March 2014 - GRM by Grand Rapids Magazine

34TH ANNUAL DINING AWARDS CELEBRATING CITY LIFE

www.grmag.com

OFFICIAL 2014 WEST MICHIGAN

GR’s best restaurants

HOME & GARDEN SHOW PROGRAM

Restaurant of the Year, Best New Restaurant, and more! From the kitchen Local chefs dish on culinary trends

MARCH 2014

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Best of 2013-14 Readers Poll

Thank you Dr. Thomas J. Lambert D.D.S. 3300 Grand Ridge Dr NE | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 | Phone 616.364.6490

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We would like to thank West Michigan and our loyal patients for selecting Dr. Thomas Lambert as “Grand Rapids’ Best Dentist” for the second year in a row!

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Contents march 2014 / VoL. 51 / no. 03

FEATURES 40 / grand rapids magazine’s 34th annual Dining award winners Including 2013 Best Restaurant, Best New Restaurant and half a dozen additional categories. Plus, local chefs forecast culinary trends in 2014. BY MARTY PRIMEAU AND GRM STAFF

56 / counter culture If you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your restaurant experience, it can be as simple as choosing where to sit. BY ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL 58 / gourmet to go Local takeout options for those who don’t have time or talent in the kitchen. BY MOLLY CRIST

H P F

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contents march 2014 / VoL. 51 / no. 03

departments BACK & FORTH 10 / From the Editor

FOOD & DRINK 60 / Restaurant listings for West Michigan

10 / Letters, social media and more

68 / Nosh & Sip: To oak or not to oak

12 / Contributors

76 / HeFedSheFed: A slimmer Fat Tuesday

LIFE & STYLE 14 / Noteworthy items include LaughFest’s High Five; Siren and Proper lash and brow bar; Bloom Ferments; Persian New Year; spring fashion by Ally’s Boutique

78 / Pints of Interest: A day for drinking Irish

15 / Karla’s Place

16 / West Michigan Archery Center 18 / Local Laughs: Conversations with a comic 20 / Reading Room: “Days of Our Lives Better Living” 22 / Cult classics

“Although grass can look nice, it wasn’t practical for us. And because we live downtown, we wanted to create a space that could provide privacy and block noise.” — Jodi Watson

80 NEAR & FAR 80 / Oakdale neighborhood OUT & ABOUT 84 / March highlights 85 / Calendar 86 / Nightclub & comedy venue listings and highlights 92 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights

94 / Snapshots 96 / After Thoughts: Q&A with Kelly LeCoy of Uptown Kitchen

ART & DESIGN 24 / Artist Profile: Loretta Sailors 26 / Art gallery listings and highlights

27 / Art Talk: “Girl Standing in Nature” 28 / Justagirl: Light up your room

ON THE COVER: Salmon & Scallop Ceviche Mixto by Grove, GRM 2013 Restaurant of the Year.

30 / At Home: Where’s the grass? 39 / Frame Works: Shingle style

84 photography by Michael Buck

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Community Benefit Community Engagement Education Employee Engagement Healthier Communities Inclusion and Diversity Innovation

There are countless ways we serve our communities. Regional Relationships Research Sustainability

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back & forth connect with us

Focused on food Join Managing Editor Marty Primeau at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays as she presents City Beat with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.

Hope you’re hungry: This is the annual Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Awards issue, naming the top restaurants in eight categories. It’s not easy. In a city/region giving witness to almost a dozen new restaurants each year, even the breweries offer secret sauces and “companion food” to meet foodie demands. This issue is the culmination of a year of perseverance by staff and contributing foodies. Among the observations: Casual dining has become increasingly sophisticated as patrons

have higher expectations. Chefs are getting even more creative as they embrace their Midwestern roots. Restaurant owners have become more focused on dietary issues, and the array of vegetarian and vegan food is as good as it has ever been. We’ve also taken note of the demand for takeout — but it’s far from a wrapped burger and fries. Patrons are increasingly bringing the culinary art of local chefs to the table at home. GR Magazine is trying something new, too. Instead of focusing solely on the Dining Award winners, Managing Editor Marty Primeau interviewed chefs of restaurants on the cutting edge of the city’s dining scene to share their perspectives on how they plan to focus their culinary creativity for the coming year. Grand Rapids Magazine salutes the tremendous work of restaurant owners and chefs in this region and underscores the community’s gratitude for the array of choices and options. It’s a privilege to highlight the full spectrum of all elements of the business — especially the creativity and dedication. Congratulations to all the 2013 winners: Grove, GRM Restaurant of the Year; Trattoria di’ Stagione, GRM Best New Restaurant; Terra GR, GRM Best New American Restaurant; Leo’s, GRM Best Classic American Restaurant. Winners in the ethnic categories are: El Arriero, GRM Best Mexican/Latin American/Caribbean; Zeytin, GRM Best Middle Eastern/Mediterranean; San Chez Bistro & Café, GRM Best European; and Maru Sushi & Grill, GRM Best Asian. Carole Valade Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

Last month’s online question:

Who makes you laugh? Jimmy Fallon — Mary Kent

My 3- year- old niece and one-year-old nephew. They’re hilarious! — Danielle DeWitt

My daughter — Barb Hanley

Wanda Sykes –Charlsie Dewey

This month’s online question:

Earth Day 2014 is April 22. What are you doing to be earth friendly? Respond at facebook.com/grmag.

Photography by michael buck

Katt Williams, Coach Hines (MADtv skit), Andrew Bachelor (kingbach on Vine) – Anna Marie

10 Grand Rapids \ March 2014

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Photography by michael buck

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contributors BEHIND THE SCENES

You

imagine it.

the spark

THREE OF OUR CONTRIBUTORS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS...

create it. 3/

1/ CHELSEA GRAINER,

2/ ELYSE WILD , Writer, photographer

3/ DANA BLINDER,

“HEARTFELT GIFTS FROM HOLLAND,” page 15

“A LIFETIME OF ART,” page 24

“WHERE’S THE GRASS,” page 30

Writer

What I love about spring: Puddle jumping! And thunderstorms.

GRAND RAPIDS ZEELAND MEXICO CHICAGO

Last thing I googled: How to make the most out of a small space. My Google history is littered with DIY searches. What inspires me? Miles Davis on the trumpet and witnessing random acts of kindness.

I work best when... There is a deadline looming. What I love about spring: All the different shades of green. My favorite photo subjects? People! Kids are the best — they aren’t concerned with appearance and tend to be really honest in front of the camera.

Writer

What I’m doing to stay in shape: I put my outdoor bike on a trainer so I can ride inside. What I love about spring: When the snow thaws, everything starts to smell amazing. What motivates me? The pride of finishing a job well done.

Custom Cabinetry & Furniture

616.956.3070 woodwayscustom.com We’re all ears … tell us what you like or dislike in this issue. Please include your name, address and daytime phone number. Send to Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or email to letters@grmag.com. Letters may be edited for reaFollow us Visit us Like us on @grmagazine sons of space and clarity. grmag.com Facebook 12 GRMAG.COM \ MARCH 2014

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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com

info@grmag.com

puBLisher: John H. Zwarensteyn

EDITORIAL eDitor: Carole Valade managing eDitor: Marty Primeau copy eDitor: Donna Ferraro contriButing eDitors: Joseph A. Becherer,

Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, DK Hamilton, Elissa Hillary, Mark F. Miller, Amy Ruis

contriButing Writers: Julie Burch, Chris Carey,

Alexandra Fluegel, Juliet and Jeremy Johnson, Daina Kraai, Tricia van Zelst

Design paneL: Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry,

Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Oliver Evans, James Ludwig, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen

DESIGN & PRODUCTION neW meDia, Design & proDuction manager:

Scott Sommerfeld

assistant Design & proDuction manager:

Chris Pastotnik

art coorDinator: Kelly J. Nugent Designers/proDuction assistants:

Melissa Brooks, Kristen Van Oostenbrugge, Robin Vargo contriButing photographers:

Adam Bird, Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Johnny Quirin SALES generaL saLes manager:

Randy D. Prichard

aDVertising saLes consuLtants:

General Inquiries: advertisingsales@grmag.com Emily Bernath, Theresa Henk, Kathie Manett, John Olsa aDVertising saLes assistant/coorDinator:

Karla Jeltema

CIRCULATION & MARKETING circuLation & marKeting manager:

Scott T. Miller

circuLation & marKeting coorDinator:

Alex Fluegel

circuLation & marKeting assistant:

Shane Chapin

to orDer suBscriptions: (616) 459-4545 to change aDDress: subscribe@geminipub.com

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Finance & aDministration manager:

Pamela Brocato, CPA

aDministratiVe assistant: Tina Gillman receptionist/cLericaL assistant:

General Inquiries: info@grmag.com Lorraine Brugger

to orDer reprints: Karla Jeltema

(616) 459-4545

Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 4594545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright ÂŠ 2014 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $3.95 (by mail $6); back issue $6 (by mail $7.50), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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life & style PeoPle / trends / booKs / fashion / fitness

noteworthy INTErESTING TIDBITS WE ThOUGhT YOU ShOULD KNOW

spring fling Time to think warm weather fashion, and you’ll find inspiration March 6 at a runway show at Louis Benton Steakhouse. Attire for men and women will be provided by Ally’s Boutique, 2211 East Beltline Ave. NE. The store carries exclusive lines, including cool handbags by Michigan designer Jenna Kator. Cost is $30 — or pay $15 more and attend the VIP preparty with hors d’oeuvres and a front-row seat. Proceeds will benefit Autism Support of Kent County. The Lake Superior handbag by Michigan designer Jenna Kator is available at Ally’s Boutique.

That’s how much LaughFest’s High Five campaign hopes to raise for kids living with cancer or grief. Purchase a $5 button at participating restaurants and businesses, and local companies Terryberry, Feyen Zylstra, Pioneer Construction, Eenhoorn and American International Foods will match each $5 donation, up to $50,000. Visit laugh festgr.org for info.

Skimpy lashes? Brows out

TEa FOr ThE TUMMY

of control? There’s a new

At Bloom Ferments, Emily Helmus can’t keep up with the demand for her kombucha, a tea drink fermented with a live culture of yeast and bacteria. Aficionados say the probiotics and amino acids help digestion and do other good stuff for the body. Helmus and crew are producing the organic kombucha at Downtown Market GR. It’s available on tap at Cult Pizza and sold in bottles in many stores in Grand Rapids and the YMCA Veggie Van. Check bloom ferments.com for locations.

salon in town that will take care of such issues. Siren and Proper is a lash and brow bar at 217 Grandville Ave. SW, across the street from Cheeky Strut Salon. Owners Christina Lynn and Kaite Lyn Christoffersen are offering Novalash eyelash extensions, brow shaping and tinting, sugar and wax hair removal, and more. Call 427-5394 or visit Siren and Proper on Facebook.

New beginnings

Noruz, the Persian New Year, begins with the Spring Equinox March 20. Celebrate the ancient holiday at Shiraz Grille, 2739 Breton Road SE, with special dishes and a traditional ceremonial table featuring items symbolizing love, goodness and new beginnings. Thru April 3. shirazgrille.com

PhotograPhy Courtesy Jenna Kator ColleCtion (toP left); emily helmus (Center); thinKstoCK (toP right and bottom)

$100,000

The eyes have it

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Karla’s Place features a selection of Michigan-themed gifts. Pub and wine glasses sporting the mitten shape are local favorites, as well as magnets and T-shirts that read “I bike Holland.”

Photography by Michael Buck

Photography Courtesy Jenna Kator Collection (top left); Emily Helmus (Center); Thinkstock (top right and bottom)

Heartfelt gifts from Holland Imagine a place where album covers have been made into picture frames, and books are transformed into shirts. These items, along with owl-shaped pillows, hand-painted s’more sticks and more can be found at Karla’s Place, a gift boutique in downtown Holland. Karla Scheifele opened the shop as a way of combining her creative side with a background in business. “I love to entertain and make people feel welcome,” said Scheifele, who created a business plan after attending a class offered by GROW — Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women, a women’s business center that helps entrepreneurs start their own businesses. Many of the items in the shop are handmade by locals, and most are one of a kind. With limited space, “the things we bring in really have to pop,” she said. Greeting cards created by a local 11-year-old and wool mittens made by a Hope College graduate are featured in the front of the store. Fabric camera straps, jewelry and garden

stakes are also for sale. Scheifele also makes some items, such as pedestal serving pieces that are plates set on top of jars or sturdy wine glasses. Karla’s Place also features a selection of Michigan-themed gifts. Pub and wine glasses sporting the mitten shape are local favorites, as well as magnets and T-shirts that read “I bike Holland.” Scheifele says she looks for ways to give back to the community. “We host events for the local schools and for the Center for Women in Transition, with a percentage of the proceeds going back to the organizations.” Together, the artisans who make up Karla’s Place encourage each other to be creative. Written across the front windows you’ll see what Scheifele and her staff are all about: “We believe in fun, beauty, shiny things, handcrafted goods, gifts, and more gifts, friendships and you leaving with a smile.” Visit karlas-place.com or on Face— Chelsea Grainer book. March 2014 / Grmag.com 15

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life & style PeoPle / trends / booKs / fashion / fitness

“I think what inspires people to shoot archery is that feeling of doing something heroic. Movies like ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Braveheart’ show a character saving the day with archery. A lot of young girls want that.” — Mikayla Venoms

Just like Katniss

Charlotte Best, 12, a member of the Top Nock JOAD Club of West Michigan Archery Center, aims for the target.

Rockford Sportsman’s Club’s adult league, some shoot solely to improve their hunting ability while others shoot for love of the sport, said Roger Bainbridge of Rockford, a long-time hunter. “I’ve been shooting archery competitively for the last 10 years,” he said. “I compete to sharpen my skills for hunting and because I enjoy the challenge and camaraderie of target archery.” He said most hunters are pretty competitive even while hunting in groups. “You can find a league someplace every night of the week in West Michigan,” he said. Until now, competitions have been held in locations that range from storefront shooting ranges to the banquet hall at Rockford Sportsman’s Club, where archery club members currently practice.

The new center will allow the West Michigan group to host such tournaments as the Meijer State Games. Glenn Meyers of Freeport, a 1984 Olympian in archery, will be the head coach overseeing 16 certified coaches. Expected to be completed by early summer, the project has raised close to $850,000 in grants and donations, said Josh Zederveen, secretary of the nonprofit WMAC. He says the project still needs $266,000 in funding. For more information or to donate to the facility, visit wmarchery.org. — Dana BlinDer

PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin

If you want proof of the rising popularity of archery in West Michigan, look no further than a plot of land off 10 Mile Road in Rockford. It’s the site of the new West Michigan Archery Center, a 10,000-square-foot facility that will provide indoor shooting space and heated booths for outdoor shooting up to 90 meters. Future phases include an outdoor tournament range and a 3-D archery course. While bow hunting accounts for the sport’s ongoing popularity in West Michigan, interest has skyrocketed in recent years — especially among younger shooters. Mikayla Venoms, 14, is a five-time national champion and member of the Top Nock Junior Olympic Archery Development Club. “I think what inspires people to shoot archery is that feeling of doing something heroic,” she said. “Movies like ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Braveheart’ show a character saving the day with archery. A lot of young girls want that.” Of the 20 to 30 regular members of 16 grmag.Com \ March 2014

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Conversations with a comic

DK Hamilton is a stand-up comic and freelance writer. Follow him on Twitter @ dkhamiltoncomic.

Laughfest draws comedy fans internationally to Grand Rapids. As a comedian, it’s refreshing to perform in front of audiences who “get” comedy. “Do you talk about me in your act?” I’m always surprised when friends and acquaintances assume that I talk about them in my act. I don’t. Yes, they are all fascinating people in their own ways and believe they are living out a sitcom, but they really aren’t funny to people who don’t know them. “Do you write your own jokes?” Of course. Most comics do. Very few tell “street jokes,” which are the jokes that you’ll find in joke books or magazines. I’m not going to drive 10 hours to tell some joke that I heard from someone else. Everything I say on stage is something that I’ve conceived, written and tested. All credit (and blame) goes to me. “But I was helping the show!” When people think of hecklers, they usually think of someone who intentionally tries to disrupt the show. Yes, these people certainly exist, despite the wealth of prescription medications available to them. But they are outnumbered by those who shout things out because they think they are making the show better. You may have been the homecoming queen or the topselling Shetland pony feed supplier in your office, but once you are part of a comedy audience, you have relinquished your imagined right to be the center of attention. Somehow, we can make it without you. No comic has ever written a joke thinking, “This is the perfect spot for someone to interrupt me.” So, if you see me during Laughfest, come say “hi” after the show. Just don’t tell me how you would have written this article so much — DK hamilTOn better.

illustration by Christy beCKwith

local laughs

STaND-UP IS aN unappreciated art form. Comedians aren’t taken as seriously as musicians or actors. As far as entertainers go, we’re somewhere below magicians, balloon artists and meteorologists. I think most people don’t see stand-up as a talent, but rather something that anyone can do. Even the most humorless person in the world has made someone laugh. So how hard could it be to do stand-up, right? Wrong. Comics are more accessible than other performers, which perhaps lessens our mystique. It also leads to interesting conversations. Here are some of the most common things I hear before and after shows: “are you going to pick on me if I sit in the front?” There’s a difference between picking on someone and doing “crowd work.” Yes, there are some comedians who insult people as part of their acts, but most comics don’t. People are often reluctant to sit by the stage. Besides Sea World, comedy clubs are the only places where people don’t want to sit anywhere near the performers. “I’ve got a joke you can use if you want.” No, I assure you that you don’t. I’m glad you enjoyed the show, and thank you for sharing your favorite joke with me. But I’m not going to use it. Ever.

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Illustration by Christy Beckwith

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life & style PeoPle / trends / booKs / fashion / fitness

rEaDING rOOM

Inspiring others “The day after I graduated, I moved to Chicago and studied there, especially working with improv troops.” After a stint in New York City, he moved to Hollywood, where he’s been in many TV shows and movies. Christian said being on a soap offers great security for an actor. “When we go on hiatus, it’s nice to know I have a job to come back to. And I still have time to audition for comedies and dramas.” The best part, he said, is filming six to seven episodes a week. “It’s a real training ground — a great mental work— marTY PrimeaU out.”

Grand Rapids native Shawn Christian and other members of the “Days of Our Lives” cast share their secrets for living well.

PhotograPhy Courtesy days of our lives PubliCations

The coffee table book, “Days of Our Lives Better Living: Cast Secrets for a Healthier, Balanced Life,” features photos of Grand Rapids’ native Shawn Christian with paintbrush and easel — shirtless. Yep, the actor who plays the role of Dr. Daniel Jonas on the long-running soap is showing off his ripped six pack as he dabs paint onto a canvas — something he does to unwind. It’s one of many photos of Christian and the multi-generational cast, who share better living tips with readers, from nutrition and exercise to inspiration and style. “Everybody has a unique perspective on how to stay healthy,” said Christian, who has been living in Los Angeles for 16 years. “What’s nice about the book is that it’s not just a follow-the-stars guide; it’s really a compilation on how a variety of people stay fit. I think readers can find things that work for them.” There’s a picture of him flipping steaks (wearing a shirt) in the Nutrition chapter that includes his Grilled RibEye Steak recipe. “The greatest nutritional and exercise advice is to do what works for you, what makes you feel good on the inside,” he writes. His character is a guy who loves sun and surf, and Christian shares those outdoor pursuits. He and his son, 13-year-old Kameron, often camp in Big Sur or spend time in Pismo Beach. When the actor gets homesick for the landscape of West Michigan, he hops in his Jeep and heads for the back country. “I’ve found some hiking sanctuaries around L.A. that make me feel like I’m back home.” A photo in the Inspiration chapter shows him walking on a path near a river that looks very West Michigan. A graduate of Rogers High School in Wyoming, Christian went on to attend Ferris State University.

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Best of 2013-14 Readers Poll

Model

Get Your Game Face On! Join Us for our March Madness Event

Photography courtesy days of our lives publications

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life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS

Cult classics

A sense of humor and whimsy is apparent in all of Husted-Goss’ products, a plethora of magnets, pins, greeting cards and prints mostly focused on some of her favorite cult movies and TV shows — think “Arrested Development” and “Twin Peaks.” The graphic designer also makes some adorably quirky custom family portraits. She has a knack for picking out the best bits and making them either wearable or frame worthy. “I really only make items that I like, about things I like,” she explained. “My work is all-consuming — 70-hour weeks are an actuality — but I love it.” Husted-Goss also loves Grand Rapids. She moved to the city late last year after an eight-year stint in Chicago. “Chicago was great, but it never really felt like home,” she explained. “I have travelled all over the country and I can honestly say Grand Rapids is my favorite city.” Husted-Goss grew up just outside Detroit and studied graphic design at Eastern Michigan University before moving solo to Chicago in 2005. It was there that she set up and co-owned a graphic design business for four years before her interests in more personal, creative illustration started to take precedence. “I have always drawn, but I never really considered it as a full-time thing.” That was until her wedding in 2011, when Husted-Goss and her fiancé handmade pretty much everything, including

the invitations. “Guests kept coming up to me and asking where I had got the invitations. When I

Jen Husted-G

oss makes bu

told them it was me, people started saying I could do it full time.” Inspired by the positive feedback, Husted-Goss set up an Etsy account that year. The current range of designs and subjects at Arthur’s Plaid Pants is broad and ever

ttons in her

home studio.

evolving. “I’m almost at a point where I probably need to phase certain designs out,” she said. Husted-Goss gets orders from all over the country, and her cards and pins are stocked in more than 25 stores nationwide. “I am incredibly busy, especially as I do absolutely everything in-house. The printing, scoring, cutting and packaging all happens right here.” She makes a huge effort to utilize local suppliers and recycled or biodegradable packaging for her products. “I really believe investing in your local community is one of the most important things you can do,” she said. “I also try and make sure all of my products are only stocked in independently owned stores.” Locally, that includes Rebel Reclaimed, 926 E. Fulton St., and Carol Roeda Studio in Breton Village. “Giving up my day job was a terrifying prospect, but it was absolutely the right decision. It was definitely a sink or swim moment.” Visit Arthur’s Plaid Pants online at etsy.com/shop/ArthursPlaidPants and the new website at arthursplaidpants.com. To contact Husted-Goss, email Jen@arthurs — Emma Higgins plaidpants.com.

Photography by Johnny Quirin

en Husted-Goss named her business Arthur’s Plaid Pants in honor of her grandfather. “He wore these crazy polyester golfing pants,” she said with a laugh. “But he definitely never played golf.”

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Goodbye, Cabin Fever.

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Hello, Spring Fever!

Celebrate Spring with a romantic getaway for two or a fun weekend with friends in Traverse City!

TraverseCity.com | 800-TRAVERSE

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

A lifetime of art As an artist and an art teacher, Loretta Sailors has found joy in her profession.

Photography by Elyse Wild; paintings courtesy Loretta Sailors

oretta Sailors has a knack for helping people find their inner artist. “First of all, I want art to be fun,” says the Grand Rapids woman who has been teaching watercolor classes in her basement for 27 years. “I want people to feel like they can play. That is most important.” At 89, she has no plans to stop teaching. A native of Adrian, Mich., Sailors graduated from Michigan State University and worked as an art teacher in Grand Rapids Public Schools for more than 30 years. When she retired in 1986, she wasn’t ready to give up teaching. That year she turned the basement of her home into a studio and welcomed anyone who wanted to learn the art of watercolor. “I really never had to advertise,” she said. “They just seemed to follow me.” Sailors estimates she has taught thousands of students over the years. “She has so much information for us,” said Kendra Postma, a student of Sailors since 1995. “Not just on technique … she always tries to keep us informed on what’s going on in the art community.” Along with teaching four classes a week throughout the year, Sailors holds workshops during the month of June in Elk Rapids. An active member of the West Michigan art com“First of all, I munity for decades, the places she has exhibited include want art to be Lowell Arts Council, the First Methodist and Westfun. I want people minster Presbyterian to feel like they churches in downtown Grand Rapids, Franciscan play. That is can Life Process Center, most important.” Terryberry Gallery at St. — Loretta Sailors Cecilia Music Center and Blue Heron Gallery in Elk Rapids. She was one of the founders of the Rivertown Artists Guild, established in 1990. Sailors is always searching for new ways to keep her techniques fresh, painting with glitter pens, nail polish, India ink, knives, sponges and even syringes on a wide variety of surfaces. “She taught us how to experiment, and we do what we do because 24 Grmag.com \ March 2014

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Photography by Elyse Wild; paintings courtesy Loretta Sailors

Rose Gold Earrings by Scott Carey

of her,” said Patti Sevensma, a former student who has gone on to show her artwork internationally. “She taught us to play — it makes it so interesting. And what happens is, because of that, we all found our own voices. She really opened the door for us.” Her students learn how to use art as a means of expression and a way to experience life. “The most important thing I’ve learned from Loretta is that your art is your salvation,” Sevensma added. “No matter what else happens in your life, as long as you have your art you will be OK.” Likewise, Sailors has continued to work on her art through hardships. “It is wonderful therapy, whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression or grief,” she said. She credits focusing on painting with getting her through the sudden death of her youngest daughter in 1983. Even joint replacements in both of her hands to ease the pain of arthritis has not stopped Sailors from picking up a brush and putting together a lesson. When she is unable to maneuver the stairs to her studio, she gathers her students around her in her living room to teach her lessons and offer critiques. “It has absolutely given me joy,” she said. “I just love doing it.” — Elyse Wild

Tu-Fr 10-5 Sat 12-4 616-459-5075 820 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids shop@metalartstudioinc.com March 2014 / Grmag.com 25

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

2/ Craft House will host the Avenue for the Arts Juried Exhibition March 7-21.

Local art galleries

Compiled by Alex Fluegel

1/ LaFontsee Galleries: Opening March 7 (reception 5-8 p.m.), revisit winter through the Out of the Polar Vortex exhibit, featuring selections from what the gallery’s artists have created during the chilly months (Lake Drive location). 833 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids, 451-9820. Douglas location closed for season, hours by appointment only. lafontsee.us. 2/Craft House: March 7: Craft House will host the first-ever Avenue for the Arts Members Juried Exhibition, featuring work from local artists and crafters. As part of the First Fridays gallery hop, shops along Division Avenue will be open 6-9 p.m. 40 S. Division Ave., crafthousegr.com and Facebook. 3/ TerryBerry Gallery: Denise Dunn’s work is on display March 4-20. Her rich, vibrant oil paintings explore her musical influences and are often titled in reference to the instrument that sparked her inspiration. Artist reception 5:30-8 p.m. March 8. 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online.org/ building/terryberry-gallery.

Art Gallery 318: Fine art by Kathleen Mooney; open by appointment and during regular open houses. 318 E. Main St., Lowell, 890-1879, facebook. com/ArtGallery318FineArt. Betsy Ratzsch Pottery: Ceramics, artwork and gifts from American artisans. 584 Ada Drive, 682-0266, betsyrpottery.com. Cascade Art Gallery: Multi-media art, print collection, glass, sculpture, jewelry, custom framing, gifts. 2840 Thornapple River Drive SE, 9494056, cascadegallery.blogspot.com. Center Art Gallery: Calvin College’s on-campus gallery features student, faculty and alumni work and that of secular and religious artists of note. March 7-April 26 (closed March 21-31 for Spring Break): Getting Different in Naked Woods – Mike Andrews. 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, Covenant Fine Arts Center, 526-6271, calvin.edu/ centerartgallery. Con Artist Crew: Art collective and gallery. 1111 Godfrey SW, North Building, No. 198, conartistcrew.com. Flat River Gallery: Co-op of local and national artists; framing available. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatrivergalleryandframing.com. Forest Hills Fine Art Center: Artist-in-residence program offers month-long exhibits by local, regional and national artists. Opening March 5, Stacy Niedzwiecki, Photography, reception 6-7 p.m. March 13. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfine artscenter.com. Gallery 154: Local and national multi-media art, gifts, jewelry. 1456

Opening March 7

Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, gallery154. com. Gallery of Art at Aquinas College: Gallery hosts variety of work from students, faculty and visiting artists. Thru March 28 (closed March 8-16 for spring break): 2013 Student Show. aquinascollege.edu/art/gallery.html. Gaspard Gallery: Artist-operated contemporary gallery. 235 S. Division Ave., 401-7533, gaspardgallery.com.

1/ At LaFontsee Galleries, Out of the Polar Vortex includes paintings by Tony Ro-ko-, left, and Toni Swarthout, below.

Grand Rapids Art Museum: See Museums & Attractions. Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 235-7211, ext. 103, heartside. org. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: See Museums & Attractions. Kendall College of Art and Design: Four galleries display work by students, staff and visiting artists. March 4-April 17: Humor in Craft. Galleries are in the Fountain Street Building and at the Fed Galleries, 17 Pearl St. NW. kcad.edu/galleries. LowellArts! King Gallery: Community gallery with seven rotating exhibits throughout year. Thru April 10, West Michigan Regional Art Competition. 149 S. Hudson, Lowell, 897-8545, lowellartsmi.org. MercuryHead Gallery: Work by local artists plus gifts and framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 456-6022, Facebook. Muskegon Museum of Art: See Museums & Attractions. Nice Gallery: Artist-run gallery features contemporary artwork. 1111 Godfrey Ave. SW, No. 4C, 284-1771, thenicegallery.com. Perception Gallery: Fine art gallery also offers home décor, art res-

toration and appraisal services. 210 E. Fulton St., 451-2393. Richard App Gallery: Fine art from local and U.S. artists. 910 Cherry St. SE, 458-4226, therichardappgallery. tumblr.com. Sanctuary Folk Art: Salon-style gallery displays and sells local folk art. 140 S. Division Ave., 454-0401, Facebook.. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Thru April 27, Mercurial Silence, work from Caroline Gore; and Art Collecting as Community Building – The Rogers & Weisenbacher Collection. 2 W. Fulton St., 459-7000, uica.org. Check websites for hours of operation.

Photography courtesy Avenue for the Arts (top); LaFontsee Galleries (center and bottom)

106 Gallery and Studio: Calvin College-run gallery in Heartside features student and local artists’ work. 106 S. Division Ave., calvin.edu/ centerartgallery/studio.

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A frank portrayal

PhoToGraPhy courTESy frEDErIK mEIJEr GarDENS & ScuLPTurE ParK/WILLIam J. hEbErT

PhoToGraPhy courTESy aVENuE for ThE arTS (ToP); LafoNTSEE GaLLErIES (cENTEr aND boTTom)

aLThouGh DescrIPTIoNs of the human figure and the history of sculpture have been synonymous since antiquity, there was a brief period in the middle of the 20th century when figurative sculpture nearly disappeared. A tradition that had flourished since the ancient Greeks and Romans grew rather timid against the rigorous forces of abstraction and the use of industrial materials from the 1940s through the 1980s. Certainly, there were a few highly admired sculptors still committed to the figure during this period, but abstracted and non-representational imagery held forth. Pop artist George Segal (1924-2000) was among pioneering individuals who revived figurative tradition in sculpture but in new and innovative ways. “Girl Standing in Nature” from 1976 is a

recent gift to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and is installed in the Gallery section of the park. It is an un-idealized, surprisingly frank description of the female figure. In his pursuit of honesty and straightforwardness, Segal embraces a more recent tradition in the history of figurative sculpture started by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin in the late 19th to early 20th century. Moreover, the sculpture describes a candid, snapshot quality of everyday life that was promoted by Segal and his fellow Pop Art revolutionaries, including Andy Warhol, Jim Dine and Claes Oldenburg, throughout most of the 1960s and 1970s. Born in New York to an immigrant Jewish family from Eastern Europe, Segal initially studied painting and worked as an art and English teacher in New Jersey. In the late 1950s, he began to experiment with sculpture using quick-hardening dental plaster. By the early 1960s, he began to work with newly created plaster-infused bandages intended to create casts for broken limbs. For Segal, making body casts using family members and models offered the opportunity to create figures with a degree of honesty and directness completely novel to the history of art. Most often he kept the plaster sculptures white, but in other instances he painted them with bold colors. Although he created plaster sculptures throughout his career, Segal did allow for a select number of these plasters to be cast in bronze so they could be displayed outdoors. Of great importance, “Girl Standing in Nature” was Segal’s first outdoor sculpture. It suggests an honesty and freedom of form in a completely natural setting, but also maintains the surface textures and overall monochromatic white steadfastly associated with his iconic plasters. It is one of three sculptures by this legendary American sculptor in the permanent collection of Meijer Gardens.

art talk Joseph A. Becherer is curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and a professor at Aquinas College.

ThINGs To coNsIDer: > Take the sculpture in from a variety of points of view. Notice those areas that evidence the plaster original. Imagine how different the sculpture would be if it were painted life-like rather than patinated white.

> Compare this female figure to Auguste Rodin’s “Eve” featured nearby. Notice how neither figure is an idealized representation of the female form but a rather candid commentary on the respective models. > When back in the main building, look for Segal’s other sculptures outside the Wege Library and in the stairwell to the lower level. Consider the shared and differing visual traits. > While you are near the library, pop in and enjoy the books on Segal or his Pop Art contemporaries like Jim Dine and Claes Oldenburg.

— JOSEPH A. BECHERER March 2014 / GrmaG.com 27

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art & design TrENDS / PEoPLE / INNoVaTIoN / PLacES

JusTaGIrLBLoG.coM

Revamp boring fixtures Add paint, beads or rope — or, with a little know-how, create a whole new lamp.

Light up your room Update old lighting fixtures into new one-of-a-kinds. ways to change up lighting. Start with a hanging light bulb and build a decorative frame. Or give an already-beautiful chandelier a more nautical look by wrapping thin rope around it. Even just replacing chandelier shades can change the entire vibe of the fixture. Supplies are inexpensive and can be found at your local hardware store. Lastly, consider adding beads to a chandelier or pendant light. Inexpensive wood beads can be purchased on websites such as Etsy and eBay. You can follow templates seen online, or create your own design! The best part about these ideas is that even though there is a range in DIY levels, they can all be done by the average homeowner. Some may require a little more math, mind you, but they’re possible! So dust off that old light in your garage and see what kind of beauty you can turn it into. — Chris Carey is a Rockford wife, mom, teacher and avid do-it-yourselfer who shares her home projects and decorating tips on her justagirlblog. com.

Check out these sites for more inspiration: livelovediy.com mrkate.com vintagerevivals.com viewalongtheway.com simplysalvage.com designsalononline.com thepaintedhive.net ilovethatblog.com sarahmdorseydesigns. blogspot.com

PhoToGraPhy courTESy chrIS carEy

When it comes to decorating, one my favorite aspects in a room is lighting. Unfortunately, good lighting is not necessarily budget-friendly. But when pricey and posh aren’t an option, there are still ways to get the look without spending the money. First and foremost, spray paint is a DIYers best friend and is easy enough for novice decorators. It’s inexpensive and can change the look of the ugliest of lights. A dated brass fixture can be quickly updated with a more muted bronze tone or even a bright splash of color. If you don’t like it, cover it with another coat of something you do like. It’s a way to revamp something that has the lines or structure you like but not the finish. If you can get a handle on how to do the wiring, try making your own light. Turn some copper piping or an old music stand into a floor lamp, or wire a large vase into an accent lamp for a side table. These projects are more involved but can be done with some guidance. Plus, you get a oneof-a-kind lamp for very little money. If wiring isn’t your thing, look into alternative 28 GrmaG.com \ March 2014

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Open Table “Diners Choice” and “Most Romantic” Award Winner PRIVATE DINING • SUNDAY BRUNCH • SPECTACULAR WATERFRONT VIEWS 63 Market Avenue, S.W. | 616.459.2500

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

if By Dana Blinder Photography by Michael Buck

Where’s the grass?

If Joe Nelson looks out the windows of his Ada home at the right time, he can see a male hummingbird trying to attract a mate. His yard, filled mainly with plants and ornamental grasses, attracts groundhogs, bees, birds and butterflies. What the landscape doesn’t have much of is grass. “The front lawn is basically all garden,” said Nelson, a master gardener. He and his wife, June, enjoy gardening and observing wildlife as a hobby. “We just love that it can change as the months go on,” he said. “The lawn is just the lawn — there’s no variation in that.”

The plants on their property are always changing based on what the couple plants and what pops up. Last summer they had a mix of pokeweed, milkweed, goldenrod, violets, herbs, huckleberry, dwarf plants, azaleas, strawberries, hellebore and American cranberry. “The beautiful purple pokeweed berries are poisonous to humans,” he said. “But we saw a groundhog eating them in the yard last year and getting drunk off them.” In Heritage Hill, Jodi and Kirby Watson also wanted a natural habitat to encourage birds and beneficial insects. But mostly they wanted to transform their unusable backyard

The backyard of Jodi and Kirby Watson’s Heritage Hill home was transformed into an ideal space for outdoor entertaining with brick paving, carefully placed LED lighting and lush plants. Opposite page: The Nelsons’ backyard in Ada is filled with plants that attract a variety of critters. 30 Grmag.com \ March 2014

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March 2014 / Grmag.com 31

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

GARDENING 101

What’s wrong with my plant? It’s a question Melinda Myers often hears, and the gardening expert has written more than 20 books to help homeowners find answers. Two of her latest — “Michigan Getting Started Garden Guide” and “Midwest Gardener’s Handbook” — zero in on the challenges of gardening in the Great Lakes states. “People are looking for easy strategies, so I try to put together surefire tips for being successful,” she said. This month Myers will be a presenter at the West Michigan Home & Garden Show, covering such topics as Plants for Difficult

The Nelsons’ low-maintenance front yard is mostly garden with a small amount of grass, creating a perfect setting to observe wildlife.

Gardens for People with Limited Time, Space & Budget. “I’m a practical type of gardener,” said Myers, who is a certified arborist and earned a master’s degree in horticulture. “I’m always looking for twofers — things I can do that double and triple results. Instead of raking leaves, it’s better to shred them with the mower and use that mulch in the garden.” Preparing the soil and picking the right plants for the location are essential, especially for new gardeners, she said. Her books are filled with color photos to help people visualize and learn about the plant varieties that will flourish in their yards. Besides writing books and columns, Myers hosts nationally syndicated “Melinda’s Garden Moment” segments that air on TV and radio stations. For 20 years she hosted “The Plant Doctor” radio program as well as several television programs. One of the recent changes she has observed is the growth of eco-friendly gardening. “Today, people want a beautiful yard and garden, but they also want to do the right thing by the environment. And the Midwest has been one of the leaders. I’ve started including smart gardening and how to be water wise into my topics.” For a list of her presentation times March 6-9, visit showspan.com/wmh.

into a space suitable for entertaining. “Although grass can look nice, it wasn’t practical for us,” Jodi said. “And because we live downtown, we wanted to create a space that could provide privacy and block noise.” Corey Finkler, designer and project manager at Outdoor Impressions, started the process by surveying the area beyond the Watson’s lawn. “My eye was drawn to the many existing elevations on Fountain Street — the tall 19th century homes at different heights, the way the house was sunken into the hillside,” he said. “To me, the design for this project had to contain those same elements.” The Watsons had expressed interest in brick paving and natural rocks along with some lush plants to soften the space. Corey included those elements and also helped further seclude their property from the noise of nearby downtown. “We incorporated a pond-less waterfall and tall evergreens to drown out surrounding noise and close off the space in a secluded cozy way,” he said. “We also took advantage of existing elevations by both varying the shape and height of the patio and incorporating different materials to add interest to the overall design.” The use of LED lighting throughout the space helped create a beautiful atmosphere and also a functional one for after-dark entertaining. The nod to natural elements without the use of grass means the Watsons can spend more time entertaining and less time worrying about watering and clipping the lawn. “The idea behind this project was to deliver a final space that was low maintenance and inviting,” Finkler said. The Nelsons’ plant-filled yard in Ada also requires very little maintenance, despite the ever-changing nature of the property. “Some plants, like violets and herbs, work well as groundcover and need very little in terms of maintenance,” he said. “Huckleberry, wintergreen, azaleas and strawberries all look good and can cover a wide area.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MARK AVERY (TOP LEFT); COOL SPRINGS PRESS (BOTTOM )

Situations and Bountiful

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GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL is pleased to announce that Reshma Saujani will be the keynote speaker for the biennial “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan” luncheon event. Reshma is the author of the new book, “Women Who Don’t Wait in Line,” in which she advocates for a new model of female leadership focused on embracing risk and failure, promoting mentorship and sponsorship, and boldly charting your own course, both personally and professionally. She is also the founder of Girls Who Code, a national non-

profit organization working to close the gender gap in technology fields and prepare young women for jobs of the future. Please join us on March 4, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s Ambassador Ballroom, as we celebrate the achievements of “The 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan.”

Reserve your seats now at 50womengrbj.eventbrite.com.

Reshma Saujani Keynote Speaker

Author, “Women Who Don’t Wait in Line” Founder, Girls Who Code The first Indian-American woman to run for Congress Named one of Forbes’ Most Powerful Women Changing the World, Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People, Ad Age’s Creativity 50, Business Insider’s 50 Women Who Are Changing the World; Honored as AOL/PBS Next MAKER Has appeared in O, The Oprah Magazine, Fast Company and on The Today Show

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

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A pond-less waterfall in the Watson’s backyard helps drown out noise of downtown Grand Rapids.

Part of Nelson’s landscaping success is his “anything goes” attitude. While he once used insect killers and fertilizers, he now largely lets Mother Nature rule. “We call nature our ‘volunteer’ because we often see new plants pop up in new places without putting in any effort ourselves,” he said. “The nice thing about low maintenance plants is they really are that. If you want to trim them a bit, you can; if they start to wilt due to lack of water, they’ll bounce back quickly. Most will last the entire growing season on their own.” Even throughout the colder months, Nelson said the landscape still changes. His evergreen hellebores bloom until first frost; his American cranberry bush transforms from red to green to purple throughout the year and its berries attract birds in the winter. For tips on finding plants that do well in West Michigan, call the Kent County Michigan State University Co-Op at (616) 336-3265. Or look for books that specialize in Michigan native plants, including “Landscaping with Native Plants of Michigan” by Lynn Steiner, or “Michigan: Getting Started Garden Guide,” by Melissa Myers (see sidebar). Another book Nelson suggests is “The Encyclopedia of Ornamental Grasses.” GR

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Pleased to meet you all over again. Hello, Neighbor. We felt news of this caliber needed a reintroduction. Prudential Preferred, REALTORS is proud to become Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate. When the most respected brand in the world, Berkshire Hathaway, puts its name on a real estate sign, that’s a good sign for the market and a great sign for you. We’ve always been in the business of placing great neighbors. Great neighbors are always willing to open their doors to you. And as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate we have a lot of doors we can open. Of course, we’re also experts on what is outside of those doors. Our REALTORS® know the best parks, the best restaurants for date night and where the farmers’ markets are located. Because you’re not just buying a home, you’re buying a neighborhood. We can help you with both. So please, come see our homes. Visit bhhsmi.com

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SIXTY YEARS AGO, what began as a local real estate company has since grown to national prominence as the family-owned, multigenerational Prudential Preferred, REALTORS® Family of Companies recently transitioned to become Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate. Built by Warren Buffet and based in Irvine, Calif., Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a brand-new real estate brokerage network designed for a new era in residential and commercial real estate. The network – among the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name – brings to the real estate market a definitive air of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. It is a perfect fit for the former Prudential family of brokerages. They marked 2013 by surpassing the monumental benchmark of a billion dollars in closed sales volume – a historic first for a west Michigan broker, and an accomplishment that only two other Michigan firms have attained. “This is much more than a name change for us; it’s an opportunity to bring a new level of quality and innovation to our future,” said Steve Fase, Broker Owner and CEO. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, the full-service brokerage firm supports 550

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Left to Right: Steve Fase, Katy (Fase) Teklinski, Tom Teklinski and Ashley Box Photo by: Michael Buck

sales professionals and operates 37 offices in markets that stretch from Charlevoix to Elkhart, Ind., and from Grand Rapids to Grand Blanc. “We’re merging the heritage and expertise of Prudential, and matching it with the investment competency, brand reputation, financial prowess and leadership of Berkshire Hathaway,” he explained. “It’s a name that is respected worldwide for strength, integrity and trust, and we believe our clients and real estate agents will be proud to represent this revolutionary brand.” Fase and his leadership team recently embarked on a two-week road trip to celebrate the national launch of the new brand with their agents statewide and personally introduce this new phase in the continuing growth of the company. Buffet’s real estate brand represents a defining moment for the entire real estate industry. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real estate is investing significant resources to equip its agents with cutting-edge technology, which will further distinguish them in their local communities. “We’re excited about the strength this adds to our organization and the clients we serve,” Fase summed up. “Our company’s future has never been more progressive or promising.”

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3514 Rivertown Point Court Grandville, MI 49418 PHONE/WEB

616.534.0135 www.rivertowndental.com

AT RIVERTOWN DENTAL ASSOCIATES, they make you feel at home the minute you walk in the door. Providing the ultimate in dental care, this unique team of dental professionals will put you at ease with the kind of friendly, personal attention that makes you feel part of an extended family. Committed to providing the highest level of excellence in dental care and patient service, they are equally passionate about promoting optimum oral health and aesthetAfter ics. Owner, Dr. Mike Crete, believes in educating every patient on the best ways to obtain – and maintain – the kind of optimum dental health that allows patients to keep their teeth for a lifetime. “I believe that everyone deserves a healthy smile,” he explained with conviction. “The most rewarding thing for me in my practice is to see a patient ‘transform’ their dental health and value the results.” Ever since the practice was established in 1986, Rivertown Dental Associates have been exceeding patients’ expectations. Before Their level of care and wide array of dental services have transformed lives, from basic preventative procedures to complete smile makeovers. “It’s surprising how much

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Dr. Crete’s staff is commited to exceptional customer service. Team members pictured: (L-R) Tricia Warsen, Patient Care Coordinator, Dr. Mike Crete, Sonia Bouwman, RDA, CDA Dental Assistant. Team members not pictured: Lisa Feldmeier, Sue Hickey, Kris Niekamp, Anna Chambers, Jolie O’Connor, Jami Zalenski Photo by: Michael Buck

a self-confident smile can further a career or generate a total sense of self assurance in any social situation,” Dr. Crete noted. Dr. Crete also believes that maintaining optimum oral health is a lifelong process. He and his team treat children as young as three, along with teenagers, young adults and mature seniors. As part of their patient-focused philosophy, you’ll not only be coached on how you and your loved ones can obtain ideal dental health, but you’ll be treated by a complete team of dental professionals who are committed to the highest standards of excellence in current dental treatment. At Rivertown Dental, the personable, caring staff undergoes continual training in the most advanced dentistry techniques, and Dr. Crete invests in superior technology to provide patients with the area’s absolute best in dental care. In addition, you’ll be pampered and comforted at every visit. “Our patients are what we are all about,” Dr. Crete concluded. Give yourself the gift of a smile: Contact Rivertown Dental to schedule a complimentary Smile Analysis or an initial cleaning appointment. Visit www.river towndental.com for more information.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GEBBEN

Tapestry of materials THE ARCHITECTURE OF HERITAGE HILL is well represented by Victorian homes. Constructed from about 1860 to 1900, this style is actually a collection of many sub-styles, including Second Empire, Queen Anne, Richardsonian Romanesque and Shingle. Victorian-era homes, popular during the later decades of Britain’s Queen Victoria’s reign, are loosely based on Medieval architecture. They have many emblematic features that include multi-textured and multi-colored walls, strong asymmetrical facades and steeply pitched roofs. However, many homes rendered in this style deviate from historically precise detailing. In many cases, particularly in the Midwest, stylistic details were borrowed from other styles and then modified. This deviation is typical of the Shingle style, which takes some of its inspiration from earlier Colonial American architecture, such as the Georgian and Adam homes popular during the late 1700s and early 1800s. This influence was at least in part due to the popularity of these homes because of the centennial celebrations of 1876. A great example of the Shingle style is located at 50 Lafayette Ave. NE. The home, built in 1886 by John C. Holt, is reminiscent of the large summer “cottages” of the eastern seaboard, which is where the Shingle style is most prevalent. Today, the Holt residence stands much like it did in the late 1800s. Its grand and complicated massing and detailing borrows not only from colonial styling but also from the heavy stonework and Roman arches that identified H.H. Richardson’s Richardsonian Romanesque style. The house has massive blocks of granite that define its robust entry, complete with a stone arch at the front door. As one would expect, wood shingles cover the rest of the exterior walls, originally integrating the walls and roof with one material. Most notably, the house has a gambrel-shaped roof with a large hexagonal turret that accentuates its asymmetrical mass and informal shape — features that are typical of the Shingle style. This massing and scale, combined with a tapestry of materials and augmented with decorative brackets and a stairwell window that is divided into multiple squares with heavy framing, give the home an exquisite textural appearance, a free-form expression and an almost sculptural presence. The building beckons a passerby to reach out and touch it.

frame works Architect Mark F. Miller is an urban designer at Nederveld, and has led the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission and the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

JOHN C. HOLT was president of the Antrim Iron Co., which was located near Mancelona, Mich., in a company town aptly called Furnaceville because it was platted around the furnace of the iron works. Holt bought the company (and town) in 1886 and renamed the company the Antrim Iron Works and the town, Antrim. He was also president of Kent Country Club from 1903 to 1937. Other examples of the Shingle style in Heritage Hill include:

> 146 Campbell Place > 455 Prospect Ave. SE (by Grand Rapids architect Sidney Osgood for his residence). > 340 Cherry St. SE (a combination of Shingle and Craftsman styles) > 23 Lafayette Ave. NE (a combination of Shingle and Stick styles)

— MARK F. MILLER

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GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE’S 34TH ANNUAL DINING AWARD WINNERS

hail chefs to the

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN GR’S TOP KITCHENS? LOCAL CHEFS TALK ABOUT CULINARY TRENDS IN 2014.

By MARTY PRIMEAU Photography by MICHAEL BUCK

Above: Grove’s Winter Vegetable Salad combines carrots from Vertical Paradise Farms, radish, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, purple potatoes, braised pistachios with celery root puree, thyme emulsion and balsamic reduction.

Opposite page: Grove’s Salmon & Scallop Ceviche Mixto is a mashup of apples, citrus, shaved vegetables, sweet peas and pepita granola with a swash of beet puree.

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well, it’s about time. Food critics nationwide are hailing the Midwestern food movement as a hot trend for 2014, after years of touting other regional cuisines. And no one understands the Heartland’s offerings as well as the chefs in West Michigan, who continue to amaze us with their newfangled takes on regional dishes and techniques. In January, as the magazine staff tackled the difficult task of choosing the top restaurants for this month’s 2013 Grand Rapids Magazine Dining Awards, we interviewed some local chefs and restaurateurs about what’s happening in their kitchens — and trends they expect to see going forward. They talked about everything from comfort foods to culinary mash-ups. They agreed the demand for gluten-free foods and healthier fare continues to grow. Kale is still hot, but they expect some new veggies to soar this year. Pickling is big, they say, and so are house-made ingredients, like charcuterie and pasta. But above all, chefs confirm the farmto-fork philosophy is here to stay. One of the local pioneers is Patrick Wise, a founding partner of Essence Restaurant Group who oversees the culinary teams at all three Essence eateries. He started at Bistro Bella Vita in 1996 at age 19, opened The Green Well in 2007, and for the past three years has been executive chef at Grove — named Grand Rapids Magazine’s 2013 Restaurant of the Year. Grove received the same top honor in 2012

and was named 2011 Best New Restaurant. Since his early days at Bistro Bella Vita, Wise has partnered with area farmers to showcase the agricultural products of West Michigan, but he also combines a variety of ethnic traditions to create unique flavors. “First and foremost, our food is locally and regionally sourced,” he said. “But in the Midwest, we have such a rich heritage and we can draw on so many different influences, like Scandinavian, Polish, German and more.” The key is taking classic favorites and giving them an innovative twist. “Like lobster pierogi, a high-end version of a familiar Midwestern dish — kind of a rich man, poor man thing.” When we talked to Wise in January, he and his staff at Grove were getting creative with root vegetables and spicy seasonings. “Our favorite thing to do this time of the year is play around with cuisines of the sun,” he said. “So we introduce South American and Latin influences because we have dried chiles and beans to utilize. We want our food to have great flavor.” Other top chefs in Grand Rapids also tout the Midwestern infusion style, taking locally sourced ingredients to make unique dishes. At Reserve, Chef Matt Green says people seem to be rediscovering their culinary roots.

Patrick Wise, executive chef at Grove and a founding partner of Essence Restaurant Group, goes over the menu with members of his staff. Opposite page: Grove’s Blackfin Tuna Down South Okonomiyaki adds Asian inspiration to southern fare. Spice rubbed tuna is served with cornmeal-scallion pancake, ginger boiled peanuts, collard greens kimchi, tempura green beans, squash and turnip with chili peppergarlic barbecue and soy gastrique.

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RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

GROVE

919 Cherry St. SE, 454-1000 groverestaurant.com

Chef Patrick Wise and his team continue to impress with their imaginative food, stellar service and attention to detail. We love the Taste of Grove (three courses for $35) that allows a sampling of several smaller portions of the artfully crafted cuisine. Most of all, we appreciate the sourcing of ingredients from local, sustainable farms.

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“They’re remembering the thing they ate at their grandparents’ table, and that’s what they want to eat now.” — Matt Green, chef at Reserve

“They’re remembering the thing they ate at their grandparents’ table, and that’s what they want to eat now.” His winter menu includes dishes that draw on Polish and Dutch traditions. “We’ve spent a lot of time looking at this region. Right now we’re doing a lamb kielbasa with sauerkraut.” He also purchased a deer — “so we’ll be working through some venison.” Christian Madsen, executive chef at six.one.six in the JW Marriott and former head chef at The 1913 Room, is thrilled the rest of the country is discovering what the Midwest has to offer. “I think what people want now are comfort foods, but more upscale,” he said. “They’re looking for an innovative twist.” He says diners today tend to be very savvy. “I think we’ll see more people coming to Grand Rapids to experience the restaurants, as well as coming for the art or museums. People travel to Napa Valley for the wine. In Grand Rapids we have a strong focus on local beers and brewing. I think we’ll see beer used as an ingredient.”

Back to basics At Olive’s in East Grand Rapids, Chef Erin Jeffers sources from local farms and she’s also a fan of pure and simple ingredients. “I’ve been playing around with making my own version of things,” she said. “Like artisanal butter. All it takes is one ingredient, one tool

Reserve’s Bangs Island mussels steamed in harissa broth, with celery leaf, grilled bread and Provençal rouille.

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BEST NEW AMERICAN

TERRA GR

1429 Lake Drive SE 301-0998 terragr.com

Terra GRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Seared Sea Scallops are served with butternut squash puree, Brussels sprouts, maple brown butter, greens and pickled apple.

Since opening in July 2012, this Eastown restaurant has weathered some big changes while managing to serve some of the finest seasonal cuisine in an atmosphere that truly reflects the artsy neighborhood. In 2014, expect a few more surprises as Abby Therrien takes over as executive chef and Joel Wabeke leaves Grand Rapids to join Mani Osteria & Bar in Ann Arbor.

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“I think what people want now are comfort foods, but more upscale. They’re looking for an innovative twist.” — Christian Madsen, executive chef at six.one.six

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BEST CLASSIC AMERICAN

LEO’S

60 Ottawa Ave. NW, 454-6700 leosrestaurant.com

This restaurant has been at the top of the dining scene since opening 10 years ago in a space located in a downtown parking ramp. Owner Leo Beil and crew never disappoint with their classic fare — think seafood, steaks and more — always carefully prepared and served with a smile.

Leo’s grilled mahi mahi with fresh mango salsa.

and 10 minutes of patience. It’s really fun.” Besides great tasting butter, one of the side products is fresh buttermilk “that does something insanely good to cake.” And that’s right up her alley. Jeffers changes her dessert menu at Olive’s monthly, always challenging herself to come up with sweet creations using seasonal ingredients. At trattoria di’ stagione — named 2013 Best New restaurant — veteran chef Dan Chudik is making cheese and gelato in-house. “I think there’s a big trend in the way restaurants are making their own ingredients,” he said. “We’re making our own ricotta, and we’re looking to getting into more of that this year with in-house charcuterie and more.”

heaLth coNcerNs Not only do today’s chefs have to be creative, they have to address a variety of health concerns. That means everything from vegan options to recipes that cater to dietary restrictions. san chez Bistro, winner of the 2013 Best european restaurant, provides diners with 10 specialized menus to meet most allergy issues, including capsicum, tree nuts and citrus. “We’re not just a steak and potatoes restaurant,” said Cindy Sch-

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Olive’s pan-roasted salmon with grilled asparagus, scallion and potato hash, kimchee Brussels sprouts and miso butter with a soft poached egg. Opposite page: Trattoria di’ Stagione’s Saffron Risotto with red and yellow peppers.

“I’ve been playing around with making my own version of things. Like artisanal butter. All it takes is one ingredient, one tool and 10 minutes of patience. It’s really fun.” — Erin Jeffers, chef at Olive’s

neider, general manager of the downtown restaurant that has been whipping up Spanish-style tapas for 20 years. “Preparing tapas, we are combining so many different ingredients. Our chefs create and write the recipes for each item and we’ve created separate menus. If you need dairy free, that’s what you get.” More people are requesting gluten-free dishes, said Green, who says it’s an easy request for his staff at Reserve. “We don’t use any processed foods so it’s not really a problem.” In the grain category, chefs predict quinoa will continue to be strong. “But I think we’ll see other grains like amaranth and farro that will gain in popularity,” Jeffers said. Madsen likes freekah, a green wheat kernel. “Part of the appeal of quinoa is the health benefits,” he said. “The challenge is how to incorporate those healthier super foods with old favorites.” At Grove, Wise said fish dishes have been big sellers. “I get the

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BEST NEW RESTAURANT

TRATTORIA DIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; STAGIONE

1420 Lake Drive SE 458-5583 trattoridistagione.com

Chef Dan Chudik does an amazing job of cultivating a seasonal menu of Italian dishes, creating many of his yummy pastas from scratch (we love his ravioli!). With a strong emphasis on local and sustainable fare, Chudik features fish as menu specials to ensure the freshest and best available. Try the artisan-made burrata and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overlook the house-made limoncello. March 2014 / GrmaG.com 49

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“I think there’s a big trend in the way restaurants are making their own ingredients. We’re making our own ricotta, and we’re looking to getting into more of that this year with in-house charcuterie and more.” — Dan Chudik, chef at Trattoria di’ Stagione

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BEST ASIAN

MARU SUSHI & GRILL

927 Cherry St. SE, 458-1900 marurestaurant.com

feeling that people are eating a little lighter and that’s something we’ll continue to focus on.” He said he tries to buy fish and seafood from responsible sources. One of his favorites is Harrietta Hills, a West Michigan fishery. He also looks for less known varieties like cobia, a farmed white fish. “We get it from a company called Open Blue,” Wise said. “The owner scubas with the fish to make sure they are healthy.”

Pass the veGGies

It’s nearly impossible to pick just one Asian restaurant as the best. The city has lots of great eateries with unique specialties, from pho to shabu shabu. Sushi is hot right now and there’s no better place than Maru for fresh ingredients, including organic produce and wild-caught fish. The signature and specialty rolls are delish. On top of that, service is great.

Chefs say the abundance of farms in West Michigan is a huge plus. Expect to see more vegan and vegetarian dishes both as sides and as entrees. And don’t be surprised to see some veggies you’ve never tasted. “This year I think we’re going to see a broader range of vegetables, things that most people aren’t really accustomed to,” said Chef Abigail Therrien at terra Gr, named 2013 Best New american restaurant. Like kohlrabi. “I did a demo at the farmers market last summer, and people kept asking, ‘What is that?’ Even things like beets. People see them and hear about them, but they don’t really know what to do with them.” Luckily, folks today are open to trying new things. “Fifteen years ago, San Chez introduced a warm wilted spinach salad on the menu,” said Schneider. “People were too afraid to try it — ‘You’re going to cook this lettuce?’ It’s so funny that today it’s one of

Sashimi Platter at Maru Sushi & Grill

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“This year I think we’re going to see a broader range of vegetables, things that most people aren’t really accustomed to.” — Abigail Therrien, chef at Terra GR

our most popular salads.” Chefs say kale and Brussels sprouts will continue to be popular, but all predicted cauliflower will be the next hot vegetable. “Romanesco cauliflower is the most beautiful vegetable you’ll ever come across,” said Green. “It’s not a new thing; it’s an old variety. People have rediscovered kale and, hopefully, we’ll see the same enthusiasm for cauliflower.” Winter months are a challenge, but chefs say they try to stock up on lots of root veggies. “Our carrots are as good as they’ve ever been,” said Wise. “And white turnips. Charlie Ham (of Ham Family Farm in Allendale) has been on his knees in the snow digging up some amazing veggies.”

At your service

Above: Terra GR’s Miso Kale Salad includes shaved red cabbage, carrot, scallion and peanut in a miso vinaigrette. Opposite page: Desserts at San Chez Bistro & Café include Tarta de Chocolate con Trufas, a flourless dark chocolate torte served with chocolate ganache, semi-sweet chocolate truffles and raspberry sauce. The after-dinner cocktail is La Bebida de Granos de Café, with Stoli Vanil, Frangelico, Tuaca, Kahlua, espresso and crème de cacao.

There’s more to a successful restaurant than innovative, locally sourced food. “I think the biggest trend for us at Grove right now is hospitality,” said Wise. “Food is always a part of that, but our job is to make people feel special when they are out for a night.” Jill Norris, Grove’s general manager, said it’s all about getting to know the guests. “When we take a reservation, we find out if the person has been here before or it’s a first time or a special occasion. That way we can

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BEST EUROPEAN

SAN CHEZ BISTRO & CAFĂ&#x2030;

38 W. Fulton St., 774-8272 sanchezbistro.com

When it opened in 1992, few Grand Rapidians were familiar with Spanish tapas or ingredients like chorizo sausage and yucca. Dan Gendler and Jorge Sanchez took a gamble to create a different kind of restaurant in downtown. It worked then and still does today.

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BEST MIDDLE EASTERN/ MEDITERRANEAN

ZEYTIN

400 Ada Drive SE, 682-2222 zeytinturkishrestaurant.com

Is it worth the drive to dine on Middle Eastern fare in a small Turkish eatery in a strip center in Ada? Yep. The menu features a variety of wonderful Mediterranean dishes, from eggplant salsa to a vast array of entrees â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even liver and onions. And yes, do save room for dessert. 54 GrmaG.com \ March 2014

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BEST MEXICAN/LATIN AMERICAN/CARIBBEAN

EL ARRIERO

2948 28th St. SE Kentwood 977-2674

In this age of trendy street tacos and hole-in-the-wall Mexican eateries, we claim this Kentwood restaurant our favorite. Is it the most authentic Mexican food in the city? Probably not. But the ingredients are fresh, the service is friendly and fast, and there’s something for every taste on the menu.

set them up for a great experience when they arrive.” At Leo’s — 2013 Best classic american restaurant — owner Leo Beil says “hospitality is at the cornerstone of all we do and how we think. We’ll do whatever we’re physically capable of doing.” He’s been known to send a staffer to Martha’s Vineyard to find a wine that someone wants. “Sometimes people want to sit in our dining room but they want a Big O’s pizza, so we have one brought over,” he said. “And cab service isn’t always great so I’ve been known to run people around town.” At the JW Marriott, Madsen says technology also plays a role in the way restaurants give good service. “Marriott is developing a lot of initiatives, including one where guests can order limited food items via smart phone and have them ready when they get to the hotel,” he said. “That option may transfer into the restaurant, so people can do some preordering.” Local restaurants also offer a variety of events, from wine and beer dinners to cooking classes. At San Chez, the chefs teach everything from mastering knife skills to preparing wild game in a slow cooker. “It’s all about helping people enjoy the culinary arts,” Schneider said. Gr

Opposite page: Zeytin’s Lamb Mediterranean, featuring lamb sautéed with red sauce, peppers, tomatoes and onions, is served with rice and Turkish coleslaw. Above: El Arriero’s Quesadillas Grande, filled with cheese and marinated grilled chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes and bell peppers and served with lettuce, sour cream and pico de gallo. March 2014 / GrmaG.com 55

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

Counte R cultuR e By Alexandra Fluegel

Looking to add a bit of excitement to your restaurant experience? It can be as simple as choosing where to sit.

efore you slide into that booth or pull out a chair, consider a seat at a restaurant counter. Though not all eateries have the type of seating made popular by diners and malt shops, there are a few prime spots in the city that do. You often see counter-style seating in restaurants that specialize in fast, hasslefree breakfasts, as many patrons are looking to get in and out and on with their day. “A lot more people come in for breakfast alone,” says Casey Wagner, who has worked at Eastown’s Brandywine Restaurant for two years. “Sometimes you just want a cup of coffee and conversation, and the counter is perfect for that.” She says the restaurant has a handful of regulars who always sit at the counter. “They like being able to talk to us or read for awhile and not take up a whole table. Some people just like having servers close by in case they need anything.” Dan Goelhead, who has been a “counter regular” at Brandywine for five years, says he likes being close to the coffee and chatting with staff. Sundays have been “his thing” for the past few years, and he says he gladly waits for a seat at the counter. “I love

the counter and don’t mind waiting for a spot to open.” He says being able to interact with the entire staff, including those in the kitchen, is one of his favorite things about his seat of choice. “I like being able to talk to everyone instead of just the person whose section I’m in.” This type of relationship-building be tween a restaurant’s staff and its guests is the reason Fouad Catrib, son of the late restaurant-owner Marie Catrib, says they opted to include a counter in the East Hills restaurant. At his mother’s first restaurant, Marie’s Deli in the Upper Peninsula, one of the most important factors of coming into the eatery was being greeted by Marie from the wideopen kitchen, he says. “When we were thinking about how to build a kitchen into this space, we knew we wanted a counter because we wanted our kitchen staff to be able to interact with the guests.” Fouad says what’s great about the counter is that it gives the staff who don’t typically interact with guests the ability to do so. “They’ll all walk by the counter — bakers, salad preparers, chefs, dishwashers — you will see every single employee.”

He says he tells his staff to feel welcome to talk to guests, and that it’s the friendly, open atmosphere that keeps loyal diners coming back. “We try and stay so positive, and people can feel that energy.” Marie Catrib passed away in the summer of 2013 after a battle with cancer, and Fouad says one of his fondest memories is of her welcoming and greeting the customers at the counter. “Between the production kitchen and the dish room, it took her a half hour to come back sometimes because she was walking through and had to stop at the counter and say hi to people. It’s a really beautiful memory.” In addition to the interaction, Fouad says the counter is “the most lively spot in the house.” Evan Schanals, a member of the wait staff, agrees. “It’s entertaining. You get to listen to the chefs talk, see the food that’s going out. Plus, you never know who might sit next to you.” Schanals says he recently witnessed a pair of strangers sharing their food. “That was awesome. A guy made a comment on how good a woman’s dish looked and sure enough she responded with ‘try some.’”

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Photography by Johnny Quirin (top); Michael Buck (Bottom)

Jeff Harrison, Jim Kotman, Brianna Thierfelder and Meredith Morgan catch Chef Ian MacGregor and Executive Chef Patrick Conrade in action behind the counter at Electric Cheetah.

The counter also can be a great place to sit for first-timers, Fouad says. “It’s good for people who have never been here because they can get a feel for the business, of the dishes coming out.” Electric Cheetah has a similar style of counter seating. The concrete countertop is one of the first things to greet diners, who often wait for their table nearby. General Manager Mike Maher agrees it’s the perfect place for people who have never been to the restaurant before. “You can get a good feel for what kind of food we produce, see what might look good to you and see what you order before you get it.” Not only that, you can watch the chefs make it. “People love seeing the action,” Maher says, and it gives diners a sense of the work that goes into their favorite dish. On busy nights, it can get a little crazy behind the counter, but Maher says he likes allowing his guests to see what’s normally behind-the-scenes. “You see frustration sometimes, but you also see hustle,” he says. “A lot of our guests that sit up there tell me how much they admire the chefs. They’ll tell me, ‘Wow, I could never do that. It’s like clockwork; it’s like they’re machines back there’.”

Between the noise of the fryers, the flattop grill and the communication between the chefs and wait staff, Maher said the counter isn’t for those looking for a quiet spot to eat. “It does take a certain kind of person, someone who is open to having a little fun with dinner, who doesn’t mind if an errant fry winds up near their elbow.” Donna Oppewal has been sitting at the counter at Electric Cheetah since shortly after the eatery opened in 2009. “I grew up in a large family; meals were always shared with lots of other people,” she says. “You’re more likely to have a conversation with other customers if you’re sitting at the counter versus a table.” Oppewal is well known by the staff, and she says she loves being able to compliment and have conversations with the people who prepare her food. “It’s like being in a beehive. Watching the staff do what they do, it’s kind of amazing. It gives you a new appreciation for what they do, how fast they work and how

Michelle Kleinhenz greets customers with a smile at Marie Catrib’s, where the counter is “the most lively spot in the house,” according to owner Fouad Catrib.

much effort goes into the food that comes to you.” Oppewal, who often reads while she dines, says the counter offers the perfect mix of social and solitary. Maher says even though a lot of counter regulars come in alone, they are usually not the type of people who want a solitary dining experience. “They’re some of the most social people who come in.” Oppewal agrees, saying there’s one thing to remember: “You don’t go to the GR counter to be alone.” March 2014 / Grmag.com 57

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

By Molly Crist | Photography by Johnny Quirin

Gourmet To Go Navigating the fancy takeout scene

Foodie Molly Crist, who brought one of the first food trucks to Grand Rapids, looks at the options for those who don’t have time or talent in the kitchen.

ou’re craving the soul-warming experience of sitting around the table with family or friends, sharing a nourishing meal and some face time (in your PJs, perhaps). You aren’t in the mood to go out or open a can of spaghetti again, but spending time in the kitchen isn’t in your cards. Time for takeout. We’re not talking pizza or General Tso’s chicken. Local chefs are working hard to put fresh, gourmet food on your table, creating flavorful fancy dishes to go. They’ll make you look good and fill your belly with the food you’d cook yourself … if you had time and skills. No matter your motivation, fill the void between going out and staying in, and discover some of the best eats in West Michigan.

When you’re craving international flavors:

Kangaroo Kitchen & Catering opened last summer just a few blocks west of Fulton Street Farmers Market. Chef Roman Petrack treats guests to globally inspired food — as well as a charming Australian accent. His gourmet takeout is complemented by a full-service boutique catering company. Swing by Kangaroo’s cute, eclectic shop (Monday-Friday) for dinner to go, and grab items from the deli case, including salads, baked goods and many traditional Aussie desserts. The gorgeous presentation and unique flavors land them in the fancy category. We suggest: White Bean Salad with

Roasted Fennel, Carrot and Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic Arugula Dressing; Korean Fried Chicken Wings with Rice and Cabbage-Cucumber-Ginger Relish; Lamb Meat Loaf with Pan-Fried Goat Cheese Medallion and Blueberry Ginger Coulis over Horseradish Red Skin Potato Mash; Curried Spinach, Sweet Potato and Coconut Soup. 1007 E. Fulton St., 451-6775, kangarookitchengr.com

When you want to go meatless or sans gluten:

Marie Catrib’s has a dedicated local following and many find themselves feeling very at home when dining at Marie’s or visiting the glorious deli for take away. When most gluten-free and vegan Grand Rapidians were misunderstood, Marie had them covered with fresh, creative, flavor-forward options. The city finally has caught up with “GF” and “V” options, but Marie’s still leads with a largely dietaryrestriction-approved, yet majorly delicious menu. Carnivores will not be left out; many sustainable meat options grace the menu. Call ahead for a boxed meal or stop in the deli for a tantalizing variety of salads, entrees, breads, desserts, soups and gourmet cheeses that will make a quick, tasty spread. We suggest: Pasties on Wednesdays (meat, veggie or vegan); The (slightly epic) Larry David Lentil and Wild Rice Burger with Grilled Onion, Tomato, Spicy Tomato Molly Crist consults with Fish Lads owner Jeff Butzow at the takout counter in the Downtown Market.

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Gorgeous presentation and unique flavors are a hallmark of Kangaroo Kitchen & Catering.

Jam, Garlic Vegenaise on a Branny Oat Bun; Curried Rice Salad; and Empanadas. 1001 Lake Drive SE, 454-4020, mariecatribs. com

When you want to take the credit:

Making Thyme Kitchen features a new menu each month, with 10 seasonal entrees and a selection of fresh sides to stock your freezer and grace your table. Most meals are par-cooked, ready for you to finish in the oven. Packed in a convenient aluminum pan, you can easily transfer the meal to a serving platter and take all the credit. The creations are so good and wholesome, your guests might think you whipped up grandma’s recipes. You’ll find MTK at the Downtown Market GR alongside 19 artisan local food vendors that can complete — or inspire — your feast. We suggest: Ziti with Turkey Meatballs; Stuffed Apricot Chicken; fresh vegetable sides. 435 Ionia Ave. SW (inside Downtown Market), 406-8511, makingthymekitchen. com

When you don’t feel like cooking:

Saburba is a popular eatery with a few tables and a loyal clientele grabbing tasty food to go. It’s a destination for unique, perfectly executed salads, sandwiches, soups, and a variety of ethnic-inspired offerings. It’s highly possible your cooking will never taste as good as Saburba’s; it’s a destination for tacos that change daily (think Shrimp with Green Sriracha), and there’s always Ramen or a Fried Chicken Bowl. On Saturday mornings Saburba fries up donuts with such inspired flavors as Mango Breeze, Peanut Butter Cup or Red Velvet Cheesecake. We suggest: Cheddar and Scallion Pancakes with Smoked Kielbasa and a Fried Egg; Daily Scones (Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Pretzel, Coconut); Beef

Tenderloin Tacos with Cactus & Black Bean-Chili Salsa; Fried Chicken. 7277 Thornapple River Drive, Ada, 682-5290, saburba.com

When you’re in picnic-mode:

Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect pit stop when you’re lakeshore or front porchbound. Grab a basket and fill it up with specialty cheeses, salami, grilled marinated vegetables, fresh fruit, chocolates, imported sodas and more. Don’t forget fresh breads and pastries baked next door at Nantucket Bakery. Martha’s also has a fantastic selection of wine and knowledgeable staff ready to help you pair perfectly. The deli features a variety of foods to warm up at home and a mouthwatering array of Middle-Eastern foods including Spinach Pie, Kibbe, Hummus and Falafel. Plus, the small corner grocery carries fresh fruits, veggies and other staples. We suggest: Bacon-Wrapped Flank Steak Stuffed with Feta, Spinach and Sundried Tomatoes; Guacamole; definitely the Falafel Sandwiches featured on Thursdays. 200 Union Ave. NE , 459-0911, mvwines.com

When you want to impress your friends:

Fish Lads is a Downtown Market favorite owned by a Seattle Pike Place Market veteran that finally appeased Grand Rapidian seafood-lovers with a top-quality fresh fish market. They’ll gladly wrap

up crab cakes (Dungeness!), fish dips, steamed shellfish, or any enticing menu item for you to enjoy at home. Best of all, Fish Lads has a stocked raw bar, so grab a couple dozen oysters (Chesapeake Bay, Pacific Orchard, Kumomoto) for your next fancy meal chez toi. We suggest: Fresh Grilled Mackerel with Bacon-Potato Hash and Chimichurri; Fish & Chips with Alaskan Halibut; Grilled Sardines; and oysters all day long. 435 Ionia Ave. SW (inside Downtown Market), GR 259-7009, fishlads.com

Need more options? These popular destinations will gladly pack up dinner, so go ahead: Call it in. Maru Sushi & Grill Sushi that is gorgeous and portable, plus noodle dishes and veg options. 927 Cherry St. SE (616) 458-1900 marurestaurant.com The Cheese Lady A perfectly simple dinner to go: baguette, cheeses, cured meat, dried fruit and olives. 315 Fuller Ave. NE (616) 242-9880 thecheeselady.net CVLT Pizza High quality artisan pizzas for the locavore. 10 Jefferson Ave. SE (616) 490-4911 jointhecvlt.com March 2014 / Grmag.com 59

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

dining listings

A guide to restaurants in Grand Rapids and beyond

The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. Restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing (page 79).

weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations in urban setting. Unique Sunday brunch. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. L, D ¢-$

Gilly’s At The B.O.B. — Hand-crafted microbrews are paired with seasonal, cutting-edge fare. Tavern small plates, oysters, seafood and more. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. L (Sat), D $-$$ Graydon’s Crossing — “Global pub” serves traditional food such as Shepard’s Pie and fusion- and world-inspired dishes using local ingredients. Full bar features 46 beers on tap including microbrew and imported. Open daily. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. gray donscrossing.com. L, D $ Green Well Gastro Pub — Daily menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreenwell.com. L, D $-$$

New American Upscale, contemporary cooking including ethnic twists on familiar standbys. Bar Divani — Wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. European-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrées. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. bardivani.com. L, D $-$$ Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. L, D $-$$ Bistro Chloe Élan — Diverse menu features American cuisine with French, Asian and southwestern influences, as well as soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Sat dinner only; closed Sun. 445 Ada Dr, Ada, 432-3345. chloeelan.com. L, D $-$$

Blue Water Grill — Wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. Nice wine selection and The B.O.B.’s microbrews. Lakeside views, outdoor patio with fireplace, fullservice bar. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater.php. L, D $-$$ _ Citysen Lounge — Limited but tantalizing selection of soup, salads, sandwiches and sharable small-plate creations. Happy Hour daily 4-7 pm. CityFlats Hotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, (866) 609-CITY. cityflatshotel.com. L, ¢-$ D Cygnus 27 — Stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Seasonally driven menu encourages sharing. Open Tue-Sat eves; Sun brunch Labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 7766425. amwaygrand.com. D $$ Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu changes

Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, Rockford, 8633300. grillone eleven.com and Facebook. L, D $-$$ OGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course meals with a tilt toward sustainable seafood. Closed Mon. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant. com. D $$ The Heritage — GRCC culinary arts students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan fare at a reasonable cost. Menu changes weekly. Wine available with dinner. Open Tue-Fri during academic year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 2343700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$ Marco New American Bistro — Frenchcountry-casual offers creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$ Olives — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balco-

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Bostwick Lake Inn

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FREE BRIDAL EVENT MARCH 9, 2014 AMWAY GRAND PLAZA Join us on March 9, 2014 from noon until 4 PM for West Michigan’s premier wedding show featuring the area’s top wedding vendors. This is your chance to consult with wedding experts, enjoy free giveaways, sample cakes and innovative hors d’œuvres, and tour our plush guest room accommodations and event settings.

FEATURING Educational Bridal Session Complimentary Valet Parking

ENTER TO

Photography by Johnny Quirin

WIN A FREE STAY

Giveaways from our Exhibitors Sample Cakes and Hors d’œuvres Complimentary Tours Swag Bag

PREREGISTER NOW AT AMWAYGRAND.COM/THEGRANDAFFAIR For more information, please contact Grace Hill, Wedding Specialist at 616.458.6771 or GHill@amwaygrand.com. Photo courtesy of Amy Carroll.

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

ny. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$

One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Occasional live music. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. one trick.biz. L, D ¢-$ Reserve — Wine bar with extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 8559463. reservegr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from sushi to creative comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. 45 S Division Ave, 6086465 or 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. L, D $-$$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with a varied menu and a three-season porch. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Takeout at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646. thegilmorecollection.com/roses. php. B (weekends), L, D $ Schnitz Ada Grill — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. 597 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. ¢-$$ schnitzdeli.com. L, D Six.One.Six — Innovative cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cosmopolitan setting. Mixology lounge features unique cocktails. Al fresco dining on the Jdek overlooking the Grand River. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilove616.com. B, L, D $-$$ SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual and friendly pub setting with eclectic menu that includes vegan and gluten-free options. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrees (available after 4). Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare plus house specialties. Patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavernonthesq.com. L, D ¢-$

Classic American Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country. Acorn Grille At Thousand Oaks — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaks $$ golf.com. L, D Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. No alcohol. Open daily. 3561 28th St, 956-7901; 710 Leonard St NW, 4543098; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurants. $ com. B, L, D Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and fine dining selections from an extensive seasonal menu. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1770. hiarya na.com. B, L, D $-$$ Bonefish Grill — Casual, white-linen dining. Seafood selections augmented by innovative sauces and toppings; also chicken, beef and pasta dishes. 1100 East Paris Ave SE, 949-7861. bonefishgrill.com. D $-$$ Bostwick Lake Inn — Gilmore restaurant offers steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Open daily for dinner, lunch on weekends. 8521 Belding Road, Rockford, 874-7290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick.php. L (weekends), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant serves a varied menu with golf-course views from inside or on the deck. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com. L, D ¢-$ Brandywine — Café atmosphere, with extensive breakfasts, lunches with vegetarian choices, dinner selections from Mexican to beef Wellington. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-1723. brandy winegr.com. B, L, D ¢-$

FTerra GR — Eastown eatery (formerly Trillium Haven) features foods from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers and wines from small wineries around the world. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. B $-$$ (brunch Sat and Sun), L, D

Brann’s Sizzling Steaks And Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks with grill items and salads, baskets, Mexican entrées and bar munchies. See website for eight locations in Greater Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Portage and Caledonia. branns.com. L, D $

Winchester — Locally sourced menu aims to reinvent bar food in reclaimed centuryold space with shuffleboard court-patio. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. L, D ¢-$

Bull’s Head Tavern — A dozen appetizers from brie to pot stickers. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullshead tavern.com. L, D $

Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE (at Old $-$$ 28th St), 949-1540. Facebook. L, D Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood from a menu that changes nightly. Located on the Grand River. Early menu (4:30-6 pm daily), Sun brunch. GR Steamer Bar has its own menu. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer. com. L, D $-$$ The Chop House — In the tradition of the best American chophouses with aged prime beef and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrand rapids.com. D $$ Dugan’s Pub & Grille — Casual dining with steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at the Highlands Golf Club. Adjacent Glendevon offers banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 453-2454. dugansgr.com. L, D $-$$ Fall Creek — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas and creative entrées. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ FireRock Grille — Country club dining plus option to cook your own filet, shrimp or ahi tuna on a 500-degree stone. Open daily. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. fire rockgrille.com. L, D $ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building on the river. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecol lection.com/flatriver.php. L, D $-$$ Fleetwood Diner — Extensive diner-style menu with Greek influences. Open 6:30 am for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun), serving dinner until 8 pm Mon-Thu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. B, L, D ¢-$ Forest Hills Inn — A casual neighborhood favorite with a broad menu, excellent pizza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. foresthillsinn.com. B, L, D $ Fry Daddy’s Fresh Fish — Fried fish, wingdings, walleye, orange roughy, catfish, blue gill, perch, smelt and shrimp, by the pound or in baskets with fries. Also to go. Closed Mon. Trinity Plaza, 1720 44th St SE, Kentwood, 455-FISH. L, D ¢-$ Grand Villa — Longtime favorite serving prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar, full

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

service bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. L, D $

Great Lakes Shipping Co. — Everything from beef, seafood and beyond in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. No lunch, but open Sun afternoons. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. greatlakesshipping company.com. D $-$$ Green Restaurant — Sandwiches, salads, burgers and seafood. Menu includes ostrich and elk burgers. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-8294. greenrestaurantgrandrapids.com. L, D $

Registered Landscape Architects 4353 Three Mile Road NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616.363.6400 www.kappeslandscapes.com

Grille 29 — Menu includes panini and a variety of entrées. Full-service bar. Open daily. Holiday Inn Select, 3063 Lake Eastbrook SE, 726-2929. holidayinn.com. B, D $ Grille At Watermark — Innovative menu in relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf course. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. watermark-grille.com. L, D $-$$ Grill House & Rock Bottom Bar — Grillyour-own steakhouse with grillmasters on call. Bottomless salad bowl and potato bar. 1071 32nd St (M-40), Allegan, (269) 6869192. grillhouse.net. L (downstairs), D $-$$

applause

catering + events

Honey Creek Inn — Daily specials are the highlight, mixed with traditional fare. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com/honeycreek-inn.php. L, D ¢-$ Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Judson’s At The B.O.B. — Award-winning steak house offers steaks, seafood and chops. Casual atmosphere and award-winning wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. D $$

Let Applause cater for any occasion. Home Parties, Holidays, Graduations, Weddings, Memorials, Picnics, Luncheons, Cocktail Parties, Dinners, for both intimate and large groups.

www. applause-catering.net 616 940 0001

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Kitchen 67 — Fast-casual restaurant with high-tech design serving Brann’s sizzling steaks and burgers, small plates, pasta, fish, chicken, sandwiches, salads and more. Michigan wines and craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave. NE. kitch en67.com and Facebook. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Menu features allAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Music and dancing in the lounge. 270 Ann St NW (in Riverfront Hotel Grand Rapids at US 131), 363-7748. ontherivergr.com. B, L, D $ ✦Leo’s — Fresh seafood, Certified Black Angus Beef, New Zealand rack of lamb and more

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in an elegant yet casual atmosphere. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner Mon-Sat. 60 Ottawa Ave. NW, 454-6700, leosrestaurant.com L.D. $-$$

specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreek $ bistro.com. L, D

Louis Benton Steakhouse — Premium Buckhead beef, wet- and dry-aged steaks and more. Closed Sun. Free valet parking at Ionia entrance. 35 Ionia Ave NW, 454-7455. louis benton.com. L, D $-$$

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — The classic American steakhouse now in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s fully renovated former 1913 Room. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com. L, D $$

Meadows Restaurant — GVSU’s professional and student-staffed restaurant; patio and dining room overlook golf course. Full menu offers everything from burgers to NY strip steak. Seasonal hours (during golf season). 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale. gvsu.edu/ meadows. L, D $-$$

Saburba — Specializes in take-out. Everchanging, diverse menu of entrees, sandwiches, soups, baked goods and coffee. Doughnuts served Sat. mornings. Catering service. Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr, Ada, 682-5290. saburba.com and Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$

Middle Villa Inn — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands. Banquet rooms available. Closed Mon and Wed. 4611 N Middleville Rd (M-37), Middleville, (269) 795-3640. mid dle-villa-inn.com. L, D $

Sam’s Joint — Award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. Extensive menu includes Mexican selections; full bar. Half a dozen locations, plus a couple of banquet facilities. sams-joint.com. L, D $

Pal’s Diner — A real diner offering breakfast, lunch and dinner options all day. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. palsdiner.com. B, L, D ¢

Spinnaker — Menu features seafood and landlubber entrées. Sunday brunch. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton Grand Rapids Airport), 957-1111. hiltongrandrapids.com. B, L, D $-$$

Pearl Street Grill — Bright, airy restaurant in downtown Holiday Inn. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. Facebook. B, L, D $

Sundance Bar & Grill — Known for its Southwestern-infused American cuisine and margarita bar. 5755 28th St SE (Esplanade Plaza), 956-5644 (breakfast and lunch only on Sun); Waters Building, 141 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616. sundancegrill.com. B, L, $ D

Rainbow Grill — Breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Ramona’s Table — EGR deli with madefrom-scratch soups, sandwiches, salads, baked items and meals. Takeout and catering. Closed Sun. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 4598500. ramonastable.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Red Jet Café — Gilmore restaurant in the former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar and menu ranging from omelets to specialty pizzas. Full bar; opens 8 am. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/red jet.php. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) ¢-$ Reds On The River — Located on the Rogue River, Reds combines casual sophistication with Tuscan sensibilities. Closed Sun. 8 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. L, D $-$$

Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals such as pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles, dinner menu. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninn motel.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Terrace Grille At Bay Pointe Inn — Diverse menu with relaxed lakefront setting. Seasonally changing menu known for steaks, seafood and cocktails. Holiday brunches. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville, (269) 672-5202. bay pointeinn.com. L, D $-$$ Tillman’s — Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. tillmansrestaur ant.com. L, D $-$$

Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteak $-$$ house.com. L, D

Timbers Inn — Menu ranges from appetizers to wild game offerings and meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Sunday omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 8745553. timbersinn.net. L, D ¢-$

Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour

Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar featuring 18 beers

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

on tap, local beers/wines. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D ¢-$$

Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare in a casual but handsome setting. Lunch served weekdays, dinner Mon-Sat; closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalker roadhouse.com. L, D $

Vegetarian Bartertown Diner — Vegetarian/vegan/raw offerings in worker-owned and -operated diner. Promotes use of fresh, local ingredients. Open daily (hours change seasonally, check website). 6 Jefferson Ave SE, 233-3219. barter $ towngr.com. L, D Gaia Café — Totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. No alcohol. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. B, L ¢

Pubs & Taverns 84th Street Pub and Grille — American fare from pizzas to steaks in laidback setting, full-service bar. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr, Byron Center, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Bar Louie — Urban décor at Woodland Mall, with sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and hearty entrées. More than 20 beers, along with a nice wine selection and specialty cocktails. Outdoor seating. 3191 28th St SE, 885-9050. barlouieamerica.com. L, D $-$$ Bobarino’s At The B.O.B. — Grill on 2nd floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. New lunch menu offers custom-made deli sandwiches, salads, burgers and a pizza buffet ($6.50). Full-service bar. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thegilmorecollection.com/ bobarinos.php. L, D ¢-$ B.O.B.’s Brewery At The B.O.B. — Microbrews ranging from unique to standard with a variety of small plates that go beyond standard pub fare. Open Thu (Mug Club)-Sat. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ bobsbrewery. html. D ¢-$ Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Takeout available. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, ¢-$ 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. L, D Cascade Sports Grill — Varied menu and sizable bar with 10 brew taps and extensive martini menu. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338. Facebook. L, D $ Charlie’s Bar & Grill — Well-rounded menu

features dinners ranging from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican fare, sandwiches and more. Full-service bar. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Cheers Good Time Saloon — Popular neighborhood spot with large menu offering something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. B, L, D ¢ Corner Bar — Rockford’s spot famous for brews and chili dogs, but with extensive menu. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar.com. L, D ¢ Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili and more. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. L, D ¢ Crooked Goose — Meritage Hospitality Group restaurant offers full menu of “oldschool tavern favorites.” Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 791-2362. crooked goose.com. L, D ¢-$ Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derby station.com. L, D $ Flanagan’s — Popular downtown Irish pub. Imported beers, 20 on tap. Entrees with an Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr. com. L, D ¢ Founders Brewing Co. — Sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Covered (heated) porch. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. L, D ¢ Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta entrées, plus burgers and Mexican. Weekday lunch buffet. Tap your own 100-ounce beer tower. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. L, D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Serving 10 organic brews plus hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, house-made sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 459-7000. grbrewingcompany. com. L (Sat.-Sun. only), D ¢-$ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, along with salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amwaygrand. com. L, D $

Grand Woods Lounge — Year-round alfresco dining complete with fireplace. Eclectic menu selections mix with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious bar. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com. L, D $-$$ Harmony Brewing Co. — Eastown’s latest addition to the craft-brewing scene offers custom brews with a full bar, wine selections and menu of wood-fired pizzas. 1551 Lake Drive SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Holly’s Back Door Bar & Grill — Full menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. $ B, L, D HopCat — Crafted brews with close to 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr. ¢-$ com. L (Sat-Sun), D Hub’s Inn — Sandwiches, burgers, Mexican food and thin-crust pizzas. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. L, D ¢ JD Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. B, L, D $-$$ J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive bar is matched by gargantuan menu ranging from homemade chips to build-your-own burger. Three floors of seating. Open Sun for arena events. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellas tavern.com. L, D ¢ Main Street Pub — Large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Open 11 am daily; breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. B (Sun), L, D ¢-$ McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon — New York-style Irish menu includes “recreated” pub fare, contemporary and regionally inspired dishes. Transforms into nightclub late at night. Open daily. 58 Ionia Ave SW, 4549105. mcfaddensgrandrapids.com. L, D $ Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, from-scratch soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. L, D ¢-$ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. 527 Leonard St

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nosh & sip

Amy Ruis has traveled many of the wine countries and has passed the first step in becoming a Master Sommelier. She owns Art of the Table, a specialty food, beverage and tabletop store, and co-owns Aperitivo wine, cheese and charcuterie.

> Not oaked: Some Italian reds like those made from Nebbiolo grapes and also Luccarelli Primitivo ($14); some of the youngerbodied reds from Spain like Menguante Garnacha ($12); and most from the Beaujolais region of France, most notably Beaujolais nouveau.

> A bit oaked: Most reds! But try the ever-fun Corralillo Pinot Noir from Chile ($20) or the Ramon Roqueta Tempranillo from Spain ($15). > Really oaked: Trig Point Cabernet Sauvignon ($20) and most Napa Cabs.

To oak or not to oak WhiLe iT’S True that winemakers can choose not to age their red wines in oak, that’s not how it usually goes down. With little or no oak aging, reds seem fruity and young, high in acid and with a certain level of harshness from bright tannins. Red wines enhanced by oak exude complexity: notes of vanilla, caramel and butter. Oak also can impart notes of toffee, coffee, cocoa and spices. Oak has a porous nature, so wines aged in barrels are allowed to mellow as subtle amounts of evaporation yield concentrated flavors. A good winemaker will monitor conditions to get the right amount of oxygen and oak contact, and the time to get it just right. Winemakers’ decisions about oak barrels vary depending on the elements they want the barrel to add to the wine. Is the barrel French, American or Hungarian? Where a tree is grown can skew a barrel’s flavors. American oak? More vanilla and a sweeter palate will result. French oak? The generally higher wood tannin and tighter grain give less of a punch. Influence can also come from techniques used by the barrel maker such as whether the wood is air dried or heat treated — and for how long.

new or used barrels? I like the analogy of new barrels being like tea leaves: The first time you use them, they’re full of flavor, but the intensity diminishes the next time. Some winemakers prefer new barrels while others will purchase older barrels because they prefer less of an influence. Wines aged in large barriques rather than smaller “normal-size” barrels also show less oak notes because the juice has less contact with the wood. Other winemakers use stainless steel or cement tanks for aging because they want less discernable oak. Even then, many wines are brought to fruition with oak. It’s not uncommon for today’s winemakers to ditch barrels in favor of oak chips or planks in fermentation or aging. Oak chips and stainless steel tanks speed up the aging and flavoring processes with high oak concentrations and more surface area contact with the wine. Besides, it’s a lot cheaper to procure some oak chips than a whole barrel! Trouble is, with the intensity of planks, the wine can get over-oaked fast. The moral of the story? Most red wines are oaked in some way, whether a dash or a good — Amy ruiS long soak.

PhotoGraPhy by Johnny Quirin

SoMe WiNeS aVaiLabLe LocaLLy To coMPare The eFFecT oF oaK:

It’s not uncommon for today’s winemakers to ditch barrels in favor of oak chips or planks in fermentation or aging.

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Mojo’s — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, plus late night “munchy menu.” RSVP for dinner early, show starts at 8 pm Wed-Thu, 7 pm FriSat. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojos pianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$

ily-friendly Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444. peppinos pizza.com. L, D ¢-$$

Pub 43 — Caters to all, but is especially popular with gay crowd. Menu ranges from burgers to upscale items. Jukebox, occasional live entertainment. Open daily at 3 pm. 43 S Division Ave, 458-2205. Facebook. D ¢-$

Nick Finks — Mexican fare in historic tavern, part of The Gilmore Collection. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Occasional live music, open mic nights. 3965 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-9886. thegilmore $ collection.com/nickfinks.php. L, D

Rezervoir Lounge — Former Sazerac Lounge has full menu of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees, some with a Cajun flavor. Open Tue.-Sun. for lunch and dinner (opens 4 p.m. Mon) 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rez ¢-$ lounge.com, Facebook. L, D

O’Toole’s Public House — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D ¢-$

Rockford Brewing Co. — Located alongside the White Pine Trail with an up-north atmosphere. Grab a bite to eat while enjoying its hand-crafted brews. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, Rockford, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing. com. L, D ¢-$

Peppino’s Ristorante Pizzeria and Sports Lounge — Sicilian-style steak and chicken, burgers, etc. Separate sports bar. 5053 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615. Fam-

The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with varied menu. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

The Shamrock — Diverse menu includes specialty burgers and wide range of entrees. 2501 Wilson Ave NW, 735-3888. Facebook. L, ¢-$ D Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flare, from appetizers to Kobe top sirloin. Open daily. Weekday happy hour specials 3-6:30 p.m. Cascade Center, 6246 28th St SE, ¢-$ 350-9604. Facebook. L, D Stella’s Lounge — Mostly vegan menu but an award-winning stuffed burger for carnivores. Advertises strong drinks and more than 200 whiskies. 53 Commerce Ave, 742¢-$ 4444. stellasgr.com. L, D Teazers Bar & Grill — Burgers and pastas, sandwiches, salads and Southwestern bites. Kids menu. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, ¢-$ 459-2481. teazersbar.com. L, D Village Inn Pizza Parlor — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican and more. Karaoke Thu-Sat. Open daily; weekday lunch buffet. 2215 44th St SE, Kentwood, 281-1444; 934 Washington St, Hol-

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

land, (616) 392-1818. vipizza.net. L, D

¢-$

Vitale’s Sports Lounge & Pizzeria — Pizza and pasta plus panini and wraps in sportscentric surroundings. Outside deck, live entertainment. Open daily. 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-6044, takeout 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Woody’s Press Box — Complex includes two bars, a patio and bowling. Menu offers sandwiches and shrimp, barbecue fare. Breakfast and lunch only Sun. 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, 530-2400. $ spectrumlanes.com. B, L, D Z’s — Sports-themed eatery known for its ribs. Soup-salad-sandwich lunches. Carryout available. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. L, D ¢-$

Italian/ European Amore Trattoria Italiana — Regional Italian dishes using some local products as well as Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs a specialty. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretrattoria italiana.com. L (not Sat), D $ Angela’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria — Italian dinners, pizza, stromboli, subs and desserts. Lunch buffet, full-service bar. Delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 240 E Division, Sparta, (616) 887-1913. angel aspizzaandrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Big Bob’s Pizza — A neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village with wine and beer on tap, available to go. 661 Croswell SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. L, D $ Bella Pizzeria — Italian dishes, sandwiches and specialty pizzas. Open daily. 3519 S. Division Ave, 452-2810. L, D ¢-$ Brewery Vivant — House-made beer and food in the style of traditional French and Belgian country dishes. The East Hills pub/ brewery is housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes are made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. brew eryvivant.com. L, D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — Specializing in gourmet, traditional and vegan pizzas. Glutenfree crusts available on request. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Chicago 7 Pizzeria — Family-owned pizzeria offers Chicago-style pies, specialty pizzas, hot dogs, burgers. 6246 28th St SE, 538-7777. chi cago7pizzeria.com. L, D ¢-$

Euro Bistro — European bistro fare plus wood-fired pizzas. 11 am-10 pm Mon-Fri. 4-10 pm Sat, closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), $-$$ D Florentine Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Spacious location features Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thincrust pizzas. Big-screen TVs, pool tables, darts, video games, foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Florentine Ristorante — Italian and American cuisine. Pizza and pasta served in the lounge until midnight; full-menu dinner 4-10 pm. Closed Sun. 3245 28th St SW, 5345419. florentineingrandville.com. L, D $ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante Sports Bar — Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian entrees and even Mexican entrees. Multiple big screen TVs; take-out available. Open daily. 1259 Post Drive, Belmont, 785-1001. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Franco’s Pizzeria — Spaghetti, manicotti, lasagna, stromboli plus pizza and subs with fresh ingredients. Limited seating, takeout available (delivery offered). No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. francos pizzagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Fred’s Pizza And Italian Restaurant — Long-time favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Also, pasta dinners with a sauce that has made its way to the retail market. Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, 785-5800. fricanospizza. com. D ¢-$ Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza — Downtown pizzeria with more than 50 varieties of gourmet pizza, whole or by the slice. Beer on tap or by the bottle. Delivery available. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. georgios gourmetpizza.com. L, D ¢-$ G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily, with a handful of tables for dining in. 340 State St, 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$ Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrees, calzones and desserts. Open daily. 2896 Knapp St NE. 608-6912. licarispizza $ kitchen.com. L, D

Mangiamo — Historic mansion houses family-friendly Italian eatery. Italian fare plus steaks and seafood. Extensive wine list, evening entertainment. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmorecollection.com/mangi amo.php. D $-$$ Marinade’s Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. No alcohol. Catering. 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863¢ 3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D Monelli’s Italian Grill And Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. 5675 Byron Center Ave, Wyoming, 530-9700. ¢-$ monellis.com. L, D Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor and extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features light fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ Osteria Rossa — Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from Executive Chef/Owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. 16 Monroe Center NW. osteriarossa.com or Facebook. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$

Pietro’s Italian Ristorante — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452$ 3228. rcfc.com/pietros. L, D Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare using family recipes. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Weekday lunch buffet. All menu items, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Closed Sun. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salva toresgr.com. L, D ¢-$ FSan Chez, A Tapas Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. Extensive wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. L, D $-$$ Seasonal Grille — Hastings’ Italian-themed eatery features fresh, locally sourced, creative fare in handsome surroundings. Full bar, craft cocktails, nice wine list. Open daily. 152 W State St, Hastings, (269) 948-9222. seasonal grille.com. L, D $ FTrattoria di’ Stagione — Chef Dan Chudik prepares Italian dishes from pasta to seafood utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Lunch will be offered in near future. Closed Sun. 1420 Lake Drive SE, 458-5583. trattoriadistag ione.com. D $ Tre Cugini — Innovative Italian menu, im-

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... Every sense awakened Each one satisfied... pressive wine list, fresh daily pastas and risotto specialties. Outdoor seating in mild weather. Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, 235-9339. trecugini.com. L, D $-$$

Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Kitchen stays open until 1:30 am for dine-in, 1 am for take-out. Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, 891-1100; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, 249-9344. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s — Serving traditional regional dishes from family recipes since 1966. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368 (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 458-2090), takeout 458-3766. theorigin alvitales.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Of Ada — Multi-regional, upscale dishes made from scratch. Also pizza, subs and burgers. Family-friendly; microbrews to martinis in separate sports pub. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitalesada.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from original family recipes. 3868 West River Dr, Comstock Park, 784-6044; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, (no alcohol); 5380 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 530-8500. vitales.us. L, D ¢-$

Award Winning

Authentic Italian

Cuisine

www.trecugini.com 122 Monroe Center St. NW (616) 235-9339

Asian Akasaka Sushi — Sushi plus Korean and Japanese offerings in low-key atmosphere in Cascade Centre. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Akita Buffet — Across from RiverTown Crossings Mall, with sushi bar, hibachi grill and Chinese buffet with set price for lunch and dinner. Serves alcohol. 3540 Rivertown Point Ct SW, 257-7777. L, D ¢-$ Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare; menu includes a your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian-friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthai cafe.com. L, D ¢-$ Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each cuisine. Family owned and operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. L, D ¢-$ ➧Bamboo — Vietnamese and Thai cuisine using fresh ingredients made to order. No alcohol. Opens at 11 for lunch. Closed Weds. 2907 S. Division Ave, Wyoming, 419-3976. bamboogr.com. L, D ¢-$

Sold Exclusively at: 2211 E. Beltline NE | Grand Rapids 616.717.0004 | .

Bangkok Taste — Thai fare with lunch bufMarch 2014 / Grmag.com 71

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

fet. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550; 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 3565550. bangkoktaste.com. L, D ¢-$

Bangkok View — Thai food and Chinese fare. Lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1233 28th St SW, 531-8070. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch specials. No alcohol. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijing kitchengr.com. L, D ¢-$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. L, ¢-$ D China Chef — Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ China Gourmet Buffet — Daily lunch and dinner buffets with more than 100 items. Dinner buffet served all day weekends; discount for seniors and children 10 and under. No alcohol. 2030 28th St SW, 252-1379. L, D ¢-$ Chinatown Restaurant And Japanese Steak House — Chinese and Japanese cuisine with tabletop, Benihana-style meals available. Lunch and dinner buffets. Full bar. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. chinatowngrand rapids.com. L, D ¢-$ China Yi Wang — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan dishes. No alcohol. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. L, D ¢-$ Empire Chinese Buffet — All-you-can-eat Chinese buffet served all day. Special seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Delivery available. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirebuffet.net. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai — Traditional Thai fare, will accommodate special diets: vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. 950 Wealthy St SE, Suite 1A, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ Far-East Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan

cuisine. Dine-in and take-out. Full bar. Three locations: 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088. firstwokgr.com. L, D $

Fuji Yama Asian Bistro — Hibachi grill tables with chef preparations, or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, ¢-$ 719-1859. letseat.at/fujiyama. L, D Fortune Chef — Chinese and American fare. Opens 6 am weekdays, 8 am weekends with breakfast served all day. No alcohol. 9353 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1388. fortunechefcaledonia.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin cuisine complemented by a Vietnamese menu. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 627 28th St SW, Wyoming, 531-2800. L, D $ Golden Dragon — Chinese, Mandarin and Japanese cuisines with Japanese steakhouse. Full bar. 3629 Plainfield Ave NE, 3631318. goldendragongr.com. L, D $ Golden Gate Restaurant — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, egg rolls, sweet-and-sour dishes, with some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢ Golden Wok — Knapp’s Corner eatery offers lunch and dinner options, including Hunanspiced dishes. Full bar. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Grand Lakes — A wide selection of Chinese dishes and specialties, along with daily lunch combination plates. No alcohol. Next to Breton Village D&W. Pick-up and take-out only. 1810 Breton Rd SE, 954-2500. grand lakesgrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine from sushi to buffet, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American dishes. No alcohol. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Ridge Shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/hibachigrillsupremebuffet. L, D ¢

Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi selections, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquet space. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$ Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. Facebook, laithai kitchen.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive menu of Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebang kokgr.com. L, D ¢-$ Mandarin — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine; buffets at lunch, dinner and all day on weekends. Cocktails. Open daily. 2460 28th St SE, 530-3300. mandaringrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ FMaru Sushi & Grill — Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. L, D $-$$ Mikado Sushi — Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Ming Ten — All-you-can-eat buffet: Japanese, Chinese, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), (616) 365-3989. ming tenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Asian fare that includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ Ning Ye — Family-owned Chinese restaurant also serves Korean fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun during winter. 6747 E Fulton St, $ Ada, 676-5888. ningye.info. L, D

Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese for dine-in or carry-out. All-you-caneat lunch buffet. No alcohol. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. B, L, D ¢-$

Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, curries and noodle dishes; seafood and duck specialty plates. No alcohol. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro. com. L, D ¢-$

Hunan — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. 1740 44th St SW, 530-3377. hunangr. com; 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunan $ grc.com. L, D

Osaka Steakhouse — Japanese cuisine, including steak, seafood, sushi. Same owners as XO Asian Cuisine. Open daily. 4977 28th $ St. SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D

Jade Garden — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. L, D ¢-$

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro — Upscale chain known for modern Chinese dishes from Mongolian beef to chicken lettuce wraps. Cocktails, beer and wine. Order online for

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takeout. The Village at Knapp’s Crossing, 2065 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-2060. pfcha ngs.com. L, D $

Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$ Rak Thai Bistro — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences. No alcohol. 6719 S. Division Ave, 551-1706; Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 805-5308; 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthai ¢-$ bistro.com. L, D Red Sun Buffet — All-you-can-eat international buffet: sushi, Chinese, American, Italian and Japanese selections. No alcohol. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9999. redsungrandrap ids.com. L, D ¢-$ Seoul Garden — Chinese and Korean cuisine with full bar. Banquet and catering facilities also available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. L, D $-$$ Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine; food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. 3005 East Beltline SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban. com. L, D $-$$

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➧Sunny Kitchen — Authentic Chinese food and dim sum using fresh ingredients. Catering available. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 3338 Eastern Ave SE, 805-5964. sunnykitchen grandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, plus fusion fare. Private groups can eat in traditional Japanese tatami room. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. Facebook. L, D ¢-$$ Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr. com. L, D ¢ Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu for $5.99. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE (near 29th St), 301-8883. thaifusiongr.com. L, D ¢-$ Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare, with daily lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, Target Plaza, 785-3888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Japanese tatami rooms, sushi bars. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, plus Japanese and American beer and wine. Closed Sun. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrill sushi.com. L, D ¢-$

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March 2014 / Grmag.com 73

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food & drink restaurants / PeoPLe / reviews

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Tokyo roadhouse — Japanese (sushi) and Chinese menus, lunch specials. Order online for pickup, delivery (until 8 p.m.) or express dine-in. no alcohol. Opens daily at 11 a.m. 4095 Plainfield Ave. nE, 365-3719. tokyoroad house.com. l, D ¢-$ Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. wei weipalace.com. l, D $ Wonton express — no-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare from spicy Hunan and Kung-Po dishes. no alcohol. 6719 S Division Ave, 281-8816. l, D ¢-$

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Xo asian cuisine — Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine with full service bar. Vegetarian options and lunch specials Mon-Sat. Free valet parking with $30 purchase. Will deliver. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasian cuisine.com. l, D $-$$ yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. no alcohol. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. l, D ¢-$

iNDiAN bombay cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. lunch buffet Mon.-Fri. and Sun. Takeout available. 1420 lake Dr. SE, 456-7055. bombaycuisinegr.com. l, D $ curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine. lunch buffet 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (noon on Sun). Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. no alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchengr. com. l, D $ india Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan in a humble atmosphere. no alcohol. Closed Tue. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. l, D ¢-$ Palace of india — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. no alcohol. 526 Stocking Ave nW, 913-9000. palace ofindiarestaurant.com. l, D ¢-$

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Punjab Grill — Indian and Pakistani cuisine, vegan and vegetarian dishes. Daily lunch buffet, carry-out. Closed Sun. liquor license pending. 40 Pearl St nW, 608-4166. l, D $

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Le Kabob — Huge appetizer selection, soups, salads and sandwiches, large choice of Mediterranean entrees and combos. Kids menu. no alcohol. Open daily. 2923 28th St SE, 2724135. lekabob.com. l, D ¢-$

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Marie catrib’s — Middle-Eastern fare with on-site bakery, seasonal specialties and Turkish coffee. Vegetarian options. Breakfast 7 am Mon-Fri, 8 am Sat. lunch/dinner starts 11 am weekdays, noon Sat. Closed Sun. no alcohol. 1001 lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. B, l, D ¢-$ Mediterranean Grills — Gyros, kabobs, falafel, shwarma, hummus, kafta. All meats are halal, in accordance with Islamic requirements. Closed Sun. no alcohol. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. l, D $ Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offering Mediterranean specialties with drivethrough, delivery and catering available. Open daily. 2260 Alpine Ave nW, 791-6660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. l, D ¢-$ osta’s Lebanese cuisine — lebanese cuisine, from grape leaf appetizer and tabbouleh to shish kebob, falafel and baklava. Takeout and catering. Features lebanese beer and wine. Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE in EGR, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. l, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos of chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian entrees, kabobs. no alcohol. 80 Ottawa Ave nW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. l, D ¢-$

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Pita house — Gyros and other Middle East specialties. no alcohol. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029; 4533 Ivanrest Ave SW, 261-4302; 134 Monroe Center nW, 233-4875. thepitahouse.net. l, D ¢ raad’s Mediterranean Grill — East Hills eatery features all the Mediterranean favorites made fresh, including many lebanese family recipes. Meat, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free offerings. no alcohol. Open daily. 962 Cherry St. SE, 454-7223. Facebook. l, D $-$$ Sheshco Grill — lebanese cuisine including appetizers, salads and soups; entrees such as shish kabob, lamb shanks, quail and sautéed meats, plus vegetarian and seafood options. no alcohol. 2121 Celebration Dr nE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill. com. l, D $

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Shiraz Grille — Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, khoreshts, vegetarian options. Full bar, wine list, martinis. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. l (Sun), D $ FZeytin — Turkish-American cuisine with extensive beer and wine lists. Takeout available. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytin turkishrestaurant.com. l, D $ March 2014 / GrmaG.com 75

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

Food styled by Tommy Fitzgerald

Juliet’s Vegetarian Jambalaya In a fry pan with high sides, warm 1 tablespoon canola oil on medium-high. Toss in 1 cup onions, 1/2 cup celery, 1/2 cup green pepper (all chopped), and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir for about 5 minutes until they get soft. Mix in 1-1/2 cups salsa (the spicier the better!), 1-1/2 cups tomato sauce, and 1/4 cup veggie stock. Other recipes recommend adding a cup of bulgur, but we

hefedshefed.com

He fed: Although I am more than thrilled with Juliet’s version of vegetarian jambalaya, sometimes I need a little something extra, a special kind of kick. I might substitute a flavorful lager like Dos Equis Amber for some of the veggie stock. I also enjoy a handful of uncooked, chopped white or yellow onion sprinkled on top. If I’m feeling meat-deprived, I’ll toss in a few chunks of spicy andouille sausage or shredded

A slimmer Fat Tuesday Juliet and Jeremy celebrate Mardis Gras with homemade vegetarian jambalaya … with a little shrimp or meat on the side. N’Awlins holds a special place in our hearts, having visited the magnificent Gulf Coast city several times and thrown beads down to Bourbon Street revelers on New Year’s Eve a few years back. There’s nothing quite like the party atmosphere in the Big Easy — except maybe the food. When Mardi Gras rolls around, one of our favorite meals to prepare is vegetarian jambalaya. Why vegetarian? It’s the perfect compromise. We have friends who are vegetarian, so they can partake without remorse. And remember all those resolutions you made in January? This guiltfree rendition of a classic Creole dish will leave your taste buds singing for more. Share your favorite Fat Tuesday recipe on Twitter @hefed shefed @grmag #readthefeed.

prefer it without. Sprinkle in a bit of ground red pepper flakes and fresh or dried thyme, then bring to boil. Crank down to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Now add beans. We prefer a mix of pinto and red, drained and rinsed, but you can add any kind you like. Sometimes we use black beans. Go crazy, it’s Mardi Gras! If you’d like to sweeten the stew, grab a small can of Mexicorn. Add another 1/4 cup vegetable stock, cover the pan and simmer for about 10 more minutes. Steam some rice, spoon the jambalaya over it and laissez les bon temps rouler!

smoked chicken. And though there is no shortage of hot tastes in New Orleans, a few dashes of Cholula (my favorite!) elevate almost any meal — even breakfast cereal. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane — or 11 — to mix in the blender. — Jeremy

She fed: This truly is a freestyle recipe,

thickens it up considerably.

roasted shrimp seasoned with

so feel free to experiment

I never measure the veggies

Cajun spices and some roughly

and tailor it to your tastes.

and it always turns out deli-

chopped ham, both of which

The original recipe calls for a

cious. It’s jambalaya, not a high

will please your meat-eating

can of creamed corn, which I

school chemistry final — have

guests. Add a small bowl of

despise, so I have never added

fun with it! My favorite top-

sliced green onions for a kick

it. Sometimes I throw in a bag

pings or mix-ins to put on the

and a splash of green.

of sliced frozen okra, which

side include a platter of quick-

— Juliet

Photography by Michael Buck

sauces with unique names and

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Fine Dining

Relaxed Beach House Atmosphere

African Little Africa Cuisine — Humble storefront café offers hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. L, D ¢ Gojo Ethiopian Cuisine & Deli — Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew-like) dishes served with injerra flatbread. Carry-out. No alcohol. Tue-Fri lunch buffet, dinner 5-8 pm; Sat buffet 4-8 pm; closed Sun and Mon. 421 Norwood SE, 4593383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. L, D $

Mexican/Latin American/ Caribbean 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 3018555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$

Reservations call: (616) 796-8210 7175 Lakeshore Dr, West Olive, MI 49460 www.sandypointbeachhouse.com “Sandy Point: A lakeshore gem” George Aquino, The Grand Rapids Press

Chef/Owner: Cory Holleman Chef: Elliot Rappleye

Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu; wet burritos are the claim to fame. Full bar. The Big Enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it delivered to your car. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltline bar.com. L, D $ Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare with full bar, take-out service, vegetarian selection. Spacious with fireplaces and Mexican décor. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. L, ¢-$ D Café San Juan — Puerto Rican, Mexican and Cuban. No alcohol. 3549 Burlingame Ave SW, 530-2293. B, L, D ¢-$ Cancun Restaurant — Neighborhood eatery specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of fare. 1518 Grandville Ave SW, 248-2824. L, D ¢-$

Punjab Grill

Authentic Indian Cuisine

Cantina — Extensive menu of Mexican specialties with full-service bar. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. L, D $

Photography by Michael Buck

Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Lunch specials. No alcohol. Open until 2 am Fri-Sat, closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢ Cinco De Mayo — Mexican eatery offers the usual fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. 123 Courtland St, Rockford, 866-3438; 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2404. L, D $ Donkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas and tortas, in a former auto-service station. Full bar. Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Donk’s Mexican Joint — Tex-Mex selec-

Lunch Buffet $10.99 Mon–Fri 11-3 | Sat 12-3 Dine In or Take out Banquet facilities on site -to cater up to 40 people Off-site catering available 40 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids, MI 616-608-4156 | Like us on Mon- Fri 11-3 & 4-10 | Sat 12-3 & 4-10 March 2014 / Grmag.com 77

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A day for drinking Irish

Pat Evans is a writer and researcher at Gemini Publications who has studied and followed the local beer industry for more than five years.

While there will be plenty of Guinness flowing March 15 at the fourth annual Irish on Ionia, four Michigan breweries are teaming up to provide some local flavor. The Mitten Brewing Co. and HopCat are collaborating on an Irish Dry Stout, while Grand Rapids Brewing Co. and Mount Pleasant Brewing Co. are brewing up an Irish Red Ale, much like they did at last year’s St. Patrick’s Day street party. For more info on Irish on Ionia, visit irishonionia.com.

available at local grocery chains and liquor stores. Slight variations make them fun to sample next to each other, from Guinness Original or Guinness Draught to Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, which is quite a bit stronger. Guinness Draught is the best bet. Whether it comes from a tap, bottle or can, this beer is super-smooth, thanks to the nitrogen mix. It’s also low in both alcohol and calories, making it an easy-to-drink beer all night. There are plenty of chocolate and coffee notes to enjoy, but they’re not overpowering. Other Irish-made stouts are plentiful, as well. If you can, create a mixed six-pack and then compare them to each other. Murphy’s Irish Stout and Beamish should be fairly easy to find and certainly don’t lack for quality. If thick, milkshake-like stouts aren’t to your taste, there are plenty of other Irish beers to try. My dad, for instance, has some odd fascination with the Guinness lager, Harp, which he finds very light, crisp and refreshing. Unfortunately, he says Harp seems to be increasingly difficult to find. Smithwick’s Ale, a red ale with a caramel maltiness, can be found at most stores and comes from Ireland’s oldest operating brewery, dating to 1710. If you’re lucky, you might be able to find an Irish craft brew such as Oyster Stout from the Porterhouse Brewing Co. Those are all good bets if you want to stick with Irish-made beers, but many Grand Rapids-area breweries also will have excellent dry Irish stouts on tap, such as Rockford Brewing Co. and Mitten Brewing Co. — PAt eVANS

More than 13 million pints of Guinness are consumed on St. Patty’s Day. As a mass producer, the Irish beer maker still puts out an extremely high quality product.

PhotoGraPhy by Johnny Quirin

pints of interest

LeT’S TaKe a FeW MiNuTeS to discuss the most appropriate beers to drink on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s no secret that March 17 is one of the busiest days in terms of beer sales. According to The Motley Fool, in 2012, brewers took in more than $245 million that day. let’s keep that money flowing to where it really belongs: breweries that make beers true to the Irish heritage we’re celebrating — and that taste better than green fizzy water. Guinness is the most obvious choice. Even though it’s now owned by a multinational corporation, it’s still Irish! More than 13 million pints of Guinness are consumed on St. Patty’s Day. As a mass producer, the Irish beer maker still puts out an extremely highquality product. But which Guinness to pick? There are several options available from the Dublinbased brewery and almost all of them are

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food & drink restaurants / PeoPLe / reviews

downtown Trini’s — Sparta destination offers traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun and Mon. 148 E Division Ave, Sparta, 887-2500. downtowntrinis.com. l, D ¢-$ Fel arriero — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, Margaritas. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. l, D ¢-$ el barrio Mexican Grill — Tasty and creative twists on otherwise-traditional Mexican. Full bar. 545 Michigan St nE, 301-0010. elbarrio mexicangrill.com. l, D ¢-$

Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. no alcohol. 636 Bridge St nW, 458-8583. B, l, D ¢ Michoacan — Mexican fare plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. no alcohol. Open at 9 am. 334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. B, l, D ¢-$ Mi Tierra restaurant — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive through. no alcohol. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. l, D ¢ Taco bob’s — Fresh-Mex offerings, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell wrapped in a soft shell. no alcohol. Open 11 am-2:30 pm, Mon-Fri. 250 Monroe Ave nW, 458-1533. tacobobs.com. l ¢ Tacos el caporal — Two locations serving Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. no alcohol. 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. B, l, D ¢

el Granjero — Mexican fare, from steak and shrimp dishes to à la carte selections and menudo on weekends. no alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. 950 Bridge St nW, 458-5595. elgranjerogr.com. B, l, D ¢

PhotoGraPhy by Johnny Quirin

La huasteca — Homemade recipes. All items can be accommodated for vegetarians. Mostly take-out with a small dining room. no alcohol. Open daily. 1811 Plainfield Ave. nE, 447-7733. Facebook. l, D ¢ La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare, including tacos stuffed with such options as goat, chicken, pork and cactus in a very casual, take-out setting. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. l, D ¢ Lindo Mexico restaurant — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Happy hour 2-6 pm. Kids menu. 1292 28th St SW, Wyoming,

2013-14 Readers Poll

Bar/Pub MAYH H C

ROCKFORD

COMING SOON!

Grand Villa dungeon — Mexican food is the specialty. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. villadungeon.com. l, D $

Las cazuelas — Open for breakfast at 10 am. Genuine Hispanic flavors. 411 Wilson Ave nW, Walker, 726-6600. B, l, D ¢

Best of

UARTE DQ

el Sombrero — Offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. Weekly specials. no alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St nW, 451-4290. el sombrerorestaurantmi.com. l, D ¢

Jamaican dave’s — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curry goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and “escoveitched” fish; tofu-with-veggies. limited seating; takeout is best bet. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves.com. l, D ¢

Serving the finest Italian & American cuisine in our family dining & banquet rooms, or enjoy the fun in Grand Rapids favorite Sports Lounge!

HE EM A

el burrito Loco — More than 70 authentic Mexican selections. Complimentary chips and salsa. Full bar. 1971 East Beltline Ave nE, 447-0415; 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470; 4174 Alpine Ave nW, 785-4102. elburritolocores aurant.com. l, D ¢-$

261-2280. lindomexicorestaurant.com. l, D ¢-$

MAR S R

tions including wet and dry burritos. Kids menu, drive-thru available. 820 Michigan St. nE, 419-3554. donksjoint.com. l, D ¢

GRANDVILLE

3940 RIVERTOWN PWY 616.249.9344 616.249.9370 TAKE OUT

CALEDONIA

dining Guide Legend Grand rapids Magazine has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers. B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (Over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. ✍ — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing O — GRM’s 2013 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2013 Dining Award Winner additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email mprimeau@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

8256 BROADMOOR SE 616.891.1100 . 616.891.5958 TAKE OUT

STANDALE

4787 LAKE MICHIGAN DR 616.735.5520 616.735.5522 TAKE OUT

GRAND RAPIDS 2630 EAST BELTLINE SE 616.954.2002 616.954.6702 TAKE OUT

FRANCHISING AVAILABLE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.UCCELLOS.COM March 2014 / GrmaG.com 79

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

The Oakdale neighborhood has increased in diversity over the years, and Oakdale Gardens Park now serves to bring residents together.

Celebrating a turnaround By Daina Kraai

n oak grove surrounded by farmland once flourished within the boundaries of what is now Oakdale, a southeast Grand Rapids neighborhood bordered by Eastern and Kalamazoo avenues on the east and west and by Hall and Griggs streets on the north and south. A four-mile creek once flowed through the area and Native Americans traveled a footpath down the center. That path became a plank road in 1855 to take folks from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo. By the late 1800s, the area was settled by Dutch immigrants and was incorporated into the city by 1901. Fast forward to today and the former plank road is now Kalamazoo Avenue, from which the Boston Square Business District spreads out north and south. And while many of the original houses still stand, the area is no longer populated only by Dutch. “This is an old neighborhood that at one time was a huge Dutch community, which began to change in the 1970s with AfricanAmericans moving into the community,” said James Jones of Oakdale Park Christian Reformed Church. “We have also seen this demographic change again in 2000 with a growing number of Hispanic families moving in.” Joan Huyser-Honig and her husband, Steve, have lived in the neighborhood since 1982, raising their sons there. “We like that there’s a mix of races, ages and experiences,” she said. “Our neighborhood has a long history that

Photography by Johnny Quirin

many people aren’t aware of. For example, over by Adams Park Apartments (Fuller Avenue SE between Adams and Ramona), there’s a huge sewer retention pond where you can see just a little bit of Silver Creek. Many decades ago, neighborhood kids could wade or skate on Silver Creek upstream to East Grand Rapids or downstream to Plaster Creek.” The creek was covered over before World War II as one of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration projects, but it still flows underground, seeing daylight only in two places, one of which is in the neighborhood.

Pastor James Jones of Oakdale Park Christian Reformed Church talks to Sarah Rhein of the Criminal Justice Chaplaincy, a nonprofit organization that mentors people coming out of jail or prison, as she prepares food for a luncheon event.

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Clockwise from top left: Emilee Pfeifer, a teacher at River City Scholars Charter Academy, works with student Dalyce Floyd. Teacher Tim Hoogewind coaches students during gym class, and Loannie Huston offers an intensive learning program focused on helping small groups of students with math and reading.

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

In the 1830s, it was known as Burr Oak Creek and later changed to Silver Creek. Silver Creek Street serves as a reminder of the hidden waters. Today, Oakdale neighbors are reclaiming the agricultural heritage of their neighborhood with the recent construction of Oakdale Gardens Park. One of the only green spots in the neighborhood, the park serves double duty as a playground and school gardens for River City Scholars charter school, 944 Evergreen St. SE, as well as a community gathering space that includes a picnic pavilion, a grassy field and 10 raised beds for community gardeners. Amanda Barnett, who chairs the school garden committee, says the project began when the school opened in September 2012. “When National Heritage Academies decided to open River City Scholars, the city of Grand Rapids partnered with us in order to create another city park,” she said. “The goal of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is to have a green space within onefourth mile of every child in the city. Our playground, field and gardens are a space

for the school and community to work and grow together.” The school has exclusive use of the grounds during school hours, and claims five of the 15 raised beds for classroom use. Teachers use the garden for teambuilding, math lessons, writing, promoting healthy eating and “moral focus” assemblies, said Barnett. “For example, when we discuss gratitude, we talk about how we can be grateful for the food that we eat and how we can grow our own food and get fresh foods right here at our own school.” Kim Duncan has lived across from the school for 10 years. “When I first moved there, it was Oakdale Public School, and a year after I moved, it closed. It was closed for seven or eight years and it just sat there, empty.” During that time, neighbors like Joan Huyser-Honig started using portions of the vacant land to plant tomatoes and other vegetables. “When I became a stay-at-home mom, I had more time, and I would see Joan walking along with her wheelbarrow, planting flowers, and I thought, ‘Wow, it’s people

“We like that there’s a mix of races, ages and experiences. Our neighborhood has a long history that many people aren’t aware of. Many decades ago, neighborhood kids could wade or skate on Silver Creek upstream to East Grand Rapids or downstream to Plaster Creek.” — Joan Huyser-Honig

As a business owner in the Oakdale area, George Bayard III of Bayard Art, Consulting & Frame Shop collaborates with the Oakdale Neighborhood Association and the Boston Square Business District. Tina Santoya, owner of 7 Mares Restaurant, serves food to Oakdale residents Steve and Joan Huyser-Honig.

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Bruce Boman, youth director of On Our Block, helps Natalie Rodriguez, Ashten Duncan and Grace Ingabire. Hosted by Oakdale Neighbors, On Our Block is a club that provides mentoring and helps students with schoolwork. Below, Tom Bulten of Oakdale Neighbors prays with a group of pastors and members of local neighborhood churches at a meeting at Boston Square Christian Reformed Church.

getting more involved in the community,’” Duncan said. That inspired her to also get involved — along with hundreds of other volunteers who helped build the park, which was celebrated by a community-wide dedication last spring where students tied colorful ribbons to the park fence on which they wrote their dreams for the space, including things like kickball tournaments and playing with friends. “I’ve met more neighbors through gardening at Oakdale School and now in the new Oakdale Gardens Park than I did during my first 20 years of living in this neighborhood,” Duncan said. “Our neighborhood doesn’t have as many ‘third places’ as neighborhoods like Alger Heights or Eastown do. That makes restaurants like 7 Mares and the new Oakdale Gardens Park all the more important as gathering spots.” Oakdale Neighbors, a community development organization, is one of the major forces of change. “Our programs help neighbors be successful by solving family problems, increasing income, mentoring youth and finding transportation,” said Tom Bulten, executive director. A major player in organizing residents for the gardens, Oakdale Neighbors also offers such programs as tax help, a bike

shop that helps provide transportation to residents, and a time bank where residents log hours for services they’ve shared with each other. They can store their earned “time dollars” and then spend them by asking someone else for a service. While some area businesses have left the neighborhood, others have made a commitment to stay, said Jones, listing such places as Standard Lumber, Boston Square Lock & Key and Good Shepherd Properties. Tina Santoyo, owner of 7 Mares restaurant, lives in Oakdale; her restaurant will celebrate 16 years in the neighborhood next month. “I have many regular customers of all nationalities — Asian, Mexican, American — everybody comes,” she said. She has catered events for the school in the neighborhood that her son attends. George Bayard III, who has owned Bayard Art, Consulting & Frame Shop since 1989, downsized his business and moved to Oakdale six years ago. “I’m happy to see there is some development in the area — some of the buildings are starting to be occupied,” he said. “I think it had reached a stagnant point, but now I see some new businesses moving in — and the crime is down, too, so that’s also encouraging.” Bayard has worked with the Oakdale

Neighborhood Association doing programs with children in the summer, as well as participating in events with the Boston Square Business District. “This is a good neighborhood that was hit hard when the housing market took a turn for the worst. There were a lot of foreclosures in the neighborhood and, as a result, a lot of empty houses,” said Jones. “But I can see the turnaround beginning to happen. We still have a ways to go, but I am GR a glass-half-full kind of guy.”

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out & about Where to Go / What to Do

march events a FEW GrEaT ThINGS TO DO ThIS MONTh!

and from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., starting with the Kegs and Eggs breakfast at McFadden’s. See irishonionia.com.

SPEcIaL EVENTS March 6-16 GILDa’S LaUGhFEST 2014: More than 200 free and ticketed shows will feature more than 60 artists at venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Holland. Headliners include Jay Leno, Jim Gaffigan, Lily Tomlin, Sinbad and Chris Tucker. For event and ticket info, visit laughfestgr.org or call 735HAHA (4242).

Don’t forget to mark your calendar!

STaGE March 28-30 MOVEMEDIa I: GR Ballet Company’s popular dance series, now in its third year, will feature new work by artist-in-residence Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and other innovative choreographers. Movemedia premieres new dance works that merge visual elements such as sets, props, costumes and lighting, with technology and digital media. grballet.com.

March 15 IrISh ON IONIa: The fourth annual St. Patrick’s Day street party hosted by McFadden’s Irish Saloon will have two stages for entertainment that will include Irish music, Celtic dancing, live bands and DJs. The party will stretch from Oakes to Fulton streets —

March 4 - FaBULOUS MarDI GraS cELEBraTION: Beneﬁts Fountain Street Church and the Red Project to ﬁght AIDS. Jazz, gumbo, beads, beer and beignets, plus a silent auction and cos-

tume contest. 24 Fountain St. NE. $30 pre-paid or $40 at door. Call 4598386.

March 9 FUNDErWEar rUN 5K: Racers are encouraged to wear their funni-

est underwear over their running clothes to support Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Sponsored by Universal Forest Products, the race begins at 10 a.m. on the GRCC campus. Visit laughfestgr.org/show/ funderwear-run.

March 22 LaDYFESTGr: The

Blow, an electro pop band comprised of Khaela Maricich and Melissa Dyne, will play at The Pyramid Scheme as part of the third annual celebration of female

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To list your event Send calendar information to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o

Calendar Editor, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, e-mail caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the 15th of the month.

SPECIAL EVENTS Thru March 1 - Restaurant Week: Cool Brews, Hot Eats: Food specials at area restaurants include meals paired with beer or food prepared with beer. experiencegr.com/ events/brews-eats. Thru March 9 - Ice Skating at Rosa Parks Circle: Outdoor ice skating in downtown GR. Hours and cost: see Rosa Parks Circle Ice Skating on Facebook.

PAGE 84, PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LAUGHFEST (TOP LEFT); GRAND RAPIDS BALLET (TOP RIGHT); ISTOCKPHOTO (BOTTOM RIGHT); THINKSTOCK (BOTTOM LEFT) PAGE 85 COURTESY THINKSTOCK

March 1 - Afternoon with the Arts: Victorian Tea: Franciscan Life Process Center hosts a Victorian Tea with sweets and music. 1 p.m. Polka Pops Café, 634 Stocking Ave. NW. $15 (lifeprocesscenter.org) or $20 (at door). March 1 - Bid for Bachelors & Bachelorettes: 17th annual event benefits Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis. Date packages are auctioned off. 5:30 p.m. (bidding begins at 7). DeVos Place. $25 in advance (bidforbach. org), $30 at door. March 4 - Mardi Gras Supper: Franciscan Life Process Center hosts a Fat Tuesday celebration with pancakes, sausage and fruit. 5-7 p.m. FLPC, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org. March 4 - 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan: GR Business Journal hosts an awards luncheon. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave. NW. $79 (grbj. com). March 6-9 - West Michigan Home and Garden Show: More than 350 exhibitors of home products and services, remodeling, new construction, interior design, landscaping, retail garden centers. 3-9 p.m. Thu., noon-9:30 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.5 p.m. Sun. DeVos Place. $10 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). showspan.com.

art, music and community. Performances and workshops will be held at various locations in Heartside and downtown. ladyfestgr.com. See Special Events

MARCH 24 - PAWS, CLAWS & CORKS: Humane

March 6-16 - LaughFest: Gilda’s Club celebrates its 13th anniversary with a 10-day, 40-venue, 60-artist festival of laughter. Comedians include Jay Leno, Lily Tomlin, Chris Tucker, Jim Gaffigan and Sinbad. Individual event and festival passes available at laugh festgr.org. March 7-9 - Girlfriends Weekend: Downtown Holland hosts three-day event that includes wine tasting, shopping, fashion show, champagne brunch, in-store activities. $110 weekend, $70 Sat. only. girlfriendsweekend. org. March 8 - Fashion and Tea: Tour the Streets of Old Grand Rapids and learn about fashion, vintage clothing and customs from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, plus treats and tea. 2:30-4 p.m. GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. $15, $13 members (929-1700 or grmuse um.org). March 8 - Single Parenting Expo: More than a dozen organizations participate, including A Father’s Walk, Divorce Care, Great Start Parent Coalition, Strong Beginnings. 9 a.m.3 p.m. The DOCK Ministry, 4669 S. Division Ave., Wyoming. Free. afatherswalk.org. March 13 - Open Door, Open Hearts: Hors d’oeuvres, food demonstrations, massages, raffle to benefit Degage’s Open Door Women’s Center. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Celebration Cinema Wave Room, 2121 Celebration Drive NE. $25 (kim@degageministries.org or 454-1661, ext. 210). degageministries.org.

Specialty Kitchen Design with Exclusive Product Lines and Custom Cabinetry

New Location 222 East Fulton Grand Rapids, MI 49303

616.454.2563 lifestylekitchenstudio.com

March 14-16 - Just Between Friends Sale: Kids and maternity clothes, baby equipment, furniture, books, toys. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Thu., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat. 28th St. Showplace, 1256 28th St. SW, Wyoming. $3 Thu., free Fri. and Sat.

Society of West Michigan’s fundraiser offers delectables from West Michigan restaurants, breweries and wineries, plus an auction. DeVos Place. See Special Events

MARCH 28-30 - COTTAGE & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW: Designers, furnishings, builders and realtors, boats and docks, vacation home services and financing. DeVos Place. show span.com. See Special Events

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out & about Where to Go / What to Do

1/ Todd Barry is one of three comedians who will perform at The Pyramid Scheme’s Laughfest shows March 7-8.

Comedy & nightclub venues COMPILED BY ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL

1/ ThE PYraMID SchEME: Two nights, three comedians and more laughs than Internet cat videos is what to expect at The Pyramid Scheme’s LaughFest shows March 7 and 8. Todd Barry, Rory Schovel and Nick Thune take the stage for two performances (8:30 and 10 p.m.) that are rated R (really!). Must be 18 and older. Tickets are $25 (Ticketmaster). 68 Commerce Ave. SW, 272-3758, pyramidschemegr.com. 2/ BILLY’S LOUNGE: Want a chance to see “Michigan’s No. 1 Pop Rock Party Supergroup”? You’re in luck. As Billy’s new house band, Funkle Jesse plays every Tuesday night. Mixing original music and covers, the five-piece group’s amazing vocals and polished sound will have you coming back. $3 cover. 1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com. 3/ INTErSEcTION: Grand Rapids’ own Ultraviolet Hippopotamus takes the stage March 8. The improvisational band known for its on-stage music alchemy is bringing the jams. Age 17 and older. Doors open at 8 p.m., show begins at 9 p.m. Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Tickets at Purple East, Shakedown Street, Vertigo Music and box office. 133 Grandville Ave. SW. 451-8232, sectionlive.com.

Diversions: Nightclub offers video bar, dance floor, karaoke, special events. 10 Fountain St. NW, 451-3800, diversionsnightclub.com. Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nationally acclaimed stand-up comedians perform 9 p.m. Thu., 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com. Founders Brewing Co.: Large

taproom features live music and open mic events. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 776-2182, foundersbrewing.com. J. Gardellas: Dance Club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor feature DJ Kermit. 11 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com. Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/bar with dance floor, DJs Thu.Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoodslounge.com. Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. No cover charge. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, mullig ans-pub.com. Monte’s Lounge: Drink specials and dancing every Fri. and Sat. 438 Bridge St. NW, 774-5969, montes lounge.com.

The Orbit Room: Club venue hosts regional and national music acts, occasional stand-up comedy. Multiple bars. Open floor, seated balcony. 2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 9421328, orbitroom.com. Pop Scholars: Comedy improv team incorporating short and long skits along with audience participation. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. Tickets at Wealthy Theatre box office or at the door. popscholars. com. River City Improv: Comedy team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. Calvin College Gezon Auditorium, 3201 Burton St. SE. Tickets at rivercityimprov.com or Calvin box office, 526-6282, or at door.

Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri. featuring DJs and live acts. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, rockysbarngrill.com. Stella’s Whisky Lounge: Retro Dance Party with DJ Todd Ernst every Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 7424444, stellasgr.com. Sunday Night Funnies: Two special shows benefit Gilda’s Club’s LaughFest, 8 p.m. March 9 and 16, including silent auction. Riverfront Hotel’s Landing Lounge, 270 Ann St. NW, Facebook. Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Live acts, including comedy (2nd and 4th Tue.) and music. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook.

March 8

3/ Grand Rapids’ band Ultraviolet Hippopotamus will perform at the Intersection.

PhotoGraPhy courtesy LauGhfest (toP); uV hiPPo (bottom)

The B.O.B: The Big Old Building houses several entertainment options: live music at Bobarino’s Tue.Sat.; DJs and dancing at Eve (Fri. and Sat.); live music at the new House of Music and Entertainment (HOME); and stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins (see below). 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.

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March 14-16 - Monster Jam Thunder Nationals: Monster trucks perform. 7 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Van Andel Arena. $16.50-$41.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). March 14-16 - West Michigan Women’s Expo: More than 400 exhibits and seminars for women. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri. and Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. DeVos Place. $7-$9 (at door). kohlerexpo.com. March 15 - Ballet Unmasked: GR Ballet spring gala, revealing the magic behind the scenes; black tie, masks suggested. 6 p.m. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth SW. $150 (454-4771, ext. 11, or kyled@grballet. com). March 15 - Grand Rapids St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Begins at 11 a.m. at Monroe and Lyon, travels south on Monroe, east on Monroe Center, north on Division, east on Library and ends at Veterans Memorial Park. grmichigan aoh.com. March 15 - Holland St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Irish dancers, bagpipers and kilt-wearers. Noon. Begins at Eighth St. Marketplace and travels east to Curragh Irish Pub and New Holland Brewing Co. downtownholland.org/ stpats.

Photography courtesy Laughfest (top); UV Hippo (bottom)

March 15 - Irish on Ionia: St. Patrick’s Day street party on Ionia between Fulton and Oakes, hosted by McFadden’s Irish Saloon. 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Kegs and Eggs breakfast 7-11 a.m. in McFadden’s. Entertainment, Celtic dancers, Irish food and performances on two stages with live bands and DJs; headliner is The Waxies. $10 in advance (McFadden’s), $15 at gates. irishonionia.com. March 15 - Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade: 11 a.m. Downtown Muskegon. visitmus kegon.org. March 15 - Rockford Community Expo: More than 180 booths of local businesses, food, entertainment, workshops and more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Rockford High School, 4100 Kroes. Free. March 15 - Saugatuck St. Patrick’s Festival: Annual parade in Saugatuck and Douglas. Begins at Culver Street Parking Lot. 2 p.m. saugatuck.com. March 15-16 - Kalamazoo Living History Show: Largest indoor juried show in the U.S. devoted to pre-1890 living history supplies, accoutrements and crafts. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St. $7, $10 two-day pass, children 12 and under free with adult. kalama zooshow.com.

March 15-16 - Spring Bridal Show of West Michigan: One-stop wedding shopping. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. DeVos Place. $9 (at door). kohlerexpo.com. March 17 - Wearin’ of the Green: Conklin’s St. Patrick’s Day parade starts at 10:55 a.m. along Main St., followed by all-day Irish “hooley” with music, song and dance at Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St. feniansirish pub.com. March 19 - Pillar Awards: Women’s Resource Center honors West Michigan-based employers who empower women at work. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave. NW. Tickets TBD. grwrc.org. March 20-23 - Ultimate Sport Show: More than 350 exhibitors show outdoor gear, travel info, fishing boats and RV’s. 3-9:30 p.m. Thu., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. DeVos Place. $10 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). ultimatesportshow.com. March 22 - Coopersville Community Expo: Community businesses, organizations, municipalities and nonprofits. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Coopersville High School, 198 East St. Free. coop ersville.com. March 22 - Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival: Celebration of stringed-instrument design and manufacture includes designers, performances, workshops. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N. Rose St., Kalamazoo. Free. fretboardfestival.com. March 22 - LadyfestGR: Third annual celebration of female art, music and community, including local and national performers and concerts. Various locations in Heartside and downtown GR. ladyfestgr.com. March 22 - Lowell Community Expo: Lowell Area Chamber spotlights 150 area businesses, service groups, churches, government agencies, plus entertainment, giveaways and food. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Lowell High School, 11700 Vergennes St. SE. Free. lowellchamber.org. March 24 - Paws, Claws & Corks: Humane Society of West Michigan’s fundraiser with food from West Michigan restaurants, breweries and wineries, plus auction. 6 p.m. DeVos Place. $100 (791-8138 or thagedorn@hswest mi.org). hswestmi.org. March 25 - GRCC Salute to Women: Reception to honor GRCC women who exemplify their roles as professionals, volunteers or agents of change. 1:30-3 p.m. GRCC Applied Technology Center. grcc.edu/stw. March 28-29 - MOPS Consignment Sale: Kids’ clothing, toys, books, baby equipment, furniture, maternity clothes. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Fri., 9 a.m.-noon Sat. Sunshine Community Church, 3300 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free.

March 28-30 - Cottage & Lakefront Living Show: Designers, furnishings, builders and realtors, boats and docks, vacation home services and financing. 3-9 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. DeVos Place. $10 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). showspan.com.

Sports March - Grand Rapids Griffins: American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of Detroit Red Wings, home games: March 5 vs. Chicago Wolves. March 7-8 vs. Iowa Wild. March 29 vs. Rockford IceHogs. Van Andel Arena. $14-$32 (Van Andel box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). griffinshockey.com. March 1 - Sasquatch Trail 5K: Challenging course through trails and park, plus kids half-mile dash. 10 a.m. Manhattan Park, 430 Manhattan Road, EGR. $25 (stridersrun.com/ sasquatch-5k-3-1). March 13 - St. Patty’s Pacer 5K Fun Run: Course begins and ends in Centennial Park, Holland, and includes food, music, contests and kids dash. Supports Community Action House. 5:15 p.m. activities, 5:45 p.m. kids race, 6 p.m. 5K. $25 adults (gazellesports.com/ info/110-stpattyspacer.html). March 15 - Spectrum Health Irish Jig: 5K run in EGR, starting by high school gym. 9 a.m. $25 adults, $20 kids 14 and under (spec trumhealth.org/irishjig). March 21-22 - WCHA Final Five: Western Collegiate Hockey Association hosts final five teams. 2 and 7 p.m. Fri., 7 p.m. Sat. Van Andel Arena. Games 1 and 2: $18-$35; Game 3: $25$40; packages available (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). March 22 - Killer Gravel Road Race: Founders Brewing/Barry-Roubaix gravel road bicycle race is the largest in country, with 24-, 36- and 62-mile options. 10 a.m. Begins in downtown Hastings. Sponsor Founders Brewing Co. hosts awards and after-party celebration: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. in downtown Hastings with bonfires, food, music, beer. barry-rou baix.com.

Stage & Film Thru March 8 - “Dance 40”: Hope College Department of Dance celebrates its 40th birthday with a program by faculty, guest artists and students. 8 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 students, kids 12 and under free (395-7890 or hope.edu/academic/dance). March 2014 / Grmag.com 87

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Aziza Poggi is a young musician with a knack for creativity. She’s the lead singer of Aria Flame, a local hard rock group, and a member of Eve’s Apple, a group of professional female singers who support other female musicians. Poggi was previously the lead singer and founding member of Dendura, an Egyptian-inspired progressive metal band. When she’s not performing, Poggi makes and sells a line of fragrances made from essential oils, a hobby that turned into a business. “Once strangers started asking what I was wearing, I knew I would be able to sell it to others.” She began marketing her products at craft shows, bazaars and

Aria Flame concerts. Specializing in alcohol-free, vegan perfumes, the young artist also makes soy candles and organic shea butter. Poggi says her two passions go hand in hand. “I always listen to music when making perfume. It’s therapeutic. And I always burn a candle when writing a new song or singing at my piano.” She currently is finishing a degree in music at Grand Rapids Community College and working with Aria Flame on a new EP with Grammy-winning producer Neil Kernon. Visit her website at azizaworld.com/music. To order her products, visit azizaworld. — CHELSEA GRAINER com/fragrances.

Thru March 12 - actors’ Theatre Script Submission: Eleventh annual 10-minute play festival with theme “Desperate Moves” invites Michigan writers to submit scripts. Final 10 selected for public reading in April; five finalists produced in June. Visit actorstheatre grandrapids.org for submission info (click on On Stage and Living on the Edge). Thru March 23 - “Les Miserables”: GR Civic Theatre presents the musical based on the Victor Hugo novel. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $18-$35 (222-6650 or grct.org). March 7-8 - “abduction From the Seraglio”: Opera Grand Rapids presents Mozart’s darkly comedic opera. 7:30 p.m. EGR High School, 2211 Lake Drive SE. $21-$98 (Opera, DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). March 8, 15, 22 - “No Dogs allowed”: GR Civic Theatre hosts a traveling troupe presenting the story of an 8-year-old girl deter-

mined to bring her dog to a park where no dogs are allowed. 2 p.m. 30 N. Division Ave. Free. grct.org.

March 18 - WMEac Film Series: West Michigan Environmental Action Council screens monthly documentaries followed by speakers or panel discussions. This month: “The Last Crop.” Time TBD. UICA, 2 W. Fulton St. $5 suggested donation. wmeac.org/events1/ filmseries. March 18-20 - “Mamma Mia!”: Broadway Grand Rapids’ musical combines ABBA’s greatest hits with the tale of love, laughter and friendship. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $32-$72 (DeVos Place, Van Andel and BGR box offices or Ticketmaster). broadway grandrapids.com. March 20-30 - “Driving Miss Daisy”: Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids presents a story about the 25-year relationship between a strongwilled Southern matron and her black chauf-

feur. 8 p.m., 3 p.m. Sun. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $20 adults, $18 seniors, $5 students (box office or 234-3946). jtgr.org.

March 28-30 - “Movemedia I”: GR Ballet Company performances feature new choreography from artist-in-residence Annabelle Lopez and others. 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat, 2 p.m. Sun. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth SW. $12-$25 (ballet box office or Ticketmaster). grballet.com. March 28-april 6 - “Sex and the Supernatural”: Presented by Theatre at GVSU. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sun. Louis Armstrong Theatre, Allendale campus. $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students (GVSU box office, 616-331-2300 or gvsu.edu/theatre).

mUSiC March 1 - air Supply: 1970s duo with hits such as “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” and “All Out of Love.” 7:30 p.m. Forest Hills FAC, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE. $38-$50 (box office, 493-8966 or Ticketmaster). fhfinearts center.com. March 1 - Bands on the Grand Festival: Sixth annual all-day event. Adult community bands perform, critiqued by professional music adjudicators. Forest Hills Eastern HS, 2200 Pettis Ave. NE, Ada. Free. fhacb.org. March 1 - Symphony with Soul: GR Symphony hosts its 13th annual celebration of African-American music. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org. March 2 - Gr Youth Symphony & classical Orchestra: Featuring piano concerto competition winner. 3 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $13 adults, $11 seniors and students (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). grys.org. March 6 - chamber Music Society of Lincoln center: Cellist David Finckel performs Schumann and Dohnanyi with CMS musicians. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $35-$40 adults, $10 students (459-2224, scmc-online.org). March 6 - Skillet: Rock band performs. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena. $19.50-$99 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). March 7-8 - Beethoven and Blue Jeans: West Michigan Symphony presents violinist Chee-Yun performing Tchaikovsky violin concerto, plus Beethoven’s Second Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $17-$47, $5 students (231-726-3231 or west michigansymphony.com).

PhotoGraPhy by michaeL buck

Hand-in-hand passions

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March 7 - Makem and Spain Brothers: Irish ballad group performs. 8 p.m. Fenian’s Irish Pub, 19683 Main St., Conklin. $30 (8992640). feniansirishpub.com. March 7-8 - Mighty Wurlitzer concerts: GR Public Museum’s theater organ concerts feature Father Andrew Rogers performing “A Musical Potpourri.” 7-9 p.m. Fri., 2-4 p.m. Sat. 272 Pearl St. NW. $10 adults, $5 children 3-17, $8/$4 members (ticket counter or 456-3977). March 9, 15 - The Block concerts: Presented by West Michigan Symphony. 3 p.m. March 9, violinist Chee-Yun. 7:30 p.m. March 15, percussionist Andrew Spencer. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $20 and up (231726-3231 or westmichigansymphony.com). March 14 - MaJIc concert Series: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts Chain of Lakes. 7:30 p.m. Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit Hill Music Together ministry.

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March 14-15 - “Symphonic Dances”: GR Symphony presents a night of dance-inspired works by American composers. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org. March 14, 28 - alley Door club: Jazz, blues and folk in downtown Muskegon. March 14, Deni Hunter and the House Rockers. March 28, West Side Soul Surfers. 7-10 p.m., doors open 6 p.m. Frauenthal Theatre, Muskegon. $7 at door or in advance (231-727-8001). March 16 - holland Symphony Orchestra: Family concert: Tubby the Tuba! 3:30 p.m. DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland East High School, 3333 96th Ave., Zeeland. $19 adults and seniors, $5 students (796-6780, holland symphony.org).

PhotoGraPhy by michaeL buck

March 16 - Metropolitan choir of Praise: Sunday concert. 6 p.m. Algoma Baptist Church, 10515 Grange Ave., Rockford. Free. metropolitanchoir.org.

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March 16 - Sacred Sounds of St. Mark’s: The Voices of GVSU Gospel Choir includes 135 members in a gospel concert. 5 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N. Division Ave. Free. stmarksgr.org. March 17 - Brit Floyd: Live production of Pink Floyd’s music, plus light and laser show. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $37-$47 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). March 17 - Monday Night Jazz: West Michigan Jazz Society presents Chris Lawrence Quartet. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bobarino’s at the

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out & about Where to Go / What to Do

B.O.B, 20 Monroe Ave. NW. $10, $5 members and students. wmichjazz.org.

7 p.m. Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd. SE. Free-will offering. grcmb.com.

March 20 - Grcc International Guitar Series: Featuring GFA winner Rovshan Mamedkuliev. 7:30 p.m. GRCC Music Center Recital Hall, Room 200, 142 Ransom NE. $15 adults, $10 seniors and students (234-3940 or grcc. edu/music/internationalguitarseries).

March 30 - chamber choir of Grand rapids: Spring concert with Aquinas College Chorus. 3 p.m. East Congregational Church, 1005 Giddings SE. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students. chamberchoirgr.org.

March 20 - ScMc Jazz Series: St. Cecilia Music Center presents jazz violinist Regina Carter. 7:30 p.m. 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $35-$40 adults, $10 students (459-2224, scmc-online. org). March 20-21 - church Basement Ladies: A musical “A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement.” 7:30 p.m. Van Singel Fine Arts Center, 8500 Burlingame SW, Byron Center. $32.50 adults, $20.50 students (box office, 878-6800 or vsf ac.com). March 21-23 - Symphony Idol: GR Symphony Pops presents three finalists from TV’s “American Idol”: Matt Giraud, Lakisha Jones and Haley Scornato. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (GRS and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org. March 22, 29 - acoustic Saturday Nights: Folk concerts presented by Grand River Folk Arts Society. March 22, Squirrel Hillbillies. March 29, Bill Staines. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, $9 members, $3 children (at door). grfolkarts.org. March 23 - Demi Lovato: Musical artist and “X Factor” judge performs Neon Lights Tour with special guests Fifth Harmony and Cher Lloyd. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena. $37.50-$65 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). March 23 - Grand rapids Women’s chorus: Collaborative concert with Girls Academy choruses. 3 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 227 E. Fulton St. grwc.org. March 27 - cherish the Ladies: Hope College’s Great Performance Series hosts IrishAmerican Celtic music concert. 7:30 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $18 adults, $13 seniors, $6 students and children (hope. edu/ticketoffice).

March 30 - “Orchestra from Planet X”: GR Symphony’s family series presents a onehour concert with free pre-concert activities for kids 8-13. 3 p.m. Forest Hills FAC, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE. $15 adults, $9 kids (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org. March 30 - WYcE Live: American singer/ songwriter Martin Sexton. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $28, $20 members. grcmc.org/event/6750.

leCtUreS & WorKSHopS March - Gr Public Libraries: Programs include Ask-a-Lawyer, Early Childhood Essentials, small business classes, author visits, computer classes, reading clubs. Kids activities include literacy classes; One Book, One City for Kids; Let’s Play Workshops. Complete schedule at grpl.org. March - Kent District Libraries: Programs include book discussions, Early Childhood Essentials and career transition workshops. Kids programs include story times, There’s a Mouse in the House, Rainbow Loom Creativity and Spring Brings Very Hungry Caterpillars. See kdl.org. March 1 - Baby-ready Pets: Humane Society of West Michigan presents a workshop to help prepare pets for arrival of baby. Noon-2 p.m. 3077 Wilson NW. $10 (791-8066 or jaul gur@hswestmi.org). hswestmi.org. March 6 - hope college Visiting Writer Series: Brenda Hillman and Rowan Ricardo Phillips. Q&A at 3:30 p.m. at Fried-Hemenway Auditorium, Room 135, in the Martha Miller Center. Reading at 7 p.m., Winants Auditorium, Graves Hall. Free. hope.edu/vws.

March 28-29 - “Bach’s St. Matthew Passion”: GR Symphony presents moving choral work. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $18$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

March 7, 14, 28 - Grand river Folk arts Society: Dance instruction. 7 p.m. March 7, First Friday Contra Dance, 5th Street Hall, 701 5th St. NW ($9 adults, $7 members, $5 students/ seniors). 7 p.m. March 14, Second Friday International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE ($5). 7 p.m. March 28, Fourth Friday Contra Dance/Jam, Fifth Street Hall, 701 5th St. NW ($9 adults, $7 members, $5 students/seniors). grfolkarts.org.

March 28-29 - Lenten Meditations: Presented by Grand Rapids Men & Boys Choir.

March 12 - Grcc Diversity Lecture Series: “Eavesdropping on America’s Conversation

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$25 Introductory private lesson

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on Race” by Michelle Norris. 7 p.m. Fountain St. Church, 24 Fountain St. NE. Free. grcc.edu/ lecture.

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March 13 - Great Start Parent coalition of Kent county: Legislative Night. 5:45-8 p.m. Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. SW. Free dinner and child care. RSVP: 632-1007. greatstartkent.org. March 15 - astronomy class: GR Public Museum and GR Amateur Astronomical Association present “Looking Up and Ahead” by Greg Comegys at 1 p.m., plus telescope tuneup clinic 2:15-3 p.m. Schuler Books and Music, 2660 28th St. SE. Free. graaa.org or grmus eum.org. March 15, 22 - “Secrets for Successful Marriage”: Workshop teaches healthy relationship skills, financial management, family background influences and marriage expectations. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE. $120/couple. Registration: 222-4566 or pinerest.org/ssmregistration. March 16, 29 - Drop-In Drawing Workshops: Meijer Gardens hosts two local artists exploring the exhibit “Committed to Paper: Master Drawing and Prints by Sculptors.” March 16, Maureen Nollette. March 29, Andrew Kline. 1-2 p.m. Free with admission. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijer gardens.org.

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March 18 - Dyslexia Seminar: Info from New Chapter Learning. 6:30 p.m. Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave., Room 200. Registration: 534-1385. Free. newchapterlearning. net. March 18 - Nourishing Ways of West Michigan: “Food Freedom: Awareness Leads to Action” by Liz Reitzig. 7-8:30 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N. Division Ave. Free. nourishingways.org. March 20-21 - Institute for healing racism: Two-day workshop connects people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds to discuss thought-provoking topics. GRCC Diversity Learning Center. $200-$300 (2343390, grcc.edu/ihr).

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March 27 - GraMStudio Workshop: ArtPrize Remix. 6-9 p.m. Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center. $60, $50 members. Registration required: artmuseumgr.org, click on Learning. March 31 - Gr audubon club: “Birding for Conservation: Cerulean Warblers,” by Tom Funke. 7 p.m. social hour, 7:30 presentation. Orchard View Church, 2777 Leffingwell NE. Public welcome, free. glsga.org/grac.

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out & about Where to Go / What to Do

Museums & Attractions COMPILED BY DONNA FERRARO AND TRICIA VAN ZELST

3/ Take advantage

of discounted rates, in effect until May 10, when John Ball Zoo reopens for the season March 1.

2/ FrEDErIK MEIJEr GarDENS & ScULPTUrE ParK: Special exhibitions: March 1-April 30, Butterflies are Blooming: Hundreds of butterflies and moths (more than 40 species) from tropical regions fly freely in the conservatory. 10 a.m. and noon, March 8 and 22, GR Ballet’s Junior Company presents “Butterfly Ballet: Who Am I?” (see website for cost, registration). Thru April 27, Committed to Paper: Master Drawings and Prints by Sculptors, 40 works by more than 20 sculptors. Thru Oct., Bernar Venet, large-scale sculptures. Permanent attractions: World-class sculptures indoors and in 30-acre park; tropical conservatory, café/ restaurant, gift shop. Open daily. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students, $6 age 5-13, $4 age 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org.

3/ JOhN BaLL ZOO: Opens March 1 for the season. Attractions: more than 2,000 animals, including Meijer Grizzly Bear Exhibit, Jandernoa Children’s Outpost, Lions of Lake Manyara, Mokomboso Valley Chimps, Spider Monkey Island, Living Shores Aquarium. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $5 adults and seniors, $4 kids 3-13, kids under 2 free. 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org.

Blandford Nature Center: Special activities: 2-3:30 p.m. March 8 and 15, Sugarbush tours. 9 a.m-4 p.m. March 22, Sugarbush Festival. 1-3 p.m. March 29, Gourmet Mushroom Log Workshop. Trails, nature exhibits, heritage buildings, farm on 143 acres. Interpretive Center open weekdays; trails open daily dawn to dusk. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnature center.org. Coopersville Farm Museum: Acoustic Jam Nights 6-9 p.m. first and third Tue. Permanent exhibitions: Tractors, quilts, eclipse windmill, kids area. Open Tue., Thu. and Sat. $4 adults, $2 age 4-18, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopersville farmmuseum.org. DeGraaf Nature Center: March 15-16 and March 22-23, Maple Sugar Time (11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun.) at VanRaalte Farm, 1076 16th St., Holland. 18-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Closed Sun., Mon., holidays. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, (616) 355-1057, cityofholland.com/degraafnature center. Free. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum: Special exhibition: Thru May 7, Growing Up Grand, a look at Ford’s formative years. Permanent exhibitions: The 1970s, Watergate, Oval Office, New Mood at the White House. Open daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 college students, $3 age 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov. Grand Rapids Art Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru April 27, Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection, modern and contemporary art from a preeminent collector of post-war American art. March 6-June 1, Resisting Certainty: Susan Goethel Campbell. Permanent exhibitions: 19th and 20th century art; design and modern craft; prints, drawings, photographs. Thursday Nights at GRAM: Music, gallery talks, cash bar, dinner options 5-9 p.m. $5 adults, members free. Sunday Classical Concert Series: Thru March 23, live music at 2 p.m. Drop-in Family Saturdays: Art-making activities for families, kid-friendly tours, 1-4 p.m. Closed Mon.,

Starting March 1

1/ Grand Rapids Public Museum opens Dream It, Build It, an exhibit featuring recreations by Adam Reed Tucker of famous architectural structures rendered in LEGOs, including the museum’s own building.

PhotoGraPhy courtesy GranD raPiDs PubLic museum (bottom); john baLL Zoo (toP)

1/ GraND raPIDS PUBLIc MUSEUM: Special exhibitions: March 1-Aug. 31, Dream It, Build It, LEGO exhibit with architectural recreations of Burj Dubai, the Empire State Building, the Jin Mao Tower and Gateway Arch. Thru April 27, Dinosaurs Unearthed, exhibition of animatronic dinosaurs and fossils explores the discovery of feathered dinosaurs. Permanent exhibitions: Streets of Old Grand Rapids, Anishinabek and Newcomers: People of This Place, Collecting A-Z, Furniture City, 1928 carousel ($1). $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 age 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grmuseum.org.

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2/ March 8, 22: As part of Meijer Gardens’ Butter-

flies Are Blooming, GR Ballet’s Junior Company performs “Who Am I?” a butterfly ballet.

open Thu. until 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students, $5 age 6-17, kids 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Special activities: Opening March 4, Just ForT Fun, an interactive exhibit. 6-8 p.m. March 14, Indoor Campout ($10, $8 members). Thru June, Kidstruction Zone. Permanent activities: Busy, Busy Bees; Bubbles!; Mom and Pop Store; Giant Lite Brite and more. Toddler Tuesdays, 3 and under (10 a.m.noon). Family Nights 5-8 p.m. Thu., $1.50. Closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors, kids under 1 free. 22 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org.

MARCH 18 -20 at DeVos Performance Hall

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Holland Museum: Special exhibition: Thru May 19, Dutch Folklore: The Linocuts of Cornelia Van Geuns. Permanent exhibitions: Dutch Galleries of 17th- to 20th-century paintings; cultural attractions from the “old country”; local history. Closed Tue. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. Cappon House: 228 W. 9th St.; Settlers House: 190 W. 9th St.; Main building: 31 W. 10th St., (616) 796-3329, hollandmuseum.org.

PhotoGraPhy courtesy chris cLark

PhotoGraPhy courtesy GranD raPiDs PubLic museum (bottom); john baLL Zoo (toP)

Late Night Specials: Beginning at 10:00pm during the week and 11pm on weekends. 616.235.1701 www.higrdt.com/grill/pearl-street-lounge

Meyer May House: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house restored by Steelcase includes original furnishings. Guided tours 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue. and Thu., 1-5 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free.

Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Newly renovated with high-def equipment, new seating, lighting and programs. Seasonal sky shows teach about the stars; classic rock accompanies laser light shows. GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. grmus eum.org/planetarium. Tri-Cities Historical Museum: Two buildings house exhibits of Northwest Ottawa County. Closed Mon. 200 Washington Ave. and 1 N. Harbor, Grand Haven, (616) 842-0700, tri-citiesmuseum.org. Free.

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Experience Seasonal Drink Specials at Grand Rapids’ Best Kept Secret, Pearl Street Lounge. Happy Hour: Mon. - Fri. 4-6pm

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: Special exhibitions: Thru May 4, Environmental Impact. Thru May 25, Inside Steinway: Photographs by Christopher Payne. Thru July 5, Cultural Encounters: India, Burma and Tibet. March 8-30, Young Artists of Kalamazoo County. Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID, kids 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Special events: Thru March 27, Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition. Special exhibitions: Thru March 16, Papercuts: The Art of Contemporary Papercutting. Permanent exhibitions: Paintings, prints, sculpture and glass. Closed Mon. and Tue. $7 adults (Thu. free), $5 students, kids under 17 free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegon artmuseum.org.

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out & about society / faces / PLaces

Brynn and Don Cloostra and Jennifer Unger-Grace

Melanie Bennett and Scott Sanford CJ and Jason DeVries

Mary Kate Hoodhood and Tommy Fitzgerald

Luke and Kelly Sprague

snap shots

caPTUrING ThE acTION

arOUND TOWN:

GUESTS aTTENDING ThE Comic-Con Juice Ball Jan. 11 were encouraged to dress as comic book and cartoon characters. The fifth annual event raised money for Tommy Fitzgeraldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen Sage project. Griffins fans skated with their favorite hockey players during the 2014 Great Skate Winterfest that started at noon Jan. 18 and wrapped up 34 hours later at Rosa Parks Circle. The sixth annual event raised money for the Griffins Youth Foundation. Several Grand Rapids area colleges and organizations held marches and events to honor Martin Luther King Jr. The federal holiday on Jan. 20 celebrates the life and achievements of the American civil rights leader. Kris Tingley and Leah Michelle

Foreground: Zyaiare Cones and Kahlil Richardson; Back row: Trevon Roby, Jkri Richardson, Michael Booker and Armani Richardson

PhotoGraPhy by michaeL buck (toP); jim Gebben (bottom)

Saudia Peterson, Phil Mcintosh, Aysha Peterson and Trey Best

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Audrey Vanessen and Carson Noordyke

Molly and Sara Dove and Nicholas Zabolotny

Allyson VanderKlok and Emily Scott

Skaters at the Winterfest event

Chris and Rocco Martini

Patrick Miles

Photography by johnny quirin (top); jim gebben (bottom)

Photography by michael buck (top); jim gebben (bottom)

Chuck D

Patricia Peterson and Ruth Best

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after thoughts

Q:a

Two years ago, Kelly LeCoy founded Uptown Kitchen, an incubator for culinary entrepreneurship in Eastown that has helped many West Michigan foodies get a start.

PhotoGraPhy by johnny quirin

rom marshmallows to tacos, there’s a lot of cooking and creating in Kelly LeCoy’s licensed commercial kitchen at 423 Norwood Ave. SE, where 18 or so cooks and caterers share the space. Now LeCoy is “growing collaborations within the regional food economy” and working on a guide on how to start a food business in Grand Rapids. The young entrepreneur also serves on the board of the Eastown Business Association and the Uptown Marketing Committee. WhaT’S YOUr GrEaTEST FEar? Wasting time! I’m learning to value idleness. GUILTIEST PLEaSUrE? Marie Catrib’s vegan Hummingbird Cake. PrOUDEST MOMENT? The grand opening for Uptown Kitchen, or the first time participating in Fork Fest. It’s a soul-filling moment to watch other entrepreneurs engage with the community and sample and sell their products. LaST TIME YOU LaUGhED OUT LOUD? Playing games with friends the other night. Some good belly-laughs happened. SWEET Or SaLTY? Both. Chocolate with sea salt is one of the best things in the world. MOrNING Or NIGhT PErSON? Morning. Slow mornings are my favorite: Coffee and time with books before starting my day is all I need. FaVOrITE EThNIc FOOD? Afghani bolani. I love Indian and Ethiopian food, but I discovered Afghani in San Francisco a couple of years ago and fell in love. It’s a flat-bread, baked or fried, stuffed with things like lentils, beans and potatoes. I WISh I KNEW hOW TO… Garden. I managed to keep potted herbs alive all summer and am looking forward to growing more this year.

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