Grand Rapids Magazine March 2020 by Grand Rapids Magazine

2020 DINING AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED PLUS ERICK PICARDO

FORTY PEARL

WERKMAN OUTFITTERS

RESTAURANT OF

2020 Restaurant of the Year: Sovengard

TH E

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Eat your way through the city with our top picks!

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contents MARCH 2020 VOLUME 57, ISSUE 3

FEATURES

46 A TASTE OF GR

EX P ER IE N C E GR A N D R A P IDS ' BE ST R ESTAU R A N TS . BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

The Hearth Oven Roasted Seafood Tower from Margaux is an impressive dish meant to be shared with a group of friends.

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

COVER TERI GENOVESE

contents / ma ch

every issue 8 77

editor's letter dining guide

gr gems

A guide to the area's best eateries

Discover St. Cecilia Music Center

people + places 12

city

guide

voice

Your guide to unique gifts around town Erick Picardo celebrates

diversity with his murals

profile

issues

Russell Peters; One Book, One City for Kids; José Olivarez

Angling on the Grand with Werkman Outfitters Striving for inclusion in Heartside

moments

Highlights from the Michigan International Auto Show and Soup's On

look + feel 28

home

gear

style

expert

wellness

Create a natural respite within your home Packing the perfect carry-on Denim designs Spring break tips

The truth about plant-based burgers

food + drink

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

table

create

cheers

must-try

Café de Miro is steeped in Kurdish culture. Pistachio-crusted salmon Forty Pearl offers "Leelanau casual" The Mitten hits a homerun with Peanuts and Crackerjack SALMON STACY FEYER-SALO HOME INTERIOR COURTESY VIA DESIGN HEARTSIDE KELLY SWEET

In honor of the traditional cuisine that only such a practical and enduring culture could create, Village Baker is offering select favourites of the Irish diaspora and their kindred spirits. The Irish Menu for the entire month of March includes Bangers & Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, Lamb Stew and Corned Beef & Cabbage. Our pastry makers will feature their amazing Guinness Chocolate Cake with a Bailey’s Irish Cream Frosting. Irish Soda Bread will be available all month long. The densely aromatic two pound loaves are rich in buttermilk and balanced with raisins and caraway. Always available are properly poured pints of Guinness, and from the always imaginative bartending staff our guests can enjoy an array of Irish libations that evoke the magic of the Emerald Isle. Ask about the (Strong Man) Ned Jack; an Irish Manhattan that celebrates an amazing fete of strength by the Baker’s Wife’s ancestor.

617 E Savidge • Spring Lake, Michigan • 616-935-7312

editor's letter / connect

BEHIND THE SCENES

Restaurants offer special ‘experience’ Grand Rapids Magazine has been selecting the city’s best restaurants for 40 years now, and it never gets easier. This year, the keyword was “experience.” Whether you are a millennial, Gen Xer or baby boomer, you want your night out to be special. And restaurants are catching on. This year, several of the city’s newest restaurants are focused on bringing you something unique, whether it’s a different type of cuisine, a specific theme or detailed interior design concept, or a style of cooking. Restaurants know that with social media and more foodies than ever, they have to attract diners with more than just the food. Restaurants need to be sustainable, socially conscious and offer something you can’t get anywhere else. Our picks for Restaurant of the Year and Best New Restaurant embody the new expectations for restaurants. Sovengard’s Scandinavian-inspired farm-to-table dining promises a consistently changing menu with everything from approachable comfort foods to creative culinary creations that will give the most seasoned foodie something new. The restaurant also offers a unique experience with HOST, a program that offers a daily-changing menu; a street-level dining room; the original garden level dining room; and its outdoor biergarten. Meanwhile, Margaux, at the JW Marriott, is bringing classic French techniques back to the kitchen and combining it with a modern plating style. This combination creates just the right mix of approachable food with a hint of luxury. The former six.one.six dining room was redesigned to bring more vibrancy into the room. This backdrop allows diners a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy classic French cuisine. Food isn’t the only focus of this month’s issue. We also spoke with local artist Erick Picardo about his flourishing career in Grand Rapids. Picardo has painted a dozen murals downtown over the course of his career. He reflects on how Grand Rapids has become more supportive of local artists and discusses what’s next. Outdoorsman Tom Werkman also shares his passion for fishing on the Grand River in this issue. Werkman and his son, Max, operate Werkman Outfitters, which takes groups out onto the area’s rivers for fishing excursions. Bon appétit!

Photographer Angela Ciccu shares an animated story between styled photos at Wealthy Studios.

Next issue

Grand Rapids is full of places, artwork, eateries and more that make it special. We take a look at some of our favorite "Hidden GR" features around the city.

On the radio

Join Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays, as she presents the Weekend City Guide with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.

On TV

Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey joins Shelley Irwin each month on WGVU’s “Community Connection” program to discuss what’s inside Grand Rapids Magazine.

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

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

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Jaye Beeler, author of "Tasting and Touring Michigan's Homegrown Food: A Culinary Roadtrip (Arbutus Press 2012), has worked in newsrooms from Arizona, Kentucky and Ohio to Michigan, where she was food editor and restaurant reviewer at The Grand Rapids Press for 10 years.

EDITOR TERRY JOHNSTON BEHIND THE SCENES KEAGAN COOP CONTRIBUTOR DANIEL PARKER OF THE MATTHEW AGENCY

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964

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

We asked our staff: What team do you have winning your March Madness bracket? I’ve got Michigan State going all the way this year. Sparty always goes into March strong! I’ve been a Spartan fan as long as I can remember, going to football games with my family when I was a kid. Now, I photograph for them, and pretty much all my friends cheer them on, too. Go green, go white! BRYAN ESLER

I've got the Baylor Bears! Aside from having cool colors, their team is deep, they play in a tested conference, they sport a top-10 defense and they are remarkably talented. Most importantly, they're hungry! They get no respect and just happen to be my personal favorite for 2020. ROBERT GORCZYCA

Editorial Editor: Tim Gortsema Managing Editor: Charlsie Dewey Copy Editor: Tom Mitsos Editorial Intern: Robin Gould Contributors: Jaye Beeler, Justin Dawes, Sam Easter, Pat Evans, Aricka Gannon, Marie Havenga, Austin Langlois, Julie Tabberer, Tricia van Zelst

I am super excited to see the University of Dayton Flyers in the running this year and playing so well. I have high hopes for my school this year! I’m ordering some new UD apparel, too.

Design Creative Director: Lindsay Emeigh Associate Art Director: Keagan Coop Graphic Designer: Robin Vargo Contributors: Michael Buck, Angela Ciccu, Bryan Esler, Stacy Feyer-Salo, Teri Genovese, James Heimer, Jacob Lewkow, Jennifer Pickering, Johnny Quirin, David Sparks, Kelly Sweet

CHARLSIE DEWEY

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Basketball... what? Bring on Major League Baseball Spring training! Go TIGERS! CRAIG R. RICH

Production Production Director: Jenine Rhoades Senior Production Artist: Robert Gorczyca Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel Advertising Coordinator: Robyn Bankston Advertising Designers: Melissa Flores-Loera, Christian Lott, Daniel Moen, Kendra Okamoto, Christopher Paluch, Marcus Thompson, Amanda Zwiren Web Digital Strategy Director: Nick Britsky Digital Operations Director: Gerald Blakeslee Web Project Lead: Matthew Cappo Web Project Assistants: Mariah Knott, Luanne Lim, Kevin Pell, Bart Woinski

Michigan, because I have to support my alma mater. GO BLUE! BART WOINSKI

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I went to the University of Michigan, so I always have U-M winning my bracket every year. With Juwan Howard as the new basketball coach, I think this year really could be our year. Go Blue!

School-Age Spring Break Fun!

ER, ROBERT M. MEISN

I am picking Michigan State this year because my grandson told me that “Baby Izzo” is going to be a superstar. KATHIE GORECKI

Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Media. Publishing offices: 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331 Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag.com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI and at additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2019 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St., SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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people+places THE GUIDE TO YOUR CITY

Erick Picardo stands in front of one of a dozen murals he's painted in Grand Rapids.

VOICE

Â» PLUS: ANGLING ON THE GR AND WHERE TO FIND UNIQUE GIFTS

Vibrant street art page 16

HEARTSIDE LOOKS TO F UTURE

P H OTO G R A P H BY J ACO B L E W KOW GR M AG .CO M

people + places / city

TOP EVENTS

Don't miss

We've rounded up our top events this month. COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

Ladysmith Black Mambazo Ladysmith Black Mambazo, a South African male choral group, performs at the Listening Room on March 12 and 13. The group has won five Grammy Awards. Studio Park, 123 Ionia Ave. SW. listeningroomgr.com.

Spectrum Health Irish Jig Looking for a healthier way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this month? Spectrum Health’s annual Irish Jig 5K run takes place March 21 at East Grand Rapids High School, 2211 Lake Drive SE. 8:30 a.m. $30-$35 adults, $20-$25 kids 12 and under. spectrumhealth. org/irishjig.

Passport to Adventure

“Up” with GR Symphony From March 20-22, GR Symphony performs the musical score to “Up” live as the movie plays on the big screen. 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18 and up, $5 students. grsymphony.org

“The Accomplices” Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids tells the true story of a small group of activists rescuing Jews from the Nazis. Performances take place through March 8 with showtimes at 8 p.m. Thu. and Sat., and 3 p.m. Sun. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $28 adults, $25 seniors, $10 students. jtgr.org.

Calvin University presents travel film series: “On Assignment Alaska” by Rich Reid on March 12. Reid is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker with a focus on wildlife, adventure and travel, as well as environmental advocacy. 7 p.m. Calvin University Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $6 adults, $3 students. calvin.edu/academics/ call/travel-film-series.

Visit grmag.com for a complete list of upcoming calendar events and to submit events.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

CHORAL GROUP COURTESY LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO MANAGEMENT UP MOVIE COURTESY DISNEY CONCERTS RUNNERS COURTESY KATY BATDORFF PHOTOGRAPY

Citywide ‘Citizen book Illegal’ club

Russell Peters is ready to make you laugh as part of this year's LaughFest lineup.

CITY

Get ready to laugh LaughFest welcomes several comics to town this month, including Russell Peters, who has been doing standup for three decades. He started out as a comic tackling racial and cultural stereotypes, but he said his act is more personal now. “I still talk about race and culture, but I also talk about where I'm at as a middle-aged guy with two young children and health issues,” he said. On the heels of his new Amazon Prime special, “Russell Peters: Deported,” which dropped in January, Peters said he is busy working on new material, which he’ll be

testing during his Grand Rapids visit. “You'll see new material and a lot of interaction with the audience. It'll be a fun, slightly unconstructed show.” But don’t expect politics or “woke” material in Peters’ set. “I'm not that guy. I'm just silly and having fun up there,” he said. He also doesn’t worry about his critics, some of whom have said his material is offensive. “I talk about the world from my point of view. There's no malice or meanness to it.” Peters performs at 7 p.m. March 8 at DeVos Performance Hall.

The citywide reading initiative One Book, One City for Kids announced its book selection for 2020 in January, and now the author of “Harbor Me,” is making a visit to Grand Rapids. Jacqueline Woodson will spend time on March 24 with Grand Rapids Public Schools fifth graders at DeVos Performance Hall discussing the book. Woodson is the author of more than two dozen award-winning books for young adults, middle graders and children. “Harbor Me” digs in deep to show how so many of America’s social issues affect today’s kids — and how they creatively learn to forge their way in spite of them. One Book, One City for Kids is a collaboration between the Grand Rapids Public Library and Grand Rapids Public Schools.

Writer José Olivarez visits GVSU’s downtown campus March 19, where he’ll read and sign books. Olivarez is the son of Mexican immigrants and the author of the book of poems “Citizen Illegal,” a finalist for the PEN/Jean Stein Award and a winner of the 2018 Chicago Review of Books Poetry Prize. The reading takes place from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at the University Club, 111 Lyon St. NW.

GR M AG .CO M

people + places / guide Find a fun gift for any occassion at the newly opened Oh, Hello Co.

GUIDE

Unique finds

A DIY workshop is ideal for groups who want to indulge their creative sides, such as birthday parties, date night or bachelorette parties.

Discover the perfect gift at one of these new shops. BY ROBIN GOULD

Looking for a unique gift? The newest shops in West Michigan will not disappoint. Grab a group of friends and get hands-on at Hammer & Stain West Michigan, 3901 Chicago Drive SW in Grandville. This DIY studio offers public and private woodpainting workshops. It is ideal for groups who want to indulge their creative sides, such as birthday parties, date night or bachelorette parties. Check out the website to register for themed public workshops. If painting is not for you, but you still need to find a unique and customized gift, Oh, Hello Co. is the perfect place to go. Located on 40 Monroe Center NW, this stationery and gift shop opened on Jan. 11. Owners Kayla and Alex Benda can help you create customized cards using the store’s on-site laser cutter. On the other side of town, Woodland Mall is home to a hidden local gem. Makarios Décor offers high-quality wood home accents. Find unique pieces in store and online. Whether you are looking for 14

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

a personalized wooden sign, wine barrel coffee tables, coat hooks or other home accents, Makarios can craft it all. Find Makarios in the JCPenney wing, at 3195 28th St. SE. Hosting a game night or looking for a fun housewarming gift? Blue Bridge Games, 954 E. Fulton St., is a must. You can shop or play over 150 board games stored in the library. A game library pass is only $5 per person, and it is valid for the entire day. Challenge your opponent during any of the various event days or slip away from a stressful work week with a chill round of Catan. The choice is yours. Maybe you have a youngster or a collector among your friends or family? If so, Buy Moore, 122 Courtland St. in Rockford, is the place to visit. The shop opened nearly a year ago on May 4 — also known as Star Wars Day — and consists of comics, apparel, toys and video games. You’ll find new and used items from Marvel, DC and The Walking Dead. The force is strong at Buy Moore.

Gather a group of friends for a DIY session at Hammer & Stain West Michigan.

GIFT IDEAS COURTESY ELBERT FOSTER GROUP PAINTING COURTESY HAMMER & STAIN WEST MICHIGAN

DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO HEAR GRACI HARKEMA SPEAK TO THIS YEAR’S 50 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN WEST MICHIGAN!

March 4, 2020

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. JW Marriott Grand Rapids grbj50women2020.eventbrite.com GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL is pleased to announce Graci Harkema as the keynote speaker of “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan” luncheon. GRACI HARKEMA is the owner of Graci LLC, a national diversity and inclusion speaking and consulting firm. She specializes in equity and inclusive leadership training within the Fortune 100, technology, and food and beverage industries. She is dedicated to driving inclusion and integrating diversity to ensure an open and safe work environment. Harkema helps attract and engage a diverse and inclusive workforce and workplace, and is committed to empowering employees to perform to their potential as their authentic selves. She partners with clients to help them achieve successful business results by maximizing talent and inclusion strategies. Harkema is passionate about serving the community by volunteering her time on LGBTQ nonprofit boards and committees, including Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s Our LGBT Fund. She also is an avid supporter of her parents’ faith-based nonprofit Heart for Central Africa in her hometown of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. PREMIER SPONSOR

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Erick Picardo has painted more than a dozen murals around downtown.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / M J AANRUCAHR Y2 022002 0

PHOTO CONTENT PHOTO CREDIT

people + places / voice

VOICE

‘Celebrating Diversity’ Artist Erick Picardo uses vibrant colors, hopeful imagery in his murals. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

// PHOTOS BY JACOB LEWKOW

If you wander around downtown Grand Rapids and its surrounding areas, you’re likely to encounter a mural by Erick Picardo. Picardo has painted a dozen murals in the downtown area, most recently completing the piece “Celebrating Diversity,” located in an alleyway off Commerce Avenue across from the United Way building. Picardo is a local artist who has been producing artwork since childhood. He moved to the United States from the Caribbean in 1999. He settled in West Michigan and has been living here for the past 19 years. His work stands out due to his use of vibrant colors and hopeful imagery. In January, Picardo had the opportunity to travel to Kenya, Africa, to work on a mural project. How many artworks of yours can be found in public spaces or local businesses in GR? There are about 12 public art pieces so far in Grand Rapids, including a monumental art mural in Metro Hospital Byron Center. I have been blessed because I got a lot of beautiful opportunities to work on a few commissioned art murals and some other art projects from local businesses and organizations. Tell us about the inspiration behind your work? I believe that inspiration comes from action, from experimentation, from the chaos and from a big fail, also. Nothing about a creative life exists on a straight line. I am a full-time artist, so I’ve got to make art anyway. I don’t look for permission; I simply create, whether anyone appreciates it or not. There is great joy showing in every painting. I am very tied into a lot of my pieces that I produce that carry part of my AfroLatino heritage because they allow me to share my identity to the world. There are a few other pieces of art that were part of the transition from my land to the United States — full of sentiments and frustration, I guess. Your style is very colorful and vibrant and seems happy or uplifting, do you agree? Yes. … I am still working hard to find my own voice and to build a unique and recognizable

Find Erick Picardo’s work here: 20 Monroe Live Ambassador Building downtown Grandville Avenue (2 pieces) Division Avenue (3 pieces) Wealthy Street Cesar E. Chavez Elementary School Plainfield Avenue Commerce Avenue Agave Mexican Grill in Traverse City (six indoor murals)

artistic style that is distinct. I am creating pieces of work that are going to invite someone to an open dialogue about what they are feeling both consciously and subconsciously. Is there any advice you’d give to your teenage self? Don’t doubt yourself, be patient, maintain commitment and critical engagement in your practice. Work hard and work even harder when you are not satisfied. My works serve as a reminder of all that humanity is capable of being, inspiring viewers to strive toward a better self and a better world. What are you working on for 2020? I’ve got a couple of major and important projects for 2020. Currently, I am working on my U.S. citizenship; that is going to drive me to a big celebration in October because I will celebrate 20 years in the United States. I’m also putting something together for my first art and poetry catalog. Another important project is to turn The Caribbean Coalition for the Arts & Culture into a formal nonprofit. I have been working with a group of people promoting Caribbean culture through many different events. I believe that I can offer more under a formal organization. Editor's note: This interview was edited for clarity and space.

Erick Picardo is a sought-after artist in Grand Rapids. He hopes to help others gain attention, as well.

GR M AG .CO M

Tom Werkman and his son, Max Werkman, operate Werkman Outfitters in West Michigan.

PROFILE

Angling on the Grand Tom Werkman shares his love of fishing with other anglers. BY SAM EASTER

// PHOTOS BY JACOB LEWKOW

Tom Werkman, the older half of Werkman Outfitters, keeps an office down a few stairs in the corner of his house with a desk, a few chairs and a gun cabinet. Moose antlers are poking out of the wall, and a Lab keeps walking by asking for attention. His wife, an avid mountain biker, has an indoor training contraption lying on the floor. Werkman has a day job at the bank, sure, but his heart is right here â&#x20AC;&#x201D; waiting to get outdoors again. 18

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

people + places / p ofile

Max Werkman credits his dad, Tom Werkman, with igniting his passion for the outdoors.

For the past several years, he has operated the outfitting group with his son, Max, 22, taking boatload after boatload of anglers out on the Grand River. To hear Werkman tell it, the river is a barely explored continent, waiting for West Michigan to realize what it has just outside its door — waiting to whisk anglers out of city life and into what feels like quiet, contemplative nowhere. It also sounds like a hell of a lot of fun. One time, one of his guests almost had a heart attack on the boat. “He goes, ‘Wait a minute,’” Werkman recalls, remembering the man freezing in place. “I said, ‘You okay?' And he goes — looks at his watch, pushes a button — ‘Yeah, I’m okay, I just activated my defibrillator.’ “I’m like, ‘Do you think you could have told me that before?’” Werkman recalled, laughing. “He says, ‘Well, I figure I die out here it’s your problem, not mine. Let’s keep fishing!’” The elder Werkman grew up in Holland and graduated from Hope College with a social work degree in 1992 — a far cry from the banking career he ultimately pursued, and even further from the share he has owned in a fishing lodge for some years now. Max said it’s that experience, the fishing lodge, that brought the two of them up close with guiding and even introduced Max to fishing in Alaska, where he splits his time during the summers — making guiding a year-round career. “I'm extremely lucky that I get to fish for a living,” Max said. “It's most people's dreams, and if it wasn't for my old man, I wouldn't be doing it." Since the two launched Werkman Outfitters, Tom and Max have taken scores of trips onto the Grand River and beyond,

“We won’t see anyone out on that river fishing. It’s actually, it’s kind of one of the best-kept secrets, is what it is.” Tom Werkman

bringing Michigan anglers up close with steelhead, smallmouth bass, pike and even muskie. Business is good and growing, Werkman said; their first full year was 26 guided trips — the next, 56. When he spoke to Grand Rapids Magazine in late December, Werkman Outfitters had guided 80 trips that year. One big reason for their success, Werkman said, is that Michiganders are starting to realize what the Grand Rapids outdoors scene has to offer. “(There’s) mountain biking, there’s skiing, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, hiking. You don’t have to travel very far to get out of the city. … We won’t see anyone out on that river fishing. It’s actually, it’s kind of one of the best-kept secrets, is what it is,” Werkman said. The Grand River itself also is set for big changes. The city of Grand Rapids already invested hundreds of millions of dollars in wastewater systems that drastically reduce sewage discharge into the river. What’s more, the Grand is readying for a multimilliondollar makeover in the coming years that will restore the natural flow of the river through the downtown area, removing five human-made dams. Werkman said he’s happy with the quality of fish that comes out of the river (Michigan environmental officials still advise moderation when eating wild-caught fish from around the state). The opportunity to fish the Grand makes for a strange juxtaposition. Werkman takes anglers all around the area, but they fish right near downtown, as well, by the city’s bustle and all the commuters who might not even realize what they’re missing. “I think people just don’t think about (the opportunity),” Werkman said of the river. “... You know, you can go there now, you can fish during the day, go to Founders at night, catch the Civic Theatre afterward. There’s so much to do that’s there. You’re right there. You can come in for your business meeting or your seminars or whatever, and have it in the morning, go out and fish in the afternoon, come back at night and eat and head out the next day.” But perhaps the best experience Werkman provides is the solitude — the chance to escape and, for a few hours, be in another world. He speaks reverently of the camaraderie that slowly builds over the course of an outing, from a perhaps-awkward meeting at the river’s edge to a real companionship on the boat. “There are things that will get said on a guide trip that would never get said in confessional,” Werkman said. “And so, you build these relationships with people over time, and that, I think, to me, is the most rewarding aspect of being a fishing guide.” GR M AG .CO M

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Daniel Drent doesn't want to see the city's Heartside neighborhood get left behind. He's working to help the neighborhood thrive without pushing anyone out.

Striving for inclusion PROFILE

Heartside is lagging behind as downtown booms. BY JUSTIN DAWES

// PHOTOS BY KELLY SWEET

Downtown Grand Rapids has seen a resurgence over the past decade, but it’s not the first time the area has been bustling. Before the development of suburbs and rerouted highways that killed movement downtown several decades ago, the area was full of activity with people able to live and work in the same place. Heartside was in the center of that activity. Today, it’s lagging behind. Downtown’s recent growth has included new housing, mostly in the city center, yet GR M AG .CO M

Small business owner Alysha Lach-White sees the Heartside neighborhood as a great location for startups.

Heartside has remained home to thousands of people throughout the decades. With a common passion for the neighborhood’s uniqueness, many of those residents and other stakeholders are working to ensure Heartside isn’t forgotten amid the rest of downtown’s rejuvenation. One of those residents is Daniel Drent. He moved to Heartside in 2012 to access services after becoming homeless. Losing a banking job following the 2008 economic downturn and dealing with subsequent mental health issues, Drent moved back to his West Michigan hometown to be close to his family, he said. He stayed at Mel Trotter Ministries’ shelter and used the daytime services at Dégagé Ministries. Pine Rest’s StreetReach helped him obtain disability. Through the help of a few nonprofits, he found temporary housing for a couple of years before landing permanent residence in an affordable housing apartment owned by Dwelling Place. Since then, he has dedicated his time to improving the Heartside area, officially designated as one block east and west of Division Avenue, between W. Fulton Street and Wealthy Street SW. Drent is involved with an advisory group for Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the Heartside Downtown Neighborhood Association and Dégagé, and was co-chair of the fresh food access workgroup for the city’s recent Heartside Quality of Life study. Among the group of stakeholders working to strengthen the community, Drent said he believes the key is to embrace Heartside for what it is — a place that’s home to people of diverse income brackets, including the homeless. Alysha Lach-White, co-chair of the Heartside Downtown Neighborhood Association and owner of Little Space Studio, located in Heartside, agreed. 22

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people + places / issues

“We have developed intimate relationships, not just with people who are currently homeless, but with people who have transitioned out of homelessness. And they are often our most active and vibrant residents,” she said. Lach-White is part of a new group led by Dwelling Place focusing on Heartside economic development. A major focus of the group includes activating the multiple vacant commercial spaces along Division Avenue. The goal is to change the view of the area as an incubator space for new businesses, said Heather Ibrahim, director of community building and engagement for Dwelling Place, which owns the buildings containing many of the spaces — several of which are work-live spaces and more affordable than in other downtown areas. Ibrahim said concentrating on startups will be a more accurate representation of what already has been happening. There have been several businesses that have grown until they had to move, she said. “Sometimes that gets treated as a failure when we actually see it as a success,” Ibrahim said. Drent and others want to make sure the set of businesses matches the character of the neighborhood and is welcoming to everyone. “We don't want what happened to the West Side to happen to us where the local community kind of has felt pushed out,” Drent said. Drent is hoping for such businesses as art studios, coffee shops, affordable restaurants or boutique clothing stores. He’s optimistic about the new GRNoir Wine & Jazz bar, at 35 S. Division Ave. “Neighbors want to support local businesses, and every time a business opens up, neighbors get excited about it and they want to patronize it,” Lach-White said.

“I'm also very proud to be in the area. I think it's one of the most beautiful areas in Grand Rapids.” Alysha Lach-White

Drent said he hopes one of those places is a small, affordable grocery store. The Heartside residents do not have an easily accessible place for basic groceries. What is available is typically highly processed or too expensive, he said. Taking a trip to the Bridge Street Market still requires walking several blocks — not a great solution for those with mobility issues, he said. In planning for a stronger neighborhood, stakeholders are making sure to address the issue of safety. It’s a fact that the actions — loitering at Pekich Park, sleeping in the doorways of businesses, public drug and alcohol use — of a select few impact the overall perception of the area, Drent said. He said he understands that not everyone is comfortable sleeping in shelters, but people should recognize that it’s not appropriate to sleep in the doorways. However, he said business owners should treat the homeless community with respect and attempt discussion rather than insult. “You never know when that could be you. Life takes turns that we don't expect,” Drent said. “The next time, it could be you that needs a doorway to sleep in.” Drent said the community needs to take back some of these places that’ve been neglected by the city. For example, Dwelling Place has held meetings and events at Pekich Park, at Cherry Street and Division Avenue, and established a community information board. “By doing that, it encourages others to become involved and to take claim, it being their space, also,” Drent said. Lach-White said she believes activating the vacant spaces will drive away loitering naturally. She is happy the city has moved forward with several recommendations to decrease the safety issues, including installing a public restroom and street lighting — something residents have been asking for since the 1980s. Lucky’s Liquor Store was cooperating with the city to improve safety around its store. When its liquor license was revoked by the state following seven violations, crime plummeted almost immediately, though it has moved to other areas, Drent said. Lach-White has experienced aggressive panhandling and catcalling, but she is sure to always be alert while in public, no matter what neighborhood, no matter what city. Lach-White said she believes Heartside can thrive when key people claim a stake in the neighborhood, and that’s what she tries to do as owner of Little Space Studio. She’s happy to share with anyone what Heartside has to offer. “I'm also very proud to be in the area. I think it's one of the most beautiful areas in Grand Rapids,” she said. GR M AG .CO M

moments / events

Around town Enjoying city life

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Michigan International Auto Show

Soup's On For All

The Michigan International Auto Show rolled into downtown in January, offering glimpses of hundreds of sedans, trucks, vans, hybrids, SUVs and sport cars.

Catholic Charities West Michigan held its annual Soup's On fundraiser in January, raising money for God's Kitchen.

Pictured (left to right): 1 Christine Lafrenier and Amy Henry 2 Maranda and Anna Osborn 3 Terry Ferguson, Monica Sparks, Martin Murphy and Jessica Ann Tyson 4 Tom Harris, Jason Fields and Michael Evon 5 Ed, Caroline and Betsey Dembsey 6 Emily Reed, Caroline Lampen and Lindsay Broene 7 Andrew Durfee, Gabby Driessnack and Audrey Best 8 Caryn Westra and Lynsey Cobb

Pictured (left to right): 1 Nick Kolk, Ashley Boelens, Danna Bergstrom, Ben Piebenga and Matt Overdevest 2 Bruce Law, Michelle McCormick and Tony Gates 3 Lorrie and John Pettit 4 Shane and Jacqueline Scherer 5 Shelly Webster, Ron Webster, Janet Veldhouse and Susan English 6 Van Orr III, Aaron Turner and Sgt. Pete Gerkin 7 Steve Litzan and Kevin Alber

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

AUTO SHOW JOHHNY QUIRIN SOUP'S ON MICHAEL BUCK

THE ULTIMATE BOOK ABOUT DETROIT’S HISTORY

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magazine editor R.J. King. “Detroit: Engine of America” is the real life story of how the city grew, step by step, from a French fort on the riverfront in 1701 to become the world’s largest manufacturing economy in 1900.

Author R.J. King

To purchase copies of “Detroit: Engine of America” personally signed by the author, visit DetroitEngineofAmerica.com.

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UNRIVALED DRIVING PLEASURE The All New 2020 Cadillac CT5 From: $37,890* From its stunning exterior to its driver-focused, sophisticated cabin, the CT5 is a celebration of dynamic expression. This performance sedan makes your heart race even when you're not driving it. Contact us for your test drive.

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look+feel KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

HOME

Outside comes in page 28

Â» PLUS: SPRING BREAK TR AVEL TIPS PL ANT-BASED BURGERS HOT DENIM LOOKS

Learn how biophilic design can help you connect with nature inside your home.

P H OTO G R A P H CO U R T E SY V I A D E S I G N GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / home

HOME

Natural elements Bring the outdoors into your home. BY ARICKA GANNON

The concept of biophilic design has been flourishing over the past several years, emerging from the rapid growth of technology and the amount of time spent indoors. When we spend most of our time inside and in front of screens, we miss out on the benefits the outdoors provides. Biophilic elements reconnect us with nature, reducing stress and anxiety, restoring energy and physical well-being, and boosting motivation. A trend often used in commercial design, the benefits of biophilic and sustainable design are not limited to offices but can (and should!) be created in residential spaces. The human desire to connect to nature is, well, natural. If we’re going to spend more time indoors, then the interior of our homes should be designed to make us feel good. Create a visual connection Our senses need to be stimulated by nature, and sight is our most developed sense. Viewing elements of the outdoors inside our homes can reduce stress and generate positive emotional behavior. These visual details can be found in a natural color palette, an artwork depicting outdoor imagery, or in the simplest and most effective form: live plants. Stepping into nature releases an immediate calming response. When we add live plants to our living spaces, we recreate that environment. Plants purify the air by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. When our air quality is good, we feel good. The plants you choose can be as small as succulents or a few herbs growing on your windowsill. If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t worry. Dracaenas, snake plants and peace lilies are just a few of the low-maintenance options you can choose to decorate your home. 28

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Viewing elements of the outdoors inside our homes can reduce stress and generate positive emotional behavior.

Choose natural materials Nature is rarely smooth, straight or proportional. Nonlinear furniture and décor pieces, such as a live-edge dining table or a curvy armchair, provide natural shape to a room. Textural details in wood, stone, clay and fabric materials can provide a tactile connection to nature. An organic woven pillow and throw blanket provide soft, natural textures to a living space, as well as lounge furniture upholstered with organic fabrics. Maximize natural light The variations of light we receive can influence serotonin levels and sleep cycles, so it’s important to have the right balance of daylight in the spaces where we spend our time. Maximize the natural light you have in your home, even if it’s a small amount. Remove any obstructions from the windows and rotate your furniture so you’re receiving the fullest amount of light. If you’re not satisfied with the brightness of the room, add a few accent lamps to manipulate the lighting. Aricka Gannon is the marketing and communications coordinator at Via Design, a full-service design firm specializing in architecture, interior design and furniture design. Via Design serves Grand Rapids and the West Michigan community with projects ranging from interior residential to large-scale commercial.

Home décor to get you started:

Faux potted plant You won’t receive all of the physical benefits of a real plant, but artificial plants and images of nature can decrease anxiety and improve focus.

Onyx bookends and clay ceramics Accessorize with clay pots and use natural-edge stones for decorative bookends.

Lanterns Fill decorative lanterns with pillar candles. It will give the room a natural glow.

Woven basket Woven baskets are a decorative storage option and a tactile connection to nature.

HOME DÉCOR SOURCED FROM ABBREVIATEDDESIGN.COM COLLAGE COURTESY VIA DESIGN

GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / gea

GEAR

On the go Pack your bag for your next destination. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

// STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING

Your flight is booked, your hotel is secured and now it's time to decide what to pack. Creating the perfect carry-on is essential, from necessities like an easily accessible wallet to carry your credit cards and ID to snacks and activities for the plane, Grand Rapids boutiques are the place to go to stock up for your journey. Indigo Humboldt Bag, $235, Mercy Supply Co., mercysupply.com; Friends colouring book, $10.95, Rebel, rebelgr.com; See America book, $19.95, Rebel; Water Bottle, $35.95, Rebel; Good as Gold travel jewelry case; $38, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts, kennedyfloral.com; Rifle Paper Company Notebook, $8.95, Mason Jones, masonjonesshops.com; Cherry Republic Cherry Nut Mix, $12.50, Mason Jones; Luggage Tag, $30, Mason Jones; Passport Cover, $60, Mason Jones; Hand Sanitizer, $6, Dear Prudence, dearprudence.com; Wallet, $19, Dear Prudence; Hand Cream, $12, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts; Kate’s Real Food tram bar, $2.99, Bill & Paul’s Sportshaus, billandpauls.com; The GFB gluten free bites, $1.29, Bill & Paul’s

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

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look + feel / style Frame's Spring 2020 Ready-toWear Collection

Chambray Top, $68, Lee & Birch

DL1961 Mara Ankle Jean Jean, $199, Lee & Birch

Rag Poets Striped Top, $72.50, Gina’s Boutique

David Jones Bag, $59, Lennon & Willow

STYLE

Blue jean baby

Just Black Denim, $84, Lennon & Willow

Sasha Cut-out Flats, $120, Antropologie

Denim is making a statement this spring. WRITTEN AND STYLED BY JENNIFER PICKERING

// PHOTOS BY ANGELA CICCU

This year, the denim trend is all about statement making silhouettes, details and washes. You will see the return of longer hemlines, skinny jeans and even wide leg jeans. As for color and washes, expect two tones and classic blue, which happens to be Pantone’s color of the year. When it comes to details, visible seams and pleats are in.

Fringe Earrings Earrings,, $18.95, Rebel

Leather Leaf Earrings, $24.99, Adored Boutique

Though Tie Dye Dress, $69.99, Adored Boutique

Glam Cami, $39, Dear Prudence Hidden Jean Jacket, $99, Dear Prudence

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

RUNWAY SHOT COURTESY FRAME CUT OUT FLATS COURTESY ANTHROPOLOGIE

look + feel / expe t

EXPERT

Spring break getaway It’s not too late to plan an amazing vacation. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

Hopefully, you’ve booked your spring break vacation already, but if not, don’t fret. Shelley Kohtz, manager of vacation travel services for Witte Travel, said it’s not too late to book a terrific vacation. “If you can be flexible when it comes to things like your travel dates, the length of your trip and your destination, then you can take advantage of some great lastminute deals,” Kohtz said. “For example, you might find better rates on resort packages with charter flights from Lansing or Detroit instead of flying out of Grand Rapids. Your travel adviser will know exactly what to look for to get you the best value for your budget.” While Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and all-inclusive hotspots like Cancún, Riviera Maya, Jamaica and Punta Cana continue to be the hottest spring break destinations for West Michiganders, Kohtz said April is actually a great time to visit European destinations. “In places like Germany, Italy or TRAVELING FAMILY ISTOCK/MIAKIEVY

“If you can be flexible ... then you can take advantage of some great last-minute deals.” Shelley Kohtz

London, the weather is very mild with temperatures in the 50s60s, and there are fewer tourists to contend with, so the cities are a little less crowded and you can get better prices for hotels and airfare.” Whatever your destination, if you are hoping to visit a top attraction like the Vatican, Pearl Harbor or the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, you’ll want to get your tickets early because many of these popular tourist spots limit the number of visitors allowed each day and tickets can sell out months in advance. The travel part of vacation is often the least appealing aspect, but Kohtz has some helpful advice. “If you’ll be flying, bring some things for the little ones to do at the airport in case you end up waiting longer than anticipated, avoid packing too much into one day, and schedule some breaks or pool time so the kids don’t get too worn out. “If you’re planning an all-inclusive vacation, look into familyfriendly resorts that offer complimentary kids clubs, which are professionally staffed and offer tons of fun activities and entertainment for children of all ages.” Another piece of advice: next year, plan ahead. “If you want to visit one of these busy destinations during spring break, then it is very important to book your vacation as early as possible because things do sell out! I recommend planning your spring break trip 11-12 months in advance to be safe,” Kohtz said. GR M AG .CO M

look + feel / wellness

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

WELLNESS

A sprouting fad? Healthier alternatives to plant-based burgers. BY MARIE HAVENGA

// ILLUSTRATION BY JAMES HEIMER

With plant-based burgers sprouting on menus, is a new diet fad blossoming? Many fast-food favorites now offer meatless burgers. But unlike veggie burgers, which have been around for years, the new arrivals are designed to taste like meat and appeal to meat-lovers. Sorry, vegetarians and vegans — if you don't like the taste of meat, stick with your garden-grown goodness. Although the faux burgers are sometimes touted as healthier options, Kristi Artz, M.D., Spectrum Health Lifestyle Medicine and Virtual Health and lead physician of Culinary Medicine, said there are better alternatives. “They're essentially still processed food,” Artz said. Instead of presumed healthier content, the meatless alternatives typically contain high amounts of saturated fat, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The plant-based meats also tend to carry more sodium than their true meat counterparts, according to Artz. “Heme, a protein product, gives the texture and taste that makes it taste like meat,” she said. “It will sizzle when you cook it — that's the heme. Heme iron, when derived from animals, has been correlated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes. We see that less with plant heme. But the point is, these are highly processed foods. When you diet for health, you need to focus on whole foods and plant foods.” Artz said she recommends black bean burgers over the new plant-based burgers (see her favorite recipe on this page). “This way, they're getting whole foods instead of highly processed food,” she said. “But the trade-off is they're not getting the taste and texture they're used to. That's why these (plant-based burgers) are appealing to a lot of individuals. But they're hearing and thinking plant-based meat is healthier, but there are no long-term health studies on these products to show that.” In fact, it appears plant-based products may have the potential to improve the planet's health more than your own. “A lot of the plant-based meat alternatives were designed around BEAN BURGERS ISTOCK

addressing the impact that heavy meat diets have impacted our climate and sustainability of local food resources,” Artz said. “When you look at why these were designed, it's more for the health of the planet and not the individual.” Artz cited studies that look at the resources needed to support animal agricultural versus plant agriculture. Analysis of a plant burger shows its carbon footprint is about 89% smaller than a beef burger — uses 87% less water and 96% less land. Artz said many revealing infographics are available at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health's website (hsph.harvard. edu) and the Culinary Institute of America (ciachef.edu). “There are several infographics that look at water utilization and how much higher it is for animal agriculture than it is for whole grains, nuts and legumes,” Artz said. Artz noted that depending on what people choose to eat, they're essentially voting with their food dollars and impacting changes they may want to see. “The plant-based meat alternative really stemmed from looking at how our diet choices impact the planet,” she said. “People are becoming more accustomed to and comfortable with plant-based eating. In the last five years, we've seen more products on the market.” Again, Artz cautioned against jumping on a plant-based product bandwagon or buffet. Choose plants that are grown, not plants that are processed. “If you're looking to change your diet for health reasons, I would not encourage you to eat these foods,” she said. “Instead, choose whole grains, quinoa, ancient grains, brown rice and vegetables.” Don't worry about paltry protein with plants. “Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts contain by weight more protein than an equivalent weight of beef,” Artz said. For upcoming plant-based eating classes and more recipes, visit spectrumhealth.org/ culinarymedicine.

Black bean burgers Ingredients 1 15-ounce can black beans, reduced sodium, drained and rinsed ½ red bell pepper, small dice ½ onion, small dice ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 clove minced garlic 1 tablespoon cumin, ground 1 teaspoon oregano, dried ¼ teaspoon salt Ground black pepper, to taste 1/ 8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 large egg ¾ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs cooking spray, as needed 2 sliced tomatoes 2 cups greens, such as romaine, spinach or arugula 6 whole wheat hamburger buns Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. Mash beans in a large bowl with a fork or potato masher. 3. Mix in red pepper, onion, cheese, garlic, seasonings, egg and breadcrumbs, mix well. Shape into 6, 4-ounce patties. 4. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray. Place burger patties in a single layer. 5. Cook in oven until burgers firm up and reach internal temperature of 165 degrees, about 12 minutes. 6. Serve on a toasted whole wheat bun with lettuce, tomato and any other favorite condiments.

GR M AG .CO M

NEW EVENT! SAVE THE DATE June 16, 2020

20 Monroe Live Visit grmag.com for details

PEDIATRIC (NEONATAL AND NON-NEONATAL) EMERGENCY ROOM

INTENSIVE CARE

ACUTE CARE/FAMILY PRACTICE/GENERAL MEDICINE CARDIOVASCULAR ONCOLOGY

COMMUNITY HEALTH/AMBULATORY CARE MEDICAL/SURGICAL NURSING

REHABILITATION

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Grand Rapids Magazine is proud to honor the region’s top nurses in 10 specialties for their extraordinary contributions to health care. Award finalists and winners will be selected by a panel of judges within the nursing profession. They will be featured in the July issue of Grand Rapids Magazine and celebrated at the inaugural dinner and awards reception in June.

food+drink DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS The Mitten Brewing Co. prepares for baseball season with Peanuts and Crackerjack.

» PLUS: C AFÉ DE MIRO WINE & DINE AT FORTY PEARL 5 IRISH PUBS FOR ST. PATRICK'S DAY

MUST-TRY

Peanuts and Crackerjack page 44

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

Café de Miro's avocado panini comes with a Miro green salad.

TABLE

Steeped in history Café de Miro offers a taste of Kurdish culture. BY JAYE BEELER

// PHOTOS BY BRYAN ESLER

At Café de Miro, mornings and midday are lovely, comforting and often made to eat right out of the skillet. Husband-and-wife owners Apo Alagoz and Fatosh Alagoz are busy scrambling eggs with a grilled Armenian sausage called sujuk in cute cast-iron skillets or with the traditional Kurdish combination of tomatoes, peppers, garlic and aromatic spices into shakshuka/menemen, a popular Mediterranean breakfast. 38

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

food + drink / table

Order at the counter — which beckons with a steaming espresso machine, grandmother’s cake du jour perched on a cake stand and many tempting morsels meant to tease your taste buds. Café de Miro offers a cool, sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of a Parisian café with two windowed walls bathed in daylight; gorgeous Turkish black, white and gray flooring in large-format tiles; petite round tables; and a sleek banquette running the full length of the bistro-like eatery. If you’ve come for Mediterranean, you’re in for a surprise as the food is steeped in Kurdistan, a mountainous region straddling Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Syria and Armenia, and all of that diversity influences Kurdish cuisine. Though there are more than 40 million Kurds across the globe, they don’t have an independent state, making them the largest stateless people in the world. So, Apo and Fatosh carry their Kurdish identity in their souls, and their cooking feels quietly important, so much more than food. “There’s a history of struggle for us, for our rights, to be dignified and recognized,” said Botan Alagoz, the restaurateurs’ 21-year-old son. Two years ago, the family immigrated to Grand Rapids from Istanbul, fleeing the political instability in Turkey and turned their talent for cooking into a family restaurant in Breton Village in May 2019. Apo, an electrical engineer by trade, also owned a café in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. “With this Café de Miro, we’re ultimately preserving who we are — our language, our traditions, our names and our food,” said Botan, who attends Grand Rapids Community College. “It’s even named after my younger brother, Miro, and Miro means ‘chief of the tribe’ in our language.” A specialty of Bursa, Turkey, the Gyro Iskender is a wonderful example of Kurdish food, while the kofte, ground beef and lamb meatballs, with a luscious muhammara spread, Miro salad, beet salad and baguette is a vivacious celebration of the unique culture. “Our kofte is similar to the Bosnian cevapi,” said Apo, sharing that the cooking of the Balkan peninsula reverberates with Turkish adaptations. The Miro Gyro’s lamb is tenderly prepared the Kurdish way with homemade yogurt; the burek savory with ground filo dough and seasoned ground beef; and paninis gooey with gyro, Armenian sausage sujuk, avocado or goat cheese.

Café de Miro offers traditional Mediterranean fare, including the lamb gyro (left). The restaurant's dining room (below) is bright and offers a variety of seating options.

“With this Café de Miro, we’re ultimately preserving who we are — our language, our traditions, our names and our food.” Botan Alagoz

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food + drink / table

Turkish coffee At Café de Miro, do try the Turkish coffee if your taste buds crave full-on flavor. In a gorgeous Kutahya Porselen Turkish coffee cup and saucer, Turkish coffee is served steaming hot, thick and sweetened just a bit with a light froth. And just the right amount of heat to let the grounds settle down. These special Turkish cups are called fincan — though they are often mistakenly called demitasse cups. “This is Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi Turkish Coffee, coming from Turkey,” co-owner Apo Alagoz said. “It’s a very famous company. There’s a lot of history behind this coffee. They have a big store in Eminönü with people lined up — always.” Traditionally, Turkish coffee is brewed in a “cezve,” or Turkish coffee pot. At Café de Miro, both Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi Turkish Coffee and cezves are available for purchase. “You don’t drink this all the way down, but you sip it until you see the grounds” settled at the bottom of the cup, said Botan Alagoz, Apo’s son. He encourages guests to place the saucer over the cup and flip it over for five minutes or so. “After you wait, when you look inside the cup, you will see that the coffee grains will make a unique ‘fate’ path, and if my mom’s not busy, she will read your fortune. It’s all kind of fun to take a look.”

Make it at home For each serving, measure out 1 heaped teaspoon of Turkish ground coffee to 1 fincan cupful of cold water and add sugar to taste right into the cezve. Place on the stove and keep at low. Stir thoroughly until you see foam appear on top of the pot. Pour the foamy part of the coffee into the cup. Then return the cezve to the stove and bring the remaining coffee to a boil. Pour that coffee into the cup(s) all the way to the top. Don’t stir the coffee once it’s in the cups in order to not disturb the grounds.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

The kofte (opposite page), made with ground beef and lamb meatballs, is a vivacious celebration of the unique Kurdish culture.

The menu posted on a chalkboard behind the counter clearly is influenced by the family’s travels to Sweden, Greece, France and Spain. “We share food. It is our way,” said Apo, tempting guests with steaming strong Turkish coffee, iced Kurdish tea flavored with cinnamon, cardamom and ginger, and Greek frappes, a frothy iced coffee sweetened with sugar. By channeling pure emotion into every dish — Fatosh created the menu, which calls for fresh everything, including homemade yogurt for her fuchsia-hued beet salad, cool tzatziki cucumber salad as well as marinades for meats. They buy direct from Mediterranean Island at 44th Street and Kalamazoo Avenue for authenticity. From Turkey, they import whole spices and aromatics they believe are fresher, brighter and slightly different. In a wood-carved mortar and pestle, Apo crushes coriander seeds, explaining that Turkish “mint is more intense, and Anatolian thyme is completely different than thyme here.” The Miro salad, fresh with chopped kale and green lettuce, radishes, carrots, sunflower seeds, green onions, parsley and gluten-free wafer crackers (from Fresh Thyme), is tossed with an exquisitely fresh lemon vinaigrette — made daily and creating an amazing, big bowl of satisfaction. It’s perfect alone or paired with a bowl of lentils — fattened with chicken, onions and potatoes. Café de Miro is just right for a relaxed coffee, intimate brunch or cozy lunch, but not so much for larger groups as the majority of the tables seat two. If you’re looking for a dinner date, make it an early one as the restaurant closes at 5 p.m. This is a destination spot in its own right that feels like you’ve been let in on a well-kept secret. Everything at Café de Miro feels magical, lighter, brighter — definitely so much more than the sum of its many parts. “This is what we eat at home,” Botan said. Start your morning with Café de Miro's sujuk, an egg and grilled Armenian sausage dish (left).

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food + drink / c eate CREATE

Dinner party BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

Jeremy Paquin, executive chef for Essence Restaurant Group, called his recipe for pistachio-crusted salmon with arugula citrus salad “a relatively simple recipe that should impress your guests.” His top tips for tackling this one: “Take your time and enjoy the process.” Paquin also said you should read the recipe in its entirety before starting to cook and cook the salmon to the wellness that suits your taste.

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G GR RA AN ND D R RA AP P II D DS S M MA AG GA AZ Z II N NE E / / JMAANRUCAHR Y2 022002 0

Pistachio-crusted salmon with arugula citrus salad (Serves 4)

Pistachio salmon

Arugula citrus salad

Dressing

4 salmon filets (4 to 6 ounces each) Zest of one orange 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon soy sauce ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped

6 cups arugula 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced 2 oranges, peeled and cut into segments salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup sherry vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste Juice of one orange ¼ cup olive oil

Preparation: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Sprinkle salmon fillets with salt. Place fillets skin side down on a baking sheet lined with foil. Mix orange zest, honey, mustard, soy sauce, salt and pepper in a bowl. Evenly spread mixture over the salmon and top with chopped pistachios, pressing firmly into skin. Bake salmon until cooked through (12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness). While salmon is cooking, make the dressing by whisking sherry vinegar, honey, orange juice, mustard, salt and pepper together. Continue whisking and slowly stream in the olive oil. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Combine the arugula salad ingredients into a bowl and toss with half the dressing. Reserve extra dressing for later use. To serve, divide salad onto four plates and top with pistachio-crusted salmon.

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food + drink / chee s

CHEERS

'Leelanau casual'

Try the wine at Forty Pearl and then grab a bottle to-go on your way home.

Forty Pearl brings a taste of Up North to the city. BY CHARLSIE DEWEY

// PHOTO BY DAVID SPARKS

If you are looking for the feeling of “Up North” without having to drive three hours, Forty Pearl is here for you. Located at 40 Pearl St. NW downtown, the restaurant and tasting room is an extension of Brengman Brothers’ Leelanau tasting room and a vehicle to share the winery’s products with Grand Rapids. Brengman Brothers owns four vineyards in the Leelanau peninsula, where it grows, produces and bottles wines. It is best known for its white wines, but it also has red offerings. In mid-2017, Brengman Brothers opened Forty Pearl as a tasting room with plans to add a full food menu, which it did this past fall. The menu is Michigan-focused with items including Lake Michigan perch and a venison burger. You’ll also find oysters, seafood and filet mignon on the menu, but rest assured, everything pairs perfectly with wine. Executive chef Tyler Boeschenstein said while he wants the menu to include “something for everybody,” it also was

Wines for all Sauvignon Blanc 2018 Vintage silver medal winner at the 2019 Jefferson Cup. Lime and green apple flavors produced from the unique dirt and special climate in Leelanau. Glass $7, Bottle $26 2016 Pinot Noir Aromas of candied cherries and lemongrass, leading into toffee and autumn olive with satin tannins. Glass $11, Bottle $41 Left Bank Award-winning 2017 Red Blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot. Aromas of violet and blueberries, medium full body with an extremely long perfect finish. Glass $18, Bottle $68

important to keep that Leelanau spirit. “I like to stay in the realm of Michigan-centric and Leelanau casual,” he said. The restaurant offers entrées, but Boeschenstein said there are a lot of shareable options meant to inspire a communal spirit and to encourage people to take their time, ordering small plates until they are full — and, of course, giving them ample time to taste plenty of wine. Alivia Rutkowski, general manager of Forty Pearl, said Brengman Brothers has won several awards for its wines. “They started making wine in 2011, and they’ve been winning awards for their wines throughout the years,” she said, noting, “The Right Bank and Left Bank reds, they’re really proud of those.” But white wines are the winery’s specialty, and it uses a concrete barrel process for several of them. “The concrete aging process, which is new to the scene, porous concrete barrels give it a lemony and acidic note,” Boeschenstein said. One of the best times to visit Forty Pearl is on Wednesdays when it offers $10 select wine flights. You can grab a table by the window or at the bar and enjoy the calming feeling created by the softwoods and bucolic scenes of sheep and vineyards framed on the walls. Forty Pearl also has space for larger parties and offers catering. If you try a wine you like, you can take it home with you. Forty Pearl offers wine to-go, with a vast selection lining the wall just opposite the doorway. So, take a trip “Up North” without leaving home. GR M AG .CO M

food + drink / must-t y

The Mitten has made Peanuts and Crackerjack since opening in 2012, and while the recipe has evolved, the same roasted peanut flavors are there.

MUST-TRY

Take me out to the ballgame The Mitten Brewing Company gears up for the season with Peanuts and Crackerjack beer. BY PAT EVANS

// PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

March is an exciting time in the beer world as West Michigan begins to emerge from the depths of winter. With baseball on the horizon, The Mitten Brewing Company is excited to get into the full swing of Peanuts and Crackerjack, it’s delicious, peanut-infused porter. The West 44

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Side staple is preparing to release it in fine fashion this season, as well. The beer will make its debut this year on March 26 — the same day as the Detroit Tigers’ season opener, where it will be introduced with a party in The Mitten’s parking lot, 527 Leonard St. NW.

The Mitten has made Peanuts and Crackerjack since opening in 2012, and while the recipe has evolved, the same roasted peanut flavors are there, bringing the drinker practically to the ballpark. The beer’s peanut buttery goodness comes from loads of peanuts — from Germack Pistachio Co., the same peanuts found at Comerica Park, where the Tigers play — and peanut butter. If a trip to the parking lot to celebrate baseball season beginning isn’t in order, the beer should be available at stores and the brewery throughout the season. Another seasonal must-try can be found in Cedar Springs this month at Cedar Springs Brewing Co. The brewery will be hosting its annual Starkbierfest on March 28, which will feature two bourbon barrel-aged versions of Cedar Springs Brewing’s two March seasonals: the Küsterer Maibock and Küsterer Weizenbock. The bourbon barrel-aged versions will only be available to the public for one day. In Germany, Starkbierfest is a springtime alternative to the massively popular fall Oktoberfest and celebrates the Starkbier, or strong beer, that is brewed for springtime consumption. Cedar Springs' Küsterer line of beers celebrates traditional German-style beer and is named after one of Grand Rapids’ brewing pioneers, Christoph Küsterer. Cedar Springs Brewing will further celebrate Küsterer’s legacy when it opens the Kusterer Brauhaus later this year on Bridge Street.

TOP 5

St. Patrick’s Day pubs Experience one of these authentic Irish spots.

editor's pick

BY ROBIN GOULD

St. Patrick’s Day is not just about wearing green and avoiding the inevitable pinch. It is about immersing yourself in Irish culture and learning how to experience it in your own city. Quinn & Tuite’s Irish Pub, 1535 Plainfield Ave. NE, is known for having the finest poured pint of Guinness. With over 53 selections, consisting of everything from Danny Boy to five different types of Jameson, this is the spot for whiskey lovers. Long-time friends and owners Bill Quinn and

Rick Schall hang Ireland’s flag high as they strive to make your experience as authentic as possible. Travel south to Holland and you will find The Curragh, 73 E. Eighth St. This Irish Pub is known for its Michigan Mondays. All Michigan-crafted beer, wine and whiskey are marked down for happy hour. If you are a big sports fan, head over to The Curragh for the best sports channel lineup in town. Flanagan’s Irish Pub, 139 Pearl St. NW, sits in the heart of downtown.

Thanks to the new Chicago-based owners, it recently underwent a full makeover. If you are craving a hearty Irish menu, this is the place to visit. Flanagan’s re-vamped menu includes corned beef, shepherd’s pie, cabbage and a tasty curry sauce. It also has a new selection of tap beers. Muskegon is home to Hennessy’s Pub & Whiskey Bar, 885 Jefferson St. Less than an hour north of Grand Rapids, you can hear live music, train your mind for Trivia Night

PUB CELEBRATION ISTOCK WINE DISPLAY COURTESY COOPER'S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT EDITOR RACHEL IDZERDA

Thursdays or participate in its Dart League. With over 100 whiskeys, scotches and bourbons, there is no question as to why Hennessy’s offers a monthly whiskey school. O’Toole’s Public House, 448 Bridge St. NW, has the best weekly specials. Check out its website to find happy hour deals and a new special every day. O’Toole’s Hangover Burger is a must-try. Packed with bacon, a fried egg, its famous bloody mary sauce and other condiments, this burger is a hometown favorite.

We don’t talk about chain restaurants too often at Grand Rapids Magazine. That’s because we have too many great local places to share. But recently, I visited Cooper’s Hawk, an Illinoisbased restaurant and winery chain that has been expanding since it first opened in 2005, and I have to admit, I was impressed. Cooper’s Hawk has three locations in Michigan, two of which are located on the east side of the state, and one here in Grand Rapids on 28th Street SE. Its big draw is its wine. The Cooper’s Hawk winery produces 700,000 cases of wine each year with grapes coming from California, Oregon and Washington, according to its website. The resulting wines have received over 500 awards since 2005. Cooper’s Hawk’s menu is tailored to help you savor the wine with suggested pairings on all items. If you haven’t been to Cooper’s Hawk, it’s worth a stop — and a bottle.

CHARLSIE DEWEY MANAGING EDITOR, GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE GR M AG .CO M

A taste of GR

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

EXPER IENCE GR AN D R API DS' DIN ING SCEN E. Photographs by Teri Genovese Grand Rapids Magazine traversed the city's food scene to bring you this year's Restaurant of the Year, Best New Restaurant, Top 10 Restaurants and the newest neighborhood restaurants. This year, we've seen an array of new cuisines come to the city, as well as a return to classic styles. Farm-to-table still reigns, but restaurants know they have to go beyond the food to draw diners in as the city's restaurant offerings expand.

Opposite page: Sovengard is decked out in hygge. Cozy up in one of the dining room booths at HOST, the restaurant's upstairs experience. Above: Rodbettsallad from HOST by Sovengard. GR M AG .CO M

Food for thought FOODIES N EED TO TAKE GR AN D R APIDS SER IOUSLY. By Austin Langlois

food writer asked me on a recent press trip, “What does a 27-year-old guy from Michigan have to say about food?” Fair question. Harsh, but fair. Before this trip, I had written for Time Out Miami covering the vibrant food scene of South Florida; toured dessert farms in Aruba; and traveled to Napa Valley to dive into the natural wine scene. But in the food world, nobody takes you seriously if you’re not LA or NYC. The sentiment also is true for cities. People think that the biggest cities have a pulse on trends. While that often is true, I believe that where trends really gain traction and become part of our daily palette is when they spread to the rest of the country. In the past decade, we’ve seen the rise in popularity of cupcakes, bacon, doughnuts, bacon in doughnuts, avocado toast, kale and poke bowls. These food trends have mostly spread from our country’s largest cities to the smallest. In fact, doughnuts peaked in Grand Rapids long before they did in Miami, which goes to show West Michigan isn’t as behind as people might think. Bringing new flavors to town Some of the restaurants that opened this

year continue to underscore that the Grand Rapids food scene is one to take seriously. Hancock on Wealthy Street brought Nashville hot chicken to our city. Max’s South Seas Hideaway on Ionia Avenue ushered us into the resurgence of the tiki bar, echoing LA’s tiki bar nightlife scene. AHC+Hospitality properties are elevating the Grand Rapids hotel dining scene with the newly redesigned French-inspired Margaux and the glitzy lobby bar in the AC Hotel; it’s a trend we see in large cities like NYC and Miami where the hotel restaurant isn’t just for guests, it’s a dining destination. We’ve also seen an increase of ethnic cuisine, especially Balkan and Middle Eastern flavors, with restaurants like Kingfisher, Café de Miro and Živio bringing kaymak cheese, muhammara red pepper dip and nigella seeds to Grand Rapids — echoing the increase in popularity of Middle Eastern and Eastern European cuisine in larger cities. Farm to table, but not just local farms The trends also are more subtle than just new dishes or cuisine. There’s also a shift in the narrative around sourcing and ingredients. Five years ago, the farm-to-table movement was all the rage, accomplished

Above: Lam Ragu from Kingfisher. Opposite page: The dining room at Hancock offers a bright and airy atmosphere with an industrial vibe.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

SOME OF THE R ESTAUR AN TS THAT OPEN ED THIS YEAR CON TINUE TO UN DERSCOR E THAT THE GR AN D R APIDS FOOD SCEN E IS ON E TO TAKE SER IOUSLY. by restaurants like Grove, Reserve and Terra. But with every restaurant sourcing locally, it’s less of a focus now. Especially since in the winter, every farm-to-table restaurant serves root vegetables and Brussels sprouts. To diners, and I’m sure chefs, it gets a little old. As a result, we’ve seen restaurants turn to sourcing more high-quality and organic ingredients from outside the Mitten, especially during the offseason. Most visibly, this change is seen with Morning Belle, which replaced Twisted Rooster. While its predecessor focused on local ingredients, the newcomer focuses on fresh, vegetable/ fruit-forward dishes, sourcing ingredients not only locally but also from farms across the country. As climate change continues to affect Michigan’s agricultural industry and local farmers, we’ll likely see this continue. Let’s eat To the snobby food writer referenced at the beginning of this piece, I responded, “I like to eat.” And, I’m assuming, dear reader, that you like to eat, too. So, take the trends or leave them and just go and enjoy a great meal at your favorite local restaurant. Who cares what LA thinks anyway?

GR M AG .CO M

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Restaurant of the Year

SOVENGAR D CULTIVATES COMMU N ITY WITH SYSTEMS -WIDE APPROACH. By Charlsie Dewey

o prepare for this month’s dining issue, I spent a lot of time reflecting on my dining experiences over the past year. Where had I gone, where hadn’t I gone and the why behind both of those questions. The restaurant I visited the most in 2019 is Sovengard on Grand Rapids’ West Side, and the reason is simple: Every time I go, I make new memories with my friends and family. I love the hygge-like atmosphere, the food is creative yet filled with flavors I expect from each dish, the cocktails are colorful and change with the season, and the restaurant continues to evolve. Sovengard has offered something unique to the Grand Rapids restaurant scene since it first opened in August 2016. It’s the only Scandinavian-inspired restaurant in town, and it’s interior and menu is distinct and unlike anywhere else in the city. “Sovengard follows the philosophies of the New Nordic movement, which is less about traditional Nordic or Scandinavian foods and more about sustainability,

sourcing and seasonality,” said Rick Muschiana, owner of Sovengard. Since opening, the restaurant has expanded, first with its substantial outdoor biergarten and then adding HOST upstairs — a new concept that allows the restaurant’s chef to get even more creative with a farmto-table menu that changes daily. “Everything we do strives for a true farm-to-table experience, but HOST is a daily changing menu focused on the here and now of seasonal and local ingredients,” Muschiana said. “It's a smaller menu that really lets our kitchen team play around and experiment with things in a slowerpaced and intimate setting. We want people to take their time, talk about dishes with our staff and savor every morsel. “Our garden level menu has much the same feel as it always has, but we've gradually been taking it in a more casual direction that's accessible, simple and very much carries the relaxed vibe that's so much a part of our biergarten. We want the garden level and biergarten to be an everyday spot with a fantastic introduction

Above: A bartender prepares a drink at Sovengard. Sovengard's drink menu changes with the season. Opposite page: Grilled joi choi from HOST by Sovengard. GR M AG .CO M

“I BEL IEVE THER E'S A LOT OF BROKEN PARTS TO OUR FOOD AN D AGR ICULTUR AL SYSTEM ON A WIDESPR EAD L EVEL, AN D THAT LOCAL AN D R EGEN ER ATIVELY PRODUCED FOODS AR E AN IM PORTAN T PART OF FIXI NG TH I NGS AN D THE FUTUR E OF OUR WOR L D. THAT'S WHY I STARTED SOVENGAR D.” Rick Muschiana

to locally sourced foods.” The menus reflect the season with hearty fare in the fall and winter months and then transitioning to lighter cuisine in the spring and summer — and always spotlighting Michigan’s peak produce. All of these dishes are served against a hygge-like backdrop of soft, relaxing colors and natural elements. The HOST dining room consists of warm woods, exposed brick, teal accents and a plant wall filled with greenery, while the downstairs dining room has light, airy woods with reclaimed wood serving as accent posts behind the bar and whitewashed brick and a concrete floor giving it a bit of an industrial modern vibe. The bright, cozy atmosphere of both spaces promotes relaxation and encourages groups to settle in for an evening of small and large plates and rounds of drinks from cocktails to wine and beer. If you choose to spend time in the biergarten (open May through October), you’ll likely make new friends — at least for the evening. The biergarten offers a communal atmosphere with long picnic tables and yard games, including a bocce ball court. This year, Sovengard is adding three themed tents to the biergarten. “Our biergarten is so interconnected to our identity, it's tough when it closes for the season,” Muschiana said. “We've been trying to think of some ways to utilize it … so when we discovered the large bell tents, we knew they were really perfect for our style. “We collaborated with Amber Brandt (the

Coziness Consultant) on the design and have made them fun and cozy, very much in line with the Danish idea of hygge. They're perfect for a pre- or post-dinner hangout with friends. We'll be taking reservations for them by phone or email, or if they're available, people can walk right in and use them.” Muschiana said the year ahead will see Sovengard honing its culinary craft and building on its dining experience, as well as sharing stories about the local farms it works with. “I believe there's a lot of broken parts to our food and agricultural system on a widespread level, and that local and regeneratively produced foods are an important part of fixing things and the future of our world,” Muschiana said. “That's why I started Sovengard. “Eating is so primal with such instant gratification that it's sometimes hard to think or care where things come from, who's growing them, or how they're affecting our planet just as long as they're cheap and taste good. We are huge proponents of things that taste great but also believe flavor can be in balance with many other noble considerations. Farm-totable can also have connotations of elitism, and I think we're trying to help it shed that perception, as well. We're far from perfect, but we are trying every day to put these ideas into practice.” I fully expect that in 2020, I will be making plenty more visits to Sovengard and creating even more memories — and I hope you do too. Opposite page: Seared duck breast from HOST by Sovengard. The restaurant's menu changes throughout the week.

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GR’s Top 10 Restaurants THESE EATER I ES WI L L L EAVE YOU HU NGRY FOR A R ETU R N VISIT. By Charlsie Dewey

hoosing this year’s top 10 restaurants was no easy feat. Grand Rapids continues to evolve in the dining department, both in the quality of the food and also in creating memorable experiences for diners. And experience really is the key word. While the food has to be on point, the overall experience is what keeps people going back to a favorite. So, this year, Grand Rapids Magazine selected its top 10 list based on the quality of the food, the restaurant atmosphere and the overall experience of a night out. The restaurants on this list are truly unique and help make Grand Rapids a destination. Above: Salmon from Osteria Rossa, an Italian cuisine destination downtown.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Grove / 919 CH ER RY ST. SE Since it first opened, Grove has continued to deliver with creative dishes that are equal parts delicious and visually stunning. The restaurant is focused on farm-to-table fare that lets local produce and meat purveyors shine. The menu is filled with contemporary comfort foods, and it changes often enough that you can always try something new. This is the restaurant to hit if you are a daring eater or looking for an unexpected dish. Grove offers items that you won’t find anywhere else in the city. With its unique menu serving as the backdrop to any occasion, you aren’t likely to forget a night out that you’ve enjoyed at Grove.

Forty Acres / 1059 WEALTHY ST. SE

New Hotel Mertens / 35 OAKES ST. SW

Linear / 1001 MON ROE AVE. N W

After being named Best New Restaurant last year, Forty Acres has continued to shine along the Wealthy Street corridor. The restaurant is a neighborhood hotspot and the backdrop to many celebrations and casual nights out. Diners flock to the restaurant and are never in a hurry to leave. The casual atmosphere is coupled with a minimalist style with bright, natural elements that suit the menu of modern Southern favorites. The goal at Forty Acres was to elevate soul food and celebrate African American cuisine, and the restaurant has succeeded. This is the place to visit if you want to linger over a heaping course and enjoy dishes that truly represent American history.

New Hotel Mertens is a labor of love for owner Anthony Tangorra, which becomes apparent upon entering the restaurant’s wellpreserved dining room. History and elegance come together here, from the original flooring once tread upon by hotel guests passing through town to the cheese cart that rolls around the dining room serving guests. Since opening, New Hotel Mertens has expanded to include Haute at New Hotel Mertens, its rooftop lounge, and a bakery. All of these elements combine to create a downtown dining destination. Whether you are stopping in for a pastry and coffee on the way to work or joining friends for happy hour and a view of the city or enjoying a classic French meal in the dining room, you are sure to have a memorable experience.

What makes dinner at Linear special is its location. The restaurant is perched beside the Grand River, and its floor-to-ceiling windows spanning three-fourths of the dining room offer diners impeccable views all day and night long. Sometimes when you’re out in Grand Rapids, you feel very cut off from the giant river that is supposed to be the city’s heart, but at Linear, you feel connected to the city’s namesake. The restaurant also brings nature indoors with a wall filled with plants, all of which contribute to a calming, restorative atmosphere. You can relax here and settle in for an evening of elegant and flavorful courses. And you will want to take advantage of the many course options. This restaurant offers unique appetizers, entrées and desserts.

Osteria Rossa / 16 MON ROE CEN TER N E Though it’s in the heart of the city, just north of Monument Park, Osteria Rossa feels like a hidden gem downtown. When you are inside, you begin to forget the city around you, in part due to the narrow dining areas and low lighting, all of which create an intimate atmosphere perfect for a date night, special celebration or happy hour. The design concept helps diners turn off from everything and focus on their food, family and friends. What you won’t forget is the food — or the wine. An Italian restaurant that focuses on wood-fired pizzas and handcranked pastas, its motto is “warmth of the mitten, soul of the boot.” The food is elegant with distinct flavors and the atmosphere is inspired by the casual Italian pub. Marcona on Lyon / 623 LYON ST. N E Tucked away in an unexpected spot, just down from the corner of Lyon Street and Union Avenue, Marcona on Lyon was meant to serve the surrounding neighborhood by giving residents a walkable option for lunch and dinner. It is helmed by well-respected chef Matt Overdevest, who co-owns and runs the restaurant. Marcona offers Mediterranean fare, including dishes with Middle Eastern, southern European and African influences. Visiting Marcona feels like taking a trip back in time to the Mediterranean thanks to the careful detail put into the interior design, which is inspired by 1940s art deco travel posters, and the food is a lesson in Mediterranean culture, using ingredients popular in the region. Marcona offers diners a small escape for a few hours.

Above: The dining room at Marcona was inspired by art deco travel posters from the 1940s; octopus from Marcona. The restaurant focuses on Mediterranean cuisine. GR M AG .CO M

Bistro Bella Vita / 44 GRANDVILLE AVE. SW

The Commons / 547 CHER RY ST. SE The Commons brought something truly unique to Grand Rapids’ dining scene — a theme restaurant. Its 1970s vibe creates an atmosphere like no other in Grand Rapids. Owner Beth Rich noted when she first opened the restaurant in 2018 that restaurants out in Los Angeles have to create an experience to attract and keep diners, so it’s no surprise when she relocated back to Grand Rapids from a stint as a Santa Monica bar owner that she’d bring the idea for a great theme restaurant. Diners have flocked to The Commons for the experience and returned for the food, which consists of a modern spin on classic ’70s comfort foods like mac and cheese and Brussels sprouts.

Amore Trattoria Italiana / 5080 AL PIN E AVE. N W Amore Trattoria Italiana has been a Grand Rapids staple for 10 years, and for many, the restaurant’s dining room feels like home. A night out at Amore is a vibrant affair. It’s going to be loud, there’s going to be laughter, the wine will overflow your cup and you’ll eat until your pants are ready to burst — and then Chef Jenna Arcidiacono might stroll by and drop off a plate of some delicious goody you didn’t order and you’ll “find room” for it. When you leave, you’ll already be plotting a return trip. Amore is the place to go in town for heaping Italian portions and when you want to feel like you’re home while letting someone else take care of the dishes.

Above: Cider-braised chicken from Terra; catch a glimpse of the kitchen's chefs preparing food at Terra, thanks to its open kitchen design.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Bistro Bella Vita has been a constant downtown for over 20 years — no easy feat for a restaurant. While plenty of other restaurants have come and gone, Bistro continues to provide quality food and a consistent experience. What’s interesting is that Bistro is the perfect backdrop for a special night out or a casual jeans and a T-shirt evening. Concentrating on modern French and Italian cuisine, Bistro keeps its menu fresh and recently underwent a makeover to ensure it is keeping up with Grand Rapids diners’ tastes. Terra / 1429 L AKE DR IVE SE Opened as a farm-to-table showpiece, Terra has only grown better over the years. This restaurant offers up new dishes based on local produce, as well as keeping a consistent menu so you can always go back for a favorite. The dining area is bright thanks to floorto-ceiling windows, and in the summer, a nice patio offers diners a chance to enjoy the sunshine. This is a great spot for celebrations or a casual night out. Chef Clark Frain joined Terra recently, and he has only contributed to the restaurant’s stellar reputation. You’ll find Terra bustling at any time of the day, whether it’s Sunday brunch, happy hour or a weekend dinner. This Eastown favorite is a neighborhood hotspot.

Best New Restaurant MARGAUX COMBI N ES CLASSICAL FR ENCH TECHN IQUES WITH MODER N PLATING. By Charlsie Dewey

rench restaurants have a reputation — upscale, stuffy, a little pretentious — but the JW Marriot’s newest offering, Margaux, hopes to change that. The former six.one.six space underwent a transformation last year, reopening as a casual French restaurant in October. Walking into the dining room, it feels lighter and brighter than before and offers a more comfortable vibe while still giving off a hint of luxury. There are live plants that also help create an airy atmosphere, and the sunlight dapples the dining room as it sits over the Grand River. “Before, it was a bit dark and heavy. The room feels light in general, and it feels like you are walking through a floating space, not the heavy wood, dark look,” said Caprice Mikel, executive chef for Margaux. “I feel like with this room, you can feel so many different emotions. There’s a lot of plants in here now and more life to the room.” The goal of the interior design was to create a backdrop that fits the restaurant’s French-inspired menu, which relies on Left: Margaux at JW Marriott offers a bright interior and a comfortable vibe with a hint of luxury. GR M AG .CO M

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“ WE CUT OUR R I BEYE TABL ESIDE. IT’S IM PR ESSIVE. PEOPL E ENJOY THAT.” Caprice Mikel

classical French techniques but with a focus on modern plating. Mikel said French cuisine isn’t necessarily the most attractive, and in many French restaurants, plating is an afterthought — if a thought at all. At Margaux, the plating is as much of a focus as the flavor profiles of the dishes. Mikel jokes that he is always searching websites for plates that will serve as the perfect backdrop for the restaurant’s seasonal French dishes. The plating is part of the overall experience Mikel is hoping to give diners visiting Margaux, and Elle Wadel, general manager for Margaux, said little things from the garnishes to the macarons served at the end of the meal help create a unique experience. Mikel also noted the tableside service that accompanies the bone-in ribeye for two, “We cut our ribeye tableside. It’s impressive. People enjoy that.” The restaurant also offers a series of wine dinners, each of which focuses on a different region in France and helps guests delve deeper into the history and culture of what’s on their plates. With diners looking for memorable experiences, all of these things help set Margaux apart. But you might be wondering, why French cuisine and how is that unique? Mikel notes that for a time, restaurants were focused on deconstruction — taking apart dishes and playing with the flavor combinations, but now the pendulum is

swinging toward “putting it back together” and using classic ingredients and flavors. “A lot of chefs want to focus on their belief that making things complex is better. I think that is a skewed vision,” Mikel said. “You see it a lot with younger chefs, adding 20 ingredients to the dish is the way to go. Personally, I’d rather braise you a good piece of meat and give you a really good starch and veg and present it to you in a way that you are looking at it and think, ‘Wow, that is beautiful’ and then you’re going to taste it and think, ‘Wow, that’s delicious,’ and at the end of the meal, you feel that comfort feeling.” The decision to stick with the classics and focus on creative presentations is working for Margaux. From its impressive seafood tower to its ribeye for two, every dish on Margaux’s menu hits the spot. This restaurant combines an impeccable menu with a relaxed, modern atmosphere. The biggest challenge for Margaux will be its location inside the JW. While hotel restaurants in other cities often are destination spots for visitors and locals alike, in Grand Rapids, that’s just not the case. But Margaux hopes to convince locals to give it a shot and points to its approachable vibe. With all the new restaurants that opened in Grand Rapids in 2019, Margaux leads the pack. It’s getting back to basics while still creating a luxurious feel and an atmosphere that promotes vivacious conversation and lingering at the table.

GETTI NG TO KNOW CAPR ICE M I KEL Margaux chef Caprice Mikel came to Grand Rapids from Minneapolis, where he started out working alongside James Beard Award-winning chef Alex Roberts, and later served as a chef consultant. He first started cooking as a kid because his mom was a busy pediatrician, and he needed to learn how to make dinner for the family. His favorite dish at Margaux is the lamb. “It comes out in front of you, and our server pours the reduction around the plate; it looks beautiful and then you eat it and you are overly full but want to keep eating more, but you are so full that you can’t have more. That is the dish for me.” His cooking style is more savory, but when it comes to his personal palate, he’s got a sweet tooth.

Opposite page: Roasted half chicken from Margaux. Above: Chef Caprice Mikel displays the bone-in ribeye for two. GR M AG .CO M

Trendiest food THIS SAN DWICH IS HOT! By Charlsie Dewey here is no doubt the Nashville hot chicken sandwich was the hottest food of 2019, and with good reason, because this sandwich is delicious. While national chains duked it out for the title of best sandwich, Grand Rapids restaurants scrambled to add this offering to their menus. Hancock and New Holland Brewing - The Knickerbocker both offer true Nashville hot chicken sandwiches, while The Friesian offers a harissa hot chicken sandwich, and Juju Bird, Kitchen 67, The Commons and Third Nature Brewing offer chicken sandwiches from mild to spicy. We expect to see the hot chicken sandwich continue its reign this year and appear on even more local menus. 60

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

GR’s latest hot-spots 9 N EW R ESTAUR AN TS WE’R E EXCITED ABOUT By Charlsie Dewey

ew restaurants seem to open monthly in Grand Rapids, making it hard to keep track of all the hottest places. Here’s a list of nine restaurants that opened their doors in 2019 that we still are talking about.

Uptown Neighborhood

Kingfisher / 1001 L AKE DR IVE SE Kingfisher has some big shoes to fill, opening in the former Marie Catrib’s location. The newest addition to Joel Wabeke and Sarah Wepman’s restaurant portfolio has kept a comparable vibe to its predecessor but with a similarity to the pair’s other restaurants, Littlebird and That Early Bird, as well. This “vegetableforward” Mediterranean-influenced restaurant offers omelets, bowls and hash, soups and salads, toast and sandwiches, and sweets and pastries.

Left: Mushroom and zucchini socca from Kingfisher. Opposite page: Hancock's Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich. GR M AG .CO M

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Živio / 724 WEALTHY ST. SE Damir Duratovic and his sons, Dino Duratovic and Denis Duratovic, brought this new Bosnian-inspired restaurant to life on Wealthy Street. Described as a modern European tavern, you’ll find eastern and central European- and Mediterraneaninfluenced dishes here, such as shish kebab, wiener schnitzel, gyros, pitas, hummus dips and wraps, stroganoff and paprikash, as well as a selection of soups, salads and desserts. Hancock / 1 157 WEALTHY ST. SE The latest entry in local restaurateur Paul Lee’s portfolio is hot — Nashville hot, that is. Hancock (also owned by Jessica Lee and Arnold Lee), is a fast-casual restaurant offering Nashville hot chicken sandwiches, regular fried chicken sandwiches and a plethora of sides including mac 'n cheese, baked beans, braised greens, coleslaw, mashed potatoes and more. This place has a relaxed vibe and a great outdoor space.

Midtown Neighborhood Friesian Gastro Pub / 720 M ICH IGAN ST. N E

Comfort food and craft beer nestled into the Medical Mile early last year in the form of Friesian Gastro Pub. Co-owners Craig Jones, Zan Lamkin and Phil Rienstra wanted to create a space for people in the neighborhood to stop in after work or on the weekends, where they can hang out and catch up. This neighborhood spot offers a relaxing atmosphere, a solid menu and a rooftop bar that overlooks the surrounding neighborhood. Ginza Sushi and Ramen Bar / 1015 M ICH IGAN ST. N E The fourth restaurant offering from Shun Ci Chen and Dong Wen Wang, Ginza Sushi and Ramen Bar brings Japanese flavor to Midtown. You’ll find sushi and ramen along with poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soup and salad at this upscale spot. The interior has a sophisticated charm that is instantly relaxing, and the menu is impressively large.

West Side

Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar / 443 BR I DGE ST. N W, SU ITE 2 After 10 years in the pizza business, Vincenzo “Enzo” Cannizzo and Maria Cannizzo decided to expand with Fratelli’s Kitchen and Bar, an Italian restaurant adjacent to Fratelli’s Pizza. Fratelli’s focuses on Sicilian cuisine and includes a handful of pastas, entrées and pizzas. The new restaurant has become a popular gathering spot on the West Side.

Downtown

Max’s South Seas Hideaway / 58 ION IA AVE. SW With its tiki theme, Max’s South Seas Hideaway brings something truly unique to Grand Rapids. The restaurant is the passion project of Mark Sellers, owner of BarFly Ventures; Gecko, a Hawaii-based tiki and Polynesian artist; and Martin Cate, a James Beard-winning author, bar owner and mixologist, who teamed up to create this tropical escape in the heart of downtown. The menu includes Polynesian fare and cocktails that will have you dreaming of the beach. Social House / 25 OTTAWA AVE. SW Across the street from Van Andel Arena, Social House is a go-to place for before or after a concert or Griffins game. The “casual pub” offers traditional American fare. You’ll find burgers and sandwiches alongside a handful of entrées and popular side dishes like fries, garlic “smashed potatoes” and Brussels sprouts. Brickyard Tavern / 940 MON ROE AVE. N W Brickyard Tavern is a bit of a well-kept secret. Tucked inside the Boardwalk Building, where JD Reardon’s used to be, the restaurant is quietly serving the Monroe North area. Offering American fare such as brisket grilled cheese, the Dirty Bird (chicken) burger, salmon mac and cheese, perch, and a chicken and waffles sandwich, this is a fun, upscale pub to put on your dining list. Brothers Elias, Dimitri and Vasili Sepsakos are behind this spot.

Hancock offers Southern cuisine like its four-piece chicken, mac 'n cheese and broccoli salad. GR M AG .CO M

EXPERT Q&A

Health & Beauty Q: What’s a reliable and creditable local source that provides both clear and reputable answers to my health and beauty questions? A: Grand Rapids Magazine’s Health and Beauty Q&A section! Q: Will the sources of this information be available to answer other questions or address related issues I might have on this topic? A: Most definitely. Health and beauty subjects

are too important to trust to a Google search or a web doctor, and it’s not necessarily a good idea to base your decisions on what other people have experienced. To get the best results, it’s important to be specific in your questions, be open to both short-term and long-term answers, and make sure your sources are reliable, credible, and accessible. Local experts not only welcome your

questions, but they can offer more specific suggestions and alternatives to your interests and needs. Having a face, a phone number, and an email next to the answer allows you to further explore the question and personalize it to your needs and wants. Below are some trusted advisers — local experts — who can offer reliable and credible answers to your health and beauty questions.

EXPERT Q&A Q:

What are the keys to healthy skin?

A: Your skin was as clear as it ever was going to be on the day you were born. Everyone accumulates a variety of different skin growths and changes with time, but while many of these changes are unavoidable, you can control several things. The most important thing is to protect yourself from the sun. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun causes skin cancer and skin changes associated with aging such as wrinkles, texture changes, and brown spots. Avoiding burning and minimizing tanning will keep your skin healthy. Try to wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when outdoors. In addition, using a daily facial moisturizer with built-in SPF is a great way to protect your skin from casual sun exposure. Hats, rash guard swimsuits, photo-protective clothing, and seeking shade

Rebecca M. Jansen, M.D., F.A.A.D. Dermatology Associates of West Michigan 655 Kenmoor SE, Ste. 200 Grand Rapids, MI 49546 P: 616-949-5600 myskindoctors.com

What’s the HIIT training trend that seems to be growing in popularity?

A: HIIT training is consistently listed as one of the top five leading fitness trends around the world. HIIT, which stands for high intensity interval training, essentially means you work really hard, rest, and repeat. This requires your heart to work extremely hard to provide an adequate blood supply (which carries oxygen to all your muscles) and, in turn, strengthens your heart and the muscles used during these exercises. HIIT is an effective way to build muscle,

or using umbrellas are also great strategies. Try to avoid being outdoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on sunny days because that’s the time of day when ultraviolet radiation is most intense. Sunglasses should be worn whenever possible, to help protect your eyes from damaging radiation that can cause cataracts and ocular skin cancer. Smoking causes premature skin aging, so quitting smoking will lead to a more youthful appearance. Moisturizing your skin with lotions and creams will also help keep your skin barrier healthy and will minimize the itchiness that often flares up during dry, cold Michigan winters. Finally, a topical vitamin A cream (such as an over-the-counter retinol or prescription tretinoin/Retin A) can help minimize wrinkles and texture changes that occur with aging.

burn fat, and increase overall fitness performance. Most HIIT workouts are 30 minutes or less, and produce great results — making it an effective training option for people with busy lives. Since many different types of exercises and equipment can be used for HIIT training. It helps produce better results by constantly challenging the body in different ways. Remember that it’s also important to include recovery days after HIIT workouts, to allow the body to recover and prevent injury.

David Nykerk MVP Athletic Clubs Director of Fitness MVP Athletic Clubs mvpsportsclubs.com

What are some options when it comes to aesthetic and cosmetic medicine?

A: Aesthetic and cosmetic medicine relate to a number of specialties that focus on improving a person’s appearance and include nonsurgical cosmetic treatments such as fillers, skin rejuvenation treatments, cosmetic procedures, body treatments, facials, and more. Treatments are performed by expert physicians and physician assistants as well as licensed aestheticians who care for your health as well as your appearance. Most treatment options are tailored around a person’s individualized needs and wants. Facials, for example, are personally chosen for someone’s skin type. Modern, nonsurgical treatments are now available to treat the appearance, tone, and contours of the entire body. These can range from hair removal to full-body contouring. Licensed cosmetic treatment professionals will discuss all the different options with

you to find the best solution available. Skin rejuvenation is another popular aesthetic treatment option and includes a wide range of nonsurgical solutions to address skin irregularities anywhere on your body. These can include wrinkles, acne scars, sunspots, blemishes — anything that prevents you from looking and feeling your best. These noninvasive medical options include peels, laser and light applications, and other advanced medical treatments to restore your healthy glow. Many places, including the Metro Health Cosmetic Treatment Center, carry mineral cosmetics and physician-grade, prescription-strength skin care products to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Schedule your free consulttion by calling 616-252-8500.

Lance Owens, D.O. Medical Director Metro Health – University of Michigan Health Cosmetic Treatment Center Metro Health Cosmetic Treatment Center 4285 Parkway Place Grandville, MI 49418 616-252-8500 https://metrohealth.net/ aesthetic-medicine

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Heath – University of Michigan Health’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of the communities it serves. That means consistently bringing health care to the patient through choice and access, thereby ensuring delivery of the right care, in the right place, when patients need it. Through its affiliation with University of Michigan Health, Metro Health has been able to combine the strengths and resources of a world-class academic medical center with the care and trust of a successful community-based health system. In addition to the main hospital in Wyoming, Metro Health operates 17 neighborhood physician offices throughout West Michigan and Metro Health Park East. Located directly off I-96 on Cascade Road, Metro Health Park East is designed to give patients easy access to highquality, personalized care. The facility is home to a new, state-of-the-art specialty suite with experts in several high-demand areas including obstetrics and gynecology; urogynecology; endocrinology; podiatry; pulmonology;

ear, nose, and throat; and rheumatology. The suite is scheduled to open a rheumatology infusion center in March 2020. Urgent Care at Metro Health Park East offers quick and convenient care for injuries or illnesses that aren’t lifethreatening but need to be addressed right away. The facility features fast and reliable care with short wait times. On-site lab and imaging services makes the urgent care process streamlined and simple. Metro Health Park East is also home to the Outpatient Surgery Center, which offers a wide variety of procedures using the latest surgical technology available. Multidisciplinary surgery teams that include the area’s leading board-certified surgeons provide the best experience and the highest quality of care for patients requiring surgery. Patients have convenient access to walk-in lab and imaging services, including state-ofthe-art digital mammography using 2-D and 3-D technology. Metro Health radiologists read all mammograms, and all 3-D mammograms are also read by artificial intelligence (AI) software, which improves detection rates and reduces false positives. The goal at Metro Health Park East is to

provide the community with high-quality choices for their health needs and services. For more information on Metro Health Park East, visit metrohealth.net/metro-healthpark-east/. 

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health Metro Health Park East 4055 Cascade Rd. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 P: 616-252-4410 metrohealth.net/metro-health-park-east/

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BEAG+HAUS

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JUST A SMALL HOUSE CAN BE

THE

RIGHT SIZE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COREENE KREISER

BY LESLIE MERTZ

GO BIG OR GO HOME? For some Michiganders today, the saying should be “Go small and go home.”That’s because they see a smaller house as offering everything they need and want, and nothing more. Northwestern Lower Michigan is a corner of the state with several new small-home projects. They include houses being constructed for customers, spec houses that are testing the market and a new small-home development near Bellaire. The latter is an undertaking of the design group beag+haus, which specializes in “innovative small homes for the everyday adventurer.” Company co-founders Marc O’Grady and Dwayne Johnson, both northern Michigan natives, are readying the 33-acre site now and plan to build the first model home in the spring. The Bellaire development will include houses ranging from as little as 400 square feet up to 1,500 square feet. Johnson said most will fall in the 800- to 1,000-square-foot range. Their first model home will be 600-800 square feet. “We’re doing that because most people don’t have any experience with a house that size,” he said. “Until they see a model or stand in a space that’s 600 square feet, it’s hard for them

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to judge what that means in terms of how quickly the space is taken by things like king-sized beds and traditional, full-sized kitchens. But at the same time, we can show them how they can exist in a space that’s this size.” Likewise, Eastwood Custom Homes just built a 440-square-foot, one-bedroom and one-bath model just south of Traverse City. On the market for $149,900, it either includes a 1.5-car attached garage or an attic that provides extra space for storage or for conversion into a second bedroom, according to Eastwood sales associate Julie Lashmit. This is one of several small homes the company is constructing in the area.“We feel that there’s room in the market for these smaller homes, especially for a single person who is looking for energy efficiency and lower heating bills,” she said.

SIZED TO YOUR NEEDS Living smaller is a different mindset from the bigger-is-better mentality of most American homebuyers, O’Grady remarked. While the cost per square foot of new construction is about the same regardless of size — around $200-$250 in northern Michigan — the benefit of a well-designed small home is that just about every inch is utilized. He explains, “Instead of going out and buying what you think you need

Cathleen Hawthorne built this 880-square-foot charmer for her brother, but he passed away before he could move in. She then put it on the market and it sold almost immediately for her full asking price. Based on that success and the many compliments she has since received on the house, Hawthorne is now looking into getting her contractor’s license and embarking on other small-home projects. (The house is currently available as a rental.)

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or what the market says you need, our approach is to take the amount of space that you actually use in your home and make that the total size of your home.” Besides the Bellaire small-home community, beag+haus is working on several individual projects, including one for Ellen Fred, a conservation law attorney. She had a 200-square-foot tiny house on wheels for recreational use and decided to sell that and build something a bit larger. She chose one of the company’s designs with an approximately 700-square-foot main floor and a loft. “At the last minute, we decided to add a little bump-out for a small master bedroom and bathroom, so that added another couple hundred square feet,” Fred said. While she plans to use the new build as a home office for the time being, she is open to the possibility of making it her primary residence sometime in the future. Fred’s attraction to smaller living has many aspects. “I like the idea of living small and everyone being together as long as there’s space for escape. It’s cozier. And it’s also greener in terms of saving resources, and it’s less to clean, too,” she said. “Really, if it is a very functional space with everything you need, it just doesn’t have to be big.”

TINY LIVING RV-STYLE

he collection of elfin homes at the end of a winding road near Traverse City may look like miniature houses, but they aren’t. Rather, they fall under the description of RVs — “temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use,” as defined by the RV Industry Association. The homes are part of Cottage Estates, a section of the Traverse Bay RV Resort that is reserved strictly for these tiny RV homes, most of which are Amish-built, 400-square-foot (plus loft), Park Models manufactured by the Indiana company Woodland Park, ac-

cording to Kathy Scheppe, who owns the resort with her husband David. “We only purchase their top models with as many options possible, including front and rear porches,” Kathy said. The homes, which come with a 192-square-foot matching shed and are set on a lot that’s at least 5,000 square feet, run about $140,000. Tennessee resident Dean Toscano bought his Park Model after touring the region for the first time this past summer. “My wife and I went up to Traverse City and the Cherry Festival for our 30-year anniversary and were just blown away by the area: the lakes, the different towns — Traverse City, Charlevoix, Petoskey, Glen Arbor — everything about it was just so cool.” While visiting a friend at the RV park during that trip, he and his wife saw the unit and bought it a few days later. With its gas fireplace, largescreen TV, upgraded interior, goodsized porches and scenic views, he says it feels like “a very nice upscale condo.”

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Michigan natives Ron and Cam Hurley also purchased a place in Cottage Estates this past year, but theirs is a stick-built model that was constructed as a spec home by local builder Todd Gokey. “We’ve been in Florida for 11 years now, and we usually rent somewhere in Traverse City and have the kids meet us up there in the summer,” Ron said. This year, however, Cam pushed the idea of buying a tiny RV home instead. Although originally not as enthused about spending six months a year in a space that is about one-sixth the size of their Florida home, he says he found it surprisingly easy to downsize to 400 square feet. They listed the high-quality trim work, a large glass shower, cathedral ceilings in the kitchen and living room, and ample decks off the master bedroom and living room as being big positives, but one of the things they like best is how quickly they can clean their tiny home. Cam said it takes only an hour and a half to “have the whole house spit-polished, so we can be free for the rest of the day.” The only real challenge so far has been jostling for position in the kitchen. “We both enjoy cooking, so that’s been an adjustment. There has to be a little give and take — he takes, and I give,” Cam said with a laugh. The Toscanos and the Hurleys agree their decision to go tiny was the right one. Toscano summarized, “As far as a seasonal vacation home, it’s perfect. You don’t need a giant house with lots of rooms because you’re not going to spend a whole lot of time inside. You want to be out exploring and enjoying the sights and doing the outdoorsy, adventurous things that attracted you to the area to begin with.”

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LOVE YOUR HOME AND NEIGHBORHOOD?

The key to living small is decluttering, Fred said. “As a society, we tend to collect things, so if you look in your kitchen drawer, you may have three garlic presses even though you just need one high-quality garlic press, and that’s all,” she said. “If everything is truly functional, you only need a small amount of space.”

MAKING SMALL WORK Small spaces do present a few challenges. One is the battle between a light and airy open concept and the need for privacy and compartmentalization, Johnson said. “For instance, people see photos of lofts in magazines and they look great without walls because they open up to the first floor, but if there are multiple people living in that house for anything more than a couple of days, the loft is the worst place in terms of privacy,” he said. “T hose are the types of conversations we’re constantly having with clients.” Another consideration in creating a purposeful smaller home is to design in space-saving features. O’Grady used the example of a small media room. If you add pocket doors, you can open it up when you have guests to increase your living space. Carlie Humphrey, a marketing professional, has been giving a lot of thought to getting the most out of the beag+haus small home she is building near Traverse City with her husband. “We have (planned) a crawl space below the house that we’ll be using for extra storage. And we are building an enclosed outdoor shower, and instead of a dining table, we’d like to put in a kitchen island, which is better for gathering and as a cooking (surface). We’re really trying to maximize the space,”she said. Their house will be an A-frame with 800 square feet on the first floor and a 200-square-foot loft, where they are planning to add a small half-bath. A

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“BECAUSE YOU HAVE SMALLER SPACES, YOU CAN THEN INVEST IN REALLY NEAT THINGS, AND I HOPE TO FIND SOME THINGS TO OUTFIT THE HOUSE THAT ARE LOCAL TO TRAVERSE CITY OR THAT ARE SPECIAL TO OUR FAMILY,.” — CARLIE HUMPHREY

native of Plymouth but currently living in Chicago, Humphrey said she and her husband hope to move to the small house full time in a couple of years, and in the meantime, offer it for short-term rentals when they aren’t visiting themselves. An advantage of small homes, however, is that owners have nearly no limit on finishes, including those that might be cost-prohibitive in a larger home, O’Grady said. For instance, a remnant piece of otherwise expensive marble may be all that’s needed to outfit a kitchen counter. Finishes were on the mind of Cathleen Hawthorne, who took on her first house project by overseeing construction of an 880-square-foot home in Benzie County. “My vision was to build a small home that combined cottage charm with the quality and elements of a larger luxury home,” she said. Completed last year, the little yellow house features ample windows with craftsman-style trim, a fireplace in the bright living/ dining area, a farmhouse sink and upscale counters in the kitchen, two well-appointed bedrooms and a small sitting porch. Humphrey also is excited about adding distinctive touches to the interior of her new place. “Because you have smaller spaces, you can then invest in really neat things, and I hope to find some things to outfit the house that are local to Traverse City or that are special to our family,” she said. “I definitely want to keep it as local and as unique as possible so when guests come up, they will feel like they’re in northern Michigan and not just another cabin.”

WHO GOES SMALL? Whether people are looking at small homes for rentals, seasonal living or primary residences, a common thread is their appreciation for and desire to spend time outside, O’Grady said. “Most of our clients are really outdoorsy kinds of people. They like to be outside, so they don’t need all the indoor space.” That description fits Humphrey and her husband perfectly. She comments, “We really wanted a place that was in the midst of the activities and all of the fun stuff to do

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“WHAT THEY DO WANT IS ENOUGH HOUSE, NOT THE MOST HOUSE THEY CAN GET. THAT’S THE TREND. AND THAT’S OUR PHILOSOPHY, TOO.” — MARC O’GRADY

up there, so we just felt like it wasn’t necessary to have a lot of extra living space. We’d rather put our money toward the adventure and everything else outside of the home.” While retirees have approached beag+haus about downsizing to smaller homes, most of their clients are in the 20-40 age range, O’Grady said.“What we’re seeing among millennials is that they don’t necessarily want the traditional American dream that their parents wanted or that people have told them they should want. They don’t want a big house. They don’t want a big mortgage payment,” he said. “What they do want is enough house, not the most house they can get. That’s the trend. And that’s our philosophy, too.”≈ Leslie Mertz is a freelance writer and environmental educator. She lives Up North near a branch of the Au Sable River.

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“Once we learned we could get nearly everything we wanted in our first home for a price within our range, looking for homes in the existing market no longer became an option for us.” — Ryan & Lindsey

dine / estau ants

dine

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

Downtown GR ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BEIJING KITCHEN Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER BISTRO BELLA VITA Big-city casual; Modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B. Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICK & PORTER Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRICKYARD TAVERN Located inside the historic Boardwalk Building, BrickYard Tavern offers a varied menu with items including a selection of burgers, sandwiches and entrées such as beer-battered salmon and chips, fish tacos and rib eye. Enjoy cocktails and 24 beers on tap. Open daily. // 940 Monroe Ave NW, 805-3280. brickyardtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BULL’S HEAD TAVERN Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées

include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern. com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ CHARLEY’S CRAB Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Gluten-free menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. // 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500.muer.com/charleyscrab. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ THE CHOP HOUSE Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$ CITY BUILT BREWING CO. Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CINCO DE MAYO Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CITYSEN LOUNGE Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine; happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily. // CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 6081725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rapids. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ COTTAGE BAR Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. Lunch, Dinner $ DIVANI European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. Dinner $$-$$$ FLANAGAN’S Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. // 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FORTY PEARL A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats and cheeses, baked goods and sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily.

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

// 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GILLY’S SMOKEHOUSE Twelve rotating craft beers from The B.O.B’s Brewery paired with smokehouse fare, including smoked beef brisket, Amish chicken, pork butt and more. Closed Sun-Mon. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob. com/gillysrestaurant. Dinner $-$$ GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen. com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GP SPORTS Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-yourown pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports. Lunch, Dinner $$ GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-totable menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. // 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (SatSun), Dinner $-$$ GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE HERITAGE GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. // Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER

HONG KONG EXPRESS Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ JAMAICAN DAVE’S Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ J. GARDELLA’S TAVERN Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating. Closed Sun. // 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastavern.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $ JUDSON’S AT THE B.O.B. Award-winning steakhouse offers steaks, seafood and chops. Notable wine list. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse. Dinner $$$ THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ LEO’S Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm MonFri. Closed Sun. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER LINEAR Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLEBIRD Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

MARCONA ON LYON “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

2020 BEST NEW RESTAURANT MARGAUX A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEWAY A tiki-themed restaurant that includes a raw bar, hot appetizers, salads, sides, land and sea dishes, and vegan options. Appetizers include ceviche and puhahana rock shrimp, and entrées include a poke bowl, citrus-glazed faroe and an island lobster roll. Full bar. Open daily. // 58 Ionia Ave SW, 551-0016. maxstiki.com. Dinner $$-$$$ MEXO Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR & RESTAURANT Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. // 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. Dinner (Wed-Sat) $$-$$$ MUDPENNY Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER NEW HOTEL MERTENS French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens. Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. newhotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ ONE TRICK PONY GRILL & TAPROOM Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dog- friendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 136 E Fulton St, 2357669. onetrick.biz. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN Part of Studio Park, One Twenty Three Tavern offers starters, small plates and handhelds, large plates, and a kids menu. Offering elevated American fare, including a fried chicken sandwich, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER OSTERIA ROSSA Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Open daily. // 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$ PALACE OF INDIA Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIND INDIAN CUISINE A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ RESERVE Wine bar offers extensive by-the-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. // 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ ROAM BY SAN CHEZ BISTRO The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ ROCKWELL REPUBLIC Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$ SAN CHEZ BISTRO Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St,

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

774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

NEW LISTING! SANDY POINT BEACH HOUSE GR Originating in West Olive, dishes include “traditional beach house favorites,” such as prime beef burgers, fresh halibut, steak and frites, and roasted chicken and mussels. Full bar. Open daily. // 822 Ottawa Ave. NW, 828-1118, sandypointbeachhouse.com. Brunch (SatSun), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SLOWS BAR-B-Q Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SOCIAL HOUSE A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters such as veggie, meat and cheese shared platters, goat cheese fritters, spicy tuna wontons and avocado toast; soups and salads; burgers and sandwiches; and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$ SOCIAL KITCHEN & BAR Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu. Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. // Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. socialkitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

NEW LISTING! SPARKS BBQ Offering barbecued meats by the pound, à la carte, sandwiches, appetizers, salads, sides, specialty entrées and desserts. Sparks BBQ originated in Traverse City. Full bar. Open daily. // 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 888-2170. home.eatsparksbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SPEAKEZ LOUNGE Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ STELLA’S LOUNGE Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 7424444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner$-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WHEELHOUSE KITCHEN AND COCKTAILS Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

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using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. // Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. // 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

Z’S BAR & RESTAURANT Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. // 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 4543141. zsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $-$$

2020 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

West Side ANDO SUSHI + BAR Asian fusion eatery featuring small plates, bentos, rice bowls, raw bar, noodles, soup, salad and more. Wide selection of wine, plus local, domestic and international beer. Full bar. // 415 Bridge St NW, 608-0789. andosushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BLUE DOG TAVERN West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $ BROADWAY BAR & GRILL Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BUTCHER’S UNION Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$ EL GRANJERO Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ EL SOMBRERO Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $ FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ HARMONY HALL West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. // 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/harmony-hall. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE HOLIDAY BAR Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar,

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

THE KNICKERBOCKER – NEW HOLLAND BREWING Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. // 417 Bridge St NW, 3455642. newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LONG ROAD DISTILLERS Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$ MAGGIE’S KITCHEN Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONARCHS’ CLUB Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ONE BOURBON Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$ O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PEARL STREET GRILL Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking

THE SOVENGARD Midwest heart meets New Nordic spirit. This cozy West Side farm-to-table restaurant focuses on seasonal and local sourcing and offers two separate dining spaces/menus with an outdoor biergarten. Open Tues-Sun for lunch and dinner. Brunch on Sundays. Reservations accepted. // 443 Bridge St NW, 2147207. sovengard.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$ WESTSIDE SOCIAL “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Uptown BOMBAY CUISINE Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. // 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BREWERY VIVANT Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$ BRICK ROAD PIZZA Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (glutenfree crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $ CHEZ OLGA Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER THE COMMONS 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full

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

bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ CURRY KITCHEN Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. // 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DANZÓN CUBANO Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas. Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. // 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ DONKEY TAQUERIA Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EAST WEST BREWING CO. Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. // 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. Lunch (Fri-Sat), Dinner $-$$ ELECTRIC CHEETAH Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ELK BREWING CO. Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. // 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. Lunch (FriSun), Dinner $ ERB THAI Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. // 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopian cuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ THE GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB Not your run-of-the-mill New American fare. Full bar with more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open Tue–Sun. // 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

www.wittetravel.com

3250 28th St SE, Grand Rapids • 616.942.5112 GR M AG .CO M

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2020 DINING AWARD WINNER GROVE A cuisine focused on “comfort redefined a tribute to your favorite nostalgic meals from childhood.” Full bar. Open Tue–Sat. // 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$ HANCOCK Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HARMONY BREWING CO. Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KINGFISHER RESTAURANT & DELI This “vegetable-forward,” Mediterranean-influenced restaurant offers starters, omelets, bowls and hash, soups and salads, toast and sandwiches, sweets and pastries, and sides. Many of the offerings are available to be made vegetarian-, vegan- or gluten-free. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1001 Lake Dr SE, 734-6833. kingfishergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MARU SUSHI & GRILL Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carryout available. Open daily. // 1345 Lake Dr SE, 7748641. matchboxdiner.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ THE PUB AT PADDOCK “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 3562627. thegilmorecollection.com/pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$

2020 DINING AWARD WINNER TERRA Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WIKIWIKI POKE SHOP Fast-casual seafood restaurant featuring customizable poke bowls, plus oyster bar and rotating specials. Carryout available. Closed Sun. // 1146 Wealthy St SE, 2885646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WINCHESTER Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. // 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ YESTERDOG Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $ ZIVIO Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids BIG BOB’S PIZZA Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$ BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com. Dinner $$$ CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. // 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. Dinner $$ JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ OLIVE’S Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ OSTA’S LEBANESE CUISINE Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.

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

Northeast GR 7 MONKS TAPHOUSE Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BIRCH LODGE Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ BLUE WATER GRILL Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BUD & STANLEY’S Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$ CHEER’S GOOD TIME SALOON Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ CHESHIRE GRILL Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. // 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$ CRESTON BREWERY More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOLDEN WOK Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. // 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ JAKU SUSHI Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ KITCHEN 67 Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA HUASTECA Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ LAI THAI KITCHEN Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones

and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ LUCY’S CAFÉ Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$-$$$ MAI’S THAI Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $ MILL CREEK TAVERN Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MING TEN All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 3653989. mingtenrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MORNING BELLE This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ NICK FINK’S Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. // 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. Dinner $$ POKE TOKI Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ PALIO Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ REZERVOIR LOUNGE Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and

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

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entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge. com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Mexican” tacos, salads and sharable appetizers. Closed Sun-Mon. // 363 Cummings Ave NW, Walker, 805-3363. dehops.com. Dinner $$

RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 7858880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$$

FRANCO’S PIZZA Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. Dinner $-$$

THE SCORE Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ SHESHCO GRILL Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$

FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. Dinner $-$$ HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. // 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at. Lunch, Dinner $$

THAI CHEF Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

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

HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Northwest GR 2020 DINING AWARD WINNER AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$ CHINA CHEF Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CHINA CITY Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ DEHOP’S BREWING CO. AND CAFÉ Specialty and build-your-own burgers, “authentic

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

THE LANDING Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. AllAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landingrestaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ MR. GYROS Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. // 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 7916660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PERRIN BREWING CO. Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $ STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SWAN INN RESTAURANT Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. // 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WALKER ROADHOUSE Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $$

Southeast GR 7 MARES Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ASIAN PALACE Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BELTLINE BAR Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BRASS RING BREWING Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. // 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ BROAD LEAF LOCAL BEER Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Closed Mon.-Tue. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ CABANA TRES AMIGOS Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. // 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ CAFÉ DE MIRO A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. The menu consists of traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes, such as skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches;

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

salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Lunch $ CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$ DADDY PETE’S BBQ Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

YOU CAN GO YOUR OWN WAY.

EAST GARDEN BUFFET Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. // 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EL GLOBO RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ FIREROCK GRILLE Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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GANDERS Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ GOLDEN GATE Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

EXPECT TO BE SURPRISED.

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

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HALL STREET BAKERY Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ INDIA TOWN Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LA TAQUERIA SAN JOSE Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1338 S Division Ave, 2842297. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $ LE KABOB Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI TIERRA Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $ MIKADO SUSHI Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr. com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ NU-THAI BISTRO Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OLD GOAT Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $ PHO ANH TRANG Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PHO SOC TRANG Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol.

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SHANGHAI ICHIBAN Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ SHIRAZ GRILLE Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. Lunch (FriSun), Dinner $$-$$$

YUMMY WOK Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Southwest GR 84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

SUSHI KUNI Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2901 Breton Rd SE, 2414141. sushikuni.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TAQUERÍA EL RINCÓN MEXICANO Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2055 28th St, 246-7000. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THAI EXPRESS Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $ THAI FUSION Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ WEI WEI PALACE Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

FRANKIE V’S PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ GOLDEN 28 Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$ KITZINGEN BREWERY German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed Sun-Mon. // 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingen-brewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LINDO MEXICO RESTAURANTE MEXICANO Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$ MAIN STREET PUB Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and

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

entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // 1730 28th St SW, 5322510. mainstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MI CASA RESTAURANTE Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed MonTues. // 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ NOBLE Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ TAMALES MARY Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 15 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

KITCHEN WEST DESIGN STUDIO MARILYN ALLEMEIER NAGELKIRK, CKD LAURAH BOOGAARD, AKBD

NKBA AFFILLIATED SHOWROOM

150 CENTER STREET DOUGLAS, MICHIGAN 49406 269.857.8880 www.kitchenwest.com

WOODY’S PRESS BOX Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area ARYANA RESTAURANT & BAR Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. // 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ BIG BOILER BREWING Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. // 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com. Dinner $$ CASCADE ROADHOUSE Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

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CORK WINE & GRILLE Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ DAN’S DINER Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retro-style diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ EMONAE KOREAN BBQ Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. // 6246 28th St SE, 6493984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ THE EURO BISTRO European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ JU SUSHI & LOUNGE Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$ LA LAGUNA Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ LITTLE BANGKOK Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr. com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

for lunch. Full bar. Takeout menu. Closed Sun. // 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ MYNT FUSION BISTRO Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ VINTAGE PRIME & SEAFOOD Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. Dinner $$$

NOCO PROVISIONS Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. // 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

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

NONNA’S: THE TRATTORIA Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch TuesSat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. // 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$

Grandville/Hudsonville Area BANGKOK TASTE Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

THE DUNGEON Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. // 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$

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

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

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

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

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

HUDSONVILLE GRILLE Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. // 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

OSGOOD BREWING CO. Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu. Open daily. // 4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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

THORNAPPLE BREWING CO. Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. // 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. Lunch (Sat), Dinner $$

PIKE 51 BREWING CO./ HUDSONVILLE WINERY Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains

TRAILHEAD CAFÉ Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. // 1200 East

RAINBOW GRILL Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

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

0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$ SONDER EATERY Focused on fresh foods including greens, sandwiches and shareables. Items include deviled eggs, chicken and waffles, sloppy Joes and more. Full bar. Daily specials and weekend brunch. Closed Mondays. // 3380 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 616-202-6379. sondereatery.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$ WHITE FLAME BREWING CO. Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE WIN TAVERN A family-friendly restaurant offering fresh ingredients and cooked-to-order meals, including starters and salads, burgers, sandwiches, and steak and onion meals. It also

offers a Sunday breakfast from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with a build-your-own hash bar and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

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

grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$ HONEY CREEK INN Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ HOT BOX BBQ Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. // 110 Courtland St, 951-7160. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $ RAMONAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TABLE Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Open daily. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonastable.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ ROCKFORD BREWING CO. Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and

(61 6) 4 54 - 6 7 0 0 | L e o sR e s t a u r an t . c o m 6 0 O tt awa A ve NW, G r a nd R a p i d s

$ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

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vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$ TIMBERS INN Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Multiple Locations ANNA’S HOUSE Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily.

THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River,

WOMANUP

Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-512-9314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

& CELEBRATE

YOU’RE INVITED WHEN

APRIL 23, 2020

ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT Breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$ BAGEL BEANERY Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ BIG E’S SPORTS GRILL Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées. Full bar includes a variety of Michigan-made beer and cider. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2321 East Beltline Ave SE, 608-8825. 710 Monroe Ave NW, 512-5716. bigessportsgrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

11:30 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M.

WHERE

JW MARRIOTT 235 Louis St NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 PLEASE JOIN US IN HONORING JOAN BUDDEN AND MEG MILLER WILLIT as they receive the Women of Achievement and Courage Award!

For information or to register, please visit: miwf.org.

// 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

GRAND CONEY Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 9303596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 7731895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Questions? Contact Judy Welch at jwelch@miwf.org.

We are excited to see you there!

HOPCAT Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

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

PITA HOUSE Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $ REAL FOOD CAFÉ Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $ RED GERANIUM Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $ SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill. com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$ TACOS EL CAPORAL Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $ TACOS EL CUÑADO Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ THE OMELETTE SHOPPE Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

Step into Spring

UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 8911100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Since 1968...

4353 Three Mile Road N.E. $ INEXPENSIVE (UNDER $10) $$ MODERATE (BETWEEN $10 – $20) $$$ EXPENSIVE (OVER $20)

Grand Rapids

616-363-6400

kappeslandscapes.com GR M AG .CO M

gr gems / histo y

The St. Cecilia Quintette circa 1920. Pictured are Miss Amy Hudson (viola), Mrs. John Dietrich (cello), Miss Maria Lund (piano), Mrs. C.B. Newcomb (second violin), and Miss Hazel Clark (first violin).

Women leaders St. Cecilia Music Center always has been supported by women. BY JULIE TABBERER, GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Helen DeVos Legacy Award dinner honoring Stella Royce will be held March 7 at St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE.

In 1883, nine local women organized the St. Cecilia Society with a goal of encouraging the appreciation and development of music in Grand Rapids. Their work played a role in the development of the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, Grand Rapids Symphony and Opera Grand Rapids. Stella Royce (1927-2019) is one of many women who stand out in St. Cecilia’s history. The daughter of Polish immigrants,

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE / MARCH 2020

Royce was orphaned by the age of 5. After serving in the Foreign Service in the Dominican Republic and Mexico, she married Chuck Royce and operated the family business, Royce Rolls Ringer, with him. The pair shared a love for music, and Stella Royce devoted her time and financial support to the arts in Grand Rapids, especially St. Cecilia. She thought it was important to share music and art with kids, saying, “(Art) is such an important part of life. It’s what makes your soul work.” On March 7, Royce will be honored for her work with St. Cecilia and the arts in Grand Rapids with the Helen DeVos Legacy Award. QUINTETTE COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

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