INSIDE: PARK RX CELEBRATING CITY LIFE
*
25 FALL-TASTIC ACTIVITIES THIS MONTH
FALL DÉCOR
SPOOKY READS www.grmag.com
Cedar Springs Brewing’s Original Weissbier
CR
THE FLOWER GUY
FO
O
T BEER F A
GUIDE
D
& FUN New brews, must-try sips and our favorite food pairings in Beer City, USA.
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AC Lounge, Grand Rapids
INTRODUCING THE PORRร N: A NEW NIGHTLY RITUAL FEATURED IN THE AC LOUNGE. Partake in a new experience in the AC Lounge in Downtown Grand Rapids. Gather with friends and colleagues to share the spirit of Spain in our intentionally designed environment with a porrรณn. A traditional Spanish glass wine pitcher, the ritual of sharing wine with a porrรณn has been passed down through generations and is now available in the AC Lounge. Transform your evening and experience the heart of Spain in Downtown Grand Rapids.
AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown 50 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | AC-Hotels.com
GRAND RAPIDS
Dr. Thomas J. Lambert D.D.S. 3300 Grand Ridge Dr NE | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 | Phone 616.364.6490
www.smilegrandrapids.com
“A highly professional team that gave us our healthy smiles and positive energy! We recommend you visit these wonderful people to learn about their comprehensive approach to health and image!” - Kathy and Keith Klingenberg
k n a h o T yu
FOR VOTING US GRAND RAPID’S “BEST DENTIST”
FOR 7 CONSECUTIVE YEARS!
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Contents
28
FEATURES 28/ Brewery guide BY PAT EVANS AND CHARLSIE DEWEY
44/ 25 fall-tastic things to do in Grand Rapids this month BY AUSTIN LANGLOIS
4 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERI GENOVESE
OCTOBER 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 10
contents OCTOBER 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 10
departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Managing Editor, contributors and letters 10 / Social media, GRMag.com sneak peeks, previews and more LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items include RevIVed Hydration, “100 Things to Do in Grand Rapids Before You Die” and Great Lakes Vodka 13 / Top 5 places to trick or treat in GR 14 / Reading room: 5 ghostly reads for fall 15 / Health & wellness: Pick up your prescription at the park 16 / Surrounded by flowers ART & DESIGN 19 / Decorating with fall foliage 23 / Artist profile: David Wiesner
79 16
“We consider ourselves to be part of the safety net. There are many and varying needs within the community and varying resources to meet those needs. Not everyone has the same needs and not every facility covers everything.” KAREN KAASHOEK
26 / Art gallery listings and highlights FOOD & DRINK 50 / Dining review: Bistro Bella Vita
19
OUT & ABOUT 82 / October highlights 83 / Calendar listings
52 / Restaurant listings
90 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights
54 / Chef profile: Jody Grenier of The Old Goat
92 / Comedy & nightclub venue listings and highlights
56 / Cocktail hour: Roll out the barrel
94 / Snap shots
60 / Pints of interest: Beers to fall for
90
CAUSE & EFFECT 79 / Catherine’s Health Center
96 / After thoughts: Robert Du Shane
ON THE COVER: Cedar Springs Brewing’s Original Weissbier
82 6 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Photography by Teri Genovese
THIRTY SQUARE BLOCKS THAT ARE ANYTHING BUT. Check in to one of our nine hotels; ranging from old-school style to new-school swagger. With each one offering a different vibe, style, flavor, focus and – more often than not – a promotional package that puts you in the heart of it all at a price point you’ll totally appreciate. Check out the surrounding area and you’ll be amazed by the sheer number of opportunities to get your groove on, whatever it is; museums, music, fine art, theatre, the symphony, a proper cocktail, fine-dining, or fun dining. Check in with us, Check out what’s up. hoteldistrictgr.com | @hoteldistrictgr
back & forth CONNECT WITH US
Falling in love with fall
A
A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO, we asked Grand Rapids Magazine readers, “What season is the best time to enjoy Grand Rapids?” The overwhelming response was fall. While summer used to be my favorite season, I must admit, as I’ve gotten older, fall has won me over. I love watching the leaves change colors and treating myself to doughnuts and cider at my favorite apple orchard. I enjoy the bountiful fall dishes from Grand Rapids chefs and comparing Café Miels (forget pumpkin spice, this is my go-to fall drink) from the city’s coffee shops. There is no
doubt fall is a great time to live in Grand Rapids. There are so many fall-related activities to enjoy. So, if you’re a fellow fall enthusiast, look at our list of 25 fall activities on p. 44 and enjoy Grand Rapids’ best season. Fall also is the perfect time to visit some of the nearly 40 West Michigan breweries in the area. Since craft beer began its rapid ascent nearly two decades ago, the industry has boomed. Grand Rapids has seen Founders Brewing Co. reach all 50 states with its distribution, as well as score space on international taps. It’s been joined by so many great breweries, several of which have gained recognition nationally and scored top honors in the industry. Grand Rapids’ beer scene also has been the catalyst for other businesses like Grand Rapids Beer Trolley and Great Lakes Pub Cruiser, which take beer lovers around town to enjoy not only the beer but the greater community. This month, we look at all things beer with our Brewery Guide starting on p. 28. Another very cool article I’m eager to share with readers is “Pick up your prescription at the park.” I recently read about Park Rx America, a program teaming up with physicians to help get people outdoors to improve their health. So, I was excited to find out that this summer, Ottawa County partnered with Park Rx. You could very soon leave your doctor’s office with a prescription to a local park rather than a pharmacy. Check out the story on p. 15. I hope you enjoy fall in Grand Rapids as much as I do! Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine
This month, we asked some of our contributors, “Which Grand Rapids brewery are we most likely to find you at and why?”
Teri Genovese
Pat Evans
Austin Langlois
PHOTOGRAPHER
WRITER
WRITER
“BREWERY GUIDE”
“ALL DAY IPA MAKES HEADWAY”
“25 FALL-TASTIC THINGS TO DO
PAGE 28
PAGE 34
IN GRAND RAPIDS THIS MONTH”
“Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery! With our two young girls in tow, biking to Ada and grabbing a vanilla (or peanut butter) porter with great friends is an afternoon well spent.”
“If I’m having a few with friends, I’d be at The Mitten, with its laid back, familyfriendly environment, great pizza and a wide array of beer styles. If I want a great burger, Brewery Vivant. But really, it kind of depends on my mood, I bounce around a lot.”
PAGE 44
8 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
“’City Built Brewing Company for its tastefully diverse beverage menu, well-seasoned Puerto Rican fare (reminding me of sunnier days) and chill, communal vibes.”
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GR
Q&A:
“Olive Branch” necklace and ring by Aaron Henry
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Tu-Fr 10-5, Sat 12-4 or by appointment Park free in our lot!
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Inside Grand Rapids Magazine Stay connected with Grand Rapids Magazine in print, at grmag.com and on social media.
Coming up next issue …
Have you tried the new Kingfisher Restaurant and Deli yet? This “veggie forward” restaurant is in the former Marie Catrib’s spot. Visit grmag.com.
Prep for the holidays Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner or planning the perfect tailgate, we’ve got suggestions on how to make your party memorable. Find out how to style your table, plan your menu and even score recipes from Grand Rapids’ top chefs for the big event. We want to take the stress out of party planning so you can spend more quality time with your guests.
On the radio
A former service station has been transformed into a winery. Round Barn Filling Station in Coloma offers tastings every day. Visit grmag.com.
What’s your favorite Halloween treat? Our social media followers respond:
3% Halloween candy
17% Caramel apples
3% Pumpkin spice latte
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. NEXT MONTH’S QUESTION:
77% Doughnuts and apple cider
Should Christmas holiday decorations be put out before Thanksgiving? a. Yes b. No
We want to hear from you There are tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Email: letters@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or follow us online at grmag.com or Facebook: @grmag Twitter: @grmagazine Instagram: @grmagazine on social media: 10 GRAND RAPIDS \ OCTOBER 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK (LEFT AND BOTTOM); ALYSON CAILLAUD-JONES/KAYO (TOP CENTER); ROUND BARN (LOWER CENTER)
Score candy at one of our Top 5 places for trick-or-treating, p. 13.
TM
Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com
info@grmag.com
PUBLISHER: John Balardo ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Jason Hosko
EDITORIAL
EDITOR: Tim Gortsema MANAGING EDITOR: Charlsie Dewey COPY EDITOR: Tom Mitsos DIGITAL EDITOR: Chris Ehrlich EDITORIAL INTERN: Rachel Azure CONTRIBUTORS: Jaye Beeler, Ann Byle, Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, Terri
Finch Hamilton, Marie Havenga, Austin Langlois, Torrence O’Haire, Deidre Remtema, Amy Ruis, Julie Bonner Williams, Tricia van Zelst
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ART DIRECTOR: Lindsay Emeigh GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Keagan Coop, Robin Vargo CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Michael Buck, Bryan Esler, Teri Genovese, David Sparks, Johnny Quirin
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CIRCULATION Justin always knew that he wanted to be a
DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: professional hockey player. But did he have Michelle VanArman
SHOOT FOR THE GOAL
IT DIRECTOR: Jeremy Leland
JUSTIN ABDELKADER
WEB PROJECT ASSISTANTS: Mariah Knott, Luanne Lim,
H FOR T SHOOT
GOA L E
THE JUSTIN ABDELKADER STORY
what it takes? Sometimes he wasn’t sure. Still,
he decided to work really Meyers hard — on the ice CIRCULATION MANAGER: Riley
and in school — to make his dream come true.
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MARKETING
Learning Today...Leading Tomorrow
By Justin Abdelkader Illustrations by Mary Cindrich
$16.95 US
MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR: Lauren Mohon MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGERS: Andrea Straw, Mary Sutton Cover_Abdelkader2018.indd 1
DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR: Asia Jones MARKETING & EVENTS ASSISTANTS: Madeline Keller,
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PUBLISHED BY GEMINI MEDIA, LLC CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | PRESIDENT: John Balardo
9/10/18 11:04 AM
Justin Abdelkader always knew he wanted to be a professional hockey player. But getting into the NHL wasn’t without its obstacles. In his new book, he shares his story as a way to show young people that perseverance and hard work do pay off — that dreams do come true. Only $16.95
Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Media. Publishing offices: 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331 Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo @grmag.com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI and at additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2019 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St., SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 495031444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag. com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.
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www.appletreekids.cc OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 11
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW BY RACHEL AZURE
Hydration therapy REVIVED HYDRATION is setting out to help people in Grand Rapids “revitalize, re-energize and recover” in a very unique way. Recently opened at 1059 Wealthy St. SE, Suite E, RevIVed’s talented medical staff administers IV drips and booster shots to help with symptoms of hangovers, pregnancy, migraines, and to help with weight loss and general wellness. By putting the vitamins and nutrients directly into the bloodstream, people have reported feeling the benefits of hydration therapy almost immediately. “After years of working in emergency medicine and witnessing how dramatically IV hydration can improve patient outcomes … our interest was sparked,” said Justin Bing, RN, who operates RevIVed Hydration with Even for people afraid of needles, the RevIVed staff makes the process easy. “Each of our nurses
Bucket list
have started thousands of IVs in their careers, and
WITH SO MUCH TO DO in
we even use pediatric-sized needles to make your
Grand Rapids, a lot of people feel
experience as painless as possible,” Bing said.
overwhelmed with options and they
People who want to take advantage of RevIVed’s
aren’t sure where to start in exploring
services can either book an appointment directly
the city. Norma Lewis and Christine
in the office or pay a concierge fee to have the
Nyholm’s book, “100 Things to Do in
hydration delivered directly at their home.
Grand Rapids Before You Die,” offers a great list of Grand Rapids’ best attractions to narrow the search. This book could be the perfect
Cheers to Michigan FROM BUMPER STICKERS to T-shirts, it’s no
gift for someone new to the city or
secret Michiganders love to show off their state.
a great way for locals to find new
Chad and Angie Bush have taken that love one
places and experiences. The book
step further and found a new way to celebrate
has categories of food and drink,
the Mitten State with Great Lakes Vodka.
music and entertainment, sports and
After 12 years of living in Rockford, they
recreation, culture and history, and
fell in love with everything about Michigan.
shopping and fashion, so, no matter
They created Great Lakes Vodka as a way
what you’re looking for, there’s
for other proud Michiganders to enjoy and
bound to be helpful information to
honor the state with a nice drink. This vodka
inspire you and your next adventure
is pot-distilled and gluten-free, and it can
in Grand Rapids.
be purchased at select Rockford and Grand Rapids stores.
12 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY COUTERSY REEDY PRESS (LEFT); REVIVED HYDRATION (RIGHT); FOUNDRY DISTILLERY (BOTTOM)
partner Dr. Jes Smith.
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
GRAND RAPIDS’ TOP 5
Places to trick or treat
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
Halloween is great, but there’s only so much candy a kiddo can collect in one night, and it’s a shame that costumes only get one night’s use. If you’re looking for more trick-or-treating opportunities for your kids, try visiting one of these Grand Rapids events for more family-friendly Halloween fun! At John Ball Zoo Goes
Frederik Meijer Gardens
The Grand Rapids
The Park Before Dark
Show off your best
Boo, families are invited
& Sculpture Park hosts
Kroc Center is offering
is the perfect way to
costume at the Com-
to explore the zoo in their
a costume parade called
the Monster Mash. A
celebrate Halloween.
munity Costume Party
Halloween gear. Over
Hallowee-ones. Guests
unique trick-or-treat-
Boulder Ridge Animal
at Coopersville Farm
six days, the zoo will be
are encouraged to dress
ing experience where
Park invites guests to
Museum. Guests are
filled with trick-or-treat-
up like something from
guests are invited to
enjoy games, trick-or-
encouraged to come
ing, entertainment, Hal-
the garden and come
wear their costumes
treating, safari rides and,
dressed as their favorite
loween décor, games and
explore. Little ones also
and “trunk or treat”
of course, animals. Kids
character or person and
animal fun. The animals
can enjoy some Hal-
around the parking lot
receive Halloween bags
trick or treat through
will be getting treats, too,
loween-themed stories
for a variety of goodies.
at the door. There also
the museum. There also
so you’ll also get to see
free of tricks and full of
This event is safe and
is free popcorn, and the
will be crafts and games
how animals enjoy Hal-
fun! 10 a.m.-noon Oct.
fun for the whole family.
safari ride is included in
for kids to enjoy.
loween. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
25. 1000 East Beltline
5-7 p.m. Oct. 26. 2500 S.
the event cost. Noon-6
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 26.
Oct. 18-20 and 25-27.
Ave. NE.
Division Ave.
p.m. Oct. 19 and 20. 8313
375 Main St.
1300 W. Fulton St.
Pratt Lake SE, Alto. OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 13
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS Many lighthouses in Michigan are said to be haunted, including the Presque Isle Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Huron (left). Kathleen Tedsen and Beverlee Rydel provide readers information on how to experience paranormal activity in “Haunted Travels of Michigan” (below).
READING ROOM
OCTOBER WELCOMES in cold nights,
“Ghosts and Legends of Michigan’s
cider and spicy aromas like cinnamon and
West Coast” by Amberrose Hammond
“Michigan’s Haunted Lighthouses”
cloves. It’s also the best time for ghostly
Sure to be a favorite ghostly read for West
by Dianna Higgs Stampfler
yarns. So, “when the frost is on the punkin,”
Michiganders, this collection of paranor-
Published in 2019, “Michigan’s Haunted
as poet James Whitcomb Riley wrote, what
mal tales includes area folklore, including
Lighthouses” is chock full of wonderful
better time to hunker down with a cushy
a chapter on the legendary Melon Heads.
tales of haunted lighthouses throughout the
throw and — in the spirit of the season — a
Other area hauntings include well-
Great Lakes State. With stories of hauntings
known venues such as Saugatuck’s Felt
from Marquette to Port Huron and from
When it comes to goosebump-worthy
Mansion and the Grand Theatre in Grand
Whitehall to Bay City — there are 13 light-
reads, there are several West Michigan
Haven, said to be haunted by a former cus-
houses with reported paranormal activity
ghost stories able to rival even the best the
todian. Famed former Muskegon lumber
in this collection — this book offers great
famed city of Salem has to offer. Here’s a
baron and philanthropist Charles Hack-
Halloween-time reading, as well as plenty
list to check out this season.
ley, whose former Victorian-era home is a
of Michigan history.
book of spooky tales?
favorite attraction today, also is the subject “Spooky Michigan: Tales of Hauntings,
of one of the stories in this compilation of
“Haunted Travels of Michigan”
Strange Happenings, and Other Local
ghosts and legends.
by Kathleen Tedsen and Beverlee Rydel
Lore” by S.E. Schlosser
This book is the culmination of extensive
Maybe the best-known Grand Rapids-area
“Ghosts of Grand Rapids” by Nicole Bray
research and paranormal investigation by
ghost story is that of the Ada Witch, said to
and Robert Du Shane, with Julie Rathshack
authors Tedsen and Rydel. Like “Michi-
haunt Ada’s Findlay Cemetery where she —
This one is centered solely around Grand
gan’s Haunted Lighthouses,” the ghost sto-
supposedly an adulterous wife murdered by
Rapids ghosts, including the legendary
ries garnish an entrée of Michigan history.
her husband in the mid-to-late 1800s — is
hauntings of the former Michigan Bell build-
Yet, one unique aspect of this collection
said to be interred. This book includes a sec-
ing in downtown, St. Cecilia Music Center,
of tales is an interactive experience avail-
tion on the Ada Witch, making this of par-
the former Pantlind Hotel — now the Amway
able on the internet, providing readers the
ticular interest to those who live — or grew
Grand Plaza Hotel — and Aquinas College’s
opportunity to experience a paranormal
up — in West Michigan, where the story has
Holmdene Hall. The haunted accounts here
investigation themselves.
been circulating for over 100 years.
include layers of rich, local history.
14 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
— JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISTOCK (LEFT); “HAUNTED TRAVELS OF MICHIGAN” (RIGHT)
5 ghostly reads for fall
health & wellness BY MARIE HAVENGA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE LOZON
Pick up your prescription at the park NEXT TIME YOUR DOCTOR writes a prescription, you may not be heading to a local pharmacy to fill it. You may be hitting a local park instead. The Park Rx America program encourages patients to visit local parks for fresh air, exercise, relaxation and other numerous “great outdoors” perks. Beth Peter, M.D., a Holland-based family medicine practitioner, spearheaded the program in Ottawa County in May. It’s going swimmingly. In fact, swimming in Lake Michigan, hiking or cross-country skiing at a local park could be on your prescription, depending on your health needs and interests. Park Rx America launched in California in 2012. “A pediatrician there recognized his patients weren’t getting outside and having regular playtime like they had in previous decades,” Peter said. “He created a webbased platform that is available nationally.” Peter became aware of the tool last winter, then reached out to Ottawa and Allegan County Parks officials who were willing to upload detailed park descriptions to the Park Rx America site. Peter wrote 25 “park prescriptions” in June and July. More than 250 were prescribed in Michigan during that time. Any doctor in the state may use the program. “These parks are right in our backyard, and we don’t even know they’re there,” Peter said. The exam room conversation may go something like this: “What are the barriers to getting healthier? Have you been taking your walks? How can we change your routine?” Next, Peter explains the Park Rx America program, and if there’s interest, she’ll type in the patient’s address and personalized needs (such as wheelchair accessibility, hiking trails, shade, restrooms, etc.). She then prescribes an appropriate nearby park. To date, there are more than 100 West
To date, there are more than 100 West Michigan parks in the Park Rx America program.
“What makes it so powerful is each person is unique and different and this is very specific. It's not just me saying 'let's get outside.'” BETH PETER
Michigan parks in the program. “What makes it so powerful is each person is unique and different and this is very specific,” she said. “It’s not just me saying ‘let’s get outside.’” The program texts the patient with directions and reminders. Patients can check in to notify the prescribing practitioner of their park visits.
“We joke that I’m using technology to get people away from their technology,” Peter said. “This is a new way to get people motivated to change their habits. It’s a way for physicians to prescribe time outside in specific locations. We’re always looking for ways to get people healthier.” Patients and physicians praise the program.“I thought we would hear about people losing weight and blood pressure going down,” Peter said. “But the biggest feedback is actually mental health improvement — just that sense of being out in nature makes people feel less anxious.” Visit parkrxamerica.org for more information. OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 15
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
J Schwanke shares his vast flower knowledge on his television show “J Schwanke’s Life in Bloom.” Insets: Various floral designs by Schwanke.
Surrounded by f lowers J Schwanke shares his passion and spreads beauty. J SCHWANKE IS ON TV weaving flower
Flower fans also can catch Schwanke’s
He shares easy flower arranging tips and
crowns, mixing up hibiscus mojitos and
show “Fun with Flowers and J” on uBloom.
techniques. He knows arranging a big volu-
sharing how one simple bloom can be an
com. He posts a new show each week, and
minous bouquet can be intimidating.
arrangement. It’s what The Flower Guy does
more than 20,000 visitors check in.
garden shows to classes he teaches around the globe to his fun YouTube shows.
“It can be one flower in a dish,” he said
If it involves flowers, he’s your guy.
on screen, popping blossoms into chic
His TV show, seen by 36 million view-
shot glasses.
ers, is classic Schwanke, a half-hour that
Sometimes
his
crew
films
in
his
And now, with a new TV show on public
highlights the fun you can have with flow-
home kitchen, where he whips up flow-
television, he’s spreading his flower power
ers. Check local listings or stream it on
er-themed cocktails, cooks and bakes,
to millions more fans. “J Schwanke’s Life
uBloom.com. With Schwanke as the host,
serving up lemon lavender cookies and
in Bloom” is the latest flower-friendly frolic
it’s bound to be fun. He’s the kind of guy
mango avocado salad garnished with edi-
with Schwanke. (It rhymes with donkey.)
who talks to everybody, a vivacious peo-
ble nasturtium petals. He pals around with
ple magnet.
fun guests like radio personality Kim Car-
The fourth-generation floral designer has led flower arranging demonstrations
His show, filmed in Grand Rapids, takes
in all 50 states, every province of Canada,
viewers all over the world, touring flower
England, France, Mexico and Colombia.
farms, greenhouses, markets and festivals.
16 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
son and chef Jenna Arcidiacono of Amore Trattoria Italiana. He makes flower crowns for guests to
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY UBLOOM.COM
best, from his popular visits to home and
Flower crown by J Schwanke.
wear. “You can’t help but smile and be
“Somehow, the flowers knew”
happy when you have flowers on your
Schwanke and his husband Kelly Blank, a
head,” he noted.
graphic designer, have been together for 23
He basically has a blast because he’s sharing his adoration of flowers. “I want it to be a show about flowers that makes people feel good,” Schwanke said.
years and married for six. They got married outside a Vermont courthouse next to a bed of bright marigolds. They share their Comstock Park home
Relaxing guitar music plays in the
with black and tan cocker spaniels, Elea-
background, composed by Schwanke’s
nor and Ladybird — yes, both named after
hairstylist, Ben Scott-Brandt. Schwanke
first ladies.
isn’t one of those chatty TV hosts who talks all the time. Once he’s explained he’s about to create a color block arrangement out of carna-
Flowers have made Schwanke famous. Or maybe he’s made flowers famous. Either way, his YouTube channel has 76,000 subscribers.
tions, he gets to it, no jibber-jabber, music
Flight attendants say, “Aren’t you that
playing as we watch him expertly tuck in
flower guy?” He was strolling the river walk
the blooms.
in San Antonio when he heard girls yelling,
PBS is a perfect home for him, he said. “It’s public education,” Schwanke said. “It’s a gift. I think I’d explode if I didn’t do it.”
“Hey, JTV!” Three teens wanted a selfie with him. They watch him on YouTube. Schwanke
always
gives
away
the
arrangements he makes at flower show Just J
classes and demonstrations. At the last
Before we get too far, yes, J is his entire
West Michigan Home and Garden Show in
first name. His mother was certain she
Grand Rapids, he created a pink bouquet of
was having a girl and wanted to name her
roses, tulips, carnations and asters.
Jennifer.
ence wearing pink, telling her, “I think this
She wrote J on his birth certificate, but
should go home with you.” That day was
before she could decide on a boy name that
the anniversary of her daughter’s death
started with J, she fell asleep. An efficient
from cancer, she told him. Pink was her
nurse took the certificate and processed it.
favorite color.
And, to back up a bit, the guy was born
“That was no coincidence,” Schwanke
at a flower show. His parents, Mel and Joey
said, getting teary at the memory. “Some-
Schwanke, ran the Nebraska Floral Society
how, the flowers knew. They were speaking
for 50 years. One March day, a very preg-
through me.
table at a Nebraska flower conference.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY UBLOOM.COM
He offered it to a woman in his audi-
Surprise!
nant Joey was manning the registration
“Flowers are a powerful emotional connection. When we’re born, we get flowers.
There were 19 inches of snow outside
When you’re sick, you get flowers. When
and roads were closed as she turned to her
you entertain, you have flowers. When
husband and said, “I think I’m gonna have
you’re married, you have flowers. When
this baby pretty soon.”
you die, there are flowers.”
Luckily, there was a doctor staying at the hotel. He delivered little J in room 386. Schwanke played in the family green-
When you hang around Schwanke, you get flowers. He grows a garden full just for picking.
house as a toddler and by age 9 was helping
“I thank my lucky stars I’m surrounded
plant and weed. As soon as he could drive,
by flowers every day,” he said. “The uni-
he drove the delivery truck. By age 12, he
verse built me for this job. Each and every
had traveled to 35 states for floral shows.
one of us was built for a job. Some people
Schwanke figures this flower stuff is meant to be.
Don’t just plop your flowers in a vase. Follow these pro tips from J Schwanke: 1. Cold water is best. 2. Cut flower stems at an angle to expose more surface area for water. 3. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears — not scissors — to cut stems. Scissors crush the stems and keep them from taking in water. 4. Pick off any leaves that would be beneath the water. They encourage bacteria. 5. Choose a vase with a narrower top than bottom for the easiest arranging. 6. Keep flowers away from fruit, which gives off a ripening hormone called ethylene that causes flowers to age faster. 7. Tuck curly willow branches down inside a clear vase to add interest and structure to hold flower stems in place. 8. Think outside the vase. Any container can hold flowers, from a martini glass to a vintage ashtray.
never find it. I found it.” —TERRI FINCH HAMILTON OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 17
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THE ART OF THE CHRYSANTHEMUM
CHRYSANTHEMUMS & MORE! SEPTEMBER 20–OCTOBER 27, 2019
Enjoy a celebration of the chrysanthemum and fall plantings at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Chrysanthemums & More! exhibition, the largest of its kind in Michigan. Experience formal garden displays with modern touches. Every display will be artfully arranged to create commanding, bold patterns that beg a closer look. We look forward to treating you to an artful autumn!
East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI MeijerGardens.org | #MeijerGardens | @MeijerGardens
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Decorating with fall foliage BY DEIDRE REMTEMA
Decorating with fall foliage BY DEIDRE REMTEMA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY SWEET
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 19
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
EVERY SEASON BRINGS a new creative outlet for decorating with plants and natural materials in the home. Spring and summer are all about flowers, while fall ushers in a fresh new harvest to choose from. As an interior designer, I believe no home feels complete without plants and natural arrangements; they add texture, life and comfort. I recently worked with designer Mari Ignatoski of Ginko Studios Floral Design for a client project and was delighted with her fresh approach to floral design. Now that October is upon us, when putting together fall arrangements, Ignatoski said it’s more about foliage and less about flowers. Creating texture with grasses, pods, berries or eucalyptuses brings a sophisticated look to your home. Fall is no longer just about pumpkins or mums, said Ignatoski, a three-time Grand Rapids Art Museum Art in Bloom winner. She loves using containers in rose gold or copper tones in the fall to add depth. Fall is a time to take advantage of unique foliage, and my preference is to go big and play with asymmetrical shapes, especially for an arrangement on the kitchen island or a corner side table in the living room. Tall, airy arrangements help add height to a room and bring the eye up. Likewise, low arrangements on coffee tables are practical for visiting with guests and making entertaining easy. Other great areas around the home to add arrangements are the powder room, master bedroom, windowsill above the kitchen sink, guest bedroom and entry hall, just to name a few. Last but not least, think outside the box when deciding on arrangements for your front door; every year is a new creative opportunity to enjoy a fresh approach. GR 20 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Mari Ignatoski, of Ginko Studios Floral Design, uses papyrus, yucca, fatsia, rex begonia, explosion grass, curly willow, poppy pods, cattails, red viburnum berries, blue viburum berries and blue thistle to create the fall arrangement pictured above.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 21
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Creating texture with grasses, pods, berries or eucalyptuses brings a sophisticated look to your home.
About Ginko Studios Mari Ignatoski always has had a love for flowers and spent time in her Polish grandmother’s English garden growing up. Having worked in floral design for over 40 years and now owning her design business for 26 years, Ignatoski enjoys all aspects of design from creating to delivering. Ginko Studios Floral Design spent 24 years on Cherry Street until three years ago when the business relocated to Ignatoski’s home in northeast Grand Rapids. Ignatoski’s work spans large corporate events to private homes and special occasions. For more design tips, visit deidreinteriors.com or @deidre_interiors on Instagram. To see Ignatoski’s award-winning work, visit the Ginko Studios Floral Design Facebook page.
Mari Ignatoski, right, shows Deidre Remtema how to create beautiful fall arrangements by focusing on foliage like cattails, blue thistle, red viburnum berries and more rather than flowers (middle and bottom). 22 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
‘The Art of Wordless Storytelling’ GRAM exhibit shows how much can be communicated with an image.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID WIESNER; COPYRIGHT © DAVID WIESNER
BY RACHEL AZURE
Original design for National Poetry Week poster, 2001. OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 23
art & design
GUESTS ARE INVITED to the Grand Rapids Art Museum to see the art of awardwinning children’s book author David Wiesner in a new way. Wiesner’s appreciation of art began at a very young age with the wordless art of comics, specifically issue No. 1 of Marvel Comics’ Nick Fury, Agent of Shield: “Who Is Scorpio?” “No word balloons, no sound effects and no captions — just pictures,” Wiesner said. The images were captivating, and the story was somehow exceptionally clear even without any words.
“I use a lot of detail in my images — some of those images are pretty dense — but everything in the pictures is there to advance the story. The pictures need to be read very carefully.” DAVID WIESNER
Top: “Fish Girl,” 2016. Above: “Art & Max,” 2010. 24 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Later, Wiesner attended the Rhode Island School of Design, where he studied more examples of wordless stories, such as Lynd Ward’s first edition of “Madman’s Drum.” When it was time to create his own art, he crafted wordless sequences
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID WIESNER; COPYRIGHT © DAVID WIESNER
TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID WIESNER; COPYRIGHT © DAVID WIESNER
for projects whenever possible. After graduation, Wiesner began creating picture books, but it didn’t occur to him at first that he could make those books wordless like the art he so appreciated. Since then, Wiesner has had an extremely successful career. Three of the picture books he wrote and illustrated won the Caldecott Medal, “Tuesday” in 1992, “The Three Pigs” in 2002 and “Flotsam” in 2007. He is only the second person in the long history of the award to win three times. In addition, Wiesner also received three Caldecott Honors for other books including, “Free Fall,” “Sector 7” and “Mr. Wuffles!” Wiesner’s illustrations have the ability to transport families to unique, exciting places. Every turn of the page brings a new element of surprise that Wiesner has meticulously planned. “I use a lot of detail in my images — some of those images are pretty dense — but everything in the pictures is there to advance the story. The pictures need to be read very carefully,” Wiesner said. There is so much care and patience captured within his watercolor art that it’s hard to even distinguish them as watercolor. Of course, these paintings are transformed for print, so the GRAM’s exhibit is offering a unique opportunity to see the images in their original form, as well as the sketches and preliminary drawings that came before them. Assistant art curator Jennifer Wcisel is excited to bring Wiesner’s wordless art to the GRAM and provide guests the oppor-
Top: “Art & Max,” 2010. Above left: “Mr. Wuffles!,” 2013. Above right): “Bugs,” 2009. Below: “The Three Pigs,” 2001.
tunity to explore their own creativity. “It’s a collaboration between the reader and himself. He puts those images out there, but it’s up to the reader, then, to interpret them in their own way,” Wcisel said. She’s spent a lot of time planning the exhibit to display Wiesner’s stories in a way GRAM visitors are sure to love. Presented chronologically, viewers can see how Wiesner’s art transformed over the years. Guests also will be able to participate in interpretive activities to learn even more. Wcisel admires Wiesner’s ability to connect with how children think, and even adult guests are sure to feel that same sense of discovery that comes with each page.
“For children, it just sparks their imagination and creativity, and for adults, it reminds them of the childhood joy of imagination and creativity,” Wcisel said. “David Wiesner and The Art of Wordless Storytelling” will be at the GRAM from Oct. 12 through Jan. 12. GR
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 25
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Local art galleries COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ LOWELLARTS: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists. Through Oct. 26, “ISEA (International Society of Experimental Art): Annual Juried Exhibition” includes more than 100 pieces of work by a variety of artists in all media. 223 W. Main St., Lowell, 897-8545, lowellartsmi.org. 2/ MERIZON STUDIO: Art, mirror and glass design, custom framing and limited-edition prints by Armand Merizon. Through Oct. 20, “Collaboration: The Works of Kathleen Kalinowski and Mary Serra Veneklase” showcases the collaboration between a mentor and a student, each with a passion to learn and create. 9087 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Caledonia, 485-5752, merizonstudio.com. 3/ FOREST HILLS FINE ARTS CENTER: Artist-in-residence program offers exhibits by local and regional artists during the school year; also exhibits by Forest Hills Public Schools students and staff. Artist and illustrator Laura Corbiani exhibits her whimsical drawings from Oct. 1-31. A reception is 6-7 p.m. Oct. 10. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfineartscenter.com.
Aquinas College Gallery: Work by students, faculty and visiting artists. Through Oct. 25, “The String Project” by Chelsea Nix and Mariano Cortez. Closed Oct. 12-20. Art & Music building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 6328900, aquinas.edu/art/gallery. Center Art Gallery - Calvin University: Student, faculty and alumni work, plus exhibits by visiting artists. Through Oct. 19, “Wolterstorff Collection Exhibition” and “I Only Enhance What’s Already There: John Vanast.” Through Jan. 28, “John James Audubon: Selections from the Permanent Collection.” Oct. 18-Nov. 29, “Dwelling: Our Watershed in Image and Word.” Fall reception 6-9 p.m. Oct. 25. Calvin University Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 526-6271, calvin.edu/centerartgallery. Design Quest Gallery: Furniture store exhibits art in a gallery setting. 4181 28th St. SE, 940-9911, design quest.biz. Fed Galleries @ Kendall College of Art and Design: Work by contemporary visiting artists, students and staff. 17 Pearl St. NW, 451-2787, kcad. edu/galleries. Flat River Cottage: Fine art, jewelry, antiques and home décor; also, paintings by Kathleen Mooney. 317 E.
Main St., Lowell, 897-8601, flatriver cottage.com. Flat River Gallery & Framing: Artist cooperative shows work in a variety of mediums, plus gifts, framing and workshops. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 9876737, flatrivergalleryandframing.com. Fountain Street Church Keeler Gallery: Art exhibits in a variety of mediums by visiting artists. 24 Fountain St. NE, 459-8386, fountain street.org/art. Franciscan Life Process Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. Guardian Gallery - Grand Rapids: Through Oct. 25, “Colors of Nature” by Kristen Thornton. 654 Davis St. NW. Guardian Gallery - Lowell: Through Oct. 28, “Capturing the Light” by Valentina Gregorieva. 11650 Downes St., 897-7842, lifeprocess center.org. Gallery 154: Eastown gallery shows local and national multimedia art, gifts and jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, facebook.com/gallery154. GRCC Collins Art Gallery: Exhibits by visiting artists, faculty and students. 143 Bostwick Ave. NE, 2343544, grcc.edu/artgallery. GVSU Art Galleries: Student artwork and exhibits by renowned artists. Allendale campus: Through Oct. 25, “Jose Guadalupe Posada: Calavera Prints from the GVSU Print and Drawing Cabinet” at Kirkhof Center Gallery. Through Nov. 1, “Art of To-
26 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
2/ Kathleen Kalinowski’s “Franciscan Orchard” is at Merizon Studio. day: Contemporary Collections from Chicago.” Through Dec. 13, “Carnivals, Cognac and Cycling: Works of Art from the Robert L. Haskins and Erwin A. Raible Collection of Fin-deSiecle Prints” at Red Wall Gallery. 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, 331-2563. Pew Grand Rapids campus: Permanent exhibit: “Mathias J. Alten: An Evolving Legacy” at George and Barbara Gordon Gallery. Through Oct. 25, “A Life in Paint” by Mark W. Wilkens at West Wall Gallery. Through Dec. 13, “Wandering Seeds: Experiencing and Engaging Haiti Through Study Abroad” at Blue Wall Gallery.
DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton St., 3313638, gvsu.edu/artgallery. Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 235-7211 ext. 103, heartside.org. Holland Area Arts Council: Changing exhibits of art. 150 E. Eighth St., Holland, 396-3278, hollandarts.org. ICCF: Inner City Christian Federation headquarters displays art in various media. 920 Cherry St. SE, 336-9333, iccf.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISEA (TOP); KATHLEEN KALINOWSKI (BOTTOM)
The Artist’s Studio: Studio and gallery with work by Jim Starkey and Rose Ellis; also, custom framing. 40 Monroe Center NW, 454-6650, face book.com/theartistsstudio1.
1/ “Easy Rider” by Carla O’Connor is at LowellArts.
3/ The “creatures” in Laura Corbiani’s drawings tell a story. Kruizenga Art Museum: Art from Hope College’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Through Dec. 14, “Deities and Devotion in Mongolian Buddhist Art.” 271 Columbia Ave., Holland, 395-6400, hope.edu/kam. LaFontsee Galleries: 2D and 3D works by gallery artists, plus framing and restoration services. Also, Urban Craft Boutique with gifts, accessories and home décor. Oct. 25-Nov. 22, “Mix It Up”; reception 5-8 p.m. Oct. 25. 833 Lake Drive SE, 4519820. lafontsee.us. Leep Art Gallery: Work by a variety of visiting artists. Through Oct. 1, “How I See Things” by Dennis O’Mara. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE, pinerest.org/leep-art-gallery.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LAURA CORBIANI
MercuryHead Gallery: A variety of work by local artists; also gifts, photo restoration, digital printing on canvas and framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 4566022, facebook.com/mercuryheadgallery. Terryberry Gallery: Local and international art. Oct. 1-25, “Westside Stories 2019” by Cheri McClain Beatty, Shawn Melton, Ben Beltman, Michael Belt, Jodi Rietberg Schmalz and Joslyn Fox; reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 4. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online.org/visit-terryberry-gallery. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Innovative, contemporary exhibits and installations. Through Dec. 20, “Spectra.” Through Jan. 26, Autumn Exhibition Series: “Before Words” by Kennedy Yanko, “Memory Map: Roof Line - State Street” by Mark Rumsey, and “On the Scene” Larry Cook. 2 W. Fulton St., 454-7000, uica.org. Van Singel Fine Arts Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. Through Oct. 10, paintings by Adrienne Gelardi. Oct. 11-Nov. 27, printmaking by Olivia Timmons; reception 2-3:30 p.m. Oct. 20. 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vs fac.com/programming/art-gallery. OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 27
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY XXXXXXXXXXX
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28 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Beer City evolves as industry slows Craft beer is still king, but breweries have to innovate to compete.
National Stage pg. 34
BY PAT EVANS As craft beer has matured in West Michigan over the past decade, there’s been plenty of change. Beer was once a novelty industry in Grand Rapids, but today, seemingly everyone has a favorite brewery. And with that surge in popularity, tastes have changed and, in turn, so have the tap lists at the local breweries. It’s a nationwide phenomenon; as trends die as quickly as they arise. The hottest breweries in the country are those on the innovative forefront that keep the hype machine rolling with new releases. Grand Rapids is among the top beer cities in the United States, especially for cities its size, and from the days Founders started pushing as a driver of the extreme beer movement to Brewery Vivant’s opening in 2010, brewers have shown the city what beer can be. As the beer industry continues to push forward with hazy IPAs, pastry stouts and sour beers, some beer lovers have fallen back on lagers or more “simple” beers, or even strayed beyond beer to spirits and cocktails and, this year especially, hard seltzer. Beer is at a strange point in its history when big breweries are struggling to maintain market share and many of the most renowned breweries are hyped through social media with hard-to-obtain beers. “Rotation Nation” dominates bars as hardcore beer lovers often are intent on trying a new beer every time they order, so building a flagship brand has become increasingly difficult as the number of breweries in the U.S. continues to climb — albeit much slower than even five years ago. So, for most breweries in West Michigan, the struggle is trying to find a happy medium of innovation and a stable of solid beers regulars can return to sip. “The lion’s share of our business is in the pubs, and that boutique stuff might do better at bottle shares, but what works time and time again at the pubs and creating memories is clean, simple and easy-to-drink beers,” said Max Trierweiler, co-founder at The Mitten Brewing Co. “From day one, we’ve tried our best to steer away from trends. We want to make solid beers that people remember.” West Michigan is home to an astounding number of breweries making well-regarded and awarded beers; most, however, are in fairly “simple” beer styles, like The Mitten’s West Coast Swing Amber, Rockford Brewing’s Rogue River Brown and Cedar Springs Brewing’s Original Weissbier. Those beers have won medals at the Great American Beer Festival and help show those breweries’ commitment to excellence in traditional beers. That’s not to say those breweries don’t push the envelope, said Mitch Ermatinger, owner of Speciation Artisan Ales. Ermatinger made specific note of walking into The Mitten and
Food Pairings pg. 36
Must-try New Arrivals pg. 39
Innovation pg. 40
Beer Activities pg. 42
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 29
Beers recognized at the Great American Beer Festival
The Mitten’s West Coast Swing Amber
Rockford Brewing’s Rogue River Brown
Cedar Springs Brewing’s Original Weissbier
The Mitten has a vast selection of beers.
30 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
The Mitten co-owners Max Trierweiler and Chris Andrus show off their award-winning West Coast Swing.
regularly seeing a tap list with 20 or more beers, many of which would fall into the category of innovative, like hazy IPAs and a new barrel-aged sour program. Speciation itself is a brewery helping to keep Grand Rapids on the beer map. A tiny operation in Comstock Park, Ermatinger has garnered a lot of publicity and a reputation across the beer world for the brewery’s mixed-fermentation sour beers. “It’s a weird time for breweries,” Ermatinger said. “For us, being an innovative brewery, we have to be thinking outside the box all the time because if you don’t have a flagship, breweries like us are releasing a new beer or two every week.” Almost all of Ermatinger’s beers are unique in some way and, due to his process, even releases of the same beer will be different. Even so, now that Speciation has a tasting room, Ermatinger has started to dabble in clean beers, like an IPA. “As a tasting room, we get all sorts of people coming in, and a majority know we’re a sour brewery, but a not-small percentage might search for a brewery and don’t have any idea,” he said. “That’s fine, they can come in and have something that fits what they were looking for.” Expectations and the market have made some breweries shift. Brewery Vivant’s lines of traditional Belgian- and French-style beers were supplemented a
“It’s a weird time for breweries. For us, being an innovative brewery, we have to be thinking outside the box all the time because if you don’t have a flagship, breweries like us are releasing a new beer or two every week.” Mitch Ermatinger
few years ago by an expansive barrel-aging sour program. This year, Brewery Vivant owners Kris and Jason Spaulding opened a second brewery, Broad Leaf Local Beer, to provide an outlet for more mainstream and trendy beer offerings. Meanwhile, the city’s juggernaut, Founders Brewing, committed massively to its barrel-aging program while also doubling down now on its light and accessible All Day IPA, which now accounts for more than 50% of its nearly 600,000-barrel annual production. Ermatinger has put all of Speciation’s chips into the innovative beer world, while another area brewery is being innovative by being, well, not so innovative. Cedar Springs Brewing has staked its claim on brewing a line of traditional German-style beers. The line, named after 19th century Grand Rapids beer pioneer Christoph Kusterer, isn’t setting the world on fire when it comes to inventiveness, but Cedar Springs founder David Ringler is OK with that. “We’re weirdos right now in that we’re only doing those traditional beers, and quite honestly, it’s somewhat innovative that we are,” Ringler said. “We don’t do parlor tricks and make wonderful flavors with four ingredients.” Ringler has loved the beer industry since the 1980s and studied brewing in Germany during the 1990s. While he appreciates the innovative craft styles released by breweries, he also doesn’t want the classic styles to be forgotten. “Some of these beers have been popular for 200 to 800 years,” he said. “Our flagship, the Original Weissbier, is based on a 500-year-old recipe, and it’s had periods where it’s fallen out of favor, but it’s still here.” And Ringler is on to something in his statement that brewing traditional beers might just be innovative in its own right. Ermatinger said he’ll often go to a grocery or liquor store and browse the beer selection. Sometimes he might want a OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 31
Cedar Springs Brewing founder David Ringler with Great Gig in the Sky.
German-style doppelbock or English-style extra-special bitter, but for the most part, they’re nowhere to be found. For that reason, part of Ringler’s sales pitch is the idea his authentic brewing background and selection of traditional beers is a way to offer variety. “For whatever reason, no one is really doing what we’re doing,” he said. “We’re variety on our own in a world of IPAs and big dark beers.” As for his taproom, Ringler said it could be dropped into downtown Munich and no one would notice anything out of place, from the German menu to the beer and its style. While The Mitten is pushing more beer into state-wide distribution, the brewers will continue to produce what sells at its taprooms in Grand Rapids, Northport and Saugatuck.
“We’re weirdos right now in that we’re only doing those traditional beers, and quite honestly, it’s somewhat innovative that we are. We don’t do parlor tricks and make wonderful flavors with four ingredients.” David Ringler “We’re still working on making what we do better and not reinventing the wheel,” said Chris Andrus, co-founder of The Mitten with Trierweiler. “Our growth has been fairly consistent, and our pub sales have increased significantly. And at our lakeshore locations, they want light beers, fruity beers. “We know we’ve achieved our job when someone asks for another one.” And that’s the key for a business: for customers to return. For some, it’s putting out a new beer every week to entice a customer to come back, while others will focus on making the same quality beer week in and week out and ensure customers know their favorite beer still is there. “All this stuff is cyclical,” said Ringler, who is a history lover, as well. “Some of these experiments are wonderful, but these traditional beers, consistent, quality beers that meet expectations, that’s what people come back to, a handful of old reliables. “We like to look at our beers as something you can sit back and drink a couple with friends and enjoy conversation.” GR 32 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY BY XXXXXXXXXXX
Cedar Springs Brewing’s flight lineup includes (left to right): Great Gig in the Sky, Küsterer Bohemian Pilsner, Küsterer Original Weissbier, Küsterer Modern Weissbier, Küsterer Salzburger Marzen.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 33
Founders Brewing’s All Day IPA
34 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Founders Brewing co-founder Dave Engbers
All Day IPA makes headway Founders focuses on building brands with IPA. Founders Brewing has been a rocket ship for the past decade or so, as it’s grown into one of the largest breweries in the country. And this summer, the brewery reached new heights as it became available in all 50 states by adding distribution to Hawaii. Founders is offered across the globe, too. The company also sold a 90% stake to Spanish brewing partner Mahou San Miguel Group. So, what’s next? Grand Rapids Magazine checked in with Founders co-founder Dave Engbers to see what’s on the horizon. “Our main focus will be building brands,” Engbers said. “All Day IPA continues to crush it, and we’re really happy with the growth of that brand. We’re going to focus on building brands and not throwing a bunch of stuff at the wall.” For a beer that didn’t exist a decade ago, the 22-year-old brewery sure found its flagship. Today, All Day makes up more than 55% of Founders’ production, which continues to climb, reaching nearly 600,000 barrels last year. A barrel is 31 gallons. Founders once was known amongst beer fanatics as a brewery pushing the boundaries — and its experimental series still is often sought after, as is KBS and CBS — but All Day has become a major national brand. Whether it’s at a bar in Grand Rapids, a basketball game in Las Vegas, a gas station in Kansas, beachside in the Caribbean or a bar in Denmark, there’s a good chance you’ll stumble upon an All Day. And Engbers said Founders will attempt to solidify All Day as a beer brand for years to come. “It’s great to see because we have a brand that resonates with hardcore beer enthusiasts, but also a beer that folks who are craft
22
The age of Founders Brewing
55%
of all Founders Brewing production is devoted to All Day
600k barrels of All Day IPA were made last year
curious can really enjoy,” he said. To have staying power as a brand now, breweries also will have to fight to stop the exodus from the category. Overall beer sales have started to decline, as people shift away from big beer like Budweiser and Miller, but craft sales also have started to crawl in recent years. It’s a far cry from the double-digit segment growth a few years ago when craft beer seemingly could do no wrong. With that in mind, Engbers said the industry needs to work together to ensure it will continue to stick around and grow. “The craft industry is losing market share to other segments, like hard seltzer, and we have to stop that,” he said. “I wish all brewers would step back into the ’90s when we all got along and supported each other with no mudslinging. We need to make beer sexy again, it will help all of us.” As Engbers starts that journey to make beer sexy again and Founders beer makes its way across the nation, he said a refocus on Michigan could be near. “You have to focus on your backyard,” he said. “If you don’t, you’re dead in the water.” — Pat Evans OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 35
Nine places for beer and food Try one of these breweries when you’re looking for a meal. City Built Brewing
The Mitten Brewing Co.
City Built Brewing came on the beer scene in 2017, opening its doors in the Monroe North neighborhood. The brewery immediately distinguished itself with its tasty beers and its menu of Puerto Ricaninspired cuisine. Owners Dave Petroelje and Edwin Collazo said they wanted to offer nontraditional brewhouse fare and worked to develop a menu that includes bori balls, traditional Puerto Rican rice croquettes, tostones (fried and smashed plantains), camarones mofongo and more.
It’s not just beer that has people flocking to The Mitten — the pizza is an equally big draw. Offering everything from the more traditional — Margherita and Da Meat Hook, with pepperoni, house sausage, salami, capicola, bacon and mozzarella – to creative toppings like those on the Westerdog, which includes chili bean sauce, all-beef franks, colby jack cheese, diced white onions, shredded kosher pickles, along with ketchup and mustard. It also features chicken and waffles, with chicken, waffles, and mozzarella cheese on a butter base and drizzled with maple syrup. These pizzas will have you coming back for seconds.
Brewery Vivant Brewery Vivant’s menu is inspired by recipes from “the small countryside breweries of northern France and southern Belgium.” Operating a scratch kitchen, the items featured on its menu change with the seasons and are based on ingredients available locally. Some of the items you’ll find on the menu include Belgian frites, house sausage and a shaved beef sandwich. The menu also is meant to pair well with the Belgian-style beers on tap at the brewery. The brewery is a staple in the East Hills neighborhood and a go-to when you are looking for a night of food and beer. 36 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Greyline Brewing Co. Greyline Brewing has a robust menu, offering a variety of sliders and German wieners, salads and wraps, sandwiches, tacos, and specialty mac and cheese options. You also can begin your meal with one of nearly a dozen starters. This is definitely the brewery to head to if you are feeling peckish and want a step up from traditional bar food but still craving more traditional fare.
City Built Brewing has an array of dishes for pairing; among our favorites are the Confit Chicken Quarter with Melisandre (left) and Mussels with Alemania (above).
Founders Brewing Co. If you have not started your night at Founders with the beer cheese dip, you are missing out. Made with smoked Gouda, cream cheese, chopped fresh garlic, red peppers, spinach and a blend of Centennial IPA and Red’s Rye IPA and served with seasoned crostinis and tortilla chips, this dip is an excellent appetizer to make a dent in your hunger. Next up, Founders offers over 20 sandwiches that will have you stretching your mouth muscles; these sandwiches are stuffed. While it’s not “fancy” food, it is filling food.
The Knickerbocker New Holland Brewing - The Knickerbocker’s menu may be the most diverse of the breweries in town. Offering everything from smoked kielbasa and perogies to a Nashville hot chicken sandwich and a slew of burgers, sandwiches and salads as well as pizzas and hearty sides, The Knickerbocker certainly is a place that can offer more than beer to fill your stomach. The brewery also lists nearly a dozen local farms and food businesses that it works with to source the items on its menu, showing its commitment to the community. OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 37
The Mitten Brewing Company’s pizzas are a craft of their own. Try pairing a Country Strong IPA with the Westerdog pizza (above).
Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery
Creston Brewery
Harmony Hall and Harmony Brewing
What’s in a name? The Jolly Pumpkin wants you to know it’s more than a brewery. It’s also a pizzeria with specialty pies like Fire and Smoke, made with smoked chicken, charred peppers, smoked mozzarella and chipotle tomato sauce, topped with scallions and basil. Or, try the Bridge Street Vegetarian, with roasted red pepper hummus, basil pesto, balsamic roasted vegetables and kale chips. The Jolly Pumpkin also offers a variety of sandwiches and salads. Perched in the middle of the growing West Side, this bar is a great choice to start your night.
Creston Brewery makes its own hot sauces, that’s how serious it is about its food. The brewery, residing in the Creston neighborhood, offers a full menu with more than “just bar food.” Instead, you’ll find items like sesame tuna and deviled eggs on its appetizer menu and entrées including vegetable lo mein, fried chicken, and tomato and fennel braised beef. You also can score dessert here in the form of cheesecake, brownies and ice cream. On Saturday and Sunday, Creston Brewery offers a satisfying brunch menu to energize your day. The brewery’s menu has changed over the years, and it recently teased being “on the verge of a new menu concept.” When you visit, don’t forget to try the hot sauces.
Harmony Brewing opened first in Eastown, followed a few years later by Harmony Hall on the city’s West Side. The locations offer a unique atmosphere but a similar menu. You’ll find wood-fired pizzas, flatbreads, salads and a tasty selection of appetizers. These items pair perfectly with Harmony’s beers. If you are looking for a night in but still want your beer and pizza fix, Harmony is the perfect choice; its Eastown location offers pizza and beer delivery seven days a week in the Eastown area. — Charlsie Dewey
38 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
7 of GR’s newest breweries New breweries continue to pop up in West Michigan. While the rate of brewery openings in Grand Rapids has seemingly slowed since the boom of 2012-15, at least in terms of excitement surrounding them, the nation has seen an incredible rise. The increase has been significant over the past decade. According to the Brewers Association, in 2012, there were 2,475 breweries in the U.S. By 2014, that number increased to 4,672 and 2017 saw it rise to 6,596. Today, there are more than 7,400 with more than 3,000 in the works. So, let’s take a quick look at the breweries that have opened in Grand Rapids during the last two years or so.
Brass Ring Brewery In January 2018, Alger Heights welcomed Brass Ring Brewing. The brewery set out to provide great smallbatch beers and was the first brewery in Michigan to receive a certification by Cask Marque and just the 26th in the U.S. The certification exemplifies Brass Ring’s commitment to serving Englishstyle cask ales.
Jolly Pumpkin Jolly Pumpkin was one of the first breweries to take on sour beer in the early 2000s, well before the trend was popular. While its beer can be found across the U.S., its pub system is concentrated in
Michigan with several pubs on the east side, one in Traverse City and another in Chicago. It joined Grand Rapids in March 2018.
Alebird Taphouse and Brewery If there was an area of Grand Rapids that was looking for more breweries, it clearly was the city’s south side. Alebird opened in Byron Center with a goal to provide the community with “Amazing food. Outstanding beer.”
Broad Leaf Brewery Vivant has been a staple of Grand Rapids since before the beer boom (2010), but owners Kris and Jason Spaulding opened
Broad Leaf Local Beer to help satisfy an itch to brew more innovative, nontraditional Belgianand French-style brews. With the new location, they get to do that.
Arvon Brewing In Grandville, Arvon Brewing has set out to make beer for those looking for “hypeworthy” options to get excited about. The brewery makes a wide array of beer styles but certainly focuses on IPAs, and it’s often lauded for the style by those who sip it.
TwoGuys Brewing Wyoming added a new brewery to Beer City when longtime area brewer Tom Payne and
his wife Amy HamiltonPayne opened TwoGuys Brewing in a former 7-Eleven. Along with solid brews, Payne slings some excellent food out of the kitchen, smoking and making plenty of it with a homestyle freshness.
DeHop’s Opened near Walker and Standale, DeHop’s Brewing Company and Café is meant to have a relaxed friendliness to it. A homey taproom is supported by fantastic beer — ranging from great traditional lagers like a Munich Helles to trendy beers like Brut, Milkshake and Hazy IPAs — and a tasty food menu.
— Pat Evans
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 39
Speciation Artisan Ales founder Mitch Ermatinger
West Michigan beer got an injection of beer hype when Mitch Ermatinger and his wife Whitney moved back to the area a few years ago to start Speciation Artisan Ales. Since the business opened, Ermatinger’s mixed-fermentation sour beers have gained notoriety in the beer world, and he’s poured his beers at festivals across the globe. Many brewers tend to get bogged down by the day-today tasks of operating a business, but Speciation’s small size allows Ermatinger to stay tapped into the goings-on of the industry. Similarly, the small size allows him to be nimbler than most breweries, and that allows him to keep things fresh and new. Often, new products are based simply on things he or his staff enjoy. Take, for example, his recent exploration into wine and cider production. We spoke with Ermatinger to find out more.
Q: For hardcore beer lovers, so much is driven by what’s new. How do you stay fresh? A: For us, the way we keep on top of stuff and keep innovative is through travel. Everyone here travels on a regular basis, whether it’s travel for beer festivals or just trips. A big part of that is experiencing new cultures and what other beer cultures are doing. You can be online and see what’s trending in trade groups, but it’s still not a good gauge until you go to a festival and see what other breweries are pouring. That’s the best way to stay on top of the game.
Innovation with Speciation Artisan Ales
Mitch Ermatinger loves playing with flavors. 40 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Q: How do you expand your offerings? A: We are limited in that we can pretty much only make sour beers. We can play with clean beer in small batches, but mostly, we’re stuck on mixedfermentation wild beer for now. That does limit us, but there’s still so much to be done in that world. One thing we are doing now is cider and wine. Most breweries you go to might have cider and wine, but it’s not made by that brewery. That’s totally fine, but we wanted to do it ourselves. We take apple juice and
Known for its innovation, Speciation Ales offers a variety of beer. Left to right on bottom: Mill Creek IPA, Urbanization, Common Descent, The World Beyond Your Head, The Great Filter, Meiotic Drive, Side Shift and Fermi Paradox.
ferment with the wild cultures on the apple skin, or whole grapes and crush them and let it spontaneously ferment. We’ll age it in bourbon, scotch, tequila barrels, trying to innovate outside of beer, and that’s influencing our beer making quite a bit.
Q: You experiment so much; does it ever not work out? A: There’s a beer on my desk right now that we took a big chance on when we emptied our 1,000-gallon foeder, re-inoculated it and filled it with a different base. Normally, we do golden sours, but this was a dark amber. It’s weird. It tastes good, but it has this olive-y brothiness to it. That was a big risk — a 1,000-gallon risk. It might turn out OK, but we don’t know. Our threshold isn’t amazing; it’s to be interesting.
Q: How do you choose which direction to go with new beers? A: It’s so difficult to choose what’s next. A lot of it is just blending and brainstorming, tasting barrels. Everyone is encouraged to share ideas, even bad ideas. Fruit also determines. This year, the fruits are about a month to six months behind, and that threw off my entire production schedule.
Q: With all that in mind, what’s next at Speciation? A: Probably a lot more cider and wine and a lot more hybrids. A lot of breweries are straight-up combining ideas from cider and wine into beer, and consumers are beginning to think about it. That will be bigger, and we enjoy them, so we experiment with that. The wine thing is awesome. We make natural wine and it’s like the Wild West, like sour beer was five years ago. There’s no rules or expectations, and it gives us a blank slate for what we want to do. It can be funky or not, dry-hopped, there are just so many crazy things you can do with wine and the wine establishment is so monolithic and refuses to change. Also, way more fruit and lots of vanilla. I like vanilla. — Pat Evans OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 41
Explore Beer City Activities to attract even the novice beer drinker.
Great Lakes Pub Cruiser
Beer Trolley Grand Rapids
A great way to tour Grand Rapids and check out its breweries is on the Great Lakes Pub Cruiser. Choose from a series of routes around downtown and pedal your way through the city. You can bring beer on the pub cruiser and it makes stops at breweries along the way. You can choose a two-, two-and-a-half- or three-hour tour. The tour duration determines how many breweries you’ll get to enjoy.
You’ve probably seen the Beer Trolley cruising around downtown filled with revelers celebrating as part of a bachelor or bachelorette party, a birthday shindig or some other special occasion. The Beer Trolley offers custom tours as well as themed tours like the current Project 1 tour or upcoming Christmas Lights tour. “Project 1 Tours will consist of getting our groups around to all three installations in addition to highlighting past ArtPrize pieces that remain around town,” said Austin Dingledine, who owns GR Beer Trolley with his sister, Jaleen. “There will also be an opportunity for our groups to actively participate in these installations, as well. “Christmas light tours have been a big hit for the trolley. You can see the event description and tour times online. We host a great mixture of office Christmas parties, as well, during this time.” Trolley tours start with a stop at the Craft Beer Cellar where you can stock up on beer, wine or cider for the ride. It’s recommended that you bring a small cooler of ice with you on your journey. The tours run for 21/2 hours and help you safely see the city while imbibing. Grand Rapids Beer Trolley is in its third year. It operates from March through December. Visit grbeertrolley.com.
Founders Film Series at Celebration Cinema Pair Founders beer with a movie during the Founders Film Series at Celebration Cinema North in Grand Rapids. The series began Sept. 4 and runs through Nov. 6 this year. Each classic film is paired with a different Founders beer. For instance, on Oct. 2, enjoy Breakfast Stout while viewing “The ’Burbs,” or on Oct. 9 watch “Forrest Gump” while sipping a Pilsner. See Celebration Cinema’s website for a full list of the films and beer pairings on tap this season.
42 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Games & Grog Blue Bridge Games partners with City Built Brewing once a month for game night at the brewery’s location on Monroe Street. Margaret Kleist, owner of Blue Bridge Games, said the partnership began in January and came out of a shared “love of beer and board games.” Game nights take place on the third Tuesday of each month. Kleist said Blue Bridge Game members and regulars from City Built often are in attendance at the game nights, but she said they also see new faces regularly as people find the game nights through social media. So, newbies are always welcome and won’t feel out of place joining in on the fun. Blue Bridge Games has a store library of over 150 titles. For Games & Grogs, the store selects “a smattering of quick games that appeal to large audiences.” “There is no fee for the Games & Grog event at City Built,” Kleist said. “Attendees typically come hungry and thirsty to enjoy City Built’s delicious food and drink.” You also can head straight to Blue Bridge Games and enjoy the store’s full library for $5 for a full day of play. See the full events calendar at bluebridgegames.com. The next Games & Grog events are Oct. 15 and Nov. 19.
Downtown Market cooks up beer events The Grand Rapids Downtown Market shares its love of craft beer regularly with events and classes based around the city’s breweries. This October, the Downtown Market boasts three beerrelated events for you to choose from. Oct. 5: Oktober-Feast: Kick off Oktoberfest with a class all about beer and food. Start off with a beer cheese spread, followed by schnitzel topped with a caper brown butter sauce. Complete your feast with hot, homemade German potato salad. Enjoy small tastes of German-style beer paired with each course. Purchase additional beverages from a curated market bar. Oct. 18: Flight Friday (Not just beer; flights of food, too): Join the Downtown Market for a Friday full of flights, bites and Market delights. Market Hall merchants and restaurants will have beverage and food flights available for purchase on Friday, Oct. 18. Trying something new has never been so easy — you never know, you might just find a new favorite drink or dish. Oct. 22: Cooking with Craft Beer class: Don’t just drink the good stuff – learn to cook with it, too. This beer-inspired menu will include a refreshing seasonal salad with a pale ale vinaigrette, delicious brown ale-braised chicken and rich chocolate stout cupcakes. Yes, beer in dessert! Complement your meal with your favorite brew, available for purchase from a curated list.
Music and beer If you’ve enjoyed a concert recently at Founders Brewing, you have Luke Sass to thank. He is in charge of booking bands for the Founders stage. “Founders is not unique in the brewing community because we like music, we are unique because we invest in it — and we always have,” Sass said. “I first was introduced to Founders as a tour manager for Four Finger Five. Back in those days, Founders could hardly pay the bills, but they always not only fed us and gave us free beer … they paid us fairly,” he said. Sass attributes this to Founders co-owners’ love of music and willingness to invest in talented musicians. Sass said Founders’ foray into music began soon after the brewery opened in its original location in the North Monroe neighborhood. Owners Mike Stevens and Dave Engbers offered the space to friends to practice and people began checking out these practice sessions. “Our nearly two decadeslong connection to music began,” Sass said. Today, you can catch a band at Founders almost every other day. “The first Sunday of each month is our free matinee concert with the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra, and every Tuesday, Nick James Thomasma hosts our Open Mic with sign-ups starting at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, we always present a free show, and our Saturday concerts are typically just $5 with
Hit the field with GRSSC
a cover being paid at the door. That being said, you should always watch out for surprise shows to pop up on select Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the year.” When booking bands, Sass looks for “uniqueness, professionalism, a genuine interest in connecting with their fan base as well as ours, and an ability to leave people’s jaws on the floor through a dynamic performance.” Along with its regular concerts, Founders also hosts an annual daylong beer and music festival, Founders Fest, in June that has drawn as many as 7,500 attendees. “In 2019, we presented a local Artist’s Row, a community engagement area featuring local charities, as well as a ‘Chase Your What If’ activation area for attendees. Basically, each year we try to just have more fun than the previous year’s event, packing the entire experience into eight hours filled with worldrenowned beer, music, food and art all in streets of downtown Grand Rapids during the most beautiful time of the West Michigan summer.” The 13th Founders Fest is scheduled for June 20.
If you like sports, you can hit the field and the bar with Grand Rapids Sport and Social Club. GRSSC organizes adult coed social sport leagues for young professionals and “the young at heart,” offering everything from softball and flag football to kickball and dodgeball. It offers seven-week sessions, with games organized once a week. Typically, games last an hour. Every game is followed by an afterparty at a local bar. “This is where all the players are invited to our partner bar to socialize over pre-negotiated food and drink specials,” said Chris Wessely, CEO of Michigan Clubs – Sport & Social Club. Wessely founded GRSSC in 2008 during the recession as a way to help young professionals “keep active, socialize and network.” “Our end goal is to get as many people off the couch and active in town,” Wessely said. The afterparty is an important component of the club. “This is where the magic happens,” he said. “Imagine a packed bar filled with people all wearing multicolored game shirts. When you walk in, you immediately feel part of the club. It makes it easier to approach people and strike up conversations. This is where you can make new friends, celebrate together the good game experience you just had and continue the party with everyone in a new setting off the field.”
League ambassadors also are charged with taking photos and making everyone feel welcome. Wessely said newcomers always are welcome and it is easy to join GRSSC. “You don't even need a full team,” he said. “Our website is completely custom. You can sign up on your own as a ‘free agent,’ with a few friends as a ‘partial team’ and, of course, as a full team. You can register and pay right online. Free agents and partial teams can invite each other, building their team from within our system.” Today, Wessely said GRSSC accommodates 9,000 players annually. It has become part of a larger parent company called the Sport & Social Group, which has a presence in 10 cities across Michigan and Canada. “Collectively, we accommodate over 115,000 players per year, making us the largest club in the world,” Wessely said. GRSSC is making a difference in the city, from activating parks to introducing people to each other. “We are for people who like sports but love to socialize,” Wessely said. “In a world filled with people’s heads down buried into their phones, we love that we are able to get people to break away and come out, play, meet and socialize with other like-minded local peers — in real life. Longlasting friendships have come from this, business deals and job offers — and a few lucky ones find that special someone.”
Beer is a drag If you can’t get enough of RuPaul’s Drag Race, check out Grand Rapids’ local drag performers at one of these events this month while enjoying an ice-cold craft beer. Beauty Beyond Drag Productions is teaming up with a handful of local breweries and local pet rescues. Tricks and Treats Drag Show at Harmony Hall, 401 Stocking Ave. NW, from 7-9:30 p.m. Oct. 12, benefitting Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry. Halloqueen at Creston Brewery, 1504 Plainfield Ave. NE, from 9 p.m.midnight Oct. 19, benefitting Mosh Pit Rescue. Halloween Drag Show and Costume Party at Atwater Brewery, 201 Michigan St NW, from 9 p.m.midnight Oct. 25, benefitting Humane Society of West Michigan.
Trivia and music bingo Atwater Brewery offers trivia every Tuesday night and music bingo every Thursday night. Both start at 7 p.m. “We do have quite a following of people who come every Tuesday for trivia,” said Sean McHale, general manager. — Charlsie Dewey
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 43
THINGS TO DO IN
GRAND RAPIDS THIS MONTH BY AUSTIN LANGLOIS
44 GRAND RAPIDS \ OCTOBER 2019
Even just saying the word “fall” conjures up the smell of fresh doughnuts, the sound of stepping on crunchy leaves, the feel of the crisp north wind and, of course, the taste of all things pumpkin spice. With (dare we say the word) winter making its unyielding approach, take full advantage of the majestic fall that West Michigan has to offer. To help make the most of the season, we’ve pulled together a sizeable list of all the things you could do, from pumpkin picking to ghost tours.
1. GET TO KNOW THE GHOSTS OF GRAND RAPIDS History meets spooky during Paranormal Michigan’s ghost-themed city tours. Learn about the dark history of the Pantlind Hotel, hear the story of the spooky Ashton Building and more on these two-hour, one-mile walking tours.
2. INDULGE IN A CARAMEL APPLE Don’t just ogle Kilwins’ display of gooey, luxe caramel apples — you deserve one! And, if you’re by the lakeshore, Green Acres Farm Market always has some in stock, as well.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN CYPHER
FALL-TASTIC
7. DIG INTO CIDER AND DOUGHNUTS Tell your taste buds it’s fall with a pumpkin spice doughnut and a cup of fresh-pressed apple cider at Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery. Trust us, their apple-y, pumpkin-y provisions are worth the wait in line.
8. PICK THE PERFECT PUMPKIN Find the perfect jack-o’-lantern pumpkin
11. GET LOST IN A CORN MAZE Get lost in Ed Dunneback and Girls Farm Market’s 8-acre corn maze — it features a big, new design each year. Or, if you’re into the haunted variety, check out Abandoned Acres Farm for some spooky fun.
at Morse Brothers Farm in Comstock Park.
12. STOCK UP ON FALL PRODUCE
Don’t forget to save the seeds and roast
Swing by the Fulton Street Farmers
them for a tasty treat.
Market before it closes for the winter. It’s
9. TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE Enjoy Michigan’s colorful splendor
open until the last Saturday of October. Pick up pumpkins, squash, apples and nuts for all your seasonal culinary needs.
by taking a drive through the HuronManistee National Forests on M-37 from Grand Rapids to Traverse City. It’s one of the best color tours that the Lower Peninsula has to offer.
10. TAKE A HALLOWEEN COCKTAIL CLASS Turn up your Halloween party this year
3. MAKE YOUR OWN FALL-
by taking this boozy cooking class at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Learn
SCENTED CANDLE
to brew up cocktails like the “witch’s
Get lit this season with a custom candle
cauldron” and the “black lagoon.” 7 p.m.
at Wax Poetic. Choose from more than
Oct. 25, $60-$100.
100 clean-burning fragrance oils to craft your personal blend during this half-hour experience. Short on time? Choose from one of their pre-made candles, either single scent (like pumpkin spice, mulled cider or autumn air) or a blended scent (like the smoky, woodsy Cabin in the Woods).
4. CHILL AT VANDER MILL Celebrate the season at Vander Mill Grand Rapids. Cozy up around the outdoor fire pits while munching on the popular ham and doughnuts and sipping your favorite cider.
5. EXPAND YOUR LEAF COLLECTION Find the perfect crunchy leaves for your fall
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISTOCK
leaf collection at Fallasburg Park in Lowell, featuring the Fallasburg Covered Bridge.
6. GO APPLE PICKING Pick your favorite varieties of apples for all your fall baking. Many of the local farms in the area like Schwallier’s Country Basket (Sparta) and Crane Orchards (Fennville) offer U-pick options.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 45
19. TAKE A HAYRIDE
20-plus wines and hard ciders. Keep the
16. CURL UP WITH A MICHIGAN TRUE CRIME BOOK OR HAUNTED LORE BOOK
tasting glass, and you’ll be welcomed back
Learn more about Michigan’s most
family. Head to Olin Farm, Robinette’s
for a free tasting next time. It’s in the large
famous criminals by reading through
or Koetsier’s to get in on the fun.
barn next to the Apple Haus building.
“True Crime: Michigan: The State’s Most
For $5, you can taste five of Robinette’s
A variety of orchards and pumpkin patches offer hayrides for the whole
Notorious Criminal Cases.” It’s full of
20. WIN A CHILI COOK-OFF
names and places you know and their
Compete for first place at the Apartment
5K/10K
dark history. It’s a great read for blustery,
Lounge’s seventh annual chili cook-
Don your best costume and lace up your
fall days.
off. Hang with your fellow cooks while
14. ALGER HEIGHTS HALLOWEEN running shoes for Alger Heights’ annual Halloween 5K/10K. It’s not just fall fun;
17. GO FOR A HIKE
proceeds are donated to a community
Hike through Bass River Recreational Area
charity partner. Saturday, Oct. 26.
and Riverside Park (east of Grand Haven).
15. BRATS AND BONFIRES Head to Ada for the town’s annual Brats
The park follows the banks of the Grand River, and it’s a great spot to peep fall foliage.
jamming to chill beats, playing yard games and drinking beer. 2-8 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Apartment Lounge.
21. GET SCARED AT A HAUNTED HOUSE The Haunt wasn’t voted one of America’s
and Bonfires. Cozy up to fire heaters
18. CHEER ON YOUR
while dining on tasty brats served up
FOOTBALL TEAM
seriously scary. Check out The Haunt’s
by the firemen and firewomen at the
Cheer on your favorite football team!
new location (1256 28th St. SW) for some
Ada Fire House. 6-9 p.m. Oct. 17 at the
There are weekly high school games to
freaky fun.
Ada Fire Department.
attend. Or, if you want to go bigger, buy tickets to a Grand Valley State University Lakers game; the team generally dominates its conference, so if you go, you usually can expect a win.
46 GRAND RAPIDS \ OCTOBER 2019
top haunted attractions for nothing; it’s PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN CYPHER
13. GO FALL WINE TASTING
22. HARVEST FESTIVAL Blandford Nature Center’s Harvest Festival is fun for the whole family. From scarecrow making to candle dipping, wagon rides to face painting — it’s a fall-tastic celebration for everyone. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 12; $5 members, $8 nonmembers.
23. STOCK UP ON FALL ESSENTIALS Spice up your home décor with some unusual items from Reservoir on Wealthy Street. With its curated selection of highend home décor, you’re sure to find a gem.
24. WIZARDS AND WANDS BAR CRAWL This isn’t just any bar crawl. It’s a magical, boozy night that’s not officially affiliated with Harry Potter — but basically, it’s a Harry Potter night. $18 general admission tickets include a knit scarf and a Wizards and Wands cup for your adult potions. 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Oct. 12.
25. HALLOWEEN DÉCOR In need of unique pieces for your Halloween costume? Or want to pick up some cool seasonal décor? Rebel Reclaimed in Eastown has everything
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ISTOCK
you need — and then some.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 47
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
dining listings A GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN GRAND RAPIDS AND BEYOND
The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors.
Restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing (page 64).
DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. L, D ¢-$
The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. D $$
Bangkok Taste Cuisine — Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr. com. L, D ¢-$
City Built Brewing Co. – Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. 820 Monroe Ave NW, 8055755. citybuiltbrewing.com. L, D $
Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. L (Sun-Fri), D ¢-$
Cinco De Mayo — Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cinco demayogr.com. L, D $
- Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. 44 Grandville Ave SW, 2224600. bistrobellavita.com. L, D $-$$
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, 608-1725. cityflatshotel. com/location/grand-rapids. B, L, D ¢-$
Bobarino’s at The B.O.B. — Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 3562000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. L, D ¢-$
Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. L, D ¢
Brick & Porter — Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickand portergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Glutenfree menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com/charleys-crab. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ 48 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
FDivani — European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. D $-$$ Flanagan’s — Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢
➧Forty Pearl – A wine bar serving oysters, cured meats and cheeses, baked goods and sweets, soups and salads, shareables, sandwiches, rice bowls and entrées like salmon, seared scallops and Cornish hen. Open daily. 40 Pearl St. NW, 608-7741. fortypearl.com. L, D $$ Founders Brewing Co. — Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. L, D ¢ Friesian Gastro Pub – A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop
deck. Open daily. 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. L, D. $ 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. the bob.com/gillysrestaurant. D ¢-$ Ginza Sushi & Ramen Bar — Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. L, D $ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports. L, D $ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “AllAmerican grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. L, D ¢ Grand Woods Lounge — Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Year-round alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. L, D ¢-$ Heritage Hill Pizza — Offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily with a few tables for dining in. 340 State St SE, 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$ The Heritage — GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. L, D ¢-$ Jamaican Dave’s — Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 530 S Division Ave, 4587875. Facebook. L, D ¢ Continued on page 52
Go-to hot spot IN 2017, BISTRO BELLA VITA celebrated its 20th year serving downtown Grand Rapids. Surviving for two decades was not an easy feat, considering the restaurant opened its doors before downtown was the bustling metropolis it is currently. Today, Bistro remains a go-to choice for downtown diners, and after a recent visit to the restaurant, there is no question why it has continued to thrive: The food and service are excellent. I visited Bistro, which focuses on French and Italian cuisine, on a Saturday night with a couple of friends. We sat on the patio, which overlooks a quiet stretch of Weston Street. We eagerly ordered a round of drinks to start off the evening, which included the Cosmo Blanco ($11), sauvignon blanc ($11) and the Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned ($18). I was particularly interested in finding out the difference between the barrel-aged cocktail versus the traditional version — turns out it is potency. Wow, that drink was strong but also a tasty treat. We also selected the cheese plate ($14) and calamari ($14) for starters. The cheese plate was the standout of the two. It came with three types of cheeses, pickled fennel, red peppers with a spicy kick and bread. The cheeses were a great mix and the flavor combo created by the peppers and fennel was unique and satisfying. It also was well-portioned for a starter course. For entrées, we had the Black Campanelle ($25), Fusilli ($21) and Poulet de Province ($24), all of which arrived in generous portions. The Black Campanelle is named for its bell- or cone-shaped pasta. At Bistro, this heaping bowl of black pasta is mixed with shrimp, smoked mussels, leek, haricot verts, tomato mascarpone and breadcrumbs. While the sauce itself was tasty, it was a bit on the lighter side, putting the 50 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER
Top: Poulet de Province Inset: Fusilli Bottom: Bistro Bella Vita’s dining area
dining review BY IRA CRAAVEN
Left to right: Cosmo blanco, black campanelli and an Old Fashioned.
taste of the pasta center stage. It also was
a dipping of sherry vinegar, also featured a
a bit scant on the shrimp and mussels in
nice crunch and a juicy inside with just a
comparison to the pasta, but the haricot
hint of char.
verts (or beans) were a nice addition. I got
For entrées, we ordered the saffron risot-
this dish because it reminded me of one of
to ($32), the Parisian gnocchi ($24) and
my favorite Italian dishes, pescatora, but it
the Bella Vita pizza ($17).
44 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 222-4600 bistrobellavita.com
was not as seafood-focused as I’d hoped. I
The gluten-free risotto portion size was
finished my meal with a bit too much pasta
good, bursting with plenty of fresh seafood
remaining in the bowl. Still, it was a satis-
and accouterments: shrimp, bay scallops,
fying dish and something I would consider
black pepper sausage, mussels, green
Dining ratings:
ordering again.
beans, red pepper and Calabrian chili aioli.
Food: *** Service: **** Beverages: **** Atmosphere: **** Price: $$
The Fusilli was another pasta option
Serving the mussels on the shell and to the
with great flavor and also a filling dish,
side was a nice touch since not everyone is
consisting of confit chicken, pecorino
comfortable with this seafood choice, but
cream, black pepper and herbs. The sauce
they arrived cooked just enough so as not to
was delicious, and my dining companion
be confused with raw fish.
eagerly nodded yes to whether she’d order this dish on a return visit.
The gnocchi was the perfect compomouth with every bite. The buttery pork
at our table. The rotisserie roasted chick-
ragout was a wonderful complement — a
en breast and leg came out draped with
rich and savory elevation to the dynam-
four stalks of asparagus and surrounded
ic dumpling dish. The entrée was topped
by poached potatoes. The chicken was
with freshly shaved pecorino and fried
cooked to perfection and the potatoes had
sage, which gave the dish a bit of pizzazz
an excellent flavor, making this meal any-
and color, adding that aesthetic pleasure
thing but “basic.”
we all hope to see when dining out.
On a second visit, our group of three
Lastly, the wood-fired pizza was topped
began the evening with a couple of cock-
with pork belly, prosciutto cotto, pickled
tails — Rosy Cheeks ($12) and Bramble
peppers, fresh mozzarella, smoked tomato
Jam ($9). The Rosy Cheeks was a bit on
sauce and basil. We opted to add some
the sweet side initially but became easier
crushed red peppers to provide just a bit of
to digest once the ice began to melt. The
heat, but this pizza easily could stand on
Bramble Jam, on the other hand, was light,
its own — a wonderful mix of ingredients.
being too sweet or too forceful.
Must try: Parisian gnocchi
sition of soft and chewy, melting in your
The Poulet de Province also was a hit
bright, refreshing and to the point without
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER
Bistro Bella Vita
Not so much: Rosy Cheeks
Saving enough room for dessert, we tried the carrot cake ($7.50) and the tira-
For appetizers, we tried the frites ($9)
misu ($7.50). The carrot cake was rich and
Guide to ratings:
and roasted Brussels sprouts ($9). The
heavenly. It featured vanilla mascarpone
frites, French for fries, were coated in truffle
cream, walnuts, pistachios and cinnamon
oil and served with a garlic aioli. The aioli
caramel glaze. One guest noted this was
**** *** ** *
Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor
offered a tangy twist on your standard fries
the best carrot cake he had ever had. The
and ketchup, and the frites were excellent-
tiramisu, with house-made ladyfingers,
¢ $ $$
Inexpensive (under $10) Moderate ($10-$20) Expensive (Over $20)
ly cooked — crunchy and delicious. The
chocolate and sweet mascarpone cream,
(Prices based on average entrée.)
Brussels sprouts, featuring feta raita, pick-
wasn’t as rich as the carrot cake but equal-
led onion, extra virgin olive oil plated with
ly delicious. GR OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 51
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS Continued from page 48
J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating. Closed Sun. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardel lastavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Judson’s at The B.O.B. — Award-winning steakhouse offers steaks, seafood and chops. Notable wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 3562000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse. D $$ The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck — Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchenby-wolfgang-puck. L, D $-$$ FLeo’s — Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Linear — Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoorseating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Littlebird — Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittle birdgr.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢ Lucky Luciano’s — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. Takeout, delivery available. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. luckylucianos.com. L, D ¢-$ Luna Taqueria y Cocina — Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Marcona on Lyon — “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarian- and veganfriendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon.com. L, D $-$$ MeXo — Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. B (Sun), L, D $ Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant — Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm WedSat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 7769000. mojospianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$ MudPenny — Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. 570 Grandville Ave SW, 2595353. mudpenny.com. B, L, D ¢ 52 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
New Hotel Mertens — French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens. Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. new hotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), B (MonFri), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front, dogfriendly patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Palace of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. 138 E Fulton St, 9139000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 7762590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ FReserve — Wine bar offers extensive by-theglass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. L (MonFri), D $-$$ Roam by San Chez Bistro — The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roamby sanchez.com. B, L, D $ Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upperlevel outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. D $-$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruths-chris-steak-house. L, D $$ San Chez Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchez bistro.com. B, L, D $-$$ FSix.One.Six — Features new French cuisine in a cosmopolitan setting. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining/six.one.six. B, L, D $-$$ Slows Bar-B-Q — Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. L, D ¢-$
➧Social House – A casual pub serving Americanstyle food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters such as veggie, meat and cheese shared platters, goat cheese fritters, spicy tuna wontons and avocado toast; soups and salads; burgers and sandwiches; and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. B, L, D $$ Social Kitchen & Bar — Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu. Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. socialkitchenandbar.com/ grand-rapids.html. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L, D $-$$ SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Wheelhouse Kitchen and Cocktails — Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. L, D $-$$ Z’s Bar & Restaurant — Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Zoko 822 — Basque-inspired cuisine, featuring Northern Spanish and Southern French small plates, served family style; plus, “grab-and-go” lunch serviced through the Bodega 822. Full bar boasting over 45 selections of gin. Open daily. 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 828-1118. zoko822.com. Brunch (Sun), L (Mon-Sat), D $-$$
WEST SIDE Ando 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. an dosushi.com. L, D $ Blue Dog Tavern — West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. L, D ¢ Broadway Bar & Grill — Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. 740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. L, D ¢
Butcher’s Union — Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr. com. Brunch (Sun), L, D $ El Granjero — Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ El Sombrero — Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurant mi.com. L, D ¢
Fall features have arrived!
Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar — Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. L, D $
®
Harmony Hall — West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/ harmony-hall. L, D ¢-$ The Holiday Bar — Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. L, D ¢ Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery — Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.com. L, D $ The Knickerbocker – New Holland Brewing — Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. 417 Bridge St NW, 345-5642. newhollandbrew.com/knicker bocker. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Long Road Distillers — Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of house-made snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$
COME
party WITH US
Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseballthemed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. L, D ¢-$ Monarchs’ Club — Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. 646 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. L, D ¢ One Bourbon — Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more Continued on page 58
EVENT PLANNING • CATERING • DESIGN + PRODUCTION
applause-catering.net | 616.940.0001 Join our following on Facebook! OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 53
chef profile BY JAYE BEELER
German nights at The Old Goat Jody Grenier’s hearty comfort food will keep you warm this winter.
54 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
said. “We make bacon in-house. I buy pork belly from Ebels in Falmouth for that. Vertical Paradise Farm delivers here twice a week, and I could go on. In a perfect world, I would get everything local, but you have to buy lemons and salt from somewhere. Though I tried to get salt from the Detroit salt mine, but they only do industrial road (deicing) salt now.”
“I’ve been doing this awhile, and the influences from my life come out on the plate.” JODY GRENIER
Home cooking Grenier’s dedication to comfort food sounds like a cliché until you experience his attention to detail and learn how he developed his culinary skill. “I’ve been doing this awhile, and the influences from my life come out on the plate,” he said. Grenier’s culinary career started rather unassumingly at Schelde’s Steakhouse after graduating high school in 1992 in Petoskey. From there, he moved to Kalamazoo and began cooking at (the long-defunct) C W Michaels Food Cellar. “(That’s) where the spark happened,” Grenier said. “I was all of a sudden in this very informative environment where the guys — stellar graduates from the best culinary schools in the country — decided to make everything from scratch. In the mid’90s, no one was doing this. I was trying to absorb it all, reading everything, staying up to 4 a.m.” Family stuff landed him back in northern Michigan — at Harbor Springs’ The New York Restaurant, where “they helped me put flavors together,” he said.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Top: Interior sign at The Old Goat. Middle: The Old Goat’s Porker in the Pot (recipe on opposite page) features pork shank and various vegetables and spices. Bottom: The Old Goat’s pizza margherita with fresh basil and mozzerella.
WHEN THE ANNUAL Oktoberfest celebration rolls around (celebrated this year from Sept. 21-Oct. 6), The Old Goat rolls out its Thursday German nights — a boisterous riot with accordion players in lederhosen, waitresses dolled up in Bavarianstyle dirndl dresses and big German flavors heaped on sturdy plates. The Old Goat wears its German and Polish identities through the winter, but when the air warms, it’s all Creole and Cajun, delivering jambalaya, dirty beans and rice, shrimp and grits etouffee. The winter menu — a delicious combination of restaurant proprietor Cory DeMint’s childhood memories of the Schnitzelbank Restaurant and executive chef Jody Grenier’s unequivocally enchanting touch — is warm and welcoming. Take Grenier’s pitch-perfect sauerbraten. “It’s a three-day process that I can now do in a day and a half,” Grenier said. “We get in a whole beef chuck that I cut into sections. I marinate it, salt it, smoke it and then braise it in red wine, red wine vinegar and veal stock. When it comes out, I make a delicious gravy with veal stock.” The vibe at The Old Goat is home cooking like your grandma’s, with rustic favorites including spaetzle, braised red cabbage and homemade sauerkraut. Its own brewed root beer, dark and inky, flows from a nitro tap. The décor is punctuated with DeMint’s wild collections — such as antique hurricane lamps, oil drums repurposed into hanging lights, dishes that look like they were taken straight from your grandmother’s cupboards — all of which harkens to a feeling of “over the river and through the woods,” fairytale stuff. “Everything’s homemade here,” Grenier
The Old Goat’s Porker in the Pot (Makes 4 to 6 servings) 2 large pork shanks, preferably from your local butcher 3 tablespoons sea salt or kosher salt ¼ cup smoked paprika 1 tablespoon celery seed 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce ½ cup cider vinegar
JODY GRENIER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
In 1999, he returned to West Michigan and began working alongside charismatic wonder chef Chris Perkey at trailblazing but long-closed Firehouse Grill in East Grand Rapids. He then became chef de cuisine at Osteria Rossa and opened (now closed) IRON before he took the helm at The Old Goat two years ago. Pizzeria For DeMint, The Old Goat is his third restaurant. He also owns Electric Cheetah and Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop, both on Wealthy Street SE. The Electric Cheetah Neapolitan Pizzeria, wedged in the back corner of The Old Goat, is No. 4 for DeMint, and Grenier also mans that kitchen. In the pizzeria, Grenier swears he’s in the beta phase of his Neapolitan pizzamaking. This is extreme pizza-making; Grenier’s aiming for certification from the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana. Just to be clear, there are two “true” Neapolitan-style pizzas. One is pizza margherita with San Marzano tomato sauce, whole fresh basil leaves, mozzarella, sea salt and extra virgin olive oil. The other is pizza marinara, which is similar to the pizza margherita but substitutes garlic and fresh oregano for the cheese and basil. “So, if someone comes in and asks for vegan pizza, yeah, we have pizza marinara and that’s vegan,” Grenier explained. “This is 300 years old, and it happens to be vegan before vegan was a term.” Going for the authenticity certificate requires Grenier to jump through scads of strict protocols concerning everything from the yeast’s color to the mere seconds that the pie is blasted.
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
Title: Executive chef
4 ribs celery, chopped
Location: 2434 Eastern Ave. SE
1 large yellow onion, large dice 2 cups chicken broth ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg ½ cup crème fraîche or sour cream To serve: your favorite vegetables and roasted potatoes or dumplings Preparation: Liberally apply salt to pork shanks. Remember, you are applying enough salt to season all of the meat, not just the surface. Place the shanks in a nonreactive baking pan, such as a glass casserole dish. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, celery seed and black pepper over the shanks, turning them as you go, covering them evenly. Refrigerate overnight. The next day, heat oven to 350 degrees. Add the remaining ingredients — Worcestershire sauce, cider vinegar, carrots, celery, yellow onion, chicken broth and nutmeg to the pan. Cover tightly with parchment and aluminum foil. Bake for approximately 3 hours or until fork tender. (Alternatively, a slow cooker also may be used. Cover and cook on low heat for about 8 hours or until fork tender.)
Above: The Old Goat’s bar area
“This isn’t just wood-fired pizza,” said Grenier, toying with variations of toppings including micro-greens from a local grower, pickled red onions and a parmesan sprinkle on top. If you’re craving a “simple pepperoni pizza, we have that, too. Just on a Neapolitan crust with San Marzano tomato sauce and beautiful dry-cured pepperoni.” GR
Place cooking liquid including vegetables in a blender and purée until very smooth. If necessary, add a little chicken stock (broth) to get it to a sauce-like consistency. Add the crème fraiche or sour cream right at the end, and taste and adjust seasonings. Serve in a cast iron pot with your favorite vegetables and roasted potatoes or dumplings.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 55
cocktail hour BY TORRENCE R. O’HAIRE
Barrel-aged whiskey, over ice.
The barrel-aging trend stems mostly from a growing availability of home-use oak barrels produced for a larger hobbyist market — a wise act by the coopers to capitalize on the craft cocktail movement.
IF YOU’VE GONE OUT RECENTLY, you’ve probably seen “House Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned/Manhattan/Whatever” with a higher price tag and fancier garnish among the list of featured cocktails, and many of you have probably ventured a trial — I mean, why not? Barrels seem like “big deals” for anyone versed in brown spirits, so a barrel-aged cocktail must be better, right? Well … maybe. The barrel-aging trend stems mostly from a growing availability of home-use oak barrels produced for a larger hobbyist market — a wise act by the coopers to capitalize on the craft cocktail movement. Ordinarily, oak barrels are the most expensive component in making a spirit — depending on level of quality, an age-worthy standard-size barrel can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500. So, when coopers started producing smaller barrels from more “scrap” wood and selling them for less than $150, cocktail nerds obsessed.
56 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
But is barrel-aging a cocktail really going to improve your drink? Barrel-aging anything contributes two major factors. First (and most obviously), it makes it taste like the barrel. Wood is porous, and as a liquid sits in the barrel, the wood soaks up the liquid, dissolving various complex sugars locked inside the wood grain, which then leach out into the rest of the liquid. This process is expedited if the wood is of a particularly open grain (think: a sponge with larger holes), or if the temperature around the barrel changes regularly (like day/night variations in an open-air warehouse), which causes the wood to alternately swell and contract, effectively “pumping” liquid in and out of the wood grain. Second, barrel-aging causes oxidation of whatever is in the barrel. Unless you fill the barrel exactly to the top, there is air space in the barrel, with a fair amount of surface area. In addition, wood is liquid-tight, but not air-tight — micro-oxygenation occurs through invisible transfer through the walls of the barrel. When oxidation occurs, colors and flavors tend to darken a bit — think of the flavor difference between a grape and a raisin: The freshness of the grape has been replaced by a nuttier, earthier, caramelly palate of oxidation. This can be very good in some cases (e.g., the raisin), or less so in others (e.g., who wants to eat a fully brown/ black banana?). So, from a cocktail perspective, the value of barrel-aging asks two obvious questions: Do I want this to taste like the barrel and do I want it to oxidize? I am not a fan of barrel-aged cocktails made with already aged spirits (bourbon/cognac/etc.). As far as I’m concerned, the producer of my fine bourbon knows how to barrel-age his spirit much better than I do in my low-grade internet-bought mini-barrel, so I’m going to let the maker’s palate win over and not mess with it myself. It’d be like splurging on a fine, craft-made, imported chocolate bar and covering it in Hershey’s syrup. I’m also not a fan of barrel-aged cocktails made with flavors that will oxidize too aggressively. I tasted a drink at a bar once that was supposed to be a barrel-aged daiquiri, with rum, sugar and lime cordial. The lime fully oxidized and tasted like something you left on the dashboard of your
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Roll out the barrel
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car for a week; and as an added bonus, it had notes of plywood from the cheap barrel. Eww. What I have had some success with is taking a cocktail that ordinarily doesn’t see oak in its components, and with a light hand, letting a little barrel-aging add richness. I’ve had lovely barrel-aged classic martinis (note, a classic martini is closer to 3:1 or 4:1 gin-to-vermouth, rather than this monstrous idea that you should leave the vermouth out) And don’t barrel-age vodka — you’re insulting the martini. A barrel-aged Manhattan made with white rum was a revelation once but, better yet, was a barrel-aged aquavit cocktail that combined the caraway-spiced liqueur with dry vermouth in a barrel, then, per order, measured into a shaker with lemon and pineapple, shaken hard and topped with nutmeg. Delicious. One other fun idea for your barrel: don’t fuss with aging a cocktail. Instead, age just the ingredients. Preserve your simple syrup with a heavy dose of high-proof vodka (to prevent mold) and barrel-age it for a week. Or, barrel-age your triple sec liqueur for margaritas you can arm wrestle. Plenty of ways to get creative without having to have several gallons of a single cocktail on-hand for a month. Ultimately, barrel-aging a cocktail is only worth the thought you put into it; barrels generally are in expert use by the most premier spirit makers in the world, so take the mini-project you found on Amazon with a grain of salt — you’re likely not going to improve that cognac. That said, if you’re clever and thoughtful with what you hope the end result to be, a barrel-aged drink can be a fun way to put your own spin on a classic. Torrence R. O’Haire, of The Starving Artist, is a chef, entrepreneur and restaurant consultant specializing in wine, spirits and cocktails. He also founded the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild.
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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. D ¢-$
The Commons — 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. L, D $
O’Toole’s Public House — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D ¢-$
Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchen gr.com. L, D $
Pearl Street Grill — Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/pearl-street-grill. B, L, D $
Danzón Cubano — Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas. Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com. L, D $
Continued from page 53
Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$
FDonkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com. B (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$
FThe Sovengard — Midwest meets Scandinavian spirit, with a focus on seasonal and local sourcing. Restaurant and outdoor beer garden in a historic West Side building. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. D $
East West Brewing Co. — Traditional Americanstyle beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. L (Fri-Sat), D ¢-$
Two Scotts Barbecue — Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. L ¢-$
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), L, D ¢-$
Westside Social — “Reimagined” Americanstyle 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, 4535877. westside.social. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$
UPTOWN Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycuisine.com. L, D $ Brewery Vivant — Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Brown Butter Creperie & Café — Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. 1436 Wealthy St SE, 288-5038. brownbuttercrepes.com. B, L, D (Wed-Sat) ¢ Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/ vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chez olga.com. L, D ¢-$ 58 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢ Erb Thai — Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ FForty Acres Soul Kitchen — “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 4816971. fortyacresgr.com. L, D $ 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. L, D $ The Green Well Gastro Pub — Menu features comfort fare with a flair, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreenwell.com. L, D $-$$ FGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course offerings. Vegan menu available. Full bar. Open daily. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. L, D $$ Hancock — Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. B, L, D ¢-$
Harmony Brewing Co. — Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer. com. L, D $ Jonny B’z — Beef, turkey and veggie hot dogs available, as well as burgers, sandwiches, wings, ribs and kids menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 701 Wealthy St SE, 551-1108. jonnybz.com. L, D $ Kingfisher Restaurant & Deli — This “vegetableforward,” 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. B, L $ Little Africa Ethiopian Cuisine — Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. L, D ¢ Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant. com. L, D $-$$ Matchbox Diner & Drinks — Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carry-out available. Open daily. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. B, L, D $ The Pub at Paddock — “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegilmorecol lection.com/pubatpaddock. D ¢-$ FTerra — Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Wealthy Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreet bakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Wikiwiki Poke Shop — Fast-casual seafood restaurant featuring customizable poke bowls, plus oyster bar and rotating specials. Carry-out available. Closed Sun. 1146 Wealthy St SE, 288-5646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. L, D ¢-$ The Winchester — Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. B (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ Yesterdog — Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 3360746. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS Zivio — Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. L, D $$
EAST GRAND RAPIDS Big Bob’s Pizza — Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbob spizza.com. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen — Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck. com. D $ José Babushka’s — Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. L, D $ Olive’s — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$ Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available. Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE, 4568999. ostaslebanese.com. L (Tue-Fri), D ¢-$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/roses. L, D $
ADA/CASCADE/LOWELL Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. B, L, D $-$$ Big Boiler Brewing — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing.com. D $ Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. L, D ¢-$ Cork Wine & Grille — Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille.com. L, D $-$$ Dan’s Diner — Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retro-style diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Full
bar. Closed Mon. 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Emonae Korean BBQ — Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. 6246 28th St SE, 6493984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. L, D $-$$ 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. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollec tion.com/flatriver. L, D $-$$ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$$ La Laguna — Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Main Street BBQ — Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. L, D ¢-$ Marco New American Bistro — French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch. Full bar. Takeout menu. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ Noco Provisions — Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. L, D $ 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 Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$
Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosold world.com. D $-$$ Osaka Steakhouse & Japanese Restaurant — Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. 4977 28th St SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D $ Sapporo Ramen & Noodle Bar — Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. L, D¢-$ Schnitz Ada Grill — Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. L, D ¢-$$ Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Thornapple Brewing Co. — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Brunch on Sun. 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. L (Sat), D $ Trailhead Café — Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. B, L ¢ Vintage Prime & Seafood — Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. D $$ Zeytin — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkish restaurant.com. L, D $
NORTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS 7 Monks Taphouse — Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/grand-rapids. L, D ¢-$ Birch Lodge — Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. L, D ¢ Blue Water Grill — Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. L, D $-$$ Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcoOCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 59
pints of interest BY PAT EVANS
Cedar Springs Brewing Company started pushing its märzen earlier this year, but now is the perfect time to drink the traditional beer of Germany’s Oktoberfest.
WHEN IT COMES TO BEER, fall might be the perfect season to indulge. It is the traditional season for beer when it comes to German Oktoberfest, and this year, the summer was dominated by a wave of low-calorie hard seltzers. But when the weather starts to cool, the alcohol water just won’t cut it anymore. From traditional fall lagers to brown ales and stouts and even pumpkin ales, there’s nothing quite like sweater weather and a beer with a little body to it. Here are some beers from area breweries to celebrate the season of beer. Brewery Vivant’s excellent bière de garde, Verdun, is released this month. Bière de garde, or beer for keeping, is a strong pale ale style from France. Vivant’s is nice and malty with enough hops to quench a hop lover’s need. It also packs a quiet 8% alcohol-by-volume that will sneak up on you. The Mitten Brewing Company released a packaged round of its delicious Dock’s No-No double IPA in September, and there’s likely plenty still waiting to be slurped down. The Mitten’s Label Up maple brown ale combines a perfect fall beer style with a quintessential fall ingredient. Cedar Springs Brewing Company started pushing its märzen earlier this year, but now is the perfect time to drink the traditional beer of Germany’s
60 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Oktoberfest. While it was supplanted by festbier in the 1970s as the beer served at the actual festival, märzen still is brewed worldwide and recognized as the Oktoberfest style. Speciation Artisan Ales and its monthly bottle release will include, as usual, an eclectic assortment of beers. The release has bottles ranging from a peach sour with rooibos tea, a rhubarb and vanilla sour and Speciation cult favorite Megafauna, which is made with beets and cherries. Likewise, Speciation will release Trimorphic, made with gold, dark sweet and Rainier cherries — 3 pounds of cherry per gallon. There also will be a Sour IPA, a beer made with yeast collected from Lake Erie and more. The city’s big breweries are bringing the fun beers this month, as well. New Holland Brewing will release its fourth and final Dragon’s Milk Reserve. Fall used to be a celebratory time when it came to Founders Brewing for its Breakfast Stout, and we say that most lovingly as the beer is now year-round. October is time for Founders Harvest Ale, an exemplary release of the annual style brewed with fresh hops. And as is tradition, the brewery will release its third barrel-aged series beer in the fall with October being its heavy push month. Pat Evans wrote the book “Grand Rapids Beer.” He also writes nationally on beer and spirits.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
Beers to fall for
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS hol. Open daily. 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. L, D ¢-$
bar with craft beers. Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. L, D ¢-$
Charlie’s Bar & Grille — Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille.com. L, D ¢-$
La Huasteca — Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. L, D ¢
Cheer’s Good Time Saloon — Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids. com. B, L, D ¢ Cheshire Grill — Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ Creston Brewery — More than a dozen housebrewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. creston brewery.com. L, D ¢-$
Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. L, D ¢-$ Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. 2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizzakitchen.com. L, D $ Lucy’s Café — Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr. com. B, L $-$$ Mai’s Thai — Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢
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, 7851001. flossportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$
Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. L, D ¢-$
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. L, D ¢-$
Ming Ten — All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$
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. L, D ¢-$
Nick Fink’s — Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. 3965 West River Dr NE, 7849886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. D $
Golden Wok — Chinese cuisine with some Hunanspiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Gravity Taphouse Grille — Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. L, D ¢-$ Graydon’s Crossing — Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing. com. L, D $ Jaku Sushi — Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi. com. L, D $ Kitchen 67 — Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full
Poke Toki — Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. L, D $ Palio — Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. palio grandrapids.com. L, D $-$$ Reds At Thousand Oaks — Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. L, D $-$$
River North Public House — A “family-friendly” pub serving a variety of shareables, burgers and sandwiches. You’ll also find entrées, including Knapp Mac & Cheese and grilled sirloin tip steak. Full bar. Open daily. 2115 Plainfield Ave NE, 288-7888. Facebook. L, D $$ The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. L, D $ Thai Chef — Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. L, D $ 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. L, D (Mon-Sat) $-$$
NORTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS FAmore Trattoria Italiana — Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. D (Tue-Sat) $ China Chef — Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ DeHop’s Brewing Co. and Café — Specialty and build-your-own burgers, “authentic Mexican” tacos, salads and sharable appetizers. Closed Sun-Mon. 363 Cummings Ave NW, Walker, 8053363. dehops.com. D $ Empire Chinese Buffet II — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empire chinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Franco’s Pizza — Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. D ¢-$
Rezervoir Lounge — Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$
Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanos pizza.com. D ¢-$
Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riogrand steakhouse.com. L, D $-$$
Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 61
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet. letseat.at. L, D ¢ Home Team Grill — Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill.wordpress.com. L, D ¢-$ Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. river fronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landing-restaurant. B, L, D $ Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyrosdrive thru.com. L, D ¢-$ Perrin Brewing Co. — Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 551-1957. perrin brewing.com. L, D ¢ Stan Diego Baja Taco Kitchen — Baja Californiainspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. L, D ¢-$ Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalker roadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $
SOUTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS/ KENTWOOD 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$
Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar. com. L, D $ Brass Ring Brewing — Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassring brewing.com. L, D $
➧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. L, D $ Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, 2816891. cabanatresamigos.com. L, D ¢-$ 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. L (Sun-Thu), D $ Daddy Pete’s BBQ — Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. L, D ¢-$ El Arriero Mexican Grill — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexican grill.com. L, D ¢-$ El Globo Restaurant — Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ FireRock Grille — Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. L D $ Florentine Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Lounge — Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Ganders — Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$
alcohol. Open daily. 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. L, D $ Hall Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$ India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. in diatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$ La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. Facebook. L, D ¢ 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. L, D ¢ Le Kabob — Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. L, D ¢-$ Mi Tierra — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drivethru. No alcohol. Open daily. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢ Mikado Sushi — Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthai bistro.com. L, D ¢-$ The Old Goat — Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 2886976. baaaaaaaa.com. B (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢-$ Pal’s Indian Cuisine — Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancui sine.com. L, D $ Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. L, D ¢-$ Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$
Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery — Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. L, D ¢-$
Golden Gate — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢
Pietro’s Italian Restaurant — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. L, D $
Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 141 28th St SE, 534-7770. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant — Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No
Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily.
62 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghai ichiban.com. L, D $-$$
ing available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
Shiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: firegrilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shiraz grille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$
Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. L, D ¢-$
Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni.net. L, D ¢-$$
Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. L, D $
Taquería El Rincón Mexicano — Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 2055 28th St, 2467000. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. L, D ¢-$ Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. L, D ¢-$ Village Inn Pizza & Sports Grille — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. L, D ¢-$ Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $ Yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
SOUTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS 84th Street Pub & Grille — American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Alebird Taphouse and Brewery — Communityfocused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. L, D $$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. L, D ¢-$ Far-East Chinese Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and cater-
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. L, D ¢-$ Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1742 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Main Street Pub — Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. mainstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Mi Casa Restaurante — Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed, family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed Mon-Tues. 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$ Noble — Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. B, L $ Pete’s Grill & Tavern — Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. L, D $ Tamales Mary — Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 15 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007. tamalesmarygr.com. L, D ¢ Woody’s Press Box — Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D $
GRANDVILLE/HUDSONVILLE/ GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP Bangkok Taste — Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. bangkoktaste. com. L, D ¢-$
The Dungeon — Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadun geon.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ El Burrito Loco — More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburrito loco4.com. L, D ¢-$ GrandVilla — Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. L, D ¢-$ Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonville grille.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Osgood Brewing Co. — Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu. Open daily. 4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing. com. L, D ¢-$ Pike 51 Brewing Co./Hudsonville Winery — Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudson villewinery.com. L, D ¢-$ Rainbow Grill — Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbow grillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ 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. L, D $ 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 in Hudsonville, 616-202-6379. sonder eatery.com. B, L $ White Flame Brewing Co. — Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing. com. L, D ¢-$ 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, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. B, L, D. $ OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 63
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
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, 874-7290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/res taurant. L, D ¢-$ Cedar Springs Brewing Co. — German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. L, D $ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. L, D $-$$ Honey Creek Inn — Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. L, D ¢-$ Hot Box BBQ — Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. 110 Courtland St, Rockford, 951-7160. Facebook. L, D $ Marinades Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. 109 Courtland St, 8633300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D ¢ Ramona’s Table — Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Open daily. 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonastable.com. L, D ¢-$ Rockford Brewing Co. — Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing. com. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Timbers Inn — Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timber sinn.net. L (Wed-Sun), D ¢-$
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Anna’s House — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouse us.com. B, L $ Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE 64 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
(Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant.com. B, L, D $ Bagel Beanery — Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. B, L, D ¢ Big E’s Sports Grill — Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées. Full bar includes a variety of Michiganmade beer and cider. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. 2321 East Beltline Ave SE, 608-8825. 710 Monroe Ave NW, 512-5716. bigessportsgrill.com. L, D ¢-$ Brann’s Steakhouse & Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 2857800. branns.com. L, D $ Grand Coney — Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 930-3596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrand coney.com. B, L, D ¢ Herb & Fire Pizzeria — Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-yourown pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. L, D $
redgeraniumcafe.com. B, L
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. B, L, D (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. B, L, D ¢ Tacos El Cuñado — Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owend and operated. 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. L, D ¢-$ The Omelette Shoppe — Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 7265800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. omelette shoppe.com. B, L ¢ Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes. Full bar. 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitales ada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 6622244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011. vi talessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$
HopCat — Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature crack fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 4514677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. L, D ¢-$ Peppino’s Pizzeria and Sports Grille — Italian/ American menu. Full bar. Open daily. 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. L, D ¢-$$ Pita House — Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepita house.net. L, D ¢ Real Food Café — Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-fromscratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. B, L ¢ Red Geranium — Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6569800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 532-8888.
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Dining Guide Legend Grand Rapids Magazine has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers. B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. - — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing — GRM’s 2018 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2018 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email cdewey@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Forty Pearl
FORTY PEARL, ORIGINALLY a wine tasting room for the Brengman Brothers Winery, is as “Pure Michigan” as the city it calls home. Located in the heart of historic Downtown Grand Rapids, Forty Pearl is on a mission — to showcase the finest Michigan wines and spirits by pairing them with adventurous bites including oysters, charceauterie, seasonal salads, wagyu beef, rice bowls, fresh fish, and more. “We are a collective of Michigan-based winemakers, distillers, chefs, bakers, cocktail crafters, story tellers, and characters,” says Griffin Zotter, marketing director for Grand River Brewery. Originally opened by Ed and Robert Brengman
as a tasting room to showcase their awardwinning wines and bring a taste of the Leelanau to Grand Rapids, Forty Pearl has grown to be so much more with the partnership of Brengman Brothers, Bonobo Winery, Grand River Distillery, Grand River Bakery, and a well- traveled culinary team. “We’d put Michigan up with the best of them for producing some of the finest wine, spirits, and food and we strive to showcase this in every glass and plate served,” Zotter says. Forty Pearl is a fresh concept for a true Michigan fine wine and food experience in a hot and healthy Downtown Grand Rapids.
FORTYPEARL.COM 40 Pearl Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | (616) 608-7741
Paddock Place SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
WHAT DO YOU GET when you combine a beloved 19th century mansion and grounds, award winning catering, a character rich tavern and a to-go pizza kitchen to boot? You get Paddock Place in East Hills, Grand Rapids. Formerly Mangiamo, Paddock Place is a unique and historic location (National Register of Historic Places) and is a perfect venue for a variety of special occasions, including weddings, parties, receptions, product launches, fundraisers, shows, corporate events and more. Putting it all together is Gilmore Catering, which brings an extensive management team filled with the best event, party and meeting planners. From coordinators to organizers to
managers, Gilmore Catering can meet any needs covered with over 100 years of combined experience in the event planning industry in Grand Rapids and the lakeshore. “We’ll make sure your social or corporate event is executed perfectly from beginning to end,” says Felicia Dykema, General Manager at Paddock Place. For daily dining, The Pub at Paddock is a casual and cozy cut-out of the mansion. Specialties include shareable pub snacks, flatbread pizzellas, sliders, tacos and more. Pizza and beer are also available to go courtesy of the back-door pizza kitchen.
GILMORE-CATERING.COM/PADDOCK-PLACE 1033 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 | (616) 742-0600
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Osteria Rossa
THERE IS A SPECIALTY, uniqueness and passion that comes out of America’s great kitchens which blends perfectly with the freshest ingredients to help create an incredible and memorable fine dining experience. In 2014, world-renowned Chef Chris Perkey opened Osteria Rossa, bringing his own specialty, uniqueness and passion to downtown Grand Rapids. Osteria Rossa, the critically acclaimed casual Italian restaurant, has won numerous awards in a short period of time, including Restaurant of the Year in Grand Rapids by the Grand Rapids Press the first year it opened and recently top ten restaurant in Michigan by Elite Magazine. The success of Osteria Rossa is the result of Chef Perkey’s years of experience which includes spending the early days of his career working
in Chicago restaurants, alongside inspiring culinary experts such as Tony Mantuano and Wolfgang Puck. In his 20 years, Chef Perkey has earned Best Chef in Grand Rapids, Award of Excellence, Best Restaurant in Grand Rapids, Best New Restaurant and Best Italian Restaurant. Through his years of experience, he has discovered and developed a true passion for real food, perfect ingredients and creative preparation. Osteria Rossa is focused on bringing people together in a casual Italian restaurant, with a wood-fired oven, making authentic dishes using local or Italian ingredients prepared and served by a highly motivated and talented crew. This is what it takes to create the best restaurant in Grand Rapids! And the best keeps getting better ...
OSTERIAROSSA.COM 16 Monroe Center NE Suite 100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | (616) 988-9350
Ju Sushi & Lounge SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
A PEARL IS SYMBOLIC of the wearer's loyalty, generosity, integrity and purity. JU Sushi & Lounge, the premier sushi lounge in Grand Rapids, features all of those qualities and more. JU (meaning pearl) Sushi & Lounge is unique to the Grand Rapids area — just like a pearl is unique. “We are more focused on the traditional aspect of sushi,” says General Manager Henry Lim. “Our main focus is on the quality of the fish that we serve. And our goal is to showcase the freshness of our product through a traditional Japanese approach with a touch of modern/ western twist to accommodate the taste buds in Grand Rapids.” JU Sushi & Lounge also offers more than
just Sushi. The menu includes traditional Japanese entrees, a full service bar and a dining experience usually only found in larger cities across the United States. Another appealing aspect of JU Sushi & Lounge is the peacefulness of the lounge. “We want to offer Grand Rapids a place where people can come in and enjoy quality time with their friends or family in a more relaxed setting that allows them to have a nice conversation,” says Lim. JU also offers a second floor private dining room that comfortably seats 30-35 guests. The space, which features a private fireplace, overlooks the entire restaurant with a glass enclosure for a birds-eye view.
WWW.JUSUSHI.COM 1144 E Paris Ave SE, Ste 9, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | (616) 575-5858
The Chop House SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
GRAND RAPIDS COOKS UP many different thoughts and images when people think of the wonderful city in West Michigan. Grand Valley State University is usually near the top of the list. And then there are the nicknames — “Furniture City,” or “Beer City.” Grand Rapids also has a flavor all its own and the city sizzles with the cooked-to-perfection prime beef and freshly caught seafood at The Chop House, the city’s perfect answer to fine dining. Since 2004, The Chop House, located across from the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, has pampered its guests through the truest fine dining experience:
• Savor exceptional cuts of USDA Prime beef that are the perfect combination of flavor and tenderness. • Delight in the finest and freshest topcatch fish and premium seafood. • Experience the extraordinary service and extensive premium wine selection. And the experience doesn’t end at the dinner table. Guests can retire to the late night cigar bar and lounge in the restaurant’s lower level where they can enjoy everything from gourmet desserts to rare and gently aged spirits to premium hand-rolled cigars. The Chop House — Prepare to be pampered!
THECHOPHOUSEGRANDRAPIDS.COM 190 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | (888) 456-3463 (DINE)
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Broad Leaf Local Beer
BROAD LEAF LOCAL BEER, the “cousin” of Brewery Vivant, operates a scratch kitchen utilizing local farms and agriculture to produce elevated food in a fresh and vibrant way. The service is casual and the kitchen specializes in a street food vibe while exploring all sorts of culinary traditions. The beers created under the Broad Leaf banner follow along the same track. “We are having fun painting with all sorts of colors and whether it’s the food, the beer, the atmosphere or the service, Broad Leaf is
reveling in rethinking everything — and being adventurous and exploratory along the way,” says Jonathan Ward, creative director for both breweries. “The goal is to experiment not just for experimentation’s sake, but as a means to come up with new processes and ingredient pairings that lead to a fantastic and original final product.” All of this leads to dishes and beers that work amazingly well together, but in ways that haven’t been seen before. Beer. Art. Exploration. That’s what it’s all about.”
BROADLEAFBEER.COM 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, Kentwood, MI 49512 | (616) 803-8602
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
The Boulevard Inn & Bistro
THE BOULEVARD INN & BISTRO includes comfortable and quiet all-suite accommodations, exquisite food, attentive service and panoramic views of Lake Michigan or historic downtown St. Joseph. A favorite restaurant of both visitors and locals, the Bistro on the Boulevard serves the ultimate fine dining experience in a comfortable setting. The menu, which features upscale American comfort foods, is offered for both lunch and dinner (11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.), seven days a week. The Bistro offers a large assortment of tapas, entrees, handcrafted
cocktails, local brews, and an extensive wine selection. Alfresco dining on the terrace (seasonal) or an intimate meal in the dining room provides views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph lighthouse. Whether it is business or pleasure, The Boulevard Inn and Bistro can be the place to hold your meetings and events. The experienced staff enjoys making each visit one to remember. Located on a picturesque bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, The Boulevard Inn & Bistro offers memorable experiences for every occasion.
THEBOULEVARDINN.COM 521 Lake Boulevard, St. Joseph, MI 49085 | (269) 983-6600
J. Paul's at the Kirby SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
J. PAUL’S DINING ROOM & LOUNGE, within The Kirby Hotel in Douglas, is a case study in balance. The stately white exterior of the 19th century-built Sarah M. Kirby House is washed with splashes of color at night, nodding to the surprise inside. White walls with vibrant, bold artwork are complemented by the home’s original woodwork. At night, color dances throughout for a playfully artful dining experience. The menu features traditional favorites, balanced with unexpected twists, like the jalapeno-cheddar Shrimp & Grits or the lamb and beef Mediterranean Burger with tzatziki sauce and kalamata tapenade. Balance
is also key when it comes to mixing a cocktail, something The Kirby’s House Manager and resident mixologist offers classes in during the fall. In addition to learning how to pair cocktails with dinner, experience the difference (and better choice) between shaken and stirred (pssst, stir it unless it’s a margarita or chocolate martini). And find out tips and tricks from behind the bar during these fun, interactive nights. To view the class schedule and to book, go to thekirbyhotel. com. Or experience the best the lakeshore has to offer in dining by making dinner reservations on OpenTable.
J. PAUL’S DINING ROOM | THEKIRBYHOTEL.COM 294 W Center Street, Douglas, MI 49406 | (269) 857-5472
Special Advertising Section
DOWNTOWN MARKET
AWARD WINNING BAR BQ. Slows Bar BQ 435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 slowsbarbq.com events@slowsgr.com 616-454-1588
Big E’s Sports Grill SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BIG E’S SPORTS GRILL is a game-changer — specifically changing the way sports fans watch whatever they consider their big game. With four Michigan locations, including two in Grand Rapids, Big E’s Sports Grill isn’t your old school sports bar. With dozens of beers on draft, an excellent and varied menu, a promotion nearly every night and a family-friendly atmosphere, the game is only part of the reason fans are flocking to Big E’s. But don’t worry about missing any of the action — with more than 80 screens Big E’s has you covered from all angles. The menu, which includes limited-time seas-
onal items, boasts carefully crafted plates and from-scratch dishes using fresh ingredients from local partners. There also are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding your beverage of choice. Whether you’re into local craft beer, hard ciders, wine or crafted cocktails, Big E’s libations menu includes 60 tap handles and even more available in bottles. And don’t forget to take a look at their signature, seasonal cocktail menu, too. Big E’s Sports Grill is operated by Suburban Inns, which owns and operates award-winning hotels and restaurants in Holland, Grandville, Grand Rapids and Midland.
BIGESSPORTSGRILL.COM Grand Rapids Downtown • Grand Rapids Beltline Ave • Holland • Midland
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9/13/19 10:35 AM
Modern American Dining Brunch -American Lunch - Dinner Modern Dining Modern American Dining LINEARRESTAURANT.COM Brunch - Lunch - Dinner
Brunch - Lunch - Dinner
1001 MONROE NW, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 LINEARRESTAURANT.COM 616-200-4343
LINEARRESTAURANT.COM 1001 MONROE NW, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 616-200-4343 1001 MONROE NW, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 616-200-4343
All wines, foods, beers, and ciders are Michigan made with locally made gift items. (616) 356-1986 959 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Underthe Vines
• NON GMO • PURE • ORGANIC • Sourced specifically by Devon in Tunisia on the Mediterranean Coast, and freshly bottled in the USA. Tunisia was chosen for its arid climate which is perfect for organic farming methods. Devon Olives are carefully hand-selected and first-cold pressed within hours of harvesting. Try it for yourself and taste the purity. Now available at:
WWW.DEVONSELECTS.COM
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To purchase copies of “Detroit: Engine of America” personally signed by the author, or to order custom-branded books with your company logo, email Gifts@MomentumBooks.com.
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
Catherine’s Health Center has been breaking down barriers since 1996.
Health care for those in need BY ANN BYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN DEB BOSSENBROEK remembers when Catherine’s Health Center had two exam rooms in the basement of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church with the front office next to the radiator that heated the church and school. She was working full time as the school nurse at Creston High School and volunteering at Catherine’s before moving briefly into other nursing work. “I worked for a while outside Catherine’s, but I didn’t like it,” Bossenbroek said. “I missed the challenge of working with the underinsured or uninsured patients. I missed figuring out the pieces for an individual’s health care.” That, in a nutshell, is the mission of Catherine’s Health Center, a nonprofit health care provider located at 1211 Lafayette Ave. NE on the corner of Leonard Street and Lafayette. What used to be dark rooms in the basement of St. Alphonsus now is a fullservice health care provider with modern offices designed to work specifically with the uninsured and underinsured. “With our patients, it astounds them that we treat them with respect. Many have had bad experiences with mainline medical care,” Bossenbroek said. “We love providing compassionate care, listening to concerns and working with patients to find care options that work for them.”
A patient receives a full eye exam, one of many services offered at Catherine’s Health Center.
“We consider ourselves to be part of the safety net. There are many and varying needs within the community and varying resources to meet those needs. Not everyone has the same needs and not every facility covers everything.” KAREN KAASHOEK
Catherine’s Health Center receives 6,000-7,000 visits a year with about 2,200 unduplicated patients a year. Some receive continuous care at Catherine’s, while some come for only one visit. Adults are the main clientele with a fair number of adolescents who no longer need a pediatrician. Catherine’s didn’t develop a pediatric practice, in OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 79
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
Nurse practitioner Debra Bossenbroek examines a patient at Catherine’s Health Center.
part because low-income children’s medical needs can be met through other programs. Catherine’s offers some same-day appointments but doesn’t do a lot of urgent-care needs such as stitches. Providers work with patients on diabetic care, hypertension and other chronic issues, women’s health care such as pap smears and pregnancy tests (pregnancy care is referred elsewhere), eye care and behavioral health. The mammogram bus comes to Catherine’s about once a month. “We’re a small practice where patients know the providers and the providers know them,” Executive Director Karen Kaashoek said. “We are targeting those who might otherwise fall through the gaps in medical care.” Catherine’s Health Center offers a sliding fee scale based on income, with lowest income recipients paying nothing and others paying some fees. The fees are linked to Medicaid and Medicare, which many clients receive. “But we don’t turn anyone away for not being able to pay,” said Kaashoek, who began working at Catherine’s as neighborhood health coordinator in 1999. She became executive director in 2007. Early years Catherine’s Health Center began as a dream in 1993 with leaders from St. Alphonsus, Coit Community Church, Coit Community Education, Creston Neighborhood Association, the Butterworth Med Station and Neighbors of Belknap Lookout joining forces. In collaboration with St. Mary’s Health Services and these neighborhood players, a plan was made to refurbish a mammogram bus into a mobile health clinic. By 1995, the bus plan was tabled, and popup clinics were held at St. Alphonsus. The planners set about writing grant requests, with funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Belk Foundation and others to pay for, among other things, the St. Alphonsus basement remodel for the clinic. Doors opened Feb. 14, 1996. Catherine’s hosted its first mammography bus in October 1997, with a Shots for Tots clinic in 1998 along with the Senior Health Improvement Program and Diabetes Support Group. Through the 2000s, Catherine’s received grants from a number of sources, as well as awards for its work in the community. It attained nonprofit status
80 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Wish list Catherine’s Health Center (catherineshc.org) can use your help.
Left: A patient’s blood pressure is taken. Right: Catherine’s Health Center Medical Director Dr. Laura Vander Molen (green) and nurse practitioner Megan DeMaagd-Rodriguez discuss a patient’s care.
in 2007 and began raising funds to expand. On Feb. 14, 2011, 15 years after it first started, Catherine’s Health Center opened in its current, 6,800-square-foot location in the former school wing of St. Alphonsus. It continues to collaborate with neighborhood associations, health agencies, hospitals, schools, churches and service clubs — including New City Neighbors, YMCA and MSU Extension — to offer a wide range of programs. “We consider ourselves to be part of the safety net,” Kaashoek said. “There are many and varying needs within the community and varying resources to meet those needs. Not everyone has the same needs and not every facility covers everything.” Medical Director Laura Vander Molen, who works part time for both Catherine’s and Exalta Health on South Division Avenue, is tasked with setting policies and procedures for both organizations. Both benefit from each organization’s strengths and help with needed improvements. “Catherine’s provides wraparound services that include mental health services available during a patient’s visit, education, health coaching and information on programs to help patients meet lifestyle and personal goals,” Vander Molen said. “Our staff is really trying to make sure we’re giving quality care.” Vander Molen makes sure that care is not only top quality but cost-efficient and uses best practices. She’s looked at narcotics policies, employee credentialing, decreasing no-shows and patient interaction. Patients come first Care managers help patients navigate the labyrinthine medical care system in a variety
of ways, including helping them find services they need, helping them learn to use an insurance card correctly, filling prescriptions in a timely manner, figuring out transportation to appointments and other things. “Just because you have an insurance card doesn’t mean you have access to care,” Kaashoek said. “We help people become engaged players in their health care. We help them, to the best of their capability, to understand health risks and things to do to be healthier. We want clients to be engaged partners and drivers in their care, not just recipients.” Providing care, even with government reimbursements, costs money. So do salaries for the 24 employees and medical supplies (rent is underwritten by St. Alphonsus). The $1.5 million budget is met through fees for service (50%), grants (30%) and local individual and corporate philanthropy (20%). Medical supplies and equipment are sometimes donated — Steelcase donated the waiting room furniture — but Catherine’s makes sure it uses the same quality materials as any doctor’s office or hospital. “Patients should not have a different quality of care simply because they are poor,” Kaashoek said. “Our core values are stewardship — my board jokes that I can make a penny sing — service, justice and dignity.” For Bossenbroek, it’s all about patients and good care. “We’re going to find a way around any roadblocks for our patients. We want to empower them and help them be successful with their health care,” she said. “We love providing compassionate care.” GR
1. Get the word out about Catherine’s, which has openings for new patients. Potential patients can contact the health center at (616) 336-8800 or info@ catherineshc.org. 2. Monetary donations. “Revenue for services will not cover the complete cost,” Executive Director Karen Kaashoek said. “We depend heavily on the generosity of our friends and neighbors.” 3. Volunteers. About 100 volunteers do everything from landscaping to stamping envelopes to providing medical care. Optometrists are especially needed to staff a wellequipped eye exam room. Bus passes, gas cards, gift cards to Meijer and Family Fare to help patients as needed, rolls of firstclass stamps and reams of standard copy paper. Catherine’s does not accept donated medical supplies but will accept unopened, original packaging adult diapers. It also encourages drives for warm socks, mittens and scarves, as well as sunscreen, lotion, toothbrushes and toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 81
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
october events
STAGE & FILM Oct. 8-13 “FIDDLER ON THE ROOF”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents the story of a father and his five daughters, and his attempts to maintain Jewish religious and cultural traditions. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. broadway grandrapids.com. MUSIC OCT. 31 “GHOSTBUSTERS”: GR Symphony’s Symphonic Boom concert includes the live score performed while the classic movie plays on the big screen. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18-$90. grsymphony.org.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar!
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OCT. 3 - GVSU POETRY READINGS: With guest poets Ellen
Bass and Kevin Young. 6 p.m. Eberhard Center, GVSU Pew Campus. Free. gvsu. edu/fallarts. See Lectures & Workshops
OCT. 8 - THE BLACK KEYS:
Rock band performs “Let’s Rock” tour; also Modest Mouse and Jessy Wilson. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. vanandelarena.com. See Music
OCT. 10 - FIRE & ICE: Grand Rapids Ballet gala with season preview, dinner, music, dancing. 5:30-10 p.m. The High Five GR, 19 La Grave Ave. SE. $175. grballet.com. See Special Events
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JOAN MARCUS (TOP); COLUMBIA PICTURES (LEFT)
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To list your event send calendar information to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o
Calendar Editor, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, email caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the first of the month.
SPECIAL EVENTS Through Oct. 4 - Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park: Grand Rapids Food Truck Association hosts food trucks every Fri. 5-9 p.m. 2001 Monroe Ave. NE. facebook.com/ grfoodtrucks. Through Oct. 7 - Grand Haven ArtWalk: Local art competition displays art in businesses and community buildings for public judging. ghart walk.com. Through Oct. 12 - Fall Parade of Homes: Home Builders Association of Greater GR presents tours of new and remodeled homes of varying size, price and construction style. 1-8 p.m. Fri.Sat., 5-8 p.m. Wed. $12. mygrhome.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK
Through Oct. 27 - Project 1: Crossed Lines: Five artists commissioned by ArtPrize create multifaceted installations, urban interventions and community-oriented projects, exploring the lines that unite and divide a city and what it means to belong. project.artprize.org. Oct. 2-5 - Submission Deadline for Tulip Time Festival Artwork Competition: Artists can submit artwork for Holland’s annual Tulip Time poster celebrating Dutch heritage. Submission forms, entry guidelines and prospectus available at tuliptime.com/getinvolved/festival-art work. Tulip Time is May 2-10, 2020.
SPECIAL EVENTS Oct. 4-6 PULASKI DAYS: Annual event celebrates GR’s Polish heritage with parade (11 a.m. Sat. on west side of Fulton Street between Seward and Valley avenues) and polka mass (11 a.m. Sun. at John Ball Park, 1300 W. Fulton St.). pulaskidays.org.
OCT. 10-19 - “GLORIA”: Actors’ Theatre presents a dark comedy about aspiring journalists at a New York magazine. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $28 adults, $24 seniors and students. actorstheatre grandrapids.org. See Stage & Film
Oct. 3 - Taps & Trails: Fourth annual fundraiser with campus tour, beer, live music and food; benefits Indian Trails Camp/IKUS Life Enrichment Services. 21+ only. 6-8 p.m. $25-$30. Indian Trails Camp, O-1859 Lake Michigan Drive NW. eventbrite.com. Oct. 3 - Wine & Wig Gala: West Michigan Woman hosts seventh annual fundraiser with
OCT. 19 - ZOMBIE DASH: 5K nighttime run along Grand River dodging “zombies” who try to remove flags worn by runners. 6:45 p.m. Sixth Street Park, 647 Monroe NW. $40-$46. thezombiedash.com. See Sports
food, wine and auctions; benefits American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen Michigan, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and Van Andel Institute. 6:30 p.m. The High Five GR, 19 La Grave Ave. SE. $100-$150. westmichiganwom an.com/wineandwig. Oct. 3 - Wine, Women and Chocolate: Women’s Resource Center benefit includes wine, chocolates, silent auction, raffle. 5-7:30 p.m. Cascade Hills Country Club, 3725 Cascade Road SE. $50-$65. grwrc.org. Oct. 4 - Fire Truck Parade: Holland celebrates Fire Safety Week with parade, trucks on display and safety demos. 7 p.m. Parade begins at Eighth Street and Columbia Avenue. and travels down Eighth Street to Holland Civic Center, 150 W. Eighth St. downtownholland.com. Oct. 4 - First Friday Gallery Hop: Participating galleries, shops and eateries stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. South Division Avenue between Fulton and Cherry streets. avenueforthearts.com. Oct. 4-5 - Zeeland Pumpkinfest: Familyfriendly fall activities, including music, food, 5K run, parade, outdoor movie. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Downtown Zeeland on Church and Main streets. zeelandfestivals.com. Oct. 4-6 - Pulaski Days: Annual event celebrates GR’s Polish heritage with parade (11 a.m. Sat. on west side of Fulton Street between Seward and Valley avenues) and polka mass (11 a.m. Sun. at John Ball Park, 1300 W. Fulton St.). pulaskidays.org. Oct. 5 - Bark in the Dark: Seventh annual Humane Society of West Michigan 5K and 1-mile fun run/walk, plus dog costume contest, beer tent, food and family-friendly activities.
OCT. 25 - FORK FEST: Local First ninth annual fundraiser with food and beverage samples from dozens of restaurants, farms, grocers, bakeries and breweries. 6-9 p.m. Romence Gardens, 265 Lakeside Drive NE. $50$60. localfirst.com. See Special Events
OCT. 28 - “WATER: A VISION IN DANCE”: GVSU Fall Arts
Celebration performance by BODYART, a New Orleans-based dance theatre company. 7:30 p.m. Haas Center for Performing Arts, GVSU, 10749 S. Campus Drive, Allendale. gvsu.edu/fall arts/dance-5.htm. See Stage & Film
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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
5 p.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NE. $35 adults, $10 kids. barkinthedark.org. Oct. 5 - Grandville Fall Fest: Scarecrow competition, pumpkin decorating, wagon rides, mechanical bull, chili cook-off, live music, kids activities, arts and crafts. Franklin corridor. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. cityofgrandville.com. Oct. 5 - Red Flannel Festival: Seventy-ninth annual festival with car show, arts and crafts, BBQ, Queen Scholarship Pageant, bed races, parade. Downtown Cedar Springs. redflannel festival.org. Oct. 5 - Walker Pumpkin Bash: Free pumpkin decorating, doughnuts and cider, petting zoo. 1:30-3 p.m. Walker City Hall, 4243 Remembrance Road NW. walker.city. Oct. 5-6 - Blue Coast Artists Studio Tour: Thirtieth annual tour of eight studios between South Haven and Saugatuck featuring artwork, demonstrations and refreshments. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. bluecoastartists.com. Oct. 5-6 - West Michigan Cannabis Expo: Seminars and info from industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. wmcannabisexpo.com. Oct. 5, 12, 19 - Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour: Self-guided tour of historic sites in Muskegon/ White Lake with refreshments and prizes. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. visitmuskegon.com. Oct. 10 - Couture for a Cure: Van Andel Institute’s 14th anniversary fundraiser includes fashion show by Leigh’s and preview of designer Victoria Hayes’ fall/winter ’19 collection. 6-11 p.m. 333 Bostwick Ave. NE. $150-$300. vai.org. Oct. 10 - Fire & Ice: Grand Rapids Ballet gala with season preview, dinner, music, dancing. 5:30-10 p.m. The High Five GR, 19 La Grave Ave. SE. $175. grballet.com. Oct. 10 - Small Plates, Big Impact: Downtown Market’s fundraiser includes strolling dinner, live music, silent auction and afterparty; benefits Education Foundation. 5:30-9:30 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. $100. downtownmarketgr.com.
Oct. 12 - Downtown Market Wedding Showcase: Tours of available event spaces plus caterers, photographers, entertainment options and tablescape designs. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. $100. downtownmarketgr.com.
Oct. 19 - Red Shoe Gala: Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan annual gala with reception, dinner, live auction. 6 p.m. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. NW. $150. rmhwestern michigan.org/red-shoe-gala.
Oct. 12 - Eastern & Alger Pop-up Market: Alger Heights hosts monthly market with local artisans and vintage dealers. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Eastern Ave. and Alger St. SE. facebook.com/easternal gerpopupmarket.
Oct. 19-20 - Arts and Eats Tour: Self-guided tour of 60 participating artists, farms and restaurants in southwest Michigan. artsandeats.org.
Oct. 12 - Greater Grand Rapids Fall Train Show: Grand River Valley Railroad Club hosts more than 60 vendors. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave. SW, Wyoming. $5 adults, kids 12 and under free. grvrrc.org. Oct. 12 - Hudsonville Urban HayDay: Fall festival with hayrides, food trucks, bounce houses, critter barn, tractor show, live music, pumpkin races. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Gemmen’s Home and Hardware, 3488 Kelly St.; and Terra Square, 3380 Chicago Drive. urbanhayday.com. Oct. 12 - Lowell Harvest Celebration: Live entertainment, Autumn Marketplace, chili cook-off, Harvest Hustle 5K run/walk. 8 a.m.4 p.m. Downtown Lowell and Kent County Fairgrounds, 225 S. Hudson St., Lowell. discov erlowell.org/harvest-celebration. Oct. 12 - Rock ’n the Runway: Girl Get Your Fight Back presents community fashion show to raise awareness for breast cancer. 6 p.m. 3075 30th SW, Grandville. $32, $61 VIP. rock therunwaygr.com. Oct. 12 - White Lake PumpkinFest: Familyfriendly, pumpkin-inspired events plus live music, arts and crafts, farmers market, hayrides. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Downtown Montague. whitelake.org. Oct. 17 - Brats and Bonfires: Ada hosts fifth annual family-friendly event with live music, brats, beer. Ada Township Fire Station One, 6990 E. Fulton St., Ada. 6-9 p.m. adamichigan. org/events/brats-and-bonfires. Oct. 17 - Fall Girls Night Out: Shopping and activities with theme Queens and Unicorns. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Lowell. discoverlowell.org/ girls-night-out.
Oct. 11 - SCA and AWARE Benefit: Saugatuck Center for the Arts and West Shore Aware present Life is a (Big Gay) Cabaret with Tom Vendafreddo and special guest Kurt Stamm. 6:30 p.m. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $75. sc4a. org/aware-sca.
Oct. 18-20, 25-27 - Zoo Goes Boo: John Ball Zoo hosts trick-or-treating, animal demonstrations, kids activities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1300 W. Fulton St. $12 adults, $10 seniors and kids 2-12, kids under 2 free. jbzoo.org.
Oct. 11-12 - Holland Fall Fest: Pumpkin carvers in downtown Holland and at farmers market, plus kids activities, hayrides, live music, food. 3-7 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. Free. holland fallfest.com.
Oct. 19 - Kentwood Fall Festival: Includes trunk or treat for kids, hayrides, bounce houses, face painting. 10 a.m.-noon. Kentwood Public Works Department, 5068 Breton Road SE. kentwood.us/events.
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Oct. 24 - Hope on the Hill Gala: Van Andel Institute’s 19th annual fundraising gala, A Night In Wonderland, with Alice-in-Wonderland theme, live music, entertainment, dancing. 6 p.m. 333 Bostwick Ave. NE. $250. vai.org. Oct. 24-25 - GrrCON: Cyber security summit and hacker conference. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $150 adults, $50 students. grrcon.com. Oct. 25 - Fork Fest: Local First ninth annual fundraiser with food and beverage samples from dozens of restaurants, farms, grocers, bakeries and breweries. 6-9 p.m. Romence Gardens, 265 Lakeside Drive NE. $50-$60. localfirst.com. Oct. 26 - Holland Trick-or-Treating: Participating downtown businesses welcome costumed kids for trick-or-treating. 10 a.m.-noon. Eighth Street, downtown Holland. holland.org. Oct. 26 - Saugatuck/Douglas Halloween Festivities: Family and pets costume contest and parade begins 3:30 p.m. at Wick’s Park with family activities after parade. Adult parade begins 10 p.m. on Center Street, Douglas. saugatuckdouglas.com. Oct. 26 - South Kent Community Expo: More than 60 businesses showcase products and services, plus kids activities, food trucks. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. kentwood.us/parks. Oct. 31 - Halloween at Ada Fire Station: Candy, doughnuts, fire apparatus displays. 6-9 p.m. 2865 Thornhills Ave. SE, Ada. adamichigan.org. Oct. 31 - Grand Haven Trick or Treat: Participating downtown stores on Washington Avenue from Harbor Drive to Third Street hand out candy to costumed kids. 4-6 p.m. visit grandhaven.com. Oct. 31 - Zeeland Trick or Treat: Businesses along Main Street hand out candy to kids 10 and younger. 3-5 p.m. ci.zeeland.mi.us/338/ downtown-trick-or-treat.
SPORTS Oct. - Grand Rapids Griffins: Grand Rapids’ American Hockey League team, primary affili-
ate of the Detroit Red Wings. Oct. 11 and 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Oct. 25 vs. Manitoba Moose. Oct. 26 vs. Texas Stars. Oct. 30 vs. Iowa Wild. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $19$40. griffinshockey.com. Oct. 5 - Franciscan Rhythms Trail Run: 5K and 10K trail run/walk benefits music therapy scholarship fund. Also, kids run. 9 a.m. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. $5-$35. lifeprocesscenter.org. Oct. 5 - GRR Runway 5K: Race on and under runway at Gerald R. Ford Airport and 1-mile fun run. 9 a.m. 6450 Air Cargo Drive SE. $18-$42. triviumracing.com/event/runway5k2019. Oct. 12 - Bee Brave 5K Run/Walk: Eleventh annual breast cancer awareness run/walk benefits Van Andel Institute. 9 a.m. Shagbark Farms, 7500 Alaska Ave. SE, Caledonia. $17$25. beebrave.com. Oct. 12 - Colorburst Bicycle Tour: Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club hosts tour with 17-, 30-, 62- and 100-mile loops; benefits local charities. Fallasburg Park, 1124 Fallasburg Road, Lowell. $35-$70. rapidwheelmen.com/ rides/colorburst.
Oct. 26 - Run 4 Your Life: 5K run/walk through downtown Holland to support Holland Free Health Clinic. 9 a.m. HFHC, 99 W. 26th St., Holland. $30. hfhclinic.org.
ON T H E
TOWN PA C K A G E
Limited availability. Reservations must be made 72 hours in advance, restrictions may apply.
STAGE & FILM Through Oct. 5 - “Anne of Avonlea”: Master Arts Theatre presents a musical about an 11-year-old orphan girl who is mistakenly sent
- Two Tickets to a Civic Theatre Show or Two Tickets to a 20 Monroe Live Performance - $20 to Citysēn Lounge - Complimentary Parking - Noon Check-out
50
$
C I T Y F L AT S H O T E L . C O M
Oct. 12 - Kentwood Glow in the Park 5K: Fall run supporting Kentwood Parks & Rec’s Youth Scholarship Fund. 7 p.m. Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE. $25-$40. kent wood.us/events. Oct. 19 - Run Thru the Rapids/Fitness Expo: 5K/10K run benefits YMCA Camp ManitouLin Scholarship Fund. 9 a.m. run, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Health and Fitness Expo, 1:30 p.m. kids marathon. David D. Hunting YMCA, 475 Lake Michigan Drive NW. runthrutherapids.com. Oct. 19 - Zombie Dash: 5K nighttime run along Grand River dodging “zombies” who try to remove flags worn by runners. 6:45 p.m. Sixth Street Park, 647 Monroe NW. $40-$46. thezom biedash.com. Oct. 20 - Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon: Certified 26.2-mile course around downtown, plus half-marathon and marathon relay. 8 a.m. David D. Hunting YMCA, 475 Lake Michigan Drive NW. $125-$310. grandrapids marathon.com. Oct. 26 - 231 River Run: 10K and 4-mile runs. 8:30 a.m. Conner Bayou County Park, 12945 North Cedar Drive, Grand Haven. $35-$45. runsignup.com/race/mi/grandhaven/m231k. Oct. 26 - Alger Heights Halloween 5K and 10K: Run through neighborhoods; costumes encouraged. Also, kids fun run. 9 a.m. Alger Middle School, 921 Alger St. SE. $25-$45. alger5k.com.
www.wittetravel.com
3250 28th St SE, Grand Rapids • 616.942.5112
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to a farm where the owners had originally intended to adopt a boy to help them on the farm. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $19 adults, $17 seniors and students, $9.50 kids 12 and under. masterarts.org. Through Oct. 5 - “Breaking Legs”: LowellArts Players present a dinner theater comedy about Italian mobsters financing a playwright’s production. 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. show. Larkin’s Other Place, 315 W. Main St. $16-$20 show, $13 dinner. lowellartsmi.org. Through Oct. 6 - “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: GVSU Shakespeare Festival play. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 2 p.m. Oct. 5-6. Louis Armstrong Theatre, PAC, GVSU, 1 Campus Drive, Allendale. $16 adults, $14 seniors, $7 students. gvsu.edu/shakes. Oct. 4-5 - “Mother Goose” (ballet) and “The Naughty Boy” (opera): Grand Rapids Ballet School Junior Company and GVSU Opera Theatre present a family-friendly pair of performances. 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m. Sat. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. gvsu.edu.
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Oct. 5 - Buster Keaton Film Festival: “One Week” and “The Cameraman.” 8 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $8-$10. frauenthal.org.
journalists at a New York magazine. 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 3 p.m. Oct. 13. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $28 adults, $24 seniors and students. actorstheatregrandrapids.org.
Oct. 5 - “Butterfly: Hope in the Terezin Ghetto”: Presented by Ballet 5:8. 7 p.m. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth Ave. SE. $25 adults, $22 seniors and students, $15 kids 12 and younger. ballet58.org.
Oct. 12-13 - “Coppelia”: CARE Ballet presents a one-hour performance for kids about an old inventor who creates a life-size doll. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. East Grand Rapids PAC, 2211 Lake Drive SE. $15 adults, $10 students. careballet.org.
Oct. 8-12 - Thriller Chiller: Film festival celebrating action, horror, sci-fi and suspense movies. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. filmfreeway.com/thrillerchiller. Oct. 8-13 - “Fiddler on the Roof”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents the story of a father and his five daughters and his attempts to maintain Jewish religious and cultural traditions. 7:30 p.m. Tue.-Thu., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. broadwaygrandrapids.com. Oct. 10-19 - “Gloria”: Actors’ Theatre presents the story of a dark comedy about aspiring
Oct. 12-13 - “Peter Pan, Jr.”: The Penguin Project of Muskegon Civic Theatre presents the classic story of a young boy who never grows up. 7:30 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Frauenthal Theatre, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. mus kegoncivictheatre.org. Oct. 15 - “Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure”: Children’s show about a pig and her friends. 6 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $22-$78. devosperformance hall.com.
Oct. 18-20 - “Firebird”: Grand Rapids Ballet presents a collection of dances. 7:30 p.m. Fri.Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. $30 and up. grballet.com. Oct. 18-27 - “Frozen, Jr.”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre School of Theatre Arts presents the story of two sisters; one with a magic ability to create worlds of ice of snow. 7:30 p.m. Wed.Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $15. grct.org. Oct. 25 - “Peter and the Wolf”: Michigan Ballet Academy and Kent Philharmonic Orchestra present the classic fairytale. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. $12 adults, $6 seniors and kids under 12. michi ganballetacademy.org. Oct. 28 - “Water: A Vision in Dance”: GVSU Fall Arts Celebration performance by BODYART, a New Orleans-based dance theatre company. 7:30 p.m. Haas Center for Performing Arts, GVSU, 10749 S. Campus Drive, Allendale. gvsu. edu/fallarts/dance-5.htm.
MUSIC Oct. - LowellArts House Concerts: Concerts every Sat. at 7 p.m. Oct. 5, Troll for Trout. Oct. 12, Kari Lynch Band. Oct. 19, Checkers Morton. Oct. 26, An Dro. 223 W. Main St., Lowell. $12. lowellartsmi.org. Oct. 1 - Adventures in Harmony 2019: Singers from West Michigan high schools perform in concert. 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland East High School, 3333 96th Ave., Zeeland. hol landchorale.org. Oct. 1 - Shinedown: Rock band performs “Attention Attention” world tour. 6:15 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $27-$72. van andelarena.com. Oct. 3-6 - Great Lakes Music Camp: Acoustic music camp includes workshops, lessons, jams; plus a benefit concert for Camp Blodgett 8 p.m. Sat. Camp Blodgett, 10451 Lakeshore Drive, West Olive. $250-$825 camp, $15 concert. greatlakesmusic.org.
Oct. 3, 20 - SCMC Folk Series: St. Cecilia Music Center hosts acoustic folk concerts. Oct. 3, Lee Ann Womack. Oct. 20, Judy Collins. 7:30 p.m. 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $40-$55. scmc-online.org. Oct. 4-5 - Eric Church: Country music singer performs “Double Down” tour. 8 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $36-$146. van andelarena.com. Oct. 4-5 - “Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet”: GR Symphony classical concert with pianist Olga Kern. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18-$90. grsymphony.org. Oct. 4, 18 - The Block Concerts: Oct. 4, Velvet Caravan, gypsy jazz. Oct. 18, Rodney Whitaker, jazz quartet. 7:30 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $25-$35. theblock westmichigan.org. Oct. 5 - Trixy Tang, Momz Attic and Jager: Music concert. 8 p.m. Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland. $10-$15. parktheatreholland.org.
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Oct. 8 - The Black Keys: Rock band performs “Let’s Rock” tour; also Modest Mouse and Jessy Wilson. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $32-$79.50. vanandelarena.com. Oct. 11 - Coffee Classics Series: GR Symphony presents The Last Century concert of music with free coffee and doughnuts. 10 a.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $16, $5 students. grsymphony.org. Oct. 11 - “The Last Century”: GR Symphony presents music by Ruggles, Stravinsky, Sejourne and Hindemith. 8 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $26 and up, $5 students. grsymphony.org. Oct. 11 - “The Lettermen”: Concert with songs such as “The Way You Look Tonight” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder.” 7:30 p.m. Van Singel FAC, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center. $45 adults, $22 students. vsfac.com. Oct. 12 - GVSU Guest Artist Piano Recital: With Dr. Margarita Denenburg. 7:30 p.m. Haas Center for Performing Arts, GVSU, 10749 S. Campus Drive, Allendale. Free. gvsu.edu. Oct. 12, 19 - GRFA Acoustic Saturday Night Concerts: Grand River Folk Arts concerts. Oct. 12, Mark Swanson and Horsefeather Reunion. Oct. 19, Calabogie Road. 7 p.m. Wealthy Theatre Annex, 1110 Wealthy St. SE. $15 adults, $12 seniors and students, $10 members, $5 kids under 12. sites.google.com/site/grfolkarts. Oct. 13 - MercyMe: Contemporary Christian music band performs Imagine Nation Tour; also Crowder and Micah Tyler. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $15-$151. van andelarena.com.
Oct. 18-19 - “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”: GR Symphony’s Symphonic Boom concert includes the live score performed while the movie plays on the big screen. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18-$90. grsymphony.org.
Oct. 26 - Classics II: Rhapsody: Holland Symphony Orchestra, with pianist and Steinway artist Andrew Le, performs music by Hovhaness, Gershwin, Barber and Grofe. 7:30 p.m. Miller Center, Hope College, 221 Columbia Ave., Holland. $22. hollandsymphony.org.
Oct. 18-19 - Mighty Wurlitzer Concerts: GR Public Museum’s theater organ concert features a Halloween-themed performance by Dale Zieger to the silent film “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” 7 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m. Sat. 272 Pearl St. NW. $10 adults, $5 kids, $8/$4 members. grpm.org.
Oct. 26 - Lazer Lloyd: Singer and guitarist. 8 p.m. Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland. $18-$25. parktheatreholland.org.
Oct. 19 - Chris Hillman: Rock singer with special guest Herb Pederson. 8 p.m. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $44-$47. sc4a.org. Oct. 19 - Mat Kearney: Hope College Concert Series. 8 p.m. Dimnent Chapel, 277 College Ave., Holland. $12, $5 students. hope.edu. Oct. 20 - Anais Mitchell: Folk-pop singer. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $20-$25. grcmc.org. Oct. 21 - Monday Night Jazz Gumbo: Monthly West Michigan Jazz Society concert. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Casino Club, 3260 Salerno Drive NE. $15, $10 members. wmichjazz.org. Oct. 22 - Kenny G: Pop, R&B and jazz saxophonist. 7:30 p.m. Holland Civic Center, 150 W. Eighth St. $40-$70. ticketmaster.com. Oct. 24 - Danny Gokey: Christian singer performs “The Hope Encounter” tour. 7 p.m. Fair Haven Church, 2900 Baldwin St., Hudsonville. $20-$75. transparentproductions.com.
Oct. 13 - Midcentury Modern: Holland Chorale’s fall concert includes music by Britten, Faure, Bernstein and Sondheim. 3 p.m. First Reformed Church, 630 State St., Holland. Free. hollandchorale.org.
Oct. 25 - Kent Philharmonic Orchestra Concert: Seasonal music concert with costume contest at 6:30 p.m. and concert at 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $12 adults, $6 seniors and students, kids under 10 free. kentphilgr.org.
Oct. 14 - Ghost: Ultimate Tour Named Death. 7:30 p.m. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. $29.50-$69.50. deltaplex.com.
Oct. 25 - J.S. Ondara: Hope College Concert Series. 8 p.m. Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland. $12, $5 students. hope.edu.
Oct. 17 - Hope College’s Great Performance Series: Cuarteto Latinoamericano with guitarist Jiji. 7:30 p.m. Jack H. Miller Center, Hope College, 221 Columbia Ave, Holland. $23 adults, $17 seniors, $6 kids 18 and under. hope.edu.
Oct. 25-26 - “Tristan and Isolde”: GR Symphony classical concert with music by Wagner, Stravinsky and Nobre. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18$90. grsymphony.org.
Oct. 17 - Robbie Fulks: Alt-country singer. 7 p.m. Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $15-$20. grcmc.org.
Oct. 25-27 - GRCMB Fall Concert: Grand Rapids Choir of Men & Boys performs three concerts: 7 p.m. Fri. and Sat. at Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Ave. SE; 3 p.m. Sun. at Mayflower Congregational Church, 2345 Robinson Road SE. Free. grcmb.org.
Oct. 17 - SCMC Jazz Series: St. Cecilia Music Center hosts pianist Fred Hersch with Julian Lage. 7:30 p.m. 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $40-$45. scmc-online.org. 88 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Oct. 27 - Between the Silos Fall Fest: Wildwood Family Farms presents music by Political Lizard, Ralston Bowles, Mark Lavengood and The Crane Wives. 7:30 p.m. 7970 Snow Ave. SE, Alto. $27-$34. wildwoodfamilyfarms. com/2019-concert-artists. Oct. 27 - FHACB Fall Concert: Free music concert by Forest Hills Adult Community Band. 2:30 p.m. Eastern High School, 2200 Pettis Ave. NE, Ada. fhacb.org. Oct. 27 - Grand Rapids Symphonic Band Concert: “Music for a Darkened Theater.” 3 p.m. Grandville High School PAC, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. $15 adults, $10 seniors, $7 students, $40 family. grsymphonicband.org. Oct. 27 - Roy Orbison & Buddy Holly: “The Rock ‘N’ Roll Dream” tour: Holographic-based live concert of two rock-and-roll musicians. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $37-$57. devosperformancehall.com. Oct. 30 - Rumours of Fleetwood Mac: Tribute band performs “50th Anniversary” tour. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $32-$42. devosperformancehall.com. Oct. 31 - “Ghostbusters”: GR Symphony’s Symphonic Boom concert includes the live score performed while the classic movie plays on the big screen. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18-$90. grsym phony.org.
LECTURES & WORKSHOPS Oct. - Downtown Market Cooking Classes: Oct. 4, October-feast. Oct. 8, Slow Your Roll: Beginner Sushi. Oct. 11, Street Food Series: North America. Oct. 22, Cooking with Craft Beer. Oct. 26, Soup Dumpling Workshop. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. downtownmarketgr.com. Oct. - FLPC Art Workshops: Oct. 3-5, “Edges and Colors” by Mary Qian and “Still Life Painting” by Kerry Dunn. Oct. 10-12, “Fresh and Expressive Watercolors” by Tom Francesconi. Oct. 16-19, “Interpreting Reality” by Carolyn Anderson. Oct. 21, “Focal Point and Acrylics” by Kathleen Mooney. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifepro cesscenter.org.
Oct. - Grand Rapids Public Libraries: Adults: book clubs, computer/technology instruction. Kids: book clubs, Pajama Time!, story times. grpl.org. Oct. - Kent District Libraries: Adults: Early Childhood Essentials, Apple Users Group, Enhance Fitness Classes, book sales, book discussions, computer/technology instruction. Kids: book clubs, story times. kdl.org. Oct. - Summer Swing Dancing: 7-9:30 p.m. every Tue. in downtown Grand Rapids. First 30 minutes is instruction. Oct. 1 and 15, Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. Oct. 8 and 22, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. gran drapidsoriginalswingsociety.com. Oct. 3 - GVSU Poetry Readings: With guest poets Ellen Bass and Kevin Young. 6 p.m. Eberhard Center, GVSU Pew Campus. Free. gvsu.edu/fallarts. Oct. 7 - Passport to Adventure: Calvin University presents travel film series: “Shasta Dam: California’s Empire Builder” by Gray Warriner. 7 p.m. Calvin University Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $6 adults, $3 students. calvin.edu/academics/call/travelfilm-series. Oct. 8 - Home School Information Nights: Information and Q&A about home schooling, including curriculum options, classes, socialization. 6-8 p.m. Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave. SW, Wyoming. $15/family. mihsb.org/homeschoolinfonights. Oct. 9 - GRCC ODEI Lecture: GRCC’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion presents Dr. Bernadette Marie Calafell. 1 p.m. ATC Auditorium, Room 168, 151 Fountain St. NE. Free. grcc.edu.
Modern Furniture & Design Services
Oct. 11 - Contra Dance: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts instruction and dancing. 7 p.m. 701 Fifth St. NW. $10 adults, $8 members, $6 students, $20 family. sites.google.com/site/ grfolkarts. Oct. 12 - GVSU Guest Artist Masterclass: Pianist Dr. Margarita Denenburg. Noon. Haas Center for Performing Arts, GVSU, 10749 S. Campus Drive, Allendale. gvsu.edu. Oct. 19 - Ford Museum Art Class: “Fabric Mosaic” by Ann Loveless. 1-4 p.m. Gerald R. Ford Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW. $20. fordli brarymuseum.gov. Oct. 30 - GRCC STEMulating Diversity Praxis: GRCC’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion presents Dr. Brian A. Burt. 3 p.m. Science Calkins Center Auditorium, 226 Bostwick Ave. NE. Free. grcc.edu.
1428 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616.459.4167 www.stonesthrowliving.com OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 89
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1/ Rebecca Louise
Law’s exhibit at Meijer Gardens.
Museums & attractions COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
seniors and students, $7 kids 5-13, $4 kids 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org. 2/ BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER: Special events: Blandford’s annual Harvest Festival on Oct. 12 includes seasonal activities such as scarecrow making, horse-drawn wagon rides, and cider and doughnuts. The festival runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $8, $5 members, kids 2 and under free. Also, Oct. 1-4, Hunter’s Safety. Oct. 5, Fall Wild Edibles. Oct. 19, Blacksmith Apprentice and Pioneer Cabin Open House. Oct. 25, OWLween. Oct. 26, Kombucha Workshop and Whitetail Workshop. Permanent attractions: 143 acres of trails, heritage buildings, farm. Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center open Mon.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk.
Jam Night. Oct. 5, Family Day. Oct. 26, Kids, Crafts & Critters, plus Community Costume Party/Trick or Treat. Permanent attractions: Tractors and other farming equipment; also Eclipse windmill. Open Tue., Thu., Sat. $4 adults, $2 kids 4-12, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. DeGraaf Nature Center: Eighteen-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Knee-High Naturalist classes for kids 3-5. Center open Tue.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Free. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, 3551057, degraaf.org.
2/ Blandford Nature Center celebrates
the season with its Harvest Festival.
Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park: Eighty-acre park with giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, alligators, kangaroos, lemurs, prairie dogs, ostriches and antelopes. Plus, safari rides and opportunities to feed animals. Special events: Oct. 19-20, Park Before Dark. Open daily through Oct. 21. $14 age 12 and up, $12 seniors, $10 kids 3-11, kids under 2 free. 8313 Pratt Lake Ave. SE, Alto, 868-6711, boulderridgewap.com. Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920sera railway with Famous Pumpkin Train every Sat. and Sun. through Oct. 27 (see website for times). $20 adults, $19 seniors, $18 kids 2-12. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville, 997-7000, coopersvilleandmarne.org. Coopersville Farm Museum: Museum honoring farming and rural life. Special events: Oct. 1 and 15, 90 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Deer Tracks Junction: One hundred-acre farm with elk, whitetail deer, Tibetan yaks and reindeer; evening wildlife safari tours; hands-on farm with goats, pigs, donkeys, rabbits, yaks, parakeets; bottle-feeding stations; play area; and ice cream shop. Open daily. General admission: $10, kids 2 and under free; safari tours and bottle feedings extra. 7850 14 Mile Road, Cedar Springs, 863-3337, deertracksjunction.com. Downtown Market: Open daily with culinary-related products at more than 20 local businesses and restaurants, plus cooking classes (see Lectures and Workshops) and private rentals. Special events: Sept. 10, Culinary Medicine for the Sports Enthusiast. Sept. 19, 3rd Thursdays. Sept. 27, Made in MI Pop-Up Marketplace: Night Market. See Antiques on Ionia in Special Events. 435 Ionia Ave. SW, 8055308, downtownmarketgr.com. Felt Mansion & Gardens: Summer home of millionaire inventor Dorr E. Felt features 1920s architecture. Through Sept. 2, self-guided tours 1-5 p.m. Sun.-Wed. $15 adults, $12 seniors (free on Mon.) and students, kids 12 and under free. 6597 138th St., Holland, 335-3050, feltmansion.org.
$3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnaturecenter.org. 3/ GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Special exhibitions: Oct. 12-Jan. 12, “David Wiesner & The Art of Wordless Storytelling” includes more than 70 original watercolors from the artist’s most famous books. Through Feb. 2, “Billy Mayer: The Shape of Things.” Drop-in Studio: 1-4 p.m. every Sat. Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8 seniors and students, $6 kids 6-17, kids 5 and under free; free admission 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue. and 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center NW, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum: Special exhibitions: Through Nov. 3, “Extraordinary Circumstances: The Presidency of Gerald R. Ford.” Sept. 23-Nov. 3, “3D Expression.” Permanent exhibitions: Highlights from Mr. and Mrs. Ford’s lives, plus featured online exhibits. Also, DeVos Learning Center. Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $6 college students, $4 ages 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, ford librarymuseum.gov. Grand Rapids Art Museum: Special exhibitions: Through Sept. 1, “Maya Lin: Flow.” Through Sept. 8, “Melanie Daniel: Only Four Degrees.” Through Feb. 2, “Billy Mayer: The Shape of Things.” Special events: See Live Artfully Dinner in Special Events and Creativity Uncorked in Lectures & Workshops. Drop-in Studio: 1-4 p.m. every Sat. Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8 seniors/students, $6 kids 6-17, kids 5 and under free; free admission 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue. and 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center NW, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Hands-on permanent and traveling exhibits for kids 2-10. Special exhibit: Through Jan. 20, “Amazing Dinosaurs.” Permanent activities: Think Tank, Kidstruction Zone, Little GR, Bubbles!, Wee Discover, musical instruments and more. Toddler Time 10 a.m.-noon Tue. Family Night 5-8 p.m. Thu. ($1.75). Closed Mon. $9, $8 seniors, kids under 1 free. 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org. Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Through Sept. 8, “TOYS!” Through Oct. 13, “Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.” Permanent exhibitions: Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers: The People of This Place; West Michigan Habitats; Grand Fish, Grand River; and Be Curious. Also, restored 1928 Spillman carousel. Special events: Saturday
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LUCAS SAYE (TOP); BROADWAY GALLERY, LETCHWORTH (BOTTOM)
1/ FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Special exhibitions: British artist Rebecca Louise Law uses dried and fresh plant material to create immersive, site-specific installations that explore the relationship between humanity and nature. Her exhibit, “Rebecca Louise Law: The Womb,” will be on display through March 1. Also, through Oct. 27, “Chrysanthemums and More!” Through Jan. 5, Sculpture Exhibition. Special events: Oct. 5-6, Fall Bonsai Show. Oct. 19, Japanese Tea Ceremony in the Teahouse. Oct. 20, Inside the Japanese Teahouse. Oct. 20, Mum Day. Permanent attractions: Modern and contemporary 30-acre sculpture collection, Japanese garden, tropical conservatory, children’s garden, nature trails and boardwalk, café, gift shop. Open daily. $14.50 adults, $11
FALL ADVENTURE AWAITS YOU. 3/ Artwork by David Wiesner is
showcased at GRAM.
Curiosity Labs. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 kids 3-17. 272 Pearl St. NW, 929-1700, grpm.org. Holland Museum: Special events: Sept. 9, Free Admission Monday. Permanent exhibitions: Local history and Dutch galleries with artwork from the Netherlands from the 1600s-1900s. Also, Spark!Lab. Open Wed.-Sun. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. 31 W. 10th St., 796-3329, hol landmuseum.org. Also, Cappon House: 228 W. Ninth St.; Settlers House: 190 W. Ninth St.; The Armory: 16 W. Ninth St. Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-4 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour before close). Free. 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermay house.steelcase.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID WIESNER; COPYRIGHT © DAVID WIESNER
Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Through Sept. 1, “Lights, Camera, Rock ‘n Roll: The Music Photography of Paul Jendrasiak” and “Guitar with Wings: The Photography of Laurence Juber.” Through Sept. 8, “Rising Voices: The Bennett Prize for Women Figurative Realists.” Sept. 5-Nov. 13, 91st Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition. Sept. 12-Jan. 5, “Undying Traditions: Memento Mori.” Sept. 19-Dec. 15, “The Land: The Art of Bill Hosterman and Ed Wong-Ligda.” Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 college students, kids 16 and under free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegon artmuseum.org. Nelis’ Dutch Village: Dutch theme park with rides, petting zoo, wooden shoe carving, Delftware-making demonstrations, costumed employees, shops and restaurants. Special events: Sept. 7-8, Oma and Opa Weekend and Diaper Drive. Sept. 14, Superhero Training Camp. Sept. 21, Grant Me Hope Fundraiser. Sept. 28, First Responders - Hometown Heroes. Open daily. $13 adults, $12 seniors, $11 kids 3-15. 12350 James St., Holland, 396-1475, dutchvillage.com. Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Shows use Digistar production and surround sound. This month: “SpacePark360: Infinity,” “Secrets of the Sun,” “Subatomic,” “Under Scorching Skies,” “The Little Star that Could,” and “Dark Side: The Light Show.” $5, $4 with admission to the museum, members free. Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org/planetarium. TreeRunner Adventure Park: Self-guided highwire forest adventure includes ziplines, Tarzan swings, rope bridges and swinging logs, plus Junior Park for kids 4-7. Training included with admission. Special events: Sept. 13, Sports Themed Glow Night. Open Fri.-Sun. $39 adults, $35 kids 7-13, $20 kids 4-7. 2121 Celebration Drive NE, 226-3993, treerunnergrandrapids.com. Veen Observatory: Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association hosts various events. Special events: Sept. 7 and 21, Public Night from 8:30-11 p.m. All events subject to weather; call 897-7065 for updates. $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17 and under, kids under 5 free. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE, Lowell. graaa.org.
Enjoy 50% off a Second Night Stay this September and October.
PURELUDINGTON.COM OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 91
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
1/ Los Straitjackets
Comedy & nightclub venues COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ TIP TOP DELUXE BAR & GRILL: Live music acts and DJs, plus Comedy Tuesdays. Los Straitjackets, the instrumental guitar band whose members wear Lucha Libre Mexican wrestling masks, perform at 7 p.m. Oct. 23. Ages 21+. Tickets are $25. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook. 2/ 20 MONROE LIVE: 2,500-seat venue hosts live music, entertainment and special events. On Oct. 15, Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul perform the Summer of Sorcery Tour. Singer and guitarist Steven Van Zandt is best known for being a member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. The show starts at 8 p.m. All ages welcome. Tickets are $20$59. 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, (844) 678-5483, 20monroelive.com. 3/ THE INTERSECTION: Four-bar concert venue hosts nationally known bands. On Oct. 24, country music singer Jon Langston performs at 7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Tickets are $16-$18. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-8232, sectionlive.com.
Billy’s Lounge: Eastown bar and music venue hosts live music with emphasis on blues. 1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com. The B.O.B.: The Big Old Building houses multiple entertainment options: live music Fri. and Sat. at Bobarino’s; DJs and dance floor at Eve on Fri. and Sat.; live music at House of Music and Entertainment (H.O.M.E.); and standup comedy at Dr. Grins. 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.
The Comedy Project GR: Comedy theater group presents weekly improv, sketch comedy and variety shows, plus training center for improv, comedy writing and comedy acting. 540 Leonard St. NW, Suite B, 369-7469, thecomedyproject.com. Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nationally acclaimed comedians perform Thu.-Sat. Oct. 3-5, Deb DiGiovanni. Oct. 10-12, Brent Morin. Oct. 17-19, Lachlan Patterson. Oct. 24-25, Joe Kilgallon. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Thu.; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. Tickets are $5-$20. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com/drgrinscomedy. Flanagan’s: Irish pub with live music from local bands on Fri. and Sat.; also live Irish music on Thu. and Sun. 139 Pearl St. NW, 980-0705, flana gansgr.com. Founders Brewing Co.: Large taproom features live music Thu. and Sat., plus Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra on the first Sunday of each month. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 7762182, foundersbrewing.com. Grand Rapids Brewing Co.: Restaurant/taproom with live music Fri.-Sun. 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 458-7000, grbrewingcompany.com.
2/ Steven Van Zandt
Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/ bar with dance floor hosts DJs and live music Fri. and Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoods lounge.com.
92 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
J. Gardella’s Tavern: Dance club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor with DJs. 11 Ionia Ave. NW, 459-8824, jgardellas tavern.com. Mixology: Lobby lounge overlooking downtown GR and Grand River has live music Fri. and Sat. nights and live jazz brunch on Sun. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. NW, 242-1500, ilovethejw. com/dining/mixology. Mojo’s: DJs and dance floor on second level Wed., Fri. and Sat., with dueling pianos show on main floor Wed.-Sat. nights. 180 Monroe Ave. NW, 776-9000, mojospianobar.com. Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, facebook.com/mulligans pubgr. One Trick Pony: Grill and taproom hosts live music 8-11 p.m. Thu. and Sat. Reservations accepted. 136 E. Fulton St., 235-7669, onetrick.biz. Pop Scholars: Four-person comedy team performs at 8 p.m. Oct. 4 at Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE, popscholars.com.
3/ Jon Langston River Rock at The Grand River Hotel: Live music Fri. and Sat. and jazz brunch Sun. 270 Ann St. NW, 3639001, thegrandriverhotel.com. Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri., featuring DJs and live acts. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, face book.com/rockysbarandgrill. Rumors Nightclub: Gay bar and dance club with Sunday night drag shows at 10:15 p.m. 69 S. Division Ave., 454-8720, rumorsnightclub.net.
The Pyramid Scheme: Heartside pub and live music venue. 68 Commerce Ave. SW, pyramidschemebar.com.
Stella’s Lounge: Drink features and live DJs every Fri. and Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 742-4444, stellasgr.com.
River City Improv: Comedy improv team performs at 7:33 p.m. Oct. 19 at Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. rivercityimprov.com.
Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Live music acts and DJs, plus Comedy Tuesdays. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JIM HERRINGTON (TOP); HEIDI GUTMAN (LEFT); ETHAN HELMS (RIGHT)
Back Forty Saloon: Line dancing and live country bands Fri. and Sat., DJs Thu. 48 W. Fulton St., 742-4040, thebackfortysaloon.com.
Chefs
Signature
Auction
®
Monday, November 11, 2019 Steelcase Ballroom at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Live Music by Nick Ayoub & Friends, Cuisine Tasting, & Silent Auction 7:00 p.m. Live Auction and Program Cocktail/Business Attire
Featuring Chefs From Amore Trattoria Italiana • Charley’s Crab • CityFlatsHotel • Forty Acres Soul Kitchen • Ganders • Lucy’s Café • MeXo New Holland Brewing Company • One Trick Pony • Reserve Wine & Food • Rockwell Republic Sandy Point Beach House • Slows Bar BQ • Social Kitchen & Bar • Terra • The Chop House • Vintage Prime & Seafood Wheelhouse Kitchen & Cocktails • YoChef’s Catering Company • Zoko 822 $250 Per Person • $2,000 Per Table of Ten ($200 of ticket price is tax deductible as a charitable contribution)
For more information or to attend, contact Nicole Walters, Senior Development Manager
l
(616) 247-6861
l
nwalters@marchofdimes.org
signaturechefs.org/grandrapids CHEF COMPETITION SPONSOR
HOSPITALITY SPONSOR
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WELL PLAYED.
out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES
Olivia Borgdorff, Bree Probst and Lauryn Deshane
Brayden Krueger with Buttercreme
Rachel Karhoff and April Walters
Kim and Madelyn De Young
Romyn Slagell with Talluhlah
Nyanna, Erica and Audrey Boerman
Harper Rea talks to Mary Poppins
Yassou! dancers
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHHNY QUIRIN
Chiara Schmitz, Nora Jannenga and Kate Nelson
Victoria Gutierrez, Ysannia Martinez and Hilda Martinez
94 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
Becca DeVries with Tucker
Kay and Bill Bolman
Sue Dill, Melissa Rudy and Terri Andivino
Kim, Gabriel, Mark and Mary Pyper
Paul Buterakos Everett Kiekintveld
CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN:
snapshots
Stephanie Bohlinger, Liam Bohlinger and Connie VantHof
THE KENT COUNTY Youth Fair took place Aug. 5-10 at the Kent County Fairgrounds in Lowell. The annual fair began in 1935 and focuses on “developing character and leadership traits in young people with an interest in agriculture.” Families gathered on Aug. 15 for Sweet Summer Night in downtown Zeeland, where they enjoyed an outdoor movie complete with popcorn and cotton candy. Grand Rapids Yassou! Greek Cultural Festival celebrates the culture and traditions of the Greek Orthodox people. This year’s event was held Aug. 16-18 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Attendees enjoyed Greek food, entertainment and more. The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan was this year’s charity sponsor.
OCTOBER 2019 / GRMAG.COM 95
after thoughts
Q:a
FOR REV. ROBERT DU SHANE, paranormal activity always has been a part of his life. When he was young, Du Shane noticed paranormal activity in his home, and he grew up always curious about who or what it might be. As an adult, that interest continued and has transformed into a passion and mission to understand all things paranormal. Based on his research, Du Shane said he believes ghosts really are the past occupants of Earth, and he continues to study that activity in various ways. Du Shane and his wife Nicole have created a company called Paranormal Michigan Incorporated. They’ve written books about the paranormal and helped many people who are tormented by malicious spirits. Accord-
96 GRMAG.COM \ OCTOBER 2019
ing to Du Shane, 75% of all his cases have been a result of people playing with Ouija boards that give too much power and attention to entities lingering on their property. “If you want to learn to be a ghost hunter, I strongly suggest you find a well-established team to train you. Doing what you see on TV without a true understanding of when/where/ how to do it safely can hurt you in the end,” Du Shane said. A safe way to study the paranormal is to join Du Shane or his staff on a “Ghosts of Grand Rapids” walking tour. A guide dressed in historic clothing will take you on a two-hour tour to learn about the history of several Grand Rapids buildings and the ghosts that reside in them. You may be
surprised to find the paranormal is in places you pass every day. Does anything scare you? I can honestly say I am terrified of rodents, especially the flying variety. What’s your favorite location to visit in West Michigan for paranormal activity? German POW camp in Allegan. Every time I have investigated the property, I have captured some kind of evidence. What is your favorite scary movie? My favorite horror flick is still the 1988 film, “The Serpent and the Rainbow.” The movie talks about the real-life practice of some voodoo practitioners turning people into actual zombies. The movie is the only one that has ever really scared me and, as a result, is my favorite. GR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Robert Du Shane doesn’t get spooked by paranormal activity.
OPENING NOVEMBER 2019
RIVERTOWN RIDGE
is now accepting reservations! Rivertown Ridge offers seniors the retirement lifestyle they always imagined. Our brand new, master-planned community boasts modern, maintenance-free apartments that combine comfort and quality. We take care of everything so you can enjoy your home and spend more time with family and friends. Our idyllic setting and resort-style amenities include a clubhouse, tennis courts, outdoor pool, walking trail, organized social activities and more! We’re now taking reservations for this unique, multi-generational neighborhood located in the Wyoming, MI, just west of Grand Rapids. For more information or to set-up an appointment call 616-805-3989 or visit www.rivertownridge.com
IVERTOWN IDGE
An active senior living community
SURROUNDED BY NATURE • NURTURED BY NEIGHBORS SALES OFFICE 3488 Copper River Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49418 Managed by Franciscan Advisory Services, Inc.
Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Support
Get the code at idontcaregr.com