October 2010 - GRM by Grand Rapids Magazine

TWO PLATE: The Grille at Watermark

Thrills and Chills on Wealthy Street

Celebrating City Life

THE AREA’s PREMIER Dining LISTINGS www.grmag.com

Great local bakeries

October 2010

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Everything you ‘knead’ to know

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Medical milestones: West Michigan’s health care pioneers Ghost whisperers: Spiritualists help people find closure Bonus inside: Zest for Life, a guide to retirement living

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Spectacular Waterfront Dining For business luncheons, intimate dinners or appetizers and cocktails with friends, Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring that your visit is excellent.

Join us in our Lounge for HAPPY HOUR Monday-Friday 4:30-7pm Fabulous $3 • $4 • $5 Cocktail, Wine & Martini Features & Delicious $3 • $4 • $5 Appetizer Specials Check out our exclusive on-line offer — Three courses for $25.99! muer.com • ON-LINE Reservations Now Available 63 Market Street SW • Grand Rapids, MI 49503 • 616.459.2500

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VOlume 47 Number 10

October 2010 FEaTurEs fLour Power

As the temperature dips, bakeries in Grand Rapids are heating up, offering everything from wholesome breads to frosted cupcakes. ...............42

ghoSt whiSPererS

Spiritualists use their unique abilities to help people find closure and healing. ......... 50 meDiCaL miLeStoneS

From fluoridated water to generic drugs, and from rehabilitative care to finger joint replacements, West Michigan has been a frequent health care pioneer. .......................54

2 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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Volume 47 Number 10

October 2010 on the cover:

Photography at Nantucket Baking Co. by Johnny Quirin

In Every Issue Life & Style

Fashion boots; Stephanie Schlatter and Art Aid International; Train Out Pain; Groupon; Heather Sellers; Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary. ......................... 9-15 Profile

Christy Buck, director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, wants everyone to know that mental illness is a treatable disease. . ...... 20 Design

Architect Frank Gorman built his home with comfort, natural lighting and sustainability in mind. . ............. 23-28 City Guide

Chef Jenna Arcidiacono profiled; complete dining list; Kurt Denison’s “Surface”; Louie’s Bar and Rocket Lounge. . ....................... 65-104 Calendar of Events. ........... 91

Speaking Up Etc.

By Carole Valade..................... 7 Letters

Readers’ words......................... 7 Travel

By Matt Baker Halloween in Salem. . ......... 16 Grand Times

By Gordon G. Beld Ryerson and his son. .......... 18 Critic’s Choice

By Mark F. Miller Historic brick street pavers.........................26 Art Appreciation

By Joseph Antenucci Becherer “Untitled” by Karel Appel. ......................... 28 Dining Review

By Ira Craaven San Chez: A Tapas Bistro. ...................66 Grand Vine

By A. Brian Cain Meritage wines. . .................68 Fresh Hops

By Jon C. Koeze New West Michigan breweries. ............................. 78

4 Grand Rapids October 2010

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Exceptional Shopping! Autumn is on the horizon and so is great style at Woodland Mall. Shop 100 of your favorite stores, including:

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Shop 100 stores including Macy’s, JCPenney, Sears, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Apple and The Cafés in the Woods Food Court. Monday-Saturday 10am to 9pm, Sunday Noon to 6pm 28th Street and the East Beltline, West of I-96 616-949-0012 • shopwoodlandmall.com Find us on Facebook

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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964

www.grmag.com

info@grmag.com Publisher

John H. Zwarensteyn: jzwarensteyn@geminipub.com Editor

Carole Valade: cvalade@geminipub.com Managing Editor

Marty Primeau: mprimeau@geminipub.com Copy Editor

Donna Ferraro: dferraro@geminipub.com Contributing Editors

Matt Baker, Joseph A. Becherer, Gordon G. Beld, A. Brian Cain, Ira Craaven, Mark F. Miller, Jon C. Koeze Contributing Writers

Julie Burch, Kimberly Monaghan, Tricia van Zelst Editorial Interns

Jamie deGraaf, Anna Dysinger, Colton Wright 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 Manager

Scott Sommerfeld: ssommerfeld@geminipub.com

English Cottage Chair

Assistant Design & Production Manager

Chris Pastotnik: cpastotnik@geminipub.com Art Coordinator

Harbour Bay Furniture Co. Stuart, FL and Holland, MI

Downtown Holland · 212 S. River Ave., Holland · (616) 395-5554 Open Mon.–Sat. 10:00–5:30

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Kelly J. Nugent: knugent@geminipub.com Designers/Production Assistants

Melissa Brooks: mbrooks@geminipub.com Robin Vargo: rvargo@geminipub.com Contributing Photographers

Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Jeff Hage, Jack Poeller, Johnny Quirin General Sales Manager

Randy D. Prichard: rprichard@geminipub.com Advertising Sales Consultants

Live the GrandExperience

General Inquiries: advertisingsales@grmag.com Marie Barker: mbarker@geminipub.com Kathie Manett: kmanett@geminipub.com John Olsa: jolsa@geminipub.com Jan Thomas: jthomas@geminipub.com Advertising Sales Assistant/Coordinator

Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com Circulation & Marketing Manager

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General Inquiries: info@grmag.com Alyson Mabie, Linda Wilson To Order Reprints

Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com (616) 459-4545

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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) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 2010 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 www.grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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6 Grand Rapids October 2010

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Etcetera

A marking of milestones

by Carole Valade

Area residents found mid-summer treats in watching film stars and movie making on the streets of Grand Rapids, but celebrity sightings are not over. As the energy of ArtPrize subsides, those in the know are anticipating October’s powerful opportunities. Maya Lin, who created the “Ecliptic” sculptural installation adjacent to the new Grand Rapids Art Museum, will be at the institution Oct. 2 to commemorate her work’s 10th anniversary. Lin, most famously remembered for her Vietnam memorial in Washington, D.C., has not returned to Grand Rapids since the art museum was constructed. While fountains and portrayal of water in all its forms are more obvious elements of the installation, the fiber-optic lights imbedded in the floor of the summer amphitheater/winter skating rink replicate the sky over Grand Rapids at midnight on Jan. 1, 2000, as the new millennium dawned. The city has no more powerful reflection. Articles inside this issue detail more than one aspect of Betty Ford’s contributions, especially during her time as First Lady, and daughter Susan Ford Bales will be back in Grand Rapids to mark events celebrating her mother’s accomplishments. While Mrs. Ford’s contributions to medical treatment have impacted the nation, it is likely the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum exhibition this month will draw crowds not just for the items on exhibit but for the historic meaning of these gifts. Much ado is made of Grand Rapids’ “Medical Mile,” but the city’s legacy of medical milestones marks past accomplishments on which to build continued strength — and economic impact. Much of the story inside highlights the compilation of Grand Rapids Magazine’s Medical Hall of Fame, which it has sponsored since 2000 to honor the West Michigan health care community. The magazine staff and community co-sponsors have inducted 30 individuals for achievements ranging from pioneering orthopedic surgery and medical device inventions to the first viable vaccine for pertussis and the groundbreaking clinical trials that serve as the template for those conducted today. Indeed, touch points indicated in the story provide a foundation for ongoing work on medical devices and disease research. The caliber of

local medical professionals is a proud tradition carried on by the city’s newest residents, perhaps best exemplified by Dr. Jeffrey Trent, who now works with the Van Andel Institute. Trent is best known for his instrumental role in the Human Genome Project. As the VanAndel Institute continues its recruitment of more than 500 new researchers and assistants, area hospitals also have worked overtime to bring to Grand Rapids world-regarded specialists in heart transplants and the treatment of cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Many of these newcomers are investing in city neighborhoods, even revitalizing a historic area of the city north of I-196. And while new efforts begin, this month marks the annual tour of homes in Heritage Hill, another of the city’s historic legacies. Look about and participate on your way to the fruit ridge this fall.

Letters We welcome letters to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Please send letters in care of: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids MI 49503, or e-mail to letters@grmag.com. Letters may be edited for reasons of clarity and space.

Give credit to Joan Wolfe Congratulations on your excellent eco-friendly Grand Rapids Magazine (April 2010) issue. The article on Marta Swain, “Committed to Ecology,” made me very proud. In her enthusiasm to

pay tribute to her parents, she said, “Mary and Robert Swain co-founded the West Michigan Environmental Action Council.” Robert and I were actively involved in its creation (Robert was the first treasurer); however, all credit goes solely to Joan Wolfe, an outstanding environmental leader and the founder of WMEAC. Sincerely, Mary Swain Correction: In September’s “Tea West Michigan Style,” the location of Soul Infusions should have been Cedar Springs.

October 2010 Grand Rapids 7

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Life & Style

Jeanie Oliver models an over-the-knee Cocoon boot ($195) by Nicole, from Soles for you. Karen Kane tunic and lace leggings from L. Marie & Co. » pg10 Photography by Johnny Quirin

Inside

» Boots 10

» Heather Sellers 11

» Train Out Pain 12

» Groupon 13

» Saving pets 14

» Art Aid 15

October 2010 Grand Rapids 9

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Life & Style

Shake your booties

Mix elements Western and military boots are great with skinny jeans, but add a softer touch — a flowing tunic or lacy socks. “Tone down the masculinity of the boot by pairing it with something feminine,” said Julie Cronkright, owner of Jade in Rockford.

Gunsmoke boot by Restricted, $59, at Jade.

Think leggings “Some women tend to shy away from wearing dresses with boots,” said Jamie Grasman, owner of JB and Me in Holland. “But leggings will really extend your options.” And your legs. “You can really create a longer, leaner look.”

for You in East Grand Rapids. “This season you are going to see ankle booties with lots of embellishments, like chains and straps. They’re the perfect accessory for any wardrobe, from jeans to dresses.”

— Anna Dysinger

Go for glam “Girls want a shoe that has some detail,” said Linda Jonkman, owner of Soles

Far left and inset, Erin Price models Nicole “Lifetime,” $209, paired with skinny cargo pants, tunic and jacket, all from JB & Me; Nicole “Mambo” bootie with removable chain, $148, at Soles For You.

Photography by Johnny Quirin (bottom); Alissa Lane (top)

This fall, it’s all about the boot. Or rather, the many styles of boots. Short, tall, embellished or plain. High heels, wedges, chunky heels or flats. Overthe-knee boots reminiscent of the ’60s. Funky, cropped cowboy boots. Utilitarian inspired, or sexy, pointy-toed high-heeled boots. The trick is knowing how to wear them. Fashion retailers offered some suggestions:

10 Grand Rapids October 2010

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life & style

Family, face blindness and forgiveness

PhotograPhy by michael bucK

PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin (bottom); alissa lane (toP)

Heather Sellers isn’t crazy. But for most of her 44 years, the Hope College professor believed she was, despite earning a doctorate in English, establishing a teaching career and writing several books. Something just wasn’t right. The mystery was solved five years ago when Sellers was diagnosed with prosop-

agnosia — face blindness — the inability to reliably recognize faces. People with the rare neurological disorder often mistake friends and family for perfect strangers. “Growing up, I wasn’t able to trust my perceptions,” Sellers said. “There were a lot of times when I had no idea who I was talking to.” Unusual, yes. But face blindness was

only part of Seller’s dysfunctional upbringing. Her father was a cross-dressing alcoholic who wore a bra and pantyhose under his regular clothes. Her mother, a paranoid schizophrenic, nailed windows in her house shut and covered them with blankets. The flawed couple separated when Sellers was young and she bounced between the two households. She writes about her life in “You Don’t Look Like Anyone I Know,” a memoir to be released this month. What she describes is often so bizarre, one editor reading the first draft told Sellers no one would believe such a childhood was survivable. “You develop coping skills,” Sellers said. She learned to pay attention to people’s mannerisms, hairstyles and other details. Often, she would retreat inward. “I threw myself into the world of books. I was happy to be in the library for hours. And I loved to write, because in stories, I had complete control over my world.” Her memoir opens as the Florida native returns home to introduce her West Michigan fiancé, Dave, and his sons to her parents. It was the first step in facing her past “and letting it go.” The book is filled with fascinating memories and mishaps as Sellers describes her quest to discover the truth about herself and her family. Once the diagnosis was made, Sellers spread the word about face blindness — even appearing on NBC’s “Today” show and ABC’s “Prime Time” — hoping to help others who are suffering in silence. As many as one in 50 people, or 2 percent of the population, are believed to have some degree of face blindness. “It’s still really hard,” she said. “Some days I handle better than others.” But the real message of the book: “It’s the story of how we love each other in spite of immense limitations.” In a way, she said, her disability enabled her to see the world more clearly. — marty Primeau

heather sellers, an english professor at hope college, has written a memoir, “you Don’t look like anyone i Know,” about her dysfunctional childhood. OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 11

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life & style

train out pain Dr. Jason ross is all about achieving goals. as a two-time member of the u.s.a. olympic bobsled team and the team’s official chiropractor in 2010, the grand rapids doctor has won gold and bronze medals. ross, who opened train out Pain chiropractic in may, said he wants to help others prevent injuries “and lead them on a path that they feel in control of their health.” he’s worked with mountain bikers, rugby players, mixed martial artists, tri-athletes, runners, police officers and “moms who just want to lose a few pounds — anybody with a goal. it’s not just about rehab. it’s about drills and learning how to train the right way.” to rehabilitate and train his clients, ross uses a new treatment model aimed at not just fixing a problem, but finding the source. “it’s a combination of traditional chiropractic adjustments, a lot of soft tissue work called active release technique, and real exercise, not just stretches,” said Dr. ross. art is a manual therapy method used to treat adhesions or scar tissue in overused muscles. ross said muscles get shorter and weaker, which alters mobility. in art treatment, he uses his hands to break up the fibrous adhesions and restore patients’ mobility. For more information on his customized eight-week training and nutrition program and yoga classes, go to www.trainoutpain.com. check out his blog, which he updates daily, for — cOltOn Wright workout tips and videos.

“it’s not just about rehab. it’s about drills and learning how to train the right way.” — Dr. Jason ross

PhotograPhy by michael bucK

Former olympian athlete and chiropractor Jason ross works with client irv marcus at train out Pain chiropractic in grand rapids.

12 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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life & style

the shopping website’s grand rapids members are offered daily discounts on local items.

PhotograPhy courtesy crouPon

PhotograPhy by michael bucK

What a deal! Grand Rapidians like to look good and drive spiffy cars. At least, that’s what might be surmised looking at Groupon’s top local deals. The shopping website launched midJuly in GR, offering daily discounts on local goods, services and cultural events. Anyone who signs up can snap up deals such as half off a one-hour massage or a discounted 18 holes of golf. Groupon started in Chicago two years ago and now includes nearly 200 cities worldwide, said Julie Mossier, in Groupon’s marketing department. “We don’t launch in a city unless we have two to three months of deals,” she said. “Usually once the site is up and running, the interest from merchants skyrockets.” Groupon offers one deal a day and Mossier said the site turns down seven for every one featured. “Our standards are high,” she said. “Members of our sales staff are part of the community, so they’re familiar with the city.” Local deals have ranged from a half-price ticket to Big-Little Comedy

Fest ($4) to six laser hair removal sessions ($99) at Vasaio Life Spa. Each merchant gets a write up on the day’s page. One month after launching in GR, subscribers numbered more than 30,000. “And we’ve been signing up about 500 each day.” Top-selling deals vary from city to city, Mossier said. “For instance, in Kansas City, barbecue is always at the top.” In Grand Rapids, a manicure/pedicure at Elements Hair Design sold to a whopping 561 people. Southland Auto Wash offered $15 for a full-service car wash worth $35 and got 384 takers. The best deal was Vasaio’s laser hair removal at 89 percent off the regular price. “I was pleasantly surprised,” said Vickie Bennett, who owns the spa with her husband, Victor. “We know that people in Grand Rapids love coupons and sales,” she said. “And this was a nice way to reintroduce our laser procedures. We got about 390 new clients.” To check out the deals, go to groupon. com and sign up — it’s free. — marty Primeau OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 13

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Life & Style

A home for neglected pups

Stacy Leigh Westerman, a kennel attendant at Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, uses water therapy to work with Leslie, a special needs dog who sustained injuries in a car accident. Leslie was recently adopted.

when they’re happily adopted and go on that board in the kitchen — those pictures of people and dogs smiling from ear to ear.” Mackenzie’s adopts out around a dozen dogs each month, graduates of a thorough adoption process designed to eliminate potential returns. Their runs are filled with new rescues each month from local shelters and rescue organizations. On Oct. 7, the sanctuary will draw the winner of the Mackenzie’s Foundation Home Raffle. Sponsored by Parkland Properties, the grand prize is Boardwalk condominium unit 237 in downtown Grand Rapids or a $100,000 cash prize. On Oct. 11, the Grand Rapids Griffins will be on hand for another event, the Pups and Pucks Fall Walk-a-Thon. For more information, visit www.mack enzies.info. — Daniel Schoonmaker

Photography courtesy MacKenzie’s Animal Sanctuary (bottom); istockphoto.com/Eric Isselée (top)

Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary doesn’t look like a conventional shelter. Sprawled over 15 acres and five buildings and bound by a farm at its entrance, the Lake Odessa compound seems to have more in common with the resort campground down the road. There is a swimming hole and two indoor pools, one therapeutic. There are apartments for staff and a steady stream of volunteers — lots and lots of opportunities to play. Designed for the comfort, training and rehabilitation of man’s best friends, Mackenzie’s is the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the Midwest. “When you visit a shelter, it can be overwhelming,” said Amanda Parish, marketing and fundraising coordinator. “There is this sad realization that if they aren’t adopted, they could be euthanized. We would love to find homes for all of these dogs, but if not, we’re still going to be keeping them happy, healthy and loved.” The Azzar family founded the sanctuary in 1999 after the passing of their family dog, the sanctuary’s namesake. The first building, the Octagon, is today a permanent home for unadoptable dogs that suffered psychological trauma during Hurricane Katrina, which brought 26 dogs to the sanctuary in 2005. The Katrina kennel was built for large-scale rescues from disasters or puppy mill raids, and to provide temporary relief to partner shelters during quarantines or capacity overflow. The primary kennel has 88 runs split into two wings, each with a doggie door leading to a private outside run. This is the heart of the sanctuary, where 11 staff and the majority of its 150 regular volunteers work to prepare dogs for happy homes. “You see it right when you walk in the door,” said Carole Darby, a volunteer. “They’re happy to see you — instant gratification, and then you realize that you’re helping them along the way. The best is 14 Grand Rapids October 2010

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life & style

stephanie schlatter holds artwork and a photo of one of the ethiopian students she teaches through art aid international. the eco-friendly art studio and gallery in the basement of her ada home was designed with sustainable materials from eden environments.

Colors of change

PhotograPhy by Jim gebben

PhotograPhy courtesy macKenzie’s animal sanctuary (bottom); istocKPhoto.com/eric isselée (toP)

“I really love orange,” said artist Stephanie Schlatter, admiring the burnt orange walls in her Ada studio and gallery. She also loves green, which is why Schlatter’s workspace is entirely ecofriendly, from the non-toxic clay paint to

formaldehyde-free wood veneers. But Schlatter’s true passion is helping kids. Hanging throughout her gallery are colorful paintings by the Ethiopian children Schlatter teaches every year. “These kids are so at risk,” she said. “But they are so pure and they understand the value of getting an education.” In 2006, she founded Art Aid International, a division of the nonprofit Tesfa Foundation dedicated to improving the lives of families in Ethiopia. An avid traveler, Schlatter met Tesfa founder Dana Roskey while visiting the African country. “I grew up not getting out of West Michigan,” she said. “So I was shocked by the conditions in developing countries.” She started giving art lessons to children in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. It’s now an annual pilgrimage, and Schlatter plans to train teachers to go into the rural villages. To raise money for Tesfa, Schlatter brings the children’s art back to West Michigan. In August,

she sponsored her Fourth Annual Art & Wine Event, auctioning the paintings to guests. “We raised almost $5,000,” she said. “And we really honored the kids.” It was also an opportunity to show off her studio in the basement of the Ada home she shares with husband, Marc Schlatter. “When we married two years ago, the basement was just bare studs,” she said. Denise Hopkins of Eden Environment designed the space around the view of the Thornapple River, incorporating huge windows, a spacious patio and sustainable materials. “The design is quite simple,” she said. “But we used extraordinary materials.” For more information go to stephanie schlatterart.com. — marty Primeau

OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 15

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Life & Style: Travel

Halloween in Witch City The best costumes appear during the Oct. 31 weekend. Even the automobiles are in costume, including DeLorean time machines and Ectomobiles.

by Matt Baker

The question is: How far are you willing to travel for prime trick-or-treating? In middle school I lived on 4 Mile Road, where candy-gathering conditions ranged from unfavorable to harsh. Each house was a threeminute walk from the next, and at only about half of those houses would someone actually come to the door. On Halloween, we’d force our parents to drive us to neighborhoods in East Grand Rapids or Forest Hills, where we would raid the homes of our high school’s rivals for pillowcases full of candy. But now that we’re older and can afford airfare and lodgings, how far would we Halloween lovers go? How far would we travel if promised the spookiest, most over-the-top Halloween in the country? Would we travel as far as Massachusetts? Of course we would. Celebrating Halloween in Salem is like celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans: You’re not going to find a bigger party. Salem’s month-long Halloween festivities annually draw half a million people — this in a city about the size of Holland. (Then again, Holland’s Tulip Time Festival draws more than a million.) We’re told the place to stay is the Northey Street House Bed and Breakfast. Although inhabited by zero ghosts, ghouls, or walking skeletons, the B&B offers the invisible presence of free Wi-Fi. Every morning, owner Flora bakes such breakfast goodies as cherry and chive scones. Afternoons, she stocks the patio’s fire pit with split wood. The house is only a few blocks from downtown Salem, and a few blocks from the train station where mask-clad revelers come pouring in from Boston. Halloween night in Salem actually begins Halloween morning. By breakfast, nearly everyone on the streets is in costume. In fact, as Salem’s “Haunted Happenings” run all October long — hay-bale mazes, gravestone rubbings, pumpkin-carving festivals, film showings with live scores, a children’s costume parade — Salem spends most of the month in costume. This year’s Vampires’ Masquerade Ball —

Oct. 22 at the Hawthorne Hotel — is $95, which you can earn back fivefold by winning the $500 prize for “most provocative costume.” The hotel also will host The Mourning Tea Oct. 24. It’s a high tea service with the Salem Witches in remembrance of the dead, and a séance with local celebrity Leanne Marrama, who acts as a medium between you and the spirits of your departed. A nearby bartender acts as a medium between you and the spirits of the bottle. The best costumes appear during the Oct. 31 weekend. Even the automobiles are in costume, including DeLorean time machines and Ectomobiles. On Derby Street, young witches-to-be fly through the air on merry-go-rounds and Ferris wheels. Witch vendors yank armfuls of white fluff from cotton candy machines. Bronze living statues work the sidewalks outside of such shops as The Broom Closet and Witch City Consignment, collecting coins from tourists dressed like space aliens, blood-spattered zombies and headless monsters. Among all of this are evangelists holding signs creepier than the costumes of those they’re trying to proselytize: “ASK ME WHY YOU DESERVE HELL!” A Salem Halloween is even better than Forest Hills trick-or-treating. The weekend is chock-full with “Haunted Happenings.” Interactive reenactments of the witch trials and duels between cursed families are performed more or less nonstop. The Psychic Fair and Witchcraft Expo offer tarot readings, palm readings, crystal ball readings and aura photography. A local pastor re-enacts Jonathan Edwards’ “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” At The Dumb Supper Oct. 28, a silent feast will be served backwards, from the apple tart dessert to the crab cakes appetizer. The Salem Witches host their Official Halloween Ball Oct. 29 — not to be confused with the countless other suppers and balls they’ve thrown over the course of the month. The Hawthorne Hotel will host yet another Costume Ball Oct. 30. On Oct. 31, werewolves race pirates race gravediggers in the Devil’s Chase, a 6.66 mile run. On Halloween night, fireworks float above the haunted carnival. For a boy from 4 Mile, it’s almost too much. Matt Baker is a freelance writer based in Grand Rapids.

Photography courtesy istockphoto.com/Nick M. Do

16 Grand Rapids October 2010

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History: Grand times

Like father, like son When MARTin RYeRson left his home in Paterson, N.J., in the early 1830s and headed west, he may have had high hopes. But his wildest dreams couldn’t have matched the experiences that were to follow. After a few months in Detroit he traveled to Grand Rapids, where he was among the city’s earliest white settlers. Within a year, he moved to Muskegon and became involved in trading with Native Americans. By the early 1840s, he had entered the lumbering business, operating sawmills and purchasing thousands of acres of pine lands along the Muskegon River and its tribuabove: lincoln Park statue; martin and louisa ryerson; taries. At his own martin a. ryerson. top: ryerson Public library expense, he developed the first road out of Muskegon to Ravenna, where an existing road continued to the contributions Grand Rapids. In the 1850s, Ryerson transferred some of his of martin ryerson business operations to Chicago and made that his place of residence. and his son have When he first came to Muskegon, there were enriched the lives few other white men in the area and nearly all of his contacts were with Ottawa Indians. He of thousands in learned their language and was greatly admired grand rapids by them. After moving to Chicago, he gave the city a bronze statue of an Ottawa family that and chicago. still stands in Lincoln Park atop a granite block with four panels depicting activities of the tribe, one of which has the inscription: “To the Ottawa Nation of Indians, my early friends.” Though most historians record that Ryerson was married twice, he actually had three wives. The first was an Ottawa woman whom he married in a tribal ceremony. She died shortly after giving birth to a daughter. Years later, at Ryerson’s request, the Michigan legislature passed an act legitimizing the child. His second wife was

Louisa Duverney of Grand Haven, who also lived but a short time. He then married Mary Campau, whose uncle, Louis Campau, was the first permanent settler in Grand Rapids. Their only child was Martin Antoine Ryerson, the middle name honoring his grandfather, Antoine Campau. Martin A. graduated from Harvard Law School in 1878 and practiced law for a few years before joining his father in the lumbering operations in Michigan and Chicago. When his father died in 1887, Martin A. was the principal heir of his fortune. By the early 1890s, he retired to concentrate on his philanthropic and art collecting interests. In the early 1890s, Martin A. Ryerson and his close friend, Charles L. Hutchinson, devoted much of their time and money in the formation of three Chicago institutions: the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum of Natural History and University of Chicago. But Ryerson didn’t forget his hometown. In 1899, he gave Grand Rapids 3.58 acres of the old Antoine Campau farm for use as a park. It included the site of the home in which he had been born. In accepting the gift, the city council resolved that the park would be known forever as the Antoine Campau Park, with attractive plantings, well-groomed lawns and a pool with fountains. After the city commission adopted the school-park concept in 1951, the tract became the site of Campau Park School. Ryerson’s greatest gift to Grand Rapids, however, is the downtown library that bears his name. Upon learning at the dawn of the 20th century that voters had narrowly defeated a proposal to build a new library, he wrote to city officials and offered to fund construction of one if the city would provide a site. When his offer was accepted, he supervised the construction of the building, which opened in 1904. The Ryersons were in Grand Rapids for only a short time, but their generosity has contributed to the welfare of West Michigan residents for more than a century. Gordon G. Beld has written more than 200 historical features for newspapers and magazines since the 1960s.

PhotograPhy courtesy gorDon g. belD

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18 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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Profile: Influential Women

‘Live, Laugh, Love’ Christy Buck, director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, wants everyone to know that mental illness is a treatable disease. By Marty Primeau

ooking back, Christy Buck can make sense of her mother’s psychotic breakdown. But as a teenager in the 1960s, she didn’t understand why her mom was so sad. Or why she had to go away for weeks at a time. Back then, no one talked about depression — especially to a child. “Now we know that depression is an illness, just like cancer,” said Buck. “It’s a chemical imbalance in the brain and it’s treatable.” It’s a message Buck wants everyone to hear. As executive director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, Buck developed a curriculum, “Live, Laugh, Love: Educating Our Youth About Mental Health,” that she and her staff present to secondary schools in the Grand Rapids area. Now she wants to reach out to more parents in her mission to eliminate the stigma of mental illness that keeps many teens and adults from seeking treatment. “Look at how we label people — weirdo, crazy, nut case, psycho, idiot,” Buck said. “Why would anyone admit they have a mental illness?”

cancer at age 52, when Christy was 12 years old, leaving her mother to raise three daughters. A few years later, her mom suffered a major psychotic breakdown. “Her husband had died, she was worried about finances, she had two daughters going to college. For someone genetically predisposed to mental illness, those are triggers,” Buck said.

After graduating, Buck spent two years in Greece with her older sister. When she returned to Grand Rapids, she landed a job at a day treatment facility, working with people who were released from mental hos pitals. Eventually, as the understanding of mental illness evolved, so did Buck’s role. In 1998, she was named director of the Mental Health Foundation and given the

When her mother was recovering, “my grandmother would stay with me. I could have taken advantage of that — partying, having sex. But in the back of my mind, I wanted to make my parents proud. I was raised Greek Orthodox and I think my Greek upbringing kept me grounded.” At Michigan State University, she majored in recreational therapy. “I ended up doing an internship at a psychiatric hospital,” Buck said. “I had no experience with psychiatric disorders and I was working with the sickest of the sick in the locked unit.” Buck said she didn’t realize that her mother had suffered a similar illness. “It wasn’t until I was in my 20s that I really understood,” she said.

mission of “creating a community that supports and understands people with mental illness.” Since 2006, she and her staff have presented the message to more than 8,000 middle and high school students in the Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Forest Hills, Wyoming and Northview public school districts. “We’re talking about suicide prevention,” Buck said. “When we first created the curriculum, we didn’t call it that because people think if you talk about it, you’re going to do it. Same with sex. But that’s not true. People want to talk about it and they want to know the facts. They want to know how to keep their kids safe.” GR

Profession: Director, Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan Website: www.themhf.org Residence: Grandville Family: Husband, Tim; children Demetrios, 18; Katerina, 15; and Isabella, 13

Untreated, mental illness can lead to suicide, the second leading cause of death for adults in Kent County. “My mom could have been one of those people,” Buck said. “But luckily, she had the will to want to recover.” Buck’s parents emigrated from Greece in the 1950s, settling in Grand Rapids and raising a family. Her father died of colon

Photography by Michael Buck

Christy Tsilimigras Buck

20 Grand Rapids October 2010

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Design Architect Frank Gorman designed his home with comfort, natural lighting and sustainability in mind. » pg24 Photography by Michael buck

Inside » Preview: Architect Frank Gorman 24

» critic’s choice 26

» Art Appreciation 28

October 2010 Grand Rapids 23

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Design: Preview

Frank Gorman was inspired by sustainable concepts he saw in Morocco when designing his Grand Rapids home. Carefully placed windows allow lots of natural light without letting in summer’s heat. Below: The home is built into a 40-degree slope overlooking a pond.

Comfort and sustainability

tanding in the lower level of his tri-level Grand Rapids home, Frank Gorman points to a photograph of an adobe home in Morocco. “They built with what they had — dirt and water,” said Gorman. “And it works. It reflects the sun so they stay cool throughout the year.” He finds another photo, this one showing an elaborate French manse. “Look at all those windows,” he said, shaking his head. “All the heat gets in during the summer and it’s all lost in the winter. It makes you want to ask how it feels to live there in the summer and winter. It’s not a sustainable way to live.” When Gorman designed his home in 2005, comfort and environmental sustainability were the focus. He borrowed ideas learned in Africa as a Peace Corps

volunteer in the early 1970s. It was in Morocco where he learned how people living in low-cost housing survive the heat. The trick, he said, is manipulating the windows so that a lot of light enters but heat doesn’t. “Traditional architecture is all about space and light,” said Gorman, whose works include the Shanghai-Pudong Airport, DeVos Performance Hall in downtown Grand Rapids, and much of the Calvin College campus. “Space speaks volumes and adds value to a home.” He explained that 94 percent of the 4,800-square-foot home has natural lighting from carefully placed windows, “so we get all the light we need but without the heat.” The home has an open format, with a two-story ceiling in the living room that allows for a lot of natural light. Changing

Photography by Michael buck

Architect Frank Gorman built his home with comfort, natural lighting and sustainability in mind. By Colton Wright

24 Grand Rapids October 2010

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Design: Preview “People forget that sustainability is also a psychological thing. It makes you feel better, and that’s all a part of architecture.” — Frank Gorman wall colors in bright sunny hues indicate where one room ends and another starts. Moroccan blankets with metal sequins playfully reflect the light shining through the windows. On the second floor, the master suite and a large office area overlook the living room. Shutters in the master bedroom open to the living room below, allowing natural light to pass through and opening up the space. A favorite room is wife Loretta’s “tree house” tucked behind French doors off the living room. “In the spring and summer, you’re surrounded by the green leaves outdoors, and it feels like you’re sitting outside in the tree,” she said. “Then in the fall, you see the bright reds, yellows and oranges on all sides of you. And in the winter, it’s just pure white. I love it.”

The home’s temperature stays relatively constant throughout the year, thanks to the structural insulated panel walls that were used instead of conventional wood framing. The SIP walls, made

of high-quality plywood sandwiched around a foam core, both allow for a boost in insulation protection and mini-

mize the use of wood. Though the cost of construction is higher, Gorman said the payback in lower energy costs more than compensates. The Gormans also used sustainable bamboo flooring throughout much of the house and chose a composite material instead of wood for the deck. The house is built into a 40-degree slope overlooking a pond, which allows decks on both the lower and upper levels. Besides offering a birds-eye view of the area’s wildlife, the sloping landscape directs rain runoff, providing irrigation to the wildflower plantings that replace a lawn and leading to a retention pond stocked with indigenous fish. “People forget that sustainability is also a psychological thing,” Gorman said. “It makes you feel better, and that’s all a part of architecture.” GR

Photography by Michael buck

On the second floor, the master suite and an office area overlook the lightfilled, two-story living area, where wall color helps define the spaces in the open floor plan.

October 2010 Grand Rapids 25

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Design: Critic’s Choice

History underfoot

With such names as Nelsonville, Metropolitan, Buckeye, 20th Century, Hocking Valley and Athens forever pressed into their clay surfaces, historic brick street pavers have stood the test of time, much like the houses and neighborhoods that are part of this month’s Heritage Hill home tour. Once common in Grand Rapids, these vintage pavers are still in use on a dwindling number of city streets — a century after they were installed. Heritage Hill’s Logan Street, both charming and utilitarian, is one such roadway. The street even boasts vintage catch basins with the date “1911” cast into them, providing a clue to its age. This longevity, much more than is provided by concrete or asphalt surfaces, is a testament to the durable construction and weather resistance of these pavers. Historic street bricks were made of silicarich clay, known as shale, which was naturally abundant in Ohio and explains why many of the pressed names are directly tied to the towns and cities of that state. This special clay was extruded into the roughly 4-by-4-by-9-inch finished brick size and then re-pressed to square

Photography by Michael buck

The 2010 Heritage Hill Weekend Tour of Homes is Oct. 2-3. Tickets are available at the Heritage Hill Neighborhood Association, 126 College Ave. SE, or online at www. heritagehillweb.org.

by Mark F. Miller

26 Grand Rapids October 2010

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Design: Critic’s Choice

Photography by Michael buck

up the brick and further increase density. This re-pressing allowed the manufacturer to brand the brick with raised lettering, decorative patterns or simple lugs (small knobs at the corners) that not only provided for company identification, but also kept the installed bricks spaced just enough apart to allow sand to be put between them to help secure them to the roadbed. Since it was far easier and cheaper to put lugs on a brick than raised lettering, manufacturers abandoned letters in the early 1900s, meaning that pavers with raised letters are typically 100 or more years old. Once re-pressed and branded, the bricks were vitrified, or made glass-like, by firing them for long periods of time at temperatures in excess of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense firing caused the grains of clay to melt and consolidate into a dense, nearly indestructible mass.

Brick pavers are woven into the history of our country’s cities. From 1880 to 1930, thousands of miles of roads were paved in brick from New York to Chicago, symbolizing civilization and distinguishing the urban landscape from the farm. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was paved with Nelsonville Block in 1907 and is still affectionately referred to as “The

Brickyard,” even though it was repaved long ago with asphalt. Today, these bricks represent a link to our past and an opportunity for the future. Mark F. Miller is an architect and urban designer at Nederveld and chairman of the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission.

Weighing about 10 pounds each — substantially more than bricks used in building walls — the pavers were equipped to deal with heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions. With their distinctive patina and durability, the pavers are sought after for reuse in backyard patios and driveways. In many Heritage Hill backyards, residents have collected bricks from excavated roadways and rescued them from landfills to handcraft distinctive landscape features. Kate and Dan Diedrich who live on Prospect Street just south of Logan, have turned the historic bricks into a herringbone patterned driveway, meandering paths throughout their gardens, and a patio that shows off the names and decorative designs that are characteristic of the bricks. October 2010 Grand Rapids 27

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Design: Art Appreciation

Color and shape unleashed On the third floor of the Grand Rapids Art Museum is a riotous visual essay of color and shape by Dutch painter and sculptor Karel Appel. “Untitled,” 1970, is a massive canvas that captivates the viewer. Appel’s intense color and pulsating shapes earned him a prominent place in the history of 20th century art. Born Christiaan Karel Appel in 1921, he was recognized as a prodigy and schooled in traditional academic techniques. He gravitated to the avant-garde works of such Parisian artists as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. In

Because the color is flat, light and shadow are absent, and shapes are so free in form that the painting exudes a kind of visual energy that calls to mind the innocence and honesty of children’s art.

Amsterdam, Appel was one of the leaders of CoBrA — an early chapter in contemporary European art. The group brought together progressive artists from Copenhagen, Brussels and Amsterdam, who were creatively and intellectually removed from cultural epicenters such as Paris and New York. Appel initially worked in Amsterdam, but later lived primarily in France and Switzerland. In “Untitled,” two palette elements must be noted. First, Appel was almost totally reliant on primary (red, blue, and yellow) and secondary (green, orange and purple) hues. Second, he largely used these as large swaths of solid or flat color without the use of shading and highlights. Black and white play an extremely limited role. From a distance, such solidity and flatness remind one of collages made from sheets of colored paper. But even from a moderate distance,

the viewer is made aware of the application of paint in very broad strokes and thick layers. Such inventiveness in color is matched by Appel’s fluid shapes — it is difficult to find many straight lines. Because the color is flat, light and shadow are absent, and shapes are so free in form that the painting exudes a kind of visual energy that calls to mind the innocence and honesty of children’s art. Beyond this sensation, it is important to note how carefully crafted the contour of each shape really is and how these two-dimensional forms fit together like an intelligent puzzle. Shape and color move one’s eyes across the painting. The intention is not to meditate on an iconic presentation, but to explore. The notion of a painting as a window into another realm has been replaced by the reality of painting as an opportunity to investigate what it is before you. With artists such as Appel, the question of abstraction versus representational always come to mind. In truth, there are representational elements to the work. One can easily see something suggestive of a figure at both the left and right sides. Such “personages” are most common among artists of Appel’s generation. They suggest a figure, but do not describe any specific individuals. They are perhaps best understood as a reference point. But the power of abstraction is undeniably present. The large passages of non-representational imagery fuel the overall freedom and energy the artist intended. Concentrated visits with masterworks such as “Untitled” are a must. Not only is the painting a worthy excursion for the eye and mind but an entry point to appreciate or re-evaluate other works. The sympathetic relationship shared with the nearby sculptures by Alexander Calder and painting by Jean Dubuffet is easily understood. For each, color and shape were essential to the great visual experiences they labored to present. Contributing editor Joseph Becherer is a professor at Aquinas college and curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Photography by Michael buck

by Joseph Antenucci Becherer

28 Grand Rapids October 2010

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It’s all complete with artwork and comfortable furnishings in which showroom visitors can unwind while discovering the latest in electronics and other “smart home” technologies. “‘Wow’ is their typical reaction,” said Audio Video Interiors (AVI) Group owner Phil Littell. “People love being

able to see how electronics can be incorporated into a house without overpowering its interior aesthetics or architectural details. “Beyond that, a lot of consumers have never experienced a reference audio system or home theater, and there are a lot of products that we offer here not available in big box stores that need to be experienced first-hand.” While the AVI Group’s new store space is being touted by industry professionals as West Michigan’s finest reference showroom, Littell first opened the company’s doors two years ago when Classic Stereo & Video closed its own in 2008. “I knew there were a lot of consumers who felt let down that they not only no longer had a resource to purchase quality electronics, but no one to service

8/27/10 11:25 AM

Special advertiSing Section

GR Home Showcase: AVI Group LLC

Phil Littell/Owner 1830 Breton Ave. SE Suite 1900 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (616) 942-1000 www.avigroup.biz info@avigroup.biz Biggest trend: “I think the most exciting product today for mainstream consumers is HDTV with online content available for immediate download,” said Phil Littell, AVI Group owner. “Being able to incorporate your TV into a home network is something all family members can enjoy.” Consumers who have never experienced a home theater environment can sample a taste in AVI Group’s new showroom.

them as well,” said Littell, an industry veteran with more than three decades’ experience who was employed by classic as a systems designer. now, whether it’s a reference twochannel audio system, a new flat-screen tV, dedicated home theater, media room or automating the entire house, the aVi Group offers the most innovative, easyto-use products and personalized installation experience in West Michigan. “i have always approached each and every project as if it were my own home or system,” Littell shared, “and have never allowed or taken any shortcuts in a project just to save time. a quality finished project that’s easy to use is the only acceptable end result on a project.”

What’s New a universal remote that can with one press of a button turn on the video display, lower the shades, dim the lights, turn on the surround sound and start the DVD is just the beginning. “Big console tVs that some of us watched the apollo moon landing on

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have been replaced by high definition flat-screen tVs that are 1.5 inches thick, with models as thin as a piece of paper in the not-so-far-off future,” Littell said. “and while younger consumers are enjoying the convenience of music servers and portable audio devices, the old-school audio enthusiast now enjoys a refinement in recordings that’s almost as good as seeing the musician in a live setting.” But while the aVi Group can help homeowners navigate the vast array of available video options (from plasma, LcD and DLP to front or rear projection systems), it also offers audio products as well as home automation systems which include wired and wireless networking, security cameras and HVac control, among other programs. “the biggest trend we’re seeing in our industry is energy conservation,” Littell said. Basic automation systems such as lighting and HVac control can save consumers notably each month, he shared, and virtually all new construction and

Career high Point: Being recognized in the audio video industry for designing one of the best-looking “lifestyle” showrooms in West Michigan.

Grand rapids | Home

AVi gRoUP LLC

Personal high Point: “That I was blessed to pursue a career in a field where every project is different and that I still look forward to going to work every day.” inspirations: “My mother and father; my wife and two sons; the resilience of the entrepreneurial spirit; Norman Swartzkoff; Margaret Thatcher; Frank Lloyd Wright; Rich DeVos; Jay Van Andel; Bill Gates; and the passion of musicians and film directors who help distract us momentarily from life’s challenges.”

remodeling projects incorporate some type of control. “as with anything in life, proper planning will always make a difference in the end result,” Littell said. “Whether you’re building new or remodeling, structured wiring systems can help future-proof your home so when the time is right to integrate new technology, you’re not dealing with extensive and expensive retrofitting.” to learn more, visit www.avigroup. biz.

8/27/10 11:25 AM

Special Advertising Section

Introducing Part Four of Wilcox Gardens, a Grand Rapids Magazine Design Home presentation.

WilcoxGardens

Crafting the next chapter

One of five premiere urban properties available in East Grand Rapids, Lot 4 at Wilcox Gardens has been chosen as the canvas for “Grant Park,” Grand Rapids Magazine Design Home 2011. BY LISA M. JENSEN

Caroline Wilcox divided up the family’s East Grand Rapids estate, reserving for each of her ﬁve adult children a parcel and funds to build a home of their own. Between 1924 and 1928, four new homes — one on Lake Drive, and three on San Lu Rae — were built along with a community house. The remaining properties await new owners.

or buyers seeking the authenticity of

architectural character,” observed Wayne Vis-

a century-old home that’s Green-built

been, AIA, IIDA, designated GRM Design Home

from the ground up, stocked with state-

architect. “But the older mechanical systems

of-the-art technologies, products and materi-

and other issues that come with it make

als, and crafted by an innovative design team

potential buyers nervous.

to suit a modern family’s active lifestyle, it’s also an unparalleled investment opportunity.

“This is the dilemma we’re solving at Wilcox Gardens. And because this home will be

“People love the idea of moving to East

the neighborhood’s first, everybody involved

Grand Rapids and into an old home with rich

in maintaining the integrity of Wilcox Gardens’ past — from designer/builder Jeffery Roberts and myself to the property sellers and real estate firm — is contributing toward its price.” Because “Grant Park” will simultaneously serve as Grand Rapids Magazine’s next Design Home, Visbeen added, its buyers will save significantly on products and materials as well, beyond typical financial advantages gained from purchasing a Parade or spec home. “There’s no question that the first people

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8/27/10 11:25 AM

Special Advertising Section

The quality level of everything in this residence — from custom-built cabinetry, millwork, built-ins and art niches to use of repurposed and natural materials — will be a tribute to the traditional design-build process.

to build at Wilcox Gardens will be the ones who realize the greatest appreciation in their investment,” noted Katie Karczewski, a Realtor for Keller Williams overseeing sales for each of the five half- to ¾-acre lots. “This is a premiere setting within East Grand Rapids, a very walkable neighborhood with Reeds Lake, great schools and great energy.

room that opens to a porch; master suite

“Here, you aren’t just buying a house.

with sleeping porch or outdoor veranda; and

You’re buying a lifestyle.”

garage attached toward the rear. “Our buyer will be someone

About “Grant Park”

who has a true appreciation for

While state-of-the-art mechanical sys-

purity of architecture and atten-

tems, technologies and other amenities

tion to detail, as well as cutting-

including appliances will ensure Design

edge technology,” Roberts said.

Home 2011’s efficiency, the inventive use of

“The quality level of everything

reclaimed materials and the home’s eclec-

in this residence — from custom-

tic European, 1920s’ Chicago park-inspired

built cabinetry, millwork, built-

architecture will lend a sense of timeless-

ins and art niches to use of

ness.

repurposed and natural materi-

“Jeffery had a very detailed vision of

als — will be a tribute to the

what this home needed to fit the character

traditional design-build process.

of East Grand Rapids and to set the tone for

We will be bringing a home from

Wilcox Gardens,” Visbeen said.

this certain era beyond what has

Historically accurate attributes include a welcoming front porch with timber beams

been done before. “But

beyond

that,”

that opens to a foyer with fireplace and

emphasized, “we have an excep-

very unusual stair hall; exterior balconies;

tional team that will be working

an oval-shaped living room; richly-detailed

with the client to fulfill their own

kitchen with breakfast nook; stately dining

dream, as well.”

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OCATED WITHIN immediate proximity to schools, shopping and recreation, Wilcox Gardens will offer the rare opportunity to build within the land-locked community of East Grand Rapids. This site-condominium development will be a combination of existing and new single-family homes. Jeffery Roberts Homes, in conjunction with Visbeen Associates, Inc., has developed several design concepts for these exceptional historic home sites. Don’t miss this opportunity to build in one of America’s most livable communities. To inquire about available lots in Wilcox Gardens please contact Katie Karczewski at (616) 575-0119.

JEFFERY ROBERTS HOMES

INC

8/27/10 11:25 AM

Special Advertising Section

A space of their

From the youngest tots to teens, today’s kids’ rooms are expressing a level of design and function on par with Mom’s and Dad’s. Grand Rapids | Home

By Lisa M. Jensen

uring the ’70s and ’80s, it was a common kid’s room staple: The student desk, topped by a hutch of shelves on one side with barely-there leg room and a patch of writing surface. “Today kids use the computer so much, a plain table-style desk with chair works out much better,” said Kathryn Chaplow,

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own

ASID, a Grand Rapids-based interior designer. Furnishings aren’t all that’s changed. “Color palettes and patterns for kids’ rooms have become much more sophisticated,” Chaplow noted. “In the past, you imagined a child’s space in primary colors or pastels. Now there’s this entire new array of combinations like pink and

brown, gray and mustard, or navy and khaki that cater to adult tastes, but translate into stylish, fun spaces for kids, too.” Beyond new hues, HGTV programs and shows like Extreme Makeover are fueling American culture with a designsavvy it just didn’t have 20 years ago, the designer added. “There are cleaner, more contemporary lines available now

8/27/10 11:25 AM

Left: Stanley Furniture’s Young America line, available at Northwestern Home Furnishings, features this Twin Louis Philip Panel Bed in several different youth furnishing collections. A variety of storage units can be custom-fashioned to suit a child’s needs. Below: The exclusive Michigan dealer of quality GT children’s furniture, Kidz Roomz offers an array of versatile hardwood beds including this Junior Loft with swing-out desk and staircase featuring storage drawers. All beds and storage options that can be tailored into space-saving, custom solutions are available in multiple finishes.

age components, bed styles and finishes. Like GT and My Kids Space, Stanley’s case goods feature dovetail joints and other hallmarks of quality craftsmanship. “There are a lot of mix-and-match options,” shared Amy Howard, store owner and an interior designer. “And it’s all built to last.”

Grand Rapids | Home

Special Advertising Section

Ages & Stages: Kids’ Rooms That Work Interior designer Kathryn Chaplow offers the following tips.

Photography courtesy Stanely Furniture (top); Kidz Roomz (bottom)

that you could never find before for kids. Even Knoll has introduced iconic, modern pieces for children.” While some parents are investing in such collectibles, others are favoring refinished antiques, trendy bedding from big retailers, eco-friendly designs found online or multi-functional furnishings from specialty stores. Lisa Enos, owner of Kidz Roomz on Alpine Avenue, noted her exclusive bestselling lines, GT and My Kids Space, are popular for the same reasons: “Quality hardwood construction, along with plenty of storage features and space-saving options.” While pieces can be viewed online, perusing the products first-hand conveys the inventiveness of their interchangeable

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features, since many — from a swing-out desk and stair kit with built-in drawers to a roll-out trundle that converts to under-bed storage — are smartly incorporated into an all-in-one bed system. “Everything is modular for easy customization,” Enos said, adding that full-extension, ball-bearing glides help ensure each piece’s durability. “Parents can also come back down the road to update their child’s bed with new components as he or she grows.”

Toddlers & Preschoolers Choose products and materials that are comfortable and comforting, washable, practical and durable. Place storage baskets and bins on the floor or at the child’s eye level for easy access and easy clean-up. Maintain as much open floor space as possible.

Stanley Furniture, a high-end hardwood line available through Northwestern Home Furnishings in Grand Rapids, also offers a variety of stor-

8/27/10 11:26 AM

Grand Rapids | Home

Special Advertising Section

Left: Fresh citrus hues, plenty of floor space, an open desk and clean, modern furnishings create an inviting room that can be easily updated from a child’s preschool through tween years.

Choose a neutral, quality quilt or comforter, then showcase a child’s love-ofthe-moment — whether it’s Spiderman or Dora — with pillowcases. Small kids love to see their name on the wall, as well as their own artwork. Put up a frame and frequently update what’s in it. Add a sense of magic to the space: A mobile, canopy, anything that hangs from the ceiling. Grade Schoolers Having personal space and expressing personal style is becoming important. To avoid conflict, parents can pre-shop and narrow choices down (i.e., paint color, bedding, etc.), but allow their child to make final selections. Create structure for a child’s “stuff” by providing labeled bins and storage bas-

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kets. Good organization habits begin now. Let a child fill up a bulletin or cork board with photos, notes and other items, but contain it in a nice frame. Include a fulllength mirror. Provide a bean bag or other chair for reading and lounging. Bunk beds, a full bed or day-bed with pull-out trundle will make sleepovers more fun. Choose easy-to-make bedding. Fireside Comforts available at Kidz Roomz, for example, features “huggers,” comforter ends that work like fitted sheets. Tweens & Teens Kids this age often respond well to working with an interior designer when possible.

If a “hang-out” room can be fashioned in the home for the teen and his or her friends, the bedroom can be transitioned back into a space tailored for rest and study. Add a desk that’s open for spreading work out and doesn’t feel closed in. Think out-of-the-box when personalizing the room: Frame unusual items like movie tickets or a favorite jersey; turn a reclaimed vintage piece into a nightstand; add a quirky hanging lamp; repaint almost anything in bright colors or patterns. To learn more about modular furniture designs for children, visit www.shop kidzroomz.com and www.nwfurnishings. com. Visit www.kathrynchaplow.com to see more of this designer’s work.

8/27/10 11:26 AM

passionate

When you’re passionate about what you do, it shows in the results. Plastic Surgery Associates. Always striving for excellence. From Left: John D. Renucci, MD, Douglas L. Vander Woude, MD, Marguerite E. Aitken, MD, David R. Alfonso, MD, W. David Moore, MD

plastic surgery associates 800 419 4702

616 451 4500

p s a - g r. c o m

Located in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

1.888.845.4641 vikingrange.com

A VIKING KITCHEN SELLS ITSELF. AND THE REST OF THE HOUSE WITH IT.

In a 2007 national study, real estate professionals recommended Viking four-to-one over the next leading brand. They noted that homes with Viking kitchens sell more quickly and for more money. On average, Viking kitchen appliances add more than 4% to a home’s value, compared to lesser brands. And with our builder packages, that makes a pretty great return for you.

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October 2010 Grand Rapids 41

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Flour power As the temperature dips, bakeries in Grand rapids are heating up with everything from wholesome breads to frosted cupcakes.

BY ABBY HEUGEL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

UPON ENTERING A BAKERY, one is faced with a delectable dilemma — trying to figure out exactly what smells so delicious. Is it the fresh loaves of bread warm out of the oven? The delicately glazed pastries? An aromatic batch of homemade cookies? Luckily, Grand Rapids has no shortage of quality bakeries, each composed of its own special ingredients that set it apart. So whether you’re looking for goods free of gluten or goods full of filling, finding something to please the palate is nothing short of a cake walk.

Wealthy Street bakery Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with co-owner Melissa LaGrand: BASIC INGREDIENTS

We opened the bakery in October 2002. Located in a historic building near the intersection of Wealthy and Union and the intersection of the Heritage Hill and Cherry Hill neighborhoods, we’re proud to contribute to the revitalization of our neighborhood. We have a one-of-a-kind stone hearth oven that produces wonderful crusty breads and pizzas, and we love serving as a gathering place where people meet and socialize. TASTE TESTERS

Our customers come from all neighborhoods and walks of life. We have every-day regulars from the neighborhood, as well as people who drive a half hour or more every week for the baked goods they love.

RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

Breads: We’re known for our hearth breads — the first of their kind available in Grand Rapids — and it’s a tie between French and whole-grain Health bread for “most popular.” Sweets: But perhaps we’re even better known for our pastries, including handmade all-butter croissants and Danishes. Our single most popular pastry is the cranberry almond scone. Others: The Wealthy Street Club is our most popular sandwich, and people go insane for our bread pudding. SAVVY SAMPLINGS

The new high-protein, low-fat breakfast cookies — in such flavors as cranberry almond and chocolate pecan — and our Irish Oatmeal Muffins are a healthy option to our selection of morning pastries. For sweet lovers, we have five cupcake flavors daily. Fall specials include pumpkin sourdough bread and cookies.

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************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** Wealthy ************** ************** Street Bakery ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** 610 Wealthy St. SE PHONE: 301-2950 WEB: wealthystreetbakery.com HOURS: 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

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********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* *********************

************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** Van’s Pastry ************** ************** Shoppe ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** 955 E. Fulton St. PHONE: 458-1637 HOURS: 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.

John Mulder and granddaughter caylee russo enjoy a doughnut at Van’s bakery. co-owner Donna Vander Meer stacks bread on the counter.

Van’s Pastry Shoppe

Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with Donna Vander Meer, who owns the bakery with husband John: BASIC INGREDIENTS

In 1920, John’s grandfather came to the U.S. from the Netherlands to continue working in his trade: baking. Today, we own the business and use the same oldfashioned recipes as 90 years ago. Van’s has been at the present location since 1941, and we’ve kept it a family business with 14 employees, including children and grandchildren, most of whom have worked here between five and 30 years.

TASTE TESTERS

Let’s put it this way: The regulars have their pictures on the wall and get personalized cupcakes on their birthday. There might not be any parking to speak of, but we are constantly swamped with people looking for not just coffee and a donut for $1, but also tradition and community. More than anything, Van’s is about relationships. RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

Breads: Sugar Cinnamon and Almond Raisin bread are our specialties, but the biggest seller is the English Muffin bread. We bake up to 600 loaves a day.

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SAVVY SAMPLINGS

Seventy-five percent of our business is wholesale. We deliver to more than 90 Grand Rapids businesses, including hundreds of dozens of rolls to the Grand Rapids Public Schools and 9,000 hot dog buns to the Van Andel Arena every Friday for Griffins hockey games.

Schnitzelstein Baking Co.

Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with owner Brian DeVries: BASIC INGREDIENTS

Schnitzelstein Baking Co. opened in 2001 to provide breads for the Schnitz Deli and affordable artisan breads for Grand Rapids restaurants. We deliver our bakery products to about 50 area restaurants, including Schnitz East, Schnitz South, Skywalk Deli, Electric Cheetah, The BOB, Real Food Cafes and Rose’s on Reeds Lake.

************** ************** Schnitzelstein ************** ************** Baking Co. ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** 1301 E. Fulton St. PHONE: 988-2316 WEB: schnitzdeli.com HOURS: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat.

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RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

Breads: We have a wide variety of artisan breads — breads made from scratch with basically differing amounts of water, flour, sugar, salt and yeast, with various grains and flours creating the different types without utilization of mass production equipment. Our most popular offerings are the Italian, Jewish rye, challah and Asiago cheese breads. They have no preservatives and are handmade from scratch recipes or derived from recipes I was given from a European baker I used to work with. Sweets: We offer a variety of donuts and cookies, but I think our apple fritters are the sweet that brings people back. They’re handmade, and we’ve been told that no one else makes them as well as we do. SPECIAL ORDERS

We make specialty products, like hamburger buns for the Fifth Third Burger. For these, I use our Italian dough as it’s “sturdier” than a regular hamburger bun. The Italian dough also has to set overnight for the dough to develop full flavor. In addition, the Italian bread makes

Sweets: We have an assortment of donuts, cookies and pastries, including the popular Dutch crisp cookies and “Olie Boelen” (fat balls).

Schnitzelstein Master Baker Craig Rust throws bread dough from the maker to a table where he will weigh and roll it before baking.

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********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* everything is made from scratch daily, and we use high-quality ********************* ********************* products such as dried Michigan cherries, cacao barry French ********************* cocoa powder, the finest chocolate pistoles and organic flours. ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* Nantucket Baking Co. ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* ********************* *********************

Haley McNeil decorates a cake at Nantucket bakery.

the best toast you’ll ever have, though I may be a bit biased. Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with Haley McNeil, pastry chef and manager: BASIC INGREDIENTS

We’ve been open for five years and consider ourselves your authentic hometown artisan bakery. We add in new products every year and supply many restaurants with our breads and pastries. Plus, we have fantastic hearth-baked pizzas with unique toppings. Everything is made from scratch daily, and we use high-quality products such as dried Michigan cherries, Cacao Barry French cocoa powder, the finest chocolate pistoles and organic flours. RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

Breads: Our many varieties include popular crusty sourdough artisan breads, six-grain, Parmesan Reggiano, three cheese and garlic, five-seed organic, nine-grain and cranberry walnut, ciabatta and pumpkin. Sweets: Along with assorted cookies, bars, cheesecakes and pastries, we offer

unique cookies such as Haley’s Comet (chocolate cookie with pumpkin and flax seeds oats, with a dash of sea salt on top) and the Golden Chaild (carrots, golden raisins, chai tea, pistachios, almonds, spices). Popular scones include apricot, cranberry almond and white chocolate walnut, while cakes like the “Tall Dark and Handsome” set us apart. Other: A variety of 12-inch handmade gourmet Neapolitan hearth-baked pizzas. SAVVY SAMPLINGS

Cupcakes are hot right now! In fact, people are frequently doing cupcakes instead of wedding cakes. The really popular ones are carrot cake and filled cupcakes like the chocolate with chocolate ganache, lemon and raspberry. SPECIAL ORDERS

For those requesting healthy options, we have a “health” muffin made with organic whole wheat flour, dried cherries, cranberries, oatmeal and olive oil. We also have a five-seed organic loaf that has organic white and wheat flours and sesame, pumpkin, poppy, flax and sunflower seeds. The double chocolate muffin is vegan — a lot of our breads are vegan.

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************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** Nantucket ************** ************** Baking Co. ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** 200 Union Ave. NE PHONE: 726-6609 WEB: nantucketbakingco.com HOURS: 8 a.m.-11 p.m. daily

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************** ************** ************** ************** Coco Charlotte ************** ************** Gluten-Free ************** ************** Bakery ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** ************** 2481 32nd St. SE PHONE: 957-3706 WEB: coco-charlotte.com HOURS: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wed.Fri.; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat.

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Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with Erin Maher-Davis, owner and chef: BASIC INGREDIENTS

I had always dreamed of owning my own business, so I moved to Grand Rapids from Petoskey to attend GRCC Culinary Arts program. I opened Coco Charlotte in July of 2007 as a natural and organicbased bakery offering vegan and glutenfree products once a week, but quickly became aware of the growing need in the gluten-free community. As of Oct. 1, 2007, Coco Charlotte became the first dedicated gluten-free bakery in Western Michigan. In addition to retail, Coco Charlotte supplies wholesale gluten-free baked goods to Forest Hills Foods in Cascade and both Spectrum Health hospital locations. TASTE TESTERS

Our customers are usually gluten-free individuals and families, or people just looking for all natural baked goods. We offer products that are dairy- and soyfree, as well. RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

Breads: French White and Multi-Grain (gluten and dairy-free). Sweets: Chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies; chocolate cupcakes with chocolate butter cream frosting; carrot cake with cream cheese buttercream (all gluten-free); cinnamon crumb coffeecake, tea cakes and muffin breads. Other: Italian herb pizza crust, homemade granola, gluten-free pastry flour blend for home bakers. SAVVY SAMPLINGS

Because of the popularity of shows like “Ace of Cakes,” we have had several requests for unique, modeled specialty wedding cakes. Fortunately, we have a very talented cake designer, Sandy Guthrie, who has been able to flex her creative muscles in cake design to fill these requests. SPECIAL ORDERS

We have seen a growing demand for natural, preservative-free baked goods. People are more aware of what they are eating and want to see the ingredients, so we like to supply them with as much

information as possible. All of our new customers go through a brief but informative training on our gluten-free products — what makes them unique and how to store them successfully. In addition, we launched our e-commerce website this year to allow online ordering and shipping to our customers across the country. GR Abby Heugel is a freelance writer based in Grand Rapids.

coco charlotte Gluten-Free bakery

coco charlotte owner erin Davis removes a batch of muffins from the oven.

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BY KIMBERLY MONAGHAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Ghost whisperers Spiritualists use their unique abilities to help people find closure and healing.

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FloYD liMBeCK of grand rapids is a clairvoyant who says he receives messages “like seeing images on a wide-screen tV.” at left, his wife, claudia gannon, gives a spiritual healing to stephen schmidt.

“When a person comes in for a reading, i will first tap into something that is prevalent in their life that will help them right now.” — claudia gannon

WHETHER THEY PREFER TO BE CALLED spiritualists, mediums or clairvoyants, ghost whisperers convey messages from beyond the grave. Some of these psychically gifted individuals see spirits and hear voices, while others predict future events or experience visions that help solve crimes. Regardless of their innate abilities, their goals are the same — to forge closure and promote healing. Serving as a link between the living and the dead, Grand Rapids couple Claudia Gannon and Floyd Limbeck share the ability to foster communication with the spiritual realm. “We were born with it,” said Claudia Gannon, explaining that she and her husband, Floyd, do meditations and share spirit greetings with their clients. “When a person comes in for a reading, I will first tap into something that is prevalent in their life that will help them right now,” said Gannon, who was formally trained to use her abilities at the Fellowships of the Spirit school in Lily Dale, N.Y. — known for its ties to Sir Arthur Conan and Lady Doyle. Other mediums rely on experience to sort through the overwhelming sensory stimuli, energy pulses and magnetic auras to harness their ability to receive and relay client-specific messages during a “healing” session. In some cases, these messages are conveyed directly via a full-body apparition. “One lady said to me, ‘I’ve always wanted to talk to my mom but nobody could seem to bring her through,’” said Claudia. “But I said, ‘She’s right here.’ Then the tears came and it was kind of like a cleansing for her.” Like others with this ability, Hastings resident Karen Gillons hid her talent when she was younger for fear of being ostracized. “In my teenage years, I tried to stay away from it because I thought it made me weird,” she said. “As OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 51

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Karen Gillons of Hastings helps clients find closure by relaying messages from spirits.

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Photography Courtesy Caroline Cohenour (top)

“There are times when I can’t control it and just have to give in to it. I’ve been in a bar and had a spirit come up to me and start talking.” — Lisa Williams

an adult, I didn’t want to hide it any longer. I thought I might as well do something good with this.” And she has, including helping a woman find closure after an emotionally charged tragedy. “A client was suffering from sleeplessness and overwhelming anxiety,” she said. “It was tied into her niece being murdered by her father, my client’s sister’s husband,” said Gillons, describing a tale of molestation, murder and suicide. “My client, the aunt, took all this on, almost believing that she was the victim,” she said. After being visited by the spirit of the niece during a session with her client, Gillons relayed the spirit’s message. “The niece said, “I’m OK now; you don’t have to worry about me.’” Though most spirits manifest in a peaceful manner, there are instances when even a medium is taken aback. Gillons described a reading with a woman whose uncle had shot himself. “He appeared to me when I was on the phone with her. At first, he looked like a regular guy. But when she started talking about how he’d killed himself, his wounds appeared on him. That was the first time I’d actually seen something like that.” Many ghost whisperers turn to their “spirit guides” — guardian angels or ghostly protectors — for advice and direction. “My grandmother was my spirit guide for many years,” said Lisa Williams, an acclaimed Britishborn medium and clairvoyant who’s been a guest on “Oprah,” “Good Morning America” and “Larry King Live.” Williams, who has a huge following because of her Lifetime TV shows “Voices From the Other Side” and “Life Among the Dead,” professed a strong need to turn to her recent spiritual guide, “Ben,” to help deal with the overpowering emotions that accompany many readings. “There was a lady who came in at the last minute to a show I was doing,” said Williams. “This little boy suddenly appeared and pointed to her and said, “That’s my mom.” The boy had died of leukemia, and at the moment he passed, his mother wasn’t in the room. … She just wanted closure and I was able to give it to her.” Some clients of mediums seek guidance on career

and relationship issues, while others hope the spiritual contact will provide some clue to their future. “No one is ever 100 percent certain,” said Gillons, whose ability to see visions has often toyed with her conscience. “The little girl who was recently found in the garbage, I knew she was dead and I knew that she’d been wrapped in plastic. I felt bad about not reporting that, for fear they’d think I was a nut. That sticks with me because I might have been able to help.” For many ghost whisperers, the flood of incoming messages and visions can be overwhelming. “There are times when I can’t control it and just have to give in to it,” said Williams. “I’ve been in a bar and had a spirit come up to me and start talking. And one when I was on the toilet.” Gillons agreed. “I used to feel really overwhelmed by it, especially when I would go to a funeral home. When that part of a soul comes back, we take on part of their personality traits. But I always call on my angels and spirit guides to protect me.” GR Kim Monaghan is a contributing writer to Grand Rapids Magazine.

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rand Rapids earned the moniker “Furniture City” in the late 1800s, and West Michigan is known around the world as the capital of the office furniture industry. What might not be so well known, however, are the region’s contributions to medicine and health care, and how those contributions helped shape disease control, patient care and rehabilitation nationally and internationally. Call them the area’s medical milestones. “When you travel and talk to medical people, there are certain things that we are known for — things that are reputational,” said Lody Zwarensteyn, president of Alliance for Health, a West Michigan-based health care advocacy/watchdog group formed in 1948 and itself a pioneer for similar organizations nationwide. Some of those innovations are his-

modern clinical trials. Other medical milestones may not receive as much attention, but they are no less important. Take hemorrhoids, for example. A bit of background

What would become the FergusonDroste-Ferguson Clinic and Ferguson Hospital was started in 1929 when three Grand Rapids doctors split from a practice at the local Burleson Sanitarium and formed the FDF Sanitarium in the Park Place Building downtown. Their specialty was colorectal medicine and treatment, hardly a dinner table topic. But that would change when screen star and Academy Award-winner Loretta Young came to Grand Rapids for hemorrhoid surgery. “There was this whole myth about treatment,” Zwarensteyn said, “but she came to Grand Rapids to have her hemor-

Breathing treatments at Mary Free Bed helped rehabilitate children suffering from rheumatic fever and other debilitating conditions.

By Tim Gortsema

Medical milestones

torically prominent, such as Grand Rapids’ citywide fluoridation program. In 1945, Grand Rapids adjusted the fluoride content of its water supply to 1.0 parts per million and became the first city to implement community water fluoridation while studying its effects on tooth decay among the city’s children. According to the National Cancer Institute, by 1992 more than 60 percent of the U.S. population served by public water systems had access to water fluoridated at approximately 1.0 ppm, the optimal level to prevent tooth decay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls fluoridation of water “one of the greatest achievements in public health in the 20th century.” In the 1930s, Pearl Kendrick, Grace Eldering and Loney Gordon developed the first viable vaccine for pertussis (whooping cough) while heading the Grand Rapids branch laboratory of the Michigan Department of Public Health. Field trials were conducted on local children, and they were the first researchers to develop a shot that combined the pertussis vaccine and the diphtheria toxoid vaccine. Their groundbreaking efforts shaped the approach to

rhoids taken care of and went back to Hollywood and told everyone about it. Pretty soon they were all coming here.” Whether Young and her Hollywood

cohorts had any effect on Ferguson’s medical mission is doubtful, but Zwarensteyn said that bit of publicity gave the Grand Rapids’ practice credibility in some circles. “Now, hemorrhoid removal, in the pantheon of medical history, is not as important as, say, heart surgery,” he said. “But the fact of the matter is that Ferguson took a niche program, thoroughly trained proctologists, and then sent them around the world (to practice medicine). It was unbelievably important.” Treatment innovators

Dr. John MacKeigan, who completed his colon and rectal surgery residency at the Ferguson Clinic in 1974, was inducted into the Medical Hall of Fame in 2004.

About that same time, a small group of nurses at Pine Rest Christian Hospital took umbrage to what they referred to as the “secular” approach to medical care for the mentally ill as it was practiced in state institutions. Their religious views of the sanctity of life were incompatible with practices in the late 1940s, which almost always incorporated confinement and sometimes went so far as to include shock therapy and lobotomies. According to a history of Hope Network, which became an entity independent from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health

Photography by Johnny Quirin (bottom); courtesy Mary Free Bed (top)/Permission for historical photography reproduction was granted by Grand Rapids History and Special Collections, Archives, Grand Rapids Public Library

From fluoridated water to generic drugs and from rehabilitative care to joint implants, West Michigan has been a frequent health care pioneer.

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Photography by david J. DeJonge

Dr. Alfred B. Swanson, an orthopedic surgeon, hand surgeon and scientist, is credited with inventing finger joint replacements.

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n addition to some historical medical milestones, grand rapids has a lengthy list of health care supporters. one of them, former First lady betty Ford, was recognized in september by the alliance for health with its annual hillman award. the honor is named for u.s. district court Judge douglas w. hillman, a lifelong health care advocate, and recognizes those in the west michigan community who exhibit exemplary dedication and commitment to continually improving the region’s health care system. the award originated in 2005; last year’s recipients were roger spoelman of muskegon’s mercy health Partners and george vande woude of the van andel research institute. Ford is the co-founder of the betty Ford center in rancho mirage, calif., and betty Ford breast care services in grand rapids, including the betty Ford diagnostic breast center in spectrum health’s lemmen-holton cancer Pavilion. in 1974, Ford was diagnosed with malignant breast cancer during a routine mammogram at walter reed army hospital. after undergoing a mastectomy, she made the unprecedented decision to talk about her cancer. as a result of her candor, there were reports of tens of thousands of women scheduling mammograms. “she spoke openly and honestly about breast cancer,” said her daughter,

susan Ford bales. “she didn’t do it for publicity. you have to remember that 35 years ago, tests and studies in the medical field weren’t done on women. we’ve come a huge way.” later, as Ford conquered her drug and alcohol dependency, she talked about the details of her addiction and treatment. realizing that no recovery facilities were designed for women, she co-founded the rancho mirage center in 1982. the primary focus is on programs supporting women and families affected by addiction. “drug and alcohol addiction is an ugly disease and no one wants to be a part of it,” bales said. “but, like cancer, everybody knows somebody or is related to somebody who suffers from addiction.” beyond the center, Ford became an advocate for improving the education and treatment of chemical dependency. she wrote about her own struggle in “a glad awakening,” published in 1987. she also wrote, “healing and hope: six women From the betty Ford center share their Powerful Journeys of addiction and recovery.” until 2005, she served as the center’s chairman of the board. Ford’s son steve accepted the honor on her behalf at the alliance’s “once in a blue moon @ high noon” event sept. 22 in the downtown Jw marriott.

lending A HAnd

Another medical pioneer in Grand Rapids whose impact was worldwide is Dr. Alfred B. Swanson, an orthopedic surgeon, hand surgeon and scientist who is credited with inventing finger joint replacements. In 1962, Swanson assembled a research department at Blodgett Hospital to test the use of silicone for small joint implants. Two years later, the first patient was operated on using the implants, and by 1969, the

nurses at Pine rest christian hospital, now Pine rest christian mental health services, started a new form of rehabilitative care for mentally ill patients that included recreational activities.

PhotograPhy by david J. deJonge (bottom); courtesy laclaire studio (toP)

betty ford honored with Hillman Award

Services in 1985, these nurses started a new form of rehabilitative care for mentally ill patients that included recreational activities. In essence, the goal was to get patients out of their rooms and, through interactive supervision, back to enjoying life again — made even more feasible by the introduction of drug therapy at about the same time. If Pine Rest was an innovator on the mental side of rehabilitative health care, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital was its equal on the physical side. Mary Free Bed, which also was started by a group of women, put its emphasis on rehabilitating children suffering from cerebral palsy, polio, rheumatic fever, amputation and other debilitating conditions. The care and compassion with which both hospitals operated became a hallmark of West Michigan’s medical treatment. By 1953, the institution had established itself as a regional center for juvenile rehabilitation services and officially changed its name to Mary Free Bed Guild Children’s Hospital and Orthopedic Center. The rest of the decade saw Mary Free Bed expand to provide patients with additional services such as music and speech therapy. Today, innovative rehabilitation techniques continue to define Mary Free Bed. “There weren’t many places in the nation doing what Pine Rest was doing,” said Zwarensteyn. “And Mary Free Bed was a hub. People came here from all over to learn from them.”

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said. “That’s what our history is built on.” He went on to say that out-patient surgery was pioneered here in the 1950s at Butterworth Hospital. Zwarensteyn didn’t specifically mention the area’s fiscally conservative Dutch heritage as the impetus for eliminating needless hospital stays, but then again he didn’t have to. “After all, $20 or $30 a night was expensive.” GR Tim Gortsema is the former managing editor of Grand Rapids Business Journal and a Grand Rapids Magazine contributing editor.

Scientists Pearl Kendrick, top, and Grace Eldering developed the first viable vaccine for pertussis and then conducted a field trial in Grand Rapids.

finger implant was approved and became available worldwide. The incredibly complex procedure, which involved bone shaping, insertion of the implant and rebalancing of the surrounding joint tissues, offered relief to people suffering from severe arthritis.

Photography by david J. DeJonge (bottom); Courtesy LaClaire Studio (top)

Intellectual property

Do you appreciate paying less for prescription medicines? Thank Allegan-based Perrigo Co. for developing and marketing the generic version of so many namebrand pharmaceutical drugs. Are you more confident about having to undergo heart surgery? Thank Grand Rapids-based DLP Inc. (now part of Medtronic DLP) for introducing medical products to protect the heart during bypass surgery and a stabilization system allowing surgeons to operate on a beating heart. Did you require less recovery time from surgery than you expected? Thank Kalamazoo-based Stryker Corp. for developing a host of surgical tools that have made procedures more efficient and less invasive.

A TOTAL SYSTEM OF CARE IS THE BEST KIND OF CARE. Access to the experts and the exceptional teamwork of the entire Spectrum Health system means access to world-class health care. From prevention through diagnosis and treatment, Spectrum Health physicians and hospitals provide outpatient, inpatient, in-home, hospice, physical therapy, and every kind of care in between. That means a total system of care, with you in the center. And that is the best kind of care.

Making a name

All of these services, procedures and inventions helped put Grand Rapids and West Michigan on the national health care map. But, quite possibly, it was the can-do attitude of the region’s medical providers that created these milestones. “What distinguished Grand Rapids from other places is that we were able to offer some of the best ‘meat and potatoes’ medical care in the nation,” Zwarensteyn

spectrum-health.org

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LATEST DENTAL APPLIANCE EFFECTIVE IN

Sleep Apnea and Treating Snoring g e breathin im t t h ig n : are of a uestions e not aw lf these q If you ar e s r u o y s in , ask ake other problem asis or w b r la u g ore on a re Do you sn for air? sehold? t gasping your hou h ig n t a equently waken fr day? Do you a uring the d d re ti xcessively the day? Are you e s during e m ti l a u at unus re ll asleep equent so Do you fa daches, fr a e h g in ave morn Do you h ? dry mouth ons, you throat, or ese questi th f o y n a n from red yes to evaluatio e p w e s n le s a h u ug If yo Urszula er a thoro ional Dr. id s s s n fe o c ro p ld shou p apnea pids slee Grand Ra Firlik.

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NORING IS HARDLY endearing, often annoying, and many times life threatening for people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Most people know someone who snores regularly, someone who has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or someone who has a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. Snoring is often an indicator of a serious medical condition called sleep apnea, a condition in which an individual repeatedly stops breathing while he or she sleeps. This disruption in breathing causes the person to wake up consciously or sub-consciously multiple times throughout the night, resulting in poor sleep quality. The lack of quality sleep can take a huge toll on oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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life. Sleep apnea patients complain of a lack of energy, muddied concentration and drowsiness during the day. In addition to the obvious disadvantages of lost sleep, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, memory loss and depression. Sleep Apnea is increasingly coming to the forefront of the national health consciousness. Until recently, people diagnosed with sleep apnea have been treated with a medical device known as CPAP, which delivers airway pressure by way of a facemask worn at night. Unfortunately many people cannot or do not use CPAP effectively. But now, according to updated guidelines from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea can be effectively treated with a dental appliance specifically designed to be worn at bedtime to open the airway and allow natural comfort-

able breathing. “The dental appliance is well tolerated and our success rate is over 85%,” Dr. Firlik says. Dr. Firlik is among a growing but limited number of dentists trained and qualified to treat snoring and sleep apnea, and she is making it a priority in her dental practice. Since opening her dental practice in 1992, Dr. Firlik has offered comprehensive dental care including orthodontics, Biobloc orthotropics, TMJ, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea treatments, prosthetic teeth replacement and restorative, cosmetic and gum therapy. She provides OSA screening for all her dental patients — adults as well as children. “It is much easier to eliminate risk factors in children than to treat full blown OSA,” Dr. Firlik states. She works closely with a network of physicians, specialists, and private care physicians to provide the best care for her patients. Dr. Firlik is a member of the Acad-

emy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She can be reached at (616) 361-0603, via email at drfirlik@drfirlik.com, or on line at www.drfirlik.com.

Your child could be at risk for developing sleep apnea if he or she is: Snoring Grinding his/her teeth Mouth breathing Has underdeveloped (small) upper and lower jaws Have your child screened today! It could be a life saving step.

Dr. Urszula Firlik, Family Dentistry | 6225 West River Drive NE | Belmont, MI 49306 Phone: (616) 361-0603 | E-mail: drfirlik@drfirlik.com | Web: www.drfirlik.com

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See the world more clearly.

Grand Rapids Ophthalmology Physician Team

The future of eye care is here. As West Michigan evolves into a medical Mecca,

Grand Rapids Ophthalmology continues to be the leader in eye care with world renowned physicians and eight locations throughout the state. For the past 28 years, the practice has grown from providing routine eye care, contacts and glasses to the leader in all eye care specialties. Grand Rapids Ophthalmology has made it their goal to hire the best and most highly trained physicians to provide specialty treatment in Custom BLADE-FREE LASIK, Cataracts, Cornea, Retina, Glaucoma, Pediatrics and Oculoplastics (cosmetic & reconstructive eyelid procedures). In addition, ten optometrists provide routine eye exams, contacts and the most advanced treatment for dry eyes.

For the convenience of patients, care is offered in eight locations throughout West Michigan. Excellent care is never too far from your home. The two AAAHC approved Surgical Centers at the East Beltline and Walker locations provide state of the art care in a warm and comfortable environment dedicated to excellence in eye care procedures. As an eye care leader, Grand Rapids Ophthalmology is also a principal in the optical world. Eight optical boutiques offer everything from exclusive designer frames to budget conscious solutions. Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s packages are unparalleled in price and guaranteed to eliminate the worries associated with your child wearing glasses. To provide very competitively priced glasses, they also have an in house lab with the highest quality and stringent standards. Certified opticians are experts at finding glasses for every personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique needs and only 100% satisfaction is acceptable.

seeitclear.com

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800.968.2600

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TOP 25 U.S.

LASIK PRACTICES

Grand Rapids Ophthalmology was honored this year as one of the Top 25 Laser Practices in the U.S. by SightPath Medical. In addition, the laser doctors have been recognized each year as the Top 50 doctors for providing excellence in refractive surgery.

Medical/Surgical n Cataracts-Small Incision & Lifestyle Implants

Laser Vision Correction and Elective Procedures Custom BLADE-FREE LASIK

Glaucoma Treatment

BOTOX® Cosmetic

Retinal Diseases

Medical Microdermabrasion

Eye Injuries

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Eyelid Surgery

Diabetic Eye Conditions

Aesthetic Skin Care

Corneal Surgery

LATISSE® for Eyelashes

Laser Surgery

Correction for Crossed and Lazy Eyes

Routine Care n Routine Eye Exams

Orthoptic Services (Eye Muscle Problems)

Complete Optical Shop

Pediatric Eye Care

Contact Lenses

Drs. Vanderveen and Boyle offer a unique eye care subspecialty as they provide reconstructive eyelid surgery for patients following accidents and medical problems such as thyroid eye disease. They also perform cosmetic eyelid surgery for droopy and baggy eyelids. Often, these procedures are covered by insurance because they affect a person’s field of vision. Many eyelid patients are also concerned with the effects of aging and the environment on their skin so Skin Solutions by Grand Rapids Ophthalmology was created in 2004. Located in the Walker office, this beautiful spa offers complimentary skin care consults with makeup application, BOTOX Cosmetic, Fillers, Medical Microdermabrasions, Facials, LATISSE for longer darker eyelashes, permanent makeup, waxing, Jane Iredale mineral makeup and physician grade skin care products. Holly VanVuren RN and Kristen Thome provide personal care for your unique skin care needs. The doctors are also leaders in the community as clinical assistant professors in The College of Human Medicine for Michigan State University along with significant community volunteer involvement in the eye care arena by both doctors and staff. The Grand Rapids Ophthalmology Drive for Vision benefits The Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired along with The Vision Clinic at Cherry St. which was created and donated by Dr. Mark Sheldon and Grand Rapids Ophthalmology. With all possible services under one umbrella, Grand Rapids Ophthalmology is the only place you will ever need to go for all of your family’s eye care. They are here for the lifetime of your eye care providing world class care to West Michigan.

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big news

For in cancer care, look right around the corner. The Lacks Cancer Center is now a part of the prestigious NCI Community Cancer Centers Program. After a tough nationwide search, only 30 hospitals have been chosen as leading-edge Community Cancer Centers by the National Cancer Institute. The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary’s is one of them, and the only one in West Michigan. This means even greater access to the latest clinical trials and treatments for you. Envision the highest quality of cancer care in your backyard.

West Michigan’s best cancer care • Phase One Clinical Trial Unit (opening Spring 2011) • TomoTherapy Center of Excellence (only 20 worldwide) • Most multidisciplinary cancer clinics Breast, GI, Urology • Most experienced robotic surgeons • Expert sub-specialists • Collaborations with Van Andel Institute and MSU College of Human Medicine • The most advanced technology • Aggressive treatments • Holistic mind, body and spirit care

lackscancercenter.org

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Envision the mammogram that gives you

something more.

Exclusive MammoPlus™ looks at today and the future There’s only one place in Michigan where mammography comes with a plus: an assessment of your lifelong risk for future breast cancer. That place is Saint Mary’s Comprehensive Breast Center. With our exclusive MammoPlus screening, you know where you stand today and tomorrow. And best of all, it’s a plus you get at no added cost. Why settle for a screening that shows you anything less? Want to see the bigger picture? Choose a smarter screening. Call 616.685.6756 or visit SMbreastcenter.org

MammoPlus risk assessment evaluates the patient’s risk of invasive breast cancer only.

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City Guide

Dining at San Chez: A Tapas Bistro in downtown Grand Rapids is a culinary adventure. » pg66 Photography by Michael Buck

Inside » Grand Vine 68

» Chef profile 74

» Fresh Hops 78

» clubs ‘n’ pubs 94

» Making Tracks 98

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City Guide: Dining Review

Small plate heaven at San Chez by Ira Craaven

It’s easy to see why so many chefs enjoy eating at San Chez and rave about the cooking. The variety of dishes and the incredible flavor combinations make dining at GR’s original “tapas bistro” a culinary adventure. The Spanish eatery that opened 16 years ago gives off a hip and happy vibe with its mosaic-tiled columns, wide stairway to the Diners awarded Points second floor, patterned-tin ceiling and full windows fronting the downtown activity on Fulton Street. Weather permitting, those looking to San chez: dine alfresco can be seated on the back porch. A Tapas Bistro The menu is impressive, with an array of 38 W. Fulton St. dishes unique to West Michigan. Diners also Grand Rapids receive a list of seasonal chef specials, including (616) 774-8272 suggested wine or craft beer choices. San Chez www.sanchezbistro.com has full bar service and excellent wine choices. While perusing the menu, we ordered a bottle of Bodegas Lurtan Pinot Gris from Mendoza, Argentina ($24.99), which proved a pleasant, non-competitive companion for all the flavorful dishes to come. Our server brought a loaf of warm and crusty multi-grain bread to dip into the flavor-packed chimichurra concoction of warmed olive oil with scallions, garlic, chef’s salt, cumin, red pepper flakes and lemon juice. We started with Ensalada de Pepinos ($7.95), a salad with chopped cucumber and tomato, kalamata olives, onion and tetilla cheese, with an avocado vinaigrette and sherry reduction as dressing. It was full-flavored and provided a salty pop from the olives against the crunch of the cucumber and onion. It was satisfying, although Ira’s Rating System we did ask for fresh ground pepper to round it out. (Since dishes Food: Selection, variety, product quality, are already chef-spiced, salt and taste, preparation, innovation and pepper is only brought to the consistency. table on request.) Service: Hospitable, knowledgeable From the specials menu, and prompt. we selected Pollo al Chilindron Value: Pricing, number of à la carte ($8.99), described as a tradiitems, consistency. tional Aragonian dish of panBeverages: Selection of alcoholic and roasted local chicken drummies non-alcoholic drinks. and thighs, simmered in a sweet, spicy and slightly smoky sauce Ambiance: General atmosphere; overall cleanliness. of red peppers, tomatoes, chilies, green olives, Spanish paprika (Grand Rapids Magazine editors, American Culinary Federation Greater Grand Rapids chapter, GRCC’s Secchia and Serrano ham. It was served Institute for Culinary Education instructors and beverage distributors all contributed to these established guidelines.) with crusty grilled flatbread with

the flavors of the grill adding another layer of flavor. We also sampled one of the menu’s highlighted classic tapas, Seta Grande Rellena ($8.99), a Portobello mushroom with spinach, melted Manchego cheese, roasted red pepper and a tomato vinaigrette atop a bed of lettuces. One of the most flavorful dishes was the Medjoul Rellanas Picantes ($6.99), which our server warned was spicy, but we found it to be just right. It was ground lamb, chorizo and bacon-stuffed dates in a spicy harissa sauce. Its kick of heat was the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the grilled dates. Portions are big enough for sharing, yet don’t go overboard in size. Presentation is fairly straightforward, with the creative fare painting a beautiful picture on the canvas of white tableware. Desserts take it up a notch with artistic flair. We ordered Torta de Chocolate con Trufas ($7.99) and the Flan de Limón ($5.99). The torta included a ganache-topped miniature flourless dark chocolate cake served with a thin wedge of white and dark chocolate swirled together, plus three hand-rolled semi-sweet chocolate truffles. In the center of the plate, an artistically crafted puddle of chocolate sauce resembled a bear claw, with dots of raspberry sauce between each “claw.” Just as delicious was the Key lime-inspired flan topped with a mango sauce that made the dessert both tart and rich, with an oversized crispy coconut-graham tuile cookie arising from the top providing a textural crunch against the creamy flan. Although each tapas dish seems reasonably priced, the cost adds up after ordering four or five and following it with dessert. We found that ordering just a few dishes at a time worked out fine. Adding to the overall positive dining experience at San Chez is the staff. Every server who brought something to our table was well versed in its ingredients and preparation. San Chez offers breakfast every day in the adjacent San Chez Café, formerly Mezze. Although San Chez doesn’t take reservations, anyone who signs up can “tweet a seat” on Twitter. GR

Photography by Michael Buck (opposite page)

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Photography by Michael Buck (opposite page)

City Guide: Dining Review

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City Guide: Grand Vine

Meritage rhymes with heritage by A. Brian Cain

Schoonmaker and Alexis Lichine devised a nomenclature for varietal labeling for California wine. They felt that it made no sense to borrow such European place names as Burgundy, Rhine, Chablis, etc. By labeling a wine with the name of the predominant grape variety used to make that wine, they felt the consumer would have a better idea of what to expect. Laws were passed for varietal labeling that required a wine to contain at least 50 percent of

the named variety, giving a winemaker a lot of room to blend and improvise. Many of the great wines of Europe — especially in Bordeaux, France — are a blend of two or more grape varieties. However, many unscrupulous California producers started selling wines with 50 percent of a premium grape variety and the other 50 percent cheap table grapes. Quality producers felt that such wines tarnished the reputation of all California wines. So 25 years ago, laws were changed, upping the minimum varietal content to 75 percent. For many varietals, 75 percent was ideal and, of course, gave the consumer a better picture of what they were getting. But with what are known as Bordeaux heritage grape varieties (those grown in Bordeaux since the mid-1800’s), blending is the key to producing complex harmonious wine. Therefore, California’s best red wines had to be labeled “red table wine,” with no mention of varietal content, because none of the varieties in the blend met the 75 percent minimum. In 1988, there was a naming contest sponsored by a dozen producers who made top-level Bordeaux-style blends. They needed an official name for wine made with a blend of Bordeaux varietals. The winning name combined “merit,” referring to the high quality of these wines, and “heritage,” referring to the Bordeaux heritage grape varieties and the heritage of blending them. The Bordeaux heritage varieties are Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Gros Verdot, St. Macaire and Carmenere. A Meritage wine cannot contain more than 90 percent of any one variety. At the last Tasters Guild Wine Competition, the Meritage wines stole the show. Not just those from California, but Meritage wines from other states showed why blending can create a wine that is better than the sum of its parts. In July, I tasted a Meritage wine from Gill’s Pier on the Leelanau Peninsula that showed a stunning wine can be made by blending, even in our cool climate. Here are some wines that exemplify the merit in the word Meritage. Brian Cain is a certified wine educator and freelance wine writer.

Photography by Michael Buck

68 Grand Rapids October 2010

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a feast for the senses . C O M P L I M E N TA R Y P A R K I N G F O R B R E A K FA S T • LU N C H • D I N N ER

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Shaping a

City Guide: Grand Vine Meritage wines of merit

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2007 victor Hugo paso robles estate opulence ($28). starting with the dark red color, this wine builds and builds. The aroma is so concentrated and complex that one must sniff one layer at a time. on the palate, bright, raw, black wild-berry fruit grabs one’s attention, while complex spicy flavors grow richer and longer with every sip. opulence offers the backbone and vivid fruit of Chateauneuf du pape with the class and finesse of st. emilion (bordeaux). it is perfect today and will undoubtedly mature into a profound wine. 1995 estancia alexander valley Meritage ($35). although this vintage is no longer available, if anyone doubts that Meritage is every bit as age worthy as Cabernet sauvignon, this wine will remove any doubt. We tasted it next to a 1995 Calon segur, st. estephe (robert parker’s pick as the great sleeper of the vintage). surprisingly, the estancia Meritage was fresher, more youthful and more powerful than the 92-point Calon segur. The richness of the fruit of the 15-yearold Meritage was unbelievable. 2007 gill’s pier leelanau peninsula cabernet Franc/Merlot ($40). from the rich black-red color to the last trace of the velvety finish, this is a complete wine. it does not remind one of California Cabernet, though just as powerful, nor does it seem bordeauxlike, though just as complex. it truly expresses the very best of Michigan. The dense fruity aroma has floral threads running through it. 2008 Fenn valley lake Michigan shore Meritage ($18). Gorgeous ripe exotic fruit emerges from the glass. Though remarkably fruity and liqueur-like, the juicy, soft velvety texture continues on through the long finish. 2006 Dynasty cellars walla walla washington Meritage ($19). pure Merlot red fruit dominates the nose. The full body and rich fruit tannin fill the mouth and stay long into the finish. 2008 palo alto Maule valley chilean reserve red ($12). because this wine contains a small amount of syrah, it is not actually a Meritage blend. however, i wanted to include it to illustrate just how wonderful some of the less expensive blended wines can be. it is predominantly Cabernet sauvignon and Carmenere. on the nose, subtle black truffle notes mingle with rich berry fruit continuing all the way through. The finish is long and velvety.

70 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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City Guide

Grand Rapids Magazine has compiled this list of selected area restaurants as a service to our readers. The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. Restaurants are included in the guide 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.

New American Upscale, contemporary cooking including ethnic twists on familiar standbys. 25 KITCHEN AND BAR — Dining and bar space on separate levels and a menu that offers 25 pizzas, 25 beers, 25 specialty cocktails, 25 appetizers and inventive entrees artfully presented. Open daily 11 am-2 am. 25 Ottawa Ave SW, 805-5581. twentyfivegr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BAR DIVANI — Wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. European-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrees. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. bar-divani.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ 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 (downtown), 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. H, L, D, C, $ 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP FBLUE WATER GRILL — Wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. Nice wine selection and The BOB’s microbrews. Lakeside views, outdoor patio with fireplace, full-service bar. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thebluewatergrill. thegilmorecollection.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BOBARINO’S AT THE BOB — Grill on 2nd floor of The BOB offers a wide variety, from woodfired pizza, burgers and sandwiches to pasta and up-scale entrées. Full-service bar with The BOB’s microbrews on tap. Live entertainment in Cisco’s Island Lounge. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ BUTCH’S — New York-style deli by day, fine dining cuisine by night. Menu changes seasonally. More than 200 bottled beer selections and 700 varieties of wine available for takeout. Closed Sun. 44 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-8227. butchs.net. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ CITYVU BISTRO — Top-floor restaurant in Holland’s eco-friendly City Flats Hotel specializing in creative flatbreads and small-plate fare with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. 61 E 7th St, Holland, (616) 796-2114. cityvubistro.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ COREZ NEIGHBORHOOD EATERY & BAR — Ever-changing Midwest-inspired menu with imaginative twists on small and “not so small” dishes. Extensive wine list, top-shelf spirits, crafted beers and cocktails. Opens 4 pm Mon-Sat, 919 Cherry St SE, 855-2310. corezwinebar.com. H, D, C, V, $-$$ MC, AE, DS FCYGNUS 27 — Stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor

of the Amway Grand Plaza. Casual, seasonally driven menu encourages sharing. Open Tue-Sat eves; Sun brunch Labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6425. amwaygrand.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $$

fare and comfort foods featuring locally grown produce and hormone-free, organic meats. Full bar; two-level seating and alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. ¢-$ eatatolives.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS

DERBY STATION — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derbystation.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $

ONE TRICK PONY — Eclectic menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines, creative lunch and dinner specials. Congenially casual surroundings; dine alfresco on street-front patio. Occasional live music. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$

ELECTRIC CHEETAH — Eclectic menu changes weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Sandwiches, soups, salads, entrees, house-made desserts and unique Sunday brunch in modern setting. Liquor license pending. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electric cheetah.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ EVERYDAY PEOPLE CAFÉ — Changing bistro menu from appetizers through dessert. Impressive wine list with appropriate food pairings served in comfortable atmosphere. Open daily for dinner. 11 Center St, Douglas, (269) 8574240. everydaypeoplecafe.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ GILLY’S AT THE BOB — Innovative takes on seafood on the 1st floor of The BOB, complete with raw bar. Seasonal menu offers cutting-edge fare from appetizers to desserts. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. H, L (Sat), D, C, 3, V, MC, AE $-$$ GRAYDON’S CROSSING — English pub serves Indian food with a British influence. Full bar features impressive array of specialty beers. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $ GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB — Daily menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 8083566. thegreenwell.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ GRILL ONE ELEVEN — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge on the lower level. Sunday Brunch buffet 10 am-2 pm, otherwise opens at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, 863-3300. grilloneeleven.com. H, B (Sun), L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE HERITAGE — Grand Rapids Community College culinary arts students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan fare at a reasonable cost. Menu changes weekly. Wine offered with dinner. Open Tue-Fri during academic year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ MARCO NEW AMERICAN BISTRO — Cozy dining in French-country-casual, white-linen atmosphere. Creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu available for takeout. Full bar, nice wine list. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ MIA & GRACE BISTRO — Locally grown products creatively composed by husband/wife team chefs and owners are served in an intimate, artsy space in downtown Muskegon. Breakfast/ lunch service year-round with special dinners during growing season. Bakery, too. 1133 Third St, Muskegon, (231) 725-9500. miaandgrace.com. H, B, L, (D) V, MC, AE $ OLIVES — Seasonally inspired menu of creative

PIPER — Stunning lake view, fun décor, good service and a menu with everything from appetizers, pasta and wood-fired pizza to creative entrées and homemade desserts. Closed Sun and Mon during winter. 2225 South Shore Dr, Macatawa, (616) 335-5866. piperrestaurant.com. H, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ REPUBLIC — Asian-influenced California cuisine, from steaks, seafood and chicken to pastas and plates to share. Multi-level, arts-inspired décor with upper-level outdoor seating and attentive bar service. Sister to adjacent Rockwell’s Kitchen & Tap. Closed Sun. 45 S Division Ave, 608-6465. republicgrandrapids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ RESTAURANT BLOOM — Imaginative American fare with an ever-changing seasonal menu and innovative desserts. Upscale ambience. Nice wine list and microbrew beers. Lunch served 11-4. Sun brunch. Closed Mon. 40 Monroe Center, 6322233. bloomgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ FROSE’S — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with a variety of sandwiches, salads, pastas, wood-fired pizzas, entrées and desserts. Comfortably casual; three-season porch seating. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Takeout at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646. thegilmorecollection.com/rosesrestaurant.html. H, B (weekends), L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $ SALT OF THE EARTH — Rustic fare and bakery emphasize locally sourced products ranging from wood-fired pizzas to an array of affordably priced entrees. Full bar; closed Sun. 114 E. Main St, Fennville, (269) 561-7258. saltoftheearthfenn ville.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ SCHNITZ ADA GRILL — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night in cozy surroundings with full bar. Nice selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, pasta and more. 597 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzdeli.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ SIX.ONE.SIX — Market-fresh, contemporary American fare “with a global soul.” Interact with chefs in the mini Chef’s Lab exhibition kitchen, or visit Mixology lounge. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilovethejw.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE —Tapas-style fare with small plate/appetizers, soups, green plate/ salads, house specialties and desserts. Full bar with wine; nice list of microbrews. Open daily; patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavern onthesq.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ WILD DOG GRILLE — Interesting appetizers, salads, sandwiches, stone-baked pizzas and entrees marry a complexity of flavors. Desserts made in-house. Closed Mon in winter months. Fullservice bar. 24 Center St, Douglas, (269) 857October 2010 Grand Rapids 71

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City Guide 2519. thewilddoggrille.com. H, L (Fri-Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$

6646. marriott.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $

Cascade Rd SE (at Old 28th St), 949-1540. H, L, D, C, V, AE $-$$

WINCHESTER — Locally sourced menu aims to reinvent bar food; affordably priced comfort food specialties, reclaimed century-old space with shuffleboard court-patio. 648 Wealthy St, SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

BOATWERKS WATERFRONT RESTAURANT — Vintage motorboat ambiance overlooking Lake Macatawa. Spacious outdoor patio and two menus: casual dining in main dining room, bar and patio, with another room for fine dining. 216 Van Raalte Ave, Holland, (616) 396-0600. boat werksrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$

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. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$

Classic American

Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country. 8TH STREET GRILL — Entrées range from catfish Valdosta to ribs, with sandwiches, salads, burgers and pasta also on the menu. Closed Sun. 20 W 8th St, Holland, (616) 392-5888. 8thstreetgrille.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE $ 84 EAST FOOD & SPIRITS — Neat restoration lends atmosphere; varied menu includes unique pasta dishes and thin-crust pizzas. Closed Sun. 84 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-8484. 84east pasta.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC,  DS ¢-$ ABERDEEN STEAK HOUSE — All-natural, grainfed, choice-cut aged steaks, prime rib, lamb and pork chops, Greek-style roasted chicken and halfpound burgers in refurbished surroundings. Full bar; closed Sun. 785 W Broadway, Muskegon, (231) 733-6400. aberdeen-steakhouse.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ACORN GRILLE AT THOUSAND OAKS — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750.thousandoaksgolf.com. H, L, D, C, $$ 3, V, MC, AE, DS ARBOREAL INN — New England-style inn offers fresh whitefish, Alaskan king crab, tournedos Oscar and more. Cozy atmosphere with dining and bar area. Portion of menu requires 24-hour notice. Closed Sun. 18191 174th Ave, Spring Lake, (616) 842-3800. arborealinn.com. H, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $$ ARNIE’S BAKERY & RESTAURANT — Uniquely GR. Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. Open daily. 3561 28th St, 956-7901; 710 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurants.com. H, B, L, D, 3, $ V, MC, AE BEAR LAKE TAVERN — Historic North Muskegon tavern offers favorites that include yellowbelly lake perch dinner, BLT burger and hand-cut onion rings. 360 Ruddiman Rd, North Muskegon, (231) 744-1161. 4gr8food.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BENTHAM’S RIVERFRONT RESTAURANT — Upscale selections served in casually elegant surroundings. Open daily in the Amway Grand Plaza, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com/benthams.html. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $

BONEFISH GRILL — Offers fresh-from-the-seas fare. 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. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BOSTWICK LAKE INN — Roomy, cottage-style eatery offers regionally influenced cuisine in casual surroundings. Favorites include fresh seafood, pasta, steaks and ribs. Open Tue-Sat, also Mon between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 8521 Belding Rd NE, Cannon Township, 874-7290. bostwicklakeinn.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $ BOULDER CREEK RESTAURANT — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant serves an affordable selection of appetizers, sandwiches and salads as well as fowl, seafood and beef for dinner. Enjoy golf-course views from inside or on the deck. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com. H, L, D, C, V, ¢-$ MC, AE, DS BRANDYWINE — Pleasant café atmosphere serving extensive breakfasts, innovative lunches with vegetarian choices and salads, and dinner selections from Mexican to beef Wellington. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 3631723. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC ¢-$ BRANN’S SIZZLING STEAKS AND SPORTS GRILLE — Famous sizzler steaks with grill items and salads, baskets and Mexican entrees. All locations offer high-tech projection screens and sporting events. Menu tweaked to add more bar munchies. Brann’s of Grandville, 3475 Fairlanes, Grand Village Mall, 531-6210; Mike & Johnny Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille, 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; John Brann’s of Cascade, 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800; Brann’s of Holland, 12234 James St, (616) 393-0028; Brann’s of Muskegon, 5510 Harvey St, (231) 7981399; Brann’s of Portage, 700 Martin Luther King Dr, (269) 321-8852. branns.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ BULL’S HEAD TAVERN — A dozen appetizers from brie to pot stickers. Lunch menu showcases salads, soups and sandwiches. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $

BIL-MAR RESTAURANT — Beachfront dining with a great view of Lake Michigan; a wide selection of fine-dining entrées. Full bar; open daily. 1223 S Harbor St, Grand Haven, (616) 842-5920. bil-margrandhaven.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $$

C.F. PRIME CHOPHOUSE & WINE BAR — Prime NY strips and some all-natural beef selections. Gourmet treatment from starters through salads, plus seafood, vegetarian options and desserts made on-site. Impressive wine list, full-service bar. Closed Sun. 950 W Norton, Muskegon, (231) 737-4943. cfprime.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$

BLUE PLATE — Inside downtown’s Courtyard by Marriott, menu covers all tastes. Popular Pasta Station available at lunch. Light fare in lounge. Open daily. 11 Monroe Ave NW, 242-6000, ext

CASCADE ROADHOUSE — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu from fish and chips and gourmet burgers to fine-dining appetizers and entrées. Good bar, wine list. Closed Sun. 6817

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. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FTHE CHOP HOUSE — In the tradition of the best American chophouses with aged prime beef and more. A la carte sides are big enough to share. Great wine list. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6184. thechophouserestaurant.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $$ COUSIN’S TASTY CHICKEN — A 25-year local alternative to the chains with some of the tastiest fried chicken and side dishes around. Also serving seafood and other fried fare. Closed Sun. 1209 Leonard St NE, 456-5244. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CRAZY HORSE STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Holland’s family-friendly eatery, renowned for steaks and prime rib. Saturday night special is prime rib and lobster. 2027 North Park Dr, Holland, (616) 395-8393. crazyhorsesteakhouse. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ CROWNE ROOM — 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, 9571770. mainstreetmediagroup.com. B, L, D, C, 3, $-$$ V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP DEE-LITE BAR & GRILL — Nice selection of appetizers, house-made soups, salads and sandwiches. “Fresh-Mex” dinner selections, plus seafood, chicken, steak and pasta. Live music and martinis in the Theatre Bar. Open daily; Sun brunch. 24 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 844-5055. harborrestaurants.com/deelite/. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ THE DINING ROOM AT CLEARBROOK — New entrées daily feature locally grown products. Known for hand-cut steaks, double-cut lamb chops, Canadian walleye. More casual dining in The Grill Room. Open daily in summer. Clearbrook Golf Club, 6594 Clearbrook Dr (just north of Saugatuck), (269) 857-2000. clearbrookgolfclub. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$ DOCKERS FISH HOUSE & LOUNGE — Waterside dining on Muskegon Lake with lively summer tiki bar, seafood and land-lubber options. Full bar, dockside seating. Dockhands assist with boat tie-up. Closed Oct-Mar. 3505 Marina Point View, Muskegon, (231) 755-0400. dockersfishhouse. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ DUGAN’S PUB & GRILLE — Casual dining with steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at the Highlands Golf Club. Adjacent Glendevon offers banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 453-2451. grandrapidselks.org. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE FALCON’S NEST — Creative lunch menu with a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, barbecue ribs, appetizers, chili and salads. Open 11

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City Guide am-7 pm. 17000 Lincoln Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 842-4040. grandhavengolfclub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FALL CREEK — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches, house-made desserts, and creative entrées. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. fallcreek ¢-$ dining.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS FLAT RIVER GRILL — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building on the river in Lowell. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from American comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar with extensive wines by the glass and The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. Superb brunch. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollec tion.com/flatrivergrill.html. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$

grill-your-own steakhouse with grillmasters on call. Bottomless salad bowl and potato bar; tasty desserts. Rock Bottom Bar opens 11 am daily; Grill House opens 5:30 pm weekdays, 11 am Sundays. 1071 32nd St (M-40), Allegan, (269) 686-9192. grillhouse.net. H, L (downstairs), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP (weekends) $-$$ THE GRILL ROOM — Aged steaks/chops, fresh seafood and fine wines in top chophouse tradition, served in an unpretentious atmosphere. Closed Sun during winter. Kirby House, 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorecol

lection.com/kirbygrillroom.html. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ GRILLE 29 — Varied menu includes salads, soups, specialty panini, pasta, pizza and variety of entrées. Full-service bar. Open daily for breakfast and dinner. Holiday Inn Select, 3063 Lake Eastbrook SE, 285-7600. holidayinn.com. H, B, D, $ C, V, MC, AE, DS THE GRILLE AT WATERMARK — Innovative menu in relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf

continued on page 76

FLOYD | ALLENDALE Future Leader, GVSU Student

FLEETWOOD DINER — Extensive diner-style American menu with Greek influences. Famous for Hippie Hash. Open 6:30 am for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun), serving dinner until 8 pm MonThu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FOREST HILLS INN — A casual neighborhood favorite with a broad menu, excellent pizza. Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $

Visualize what the future can be.

FRY DADDY’S FRESH FISH — Fried fresh fish, wing-dings, walleye, orange roughy, catfish, blue gill, perch, smelt and shrimp, by the pound or in baskets with French fries in pleasant surroundings or to go. Closed Mon. In Kentwood’s Trinity Plaza, 1720 44th St SE, 455-FISH. H, L, D, V, ¢-$ MC

Floyd is a well-rounded young man who knows where he wants to go in life and has a plan in place to get there. A big part of his plan includes Mercantile Bank. How about savings and checking accounts offering competitive rates and just the right amount of financial advice for starters? Add to this an entire suite of tools to monitor his accounts and free access to his money from any ATM in the country and you can see why Floyd plans on keeping Mercantile Bank as part of his future.

GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. — Microbrewery with extensive menu that matches the handcrafted beers and natural ales. 3689 28th St SE, 285-5970. michiganmenu.com/grbrewing.html. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ THE GRAND SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR — In Grand Haven’s former Grand Theatre. Oyster and sushi bar, seafood and steaks. Open daily. 22 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 847-8944. harborrestaurants.com/thegrand. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ GRAND TRAVERSE PIE CO. — Bakery and café offer an extensive menu that covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with quiche, soups, salads, sandwiches and pastries. Open daily. 3224 28th St SE, 977-7600. gtpie.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

Visit MercBank.com/Somebody to meet more Mercantile customers like Floyd who have chosen to be treated like a somebody when they bank.

GRAND VILLA — Longtime favorite serving prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar, full service bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. grandvillarestaurants.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ FGREAT LAKES SHIPPING CO. — Kitchen does everything from beef, seafood, fowl and beyond in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. No lunch, but open Sun afternoons. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ THE GRILL AT 1913 — “Kid sister” of Amway Grand Plaza’s Five-Diamond The 1913 Room. Warm ambience and seasonal entrées featuring prime, custom-aged beef. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/ the_grill_at_1913.html. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $$

BANK LIKE A

GRILL HOUSE & ROCK BOTTOM BAR — Allegan’s October 2010 Grand Rapids 73

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City Guide: Chef Profile

Now that’s Amore Kentwood native Jenna Arcidiacono learned Italian recipes while living in Milan; now she’s chef at her own Amore Trattoria Italiana. By Julie Burch

ast summer, Maurizio and Jenna Arcidiacono opened Amore Trattoria Italiana at 5080 Alpine Ave. NW in Comstock Park. The restaurant’s charm can be attributed to Maurizio’s Italian-style hospitality and Jenna’s culinary talent, creating authentic regional Italian dishes with considerable flair. Jenna graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in art. She created the multi-dimensional artwork in the entryway at Amore. She’s been involved in the restaurant industry since she was a teenage server with her eye on the kitchen. Wanderlust led her to restaurant jobs in San Francisco, where she met a traveler from Milan. She eventually returned to Italy with Maurizio, where they married and lived for two years. “I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with Maurizio’s mom, who was cooking all the time because she was the mother of 11 children. She taught me a lot of the dishes that are on our menu at Amore.”

The Arcidiaconos returned stateside, opening a small-plate trattoria in San Francisco. When they decided to start a family, they returned to Grand Rap-

ids, both finding jobs at downtown’s Tre Cugini — Maurizio as dining room manager and Jenna as banquet manager. They opened the small eatery behind that

Amore’s Gnocchi di Patate Dolci Prep time: 1½ hours

Temperature: 350°

Gnocchi: 2 8-ounce sweet potatoes 1 clove garlic (pressed) ½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon butter, melted ½ teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg 2 medium eggs

¼ cup grated Grana Padano cheese 1½ cups high gluten flour 1½ cups all-purpose flour

Sauce: 2 ⁄3 cup salted butter 7 fresh sage leaves

½ cup cubed Fontina cheese ¼ cup fresh sweet peas

¼ cup diced speck (smoked prosciutto)

Bake sweet potatoes at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until soft Once the potatoes have cooled, remove peels and rice them onto a floured cutting board. Add garlic, salt, melted butter, nutmeg and cheese. Add egg and mix thoroughly. Add flour slowly until a firm dough is formed. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cut off a chunk of dough and roll into a long snakelike form. Cut off a 1-inch piece, and once

water is boiling, throw it into pot. Gnocchi will float when they are ready. If you want them firmer, add more flour. Roll, cut and boil the remaining dough. Sauce: Melt the butter and add fresh sage leaves until crispy; remove leaves from butter and set aside. Remove butter from heat and add the speck, cheese and fresh peas. To serve, toss the gnocchi with sauce and garnish with the sage leaves.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Makes: 4 Servings

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

City Guide: Chef Profile

restaurant, Café Piazza, before moving on to Covenant Village, where Maurizio managed the dining room and Jenna became the chef. They were working there when they spotted the “available” sign on the facility that formerly housed a Kansas City Dippin’ Grill (and before that, O’Malley’s). “In the back of our minds, we were always looking for a place that would be big enough and have a liquor license transfer,” she recalled. “We met with the owners. I cooked them a meal and talked about our business plan, and we worked out a partnership.” How did you get started cooking? I’ve always been a foodie. In high school, I went to sports practices a lot so came home late and had to cook for myself. Then I became a vegetarian and my folks ate meat, so I really had to cook for myself. I’m still a vegetarian, but cook meat all the time. You’ll find a lot of vegetarian dishes, vegan and gluten-free options on our menu. How would you describe the menu at Amore? It’s Italian food with a gourmet twist. We make everything from scratch and I’ve tried to be as authentic as I can, so what you see on your plate is what you would find in Italy. I support local farms and area companies as much as I can, and I change the menu with every season. What is it you like about cooking? I feel that it’s an art form. Being a painter, I want the presentation to be as beautiful as a painting. What five ingredients do you always keep stocked at home? Butter, olive oil, Nutella for my little ones, who like it on bread in the morning, pasta — any and all shapes and sizes are in my pantry — and wine. We can’t live without that. Also, there’s always fresh Parmesan, which we go through in a couple of days in my house. Tell us about the recipe you’re sharing here. It’s a fall dish, Gnocchi di Patate Dolci — sweet-potato gnocchi. It’s like traditional potato gnocchi but made with sweet potatoes. It has a delicious, cheesy, brown butter sauce with sage, peas and speck, which is a smoked prosciutto from Alto Adigi in Northern Italy. GR

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City Guide continued from page 73 course. open for lunch and dinner Mon-sat; sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. banquet facilities. reservations accepted. 5500 Cascade rd se, 949-0570. watermarkcc.com. h, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae, rsVp $-$$ honey creek Inn — daily specials are the highlight, mixed with traditional fare that earns rave reviews from patrons. Closed sun. 8025 Cannonsburg rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. honey creekinn.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC ¢-$ hudsonVIlle grIlle — steaks, chops, chicken, soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican favorites and breakfast, as well as fish specialties. full bar; closed sun. 4676 32nd ave, suite f, hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. h, b, l, d, V, MC, ds ¢-$ J bar — The bob’s steakhouse restaurant caters to those with a penchant for meat and potatoes with style and expertise. open 5-11 pm; closed sun. 20 Monroe ave nW, 356-2000. thebob.com. h, d, C, local 3, V, MC, ae $$ Jack’s — breakfast and lunch, plus dinner menu with appetizers, wine by the glass and a wide range of entrées, located on the Grand river at Grand haven Waterfront holiday inn. 940 W savidge st, spring lake, (616) 846-1370. higrand haven.com. h, b, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae, ds $-$$ kIrby grIll — Casual side of the kirby house offers more than an average grill with innovative touches to the american menu. family-friendly dining upstairs. 2 Washington ave, Grand haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorecollection.com/kirby grillroom.html. l, d, C, V, MC, ae $ kopper top — uniquely Gr. raw copper tops the bar and tables at this Gr staple with a longstanding tradition of seasonal decorations. entrées with a homemade taste. no lunch sat, closed sun. 638 stocking ave nW, 459-2001. l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae ¢ the landIng — nautical décor with windows overlooking the Grand river. Menu features american favorites and German specials. live music and dancing in the lounge. 270 ann st nW (radisson riverfront hotel at us 131), 363-7748. radisson.com/hotels/migrapno/dinings. h, b, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, dC, ds $ Oleo’s — Combines fine dining and casual comfort with great service, impressive wine list and full bar. fresh seafood is the specialty, but steaks and other dishes are just as good. street level in parking ramp at ottawa and louis. Closed sun. 60 ottawa ave nW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant. com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds, rsVp $-$$ louIs benton steakhouse — upscale steakhouse with a big-city ambiance features premium buckhead beef, wet- and dry-aged steaks, lamb, pork and veal chops, seafood and more. superb wine list. Closed sun. free valet parking at ionia entrance. 77 Monroe Center ave nW, suite 100, 454-7455. louisbenton.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, dC, ds, rsVp $-$$ MaIn street pub — Casual restaurant and sports bar offers large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and nice entrée selections. open 11 am daily, with breakfast 8 am sun. 11240 university parkway, allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ MaXFIeld’s — Vast lunch and dinner menus are

enhanced by daily feature buffets. open Tue-sun. 11228 Wyman rd, blanchard, (800) 550-5630. maxfieldsrestaurant.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds $$

sibilities. Varied menu, good wine list. lunch served 11-4 pm; closed sun. 2 e bridge st, rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds, dC $-$$

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; closed sun. 1 W Campus dr, allendale, 895-1000. gvsu.edu/meadows/. h, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae, ds, rsVp $-$$

rIo grand steak house & saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more are offered at these Western-style schelde restaurants. open daily. 5501 northland dr ne, 364-6266; 1820 44th st sW, 534-0704. michiganmenu.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds $-$$

MIddle VIlla Inn — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands; in Grand rapids call 891-1287 for restaurant info. open daily. 4611 n Middleville rd, Middleville, (269) 795-3640. middle-villa-inn. com. h, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ds $

rock FIre grIlle — entrees include fresh seafood, steaks, wood-fired pizzas, pasta, stellar desserts in casually elegant surroundings. full bar, extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. open daily for lunch except sat. 1200 east paris ave se, 977-9900. rockfiregrille.com. h, l (except sat), d, C, V, MC, ae, dC, ds $-$$

Moe’s coney & grIll — Coney island-style hotdogs and extensive menu from sandwiches to entrees. Wide-ranging breakfast menu, all at reasonable prices. open daily; closes 2 pm sun. 3603 s division ave, 514-1650. h, b, l, d, V, MC, ds ¢-$

rosebud — sandwiches, soups and pizza for lunch, a variety of steaks, ribs, pasta and more pizza for dinner. live music Thu-sat. open daily. 100 Washington ave, Grand haven, (616) 8467788. rosebudgrill.com. h, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae, dC, ds ¢-$

Mr. burger — specialty wood-fired pizzas, ethnic salads, sandwiches, appetizers, dips, soups, desserts and coffee. antique/garden atmosphere at the bistro near GVsu. open daily. 2844 lake Michigan dr nW, 453-0200; 109 Courtland st, rockford, 863-3300; 450 baldwin, Jenison, 4577400. mrburger.com. h, l, d, V, MC, ae, ds ¢

rosIe’s dIner — The original 1946 paramount diner made famous by paper towel commercials continues the tradition of classic homemade diner fare. open daily. half-mile east of us 131. 4500 14 Mile rd, rockford, 866-3663. rosies diner.com. h, b, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$

noel restaurant — it’s Christmas year-round at this restaurant in a former church and parsonage family-style dinners, lighter fare on lunch menu. Gift shop on lower level. hours now by reservation only; parties of 10 or more preferred. 2371 riley st, Jamestown, 896-6427. noelrestaur ant.com. h, l, d, V, MC, rsVp ¢-$$ ottawa taVern — The full-service, full-menu sister restaurant sharing space with downtown’s bite. sports venue with weekday happy hour bar specials 4-7 pm. Closed sun. 151 ottawa ave nW, 451-8000. thegilmorecollection.com/ottawatav ern.html. h, b, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$$ pal’s dIner — a real diner with breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, served in fun surroundings. no alcohol served. Closed sun. 6503 28th st se, 942-7257. palsdiner.com. h, b, l, d, V, MC, ds ¢ pearl street grIll — bright, airy restaurant in the downtown holiday inn (formerly days hotel). breakfast, lunch and steaks, pasta, chicken and fish for dinner. open daily. 310 pearl st nW, 2357611. guestservice@higrdt.com. h, b, l, d, C, V, MC, ae $ raInbow grIll — longtime favorite offers breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily luncheon specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed sun. 4225 32nd ave, hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago dr sW, Grandville, 534-8645. h, b, l, d, 3, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ red Jet caFÉ — Gilmore Collection restaurant in the former Creston heights library. Coffee bar along with breakfast, omelets, crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, specialty pizzas and more in casual, upbeat surroundings. full bar; opens 7 am. 1431 plainfield ave ne, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/redballjetcafe.html. h, b, l, d (Tue-sat), C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ reds on the rIVer — located on the banks of the rogue river in rockford, reds combines casual sophistication with old-World Tuscan sen-

russ’ restaurants — fast service, family friendly, inexpensive fare. Closed sun. 3966 plainfield ave ne, 381-7545; 2750 28th st se, 949-8631; 2340 28th st sW, 538-3410; 531 alpine ave nW, 784-2230; 6444 s division ave, 281-2790; 4440 Chicago dr, Grandville, 531-1146. russrestaurants.com. b, l, d, 3 ¢ saM’s JoInt — award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. extensive menu includes Mexican selections; full bar. 2412 briggs rd, Gun lake, (269) 795-3965; 7449 68th st, dutton, 698-1833; 107 e Main st, Caledonia, 891-1128; 19 n Main st, rockford, 866-3324; 6618 old Grand haven rd, norton shores, (231) 7987155; 15520 48th ave, Coopersville, 837-8558; 1665 Viewpond se, kentwood, 455-2111. h, l, d, C, 3, V, MC $ sandI’s FaMIly restaurant — home-cooked meals, family-friendly dining in casual surroundings. daily specials; all-you-can-eat ocean perch on fri. senior discount Mon-Tue. Closed sun. 6597 s division ave, 281-3160. sandisfamilyrestau rant.com. h, b, l, d, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ sayFee’s — uniquely Gr. longtime favorite with well-rounded lunch and dinner menus. Chateaubriand served tableside; luscious dessert cart; early-dining specials. live music and dancing Wed-sat eves. deck open in summer. Closed sun. 3555 lake eastbrook blvd, 949-5750. say fees.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, dC, ds $-$$ spInnaker — upscale menu features large selection of seafood and landlubber entrees in a nautical themed dining room. open daily, sun brunch. 4747 28th st se (hilton Grand rapids airport), 957-1111. thehilton.com. h, b, l, d, C, 3, V, MC, ae, dC, ds, rsVp $-$$ sundance grIll — breakfast-and-lunch spot also offers a dinner menu in the California/ southwestern tradition. selection of steaks, salmon, salads and pasta, along with a margarita bar. 5755 28th st se (esplanade plaza), 9565644; 40 pearl st nW (breakfast and lunch daily,

76 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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CALLiNG ALL FOODiES!

HOT c YUMhefs city

Ready for the dining experience of a lifetime? Enjoy creative, fresh three-course meals from 50 of the area’s best restaurants – all for just $20.10 per person. It’s a culinary celebration honoring the best chefs in our community who have each created special menus at their restaurants for this rare event taking place over ten days in November. Bring your family, friends and colleagues to a new restaurant you’ve never dared to try or revisit a classic favorite. Don’t miss this amazing culinary experience – visit www.restaurantweekgr.com for a list of eateries and make your reservations.

november 4-13 Aryana Restaurant & Bar - Crowne Plaza • Bar Divani • Bentham’s Riverfront Restaurant • Bistro Bella Vita • Bite • Blue Water Grill • The B.O.B. : Bobarino’s, Gilly’s, Jbar, Monkey Bar • Bostwick Lake Inn • Corez Wine Bar • Cygnus 27 • Derby Station • Dugan’s Pub and Grille • Flat River Grill • Graydon’s Crossing • Heritage Restaurant - Secchia Institute for Culinary Education • Honey Creek Inn • Louis Benton Steakhouse • Mangiamo! • Marco New American Bistro • McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon • Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant • Noto’s • One Trick Pony • Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine • Ottawa Tavern • Peppino’s Downtown Grille and Pizzeria • Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront • Red Jet Cafe • Reds on the River • Republic • Restaurant Bloom • Rockwell’s Kitchen & Tap • Rose’s Express • Rose’s on Reeds Lake • San Chez • six.one.six • Spinnaker Restaurant • Sundance Grill • Tavern on the Square • The 1913 Room • The Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks • The Euro Bistro • The Green Well • The Melting Pot • The Winchester • Tre Cugini • Z’s Restaurant & Bar • 25 Kitchen + Bar

Major Underwriting Support for Restaurant Week Grand Rapids was provided by the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority.

Major Sponsors

Opening Event Sponsors

Meet the culinary stars of Restaurant Week Grand Rapids at the opening event at Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at GRCC, Monday, November 1, 2010, 6-9 p.m. Cost: $75 per person. Creative cuisine, wonderful beverages – call 616.459.8287 for reservations. Visit www.restaurantweekgr.com for more information. GRM_10.10_Sec9_PG65.90.indd 77

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City Guide: fresh hops

The great beer state

there is talk of at least two more breweries opening near downtown grand rapids within the next year and who knows how many more in the state.

desPIte the steady decline of Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population, the number of breweries in the state has increased 18.5 percent since 2008. In West Michigan, three breweries went on tap in just the past 18 months. odd side ales opened in March and is the only micro-brewery in Grand Haven, located in the old Story & Clark Piano Factory in the heart of downtown. This is a micro-microbrewery. The brewer told me they are making beer in batches of 2/3 of a barrel (20 gallons). To put this in context, the smallest microbreweries are in the two to three barrel range. I sampled several of the beers, including the IPA Wheat, the India Pale Ale, the Jackalope American Amber, a Belgian Pale Ale and the Grand River Nut Brown Ale. It will be interesting to see if Odd Side Ales can dial in its flavors and brewing process while still keeping up with the demand of the local market. Once it does, the brewery would be wise to step up production with a larger brewing operation. But one good thing about continuous production of small batches of beer is there will always be a new beer (or several) on tap. If you

have a good experience or a bad experience with a beer, you might never have that same experience again. This could help or hurt the brewery in the long run. (41 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, www.oddsideales.com) michigan Beer cellar in Sparta opened in July, a project of home-brewing enthusiast Dan Humphry. He not only makes good beer, he also makes wine, alcoholic cider, gin, rum and vodka. He stocks a complete bar without having to purchase anything from a beer, wine or spirit distributor! The restaurant/bar/tasting room is a little bit like an industrial pole barn turned country bar. There is a juke box, a pool table, several tables for seating and a long bar at the service end. The brewery is a custom-designed threebarrel system that turns out about three batches a week. I sampled most of the beers and particularly enjoyed the Dunkleweizen, a rich and flavorful German-style beer with a hint of bananas. (500 E. Division, Sparta, www.michiganbeercellar. com) hopcat Brewery turned out its first batch of beer from its 3.5-barrel system in December 2009. I spoke to Chief Beer Geek (that really is his title) Chris Smith, who told me the system was designed and built in China and shipped in packages to the brewery in downtown Grand Rapids. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen a lot of brewing systems in my years of travel, but this might be the most compact and efficient I have ever seen. The beer is excellent. I sampled all six of the locally made beers on tap, which ranged in flavor from the ever popular Hoppopotamus IPA to the exotic, barrel-aged barley wine HopCat calls Kodiak Killer. (25 Ionia St. SW, www. hopcatgr.com) There is talk of at least two more breweries opening near downtown Grand Rapids within the next year and who knows how many more in the state. Contributing Editor Jon C. Koeze is cable television administrator for the city of Grand Rapids. He has made and tasted beer since 1980.

PhOtOgraPhy by Michael buck

by JOn c. kOeZe

78 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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City Guide dinner Tue-Sat), 776-1616. 4gr8food.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $

waldorffbrewpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

SWAN INN RESTAURANT — Home-cooked meals such as pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf, daily specials, and burgers, chicken, seafood and more. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles as well as dinner menu. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. H, B, L, C, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$

WEST COAST GRILLE — Daily breakfast buffet, hearty lunch fare and dinner menu ranging from quesadillas and burgers to prime rib to seafood, inside Holland’s Doubletree Hotel. Open daily. 650 E 24th St (just off US 31), Holland, (616) 3940111. holland.doubletree.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, $ MC, AE, DC, DS

TERRACE GRILLE AT BAY POINTE INN — Casual gourmet dining, impressive wine list, martini bar and lakeside dining on terrace. Seasonally changing menu includes seafood, steaks, pasta and specials emphasizing regional fare. Open daily. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville (off US 131), (269) 672-5202 or (888) GUN-LAKE. baypointeinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$

WHITEFISH LAKE GOLF AND GRILL — Menu offers hand-cut steaks, barbecued ribs, fresh seafood and other dining specialties grilled over an apple-wood fire. Open daily. 2241 Bass Lake Rd, Pierson, (616) 636-5260. whitefishgolfandgrill. com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$

THAT PLACE ON PLAINFIELD — Diner ambiance serving breakfast all day, along with soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, vegetarian options and desserts. Open daily 7 am-8 pm (8 am-3 pm Sun). 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 365-6669. thatplace onplainfield.com. H, B, L, D ¢ TILLMAN’S — Uniquely GR. Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste, from liver and onions to frog legs and escargot. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, RSVP $-$$ TIMBERS INN — Menu ranges from appetizers, gourmet salads, sandwiches and charbroiled burgers to wild game offerings and lumberjack meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Open daily. Sun omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. H, L, D, C, 3, V, ¢-$ MC, AE TULLYMORE — Restaurant at Tullymore Golf Club offers seasonally inspired menu with layers of flavors and artful presentations in beautiful surroundings. Expansive views, large patio for outdoor dining. 11969 Tullymore, Stanwood, (800) 972-4837. tullymoregolf.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ TWISTED ROOSTER — Formerly O’Charley’s, opens July 21 with new name, same owners. Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar featuring 18 beers on tap, local beers/wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave. NE, 301-8171. ¢-$$ twistedrooster.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE

Photography by Michael Buck

VICTORY CLUB — Ada’s “sports dining destination” with spacious dining room and lounge, fireplaces, TVs and sports-centric décor. Menu offers standard fare plus out-of-the-norm pizzas, some Mexican dishes and comfort food, desserts and Michigan wines. 396 Pettis Ave SE, 4257050. victoryclubada.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA PARLOR — Longtime local favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, soups, salads, Mexican and more, with karaoke nights Thu-Sat. Full bar. Open daily; weekday lunch buffet. 2215 44th St SE, Kentwood, 281-1444; 934 Washington St, Holland, (616) 392-1818. vipizza. net. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ WALLDORFF BREWPUB & BISTRO — Microbrewery with menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, barbecue specialties, small plates, steaks, pork and lamb chops, duck, pastas and wood-fired pizzas. 105 E State St, Hastings, (269) 945-4400.

WINTER INN — Seafood, steaks and prime rib along with such specialties as seafood au gratin and pan-fried walleye in historic inn. Convivial bar. Banquet facilities. 100 N Lafayette St, Greenville, (616) 754-7108. thewinterinn.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC $ WOODY’S PRESS BOX — Pulled pork with pizzazz in a restaurant complex that includes two bars, a patio and bowling. Menu offers sandwiches and shrimp as well as barbecue fare. Open daily (breakfast and lunch only Sun). 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-3242. spectrumlanes.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC $

Daytime casual Eateries that specialize in breakfast and lunch.

ANNA’S HOUSE — Family dining offers great breakfast fare. Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 2 pm. 3874 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8500. H, B, L, V, MC ¢ CHERIE INN —Café is relaxed setting for upscale breakfasts and innovative specials, served until 3 pm. Closed Mon. 969 Cherry St SE, 458-0588. B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ FAT BOY BURGERS — Uniquely GR. Legendary burger joint in the Cheshire neighborhood offers breakfast 6-11 am weekdays (7 am Sat) and lunch until 3 pm in newly renovated surroundings. Closed Sun. 2450 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-7075. H, B, L, V, MC ¢ GARDEN ROOM CAFÉ — Cheery spot in Grand Central Plaza offers great breakfast and lunch with an “outside the box” menu. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-8544. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ THE GATHERING PLACE — Cozy setting and country décor complement an imaginative menu. Terrific homemade soups, dessert selections. Open daily until 2 pm. 6886 Cascade Rd SE, 9493188. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS $ OMELETTE SHOPPE & BAKERY — A plethora of omelets, along with baked-fresh daily pecan rolls, cinnamon pastries and more. Open daily til 3 pm. 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. omletteshoppe.com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ REAL FOOD CAFÉ — Open early for breakfast and lunch, with everything made fresh from scratch by chef owners in cheery locale in Alger Heights. Second location on the northeast side. Open until 2 pm; closed Mon. 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 2414080; 5430 Northland Dr NE, 361-1808. H, B, L ¢ RED GERANIUM CAFÉ — Popular spot is known for its specialty omelets, homemade soups, October 2010 Grand Rapids 79

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City Guide breads and desserts. Two locations: 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave. 532-8888. H, B, L ¢ SUSIE’S CAFÉ — Coffees, baked goods, breakfast served through lunch. Sandwiches, homemade soups and burgers from the grill. Malts, shakes, smoothies and ice cream. Walk-up window open late in summer. Open daily. 1120 Knapp St NE, 363-1530. H, B, L ¢ WOLFGANG’S — Popular spot renowned for breakfasts. Menu includes omelets, salads and sandwiches. Private meeting rooms available. Open 6:30 am-2:30 pm daily. 1530 Wealthy St SE, 454-5776. mattwolfgang.com. H, B, L, 3 ¢

Vegetarian GAIA CAFÉ — Innovative, totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ LITTLE AFRICA CUISINE — Humble storefront café with dining area offers vegetarian dishes only. Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings are served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. Cash or checks only. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. H, L, D, 3 ¢

Pubs & Taverns

Restaurants that prefer to be known as “bars that serve food.” 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. barlouieamer ica.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BUD & STANLEY’S — Mirrored bar and TV sets galore. Mexican and Italian dishes, burgers, starters, salads and sandwiches. Main entrées range from homemade pasties to one-pound Texas cut sirloin. Takeout available. Open daily. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ CAMBRIDGE HOUSE — Wash down fish ’n chips with a pint of John Courage at this pub, complete with pool tables and dart board. Hoagies, Reubens and burgers; appetizers (served until 11 pm) satisfy snackers. Lots of liquor choices and good-size wine list. Takeout available. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 356-1622. cambridgehousegr. ¢-$ com. L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS CASCADE SPORTS GRILL — Not your average sports bar: calamari, crab cakes, potstickers, stuffed ’shrooms, sandwiches, chicken, steak and more. Sizable bar with 10 brew taps and extensive martini menu. Pool tables, dartboards, TVs and other amusements. Live DJ Sat night. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338. H, L, D, C, V, $ MC, AE, DS CHEERS — Popular neighborhood spot with something for everyone: munchies, salads, south-of-the-border favorites, fish, steaks, burgers, breakfast fare, omelets, served daily in a log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢ CHEQUERS — Creative cuisine with a British flair ranges from beef tips Sherwood to Welsh rarebit, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and imported beer served in an English pub atmosphere. Open daily in summer. 220 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 8571868. H, L, D, V, MC,AE $

CORNER BAR — Rockford’s much-loved spot for a brew and a chili dog, with hall-of-fame status for quantity gorging. Bar fare includes burgers, sandwiches, soups, nibbles, etc. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢ THE COTTAGE BAR — Uniquely GR. Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili, house-made soups and sandwiches, daily specials, imported beers, full bar and cordial atmosphere. Closed Sun. 8 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.com. L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢ THE CURRAGH — Downtown Holland traditional Irish pub features all the fun foods, spirits, music and environment of Old World Ireland. Enjoy a pint and authentic Irish fare from a full menu. Outdoor seating, live entertainment, valet parking. 73 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-6340. curragh holland.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$$ ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL — Cozy neighborhood watering hole with bar food to match: burgers, sandwiches, nachos, salads, chicken fingers, etc. Open daily 10 am-2 am. Play darts, Golden Tee or the jukebox. 501 Fuller Ave NE, 454-6666. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ FLANAGAN’S — Popular Irish pub, imported beers, 20 on tap, includes Guinness stout. Homemade soups and stews, specialty sandwiches, munchies and entrées with an Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢ FOUNDERS BREWING CO. — Sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom with vaulted ceilings, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and Sat. Expanded menu features sandwiches and light pub fare. Covered (heated) porch. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrew ing.com. H, L (11-2 Mon-Fri), 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ GP SPORTS — Sports and entertainment venue patterned after ESPN’s Zone and Dave and Buster’s, with interactive sports games, giant video screen and TVs. Menu features create-yourown pizzas, burgers, salads and such. Closed Sun and Mon. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE — Year-round alfresco dining complete with fireplace. Eclectic menu selections mix with upscale takes on comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious bar. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoods $-$$ lounge.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS HOLLY’S BACK DOOR BAR & GRILL — Fullservice menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Opens 5 pm; closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ HOPCAT — Downtown pub offers crafted brews with close to 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar, and tasty fare including appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com. H, L (Sat-Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ HUB’S INN — Sandwiches, burgers, wet burritos and thin-crust pizza. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. H, L, D, C ¢ INTERSECTION CAFÉ — Roomy entertainment venue offers sandwich wraps and panini, great

burgers, quesadilla selections, soups, salads, appetizers, flatbread pizza, vegetarian options. Full bar. 133 Grandville Ave SW, 459-0977. ¢ sectionlive.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC JD REARDON’S — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more, with a nice selection of nibbles, soups, sandwiches, dinner-size salads, steaks and other appealing entrées. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardo $-$$ ns.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS J GARDELLA’S TAVERN — Massive antique 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. jgardellastavern.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ LOGAN’S ALLEY — Uniquely GR. Free popcorn complements a premium-libation special in these cozy digs. From two Reubens to a garden burger, the 18-item sandwich-and-appetizer menu even lists pizza rolls. Seasonal deck seating. Open daily. 916 Michigan St NE, 458-1612. logansalley. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MILL CREEK TAVERN — Comstock Park’s cozy eatery offers appetizers, from-scratch daily soups, sandwiches, wraps, burgers and wet burritos, as well as full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 7843806. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MOJO’S — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, with starters, pastas, sandwiches, salads and reasonably priced entrées, plus late night “munchy menu.” RSVP for dinner early, show starts at 8 pm WedThu, 7 pm Fri-Sat, DJ, dancing, pool tables, VIP Room and flat-screen TVs on 2nd floor. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. H, D (Wed-Sat), C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NEW HOLLAND BREWING CO. — Munchies, salads, pizza and sandwiches augment a wide array of handcrafted beer. 15-minute lunch menu. Beer and wine only. Closed Sun. 66 E 8th St, Holland. (616) 355-6422. newhollandbrew.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NITE CAP BAR & GRILL — Roomy and bright with outdoor patio, pool tables, video games, bigscreen TVs, Keno and karaoke Thu-Sat evenings. Daily drink specials, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs, flame-broiled burgers, Mexican selections and dinners. 801 W Fulton St, 451-4243. nitecap ¢ bar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC PEPPINO’S RISTORANTE PIZZERIA AND SPORTS LOUNGE — Contemporary ambience, separate sports bar. Italian specialties and pizza, char-grilled Sicilian-style steak and chicken, burgers, etc. 5053 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615, peppinospizza.com. Family-friendly Peppino’s Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ 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. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ PIER HEAD GRILL AND TAVERN — Familyfriendly, nautical atmosphere with a nice selection of steaks, seafood, fish, chicken, and nibbles such as jalapeno bottle caps and asiagostuffed ravioli bites. Open daily. Cascade Centre,

80 Grand Rapids October 2010

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City Guide 6246 28th st se, 974-9010. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ pub 43 — Cozy atmosphere caters to all, but is especially popular with artists and the gay crowd. board games, more than a dozen TVs, fully stocked bar with usual bar fare from burgers to more upscale items. Jukebox, occasional live entertainment. open daily at 3 pm. 43 s division ave, 458-2205. h, d, C, V, MC ¢-$ Queen’s pub sports bar — adjacent to bombay Cuisine with english pub grub, full bar and lots of beers on tap. big-screen TVs, pool table, dart boards, wireless connection. 14201424 lake dr se, 456-7055. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ QuInn & tuIte’s IrIsh pub — one of the largest selections of irish whiskies in the area and Guinness on tap. Traditional irish music, Celtic rock, open mic fri eves, live bands sat. Typical bar fare includes burgers, brats, sandwiches, munchies. 1535 plainfield ave ne, 363-8380. quinnandtuites.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC ¢-$ rockwell’s kItchen & tap — The more casual kid sister adjacent to republic restaurant. Classic american pub features comfort foods with a twist; upper-floor outdoor balcony seating. 45 s division ave, 551-3563. rockwellsgrandrap ids.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds $-$$ rocky’s bar & grIll — burgers, appetizers, fried fish baskets, sandwiches and more. art deco bar, pool table. kitchen open late; check for evening entertainment. open daily, sun at 5 pm with $1 beer specials. 633 ottawa ave nW, 356-2346. myspace.com/rockysgr. h, l, d, C, V, MC ¢-$ sazerac lounge — new orleans-style lounge featuring bar food with a Cajun bent. live entertainment sat nights. open for lunch Tue-sat, Mon at 4 pm. 1418 plainfield ave ne, 451-0010. myspace.com/sazeraclounge. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae $

sandwiches and wraps in sports-centric surroundings. Multiple screens, outside deck, live entertainment, 29 beers on tap. open daily. 3868 West river dr ne, Comstock park, 784-2526, takeout 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae ¢-$

z’s — sports-themed eatery known for its ribs. soup-salad-sandwich lunches. features 43-foot bar and multiple TVs. Carry-out available. 168 louis Campau promenade nW, 454-3141. zsbar. com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae ¢-$

west sIde bar — no-frills neighborhood tavern with bar-food menu that includes the hog burger, a half-pound burger made fresh daily and stacked with a choice of ham or bacon and all the fixings. live entertainment weekends. 1568 broadway nW, 459-1240. h, l, d, C, V, MC ¢

delis, dogs & Bagels Places that serve sandwiches, bagels and/or hot dogs. bagel beanery — all locations bake a variety

A MichigAn coMpAny since 1955

the score — restaurant and sports bar with a wide-ranging menu that includes pizza, ribs, hand-cut steaks, seafood, chicken and comfort dishes like meatloaf. 5301 northland dr ne, 3010600. thescore-restaurant.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds ¢-$ shaMrock bar & grIll — small but interesting menu offers choices such as coconut shrimp and house-made tortilla soup in addition to burgers and steak. nice children’s menu. open daily at 11 am. 2501 Wilson ave nW, 735-3888. h, l, d, C, V, MC ¢-$ stella’s lounge — Mostly vegan menu but a stuffed burger for carnivores. advertises strong drinks and more than 200 whiskies. 53 Commerce ave, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, dC ¢-$ taphouse lounge — renovated historic surroundings with dozens of beers on tap. sports bar menu runs the gamut from appetizers, soups, salads and sandwiches to entrées such as ribs, perch and steak. atrium cigar lounge. open daily until 2 am. 8 ionia ave sW, 774-3338. taphousegr. com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae, ds, dC $

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teazers bar & grIll — burgers and pasta entrées, sandwiches, salads and southwestern bites. kids menu. look for live music on the stage. open daily. 819 ottawa ave nW, 459-2481. teaze rsbar.com. h, l, d, C, V, MC, ae ¢-$ VItale’s sports lounge & pIzzerIa — serving pizza and pasta plus legendary panini OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 81

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City Guide of bagels and serve great breakfast and deli sandwiches. Vegetarian options, soups, salads and specialty coffees. Catering, kids meals, free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating. 455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, 249-9500. bagelbeanery. com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ BIG APPLE BAGELS — Fresh bagels and 15 cream cheese mixtures. Choose your favorite bagel to wrap around the sandwiches or breakfast options, or build your own from the deli. 3915 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-1919; 2058 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-2390; 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 5547915. babcorp.com. H, B, L, D, 3 ¢ BITE — Deli side of Ottawa Tavern features daily soups, big wraps, salads and build-your-own burgers. Weekday Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials 4-7 pm. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. bite.thegilmorecollection.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ BITTER END — Full array of specialty coffee drinks, bagels, muffins, pastries and deli sandwiches in atmosphere of a 1930s French café. Free Wi-Fi. Open 24/7. 752 W Fulton St, 4516061. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ BOARDWALK SUBS — 20 huge Jersey-style subs using family-recipe Italian dressing and specialty meats such as capicola and prostitini in addition to familiar choices. Also soups, chili, salads, chips, fresh-baked cookies, ice cream and kids meals. Take out or eat in. Catering and delivery. Open daily. 5422 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 724¢ 2492. H, L, D, V, MC CAFÉ SCALA — Tre Cugini’s cousin in the Ledyard Building offers sandwiches and other Euro nibbles at reasonable prices. Open 11:30 am-2:30 pm Mon-Fri. 125 Ottawa Ave NW, 2359115. trecugini.com. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢ CHERRY DELI — Extensive menu offers more than 50 sandwiches, a dozen salads, five soups, with catering and takeout options. Outdoor patio; closed Sun. 834 Cherry St SE, 459-6182. cherry ¢-$ deli.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS CORNUCOPIA — Bakery, sandwich spot, pizzeria, take-home specialties, lunch buckets, freshground coffees, one-of-a-kind wine selection. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 776-6428. amwaygrand.com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE ¢-$ CRAZY CHARLIE’S — Coney Island-style dogs plus a daily soup, chips, shakes, slushies, fountain drinks and soft-serve ice cream service with walkup window on Bagley Ave in warmer months. 2184 Wealthy St SE, 451-6720. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ DAM DOGS — On the dam in downtown Rockford serving everyone’s favorite variation on the hot dog theme in old-time surroundings, plus ice cream. 51 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-9565. H, L, D ¢ THE DOG PIT — Every variation on a hot dog, with house-made chili topping a specialty. Large variety of condiments. Also daily soups. Closed Sun. 132 Monroe Center NW, 988-1508. H, L, D ¢ FERRIS COFFEE AND NUT CO. — Breakfast and light lunch items in Plaza Towers on West Fulton. Both locations feature global gourmet coffees, nut selections and sweet treats. Gift baskets available at Winter Ave location. 235 W Fulton St, 227 Winter Ave NW, 459-6257. ferriscoffee.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ FRENZ COFFEE HOUSE — Besides tea and coffee

specialties, menu offers soups, salads and wrap sandwiches. Closed Sun. Musicians on Fri. Free Wi-Fi. Local artists display and sell their work. 8 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8750. frenzcoffee ¢ house.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS THE GRAND CONEY — Home-style dinners, burgers, salads, sandwiches, Mexican fare, desserts and all-day breakfast in addition to authentic Coney Island hot dogs. Open 24/7. 809 Michigan St NE, 776-5580. H, B, L, D, Cash only ¢

takeout and catering. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 4598500. ramonastable.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ RITZ KONEY BAR & GRILLE — Hot dogs, gourmet sandwiches, burgers, wraps and salads plus chicken fingers, nachos, wings and fries. Full bar with limited wine list. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 451-3701. ritzkoneybarandgrille.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC ¢-$

JERSEY JUNCTION — Sandwiches, ice cream treats, candies and hot dogs served in old-fashioned “soda shop” atmosphere. Open daily in season beginning March 1. 652 Croswell Ave SE, Gaslight Village, EGR, 458-4107. jerseyjunction. com. H, L, D ¢

SCHNITZ DELICATESSEN — Deli with a German flair. Sandwiches, creamy potato salad and fudgy brownies. All available for takeout. Closed Sun. 1315 E Fulton St, 451-4444; Schnitz East, 597 Ada Dr SE, 682-4660; Schnitz South, 1529 Langley St SE, 281-5010. schnitzdeli.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC ¢-$

JW’S — Art gallery meets coffeehouse with rotation of local artists’ works. Specializing in light, health-conscious lunch fare, plus every coffee drink under the sun. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 285-1695. H, B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢

TASTE OF THE GARDENS CAFÉ — At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Deli selections, soups and fresh-baked pastries. Brunch on second Sun of month by reservation only. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 977-7691. meijergardens.com. H, L, 3, V, MC ¢-$

KAVA HOUSE — Uniquely GR. Popular Eastown spot with bakery items (known for the scones) and java served in bowl-sized cups. Plenty of seating (outdoors, too). Bakery includes homemade pizzas, spinach pies, sausage rolls and soup. 1445 Lake Dr SE, 451-8600. Facebook. H, B, L, D, 3, V, ¢ MC

URBAN MILL CAFÉ — Deli-style, grilled and baked specialty sandwiches on freshly baked breads. Top-notch soups, salads, desserts, baked goods. 629 Michigan St NE, 855-1526. urbanmill.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢-$

KAVA HOUSE BY GEORGE — Separately owned store in Gainesville Township offers bakery items and light lunch fare like wraps and seasonally inspired soups and chili. Full array of coffees. Free Wi-Fi. 6633 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 971-4560. H, B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢ LOCAL MOCHA — Downtown location offers favorite coffee specialties and smoothies as well as grilled breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Closed Sun. Free Wi-Fi. 96 Monroe Center NW, 459¢ 0082. localmochagr.com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE MAMA’S PIZZA & GRINDERS — Busy spot in Thornhills Plaza offering large grinders (half-size available), pizza, salads and pasta selection. 6504 28th St SE, 954-1964. mamaspizzaandgrinders. com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ MUSEUM CAFÉ — Deli-style sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and beverages on the second floor of the Van Andel Museum Center with a view of the riverfront. Closed Sun. 272 Pearl St NW, 456-3977. H, L ¢ NUNZIA’S CAFÉ — Combo specials of soups, chili, salads, sandwiches, pasta and Italian dishes. In Merrill Lynch building by Calder Plaza. Open 11 am-3 pm weekdays. 250 Monroe Ave NW, No. 140, 458-1533. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ OLGA’S KITCHEN — Greek-style wrapped sandwiches, salads and desserts, with uniquely flavored fries, appetizers, smoothies and desserts. Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 456-0600; 3195 28th St, 942-8020; 3700 Rivertown Parkway SW, Grandville, 531-6572. olgaskitchen.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢

VANILLAS COFFEE TEA CAFÉ — Gourmet coffees, teas, smoothies and pastries. Special-order bakery for cakes, cookies, cupcakes. Check out the dollar menu. Closed Sun. 3150 Plainfield Ave NE, Plainfield Plaza, 447-0080. vanillascafe.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ WEALTHY STREET BAKERY — Fresh breads, cinnamon rolls and pastries in reclaimed, roomy location, with sandwiches and daily soup specials. Club, specialty and vegetarian sandwiches on fresh-baked breads. Free Wi-Fi. Closed Sun. 608 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery. ¢ com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS WG GRINDERS — Oven-baked gourmet grinders, excellent variety of deli and signature salads, soups and desserts. A few hot pasta selections. Catering, delivery and takeout. Closed Sun. Esplanade Center, 5769 28th St SE, 974-3354. wggrinders.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ WIRED ESPRESSO BAR — A gamut of coffee concoctions, espresso-based beverages, baked goods, sandwiches and more in Creston Business District. Free wireless Internet and occasional live weekend entertainment. 1503 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-5245. wiredgr.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ YESTERDOG — Uniquely GR. The city’s favorite hot dogs in a fun, nostalgic Eastown setting. Try the Ultradog. Closed Sun. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 262-3090. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢

European

ONE STOP CONEY SHOP — Hot dogs plus salads, sandwiches, fries and house-made original condiments in downtown GR. Open 11 am-9 pm Mon-Sat. 154 E Fulton, 233-9700. onestopconey shop.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢

FTHE 1913 ROOM — AAA Five-Diamond rating. Innovative, French-inspired fare, excellent wine list and superb desserts, lavish French décor and impeccable service. Closed Sun. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW, (800) 2533590 for reservations desk, 776-6426 for restaurant. amwaygrand.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $$

RAMONA’S TABLE — EGR deli with selections made from scratch: soups, sandwiches, salads, baked items and meals from 8 am-8 pm daily;

ALPENROSE — European-inspired restaurant with fare ranging from Certified Aged Black Angus steaks to poultry and fish dishes. Five private

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pile

dining rooms, banquet facility, bakery and café. Award-winning Sun brunch buffet. 4 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-2111. alpenroserestaurant.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP ¢-$$ ➧AMORE TRATTORIA ITALIANA — Authentic regional Italian dishes using local produce, meats and cheeses as well as Italian imports. Banquet facility available. Closed Mon; no lunch Sat. At press time in August, liquor license pending. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. H, L, D, V, MC $$ BELLA MIA PIZZERIA & ITALIAN GRILL — Italian dishes, pasta dishes and hand-tossed New Yorkstyle pizza (even dessert pizzas) in roomy, window-fronted dining room. Daily lunch buffet. 6333 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Suite 450, 554-9930. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BRICK ROAD PIZZA — A nice selection of pasta, pizza, salads, desserts and vegan specialties. Buffet available at lunch. Meatball crust specialty. Open daily. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brick ¢-$ roadpizza.com. H, L, D, V, MC

smile

FLORENTINE PIZZERIA & SPORTS LOUNGE — Spacious location features Italian fare with American and Mexican choices in addition to thincrust pizzas. Ten beers on tap. Big-screen TVs, pool tables, darts, video games, Foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ 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, 534-5419. florentin eingrandville.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC $ FRANCO’S PIZZERIA — Spaghetti, manicotti, lasagna, stromboli plus pizza and subs with fresh ingredients. Limited seating, takeout available (delivery offered). Cash only; open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. H, L, D ¢-$ FRANKIE V’s PIZZERIA & SPORTS BAR — Roomy space with pool tables, jukebox, video games, TVs, covered patio. 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. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FRED’S PIZZA AND ITALIAN RESTAURANT — Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ 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. H, D, C ¢-$ MANGIAMO — Historic mansion houses familyfriendly Italian eatery. Steaks and seafood in addition to pasta and pizza. Open daily for dinner; extensive wine list, evening entertainment. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmorecollection. com/mangiamoletseat.html. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ MARINADE’S PIZZA BISTRO — Specialty woodfired pizzas, ethnic salads, sandwiches, appetizers, dips, soups, desserts and coffee. Open daily. 2844 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-0200; 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863-3300; 450 Baldwin, Jenison, 457-7400. marinadespizzabistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢

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65 E. Bridge Street, Rockford | 616.884.0107 www.oldworldolivepress.com October 2010 Grand Rapids 83

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Hot off the grill

MARRO’S — Authentic Italian fare and housebaked goods, extensive array of pizza toppings. Open mid-April through autumn; closed Mon. 147 Waters St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-4248. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ MONELLI’S RESTAURANT AND SPORTS BAR — Southern Italian cuisine from the folks who own Monelli’s Pizza. Spacious sports bar with big screen TVs; family-friendly dining room with fireplace. 5675 Byron Center Ave, Wyoming, 5309700. monellis.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NOTO’S OLD WORLD ITALIAN DINING — Elegant decor, extensive menu and impeccable service. Offerings include appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, veal, fish and desserts. Special wine cellar dinners in unique surroundings; lounge menu features light fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ PEREDDIES — Italian fine-dining and a deli with baked breads, salads, meats, pâté, desserts and imported food. Wine list, full bar, wine to go. More casual fare in Scusi lounge. Closed Sun. 447 Washington Ave, Holland, (616) 394-3061. pereddiesrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC $-$$ PIETRO’S BACK DOOR PIZZERIA — Tucked behind Pietro’s Restaurant off 28th Street, featuring Chicago-style, thin-crust, Sicilian pan and wood-fired pizzas. Also skillet pastas, paninis, appetizers, salads and desserts. Kids menu. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-7488. rcfc.com/backdoor pizzeria/. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ PIETRO’S ITALIAN RISTORANTE — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Fresh-baked breads, Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Nightly features. Kids menu, meeting room and takeout available. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 452-3228. rcfc.com/pietros. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $ RESTAURANT TOULOUSE — Seasonally inspired menu with French classics such as cassoulet and bouillabaisse. Delectable appetizers and desserts. Award-winning wines. Hours vary seasonally; private parties can be arranged. Sun brunch during summer. 248 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-1561. restauranttoulouse.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, RSVP $$

The Euro Bistro

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. salvatoresgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

59 W Washington St, Zeeland, (616) 772-5900, vitaleszeeland.com; 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-2244, vitaleshudsonville.com (no alcohol served); 5380 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 530¢-$ 8300. vitales.us. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE

-SAN CHEZ, A TAPAS BISTRO — Legendary downtown hotspot offers Spanish bill of fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. Extensive wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W Fulton St, 7748272. sanchezbistro.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$

Including Thai and Indian fare.

FTRE CUGINI — Authentic high-end Italian menu, impressive wine list, fresh daily pastas and risotto specialties, plus beef, veal, lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. Outdoor seating in mild weather. Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, 235-9339. tre cugini.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ TWO TONYS TAVERNA GRILLE — Italian, Greek and American specialties with full-service bar, extensive wine list. Menu includes wood-fired pizzas and nightly specials. Artsy ambience, open kitchen and large patio. Closed Sun. 723 E Savidge Rd, Spring Lake, (616) 844-0888. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ UCCELLO’S RISTORANTE — Pizzeria, grill and sports lounge with Italian cuisine, American dishes and an array of freshly baked pizzas. Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor SE, 891-5958. uccellos.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ VITALE’S — The original. Traditional Italian ristorante serving regional dishes from family recipes since 1966. Open daily. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368 (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 4582090), takeout 458-3766. theoriginalvitales.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S OF ADA — Multi-regional, upscale, from-scratch menu in the trattoria style of modern-day Italy. Family-friendly atmosphere; microbews to martinis in separate sports pub. Open daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitales ada.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from original Vitale family recipes.

Asian

ABACUS — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine; buffets at lunch, dinner and all day on weekends. Nice cocktail selection. Open daily. 2675 28th St SW, 530-3300. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS, DC ¢-$ AKASAKA SUSHI — Sushi plus Korean and Japanese offerings in low-key atmosphere in the Cascade Centre. Occasional sushi classes offered. Closed Sun. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ ALPINE TERIYAKI AND SUSHI — Sushi selections with some deep-fried roll options, shrimp tempura and more, all masterfully presented. Pleasant, diminutive surroundings; closed Sun. 4089 Alpine Ave NW, 647-9935. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ ANGEL’S THAI CAFÉ — Extensive Thai fare; menu includes a your-choice stir-fry option from a long list of ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly, fromscratch sauces. Pleasant surroundings. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angels thaicafe.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$ ASIAN PALACE — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each cuisine. Family owned and operated. Try the “Bo 7 Mon” specialty, a seven-course beef sampling. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ BANGKOK PALACE — Wide selection of traditional Thai, noodle and curry dishes with vegetarian, chicken, seafood, beef, pork, duck and chef specialty selections (and name-your-spice-level options). Closed Mon. 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 534-5010. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BANGKOK TASTE — Jenison eatery features fresh Thai fare at reasonable prices. Nice lunch buffet, with Pad Thai, Thai curry and Thai fried rice prepared fresh daily. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. www.bangkoktaste.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK POELLER

The Euro Bistro, serving a French-inspired menu, opened at 6450 28th St. SE in Cascade. Owner Rakans Karadesh said diners can order everything from selected French cheeses and house-made charcuterie to coq au vin and steak frites. Chef Don Chudik said the bistro uses local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. (eurobistrogr.com) The Windquest Group partnered with Kameel Chamelly, owner of Martha’s Vineyard, to open Reserve, an upscale wine bar at 201 Monroe Ave. NW. Reserve, offering a selection of more than 250 wines, is open 4 p.m. to midnight Monday-Thursday and 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Seasonal shared plates menu will complement the wine options. (www.reservegr.com)

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City Guide BANGKOK VIEW — Thai food and Chinese fare. Lunch buffet. Closed Mon. 1233 28th St SW, 5318070. bangkokviewthaifood.com. L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BEIJING KITCHEN — Extensive menu featuring Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines at reasonable prices. Cashew chicken is a specialty. Lunch specials priced at $5.95. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. www.beijingkitchengr. com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN — Extensive Asian menu that is vegetarian-friendly. Noodlebased Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries, fried rice. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market strip mall), 261-8186. bluegingergr.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BOMBAY CUISINE — Indian fare includes tandoori and vindaloo dishes spiced to diner’s satisfaction. Naan (bread) is cooked to order. Full bar service, eight beers on tap, live music Thu-Sat eves. Takeout available. Closed Tue. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. Facebook. H, L, D, C, V, MC $ CHINA CHEF — Family-style Chinese restaurant in Standale strip mall with some innovative dishes. Szechuan-style entrées are popular. Hunan choices, too. Closed Mon. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$

Drink in the poetry of the vines. A

utumn in wine country can only be described as poetic. Clusters of dusky purple and opulent white maturing beneath fall leaves. Breezes delivering the most heavenly scent on earth. Award-winning vintages pouring into waiting glasses. Pleasant company savoring exquisite food and gazing upon vineyards in this ripest of seasons.

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CHINA CITY — Nice selection of Chinese cuisine. Lo mein is a specialty, along with Hong Kong-style chow mein noodles. Lunch prices all day Tue; free soup and egg roll Sun; closed Mon. 5299 Eastern Ave SE, 257-7038. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$

185 Mt. Tabor Rd., Buchanan, MI 49107

800-283-3363 • www.taborhill.com

CHINA GOURMET BUFFET — Daily lunch and dinner buffets with more than 100 items to choose from. Dinner buffet served all day on weekends; discount for seniors; special prices for children 10 and under. Open daily. 2030 28th St SW, 252¢-$ 1379. H, L, D, V, MC CHINA INN — Menu includes Mandarin, Szechuan, Hunan and Cantonese cuisine; cocktails served at West Shore Drive location only. Open all week at two locations: 2863 West Shore Dr, Holland, (616) 786-9230; 1080 Lincoln Ave, Holland, (616) 395-8383. chinainnrestaurants. $ com. L, D, V, MC CHINA PALACE — Chinese eateries with all the amenities; large selection of popular dishes. Open daily. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-9668; 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ CHINATOWN RESTAURANT AND JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE — Chinese and Japanese cuisine with tabletop, Benihana-style meals available. Lunch and dinner buffets. Full bar service. Open daily. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. chinatowngrand rapids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK POELLER

CHINA WONG — No-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare from spicy Hunan and Kung-Po dishes. Open daily. 6719 S Division Ave, 281-8816. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CHINA YI WANG — Chinese dishes including seafood, beef, poultry and chef specialties, combination plates and spicy Hunan dishes. Open daily. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ EAST GARDEN BUFFET — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine in Kentwood. Open daily with buffet and large menu selection. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II — Full scale, all-

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City Guide you-can-eat Chinese buffet served all day. More than 80 freshly made items, reasonably priced. Special seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Delivery available. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. H, L, D, V, ¢-$ MC, AE, DS EMPIRE WOK BUFFET — More than 150 daily selections of fresh Chinese food, complete with Mongolian barbecue and sushi stations. Open daily. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9928. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ FAR-EAST RESTAURANT — Serving Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes; vegetable-oilonly cooking. Carryout and catering available. Open daily. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. L, D, V, MC, DC, DS $ FIRST WOK — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Dine-in and take-out seven days a week. Three locations: 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616; 6740 28th St SE, 5759088. firstwokgr.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, RSVP $ FORTUNE CHEF — Chinese cuisine and a range of American fare from sandwiches to pork chops and steak. Opens 6 am weekdays, 8 am weekends with breakfast served all day. 9353 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1388. fortunechefcaledo nia.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ GOLDEN 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin cuisine complemented by a Vietnamese menu. Seasonal specialties and family dinners, served in an elegant atmosphere. Closed Mon. 627 28th St SW, Wyoming, 531-2800. H, L, D, V, MC, DS $ GOLDEN DRAGON — Chinese, Mandarin and Japanese cuisines with Japanese steakhouse, occasionally excellent. Closed Sun. 3629 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1318. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC $ GOLDEN GATE RESTAURANT — Tasty Chinese fare in pleasant, roomy surroundings, affordably priced. All-inclusive lunch combination plates, tasty egg rolls, great sweet-and-sour dishes with some hot and spicy choices. Takeout, too. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. H, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ GOLDEN WOK — Knapp’s Corner eatery offers wide variety of lunch and dinner options, including Hunan-spiced dishes along with other favorites in a cheery dining room. Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-8880. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ GRAND LAKES — A wide selection of Chinese dishes and specialties, along with daily lunch combination plates. Take out or dine in, next to Breton Village D&W. Open daily. 1810 Breton Rd SE, 954-2500. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ HONG KONG EXPRESS — Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine for dine-in or carry-out. Allyou-can-eat lunch buffet; reasonable prices. Open daily. 150 E Fulton St, 235-3888. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ HUNAN — Full menu of Chinese options, house and family dinners for groups, efficient service in pleasant surroundings. 1740 44th St SW, 5303377; 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangr. com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, RSVP $ INDIA TOWN — Indian fare in a humble but cozy atmosphere. Tandooris are especially good. Closed Tue. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. india town4u.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ JADE GARDEN — Extensive menu of Chinese cuisine, limited selection of American dishes, chil-

dren’s menu and an array of tropical drinks. All dishes cooked with vegetable oil, no MSG. Open daily. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. H, L, D, C, V, ¢-$ MC, AE, DS, RSVP KOBE JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE — Chefs entertain behind giant grills as they slice, dice, toss, grill and flambé filet mignon, shrimp, chicken, salmon, scallops and lobster. Separate à la carte sushi counter. 3434 Rivertown Point Ct, Grandville, 301-8696. kobesteakhouse.com. H, L (Sat/Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ LAI THAI KITCHEN — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MARADO SUSHI — Sushi bar in downtown GR also offers a wide selection of Japanese fare along with a few Korean specialties. 47 Monroe Center, 742-6793. Closed Sun. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ MIKADO — Separate menus for sushi and sashimi à la carte; lunch specials served with soup and rice. Dinners offer a full range of Japanese cuisine. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, RSVP ¢-$ MYNT FUSION BISTRO — Classy surroundings with a fusion of Asian fare that includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ NING YE — Family-owned Chinese restaurant in Ada also serves Korean fare. Closed Sun during winter months. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. H, L, D, V, MC, AE $ NU-THAI BISTRO — More than 70 options from appetizers, soups, and Thai salads to fried rice, curries and noodle dishes with options to add chicken, tofu, vegetables, beef, pork, shrimp scallops or seafood. Also seafood and duck specialty plates. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. H, L, D, V, ¢-$ MC, AE, DS, RSVP OYSY TEPPANYAKI AND SUSHI BAR — Korean and Japanese fusion fare with a single-priced allyou-can-eat lunch from the sushi buffet or teppanyaki grilled fried rice and vegetable option with chicken, steak or shrimp choices. Closed Sun. Centerpointe Mall, 3665 28th St SE, 575-8110. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ PALACE OF INDIA — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes 20 vegetarian-friendly selections. Lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. Open daily. 961 E Fulton St, 913-9000. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ PEKING WOK — Cheery window-fronted Chinese eatery, affordably priced, in the Cascade Centre. Closed Sun. 6264 28th St SE, 956-6525. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ PHO SOC TRANG — Vietnamese cuisine in large, windowed dining room. Variety of appetizers and soups, plus vermicelli and rice plate options. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ RAK THAI BISTRO — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences and a sliding scale for spiciness. Appetizers, soups, salads, stir-fries, curries, pad Thai noodle dishes and more. No alcohol, but try the fruity, milkshake-like bubble tea. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthaibistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP ¢-$

RED SUN BUFFET — All-you-can-eat international buffet: sushi, Chinese, American, Italian and Japanese selections along with soups, salads, desserts and more, plus a menu of house specialties. Open daily. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9999. redsunbuffet.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ SEOUL GARDEN — Chinese and Korean cuisine with full bar, elegant surroundings. Banquet and catering facilities available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. Grseoulgarden.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ SHANG HAI ICHIBAN — Authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine served in two distinct areas. Food prepared tableside in the Japanese area by hibachi chefs. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE (at 29th St), 773-2454. shanghaiichiban.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, RSVP $-$$ SHOGUN — Authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine including sushi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura, bulgogi and more. Private groups can eat in traditional (shoe-free) Japanese tatami room. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, RSVP ¢-$$ SOC TRANG — Chinese and Vietnamese restaurant in Caledonia with a wide selection of offerings representing both cuisines. Open daily. 1831 Market Place Dr, 871-9909. gosoctrang.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ SPICES ASIAN CAFÉ — Byron Center eatery serves authentic Chinese fare with create-yourown stir fry options, Korean dishes, vegetarian options and broasted chicken dinners and buckets to go. Open daily. 2237 84th St SW, 878-0109. spicesasiancafe.com. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ SZECHUAN GARDEN — Diverse Chinese menu of beef, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetable dishes in Eastown. Lunch specials daily 11 am-4 pm. Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 456-9878. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ THAI EXPRESS — Humble storefront belies the quality of these made-in-front-of-you Thai specialties, spiced to specification. Popular curry dishes, great noodles and affordably priced lunch combo specials. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 8279955. thaiexpressgr.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT — Broad-ranging menu, from three-alarm spicy to subtle. Lunch and dinner specials. Try the Thai banana pie. Closed Sun-Mon. 6447 28th St SE, 285-9944. L, D, V, MC $ THAI PALACE — Holland’s authentic Thai restaurant offers a full gamut of Thai selections. Closed Mon. 977 Butternut Drive, (616) 994-9624. thai palacefood.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ THREE HAPPINESS RESTAURANT — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan regional fare, affordably priced with daily lunch and dinner specials. Call ahead service. Open daily. 3330 Alpine Ave NW in Target Plaza, 785-3888. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ TOKYO GRILL & SUSHI — Japanese-style tatami rooms, sushi bars and atmosphere. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura and fresh sushi. Hot and cold sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Closed Sun. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ WEI WEI PALACE — Chinese seafood restaurant features huge menu of Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. Fresh lobster and crab.

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9 Locations Throughout West Michigan!

Award Winning in Cascade

Classic Cuisine Lavish Luxury the1913room.com

The best that Italy has to offer in the heart of Grand Rapids... AWARD WINNING

Open to the Public

www.PaneraBread.com

Mon-Thur 11:30-10 | Fri-Sat 11:30-11:30 | Sun 10-8

www.watermarkcc.com • 616.949.0570

2008 Winner

Award of Excellence

-Wine Spectator

Amazing Steaks

& Fresh Seafood

LUNCH Mon - Fri 11:30-4:00 PM DINNER Mon - Thurs 4:00-10:00 PM Fri 4:00-11:00 PM Sat 5:00-11:00 PM

Lunch 11:30 - 4 M-F Dinner 5 - 10 Mon.-Thurs. 5 - 11 Fri.-Sat.

Reservations Suggested

Downtown Grand Rapids Monroe Center & Ionia

122 MONROE CENTER, ST NW DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 616-235-9339 www.trecugini.com

www.LouisBenton.com • 616.454.7455

Thai, Japanese, Chinese Business luncheons, intimate dinners, appetizers and cocktails. Or, our award winning Sunday brunch. Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring your visit is excellent. Mon - Thurs 11:30 - 10 and Fri 11:30 - 11 Sat 4:30 - 11 (no lunch) Sun Brunch 10 - 3, Dinner 4:30 - 9

Buy one dinner enTrée, geT one Free!

PIZZA AND A WHOLE LOT MORE!

676-5400

www.vitalesada.com

asian Cuisine

58 Monroe Center • Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 235-6969 www.xoasiancuisine.com

VOTED BEST PIZZA 6 YEARS IN A ROW!

400 Ada Dr. SE (in the thornapple village)

• Sushi Bar half price every Tuesday (Dine-in only) • Full service bar

63 Market St., Downtown Grand Rapids 616.459.2500 www.muer.com

(Up to $13.00) Dine in only, not valid on Holidays. One coupon per table | Expires 12-30-10

advertise your restaurant

Here ContaCt Karla at (616) 459-4545 for more information.

OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 87

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City Guide Superb selection of dim sum at lunchtime, with tasty selections from the barbecue pit, as well. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $ FXO ASIAN CUISINE — Upscale Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine in downtown GR. Vegetarian dishes available; lunch specials MonSat. Full-service bar. Open daily (free valet parking with $30 purchase). Will deliver. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasiancuisine.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ YEN CHING/ROARING ’20s — Expertly prepared entrées served amid elaborate décor, a perennial favorite. 4605 28th St SE, 773-1587. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $$ YUMMY WOK — Combo platters, sweet and sour dishes, Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes, chow and lo mein, chop suey, tofu and Peking sizzling dishes in nice surroundings. Open daily. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$

Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean MARIE CATRIB’S — Eclectic eatery in bright surroundings in East Hills Center. “Care-free food” includes Middle-Eastern-leaning fare. On-site bakery; seasonal specialties; Turkish coffee. Breakfast 7 am Mon-Fri, 8 am Sat, with lunch/ dinner starting at 11 am weekdays, noon on Sat. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL — Mid-East fare: gyros, kabobs, shwarma, falafel, fattousch, hummus, kafta. All meats are halal, in accordance with Islamic requirements. Cozy, attractive dining room with hand-painted murals. Closed Sun. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. raadmediterraneangrill.com. H, L, D, V, MC $ OSTA’S LEBANESE CUISINE — Authentic Lebanese cuisine, from grape leaf appetizer and tabbouleh to shish kebob, falafel and baklava. Takeout and full-service catering. Closed SunMon. 2228 Wealthy St SE in EGR, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, DS ¢-$ PARSLEY MEDITERRANEAN GRILLE — Mediterranean appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos of chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian entrees, kabobs and more. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. pizzubs.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ THE PITA HOUSE — Gyros with all the trimmings, chicken salad with cucumber sauce and a variety of other Middle East specialties. Open daily. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 9403029; 6333 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8722; 134 Monroe Center NW, 233-4875. thepitahouse.net. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ SHIRAZ GRILLE — Fine Persian cuisine: firegrilled kabobs, beef, chicken, lamb, seafood and rice dishes, khoreshes (delicate stews), vegetarian options and desserts. Full bar, fine wine list, martinis. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgril le.com. H, L (Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $ ZEYTIN — Turkish-American cuisine reflects influences from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, including saganaki, borek, dolma, shish kebab, falafel, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh. Extensive beer and wine lists. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrest aurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $

Latin American/ Caribbean 7 MARES — Full-scale Mexican meals and specialty dishes that go well beyond the norm. Excellent seafood selections, along with Friday fish fry by the pound. Super breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. H, B, L, D ¢-$$ ADOBE IN & OUT — The usual Mexican offerings served quickly at drive-through or seated (Grandville location is drive-through only). Open daily. 617 W Fulton St, 454-0279; 1216 Leonard St NE, 451-9050; 4389 Chicago Dr, Grandville, 2577091. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ BELTLINE BAR — Longtime local favorite. Big wet burritos are the claim to fame from the Americanized Tex-Mex menu. The Big Enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it delivered to your car. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ CABANA TRES AMIGOS — Large menu of authentic Mexican fare: daily specials, children’s menu, à la carte items, full bar, take-out service and nice vegetarian selection. Spacious surroundings with fireplaces and Mexican décor. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ CAFÉ SAN JUAN — Puerto Rican, Mexican and Cuban menu offers bistec, chuletas and pollo dishes along with appetizers, soups and sandwiches. Open daily. 3549 Burlingame Ave SW, 530-2293. cafesanjuan.net. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ CANCUN RESTAURANT — Neighborhood eatery specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of fare. Open daily. 1518 Grandville Ave SW, 248-2824. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ CANTINA — Extensive menu of Mexican specialties in an authentically decorated setting with fullservice bar. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS, AE $ CINCO DE MAYO — Mexican eatery offers fajitas, tacos, burritos and enchiladas, as well as carnitas and steak asada. Full bar service. Second location in downtown Grand Rapids. Open daily. 123 Courtland St, Rockford, 866-3438; 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2404. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ COSTA AZUL — American/Latin fusion and fresh-made Mexican fare in the unassuming former JoJo’s Americana Supper Club space, 107 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, (269) 857-1523. Facebook. H, D, C (wine/beer), V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ DOWNTOWN TRINI’S — Sparta’s destination for Mexican food. Traditional taco, fajita and wet burrito offerings are augmented with other creative dishes. Gigantic portions; full bar. Closed Sun and Mon. 134 E Division Ave, Sparta, 887-2500. downtowntrinis.com. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ EL ARRIERO — Authentic taste of Mexico in an airy location near Woodland Mall. Extensive menu offers favorites and specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, great Margaritas. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ EL BURRITO LOCO — More than 70 authentic, affordable Mexican selections in contemporary surroundings. Complimentary chips and salsa; beer, wine and good margaritas from the full bar. Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-0415; 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470; 4174 Alpine Ave NW, 785-4102. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ EL GRANJERO — Generous portions of tasty

Mexican fare, from steak and shrimp dishes and dinner platters to à la carte selections and traditional menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, ¢ 458-5595. H, B, L, D, V, MC EL SOMBRERO — Offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. Weekly specials. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. H, L, D ¢ EMPANADA KITCHEN — A variety of empanadas from sweet to savory, with fillings like steak, chicken, cheese, vegetables and more, along with tacos, quesadillas and sides. 1551 28th St SW, 301-8072. empanadakitchen.com. H, L, D ¢ GRAND VILLA DUNGEON — Mexican food is the specialty. 40-inch TV screen broadcasts satellite programs and sporting events. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. grandvillarestaurants. com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $ GRINGO’S GRILL — Latin American-inspired fare such as scallop or sticky-shrimp tacos, burritos, empanadas, chiles rellenos, chicken and seafood dishes and filet medallions served with polenta and fried goat cheese. Open daily at 11 am. 2863 West Shore Dr, Holland, (616) 994-9722. gringos grill.net. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ JAMAICAN DAVE’S — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curry goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and spicy “escoveitched” fish; tofu-with-veggies; plus Jamaican fruit cake. With only a couple tables, takeout is the best bet. Cash and checks only. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves.com. H, L, D, 3 ¢ JOSE’S RESTAURANTE — Authentic Mexican fare in a low-key locale with jukebox, pinball and a video game. Patrons crave their chalupas, burritos and tostadas. Open daily. 3954 S Division Ave, 530-7934. H, L, D ¢ LAS CAZUELAS — Opens for breakfast at 10 am, serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. Genuine flavors from Hispanic kitchen features chalupas, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, carne asada, fajitas, tampiquena and more. 411 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 726-6600. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ LINDO MEXICO — Daily specials feature true Mexican fare, including specials such as tacos de barbacoa, tripitos or lengua. Enchiladas, burritos, combo plates and more. Open daily. 1292 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicorestaurant.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ LITTLE MEXICO CAFÉ — All new space at its original location offers some of Grand Rapids’ most beloved traditional Mexican food and cocktails. Favorites include fajitas, burritos and margaritas. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 456-0517. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ FMAGGIE’S KITCHEN — Authentic Mexican food, homemade with a lighter taste in bright café setting. Great choice for breakfast too. Cafeteriastyle ordering. 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. H, B, L, D ¢ MEXICAN CONNEXION RESTAURANTE — Mexican favorites in large, inviting surroundings. Open daily. 131 S Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-4403. L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MICHOACAN — Restaurante y taqueria offers a huge selection of Mexican dishes plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. Jukebox and flat screen TV. Open daily at 9 am, breakfast options. 334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ MI TIERRA RESTAURANT — Tacos, burritos,

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City Guide enchiladas and other traditional Mexican dishes from Spanish-speaking staff whether dining in or driving through. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ SAN MARCOS — Mexican Grill with extensive menu. Top-shelf tequilas, complimentary chips/ salsa, kids menu, lunch specials, desserts and veggie plates. Mariachi band plays monthly. Open daily. 9740 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 8912511. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$$

Color BE INSPIRED BY

SU CASA — Full array of Mexican choices with burritos especially popular. Breakfast served beginning at 8:30 am; open daily in the Super Mercado, 306 W Main St, Fennville, (269) 561¢-$ 5493. H, B, L, D, V, MC TACO BOB’S — Fresh-Mex tacos, burritos, quesadillas, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell taco wrapped in a soft shell, with nacho cheese in between. 250 Monroe Ave NW, 458¢ 1533. tacobobs.com. H, L, V, MC, AE, DS TACO BOY — Tasty fare including burritos, tacos, enchiladas, tostadas to combination plates. 3475 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-7111; 6539 28th St SE, 9563424; 509 44th St SE, 257-0057; 2529 Alpine Ave NW, 365-9255. tacoboy.biz. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ TACOS EL CAPORAL — Two locations serving generous portions of Mexican fare with menudo served Sat and Sun. Open daily; quick takeout. 1024 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢

Interior painting and custom finishes specialist. Kosters & DeVries uses only the best products available to help achieve quality craftsmanship. 2756 Sanford SE, Grandville, MI

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KOSTERS & DeVRIES, INC. PAINTING CONTRACTORS

TACOS EL RANCHERO — Mexican fare in lowkey surroundings to eat in or take out. Cash only. ¢ 1240 Burton St SW, 245-6514. H, L, D TRES LOBOS GRILL & BAR — Lobster fajitas and parrilladas. Full-service bar has 10 Mexican beers, top-shelf tequilas. Lunch ’til 4 pm daily in GR; closed Mon in Holland. 825 28th St SE, 245-5389; 381 Douglas, Holland, (616) 355-7424. treslobos ¢-$ restaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS

Dining Guide Legend GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers.

H — Handicapped accessible B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner C — Cocktails 3 — Checks accepted V — Visa MC — MasterCard AE — American Express DC — Diner’s Club DS — Discover Card RSVP — Reservations preferred ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (Over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. - — Reviewed in this issue ➧ — New listing . — Listing update O — GRM’s 2009 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2009 Award of Excellence — Chef Profile in this issue Additions, corrections and/or changes must

be submitted for the editors’ consideration by calling Grand Rapids Magazine, 459-4545, or write: The Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503.

October 2010 Grand Rapids 89

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Wi n e r y & Ta s t i n g R o o m

• Winery Direct Discounts • Retail Sales • Tours Available, call for more information • Free Wine Tasting at the Winery or at our Tasting room in downtown Saugatuck.

The Lake Effect Everyone Loves.

6130 - 122nd Ave. Fennville, MI 49408 I-196 exit 34, follow the “winery” signs. Open year around, check our website for hours. 800-432-6265 • winery@fennvalley.com www.fennvalley.com

Now is the time for change Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner

Inspiration through Fermentation. 310 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids

HopCatGR.com 451-HOPS (4677) . 25 Ionia Ave.

complimentary parking

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Raise a glass to friendship

2010-2011

here is a place where you and your friends can laugh and sip wines from the most award-winning winery in the Midwest. Stop by any of our tasting rooms where we offer free tastings and special prices on our vintages daily. Saugatuck Tasting Room: Tabor Hill Wine Port Downtown, 214 Butler St.

(269) 857-4859

185 Mt. Tabor Rd. • Buchanan, MI 49107 800-283-3363 • www.taborhill.com

Visit us online at www.grmag.com check out the 2010-11 Restaurant Guide 90 Grand rapids OctOber 2010

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City Guide cALEndAr oF EVEnTS Celebration begins at 8 am Oct 2 with a 5K run through Eastown area of Grand Haven, plus pancake breakfast, kids activities, parade, Mustang rally and family picnic (2-6 pm). East Grand River Park, Grand Haven. eastowngrandhaven.org.

Grand rapids Magazine

is pleased to provide this extensive list of area events. commonly requested venue and ticket outlet information is at the end of this listing.

Oct 2 - LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK: Annual walk by The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society raises funds for cancer research. 5:30 pm. Hunting YMCA, 475 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Free. www. lightthenight.org/mi/.

Special Events Oct - THE HAUNT: Now in its 10th season, this venue’s high-scare/low-gore content makes it a family favorite. 6:30-9:30 pm Sun-Thu, 6:3011:30 pm Fri-Sat. 2070 Waldorf St NW, Walker (one mile south of I-96 at Walker Ave exit). Tickets TBD. www.the-haunt.com.

Oct 2-3 - HERITAGE HILL WEEKEND HOME TOUR: Annual tour of historic homes includes eight private homes and four public buildings, including Meyer May house and Voigt House. 11 am-5 pm Sat, noon-6 pm Sun. $15 in advance, $18 day of tour. Heritage Hill Association. 4598950, www.heritagehillweb.org.

Oct - FOREST OF FEAR: Now in its 10th year, this haunted attraction is sponsored by Kentwood Jaycees. 84th and Patterson, Caledonia. www. forestoffear.com. Oct - FRUIT RIDGE HAYRIDES: Horse-drawn hayrides through the woods and orchard, plus corn maze; u-pick apples, pumpkins and squash; homemade donuts and cider; pony rides; pig train; fire engine ride; farm animals and more. 5-9 pm Fri, noon-9 pm Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. 11966 Fruit Ridge Ave, Kent City. www.fruitridgehay rides.com. Oct - NEW SALEM CORN MAZE AND HAUNTED WOODS: Activities include 13-acre corn maze, haunted woods, flashlight maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo and pumpkin launcher. 4516 24th St, Dorr. 681-2341, www.witchesofnewsal em.com. Thru Oct 2 - RED FLANNEL FESTIVAL: Annual event with parades, Fire Barn open house, pancake breakfasts, lumberjack suppers, chili cookoff, carnival and more. Red Flannel Day is Oct 2. Downtown Cedar Springs. (616) 696-2662, www. redflannelfestival.org. Thru Oct 2 - ZEELAND PUMPKINFEST: Family entertainment and activities, parade, scarecrow displays, games, food and artwork. Plus 5K and Fun Run Oct 2. Various locations throughout Zeeland. www.pumpkinfest-zeeland.org for schedule. Thru Oct 9 - FALL PARADE OF HOMES: Home & Building Association of Greater Grand Rapids tour represents all sizes, price ranges and styles of construction by licensed contractors. 1-8 pm Wed, Fri and Sat. $12 adults and kids 13 and older; under 13 free. www.hbaggr.com.

illustratiOn cOurtesy artPriZe

Oct 1 - GVSU ARTPRIZE POETRY AND DANCE: Three-minute poetry and dance compositions performed next to each outdoor ArtPrize entry at GVSU Exhibition Center. 5:30 pm. Frey Foundation Courtyard, DeVos Center, 401 W Fulton St, GVSU Pew Campus. Free. Oct 1-2 - WEDDING WALK: Browse more than a dozen stores and restaurants to learn how to use local décor, products and venues for weddings with a “Holland” or “West Michigan Lakeshore” theme. 10 am-5 pm. Downtown Holland. www. weddingwalkblogspot.com. Oct 1-3 - PULASKI DAYS: Annual event celebrates Grand Rapids’ Polish heritage. Noonmidnight Fri, 11 am-midnight Sat, noon-11 pm Sun. www.pulaskidays.org. Oct 1-3 - QUILTS ON THE GRAND: About 300 quilts on display at West Michigan Quilter’s Guild

Have you voted? ArtPrize 2010 continues through Oct. 10 with works by more than 1,700 artists on display in 192 venues throughout downtown. For voting info and a listing of events and activities, visit artprize.org. This year’s speakers series, Sept. 27–Oct. 9, includes: Paul Ha, director, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis; Raphaela Platow, director and chief curator, Contemporary Arts Center, Cincinnati; Adam Lerner, director, Museum of Contemporary Art, Denver; Hasan Bakhshi, director of Creative Industries, United Kingdom’s National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts; Xenia Kalpaktsoglou, curator and co-director, Athens Biennale; Jeff Speck, city planner and architectural designer, former director of design, National Endowment for the Arts; Patricia Phillips, dean of graduate studies, Rhode Island School of Design; and Julie Rodrigues Widholm, the Pamela Alper Associate Curator at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. The 2010 ArtPrize poster (shown above) was designed by Mike Gorman, Square One Design. See Art

15th biennial show; proceeds benefit The Tie That Binds charity fund for Spectrum’s neo-natal unit, and Habitat For Humanity. 10 am-8 pm Fri, 10 am-5 pm Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. DeltaPlex. Tickets TBD. Oct 2 - EASTOWN-GRAND HAVEN FALLFEST:

Oct 2-3, Oct 9-10 - ROCKFORD HARVEST FESTIVAL: Weekend entertainment, pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, hayrides, beer tent, chili cookoff, demonstrations. Downtown Rockford. 8662000, www.rockfordmichamber.com. Oct 7 - STEAK AND BURGER DINNER: Boys & Girls Clubs of GR Youth Commonwealth holds its second annual benefit with keynote speaker Dominique Dawes, Olympic gymnast. 6 pm registration, 6:30 pm dinner. Steil Club Gym, 235 Straight Ave NW. $250 (two adults and two club members), $150 (one adult and one club member). www.bgcgryc.org. Oct 8-9 - JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS SALE: Shop for children’s and maternity items, including clothes, cribs, strollers, swings and toys at great prices. 9 am-9 pm Fri, 9 am-3 pm Sat. DeltaPlex. $3 at door Fri, free Sat. www.jbfsale.com. Oct 9 - HEIFER HAPPENING: A “living gift” market to help end world hunger, benefiting Heifer International. Event will feature live animals, slide presentations, educational displays, children’s activities, free resources for teachers and a café, plus opportunities to buy animals for families worldwide. 10 am-2 pm. Wesley Park United Methodist Church, 1150 32 St SW, Wyoming. Call Nancy Spalenka, 249-0513. Oct 9 - LOWELL HARVEST FESTIVAL: Arts and crafts, antiques, chili cook-off, scarecrow hoedown, family fun run and walk, pumpkin chuckin’, ghost stories, harvest sales and open houses, barn dance, homemade pies and more. Lowell Fairgrounds. www.lowellchamber.org/harvestcel ebration.html. Oct 9-10 - LIFEFEST 2010: Franciscan Life Process Center offers a weekend for the heart and soul. 6-10 pm Sat, presentation with author and university professor Elizabeth M Kelly. GRBC’s Wege Theatre, $45 adults, $30 children (8977842 or registrar@lifeprocesscenter.org). Country Sampler family picnic begins 11 am Sun with Holy Eucharist at Franciscan Center, free admission, food and game prices vary. www.lifeprocess center.org/lifefest.htm. Oct 9-10 - WMWA BRIDAL SHOW: West Michigan Wedding Association presents wedding vendors from catering to limo service and everything in between. Noon-6 pm Sat, noon-4 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $7 (at door). Oct 10 - ONE SKY ONE WORLD KITE FLY FOR PEACE: Join kite flyers on Grand Haven beach to promote world peace. 1-4 pm. www.macki nawkiteco.com. OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 91

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City Guide Oct 13 - CAMP BLODGETT STYLE SHOW: Camp Blodgett’s Babies’ Welfare Guild presents the 68th Annual Style Show to benefit the camp. New York-style runway fashions sponsored by Daniel’s with wine tasting, strolling buffet and raffle. 6-10 pm. St. Nicholas Cultural Center, 2250 East Paris Ave SE. $125 (616-241-0528 or kathy_price@ comcast.net).

Oct 30 - SAUGATUCK HARVEST FESTIVAL: Music, entertainment, storytelling, and arts and crafts featuring harvest and Christmas items. 10 am-5 pm, parade at 4 pm. Downtown Saugatuck. www.saugatuck.com.

your guitar, fiddle or other non-electric instrument. Singers and listeners welcome. 6-9 pm, doors open 5 pm. Coopersville Farm Museum, 375 Main St, Coopersville. Free with admission ($4). www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org.

Music

Oct 14 - COUTURE FOR A CURE: Exclusive preview from New York fashion designer Douglas Hannant, plus cocktail reception and fashion preview from Leigh’s clothing store. All proceeds support research and education at Van Andel Institute. 6-8 pm. Van Andel Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave NE. Tickets TBD (www.vai.org).

Oct - ACOUSTIC SATURDAY NIGHTS: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts singers and songwriters Sat nights at 8 pm: Oct 9 Conklin Ceili Band, Irish music. Oct 16 Lee Murdock, singer and storyteller. Oct 30 Bob Franke, singer. Wealthy St Theater, 1130 Wealthy St SE. $12 adults, $10 students and seniors, $9 members, $3 children (at door). www.grfolkarts.org.

Oct 6 - TAIZE SUNG PRAYER SERVICE: Taize worship consists of repeated choruses, often accompanied by instruments, vocal solos. 7 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc.org.

Oct 15 - WINE AND ROSES: Seventh annual benefit for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, with wine tasting and food from six area restaurants at 6:30 pm. Club Roses includes music, appetizers and cash bar beginning at 10 pm. Hilton Grand Rapids — Airport. Tickets TBD (241-2100). www.cff.org. Oct 16 - GROOVEWALK: Visit 10 locations to hear 10 bands in downtown Holland. Walk or ride the GrooveXpress. Drink and appetizer specials. 9 pm. Purchase wristbands to gain access: $7 in advance, $10 at door. www.groovewalk.com. Oct 16 - SAUGATUCK FALL FUNFEST DAY: Pumpkin carving, pumpkin launch, pie eating, food vendors, music. 11 am-4 pm. Coughlin Park, Saugatuck. www.saugatuckdouglas.com. Oct 19 - STORY SPINNERS: Hear folk tales and original stories. All ages. 7 pm. Terraces of Maple Creek, 2000 32nd St. www.storyspinners.net. Free. Oct 21 - DIAMONDS & WHEELS: Annual Legacy fundraiser benefits Hope Network’s Transportation Services. Includes strolling buffet, entertainment and cars. 6:30 pm. Fox Ford/ Mazda, 3560 28th St SE. Tickets TBD. www. hopenetwork.org. Oct 22 - RED, WHITE & BUBBLY: Second annual benefit for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and families living with cancer. 6-7:30 pm VIP strolling dinner and wine tasting ($125, $100 members). 7:30-11 pm wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, silent auction ($50, $40 members). Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW. www.gildasclub gr.org/clubred. Oct 23 - HALLOWEEN WINDOW PAINTING: Grand Haven event. 1-3 pm. Registration next to Jumpin Java, downtown Grand Haven. www. downtowngrandhaven.com. Oct 26 - PINE REST ANNIVERSARY GALA: Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services celebrates its 100th anniversary and Pine Rest Foundation celebrates its 50th with special guest Rosalyn Carter, former First Lady, entertainment, displays and multimedia. 5:30 pm reception, 7 pm dinner and program. DeVos Place. $150 (281-6390, www.pinerest.org). Oct 28 - HOPE ON THE HILL GALA: Tenth annual cancer benefit includes local cuisine, martinis, live music and comedy magician Michael Finney. 6:30 pm. Van Andel Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave NE. Tickets TBD (www.vai.org). Oct 30 - GRAND HAVEN HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION: Hayrides, costume contest, pumpkin painting and more from 1-4 pm. Then trick or treat at stores 4-6 pm. Washington Ave in downtown Grand Haven from Harbor to Third St. www.down towngrandhaven.com.

Oct - CALVIN CONCERTS: Calvin student activities office presents concerts at 8 pm unless noted. Oct 1 Blitzen Trapper. Oct 8 La Dispute. Oct 18 Paste Magazine Tour. Oct 22 Monk (7:30 pm). Oct 27 The Books. Oct 30 Over the Rhine. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. www. calvin.edu/boxoffice. Oct - FRIDAY NIGHTS AT GRAM: Immerse yourself in the arts 5-9 pm every Fri at GR Art Museum with live music, art dialogues, social games, cash bar and dinner options. Oct 1 and Oct 8 Community Idea Exchange Mixer: Thoughts on ArtPrize. Oct 15 Culture Pass GR: Art and Culture Year-Round in GR. Oct 22 Gallery Talk: Design and Modern Craft. Oct 29 Gallery Talk: Ellsworth Kelly and Blue White. $5 nonmembers, members free. Oct - THE INTERSECTION: Nightclub hosts local and national music. Oct 1 Future Rock WSG Garganta. Oct 5 Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers. Oct 6 Alex B/Ana Sia/Eliot Lipp. Oct 7 Fun. Oct 9 Mega 80s. Oct 15 Josh Gracin. Oct 22 Mega 80s. Oct 25 Dark Star Orchestra. Oct 28 Bassnectar. Oct 29 Backyard Tire Fire. See website for updates. Ticket prices vary (Beat Goes On, Purple East, Vertigo Music, Intersection box office or Ticketmaster). 133 Grandville Ave SW. www.sectionlive.com. Oct - MUSIC AT MID-DAY: Free concerts 12:1512:45 pm Tue. Oct 5 Mark Loring, organ. Oct 12 Charles Aschbrenner, piano. Oct 19 Chris Dekker, organ. Oct 26 Kalamazoo String Quartet. Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Place NE. www. parkchurchgr.org. Oct - ONE TRICK PONY CONCERTS: Restaurant offers live music. Oct 2 Tony Reynolds and Wally Michaels. Oct 23 Natchez Trace. See website for updates. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. www. onetrick.biz. Oct 1 - LEANN RIMES: Country and pop star with hits such as “Can’t Fight the Moonlight” and “How Do I Live.” 7:30 pm. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. $44-$50 (FHFAC box office or Ticketmaster). www.fhfineartscenter.com. Oct 1-2 - FIRST NIGHT CELEBRATION: GR Symphony opens its season with “Pictures at an Exhibition,” music inspired by the visual arts and ArtPrize. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Grand Rapids Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

Oct 8 - HOT 8 BRASS BAND: Hope College Great Performance Series presents a New Orleans’ music concert. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $18 adults, $13 seniors, $6 children (DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www. hope.edu. Oct 8 - MAJIC CONCERT SERIES: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts jazz vocalist Sheila Landis with guitarist Rick Matle and percussionist Dennis Sheridan. 7 pm. Bethlehem Church Sanctuary, 250 Commerce Ave SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit GR Coalition to End Homelessness. www.grmajic.org. Oct 8-10 - ROCKAPELLA GOES RETRO: GR Symphony’s Fox Motor Pops series presents a vocal quintet’s music of the ’60s and ’70s with hits like “Here Comes the Sun,” “Rock the Boat” and “Under the Boardwalk.” 8 pm, 3 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Grand Rapids Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Oct 10 - AQUINAS CONCERT: An Evening of World Premiers with Steve Talaga, jazz pianist and composer. 7 pm. Kretschmer Recital Hall, Aquinas College. www.aquinas.edu/music. Free. Oct 11, 25 - HAT TRICK SERIES: WYCE concerts every other Mon raise money for local charities. Oct 11 Johnny A, benefits Health Intervention Services. Oct 25 Anne McCue and LeRoy Bell, benefits Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding. Minimum $10 donation. 7:30 pm. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. www.wyce.org. Oct 12 - CRESCENDO: Music and cuisine to benefit GRCC Music Department. 6:30 pm doors open, 7:30 pm program. Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center, GRCC. Reservations: 2343939. Oct 14 - GREAT ARTIST GALA: St Cecilia Music Center presents singer and pianist Michael Feinstein. 6:30 pm. St Cecilia Music Center. $150. www.scmc-online.org. Oct 15 - JAGERMEISTER MUSIC TOUR: Slayer, Megadeath and special guests Anthrax perform. 7 pm. DeltaPlex. $10-$49.50 (box office and Ticketmaster). Oct 15-16 - “LORD OF THE RINGS: THE TWO TOWERS”: GR Symphony’s Symphonic Boom concert includes the film projected in HD on a huge screen as 200 musicians perform the score. 7 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $42-$90 (Grand Rapids Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Oct 16 - CALVIN ARTIST SERIES: Sietze de Vries, organ. 8 pm, Calvin Chapel. $10 adults, students and children free (Calvin box office or 526-6282). www.calvin.edu/music.

Oct 2 - MUSIC OF JAMES TAYLOR: Glenn Bulthuis & The Tonedeafs present the music of James Taylor. 7:30 pm. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. $14 adults, $8 students (878-6800, www. vsfac.com).

Oct 16 - JAZZ VESPERS: Live jazz with the GR Jazz Orchestra. 6 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc. org. Free.

Oct 5, 19 - FARM MUSEUM JAM NIGHT: Bring

Oct 18 - JAZZ GUMBO: West Michigan Jazz

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City Guide

Betty Ford — An Extraordinary Life

Photography courtesy Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Just 24 hours after her husband was sworn in as president on Aug. 8, 1974, Betty Ford learned that King Hussein and Queen Alia of Jordan were to be guests at a White House state dinner — in less than a week. Mrs. Ford had attended state dinners during the Nixon years, but she’d never hosted one. The Fords hadn’t yet moved into the White House; she barely knew the East Wing staff. No problem. She organized the menu: cold salmon, roast beef, artichoke salad, Brie and mousse. For the occasion, she chose a white crepe gown embellished with ostrich feathers. The dinner was a success, with Queen Alia marveling at the first lady’s fortitude. Her gown — designed by Frankie Welch, a During her first week in the White House, Betty Ford organized a state dinner in dressmaker who owned a boutique in Alexandria, honor of King Hussein and Queen Alia of Jordan. The gown she wore is one of 35 in an exhibit opening at the Ford Presidential Museum Oct. 28. Va., whom Mrs. Ford had known for years — will be one of many on display this month at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Betty Ford — An Extraordi- view created. To her mother, an affair meant premarital sex, not nary Life, a special exhibit highlighting Mrs. Ford’s accomplish- sex with a married man. “And she didn’t tell me about it until it was in the news,” said Bales, who was 18 years old when the show ments, opens Oct. 28. The exhibit will span her 92 years, including her Grand Rap- aired. “I remember my brothers teasing my parents that guys ids upbringing and career in fashion and dance, her role as a were lining up at the White House gates to date their daughter.” Other dresses will illustrate Mrs. Ford’s early years. The congressman’s wife and as first lady, as well as her social causes. museum staff found a seamstress to recreate the outfit she To tell her story, the museum will display 35 of the wore as a “going away” dress after the couple married at dresses and gowns Mrs. Ford has donated through the Grace Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids. years — all archived with her notes about the occasion. “They went to Ann Arbor for a football game and “Each one tells a story,” said Donald Holloway, then went to Jackson to hear Thomas Dewey stumping the museum’s curator. “We’ll have several from the for the presidency,” Holloway said. “In many ways, big White House events as well as her day wear.” sports and politics defined their lives together.” The former first lady has been very generous, The exhibit also will pay attention to her many he said, sending clothes, letters and other memencauses, including mental health issues. As first lady, toes to the museum. she also spoke with candor about her breast can“Mom’s always cleaning her closets,” cer. Later, as she conquered her own addiction to quipped Susan Ford Bales, who will be on hand alcohol and prescription medicine, she founded for the opening of the exhibit. And while the the Betty Ford Center to help others. former first lady won’t attend, Bales said her The exhibit will include some of Mrs. Ford’s mother is doing quite well and “keeping up correspondence and gifts she received while with what matters. She still reads newspapers her husband was president. Holloway points to a every day and watches the news.” Hebrew Bible adorned with an ornate silver binding, During the White House years, Mrs. Ford often given to the first lady in June 1976 at the Jewish Nationmade news with her outspoken and liberal views. al Fund’s Gala Dinner in New York City. Holloway said her gowns and dresses serve as “The rabbi who was supposed to present the bible touchstones to many of those key events. “For to Mrs. Ford was standing at the lectern. Suddenly he instance, we have the dress she wore for the sat down on the floor, having suffered a heart attack.” famous Morley Safer interview on ‘60 Minutes.’” As others, including the first lady’s secret service During that 1975 appearance on the CBS news detail, cared for the rabbi, Mrs. Ford calmly took the show, Ford said she was pro-choice, had seen a microphone and asked attendees to pray with her. psychiatrist, and probably would try marijuana if The rabbi died later that night. she was a teenager. And when Safer asked how Mrs. Ford kept the Bible in the library of her home she would respond if her daughter was having an until 2007, when she sent it to the museum. affair, Ford said she wouldn’t be surprised. See Museums & Attractions Bales laughs as she recalled the uproar the interOctober 2010 Grand Rapids 93

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City Guide: Clubs ’n’ Pubs

Dance your heart out Louie’s Bar and Rocket Lounge is actually four clubs in one, with Sigma 21 and the private Oak Room filling out the bill. By Erin Price

t’s a Tuesday night around 11 p.m., and crowds of people are spilling out onto the sidewalk in front of Louie’s Bar and Rocket Lounge on Bridge Street. Inside Louie’s, a D.J. spins popular dance music for the patrons, who are mostly sitting at the large, poured-concrete bar or at the tables that line the opposite wall. Muted flat-screen TVs that flicker with various sports programs are positioned about the bar, viewable from all angles. On Tuesdays, cocktails are $2 “you call it” (any cocktail you want) from 9-11 p.m. and $1 from 11 p.m. to midnight, and at this point in the evening, the crowd is loud and energetic. Louie’s is actually a conglomeration of several clubs and pubs, and it can be a bit confusing for the first-timer. The adjoining Rocket Lounge, which features live bands Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, is closed off and dark on other nights. But on this Tuesday, Sigma 21 — the nightclub next door — is in full swing. Though Sigma 21 is part of Louie’s,

patrons use a separate entrance next door and then climb the stairs. The allwhite interior and modern, sparse furnishings give it a futuristic feel. Most of the space is designated as dance floor, and a second D.J. spins dance/electronica music that keeps the mostly 20-something crowd moving at a frenzied pace. “We have D.J.s come in from Chi-

There seems to be something for everyone at Louie’s, whether you feel like dancing, chilling at the bar with friends, or listening to live, local music. cago and Detroit, but also feature some really great local talent every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday,” said Jessika Burton, event coordinator. While offering only eight beers on draft and a small selection of wine, Louie’s has a well-stocked liquor bar and daily drink specials.

Also in the upstairs portion of Louie’s is the Oak Room, a V.I.P. lounge for members only. Sectioned off with sliding doors, the Oak Room lives up to its name with a solid oak bar, oak floors and oakpaneled walls. “Members enjoy exclusive perks like valet service, tasting parties and bottle service,” Burton explained. “And they can access the Oak Room at any time.” Louie’s is adding a menu of small plates and pub fare, Burton said. For Halloween, it’s throwing a “Monster’s Ball,” with costume contests and a menu of “strange brews.” And there are big plans for the future, including a “deck off the back that we hope to have open next year,” Burton said. There seems to be something for everyone at Louie’s, whether you feel like dancing, chilling at the bar with friends, or listening to live, local music. And yet, when you mention Louie’s Bar, it seems a lot of folks have no idea it’s even there. “We hope to become the worst-kept secret in town,” said Robert Dow, general manager. “Right now we’re the best.” GR

Louie’s Bar and Rocket Lounge Location: 608 Bridge St. NW Hours: 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Mon.-Fri.; 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Sat. and Sun.

Features: Rocket Lounge has live music Thu., Fri. and Sat.; Sigma 21 nightclub open Tue., Thu., Fri. and Sat. Happy Hour 4-8 p.m. daily with $1 off every drink. Also $2 “you call it”/$2 domestics 9-11 p.m. daily. There is never a cover charge. Drink Prices: Draft beer $3-$5/pint; bottled beer $2-$4; well drinks $3; wine $5-$6/glass.

Photography by Michael Buck

Contact: (616) 284.2610, www.louies bar.com, Facebook, MySpace

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City Guide

Ethnic Dining Awards of Excellence 2007, 2008, and 2009 Grand Rapids Magazine “Dining Awards”

Society presents cabaret concerts every third Monday. 6:30-8:30 pm. Kopper Top Guest House, 639 Stocking Ave NW. $12 includes gumbo or chili, other food available. Cash bar. Oct 21-22 - BEATS AND BEETHOVEN: GR Symphony’s Rising Stars presents Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 and Mason Bates’ Rusty Air in Carolina. 7 pm Oct 21, 8 pm Oct 22. Royce Auditorium, St Cecilia. $18-$28 (box office). www.grsymphony.org. Oct 22 - AQUINAS CONCERT: Flutist Rhonda Larson in Recital. 7:30 pm. Kretschmer Recital Hall, Aquinas College. $10 adults, $5 students (632-2413). www.aquinas.edu/music. Oct 22 - WRIGHT BRASS ENSEMBLE: The U.S. Air Force Band of Flight’s Wright Brass Ensemble performs. 7:30 pm. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. Free; ticket required (878-6800, www.vsfac. com). Oct 22-23 - MIGHTY WURLITZER CONCERTS: This month’s concert on the GR Public Museum’s theater organ features Dave Wickerham. 7-9 pm Fri, 2-4 pm Sat. Public Museum. $10 adults, $8 members, $5 children 3-17 (at ticket counter or in advance at 456-3977).

The perfect combination! Beautiful art work and Italian cuisine at its finest.

Oct 23 - THE WONDERELLES: High-energy ’50s and ’60s musical revue with songs like “Johnny Angel,” “Mustang Sally,” “Sugartime” and “Proud Mary.” 7:30 pm. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. $39.50 adults, $22.50 students (878-6800, www.vsfac.com). Oct 23-24 - CALVIN MUSIC FESTIVAL: Performances by Calvin’s vocal and instrumental ensembles and student soloists. 7:30 pm. Covenant FAC Auditorium. $15 adults, $5 students (Calvin box office, 526-6282). www.calvin. edu/music. Oct 24 - AFRICAN DRUM & DANCE: Bi Okoto African Drum and Dance Theater performs traditional West African song, dance and music. 5 pm. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave. Free. Oct 26 - CALVIN HIGH SCHOOL HONOR BAND FESTIVAL: Free concert at 7 pm. Covenant FAC Auditorium. www.calvin.edu/music.

122 Monroe Center St., NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

616-235-9339

Dance with someone Special… you may Never Let Go!

Oct 29-30 - “OUT OF THIS WORLD”: GR Symphony features Richard Strauss’s “Also sprach Zarathustra,” most widely known for its use in the film “2001 Space Odyssey.” 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $28-$77 (Grand Rapids Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.

Photography by Michael Buck

Oct 29-30 - “SALUTE TO JOHN WILLIAMS: THE SOUNDTRACK OF OUR LIVES”: West Michigan Symphony performs excerpts from “Jaws,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Schindler’s List,” “ET,” “Harry Potter,” “Jurassic Park,” “Superman” and “Star Wars.” 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater. $10$35 (231-726-3231 or www.westmichigansymph ony.com).

Art Thru Oct 10 - ARTPRIZE: Second international art competition with $250,000 first prize for the artist with the most votes. Pre-registered visitors vote online at www.artprize.org or by texting while they view the art. Various venues (indoors and outdoors) throughout downtown GR area. www.artprize.org. Oct 2 - GHOULTIDE GATHERING: Halloween

Step out tonight and step into the fun. $ 2500 introductory private lesson. CALL NOW! 3089 29th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI (616) 940-9894

4485 Plainfield NE Grand Rapids, MI (616) 363-7632

www.arthurmurraygr.com October 2010 Grand Rapids 95

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City Guide artists from across the country sell original Halloween art at this juried show. 9 am-2 pm. Mill Race Village, 215 Griswold, Northville. $5 at door. www.ghoultidegathering.com. Oct 2-3 - BLUE COAST ARTISTS STUDIO TOUR: 21st annual tour of seven studios between South Haven and Saugatuck. Artwork, demonstrations, refreshments. 10 am-6 pm. www.bluecoast artists.com for guide, map. Free. Oct 2-3, 9-10 - HARVEST FESTIVAL ART SHOW: Rogue River Artists Association presents fine art, photography, wood carvings, jewelry and ceramics, plus working artists on site. 9 am-4:30 pm Sat, noon-4 pm Sun. Herman’s Boy parking lot, 220 Northland Dr, Rockford. Oct 17 - ART SPREE: Fifth annual Ada Autumn Arts Festival benefitting Rebecca Vogelsang Memorial Scholarship, awarded to a GVSU student enrolled in an art curriculum. Also hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions and live music. 4-8 pm. Victory Club, 396 Pettis Ave, Ada. $5. Oct - AQUINAS COLLEGE GALLERY: Oct 3-Nov 5 Margaret Schmitz, BFA exhibition. Reception 2-4 pm Oct 3. Closed Oct 16-24. Aquinas Art & Music Center (enter off Fulton St), 632-2408, www. aquinas.edu/art/gallery.html. Oct - CALVIN CENTER ART GALLERY: 4:30 pm Oct 20 public dedication and reception of new FAC. Oct 21-Dec 11 The Humor and Wit of Pieter Bruegel the Elder. Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle, 526-6271, www.calvin.edu/centerartgallery. Oct - CASCADE GALLERY: Thru Oct 30, Artists Alliance, including Wanda Gringhuis Anderson, Betts Casey, Patti Sevensma, Linda Baker, Jennifer Gould, Carol Cousineau, Sandy Jackoboice, Brenda Mattson and others. 2840 Thornapple River Dr at Cascade Rd. Oct - DEPREE GALLERY: Thru Oct 1, In Retrospect: Artists’ Books and Works on Paper. Oct 8-Nov 19 Katherine Sullivan: The Docile Body. Hope College, Holland, (616) 395-7500, www. hope.edu. Oct - DESIGN QUEST GALLERY: Thru Nov 14, Continuum: Advancing Form Over Time, by Lee Brown. 4181 28th St SE, 940-0131, www.d2d2d2. com.

DOWNTOWN at your doorstep

call 616.726.2900 to schedule a tour

Oct - FIRE AND WATER GALLERY: Thru Oct 31, mixed-media artist Virginia Wieringa, plus local artists’ art, jewelry, sculpture and photography. 219 W Main St, Lowell, 890-1879, www.fire-andwater-art.com. Oct - FOREST HILLS FAC: Oct 1-26 Abigail Bradley, artist-in-residence. 6-7:30 pm Oct 7 artist reception. 600 Forest Hill Ave SE, 493-8965, www.fhfineartscenter.com. Oct - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Chihuly exhibit extended to Oct 31. Thru Jan 2, sculptors celebrate the legacy of Fred and Lena Meijer. Permanent exhibits include more than 100 sculptures indoors and in the 30-acre park. See Museums & Attractions. Oct - GALLERY UPTOWN: Thru Oct 29, Postcards: Images of West Michigan and Beyond. Reception 7 pm Oct 1. 201 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-5460, www.galleryuptown.net.

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Oct - GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Thru Oct 10, ArtPrize venue with 43 artists. Thru Feb 16, Regional Art from the Permanent Collection. 10 am-5 pm Tue, Wed, Thu and Sat; 10 am-9 pm

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City Guide Fri; noon-5 pm Sun; closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www. artmuseumgr.org. Oct - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: Thru Oct 25, Larry Campbell, photography. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. www.gvami.com. Oct - GVSU ART GALLERY: Thru Oct 1, MultiMedia I, Fall Arts Celebration. Oct 14-Nov 19 MultiMedia II, Fall Arts Celebration. 5-7 pm Oct 14 opening reception. PAC, Allendale campus. www.gvsu. edu/fallarts. Oct - HOLLAND AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru Nov 6, Paul VanHeest and John Anderson. Thru Nov 13, HFA Juried Exhibit. 150 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-3278, www.hollandarts.org. Oct - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Oct 8-Dec 31, Forever Young: A Retrospective of Bob Dylan Photographs by Douglas Gilbert. Thru Mar 19, Be Prepared! Celebrating a Century of Scouting, Boy and Girl Scouts of America. Dutch Galleries exhibit 17th- to 20th-century Dutch paintings and cultural objects. Also see Museums & Attractions. Oct - KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Thru Oct 17, Beauty Amid Thunder: The Past Two Centuries of Chinese Art. Thru Oct 31, Strong Women, Beautiful Men: Japanese Portrait Prints from the Toledo Museum of Art. Thru Dec 5, Wondrous Ink: Selections from the Richard Fabian Collection. Thru Dec 12, Light Works: Photographs from the Collection. Oct 30-Jan 2, In Focus: National Geographic Greatest Portraits. 10 am-5 pm Tue-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $8 adults; $6 students, seniors; $4 members. 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, www.kiarts.org. Oct - KENDALL GALLERY: Thru Oct 10, ArtPrize venue. Oct 18-Nov 5 Annual Faculty Show. Kendall College of Art and Design, 17 Fountain St NW, 4512787, www.kcad.edu. Oct - LEEP ART GALLERY: Thru Oct 4, Everyday Sanctuaries by Charles LaRue. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, 300 68th St SE, 222-4530.

Oct - LOWELL AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru Oct 23, members of the International Society of Experimental Arts: Mark Mehaffey, Karen Miller and Sally Martin Stewart. Plus more than 20 artists display fine arts and gifts. 149 S Hudson St, Lowell, 897-8545, www.lowellartscouncil.org. Oct - MERCURYHEAD GALLERY: Thru Oct 30, Color Tour with featured artist George Peebles. Also landscapes by Al Cianfarani and Rex Tower. 962 E Fulton St, 456-6022. Oct - MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Thru Oct 31, Remembering Newaygo County: The Symbolist Painting of Annabel Livermore. Thru Nov 7, Shout Freedom, documentary images of urban life. Thru Nov 7, Detour Art: Outsider, Folk Art and Visionary Environments Coast to Coast. Oct 21-Jan 23 Splendid Threads, Secret Messages: The Language of Japanese Kimonos. Noon-4:30 pm Sun; closed Mon and Tue; 10 am-4:30 pm Wed, Fri and Sat; 10 am-8 pm Thu. $5 adults (Thu free); members, students, kids under 17 free. 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, www.muskegonartmuseum.org. Oct - SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Thru Oct 4, A Passion for Painting: Rediscovering a Century of Art in Saugatuck. 9 am-5 pm MonFri. 400 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-2399, www.sc4a.org. Free. Oct - TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Thru Oct 31, Rivertown Artists Guild. Lower floor, St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE, www.scmson line.org. Oct - UICA: Thru Oct 10, ArtPrize venue showing works by 25 artists. Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, 41 Sheldon Blvd SE (old location), corner Fulton and Division (new location), 454-7000, www.uica.org.

Stage Oct - DR GRINS COMEDY CLUB: Stand-up comedians perform Thu at 9 pm, Fri and Sat at 8 pm and 10:30 pm. Sep 30-Oct 2 Jon Dore. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. $5 Thu, $10 Fri and Sat (3562000, www.thebob.com). Thru Oct 1 - DEEPLY ROOTED DANCE THEATRE: Hope College Great Performance Series presents a dance concert. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $18 adults, $13 seniors, $6 children (DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu.

Thru Oct 9 - “ANNE OF GREEN GABLES”: Master Arts Theatre presents the classic story. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $17 adults, $15 seniors and students (455-1001, www.masterarts.org). Thru Oct 9 - “LINES: THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF RACE”: Actors’ Theatre presents an ethnographic performance by Stephanie Sandberg about the lived experience of race in West Michigan. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain NE. Tickets TBD (234-3946). actorstheatregrandrapids.org. Oct 1 - CONTENTS UNDER PRESSURE: Comedy improv team. 7 pm. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $5 (455-1001, www.masterarts.org). Oct 1-10 - “AS YOU LIKE IT”: GVSU’s Shakespeare Festival presents the bard’s romance of poetry, marriage, songs and clownery. 7:30 pm Fri and Sat, 2 pm Sun. Louis Armstrong Theatre, PAC, Allendale Campus. $14 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students (616-331-2300, box office or Star Tickets). www.gvsu.edu/anniversary. Oct 2, 16 - RIVER CITY IMPROV: Calvin College alumni improv team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. 7:33 pm (doors open 6:30 pm). Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. $8 (at door or Calvin’s box office). www. rivercityimprov.com. Oct 8-15 - “ALMOST, MAINE”: Hope College presents a romantic comedy. Residents in a remote mythical town fall in and out of love. 8 pm. DeWitt Center, Hope College, Holland. $7 adults, $4 seniors and students (DeVos ticket office or 616-395-7890). www.hope.edu. Oct 14-17 - “MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”: Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company, in partnership with Rogers High School, presents one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies. 8 pm Thu-Sat, 3 pm Sun. Dog Story Theater, 1115 Taylor NW (just south of Leonard and Plainfield intersection). $12 general admission (616-8941252 or tickets@dogstorytheater.com). Oct 15-16 - “DEATH ON A STAGE”: Murdermystery dinner theater. 6:15 pm cocktails, 7 pm dinner and show. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $30 (box office, 231-727-8001 or Star Tickets). Oct 15-30 - “LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS”: Central Park Players present the musical about a floral assistant who discovers an R&B-singing carnivorous plant that craves fresh blood. 8 pm, 2 pm Sat. Community Center, 421 Columbus St,

Thrills and chills A film festival sure to thrill is returning to Wealthy Theatre. Thriller! Chiller! — a three-day independent film festival held Oct. 22-24 for fans and Photography Courtesy Keith Golinski

filmmakers of horror, sci-fi, action and suspense — this year culminates in the presentation of The Boomstick! Award to the best Michigan-made film. The festival opens on Friday with the world premiere of “GR30K,” a film shot in Grand Rapids at Collective Studios. The Saturday Night Cult Classic will feature John Carpenter’s “The Thing.” Thriller! Chiller! offers movie-goers one of the last chances to see this original on the big screen before the prequel is released April 29, 2011. Michigan Movie Day special events held on Sunday consist of Q&A sessions with Michigan filmmakers, networking opportunities and screenings of Michigan-made films. For a list of all films to be screened or to purchase passes, visit www.thrillerchiller.com.

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City Guide: Making Tracks

Private reflections Kurt Denison’s “Surface” focuses on the present moment and finding one’s true self by disconnecting from the concept of form. By Juliet Bennett Rylah

hen it comes to music, simplicity is a positive thing when a work can be stripped down to its bare essentials and stand alone without production or overdubbing. Kurt Denison’s album “Surface” is simply guitar and vocals. Its beauty is in its minimalism, in the clarity and poignancy of its lyrics.

Kurt Denison Category: Folk History: “Surface,” 2010 Geography: Grand Rapids Parity: Dave Matthews, James Taylor Curiosity: www.kurtdenison.com

the guitar track before adding the vocal track over top, with minimal harmonies. There are times, he pointed out, where the rain from outside can be heard. The album has the effect of listening to a neighbor down the hall play to themselves, a voyeuristic sense of being privy to the private reflections of an individual. The album artwork is a photograph by Rachel Wolfe of the waves of Lake Michigan, a lake Denison has always lived in close proximity to, from the small town to the big city, to now. “Waves teach a lesson,” Denison said. “They might be really choppy, maybe a little more still, like our lives. But underneath them, there’s this thing where it’s always the same, a certain depth, and we have that too. It’s the same when we were 3 as it is today. That place is what I’m writing towards.” The proceeds from “Surface” will be donated to Friends of the Grand Rapids Parks, an independent organization that seeks to protect and preserve parks and public spaces. GR Photography by Jim Gebben

Denison grew up in Shelby and began playing music in the second grade. He started with piano, later learning saxophone and guitar. After high school, he moved to Chicago where he studied and worked for five years, before moving to Grand Rapids in winter 2009 to be closer to his family and, in a way, himself. “I wanted to get closer to nature,” Denison said. Living in Chicago without a car meant that going for a hike in the woods was a major production. “Here, there’s definitely a better balance between nature and city.” Denison said much of the music on “Surface” was written about the time in which he was preparing to leave Chicago. “It’s not about the city itself, but about the misidentification of form,” Denison said. “Most people kind of live on the surface of things. They derive their sense of self from their life situation — ‘I’m this, I’m that.’ But really, we just are.” In his songs, he focuses on the present moment and finding one’s true self by disconnecting from the concept of form. “I always felt I was moving towards this,” he said. “It started when I moved to the city, and towards the end, I started losing things. When you start losing things — it could be people, could be a job, could be your health — you start to move into what you really are. So, a lot of these songs were written in a couple weeks. It was this thing that all of a sudden came out of me.” Denison said “Surface” is the first complete set of music that he is proud to have created. He used a condenser mic, recording 98 Grand Rapids October 2010

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City Guide Grand Haven. $14 adults, $11 seniors and students (971-1329). www.centralparkplayers.org. Oct 15-30 - “OUR TOWN”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents the story of small town Grover’s Corners in three acts: Daily Life, Love and Marriage, and Death and Eternity. 7 pm, 2 pm Sun. $14-$25 adults, $14 students and children (Civic box office or Star Tickets). www.grct.org.

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Oct 22-24 - “WHO CARES?”: Grand Rapids Ballet Company opens its season with choreography by Balanchine and music by George Gershwin, and the grand ballet “Raymonda Pas de Dix” with tutu’s, tiaras and chandeliers. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $20-$45 (ballet box office or Ticketmaster). www.grballet.com. Oct 28 - “MADEA’S BIG HAPPY FAMILY”: Tyler Perry’s live stage production tells real-life family stories with singing, acting and comedy. 7:30 pm. Van Andel Arena. $57.50 and $67.50 (Van Andel box office and Ticketmaster). Oct 28-30 - DANCEPROJECT: Hope College presents a performance. 8 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Holland. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children. http://hope.edu/pr/events.html#dance.

Film Oct - UICA: Urban Institute for Contemporary Art shows independent, foreign and documentary films. $4-$7. Complete schedule, times, prices: 454-7000 or www.uica.org.

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Oct 22-24 - THRILLER CHILLER: Locally grown film festival celebrates horror, action, sci-fi and suspense movies. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St SE. $5/film or $25 weekend pass (box office). Opening night screening of “GR30K,” $8. www. thrillerchiller.com.

Museums & Attractions Oct - BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER: 2-3 pm Oct 9 Seeds and Plants ($3). Noon-5 pm Oct 16 Fall Harvest Festival ($5). 2-3 pm Oct 23 Scary Animals ($3). 143 acres contain diverse ecosystems, trails, natural history exhibits, Heritage Buildings (log cabin, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, etc.). Interpretive Center open 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 735-6240, www.blandford naturecenter.org. Free.

PhOtOgraPhy by JiM gebben

Oct - CAPPON & SETTLERS HOUSE MUSEUMS: Restored Cappon House is the Italianate Victorian home of Holland’s first mayor. Tiny Settlers House recalls hardships faced by early settlers. Noon-4 pm Fri and Sat. For admission prices, see Holland Museum. Cappon House, 228 W 9th St, Holland. Settlers House, 190 W 9th St, Holland, (616) 392-6740, www.hollandmuseum.org. Oct - COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM: Thru Oct 31, All About Apples. Thru Oct 23, William Brody. Oct 23-Jan 22 Kyle Preston. Regular exhibits include tractors from 1930 to present, 100-yearold barns, interactive kids area. 10 am-4 pm TueSat. $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children 3-18, under 3 free. 375 Main St, Coopersville, 997-8555, www. coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Oct - COOPERSVILLE & MARNE RAILWAY: Restored 1920’s-era railway has regular excursion rides Wed and Sat at 11 am and 1 pm ($10.50 adults, $9.50 seniors 60 and over, $7.50 ages 2-12, under 2 free). Thru Oct 30, Pumpkin Train ride: 11 am and 2 pm Oct 2, Oct 9 and Oct 30; 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm Oct 16 and Oct 23; 1 pm and

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City Guide 3 pm Oct 3, Oct 10, Oct 17 and Oct 24 ($14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors 60 and over, $11.50 ages 2-12, under 2 free). 311 Danforth St, Coopersville, 997-7000 (for advance tickets), www.coopersville andmarne.org.

Science in Motion. See website for planetarium shows ($3) and scheduled activities. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Thu and Sat, 9 am-9 pm Fri, 1-5 pm Sun. 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, (800) 772-3370, www. kalamazoomuseum.org. Free.

Oct - DEGRAAF NATURE CENTER: 18-acre preserve includes Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch (images of earth and the universe) and more than 240 plant species. See website for activities. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 9 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 10 am-5 pm Sat, closed Sun, Mon and holidays. 600 Graafschap Rd, Holland, (616) 355-1057, www.degraaf.org. Free.

Oct - LAKESHORE MUSEUM CENTER: Thru Dec 31, You Should See This, items from the museum’s permanent collection chosen by community and staff. Permanent exhibits include Michigan Through the Depths of Time; Body Works: It’s All Up to You; Habitats and Food Webs; Science Center; and Voices of Muskegon. 9:30 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri, noon-4 pm Sat-Sun. 430 W Clay, Muskegon, (231) 722-0278, www.muskegonmus eum.org.

Oct - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: For sculpture exhibits, see Art. Thru Oct 31, ColorFall, annual celebration of autumn with chrysanthemum displays, color tours, tram rides and seasonal children’s activities. Oct 2-3 Fall Family Days and Herb Fest. Oct 16-17 Fall Bonsai Show. Outdoor exhibits include Children’s Garden, Michigan’s Farm Garden, 30-acre sculpture park, boardwalk nature trail, tram tours, themed gardens. Indoors has sculpture galleries, tropical conservatory, carnivorous plant house, Victorian garden, café and gift shops. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 9 am-9 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students with IDs, $6 ages 5-13, $4 ages 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 9571580, www.meijergardens.org. Oct - GERALD R. FORD MUSEUM: Thru Oct 3, School House to White House: The Education of the Presidents. Thru Oct 10, ArtPrize venue. Permanent exhibits include The 1970s, An Overview; video history of the Watergate scandal; replica of the White House Oval Office; New Mood at the White House, a holographic presentation. 9 am-5 pm daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 college students, $3 kids 6-18, 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St NW, 254-0400, www.fordlibrarymu seum.gov. Oct - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Cultural attractions from the “old country” and exhibits that explore local history: Lake Michigan maritime, shipwrecks and resorts; agriculture and manufacturing; religious foundation of the Holland Kolonie. I Spy Adventure and activities in Mark’s Room for children. Hours: 10 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, children 5 and under free, members free. 31 W 10th St, Holland, (888) 200-9123, www.hollandmuseum.org. Oct - JOHN BALL ZOO: See Kidstuff for Zoo Goes Boo. Attractions include Colubus monkeys, New Guinea baboons, ring-tailed lemurs, Lions of Lake Manyara, penguins, Komodo dragon, Mokomboso Valley chimps, Spider Monkey Island and Living Shores Aquarium. 10 am-4 pm daily. $3.50 adults and seniors, $3 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www. johnballzoosociety.org. Oct - KALAMAZOO NATURE CENTER: 1,100 acres of forests, prairies and wetlands. See website for activities. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 1-5 pm Sun. $6 adults, $5 seniors 55 and over, $4 children 4-13, children under 4 free. 700 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org.

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Oct - KALAMAZOO VALLEY MUSEUM: Oct 2-Jan 2 Race: Are We So Different?, an investigation of race and human variation through the framework of science. Thru Jan 16, Identity and the American Landscape: The Photography of Wing Young Huie. Permanent exhibits include a simulated mission to space, a 2,300-year-old mummy and

Oct - LOWELL AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits about Lowell history and a Victorian parlor, dining room and porch. 1-4 pm Tue, Sat and Sun, 1-8 pm Thu. $3 adults, $1.50 children 5-17, under 5 free, families $10 max. 325 W Main St, 897-7688, www.lowellmuseum.org. Oct - MEYER MAY HOUSE: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house, meticulously restored by Steelcase in 1986-87, features many original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 am-2 pm Tue and Thu, 1-5 pm Sun (last tour begins one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave SE, 2464821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free. Oct - PUBLIC MUSEUM: Thru Oct 10, ArtPrize venue. Thru Nov 20, Amway: 50 Years of Helping People Live Better Lives. Permanent exhibits include: Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers, The People of This Place; Anishinabek, The People of This Place; 1928 carousel ($1). 9 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat, 9 am-8 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 ages 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St NW, 4563977, www.grmuseum.org. Oct - ROGER B. CHAFFEE PLANETARIUM: Stateof-the-art, 3-D, Digistar-powered shows. Closed thru Oct 10. Oct 11-Nov 19: 2 pm daily and 8 pm Tue Everybody’s Sky; 1 pm Sat and Sun and 7 pm Tue SkyTellers; 3 pm Sat and Sun Under Starlit Skies. Museum admission plus $3 (3 pm show free with admission). 8 pm Tue Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon” laser light show, $5. Van Andel Museum Center (see Public Museum). Oct - TRI-CITIES HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits include a train depot display, Michigan Logging and Early Pioneers. 9:30 am-5 pm TueFri, 12:30-5 pm Sat and Sun, closed Mon. 200 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, 842-0700, www. tri-citiesmuseum.org. Free. Oct - VEEN OBSERVATORY: Astronomical observatory owned and operated by GR Amateur Astronomical Association. Public viewing nights: 7:30-10 pm Oct 9 and Oct 30 Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Deep Sky Objects. Weather permitting (call 897-7065 for update). $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17, kids under 5 free. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave SE, Lowell, www.graaa.org.

Lectures & Workshops Oct - AQUINAS LECTURES: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute presents various speakers: Oct 13 “Climbing Kilimanjaro Blind: Living a Life Without Limits” by Bill Barkeley. Oct 20 “An Inside Look at Desert Storm” by Lieutenant General John Nowak. Oct 26 “The Reverend James Croom Sings Opera, Musical Theatre and Pops.” 7 pm. Aquinas PAC, 1730 Robinson Rd SE. $20 each (632-2430 or www.aquinas.edu/olli).

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City Guide Oct - FREE COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS: Oct 5 and Oct 28 Trigger Point Massage. Oct 26 Fibromyalgia. 6 pm. Foundation for Wellness Professionals, 4150 East Beltline Ave NE, Ste 4. Reservations: 447-9888. Seating limited to 30. Oct - GRAND RIVER FOLK ARTS SOCIETY: Dance instruction events. 7:30 pm Oct 1 The Big Dance, location TBD, $8 adults, $7 students/ seniors, $6 members. 7 pm Oct 8 International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre Annex, 1110 Wealthy St SE, $5 at door. 7 pm Oct 22 4th Friday Contra Dance, 5th St Hall, $6 at door. www.grfolkarts. org. Oct - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: 7:30 pm Oct 7, Artist Critique Night. 7:30 pm Oct 14, Program Night. Free and open to public. GVA Gallery, 1120 Monroe Ave NW, www.gvami.com. Oct - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Adult computer classes, book clubs and kids activities. Plus Ghosts and Legends of Michigan’s West Coast and Dia De Los Muertos/Day of the Dead. Complete schedule at GRPL Main Library, 111 Library St NE, or www.grpl.org. Free. Oct - GR TANGO: Beginner and intermediate dance lessons 8-9:30 pm every Thu, followed by free practice 9:30-10:30 pm. $12 drop-in. Richard App Gallery, 910 Cherry St SE, www.grtango.org. Oct - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Programs include book discussions, writers groups, open computer lab, Crashfree Computer, kids activities (see Kidstuff). www.kdl.org. Oct 2 - GRAM ART LECTURE: GR Art Museum hosts guest lecturer Maya Lin: Projects and Processes. 7 pm. Cook Auditorium. Free with museum admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors/students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. www.artmuseumgr.org. Oct 4 - MOTHERS AND MORE OPEN HOUSE: Greater Grand Rapids Chapter of Mothers and More hosts its annual open house. 7-9 pm. St Thomas Catholic Church, 1448 Grace Dr, 3895376, www.grmothersandmore.org. Free. Oct 7 - BOOK LAUNCH: Literary Life Bookstore hosts Kristin Wolden Nitz, author of young adult novel “Suspect.” 7 pm. 758 Wealthy St SE, 4588418. Free.

Oct 14 - DYSLEXIA SEMINAR: New Chapter Learning offers info on thinking styles, learning differences and gifts of visual thinkers. 6:30 pm. Grandville Public Middle School, room 200, 3535 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville. Registration: 5341385. www.newchapterlearning.net. Free. Oct 16, 23 - DANCEgr: One-hour dance lesson followed by social dance that includes East and West Coast swing, salsa, tango, waltz, cha cha, rumba, foxtrot and more. 7-8 pm lesson, 8-11 pm dance. 1449 Wilcox Park Drive SE, www.dancegr. com. $10 lesson, $11 dance, $16 both. Oct 20 - GRCC DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES: “On the Border of a New America: Wall of Shadows” by Barbara Martinez Jitner, filmmaker and human rights activist. 7 pm. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St NE. Free. www.grcc.edu/ lecture. Oct 21 - GVSU POETRY NIGHT: An Evening of Poetry and Conversation with Great Britain’s poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy and poet Bob Hicok. 7 pm. Eberhard Center, 2nd floor, GVSU Pew GR Campus. Free. Oct 23 - ALL-DAY DASH OF DEAFNESS WORKSHOP: Deaf Expressions presents a one-day class. 10 am-4 pm. Home School Building, Wyoming. $30. Registration by Oct 18: 856-9885 or deaf expressions05@gmail.com. www.deafexpressio ns.net. Oct 25 - GR AUDUBON CLUB: “Who’s Messing With Your Bird List?” by Bill Sweetman. 7 pm social hour, 7:30 pm presentation. GR Theological Seminary Auditorium, Cornerstone University, 3000 Leonard St NE. Free. www.glsga.org/grac. Oct 28 - CALVIN PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE TRAVEL SERIES: “Sea to Sea in a Model T” by Don and Fran VanPolen. 7:30 pm. Covenant FAC Auditorium. Tickets TBD (526-6282). Oct 30 - WRITING FOR DIGITAL MEDIA AND FILM: Kendall College of Art & Design presents a one-day adult continuing studies workshop with John Guertin. 1-5 pm. 17 Fountain St. $49 (4512787, ext 2012).

Sports

Oct 7, 21 - CALVIN NOONTIME SERIES: Calvin Academy of Lifelong Learning hosts speakers: Oct 7 “When the Earth Quakes” by Clarence Menninga. Oct 21 “Of Windmills and Candlelight: Will We Run Out of Power?” by Paulo Riberio. Noon. Calvin Chapel, 1835 Knollcrest Circle SE. Free.

Oct 9 - COLORBURST BICYCLE TOUR: Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club hosts the tour (with 17-, 30-, 62- and 100-mile loops), raising money for MADD of Kent County and other local charities. Registration and pancake breakfast 8 am. Event ends at 4:30 pm. Fallasburg Park, Lowell. $30, $60 family. www.rapidwheelmen.com/color burst.

Oct 8-9 - GREAT LAKES HISTORY CONFERENCE: 35th annual event sponsored by GVSU with keynote speakers addressing the theme “Civil Wars in Domestic and Global Context: Conflict and Resolution from the Battlefield to the Home Front.” GVSU Pew Campus. www.gvsu.edu/his tory.

Oct 17 - METRO HEALTH GRAND RAPIDS MARATHON: Seventh annual certified 26.2-mile course around downtown, plus half marathon, relay race and kids marathon, with 4,000 expected participants. 8 am. Hunting YMCA, 475 Lake Michigan Drive NW. www.grandrapidsmarathon. com.

Oct 11 - BOOK READING AND SIGNING: Literary Life Bookstore presents Wendy Shanker, author of “Are You My Guru?: How Medicine, Meditation and Madonna Saved My Life.” 7 pm. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418. Free.

Oct 21 - HARLEM AMBASSADORS: Hope and Calvin colleges’ basketball alumni challenge the Harlem Ambassadors all-star team as a fundraising event to support Habitat families. 7 pm. DeVos Fieldhouse, Hope College, Holland. $8 (616-3957890, tickets@hope.edu).

Oct 13 - BREASTFEEDING CLASS: Breastfeeding basics and pumping info from a board-certified consultant; registration required. 5:30-8:30 pm. Baby Beloved, 555 Midtowne St NE, Ste 100, 9775683, www.babybelovedinc.com. $40.

Oct 23 - ARENA RACING: Third season opens for one-half-scale stock cars racing on a customdesigned, high-banked, indoor race track. 5 pm. DeltaPlex. $5. www.arenaracinggr.com.

Kidstuff Oct - ALL DAY WITH THE ARTS: GR Art Museum offers family programming every Sat, including art-making activities, family activity guides and garden room art stations. This month’s theme: Think Like an Architect. Kid-friendly tours 11 am and 1 pm. Free with admission. Oct - BARNES & NOBLE: My Grown Up and Me story/craft times; 10:30 am Mon, Thu and Fri; Woodland Mall. Preschool Storytime; 10:30 am Tue and Thu; Rivertown Crossings Mall, Grandville. www.barnesandnoble.com. Free. Oct - DEANNA’S PLAYHOUSE: 15,000-squarefoot play environment includes art room, imagination village, performing arts stage, music room, infant-parent area, café and more. 10 am-3 pm Mon-Sat. 11172 Adams St, Holland, (800) 5777661, www.deannasplayhouse.com. $5. Oct - FINE ART FOR KIDS: Drop into Cynthia Hagedorn’s studio for themed fine art time for kids in kindergarten and older. 194½ S River Ave, Holland, www.cynthiahagedorn.com. Oct - GRAND RAPIDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Thru Oct 3, Curious George: Let’s Get Curious. Permanent exhibits include Rainbow Run, Buzzy Beehive, Mom and Pop Store, Funstruction. Toddler Tue for ages 3 and under (10 am-noon). Thu Family Nights (5-8 pm) $1.50 admission. 9:30 am-5 pm Tues-Sat, until 8 pm Thu, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $6.50, under 2 free. 22 Sheldon Ave NE, 235-4726, www.grcm.org. Oct - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Literacy classes for babies, toddlers and kids include storytelling, music, dramatic play and art activities. Times and locations vary. Complete schedules at any branch or www.grpl.org. Free. Oct - GYMCO: Activities include: Oct 2 Princess Party. Oct 9 Bar Clinic. Oct 15 Kids Night Out. Oct 22 Flip Flop Shop. Oct 29 Halloween Party. Gymco Sports, 2360 Camelot Ridge Ct SE, 9560586, www.gymco.com. Oct - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Story times for young children, Harvest Party, Pumpkin Carving and Ruff Readers. Teen programs include Guitar Hero and DDR, Gaming and Manga. See www.kdl. org for dates and locations. Oct - KINDERMUSIK: Play group for ages 2-4 with music, stories, crafts and snack. 9-11:30 am or 12:30-3 pm every Wed. $63 for four weeks (4506995 or kindermusikwithtrish@gmail.com). Oct - SMALL TALK FOR KIDS: Language classes in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese or French at six locations for up to age 5. $195 (990-2591, www. smalltalkforkids.com). Oct 1-3 - BUS BOO!: Eighth annual campout for the whole family, benefiting The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Includes campsite decoration contest, chili cook-off, costume contests and trick-or-treating. Camp Blodgett, 10451 Lakeshore Dr, Grand Haven. $25 adults 21 or older. www.busesbythebeach.com. Oct 2 - FIRST SATURDAY FOR KIDS: Literary Life Bookstore hosts Deborah Diesen, author of “The Pout-Pout Fish.” 11 am. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418. Oct 4-29 - AMERICAN GIRL PARTY REGISTRATION: Sign up for an American Girl party for moms and daughters 6 and older. The party will be Nov 16 at Home School Building, 5625 October 2010 Grand Rapids 101

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Shop Around Fine Wine, Beer, spirits and Specialty food

30 N. Main Street in Rockford (across from The Corner Bar) 616-866-7716 | www.rightathomeinrockford.com

2869 Knapp St. NE; Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Phone (616) 719-2518 www.crushedgrapegr.com

Visit us at our new location!

Designing

Excellence

Quality wood blocks made in Grand Rapids 2nd & 3rd Generation Goldsmiths 104 Hoffman St. | Saugatuck, MI 49453 269-857-8050

63 Courtland, Downtown Rockford

(Look for the yellow awning with polka dots)

(616) 866-8783

ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN

401 Hall St. SW, Ste. 231 Grand Rapids, MI 616-956-5000 EdenEnvironments.com

Expose your business to over 48,000 readers each month! To advertise, call (616) 459-4545

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City Guide Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. Registration required (616-532-9422, ext 6, or resourcecenter @homeschoolbuilding.org). $5 per child. Oct 16, 22-23, 28-29 - ZOO GOES BOO: Fun includes trick or treating along the Kooky Not Spooky Trail, Halloween entertainment, animal activities and more. 10 am-3 pm. John Ball Zoo. Oct 17 - “WILD WOODWINDS”: GR Symphony presents a one-hour concert at 3 pm for kids 7-12, plus a pre-concert instrument “petting zoo” at 2 pm. Forest Hills FAC. $12. www.grsymphony.org. Oct 23 - “MIGHT YOU BE A COMPOSER?”: Calvin College Music Department hosts a workshop for high school students curious about pursuing composition as a serious hobby or vocation. 10 am-2:30 pm. Calvin Chapel. Free; registration required (526-6569 or www.calvin.edu/music). Oct 30 - HALLOWEEN PARTY: Literary Life Bookstore hosts a Halloween party for kids in costume, including Halloween stories, arts and crafts, music and treats. Registration required (458-8418 or info@literarylifebookstore.com). 11 am. 758 Wealthy St SE. Free.

calendar legend COMMONLY REQUESTED VENUE AND TICKET OUTLET INFORMATION FOLLOWS.

VENUES Aquinas Performing Arts center, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 456-6656 the DeltaPlex entertainment & expo center, 2500 Turner Ave. NW, 364-9000, www.deltaplex.com DeVos Place (DeVos Performance Hall), 303 Monroe Ave. NW, 742-6600, www.devosplace.org Forest Hills Fine Arts center, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8966, www.fhfineartscenter.com Frauenthal center for the Performing Arts, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon, (231) 722-9750, www.frauenthal.info Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580 (main), 975-3147 (class registration line), www.meijergardens.org Grand rapids Art Museum (GrAM), 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www.artmuseumgr.org Grand rapids civic theatre, 30 N. Division Ave., 222-6650, www.grct.org Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, www.grmuseum.org St. cecilia Music center, (Royce Auditorium, Dexter Ballroom), 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, www.scmsonline.org Spectrum theater, 160 Fountain St. NE, 234-3946 urban institute for contemporary Arts (uicA), 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 454-7000 (film hotline 454-3994), www.uica.org Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St., 742-6600, www.vanandelarena.com Van Singel Fine Arts center, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, www.vsfac.com

TICKET OUTLETS

Grand rapids Symphony office, 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, 454-9451, www.grsymphony.org Star tickets, (800) 585-3737, www.startickets.com ticketmaster, 456-3333, www.ticketmaster.com

list your event calendar items must be submitted two months prior to the magazine issue date. Please send submissions for the December calendar no later than Oct. 15. e-mail caleditor@geminipub.com, fax (616) 4594800 or mail to grand rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa ave. nW, suite 201, grand rapids, Mi 49503.

Do you or your spouse snore? Snoring is not normal. It could be an indication of a serious condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the tongue and soft palate tissue fall back into the throat during sleep, completely blocking the airway. 80% of people who snore test positive for OSA. People with untreated OSA have increased risk for stroke, heart attack, memory loss, depression and certain kinds of cancer. Today, dentistry offers comfortable treatment options for snoring and OSA.

Call our office at 616 365-5806 to schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about treatments available for snoring and OSA.

6225 West River Drive NE Belmont MI 49306-9025 Tel (616) 365-5806 www.drfirlik.com

Urszula Firlik, DDS OctOber 2010 Grand rapids 103

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City Guide: Hot Shots

Polo ponies, cowpokes help pets and people

Photography by Tim Motley/Grand Rapids Social Diary

Polo In Our Own Backyard at Meadowview Farm in Low1. Matt Johnson ell drew 500-plus spectators July 29 and raised more than $15,000 2. Jan and Gabi Hoetzel for Vicky’s Pet Connection, a nonprofit that rescues and cares for homeless and abandoned pets across West Michigan. The Grand 3. Nancy Mogle Rapids polo team beat Detroit’s team in the Fred L. Hansen Corp. 4. Ralph Hauenstein Charity Polo Classic four-chukker match; the half-time exhibition and Nancy Maioho featured the polo clubs of University of Michigan and Michigan 5. Ginny and State University. John Baysore Hundreds of people dressed in their finest Western attire 6. Juliet Berger and turned out for the Eighth Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball Aug. Scott Huizenga 13, bringing in more 7. Melissa and than $230,000 to Chris Heyboer 5 support the mission of the American Cancer Society. Since its inception in 2003, the Cattle Baron’s Ball has been a volunteer-driven event. In West Michigan, the society offers a variety of programs and services and has funded more than $2.3 million in research grants at Van Andel Institute.

104 Grand Rapids October 2010

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To a chef, an empty bowl is the best thank you.

It’s all set in motion from the first bite. You can’t stop until the bowl is empty — even licked. But there was nothing simple about creating Panera Bread’s Signature Mac & Cheese. It was a labor of love. An exercise in finding the perfect dance of cheeses and pasta. Our Head Chef, Dan Kish, was lucky to have his own team of taste testers right at home. In the end, the winning recipe was a savory blend of white cheddars and the perfect shell pasta. And the test run? Well, his family ate every bite. Try our Signature Mac & Cheese as part of a You Pick Two® with a Bacon Turkey Bravo® Sandwich. And see Dan’s story at facebook.com/panerabread.

panerabread.com

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