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THE EXHIBITION
Contents JUNE 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 06
FEATURES
26/ 5 weekend vacations
35/ Festival turns 50!
to soak up summer
The annual celebration
Pack your bags for
grew from humble
these great destinations
beginnings to take
in Michigan.
over downtown GR.
BY AUSTIN LANGLOIS
BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISTOCK
26 4 GRAND RAPIDS \ JUNE 2019
contents JUNE 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 06
departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Managing Editor, contributors and letters 10 / Social media, GRMag.com sneak peeks, previews and more LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items include Haven Skincare & Massage, Camp Bow Bow, and Hammer & Stain 13 / GR’s Top 5 places for kids 14 / Reading room: “Michigan’s Haunted Lighthouses” by Dianna Stampfler 15 / Health & wellness: Sound meditation
22
16 / Rise+Squibb 18 / Tough Skin Soft Heart
“I love seeing people post on Instagram when they’re using my work.” JEFF HAM
ART & DESIGN 20 / Artist profile: Joshua Adam Risner 22 / Jeff Ham Ceramics
60
24 / Art gallery listings and highlights
79 / Calendar
FOOD & DRINK 54 / Dining review: Linear 56 / Restaurant listings
15
80 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights
16
84 / Comedy & nightclub venue listings and highlights 86 / Snap shots
60 / Chef profile: Cory Davis of Daddy Pete’s BBQ 70 / Pints of interest: Canned Michigan favorites
OUT & ABOUT 78 / June highlights
88 / After thoughts: Kendall Redmon of Madcap Coffee
76
72 / Cocktail hour: A dinner table secret CAUSE & EFFECT 74 / Land Conservancy of West Michigan
ON THE COVER: Michigan is full of unique places to discover. This summer, pack up the car and head to one of the fun-filled destinations profiled in this issue on page 26, like Munising in the U.P., for a weekend getaway.
Photography courtesy iStock 6 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
ALIGN YOUR INVESTMENTS WITH YOUR VALUES
Call Ted Vogt and Carol Dehen about the potential beneďŹ ts of a socially responsible portfolio. 616-949-0900 866-949-0907
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back & forth CONNECT WITH US
So much to do, so little time
S
SUMMER IS MY FAVORITE SEASON, and my calendar fills up quickly with so many fun things to do around town. I’ve had the good fortune of spending a weekend in all five of the places mentioned in the article “5 weekend vacations to soak up summer” on page 26. If you haven’t booked a getaway at any of these destinations, I suggest you add them to your Michigan travel bucket list. One of my fondest memories was a fish fry in Munising after a day of hiking through the waterfall-filled forest.
Closer to home, I love heading out to Saugatuck for a day at Oval Beach — with a stop at Farmhouse Deli to stock up on snacks first. If you are heading to one of the many area beaches or campgrounds, be sure to check out the Pints of Interest column on page 70 for suggestions on canned beverages to bring with you. Of course, I also love spending time in my own backyard, especially at the many summer festivals. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Festival of the Arts. On page 35, you can read all about how this annual festival grew from a small downtown gathering celebrating food and art to the summer staple it is today. Speaking of art, in this issue, we also talk to two Grand Rapids-based artists who are following their passions. Ceramic artist Jeff Ham is gearing up for the many summer festivals and artist markets, toiling away at the potter’s wheel and kiln up to 12 hours a day, while Joshua Adam Risner is putting the finishing touches on former Gov. Rick Snyder’s official portrait, which will be displayed in the Capitol building in Lansing later this year. Summer also is my favorite because it’s prime food truck season. In this month’s issue, you can read about Cory Davis of Daddy Pete’s BBQ. He talks about his love for barbecue and how he and his wife Tarra launched their mobile business and brick-and-mortar location. Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine
This month we asked some of our contributors, “What’s your favorite Michigan weekend getaway?”
8 GRAND RAPIDS \ JUNE 2019
Austin Langlois
Tylee Shay
Terri Finch Hamilton
WRITER
WRITER
WRITER
“5 WEEKEND VACATIONS TO
“RISE+SQUIBB IS A COZY
“FESTIVAL TURNS 50” PAGE 35
SOAK UP SUMMER” PAGE 26
COLLABORATION” PAGE 16
“Although it’s usually flooded with tourists, Grand Haven really has it all — great beaches, the boardwalk, shopping, dining and plenty of summertime activities!”
“I love visiting Traverse City wineries! My favorites are Chateau Chantal with its panoramic views of the bay, and Brys Estate Vineyard with their sky deck, charcuterie boards and fields of fresh lavender.”
“Exploring the Saugatuck/ South Haven area is always a fun adventure, from discovering quirky treasures at Sunset Junque Shop to bouncing over the dunes at Saugatuck Dune Rides.”
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
Q&A:
Large Swirl Vermeil Earrings from the Maria Rzewuska Collection, Germany
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back & forth CONNECT WITH US
Inside Grand Rapids Magazine Stay connected with Grand Rapids Magazine in print, at grmag.com and on social media.
Coming up next issue …
SUMMER IS HERE! Check out our top 5 places for kids on page 13.
Ada Village has a new market. Ada Fresh Market opened this spring. Visit grmag.com.
Music is in the air Grand Rapids has a vibrant local music scene and several unique concert series have popped up over the last few years to highlight local musicians. We talk to some of the Grand Rapids bands taking the stage at these venues.
On the radio
Movies on Monroe starts this month. Find out what movies are playing. Visit grmag.com.
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.
Which ice cream option is better? Our social media followers respond:
31% Sugar cone 69% Waffle cone
Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey joins Shelley Irwin each month on WGVU’s Community Connection program to discuss what’s inside Grand Rapids Magazine. NEXT MONTH’S QUESTION:
Would you rather have to eat all fruits or all veggies for the rest of your life? a. Fruits b. Veggies
We want to hear from you 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: letters@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or follow us online at grmag.com or Facebook: @grmag Twitter: @grmagazine Instagram: @grmagazine on social media: 10 GRAND RAPIDS \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID CHANDLER (LEFT); SPARTANNASH (TOP CENTER); 20TH CENTRUY FOX MOVIES (LOWER CENTER); iSTOCK (RIGHT AND BOTTOM)
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EDITORIAL
EDITOR: Tim Gortsema MANAGING EDITOR: Charlsie Dewey COPY EDITOR: Tom Mitsos EDITORIAL INTERN: Allison Arnold CONTRIBUTORS: Jaye Beeler, Ann Byle, Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, Terri Finch Hamilton, Austin Langlois, Kara McNabb, Mark F. Miller, Torrence R. O’Haire, Amy Ruis, Megan Sarnacki, Tylee Shay, Pasha Shipp, Julie Bonner Williams, Tricia van Zelst
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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 495031444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag. com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.
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life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW
A spa with a purpose A NEW SPA specializing in trauma care opened at 4829 East Beltline Ave. NE. Not only does Haven Skincare & Massage offer a variety of traditional spa services, such as massages, facials, body treatments and hair removal, but staff are trained in a trauma-sensitive approach to treatments. For clients suffering from
Doggy day care
the effects of trauma, the staff members
A NEW CAMP BOW WOW LOCATION
at Haven can alter services to fit that
opened in Byron Center by franchise
individual’s needs. Owner Reagan Reynolds formed
The 8,250-square-foot space offers five
partnerships with local organizations and
indoor and outdoor play areas, all in a
counselors to provide further support to
climate-controlled environment. Owners
clients and nonprofits doing similar work.
can check in on their dogs online with
Created Free is a jewelry company that
live web cameras placed throughout
supports women in the sex industry. Safe
the facility. As a family of dog lovers,
Haven Ministries is a shelter for women
the Vermeulens are excited to be able to
experiencing domestic violence.
provide a safe space for owners to leave
The relaxing environment of Haven
their pets for day care or overnight dog
Skincare & Massage, along with close
boarding. Camp Bow Wow Byron Center
attention to healing and self-care, make
also offers dog training and grooming
it the ultimate place for relaxation and
services. 1310 60th St. SW
recovery.
— ALLISON ARNOLD
— ALLISON ARNOLD
Personalize your project A NEW DIY STUDIO opened in downtown Grandville. Hammer & Stain West Michigan offers workshops that allow guests to choose a project to personalize, such as signs, doormats and pillows. Using paint and stain, guests customize these home goods, often with family names or quotes. Hammer & Stain offers public workshops, private parties and Hammer on the Go, a mobile workshop that will come to you. Head to hammerandstainwestmichigan. com to register and select your project. — ALLISON ARNOLD
12 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK (TOP LEFT); ADRIAN SOTELO (TOP AND MIDDLE RIGHT); HAMMER & STAIN (BOTTOM)
owners Jared and Michelle Vermeulen.
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS A young girl enjoys the tiger exhibit at John Ball Zoo.
GRAND RAPIDS’ TOP 5
Places for kids You don’t have to leave town to fill your days with summer adventures. Grand Rapids is full of excellent arts and entertainment opportunities for the whole family, and many of them offer day camps, special activities and more throughout the summer. Here are our top five picks: The Grand Rapids
Explore cool exhibits,
Browse over 5,000
Learn about the history
Hike trails and experi-
Children’s Museum is
see animals from around
works of art at the Grand
of Grand Rapids among
ence nature and wildlife
a great place for kids to
the world and go on a
Rapids Art Museum.
numerous exciting
at Blandford Nature
play, explore and create.
zip line or ropes course
Check out the GRAM
exhibits at the Grand
Center. Check out the
Open Tuesdays through
adventure at the John
Summer Art Camp for
Rapids Public Museum,
summer camps and
Sundays, the GRCM has
Ball Zoo. The zoo also
ages 4-15 and the drop-
the oldest and sec-
community programs
numerous fun exhibits
offers numerous sum-
in workshops and cours-
ond-largest museum in
that are offered during
and daily programs cel-
mer camps, classes
es held in the GRAM
Michigan. Explore the
the summer months.
ebrating the art of play.
and programs for kids
Studio. Be sure to check
Roger B. Chaffee Plan-
Visit blandfordnaturcen
Every Thursday night,
interested in nature and
out the various summer
etarium. From science
ter.org. 1715 Hillburn
the museum is open late
animals. Visit jbzoo.org.
camps for kids, as well.
and robotics to learning
Ave. NW
from 5-8 p.m. for family
1300 W. Fulton St.
Visit artmuseumgr.org.
about fossils, there are
101 Monroe Center NW
a number of summer
night. Enjoy a discounted admission of $1.75.
camps for pre-K through
Visit grcm.org. 11 Shel-
ninth grade students.
don Ave. NE
Visit grpm.org. 272 Pearl
John Ball Zoo offers live animal demonstrations.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID CHANDLER
St. NW
JUNE JUNE 2019 2019 / GRMAG.COM 13
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
“As I started doing more and more research, I would get the names of (lighthouse) keepers and I’d get tidbits about hauntings going on, not just that the lighthouse was haunted, but it was haunted by the keeper or the child of the keeper …” – Dianna Stampfler
The White River Light near Whitehall is among the haunted lighthouses in Michigan.
READING ROOM
Lighthouse ghost stories IT’S FITTING THAT THE LIGHTHOUSES
ald went down — there are over 200 ship-
in Dianna Stampfler’s life would be the
wrecks in that area — there are spirits of
The Michigan native, who resides on Wal-
beacon to writing her first published book.
those people who died in those shipwrecks.
loon Lake, visited there with her boyfriend —
After 20 years of researching and vis-
… Some people don’t believe in ghosts, but
and a paranormal team. The result? A series
you can’t dispute these,” Stampfler said.
of seemingly inexplicable photographs
interest branched beyond dates, builders
lighthouses
on her boyfriend’s camera phone: imag-
and years in use: Stampfler became enam-
throughout the state is White River Light,
es appeared upside down and some shots
ored with the ghost stories connected with
near Whitehall.
appear as if the lighthouse wall disappeared,
Among
the
haunted
them. Known for her decades of expertise
“The ghosts (there) are the former keeper
capturing the lighthouse interior and out-
— she’d been giving talks on the subject
and his wife. The wife passed in her 50s in
doors together. The paranormal team also
for 15 years — Stampfler was contacted by
the late 1800s. He died about 1919 in his
conducted a question-and-answer session
Arcadia Publishing and asked to write a
mid-80s; his name was Bill Robinson. The
with a ghost, using a flashlight that turned on
book on the topic. She set to work and, in
woman who lived there in the 1980s, Karen,
and off at appropriate intervals to the asking
March, her first book, “Michigan’s Haunted
heard Bill walk around at night. He had a
of questions.
Lighthouses,” hit the market.
cane. The footsteps she heard were a shuf-
With the first printing of the book nearly
“As I started doing more and more
fled walk and she could hear the cane. The
sold out, Stampfler said a second printing is
research, I would get the names of (light-
ghost of Sarah (Robinson) would dust and
planned. The book is available on her web-
house) keepers and I’d get tidbits about
clean in the lighthouse,” Stampfler said.
site, promotemichigan.com. Each copy sold
hauntings going on, not just that the light-
Having visited all but three of Michigan’s
through her website will be autographed.
house was haunted, but it was haunted by
lighthouses, one private, the others in remote
The book also is available at her speaking
the keeper or the child of the keeper — but
areas, the author said her most remarkable
engagements and via amazon.com.
not always. Where the Edmund Fitzger-
personal encounters happened at Fort Gratiot,
14 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
— JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
iting Michigan’s historic lighthouses, her
Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1829.
health & wellness BY KARA MCNABB
Left: Geoff Lamden hosts sound meditations at Sacred Spings kombucha taproom. Above: Some of the tools used in Geoff Lamden’s sound meditations.
Sound meditation resets the brain EX NIHILO IS A LATIN PHRASE mean-
can have a physical, mental and emotional
ing “out of nothing.” Geoff Lamden, sound
effect on people.
therapist, uses this phrase to describe the
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER
experience of sound meditation.
Frequency measures the speed of vibration that makes a sound’s pitch.
Lamden uses instruments like didgeridoos, crystal bowls, metal singing bowls, bells and shakers. Each has a purpose. At a molecular level, crystal bowls have
First, however, Lamden discerns between
Lamden said sound resets the brain.
a similar shape to our bones, thus the
sound and music. “The melody and rhythm
For example, you spent the week worry-
sound frequency can affect your body at a
of music is something you have a relation-
ing about a Friday deadline. Friday comes.
structural level.
ship with,” he said. “An Indonesian lullaby,
Deadline met. Yet, a thread of that stress
for instance, means nothing to an American
might stay with you.
Metal bowls affect the emotions. The didgeridoo, a very low, slow vibra-
who has no experience with that culture.
Enter sound. His shakers, for instance,
Sound, on the other hand, requires no rela-
create a rush of sound; one might enter
Eyes closed, enveloped by ethereal
tionship. It evokes something within you.”
quickly, like a smooth jolt, while the other
sound, from tones reminiscent of angels
It’s in this space where ex nihilo can exist.
shaker holds steady sound. Your brain
singing and church bells mingling with
As I laid with my eyes closed while Lam-
doesn’t know what to do with all this
the rattily grounding growl to the rhythm of
den filled the room with singing bowls,
change, so it settles. This settling creates a
soft, slow, loud and fast, sound meditation
shakers and a didgeridoo, I understood
reset. “Sound helps knock the belief you’re
is a personal and noninvasive experience.
what he meant. I noticed different sounds
holding onto out of your brain,” Lamden
evoked particular thoughts and feelings.
said, referencing the Friday deadline.
tion, helps you tap into your primordial self.
Lamden hosts sound meditations at Sacred Springs kombucha taproom, 1059
Then a new sound moved my awareness
It’s a modality that brings relief to many
to something more physical in nature — my
suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD
Kara McNabb is a traditional naturo-
breathing vacillated between effort and
and much more. “Sound can also help you
path with a focus on mind-body therapies.
ease — out of nowhere, it seemed.
stay present in meditation, rather than get-
Find her on Instagram @grandrapidsna
ting lost in your thoughts,” he added.
turopath.
Sound, played at a specific frequency,
Wealthy St. SE.
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 15
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
Rise+Squibb is a cozy collaboration RISE+SQUIBB’S OPENING at the start of 2019 brought two well-known local businesses together and has been an immediate hit. Located at 1220 W. Fulton St., the new bakehouse and coffee shop has been highly trafficked — and taking over Instagram — since it opened its doors. Nick Van Liere, owner and founder of Rise Authentic Baking Co., along with Mallory Squibb, owner and founder of Squibb Coffee, paired their passions and took a leap with this “never-before-seen” collaboration.
Rise Authentic Baking Co. Van Liere described growing up in Dutch West Michigan as eating meat and potatoes. So, when he made the switch to vegan, he had to relearn how to cook for himself. He began by trying to create food that fueled his body and didn’t hurt the environment. Today, with Rise, he specializes in vegan and gluten-free treats. In the beginning, Van Liere would wake up at 2 a.m. every morning to bake Rise orders and then go to his day job. These 14-hour days took a toll, but the hard work paid off. A few years ago, Rise became his full-time focus, and it didn’t take long for Becca Van Liere, his high school sweetbusiness full time. Today, Rise stocks the pastry shelves Mallory Squibb, Becca Van Liere and Nick Van Liere stand outside their new joint venture.
at countless Grand Rapids coffee shops, including local favorites such as Roots, Corridor Coffee, Ferris Coffee, Lantern, Lyon Street Cafe, Sparrows, Bridge Street Market and Squibb Coffee.
16 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLEE SHAY
heart and now wife, to follow him into the
Squibb Coffee Squibb opened Squibb Coffee, at 955
The Rise+Squibb location was transformed from a former pizza shop.
Wealthy St. SE, two years ago as the first and only coffee shop in Grand Rapids to also serve wine and beer. Squibb and her father Dennis saw the potential for a merged coffee and alcohol space about four years ago. “I was living in Ann Arbor, my dad was living in L.A., and we both decided to move back to Grand Rapids to work on this project. We wanted to do something different and create a space where people felt comfort and community while being able to have a carefully curated food and beverage experience.” With nothing similar in the area, the pair had a difficult time bringing their vision to life. “No one had created a café in Grand Rapids where you could drink coffee, wine and beer. A lot of people were confused by the concept, and honestly, we were met with a bit of pushback. But I believe we have successfully created the space, and people have fallen in love with the con-
didn’t
cept,” Squibb said.
would look like. It’s not two
know
what
this
“We didn’t want to create another industrial coffee shop, we wanted it to be a more comfortable community space. Like you’re sitting in your living room.” — Nick Van Liere
separate registers or separate
Partnering their passions
areas, it’s just a bakery and a
Squibb wanted to expand her business, but
café. This is a communal space
she didn’t want to do it alone. With Van Liere
where we play off of each other’s craft and,
filling the pastry case each day at Squibb
I mean, it’s baked goods and coffee, they
with Rise baked goods, she saw the potential
just go together,” Van Liere said.
for a mutually beneficial business endeavor.
“We haven’t changed our names, we are
“We knew we wanted to expand, but we
still our own business and our own brands,
wanted to expand in a different way since
we are just in one space,” Squibb said. when designing the space were comfy and
Grand Rapids is saturated with coffee,” Squibb said. “I wanted to work with Nick
A cozy, collaborative space
and Becca because they are another young
Walking into Rise+Squibb, visitors are met
“We didn’t want to create another indus-
company that’s doing something different,
with a bright and airy space, fresh-out-
trial coffee shop; we wanted it to be a more
and we could play off of each other’s busi-
of-the-oven scents and the whiz of a milk
comfortable community space.” Van Liere
nesses and create a really cool space.”
steamer. An open concept with booths,
added, “Like you’re sitting in your living
tables and chairs offers a cozy place to
room.” Formerly a pizza joint, the space
work or socialize.
required a complete remodel to turn it into
The business owners were met with
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLEE SHAY
questions and obstacles along the way
cozy,” Squibb said.
what it is today.
because they wanted to remain separate
At Rise+Squibb, visitors will find a variety
businesses but function together. “Even
of vegan and gluten-free pastries from Rise,
“We are thrilled to expand our reach to
our national vendors didn’t know how to
including muffins, scones, doughnuts, cook-
different communities with this location
accommodate us. Our POS systems had
ies, cake by the slice, its famous “yum tarts”
in a new neighborhood. Though our café
never heard of the idea; they didn’t under-
and more, while Squibb offers a full menu of
is small, we see a lot of potential for bring-
stand two businesses sharing one register,”
espresso and coffee beverages, plus a small
ing people together in our shared space,”
Squibb said.
menu of toasts and smoothie bowls.
Squibb said.
“Until we opened our doors, people
“The two words we kept coming back to
— TYLEE SHAY JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 17
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
A group of women show off Shannon Cohen’s inspirational products.
Self-care superhero think she’d get many readers. To her sur-
encing a high point in her career. She was
prise, she gained 2,000 subscribers in the
consulting with national clients and win-
first year. She was even more surprised by
ning awards for her work. She landed on the
who her readers were.
“Tough Skin Soft Heart is a movement designed to pour into difference makers so that they can lead well from the inside out.” — Shannon Cohen
Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 40 Under
“They were influencers, elected leaders,
40 list the following year. She was doing
CEOs,” she said. “That’s when I realized I
well on the outside, but on the inside, she
was on to something — that there was this
was feeling overextended and burned out.
cry, this muted siren that was coming from
“I was like, ‘Ma’am, I don’t have any
fellow leaders that were in very influential,
product,’ and she rolled her eyes!” Cohen
very visible spaces.”
said with a laugh. “I’ll never forget what
“At that same time, I went on maternity leave with my son, and I started ‘Tough Skin Soft Heart’ as a blog,” Cohen said. “For me,
In the two years following the success
she said. She looked at me and said, ‘The
it was really a cry in the wilderness to see if
of her blog, Cohen became a motivation-
next time I see you, you better have a
this was one of those invisible price tags of
al speaker, focusing on emotional intelli-
book and product,’ and she spun on her
leadership — that as long as you were exter-
gence and leadership. One day after giving
heel and walked away. To this day, I hope
nally well and high performing, no one cared
a presentation, she was approached by an
I would recognize her when I see her, but
if you lived chronically ‘on E’ in your soul.”
audience member who wanted merchan-
she changed my life. She saw something in
dise she didn’t have.
me that I hadn’t seen in myself.”
When Cohen started blogging, she didn’t 18 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY SHANNON COHEN
IN 2013, SHANNON COHEN was experi-
The very next year, Cohen launched a line of Tough Skin Soft Heart products. The line features greeting cards, T-shirts, journals and more, all imbued with motivational messages. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY SHANNON COHEN
“My heart beats for difference makers — people who every day use their talents, their gifts and their voice to lead, to love and to serve in their homes, marketplaces and communities,” she said. “What I know about folks who do that work is that they often can be high functioning, even when they are not OK. Tough Skin Soft Heart is a movement designed to pour into difference makers so that they can lead well from the inside out.” — PASHA SHIPP
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Top: Tough Skin Soft Heart product display. Bottom: “Tough Skin Soft Heart” by Shannon Cohen.
1428 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616.459.4167 www.stonesthrowliving.com JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 19
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Joshua Adam Risner’s official painting of the former governor will hang in the Michigan State Capitol. BY MEGAN SARNACKI
Joshua Adam Risner was selected to paint the official portrait of former Gov. Rick Snyder.
20 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
WITH A UNIQUE BACKGROUND in sign painting, marketing and graphic design, Joshua Adam Risner didn’t expect to become a portrait painter. He initially decided to attend art school to teach graphic design. “I never thought I was going to be a portrait painter. It actually never even crossed my mind,” Risner said. But once he started sketching and learning about 19th-century art, he developed a passion for oil painting and never looked back. Now as the Michigan State Capitol’s artistin-residence, Risner has been selected as the artist to paint the official portrait of former Gov. Rick Snyder. “I want the painting to honor his legacy,” Risner said. “I want to present him as a real human being. He’s doing this job that people think you have to be superhuman to do, but ultimately, you just have to work really hard and be dedicated. Ultimately, he really cared and wanted the best for Michigan, and I hope that can somehow come through.” Risner anticipated it will take him around six months to paint the 8-by-5-foot canvas. But unlike many other portraits at this level, this piece will not be painted from life. Whereas some artists would have the governor sit the entire time they painted, Risner used his background in graphic design to set up a photo shoot to get the image they wanted.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPARKS
Portrait of a painter
While the details of the portrait are confidential, Risner promised this piece will be anything but cold and distant. “One of the criticisms of painting from a photo is that it becomes lifeless and static. A lot of times it’s very gray and flat, but one of the attributes that I bring to painting portraits is that even though I may be using a photo, I have the ability to make it look more lifelike, and that’s going to be evident in this painting,” Risner said.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPARKS
“I never thought I was going to be a portrait painter. It actually never even crossed my mind.” — Joshua Adam Risner One way Risner achieves this effect is through a traditional style of painting where transparent layers of oil paints are built up on top of one another. “There’s a warmth to that style of painting. It just has a versatility and flexibility to it that I don’t think other mediums can compare to,” Risner said. But what Risner loves most about oil painting is that it ages well. “When I get done with a painting, it never looks like it will a few months after it’s dry,” Risner said. “It becomes more transparent and starts showing all the marks. It becomes very complex and nuanced, and that’s something a lot of contemporary paintings don’t have.” While Risner has painted posthumous portraits of former Michigan Governors Kinsley Bingham and Charles Croswell, and Rep. William Webb Ferguson for the capitol, the Snyder portrait will be his largest commission to date. “Right now, I feel most inspired by just the sheer bigness of the building and the collection that’s there,” Risner said. “Most people don’t think that intimidation is inspiring, but for me, it sparks something in me that makes me fight.” For Risner, painting this portrait means more than just being recognized in a permanent display at the Michigan State Capitol. After having his first child a year ago, Risner said he hopes this piece will not only make his wife and son proud but also his future descendants. “I think it’s really nice to know that maybe my great-great-great-grandson may make a pilgrimage to the Michigan State Capitol to see something that his ancestor did,” Risner said. An unveiling ceremony is expected to take place late summer or early fall. For more information, visit joshuaadamart.com. GR
Top: Risner works on a commissioned piece for Lansing Community College. Middle left: The preliminary sketch of the official portrait of former Gov. Rick Snyder. Middle right: Risner’s “Inness’s Daughters” won best of show at the Muskegon Museum of Art Regional Exhibition in 2014. Left: Risner typically paints with oils.
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 21
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Molding a new career Enrolling in a pottery class on a whim shapes Jeff Ham’s future.
JEFF HAM HASN’T ALWAYS been a potter. After multiple careers, he set out to do something new — he just wasn’t sure what yet. “I had left my job in December of 2014, and I had never touched clay before,” Ham said. When he turned 30, he decided to take a pottery class on a whim at Grand Rapids Community College and immediately thought, “I love this. This is what I want to do.” “It sort of came out of nowhere,” Ham said. 22 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
After completing the pottery class, he found Grand Rapids Pottery, a studio space for ceramic artists, and began working with the owner for a couple of years. After getting accepted into a few large art shows in 2017, he knew he could make it creating pottery full time. Often playing on nature, Ham creates pieces that are both whimsical, yet sophisticated. From his illustrated mugs featuring trees and animals to his coveted bud vases, his collections are both fresh and playful.
“I do think some of the nature themes in my work probably are influenced by growing up on a farm, and I know that some of the specific floral motifs in my work come from the flower gardens and specific flowers that I planted with my grandma when I was a child,” he said. For over 100 years, the Ham family has owned a farm in Allendale, and for the last 40-50 years, Ham’s father has been working as a produce farmer. “I think what the farm has more strongly influenced in me is a philosophy of utility in the work I choose to make. I’m interested in highly functional forms that will be integrated into daily use and become important vessels for home-making,” Ham said. He often makes objects that he uses daily. “I think I’m still early enough in my journey as an artist that I’m actively figuring out what sort of content interests me and how I’d like to express that content,” Ham said. While Ham has always been drawn to illustration and carving, he recently started using stencils in the decorative process, explaining, “I’m particularly interested in the analog that exists between wallpaper in a home and surface decoration on a pot. Neither are particularly necessary to either the home or the vessel, but as wallpaper can transform the feel of a room, so can surface design transform a pot.” Ham works in cycles, wheel throwing and hand-building a set of pieces. He then allows them to dry, bisque fires them, glazes them and then puts them back in the kiln to be fired for a second time. In addition to his regular work, Ham has worked on multiple projects, including a line for Stauffer Home, cookie jars for an estate-planning firm, mugs for Blueberry Haven in Grand Haven and even chalices for a church. The summer and holiday season are busy times for Ham, and as the art festival season approaches, he ramps up his work, often working 12-hour days. This year,
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Jeff Ham’s career in ceramics began after taking a pottery class at Grand Rapids Community College.
Ham molds potters clay with his hands (left) and atop a pottery wheel (below).
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
“I love seeing people post on Instagram when they’re using my work.” — Jeff Ham he’ll be traveling to two shows in Columbus, Ohio, and one in Chicago. “You never really know what your schedule is going to be,” Ham said. He said artists have to apply and be selected by a jury in order to enter, which can make it challenging to know his schedule in advance. Ham said he loves creating and being able to share his work with the community. “I love seeing people post on Instagram when they’re using my work,” he said. “That’s a lot of fun.” Ham makes most of his pieces here in town, but he also has a studio on his family’s farm. “Hopefully, one day I’ll move out there. Maybe, we’ll see.” — ALLISON ARNOLD
Examples of Ham’s work include platters, vases and mugs (left and above).
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 23
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
1/ “Fade or Blur” by Khoi Tran is at GVSU’s Kirkhof Center Gallery.
Local art galleries COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ GVSU ART GALLERIES: Student artwork and exhibits by renowned artists. Allendale campus: Through June 21, “2019 Selections from ‘fishladder’” at Kirkhof Center Gallery includes visual and written works of art from GVSU’s students that are published in its yearly print edition. Through June 21, “Plastination: The Art of Preservation” at Red Wall Gallery. 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, 331-2563. Pew Grand Rapids campus: Through June 21, “Water: Human Right or Commodity?” at Blue Wall Gallery. Through June 21, “Selections from Mars: Astronomy and Culture” at West Wall Gallery. Permanent exhibit: “Mathias J. Alten: An Evolving Legacy” at George and Barbara Gordon Gallery. DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton St., 3313638, gvsu.edu/artgallery. 2/ URBAN INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS: Innovative, contemporary exhibits and installations. Through Aug. 18, “Breaching the Margins” explores how some human societal groups are excluded and challenges the artists in this group exhibition to work against that idea. Through June 16, “Or Does It Explode?” by Manar Bilal, César Dezfuli, Brian Sokol and Maranie R. Staab. 2 W. Fulton St., 454-7000, uica.org. 3/ LOWELLARTS: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists. June 1-Aug. 17, “Livin’ Is Easy” includes paintings and drawings by six Michigan artists: Justin Bernhardt, Lisa Mull, Kerry Rolewisz, Craig Cossey, Mariel Versluis and Olivia Timmons. The artwork shows local Michigan waterways, animal and aquatic life forms, whimsical figurative work and weathered objects. 223 W. Main St., Lowell, 897-8545, lowellartsmi.org.
2/ “There Is No Remedy”
by Robin Adsit is at UICA.
Aquinas College Gallery: Work by students, faculty and visiting artists. Art & Music building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 632-8900, aquinas.edu/art/gallery. Calvin College Center Art Gallery: Student, faculty and alumni work, plus exhibits by visiting artists. Through July 31, “Hague School Paintings.” Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 526-6271, calvin.edu/centerartgallery. Cascade Art Gallery: Work by regional, national and international artists, plus multimedia art, print collection, glass, sculpture, jewelry, custom framing and gifts. 2840 Thornapple River Drive SE, 949-4056, facebook. com/cascadeartgallery.
Design Quest Gallery: Furniture store exhibits art in a gallery setting. 4181 28th St. SE, 940-9911, designquest.biz. Fed Galleries @ Kendall College of Art and Design: Work by contemporary visiting artists. 17 Pearl St. NW, 451-2787, kcad.edu/galleries. Flat River Cottage: Fine art, jewelry, antiques and home décor; also, paintings by Kathleen Mooney. 317 E. Main St., Lowell, 897-8601, flatriver cottage.com. Flat River Gallery & Framing: Artist cooperative shows work in a variety of mediums, plus gifts, framing and workshops. June 1-July 31, Diane Hasso Guest Artist Exhibit; reception 6-8 p.m. June 20. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 9876737, flatrivergalleryandframing.com. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center: Through June 21, featured artist Donna Lutz Vanderplas; reception 6-7 p.m. June 13. June 27-July 26, featured artist Julie Quinn. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfineartscenter.com. Fountain Street Church Keeler Gallery: Art exhibits in a variety of mediums by visiting artists. 24 Fountain St. NE, 459-8386, fountainstreet.org/art.
3/ LowellArts features “Livin’ Is Easy” exhibit. 24 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Franciscan Life Process Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. Guardian Gallery - Grand Rapids: Through June 28, featured artist Richard Schaf. 654 Davis St. NW. Guardian Gallery - Lowell: Through June 28, pastel and oil paintings by Dennis
O’Mara. 11650 Downes St., 897-7842, lifeprocesscenter.org. Gallery 154: Eastown gallery shows local and national multimedia art, gifts and jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 4542154, facebook.com/gallery154. GRCC Collins Art Gallery: Exhibits by visiting artists, faculty and students. 143 Bostwick Ave. NE, 2343544, grcc.edu/artgallery. Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 2357211 ext. 103, heartside.org. Holland Area Arts Council: Changing exhibits of art. 150 E. Eighth St., Holland, 396-3278, hollandarts.org. ICCF: Inner City Christian Federation headquarters displays art in various media. 920 Cherry St. SE, 336-9333, iccf.org. Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University: Work by students in graduate-level programs and special community projects. 17 Fountain St. NW, 451-2787, kcad.edu/galleries.
and restoration services. Also, Urban Craft Boutique with gifts, accessories and home décor. June 7-July 3, Spring Show; reception 5-8 p.m. June 7. 833 Lake Drive SE, 451-9820. lafontsee.us. Leep Art Gallery: Work by a variety of visiting artists. Through June 28, “Stitched Lines” by Colleen Kole. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE, pinerest.org/leep-art-gallery. MercuryHead Gallery: A variety of work by local artists. Also, gifts, photo restoration, digital printing on canvas and framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 456-6022, facebook.com/mercuryheadgallery. Merizon Studio: Art, mirror and glass design, custom framing and limitededition prints by Armand Merizon. 9087 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Caledonia, 485-5752, merizonstudio.com. Terryberry Gallery: Local and international art. Through June 27, featured artists Bonnie Osborne and Jan McKinnon; reception 5-7 p.m. June 14. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmconline.org/visit-terryberry-gallery.
Kruizenga Art Museum: Art from Hope College’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Through June 1, “Rembrandt Etchings.” 271 Columbia Ave., Holland, 395-6400, hope.edu/kam.
Van Singel Fine Arts Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. Through June 2, “Walk on the Wild Side” by Hana Girdvainis Sawyer; reception 2-3:30 p.m. June 2. 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vs fac.com/programming/art-gallery.
LaFontsee Galleries: 2D and 3D works by gallery artists, plus framing
Check websites for hours of operation.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GVSU(TOP RIGHT); ROBIN ADSIT (BOTTOM RIGHT); JUSTIN BERNHARDT (LEFT)
The Artist’s Studio: Studio and gallery with work by Jim Starkey and Rose Ellis; also, custom framing. 40 Monroe Center NW, 454-6650, face book.com/theartistsstudio1.
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C I T Y F L AT S H O T E L . C O M
r e m m u S Pack your bags for these great destinations in Michigan. BY AUSTIN LANGLOIS
26 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
5 weekend vacations to soak up
If you’re a typical Michigander, you probably have every weekend packed from Memorial Day through Labor Day to take advantage of all the summer sun. From baseball leagues to weddings, there’s barely enough time to fit it all in!
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
But this year, take a weekend off. With only five-ish months of warm weather to enjoy, you deserve at least one weekend vacation. We’ve pulled together a list of five weekend destinations that are less than a six-hour drive away. From a quiet beach respite to a bustling urban adventure, from a wine-indulgent escape to a chill staycation — there’s something on the list for everyone. Michigan summer awaits — what more do you need to convince you to go?
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 27
1
Saugatuck is a quiet beach town that’s often overlooked due to larger neighboring West Michigan lake destinations (think Grand Haven and South Haven), typically experiencing fewer crowds and traffic. And, the locals and visitors wouldn’t mind keeping it that way, thank you very much. Many hotels and bed and breakfasts dot the banks of Kalamazoo Lake, boasting water views (like the BaySide Inn or the BeachWay Resort & Hotel). Others, like the Wickwood Inn, offer peaceful lodging a few blocks inland. Pretty much everything is within walking distance — including GROW Cafe + Bistro, a popular brunch spot. You also can’t miss the Saugatuck Chain Ferry (apparently the only remaining chain ferry in the U.S.), which transports people across the Kalamazoo River. You’d most likely use the ferry to get from downtown Saugatuck to Oval Beach, one of the six public beaches in the area. If you’re keen for a more secluded getaway, Lake Shore Resort offers a chic, comfy respite. It’s a few minutes south of Saugatuck by car and overlooks Lake Michigan. The newly redesigned rooms are decked in midcentury modern furniture with minimalist vibes. For lazy days, grab your summer read and head to its sun-drenched deck overlooking the lake. Or, cool off with a dip in the pool. For more active visitors, take advantage of the complimentary bikes, morning yoga and kayaks. 28 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Top: Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Middle: Lake Shore Resort offers stunning views. Bottom: Downtown Saugatuck
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BY XXXXXXXXXXX iSTOCK (TOP AND BOTTOM); LAKE SHORE RESORT (MIDDLE)
Saugatuck: Beach, please
2
Traverse City: Wine down in TC
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BY XXXXXXXXXXX 45 NORTH (TOP); BLACKSTAR FARMS (SECOND FROM TOP); TRAVERSE CITY CVB (SECOND FROM BOTTOM); iSTOCK (BOTTOM)
Top: 45 North vineyard Left: Black Star Farms wine display Second from bottom: Aerial view of Downtown Traverse City Bottom: Boats docked at Great Lakes Marina
You might be surprised to learn there are nearly 40 wineries in the Traverse City area. While the region is no Napa Valley (which clocks in at around 400 wineries), the area is gaining greater attention for its blossoming viticulture. Just last year, Black Star Farms won Best of Class at the international Experience Rosé competition in California, while nine TC-area wineries brought home awards from last year’s Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. The Traverse City area sits along the 45th parallel — the same latitude as other wellknown wine regions in Oregon/Washington, France and Croatia. And the climate mimics other cooler weather wine regions like those found in northern France and Germany. As such, expect more white wines and rosés, lighter pinots and chardonnays than what you might find in California, and they typically tend to be more moderate in alcohol than their California counterparts. That said, there are always exceptions, like Mari Vineyards, a winery with vintages that nod to the owner’s Italian roots (if the Tuscan stone and clay-tiled roof didn’t give it away). If it’s your first time in the area, add Blustone Vineyards to your list; it offers a more modern tasting room and panoramic views of the vineyard. The vibe is approachable, and the wines are fruit forward and surprisingly affordable. For a more in-depth experience, check out 45 North; it hosts group tours and tastings from June through August on Saturdays. These include a tour of the production facility, wine sampling and a walk through the vineyard ($15). You also can hike or bike the three-mile vineyard trail. For lodging, try the Park Place Hotel or Hotel Indigo, as both are within walking distance of downtown Traverse City and offer great views of the bay. If you are bringing the kids, they’d probably prefer Great Wolf Lodge.
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 29
PHOTOGRAPHY BY XXXXXXXXXXX
30 GRMAG.COM \\ JUNE JUNE 2019 2019
Sunset at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
3
Munising:
A wilderness escape in the U.P.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY XXXXXXXXXXX
Munising is about a 51/2-hour drive from Grand Rapids (only a 50-minute flight from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport if you’re short on time). It’s a few minutes drive to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (you also can book a boat tour to see the sandstone walls up close and personal) and great views of the Lake Superior shoreline. There are endless outdoor activities to enjoy, from kayaking around Grand Island to touring the Au Sable Light Station to hiking out to Munising Falls. Accommodations are a bit limited, so take advantage of the opportunity to pull out your tent and set up camp at one of the many camping locations in the area. Or, if you’re not quite ready to rough it, check out Roam Inn, a cozy, boutique lodge overlooking Munising Bay. A trip to Munising wouldn’t be complete without a stop for pasties at Muldoons, a roadside store selling some of the best savory pastries in the state!
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 31
4
If you’re up for a more metropolitan experience, head to Detroit. Newcomers and city experts alike will love Urban Adventure tours, which offer a variety of city tours. For newbies, check out “The D You Must See” city tour. A local guide will show you all the Detroit must-sees, including a ride on the People Mover and a sample of baklava in Greektown. If you’re interested in Detroit’s current city revitalization work, you might be keen on “Detroit’s Rise, Fall and Renewal.” You’ll examine revitalized buildings and vacant buildings, and you’ll get the inside scoop on the architecture of city landmarks. For a splurge, check into the Detroit Foundation Hotel, a 1929 fire department headquarters that has been renovated into a chic hotel. Here, modern luxury meets a classic vibe, with soaring ceilings, vintage wood paneling and elegant furnishings. And the location can’t be beat — you’re within walking distance of all the downtown attractions, like Comerica Park, Saint Andrews Hall and Fox Theatre. 32 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Top: Catch the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park Middle: Evening in Greektown Bottom: Marina outside of downtown Detoit
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK (TOP AND BOTTOM); BY VITO PALMISANO (MIDDLE)
Detroit: An urban adventure
5
Grand Rapids:
Master the art of the staycation
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BY XXXXXXXXXXX iSTOCK
Top: Amway Grand Plaza hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. Second from top: Grand Rapids at sunrise. Right: Frederik Meijer Gardens. Below: Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids.
There’s something to be said for experiencing your city like a tourist — walking the streets with fresh eyes and visiting locales you wouldn’t usually frequent. Staycations are like the chill brother of the vacation family. You know the streets and the most accessible parking places. You might already have a list of places you’ve wanted to visit. Staycations also are the most affordable type of vacation as you have the benefit of staying at home. However, if you can, we suggest indulging — even for only a couple of nights — in a hotel stay. Dial it up with something swanky like the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel or something more budgetfriendly like the new-to-town AC Hotel. Craft your best “out of office” email response and turn off your phone’s notifications — treat this as a real vacation. If you can, try to schedule events in advance to anchor your calendar, like a luxurious couples spa day at the JW Marriott, a show at DeVos Performance Hall or a pottery class at Pottery Lane GR — this will keep you from squandering your free days trying to decide what to do. Schedule in a morning to leisurely meander through the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Make your way to Eastown and linger over lunch at That Early Bird. Are you looking to fill the time with family activities? Check out Blandford Nature Center, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the John Ball Zoo for activities that’ll get your kids active and outdoors. Or, if you’re looking for something romantic, book a table on Rose’s patio overlooking Reeds Lake to watch the sunset colors play across the sky. A staycation is just what you might need to fall back in love with your own backyard. GR JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 33
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The annual celebration grew from humble beginnings to take over downtown GR each June. By Terri Finch Hamilton JUNE JUNE2019 2019 // GRMAG.COM 35
Past poster and program designs for Festival of the Arts
36 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Summer Festivals
The Grand Rapids Pride Festival celebrates and supports the LGBTQ community, including games and activities, drag shows and entertainment. June 15 at Calder Plaza. grpride.org/festival Founders Fest 2019: A Celebration of Beer and Music features music artists from around the world, in addition to great beer and food. June 22 at Founders Brewing Co. foundersbrewing.com The eighth annual GRandJazzFest takes place Aug. 17-18 at Rosa Parks Circle, featuring notable jazz performers. grandjazzfest.org Breakaway Music Festival will highlight the best in hip-hop, pop and EDM music. Aug 23-24 at Belknap Park. breakawayfestival.com
Ethnic Festivals in GR
Grand Rapids AsianPacific Festival, June 1416 at Rosa Parks Circle. grasianfestival.com Grand Rapids Hispanic Festival, Aug. 9-11 at Calder Plaza. bit.ly/ HispanicFestival2019 Polish Festival, Aug. 2325 at Rosa Parks Circle. polishheritagesociety.com
director of Festival of the Arts. “It was fantastic.” He sang on Festival stages, too. It still thrills him. “There’s such a recital feeling at Festival, and I value that so much,” he said. “Look at the kids’ faces when people stand up and applaud. There’s nothing like it. There are large crowds of adulation. It’s not just your parents.”
Festival fun with Fred There’s a huge family of Festival volunteers who make this party happen every year. “For me, it’s become a way of life,” said Fred Bivins, who’s overseen the Festival Regional Arts Competition and Exhibition for more than 20 years and involved in the event for 45 years. He’s worked food booths, printed Festival flags and serves on the Festival board. He’s been emcee for opening ceremonies since 1985, wearing shirts he made from Festival flags. What does it mean to Mr. Festival to celebrate the event’s 50th? “It means I’m old,” Bivins quipped. Bivins was 24 when he first worked on Festival. He’s 69 now. His wife Gina is a longtime volunteer, and their kids joined in, too. Eliza was 4 when she
POSTER AND PROGRAM ART COURTESY FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
during the first weekend of June, hordes of happy people wander the streets of downtown Grand Rapids wearing wacky paper hats they made, toting cool art they bought, munching Korean tacos, pausing to grin at the hula-hooping, beachball-tossing musical mayhem of the Potato Babies. There’s nothing like Festival of the Arts. This year, it turns 50. You can thank that big orangered Calder sculpture for the five decades of fun. In 1969, Alexander Calder’s La Grande Vitesse was installed in front of City Hall in downtown Grand Rapids. “The Calder” was among the very first of the national Art in Public Places installations, funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. To celebrate, Grand Rapids launched a three-day community arts celebration. It was a smallish shindig then with a stage or two and a few food booths. Fifty years later, Festival takes over most of downtown with six stages of nonstop performances, five pop-up stages, a regional art exhibition, scads of tempting food booths and artsy activities galore. David Abbott wasn’t at the first Festival, but he was there soon after. “Yup, I ate souvlaki, and yup, I made a wood and glue sculpture,” said Abbott, interim executive
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
David Abbott
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 37
“To raise kids who think about art is the best legacy of Festival, I think.”
GR Ballet in front of La Grande Vitesse, where it perfomed 50 years ago at the first Festival of the Arts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
FRED BIVINS
38 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
started helping at Paint-In, taking kids by the hand and leading them to easels. “To raise kids who think about art,” he said, “is the best legacy of Festival, I think.” Most of Bivins’ hard work is done before Festival weekend. That’s on purpose. He has a lot of ground to cover. “I start with souvlaki,” he said. Next up: shrimp on a stick from the Kenowa Band Boosters. Then he hits the Northview Athletic Boosters for an elephant ear. He’ll down several bubble teas from the West Michigan Asian American Association booth. “It’s not just the food that brings people,” Bivins said. “As you walk through Festival, you hear all kinds of music coming from different directions, from all different genres.” The Paint-In and Glue-In are Festival must-dos, always adult-free zones, so kids can create with abandon. Back off, mom and dad. Clouds can be orange. Scrap wood and glue sculptures are supposed to be sticky. Now, there’s also an adult Paint-In. It’s just as popular. “Nobody’s telling them they’re doing it wrong,” Bivins said. “Adults need that, too.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE FISHER
Bring on the ballet Fifty years ago, at the first Festival of the Arts, the Grand Rapids Ballet School performed. In case you missed it, the Grand Rapids Ballet will be there again this year at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 8, on the Calder Stage. The professional dancers will perform a world premiere piece: “Mozart Symphony,” choreographed by James Sofranko, the Ballet’s artistic director. Don’t think ballet is for you? Maybe it is. “It won’t just be stereotypical tutus and tiaras,” Sofranko said. “It’ll be a lot of fun.” You’ll see dancing to music by Queen and The Partridge Family. And an intimate, steamy duet set to a Nina Simone song. “We talk a lot in the arts about accessibility,” said Glenn Del Vecchio, executive director of the Grand Rapids Ballet. He and Sofranko are honorary Festival co-chairs this year. “Presenting it for free, outside, erases any barriers. We’re really excited to get the ballet in front of new eyes.”
WHAT’S NEW as Festival of the Arts celebrates its 50th? Here’s a look:
Young artist painting at Festival of the Arts
Dogs. They’re allowed for the first time. “We want this to be a family experience,” said David Abbott, interim executive director of Festival of the Arts. “Your dog is part of your family.” Food trucks on Monroe Center. In case you need even more food. Beer. Perrin Brewing Company created a commemorative beer, Amber of the Arts, for Festival’s 50th. An amber ale, it’s described as “malt forward” with a “pleasant hop aroma.” No beer tents at Festival but visit Perrin Brewing’s tent near the Monroe Center stage for a list of area bars and restaurants serving it on tap. A world premiere from The Grand Rapids Ballet, “Mozart Symphony.” See it at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 8, on the Calder Stage. Comic book, anime and graphic novel art joins the Festival Regional Arts Competition and Exhibition. See it June 1-22 at Madcap Coffee, 98 Monroe Center NW. Karaoke. WGVU will host a karaoke tent in the afternoons. Why let Festival performers have all the fun? “Come down and do a song,” Abbott said. “We’ll have a blast.”
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 39
“It’s a Herculean effort. It’s great that we can feed people, but what’s really great is this event that involves all people in the arts. Of course, food is an art form, too.”
There’s always a line for souvlaki Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church has served at least 750,000 portions of the savory lemon and herb-marinated pork sandwich in the 45 years it has been at Festival, said Chris Afendoulis, who has helped at the booth since he was 12. “People say, ‘It wouldn’t be Festival without my souvlaki,’ or ‘I’ve been eating these for 30 years — I wouldn’t miss it,’” he said. “That really brings a smile to our faces.” Close to 200 parishioners pitch in, prepping pork butt that marinates for three days, threading it on skewers, grilling it over charcoal, manning the always-busy booth. 40 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
“It’s a Herculean effort,” Afendoulis said. “It’s great that we can feed people, but what’s really great is this event that involves all people in the arts. Of course, food is an art form, too.” Food booths are run by nonprofit organizations, so everybody wins, from the food makers’ organizations to Festival itself, which gets an 18 percent cut of the profits.
The magic behind the curtain Of course, visitors don’t generally see all the hard work that goes into making this one of the more popular festivals of the year. Abbott said the volunteers are Festival’s backbone.
“There’s this very ‘Wizard of Oz’ feeling about Festival,” he said. “There’s a lot of magic that happens behind the curtain. Incredible people have been part of Festival for years. They’re like a family.” Now they’re coaching the next brigade of volunteers learning how to run this giant arts party. “Bringing in new ideas and new blood means Festival will flourish for years to come,” Bivins said. “A lot of people think Festival is the same every year, but it’s not. “You want it a little different, but you still want it a lot the same.” See you in the souvlaki line. GR
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
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Burgess Lake residence delivers down-to-earth details. BY JEANINE MATLOW PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ASHLEY AVILA
The real deal WHAT LED THIS GREENVILLE couple to their waterfront refuge was close friends asking if they would consider building a cottage together and taking turns staying there. That weekend, the husband read about a lot for sale on Burgess Lake in Greenville, north of Grand Rapids. As his wife Jorie — who requested her last name be withheld — explained, they took a drive and it was love at first sight, “I walked onto the lot and said, ‘I want to live here, but I’m not sharing.’ The lake was that striking. That lot would become the site of their one-and-only home. With four grown children, it was time to downsize, and in the summer of 2014, they began building with Ada-based Douglas Sumner Builder, Inc. They moved in about a year later. What the custom structure lacks in stature, it more than makes up for in charm. Just ask
On the cover: A comfortable and open living room gets ample natural light. Left: A vintage sewing table from an old farm, a hand me-down from their daughter, supports a vessel sink in the powder room. GRAND RAPIDS HOME 43
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Wayne Visbeen, AIA, principal of Visbeen Architects, Inc. in Grand Rapids and Chicago. Though his prominent projects span the globe, this one gets consistent praise and it’s easy to see why. “It’s a rather modest home, but it’s very quaint and charming,” Visbeen said about the lakefront cottage he designed for the couple. Visbeen described their dwelling as a classic home with crisp lines, an updated shingle-style ranch with a lower level walkout that still is bent toward traditional. “The house is very accessible. Everything they need is really on the main level,” he noted. In addition to the 3,600-squarefoot main house is a roughly 800-square-foot guest apartment above the garage that the homeowners wanted to be separate for their adult son who has Asperger’s syndrome. Personalizing it for the way he lives resulted in a minimal yet masculine space that sports handsome gray cabinetry and built-ins for books, DVDs and video games.
OUT AND ABOUT Though built on a fairly flat area, a steep grade down to the lake required some ingenuity when siting the home. Close to 60 steps with intermittent stone paths lead to the dock from the outdoor patio, while a raised deck offers scenic views of the lake and a covered walkway provides the perfect spot for a grill. “I’ve
Top: The driveway leads to the main house and a guest apartment over the garage. Middle and bottom: The lower level space includes a reading area and pool table, while an exercise area is hidden behind a sliding barn door. 44 GRAND RAPIDS HOME
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Above: Looking out from the house’s back patio. Right: A room in the guest suite.
always preferred to be elevated from the lake with a lot of trees,” Jorie said. The couple enjoys hosting small dinner parties on the upper deck before heading to the pergola-covered patio for coffee and dessert by the wood-burning fireplace. They also like spending time outside on their own, admiring their picture-perfect site on Burgess Lake, which is known for its color. “It can be green or Caribbean blue depending on the weather,” she explained. “It’s very clean, and it has fish. My husband loves to fish.” 46 GRAND RAPIDS HOME
TAKE YOUR TEMPERATURE While Visbeen works with a variety of climates and clients; Jorie and her husband chose a geothermal system to heat and cool the main house since natural gas was not available. Environmentally friendly and cost-effective, geothermal can be a wise choice in Michigan, Visbeen said. A geothermal system operates by tapping the stable temperatures that are found underground, using a piping system filled with water that circulates between the ground, home and a heat pump. Where electric or propane options
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GRAND RAPIDS HOME 47
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are more expensive in the long run, geothermal has a higher cost upfront with savings in the end. “Our home is cozy in the winter and the cooling is really efficient,” said Jorie, who also chose manmade dry creek beds with buried drainage tubes to disperse rain from the roof instead of high-maintenance gutters.
“Every room has such personality with relatively traditional elements put together in a way that just feels right. It’s charmingly eclectic.” — Wayne Visbeen AS TIMES GOES BY The couple’s home includes aging-in-place features, anticipating possible changes ahead. For instance, the husband’s study can become an infirmary or a second bedroom with two sets of double doors in the hallway, one that allows the study and the master suite to be closed off from the great room and another between the two. For Visbeen, looking ahead remains a priority. “I don’t design a home for today; I design it for tomorrow, whether that means aging in place or selling, it should transition,” he said.
Because the deck needed reinforcement, a slatted wall of cedar was added for aesthetics. The retaining walls on either side of the house are made from concrete block.
48 GRAND RAPIDS HOME
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The open white-on-white kitchen is accented comfortably with dark wood floors, dark stools and light fixtures.
The couple enjoys hosting small dinner parties on the upper deck before heading to the pergola-covered patio for coffee and dessert by the wood-burning fireplace.
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PERSONAL TOUCHES Another clever concept, for a double barn door in the entry, came from Jorie, who said Visbeen made the change that day even though the original plans were complete, and it meant taking space from the front porch. When the barn door is closed, it separates the main floor from the lower level both visually and acoustically. One of Visbeen’s favorite features is the flow of the stairwell with its interior siding and builtin library. “The stairwell is indicative of the charm of the home,” he said. “It has an understated beauty with alternating boards and random plank sizes.” There, an American flag the husband, a PGA professional, received after a decade of playing a 24-hour marathon of golf each year and raising $500,000 for a local homeless shelter is on display. The books on the nearby built-ins include those that belonged to the wife’s father and a few of her favorites, too.
GOING DOWN On the lower level, the stained concrete flooring that was pre-scored before the walls were in place almost looks like tile, Visbeen said. “There are a lot of charming details like the bookcase that gives a personal transition. It’s utilitarian, but it’s casually elegant.” Two welcoming guest rooms lead to the main areas, where a sliding barn door conceived by Visbeen can hide the exercise room or allow it to be open to the air and light when in use. Jorie explained that she wanted the area to be open but “didn’t want to look at all that equipment.”
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A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING Jorie, whose background includes buying and merchandising, incorporated all but a few pieces of furniture from their former residence into their new surroundings. “I kept everything I own because I love it,” she said. “My favorite season is fall, and I look at my home and it’s a fall house. It’s cozy; that must be my personality coming out.” The timeless environment also echoes her signature style. “I like
Left: The master bath is simple, roomy and bright. Below: The airy master bedroom is enshrouded by tree canopy.
52 GRAND RAPIDS HOME
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to wear jeans and a black cashmere V-neck,” she added. Classic details include the engineered hickory floors that ground the main level where the mantel in the great room extends beyond the stone fireplace to the custom cabinetry, and the stained wood ceiling warms the space. Substantial windows that face the lake satisfy her husband who did not want a lot of panes to obstruct the views, while Jorie chose white walls to brighten the interiors. “I wanted the backdrop of the house to be the trees and the lake, not the color of the house,” she said.
NATURAL TALENT Visbeen credited his client with her vision for the kitchen. “It’s really clean white-on-white with subway tile that goes all the way up to the crown molding and the wood ceiling has a simplistic beauty about it. With the contrast of the dark wood floors, there’s almost a British West Indies flavor,” he said. He clearly admires her style, too: “It’s not easy to pull together a home with existing materials and so much charm. She has a great sense of accessorizing and she did such a great job of integrating her furniture into the new home.”
Perhaps this project gets so many accolades because of its authenticity. “Their home is so relatable. It isn’t a design showroom; these are real people with real furniture,” Visbeen said. “Every room has such personality with relatively traditional elements put together in a way that just feels right. It’s charmingly eclectic.” Jeanine Matlow is a Detroit-based freelance writer who specializes in writing about homes and home décor. She is a regular contributor to Michigan BLUE. This article was originally published in the Michigan BLUE Cottages 2019 issue.
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Dinner on the Grand SITTING ON THE BANKS of the Grand River, Linear opened May 2018 next to the River’s Edge apartment complex in the Monroe North district. The modern-American restaurant offers an upscale and calming atmosphere with a plethora of live plants spread throughout the dining area, and the large windows provide a good source of natural lighting. Those walking or driving by can catch a glimpse of the kitchen, which is located in the front of the restaurant along Monroe Avenue. The outside patio offers river and park views, ideal for those summer evenings with friends and family. On a quiet Tuesday evening, we started off with a few drinks: a smoked apple-infused bourbon ($9), a house-infused strawberry vodka ($8) and, after some thoughtful suggestions from our server, a Rezolute IPA ($3.50/happy hour) from Drafting Table Brewing Company in Wixom, just the thing for those who enjoy a bit of hops. The apple-infused bourbon was a bit on the strong side, but a tasty sipper nonetheless, and the strawberry vodka was fruity Wagyu flank steak and signature cocktail #10
and light, a perfect drink to be enjoyed on the patio while watching the Grand River flow. For appetizers, we tried the pan-fried battered forest nameko mushrooms with herb
Pan-fried battered forest nameko mushrooms
aioli ($7) and stuffed phyllo and Brussels sprouts sauced with an apple cider butternut squash coulis ($8). The salty and tender mushrooms were fried to crispy perfection with the presentation looking like something from the “Game of Thrones” set and nothing like regular fried mushrooms. The crust from the stuffed phyllo and Brussels sprouts was buttery, and the cider and butternut sauce made this dish sweeter. For entrées, we ordered the vegan kale mushroom lasagna ($15), topped with bechamel sauce and complemented with tomato bread; the apple bacon-stuffed pork loin ($22), which was presented with a sweet potato purée, tatsoi spinach and a miso maple glaze; and the Wagyu flank steak
54 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BRYAN ESLER
The salty and tender mushrooms were fried to crispy perfection with the presentation looking like something from the “Game of Thrones” set and nothing like regular fried mushrooms.
dining review Left: Stuffed phyllo, Brussels sprouts, apple cider butternut squash coulis. Middle: Grilled avocado salad. Right: Cocktail #4.
($21), topped with blue cheese and served
sweet. For our first course, my friend and
on a bed of charred carrots, zucchini and
I split the walnut ricotta crostada ($10),
fingerling potatoes tossed in chive and glacé.
which consists of Swiss chard, tomato and
The lasagna featured a rich and flavorful
balsamic reduction. We were surprised
sauce, and the tomato bread had a nice
when this dish came out on a phyllo dough
crunch when paired with the tangy and
crust. While the toppings were flavorful,
fresh tomato sauce. The pork loin was per-
they were congregated in the center of the
fectly cooked, and the purée was a wel-
dough and it was mostly just phyllo dough,
comed addition. The flank steak, also per-
making for a dry consistency. This dish fell
fectly cooked, featured just the right amount
short for us.
of char and a flavorful center.
For our second course, we each ordered a
BY IRA CRAAVEN
Linear 1001 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Phone: (616) 200-4343 linearrestaurant.com
salad. I ordered the Toscano kale and apple salad ($12), while my dining companion
Dining ratings:
had the house Caesar with chicken ($14).
Food: *** Service: **** Beverages: *** Atmosphere: **** Price: $$
The most interesting part of this selection was that she received an actual piece of chicken alongside the wedges of lettuce — think chicken leg or wing! We both agreed the salads were tasty. They also were generous portions, which was nice for the price.
Must try: Wagyu flank steak
The kale and apple salad had a great flavor and I had to stop myself from finishing it off
Not so much: Walnut ricotta crostada
to leave room for the main course. We split the sweet potato gnocchi, which consists of Swiss chard, parmesan, brown butter sage powder and roasted apple ($16), and once again enjoyed the apple bacon stuffed pork loin. We both agreed the pork loin was our favorite of the two. The flavor combination was delicious, and the meat Vegan kale mushroom lasagna
was juicy and tender. The gnocchi dish was a little bland, though the roasted apples
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BRYAN ESLER
were excellent. For dessert, we tried the salted caramel
For dessert, we shared the cherry bread
dark chocolate tart ($6) and the “Any Color
pudding ($7), which includes an almond
You Like” artisan popsicles ($4). The tart had
and brandy gelato and cherry chutney. This
the ideal mix of chewy dark chocolate mixed
dessert was amazing! The flavor combi-
with a creamy caramel that was very satisfy-
nation was terrific, and the dessert wasn’t
ing. The popsicle, predominately cherry with
overly sweet. The bread pudding is a must
Guide to ratings:
a hint of hibiscus and other flavors, was a
on any future visits we might make to Linear.
**** *** ** *
Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor Inexpensive (under $10) Moderate ($10-$20) Expensive (Over $20)
smooth ending to a pleasing meal.
Overall, we loved the atmosphere of the
My next visit took place on a Friday night.
restaurant — you can’t beat the Grand River
It began with Linear’s house-infused straw-
view. The service and the presentation of
berry vodka, basil tincture, and lemonade
the dishes also were excellent. Our only
¢ $ $$
signature cocktail ($8) and a glass of the
complaint was that the food is perhaps
(Prices based on average entrée.)
Twin Vines Vinho Verde ($5). The signa-
trying a bit too hard to be different from any-
ture cocktail was refreshing and not overly
where else and falling a bit short. JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 55
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
dining listings
A GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN GRAND RAPIDS AND BEYOND
The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors.
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. L, D ¢
DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS
➧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. L, D. $
Restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing (page 73).
1 Bun Restaurant — Build-your-own hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie dogs and sloppy Joes — all served on hot dog buns. Closed Sun. 2140 S Division Ave, 279-2943. Facebook. L, D ¢ 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. angelsthai cafe.com. L, D ¢-$ Bangkok Taste Cuisine — Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. L, D ¢-$ Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. L (SunFri), D ¢-$ Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh 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. bistrobella vita.com. L, D $-$$ Bobarino’s at The B.O.B. — Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ bobarinospizza. L, D ¢-$ Brick & Porter — Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickand portergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ Bull’s Head Tavern — Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and 56 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern .com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 4516131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. D $$ 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. L, D $ Cinco De Mayo — Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayo1.com. L, D $ Citys– en Lounge — Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine; happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily. CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 608-1725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rapids. B, L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢ FDivani — 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. D $-$$ 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. L, D ¢
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, 3562000. thebob.com/gillysrestaurant. D ¢-$ 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. L, D $ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports. L, D $ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany. com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “AllAmerican 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. L, D ¢ Grand Woods Lounge — Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Year-round alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoods lounge.com. L, D ¢-$
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $-$$ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. L, D ¢-$
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. L, D $-$$
1713. newhotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), B (Mon-Fri), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$
FLeo’s — Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant. com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$
Osteria Rossa – Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Closed Sun. 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa. com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$
One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$
-Linear — Riverfront eatery featuring sea-
J.D. Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge at The Boardwalk offers American, southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities. Outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. L, D ¢-$ J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating. Closed Sun. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢
Osteria Rossa
sonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Littlebird — Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢ Lucky Luciano’s — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. Takeout, delivery available. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. lucky lucianos.com. L, D ¢-$ Luna Taqueria y Cocina — Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Marcona on Lyon — “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon. com. L, D $-$$ 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. B (Sun), L, D $
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/judsons steakhouse. D $$ Juju Bird — Chicken-centered restaurant featuring comfort foods like buttermilk fried chicken, as well as sandwiches and “birdie cones.” Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 258-8115. downtownmarketgr. com. L, D $ 58 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant — Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$ MudPenny — Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. B, L, D ¢ New Hotel Mertens — French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens. Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. 35 Oakes St SW, 551-
Palace of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. 138 E Fulton St, 9139000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ FReserve — Wine bar offers extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ 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. B, L, D $ 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. rock wellsrepublic.com. D $-$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ ruths-chris-steak-house. L, D $$ 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, 7748272. sanchezbistro.com. B, L, D $-$$ FSix.One.Six — Features new French cuisine in a cosmopolitan setting. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining/ six.one.six. B, L, D $-$$ 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. slows barbq.com. L, D ¢-$
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Jamaican Dave’s — Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 530 S Division Ave, 4587875. Facebook. L, D ¢
Social Kitchen & Bar — Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu. Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. so cialkitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L, D $-$$ SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Wheelhouse Kitchen and Cocktails — Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. L, D $-$$ 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. L, D ¢-$ Zoko 822 — Basque-inspired cuisine, featuring Northern Spanish and Southern French small plates, served family style; plus, “grab-and-go” lunch serviced through the Bodega 822. Full bar boasting over 45 selections of gin. Open daily. 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 828-1118. zoko822. com. Brunch (Sun), L (Mon-Sat), D $-$$
WEST SIDE Ando Asian Kitchen & 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. andoasiankitchen.com. L, D $ Blue Dog Tavern — West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 6086050. bluedogtaverngr.com. L, D ¢ 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. L, D ¢ OButcher’s Union — Meat-and-whiskeycentric gastro-pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), L, D $ Continued on page 62 JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 59
food & drink PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
CORY DAVIS Title: Owner/pitmaster Location: 2921 Eastern Ave. SE
60 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
IT FEELS LIKE A HOUSE PARTY inside Daddy Pete’s BBQ, where husband-andwife team Cory and Tarra Davis have mastered cooking with smoke and fire, making beef brisket, Amish chicken halves, thick St. Louis cut ribs and pulled pork dressed in their trademarked sweet sauce. Their incredible smoked barbecue with a good, sticky char makes regulars out of first-time customers. At its two mobile food units and takeout location, pitmaster Cory insists on cooking over apple or peach wood, using top-quality meats from Sobie Meats LLC in Walker and R.W. Bond & Son Family Butcher in Grandville, and honing his technique long into the night. “I consider myself a barbecue traditionalist. I’m a purist. I don’t inject the meat. I don’t brine. I’m big on low and slow,” Cory said. “You want to give it time and cook the meat as slowly as possible on an offset heat source. You want to build up that flavor. For beef brisket, maybe 14 hours.” But the ace up his sleeve is his rotisserie smoker with its automatic rotation through the chamber’s hot air and smoke, which breaks down connective tissue and enhances the flavor. “The brisket was the hardest thing for me to master,” said Cory, whose smoked beef brisket is carved into luxurious slices. “The brisket muscles support 65% of the cow’s weight so that means that it’s this massively big thing. Imagine how strong that muscle has to be. In order to make something that tough nice and tender, you have to cook it a long, long time.” Their seven small-batch barbecue sauces let you know that the Davises are serious about hijacking your taste buds. Besides Daddy Pete’s BBQ Original barbecue sauce, there’s Fire and Desire, Mama Pete’s, Dirty South, Mississippi Burning, Motherland and Hot as Hell, which is so tongue-blisteringly hot that it nearly crashes the Scoville scale’s spicy index. “You have to sign a waiver to eat it because the hotness is extreme,” Tarra said. “We have
Cory Davis serves up authentic barbecue at Daddy Pete’s BBQ.
customers who have to have it. They say, ‘Give it to me, please.’” Back in 2011, the seed of Daddy Pete’s BBQ was planted when Cory and Tarra went through premarital counseling at New Hope Baptist Church and financial planning through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. “One of the things Dave Ramsey talks about is using your talents and gifts to offset your debt,” Cory said. Soon after, Cory won New Hope’s cookoff with his sultry chicken and ribs slathered in a homemade vinegar-based Carolina barbecue glaze. Everyone wanted a taste, so the Davises set about perfecting their smoky barbecue until it jiggled and trembled off the bone. Once a month, they hosted a feast for family and friends at their home. One day, they realized word of their cooking had spread so far that neighbors and other community members started knocking on their door hoping to get a taste. “We knew then that we had to launch our business,” Tarra said. They named their barbecue operation Daddy Pete’s BBQ, after Cory’s father James Edward Davis, who grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, where he was nicknamed Pete. The elder Davis loved barbecuing ribs “on an 11-foot smoker in the backyard,” Cory recalled. In 2013, the Davises purchased their first food trailer, applied for their health department license and set up in the parking lot of the former Don Tono’s Mexican Bar and Grill. Tarra whipped up a buzz on social media that caused locals to queue up before they opened for the day. Then they took their barbecue show on the road and a maelstrom of learning happened. At their first event at Pyramid Scheme (a Heartside pub and music venue) for Jameson Irish Whisky, they roped in 10 relatives to help them prepare and serve hundreds of pulled pork sliders. But there was one problem. “I didn’t know how to back in the unit,”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
‘Low and slow’ cooking is key
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Cory said. “One of the band members performing that night had to back in the trailer.” Next, the Davises purchased their dream food truck (where the vehicle and the kitchen are combined) and painted it with Daddy Pete’s distinctive leaping flames, designed by Tarra. But the truck burst into flames its first week on the road. “It burned down at our third event,” Tarra said. “It caught on fire because it was too much heat in the box where the generator was. “The people from that catered event followed us back to the business and placed orders for lunches and caterings and they were like, ‘We want you to be around.’ The outreach was amazing. Literally out of the ashes like a phoenix, we rose.” Throughout the summer, Tuesday through Saturday, they’re serving smoked barbecue 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at their Eastern Avenue barbecue joint with a smattering of tables. On certain dates, Cory and Tarra pull into Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park, Movies on Monroe and Rosa Park Circle — but not every week as their catering keeps them busy. Cory said he likes to arrive early enough to smoke the kind of food that they want to eat themselves. “We make it fresh — just like we would at home, and we’re grateful that we can,” he said. “Today, I got started at 5 o’clock in the morning.” They also offer popular side dishes — Tarra’s grandmother’s peach cobbler, cornbread muffin top, six-cheese macaroni and cheese, smoky baked beans and candied sweet potatoes. As the Davis family moves to a plant-focused diet, they’re now sharing their favorite vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as smoked Impossible burger (made of soy proteins) on a pretzel bun and vegan mac-and-cheese. In that vein, Daddy Pete’s newest signature dish, Hot Mess, was created when Tarra needed something quick to eat on her break. “The Hot Mess is basically a barbecue sundae — it’s a bit of everything that we offer in a cup,” Tarra said. “It’s a layer of baked beans, mac-and-cheese, pulled pork or pulled chicken, topped with coleslaw. Every layer is individually delicious because if we don’t love it, we don’t serve it.” — JAYE BEELER
Big Daddy Pete’s Seriously Smoked Beef Brisket (serves 12)
1 whole beef brisket 1 cup kosher salt 1 cup black pepper 18-inch kettle charcoal grill or larger Offset smoker Enough all-natural apple wood chips or pellets (or actual wood logs if your firebox is big enough to handle it) to smoke 12 to 16 hours Preparation: Order a top-quality whole brisket from your local full-service butcher. You want a well-marbled piece of beef brisket. The United States Department of Agriculture labels all beef good, better and best, and for barbecue pitmasters, the beef grading system — select, choice or prime — determines the quality of the product. Consider USDA Choice as a good balance of cost and quality. USDA Certified Angus with its fine marbling is recommended while USDA Prime tops the grading scale and is often used by the best steakhouses and barbecuers. Whatever you do, go to your local butcher who will point you in the right direction. On a large cutting board, place brisket fat-side down and remove the deckle (the hunk of fat) near the point. It doesn’t render down enough in the cooking process. Next, combine kosher salt and pepper in a large shaker and, starting on the flesh side, evenly season the meat. Let meat come to room temperature. Meanwhile, set up an 18-inch kettle charcoal grill for the most indirect heat that you can manage — wood on one side and food cooking on the other. Prepare a drip tray underneath where the meat is going to cook. When the wood’s burned to almost white ash, place brisket, fat-side up, on the smoker as far away from the heat source as possible. Close the grill’s lid. Remember, you’re smoking your meat not grilling it. Maintain a temperature of 200 to 225 degrees by adding more wood chips or pellets when necessary. It takes time to break down this huge hunk of beef, but you want it to almost collapse with tenderness. If you like, rotate the brisket to color and cook evenly about every few hours — going back to the fat-side up between rotations. Plan to barbecue 12-16 hours or until meat is fall-apart tender. Remove from grill and double wrap in aluminum foil to let the juices settle back in. Slice and serve.
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 61
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Continued from page 59
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. B, L, D ¢ El Sombrero — Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurant mi.com. L, D ¢ 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. L, D $ 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. L, D ¢-$ The Holiday Bar — Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. L, D ¢ Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery — Dexterbased brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jolly pumpkin.com. L, D $ 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, 345-5642. newhollandbrew. com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Long Road Distillers — Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of house-made snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers. com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 636 Bridge St NW, 4588583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseballthemed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. L, D ¢-$ Monarchs’ Club — Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. 646 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. L, D ¢ 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. D ¢-$ 62 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
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. L, D ¢-$
The Commons — 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. L, D $
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. B, L, D $
Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr.com. L, D $
Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatores gr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ FThe Sovengard — Midwest meets Scandinavian spirit, with a focus on seasonal and local sourcing. Restaurant and outdoor beer garden in a historic West Side building. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. D $ 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. L ¢-$ Westside Social — “Reimagined” Americanstyle tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available MonFri. Open daily. 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$
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. eastownbombaycui sine.com. L, D $ 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. brew eryvivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpiz za.com. L, D ¢-$
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. L, D $ FDonkey 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. B (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ 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. L (Fri-Sat), D ¢-$ Eklectico Greek Kouzina — Scratch-made traditional Greek entrées, gyros, desserts and more. Catering and take-out available. Closed Sun. 2401 Eastern Ave SE, 591-2132. eklectico greekkouzina.com. D ¢ Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electric cheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢ Erb Thai — Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr. com. L, D ¢ FForty 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. L, D $
Brown Butter Creperie & Café — Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. 1436 Wealthy St SE, 288-5038. brownbuttercrepes.com. B, L, D (Wed-Sat) ¢
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. gojo ethiopiancuisine.com. L, D $
Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 2334141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢-$
The Green Well Gastro Pub — Menu features comfort fare with a flair, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open
Donkey Taqueria
bar. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. L, D $-$$ Matchbox Diner & Drinks — Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carry-out available. Open daily. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. B, L, D The Pub at Paddock — “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegil morecollection.com/pubatpaddock. D ¢-$ FTerra — Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ 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. wealthys treetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$
daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreen well.com. L, D $-$$ FGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course offerings. Vegan menu available. Full bar. Open daily. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. L, D $$ 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. B, L, D ¢-$ Harmony Brewing Co. — Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Open daily. 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Jonny B’z — Beef, turkey and veggie hot dogs available, as well as burgers, sandwiches, wings, ribs and kids menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 701 Wealthy St SE, 551-1108. jonnybz. com. L, D $
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
➧ Kelvin & Co. — Urban barbecue restaurant offering meats smoked fresh daily, handcrafted sides and vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Menu items include brisket, chicken and pork sandwiches; meat, including sausage and wings. Open daily. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 833535-8467. kelvinandcompany.com. L, D. ¢ 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. L, D ¢ Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full
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, 288-5646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. B (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ Yesterdog — Specializes in the “good oldfashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢ 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. L, D $$
EAST GRAND RAPIDS Big Bob’s Pizza — Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen — Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. D $ Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. Open daily. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derbystation.com. L, D $
José Babushka’s — Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. L, D $ Olive’s — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$ Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available. Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE, 4568999. ostaslebanese.com. L (Tue-Fri), D ¢-$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection. com/roses. L, D $
ADA/CASCADE/LOWELL Ada Pour House — Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a twist on comfort food. Salads, sandwiches and entrées, including fish and steak. Craft beers and wine. Closed Sun. 6749 E Fulton St, Ada, 920-7941. pourhouse usa.com. L, D $-$$ 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. B, L, D $-$$ Big Boiler Brewing — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboil erbrewing.com. D $ The Blue Moose Sports Pub — Farm-to-table sports bar features a food menu made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 6240 28th St SE, 734-6333. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. L, D ¢-$ Cork Wine & Grille — Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. cork wineandgrille.com. L, D $-$$ Dan’s Diner — Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retrostyle diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Beer, wine and vodka. Closed Mon. 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. B, L, D ¢-$ JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 63
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Ju Sushi & Lounge
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. D $$
The Euro Bistro — European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, woodfired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. euro bistrogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$
Zeytin — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytin turkishrestaurant.com. L, D $
Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building. Comfort food, woodfired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. the gilmorecollection.com/flatriver. L, D $-$$ Holland & Fitz Delicatessen — Deli sandwiches with in-house baked bread featuring corned beef hash and pork shoulder. Breakfast and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr SE, Suite B, 920-7090. hollandandfitzdelicatessen.com. B, L, D $ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$$ La Laguna — Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. 6250 28th St SE, 8058821. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $-$$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ Ning Ye — Family-owned restaurant serves Chinese and Korean fare. No alcohol. Open daily. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888.ningye. info. L, D $ 64 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 2843664. trailheadcafegr.com. B, L ¢
NORTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS 7 Monks Taphouse — Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. L, D ¢-$ Noco Provisions — Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. L, D $
Birch Lodge — Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. L, D ¢
Nonna’s: The Trattoria — Fresh, Europeanstyle pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna. com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$
Blue Water Grill — Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection. com/bluewater. L, D $-$$
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, 4936686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ Osaka Steakhouse & Japanese Restaurant — Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabushabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. 4977 28th St SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D $ Sapporo Ramen & Noodle Bar — Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Schnitz Ada Grill — Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. L, D ¢-$$ Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ 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, 2886907. thornapplebrewing.com. L (Sat), D $ Trailhead Café — Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus
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, 3619782. budandstanleys.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. charlies barandgrille.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. B, L, D ¢ 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. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ Creston Brewery — More than a dozen housebrewed 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. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai Xpress — Thai fare for takeout only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 820 Michigan St NE, 454-0444. erbthaigr.com/erbthai_xpress.html. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Emonae Korean BBQ — Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. 6246 28th St SE, 6493984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. L, D $-$$
1001 MONROE NW
Modern American Dining on the River Front LUNCH DINNER WEEKEND BRUNCH DAILY HAPPY HOUR CLOSED MONDAYS SEASONAL MENU + FULL BAR
616-200-4343 LINEARRESTAURANT.COM
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
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. L, D ¢-$ 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. freds italian.net. L, D ¢-$ 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. fujiyamabis tro.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. goldenwok grandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. graydonscross ing.com. L, D $ Gus’s Original — Appetizers, salads and soups, stone-oven pizzas, gourmet sandwiches; coffees and ice cream bar. Outdoor seating. No alcohol. Open daily. 3123 Leonard St NE, 805-5599. gussoriginal.com. B, L, D ¢ Jaku Sushi — Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 6490407. jakusushi.com. L, D $ 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. L, D ¢-$ La Huasteca — Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. L, D ¢ Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. L, D ¢-$
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. licarispizza kitchen.com. L, D $ Lucy’s Café — Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 5913149. lucyscafegr.com. B, L $-$$ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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), 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. D $
Waterfront Dining • Award Winning Menu • Private Dining Elegant Atmosphere • Sunday Brunch • Happy Hour
63 Market Avenue SW • Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616.459.2500 • Reserve Online Muer.com 66 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
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. L, D $ 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. L, D $-$$ Reds At Thousand Oaks — Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 4477750. eatatreds.com. L, D $-$$ 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. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. L, D $-$$ The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. the score-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. L, D $ Thai Chef — Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. L, D $ Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar features local beers/ wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D ¢-$$
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CRESTON BREWERY
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. L, D (Mon-Sat) $-$$
NORTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS FAmore 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. amoretrattoria italiana.com. D (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. L, D ¢-$
China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ 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. D $
Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. B, L, D ¢-$
Creston Brewery
Empire Chinese Buffet II — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Franco’s Pizza — Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. D ¢-$ 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. D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsu premebuffet.letseat.at. L, D ¢ Home Team Grill — Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill.word press.com. L, D ¢-$ Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/ the-landing-restaurant. B, L, D $ Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyros drivethru.com. L, D ¢-$ 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, 551-1957. perrinbrewing.com. L, D ¢ 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. L, D ¢-$
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. L, D ¢-$ Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $
SOUTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS/ KENTWOOD 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$ 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. L, D ¢-$ Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 141 28th St SE, 534-7770. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. L, D $
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 67
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. L, D ¢-$ Cantina Mexican Grill — Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drivethru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantina mexicangrill.biz. L (Sun-Thu), D $ 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. daddypetes bbq.com. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. L, D ¢-$ 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. elarriero mexicangrill.com. L, D ¢-$
Wei Wei Palace
El Globo Restaurant — Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ 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. L D $ Florentine Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Lounge — Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full 68 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
bar. Open daily. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$ 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.com/ gandersgr. B, L, D ¢-$$ Golden Gate — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢ Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant — Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. L, D $ Hall Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery. com. B, L, D ¢-$ India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. 3760 S Division Ave, 2431219. indiatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$
Pal’s Indian Cuisine — Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindian cuisine.com. L, D $ Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. L, D ¢-$ Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$ Pietro’s Italian Restaurant — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. L, D $ Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. L, D $-$$ Shiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 9497447. shirazgrille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$
La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. Facebook. L, D ¢
Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni. net. L, D ¢-$$
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. thelastchance tavern.com. L, D ¢
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. B, L, D ¢
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. L, D ¢-$
Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiex pressgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢
Mi Tierra — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. L, D ¢-$ 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, 2886976. baaaaaaaa.com. B (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢-$
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. L, D ¢-$ 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. tokyo grillsushi.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and bar-
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Brass Ring Brewing — Small-batch, stylespecific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. L, D $
becue. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $ Yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
SOUTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$
Main Street Pub — Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. main stpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Mi Casa Restaurante — Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed Mon-Tues. 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus familyfriendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$ Noble — Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. B, L $ 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. petesgrilland tavern.com. L, D $ 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. L, D ¢ 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. B (Mon-Sat), L, D $
The Old Goat
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. L, D ¢-$ Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. L, D $
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Kitzingen Brewery — German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed SunMon. 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingenbrewery.com. L, D ¢-$ Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1742 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$
GRANDVILLE/HUDSONVILLE/ GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP Bangkok Taste — Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. bangkoktaste. com. L, D ¢-$ 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. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ 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, 530-9470. elburritoloco4.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. villadun geon.com. L, D ¢-$ Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, ca-
tering and banquet services. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudson villegrille.com. B, L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$ Rainbow Grill — Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro. com. L, D $ 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. L, D ¢-$
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. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/restaurant. L, D ¢-$ Cedar Springs Brewing Co. — German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. L, D $ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven. com. L, D $-$$ Honey Creek Inn — Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. L, D ¢-$ JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 69
pints of interest BY PAT EVANS
Canned Michigan favorites
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Mitten Brewing Company’s Mango Gold
Mitten Mango Gold – Released for Memorial Day Weekend, The Mitten Brewing Company’s summer seasonal is a beautifully tart and fruity wheat ale made with real mango. Kettle-soured, Mango Gold is slightly sour, like a refreshing lemonade on a sunny, steamy day. Vander Mill Vandy – Staying on the cider path, Vandy is a great way to keep the alcohol at bay. Vander Mill’s answer to the session beer trend, Vandy keeps its booze low, 4.3%, while keeping its apple flavor full, clean and crisp. Just like a tasty cider should be. Perrin Clear Coast – Hard seltzer has become all the rage for the pools and hot weather activities, and more craft brands are entering the category. Why not support a Michigan company with its entry? Clear Coast, the 100-calorie drink clocks in at 5% with low carbs and low sugar, so enjoy an almost guilt-free treat as the sun shines. — Pat Evans wrote the book “Grand Rapids Beer.” He also writes nationally on beer and spirits.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MITTEN BREWING COMPANY
Hard seltzer has become all the rage for the pools and hot weather activities, and more craft brands are entering the category.
AS THE SPRING AIR STARTS TO WARM UP and the trails and beaches start calling, it’s time to grab some cans of your favorite drinks. Most public areas prohibit glass bottles, so if your fridge is full of bottles, a trip to the store is in order. Thankfully, the craft movement in the beer, wine and spirits industries have now embraced cans, and many companies offer plenty of their key products in the packaging. Whether at the beach, on the river, taking the trail or hitting the links, grab a few of these great West Michigan canned beverages. Virtue Mezzo Spritz – Fennville’s Virtue Cider launched a low-alcohol twist on the traditional Italian Aperol spritz. The Mezzo Spritz is made with hard cider, sparkling water and botanicals to offer up classic Italian flair. At only 80 calories and 3.5% alcohol, the Mezzo Spritz offers a perfect daytime treat. Creston GRale – Creston Brewery released its wave of summer seasonal beers in April, including GRale, Sweet Street and Bokonon. GRale is a great pick for a nice American IPA that offers plenty of tropical happiness without too much aggressive bitterness. Brewery Vivant Tropical Saison – The Cherry Street brewery stays in its wheelhouse for this ideal summer seasonal. Staying true to the classic Belgian-style saison style with a slightly peppery character with nice effervescence, Tropical Saison goes summery with the addition of mango and pineapple juices. An awesome, innovative approach to a classic beer. Farmhaus Trocken – Most of the ciders known in the market are sweet, which makes sense because it helps make drinks initially more palatable to drinkers. But Farmhaus Trocken is a perfect example of a nice, dry cider true to how they should be traditionally. Trocken is especially great to pair with hearty cookout items. New Holland canned cocktails – Last year, the Holland-based brewery and distillery released a line of three cocktails — Bourbon and Cola, Blueberry Gin Lemonade and Holland Mule — and they’re superb. Along with its core beer lineup in cans, New Holland decided it would be smart to offer up cocktails made with its spirit line to give fans more options when they need a drink to go anywhere.
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Hot Box BBQ — Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. 110 Courtland St, Rockford, 951-7160. Facebook. L, D $ Marinades Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D ¢ 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. ra monastable.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. rockford brewing.com. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Timbers Inn — Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbers inn.net. L (Wed-Sun), D ¢-$
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstwokgr. com. L, D $ 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, 930-3596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. the grandconey.com. B, L, D ¢ 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. L, D $ HopCat — Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature crack 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. L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D ¢-$$ 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. L, D ¢ Real Food Café — Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and madefrom-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. B, L ¢ 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. B, L ¢
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) 6726627. annashouseus.com. B, L $ 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, 8664306. arniesrestaurant.com. B, L, D $ 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. B, L, D ¢ Big E’s Sports Grill — Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées. Full bar includes a variety of Michiganmade 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. L, D ¢-$ 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,
10 e bridge street, rockford / paperdollboutique.com / @paperdollshop JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 71
cocktail hour BY TORRENCE R. O’HAIRE
RECENTLY, I WAS TRYING to make a new cocktail work for my bar’s menu. I was stuck working with a very challenging ingredient: a special vermouth that, while blessed with a lovely floral aroma, has a taste so bitter that a single sip felt like punishment and left a lingering sting at the back of the tongue for several minutes. Unfortunately, I had to figure out how to make 12 bottles not just palatable but enjoyable. I tried sweetening it a bit with a mild liqueur, which helped to round the texture, but that bitterness still trumped everything. I tried to distract using some aromatic ingredients, which developed the palate and gave it an inviting fragrance — but still that bitterness. We’re not talking the mouthwatering prickle of bitter lemon or the earthy complexity of Campari or the savory, smokiness of the darkest dark chocolate, we’re talking that time when you accidentally chewed that pill you were supposed to swallow whole — your eyes widen and you dive for a glass of water once you realize you’ve done something terribly wrong. Then I remembered one of my favorite tricks: salting grapefruit. If you’ve never tried it, the next
Negroni
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time you taste a chunk of grapefruit that’s more bitter than you’d like, reach for the saltshaker. When I worked at a diner while in high school, there was a woman who’d always throw a bit of salt in her coffee because it was “too bitter.” I returned to my protococktail with a salt solution (1 tablespoon of salt in a half cup of water), added a few drops and tasted… An absolute shock. The drink was balanced, and the bitterness, while definitely present, was softer, less chemical and didn’t linger on the palate. But what happened? The cocktail wasn’t “salty.” In fact, with just a few drops of saline, I’d challenge you to guess there was any noticeable salt in it. But without it, the cocktail was almost undrinkable. Well, there’s good news and bad news: Science knows that salt has interesting effects on flavor and perception, instantly improving umami (“deliciousness”), reducing bitterness and heightening the sense of flavors. They just aren’t really sure how. The chemist in me hates that I can’t have a better practical answer, but for our cocktail-making purposes, we just need to remember the alchemy of a bit of salt. In addition to just being generally beneficial to the flavors of a drink, salt also has a proven counter effect to certain bitter compounds, specifically alkaloids like caffeine, quinine (tonic water) and chemicals from plants like gentian and quassia that often are found in bitter liqueurs (like Campari and my terrible vermouth). The salt interrupts their reactive chemistry in the mouth and prevents the molecules’ palate aggression. So, if you’re jealously watching your friends drink bitter Negroni cocktails and can’t understand why they like the sting, try a pinch of salt and see if you can find the perfect point where the drink doesn’t taste salty and the bitterness has been tamed from a roar to a purr. Or, from a cocktail construction standpoint, if you’re working with particularly bitter ingredients, mix up some water and salt to a fairly strong solution in a small dropper bottle (it will keep forever) and experiment with a drop or three. You’ll be an amarophile within weeks. — Torrence R. O’Haire, of The Starving Artist, is a chef, entrepreneur and restaurant consultant specializing in wine, spirits and cocktails. He also founded the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
A dinner table secret
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Sundance Bar & Grill — Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sun dancegrill.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) $
READY TO MAKE MEMORIES?
Tacos El Caporal — Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 2612711. B, L, D ¢ Tacos El Cuñado — Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Open daily. 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-8000; Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW. tacosgr.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. B, L ¢ 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, 7355520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitales ada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 6622244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$
Dining Guide Legend Grand Rapids Magazine has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers. B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. - — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing O — GRM’s 2018 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2018 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email cdewey@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
PURELUDINGTON.COM JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 73
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
Land Conservancy of West Michigan works to ‘keep nature nearby’ by protecting natural land in area.
Preserving natural areas across West Michigan BY ANN BYLE THE GHOSTS OF MORE THAN 100 YEARS’ worth of golfers seem to haunt the overgrown tee boxes and grass-filled former sand traps, tall trees lining fairways that no longer exist. The Highlands, long a mainstay of West Side life, in early spring is a matte green shadow of its former self. Its empty acres neighbor the popular Blandford Nature Center on Leonard Street NW, appearing to wait for new life. But this seemingly empty landscape has a vibrant future thanks to the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, which is in collaboration with Blandford to facilitate the return of its 121 acres to natural habitat including a stream, wetlands and native Michigan prairie. “A developer wanted to put 336 lots on the property but began to get feedback from the community about that many homes,” said Pete DeBoer, development director for the Land Conservancy. “The developer went to Blandford Nature Center, which came to us. That started a ninemonth conversation between the three of us that ended with the developer selling the property to Blandford for fair market
value and with an agreement that we would manage the property and eventually own a third of it.” The Land Conservancy has a long history of working with private landowners, local governments and other groups eager to permanently preserve natural spaces for future generations. Its mission is to “keep nature nearby and help people protect, enjoy and care for natural land in West Michigan,” according to its website, naturenearby.org. The Land Conservancy’s work is wide-ranging, from helping preserve natural dune ecosystems along Lake Michigan and preserving the corridor along the Pere Marquette River, to The Highlands in Grand Rapids and the Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve in Rockford.
A Great Blue Heron flies over Flower Creek Dunes.
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“At a deeper level, it’s about getting people to appreciate what we have here and care about it enough to protect the things we have,” said Joe Engel, Land Conservancy executive director.
More than 40 years of work
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LAND CONSERVANCY OF WEST MICHIGAN
“At a deeper level, it’s about getting people to appreciate what we have here and care about it enough to protect the things we have.” — Joe Engel
The Land Conservancy began in 1976 with four volunteers who wanted to identify, protect and care for natural areas in West Michigan. Originally called the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan, early work included the Saul Lake Bog and adding to Saugatuck State Park. The name was changed in 1997 to the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Now, the nonprofit has eight employees (with two unfilled positions) and an operating budget of $700,000-$750,000. The operating budget does not include funds raised for specific conservancy projects that can range from $100,000 to millions of dollars. It works in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana counties, and parts of Allegan to the south and Lake and Mason counties to the north. It has helped protect more than two dozen natural areas that are open to the public. Work in Allegan County centers around Saugatuck, and work in Ottawa County is focused on the lakeshore. One current project is a 345-acre sand mine area called Ottawa Sands, which includes Grand River frontage, an 80-acre lake and 219 acres of critical dunes. Once the project is complete, it would help create a 2,000-acre corridor of protected duneland that runs from P.J. Hoffmaster State Park to the north to the Grand River at the southern end. The conservancy hoped to raise about $250,000 but far surpassed that goal and raised nearly $400,000. “We have a strong base of support for the Ottawa Sands project,” DeBoer said. The Highlands project prompted a $5.3-million capital campaign, with less than $200,000 left to raise. Funds will restore natural wetlands; restore native forests and grasslands; create and groom trails, a portion of which will be ADA accessible; and daylight a stream buried for over half a century. The land and water quality, DeBoer said, should recover from the many chemicals used by the golf course over the years. The property entrance is accessible via a city bus line.
A bee hovers over wild bergamot in a restored prairie at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve.
Three ways to protect The Land Conservancy has three main ways it helps individuals and governments protect land. First is community conservation, which takes place when a community approaches the Land Conservancy for help in preserving areas as varied as Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area and Roselle Park along the Grand River. “We can help with fundraising, work with the DNR, help pay for appraisals and other fees, and raise the profile of the project,” DeBoer said. The community also becomes involved via Second Saturday volunteer workdays, in which volunteers work at specific nature preserves around West Michigan. The conservancy estimates about 140 volunteers give their time each year. The June 8 Second Saturday event takes place at B.D. White Nature Preserve in Lowell. The second way, which covers the majority of the organization’s work, is through conservation easements. The Land Conservancy works with private landowners to permanently protect their land and its natural resources. The conservancy owns the easements, an affirmative right to protect the land from development, making yearly visits to make sure easement guidelines are being followed. The land remains in private ownership. The Land Conservancy recently worked with John Silander and his family to create JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 75
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
Lupine blooms in the oak savanna.
ART AND LAND CONSERVATION Preserved! explores the intersection between art and land conservation with up to 15 artists creating pieces inspired by the Land Conservancy’s preserves and protected areas. Artists create en plein air so the public can interact with them and their art. The program culminates in two gallery exhibitions with art for sale to help raise funds for the Land Conservancy. Susan Rose, a fine artist who contributes work, helped birth the Preserved! initiative. Rose, who lived in West Michigan for years and now lives in the state of Wyoming, returns to the area to participate and to help set up the shows. “We use Land Conservancy properties as catalysts to raise awareness about conservation and the properties,” she said. “We are able to record the beauty of those spaces.”
Muskegon from Oct. 3-6 and at the LaFontsee Gallery in Grand Rapids from Oct. 17-19. Visit naturenearby.org for times and ticket information.
Preserved! artist at the Maus Family Nature Preserve.
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the Rednalis conservation easement on 200 acres around Hamlin Lake near Ludington. The land has been in Silander’s family for generations. “Preserving the natural areas had been an interest of my father and grandfather, and the family decided this was an objective for the land here,” said Silander, who lives in Connecticut and visits Hamlin Lake yearly. “Our ultimate goal was to preserve the land in perpetuity, and Pete and the Land Conservancy has shown an unbelievable amount of help and interest. We’d all grown up here since we were children and have seen the land remain pretty much intact with a substantial amount of lakeshore, streams and wetlands, upland forest, and rich diversity of species and habitat types.” Conservation easements offer local and federal tax advantages to landowners as property values drop when potential development is out of the picture. The Land Conservancy also can help pay legal fees for landowners who want their land to go into easement.
The third way to protect land is to create nature preserves. The conservancy has 16 preserves it owns and manages, which includes restoration, trail maintenance and signage, and building boardwalks. The Land Conservancy purchases these areas outright with funds from donations or through grants and loans, or the land is gifted to them. Engel said he dreams of a Land Conservancy “with the ability to take advantage of every opportunity to protect more land here in West Michigan, and to ensure that regardless of what happens with our changing climate, we have a strategy in place to protect our land and water for generations to come.” Accomplishing that goal, he said, will take more time, capacity and continued engagement with communities and individuals. “We can lay down more asphalt, build more buildings and use up our finite natural resources,” Engel said. “Or together, we can ask what’s really important and help people see the value in protecting natural lands forever.” GR
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LAND CONSERVANCY OF WEST MICHIGAN
Preserved! artwork will be on display at the Frauenthal Center in
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On June 3, the Kids First Open, a fundraiser for D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s, will be held at Blythefield Country Club, where golfers can play the
LPGA classic course a week before the pros. Over the last 20 years, the event has raised $1,664,035 to help abused and neglected children and struggling families. Whether a kid is living in their home, foster care, with their adoptive family or in residential treatment, D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s exists to restore their happiness, dignity and belief that their dreams aren’t out of reach. D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s would like to thank its title sponsor, Quantum, and the generous community for its support. For a full list of sponsors visit dabsj.org/events and to learn more about this event, visit dabsj.org/event/kids-first-open-2018.
In its seventh year, the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine Gran Fondo is setting the pace to make an even bigger impact in the fight against skin cancer. This nationally
recognized event attracts cyclists to ride its scenic West Michigan courses. More than $1 million has been raised to fund groundbreaking discoveries and give hope to the 70,000 Americans expected to be diagnosed with skin cancer each year. Join the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine on June 22 for the ride against skin cancer! NEW IN 2019: Expo with 30+ vendor booths, merchandise, demos and entertainment. Noncompetitive ride for cyclists of all skill levels, including 25-, 40and 80-mile courses and the YMCA Family Ride (approximately 12 miles). Scenic routes from downtown Grand Rapids to the Lake Michigan shoreline with gourmet food stops, Finish Line Festival with music, craft brews and a grand feast, SAG wagon, timed results, finishing results, secure bike parking and exclusive rewards for fundraising to fight skin cancer. Learn more about the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and all event details at msugranfondo.com.
Join Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities for Día del Sol, or "Day of the Sun," on Thursday, June 13 at The
Goei Center as it celebrates the students and families, life and learning, community and culture in the Roosevelt Park and Black Hills neighborhoods. From 5:30-8 p.m., guests will enjoy a night of fantastic food catered by San Chez, a cash bar, activities, music and presentations by GAAH students. Business or summer casual attire is kindly encouraged. Enter the drawing to win prizes or shop in the marketplace. Tickets are $50 and complimentary valet parking is available. All proceeds benefit GAAH's dynamic arts and education programs at the Cook Arts Center and the Cook Library Center. Please visit facebook.com/gaahgr to learn more or email rjara@gaah.org for tickets.
WANT TO SEE YOUR CHARITY/ NON-PROFIT EVENT HERE? SEND YOUR EVENT DETAILS TO COMMUNITY@GRMAG.COM FOR CONSIDERATION!
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
june events A FEW GREAT THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH!
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MUSIC JUNE 6, 9 MEIJER GARDENS SUMMER CONCERTS: National acts perform in outdoor amphitheater. June 6, Nahko and Medicine for the People. June 9, Rodrigo y Gabriela. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijergardens.org. SPECIAL EVENTS JUNE 8 – 9 HOMECOMING OF THE THREE FIRES TRADITIONAL POW WOW: 40th annual event features music, dance, crafts and food. 1-9 p.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NW. Free. experiencegr.com.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar!
78 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
THROUGH JUNE 15 SPRING PARADE OF HOMES:
Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids presents its showcase of home construction, design and interiors. paradeofhomes.mygrhome.com. See Special Events
SPORTS JUNE 22 MSU GRAN FONDO: Seventh annual noncompetitive cycling event with 12-, 25-, 40- or 80-mile routes from downtown GR to Lake Michigan. Post-ride Finish Line Festival includes music, craft beer, food. Benefits MSU skin cancer research. 8 a.m. 20 Monroe Ave. NW. $70-$80. msugranfondo.com.
THROUGH JUNE 23 “NEWSIES”: Grand Rapids Civic
Theatre presents the story of a newspaper strike in the late 1800s that affects newsboys. $22-$39 adults, $20 students and children. grct.org. See Stage & Film
JUNE 7 - FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY HOP: Participating gal-
leries, shops and eateries stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. avenueforthearts.com. See Special Events
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY TONY YORKUS (TOP); RONALD YOB (LEFT); MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMAN MEDICINE (RIGHT)
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To list your event send calendar information to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o
Calendar Editor, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, email caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the first of the month.
SPECIAL EVENTS Through June 15 - Spring Parade of Homes: Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids presents its showcase of home construction, design and interiors. 1-8 p.m. Fri.Sat., 5-8 p.m. Wed. $12. paradeofhomes. mygrhome.com. Through Sept. 19 - Relax at Rosa: Outdoor lunchbreaks with live bands and food trucks. Noon-1:30 p.m. every Thu. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. downtowngr.org. Through Sept. 29 - Fulton Street Artisans Market: Weekly market with local handmade art. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sun. 1145 E. Fulton St. grartmarket.com. Through Oct. 4 - Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park: Grand Rapids Food Truck Association hosts food trucks every Fri. 5-9 p.m. 2001 Monroe Ave. NE. facebook.com/ grfoodtrucks. June 1 - Around the World: Van Andel Institute’s ninth annual fundraiser with global wines, craft beers and hors d’oeuvres. 6-10 p.m. Crescent Park, Bostwick Ave. NE. $75. vai.org/event/atw-19. June 1 - Spring Lake Wooden and Classic Boat Show: Midwest boats on display and other activities. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mill Point Park, 612 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake. Free. facebook. com/slwoodenboatshow.
June 7 - Jump Into Summer: Saugatuck Center for the Arts hosts indie-folk band The Accidentals, plus food trucks, craft drinks, activities, art sale. 5-9 p.m. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. Free. sc4a.org. June 7 - Remember When Car Show/ Cruise: Vintage Car Club of Holland features antiques, classics, customs, muscle, street rods, motorcycles/scooters and tractors. 5 p.m. show, 8 p.m. cruise. 124 E. Eighth St., Holland. holland.org/events/rememberwhen-cruise-car-show. June 7 - Taste of White Lake: Eleventh annual street fair with area cuisine, Michigan wine and beer, live music, raffle; benefits Howmet Playhouse. 5-8 p.m. Goodrich Park, Thompson Street, Whitehall. tasteofwhitelake.com. June 7-8 - KIA Art Fair: Kalamazoo Institute of Arts’ 68th annual art fair with 200 artists, entertainment, beer garden, kids activities. 3-8 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. Bronson Park, 200 S. Rose St., Kalamazoo. kiarts.org. June 7-9 - Festival of the Arts: Downtown Grand Rapids’ 50th annual arts celebration with music and dance performances, art exhibits, entertainment, food, kids activities. Everything is free except food. festivalgr.org. June 7-9 - JAFAX: Japanese Animation, Film and Art eXpo presents panels, guests, video games, cosplay. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave. NW, and DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $25-$90. jafax.org.
June 2-9 - Saugatuck Restaurant Week: Participating restaurants in Saugatuck offer specially coursed meals at $10, $15 and $30 price points. saugatuck.com/event/restau rant-week.
June 8 - Art on Center: Galleries along Center Street in downtown Douglas feature artist receptions and live music. 6-8 p.m. Free. saugatuck.com/event/art-on-center.
June 7 - First Friday Gallery Hop: Participating galleries, shops and eateries stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. South Division Avenue between Fulton and Cherry streets. avenueforthearts.com.
June 8 - Eastern & Alger PopUp Market: Alger Heights hosts monthly market with local artisans and vintage dealers. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Eastern Ave. and Alger St. SE. facebook. com/easternalgerpopupmarket.
JUNE 8 - ROCK THE BLOCK: Street fair sponsored by
LINC UP includes entertainment, food, vendors. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Madison Avenue from Hall Street to Adams Street. lincup.org/rock-the-block. See Special Events
JUNE 13 - NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: Pop group per-
forms The MixTape Tour. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $39 and up. vanandelarena.com. See Music
June 8 - Hatter Days Party: Street party with live music and craft beers. Begins 4 p.m. College Avenue between Eighth and Ninth streets, Holland. holland.org/events/hatterdays-party. June 8 - MMA 107th Anniversary Gala: Muskegon Museum of Art’s fundraiser includes dinner, auctions and raffle. 5:30 p.m. 296 W. Webster Ave. muskegonartmuseum.org. June 8 - Rock the Block: Street fair sponsored by LINC UP includes entertainment, food, vendors. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Madison Avenue from Hall Street to Adams Street. lincup.org/ rock-the-block. June 8-9 - Feast of the Strawberry Moon: 19th annual historical reenactment of 18thcentury life with period costumes, military skirmishes, games, entertainment, food. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Harbor Island, Grand Haven. $5, $15 family. feastofthe strawberrymoon.com. June 8-9 - Homecoming of the Three Fires Traditional Pow Wow: 40th annual event features music, dance, crafts and food. 1-9 p.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NW. Free. experiencegr.com. June 9-Aug. 18 - Summer of Brunch Food Truck Rally: Food trucks at the Fulton Street Artisans Market every Sunday. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1145 E. Fulton St. facebook.com/grfoodtrucks. June 10-15 - Spring Lake Heritage Fest: Entertainment, craft fair, dog walk, family fun night, 5K run/walk, car show, cornhole tournament. slheritagefestival.com. June 11 - Bissell Blocktail Party: Fourteenth annual benefit for West Michigan animal welfare organizations includes music, appetizers, cocktails, silent auction. Dogs welcome. 6-9 p.m. East Grand Rapids High School Track and Field Center, 2211 Lake Drive SE, East Grand Rapids. $120, $50 students. bissellblocktailparty.com. June 11-15 - Miss Michigan Scholarship Pageant: More than 30 contestants compete for title. 7 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. $35. missmichigan.org. June 13-16 - Rockford Start of Summer Celebration: Free activities and entertainment including parade (11 a.m. Sat.), carnival, arts
JUNE 22 - REEDS LAKE RUN: 5K run/walk, 10K run, 5K dog/
owner run/walk, 10K run, 10K wheelchair/handcycle races, kids races. 8 a.m. East Grand Rapids Middle School. eastgr.org/reedslakerun. See Sports
JUNE 24 - SHAWN MENDES: Pop-rock singer; also
special guest Alessia Cara. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $27 and up. vanandelarena.com. See Music
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 79
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Museums & attractions
1/ Melanie Daniel’s colorful oil paintings are at GRAM.
COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Special
2/ MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Special
students, kids 16 and under free. 296 W.
exhibitions: Through Sept. 8, “Melanie
exhibitions: On display through Aug. 18 are
Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570,
Daniel: Only Four Degrees” includes large-
large-scale LEGO brick sculptures by The
muskegonartmuseum.org.
scale paintings and works on paper that
Collective. “Replay: The Exhibition” includes
imagine a world at the brink of collapse due to
Disney’s Alice, Goofy, a Rubik’s Cube and
humans’ disregard for its well-being. Through
an oversized ice cream cone. Through
Aug. 11, “Self, Symbol, Surrogate: Artist
Sept. 1, “Lights, Camera, Rock ‘n Roll: The
Portraits from GRAM’s Collection.” Through
Music Photography of Paul Jendrasiak”
Sept. 1, “Maya Lin: Flow.” Drop-in Studio: 1-4
and “Guitar with Wings.” Through Sept. 8,
p.m. every Sat. Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8
“Rising Voices: The Bennett Prize for Women
seniors/students, $6 kids 6-17, kids 5 and
Figurative Realists.” Special events: June
under free; free admission 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.
14, Laurence Juber in Concert. See MMA
and 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center NW, 831-
107th Anniversary Gala in Special Events.
1000, artmuseumgr.org.
Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 college
Blandford Nature Center: Special events: June 7, Free First Friday and Summer Songwriting. June 15, Tai Chi. June 22, Cyanotype. June 28, Riverside Raconteurs Storytelling Bonfires. Permanent attractions: 143 acres of trails, heritage buildings, farm. Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center open Mon.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnaturecenter.org. Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park: Eighty-acre park with giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, alligators, kangaroos, lemurs, prairie dogs, ostriches and antelopes. Plus, safari rides and opportunities to feed animals. Open daily. $14 age 12 and up, $12 seniors, $10 kids 3-11, kids under 2 free. 8313 Pratt Lake Ave. SE, Alto, 868-6711, boulderridgewap.com. Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920sera railway with EnterTRAINment Excursions. 1:30 p.m. June 1, 8 and 15; 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. June 22 and 29. $14 adults, $13 seniors, $12 kids 2-12. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville, 997-7000, coopersville andmarne.org. Coopersville Farm Museum: Museum honoring farming and rural life. Special events: June 1, Family Day. June 4 and 18, Acoustic Jam Night. June 22, Comedy Show and Fundraiser. June 29, Kids, Crafts & Critters. Permanent attractions: Tractors and other farming equipment; also Eclipse windmill. 80 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Open Tue., Thu., Sat. $4 adults, $2 kids 4-12, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 9978555, coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Deer Tracks Junction: Open daily. General admission: $10, kids 2 and under free; safari tours and bottle feedings extra. 7850 14 Mile Road, Cedar Springs, 863-3337, deertracksjunction.com. DeGraaf Nature Center: Eighteen-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Knee-High Naturalist classes for kids 3-5. Center open Tue.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Free. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, 3551057, degraaf.org. Downtown Market: Special events: June 14, Cars and Coffee Grand Rapids. See Made in MI Pop-Up Marketplace in Special Events. 435 Ionia Ave. SW, 805-5308, downtownmarketgr.com. Felt Mansion & Gardens: Summer home of millionaire inventor Dorr E. Felt features 1920s architecture. Self-guided tours 1-5 p.m. Sun.-Wed. $15 adults, $12 seniors (free on Mon.) and students, kids 12 and under free. Special events: See Thursdays at the Felt in Music. 6597 138th St., Holland, 335-3050, feltmansion.org. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Special exhibitions: Through Aug. 25, “A National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Legacy.” Special events: June 1-2, Iris Show. June 15-16, Rose Show. June 15, Japanese Tea Ceremony in the Teahouse. June 16, Inside the Japanese Teahouse. See Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts in Music and Charcoal Drawing with Anna Greidanus in Lectures
aquarium, petting zoo and gift shop. Special events: On June 27, Rock, Roar and Pour includes live music, craft beer and animal demonstrations from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $25. June 8, Princess Day at the Zoo and World Oceans Day. June 22, Superhero Day. See RendeZoo in Special Events. Open daily. $13 adults, $10 seniors and kids 2-12, kids under 2 free. 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org.
& Workshops. Permanent attractions: Modern and contemporary 30-acre sculpture collection, Japanese garden, tropical conservatory, children’s garden, nature trails and boardwalk, café, gift shop. Open daily. $14.50 adults, $11 seniors and students, $7 kids 5-13, $4 kids 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum: Special exhibitions: Through Sept. 2, “Extraordinary Circumstances: The Presidency of Gerald R. Ford.” Permanent exhibitions: Highlights from Mr. and Mrs. Ford’s lives, plus featured online exhibits. Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $6 college students, $4 ages 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Permanent activities: Think Tank, Kidstruction Zone, Little GR, Bubbles!, Wee Discover, musical instruments and more. Toddler Time 10 a.m.-noon Tue. Family Night 5-8 p.m. Thu. ($1.75). Closed Mon. $9, $8 seniors, kids under 1 free. 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org. Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Through Sept. 8, “TOYS!” Permanent exhibitions: Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers: The People of This Place; West Michigan Habitats; Grand Fish, Grand River; and Be Curious. Also, restored 1928 Spillman carousel. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 kids 3-17. 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org. Holland Museum: Special events: June 6, Lecture: Local Dutch Barns. June 11, Museum on the Move: Lost Holland Walk. June 18, STEM Workshop: Barn Building Hour. June 21, Museum on the Move: Fire Walk. June 25, Museum on the Move: Local Ladies Walk. June
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MELANIE DANIEL (RIGHT); REPLAY (LEFT)
2/ LEGO Alice is at the Muskegon Museum of Art.
3/ JOHN BALL ZOO: More than 2,000 animals representing 230 species, plus
27, Lecture: Michigan’s Heritage Barns Photographs with Mary Keithan. June 29, Old-Fashioned Ice-Cream Social. Special exhibitions: Through June 30, “Michigan’s Heritage Barns: An Artist’s Perspective” by Mary Keithan. Permanent exhibitions: Local history and Dutch galleries with artwork from the Netherlands from the 1600s-1900s. Also, Spark!Lab. Open Wed.Sun. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. 31 W. 10th St., 796-3329, hollandmuseum. org. Also, Cappon House: 228 W. Ninth St. Settlers House: 190 W. Ninth St. The Armory: 16 W. Ninth St. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: Special exhibitions: Through June 16, “Rewards of Wisdom: Contemporary Chinese Ink Painting.” Through Aug. 25, West Michigan Area Show. June 8-Aug. 18, “Orna BenAmi: An Entire Life in a Package.” June 15-Aug. 25, “Esprit: Exploring Wit and Beauty in French Prints.” Special events: See KIA Art Fair in Special Events. Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID; members and kids 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org.
3/ Rock, Roar
and Pour at John Ball Zoo.
Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-4 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour before close). Free. 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermay house.steelcase.com. Nelis’ Dutch Village: Special events: June 8-9, Knights of the Realm. June 22, Kids Day. June 29, Pillage the Village: A Pirate Fest. Open daily. $13 adults, $12 seniors, $11 kids 3-15. 12350 James St., Holland, 396-1475, dutchvillage.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JOHN BALL ZOO
Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Shows use Digistar production and surround sound. This month: “Ice Worlds,” “Under Starlit Skies,” “The Little Star that Could,” “From Earth to the Universe,” “Space School” and “The Queen Light Show: From Mercury with Love.” $5, $4 with admission to the museum, members free. Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org/planetarium. TreeRunner Adventure Park: Self-guided high-wire forest adventure includes ziplines, Tarzan swings, rope bridges and swinging logs, plus Junior Park for kids 4-7. Training included with admission. Special events: June 14, Fairytale Glow Night. Open Fri.-Sun. $39 adults, $35 kids 7-13, $20 kids 4-7. 2121 Celebration Drive NE, 226-3993, treerunnergrandrapids.com. Veen Observatory: Special events: June 8 and 29, Public Night from 9:30 p.m.-midnight ($3 adults, $2 kids 5-17 and under, kids under 5 free). June 29, Telescope Clinic. All events subject to weather; call 897-7065 for updates. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE, Lowell. graaa.org.
and crafts, and fireworks (dusk Sat.) in downtown Rockford. rockfordmichamber.com.
Noon-5 p.m. Rosewood Park, 1899 Rosewood St., Jenison. $1. saturdayslipnslide.com.
June 13-Aug. 29 - Holland Street Performers: Musicians, acrobats, face painters, balloon artists, jugglers, magicians perform along Eighth Street in Holland. 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Thu. Free. downtownholland.com.
June 15-16 - White Lake Arts and Crafts Fair: Juried event includes music, food, kids activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Goodrich Park, 100 N. Lake St., Whitehall. whitelake.org.
June 13, 20, 27 - Maranda’s Park Parties: WOTV4’s Maranda hosts free family parties with activities, games, entertainment, food, prizes. June 13, Lamar Park, Wyoming. June 20, Smith Ryerson Park, Muskegon. June 27, Bronson Park, Kalamazoo. Noon-2 p.m.; free lunch for kids 18 and under starting at 11:30 a.m. wotv4women.com.
June 17-21 - Active Commute Week Challenge: Commuting competition for individuals and teams using alternate methods of getting to work (walking, biking, etc.). acwgr.org.
June 14 - RendeZoo: John Ball Zoo’s 30th annual fundraiser includes food, entertainment, animal encounters and silent auction. 7-10:30 p.m. 1300 W. Fulton St. $90, $185 VIP. jbzoo.org/rendezoo. June 14-15 - Taste of Muskegon: Annual celebration of local food, craft brews and family activities. 4-10 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat. Hackley Park, 350 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon. tasteofmuskegon.org. June 14-15 - West Michigan Chalk Art Festival: Artists use chalk to decorate the pavement, plus music, face painting and more. Noon-9 p.m. Fri., 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., judging/ winners announced 5 p.m. Sat. Tanger Outlets, 350 84th St. SW, Byron Center. wmcaf.com. June 14-16 - Asian-Pacific Festival: Third annual showcase of culture, food, art and music. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. Free. grasianfestival.com. June 14-16 - Big Bounce America: Activitythemed entertainment such as basketball hoops, inflatable obstacle race, giant slide, and inflatable forest, animals and vehicles. 11 a.m.-7:15 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-6:40 p.m. Sat. and Sun. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. $20 ages 16 and up, $17 ages 8-15, $15 ages 7 and younger. deltaplex.com/event/big-bounce-america. June 15 - Pride Festival: Grand Rapids Pride Center hosts 31st annual family-friendly festival. Noon-10 p.m. Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. NW. grpride.org/festival. June 15 - Reeds Lake Art Festival: Grand Valley Artists’ 54th annual juried show with more than 100 booths of fine arts and crafts. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wealthy Street between Lakeside Drive and Croswell Avenue, East Grand Rapids. grandvalleyartists.com/reedslake. June 15 - Saturday Slip-n-Slide: Ninth annual event with water slides, bounce houses, toddler waterpark, dunk tanks, foam pit, entertainment.
June 17-22 - Berlin Fair: Agriculture, crafts, carnival, live entertainment, amateur truck and tractor pulls. Berlin Fairgrounds, 2008 Berlin Fair Drive, Marne. berlinfair.org. June 19-Aug. 28 - Dancing on the Grand: Live music and dancing every Wed. 7-9 p.m. Waterfront Stadium, 101 North Harbor, Grand Haven. facebook.com/dancingonthegrand. June 20 - Let’s Go To Bat For Kids!: Catholic Charities West Michigan hosts baseball game between CCWM Padres and Media Giants to benefit family programs, plus kids games and local mascots. 5:30 p.m. gates open, 7 p.m. game. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. Free; $8 parking. ccwestmi.org. June 21-23 - Laugh Shore Comedy Festival: Comedy shows at multiple venues throughout Saugatuck area. $10. saugatuck.com. June 22 - Founders Fest: 12th annual beer and music festival; performers include Gov’t Mule, Toots and the Maytals, Macy Gray, The War and Treaty, FBC All-Stars and Lady Ace Boogie. Ages 21+. 3-11 p.m. 235 Grandville Ave. SW. $25-$40. foundersbrewing.com. June 22 - Grand River Water Festival: Tenth annual music festival with environmental speakers addressing water quality issues, plus Grand Dragon Boat Race. Noon-10 p.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NE. Free. grandriverwaterfestival.org. June 22 - Harry Potter in the Park Festival: Stage performances, owl presentations, transfiguration stations, Wizards and Wands Emporium and more. Noon-8 p.m. Rogers Park, 152 N. State St., Sparta. $20. potterinthepark.com. June 22 - Made in MI Pop-Up Marketplace: Downtown Market hosts monthly outdoor market with artisan gifts, local treats and goodies. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. madeinmipopup.com. June 27 - Rock, Roar and Pour: John Ball Zoo hosts live music, craft beer and animal demonstrations. 21+ only. 6-9 p.m. 1300 W. Fulton St. $25. jbzoo.org. JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 81
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
June 29-30 - Grand Haven Art Festival: Juried show with more than 150 artists, live music, kids activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.Sun. Washington Avenue, downtown Grand Haven. grandhavenchamber.org/grand-haven-art-festival. June 30 - Allegan Antiques Market: Monthly market features 400 exhibitors inside and outside, rain or shine. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive. $4. alleganantiques.com.
SPORTS June - Grand Rapids Football Club, Men’s Team: Minor league soccer team is part of National Premier Soccer League. Home games: June 9 vs. Detroit City FC. June 16 vs. FC Columbus. June 28 vs. Kalamazoo FC. June 30 vs. AFC Ann Arbor. Houseman Field, 901 Fountain St. NE. $10 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc.com. June - Grand Rapids Football Club, Women’s Team: United Women’s Soccer League. Home games: June 7 vs. Lansing United. June 8 vs. Detroit Sun FC. June 21 vs. Michigan Legends FC. Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. Also, June 30 vs. AFC Ann Arbor. Houseman Field, 901 Fountain St. NE. $8 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc.com. June - West Michigan Whitecaps: Professional minor league baseball team is a member of the Midwest League and Class-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. Home games: June 4-6 vs. Dayton Dragons. June 14-16 vs. South Bend Cubs. June 25-28 vs. Dayton Dragons. June 29-July 1 vs. Lake County Captains. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $9-$17. whitecapsbaseball.com.
June 1-2 - MJVBA State Championships: Michigan Junior Volleyball Association state tournament. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. mjvba.com. June 2 - Milan’s Miracle Run/Walk: Ninth annual 5K run, 3K walk, kids 1K run and mutt strut benefit pediatric cancer. 10 a.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. $10-$35. milansmiraclefund.org. June 3 - KidsFirst Golf Open: Fundraiser for D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. Shotgun starts at 7:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Blythefield Country Club, 5801 Northland Drive, Belmont. $250. dabsj. org/event/kids-first-open-2019. June 3 - Wedgwood Golf Classic: Wedgwood Christian Services’ 34th annual golf event raises funds for youth. Shotgun starts at 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Egypt Valley Country Club, 7333 Knapp St. SE. $125-$250. wedgwood.org. June 7 - One in Five Marathon Relay: Hope Network presents five-person team relay marathon, 6.2-mile race and 6.2-mile handcycle or wheelchair race. 5:30 p.m. walk, 8 p.m. marathon. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. $25. 1in5marathonrelay.com. June 8 - Brian Diemer Family of Races: Annual 5K run/walk, 5K handcycle or wheelchair race, Junior Jog, 1K Steeplechase; various bands play along race course. 9 a.m. Legacy Christian Middle School, 67 68th St. SW, Cutlerville. $8-$30. diemerrun.com. June 9 - Grand Rapids Triathlon: Ninth annual event includes sprint, Olympic and half-distance triathlons, plus aquabike events. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Ada Boat Launch, 843 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada. $40-$405. grandrapidstriathlon.com.
Through June 2 - Grand Haven Offshore Challenge: Annual fishing tournament with awards for categories including kids, women, amateur and professional. 301 N. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven. visitgrandhaven.com.
June 11-16 - Meijer LPGA Classic: Ladies Professional Golf Association event with 144 top female golfers. Blythefield Country Club, 5801 Northland Drive, Belmont. $10 daily, $25 weekly. meijerlpgaclassic.com.
Through June 2 - Yankee Springs Trail Run: Weekend of endurance races: 10K Fri.; halfmarathon, marathon, double-marathon and night half marathon Sat.; half-marathon Sun. Long Lake Outdoor Center, 10370 Gun Lake Road, Middleville. $35-$95. switchbackend urance.com/yankee-springs-trail-runs.
June 13 - CLC Network Golf Outing: Fourperson scramble with continental breakfast and prizes; benefits Christian Learning Center programs. 8 a.m. Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club, 11401 Newcosta Ave., Pierson. $150. clcnetwork.org/events/golf-outing-2019.
June 1 - 100 Grand Bicycle Tour: Rapid Wheelmen’s 46th annual ride with 17-, 35-, 65- and 105-mile options throughout Kent County and neighboring counties. 8 a.m. West Side Christian School, 955 Westend Ave. NW. $25-$30; $45-$55 family. rapid wheelmen.com.
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June 13-16 - Strides for Life Run: American Cancer Society’s annual noncompetitive 10-, 15-, 25-, and 26.2-mile daily runs. 7 a.m. Hope College, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $25. stridesforlife.com. June 14 - Stars & Stripes Dash: 5K run/ walk benefits VetSports; also, live music and patriotic outfit contest. 7 p.m. Millennium
Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. starsand stripesdash.com.
June 15 - K9K Race: Sixth annual 3K and 9K races to honor fallen GRPD Officer Andrew Elliott Rusticus benefits Thin Blue Line of Michigan and GRPD K9 Foundation. Dogs welcome. 9 a.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NW. $25-$45. k9krace.com. June 15 - Karner Blue Butterfly 5K: Michigan Nature Association 5K run/walk and kids 1-mile fun run. 1:30 p.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. $25 adults, $10 kids. michigannature.org. June 15 - Town Crier Races: 5K, 10K and half-marathon races benefit Saugatuck High School cross country and track teams. 8 a.m. Saugatuck High School, 401 Elizabeth. $25$65. towncrierrace.wixsite.com/towncrierrace. June 20-23 - State Games of Michigan: Multisport, Olympic-style event at multiple locations. Opening ceremony 7:30 p.m. June 21 at Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. stategames ofmichigan.com. June 21 - West Side Longest Day 5K Trail Run: Family-friendly run with music, food and beverages. Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW. $45, $5 kids. westside5k.com. June 22 - Mercy Health Seaway Run: 5K, 10K and half-marathon, plus community fun walk along Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. 7 a.m. All races begin at West Western Avenue/Fourth Street, Muskegon. $20-$75. seawayrun.com. June 22 - MSU Gran Fondo: Seventh annual noncompetitive cycling event with 12-, 25-, 40- or 80-mile routes from downtown GR to Lake Michigan. Post-ride Finish Line Festival includes music, craft beer, food. Benefits MSU skin cancer research. 8 a.m. 20 Monroe Ave. NW. $70-$80. msugranfondo.com. June 22 - Reeds Lake Run: 5K run/walk, 10K run, 5K dog/owner run/walk, 10K run, 10K wheelchair/handcycle races, kids races. 8 a.m. East Grand Rapids Middle School, 2425 Lake Drive, East Grand Rapids. $10-$40. eastgr.org/reedslakerun. June 22 - Take Steps Walk for Crohn’s and Colitis: Fundraising walk for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. 10 a.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. crohnscolit isfoundation.org. June 25 - Zeeland Zoom: Tenth annual 5K run/walk and kids fun run through downtown Zeeland. 6:30 p.m. kids, 7 p.m. 5K. Howard Miller Library and Community Center, 14 S.
Church St. $25 adults, $10 kids. runsignup. com/race/mi/zeeland/zeelandzoom5k.
Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $25 adults, $23 seniors, $8 students. jtgr.org.
June 28-30 - Soccer in the Sand: Nationwide beach soccer tournament (5v5) for U7-U18, adult and over 30 divisions. Grand Haven State Park, 1001 S. Harbor Drive. soccerin thesand.com.
June 14 - Movies in the Park (East Grand Rapids): Free family-friendly movie, “Beauty and the Beast,” starts at dusk. John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE, East Grand Rapids. eastgr.org.
STAGE & FILM
June 14-15 - “La Traviata”: Opera Grand Rapids presents a tragic love story in Italian with English subtitles. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $55 and up, $5 students. operagr.org.
Through June 15 - “Unnecessary Farce”: Circle Theatre presents a comedy about two cops, three crooks and eight doors. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $26-$30. circle theatre.org. Through June 23 - “Newsies”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents the story of a newspaper strike in the late 1800s that affects newsboys. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $22-$39 adults, $20 students and children. grct.org. June 1 - Frivolous Follies: Spring Spectacular: Vaudeville and variety show with comedy, burlesque, barbershop quartet; benefits local animal rescue groups. 18+. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $12. frivolousfollies.com. June 6 - Adam Sandler: Comedian and actor performs 100% Fresher tour. 8 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. vanandelarena.com. June 6-22 - “Around the World in 80 Days”: Master Arts Theatre presents the story of Londoner Phileas Fogg who attempts to circumnavigate the world to win a wager with friends. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $17 adults, $15 seniors and students, $8.50 kids 12 and under. masterarts.org. June 7-15 - “Murder for Two”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents a musical murder mystery with one actor investigating the crime and the other playing all the suspects while both play the piano. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $35$40 adults, $28-$32 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt. June 12-Aug. 7 - “Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are In a Play’”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents a musical based on the children’s book by Mo Willems about two friends’ adventures. 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $15. hope.edu/hsrt. June 13-23 - “Church & State”: Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids explores how religion and politics influence each other with a story about a Republican running for re-election. 8 p.m. Thu. and Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Spectrum
June 15 - “C.S. Lewis: The Screwtape Letters”: Fellowship for Performing Arts presents a play about spiritual warfare from a demon’s point of view. 4 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $39$89. devosperformancehall.com. June 21-July 14 - “In the Heights”: Mason Street Warehouse presents Lin Manuel Miranda’s musical about a vibrant community. 8 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 7 p.m. June 23, 2 p.m. June 30. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $38-$54. masonstreetwarehouse.org. June 21-Aug. 8 - “West Side Story”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the classic love story set in the gang-ridden streets of New York City. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $35-$40 adults, $28-$32 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt. June 23 - Bill Maher: Political comedian. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $47-$172. devosperformancehall.com. June 25-30 - “Anastasia”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents a musical adventure about a young woman in the 1920s who sets out to discover the mystery of her past. 7:30 p.m. Tue.-Thu., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $38-$73. broadwaygrand rapids.com. June 26-29 - “Rapunzel”: Magic Circle presents a family show based on the classic fairytale. 7 p.m. Wed., 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thu. and Fri., 1 p.m. Sat. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $12. circle theatre.org. June 28-July 29 - “Truth: The Testimonial of Sojourner Truth”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the story of a woman during the Civil War as she journeys from slave to freed woman to abolitionist, preacher and suffragette. 7:30 p.m. Howard Recital Hall, 221 Columbia Ave., Holland. $30 adults, $27 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope. edu/hsrt.
MUSIC June - Concerts in Rogers Park: Free familyfriendly concerts 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Wed. June 5, The Crane Wives. June 12, Superhero & Princess Night. June 19, Dueling Pianos. June 26, The Swing Brothers. Rogers Park, 152 N. State St., Sparta. spartachamber.com/ concerts-in-the-park-sparta-michigan. June - East Grand Rapids Summer Concerts: Free family-friendly music 7 p.m. every Mon. beginning June 10. John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE. eastgr.org. June - Holland Summer Concerts: Live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Fri. beginning June 14. Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive. Free. downtownholland.com. June - Jazz at Millennium Park Meadows: West Michigan Jazz Society hosts free jazz concerts 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Mon. June 10, East Kentwood High School Jazz Band. June 17, Scott Veenstra. June 24, Blue Monk. Grant Pavilion, Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave., Walker. wmichjazz.org. June - Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts: National acts perform in outdoor amphitheater. June 6, Nahko and Medicine for the People. June 9, Rodrigo y Gabriela. June 10, Buddy Guy and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. June 12, Lake Street Drive and The Wood Brothers. June 20, Big Head Todd and the Monsters + Toad the Wet Sprocket. June 21, Old Crow Medicine Show. June 24, Steve Miller Band + Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives. June 26, The Mighty O.A.R. Summer Tour 2019 with American Authors. June 27, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. June 30, RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijergardens.org. Through June 2 - GRCMB Spring Concert: Grand Rapids Choir of Men & Boys concert. 7 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Basilica of St. Adalbert, 654 Davis Ave. NW. grcmb.org. June 1 - Dre McGhee’s Nostalgia Concert: Rap concert with special guests King Quezzo and Virtuous. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $15-$25. grcmc.org/theatre. June 3, 10 - Circle Theatre Summer Concert Series: June 3, Edge of the Millennium: Top Hits of 1999. June 10, Imagine All the People: Songs That Inspire. 7 p.m. 1607 Robinson Road SE. $18. circletheatre.org. June 6-27 - Hudsonville Concerts on the Green: Live music, kids activities and food trucks. 7-8:30 p.m. every Thu. June 6, Great Scott Band. June 13, Macy Krew. June 20, Moon Shot. June 27, Echo 45. Veteran’s Park, 3275 Central Blvd., Hudsonville. Free. hud sonvilleevents.com. JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 83
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Comedy & nightclub venues
1/ lovelytheband
COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ THE INTERSECTION: Four-bar concert venue hosts nationally known bands. Indie pop group lovelytheband performs the “finding it hard to smile tour” at 8 p.m. June 27. All ages welcome. Tickets are $20-$25. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-8232, sectionlive.com. 2/ TIP TOP DELUXE BAR & GRILL: Live music acts and DJs, plus Comedy Tuesdays. Folk singer-songwriter Heather Styka performs at 7 p.m. June 9. 21+ only. Tickets are $5. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook. 3/ THE B.O.B.: The Big Old Building houses multiple entertainment options: live music Fri. and Sat. at Bobarino’s; DJs and dance floor at Eve on Fri. and Sat.; live music at House of Music and Entertainment (H.O.M.E.); stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins. On June 14, Silent Bark performs at 9 p.m. at Bobarino’s. The band performs covers from all genres, including rock, pop, blues, alt-country and funk. 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.
Founders Brewing Co.: Large taproom features live music Thu. and Sat., plus Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra on the first Sunday of each month. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 7762182, foundersbrewing.com.
The Pyramid Scheme: Heartside pub and live music venue. 68 Commerce Ave. SW, pyramidschemebar.com. River Rock at The Grand River Hotel: Live music Fri. and Sat. and jazz brunch Sun. 270 Ann St. NW, 3639001, thegrandriverhotel.com.
Grand Rapids Brewing Co.: Restaurant/taproom with live music Fri.-Sun. 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 458-7000, grbrewingcompany.com. Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/ bar with dance floor hosts DJs and live music Fri. and Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoods lounge.com. J. Gardella’s Tavern: Dance club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor with DJs. 11 Ionia Ave. NW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com. Mixology: Lobby lounge overlooking downtown GR and Grand River has live music Fri. and Sat. nights and live jazz brunch on Sun. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. NW, 242-1500, ilovethejw. com/dining/mixology.
2/ Heather Styka 20 Monroe Live: 2,500-seat venue hosts live music, entertainment and special events. 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, (844) 678-5483, 20monroelive.com. Back Forty Saloon: Line dancing and live country bands Fri. and Sat., DJs Thu. 48 W. Fulton St., 742-4040, thebackfortysaloon.com. Billy’s Lounge: Eastown bar and music venue hosts live music with emphasis on blues. 1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com. 84 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nationally acclaimed comedians perform Thu.-Sat. Through June 1, Carmen Lynch. June 6-8, Pete Lee. June 1315, Mike Paramore. June 20-22, Paul Strickland. June 27-29, Vince Carone. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Thu.; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. Tickets are $5$15. B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 3562000, thebob.com/drgrinscomedy. Flanagan’s: Irish pub with live music from local bands on Fri. and Sat.; also live Irish music on Thu. and Sun.
Mojo’s: DJs and dance floor on second level Wed., Fri. and Sat., with dueling pianos show on main floor Wed.-Sat. nights. 180 Monroe Ave. NW, 776-9000, mojospianobar.com. Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 4510775, facebook.com/mulliganspubgr. One Trick Pony: Grill and taproom hosts live music 8-11 p.m. Thu. and Sat. Reservations accepted. 136 E. Fulton St., 235-7669, onetrick.biz.
3/ Silent Bark Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri., featuring DJs and live acts. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, facebook.com/rockysbarandgrill. Rumors Nightclub: Gay bar and dance club. Drag shows every Sunday night. 69 S. Division Ave., 4548720, rumorsnightclub.net. Stella’s Lounge: Drink features and live DJs every Fri. and Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 742-4444, stellas gr.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LOVELYTHEBAND (TOP); SUE BIBEAU (LEFT); SILENT BARK(CENTER)
139 Pearl St. NW, 980-0705, flan agansgr.com.
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
June 7 - Slavic Fire: West Michigan Symphony performs with pianist Natasha Paremski. 7:30 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $22.75-$58.75, $8.75 students. westmichigansymphony.com.
June 19, 26 - Music at the Pavilion: Grandville-Jenison Chamber hosts Wed. concerts with food vendors and kids activities. June 19, JMM Jazz. June 26, Brian Randall Band. 6-8 p.m. Wedgewood Park, 3301 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville. bit.ly/MusicPavilion.
Greg LaRock and “Watercolor Batik Workshop” by Carole Nielsen. June 13-15, “Exploring Drawing and Painting from the Classic to the Contemporary” by Robert Liberace. June 19-22, “Expanding the Dynamic Range of Your Paintings” by Howard Friedland and “Figures ‘Doing’ and Painting Motion and Telling a Story” by Susan Blackwood. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org.
June 8 - B-93 Birthday Bash: Country music station’s outdoor music bash with headliners Brantley Gilbert, Granger Smith, Hardy and Jordan Davis. 4 p.m. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $45-$109. b93.com.
June 19-Aug. 21 - Saugatuck Music in the Park: Free family-friendly music in Saugatuck 7-9 p.m. every Wed. Wicks Park Gazebo, Water Street. saugatuck.com.
June 8 - The Block Concerts: Classical pianist Natasha Paremski. 7:30 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $25 and up, $10 students. theblockwestmichigan.org.
June 20-Aug. 8 - Kentwood Summer Concert Series: Free Thu. night concerts; also food trucks. June 20, That Beatles Thing. June 27, Blue Soul Express. 7-8:30 p.m. On the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE. kentwood.us.
June - Grand Rapids Public Libraries: Adults: Changing the Narrative, Reginald Pettibone’s Native American Dance and Cultural Program, Adult Beginner Ballet, book clubs, computer/ technology instruction. Kids: Food in Space, Exotic Zoo, The Art of Book Folding, Summer Reading Challenge, story times. grpl.org.
June 20-Aug. 29 - Music at the Point: Spring Lake Heritage Festival hosts free concerts every Thu. 7-8:30 p.m. Mill Point Park, 612 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake. slheritagefestival.com.
June - Kent District Libraries: Adults: Apple Users Group, book sales, book discussions, computer/technology instruction. Kids: KDL Lab Experience, Pokémon Club, story times. kdl.org.
June 21 - Beers at the Bridge: Fifth annual free summer concert series. 6-9 p.m. Ada Covered Bridge/Leonard Field, 7490 Thornapple River Drive SE. adamichigan.org.
June - Summer Swing Dancing: 7-9:30 p.m. every Tue. in downtown Grand Rapids. First 30 minutes is instruction. June 4 and 18, Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. June 11 and 25, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. grandrapidsoriginalswingsociety.com.
June 8 - Metropolitan Choir of Praise: Gospel music concert. 7 p.m. 12253 Lakeshore Drive, Grand Haven. Free-will offering. metro politanchoir.org. June 9 - Sacred Sounds of St. Mark’s: A Service of Evensong by St. Mark’s Choir. 5 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal, 134 N. Division Ave. Free. stmarksgr.org. June 11-Aug. 13 - Rogue River Blues: Rockford’s Tue. evening concerts showcase jazz, blues and folk. 7-9 p.m. Garden Club Park along Rogue River. Free. rockfordmichamber.com. June 13 - New Kids on the Block: Pop group performs The MixTape Tour. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $39 and up. vanandelarena.com. June 13 - Walker Standale Summer Concert Series: Free family-friendly entertainment. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Walker Community Park, 700 Cummings Ave. NW. walker.city. June 13-July 25 - Thursdays at the Felt: Free concerts 7 p.m. every Thu. June 13, Delilah DeWylde. June 20, TYPO. June 27, Madcat Midnight Blues Journey. Carriage House Stage, Felt Estate, 6597 138th St., Holland. feltmansion.org. June 13-Aug. 22 - Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts: Free concerts 7 p.m. every Thu. June 13, Alan Turner. June 20, Blue Soul Express. June 27, Deep Greens & Blues. Riverwalk Plaza along Flat River, downtown Lowell. lowellartsmi.org. June 15 - Pentatonix: A cappella group performs cover versions of modern pop hits; also Rachel Platten. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $29-$129. vanandelarena.com. June 18 - Josh Groban: American singer performs Bridges Tour. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $43 and up. van andelarena.com.
June 24 - Shawn Mendes: Pop-rock singer; also special guest Alessia Cara. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $27 and up. vanandelarena.com. June 25 - Hillsong United: Australian worship band performs The People Tour. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $24$74. vanandelarena.com. June 26-29 - Big Ticket Festival: Christian music festival with performers on six stages, extreme sports, Kids Zone, Ninja Warrior Camp, speakers, ministry and prayer tents, camping. Otsego County Fairgrounds, Gaylord. bigticketfestival.com. June 28-29 - JuneGrass: West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association presents 24th annual event with local and regional bluegrass groups, workshops, band scramble, open mic. 6-10 p.m. Fri., noon-10 p.m. Sat. Kent County Fairgrounds, 225 S. Hudson St., Lowell. $15 Fri., $20 Sat., $35 both days. wmbma.org.
LECTURES & WORKSHOPS June - Downtown Market Cooking Classes: June 8, Pasta Workshop. June 9, Tiki Cocktails. June 13, Culinary Medicine PlantBased Cooking. June 22, Tapas de Barcelona. June 28, Cooking with Craft Beer. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. downtownmarketgr.com. June - FLPC Art Workshops: Through June 1, “Studio Landscape Painting From Photos: Choosing and Editing Images for Success” by
June 5 - West Michigan Symphony Lunch N’ Learn: Lunch and conversation about Slavic Fire concert. Noon. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. Free. theblockwest michigan.org. June 14 - Charcoal Drawing with Anna Greidanus: Outdoor art class. 3-5 p.m. Frederik Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free with admission. meijergardens.org. June 17-21 - Balletmore Summer Intensive: Includes ballet technique, pilates, pointework and healthy nutrition; with Connie Flachs of Grand Rapids Ballet. For ages 10 and up. 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 2335 Burton St. SE. $375. balletmore.com. June 18 - Dyslexia Seminar: Information from New Chapter Learning. 6:30 p.m. 4120 Chicago Drive SW, Suite 4, Grandville. Free; register at 534-1385. newchapterlearning.net. June 25-Aug. 1- Balletmore Summer Dance Season: Diverse class options include ballet, lyrical and pointe technique for all ages of kids to adults and include beginner and seasoned dancers. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Tue. and Thu. 2335 Burton St. SE. $375. balletmore.com. June 28 - First Friday Contra Dance: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts instruction and dancing. 7 p.m. 701 Fifth St. NW. $10 adults, $8 members, $5 students and seniors. sites. google.com/site/grfolkarts. JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 85
Katie Beidler and Wayne Bersano
out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES
Paola Mendivil and Mercedes Lopez-Duran
Zack Berends, Joanne Roehm and Erica Brikhold
Casey Verstrate, Ban Fales and Matt Bailey
Kevon Schwaiger, Amanda Allspach, Mark Thaler, Kaley Shaheen and Andy Knavs
Kenisha Harris and Ginger Feldman
Rosann Clair-Lamore and Kareem Scales
Veronica Quintino, Alejandra Meza and Daniela Rojas-Cortes
Jim Visser, Sabrina Minarik, Hanna Smith, Megan Zars, Allyssa Murphy, Jennifer McKinstry, Sydney Balsitis, Mehgan Bechtel and Katy Buck
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Kathy Page, Lauren Keough and Don Looman
86 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
Steven Giffel, Chloe Giffel, Zach Eick and Jarrod Jones
Allison Arnold, Christina Arnold and Jordoun Eatman
Kim Rodas and Mike Valdez
Emily Oldenkamp, Dan Johnson, Amanda Wurm and Janel Dewey
Individuals playing cornhole at this year’s LaughFest.
CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN: Kristine West, April Black, Dan Millard, Kathee Millard and Lauren Soloniewicz
snapshots
Dave Miller, Kendra Wineman, Dawn Fridsma and Michaelene McGinnis
GILDA’S LAUGHFEST held its kickoff party March 7 at Rosa Parks Circle. This year’s annual “festival of laughter” brought several local and national performers to the stage. Bowlers aimed for more than strikes at the Bowl for Kids’ Sake event March 8 at AMF Eastbrook Lanes, which raised money for D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s mentoring services. The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrated the accomplishments of its members with its annual gala March 26 at the JW Marriott. Six awards were handed out.
JUNE 2019 / GRMAG.COM 87
after thoughts
Q:a
“Showing people the power that art really has, to change moods, change minds and bring awareness.” KENDALL REDMON
88 GRMAG.COM \ JUNE 2019
KENDALL REDMON is not only known for his barista skills at Madcap Coffee but also for his creative talents as the coffee shop’s art curator. An artist himself, Redmon’s favorite part about being art curator for Madcap is being able to change up the exhibits every four to five weeks, giving him the opportunity to explore different creative styles. With a growing number of local artists, he usually selects pieces from nearby creatives or utilizes social media to discover new artists. From the art exhibits and playlist selection to his customer service and perfectly crafted cups of coffee, Redmon excels at creating a great atmosphere at Madcap, keeping customers coming back for more. What’s your favorite part of what you do? My favorite part about my job is always the people I get to interact with. I love all of my regulars and getting to know them and talk with them daily. I love the team of people that I get to work with. Although I think my favorite people to interact with are the ones who come in and are clearly new. Getting to break down what we do and why is always fun. What’s your favorite drink to make? My favorite drink to make by far is a mocha. The mix of espresso and chocolate is the perfect consistency for some bomb latte art. Tell us about your work as art curator. I love my position as art curator. I get the opportunity to set a vibe in the café for months at a time while highlighting really cool artists and displaying art to people that haven’t encountered something like that before. Where do you draw your inspiration? I get my inspiration from everything. Music, seasons, current events. But ultimately, my main draw as art curator for Madcap is being able to bring light to really cool art! Showing people the power that art really has, to change moods, change minds and bring awareness. I just want to show people how cool art really is.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Kendall Redmon sets the scene at Madcap Coffee.
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