Grand Rapids Magazine | March-April 2025

NEW LOCAL SAVOR FLAVOR

Michigan Walleye from Rix

wish you were here.

It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why The Wall Street Journal featured Traverse City as one of “The 10 Best Places to Go in 2025”.

MARCH/APRIL 2025

VOLUME 62, ISSUE 2

Bartender Mitch Dawes pours a Bee’s Knees,: Citadelle gin, Regan’s orange bitters, fresh lemon juice, honey syrup, & pansy flower at Gin Gin's.

FEATURES

38 THE TOP NEW HOT SPOTS A CURATED LIST OF THE TRENDIEST PLACES IN TOWN! BY KELSEY

DUNNEBACK

48 TITANS OF DESIGN THE MAJOR PLAYERS SHAPING OUR CITY BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

54 BRIDGING THE GAP NONPROFITS STEP UP TO TACKLE EDUCATION SHORTFALLS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES BY

LISA ENOS

PHOTOGRAPH BY TERI GENOVESE

every issue

8 editor's letter

104 dining guide

A guide to the area's best eateries

120 gr gems

Historic GR firehouse rebuilt brick-by-brick in Allendale.

people + places

12 city

LaughFest, Jack White and a a Mystery at the Mansion.

13 guide

Designing Woman— A curated list of GR's experts on interiors.

14 issues

An 'Eggistential' Crisis: What's with the price gouging?

16 spotlight

Lofty ambitions: Showroom back room is converted to cool digs.

19 profile

Inspiring beliefs: Four poets who put their faith on the page.

22 voice

Virtuoso carillonist reflects on her career and 'integrated arts.'

look + feel

26 home

The Stone Chateau: Turrets, tranquility and transformation.

28 style

Can I get a witness? This apparel line duo walks it like they talk it.

31 experience

Enjoying karaoke & BBQ Koreanstyle— in a private sing room!

34 expert

'Moments with a capital M'

A Q&A with TowerPinkster.

35 wellness

Stretch your way to better health, but be flexible about it!

.

food + drink

80 table

Buon Appetito! Follow the brick road to a Sicilian supper club.

84 on-the-go

Side Piece: A new bodega to satisfiy your late-night cravings.

85 cheers

This quaint craft cocktail bar/ speakeazy is turning ten.

86 create

For the best bread, Challah; for a braided loaf of love.

88 must-try

Roasted Sports Bar & Grill, raising the bar on bar food.

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com | info@grmag.com

Publisher: Jason Hosko

Editorial

Managing Editor: Lisa Enos

Special Projects Editors: Emily Doran, Olivia Sedlacek

Contributors: Clayton Trutor, Ann Byle, Kelsey Dunneback, Gil Stansell, Gabriel Rose, Jason Roth, Seth Schwartz

Design & Production

Creative Director: Lindsay Richards

Art Director: Kevin Martin

Associate Art Director: Steven Prokuda

Production Manager: Crystal Nelson

Senior Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel

Graphic Designer: Joe Salafia

Production Coordinator: Amanda Kozlowski

Account Manager: Elizabeth Kowalik

Contributors: Bryan Esler, Teri Genovese, Amanda Kamppinen, Wes Kitten, David Sparks

Sales

General Inquiries: (616) 459-4545; advertising@hour-media.com

Media Advisors: Nick Irwin, Maddy Gill, Jessica Laidlaw

Publishing & Sales Coordinator: Logan Neaton

Digital

Director of Digital Strategy: Travis Fletcher

Digital Development Manager: Matthew Cappo

Senior Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim

Digital Development Specialist: Izak Geisler

IT Director: Jeremy Leland

Circulation

Audience Development Director: Geralyn Wilson

Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers

Senior Circulation Coordinators: David Benvenuto, Rachel Moulden

Circulation Coordinators: Cathy Krajenke, Michele Wold

Circulation Customer Service: (866) 660-6247

Marketing

Marketing & Events Manager: Lyndsay Zelenak

Marketing & Events Coordinator: Maya Stephenson

Marketing and Events Administrative Assistant: Isabella Amadori

Communications & PR: Regan Wright

Weddings Account Manager: Karen Wilkie

Marketing and Events Interns: Zeinab Beydoun, Olivia Clark

Administration

Director Of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki

Senior Accounting Associate: Andrew Kotzian

Accounting Associate: Austin Schmelzle, Jenna Glod

Published By Hour Media

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo

Lighting to Elevate Your Space

A time for plans and projects

Spring is almost here, bringing longer days and more sunshine—and as Tolstoy wrote in Anna Karenina, "Spring is a time for plans and projects." In this issue of Grand Rapids Magazine, we’re embracing this spirit with stories that will hopefully help inspire your next big idea.

First, Clayton Trutor takes you behind the scenes of our local design scene, exploring iconic furniture companies, architects, and engineers who are shaping the community. For foodies, Kelsey Dunneback’s roundup of new restaurants and bars is a must-read—your guide to the best spots to sip, savor, and socialize this season.

We're also celebrating a major milestone for STEM Greenhouse, which recently received a $200k Google Grant to help vulnerable students in STEM fields. Kudos to Dr. Keli Christopher for her dedication to this cause.

As spring sports get underway, Jason Roth checks out a new sports bar that pairs great food with big screens for an unbeatable game-day experience. Plus, we share four more local spots for watching your favorite teams. For a fun twist on your usual night out, Gil Stansell introduces K-Rok, a Korean BBQ and karaoke bar that’s sure to shake things up.

A couple of personal favorites: If you haven’t been to Testa Rossa yet, it’s my new favorite spot in town. Their menu is packed with Sicilian family secrets, and there's live entertainment, too. For a hidden gem, don’t miss Sidebar, turning 10 this year. This speakeasy-style spot is perfect for craft cocktails in a unique atmosphere.

And, of course, we’ve got a guide to local interior designers to help you transform your space this season. A huge thank you to my talented team—Clayton for his knack for storytelling, Kelsey for always finding the newest hotspots, and Ann Byle for showcasing the people and places that make Grand Rapids shine. Their passion is what makes this magazine come to life.

Happy Spring!

Lisa Enos Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

The best ways to reach us: Email: lenos@hour-media.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or follow us online at grmag.com or on social media: @grmag @grmagazine @grmagazine

Next issue

The Best of Grand Rapids A Grand Golfing Trip A view that's to die for

GR Mag: How long have you been writing for our magazine?

Kelsey Dunneback: I’ve been writing for Grand Rapids Magazine since 2022, so about three years now.

GR Mag: What aspect of covering Grand Rapids do you find most rewarding?

KD: I love writing about new restaurants, grand openings or community events. As a Grand Rapids native, it’s so heartwarming to see the city’s growth and to highlight the locals who make it special, as well as those who appreciate all it has to offer.

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Kelsey Dunneback

You Should Be Here, Not There

If you’d like to vacation here, you should be here, not there.

These beautiful places aren’t in Traverse City. They’re 28 miles away on the western shore of Leelanau County.

We’re on that shore. You can see these dunes from our mile-long beach.

We offer wonderful accommodations, Palmer golf, fun shops, farm fresh foods, and local wineries. All without crowds, traffic and long drives.

Be happy. Be here.

Call 231.334.5100 to enjoy it all!

thehomesteadresort.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID SPARKS

Laughter Takes Center Stage

15th Year

Ready for some serious laughs? Gilda’s LaughFest, the nation’s first community-wide festival dedicated to comedy, is celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025! From March 5-9, West Michigan will be buzzing with a week full of hilarious performances at venues across the area. Named for comedy legend Gilda Radner, the festival highlights the healing power of humor and brings people together through laughter.

Presented by Gun Lake Casino and Resort, LaughFest raises funds for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, a nonprofit that provides emotional support to those affected by cancer and grief. Since its launch in 2011, LaughFest has grown into a must-see event, drawing national attention and hosting top comedic talent. With stand-up, improv, and other comedy-driven events, LaughFest is about more than just laughs—it’s a celebration of resilience and the healing power of humor. All proceeds stay in West Michigan to support Gilda’s Club programs. For more details, visit laughgestgr.org.

White Noise?

Comedy, Cocktails, & Crime

MYSTERY AT THE MANSION PRESENTED BY ENRICHED LIVING Enriched Living will host its inaugural gala, Mystery at the Mansion, on March 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Venue 3Two, 32 Shaffer Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. The 1920s-themed event will feature an interactive murder mystery game led by THEY Improv, gourmet dining, live auctions, and more. Proceeds benefit Enriched Living’s mission to support adults with disabilities.

JACK WHITE’S NO NAME TOUR Michigan’s own musical icon Jack White brings his unparalleled energy and genre-blending style to GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids on April 15. Known for his explosive work with The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and The Dead Weather, White’s solo career has further cemented his legacy. Expect an electrifying performance, melding rock, blues, and experimental sounds from albums like Blunderbuss and Lazaretto. As a master of analog sound and vinyl revival, his concert will be a celebration of pure, unfiltered music. This is a can’t-miss opportunity for anyone eager to witness a musical legend in the making. Tickets are a pricy $150–600. Purchase at concerts.livenation.com.

Above: LaughFest volunteers help make the annual cancer fundraiser a reality.

Gilda’s LaughFest Celebrates

Interior Designing Women

The talented creatives shaping our city's indoor spaces

BY LISA ENOS

Grand Rapids, with its deep roots in furniture manufacturing and design, is a hub for exceptional interior designers. Among the many making an impact in this field, these women stand out for their ability to transform spaces. While this is by no means an exhaustive list, here are a few of the exceptional creatives on our radar:

people + places / guide

Jennifer Butler – Jennifer Butler Design A commercial and residential interior design firm known for creating custom, sophisticated, and sustainable design solutions. jenniferbutler. design

Kate Brock –Kate Brock Interiors

Emphasizing unique designs with unexpected twists, focusing on kitchen design, material selection, and space planning. Her philosophy is about interpreting clients' needs & transforming them into harmonious spaces. katebrockinteriors.com

Kathryn Chaplow –Kathryn Chaplow, LLC An interior design studio with over twenty years of experience, providing services for residential and commercial design, including renovations and new constructions. kathrynchaplow.com

Marla Cole –Renee Michael Design Praised for creating spaces that are beautiful and functional; a true reflection of their clients' unique character and needs. reneemichaeldesign.com

Lauren Figueroa –Interior Design

Lauren is recognized for her ability to transform residential and commercial spaces, with a strong focus on peoplecentered design. Her work is noted for being chic yet inviting. lfdesigns.co

Autumn Fuchs – Fuchsia Designs

A full-service interior design firm specializing in luxury new construction & custom home renovations, designing homes tailored to their client’s lifestyles and personalities. fuchsiadesign.com

Rebecca James –RJ Interiors

Known for personalized interior design services, Rebecca James focuses on creating luxurious, functional spaces tailored to individual styles. rebeccajamesinteriors.com

Kristine Lang –Design Phase

A full-service interior designer offering the highest level of innovative design solutions for both residential and commercial clients. designphase.biz

Francesca Owings

Interior Design

Particularly noted for her collaborations with local architects and builders, Francesca’s portfolio includes a diverse range of projects from lake cottages to day spas. francescaowings.com

Amy Pottenger – Refresh Designs

An award-winning designer known for incorporating clients' personalities into their living spaces to help them lead their dream life. refreshdesign.net

Deidre Remtema –Deidra Interiors

On a mission to banish boring, Deidre is known for creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient. deidreinteriors.com

Katelynn Scott –Decorating Den

The ultimate goal is to design spaces that reflect your taste and lifestyle. Katelynn brings her design ideas and samples directly to your home. decoratingden.com

Jean Stoffer Design –Stoffer Home

Known for her television show

The Established Home on Magnolia Network & her book Establishing Home, Stoffer, has made a significant impact in the design world with her cleanyet-classic style. jeanstofferdesign.com

Miss Walters –Sutdio M

Led by Missy, this team of six women are dedicated to creating a home that "makes you happy every time you open your door." studiom-interiors.com

These designers have made significant contributions to the interior design scene in Grand Rapids, showcasing a range of styles and specialties that cater to diverse tastes and project scopes. Their work has been highlighted through various platforms, including online portfolios, books, and in some cases, television.

An ‘Eggs-istential’ Crisis

A Temporary ‘Squeeze’ or Corporate Greed?

BY GABRIEL ROSE // ILLUSTRATIONS BY JAMES HEIMER

Egg prices in Michigan have skyrocketed, surging over 50% from last year, with even sharper increases in recent months. While avian influenza (H5N1) has certainly impacted supply, evidence suggests that large agribusinesses are using the crisis to drive up prices beyond what is necessary, squeezing consumers and small businesses alike. As Michigan enforces its new cage-free egg law, the transition is being met with both corporate resistance and price manipulation. The reality is that this economic pressure is temporary, and in the long run, a shift to more ethical, locally produced eggs will benefit everyone—except the industrial farming giants controlling the market today.

On December 31, 2024, Michigan’s cagefree law took effect, requiring all eggs sold in the state to come from farms meeting humane housing standards. This law mirrors California’s Proposition 12 and is part of a broader national trend pushing for more ethical farming practices. However, consumers and businesses have felt the sting of rising costs.

Shafer Farms in South Bend, which supplies eggs to Hopper’s Family Restaurant in Berrien Springs, had to increase prices from $4 to $5 per dozen, a steep jump in just one week. Peggy Hopper, the restaurant’s owner, expressed concerns in an interview with local TV (WSBT) about passing these costs on to customers, as price hikes could hurt small businesses that rely on affordable ingredients. Large farms, unwilling to invest in necessary upgrades to meet the new standards, are instead outsourcing eggs from other cage-free producers, driving up prices even further.

At the same time, the avian flu outbreak continues to devastate poultry populations. H5N1 has led to the culling of millions of egglaying hens nationwide, further tightening supply. While this is a legitimate factor in price increases, there is some speculation among consumers that corporations are exploiting the crisis to inflate profits beyond what is necessary.

Despite claims that the rise in egg prices is driven purely by supply shortages, major producers have seen massive profit increases since the bird flu outbreak began as far back as 2022. Farm Action, a nonprofit advocating against corporate farming monopolies, highlighted in a letter to the Federal Trade Commission in January of 2023 that companies like Cal-Maine Foods—one of the

largest egg producers in the U.S.—reported astronomical profit increases that far exceed the impact of lost chickens.

According to the letter, Cal-Maine Foods, which controls 20% of the retail egg market, reported a 110% increase in quarterly sales and a 600% surge in gross profits compared to the same period the previous year.

This raises an obvious question: If flu-related losses were the sole reason for rising egg prices, why are these companies making more money than ever before? The answer lies in the power these corporations have over the egg market. With 20 companies controlling 95% of the industry, they dictate prices and use crises—like the avian flu or new regulations—as an excuse to push costs higher than necessary.

Corporate resistance to ethical farming

As Michigan enforces its cage-free law, major players in the industry are lobbying against it. In Colorado, a similar law is under threat, with bills being introduced to repeal it. Opponents argue that the cage-free mandate is solely responsible for rising prices, yet this overlooks key factors, including price gouging and disease outbreaks.

Some industry-backed experts are even claiming that free-range poultry is to blame for avian flu outbreaks, stating that allowing birds more space increases their risk of exposure to infected wild birds. This argument is flawed—if anything, large-scale confinement farming increases the risk of disease spreading rapidly. When thousands of birds are housed together, one infection can wipe out an entire facility, necessitating mass culls. Yet corporate farms continue pushing this narrative to undermine support for cagefree and locally sourced eggs.

The remedy: Support local farms and farm markets

Consumers in Michigan are currently facing immediate price hikes, but this squeeze is temporary. As the supply chain adjusts to new regulations and more farms transition to cage-free operations, prices will stabilize. This period of adjustment presents an opportunity for short-term relief, as consumers can seek out local farmers and small producers, who often have more stable pricing and transparent sourcing practices. Over time, a more ethical and sustainable system will reduce the risk of devastating disease outbreaks, improve food quality, and create a market that values both animal welfare and fair pricing. Additionally, by supporting local farms and farmers’ markets, consumers can push back against the dominance of massive agribusinesses that manipulate pricing for profit.

Michigan’s egg industry is at a crossroads. Large corporations are using a combination of avian flu, new regulations, and market control to artificially inflate prices, creating undue hardship for consumers and small businesses. Yet this crisis also provides a chance to shift toward a better, more sustainable system.

If consumers continue supporting local farms and advocating for fair pricing, the power of these agribusiness giants will weaken over time. This isn’t just about eggs—it’s about the future of food production in America. The more we invest in ethical, transparent, and locally sourced agriculture, the more sustainable our food supply will become. In the end, waiting out this temporary squeeze and resisting corporate fear tactics will result in a win for everyone—except the billiondollar agribusinesses that thrive on market manipulation.

people + places / spotlight

“My parents sacrificed everything to give me and my brother a better life,”

Rick says. “I’m so grateful to them every day for their sacrifices and their belief in us.”

Rick Santamaria

Urban Loft

The Old and the New— Living in Perfect Harmony

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY DAVID SPARKS

Rick Santamaria is the kind of guy who seamlessly blends passion with purpose, and nowhere is that more evident than at his one-of-a-kind home furnishings store, Windsor Cottage, in Grand Rapids’ East Hills district. The shop is a treasure trove of eclectic furniture, home décor, and accessories, each piece telling its own story. But beyond the showroom, tucked away like a hidden gem, is Rick’s sleek, urban loft—an intriguing contrast to the vintage character of the shop. It’s the ultimate “business in the front, party in the back” scenario: a dynamic space with a contemporary kitchen, a walk-in closet, and the pièce de résistance, a nine-foot concert grand piano.

Born in the U.S. to Cuban immigrants, Rick’s upbringing shaped his drive and work ethic. His parents, Mary and Richard Santamaria, arrived in Michigan in the 1960s with nothing. Though well-heeled and educated in Cuba—his mother came from a wealthy family in the sugar cane business, and his father’s mother was an opera singer—their credentials meant little in America. “They were treated like they were the bottom of the barrel here,” Rick recalls. “They came to this country penniless and had to start over.”

Rick’s father worked multiple jobs—everything from accounting clerk to office cleaner—just to make ends meet. His mother, who spoke several languages, faced prejudice in their new hometown of Holland, Michigan, where the family had settled thanks to a connection to Hope College (Rick’s father’s sister worked there) and sponsorship by Faith Christian Reformed Church. Despite these early hardships, Richard and Mary instilled a deep belief in the value of education and hard work, principles that Rick credits as the foundation of

his success, just as they helped guide his younger brother Jose, now a successful commercial lender in Kalamazoo.

“My parents sacrificed everything to give me and my brother a better life,” Rick says. “I’m so grateful to them every day for their sacrifices and their belief in us.” This gratitude is reflected in Rick’s own success, as he balances his passion for art and design with his musical talent. An accomplished concert pianist, Rick recently returned from a performance on a Rhine River cruise, where he was the headliner for a luxurious five-star cruise ship.

After studying Piano Performance at Hope College, Rick spent a couple of years playing piano at Nordstrom in San Francisco. He soon became responsible for hiring other pianists to perform at Nordstrom stores

throughout the region and then his “big break” came when he got a job performing on cruise ships in Hawaii. “I learned early on that success, for me, wasn’t about being the ‘true artist.’ It was about making a living doing what I love,” he explains. “I didn’t want to just end up working retail. I wanted to make music my career.”

This pragmatic mindset, shaped by his parents’ immigrant experience, eventually led Rick to open Windsor Cottage 18 years ago. He returned from performing on cruises to be with his mother during her battle with cancer, a journey that ended just 30 days later with her passing. In many ways, Windsor Cottage represents the fulfillment of his parents’ dream for him—a place where his love of art, design, and architecture merges with the values

Rick Santamaria stands by his piano in the urban loft that adjoins Windsor Cottage, his home furnishings store. When he's not touring as a pianist on cruise ships, Rick calls this stylish space home, blending his passions for music and design.

they instilled in him: hard work, perseverance, and a deep respect for the opportunity they fought to give him. Today, the store is a sought-after destination for high-end home furnishings in Grand Rapids, and recently, Rick had his best month in business, thanks to a major sale that outfitted a West Michigan mansion with a carefully curated selection of highend furnishings.

For Rick, every piece in the shop tells a story. Every client is an opportunity to create something meaningful. And in the midst of this bustling city, he’s built a space where the old and new can exist in perfect harmony—just like the man himself.

Inspiring beliefs

Writers share journeys to faith-infused poetry

BY ANN BYLE

Faith plays a role for area poets who write from their hearts about topics ranging from day-to-day life to the eternal. Four poets speak about their writing and how faith informs their work to honor April’s National Poetry Month.

Jewish poet Janet Ruth Heller says it well: “Some see religion as something we don’t need. But it helps people get through life and better themselves. Improving community and helping people improve are very positive goals. Who doesn’t need community support and encouragement to better themselves and rethink their actions?”

Jane Zwart

Jane Zwart has a big notebook called Poem Crumbs. In it she records the crumbs that may become poems someday, those tiny bits of words or images that spark her curiosity and imagination. She may turn those crumbs into a full-fledged poem or simply flesh out her idea and dress it up later. Or maybe they will stay crumbs in her notebook.

“You never know when something will come,” said the professor English at Calvin University who is also codirector of the Festival of Faith & Writing, held biennially at the Christian Reformed university in Grand Rapids. She’s been writing poems since childhood, a natural extension of her English major parents and bookshelves full of poets such as e e cummings,

Emily Dickenson and Langston Hughes.

Her first full-length manuscript, Oddest and Oldest and Saddest and Best, will release with Orison in October. Some of the poems have no Christian element while others speak into the lives of saints or about the grace Christ offers.

“There is hope underneath all of them,” Zwart said. “Any creativity people have is because they were created in the image of a creator. If we can make something a little bit true or peculiar or beautiful, it is a gift. It mirrors the bigger and truer truth, the originally perfect design of creation.”

She’s finding more time to write now that her sons are older, and finding that poetry can meet a spiritual need. “Poems don’t proselytize; they are more interested in what they don’t know than what they do and have sense of their own limits. Poems point to things that are mysterious or divine,” she said.

Janet Ruth Heller

“Fairness” has been a theme in Janet Ruth Heller’s life from the beginning. From defending the underdogs in grade school to encouraging shy students to find their voices to giving voice to Jewish women in her poetry book “Exodus,” Heller has been helping those who need it.

She’s a retired college professor (WMU), a tutor for high school students, a playwright, a former journalist, and an active participant in her synagogue.

“Faith is a bedrock of my life and poetry,” said Heller, who lives in Portage. “I’ve always been a person of faith. I try to develop certain themes and ideas that interest me, to write about characters that connect to something in me.”

One of those themes has been poems about women in the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, including Rebekah, who “went off with an old guy she’s never met to marry a man she’s never met in a place she’s never been,” to Leah, the unloved first wife of Jacob, and Peninah, the first wife who was unkind to the barren Hannah. And don’t forget Ruth, Naomi, Miriam and even Jezebel.

“There is a long tradition in Judaism and Christianity of going back to the Bible and reworking and rewriting stories. In Judaism we call it midrash, in Christianity exegesis,” said Heller. “It’s not a tradition I invented, but one I’m proud to be part of. Each new generation needs to find meaning in the religious text and to connect with it.”

Heller is working on a fifth book, just

“Faith is a bedrock of my life and poetry. I’ve always been a person of faith. I try to develop certain themes and ideas that interest me, to write about characters that connect to something in me.”

Janet Ruth Heller

The Poets (clockwise from bottom left): Janet Ruth Heller, Jane Zwart, Jeff Munroe, & Katie Kalisz.

now starting to put together a group of her new, miscellaneous poems.

Jeff Munroe

Jeff Munroe retired in 2020 from his role as executive vice president of Western Theological Seminary in Holland, and by November had taken over Reformed Journal, an online magazine that had been through several iterations over the years. In March 2021, Munroe relaunched it as the online home for reviews, poetry and feature articles. The site’s popularity has grown, with 1.4 million page views in 2024.

While Munroe publishes others’ poetry in Reformed Journal, his own work has found a home in the The Christian Century, U.S. Catholic and Aethlon: The Journal of Sport Literature. His most recent is “Murmuration” in December 2024’s The Christian Century, a poem about encountering a large group of starlings that “part before me like I’m Moses …”

“The beauty of poetry is taking a moment and putting a frame around it and hollering ‘pay attention’,” said Munroe, who lives in Holland. “In a limited attention-span world, we can say ‘look here at this moment.’”

He writes poetry for his own enjoyment, always working on bits of poems and recording ideas longhand in college-ruled notebooks bought at Meijer for a dime each. His faith is part of who he is.

“I don’t write poems because I’m a person of faith, but because I’m a person of faith it comes through in my poems,” Munroe said. “Faith is my worldview; it just come out in my poems.”

Munroe has also published several nonfiction books. “Telling Stories in the Dark: Finding Healing and Hope in Sharing Our Sadness, Grief, Trauma, and Pain” released in January 2024, and in 2019 InterVarsity Press published “Reading Buechner: Exploring the Work of a Master Memoirist, Novelist, Theologian, and Preacher.”

Katie Kalisz

Katie Kalisz believes a poet’s job is to witness, to tell the truth about what’s going on in the world, to make sense of things. She writes about her Catholic faith as “trying to understand; I can be honest, even angry sometimes.”

“Part of what I take away from faith is the cycle of searching and questions, and rejoicing. It’s the mystery of faith, and being okay with the mystery,” said Kalisz, who is a professor in the English department at

Grand Rapids Community College. She calls herself a poet and a professor and, in her world, one certainly informs the other. She began writing poetry in 2009 and now calls it something “I can’t not do.” She has a new collection coming out in April: “Flu Season” with Cornerstone Press, which is based at the University of Wisconsin— Stevens Point.

“I refer to it as the Dread Collection. We’re having to deal with dread a lot these days, which is a daily companion for me. Not just dread of the flu, but of weather-related things, warnings put out all year long, news stories,” she said. “But the opposite of dread is longing. Readers can understand what dread is, but also hope and longing.”

Kalisz, who lives in Belmont, describes her faith as always in the background, if not in the foreground. “It’s in how I see the world,” she said.

In their own words

From “A Theodicy for Children” by Jane Zwart (first published in Saranac Review)

God is the precipice and theodicy the gravity

From “Hush” by Katie Kalisz (first published in Willows Wept Review, included in her forthcoming “Flu Season”)

See how the leopard frogs glimmer  in the sun? Hush now - here is a lullaby:  forage in the woods, swing on the tire swing,  rocking to sleep, like we live between the pages of a hymnal, and any moment now, someone  will open it to find us here, content.

From “Imagine the Dexterity of God” by Jeff Munroe (first published in The Christian Century)

And now imagine the dexterity of God, who stands both in and out of time. Consider that it cost God everything to have a foot in our world and a foot in eternity. It may cost God still. Imagine a God who keeps choosing to do so despite the cost, a God who keeps saying yes.

From “Sarah’s Prayer” by Janet Ruth Heller (published in “Exodus”)

My God, I beg you to send a young child who will grow strong within my body, renewing my life.

The integrated arts and the power of true talent

Carillon Virtuoso Honored for Women’s History Month

BY ANN BYLE

Julianne Vanden Wyngaard is a musician for the ages. She’s played piano for the Grand Rapids Symphony, Circle Theater, and even the Kitten Club in the early 1960s. The club, located in the Morton Hotel, featured bustier-clad women wearing kitten ears. And a young piano player who made more money in three or four nights than she made working full-time in the payroll department at Meijer. She left the piano keys of the Kitten Club in 1966 after her second marriage, built a house with her husband, and planned to be a housewife. But someone who heard her at the Kitten Club said he needed an accompanist out at Grand Valley State College in Allendale. She accompanied the choir and various concerts, and ended up coming on full-time in 1967 to teach music theory, piano and more.

VOICE

Above: Julianne Vanden Wyngaard smiles in front of sheet music and the GVSU carillon.

At right, Vanden Wyngaard poses with one of the bells from a carillon.

“I got to watch Grand Valley grow to what it is today. It was a miracle out there in the corn field. “I want to see it continue to prosper and grow.”

Julianne Vanden Wyngaard

“I got to watch Grand Valley grow to what it is today. It was a miracle out there in the corn field,” said Vanden Wyngaard. “I want to see it continue to prosper and grow.”

Vanden Wyngaard was the natural person to go to when GVSU President Don Lubbers brought a carillon to campus. She could play the piano, after all, so why not a series of 23 bells played with a keyboardlike series of batons depressed with a closed fist. She leapt at the chance to learn, attending the Netherlands Carillon School over four summers.

She learned the history of the carillon— it goes back to the 16th century—the mechanics, how the bells are made, and

showed her Netherlands-born husband the bells he had heard ringing his whole life. Vanden Wyngaard has played both GVSU carillons, at the Allendale and downtown campuses, and carillons all around the state. She served as vice president, and later president, of The Guild of Carillonneurs in North America.

Vanden Wyngaard has seen huge changes in Grand Rapids throughout her 86 years. She spent her early years on a farm in Rockford, moving to Grand Rapids after World War II. She attended Franklin School and graduated from South High School in 1955. After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, she moved back to Grand Rapids where she still lives, now with her daughter in an apartment overlooking downtown.

“Women everywhere are participating in every walk of life. When I graduated in 1955, many young women went to work at Bell Telephone. Now women are more adventuresome than we were,” said Vanden Wyngaard, the daughter of an accomplished piano teacher.

She acknowledges that for musicians, if you had the chops, it didn’t matter your gender or race. “It truly was a matter of what you could or couldn’t do. That’s probably why the arts are so integrated. I didn’t experience any difficulties,” said Vanden Wyngaard.

She adds, “So much ground has been broken. Young women need to continue to prepare themselves to do what appeals to them or they have an aptitude for. For women willing to do the work, there is no door that isn’t open.”

GGRWHC Annual Reception

The Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council holds its Annual Reception on March 12 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at GVSU’s L. William Seidman Center, Room 1008. Included is a conversation with carillonist Julianne Vanden Wyngaard and local historian Cindy Laug. Visit ggrwhc.org for details and to register.

KEEPING YOUR MIND AND BODY HEALTHY

Walking

like they talk it!

page 28

» PLUS: STRETCHING BOUNDARIES

KOREAN KARAOKE

THE STONE CHATEAU

Alaina Janish and Alison Bloomquist, founders of The Walk Apparel.

Top: The exterior of the Stone Chateau. Above: Inside, a quaint ambiance with woodwork accents. At right, the kitchen sparkles, with a blackand-white checkerboard motif.

“I passed by there many times on my way downtown. This was too unique to pass up. We went through it on Saturday and submitted an offer Monday.”

Jeanne DeWaard

Turrets, Tranquility, and Transformation

A Look Inside the Friant Stone Chateau

BY SETH SCWARTZ // PHOTOS BY DAVID SPARKS

Lumber baron Thomas Friant made a statement when he built the Stone Chateau on the corner of Cherry St. and Union Ave. in 1892. A combination of Chateauesque, Richardsonian Romanesque, Queen Anne and Shingle features extend throughout the home. Three ornate stone turrets and a porte cochere propel drivers and pedestrians to pause and admire.

Ater two decades plus living on Grand Rapids’ northeast side, empty nesters Jeanne and her husband Ron were looking to move to the Heritage Hill neighborhood.

“I passed by there many times on my way downtown,” said Jeanne DeWaard.

During an evening glance at Zillow, Ron saw the house just listed. The next morning, they called their realtor and scheduled a walk-through.

“This was too unique to pass up,” said Jeanne. “We went through it on Saturday and submitted an offer Monday.”

Purchasing the home in July 2023, they lined up contractors to commence restoration. A complete rehab of the 1970s kitchen took out an island and put in an eating nook. New light fixtures were installed, floors were refinished on the third floor and new flooring was put in for the first-floor study along with dining and living rooms. The original parquet floor in the foyer was retained.

Moving in July 2024, they used a hotplate, microwave and mini fridge for four months until the kitchen was finished.

The beautiful woodwork, paneled walls, coffered ceiling are in pristine condition. The master bedroom and a second bedroom have birdseye maple trim. Encircling the corner lot is a stone wall. Two turrets,

leaded glass windows and three stoned arches with the porte cochere lend Romanesque features. The original interior includes oak trim and floors, plaster ceilings and a three-quarter turned staircase with hard-carved designs. There’s a library in the tower area on the first floor. Jeanne put together an office in the second-floor turret. The three-room, two-bedroom carriage house has original flooring, a haymow and space for three cars.

“The location is great,” said Jeanne, who teaches adjunct at Aquinas College. Ron, an attorney, works downtown. “It’s a very friendly neighborhood with lots of social events with the Heritage Hill Association. We’re a couple blocks away from a few commercial districts and we walk to restaurants, coffee shops and entertainment downtown.”

A large maple tree and mulberry tree provide ample shade in the extra lot beside the home. Peach trees, grape vines and winding stone footpaths surrounded by English style flower beds, added by the previous owner, contribute to the bucolic setting.

The house was vacant for several years before attorney John Logie and his wife Susan bought it 1969. Logie passed away in 2021. Susan Logie lived there until 2023. The Mayor of Grand Rapids from 19922003, Logie was instrumental in placing the Heritage Hill neighborhood, ten blocks long and five blocks wide, on the National Register of Historic Places which stopped any demolition from urban renewal projects. His home was one of twenty submitted in the process of gaining that recognition.

The Walk

Blending Faith with Fashion, One Story at a Time

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY SAL RODRIGUEZ

GR Mag: We recently came across an intriguing new apparel line featuring QR codes that share the wearer’s unique story. Curious to learn more, we reached out to one of the brand’s creators. Alaina Janish: I am 24 years old. I enjoy traveling, spending time with the people I love, and being outdoors. I am so thankful I get to call Ludington my hometown. I graduated from Ludington High School in 2018, and Michigan State University in 2021. I received my degree in Communications.

GR Mag: When did you first come up with the idea for Walk Apparel?

AJ: My Co-founder, Alison Bloomquist and I came up with the idea for The Walk back in 2020. I was working at a restaurant in Ludington and Alison’s parents came in. I was their server. Afterward, they gave Alison my number and told her they made a new best friend for her. When we started our friendship, we quickly realized we both have two big passions in common; Jesus and clothing. We would talk about how cool it would be to actually start a clothing company, and a year later the birth of a shared dream started. Through God’s extraordinary way of connecting people, The Walk – a Christian clothing brand- was born.

GR Mag: How did it blossom into what it is today?

AJ: We felt very called to start this brand and it was evident that God has been guiding our steps. This entire journey has been a product of faith and grace, and we have been blessed with others in bringing their expertise to The Walk, and sharing the passion for our mission.

GR Mag: Explain, in a nutshell, what the product is and does?

AJ: Our main product is a high end, personalized sweatshirt with a custom QR code on the back that takes people to your personal testimony. The QR code allows people to wear and share their stories by letting anyone scan the code that is linked to their personal story or favorite Bible verse on The Walk community platform.

GR Mag: What’s the driving force that led you to launch this business?

AJ: The driving factor that led us to launch this business was the need Alison and I saw for it. With our generation, there’s so much comparison and pressure around social media, and we saw a need for a place that actually drives building community.

From left, Alaina Janish and Alison Bloomquist, founders of The Walk apparel.

GR Mag: Company Mission Statement?

AJ: Our Mission is to give people the opportunity to boldly share the gospel through our premium streetwear and build a strong supportive online Christian community.

GR Mag: How do people order or find or order your product?

AJ: We are an online company, and all orders are placed through our website. Our website is thewalkstories.com if you want to learn more. ( Our Instagram is thewalk.apparel)

GR Mag: Any other pertinent information you’d like our readers to know?

AJ: We are excited to be coming out with some new clothing pieces this year, as well as working on building out our social media platform. Check out this short video that tells the story of our brand: thewalkstories. com/pages/the-community. Our Mission is to give people the opportunity to boldly share the gospel through our premium streetwear and build a strong supportive online Christian community.

Alaina Janish

Get the Information You Need from Local Professionals

The year 2025 sure came in like a whirlwind, with uncertainty for many of us hot on its tail. Though we might not be able to predict what’s next (which is true much of the time, not just during periods of change), what we can count on is that the sun will rise in the east and set in the west, and the days and months will continue to pass — and our lives will move along with them. Decisions will be made; milestones will be marked; small and big considerations will arise and beg our attention. It’s in these moments that having sound advice from a specialist can really make a di erence. Whether it’s tips on the ins and outs of homeownership or what should factor into an important purchase, we have you covered with the expert answers in this section.

Q: Should I move, or just renovate my house?

A: That’s really something only you can know! Sorry to flip this answer back on you, but here are some questions you can ask yourself to help decide: What’s the cost? Compare the cost of renovation to the cost of a new home. What about location? How close do you need to be to work, groceries, parks, or other favorite amenities? What about family and friends? Would it feel like a fresh start? How about space? Are you looking for

more room—or a new room for a new family member? Could a renovation accomplish this?

Is there sentimental value in your current home? Are you ready to say goodbye? Finally, how are the market conditions? The market shouldn’t dictate your plans, but it’s worth knowing what you’re getting into. There’s a lot to think about, but when it comes to huge life decisions, it pays to consider every angle.

LMCU

Jake Williams

Mortgage Sales Manager NMLS #1084209 616-265-3837

Jake.Williams@LMCU.org

Q: What are the benefits of choosing a custom jeweler over buying something manufactured at the mall?

A: When it comes to jewelry, personal style is a big factor in making a purchase. For some, mass-manufactured jewelry simply doesn’t reflect your unique taste and personality, especially if you’re looking for a piece you wouldn’t want to see worn by someone else! As a custom jeweler, Metal Art Studio offers the option to use your own gemstones, diamonds, and gold — and the new piece can be designed to

coordinate with something you already own.

We love to have you involved in the design process to create the precise look you want. With three in-house jewelry designers, the style options are endless, the craftsmanship is impeccable, and the materials are of the highest caliber. Come in to Metal Art Studio and we’ll show you that handmade jewelry looks — and feels — different!

Metal Art Studio

Fine Jewelry

Carol Wagen, Co-Owner 978 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-459-5075 metalartstudioinc.com

look + feel / expe

Your own private noraebang!

Experience tantalizing tastes and a tune-filled night at K-ROK

BY GIL STANSELL // PHOTOS BY WES KITTEN

It’s that time of year again. You want to see friends and do something fun, but it seems like you’ve done everything in Grand Rapids and West Michigan in general, and man, it’s still cold outside. With little outdoor festivities, and none that involve beach wear, you may want to sink into the mud, become one with the couch, and determine to only reemerge sometime when it finally feels like Spring. . .But wait! Have you heard of K-ROK?

A dear friend of mine recently had the inspired idea to try something new, and I am so glad we did! Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, about a 30 second walk from Z’s Bar, and Panera Bread, and right across the street from Rosa Parka Circle, lies a unique experience you never knew you were missing. At K-ROK, patrons can try some decidedly delicious, authentically prepared Korean BBQ, and then rent a karaoke room that elevates a soiree into an unforgettable, full sensory experience! Korean karaoke, known as noraebang (which means ‘sing room’), holds a special place in

A disco ball and swirling lights set the stage for your own private karaoke party at KROK.

the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. It’s no secret that Korean karaoke is a massively popular pastime for South Koreana, no matter their age. Karaoke is a deeply ingrained and well-loved part of Korean culture. It is more than just singing—it's an immersive experience that combines music, entertainment, and camaraderie.

Signing up for the karaoke space is easy, and doesn't take a lot of know-how, so if you don't like signing up for things online because it's complicated, this isn't one of those situations. Just go to their website, read it and click the things. Booking requires a credit card to reserve, but you do not pay until you check out.

We rented the karaoke room (able to accommodate up to 11 people) and once acclimated, had a wonderful, memorable time singing our hearts out. With the flip of a switch, disco lights, a slick interface, and a couple of microphones, a soiree is instantly transformed into a party. Staff was attentive in explaining how to adjust the state-of-

'Specifically, the thick cut marinaded beef ‘Galbi’ short ribs were universally appreciated as delicious by everyone who tried them.'

the-art karaoke equipment which provides an extensive song list catering to every musical taste, and they were quick with food and beverages. The staff’s enthusiasm for both the food and in ensuring our entertainment experience was fun, really added to the overall positive vibe we enjoyed.

The evening began with a flight of SOJU, a smooth, crisp alcoholic beverage. K-ROK offers a variety of signature SOJU cocktails that do not disappoint. Reviews on the SOJU flight were particularly good, described as “an easier to sip vodka.” Offerings also include an extensive array of fresh marinated meats, from tender bulgogi to spicy pork belly, which can be grilled right at your table. Grilling your own selections to perfection while sampling side dishes like kimchi, pickled vegetables or savory rice is highly recommended. Specifically, the thick cut marinaded beef ‘Galbi’ short ribs were universally appreciated as delicious by everyone who tried them. While tasty and authentic, the offerings could have been described more clearly, so I’d recommend checking out the menu beforehand. What truly makes K-ROK stand out, however, is its karaoke offering. After savoring a delectable meal, it is time to channel your inner pop star! As you step into this karaoke haven, you will be captivated by the modern and private room that awaits your inner superstar. Whether you choose to sing solo or gather friends for a group performance, the energy in the room is electric. With each song, laughter and cheers fill the air, and a lively, supportive atmosphere encourages everyone to join in. You can pay for the

'Good food, good friends, and a little music— what more do you need for the perfect night out?'

karaoke by the hour, but if you wish to extend, you can pay for the additional time. We were having so much fun; we had to extend our time!

For those normally hesitant to take the stage, I noticed something particularly special and delightful. Whereas normally introverted, or standoffish, our more reluctant friends are typically too nervous to sing in a crowded karaoke bar, preferring to take their chances dodging bullets rather than sing in front of anyone other than their shower head, but K-ROK karaoke changes all that.

I found myself surprised when the normally karaoke hesitant in our group, eventually, fearlessly took the mic at K-ROK, and with authority. The private karaoke rooms offer the perfect supportive setting to channel your inner diva and let your voice soar.

There is truly something magical that happens when you find yourself in an intimate space, with no pressure, where everybody is singing along. The more reluctant, introverted members of the group ended up singing more and more often, finally proving to be the best singers and assuming instant vocal stardom – amongst our group anyway! What a fun revelation! K-ROK’s atmosphere allowed our shy friends to unleash their inner rock star.

Eminem would have been proud hearing our more reserved friend, and Mom, unleash, spit flames, throw down, and never miss a syllable! I was definitely not the only one of our group laughing out loud with delight and surprise! The supportive ambience means you can cheer your friends or enjoy the show from the sidelines. This way of doing karaoke lets you sing and dance and pretend to be a superstar for a moment, but without the stress of having to

perform for big crowds.

If you’re someone who loves music, and wants to sing, but the crowds at a bar are not your thing, Korean style karaoke might be just the thing for you. The ambiance is lively, filled with laughter and encouragement as friends cheer each other on. Whether you want to belt out power ballads, sing along to nostalgic favorites, or put on a playful performance with your friends, the atmosphere at K-ROK fosters a sense of camaraderie that enhances the overall experience. Even if you sound like a screeching hyena, you’ll have fun, and the (mostly) soundproof room will allow you to sing your lungs out without bothering others.

K-ROK is not only great for birthday parties or celebrations, but even a casual night out is excellent with touch of karaoke. Whether a die-hard Karaoke fan or just looking for a unique dining experience, this venue delivers on all fronts. K-ROK Korean BBQ and Karaoke is more than just a meal; it is an experience.

So, if you are looking for a unique night out in Grand Rapids, or a family friendly fun activity, try K-ROK Korean BBQ, where the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine meet the electrifying fun of karaoke. Located in the heart of the city, K-ROK is not just a dining venue; it’s a full sensory experience that combines delicious food with lively entertainment.

Reserve a private karaoke room for your party or enjoy the communal experience in the main dining area. With delicious food to fuel your fun and a microphone in hand, you are destined for an unforgettable night.

Don’t miss out on this delightful fusion of culture, cuisine, and fun—grab your friends, come hungry, and prepare for a night you won’t forget!

The eclectic decor includes vinyl records on the wall (below) and colorful signage (at right).

Opposite: An array of authentic Korean BBQ dishes, expertly prepared by K-ROK's enthusiastic staff.

Moments— with a capital 'M'—in Design

A talk with Jason Novotny of TowerPinkster

BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

Jason Novotny is Vice President of Design at TowerPinkster, one of Grand Rapids’ titans of design. Recently, TowerPinkster merged with Comprehensive Engineering, a local firm specializing in mechanical, structural, and civil engineering. Novotony oversees the architects, interior designers, and landscape architects on staff at Tower Pinkster, which is headquartered at 4 Fulton Street East.

CT: I read about your firm’s recent merger. What kind of an impact is that going to have on TowerPinkster? JN: Having engineering in house already and now bringing on more engineers allows us to be a self-sustaining firm. We can do everything for a client from design to engineering to landscaping.

CT: I suspect many clients are not well versed in design when they hire you. How do you make design concepts more accessible to them? JN: We have absolutely realized that. In the last four years, lots of people have been forced to wear many hats at work. The person who oversees a project from the client’s side doesn’t necessarily have a background in construction management. We have a client on-boarding process we take them through. We start off our projects by talking to them not about their specific project but what their experience is with construction and the process and flow of construction.

CT: When figuring out what a space is going to be, how do you determine the hierarchy of significance among different places within a setting? JN: Early on, we talk with clients about critical success factors and their vision and goals for a project. The next step for us is figuring out which spaces we put into the building will enhance those goals. We call those the moments in the building’s design. I say moments with a capital ‘M.’ Meaning spaces where something special happens—collaborations or convergences or interactions among teams.

CT: Can you point to a space in the Grand Rapids area where your firm has made its mark? JN: The place I would start people off at is our current office location. We think of our office as a testbed for different types of ideas about the built environment. It’s like a showroom for how people can work and interact. We intentionally

"Having engineering in house already and now bringing on more engineers allows us to be a selfsustaining firm. We can do everything for a client from design to engineering to landscaping."

Jason Novotny

have different types of workstations, assigned or unassigned spaces or collaboration areas. We bring our clients there and show them how they might work for them.

CT: When it comes to workspaces, how do you balance making a space a comfortable one with making it conducive to productivity? JN: That’s an area that’s had a lot more focus as of late. Recognizing the differences and individuality of people. Designing multiple spaces for head down work or creative, collaborative team environments. Sometimes, we have spaces that are enclave spaces that are intended for three to five people to work together very intensely for a stretch of time. It’s not any longer the office environment of having one person, one workstation, one size.

CT: What makes Grand Rapids a great home for TowerPinkster? JN: Grand Rapids and West Michigan has a draw to our team because it’s accessible enough for people to make personal connections in the community. The pace of life is comfortable. It’s outdoorsy. That fits the culture of the firm.

Artist's rendering of the Grand Rapids Public Museum's new enhanced riverfront exterior.

The benefits of a good stretch

How flexibility can fuel your health

BY ANGIE CHANDLER // PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERI GENOVESE

Nothing feels as good as a long stretch. We’ve all been there with tight muscles. Awakening after a good night’s sleep, an afternoon spent staring at the computer or sitting for hours in a car or long flight. Leaving the gym after an intense lifting session without stretching right after. Sitting or standing in poor posture every day forcing muscles to function in an imbalanced way.

Angela Chandler, a national board-certified health & wellness coach and personal trainer at Wellness Academy, part of the Center for Physical Rehabilitation, located at 5060 Cascade Rd SE.

Standing stretches for upper and lower body:

• Chest stretch - in doorway

• Standing upper back stretch

• Standing triceps stretch

• Standing biceps stretch

• Standing hamstring stretch

• Standing quadricep stretch

• Standing Calf stretch

• Standing Lunge for inner thigh (adductors)

• Standing side stretch for obliques and IT band

It seems it’s only when our body calls for it or we are in pain that we even remember to take a moment to stand tall, inhale deeply and reach for the stars to take in this sensational feeling. Stretching is a powerful activity for not only our body when a muscle needs tending to, but for our mind as well.

My Doodle does it every single morning. I observe his consistent habit of a down dog then an up dog (and of course his signature rejuvenated twirl to receive a bone). Mind you, an animal’s stretch is involuntary, but it still looks dog-gone satisfying.

Healthy reasons to give your muscles a good stretch every day.

According to ACSM, the five healthrelated components of physical fitness are 1. body composition, 2. Muscular strength, 3. Muscular endurance, 4. Flexibility, and 5. Cardiorespiratory fitness. Stretching keeps the muscles flexible and healthy, and we

Seated, floor, and mat stretches:

• Supine leg stretches for hamstrings

• Runner's stretch for hip flexors

• Seated forward fold for low back and hamstrings

• Seated spinal twist

• Seated butterfly for hip flexors and low back

• Bridge pose for hip flexors and abdominals

should be doing it every day or minimally 2-3x per week. Stretching and Flexibility Guidelines: https://www.acsm.org/blogdetail/acsm-certified-blog/2021/03/18/ stretching-and-flexibility-guidelinesupdate We are most flexible the day we are born. From that day on as we age our body becomes tighter and tighter throughout each stage of life.

Becoming flexible doesn’t happen overnight but stretching for only a few minutes each day can be beneficial and allow you to keep a normal range of motion throughout your life. We need to pay some attention to flexibility for daily life, comfort, good posture, basic functions, athletic performance, and overall good health. Without flexibility the muscles shorten and become tight. If we stayed tight, when called upon for activity they would be unable to extend all the way which may lead to painful overstretching or poor posture. It’s important to explore

ways to create a balanced flexibility practice for yourself at home or when necessary, be stretched by a professional.

How to get started

Some people are naturally more flexible than others, so be patient with yourself and the process. Set aside some self-care time each day for regular stretching to experience all the benefits it can bring. One rule in physical fitness is to never force a stretch. Simply ask your body what it will give you for flexibility on this day. The more you often you practice the more flexible you will become. Be sure you are warm first to safely and effectively stretch. Never stretch when your environment or body is too cold.

The anatomy of an effective stretch. These are things you can do at home starting today.

Practice Perfect Posture – Core stability is the first lesson I teach. It’s also an

Benefits to developing a routine of being flexible.

• Stretching increases blood flow hence the warming sensation we feel

• Injury prevention by ensuring we return a tight muscle to its relaxed state so it’s ready for use at full capacity when called on for movement

• The chemical response of stretching is a release of endorphins which relieves pain and causes feeling of euphoria as a natural reward

• Improve joint mobility after athletics, intense workouts, and beneficial for older adults with arthritis or joint pain.

• Provides recovery for muscles, ligaments, tendons and connective tissue/fascia after exercise.

• Enhances feeling of calmness and overall well-being

Becoming flexible doesn’t happen overnight but stretching for only a few minutes each day can be beneficial and allow you to keep a normal range of motion throughout your life.

instant ‘figure fixer’. If we hold ourselves upright in a balanced manner, using and strengthening our core muscles (front, sides, and back of our middle) throughout the day to support our posture, our bones, muscles, ligament, tendons, and connective tissue will be better aligned in order to alleviate undo stress on our body. Once in good posture we can proceed into any one of the 5 components of physical fitness.

Basic

stretches to begin your practice

As you build your routine, consider these few examples and modalities of stretching for a solid start. Go with what feels tight, but also think of stretching the front, sides, and back of your entire body. Feel your way to what works well for you and feels great. Only keep the moves you enjoy and continue to explore more options to expand your practice as your curiosity piques.

Flexibility classes:

Depending on one’s goals, Yoga is a beautiful combination of both strength and flexibility. Try a video at home or attend a class in your area. Here are some great places in Grand Rapids: Wellness Academy Yoga Classes: (formerly Cascade Yoga) https://pt-cpr. com/wellness-academy/yoga-classes/

Breathing as you stretch can be just as important as the stretch itself. Both our brain and body need to be ready for a safe stretch to occur. Imagine a seated forward reaching hamstring stretch. Sit up tall on your sitting bones with legs out in front of you. Take a deep breath in floating arms out to the sides to prepare and exhale as you gently move your body into the stretch reaching toward your toes. Revisit your original upright seated position on an inhale and exhale as you lower into your reach position again and notice the deepening of the stretch feeling on the back of your legs. Add a third deep inhale and exhale into your pose one more time and hold and breathe into the stretch now reaching your chest toward your upper thighs and fingertips feel for your toes. Continue to hold and breathe this position for ideally one whole minute. Breathing and lowering into your stretches for each muscle group with not only increase oxygen to your muscles for energy but gift you with a sense of well-being.

There are so many benefits to stretching! So, wake up GR and rise and shine!! (insert image of person sitting up in bed yawning and arms high stretching as the sun shines through the blinds.)

Angela Chandler is a national board-certified health & wellness coach and personal trainer.

Self-massage for flexibility:

• Foam Rolling National Academy of Sports Medicine's guide to FOAM ROLLING is available at: tinyurl.com/bdmxav6e

• SMR or Self-myofascial Release is great for at home or using these tools at the gym. For more information on MYOFASCIAL MASSAGE TOOLS visit tinyurl. com/ms7462zk

Assisted Stretch:

• PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) takes a stretch deeper than we can do on our own. Contact the Center for Physical Rehabilitation & Wellness Academy Stretching Services at tinyurl.com/6v638rmp

NEWEST T hot spots — the

By KELSEY DUNNEBACK

The Grand Rapids culinary scene is buzzing as a wave of new restaurants opened their doors over the past year. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the latest new dishes or simply in search of a great spot to meet up with friends, our guide to the top five new restaurants in Grand Rapids will help you discover the best this vibrant city has to offer.

Photography by TERI GENOVESE

Clockwise from top left: Rapid River Stillhouse, Gin Gin's, Gimme's Par and Grill, Brunch House GR, and Rix.

— restaurants& MORE

FOR A LIVELY NIGHT OUT: RAPID RIVER STILLHOUSE

WWhile Grand Rapids has been consistently opening new eateries with a focus on offering a premium dining experience, Rapid River Stillhouse’s three-story building infuses a jolt of energy into the restaurant scene. There’s plenty to experience with Rapid River Stillhouse’s vibrant live music, whiskey tastings, local eats and rooftop bar.

While there’s typically a choice between a “going out” bar or a more subdued, sit-down dinner restaurant, Rapid River Stillhouse gives you the best of both worlds with their Nashville style spot where you can enjoy delicious southern comfort food and some good music.

Sidling up to “Beer City USA,” the Stillhouse is introducing Grand Rapids to house-crafted whiskey and a Nashvilleinspired atmosphere, uniquely tailored to Grand Rapids. “Every detail, from the menu to the performances, was thoughtfully designed to reflect the city’s innovative and community-driven spirit while offering something fresh and exciting,” says Dale Kivinen, Experience Director at Rapid River Stillhouse. “We saw Bridge Street as having a lot of similarities [to Nashville] and potential.”

Rivaling the B.O.B. with a mix of night life and your choice of high-quality eats and drinks, Rapid River Stillhouse emerges as a promising local staple. The Stillhouse hopes to feature local talent alongside bigger out-of-town acts, all with a backdrop of the Grand Rapids skyline. On the second floor, you’ll find a tour-quality stage, fully equipped to accommodate small to large bands, with a 7x20 foot LED video wall and walls that open to create an open-air concept for warmer weather. Their partnerships with iHeart Media, B93 and Van Andel Arena, promises plenty of special headline performers in 2025. Live music is offered Thursday through Saturday, with plans to extend in the summer months.

Rapid River Stillhouse’s ambiance is not to be outrivaled by their food menu, where they smoke meats daily and make in-house

sauce, with favorites like Brisket Pops and Hotville Chicken Sandwich. Head down to the first floor for a $6 tasting of six of the restaurant’s very own whiskeys to kick start your night. Everything carried at the bar is a Rapid River product—beer, wine, tequila, rum, vodka, gin and whiskey. Custom craft cocktails (many available on tap) and house-made seltzers and ciders are also available.

Take the stairs to the third floor for another bar and stunning views of the Grand Rapids skyline. Rapid River Stillhouse’s rooftop deck is open yearround, weather permitting, and features a 17-foot-long gas firepit to keep you cozy, as well as a full bar and food service.

The historic building that Rapid River Stillhouse calls home was once the Rauser Quality Sausage Co., built in 1908. The building later became the Little Mexico Cafe, and then Harmony Hall before its newest incarnation as a Nashville-inspired music venue and restaurant, with its own brand of whiskey and spirits.

Rapid River Stillhouse Chef Ryan Suforna holds a tray of Brisket Pops; smoked and caramelized brisket with pickled red onion, jalapeño, and sweet corn cream.

HONORABLE MENTION

Side Piece: Need a pit stop on the way home after a long night out? Eastown’s newest latenight Tex-Mex bodega with window service serving up ramen, cheeseburgers, taquitos and more cravings. Open 6 p.m.12 a.m. WednesdaySaturday.

Food from bottom left: Cubano, Brisket Pops, Osso Buccco, & Goat's Cheesecake. Drinks, from left: Before He Cheats, Morning Man, Cowboy's Evergreen, and Tennessee Grind.

FOR DATE NIGHT: GIN GIN'S

AA new addition to the Bridge Street area in 2024, Gin Gin’s is a bright spot on the thriving West Side of Grand Rapids, from the same owners of neighboring Butcher’s Union. A newly updated space with an open kitchen, you’ll still find plenty of old-world charm in this early 20th century building.

“Our inspiration for Gin Gin’s came from a desire to create a warm and welcoming space where guests could gather, relax, and enjoy delicious food and drinks,” says owner Paul Reinert. “We were inspired by intimate places that balance timelessness with comfort.”

Inside, you’ll find moody leather backed booths, warm wood liquor cabinets and soft, ambient lighting for cozy date nights out. The interior and ambiance of Gin Gin’s was intentional—as much a part of the restaurant experience as the menu.

“We wanted Gin Gin’s to feel timeless yet approachable; a place where guests could enjoy both casual nights out and special celebrations. Our goal was to create an atmosphere that feels both cozy and stylish,” says Reinert.

Gin Gin’s food menu boasts prime

steaks, handmade pastas and fresh seafood, all complimented by carefully prepared cocktails and martinis. You can’t go wrong with any menu item, but guest favorites include the Potato Gnocchi with king trumpet mushrooms and black truffle paste, or the 45 Day Dry-Aged New York Strip to celebrate a special occasion (or just a fancy date night!).

With a name like Gin Gin’s, the cocktail menu highlights gin’s versatility, while also offering a broad range of classic cocktails. As Reinert notes, “We wanted to design a drink menu that had a deep respect for the classics, especially the martini. We believe that earning our guests’ trust starts with perfecting timeless drinks—if we can deliver on a perfectly balanced martini or an old-fashioned, it gives us the foundation to introduce creative and unique offerings.”

Head outside to the greenery-filled outdoor patio during warmer months for happy hours or long lunches. The cozy space may have you lingering for one more vintage cocktail or indulging in the Lemon Crème Brûlée or Aunt Gin’s Cheesecake.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Testa Rossa Italian Ristorante: From the owners of Electric Cheetah and The Old Goat comes a neighborhood Italian spot serving crispy pizza, pasta, hearty sandwiches, salads and desserts. Enjoy live music and a late-night menu Thursday - Saturday.

Thai Table: A couple who moved from Bangkok, Thailand to GR opened Thai Table, getting rave reviews from the community and serving authentic dishes from curry, noodles, dumplings, vegetable rolls and more. Enjoy a date night in while still letting someone else take care of the food, with takeout being a great option here too.

Bartender Mitch Dawes serves up a crafty libation with a smile. At right the New York Strip Au Poivre & some rolls.

FOR AN ELEVATED EVENING OUT: RIX-ADA HOTEL

HONORABLE MENTIONS

The Grey Rabbit Gallery & Lounge: Enjoy a classy night out with handcrafted drinks, wine and small bites while browsing fine art from West Michigan and beyond.

S

Set inside the newly opened Ada Hotel, Rix sits on the third floor of the spacious building as a cherry on top of this beautiful new local hotspot. The Rix name is a nod to Rix Robinson, the first permanent settler of Kent County in 1821, when he purchased a French-Canadian trading post where the Grand and Thornapple rivers connect.

Walking into the space, you’ll be greeted with a comfortable, yet chic atmosphere, with plenty of options for seating. “When developing Rix, the primary goal was to create a space that feels approachable and welcoming,” says Becky Jones, General Manager of Ada Hotel, “We wanted Rix to serve as a hub for Ada Village and the surrounding areas, making it a local favorite.”

Community is a key pillar in Rix’s ethos, as well as a dining experience for out-of-town guests. Rix’s identity is founded in its exceptional cocktail menu that focuses on serving up unique and innovative creations.

Relaxed enough to stay a while, you’ll find plenty to love on the small, but well-curated menu. Start with the Corn Elote Hummus—perfect for dipping Rix’s fresh naan bread into its creamy, citrusy mix. Try the Polenta Tots, served piping hot for a shareable option. As for entrees, you can’t go wrong with the Bacon on the Bone, a combination of sweet potato puree, smoky bacon and apple in a single bite.

One of the main features of the space is a large outdoor terrace which overlooks the Thornapple River and has firepits to keep you cozy with a cocktail in hand even during the cooler months. Open year-round, Rix’s heated terrace offers both soft seating and table dining, so whether you’re enjoying a hot toddy in the middle of winter or a frozen cocktail on a breezy summer day, you can enjoy some fresh air.

Looking for a space for a small event or secluded dinner? Rix has a versatile, private dining space with a nano wall system that can be full opened to extend the main dining room, or closed to create a more intimate setting. When closed, the space is equipped with media and can accommodate meetings for up to fifteen people.

Lettinga Farms crème brûlée and a Home to Roast cocktail.

The Michigan Walleye, served on a bed of sweet corn and garlic spinach, with a Mission Point

FOR GUYS NIGHT OUT: GIMME'S PAR & GRILL

AAfter a long winter of staying inside in West Michigan, you’re sure to be itching to get moving when spring rolls around. While the weather might still be too chilly for some to venture outside,

Gimme’s Par and Grill is Grand Rapids newest spot for dinner, drinks and a game night.

Gimme’s is centrally located in downtown Grand Rapids on the corner of Ottawa and Louis St. and offers a new interactive experience that’s a great choice for guys night out, family nights or anyone in between.

If you’re sick of the same couch-hang scene night after night, get the guys together and book a golf simulator where you can get in on the action. With three floors, nine golf bays and a full restaurant and bar, there’s plenty of space to get moving at Gimme’s. While a golf simulator spot might evoke visions of frozen bar food and dark interiors, Gimme’s is bright, modern and elevated. With warm wood, sleek countertops, and a greenery wall, Gimme’s feels more like an upscale club than a hang at your friend’s garage.

Sam Stover, Managing Partner at Gimme’s and past golf pro, emphasized this was intentional. “I wanted to enhance the experience and service. We’re a full

restaurant and not just entertainment that serves food.”

At each golf bay, you’ll find large simulator screens, bookable for smaller friend gettogethers or bigger events. Book a bay by the hour, for anywhere from one to six hours. Guests can book up to 10 days in advance to secure their spot. Gimme’s also offers golf leagues to get you committed to getting out of the house and anticipates hosting events to get the community together for March Madness, The Masters and more.

With their Trackman app and TruGolf technology, you can feel like you’re on the course, with unmatched accuracy and realistic gameplay, while improving your skills. There are over 350 golf courses from around the world to play on, so each time you visit can be a new experience.

If golf isn’t your game of choice, Gimme’s offers a variety of simulator skill games, including Bowl-A-Rama, Slapshot Hockey, Breakaway Soccer and even Zombie Dodgeball or Corn Hole.

When you work up an appetite, try Gimme’s fresh American brunch or dinner menu, with options from Hanger Steak, Potato “Golf Balls,” Brunch Burritos or Bruschetta Boards with topping options of Smoked Salmon, Blue Cheese & Olive, California, or Chef’s Choice. Drinks include Bloody Mary’s, local craft and domestic beers, and a full cocktail menu. Happy hour tees off at “Early Birdie” hours, SundayFriday 2 – 6 p.m.

The Gimme's Burger: Cheddar cheese, haystack onions, sweet & spicy pickle, lettuce, tomato, and roasted garlic aioli served on a sesame topped brioche bun, & a side of fries.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Big Mini Putt Club: 9-hole miniature golf with a full-service bar in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids on Ionia.

The Post: Casual yet elevated eatery in Ada Hotel serving comfort food, salads, seafood local brews and more. Catch a sports game with your buddies or try their “Sip it forward” program to buy friends drinks next time they visit, complete with a postcard.

Food, clockwise from top le : Gimme's Burger & Fries, Potato "Golf" Balls, and the Double Eagle (steak tip skewer + ribs) & Fries. Drinks, from le : Pom Cosmo, Prickly Pear Margarita, and an Alaskan Amber beer.

BBrunch is never a bad idea and Brunch House’s newest location is no exception. Brunch House’s first location has resided in Muskegon for four successful years and in April 2024, expanded to Forest Hills to bring delicious breakfast and lunch to Grand Rapids.

For owner Nick Barham, food has always been a part of his family’s legacy. His grandfather opened his first breakfast restaurant, Mr. B’s in 1976 and his dad now manages the popular spot today. In December 2019, at the age of 29, Nick opened Brunch House in Muskegon. After navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Brunch House has been thriving.

“With the success we experienced in Muskegon, I began thinking about expanding,” says Barham. “Since I’ve lived in Grand Rapids since 2009, it felt like a natural fit to bring Brunch

House to a city I know. The vibrant food scene and community here made it the ideal place for our next step.”

Walking into the space, you’ll find a light, airy atmosphere, greeted by a large, inviting bar to sip specialty cocktails like their award-winning Bloody Mary’s topped with everything from chicken and waffles or deviled eggs and bacon. If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, there’s a Lavender Honey Latte, Mimosa Flights or Breakfast Margarita. The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes for the perfect spot to catch up with friends and will keep you coming back time and time again. The food menu continues to impress, with a wide variety of both unique and traditional breakfast and lunch options. Guest favorites include the Cali Scram, Mexi Avocado Toast, Everything Bowl and the Gouda Smash Breakfast burger. You’d be missing out to not try their warm, small batch homemade cinnamon rolls before they sell out daily. If you’re set on lunch, grab a Hot Chicken Sandwich or a more healthfriendly Cobb Salad.

HONORABLE MENTION

Good Good Good: Natural wine bar and flower shop with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Stop in for a glass, bottle or bouquet. Try a make-your-own bouquet outing for unique friends hang or stop by for some wine for your next book club meet up.

El Tapatio: What screams girl’s night more than chips and dip and margaritas? El Tapatio is a new Mexican spot that’s expanded from its first location in Muskegon, with a Mexico-born chef who brought his recipes to the area 25 years ago. Serving authentic Mexican burritos, tacos, fajitas and even fried ice cream.

House GR serves a wide array of breakfast dishes and specialty drinks, like the banana

smoothie

in a visually pleasing, bright and airy environment. You can even order a flight of mimosas!

Brunch

biscoff

(above),

At far left: Belgian Waffle with fresh fruit. Middle photo: The Kickin' Chicken Benedict paired with a bloody mary and latte.

Bottom, left: Breakfast tacos.

RAPIDS IS HOME TO SEVERAL

BY CLAYTON TRUTOR

TITANS OF DESIGN GRAND

FEW CITIES CAN BOAST AS PROMINENT A PLACE IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN AS GRAND RAPIDS.

While design hubs like New York and San Francisco get more attention, Grand Rapids has deep roots in the industry and remains one of the field’s most vibrant destinations. Grand Rapids is home to three of the world’s leading office furniture designers and manufacturers: Steelcase, MillerKnoll (formerly Herman Miller), and Haworth. Collectively, they have played a profound role in shaping the look and functionality of contemporary workplaces. TowerPinkster, another Grand Rapids-based design heavyweight, specializes in architecture, engineering, and interior design.

“We can now offer a more coordinated and holistic approach to the built environment.”

–

Jason Novotny, Vice President of Design, TowerPinkster

TITANS OF DESIGN

The Morrison Hannah Chair is a modern revival of a design classic, offering simplicity and comfort in today’s world. It comes in a wide array of bold colors, making it the perfect blend of style and practicality.

Collectively, these titans of design figure prominently in Grand Rapids’ broad economic base. The city’s economic strengths are also evident in the healthcare, educational, technology, and manufacturing sectors, all of which incorporate aspects of design into their work.

Grand Rapids earned the moniker “Furniture City” in the late 19th century for its prominence in the industry. Its central location in the Midwest, access to abundant timber, and efficient transportation on the Grand River facilitated the industry’s rapid growth. As nearby supplies of timber diminished, the city’s aforementioned office furniture manufacturers filled the void, moving from wood to metal as their primary medium.

“Grand Rapids is a historic and vibrant city that truly celebrates and encourages creativity in every corner,” said Ryan Anderson, MillerKnoll’s Vice President of Global Research and Planning.

The firm became known for its collaborations with well-known designers including Gilbert Rhode, Alexander Girard, and, most famously, Charles and Ray Eames, who created the Eames Lounge Chair, long the gold standard in upscale office furniture.

Herman Miller, now part of MillerKnoll, Inc., has a rich history that spans over a century, marked by innovation, design excellence, and a commitment to sustainability. The firm originated in Zeeland, Michigan in 1905 as the Star Furniture Company, which made highquality bedroom furniture. It adopted the name “Herman Miller Furniture Company” in 1923, taking on the name of one of the company’s major shareholders. During the 1930s, Herman Miller shifted to modern furniture design. The firm became known for its collaborations with well-known designers including Gilbert Rhode, Alexander Girard, and, most famously, Charles and Ray Eames, who created the Eames Lounge Chair, long the gold standard in upscale office furniture.

Comfortable, beautiful, and practical, the Eames Lounge Chair made use of modern materials (molded plywood, leather upholstery) in an homage to the traditional English club chair. The chair consists of a base, a headrest, and a backrest with cushions that can be removed for cleaning. The Eames Lounge Chair became a milestone in modern design. In 1956, an Eames became part of the permanent collection at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Herman Miller pioneered the home office, selling desks as early as the 1940s that were branded as ideal “for home or office.” Like the Eames, the firm’s ergonomically pioneering Aeron Chair, noted for its comfort and flexibility, has long been a home office fixture.

“One of the most innovative solutions that we’ve released recently is Bay Work Pod by Herman Miller,” said Anderson. The aim of the Bay Work Pod is to create a space that enables workers to focus on a task or take a video meeting without that space being too confining or uncomfortable. The Pod is a unique enclosure that comfortably supports focused work without causing people to feel cut off from their peers or like they’re isolated in a sound chamber.”

In 2021, Herman Miller joined with Pennsylvania-based competitor Knoll to form the MillerKnoll collective. The firm appears regularly in the Fortune 1000. The MillerKnoll collective includes a cluster of brands “united by our to redefine modern for the 21st century by building a more sustainable, equitable and beautiful future for all,” said Anderson.

“In the past, offices were primarily designed to supervise work and reflect leadership status,” said Anderson. “Modern workplaces aim to foster a sense of belonging by focusing on inclusive design practices and creating environments that feel less hierarchical and institutional,” said Anderson. ““At the core of our efforts is the goal of creating spaces that foster stronger relationships within organizations,” he continued.

Steelcase began operating in 1912 as the Metal Office Furniture Company, focusing on desks and filing cabinets. The company, which is a fixture on the annual Fortune 500 list, adopted its current name in 1954.

“Steelcase has always been committed

to human centered, inclusive design. We have been consummate students of user behavior,” said Meg Bennett, Global Design Principal for Steelcase. She emphasizes the degree to which Steelcase helps their clients tailor workspaces to a wide range of users.

In this vein, Steelcase has been developing products that require minimal adjustment or simply adjust automatically. Their line of Karman chairs respond naturally to the movements of the body and do not require adjustment.

“Over the last five years, we have experienced unprecedented change in the work environment,” Bennett said, citing both the pandemic and advent of AI technologies. Steelcase has been focused on developing products that facilitate interpersonal engagement in the workplace, such as their Ocular Collection, which installs tables, chairs, and technologies in a way that creates more equitable engagement between remote and in-person participants.

“On any given day, you might want to space we can put your feet up or have a lounge chair, or an environment that supports your laptop or your cup of coffee. Other days, you might want a desk where you can put your

Herman Miller's MidCentury Modern Eames Lounge Chair with Armrest and Ottoman is a classic, renowned for its timeless design, originally introduced in 1956.

TITANS OF DESIGN

head down or raise the screens up,” Bennett said, describing the “ecosystem of spaces” necessary in a modern office. The Steelcase Flex collection was created to address the rise of flexible, activity-based workspaces, providing modular components that can be customized for collaborative environments.

Steelcase is the largest of Grand Rapids’ multibillion dollar furniture firms and has the largest international footprint.

Haworth was founded in Holland, Michigan in 1948 as founder G.W. Haworth’s woodworking shop before venturing into office furniture. Under the leadership of G.W.’s son Dick Haworth, the firm, which remains privately held, developed an extensive line of office furniture focused on seating and storage. In the 1960s, Haworth developed customizable office layouts with “Uni-Group,” which consisted of pre-wired cubicle wall panels. Haworth refined this system further in the 1980s with its “Crossings System,” a modular furniture system that expanded the ability of companies to make their office spaces adaptable. The firm is an industry leader in creating flexible, human-centered workspaces.

In the 2010s, Haworth acquired Italian luxury brands including Cassina, Cappellini, and Poltrona Frau, diversifying the company’s holdings into a wide range of work environment, health systems, universities, government entities, corporate settings, and home offices.

In addition to more comprehensive workplace solutions, Haworth has introduced several notable pieces of office furniture. The Zody Chair is known for its ergonomic features, most notably Live Lumbar™ technology, which automatically adjusts to the user’s body shape.

Dick’s son Matthew Haworth serves as chairman of the company, which employs roughly 7,500 people. Haworth emphasizes sustainability, achieving zero waste to landfills in all its U.S. manufacturing plants. A representative of Haworth could not be reached for comment.

“In Grand Rapids, we are amongst a community of large furniture manufacturers,” Bennett said of the city’s status as a design hub. “We are surrounded by partners who are breeding innovation.”

The region’s college and universities provide new talent for Grand Rapids’ design firms. The Kendall College of Art and Design at Ferris State University and the design programs at Grand Valley State University produce prospective employees with

training in fields such as industrial, landscape, and interior design.

Local organizations like Design West Michigan promote the significance of design in the local economy through networking events, educational programs, and advocacy.

The ArtPrize, the annual international art competition based in Grand Rapids, is the largest of its kind in the world. The competition has made the city’s name synonymous with artistic innovation. The Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts showcase art and design for a broader audience in the community.

Recently, interior and landscape design firm TowerPinkster, headquartered at 4 East Fulton Street, expanded its base of engineers by merging with Comprehensive Engineering, a Grand Rapids-based firm specializing in mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering. The merger makes TowerPinkster Western Michigan’s largest engineering firm in the field of commercial building.

“We can now offer a more coordinated and wholistic approach to the built environment,” said Jason Novotny, Vice President of Design for TowerPinkster.

Recent designs by TowerPinkster can be seen on the campuses of Byron Center public schools, Aquinas College, and the Western Michigan University.

“We’ve got a really transformational project at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. That project had great community input through different stakeholder groups. It will transform how the Public Museum interacts with the community. It will be a much warmer, more accessible space,” Novotny said.

As Grand Rapids continues to evolve, its design legacy remains at the heart of its identity. Whether through the furniture we sit on, the spaces we work in, or the products we use, Grand Rapids’ design excellence is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and craftsmanship that began on the banks of the Grand River and continues to resonate around the world. Each of these companies not only carries the city’s legacy forward but also innovates and shapes the way we live and work today.

Herman

ergonomic seating, optimal lighting, and distraction-free acoustics—perfect for video calls, focus, and comfort in contrast to the open office. This artist's rendering showcases the riverfront exterior of the Grand Rapids Public Museum, currently under construction. The expansion and renovation project is being

Fishbeck: A Hometown Leader Expands Its Reach

Fishbeck, a Grand Rapids-based leader in engineering, architecture, environmental, and construction management services, continues to build on its 60-year legacy. Founded by William Fishbeck in 1956, the firm has grown from a small engineering practice to a multi-disciplinary powerhouse with over 670 professionals across 16 regional offices in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Texas.

Fishbeck’s growth reflects its ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive, innovative solutions that positively impact the communities it serves. With a portfolio that spans industries from healthcare to transportation, the firm has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, sustainable design solutions.

“We are excited to welcome the talented team at Align to Fishbeck,” said Jeff Schumaker, President of Fishbeck. “Align’s exceptional reputation, deep roots in Indiana, and proven expertise complement our existing strengths, positioning us to deliver even more comprehensive services to our clients while continuing to serve the communities in which we live.”

Tom Gray, Senior Vice President of Fishbeck, added, “Align’s focus on technical excellence and their strong client relationships make them an ideal partner for Fishbeck. Their addition to our team strengthens our ability to take on complex projects and deliver outcomes that exceed expectations. We are excited about the opportunities this merger creates for our clients and our teams.”

As Fishbeck expands, it remains focused on its core mission: to strengthen communities through thoughtful, sustainable design.

Miller's Bay Work Pod offers

led by design firm TowerPinkster.

$200,000

The Google.org grant received by STEM Greenhouse to expand its STEM programming.

1 in 4

BRIDGING THE GAP

LOCAL NONPROFITS AUGMENT EDUCATION IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES

STEM Greenhouse and Giving Tree Books are leading the charge in expanding access to quality education and literacy in West Michigan.These two nonprofits, are making a significant impact locally, particularly in underserved communities. From expanding STEM opportunities to improving literacy, both organizations are addressing disparities and fostering future leaders.

STEM Greenhouse Expands STEM Access with Grant from Google.org

STEM Greenhouse, led by Dr. Keli Christopher, has received a $200,000 grant from Google.org to expand its STEM programming and mentorship initiatives across West Michigan. The grant aims to address educational disparities, particularly among minority students, and to help meet the region’s growing demand for skilled tech professionals.

In Michigan, only 9 out of every 100 Black 8th graders are proficient in math, compared to 1 in 4 of their white peers. This stark disparity is one of the key issues that STEM Greenhouse is working to overcome. The nonprofit focuses on providing inclusive learning environments that support students of all backgrounds, with a special emphasis on those from underserved

The number of white 8th graders in Michigan proficient in math

“By

fostering a diverse learning environment with mentorship and hands-on experiences, we can ensure that students not only excel in their studies but also envision themselves in STEM careers.”

Dr. Keli Christopher

communities. Dr. Christopher, an HBCU graduate and the third Black woman worldwide to earn a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, has dedicated her career to addressing educational gaps in STEM.

“This gift allows us to expand our reach, strengthen our foundation for long-term growth, and equip even more students with the skills they need to thrive,” said Dr. Christopher.“

As the first Black-founded nonprofit with a dedicated learning space in a Grand Rapids Public Schools building, STEM Greenhouse is working to reimagine education by fostering belonging and academic achievement. The organization’s work, which includes cultural representation in the classroom, mentorship from diverse educators, and STEM-focused programming, has

already proven successful in encouraging students to pursue STEM fields. In fact, STEM Greenhouse was recently recognized with a National Sony Award and the 2024 Michigan Governor’s Service Award for Youth Impact.

“Grand Rapids is playing a vital role in developing the next generation of STEM talent thanks to organizations like STEM Greenhouse,” said Winton Steward, Google’s Head of Government Affairs for the Great Lakes States. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to support the critical work they’re doing to address workforce needs.”

Giving Tree Books Promotes Literacy with Free Books for Underserved Children

Giving Tree Books, a nonprofit founded in 2023 by Steve and Nancy Devon, is working to bridge the literacy gap in West

Dr. Keli Christopher, is a HBCU graduate and the third Black woman globally to earn a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering

5,000

The number of books Giving Tree Books aims to distribute annually

60%

The percentage of children from low-income communities who lack a single book at home

100

The number of children being sent to the annual School Day Game by Giving Tree Books in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Griffins

Michigan. "Over 60% of children from low-income communities in West Michigan don't have a single book at home. We wanted to change that,” said Steve Devon, co-founder of Giving Tree Books. “Our mission is to promote children's literacy through writing and publishing highquality, elementary-level books and giving them free to children from underserved areas in Grand Rapids.”

In its first year, Giving Tree Books distributed over 2,000 books, including visits to seven schools during March is Reading Month, where students received books after an author visit. The reaction from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement at the prospect of owning their first book.

“We’ve seen how something as simple as giving a child their own book can spark a lifelong love of reading,” Devon said. “Books are tools of empowerment, and we’re committed to providing them to children in need.”

Giving Tree Books has already begun to expand its reach. " We are starting to build momentum and will eventually meet our goal of giving away books to 5,000 children in need every year.," Devon said. The nonprofit is also focused on creating educational partnerships, such

Nancy Devon, Co-Founder of Giving Tree Books reads from the couple's second book, "Milo Finds His Forever Home."

“By getting books into the hands of children who need them most, we are fostering a love for reading and empowering the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders.”

Steve Devon, co-founder of Giving Tree Books

as working with Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital to broadcast story readings to hospitalized children. In addition, Giving Tree Books is teaming up with the Grand Rapids Griffins to send 100 children to the annual School Day Game and provide them with free books.

The nonprofit recently released its second book, "Milo Finds His Forever Home," which is aimed at upper elementary students. This is in addition to their first book, "Tasha Goes to Puppy School," targeted at younger readers. Both books incorporate themes of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

Both STEM Greenhouse and Giving Tree Books share a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, recognizing that access to education and resources plays a critical role in shaping the future of Michigan’s youth.

For STEM Greenhouse, the $200,000 grant from Google.org represents a significant step forward in its mission to close the STEM education gap. “Google’s support for STEM Greenhouse will make a tremendous difference for our community and our future,” said Congresswoman Hillary Scholten. “This grant will help break down the barriers for students who are passionate about STEM but have long been inhibited by systemic racism. I look forward to seeing how our young scholars thrive with these resources.”

Similarly, Giving Tree Books is making strides to ensure that literacy is accessible to all children in West Michigan, and they're sure to be busy right now. March Is Reading Month. Last year Steve and Nancy Devon visited seven schools during reading month. "We go to schools and do an author visit, and then afterward, surprise every student in the school with a book. The reaction from the elementary students is amazing."

Both organizations are models of how nonprofits can play a vital role in reshaping education and fostering opportunity in local communities. Through their efforts, they are not only addressing immediate needs but also building a foundation for long-term growth and success for the next generation. For more information about STEM Greenhouse, visit stemgreenhouse.org. For more about Giving Tree Books, visit givingtreebooks.org.

Calling all foodies and breakfast enthusiasts! Anna’s House is “saving the world from an ordinary breakfast™” one city at a time. Established in 2003 in Grand Rapids, Anna’s House delights its guests with a diverse menu of traditional breakfast favorites while featuring creative dishes that embrace various dietary needs, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian. Guests also enjoy quarterly seasonal creations that wow their palates, all created by the culinary genius of the Anna’s House

team. Each of the 12 Anna’s House locations across Michigan, with a 13th opening in fall 2025 in Grand Ledge, embraces its local community while showcasing the Anna’s House retro-style décor of brightly colored textures, large hand-painted murals, and famous toaster displays. Guests will enjoy the “Anna’s House Experience,” where they are welcomed as family, make lasting memories, and leave their local restaurant with a full belly and a light heart and feeling better than when they arrived.

FACES OF 2025 WEST MICHIGAN

CANCER RESEARCH

Since 1979, The Cancer & Hematology Centers (CHC) has grown into Michigan’s largest physician-owned oncology practice, with over 30 medical oncologists and dozens of advanced practice providers across nine locations. CHC delivers personalized care close to home, o ering advanced cancer diagnosis, treatment, and access to groundbreaking research.

CHC’s robust research program bridges innovation and care, turning clinical trials into standard treatments. Patients benefit from cutting-edge options like outpatient bispecific immunotherapies

| THECHC.COM

and mRNA-based therapies, reducing hospital time and enhancing quality of life. From pioneering research to life-changing care, CHC is committed to bringing hope to the West Michigan community.

Physicians by row, from top left to right: Eric Batts, M.D.; Sreenivasa Chandana, M.D., Ph.D.; Yuanbin Chen, M.D., Ph.D.; Nahal Lakhani, M.D., Ph.D.; Kelly Parling-Lynch, D.O.; Manish Sharma, M.D.; Andrew Sochacki, M.D.; Amy Vander Woude, M.D., MBA; Brett Brinker, M.D., M.S.; Colin Hardin, M.D.; Erin Pettijohn, M.D.; and Eric Santos, M.D.

The

The

If

Focusing primarily on fostering a love for dance and

movement, The Studio offers a wide range of class options for any age at any skill level that teach the fundamentals of dance and fitness. The Studio provides a safe place for students to learn and grow their talents that they already have! The Studio is also open year-round and encourages enrollment at any time throughout the season. From dance classes to yoga, barre, and WERQ, The Studio has a class for everyone!

FACES OF 2025 WEST MICHIGAN

“Estate planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about people,” says John Inhulsen, founder of Inhulsen Law. He helps individuals, families, and business owners create plans to safeguard their loved ones and legacies. With decades of legal experience serving West Michigan, and multiple honors, he takes a personal, relationship-driven approach, ensuring every client feels understood, empowered, and confi dent about their future. In 2024, John was named the “Best Attorney for Wills and Trusts” by Grand Rapids Kids readers, a refl ection of his dedication to helping families plan for the road ahead with confi dence. “Every client’s situation is unique, and our job is to listen and guide them toward a plan that fi ts their family’s needs,” says Inhulsen. Whether you’re planning for the fi rst time or updating an existing plan, Inhulsen Law provides trusted guidance to help you navigate life’s transitions with clarity and peace of mind.

Providing innovative programming, world-class equipment, and quality services, MVP Sports Clubs has led fitness across West Michigan since 2005. With five local facilities in Grand Rapids, Holland, and Rockford, MVP o ers a wide range of programming for all ages and skill levels, serving over 27,000 members annually. MVP’s results-driven personal trainers create customized fi tness plans to help members achieve unique goals — whether it’s improving performance, building muscle, losing weight, or increasing longevity. Using science-backed methods, they guide

members every step of the way, ensuring alignment on goals. All new members receive a complimentary one-hour assessment and additional optional training to kick-start their journey. These sessions help members understand how movement, lifestyle, mobility, nutrition, sleep, and recovery impact their wellness. Shown above are MVP’s leading trainers from each athletic club location.

MVP is proud to be West Michigan’s leader in both fi tness and training services. Visit mvpsportsclubs.com to learn more.

FACES OF

For over 35 years, Paul Burd has been setting the standard for landscape design and installation in West Michigan. With a background in horticulture and landscape architecture from Michigan State University, Paul has designed for Frederik Meijer Gardens and co-owned multiple landscaping businesses before founding Alfresco.

Alfresco’s team is known for creating distinctive, high-quality landscapes. They transform outdoor spaces into personalized, beautifully crafted environments. Alfresco’s portfolio features meticulously designed landscapes and innovative outdoor living areas that reflect the unique vision of each client. Not only does Alfresco design dream spaces, but the team also maintains the space, ensuring clients can enjoy their outdoor area for years to come.

Alfresco combines artistic expertise with a commitment to exceptional service, completing each project with precision and care. From the initial design to final touches, its team provides inventive solutions and a seamless experience, making your dream landscape a reality.

Exalta Health is a faith-based nonprofit clinic that serves people who are uninsured, underinsured, or refugees. Fiftyseven percent of their patients have no insurance, while fortyfour percent percent of their patients have incomes that are below the Federal Poverty Index.

Dr. Chris Shoemaker is one of two physicians who provide primary care. He graduated from the Wayne State University Medical School and did his residency at Trinity Health in Grand

Rapids. Pictured here with Dr. Shoemaker are Andrea Cervantes, clinical coordinator, and Laura Kass, advanced practice provider. Dr. Shoemaker and all of Exalta Health’s other team members are people who are dedicated to serving those who might otherwise slip through the cracks of the health care system.

Your support of Exalta Health through donations, prayers, and volunteerism helps a community that needs quality health care. Please visit exaltahealth.org for more information.

FACES OF 2025 WEST MICHIGAN

PERSONAL INJURY LAW

THE FACE OF BRANDON HEWITT — MICHIGAN AUTO LAW

“PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” is more than a slogan for Brandon Hewitt, attorney and chief operating officer of Michigan Auto Law—it’s the heartbeat of a firm devoted to putting clients first. From securing more million-dollar settlements than any other auto accident law firm in Michigan to ensuring every client feels heard and respected, Brandon and his team live the “PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” philosophy. Success isn’t just about verdicts—it’s about how clients feel when their case ends. Were they treated with compassion? Did they leave feeling supported and ready to rebuild their lives?

“PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” also means giving back through student scholarships and community organizations. At Michigan Auto Law, it’s not about ads or awards—it’s about people, their recovery, and their future.

“PEOPLE OVER EVERYTHING” isn’t just a principle. It’s a promise.

Greenland Advanced Oral Care is transforming smiles and lives with its expertise in prosthodontics and dental reconstruction. Dr. Greenland and Dr. Kane lead the practice with a shared passion for creating healthy, confident smiles that last a lifetime. As a family-focused, noncorporate dental practice, they prioritize personalized care and strong patient relationships, ensuring every individual feels valued and supported. From general family dental care to advanced restorative techniques like implant-supported restorations and full-

mouth rehabilitation, Greenland Advanced Oral Care o ers comprehensive services to meet every patient’s unique needs. Conveniently located at 2490 East Paris Ave. in Grand Rapids’ vibrant medical corridor, the practice provides a welcoming environment that feels like home.

Experience the di erence of a family-run practice dedicated to your long-term oral health. Call Greenland Advanced Oral Care at 616-256-8770 or visit greenlandaoc.com. Let the team help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of!

Throughout his career, John Postma has acquired numerous awards — a testament to his unwavering commitment, attention to detail, and exceptional client relations. A wealth of experience obtained over 45 years allows him to navigate the complexities of the market; he provides clients with reassurance, resolution, and resources during some of the most significant moments in their lives. Postma takes pride in playing a pivotal role in the real estate achievements of multiple generations of clients. Beyond professional accomplishments, Postma actively contributes to the community by serving on the boards of several nonprofits, including The Joseph Project. This dedication to giving back highlights his commitment not only to his clients but also to the community he values.

Postma stands as a seasoned and reputable figure in residential real estate, offering expert professionalism with honesty and integrity through a streamlined approach and a genuine passion for helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams.

The Bridger Group is a second-generation, 57-year-old search fi rm focused on building products and commercial/residential interiors recruiting on a local and national level. The team believes every company should have access to the best candidates in its industry, and they combine their experience and access to top talent to provide just that for their clients. Led by two brothers, Nick and Jordan Underwood, the company has grown from six individuals to over 35 people in the past 10 years and is now one of the largest search fi rms in the U.S. With The Bridger Group being recognized as one of Inc.’s “Fastest Growing Companies” and one of the “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For,” it’s easy to see why it continues to have success both nationally and locally.

The Bridger Group is a tenacious team that excels in fi nding all the available talent out there and then matching the best of the best to suit their clients’ needs.

SENIOR LIVING

Beacon Hill at Eastgate is a premier retirement community located in the Eastgate neighborhood of Grand Rapids, serving over 400 residents and employing over 225 people. Beacon Hill has been recognized as one of “America’s Best Retirement Communities” by Newsweek for a second year in a row in 2025.

In the years ahead, Beacon Hill plans to expand its residences with West End, offering even more services to seniors in the Grand Rapids area. “West End will reflect our

unwavering commitment to providing a state-of-the-art living environment where residents can age gracefully, live optimally, and continue to receive the exceptional care they deserve,” says Jeff Huegli, president and CEO. “Our dedicated team, local partners, residents, and families are the heart of what makes Beacon Hill extraordinary. By working together, we will continue to provide top-tier care and a lifestyle rich with purpose and joy.”

THE FACE OF CHARLES ZHANG — ZHANG

5931 OAKLAND DRIVE, PORTAGE, MI 49024 | 269-385-5888 | CHARLES.ZHANG@ZHANGFINANCIAL.COM | ZHANGFINANCIAL.COM

Charles Zhang has led his wealth management firm, Zhang Financial, to the summit of the independent advisory world. In 2024, 2023, and 2021, Zhang was ranked No. 1 on Barron’s list of the nation’s Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors. Barron’s has also named Zhang the No. 1 Financial Advisor in Michigan for a staggering 12 consecutive years, from the beginning of 2013 through 2024. Forbes has ranked Zhang No. 4 on the list of America’s Top Wealth Advisors for 2024 and 2023. He is the highest-ranking fee-only advisor on the list. Zhang’s impressive educational background includes an MBA from Northwestern University as well as executive education from both Harvard Business School and Columbia University. In addition, he holds prestigious designations in the financial industry, including CFP® and ChFC®. See zhangfinancial.com/disclosure for full ranking criteria.

Thinking of planning a family trip to the magical world of Disney and the thrilling adventures at Universal Studios Florida? With the opening of Universal’s new Epic Universe Park in May 2025, there’s even more excitement to look forward to!

At Witte Travel, we use our insider knowledge, exclusive deals, and years of expertise to handle the details and ensure you have a magical trip!

food+drink

DIVE INTO THE CITY’S GREATEST EATERIES AND BARS

Celebrating Sidebar

» PLUS: A TOAST TO ROASTED FOR THE BEST BREAD, CHALLAH! LATE NIGHT BODEGA BITES

PHOTOGRAPH BY WES KITTEN

A few of Sidebar's colorful cocktails: the Hai Ball, Fresh & Forbidden, and Wind-up Bird

Buon appetito!

'The one who eats makes crumbs'

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMPPINEN

It was my birthday, and I had big plans to celebrate with a mix of close friends and family. The venue? A new-to-me spot in town—Testa Rossa Ristorante. The kind of place that seemed to have it all: delicious food, live music, and an atmosphere that struck the perfect balance between casual and special. I’d heard rave reviews from Michael Kulczyk, the owner of Cherie Inn. If you're not familiar, it's a 100-year-old Grand Rapids icon at the intersection of Cherry Street and Lake Ave. known for its outstanding brunch. So, when he mentioned that Testa Rossa was his new favorite go-to, I checked out the menu. I'm not a huge fan of typical American-Italian food, but this place serves

The table is set with pasta and apps— as delicious as they are pleasing to the eye.

Sicilian cuisine. That's different. "If you haven't been to Sicily, you haven't been to Italy," is a phrase attributed to Goethe. I'll take it a step further and say, 'if you haven't eaten Sicilian food, you haven't fully enjoyed Italian cuisine.' The Sicilians are known for incorporating ingredients from other cutlures, resulting in more flavorful dishes than mainland Italy. As an island at the tip of the "boot," Sicily lies in the middle of Mediterranean trade routes, so naturally its people had access to spices and produce that would be more difficult to procure in the country's interior.

After studying the menu, along with Michael’s endorsement, I was ready to take the plunge and make a reservation for a table of eight.

We arrived to a bustling scene in the Wealthy Street neighborhood—Testa Rossa was alive with energy. The welcoming scent of pizza filled the air, mingling with the sounds of a live band playing in the background. The restaurant’s interior had and inviting vibe with three distinct seating areas. There was a cozy bar in the back where you could sip a drink while waiting for rest of your party to arrive, the main room with the entertainers was quite swanky, and the front area had a casual, family-friendly feel, the type of space that caters to all ages. Our table was ready, and that's where we were sat. Unfortunately, I couldn't see the band, but could hear them. The atmosphere here was electric.

I also ordered the meatballs, which were soft, juicy, and nestled in a bed of rich marinara, topped with a generous swirl of lemon ricotta and chive oil.

Opposite page, clockwas from bottom left: Baked Meatballs, Vodka Rigatoni Buratta, Chicken Radiatore, Calamari Fritti. Above, the baked meatballs, with a limoncello martini.

The motif in Testa Rossa's main dining room is artsy with warm wooden accents— a beautiful space.

The food came fast, and from the first bite, it was clear that Testa Rossa wasn’t just another Italian spot. The calamari fritti was out of this world. Tender, lightly fried squid, paired with a spicy marinara and saffron aioli that made you want to lick the plate clean. I also ordered the meatballs, which were soft, juicy, and nestled in a bed of rich marinara, topped with a generous swirl of lemon ricotta and chive oil. I had to resist the urge to order more—these were just that good.

But the real star was the lobster ravioli. Each delicate, buttery bite was like a bite of heaven, with the sweetness of the lobster perfectly complementing the creamy sauce. The dish was simply divine. We also got a couple of wood-fired pizzas to share—the Testa Rossa pizza, with its pepperoni, salami, capicola, and chili flakes, was fantastic. And the Limoncello pizza had a surprising twist with a creamy limoncello sauce, ricotta, and toasted pistachios. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did, but it was

absolutely delicious.

Throughout the meal, we kept sipping on the signature cocktails. The limoncello martini was the perfect refreshing drink to pair with the food. (I later found out the limoncello recipe came from manager Jolana Manino's grandmother, as do some of the restaurant's other signature dishes.) We spent hours eating, drinking, and laughing. The service was impeccable, which, having worked in the industry myself, I truly appreciated. Even with a full restaurant and a table of eight, we never felt rushed, and every dish arrived just the right temperature, perfectly plated.

For dessert, I indulged in the affogato, and it was just the right way to end the night—a scoop of creamy gelato, doused in espresso, with a rich chocolate drizzle that had us all fighting for the last bite. We were already talking about our next visit before we even left.

On my second visit I upped the ante and ordered the Sicilian pot roast, along with some vodka rigatoni. I also ordered the calamari fritti(again) and indulged in a little more of the dessert. The olive oil cake was authentic, delicious and the tiramisu, to die for. As the fourth (and best) restaurant from Cory DeMint, I was expecting it to be good, but this was a great big city meal I wasn't expecting. I feel lucky to have found such a gem.

Above, Calamari Fritti, or Italian fried calamari (squid). At Testa Rossa, it's flash fried to perfection and served with a lemon, of course.

Fancy a cocktail? Guests can enjoy a limoncello spritzer or martini, made with house-made limoncello from an authentic family recipe passed down from manager Jolana Manino’s Sicilian grandmother— a perfect complement to the authentic cuisne.

Diego Mor and Kevin Cavanaugh bring the sound of a bygone era to Testa Rossa’s front window, blending live music and classic supper club vibes for an unforgettable night out.

Late-night bites

Side Piece Bodega: An Eastown eatery improvises!

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY AMANDA KAMMINEN

When Steven Martinez opened Basalt, A Tex-Mex brunch spot, in Grand Rapids’ Fulton Street Market in 2020, he had no idea it would lead him to a late-night bodega. But after years of building a loyal following with breakfast tacos and burritos, Martinez saw a gap in Eastown’s food scene after dark—and Sidepiece Bodega was born.

“We’ve tried dinner, but it’s not quite worked,” Martinez says. “The quest was to figure out what people are looking for at night that Basalt wasn’t able to provide.”

“We’ve got a burger that we’re really proud of,” he says. “People talk about Black Napkin being nearby, but they close early. That’s where we come in. We offer a late-night burger people are really excited about.”

The bodega’s menu is designed to hit the spot for those late-night cravings. But it’s not just about the food: Martinez also stocks essentials like snacks, ramen, and even overthe-counter medications, making it a true neighborhood hub. The service window, tucked into what was once a small closet at Basalt, gives the space an authentic bodega feel.

“We spent a month every day working on it,” Martinez says, referring to the transformation of the closet into the bodega. “We wanted it to be something people could rely on when they’re out late.”

The Bodega is open Thursday–Sunday, 6 p.m.–Midnight Use the walk up window or order delivery (via DoorDash and Uber Eats).

Sidepiece Bodega is Martinez’s answer to the lack of local latenight options. Open Thursday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to midnight, the bodega offers a window service where Eastown residents can grab comfort foods like burgers, taquitos, pizza rolls, and burritos. Martinez wanted to offer something better than the usual chain options, serving affordable, local food that excites the neighborhood.

As Sidepiece grows, Martinez plans to expand hours and continue offering food and community through the late-night window. Whether you're grabbing a latenight snack or a burger after a night out, Sidepiece Bodega is quickly becoming a must-visit spot in Eastown.

Above right: Steven Martinez, owner of Basalt and Side Piece Bodega,at 1450 Wealthy St SE, hands out food through a walk-up windown.

Above, right: A wide array of food is available including Tex-Mex, ramen, and burgers (pictured).

Hush-Hush Indulgence

10 years in, this unmarked cocktail bar remains one of GR’s best kept secrets

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTOS BY WES KITTEN

Located at 80 Ottawa Ave NW, Sidebar is one of Grand Rapids' best-kept secrets. The intimate bar, nestled behind the bustling Big O’s Pizza, offers an entirely different experience from the pizza joint's lively, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike can enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a setting that feels like a scene from a noir film.

Opened in August 2015 by Bernie Kersten, who also owns Big O’s Pizza & Booze, Sidebar quickly became a staple in the city’s evolving cocktail scene. The bar is a nod to the speakeasy-style lounges of old, with a hidden entrance that adds to its charm and allure. Those who know where to look will

right: Bartender Noah

Bottom, right: The Water Lillies, created by mixologist Joey Miller.

drinks like the Bird Bath and the London Fog, a floral, velvet-smooth concoction with gin, amaro, and Earl Grey syrup.

find a narrow passageway that leads to a cozy space that seats just 18 people. The lack of signage and its tucked-away location only heighten the sense of discovery.

Upon entering, guests are transported into an atmospheric hideaway. Dim lighting, vintage records playing softly in the background, and plush seating make it feel like an exclusive retreat. The decor, with its old-world charm, matches the carefully crafted cocktails that have become Sidebar’s signature. Each drink is a work of art, prepared with precision and creativity by bartenders who take pride in their craft. The menu features an impressive mix of classic cocktails and innovative creations, including

Sidebar is a place where you can expect more than just a drink. It’s an experience, one that transports you to a different era, where cocktail culture is elevated to an art form. Whether you’re sipping a timehonored Old Fashioned or trying a daring original like the Dance with the Devil, the attention to detail is evident in every pour. The cocktails are made with top-shelf liquor and fresh ingredients, ensuring every sip is memorable.

In its decade-long run, Sidebar has become a favorite for those seeking a unique night out. Despite the growing number of craft cocktail lounges in the city, Sidebar remains a standout for its intimacy, creativity, and the personal touch that each drink offers.

With its commitment to quality and a vibe that’s both sophisticated and inviting, Sidebar continues to be a destination for those who appreciate the art of the cocktail. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail lover or a newcomer, one visit is all it takes to understand why Sidebar has earned its place as one of Grand Rapids’ finest cocktail bars.

CHEERE

Above, left: Colorful cocktails (with quirky names); Wind-up Bird, Fresh & Forbidden, and the Hai Ball.

Above,

Gonyon shakes a cocktail to perfection.

The bread is known for its signature braided shape, which adds both beauty and texture to the loaf.

Soft bread full of flavor

When you want the best bread, Challah!

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY REBBECA SIMONOV

Challah is a slightly sweet and soft braided bread with a consistency similar to brioche. Traditionally enjoyed during Jewish holidays, it is a favorite in many non-Jewish households as well. The bread is known for its signature braided shape. The threestrand braid represents the unity of Jewish values like "truth, peace, and justice," adding both beauty and meaning to the loaf. The same braiding technique is used to make Easter bread, which is similar.

Ingredients:

1 (0.25 oz) package active dry yeast

1 cup warm water (100°F)

2 tbsp honey

1 tsp salt

3 large eggs, beaten

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading

1 beaten egg yolk (for brushing)

Directions:

1. ACTIVATE THE YEAST: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes creamy and foamy. Then stir in honey and salt until dissolved, followed by the beaten eggs.

2.FORM THE DOUGH: Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes sticky. Dust with additional flour and knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. FIRST RISE: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning the dough a few times to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4.BRAID THE CHALLAH: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long, thicker in the middle and thinner at the ends. Pinch the ropes together at the top, then braid by alternating sides—starting with the rightmost rope, cross it over the middle, then the leftmost rope over the new middle. Continue until the loaf is fully braided, then pinch the ends and tuck them underneath.

5.SECOND RISE: Place the BRaided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg yolk for a golden finish. Let the loaf rise for about 30 minutes.

6.BAKE: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the challah for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown, and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy the soft, slightly sweet texture of homemade challah fresh from the oven, perfect for any occasion. Due to its absorbent texture it’s a fantastic choice of bread for French toast.

Well kneaded challah will appear to be braided on the outside, but fully integraded beneath the crust to form a delicate and flavorful slightly sweet bread— a perfect accompaniment to breakfast, lunch or dinner.

A toast to Roasted

Raising the Bar on Sports Bar Cuisine

BY JASON ROTH // PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA KAMMINEN

Today my dining journeys have brought me to Roasted Sports Bar and Grill, 4322 Remembrance Rd NW, Walker. At first glance it might look like a typical TV-laden sports bar, but it quickly became apparent that this place had more to offer. What really sets Roasted apart from a typical Grand Rapids-area bar/restaurant is their incredibly diverse menu created by chef and co-owner Jon Clark. You'll find the usual staples such as burgers, pizza, and ribs, but the unique options Roasted offers go way beyond your typical bar fare. Stop in on Mondays for their Burger Brew deal. $8.99 gets you a steak burger, house chips, and a choice of domestic draft or soda drink. If you feel like going beyond the basic burger, buckle up: choices include a Chipotle BBQ burger, Wow Burger (topped with jalapeno cream cheese, candied red onion marmalade and roasted garlic aioli), and even a gator burger! For vegetarians craving a burger fix, there is a sweet potato burger made with fresh julienne sweet potatoes, carrots, roasted portobella mushrooms, quinoa, rice, and caramelized onions, then topped with roasted garlic aioli, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and swiss cheese. There's an option

Yooper sandwich

What is a Cudighi Miner? It's made with fresh ground sausage, pictured in the above photo, along a halfpound hand cut wagyu sirloin with mashed potatoes and gravy, and a side of broccolini.

Top right: Tender fall-offthe-bone ribs.

to make it fully vegan as well.

Pizza! Hand-tossed pizza choices range from a basic supreme to barbecue chicken, all the way to a jalapeno popper pizza, with the create-your-own option as well.

Ribs! Sauces include Sweet BBQ, Citrus Blast, Hot Honey Garlic, and Dragons Blood. My dining companion and I tried a half rack with Sweet BBQ and a side of the Dragons Blood, which had a definite Korean influence. Top-notch.

Other food options include steaks, mac n' cheese bowls, a lobster and bacon flatbread melt, a steak and mushroom naanwich, and on Saturday night, prime rib!

With a menu this interesting, I had to take a chance on something offbeat, so I went with the Cudighi Miner sandwich. What is a Cudighi Miner? Apparently, (news to me!) it is a traditional Yooper sandwich, made in-house with fresh ground sausage and their secret zesty spice blend, grilled then baked in Miner mustard, then topped with pizza sauce, onions, and mozzarella cheese on a hoagie roll. I loved it, would order it again!

Roasted also offers catering for events, either in-restaurant or out-of-restaurant. Fine dining, weddings, baby showers, business events, they've got it covered.

So stop in to Roasted for a beverage and a wide-ranging culinary experience. You'll be glad you did.

Meet the team: Roasted Sports Bar and Grill owners Jon and Jamie Clark. For the full scoop on this dynamic duo's story, visit roastedsportsbar.com/ our-story.

GAME ON!

Four more game day hangouts that are worth a visit:

Springtime in Michigan: Baseball, hockey, basketball, and NCAA March Madness collide in a glorious confluence of excitement, bringing a new energy to the season. With something on every night, it’s time to ditch the sofa and check out these spots for the ultimate gamewatching experience.

SW: MONELLI’S

Located at 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, in Wyoming, Monelli’s brings the best of Italian cuisine to the sports bar scene. With 52 beers on tap and massive screens, it’s the perfect place for fans to chow down, sip on something cold, and catch the big game in style.

DOWNTOWN: PEPPINO’S

At 130 Ionia Ave SW, Peppino’s Downtown is a game-day paradise.

With over 70 TVs and plenty of seating, it’s the ultimate hangout for watching whatever’s on. Whether you’re grabbing a bite or raising a glass, this spot is your ticket to fun.

SE: EASTOWN SPORTS BAR

For unbeatable vibes and great drinks, head to Eastown Sports Bar at 1520 Wealthy St SE. It’s the perfect spot to catch the game or hang out with friends, offering tasty food, plenty of screens, and a lively atmosphere that’ll make your night out one to remember.

NE: THE SCORE

5301 Northland Dr NE is home to The Score, a tropical-themed sports bar that brings the beach vibe to your game-watching experience. With over 70 TVs, beach volleyball, and tiki torches, this spot is perfect for a little taste of paradise—even if it’s too cold for the patio.

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

A Bright Future Starts with Smart Steps

According to a recent report released by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, college enrollment grew 4.5% in fall 2024 — a noteworthy improvement after pandemic-related declines. While it’s unclear how 2025 enrollments will compare, it’s still expected that many current high schoolers and their parents or guardians will have some form of continued education on their minds — whether it’s college, a trade school, or a training program.

Decision Day is rapidly approaching. While it pertains specifically to students confirming their enrollment with the school they’ve chosen (meaning their work is almost done!), it also serves as a reminder that if higher education is a future consideration, it’s never too early to start planning and researching.

Important factors to explore include budget for tuition — and who will be paying for it — as well as how well an institution aligns with the student’s career interests and which institutions have high graduation and placement rates. The implications of in-state and out-of-state options enter the picture, too. Let’s not forget that even before all of this evaluation, students, with measured support from parents or guardians, need to be laying the groundwork to be on this path. Staying diligent with grades, establishing strong study habits, and sharpening the qualities that are valued by admissions committees are key. In addition, many experts say that filling out the FAFSA® is a must, no matter your financial situation. If it all feels overwhelming, let the information in this section be your guide!

Aquinas College

1700 Fulton St. East • Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 616-632-8900, aquinas.edu

AquinAs College is an inclusive, nationally ranked liberal arts institution just 2 miles from downtown Grand Rapids. Student life thrives in Aquinas’s welcoming community with 35-plus registered student organizations and Campus Ministry groups and 30-plus athletic teams. Faculty and staff provide mentorship and prioritize experiential learning through internships, service work, and hands-on opportunities to engage with subjects outside the classroom, setting students up for success. Aquinas is also continuing its one-class-at-atime scheduling model for first-year students in 2025-26. These immersive, relationship-rich courses create a steady routine.

Ninety-five percent of Aquinas’s 2023 graduates were employed, in graduate school, or engaged in service work within six months of graduation. All traditional-age first-year students receive financial aid. On average, students take on no more debt than they earn in their first year of work. ■ THE STATS Year founded: 1886 // Current enrollment: 1,300 // Student-faculty ratio: 11:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 60+ // Number of master’s degrees offered: 3 // Subject matter expertise: Liberal arts, business administration, kinesiology // In-state tuition: $37,720 // Out-of-state tuition: $37,720 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 100% // Top awards/recognitions: U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges National Liberal Arts Colleges list and Top Performers on Social Mobility. Named a 2024-25 Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. 2024-25 Colleges of Distinction.

Davenport University prepares you for success with experienced faculty, hands-on learning and internships at top employers. Choose from more than 80 career-ready degrees and certificates, including select bachelor’s programs with an employment guarantee.

Beyond academics, our small, welcoming campus features apartment-style residence halls, 44 athletic teams—including 26 NCAA Division II teams—and a variety of clubs and activities to explore. With 100% of incoming freshmen receiving scholarships and an average student-to-teacher ratio of just 18:1, you’ll have the support and resources to thrive in college and beyond.

Check us out at davenport.edu/newstudent or call us at 800.686.1600.

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Davenport University

6191 Kraft Ave. SE • Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 800-686-1600, davenport.edu/go

For more than 150 years, Davenport University has stood apart from other universities because of its unrelenting focus on ensuring its graduates rise to the top of the job market. Its unique approach to education offers students a careercentered curriculum featuring more than 80 certificate and degree programs, and empowers them with real-world experience.

Davenport’s academic programs meet today’s demands and anticipate tomorrow’s needs. They’re so confident in their curriculum, they offer several programs with career guarantees, ensuring students obtain employment or are given the opportunity to come back for additional education with no tuition cost.

Davenport’s innovative approach and commitment to quality will help you get where the world is going — and arrive ahead of the pack. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1866 // Current enrollment: 5,000 // Student-faculty ratio: 18:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 56 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 29 // Subject matter expertise: Business, technology, health and urban education // In-state and out-of-state tuition: $29,220 // Top awards/recognitions: College of Distinction Career Development Award by Colleges of Distinction (2025). Named to the Best Colleges for Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs list by Money.com (2024). Named Best for Vets by the Military Times (2024). Named one of Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For (2024).

Grand Rapids Community College

143 Bostwick Ave. NE • Grand Rapids, MI 49503

F ounded in 1914 as Michigan’s first community college, Grand Rapids Community College is dedicated to making higher education accessible and affordable. GRCC offers a variety of programs, including traditional liberal arts, career-focused pathways, adult education, skilled training, and apprenticeships. Classes are available in person and online, during weekdays, evenings, and Saturdays, at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties. Each year, thousands of students use the Michigan Transfer Agreement to continue their education at four-year colleges and universities. GRCC supports student success with academic and career counseling, tutoring, and services for occupational and disability needs. GRCC provides opportunities for learners of all ages to gain valuable skills and earn credits for degrees or career advancement, leading to rewarding futures. ■

Student-faculty ratio: 23:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 145+ career, transfer, and certificate programs // Subject matter expertise: Traditional liberal arts, business, STEM, health sciences, workforce training, transfer opportunities, adult education courses, skilled training courses, apprenticeships // In-state tuition: $124 per contact hour for residents; $261 per contact hour for non-residents // Out-of-state tuition: $392 per contact hour // Percentage of students on financial aid: 53.9% // Top awards/recognitions: Selected for a $1 million innovative water workforce development grant. Awarded $125,000 for a Hunger-Free Campus program. GRCC Police Department accreditation.

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Ferris State University

1201 S. State St. • Big Rapids, MI 49307

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 231-591-2000, ferris.edu

W ith more than 250 associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, and certificate programs in fields including AI, criminal justice, optometry, and pharmacy, Ferris State University provides students with the skill set to power Michigan’s future. Nearly 8,000 Bulldogs call Ferris State’s main campus in Big Rapids home. Students experience a lively campus culture, 220 student organizations, and NCAA Division I and Division II athletics. Cutting-edge facilities, including the new Center for Virtual Learning, put the latest tools in students’ hands so they can shape tomorrow’s world. An additional 2,200 students take advantage of Ferris State’s local hubs across Michigan, its robust online programs, and its Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids. The Ferris Pledge program offers eligible students a path to earn their degree with no out-ofpocket costs. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1884 // Current enrollment: 9,951 // Student-faculty ratio: 16:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 150 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 16 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 4 // Subject matter expertise: Optometry, pharmacy, criminal justice, cybersecurity, game design, artificial intelligence, and esports production. // In-state and out-of-state tuition: $14,400 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 87% // Top awards/recognitions: NCAA Division II football national champions (2024, 2022, 2021). Information security and intelligence program ranked No. 6 in the United States by U.S. News and World Report. // Affiliated colleges/satellite campuses: Kendall College of Art and Design

Kendall College of Art and Design

17 Fountain St. NW • Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 616-259-1118, kcad.ferris.edu

Ferris state University’s Kendall College of Art and Design offers a world-class art and design education complemented by university resources and support systems. And while Ferris State is known for its careeroriented majors, at KCAD you’ll find that the career-oriented and the creative intersect in powerful ways.

KCAD’s immersive creative learning environment offers a wide range of specialized degree programs in design, fine art, and art history. Students in these programs receive a quality Ferris State education while getting the expert instruction and personalized support they need to transform their creativity into a marketable skill set—and from there, a dynamic career.

In the heart of downtown Grand Rapids on a resource-rich campus, KCAD students’ educational experiences are more hands-on than those typically found in creative degree programs within other larger universities. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1928 // Current enrollment: 567 // Student-faculty ratio: 7.5:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 14 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 2 // Subject matter expertise: Architecture, art history, collaborative design, digital art and design, fashion studies, graphic design, illustration, interior design, life sciences and premedical illustration, photography, product design, and studio arts. // In-state and out-of-state tuition: $24,812 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 90%

WHATEVER IS NEXT

For Grand Valley students, next is opportunity and innovation. Next is global, connecting and uniting us. It’s local, shaping the spaces in which we work and live. It’s a commitment to progress. Next is where minds are free to imagine what could be. At GVSU, next is now. And whatever’s next for you, we will help you get there.

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Grand Valley State University

1 Campus Drive • Allendale, MI 49401

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 616-331-5000, gvsu.edu

Grand Valley State UniVerSity prepares its more than 22,000 students for a fulfilling career and a life of impact. It starts with more than 300 areas of undergraduate and graduate study and outstanding faculty members who focus on individual student achievement. Unique learning opportunities include student-directed research projects, in-the-field training, and a study abroad program that’s one of the best in the nation.

The main campus in Allendale is home to modern classrooms and labs, outstanding fitness and sports facilities, a comprehensive library, and more. The Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus and the growing Health Campus put students in the heart of Grand Rapids’ central business district and along the Medical Mile. Finally, GVSU’s graduation rate and job placement rates are consistently among the highest in the state. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1960 // Current enrollment: 22,011 // Student-faculty ratio: 15:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 102 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 45 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 4 // Subject matter expertise: Business, nursing, psychology, education, criminal justice, computer science, exercise science, engineering, marketing // In-state tuition: $15,140 // Out-of-state tuition: $21,548 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 96% // Top awards/ recognitions: Named to Forbes’ most recent list of America’s Top Colleges; No. 99 in the Midwest. Named one of the Best Colleges in the Midwest for 2025 by The Princeton Review. Named one of the Best Colleges in America 2024 by Money magazine.

Kalamazoo College

1200 Academy St. • Kalamazoo, MI 49006

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 269-337-7166, kzoo.edu

N atio N ally re N ow N ed and globally oriented, Kalamazoo College is the home of the K-Plan , an individualized and integrated approach to the liberal arts and sciences. The K-Plan combines exceptional scholarship, study abroad, career development, civic engagement, and independent research in a flexible curriculum that allows students to make the most of their unique interests and gifts. At K, administrators and faculty embrace the college’s motto — “More in Four. More in a Lifetime.” — by offering students more opportunities to explore, more faculty and staff mentorship and support, and more preparation for meaningful careers that make a positive impact on the world. Wherever students want to go in life, their K-Plans can take them there. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1833 // Current enrollment: 1,335 // Student-faculty ratio: 10:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 32 majors, 22 minors, and 13 concentrations // Subject matter expertise: Nationally known for the K-Plan, which integrates a flexible curriculum with study abroad, experiential education, career preparation, and a senior integrated project. // In-state tuition: $63,276 // Out-of-state tuition: $63,276 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 98% // Top awards/ recognitions: Named a Best Value College by The Princeton Review. Fulbright Top Producing Institution for U.S. Student Scholar Program. Listed among the 45 Colleges that Change Lives.

It’s not about where you start. It’s about where you’re going.

Imagine a place where curiosity drives learning, the world is your classroom, and the friendships you make last a lifetime. Whether you have a path in mind or you’re still figuring it out, you’ll feel at home at K.

Explore your interests with our flexible curriculum, experience new cultures through our nationally recognized study abroad program, and gain realworld skills through research, civic engagement or an internship. Faculty and staff mentors will be your guides as you navigate toward a meaningful career.

At K, college is more than a degree. It’s an adventure.

Tom ’27

MAJOR: Business/Psychology STUDY ABROAD: Athens, Greece

“I’ve been able to take classes in Spanish, philosophy, religion, history, business, psychology and classics. I’ve been able to figure out what I like—and what I don’t—which is a great part about waiting to declare your major.”

For You. Not For Everyone.

Kettering equipped me to succeed faster than my peers at other schools. It tested me academically and pushed me to turn aspirations into tangible achievements.

VARUN RALLABANDI ‘25

MAJOR: Computer Science

CO-OP: Lab2Fab, Fremont, CA

ORGANIZATIONS: Vice President Student

Government, Phi Delta Theta Fraternity

ACHIEVEMENTS: Two provisional patents

Not everyone splits their time between cutting-edge research in Michigan and high-level strategy sessions in California. Not everyone patents robotic solutions for household brands and pitches their ideas to CEOs — before they graduate.

But Bulldogs do — because their Kettering experience is like no other.

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO EDUCATION

Northern Michigan University

1401 Presque Isle Ave. • Marquette, MI 49855

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 906-227-1000, nmu.edu

Founded in 1899, Northern Michigan University is a public, four-year university with awardwinning leadership programs, cuttingedge technology initiatives, and nationally recognized academic programs. Over 7,000 students attend NMU, which offers over 180 degree programs, including 25 graduate programs. More than 75% of NMU’s 300-plus full-time faculty members have doctorates or the highest degree in their field. Small class sizes ensure students experience one-on-one mentorship from faculty members.

NMU’s hometown of Marquette, located along the southern shore of Lake Superior, has 20,000 residents. The region is known for its safe, friendly, and natural environment. Marquette enjoys four distinct seasons that are celebrated by festivals and activities yearround. The Marquette community and NMU are intricately intertwined, which adds to the vitality of the area and to the opportunities available to students. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1899 // Current enrollment: 7,409 // Student-faculty ratio: 18:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 170 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 25 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 1 // Subject matter expertise: Education, nursing, biology (fisheries and wildlife, environmental), medicinal plant chemistry, indoor agriculture // In-state tuition: $13,992 // Out-of-state tuition: $19,448 // Percentage of students on financial aid: 88% // Top awards/ recognitions: Second most affordable university in Michigan. Best Online Colleges in the Midwest (Abound). Top 20 Public University in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report).

Western Michigan University

1903 W. Michigan Ave. • Kalamazoo, MI 49008

Undergraduate Enrollment Information: 269-387-2000, wmich.edu

Located in Grand rapids’ Heartside district, Western Michigan University’s Grand Rapids campus provides regional access to meet students where they are. With modern amenities like HyFlex classrooms and an advanced manufacturing lab, WMU Grand Rapids is a hub of academic exploration and community engagement.

WMU’s Grand Rapids campus prioritizes programs aligned with local workforce needs, drawing on partnerships with industry experts like Autocam Medical and Grand Rapids Community College to create experiential learning opportunities. By offering hands-on dual-enrollment courses focused on career readiness, WMU’s Grand Rapids campus empowers students to thrive in their academic journey while building the foundation for a prosperous future.

WMU is committed to student success, offering a dynamic educational experience that prepares students for diverse career paths while contributing to the vitality of their communities. ■

THE STATS Year founded: 1903 // Current enrollment: 17,605 // Student-faculty ratio: 16:1 // Number of undergraduate degrees offered: 151 // Number of master’s degrees offered: 86 // Number of doctoral degrees offered: 36 // Subject matter expertise: Through WMU Essential Studies, students focus on skills employers seek, enhanced oral and written communications, critical thinking, and quantitative and scientific literacy. // In-state tuition: $15,252 // Out-of-state tuition: $19,034 // Top awards/recognitions: TIME named WMU as a top three college for future leaders in Michigan and a top 100 college in the U.S. (TIME and Statista, 2024).

Broncos are career-ready

You’re an individual who is truly unique. At Western, we celebrate the passions that drive you and the possibilities that inspire you. For us, a degree is a pursuit of purpose where learning empowers you and where an experience-driven education leads to a meaningful career. Broncos make their mark on the world—Grammy recipients, Super Bowl champions, doctors, teachers, pilots and countless others have flourished here.

Western is a place to become your best self.

dine

OUR STAFF'S GUIDE TO THE AREA'S BEST EATERIES

homemade sodas. Takeout only, Tuesday-Saturday. // 966 E. Fulton St. Lunch, Dinner $

For any additions or changes, please email lenos@hour-media and write "Dining Guide" in the subject line of the email.

Downtown GR

7 MONKS TAPHOUSE

Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. // 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/ grand-rapids. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ

Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. // 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

APERITIVO

A wine bar with a small menu that includes cheese and charcuterie plates and monthly sandwich specials. The retail section includes tinned fish, which can be enjoyed on-site with pickled veggies, cultured butter and Field & Fire bread. It is located within the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. Open Daily. // 435 Ionia Ave SW, 259-7045. aperitivogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BANGKOK TASTE CUISINE

Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BEACON CORNER BAR & COASTAL FARE

Owned by the group behind San Chez and Roam, the restaurant offers up seafood from the three coasts: East, West and Michigan. // 38 W Fulton St, 383-3800. beaconcornerbar.com. Dinner, $$-$$$

BEIJING KITCHEN

Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. Lunch (SunFri), Dinner $-$$

BISTRO BELLA VITA

Big-city casual; modern French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. // 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

BLACK NAPKIN

High quality burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries and

BOB’S BAR

Down home sports bar with 10 HD TV's. 14 Beers on Tap specializing in Chicago cuisine. Open daily. // 725 Michigan St NE. 774-0512. bobsbar.org. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BOBARINO’S AT THE B.O.B.

Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. // 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bobarinospizza. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRICK & PORTER

Appetizers, burgers, salads, sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. // 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BRICKYARD TAVERN

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

BROOKLYN BODEGA BAGEL & DELI

Bringing the bagel shops and delis of the East Coast to the third coast. Whether a bagel, egg and cheese or a hearty turkey sandwich, Brooklyn Bodega has it. Open Monday-Saturday // 10 Jefferson Ave SE, 724-4275 Breakfast, Lunch $

THE CHOP HOUSE

Aged prime beef, seafood, pork, lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. // 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. Dinner $$$

CITY BUILT BREWING CO.

Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. // 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

CINCO DE MAYO

Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak

asada. Full bar. Open daily. // 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

DIVANI

European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. Dinner $$-$$$

DUBLIN HALL

Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIELD & FIRE CAFÉ

All-day breakfast, sandwiches, soups, salads, toasts, croissants, muffins and tarts. On weekends brunch is available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 820 Monroe Ave NW Suite 100, 616-608-4533. fieldandfire.com. Breakfast, Lunch $-$$

FLANAGAN’S

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

FOUNDERS BREWING CO.

Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. // 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB

A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. // 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GINZA SUSHI & RAMEN BAR

Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. // 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND RAPIDS GARAGE BAR AND GRILL

“All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. / 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

GRAND WOODS LOUNGE

Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Yearround alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. // 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE HERITAGE

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

HONG KONG EXPRESS

Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

JAMAICAN DAVE’S

Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

THE KITCHEN BY WOLFGANG PUCK

Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. // Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/the-kitchen-bywolfgang-puck. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

KNOOP ROOFTOP BEER GARDEN

Upscale rooftop beer garden offers Dutch and German inspired cuisine with a modern touch. Madefrom-scratch shareables, small bites, hand-crafted cocktails and scenic views of downtown Grand Rapids. // 131 Ionia SW, 8th Floor, 616-456-6200, canopygrandrapidsrestaurants.com/knoop/. Dinner $$-$$$

LEO'S CONEY ISLAND ON TAP

An east side favorite located in Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids serves up classic Coney Island favorites, cocktails and beer on tap. Perfect for before and after a movie at Celebration. // 122 Oakes St SW Suite 100, 805-3780, leosconeyisland.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LEO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT AND BAR

Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Happy Hour specials Mon–Thurs, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Open Mon-Fri., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sat 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sunday. // 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

LINEAR

Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLEBIRD

Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily. // 95 Monroe Center NW, 4194168. thelittlebirdgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $

LUNA TAQUERIA Y COCINA

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

MARGAUX

A contemporary French bistro. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. // JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEWAY

A tiki-themed restaurant that includes a raw bar, hot appetizers, salads, sides, land and sea dishes, and vegan options. Appetizers include ceviche and puhahana rock shrimp, and entrées include a poke bowl, citrus-glazed faroe and an island lobster roll. Full bar. Open daily. // 58 Ionia Ave SW, 551-0016. maxstiki.com. D $$-$$$

MDRD

Overlooking the Grand River from its location on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza, this restaurant serves modern Spanish cuisine including tapas and paella. Reservations available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 187 Monroe Ave. NW, 776.6425. amwaygrand.com/dining. Dinner $$$

MERTENS PRIME

French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era hotel. Steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. // 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. mertensgr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MEXO

Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. // 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. Breakfast (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$

MOJO’S DUELING PIANO BAR

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

NOODLE PIG

Unique ramen noodles made in-house with fresh, highend ingredients and served with nutrient-rich broths. // 601 Bond Ave NW Suite 102, 327-2922, www. noodlepig.com. Dinner $-$$

ONE TWENTY THREE TAVERN

This restaurant offers elevated American fare; fried chicken sandwiches, jackfruit carnitas, meatloaf, veggie meatballs, quinoa bowl, starters, small & large plates, handhelds a kids menu & more! Full bar. Open daily. // 123 Ionia Ave SW. 123tavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

PALACE OF INDIA

Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. // 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE

Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PIND INDIAN CUISINE

A fine-dining Indian restaurant offering traditional dishes, such as tandoori, biryani, chicken tikka masala, malai kofta and samosas with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 241 W Fulton St, 805-4767. pindgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY

Contemporary seafood restaurant that offers premium fresh fish and seafood from the waters of New England to the Great Lakes. // 141 Lyon St NW, Grand Rapids, (888) 456-3463, realseafoodcorestaurant.com.

Dinner $$$

ROAM BY SAN CHEZ

The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

ROCKWELL REPUBLIC

Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. // 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. Dinner $$-$$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruthschris-steak-house. Lunch, Dinner $$$

SAN CHEZ BISTRO

Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. // 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

SCHOLAR

Swanky restaurant serving elevated old school American fare, situated on multiple levels, offering a variety of atmospheres. // 11 Ionia Ave SW, 980--9073. scholargr.com. Drinks, Dinner$$

dine / estau ants

SOCIAL HOUSE

A casual pub serving American-style food. Menu features a variety of offerings: starters,soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and pizza. Full bar. Closed Mon. // 25 Ottawa Ave. SW, 551-1412. socialhousegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$$

SOCIAL MISFITS

An interesting concept mashing waffles (sweet or savory,) with other food, accompanied by creative cocktailss. The business also introduces Great Lakes Coffee Roasters to town. // 43 W. Fulton St, 2724984. thesocialmisfits.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

SPEAK EZ LOUNGE

Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. // 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

STELLA’S LOUNGE

Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. // 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. Lunch (Fri-Sun), Dinner $-$$

TERRA BAGEL

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

TUPELO HONEY

This southern kitchen & bar serves southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. // 140 Ottawa Ave NW STE 100, 239-7158, tupelohoneycafe.com. Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch $$

TURNSTILES

Bodacious bar food in a music-themed atmosphere. Cocktails, drafts, and the largest selection of nonalcoholic beverages in GR. Nightly live music with no cover. Free on-site parking. // 526 Stocking NW. turnstilesgr.com. 616-330-LIVE. Lunch, Dinner $

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. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

West Side

BLUE DOG TAVERN

West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. // 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

BROAD LEAF WESTSIDE

Progressive craft brewery and distillery. Award winning gin. Cocktail slushies. Boozy shakes. Large outdoor beer garden. Incubator kitchen has rotating menu with guest chefs. // 443 Bridge St NW, 254-0105, broadleafbeer.com./Thurs, 4–10 p.m./Fri, 4–11 p.m./Sat, 12 p.m.–11 p.m./Sun, 12 p.m.–9 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BROADWAY BAR & GRILL

Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally. // 740 Broadway Ave SW, 4540565. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

BURGER THEORY

Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. // 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/ pearl-street-grill. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

BUTCHER’S UNION

Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro pub with a wide menu and festive atmosphere. Craft drinks and a full bar. Outdoor seating available. // 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $$

CONDADO TACOS

Stylish Bridge Street Mexican restaurant serving build your own tacos, tequila, margaritas and more. Come as you are! // 449 Bridge St NW, 734-6815, condadotacos.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

DRIP DROP COCKTAIL ROOM

Upscale, plush craft cocktail lounge with a NYC ambiance. Light bites. // 445 Bridge St NW Unit 2, dripdropcocktailroom.com. Snacks, Cocktails $$

EL GRANJERO

Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. // 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

EL SOMBRERO

Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR

Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. // 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GIN GIN

Stylish and inviting, Gin Gin’s offers a diverse menu of American classics, including premium steaks, fresh seafood and handmade pasta. The bar's charm provides the perfect ambiance for savoring handcrafted martinis and vintage cocktails. // 345 Summer Ave NW, 341-9124, ginginsgr.com. Tue–

Thurs, 4–11 p.m./Fri, 4–11:30 p.m. Sat, 3–11:30 p.m./ Lunch, Dinner $$–$$$

THE HOLIDAY BAR

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

THE KNICKERBOCKER –NEW HOLLAND BREWING

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

KÜSTERER BRAUHAUS

Munich style Bierhall offering German and American craft beers, sangria, cider, cocktails and German street food. Featuring Bundesliga and International soccer. Live music on Sundays. // 642 Bridge St. NW. 616-451-4255. grbrauhaus.com. Lunch, Dinner $

LONG ROAD DISTILLERS

Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of housemade snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. // 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $-$$

MAGGIE’S KITCHEN

Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

THE MITTEN BREWING CO.

Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. // 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MONARCHS’ CLUB

Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. // 646 Stocking Ave NW, 2339799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $

NONLA BURGER

Nonla Burge offers both traditional, 100% beef hamburgers and Vietnamese-inspired cuisine. // 449 Bridge St NW Suite 102, Grand Rapids, nonlaburger.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ONE BOURBON

Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. // 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. Dinner $-$$

O’TOOLE’S PUBLIC HOUSE

Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers

served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. // 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. // 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

SHOTS

Local neighborhood kitchen and bar serving a full menu, daily lunch specials, an abundance of taps featuring craft and domestic beer options, large patio, and plenty of big screen TV’s all contributw in making this the local favorite for food, drink, sports, and groups to meet. Open daily at 11 a.m. // 4259 Lake Michigan Drive NW, 453-7780, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE SØVENGÅRD

West Side farm-to-table restaurant focusing on seasonal and local sourcing with an outdoor biergarten. Special occasion/meeting space available. Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. / Dinner: Wed-Sat, 4-10 p.m. & Sunday, 4-9 p.m. // 1232 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard. com. Dinner $$

TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE

Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Closed Sun. // 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. Lunch $-$$

WESTSIDE SOCIAL

“Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. // 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

Uptown

BASALT

Modern Tex-Mex cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu focuses on breakfast tacos, quesadillas and tortas. Closed Mondays. // 1450 Wealthy St. SE, 719-2146. basaltgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Thurs-Sat) $

VIVANT BREWERY + SPIRITS

European style craft beer and food. Spirits, wine and cider are also available. Locally sourced menu. Housed in a renovated funeral home chapel with a large patio and geer garden. Open daily. // 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. Lunch (Fri.-Sat.), Dinner $$-$$$

BROWN BUTTER CREPERIE & CAFÉ

Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory

crepes and liege waffles. // 1436 Wealthy St SE, 2885038. brownbuttercrepes.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Wed-Sat) $

CHEZ OLGA

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

THE COMMONS

1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available. Closed Mon. // 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

DONKEY TAQUERIA

Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. // 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr. com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ELECTRIC CHEETAH

Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily. Cascade location closed on Sun. // 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779 electriccheetah.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN

“Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available. Closed Mon. // 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. fortyacresgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GOJO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE & DELI

Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

THE GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB

Not your run-of-the-mill New American fare. Full bar with more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open Tue–Sun. // 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

GROVE

Fresh, farm-to-table unique takes on American fare in a presentation unlike most experienced before. Multipletime Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Award winner. Open Wednesday-Saturday // 919 Cherry St SE, groverestaurant.com, (616) 454-1000 Dinner, $$$

HANCOCK

Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. // 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

HARMONY BREWING CO.

Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Dog-friendly patio. Open daily. // 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

KCM

A Japanese/Korean fusion restaurant specializing in sandos, open-faced toast with meat, egg salad, curry and other rice bowls; tonkatsu, chicken katsu; and kimbap (Korean-style fish and vegetable hand rolls wrapped with seaweed). Open Tues.-Sun. // 209 Diamond Ave. SE. kcmgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

LITTLE AFRICA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE

Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. // 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

MARU SUSHI & GRILL

Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. // 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

MATCHBOX DINER & DRINKS

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

QUARANTINO’S

Detroit-style pizza restaurant offering unique pizza options finished with Satori Wisconsin Parmesan. Vegan and gluten-free options are available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. // 1444 Lake Drive SE, 734-6833. quarantinosgr.com. Dinner $$

MANGIAMO

A Gilmore Collection restaurant that serves upscale Italian fare in a historic East Hills mansion. // 1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegilmorecollection.com/ pubatpaddock. Dinner $-$$

TERRA

Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. // 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (SatSun), Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

WEALTHY STREET BAKERY

Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

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.

dine / estau ants

com. Breakfast (Sat-Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

YESTERDOG

Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. // 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. Lunch, Dinner $

ZIVIO

Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries' cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. // 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

East Grand Rapids

BIG BOB’S PIZZA

Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. // 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. Lunch (Tue-Sun), Dinner $-$$

BOWDIE’S CHOPHOUSE

An upscale steakhouse “perfect for date nights, business dinners and late-night cocktails.” The restaurant serves various items: starters; soups and salads; shareables; and entrées, including chicken, salmon and steak. Full bar. Open daily. // 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 805-5044. bowdieschophouse.com. Dinner $$$

CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY KITCHEN

Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. // 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. Dinner $$

GASLIGHT KITCHEN ASIAN CUISINE

Asian restaurant specializing in Chinese-American dishes. // 2128 Wealthy St. SE, 454-8677, gaslightkitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

JOSÉ BABUSHKA’S

Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. // 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

OLIVE’S

Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. // 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PERA PIZZARIA

Pera Pizzaria features several different Mediterranean style pizzas, shish salads and a surprising pizza made with Nutella. // 2224 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4810, perapizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PINK PIGGY

A casual contemporary boba and Asian fusion restaurant for dine-in or takeout. Open Tues-Sun. // 2230 Wealthy St. 805-3949, pinkpiggy.online. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ROSE’S

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

Northeast GR

BIRCH LODGE

Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

BLUE WATER GRILL

Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. // 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

BUD & STANLEY’S

Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CAFÉ MAMO

An American restaurant inspired by grandma's garden. Classic Midwestern dishes paired with tasty wine in a warm, comfortable setting. Open daily. // 1601 Plainfield Ave. NE, 350-3430. mamohsp.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun) Dinner (Mon-Sat) $-$$

CHARLIE’S BAR & GRILLE

Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CHEERS GOOD TIME SALOON

Menu offers something for everyone in a logcabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. // 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

CRESTON BREWERY

More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. // 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

DETROIT WING CO.

Serves classic wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders with 19 house-made sauces. Its menu also

includes mac n’ cheese, poutine, coleslaw, cornbread muffins and cheesecake. Detroit Wing Co. was founded in Detroit. Open daily. // 2004 East Beltline Ave. NE, 214-8331. detroitwingco.com. Lunch, Dinner $

FLO’S PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS BAR

Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. // 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRED’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. // 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO

Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. // 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro. com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GAIA HOUSE CAFÉ

A neighborhood vegetarian café offering items like the Mean Green Burrito and Gaia cookies, as well as freshpressed juices and specialty coffees. Open Wed-Sun for take-out only. // 1553 Plainfield Ave. NE. Visit on Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch. $

GOLDEN WOK

Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAVITY TAPHOUSE GRILLE

Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. // 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GRAYDON’S CROSSING

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

HUNAN CHINESE RESTAURANT

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

JAKU SUSHI NORTH

Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily. // 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

616 KABOB STOP

Eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean

+ Much More!

At the Bengtson Center, we understand that every patient’s weight loss journey and goals are unique. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our brand-new Weight Optimization Program, designed to help you feel and look your best through a comprehensive, personalized approach to health.

Wondering if this program is right for you? Schedule a 30-minute introduction call with our Wellness Expert team to learn more, ask questions, and find out if you’re a candidate.

Your journey to a healthier, more vibrant you starts with a single step! Book online today!

dine / estau ants

food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 2232 Plainfield Ave NE, 286-3035. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $

KITCHEN 67

Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more elevated fare. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. // 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LA HUASTECA

Authentic Mexican restaurant offering burritos, tacos, enchiladas, flautas and more. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

LAI THAI KITCHEN

Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen. net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LICARI’S SICILIAN PIZZA KITCHEN

Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. // 3123 Leonard St NE, 608-6912 . licarispizzakitchen.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

LUCY’S

Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. // 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucyscafegr.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

MAI’S THAI

Thai fare for counter service only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 820 Michigan St NE, 451-3441. maisthaigr.com. (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $

MILL CREEK TAVERN

Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. // 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE OMELETTE SHOPPE

Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 7267300. omeletteshoppe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

POKE TOKI

Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

PALIO

Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of

Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. // 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

REDS AT THOUSAND OAKS

Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. // 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

REZERVOIR LOUNGE

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

RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON

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

RIVER NORTH PUBLIC HOUSE

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

THE SCORE

Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. // 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

SHESHCO GRILL

Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. Lunch, Dinner $$

SHOTS ON THE RIVER

Full menu kitchen and bar with 22 taps offering craft and domestic beer options, daily lunch specials, large patio with outdoor seated bar, banquet rooms, numerous TV’s, pool table, and live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday featuring some of West Michigan’s top cover bands. Open daily at 1 p.m. and closed on Sundays. // 5760 West River Drive NE Belmont, 9516071, info@shotsgrandrapids.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THAI CHEF

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

Northwest GR

AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA

Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed

Mon. // 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. Dinner (Tue-Sat) $$

CHINA CHEF

Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CHINA CITY

Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II

All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FRICANO’S PIZZA RESTAURANT

Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. Dinner $-$$

HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET

Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. // 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at. Lunch, Dinner $$

616 KABOB STOP EXPRESS

Located near the Allendale campus of Grand Valley State University, eatery serves “healthy and tasty” Mediterranean food, including hummus and falafel starters; salads; lentil soup; sandwiches, entrées and more. Closed Sun. // 10897 48th Ave., Suite B100, Allendale. hummusandfalafel.org. Lunch, Dinner $

THE LANDING

Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/ the-landing-restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

PERRIN BREWING CO.

Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. // 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 5511957. perrinbrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $

STAN DIEGO BAJA TACO KITCHEN

Baja California-inspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT

Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily

dine / estau ants

specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

WALKER ROADHOUSE

Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. Lunch (MonFri), Dinner $$

Southeast GR

7 MARES

Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 3018555. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

AL-BOS EUROCAFE-BAKERY

Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. // 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ASIAN PALACE

Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 141 28th St SE, 5347770. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

BELTLINE BAR

Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. // 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

BRASS RING BREWING

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

BROAD LEAF BREWERY & SPIRITS

Pub fare including snacks, meat and veggies on a stick and entrées like drunken noodles, burgers, tempeh and more. Open daily. Brunch on Sun. // 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 803-0602. broadleafbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

CABANA TRES AMIGOS

Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. // 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CAFÉ DE MIRO

A café offering Kurdish, Armenian and Greek foods. Traditional Mediterranean breakfast and side dishes; skillets, scrambles and acai bowls; pastries; toasts; soups; sandwiches; salads; Turkish coffee; tea; desserts; and more. No alcohol. // Breton Village Shopping Plaza, 1878 Breton Rd SE, (616) 719-1462. Facebook. Open daily. Breakfast, Lunch $

CANTINA MEXICAN GRILL

Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar.

Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. // 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. Lunch (Sun-Thu), Dinner $$

DADDY PETE’S BBQ

Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. // 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EAST GARDEN BUFFET

Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EL ARRIERO MEXICAN GRILL

Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. // 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

EL GLOBO RESTAURANT

Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. // 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIREROCK GRILLE

Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. // 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

FLORENTINE PIZZERIA RISTORANTE & SPORTS LOUNGE

Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

GANDERS

Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. // 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

GURSHA ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT

Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $$

HALL STREET BAKERY

Breakfast sandwiches and pastries; pizza, entrée salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. // 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

INDIA TOWN

Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LAST CHANCE TAVERN AND GRILL

Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. // 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $

LE KABOB

Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. // 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MI TIERRA

Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $

MIKADO SUSHI

Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

NU-THAI BISTRO

Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE OLD GOAT

Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. Breakfast (Mon-Fri), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PAL’S INDIAN CUISINE

Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. // 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine.com. Lunch, Dinner $

PHO ANH TRANG

Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. // 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PHO SOC TRANG

Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. // 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

PIETRO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. // 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

SIP COFFEE & COCKTAILS

Café by day with breakfast bites that transforms into a bustling nighttime cocktail lounge, serving flatbread and appetizers. Closed Sun, hours vary. // 806 Alger St. SE, 805-3517 $$

A P RIL 9TH - J U N E 1 5 T H DON’T MISS OUT! TICKETS ON SALE AT JBZOO.ORG MARCH 8TH ZOO MEMBERS GET EARLY TICKET ACCESS ON MARCH 1ST!

dine / estau ants

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. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

TACON MADRE

Mexican hamburgers, Tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and more with and a variety of proteins (pastor, Barbacoa, birria, tripe, Chicharron, Trompo and more) to choose from. Aguas frescas and other authentic Mexican specialties. // 3501 Division Ave. S. Wyoming, 570-0322, taconmadremi.com. Lunch, Dinner $

THAI EXPRESS

Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $

THAI FUSION

Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI

Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. // 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VILLAGE INN PIZZA & SPORTS GRILLE

Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. // 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Southwest GR

84TH STREET PUB & GRILLE

American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. // 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

ALEBIRD TAPHOUSE AND BREWERY

Community-focused brewery offering creative sandwiches along with a variety of burgers and entrées, including summer chicken and pea ravioli. Open daily, lunch on weekends. // 2619 84th St SW, 288-7888. alebird.com. Lunch, Dinner $$$

BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN

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

FAR-EAST CHINESE RESTAURANT

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

GOLDEN 28

Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. // 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. Lunch, Dinner $$

3 GATOS BREWERY

German-style beers with Brazilian bar food. Closed Sunday and Monday. // 1760 44th St SW, 307-2215. 3gatosbeer.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LINDO MEXICO

RESTAURANTE MEXICANO

Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. // 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLE BANGKOK

Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MONELLI’S ITALIAN GRILL & SPORTS BAR

Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. // 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOBLE RESTAURANT

Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. // 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

PETE’S GRILL & TAVERN

Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. // 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

WOODY’S PRESS BOX

Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 5302400. spectrumlanes.com. Breakfast (Mon-Sat), Lunch, Dinner $$

Ada/Cascade/Lowell Area

ADA GARAGE BAR & GRILL

High quality bar appetizers, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, burgers and a variety of entrees. Plus there's always a $2 draft, a $3 well and a $4 glass of wine every day. // 518 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-3002, adagaragebar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CASCADE ROADHOUSE

Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 2597439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CORK WINE & GRILLE

Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille. com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

THE EURO BISTRO

European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. // 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $$-$$$

FLAT RIVER GRILL

Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. // 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

JU SUSHI & LOUNGE

Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. // 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

LA LAGUNA

Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

LITTLE BANGKOK

Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. // 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. Lunch (Mon-Fri), Dinner $-$$

MAIN STREET BBQ

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

MYNT FUSION BISTRO

Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

NOCO PROVISIONS

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

dine / estau ants

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. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Tue-Sat) $-$$

NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING

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

OSAKA STEAKHOUSE & JAPANESE RESTAURANT

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

SABOR MEXICANO

Burritos, tortas, quesadillas, quesabirrias, tamales (pork or chicken) and tacos served the authentic way, menu items for kids and more. // 109 Riverside Drive in Lowell, 987-5027. Lunch, Dinner $

SAPPORO RAMEN & NOODLE BAR

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

SCHNITZ ADA GRILL

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

SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN

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

THORNAPPLE BREWING CO.

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

VINTAGE PRIME & SEAFOOD

Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. // 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. Dinner $$$

ZEYTIN

Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. // 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

Grandville/ Hudsonville Area

BANGKOK TASTE

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

EL BURRITO LOCO

More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. // 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburritoloco4.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MICHIGAN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY

A distillery with starters, sandwiches, salads and sides with a barbecue theme. Many of the items include Bobby Q sauce. Closed Sun. and Mon. // 4005 Chicago Dr SW in Grandville, 259-1000. michiganmoonshine.us. Dinner $$

PIKE 51 BREWING CO./ HUDSONVILLE WINERY

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

RAINBOW GRILL

Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. // 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 8960033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $-$$

RUSH CREEK BISTRO

Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. // Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

WHITE FLAME BREWING CO.

Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. // 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

THE WIN TAVERN

Family-friendly restaurant offering cooked-to-order meals, including starters, salads, burgers, sandwiches & steak. Sunday breakfast, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a buildyour-own hash bar and more. Full bar. Open daily. // 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, 734-6724. thewintavern33.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $$

Rockford Area

BOSTWICK LAKE INN

Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and

cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck. Full bar. Open daily. // 8521 Belding Rd, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. Lunch (Sat-Sun), Dinner $$-$$$

BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT

Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. // 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/ restaurant. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

CEDAR SPRINGS BREWING CO.

German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. // 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRILL ONE ELEVEN

American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. // 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. Lunch, Dinner $$-$$$

HONEY CREEK INN

Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. // 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO

Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. // 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. Lunch, Dinner $

ROCKFORD BREWING CO.

Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. // 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing.com. Brunch (Sun), Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TIMBERS INN

Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. // 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. Lunch (Wed-Sun), Dinner $-$$

THIRD NATURE BREWING COMPANY

Located near the White Pine Trail and the Rogue River, Third Nature Brewing is a rustic brewery and taproom offering “comfort foods” such as pizzas and hot sandwiches, as well as healthier options like power bowls and salads. Open daily. // 7733 Childsdale Ave. NE in Plainfield Township, 616-5129314. thirdnaturebrewing.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

THE TOASTED PICKLE

Handcrafted unique sandwiches, soups, salads, cocktails and more. // 17 Squires St Square NE, 8840498. thetoastedpickle.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

dine / estau ants

Multiple Locations

ANNA’S HOUSE

Retro-style diner with a menu that caters to guests with a wide variety of dietary needs; gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Natural, local ingredients are utilized to create tasty classic breakfast entrees, benedicts, house bowls, salads, wraps, sandwiches, fresh-pressed juices, signature coffees, lattes and more. No alcohol. Open daily. // 5488 Northland Dr NE, 330-3310; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, 551-0434; 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville, 2885855; 525 84th St SW, Byron Center, 447-1201. annashouseus.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

BAGEL BEANERY

Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available. // 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 249-9500. bagelbeanery.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

BRANN’S STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS GRILLE

Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. // 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 5345421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

FIRST WOK

Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. // 2207 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstworkgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

GRAND CONEY

Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. // 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580; 5121 28th St, 930-3596. thegrandconey.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

HERB & FIRE PIZZERIA

Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. // 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. Lunch, Dinner $$

HOPCAT

Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. // 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

MORNING BELLE

This “garden-themed” brunch spot is part of Meritage Hospitality Group. Its menu features breakfast entrées; lighter options, such as salads and grain bowls; glazed doughnut waffles; specialty

beverages, such as freshly squeezed orange juice and breakfast cocktails; and more. Limited bar. Open daily. // 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171; 434 Bridge St NW, 855-6907. morningbellebrunch.com. Breakfast, Lunch $$

MR. BURGER

Breakfast, burgers, chili dogs, sandwiches, homemade soups and desserts. // 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 453-6291; 950 44th St. SW, 538-0363; 1750 44th St. SE 455-8604; 5181 Northland Dr. NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St. SW; 538-4439; 5835 Balsam Dr., Hudsonville, 6625088; 6880 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 986-1110. mrburger.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

MUDPENNY

Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. // 570 Grandville Ave SW, 259-5353; 496 Ada Dr SE, 259-5353. mudpenny.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

PEPPINO’S PIZZERIA AND SPORTS GRILLE

Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. // 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; 5065 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-1615. peppinospizza.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$$

PITA HOUSE

Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. Lunch, Dinner $

REAL FOOD CAFÉ

Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-from-scratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. // 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. Breakfast, Lunch $

RED GERANIUM

Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol. Open daily. // 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 5328888. redgeraniumcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch $

SUNDANCE BAR & GRILL

Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. // Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill.com. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Mon-Sat) $$

TACOS EL CAPORAL

Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner $

TACOS EL CUÑADO

Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owned and operated. // 1342 Grandville Ave SW, 452-1266;

455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-800. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

TAMALES MARY

Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 18 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. // 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007; 1551 Wealthy St. SE, 724-4269. tamalesmarygr.com. Lunch, Dinner $

UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE, PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE

Italian fare, pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. // 122 Monroe Center NW, 7731687; 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. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

VITALE’S PIZZERIA

Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from family recipes and a wide variety of American fare; burgers, subs, entrées and appetizers. Full bar. // 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitalesada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales. com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. Lunch, Dinner $-$$

Historic restoration

Museum hours vary, visit facebook.com/ EngineHouseNo5 for more information.

Special thanks to Mike Sonnenberg for the photos. To learn more about Michigan history, check out his Lost In Michigan book series on Amazon.

The brick-by-brick reassembly of Engine House No. 5

BY LISA ENOS // PHOTO BY MIKE SONNENBERG

What is this stunning, historic building doing in Allendale? Originally constructed in 1880 along the Grand River in Grand Rapids, Engine House No. 5 was a beacon of service to the community, housing a horse-drawn steam pumper and a hose cart. When it first opened, the station was a striking sight—gleaming white brick adorned with red accents, crowned with an impressive tower and turret that gave it an almost Byzantine flair.

At the time, fire engines were powered by horses, which would race to the scene of a

blaze, pulling the equipment. Over the years, motorized fire trucks replaced the horses, and Engine House No. 5 continued to serve the city. However, by the station’s centennial in 1980, the building had fallen into disrepair, and demolition seemed imminent. The structure had been painted Tuscan red, much of its intricate detailing obscured beneath layers of plaster, and it was no longer serving its original purpose.

Instead of being destroyed by a wrecking ball, this once-grand building was carefully dismantled, brick by brick, and relocated. Today, after an extensive restoration, it stands proudly in Allendale at 6610 Lake Michigan Drive as the Engine House #5 Museum, beautifully restored to its Victorian glory.

Before the hustle and bustle of summer begins, spring is the pe explore Pure Ludington. While it can be hard to predict when it long it will last, spring is a "secret" season to be enjoyed by foot or by bike to explore nature's re-birth. Wander down a sec shoreline or grab a bite to eat and a locally-made brew on a ne matter what you're seeking - fun for the whole family, a beach adventure, a peaceful get-away, or just a community of friendly

rfect time to will arrive or how all.

luded stretch of arby patio. No or outdoor

LUDINGTON

.COM