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM
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Mural: Colby Roanhorse, "Mycorrhizal," 2018. Inset: The original Grand Rapids Brewing Company sign before Prohibition.
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MURAL MATTHEW LAVERE BAR SIGN JOHNNY QURIN
history Grand Rapids Public Museum In the late 1800s, Grand Rapids was booming and businesses were growing. In a tribute to the city’s past, the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s exhibit, “The Streets of Old Grand Rapids,” shows off a prosperous past with historic items and 11 shops modeled on 19th-century businesses. J.C. Craig Barber Shop After the Civil War, James C. Craig moved to Grand Rapids and opened a barbershop. He was one of the first Black business owners in Grand Rapids. By 1895, he also operated the first shop with all electric instruments. Once located at 72 Canal St., customers came in for a trim, shampoo and even to have their whiskers dyed. Grand Rapids Brewing Company The Grand Rapids Brewing Company was formed in 1893 when six local Grand Rapids breweries merged into one major business to compete with other national breweries; the new brewery opened at the corner of Michigan Street and Ionia Avenue. When Prohibition happened in 1920, the business changed its name to Grand Rapids Products Company and sold pop instead. Meteorite slice You can also find a very cool piece of natural history among the museum’s permanent collection. The first documented meteorite in Michigan was found in Grand Rapids in 1883. It was found 3 feet underground and weighed 112.4 pounds. The second-largest meteorite was found in 1889 in Allegan and weighed 70 pounds.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum Located at 303 Pearl St. NW., the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum is home to many of the 38th president’s most-prized possessions and honors. It also is the burial site for Ford and his wife Betty Ford. Stop in and scope out one of President Ford’s highest honors. On May 21, 2001, Ford was honored with the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for demonstrating political courage.
Sen. Edward Kennedy presented Ford with this honor and spoke positive words on his behalf: “At a time of national turmoil, America was fortunate that it was Ford who took the helm of the storm-tossed ship of state. Unlike many of us at the time, Ford recognized that the nation had to move forward and could not do so if there was a continuing effort to prosecute former President Nixon. So, President Ford made a courageous decision, one that historians now say cost him his office, and he pardoned Richard Nixon.” The telephone that Ford used to talk directly to the astronauts during the ApolloSoyuz mission on July 17, 1975, also is displayed in a beautiful wooden case in the museum. This is monumental because it was the first international space mission. It was the first time the two powerhouse space travelers, Russia and the United States, agreed to conquer a mission together. This paved the way for future cooperation in space. You also can find a leather football helmet that is believed to have been worn by Ford when he played for the University of Michigan from 1932-34. The helmet features the Michigan Wolverine logo. The front is embossed, “MOS/Spaulding,” with “Pat'D No 1.864.104” on the back.
Native American history
From The Norton Mounds to the over 2,000 artifacts held by the Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids has worked hard over recent years to preserve the history of the native tribes that called this land home first. While The Norton Mounds, a group of 11 burial mounds located near the Grand River southwest of the city, are not open to the public, you can view many artifacts held by the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The collections include objects from tribes all over the country and in many mediums, including pottery, basketry, beadwork, regalia, sculpture and more. A couple of pieces to look for: The museum recently acquired a piece of stoneware pottery by Shirley Brauker. “The piece is decorated with images of sturgeon and is on display in the "Grand Fish, Grand River" exhibit, where it helps tell the story of the importance of the sturgeon to Native
people,” Moore said. Another significant piece, which is on display in the Anishinabek exhibit, is a pink shawl, made by Native women in Grand Rapids to help raise awareness about breast cancer in the Native community. You also can find a bronze marker commemorating the people of the Three Fires (the Ottawa, Potawatomi and Chippewa tribes) in Ah-Nab-Awen Park, just east of the Gerald R. Ford Library & Museum. And three large, grassy mounds symbolize the Hopewell Indian mounds located in the park, as well. If you’d like a more active approach to learning about the city’s Native American culture, every summer, the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians host the Homecoming of the Three Fires Powwow downtown, featuring traditional Native American music, dancing and arts.
Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archive
The Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archive is a small but powerful collection of artifacts telling the stories of African Americans. The museum, 87 Monroe Center NW, opened in its temporary space in December 2016. It is currently undergoing a campaign to raise money for a new and much larger contemporary space downtown. Among GRAAMA’s collections are a series of oral history recordings titled “Grandma’s Voices,” which are a series of audio and video recordings from “various Grand Rapids natives and residents, all with their own personal insights and interesting historical perspectives.” According to the GRAAMA website, “Oral history in African culture was performed by the griots or storytellers. They kept the history and traditions of the family, tribe and nation, but (it) was generally considered a masculine job. When Africans were brought to the Americas, that duty shifted to our womenfolk. In recent times, that person was a grandmother, granny, nana, grandma or GRAAMA. Our acronym describes much about our mission: collecting and retelling the rich, colorful stories which compose the historic African American tapestry of living in Grand Rapids.” Executive Director George Bayard helms GRAAMA, using his extensive knowledge of African American history — he is an expert in 20th century African American art and collects Black memorabilia —to drive the organization’s collections and exhibits. GR M AG .CO M
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Places Downtown Hidden Garden Tours
Located in the heart of Grand Rapids are several unconventional hidden gardens that you can tour during the summer months. Hidden Garden Tours are hosted by nonprofit Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids. Dwelling Place was formed in 1980 to help people living in homelessness and with mental health issues obtain affordable housing. Today, Dwelling Place still is helping low-income families find homes, but three summers ago, it also introduced gardening. “The Dwelling Place has also introduced activities like community gardening and community arts activities to engage residents and strengthen the community,” said Latrisha Sosebee, marketing coordinator at Dwelling Place. “It is increasingly recognized through research and scientific literature that gardening is good for our health and well-being.” Dwelling Place residents who take care of these spaces are very proud of their work and are excited to share what they have been growing for the fourth annual celebration this summer. “Urban gardening presents us with a way to alleviate some of the environmental
Dwelling Place offers Hidden Garden Tours during summer.
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Pickerel Lake offers a network of trails to explore.
Pickerel Lake
If you are looking to escape the city, head to Pickerel Lake (also known as the Fred Meijer Nature Preserve), 6001 Ramsdell Road NE in Cannonsburg. This Kent County-operated park offers three distinct hiking trails ranging in length and with several branches so you can add additional miles to your trek if you’d like. All of the trails are set around the stunning 80-acre Pickerel Lake. One of the most remarkable features is the park’s 900-foot boardwalk that crosses a portion of the lake. The lake is fishable so set out with your pole and see what you can hook. Whether you are fishing or not, there is little chance you won’t see wildlife on your excursion, from a variety of birds, snakes, frogs and even ducks and geese, this natural area is bristling with animals. The park is open to cross-country skiers in the winter months.
degradation we face in cities by adding green spaces, improving air quality and biodiversity, increasing pollinators, absorbing rainfall, and producing fresh food,” said Jonathan DeHaan, community garden coordinator. “The Heartside neighborhood may not seem like a green space destination, and yet, residents are making do with the limited space available and growing on rooftops, in between buildings and parking lots, and rehabilitating a pocket park.” To find tour dates, partnership opportunities and more information, visit dwellingplacegr.org.
James C. Veen Observatory
Contemplate the night sky at James C. Veen Observatory, 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE in Lowell. For Stargazers in the know, Veen Observatory is a Grand Rapids favorite. Operated by the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association, Veen Observatory is an educational and research facility that offers public viewing nights throughout the summer. Visitors are invited to use the observatory telescopes to glimpse the night sky, and GRAAA members often set up additional telescopes to share with the public. The first public observing night of 2020 takes place from 9:30 p.m.-midnight Saturday, April 25. Featured objects include: crescent moon, Venus, star clusters and galaxies. This year also marks the Veen Observatory’s 50th anniversary. The observatory was constructed over a five-year period and opened in 1970. DWELLING PLACE GARDENS COURTESY ERIKA TOWNSLEY AT DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS INC. PICKEREL LAKE MICHAEL BUCK
Mural: Evas’ve, "Fiber," 2018 Inset: Lookout Park
lookout park
Overlooking the city of Grand Rapids, it would seem that Lookout Park, 801 Fairview Ave. NE, would be a popular hangout spot; however, this small micro-park is actually a hidden gem that often is overlooked. Comprising no more than 2 acres and an array of benches, this park offers stunning views of the city at sunset. This park is a popular spot for fitness buffs, who climb the steep hillside staircase nearby as part of their routine. The park likely will see more visitors in the near future, though, since it’s in a neighborhood seeing significant development thanks to Spectrum Health and Grand Valley State University.
MURAL MATTHEW LAVERE LOOKOUT JOHNNY QUIRIN
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food + drink Above: Shelley's Kitchen's Western Burger, Right: Cheshire Kitchen has a retro vibe.
Diners
From the cool blue and tans on the wall to the classic faded diner stools, Shelley’s Kitchen is cozy and welcoming. Shelley’s has been loved by the Wyoming-area community for over 13 years. It has been said to be the city’s biggest hidden diner. In addition, Shelley’s may go down in history as having the world’s friendliest staff. The kitchen serves homemade specials, desserts and soups. Known for its killer omelets and diverse atmosphere, stop by Shelley’s, 1140 Burton St. SW, and experience the small, homegrown diner for breakfast or lunch. Take-out orders also are welcome. Cheshire Kitchen, 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, is a multicuisine diner that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The kitchen makes mostly everything from scratch and has a wide variety of classic items and modern dishes. Every night, you can look forward to a dinner special. This diner is celebrated for its stylish, ’50s style interior. From the black-and-whitecheckered flooring to the classic red and white retro diner chairs, Cheshire takes you back to the time of glass Coke bottles and full swing dresses. Stop in and try its unique Monte Cristo Hot Dog and various milkshake options. If you are craving a delicious malt, the Choo Choo Grill, 1209 Plainfield Ave. NE, is the place 62
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to go. The Chocolate Peanut Butter Malt paired with one of Choo Choo’s highly acclaimed burgers is a meal that will not disappoint. However, The Choo Choo Grill is more than just a diner; it is historic to the Grand Rapids area. The building dates back to 1928 when it housed Shipman Coal Co. While the diner’s interior is small, it is well worth a visit. Charlie’s Bar and Grille, 3519 Plainfield Ave. NE, is celebrating 24 years of business. Charlie’s opened in March 1996 as a familyowned business and has been the hangout spot for locals ever since. Famous for its homemade chicken pot pie, prime rib French dip, and corned beef and cabbage, Charlie’s is known for a good time. Whether that be live music, delicious beer or friendly people, this bar is always rocking.
Ethnic restaurants Chez Olga, 1441 Wealthy St. SE, is an easily missed hot spot located along the Wealthy Street corridor due to its nontraditional façade. Though, once you know where it is, it stands out because it is housed in one of the most unique storefronts in the Eastown neighborhood. Bud & Stanley’s Pub & Grub, 1701 4 Operated by Olga Benoit, Chez Olga serves Mile Road NE, opened on December 8, 1999. Caribbean cuisineis —named particularly from where Bud & Stanley’s after theHaiti, previous Benoit was born. Benoit knows how to bring owner’s two golden retrievers. This pub the serves heat. Withofa dishes, heat scale from 1 to burgers, 10, Chez Olga all sorts including pastawill set your mouth items. ablaze The if youbest so desire. and Mexican time to visit is It’s not just thep.m. flavors that will havelunch you dreaming from 11 a.m.-4 for the $5.75 with of a Caribbean escape; the dining room of Chez various meal options, such as goulash and hot Olga sandwiches. is brightly lit with a tropical mural spanning the beef restaurant, andthe easily transports diners a more Check out daily specials andtohead in tropical environment even burger if it’s onlyand in their mind. on Mondays for the—$5.95 beer. Benoit opened Chez Grandvisit Rapids If entertainment is onOlga yourinradar, on a in 2010. night for karaoke and impress the Saturday Lookingwith for the bestskills. Indian food in town? Try audience your Curry Leaf, 2222 44th St. SE, where you’ll find an extensive menu filled with popular Indian dishes. You’ll find a variety of uthappam (a thick pancake served with sambar and chutney), dosa (a crepe), paneers and more. You also can find many vegetarian options here. Finger food takes on a whole new meaning at Go Jo Ethiopian Cuisine, 421 Norwood Ave. SE. All of the dishes are served with injera — an Ethiopian flatbread meant to be used in lieu of utensils. The menu at Go Jo is filled with different types of watt, stew-like dishes that can be heaped onto the injera. It also has vegetarian options. This hands-on dining experience can be leveled up with the request for a traditional coffee ceremony. According to Go Jo’s website, “During the coffee ceremony, green coffee beans are roasted over a fire and then ground by hand. The beans are then placed in a traditional ceramic pot and boiled with water. Once the coffee is ready, it is poured into coffee cups that have been arranged on a wooden tray. The coffee beans may be boiled as many as three times. Often, the coffee ceremony includes the burning of incense during the process.” You must call ahead to request the coffee ceremony, which will then be performed while you wait for your meal. Family-owned Bosna Express, 128 28th St. SW, serves Bosnian cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere of dark woods and warm lighting. You can enjoy a gyro and a European beer while watching the game — the restaurant offers multiple TVs airing different sports games live. The restaurant celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, too. Damir Duratovic opened the restaurant in 2000. He also co-owns Zivio Modern European Tavern and Grill, 724 Wealthy St. SE, with his sons, Dino and Denis Duratovic. SHELLEY'S KITCHEN JOHNNY QUIRIN CHESHIRE KITCHEN MICHAEL BUCK
Mural: Kimberly Lavon, "Amalgamation," 2018 Inset: Olga Benoit in the Chez Olga dining room.
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EXPERT Q&A
Real Estate
Selling or buying a house can be a rollercoaster ride of emotions and can include joy, anticipation and, unfortunately, stress. Many folks rank buying or selling a house right up there with going to the dentist, visiting the in-laws, or dealing with a used-car salesman. But the simple fact is that it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, it shouldn’t be that way—
especially if you do your due diligence, keep a positive frame of mind, and align yourself with allies who know the business and understand your needs and wants. Welcome to Grand Rapids Magazine’s Expert Q&A: Real Estate. Think of it as a stress-reliever. The right real estate expert will help you get the most home for your money, market
and sell your house at a competitive purchase price, communicate with you, and provide viable options and solutions, and help make the process exciting, rewarding, and profitable — as it should be.
EXPERT Q&A Q:
How do you provide people with more home for the money?
A: Eastbrook Homes is known for giving its clients more home for the money. So, how do they do that? Good question. At Eastbrook Homes, their sole purpose is to serve the customer. When you build with them, you will: • Stay within your predetermined budget,
Q:
believes it’s critical that you interview your agent, whether you’re buying or selling a home. The interview helps determine if your communication styles are compatible, and can establish boundaries and expectations for the entire process. An effective agent will adapt to your communication style and implement a system that allows you to feel your needs are being met.
1188 East Paris Ave. SE, Ste. 100 Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-275-3124 eastbrookhomes.com info@eastbrookhomes.com
GreenSquare Properties Scott West 2618 East Paris Ave. SE, Ste. A Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-285-9305 greensquaregr.com
What are some ways of identifying the right agent?
A: Do your research! Selecting the best agent to represent your home on the market is crucial to the success of selling. Notice the agents who consistently work in your neighborhood — they bring value because they know the area and the schools, and they’re involved in the community. Listen to the marketing strategies from your agent, who can
Q:
Eastbrook Homes
What should you expect from your Realtor in terms of communication?
A: Lack of communication is often the No. 1 complaint from homeowners when asked about past real estate experiences. Communication is the most important part of the real estate process, and since no two people communicate in the same way, a standardized communication system might not be the right fit for you. The team at GreenSquare Properties
Q:
thanks to their diverse range of selections. • Have lower energy bills with their energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and smart home technology. • Get high-quality home products at low prices, due to their longstanding relationships with vendors.
help you create a perfect first impression. Be cautiously guarded if you’re tempted to choose the agent who suggests the highest listing price. The four P’s of marketing are: product, promotion, positioning, and price. If the price isn’t right, it doesn’t make any difference what the product is.
Keller Williams Realty Market Center East The Katie K Team 1555 Arboretum Dr. SE, Ste. 101 Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-575-0119 katie-k.com
Why should I replace my roof?
A: Roofs need to be replaced when they’re leaking; have granular loss; color distortion; missing, lifted, or curling shingles; or algae buildup. Renaissance Roofing, Exteriors & Remodeling offers industry-leading GAF shingles — including the newly released HDZ shingle, with the technology and design meant to withstand harsh Michigan weather. As a GAF Master Elite contractor (only 3 percent of roofing contractors in
the country have achieved this status), Renaissance is able to offer the highest-quality product, precision-install the product, and help protect your investment and your home with warranties. In addition, their roofs are randomly inspected by GAF throughout the year to ensure quality installation. Contact Renaissance Roofing, Exteriors & Remodeling today to schedule an in-home consultation.
Renaissance Roofing, Exteriors & Remodeling 0-1636 Lake Michigan Dr. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-250-5900 renaissance-exteriors.com jessica@renaissanceroof.com
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All Aboard!
DISCOVERING MICHIGAN AND ALL IT HAS TO OFFER.
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MICHIGAN IS KNOWN AS THE “MITTEN” STATE, and it offers a glove full of travel destinations sure to fit every interest and taste, whether you’re looking to explore, play, shop, eat, or simply relax. For the explorer in you, Michigan has plenty of history to appreciate, ranging from its Native American culture to the impact of the automobile, and from 18th century forts to living history museums. The state’s unique story is on full display at locations near and far, including Monroe’s River Raisin National Battlefield Park, Dearborn’s Henry Ford Museum, and the Upper Peninsula’s Quincy Mine. The Mackinac Straits area alone is home to three National Historic Sites: Fort Mackinac, Historic Mill Creek, and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. If you’re looking to play, Michigan has your game. The Gaylord Golf Mecca is the home of 20 golf facilities, including world-class resorts and championship courses designed by the game’s greatest golf architects. And you can’t turn a corner in Michigan without running into a
place to drop your boat for some water skiing or fishing. Things don’t slow down in the winter, either, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. If shopping is your preference, Michigan offers a wide variety of options, from Cabela’s in Dundee to the outlet mall at Birch Run and antique stores on Main Street in every small town. There’s never an excuse to go hungry in Michigan, where you’ll find chicken in Frankenmuth, fudge in Mackinaw, a Coney dog in Detroit, and cherry pie in Traverse City, just to name a few. Is your idea of fun just getting away and letting the stress roll off your back? Spend the day on Torch Lake, take the ferry over to Drummond Island, or visit one of Michigan’s 103 state parks, which cover more than 300,000 beautiful acres of our magnificent state. But keep all this to yourself — we don’t want the word getting out. This is our paradise!
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GREATER LANSING MICHIGAN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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ave you thought about heading to greater Lansing for your next weekend getaway? Pull up a seat at one of the area’s delicious, diverse dining establishments, experience fun patio offerings, or check out Lansing’s comprehensive beer, wine, and spirits trail. Looking for something a bit adventurous? Try your hand at axe-throwing, pocket soccer, foot golf, high-speed go-carting, or kayaking. If being a spectator is more your speed, take in a minor league. This season, the team is celebrating 25 years in downtown Lansing! Bringing the little ones? Lansing has many terrific attractions to visit, like the Michigan History Museum and the Impression 5 Science Center. For a dose of absolute cuteness, head to Potter Park Zoo, where they’re not only celebrating their 100-year anniversary, but welcoming all the new zoo babies — including Jaali, the black rhino calf, and the North American river otter pups.
No matter what you decide to do, we’re convinced that you’ll love Lansing like a local. Book your getaway today! For more information, visit lansing.org.
THE BOULEVARD INN & BISTRO
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he Boulevard Inn & Bistro offers guests a traditional, full-service, all-suite hotel and restaurant located on a picturesque bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. This beautiful getaway features spacious, comfortable, and quiet suites with scenic views of the heart of St. Joseph’s vibrant downtown, and it’s within walking distance of the beach, local shops, restaurants, and popular attractions. The Bistro on the Boulevard consistently fuses local flavors with a new approach, to create an unforgettable celebration of cuisine. The menu reflects its guests’ experiences, and revolves around the concepts of sharing and family. No matter what you’re craving, the Bistro on the Boulevard satisfies your quest for casual, yet upscale American food. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, The Boulevard Inn & Bistro is the perfect St. Joseph destination.
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MACKINAW CITY MICHIGAN ’S FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION!
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rom the breath taking Mackinac Bridge to the one-of-a-kind Mackinac Island the Mackinaw Area boasts attractions and tours that cannot be experienced anywhere else. After experiencing Mackinaw, you will understand why we’ve been named Michigan’s Favorite Vacation Destination. Mackinaw City offers an abundance of things to do from exploring history to reenactments at Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, to flying high above the trees on the zip line at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, or above the waters while you parasail. Browse through over 100 unique shops on
Central Ave. and Mackinaw Crossings taking in the beautiful flowers and Victorian streetlamps along the way while savoring some delicious Mackinaw Fudge. There is something for everyone no matter what your palette desires. In the evenings stroll along the shore line take in the breathtaking sunsets or visit the Headlands International Dark Sky Park where celestial wonders beyond most can only imagine awaits you. With deep dark skies overhead, the vast expanse of Lake Michigan to the west, The Headlands is a unique gem in Michigan! There is never a shortage of things to do in beautiful Mackinaw City.
More than ever we are dedicated to creating the perfect Mackinaw City adventure that matches your interests, schedule and budget. The Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau is here to provide the personal attention that you deserve. Visit our website at www.mackinawcity. com or call 1-800-666-0160 for more information or to receive a free 2019 Vacation Guide.
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The house is elevated perfectly to maximize these views on over 3 acres with 140’ of frontage. The architecture is incredible with every inch designed to be eye-catching. The landscaping has been tastefully created by the owners consisting of many colorful perrenials and strategically placed seagrass plants along the waterfront side. The kitchen is bright and lively with warm tones throughout. The living room has a fireplace and a view that spans across the lake. The main-floor master bedroom is peaceful and roomy, with a luxurious bath. Upstairs has three generously sized bedrooms, a loft sitting room, and a second laundry. The lower level is a haven - family & game room, bedroom, and sauna. An apartment over the detached garage boasts a spacious room, bedroom/office, kitchenette and bathroom. From private balconies to geometrical ceilings, this home is simply fantastic.
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Grand Rapids Magazine’s Top Chiropractor Profiles Disclaimer Top Chiropractors are nominated exclusively by D.C.s in Kent, Ottawa, Allegan and Muskegon counties. Winning chiropractors are not selected by any member of the Grand Rapids Magazine staff. Chiropractors’ names are taken from an online survey submitted by their peers. Professional Research Services (PRS), located in Troy, MI, tabulates the votes and fact-checks names and affiliations of winners.
Pain can have a life-altering effect that not only prevents patients from doing simple things and/or enjoying life, but can lead a person down the road to even more serious health problems. The dangers and addictive nature of opioid pain relievers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin) have become a widespread health crisis in this country; opioid-related deaths went from less than 10,000 a year in 1999 to more than 40,000 in 2016. The good news is that there are plenty of more positive and less addictive methods of dealing with pain. And, as doctors will quickly point out, opioids 76
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don’t alleviate the pain — they mask it. Numerous studies indicate that chiropractic care can help reduce pain better than many medications, and it can assist in the relief — or even the treatment — of many health and body issues such as sciatica, neck pain, ear infections, scoliosis, lower back pain, headaches, and other ailments. There are plenty of exceptional, well-trained and experienced chiropractors right here in West Michigan who are capable of putting together a plan to not only reduce pain, but to eliminate the problem and get you back into the game of life. PHOTO CONTENT iStock/Natali_Mis
Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Paul Aalderink Balanced Health Chiropractic Center of West Michigan PLC Wayne Aamodt Aamodt Chiropractic Clinic Kyle Banner Banner Chiropractic & Rehabilitation PLC Matt Barton Barton Chiropractic Steve Barton Barton Chiropractic Louis C. Boven AK Chiropractic Research Center J. David Britt Britt Chiropractic Mark Brusveen Brusveen Chiropractic Clinic and Therapy
Michael T. Burcon Burcon Chiropractic
John Deyo Higher Health Chiropractic
Kevin Burkhart Rockford Chiropractic Clinic
Aaron DeYoung DeYoung Chiropractic
Aaron J. Buys Buys Chiropractic PLLC
Matt Dirkse Health Zone Chiropractic
Candy R. Carter AK Chiropractic Research Center
James M. Elliott Dr. James M. Elliott, Practice of Chiropractic
Win-Chi Fan
James A. Chapp Burkhart & Chapp Chiropractic, PLC
Atlas Family Chiropractic Clinic 5429 Northland Dr. N.E. Suite B Grand Rapids MI 49525 616-361-8881
Adrian J. Den Boer DBC Functional Medicine Matt DeVreugd Almond Leaf Chiropractic Doug deVries Grand Rapids Wellness
Brit Finkbeiner Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center
Kooistra Chiropractic
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T KOOISTRA CHICROPRACTIC, the primary focus is patient-centered rehabilitation. “We tailor each patient’s rehabilitation to their individual situation,” Jared Kooistra says. “We ask patients to be active participants in the 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 chiropractic team helps patients heal from repetitive stress injuries, disc-related conditions, and more. Collaborating with physical therapists, personal trainers, and pain management professionals, they meet a
patient’s goals — whether that’s living with better function or less pain. Founded in 1958 by Gerald Kooistra, Kooistra Chiropractic is now owned by Gerald’s great-nephew, Jared Kooistra, whose father, Scott, was also an owner of the practice. When the elder two
men retired, Jared added chiropractors Mark Koldenhoven, Zach VanderWeide, and aitl nn e t to the practice each speciali es in di erent interests. Featured Physicians Chiropractic has two locations Dr.Kooistra Name Here to serve patients: East Paris and Wyoming. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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Kooistra Chiropractic Wyoming Office 2855 Byron Center Ave. SW Wyoming, MI 49519
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finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque. TM
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Grand Rapids Office 1680 East Paris Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-532-2518 kooistrachiropractic.com kooistrachiropractic@gmail.com. erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam
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S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S ECT I O N
Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Dr. Matthew Phinney
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IKKI GRIT IS ONE of Dr. Matthew Phinney and the team at The Chiropractic Doctors who has a story about not only how their pain was relieved, but how they were able to return to an active, happ , and ulfilling li est le. r.
Phinney helped me with a shoulder injury that I sustained in . t too me a long time to find someone ith his no ledge and e perience ho could help me get bac on the road to having a unctional shoulder, she sa s. e s also helped me ith other issues, and has gotten me
on a road to ellness. nd that s reall hat The Chiropractic Doctors is all about. ur mission is to help ever person in the greater rand apids ascade area reach their optimal health potential, r. hinne sa s. hiropractic care isn t just or eliminating
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Featured Physicians // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE // TOP DOCS
Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
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ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque. TM
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erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam
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Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
pain; it’s important for ongoing preventive and ellness care, and it s e ective or people o all ages — from infants to the elderly. We’re passionate about and committed to excellence in serving the people in our community.” The Chiropractic Doctors’ long list of
specialized treatments can address neck pain, low-back pain, shoulder pain, disc degeneration, carpal tunnel issues, and sciatica. One of the more common treatments deals with sports injuries, and Dr. Phinney stresses that the treatment ou underta e ithin the first da o an
injury can seriously impact the duration of your recovery. In other words, if you hurt your back going up for a rebound or experience pain in your neck trying to steal second base, the faster you seek treatment, the faster you’ll be back on the court or the field. There’s more to The Chiropractic Doctors than just treating pain. “When people think of chiropractic, they think back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, and carpal tunnel — and we certainly do a great job here with all of that,” Dr. Phinney says. “But what we’ve found is that where we’re able to make the biggest inroads is when we are able to get out into the community and teach. We’re here to teach you how to apply the principles of true health and healing for the rest of your life.” The Chiropractic Doctors, who have been serving the greater Grand Rapids area for more than ears, ocus on the five e essentials o health: diet, rest, exercise, attitude, and maintenance. “We love getting out there in front of the community and teaching,” Dr. Phinney says. Their new location, at 5747 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, is a fully renovated 2,000-square-foot facility that’s been updated with modern aesthetics, state-of-the-art digital X-ray technology, and premier clinic and rehabilitation facilities for treatments including massage, spinal decompression, and fitness nutrition counseling. he hiropractic octors o er a compliFeatured Physicians Dr. Name Here mentary consultation to help determine not only what’s causing your pain, but the best way to treat it and get you “on the road to wellness.” SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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The Chiropractic Doctors Dr. Matthew Phinney 5747 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 432-3103 bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com TM
Name Address Address Phone website.com
erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam
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Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Lisa Finkbeiner Dynamic Essence Chiropractic Center Stacey L. Fischer Natural Holistic Health Center James Friess Parkhurst Chiropractic Benjamin Gillis Gillis Family Chiropractic Eric R. Hartman Hartman Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center Paul Kaminski Kaminski Chiropractic PLLC Mark Kline Cascade Chiropractic Clinic, P.C. Linda M. Kunce Linda M. Kunce, D.C. Alexander Le Bon Simple Truth Chiropractic
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Kate Lyzenga Natural Holistic Health Center
Kirk Semlow Semlow Peak Performance Chiropractic
Phillip Maletta McAlpine Chiropractic Group
Patrick J. Sheeran Sheeran Chiropractic, PLLC
Ann McAlpine McAlpine Chiropractic Group
Joe Shuluga Shuluga Chiropractic Center
Reid Meador Chiropractic Unlimited
Ryan Sorrell C & R Family Chiropractic Center
Sandra Moore Lakewinds Chiropractic Center
Blake R. Spooner Lakeshore Family Chiropractic
Ken Murkowski II Pro-Active Chiropractic & Wellness
Don Steketee West Michigan Chiropractic & Sports of Jenison
Scott A. Newquist ChiroPros
Alan Szagesh Advanced Spine & Posture
Colleen E. O’Hara ChiroHealth Rockford
Steve Szatkowski Fruitport Chiropractic Center
Dan Ohlman Chiropractic Plus
Ryan Thornton Byron Center Chiropractic
Karla Parkhurst Parkhurst Chiropractic
Nicole Tilton Tilton Chiropractic
Matthew Phinney The Chiropractic Doctors PLLC 5747 28th St. S.E. Grand Rapids MI 49546 616-432-3103 drmatthewphinney@gmail.com http://www.bestgrandrapidschiropractor.com/about-us
Trent Tilton Tilton Chiropractic Daniel G. Van Gessel Family Chiropractic Healthcare Center SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Featured Physicians // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE // TOP DOCS
T. Van Dr.Adam Name Here
Gessel Family Chiropractic Healthcare Center
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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Randy Wilcox Wilcox Family Chiropractic
Jason Ross Train Out Pain, LLC Andrew Schafer Schafer Chiropractic Vince Scheffler Chiropractic Unlimited Miranda Schmitt Growing Family Chiropractic
Ronald Wilcox III Zeeland Chiropractic Center
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
Ronald H. Wilcox Jr. Alpine Chiropractic Kelli Wilcox-Degraaf Alpine Chiropractic
finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque. TM
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Jeffrey L. Zehr Zehr Chiropractic
Eric Seif Seif Chiropractic PHOTO CONTENT iStock/AJ_Watt
Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Michael Kwast iChiro Clinics North Office 4150 E. Beltline Ave. N.E. Suite 3 Grand Rapids MI 49525 616-447-9888 office@ichiroclinics.com https://ichiroclinics.com/ meet-our-founder/
Mark Wolfman Rivertown Family Chiropractic
A. Mark Koldenhoven, D.C.
Kaitlynn Rosier-Tefft, D.C.
Kooistra Chiropractic 2855 Byron Center Ave. S.W. Wyoming MI 49519 616-532-2518 mkoldenhoven@gmail.com kooistrachiropratic.com/markkoldenhoven
Kooistra Chiropractic 2855 Byron Center Ave. S.W. Wyoming MI 49519 616-532-2518 kaitlynnrosier@gmail.com kooistrachiropractic.com/ about-us
Jared Kooistra, D.C.
Zach Vanderweide, D.C.
Kooistra Chiropractic 2855 Byron Center Ave. S.W. Wyoming MI 49519 616-532-2518 jaredkooistra@hotmail.com kooistrachiropractic.com/ about-us
Marc DeMeester Higher Health Chiropractic Erik Kowalke Higher Health Chiropractic
Kooistra Chiropractic 2855 Byron Center Ave. S.W. Wyoming MI 49519 616-532-2518 vandezac@mail.gvsu.edu kooistrachiropractic.com/about-us
Kurt Lang Vibrant Life Chiropractic Kevin Manser Grand Rapids Natural Health Andrew White Higher Health Chiropractic Eric DeLamielleure Chiropractic Unlimited
Dr. Win-Chi Fan
Brad Johannsen ChiroHealth Rockford SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Featured Physicians // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE // TOP DOCS
Nick Schuster Life Chiropractic GR
Dr. Name Here
Sandra Stanton ChiroHealth Rockford David Harrison Harrison Chiropractic Center
D
R. WIN-CHI FAN has more than 20 years of experience as a chiropractor. He offers specialized Atlas Orthogonal Technique, SpineMed decompression therapy, and metabolic medicine, which are unique to his practice. “Our body has the innate ability to heal,” Dr. Fan says. “When the nerve is being choked or the body is being intoxicated by pollutants, symptoms arise. We teach our patients ways to help maintain spinal corrections, and help them focus on proper nutrition and appropriate detoxification to maximize
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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the body’s ability to heal and thrive.”
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque. TM
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Atlas Family Chiropractic Clinic, LLC Dr. Win-Chi Fan 5429 Northland Dr. NE, Ste. B Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-8881 erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in elementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam
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S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S ECT I O N
Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Dr. Mike Kwast
“M
Y BACK POPPED OUT” is a common injury that many people believe happens to them. In fact, it rarely happens without severe trauma. Dr. Mike Kwast, CEO and founder of iChiro Clinics, explains what does happen when you feel like your back pops out:
“When the deep spinal stabilizer muscles are injured from physical things we do in life, the muscles contract and spasm, compressing the spinal segments, discs, facet joints, nerves, and tissues. The compression causes pain and restricted movement, leading to more injury. When the disc is
compressed, it can bulge and rupture. Compression of the joints causes rapid deterioration of the joint cartilage, called arthritis.” Since pain medications only mask the s mptoms, hat can ou do he first step at iChiro Clinics is to perform a physical evaluation to find out i the patient can be helped.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Dr. Name Here LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
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ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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S P EC I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S ECT I O N
Top Chiropractors // GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
Physical limitations are typically the cause of a patient’s problems; in fact, these limitations are often why people become injured in the first place. hen ou re unable to move properl , ou re li el to strain the involved musculature doing normal, simple activities, li e pic ing up a pen rom the oor, t ing
our shoe, or other simple things. he activit itsel asn t the cause o the problem it as our ph sical inabilit . nce an evaluation is complete, r. ast and his team have a baseline o our ph sical abilities. his enables them to retest you later, and determine the level o changes that have occurred.
If a patient can be helped, the next step is to teach them ho ever thing or s, so the re in ormed and can ma e in ormed choices. Based on the testing, response to treatment, and histor , an estimate is then developed to determine how long it will take to pass the tests, how man visits ill be required, hat therapies ill be used, hat insurance ill cover, and hat the out o poc et costs ill be. i erent pa ment options ill also be discussed. iChiro utilizes state-of-the-art computerized adjustments, as ell as manual adjustments. Computers can now detect where the deep muscles are tight, and treat the problem by causing the muscle to rela re e ivel , ithout the need for any twisting/turning/cracking/ popping. omputeri ed adjustments are ver precise, e ective, and com ortable. iChiro also combines therapies to increase the odds o success. edical massage, e ercises, stretching, a vibration plate, intersegmental traction, and nutrition are all utilized holistically to give the patient the chance or success. iChiro’s goal is to restore and maintain each patient’s physical abilities, so they can do the things the love, or as long as possible, hile eeling great. iChiro has been awarded the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics 2014; The Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Small Business Featured Physicians of the Year 2016; and was named Dr. rand Name Here apids aga ine s est o rand Rapids 2014-2015, 2015-2016, 2016-2017, , and . ou d li e to eel and unction higher, give i hiro a chance to improve our qualit o li e SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
// GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE // TOP DOCS
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum erat nunc, sed egestas nunc rutrum id. Morbi nec neque dui. Vivamus varius gravida mi nec accumsan. Duis euismod hendrerit tortor, in el-
LOREM IPSUM DOLOR sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Praesent sit amet elementum velit. Donec at rhoncus tortor, vel vehicula elit. Aliquam erat volutpat. Nam tincidunt sagittis turpis, in viverra erat pellentesque in. Curabitur mollis turpis ligula, vitae sodales orci tempus ut. Duis ut laoreet libero, in malesuada ex. Integer aliquam vel nunc a consectetur. Nam finibus porta ipsum sed congue. Quisque eget ligula arcu. Etiam aliquet vestibulum suscipit. Donec vel libero accumsan, aliquam orci sit amet, bibendum libero. Integer a erat a est lacinia ornare. Curabitur commodo nisi in nunc interdum sodales. Sed non iaculis ipsum. Maecenas dolor dui, malesuada vel lectus vitae, semper sodales diam. In ultricies scelerisque massa in ornare. Sed fermentum
ementum ante venenatis eget. Etiam finibus egestas mi vehicula finibus. Nunc pretium tortor sit amet nisi accumsan congue. Pellentesque sed dolor quis mi dapibus vestibulum. Curabitur porta id orci eu interdum. Nunc eu ullam neque, quis porta justo. Quisque.
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iChiro Clinics Dr. Mike Kwast North Office 4150 E Beltline Ave., Ste. 3 Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (616) 447-9888 ichiroclinics.com
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OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES For any additions or changes: // Please email cdewey@geminipub.com or write to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o Dining Guide, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
Downtown GR ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BULL’S HEAD TAVERN Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées
include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern. com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ CHARLEY’S CRAB Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Gluten-free menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. // 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500.muer.com/charleyscrab. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$ CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CITYSEN LOUNGE Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine; happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily. // CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 6081725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rapids. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ COTTAGE BAR Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. Lunch, Dinner $ DIVANI European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. Dinner $$-$$$ FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FORTY PEARL A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats and cheeses, baked goods and sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily.
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
// 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GILLY’S SMOKEHOUSE Twelve rotating craft beers from The B.O.B’s Brewery paired with smokehouse fare, including smoked beef brisket, Amish chicken, pork butt and more. Closed Sun-Mon. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob. com/gillysrestaurant. Dinner $-$$ GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen. com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GP SPORTS Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-yourown pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-totable menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. // 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (SatSun), Dinner $-$$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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HERITAGE HILL PIZZA Offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily with a few tables for dining in. // 340 State St SE, 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER
HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 356-2000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse. Dinner $$$ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ LEO’S Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm MonFri. Closed Sun. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLEBIRD Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $
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MARCONA ON LYON “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
2020 BEST NEW RESTAURANT MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEWAY A tiki-themed restaurant that includes a raw bar, hot appetizers, salads, sides, land and sea dishes, and vegan options. Appetizers include ceviche and puhahana rock shrimp, and entrées include a poke bowl, citrus-glazed faroe and an island lobster roll. Full bar. Open daily. // 58 Ionia Ave SW, 551-0016. maxstiki.com. Dinner $$-$$$ MEXO Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR & RESTAURANT Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER NEW HOTEL MERTENS French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens. Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. newhotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dog- friendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 136 E Fulton St, 2357669. onetrick.biz. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN Part of Studio Park, One Twenty Three Tavern offers starters, small plates and handhelds, large plates, and a kids menu. Offering elevated American fare, including a fried chicken sandwich, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER OSTERIA ROSSA Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Open daily. // 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$ PALACE OF INDIA Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIND INDIAN CUISINE A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ RESERVE Wine bar offers extensive by-the-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. // 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ ROAM BY SAN CHEZ BISTRO The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ ROCKWELL REPUBLIC Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St,
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SANDY POINT BEACH HOUSE GR Originating in West Olive, dishes include “traditional beach house favorites,” such as prime beef burgers, fresh halibut, steak and frites, and roasted chicken and mussels. Full bar. Open daily. // 822 Ottawa Ave. NW, 828-1118, sandypointbeachhouse.com. Brunch (SatSun), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
THERE’S NEVER E N O U G H T I M E.
SLOWS BAR-B-Q Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SOCIAL HOUSE A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters such as veggie, meat and cheese shared platters, goat cheese fritters, spicy tuna wontons and avocado toast; soups and salads; burgers and sandwiches; and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$ SOCIAL KITCHEN & BAR Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu. Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. socialkitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SPARKS BBQ Offering barbecued meats by the pound, à la carte, sandwiches, appetizers, salads, sides, specialty entrées and desserts. Sparks BBQ originated in Traverse City. Full bar. Open daily. // 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 888-2170. home.eatsparksbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SPEAKEZ LOUNGE Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ STELLA’S LOUNGE Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 7424444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner$-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WHEELHOUSE KITCHEN AND COCKTAILS Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. // Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW,
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$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
// 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
JOLLY PUMPKIN PIZZERIA & BREWERY Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
2020 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
West Side ANDO SUSHI + BAR Asian fusion eatery featuring small plates, bentos, rice bowls, raw bar, noodles, soup, salad and more. Wide selection of wine, plus local, domestic and international beer. Full bar. // 415 Bridge St NW, 608-0789. andosushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BLUE DOG TAVERN West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ BROADWAY BAR & GRILL Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BUTCHER’S UNION Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ EL GRANJERO Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $
THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LONG ROAD DISTILLERS Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $
EL SOMBRERO Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $
ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$
FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
HARMONY HALL West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. // 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/harmony-hall. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
PEARL STREET GRILL Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$
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.
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
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THE SOVENGARD Midwest heart meets New Nordic spirit. This cozy West Side farm-to-table restaurant focuses on seasonal and local sourcing and offers two separate dining spaces/menus with an outdoor biergarten. Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner. Brunch on Sundays. Reservations accepted. // 443 Bridge St NW, 2147207. sovengard.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$ WESTSIDE SOCIAL “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$
Uptown BOMBAY CUISINE Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. // 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BREWERY VIVANT Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$ BRICK ROAD PIZZA Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (glutenfree crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $ CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ CURRY KITCHEN Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. // 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DANZÓN CUBANO Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas. Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. // 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST WEST BREWING CO. Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. // 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (Fri-Sat), Dinner $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 4514779. electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ELK BREWING CO. Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. // 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $ ERB THAI Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. // 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopian cuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ THE GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB Not your run-of-the-mill New American fare. Full bar with more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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breweries. Open Tue–Sun. // 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER GROVE A cuisine focused on “comfort redefined, a tribute to your favorite nostalgic meals from childhood.” Full bar. Open Tue–Sat. // 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ HANCOCK Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HARMONY BREWING CO. Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KINGFISHER RESTAURANT & DELI This “vegetable-forward,” Mediterranean-influenced restaurant offers starters, omelets, bowls and hash, soups and salads, toast and sandwiches, sweets and pastries, and sides. Many of the offerings are available to be made vegetarian-, vegan- or gluten-free. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1001 Lake Dr SE, 734-6833. kingfishergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MARU SUSHI & GRILL Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carryout available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 7748641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ THE PUB AT PADDOCK “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 3562627. thegilmorecollection.com/pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$
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WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WIKIWIKI POKE SHOP Fast-casual seafood restaurant featuring customizable poke bowls, plus oyster bar and rotating specials. Carryout available. Closed Sun. // 1146 Wealthy St SE, 2885646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ YESTERDOG Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $
foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ OSTA’S LEBANESE CUISINE Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available. Closed Sun-Mon. // 2228 Wealthy St SE, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. Lunch (Tue-Fri), Dinner $-$$ ROSE’S Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. // 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/ roses. Lunch, Dinner $$
Northeast GR 7 MONKS TAPHOUSE Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
ZIVIO Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr. com. Lunch, Dinner $$$
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 $
East Grand Rapids
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 $$-$$$
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
BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$ CHEER’S GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ CHESHIRE GRILL Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. // 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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 $-$$ FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$
Step into Spring
JAKU SUSHI Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $-$$ LA HUASTECA Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $
Since 1968...
4353 Three Mile Road N.E. $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
Grand Rapids
616-363-6400
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LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ LUCY’S CAFÉ Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-yourown breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
MING TEN All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 3653989. mingtenrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$
MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$
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 $$
NICK FINK’S Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. // 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. Dinner $$
VANDER MILL Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. // 505 Ball Ave NE, 2598828. vandermill.com. Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$-$$$
Northwest GR
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 $-$$ HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$
2020 DINING AWARD WINNER POKE TOKI Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ 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 $$-$$$
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AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$ CHINA CHEF Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$ PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SWAN INN RESTAURANT Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. // 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $$
Southeast GR 7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ASIAN PALACE Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BELTLINE BAR Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BRASS RING BREWING Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BROAD LEAF LOCAL BEER Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Open daily. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CABANA TRES AMIGOS Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. // 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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CAFÉ DE MIRO A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. The menu consists of traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes, such as skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $ CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$ DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. // 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ GOLDEN GATE Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $
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GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ HALL STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ INDIA TOWN Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA TAQUERIA SAN JOSE Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1338 S Division Ave, 2842297. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $ LE KABOB Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI TIERRA Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MIKADO SUSHI Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $ PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials.
Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SHANGHAI ICHIBAN Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SHIRAZ GRILLE Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. Lunch (FriSun), Dinner $$-$$$ SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 2414141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ 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 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 $-$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
WEI WEI PALACE Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ YUMMY WOK Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
Southwest GR
meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$
family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed MonTues. // 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
MAIN STREET PUB Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // 1730 28th St SW, 5322510. mainstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $-$$
MI CASA RESTAURANTE Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed,
NOBLE Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free
84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
NOW OPEN Call 616-805-3989 or visit www.rivertownridge.com 3555 Copper River Ave SW., Wyoming, MI 49418
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FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRANKIE V’S PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$ KITZINGEN BREWERY German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed Sun-Mon. // 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingen-brewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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3250 28th St SE, Grand Rapids • 616.942.5112 GR M AG .CO M
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options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$
alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. // 6246 28th St SE, 649-3984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
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 $$
THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$
TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 15 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $
FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$
OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 4977 28th St SE, 4194628. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$
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 $-$$$
SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
SCHNITZ ADA GRILL Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. // 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$
WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$
Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ARYANA RESTAURANT & BAR Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. // 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BIG BOILER BREWING Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. // 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com. Dinner $$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ DAN’S DINER Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retro-style diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EMONAE KOREAN BBQ Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No
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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
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 $$-$$$
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) $-$$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. // 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. Dinner $$-$$$
SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. // 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $$ TRAILHEAD CAFÉ Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. // 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $
MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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 $$$
NOCO PROVISIONS Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
ZEYTIN Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
Grandville/Hudsonville Area BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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THE DUNGEON Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$ EL BURRITO LOCO More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 5309470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRANDVILLA Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
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HUDSONVILLE GRILLE Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. // 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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 $-$$
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RUSH CREEK BISTRO Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SONDER EATERY Focused on fresh foods including greens, sandwiches and shareables. Items include deviled eggs, chicken and waffles, sloppy Joes and more. Full bar. Daily
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$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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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 $$ GRILL ONE ELEVEN American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONEY CREEK INN Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HOT BOX BBQ Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. // 110 Courtland St, 951-7160. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $
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RAMONA’S TABLE Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Open daily. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonastable.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TIMBERS INN Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$ THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-512-9314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$
Multiple Locations ANNA’S HOUSE Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT Breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 249-9500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ BIG E’S SPORTS GRILL Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées. Full bar includes a variety of Michigan-made beer and cider. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2321 East Beltline Ave SE, 608-8825. 710 Monroe Ave NW, 512-5716. bigessportsgrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIRST WOK Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 9303596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ PITA HOUSE Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $ REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $ RED GERANIUM Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily.
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
// Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$ TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ TACOS EL CUÑADO Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 8911100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ 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, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$
$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)
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gr gems / histo y
Capturing history The Robinson Studio archive offers a glimpse of the past. BY JULIE TABBERER, GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Nearly 1 million negatives from the Robinson Studio were acquired by the Grand Rapids Public Library.
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In 1989, the future of over 950,000 photographic negatives from the Robinson Studio was uncertain. The popular photography company was established in 1930 and its photographic archive documented over 50 years of Grand Rapids people and events. The owner, Wayne McFarland, had an offer from Eastman Kodak in New York to purchase the negatives for $50,000. Instead, McFarland connected with Gordon Olson at the Grand Rapids Public Library and offered the negatives for a significantly lower price. With the help
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / APRIL 2020
of private donors, the Robinson Studio archives became a part of GRPL's permanent collections. The images show a range of daily life a generation or two ago, covering automobile accidents, family photographs, factory floors, company parties and visiting dignitaries (like John F. Kennedy). Today, the images are used in news stories, published in books, shared on social media and displayed as artwork in offices and homes around the city. Negatives are regularly scanned and added to the over 6,000 digitized Robinson images that already are available through the library’s website. With nearly a million images total, though, there are always new views to discover. You never know what you might find: a street view from your neighborhood, the interior of a grocery store in the 1940s, maybe even a photograph of your own family members. PHOTO GRID COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY
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