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Arts preview 2011-12 schedules for local arts organizations and colleges » pG52
ArtPrize returns » pG48 Behind the scenes at the Public Museum » pG42 UICA and LaFontsee Galleries on the move » pG24
SEPTEMBER 2011
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Volume 48 Number 9
September 2011
Features BEHIND THE SCENES
Before an exhibit is unveiled at Grand Rapids Public Museum, the staff spends several months planning and building to make objects come alive. . .................... 42
ARTPRIZE 2011
A look at the past winners and the new executive director of the radically urban art experiment in downtown Grand Rapids. ......... 48 ARTS PREVIEW
The 2011-12 season includes a variety of entertainment from professional performing arts organizations and venues, as well as performances and exhibitions at area colleges. ......................... 52 2 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Volume 48 Number 9
September 2011
22
10 on the cover:
Photography by Michael Buck
In Every Issue Life & Style 84
Cupcakeries; Fitah Rasendrahasina; Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery; Grand Rapids Social Charity Club; Bonnie Jo Campbell. .......9-14
Speaking Up Etc.
By Carole Valade..................... 7 Grand Times
By Gordon G. Beld Finding a home for Grand Valley State. ............ 16
Profile
Jeff Meeuwsen helped guide the UICA through difficult years and now sees “incredible opportunity” in its new space. .................. 18
Critic’s Choice
By Mark F. Miller Cornices in downtown Grand Rapids. . .................... 22 Art Appreciation
Design
Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts and LaFontsee Galleries/ Underground Studio have moved into more prominent spaces. ...................................24
By Joseph Antenucci Becherer The artist who created a bronze sculpture of President Ford. . ............. 28 Dining Review
By Ira Craaven Cambridge House. .............. 67
City Guide
Tre Cugini’s Chef Joe Frizzell profiled; complete dining list; Z’s Bar & Restaurant. ............... 59-96
Grand Vine
West Michigan honors Betty Ford. ...........................84
By Jon C. Koeze What is malt liquor? ........... 79
By A. Brian Cain Top-scoring varietals. ........ 72 Fresh Hops
Calendar of Events. ............86
4 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com (616) 459-4545 Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 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 © 2011 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.
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Etcetera
River City show-and-tell has depth
Photography by Johnny Quirin
by Carole Valade
September equals ArtPrize. It’s true in many respects because of the intense effort of the community in preparing venues and business sponsorships, and because of the sheer volume and variety of art expression by 1,582 artists from 36 countries and 43 states. September is ArtPrize … and so much more. Grand Rapids Magazine’s annual arts preview is a list of productions for the season now beginning, not the least of which includes the 40th anniversary of the Grand Rapids Ballet Company, Michigan’s only professional ballet company. Anniversary events are planned for the week before ArtPrize “opens” for voting. The icing for this anniversary cake is that Maria Kowroski is a featured performer. The Grand Rapids native attended the Grand Rapids Ballet school and subsequently New York’s School of American Ballet. She apprenticed with New York City Ballet, which then hired her and then promoted her to soloist and principal dancer. Family and friends will have a rare opportunity to see her dance here. It also is significant that the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts marks this month in its new home. Under the direction of executive director Jeff Meeuwsen, UICA has become one of the largest non-collecting contemporary arts organizations in the country. Its new home is at the actual “city center” (not to be confused with East Hills, which remains the Center of the Universe). ArtPrize will mark some firsts in its third season. St. Cecilia Music Center is dedicating space to the first singers, musicians and performers to compete in ArtPrize. Grand Valley State University director of collections Henry Matthews barely keeps his excitement wrapped in anticipation of the DeVos Art Lecture, a panel of high-profile speakers, including ArtPrize founder Rick DeVos, who will discuss the merits of ArtPrize on Sept. 23. All this offers an end to a summer that has tested this community. Strains of Rob Bliss’
record-setting lip dub to “American Pie” were still buzzing when community pride and character were measured in greater depth and with lasting impressions. The July deaths of eight individuals in the city’s worst murder rampage tested the character of the community, which responded with spontaneous vigils for the victims’ families and with compassion for the family of the individual who shot and killed them before taking his own life. Within 24 hours of the shootings, Grand Rapids mourned again, as the family of former first lady Betty Ford announced her passing. In this issue, Grand Rapids Magazine pays tribute to her legacy with a photo essay of Mrs. Ford’s final journey home. It is September, and this metropolitan area is showing all its qualities.
ArtPrize 2010 included this work by Liviu Mocan entitled Invitation/ Decalogue at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
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.
September 2011 Grand Rapids 7
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Life & Style
Family-owned Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery is celebrating 100 years of fruit. » pg12
Photography courtesy Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery
Inside » Cupcakes 10
» Opera sensation 11
» Social Charity Club 13
» Bonnie Jo Campbell 14
September 2011 Grand Rapids 9
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life & style
Cupcake craze
What flavor does West michigan favor? these local cupcakeries say red Velvet is the most popular.
C
UPCAKES — AN AMERICAN CREATION — have been around since the early 1800s.
but it took Sarah Jessica parker biting into a pink-frosted cupcake outside magnolia bakery during a “Sex in the City” episode to turn the mini-cakes into a national obsession. the Food Network recently declared that cupcakes have gone from “fad to trend to icon,” citing such innovations as cupcake fondue, savory varieties, flaming cupcakes — even cupcakes on a stick. the craze originated on the east and West coasts, but specialty cupcake bakeries have popped up across the nation. most local bakeries are selling cupcakes and a few cupcake specialty bakeries have opened. Here’s a sampling: Little pearl Cupcake
beer Float, an all-natural, French vanilla cake topped with root beer butter-cream frosting — “just like at the drive-in restaurant.” Or such flavors as Green tea, Cotton Candy and tiramisu. their classic Chocolate Chocolate is a dark chocolate cupcake with chocolate butter-cream icing, made with Godiva and
Ghirardelli chocolate rather than cocoa. the bakers specialize in fondant decorations on custom cupcakes for weddings and parties. also on the menu: cake truffles and cake pops on a stick — plus a selection of gluten-free cakes.
CUPCAKE BY DESIGN 1971 east beltline ave. ne cupcakebydesign.com (616) 364-9787 With 13 daily flavors and a flavor of the month (september’s is pb&J), this cupcakery opened in april 2010 inside Cookies by Design. “We saw the trend and how fun and popular they were with tV shows, so we decided to add it to our bakery,” owner Jennifer kok said. she runs the cupcake business with
roc’s Cakes
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK
LITTLE PEARL CUPCAKE 5260 northland drive ne littlepearlcupcake.com (616) 363-2700 Friends since elementary school, niki andres and emily martens have always been interested in baking. in February, the two teamed up to start a cupcake business. “you can do so much with cupcakes,” andres said. “We just throw ideas around, and when we find a flavor we like, we go for it.” like their summertime creation root 10 GRAnd RApids September 2011
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life & style angel tomac, who created the recipes for the bakery’s butter-cream and cream cheese icings. they offer more than a dozen flavors, including snickerdoodle toffee, raspberry Delight and Give me smore (a chocolate cupcake filled with graham cracker pieces, frosted with fluffy marshmallow frosting and topped with a hershey bar). tomac said people love the versatility. “you can send a dozen cupcakes to the office for your birthday and give everybody one instead of having a cake.”
MYKAKES mykakes.com (616) 218-0290 myka nienhuis started mykakes in may 2008 after her sister asked for cupcakes instead of a wedding cake. she researched cupcakeries and decided to give it a shot. she runs her special-order bakery from her holland home. “it’s the best job because you’re always putting smiles on people’s faces,” she said. mykakes offers about 20 flavors, including such special creations as lemon with lavender-infused butter-cream frosting — “a very sophisticated cupcake, and also one of the most popular.” Other special flavors include Chocolate with mocha butter Cream and Ground espresso beans, pumpkin spice and this month’s special, tiramisu. Gluten-free and other custom flavors are available by request.
pHOtOGrApHY bY JOHNNY QUIrIN
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK
ROC’S CUPCAKES 6 Jefferson ave. se bartertowngr.com (616) 233-3219 roxanne aguilar, who has been baking since she was little, adopted a vegan lifestyle a year ago. “i was used to baking with eggs and milk, so it was a challenge to make a soy-based cupcake,” she said. “it took trial and error, but now i’ve got my recipes down pat.” she teamed up with ryan Cappelletti, founder of bartertown Diner, and opened roc’s Cakes inside the downtown Gr restaurant, where she offers 10 varieties daily, including rosewater, Chai latte and Chocolate Coconut. aquilar’s toughest critics? her family. “i’m mexican american so being vegetarian is very foreign for my family,” she said. “they are very picky. When i serve them vegan cupcakes and they can’t tell the difference, i know it’s good.” — Kendal PeKtas
a marvelous talent
F
ITAH RASENDRAHASINA’S story is as interesting as his name.
In February, the Calvin College junior made his American operatic debut singing the role of Edmundo in Opera Grand Rapids’ production of Puccini’s “Manon Lescaut.” Just two years earlier, Fitah and his family had to flee their home in Madagascar during political turmoil on the island located off the coast of Africa. They settled in Grand Rapids, where Fitah’s father had been a student a decade earlier at Calvin Theological Seminary. Fitah, a child prodigy who received musical training from Korean and Irish missionaries at the Anglican Music Institute in Madagascar, was discovered by an Opera Grand Rapids board member who heard him sing during a service at Woodlawn Christian Reformed Church. That encounter led to church members raising money to send the tenor to Calvin College to continue his music studies. “He has marvelous talent,” said Dr. Roger Scanlan, a voice professor at Calvin College. “In a group of 100 voice students, you would see maybe two or three who could have a career in opera. This young man has the potential to actually make it.” Fitah was awarded the 2011 Betty Van Andel Scholarship — $2,500, the largest amount ever given. “I was honored,” said Fitah, who named Spanish tenor Placido Domingo as one of his biggest influences. “I’m fascinated by the opera technique of singing — the beauty of the stories and plot. I want be a professional singer and teacher.” To hear his music and check his schedule of appearances, check out his website at www.fitah.org. — micHael brooKs September 2011 GRAnd RApids 11
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life & style
An apple a day
i
n 1911, Grand rapids had no busy highways or sleek skyscrapers: Church steeples were the tallest buildings around.
Factories lined the banks of the Grand river as industrialization began to transform the
three generations: ed, bill, Allan and Jim robinette.
city. that year, barzilla robinette, a 65-yearold dairy farmer from macedonia, Ohio, purchased 125 acres of land northeast of Grand
Every fall, Robinette’s celebrates the season with its Fall Festival. This year’s is Sept. 10 and will include horse-drawn hayrides, a corn maze, a 60-foot inflated jumping pillow, and more.
rapids that was covered in peach orchards. Four generations later, the peach trees are still around — and so are the robinettes. Celebrating its centennial this year, the family-owned and operated robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery at 3142 4 mile road Ne now includes the fruit farm, cider mill, bakery and lunchroom, and a gift shop. besides apples, peaches, nectarines, cherries and pumpkins, robinette’s offers a 5.25-mile mountain bike trail and cross-country skiing. “things are very different today,” said ed robinette, 48, who runs the farm with his brothers, bill and John. Horses have been replaced by tractors and computers — “but the end result is still a fruit on a tree.” the Apple Haus was built in 1944 to store apples. today, it houses a bakery where pies, breads and donuts are made fresh every morning. In 1985, the family renovated the original 1881 barn to make room for a winery and gift shop. robinette’s also produces hard cider — aptly named barzilla’s brew — as well as nonalcoholic fruit juices. Wine tasting is offered and jewelry made by West michigan artisans. — micHael brooKs
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK (tOp); COUrteSY rObINette’S AppLe HAUS & WINerY (bOttOm)
year round. the gift shop sells artwork, crafts
12 GRAnd RApids September 2011
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life & style
Step up while stepping out
pHOtOGrApHY bY JHONNY QUIrIN
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK (tOp); COUrteSY rObINette’S AppLe HAUS & WINerY (bOttOm)
“people are going out anyway; why not make Happy Hour about something a little more?” — Lauren Latarte
local nonprofit organizations. A July event at Rockwell-Republic attracted a crowd of more than 100 people and raised $1,073 for the Safe Haven Ministries of Grand Rapids. “It’s a small start, and we’re hoping it’ll get higher and higher. We want to take it to the next level,” said LaTarte. She said they realize people are re-evaluating the way they spend their money, and offering the opportunity to socialize and network while giving back to the community is the perfect combination for many. “It works hand-in-hand.” LaTarte said the group hopes to begin to branch out and involve college students, and also begin to vote on which organization to help. As of now, the organization is selected by two of the three founding members. “The options are endless the bigger we get.” For information on monthly events, please visit www.socialcharityclub.org. — aleXandra Fluegel
“EAT, DRINK AND BE CHARITABLE” — that’s the idea behind the Social Charity Club, a network of socially conscious professionals in the Grand Rapids area who are choosing to give back while enjoying the restaurant and bar scene. Started by Lauren LaTarte, Marjorie Behm and Whitney Budden, the club meets once a month at different venues, each gathering benefitting a different local charity. “We’re hoping to latch together going out and being social and stimulating the economy — and helping out charities,” LaTarte said. Each attendee donates $10 and receives a complimentary drink with all of the proceeds going directly to the selected organization. LaTarte said the idea originated when a friend of Behm’s started a similar group in Chicago. The three 20-somethings thought it would be a great fit for Grand Rapids. “People are going out anyway; why not make Happy Hour about something a little more?” LaTarte said. She noted that the meet-ups serve as a great way to learn about
social cHarity club Founders marjorie behm, Whitney budden and Lauren Latarte pose with Jordan Carson at rockwell-republic, where the club raised more than $1,000 for Safe Haven ministries. September 2011 GRAnd RApids 13
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life & style
Michigan odyssey
inc.
fine jewelry Tu-Fr 10-5 Sat 12-4 616-459-5075 820 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids metalartstudioinc.com
“But I found myself unhappy,” she said. “I really want to use both sides of my brain.” So Campbell pursued a master of fine arts degree at WMU, and in 2000, she published a book of short stories. “Women and Other Animals” was well reviewed and won an award from the Association of Writers & Writing Programs. More books — and more awards — followed. “American Salvage,” another collection of short stories, was nominated for the 2009 National Book Award. Campbell’s own story is as intriguing as her fiction. She has “hitchhiked across the U.S. and Canada, scaled the Swiss Alps on her bicycle, and traveled with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus selling snow cones.” Yet at home in Comstock, east of Kalamazoo, she and her husband lead what she calls ordinary lives. Christopher works the second shift at Pfizer Inc. “putting ointments into tubes” She teaches a correspondence writing course in the low residency program at Pacific University in Oregon, traveling out west for 10 days each semester. The couple doesn’t have children, but Campbell takes care of two donkeys and other animals. Her online Bone-Eye Blog shows her appearing at reading events one day and working on her plumbing the next — one such project “involved yours truly up to her elbows in raw sewage.” To read more, go to www.bonniejo campbell.com. — marty Primeau
Mod
pHOtOGrApHY COUrteSY JOHN CAmpbeLL (tOp); W. W. NOrtON & COmpANY (beLOW)
Metal Art Studio
Bonnie Jo Campbell is a worrier. “I become involved in other people’s troubles,” explained the award-winning Kalamazoo author. “I worry about things that happen to people I know, or people I read about in the newspaper. “It’s the troubling things I obsess about.” And those troubling things and everyday people find their way into Campbell’s novels and short stories. They are the rural working class, often damaged and struggling to survive. “I’m not a mommy of children,” Campbell said. “So I’m a mommy of people around me. I’m concerned about the tough times in Michigan having complicated effects on people.” Her latest novel, “Once Upon a River,” follows a resilient teenage girl in the 1970s who sets out to find the mother who abandoned her. Margo Crane travels by rowboat on a Michigan river, encountering obstacles and relationships along the way. Booklist gave it a starred review: “A dramatic and rhapsodic American odyssey.” Entertainment Weekly described Campbell as the “bard of Michigan.” Newsweek dubbed it a “must-read summer book.” “I’m overwhelmed,” said Campbell, 48, who was preparing to start her book tour in July. “You go along writing for years, hoping somebody likes what you write.” But writing fiction wasn’t always her goal. Campbell grew up on a small Michigan farm — where, according to her bio, she learned to castrate small pigs, milk Jersey cows and make remarkable chocolate candy — before heading off to the University of Chicago to study philosophy. Later, she earned a master’s degree in mathematics at Western Michigan University.
14 GRAnd RApids September 2011
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New Season. New Possibilities! You’re invited to join us September 27 at the JW Marriott for an evening of health, beauty, and fun!
Model
September 27th | 4 – 9pm | JW Marriott: Salon A&B
pHOtOGrApHY COUrteSY JOHN CAmpbeLL (tOp); W. W. NOrtON & COmpANY (beLOW)
Indulge in a night of pampering with a twist of artful creativity, courtesy of the Bengtson Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery. Dr. Brad Bengtson will be presenting on Total Body Makeovers, while the transforMD skin care and laser team will be available to educate and allow you to experience the latest advancements in skin care. Head-to-toe beauty and health consultants will be present along with Dr. Thomas Lambert discussing state of the art cosmetic dentistry. And let us not forget the art craze! While ArtPrize will be buzzing outside, you can play your part and help encourage creativity in the little hearts of Grand Rapids by bringing in a backpack for donation to Bengtson Center’s Campaign for Confidence partners. We’ll stuff the backpacks with art supplies and deliver them to children served by Baxter Community Center and Alpha Women’s Center, so they, too, can have a heart for art!
bengtsoncenter.com
616.588.8880
Below is a sampling of specials to take advantage of during our event: • First 300 people receive a gift certificate for a complimentary Latisse® Eyelash Enhancement Kit • First 300 patients to bank 30 units of BOTOX® Cosmetic will receive an additional 20 units* • Complimentary gift for each attendee who brings in a new backpack • Raffle and Event Prize drawings • Complimentary valet parking, drinks and hors d’oeuvres provided
RSVP by calling 616.588.8880 or email us at info@bengtsoncenter.com * BOTOX® Cosmetic injections will be administered by the Bengtson Center’s PA or RN Injection Specialist. BENGTSON CENTER FOR AESTHETICS AND PLASTIC SURGERY WOMEN’S HEALTH CENTER
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555 MidTowne Street NE, Suite 110
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
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history: Grand times
Finding a home for GVSU
Groundbreaking for the first building was scheduled for Aug. 28, 1962, with the dirt to be moved by dynamite rather than shovels.
A HALF CENTURY AGO, the search for what is now the campus of Grand Valley State University triggered a dash by 20 West Michigan communities to get in line for consideration. In 1960, Gov. G. Mennen Williams had appointed a Board of Control and signed legislation authorizing it to secure a site. The proposed four-year Grand Valley College was intended principally to serve students in Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo and Ottawa counties. A Citizens Advisory Council of about 100 representatives from those counties was organized to help bring the dream to reality, and in January 1961, its Site Selection Committee began soliciting proposals. As they rolled in, committee members visited the sites, held public hearings to get citizen input and reviewed data with professional consultants. The list of contenders began to shrink as the committee compared their attributes with its required criteria, which included proximity to a major highway and the population center of the eight counties, a size of 300 to 600 acres, water supply and natural beauty. Among proposed sites still in contention after the initial cuts were: Aman Park: 324 acres owned by the city of Grand Rapids and located a couple miles west of Standale. It could be expanded with 162.5 additional acres for which commitments had been obtained. Allendale: 400 acres two miles west of Aman Park on the south side of Highway M50 (now M45) and the west bank of the Grand River. Marne: 364 acres 12 miles from downtown Grand Rapids. Wyoming: 360 acres with ruins of a nevercompleted industrial complex that would have produced picric acid for use in World War I. It’s now the site of Palmer Park, Leonard E. Kaufmann Golf Course and the National Guard Armory.
Cannonsburg Road: 100 acres (additional land available), located on both sides of Cannonsburg Road on the north shore of the Grand River, east of Blythefield Country Club. Downtown Grand Rapids: a site bounded by Division and Bond avenues and Lyon and Michigan streets. The proposal envisioned a 13-story building for most college operations. Grand Haven: 400 acres near the OttawaMuskegon county line with 1,500 feet of frontage on Lake Michigan. It was north of North Shore Drive, west of Dogwood Drive and south of Hickory Street. Lowell: 447 acres of the Lowell State Game Area northeast of Lowell. Proponents said it and an adjacent piece of about the same size in Ionia County could be transferred without cost by the state. Muskegon: 800 acres bounded by the Muskegon River to the north, Marquette Avenue to the south, U.S. 31 to the west, and Sheridan Drive to the east. Rockford: 900 acres with boundaries of 11 Mile Road (north), 10 Mile Road (south), Courtland Drive (west) and Shaner Avenue (east). In mid-February, the Site Selection Committee announced the final five sites. Allendale and Marne were close to the projected population center of the eight counties. Grand Haven, Muskegon and Rockford were at the perimeter of the area. On April 7, the board announced that Allendale would be the location of the new college. Groundbreaking for the first building was scheduled for Aug. 28, 1962, with the dirt to be moved by dynamite rather than shovels. Gov. John B. Swainson pushed a button to set off the blast, but nothing happened. He tried again and again, but finally gave up. David Dutcher, the master of ceremonies, announced, “Let us consider the ground broken” and the ceremony concluded. As the crowd dispersed, a tremendous explosion brought cheers and a propitious beginning for the college. Gordon Beld served briefly as a member of the Archives Subcommittee of Grand Valley’s Citizens Advisory Council. Since that time, he has written more than 250 historical features for newspapers and magazines.
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16 GRAnd RApids September 2011
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profile: influential
An eye to the future JeFF meeUWSeN HeLpeD GUIDe tHe UICA tHrOUGH SOme DIFFICULt YeArS AND NOW SeeS “INCreDIbLe OppOrtUNItY” IN ItS NeW SpACe IN tHe HeArt OF DOWNtOWN. by aleXandra Fluegel
C
atching up with Jeff Meeuwsen is no easy task. In late July, the executive director of the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts was in the final stage of the organization’s move to its
Jeffrey meeuwsen Profession: executive director, urban institute for Contemporary arts web site: www.uica.org residence: Grand rapids community involvement: Chief advisor and director of cultural relations for Artprize; member of ArtServe michigan board.
new home in the center of downtown, and the public unveiling was a mere 10 days away. “What’s sleep?” Meeuwsen joked as he sat in his new office overlooking Fulton Street and talked about the evolution of UICA and how his role in helping shape the organization is what he describes as “incredibly special.” “I was always trying to pursue creative things,” Meeuswen began, sitting in a bright orange chair that wobbled a bit if he moved too much. “The chairs are missing a couple screws,” he explained, smiling and shrugging at the irony of a brand-new corner office with broken chairs — and the humor within the statement. It is the perfect context for Meeuwsen’s story of how he left a successful career in the corporate world to attend art school, a decision that would ultimately lead him to his role as director of the largest contemporary arts center in the state, where “missing a few screws” isn’t a bad thing.
Meeuwsen, whose first bachelor’s degree was in business with a focus on marketing and graphic design, was working for an advertising agency when he began to feel like he was ready to try something else. “It felt like it was as creative as I could get within a corporate environment,” he said, adding that he was fortunate to work for an agency that worked with nonprofits, which he really enjoyed. Meeuwsen had been volunteering at the
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK
“I think we’re at this really interesting moment of seeing incredible opportunity — and yet, there’s an uncertainty to it. The future could be any one of a dozen different things, and it’s all incredibly exciting.” — Jeff Meeuwsen
18 GRAnd RApids September 2011
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pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK
pHOtOGrApHY bY mICHAeL bUCK
profile: influential
UICA, doing everything from painting bathroom walls and mopping floors to planning events and helping with membership drives. Eventually, he became chair of the marketing committee. After leaving his job at the ad agency, he enrolled in Kendall College of Art and Design to study sculpture and furniture design, and while there, began a landscape design company that specialized in installing artwork into landscapes. He was in his third year at Kendall when he received an alarming phone call while having lunch at a revolving restaurant in Prague: The UICA was in danger of closing its doors. “I had such a history with the organization, and having grown up in Grand Rapids, I couldn’t imagine the city without the UICA. For me, it was the thing that made Grand Rapids special.” He called the board president and “one thing led to another”: Within months of applying for the role of executive director, he was at the post. The first few years were a struggle to rebuild the staff and board and re-engage the community, he said. “In some ways, we became more professional; in other ways, we became more grassroots.” By his fifth year, the organization had made a turnaround, and “I was ready to take a vacation for the first time in years,” Meeuwsen said. Then he received another call. Developers approached Meeuwsen
about the prospect of the UICA being part of a mixed-use project on the southwest corner of Fulton and Division, something he said was completely unexpected. “We weren’t looking to move. We were just getting to the point of being stable and growing,” he said. But as Meeuwsen looked into the idea, he quickly realized it was the right move. “The city really wanted something special on that corner because it’s the actual city center. It was opportunity all around.” “With this project, we are one of the largest non-collecting contemporary art organizations in the country, and the fact that that exists in West Michigan, alongside things like Meijer Gardens and the GRAM and ArtPrize, along with all of the other cultural organizations, is incredibly exciting.” Meeuwsen’s background as an artist greatly impacted his vision for the organization and its new space. “I’ve felt that, as I’ve worked on my own, my studio practice has influenced the way I’ve run the institution,” he said, explaining that the new location needed not only to be a place where the public could come and view contemporary art, but also a place that inspired artists. “We asked ourselves, ‘How could this inspire an artist to work in a new way? How can we build something that’s not just the traditional white cube?’” Recently, Meeuwsen took time to hone his own craft and received his Master of Fine Arts degree from the Art Institute of Boston. “I basically used all my vacation time,” he laughed. “But it got me back in the studio, making work and networking nationally with other artists and curators,” which he said has not only benefitted him but the organization as a whole. “I think we’re at this really interesting moment of seeing incredible opportunity — and yet, there’s an uncertainty to it,” he admitted, citing major cuts in national and state arts funding as the biggest challenge. “The future could be any one of a dozen different things,” he said trailing off and leaning back in the orange chair unwaveringly, “and it’s all incredibly exciting.” gr
above: Artist mindy bray, left, and volunteer Carolynn White help Jeff meeuwsen install a mural in the new UICA building. September 2011 GRAnd RApids 19
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Design
UICA’s Jeffrey Meeuwsen and Jasper get a ride from Steve Samson during the art organization’s Moving Day Parade June 30. » pg24 Photography by Michael Buck
Inside
» Critic’s choice 22
» Art Movement 24
» art appreciation 28
September 2011 Grand Rapids 21
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Design: Critic’s Choice
Crowns of GR’s skyline by Mark F. Miller, AIA
Architect Louis Sullivan, considered the father of skyscrapers, used classical columns as a way to organize his high-rise buildings. This composition consisted of a base, a shaft and a capital. The base of the column was manifested in the rusticated stone-clad lower stories of the building. The plain or fluted shaft was suggested by the uninterrupted vertical mid-section, and the capital was rendered by the detailed layers of the cornice — the crown of a building that gives a defined top and unique personality. The Grand Rapids skyline is filled with cornices, punctuated against the sky and adorned in terracotta moldings of medallions, brackets — even moose heads. The following is a sample of some of the cornices that enhance the downtown skyline. People’s Building/Select Bank Building, 60 Monroe Center NW. Constructed in 1916 as the city’s tallest and most modern skyscraper, this Classic Revival-style building epitomizes the Sullivan aesthetic with a granite base, soaring vertical brick shaft and massive terracotta cornice that was aptly called a “super headdress” by the Grand Rapids Herald in March 1917. Designed by local architect Osgood & Osgood, the structure’s strong, sturdy lines are terminated by a cornice composed of a heavy fascia and soffit, regularly spaced corbels and foliated ornament. The lower half of the cornice is emphasized by elaborately decorated, framed panels — known as cartouches — that flank the uppermost row of windows at the building’s corners. Michigan National Bank Building, 77 Monroe Center NW. Designed by Detroit architect Smith, Hinchman & Grylls and constructed in 1926, this skyscraper exhibits tentative formal steps toward modernism, while still being materially traditional with its cladding of cream terracotta. The building’s soaring silhouette is reinforced by a series of piers that extend from the ground floor to above the cornice line — de-emphasizing the horizontality normally associated with traditional cornices. This cornice, while lacking historical ornament, is nonetheless adorned with decorative arches, intricate relief and abstract geometric projections.
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, formerly the Pantlind, 187 Monroe Ave. NW. Originally constructed between 1913 and 1915, this Renaissance Revival-style hotel is topped by a massive terracotta cornice that is adorned with lion heads, acanthus leaf motifs, egg-and-dart molding, dentils and circular cartouches. The original building was designed by architect Warren & Wetmore and stands today as one of the architectural jewels of downtown. Exhibitors Building, formerly the Fine Arts Building, 220 Lyon St. NW. Around the corner from the Pantlind, this structure began its life as a nondescript factory building on the river’s edge, but was refaced in the Italian Renaissance style with an elaborate polychrome terracotta in 1925. The most colorful of all the cornices chronicled here, it is composed of a deep fascia punctuated by a steady rhythm of lion heads and floral relief. Below the fascia, the frieze is decorated by a floral garland draped between medallions and underscored with corbels. Grand Rapids Community Foundation, 185 Oakes St. SW. Beautifully preserved at the corner of Oakes and Grandville, the former Anheuser-Busch Ice House has a simple brick and terracotta cornice and frieze composition, interrupted by judiciously placed accents. The most prominent of these accents projects the Anheuser-Busch symbol, a large letter A mingled with an eagle and still used by the brewer today, albeit in a modified form. Flanking the symbol are substantial brick pier extensions that are highlighted with copper banding. The frieze is buttressed with decorative brick corbels that give the top of the building a more robust aesthetic. Mark F. Miller, AIA, is an architect and urban designer at Nederveld and the former chairman of the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission. Photography by Michael Buck
22 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Exhibitors Building, formerly the Fine Arts Building
Design: Critic’s Choice
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, formerly the Pantlind
The Grand Rapids skyline is filled with cornices, punctuated against the sky and adorned in terracotta moldings of medallions, brackets — even moose heads.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Michigan National Bank Building
Photography by Michael Buck
Photography by Michael Buck
People’s Building/ Select Bank Building
September 2011 Grand Rapids 23
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Design: Preview
Art movement
T
he dust has cleared, the moving trucks (and human chains) are long gone, and two Grand Rapids galleries are settling into their new homes. Both the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts and LaFontsee Galleries/Underground Studio moved into more prominent spaces in July, and if you haven’t made it inside yet, here’s a look at what’s waiting for you.
LaFontsee Galleries/ Underground Studio 616) 451-9820; www.lafontsee.us Walking into the new location at 833 Lake Drive, you’d never guess that the building was formerly a social services office building. Fifty-three small offices were knocked down and a drop ceiling was removed to create a welcoming open space filled with natural light. Movable walls can be shifted around depending on the needs of an exhibition. “This allows us to create more intimate spaces,” said Linda LaFontsee, who co-
owns the business with her husband, Scott. The East Hills building has 6,000 more square feet than the previous space, a renovated riverfront warehouse on Monroe Avenue that the galleries and gift shop occupied for nearly 20 years. One challenge the couple faced was making sure visitors aren’t overwhelmed by the large, open space. To that end, small alcoves are built into the walls, creating vignettes that vary with each stretch of space. “The goal was to not overbuild,” Scott explained, “We wanted to leave it open, but we also want to make it an inviting environment.” Having more space has allowed LaFontsee Galleries to exhibit more art, increase its framing capacity, expand its gift shop, and more easily host private events. Many of the building’s renovations were designed to accommodate specific needs, such as large-scale, built-in viewing stations. “We work with a lot of businesses and
Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts
Photograpphy by Michael Buck
Two significant downtown art galleries made the move to much larger digs this summer, expanding their options. by Alexandra Fluegel
24 Grand Rapids September 2011
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LaFontsee Galleries/Underground Studio
Photograpphy by Michael Buck
Photograpphy by Michael Buck
interior designers, and now they will be able to come in and easily view large-scale pieces,” Scott said. The new location also features an easily accessible loading dock that will make transporting pieces in and out of the gallery more convenient for staff and clientele alike, an elevator, a large public parking lot and outdoor exhibit space for sculptures. The move itself was a long process, LaFontsee said. “It took a monster effort on behalf of the staff.” The gallery was closed for eight days while staff and professional movers transported the works, and contractors were still pouring concrete when the new location officially opened for business. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (616) 454-7000; www.uica.org Art is center stage in the new home of the UICA — and on the walls, ceilings, floors, in the air and on the roof. Installations can be seen from the street through the all-windowed exterior, and no space is off limits when it comes to selecting a canvas. “These new galleries are not your typical white cube,” said Phil Mead, public relations coordinator for the contemporary arts organization. He explained that the vision behind the new space is focused on inspiring artists to engage an environment in unexpected ways. September 2011 Grand Rapids 25
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Design: Preview
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“The new building’s gallery spaces were uniquely created to challenge artists to respond to the gallery,” Mead said. And there’s plenty of space to choose from. The new location at 2 W. Fulton St nearly doubles the size of the gallery space to 8,500 square feet, and includes three main floors and an outdoor sculpture terrace with panoramic views of downtown. The space also encourages visitors to examine art from every angle, using stairwells and balconies as catalysts for new perspectives and meaningful experiences. Walking through the expansive hallways and rooms feels a bit like a maze, but that only magnifies the excitement of discovering what’s around each corner. A four-story vertical gallery, which parallels the main stairwell of the building, was designed for hanging sculptures and is visible to anyone passing by on Fulton Street. Energy-efficient, museum-quality lighting helps to light up what’s inside and, as the sun goes down, the museum is literally glowing. As the largest non-collecting contemporary arts organization in the state, the UICA and its partners designed a space that would not only be conducive to constantly changing exhibits, but also give the public a creative space to work, relax and learn. Along with gallery space, the building boasts numerous lounge areas, a ceramics studio, two theaters, and spaces for artists in residence. GR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Forming a human chain, about 100 volunteers lined the sidewalks between the UICA’s old facility on Sheldon Avenue and its new home on Fulton Street, passing boxes from person to person.
26 GRAND RAPIDS SEPTEMBER 2011
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201 1 GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY PRESENTS
FALL ARTS CELEBRATION ENRICHING THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES IN WEST MICHIGAN
GVSU Music Department presents
“A Night in Hapsburg Vienna: From the Marriage of Figaro to Fidelio as arranged for Wind Harmonie” Monday, SEPTEMbEr 12, 8 P.M. LouiS arMSTronG THEaTrE PErForMinG arTS CEnTEr aLLEndaLE CaMPuS
Distinguished Academic Lecturer
Michael Sandel “Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?”
Grand Valley’s Fall Arts Celebration is a highly popular and much anticipated annual showcase for the arts, humanities, and liberal education in West Michigan. Please join us this fall for an entertaining and enlightening celebration.
Poetry Night
“An Evening of Poetry and Conversation with Ted Kooser and Terrance Hayes” Friday, oCTobEr 21, 7 P.M. L.V. EbErHard CEnTEr, 2nd FLoor robErT C. PEw Grand raPidS CaMPuS
GVSU Music and Dance Faculty and Students present
“The Spanish Tradition: Manuel de Falla, El Corregidor y la Molinera”
THurSday, SEPTEMbEr 22, 7 P.M. L.V. EbErHard CEnTEr, 2nd FLoor robErT C. PEw Grand raPidS CaMPuS
Monday, oCTobEr 24, 8 P.M. LouiS arMSTronG THEaTrE PErForMinG arTS CEnTEr aLLEndaLE CaMPuS
Art Gallery Exhibition
A Fall Arts Celebration Holiday Gift
“Arte Argentino Actual/ Contemporary Argentine Art”
“Gloria: Music of the Holiday Season from Grand Valley”
oPEninG rECEPTion THurSday, oCTobEr 6, 5–7 P.M. arT GaLLEry PErForMinG arTS CEnTEr aLLEndaLE CaMPuS
Monday, dECEMbEr 5, 8 P.M. FounTain STrEET CHurCH 24 FounTain STrEET nE Grand raPidS, Mi
ExHibiTion daTES: oCTobEr 6–noVEMbEr 4
Media Sponsor:
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY THANKS THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR THEIR COMMITMENT TO THE ARTS AND THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT OF FALL ARTS CELEBRATION 2011: Ginny Gearhart and the Gearhart Family • Liesel and Hank Meijer Elaine and Larry Shay • Judy and Peter Theune
Fall Arts events are free and open to the public.
For CoMPLETE SCHEduLE and MorE dETaiLEd inForMaTion ViSiT WWW.GVSU.EDU/FALLARTS or SCAN THE CODE TO THE RIGHT wiTH your SMarTPHonE.
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Design: Art Appreciation
Capturing the essence by Joseph Antenucci Becherer
This President Ford is on the move. He takes a step forward into time and place. His focus is forward, his gaze direct.
Installed just a few days before Betty Ford’s funeral, a second bronze cast of Grill’s work was viewed by thousands at the entrance to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
The practice of commemorating political leaders in sculpted form dates back to antiquity. In May, a 7-foot tall bronze sculpture of President Gerald R. Ford was erected on the Rotunda beneath the U.S. Capitol building, joining the likes of former presidents Eisenhower, Jackson, Reagan and Washington. The National Statuary Hall Collection allows every state to honor two figures. There has long
been a desire to honor Ford on behalf of Michigan. Three years ago, a national search was conducted among figurative sculptors who specialize in public statuary of historical personalities. Eight sculptors from across the United States were selected based on the caliber of their work, and from that group three semi-finalists emerged. Each produced a small-scale model for a committee that included members of the Gerald R. Ford Foundation, the Ford family and community leaders in the visual arts. A young art professor from the University of Missouri, J. Brett Grill, emerged as the unanimous choice. Classically trained as a figurative artist, Grill earned a BFA from the University of Michigan and an MFA from the New York Academy of Art. By coincidence, Grill had grown up in Rockford, but it was solely the strength of his sculpture that impressed the committee. Grill followed a time-honored process for creating his 450-pound sculpture that would rest on a 3-foot base. He worked on a full-scale clay model, studying images of Ford from the museum archives, as well as examples of clothing he wore, and life studies of a model whose frame and physicality were reminiscent of the late president. In the clay model, Grill conveyed a figure of vibrancy and life. This President Ford is on the move. He takes a step forward into time and place. His focus is forward, his gaze direct. Once the clay model was approved, molds were made and the process of translating the work into bronze began in earnest. Months later, the final bronze sculpture was assembled and the artist provided a deep honey-colored patina, carefully selected to work in harmony with the site where the sculpture would be installed. A second bronze cast of this work was installed July 11 — just a few days before Betty Ford’s funeral — at the entrance to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. It provides a wonderful connection to our nation’s capital and to the exceptional merit of both the subject and the artist who brought it to life. Contributing editor Joseph Antenucci Becherer is a professor at Aquinas College and curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Photography by Alissa Lane
28 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Special advertiSing Section
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Special Advertising Section
GR Home Showcase: Alexis Designs
Turning homes into havens
Photography by Michael Buck
There is a new little jewel waiting to be discovered in Grandville. Alexis Designs opened its stylish doors last November in an off-thebeaten-path location after a year’s presence on the Internet. It offers homeowners and interior designers a full-service, one-stop design destination that will help create a look and feel for your home that is uniquely yours.
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Grand Rapids | Home
by J. Stapleton-Burch
With three designers on staff, Alexis Designs offers everything from wall hangings, art and home accessories to customized furniture and full room redesigns. The welcoming store is full of delightful accent pieces and artisan crafted ware that would make a perfect gift for that hard to please friend. It also houses the Design CafĂŠ, an inviting space with coffee specialty drinks, baked goods and light lunch fare. It not only serves the public but also provides a place for clients to comfortably chat with designers as they peruse wallcoverings or furniture fabric options from among the thousands of selections.
8/2/11 1:03 PM
GRAND RAPIDS | HOME
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Room design by Janel Joppie for Spring Parade Home featuring Alexis Designs products.
Owner Dana Rickers is a design dynamo with a passion for — and long history of — home improvement, developed from her profession as a licensed builder. “I love everything to do with decorating and making homes beautiful,” she notes. Alexis Designs was born out of frustration when Dana observed a lack of unique or creative home products available locally. “I’ve never been impressed with what we have in our area,” she recalled. “So I started shopping around on line, going to shows and gathering products that were attention grabbers and the store started evolving. It’s a breath of fresh air to be able to bring things to our customers that other stores don’t have.” Alexis Designs not only offers full design services and customized furnishings, but also caters to area designers by offering substantial discounts and pull-
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ing the best from many different product lines. “If designers want a specific brand, I will go and get that line for them,” Dana said. “We also have the ability to transform products and make them even more unique, so designers can find things that are really specialized for their homeowner. We work together to find something to fit their specific need and achieve a certain feel.” Some of Alexis Designs product lines include VanGuard Furniture, Norwalk, Maitland-Smith, Global Views, Arteriors, the brightly colored Company-C rugs, and Candice Olson Designs products. For those not already working with a designer, you’ll find some of the best in the area to work with at Alexis Designs, and each one brings a different specialty to the table. With a background in furniture and staging design, Kimbra VanNoord is their furniture specialist. Karen Wells is well versed in wallcover-
8/4/11 3:26 PM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
GR Home Showcase: Alexis Designs
Dana Rickers, Owner 4187 Chicago Drive, Suite 6 (across from Rainbow Grill) Grandville (616) 531-7576 Alexisdesigns.net. Credentials: Owner Dana Rickers is a licensed builder with an artist’s sensibilities and a woman with a thousand hats. Inspirations: “I find inspiration by attending art fairs, attending trade shows, speaking to other designers, going through Parade homes, and surrounding myself with creative, energetic talent.”
GRAND RAPIDS | HOME
ALEXIS DESIGNS
Career high point: “There isn’t one. My career is a journey and the journey is the high point.” Personal high point: “The birth of both of my children, son Cody who is six, and daughter Alexis, who is two-and-a-half years old. I always felt like I was searching for something until they were born and then something just clicked inside of me and just felt ‘right’.”
Photography courtesy of Dan Johnsonv
Dana Rickers owner Center, Kimbra Van Noord far left, Karen Wells Left Center, Janel Joppie Top center, Joy Pupel Right of Center.
ings and handles both residential and commercial design. Well-known from her work with the Parade of Homes, Janel Joppie designs home plans and designs electrical plans and will work with builders to make your home special. “We like design-challenged people,” Dana said with a laugh. “One of the best things a customer can do is arm themselves with pictures of rooms or furniture they like, or describe a certain feeling they want for a room, and we can take it from there.” In addition to the thousands of furnishing fabrics, top quality custom furni-
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ture, wallcoverings, creative home accessories and unique accent pieces found in the store, Alexis Designs offers an even larger selection online at their website (alexisdesigns.net), which can be ordered and shipped to any destination. Products available in the store itself are always changing — oftentimes weekly — so one visit is never enough. Customers will also be surprised by the reasonable prices. “We want to make sure that everybody can walk out of here with something,” Dana concluded. For those looking for a unique venue for a wedding shower, special celebration
or corporate affair, the space at Alexis Designs is also available for rental. Whether you’re looking for design help, shopping for something inimitable for your home, trying to find a unique gift for a friend, or just want to enjoy a latte or lunch, find your way to Alexis Designs in Grandville. Alexis Designs is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday & Friday, 7a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.
8/4/11 3:26 PM
Special advertiSing Section
Grand rapids | Home
The perfect piece, the perfect frame BY J. STAPLETON-BURCH
A
ccording to Tylor Devereaux, ASID and owner of Tylor Devereaux Interior Design, the artwork one chooses to grace their walls is not only about personal expression, but also is the one mitigating factor that can tie a whole room together. Having carved an interior-design niche for himself in modern residential interiors, Devereaux brings a designer’s eye to guide a client through artwork and framing selections. “Artwork and framing is one of my favorite aspects in the whole design process,” he noted. “It definitely seals the deal when it comes to a project and finishes it off with a statement.” Because of his longtime association with the well-known LaFontsee Galleries, his services extend to helping
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a homeowner choose just the right piece for maximum impact. “Many clients don’t know what they want, or can’t visualize how it will look in their space,” he said. “Art can range from inexpensive posters to an investment original piece that not only retains its value, but increases in value over time. I can educate them on the difference between investment art versus a colorful print that can still bring a room together. It comes down to what works in the space.”
Nothing m akes a home more personal o r lends more panache th an artwork. W hat people choose to surround themselves with says so much a bout the homeowne r, without a single word being spo ken.
Opposite page, top: An oversized wooden-framed chalkboard and the colorful simplicity of artfully crafted numbers tie this multipurpose room at Union Square Condominiums together and add an element of surprise to the curved half wall.
The way a piece of art is matted and
8/2/11 1:03 PM
Photography by Michael Buck/ Courtesy Interior Designs by Tylor Devereaux, ASID
Grand rapids | Home
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framed can be as important as the artwork itself. “Framing is important because it really can help to tie a room together with the right finishes and style. You can make a really simple piece stand out even more by putting it in an awesome frame,” Devereaux explained. “Mixing it up and not making it so predictable is also an important design element. That twist of mixing abstract art with a traditional frame or a really modern space with a traditional piece of artwork — and vice versa — can really work. Reframing a piece that has been around for years can bring it totally up to date.” Daniel Borchers, CPF and owner of the Frame and Mat Shop — a 40-year custom frame business with locations in
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Rockford, Grand Haven and Holland — concurred. “The biggest change we’ve seen over the years is in the things that we frame,” he said. “We frame everything from traditional artwork like oils, prints and posters to items such as bottles, mugs, dresses, sports memorabilia and children’s artwork. That’s the beauty of art. Everybody has a different idea of what it is and how it should be presented.” You’ll find plenty of presentation options
Above: The circular design elements of this recreation room are mirrored by the bold, bowl-shaped art ware, making a vibrant statement against a canvas of exposed brickwork at City View Condominiums.
8/2/11 1:03 PM
Grand rapids | Home
Special advertiSing Section
Left: The modern art pieces echo the woven lampshade and orange leather chair while their black geometric frames reflect the design elements of the window frame, bringing harmony to this room at City View Condominiums. Right, bottom: A simply framed piece of abstract art creates the perfect contrast against the reclaimed saloon door and other architectural elements of this bedroom in UnionSquare Condominiums.
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at The Frame and Mat Shop. They carry close to 5,000 frame samples and source moldings from all over the world. “We also carry unique, one-of-a-kind, museumquality frames, such as those with finished corners of 22-carat gold leaf,” Borchers continued. “Colors, styles, materials and designs are always evolving and we can offer them all.” According to him, the most common framing materials continue to be metal and wood. “The industry has somewhat moved away from metal frames and rely more on wood, while right now, black as a design element is very popular, but we still use a lot of silver, gold and wood-tones.” You can even select artwork
For those perplexed by all the choices, the well-experienced staff at all three of the Frame and Mat Shop locations are experts in helping a customer find just the right mat and frame for their project. “That’s what we’re here for,” Borchers explained. “Sometimes people come in with one idea, but with our experience, we can show them what may be an even better option.” They perform all the custom work onsite, from the cutting of mats, moldings and joinings to preservation framing with 100-percent acid-free mats, along with conservation and museum-grade glass that protects artwork from damaging ultraviolet light. “We provide great service and stand behind our workmanship because ultimately, what we frame is memories.”
Photography by Michael Buck/Courtesy Interior Designs by Tylor Devereaux, ASID
on either paper or canvas from the shop’s website, which offers over 200-thousand different prints.
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8/4/11 3:48 PM
REDESIGNING HOME 2011
PART SIX
Keys to authenticity Design ingenuity, creative collaboration, expert craftsmanship and quality products merge in Jeffery Roberts Homes’ distinctive French farmhouse-themed home on Reeds Lake. BY LISA M. JENSEN oted for her discerning knowledge
N
Combining unique skills, insights and
com) crafted the home’s authentic, French-
of historic homes in East Grand
ingenuity as a builder and a designer with
inspired board-and-batten shutters, as well
Rapids, veteran Keller Williams
an unparalleled ability to recycle, reuse and
as provided Old World-styled casement
Realtor Katie Karczewski (Katie K, www.
reclaim existing space and architectural
windows from Jeld-Wen and decorative,
katie-k.com) recognized in a vacated, 1950s’
elements, Jeffery Roberts (www.jeffery
maintenance-free trim and ceilings for the
cinderblock house along Reeds Lake the
roberts.com) oversaw every aspect of the
screened porch and garage.
foundation for Steve and Karen Patterson’s
Pattersons’ extensive home renovation and
dream home: a farmhouse that authentically
landscape design.
replicated those they admired in the French countryside.
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Family-owned and operated since 1948, Gerrit’s Appliances (www.gerritsapplianc
Equipped with a full-service mill shop,
es.com) offered the Pattersons an extensive
Standale Lumber (www.standalelumber.
product selection, added savings through
8/2/11 1:03 PM
Nationwide buying group, and delivery and
style doors from Clopay’s Coachman Collec-
installation of their state-of-the-art choices,
tion were installed by the Overhead Door
which are concealed behind wood in the
Company of Grand Rapids (www.over
kitchen to promote Old World appeal.
gheaddoorgr.com). Providing an R-Value
The in-house design team at EPS Secu-
of 9.0, these doors lend nostalgic charac-
rity (www.epssecuirty.com) created the
ter while helping to contain this heated
Pattersons’ comprehensive custom security
garage’s warmth.
system, which the homeowners can easily
Grand Rapids Lighting Center (www.
monitor and control from a cell phone or
grandrapidslighting.com) enhanced the
Internet source. EPS’s central station also
farmhouse’s Old World appeal with “old”
constantly monitors the home for smoke/
looking, brand-new exterior fixtures includ-
heat, carbon monoxide and environmental
ing square carriage lights and outfitted the
conditions.
landscape with innovative products such as
Infusions By Etna (www.infusion showrooms.com) worked in tandem with
blue filtered LED “moon” lights mounted in treetops.
Roberts to select fixtures and faucets that
The diversity of ready-made, classic
blended with original elements to enhance
wood moldings offered by Ellenbaas Mill-
the farmhouse’s French vintage charm.
work (www.elenbaasmillwork.com) imparts
The long-established company specializes
in varying combinations on ceilings, wood-
in luxury plumbing products and guiding
work and doors unique yet united character
clients to options that best fit their needs.
from room to room.
Certified in the latest products and tech-
LTD Group Painting & Specialty
nology being innovated by Hunter Doug-
Finishes (616-299-6563) painstakingly
las, The Shade Shop (www.theshadeshop
applied timeless European hues in layers
hdwfg.com) assisted in the selection and
on furnishings crafted by Roberts’ team,
installation of French-inspired, custom-
then hand-rubbed and distressed these to
made shutters. Pre-installing the shutters
infuse “authentic” aged appeal. This team’s
to ensure a proper fit, then removing them
expertise with paints, washes, stains and
for Roberts’ artisans to finish, underscores
waxes throughout the farmhouse fuels its
a dedication to customer satisfaction that
century-old ambience.
began in 1935.
Specialists at Bridge Street Electric
Appreciating the love of stone acquired
(www.bridgestreetlighting.com) refurbished
by the Pattersons while residing for more
and restored antique light fixtures the Pat-
than a decade in Europe, Top of the World
tersons and Roberts had collected, including
Granite (www.topoftheworldgranite.com)
rewiring or newly electrifying all chande-
persistently searched for the perfect cuts
liers, sconces and lamps. Since 1929, the
of soapstone, finding them in Illinois, then
company’s restorative arm has only grown
custom-cut honed marble for the master
stronger as more customers reclaim family
bath vanity.
heirlooms and recycle lights.
Collaborating with Roberts and the Pat-
A nostalgic product series from Modern
tersons, Everett’s Landscape (www.ever
Hardware
ettslandscape.com) created the farmhouse’s
that includes a variety of latches, knobs,
inviting, French country-inspired terrain
long rod bars and exposed hinges lends a
using elements including naturally-laid out-
relaxed, “collected over the years” feel in
croppings of Blue River ledgerock, raised
the kitchen, and merges seamlessly with
stone planting beds, manicured boxwood,
repurposed antiques.
Insulated steel and composite carriage-
GRM_09.11_HOME_PG30.41.indd 41
french farmhouse reception
and tour to benefit:
S
ince 2003, Grand Rapids Magazine has been showcasing the regions premier custom home builders, architects, designers and suppliers via our Design Home program. All the while, Design Home open houses and VIP events have helped raise over $120,000 in charitable contributions to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, DeVos Children’s Hospital, Camp Blodgett and now the American Red Cross. The current Design Home program couples builder/designer Jeffery Robert’s expansive vision of Wilcox Gardens with his acumen for re-designing a heritage Reeds Lake home. Homes in France blush at the authenticity he captured in his French farmhouse design. Grand Rapids Magazine invites you to experience Jeffery’s artistry first-hand during an exclusive private tour September 22. All proceeds benefit the American Red Cross. You’ll be wined, dined and exhilarated, all the while doing your part to help those who never question helping us.
French Farmhouse Reception and Tour Date/Time: September 22, 2011 6 PM – 9 PM Tickets: $125 each Special VIP Tickets (limited to 16): $225 each Authentic French Cuisine and Pastries provided by:
Special Live Auction to Benefit American Red Cross For tickets and more information please contact: Amanda Meldrum American Red Cross of Greater Grand Rapids (616) 456-8661 ext. 3608 Order tickets online at: american.redcross.org/redesigninghome2011
(www.modernhardware.com)
lavender and reclaimed items including a European fountain.
REDESIGNING HOME 2011
Learn more about Design Home at www.grmag.com
JEFFERY ROBERTS HOMES
INC
*Homeowners’ names have been changed to protect their privacy.
8/4/11 3:19 PM
Andrea Melvin, registrar at Grand Rapids Public Museum, puts finishing touches on a mannequin for All Dressed Up – 1950’s Style, an exhibit of party gowns, yearbooks and mementos from the era. The exhibit runs through February 2012.
42 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Behind the scenes
BEFORE AN EXHIBIT IS UNVEILED AT GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM, THE STAFF SPENDS SEVERAL MONTHS PLANNING AND BUILDING TO MAKE OBJECTS COME ALIVE. By Marty Primeau Photography by Johnny Quirin
O
N THE FOURTH FLOOR of the Grand Rapids Public Museum, a quote by Albert Einstein is posted: “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” No one remembers who stuck it by the whiteboard where the staff charts the progress of every exhibit. But the quote sums up what goes on upstairs, in the part of the museum visitors never see. It’s where exhibits come to life. Tom Bantle oversees the planning and installation of every exhibition displayed in the Public Museum, from such traveling extravaganzas as last year’s Big, Big Bugs! with larger than life insects, to the upcoming Big Stuff exhibit featuring unique items from the museum’s permanent archives. “The starting point is an idea,” Bantle said as he walked through the Thank God for Michigan! Stories From the Civil War exhibit
just a few days after it opened in June. Sometimes a concept is event driven; other times it’s the brainstorm of a staff member or a suggestion from visitors. “We kick around ideas and formulate a team,” Bantle said. “First, we need a story. What will this exhibit be about? What’s needed to make it come alive?” And that’s where imagination comes in. For the Civil War exhibit, that meant going beyond visual displays and “engaging visitors by tapping into all the senses,” Bantle said. The team taped two Grand Rapids Community College students reading excerpts from letters sent home from a Union soldier to his wife. “It’s one thing for a visitor to read the letters displayed in a case, but to add voices is more likely to touch people and help them make the connection to these historical figSeptember 2011 Grand rapids 43
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Clockwise, from top: Exhibits technician Chris Kemler changes a light bulb in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit; Nick Nawrocki and Becke Shiel from the design department review a print for the Civil War exhibit; carpenter Bob Crowler builds a display stand; collections manager Tim Priest, left, and collections curator Alex Forist clean an antique hearse in the collections building.
44 Grand Rapids September 2011
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8/2/11 12:04 PM
“It’s one thing for a visitor to read the letters displayed in a case, but to add voices is more likely to touch people and help them make the connection to these historical figures. It’s our job to create a realistic environment and to come up with activity stations for visitors.” — Tom Bantle
ures,” Bantle said. Every exhibit is a little different. Even though rented exhibits such as Bugs, Robotic Dinosaurs or the recent Bodies Revealed arrive ready-made, Bantle said, “It’s our job to create a realistic environment and to come up with activity stations for visitors.” To accomplish those goals takes teamwork and collaboration between the museum’s various departments: education, research and interpretation, whose staff members handle the writing and presentation of programs on a variety of topics; exhibits, including design and construction of exhibits; and collections, which oversees all of the museum’s archive of objects. Each exhibit is assigned an author who takes control of the content and follows through to the end, making sure everything goes as planned. Civil War was a natural, Bantle said. “The museum has been around since 1854 so we actually have many artifacts from the war,” he said, pointing to a vintage canteen and belt from the permanent collection. Those artifacts are housed in the museum’s Community Archives and Research Center — three buildings, including the museum’s original building at 54 Jefferson St. SE. “We have been a collecting institution for 155 years,” said Alex Forist, a member of the curatorial department. As a result, the museum has a permanent collection of more than 250,000 artifacts — at any time, only one-10th is on display in the museum. “We get offers of donations daily, but we have to be careful about what we accept,” Forist explained. “Once we take it, we have a commitment to store and care for each object — to keep it from crumbling.” For recent donations, there’s a handy database that stores all the pertinent information. But for the century’s worth of stuff September 2011 Grand Rapids 45
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donated before the database was set up, it’s not so easy. “The Civil War (exhibit) proved to be a lengthy process,” Forist said. “For instance, looking for uniforms, we had to research the entire historic clothing collection.” Same for the weapons, documents and photographs — “they’re all separate collections that have to be searched.” Once the team has a basic outline of the story and what objects are needed to tell it, Becky Shiel in the exhibit design department figures out creative ways to display those artifacts. “I take the room or space and all the components and lay it out,” said Shiel, who says her 15 years as a kitchen and bath designer is a real advantage. She also designs the cases and the spatial relationship between the pieces.
Civil War was especially fun, she said. “We did everything completely from scratch.” Like the smell barrel. The team wanted to recreate the actual smells of the battlefields, so they bought an old wooden barrel and created a matching game for visitors to guess the scents: whiskey, gun powder, coffee, cigar and salt pork. “Sometimes executing these ideas isn’t easy,” Bantle said. “The team tried several things and finally had to find scented oils that had some of those scents.” Even rented exhibits, like the upcoming Facing Mars, present challenges, Shiel said. “We like to add something to make it unique to Grand Rapids. The author takes control of the content, but we brainstorm to see how we can appeal to different groups.” GR Marty Primeau is managing editor of Grand Rapids Magazine.
Pictured above, Alex Forist and Tim Priest work on a bison that will be part of the Big Stuff exhibit opening Nov. 12. Right, Rebecca Kenny, an administrative assistant who wears several hats at the museum, paints a photography station to be used in a display.
46 Grand Rapids September 2011
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New use for an old museum “Beautifully decrepit with an air of history.” That’s how George Brad-
The project started when artist Paul Amenta, co-founder of ActiveSite, was describing his
Amenta loved the idea and so did the Public Museum staff. “We had six days of shoot-
shaw described the old Grand
plan to stage an art exhibition,
ing, in total, to make a 15-min-
Rapids Public Museum building
Michigan — Land of Riches,
ute film,” said Bradshaw. He
at 54 Jefferson Ave. SE. So,
featuring works by area college
assembled a local cast and
given the chance to film a movie
faculty and students displayed
crew — including his wife, Carey
in the outdated gallery and exhi-
in the old museum building.
Bradshaw, as producer — who
bition space, he simply couldn’t
In 1994, when the Public
donated their time and talent.
resist. “Public Museum” — his
Museum moved into the newly
“The people in Grand Rapids
constructed Van Andel Museum
are really so generous.”
short film about a smug, big
Center, the original building was
city curator who loses his job
converted into a storage space
December, just in time to
and tries to revive his career by
for museum’s vast collection.
submit it to the Cannes Film
heading up a small town muse-
Amenta planned to use the
Festival. “Public Museum” was
um — was shot last year.
decaying gallery spaces to dis-
included in the Short Film Cor-
play art by students, faculty and
ner, Bradshaw said. “Now we’ve
alumni from area colleges.
entered it in about 15 other film
“No one has ever been allowed to shoot a fictional film in that space, so I was really
“He asked me to do an
proud to get the opportunity,”
installation,” said Bradshaw,
said Bradshaw, who’d relocated
whose marketing background
to West Michigan from New
included filmmaking and song-
York City a few months ear-
writing. “So I said, ‘Why don’t I
lier. “I was like a kid in a candy
make a movie — a mockumen-
shop.”
tary, like ‘Spinal Tap.’”
He finished editing in
Pictured above, filmmaker George Bradshaw and his wife, Carey, (center) pose with the cast and crew of “Public Museum,” a 15-minute film shot inside the old Public Museum building. Below, from left: actors Mike Rysk, Joe Anderson and Jill Zwarensteyn in a scene from the film; actor Dan Usaj; actor Craig Powers and Buttercup, Bradshaw’s puppy, with makeup artist Sophia Maslowski.
festivals.”
September 2011 Grand Rapids 47
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“Relics” by Snyder and Hocking was an ArtPrize 2010 entry.
48 Grand Rapids September 2011
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8/2/11 12:35 PM
By Marty Primeau Photography by Johnny Quirin
ArtPrize 2011: New director, new opportunities
i
It took only a moment for Catherine Creamer to list her goals for ArtPrize 2011. “I want to produce a fantastic ArtPrize 3 that meets and exceeds the public’s expectations,” said the new executive director, named in April to replace Bill Holsinger-Robinson. “And,” she added with a chuckle, “to make sure it happens.” ArtPrize 2011, the city’s 19-day “radically urban art exhibition” begins Sept. 21. This year, 1,582 artists from 36 countries and 43 states will show their work in 164 venues throughout downtown Grand Rapids. Each artist is competing for the $250,000 grand prize. Creamer, who first participated as a voting member of the public and later
as a volunteer, said she’s now seeing the competition from the inside. And she’s learning as she goes. Her background as a textile artist, business professional and design consultant for the furniture industry have prepared her to take on the challenge of overseeing the art competition founded by Rick DeVos in 2009. Organizers expect more than 500,000 people to attend this year — more than double the number who attended the inaugural event. “Some organizations work 20 years to get that kind of response,” Creamer said. “I want to ensure that ArtPrize has some longevity, without binding it. Right now, it’s an open platform. It’s simple, with
very few rules. Our intent is to help it exist by garnering more community support and reaching out to the entire region — in fact, reaching all the way to arts communities on both coasts.” Creamer is excited about changes this year, including the first exhibition center for performing arts. St. Cecilia Music Center will be the dedicated space for singers, musicians and other performers. “There’ll be a great focus on musical performance, coupled with other skills and talents from other exhibition centers to show the diversity of art,” she said. Information about artists, venues, voting and special activities can be found on the ArtPrize website: www.artprize.org.
ArtPrize Executive Director Catherine Creamer shares a laugh with Chris LaPorte, ArtPrize 2010 grand prize winner, above left, and meets with Todd Herring, marketing director, at the ArtPrize headquarters. September 2011 Grand Rapids 49
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Chris LaPorte: Freedom to focus ArtPrize 2010 winner: Awed by the public’s response. Chris LaPorte describes himself as “an understated guy.” His quiet demeanor isn’t what one might expect from the artist whose massive pencil drawing, “Cavalry, American Officers, 1921,” took top honors at ArtPrize 2010. “‘Cavalry’ was something I wanted to do for me,” he said. “And with ArtPrize, I realized I’d have an opportunity to show it.” LaPorte said the competition motivated him to finish his 8-by-28-foot drawing in nine months. Installing “Cavalry” at Grand Rapids Art Museum was another challenge. “After getting it up, my thought was, ‘Good, we’re done.’ But really, that was just the beginning.” He said he was awed by the public’s response. “You make a thing and hope people have a connection to it or are affected by it, but you’re not sure. So to be at the museum and get an outpouring of people expressing how they felt — it was very validating.” Thanks to the $250,000 prize, LaPorte
has moved from his 400-square-foot garage studio into a larger space he shares with his girlfriend, artist MJ McCabe. Though he was never a starving artist — for two decades he has supported himself sketching caricatures and portraits and teaching part time at Aquinas College — he said he finally has the freedom to truly focus on his fine Artists Chris LaPorte, winner of ArtPrize 2010, and Ran Ortner, art. ArtPrize 2009 winner. “When you pursue art, you dream of living he said he loves pencil drawings because off your artwork,” he said. the process is very methodic. “I really But fine art wasn’t always his passion. Growing up, the Bay City native enjoy the meditative, repetitive marks excelled in math and science and was that build up to create something bigger.” This year, he entered a smaller drawearning a degree in engineering. “I was pretty left brain,” he said. But LaPorte ing in ArtPrize, to be displayed at Cathesaid he switched to Aquinas College, dral Square. “I hope that my participating at a lesswhere he “realized what art could be,” er known venue helps to motivate people earning a master’s degree in oil painting. Though he has studied other mediums, to explore the city,” he said.
50 Grand Rapids September 2011
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Ran Ortner: Living his dream
ArtPrize 2009 winner: “The tempo of my life has been entirely changed by a singular event.” For Ran Ortner, winning ArtPrize 2009 has been a roller coaster ride — “wonderful and traumatic and completely disorienting. The tempo of my life has been entirely changed by a singular event.” And to think, he mused, “I didn’t even plan to enter.” Ortner, who’d moved to New York City in 1990 — “for one reason, to be in the middle of the art world” — said a friend in Brooklyn submitted his work. “I was 50 years old — 30 years into my life as an artist. I told him, ‘I don’t do competitions. That’s not where it’s going to happen for me.’” But it did. The artist who’d never been to Michigan now considers Grand Rapids “one of my favorite places.” Ortner’s “Open Water, no. 24,” a 19-foot-long rendering of waves and water
inspired by his passion for surfing, took first place in the inaugural ArtPrize. The $250,000 award has freed him from the monthly anxiety of cobbling together enough money to pay rent and bills. He’s hired assistants, taken on more jobs and is living his dream. “There’s a lot going on for me, all over the world,” he said, mentioning recent commissions in La Jolla, Calif., and Sydney, Australia. “I’m getting closer to this notion of what may be possible.” A San Francisco native, Ortner spent most of his boyhood years in rural Alaska, living with his parents in an isolated log cabin. “It was exquisitely beautiful,” he said. “My mother painted, along with gardening and canning. She had a real pioneer spirit — very can do and make do — and I certainly got the model of that from her.”
During the winter months, Ortner and his family would fly their single engine Cessna to South America. “I spent a lot of time in small planes looking at a carpet of extraordinary landscape,” he said. “I was always stunned by the beauty of the environment.” After high school, he returned to California, where he was passionate about surfing and motorcycles: “Always pushing to go faster and looking for lyrical smoothness and rhythm.” It’s that same pursuit he finds in painting, a hobby he started while recuperating from knee surgery. “Traditional thinking drops away and I engage in the sense of flight.” GR Marty Primeau is managing editor of Grand Rapids Magazine.
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broadway grand rapids performance of “mary poppins”
Take a bow 2011-2012 FALL ARTS PREVIEW
PERFORMING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS AND LOCAL COLLEGES OFFER A VARIETY OF ENTERTAINMENT TO SUIT A WIDE RANGE OF INTERESTS. BY KENDAL PEKTAS
ACTORS’ THEATRE is opening its 31st season with a world premiere with a local topic: “Rust,” a play about the closing of the GM stamping plant in Wyoming. “Spring Awakening” is a rock musical that won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Performs at Spectrum Theater. www.actorsthea tregrandrapids.com Sept. 29-Oct. 8 — “Rust”
Dec. 1-17 — “Spring Awakening” Jan. 26-Feb. 4 — “Next Fall” March 22-31 — “Ampersand” May 17-26 — “August — Osage County”
BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS opens the season with “Come Fly Away,” Tony-winner Twyla Tharp’s musical featuring songs by Frank Sinatra. The 25th anniversary production of “Les Miserables” will include new staging and scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. Venue is DeVos Performance Hall. www.bwaygr.org Oct. 4-9 — “Come Fly Away” Oct. 16 — “Under the Street Lamp” Nov. 15-20 — Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” Nov. 29-Dec. 4 — “Les Miserables” Jan. 17-22 — “Million Dollar Quartet” Feb. 21-26 — “Mary Poppins”
May 22-26 — “The Addams Family” June 15-16 — “Cats”
CIRCLE THEATRE offers five main stage productions May-September. This season’s finale is “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” a musical revue that captures the comic and musical soul of 1930’s Harlem. Circle Presents School and Family Series takes place at local schools and other venues; some performances are open to the public. www.circle theatre.org Sept. 8-10, 14-17, 18, 21-24 — “Ain’t Misbehavin’” (Aquinas PAC) Nov. 14-15 — “Ben & Me” (Gerald R. Ford Museum) Jan. 26-27 — “Skippyjon Jones” Feb. 7-8 — “The Color of Justice” Feb. 9-10 — “Honest Abe: A Character You Can Count On” (Ford Museum)
photography courteSy broadWay grand rapidS
Professionals
Live entertainment in West Michigan just keeps getting better. Local performing arts organizations offer increasingly high-quality performances in opera, ballet, music and theater. Broadway Grand Rapids brings professional performances to town, as do Forest Hills and Van Singel fine arts centers. Dog Story Theater hosts a variety of live entertainment in its black box space.
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Feb. 16-17 — “Ramona Quimby” May 14-15 — “Rainbow Fish”
DOG STORY THEATER is an all-volunteer, nonprofit venue in a black box space at 7 Jefferson Ave. SE in downtown Grand Rapids. It hosts monthly improv comedy shows by Pop Scholars and comedy nights every Monday; original as well as classic plays, including an entire season by Grand Haven’s Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company; concerts and film. www.dogstorytheater.com Oct. 12-16 — “Much Ado About Nothing” (Pigeon Creek) Oct. 27-31 — “Prom Night” (musical parody of pop culture Halloween movie) Dec. 15-17 — The Don’t We Boys (“dangerous sketch comedy”) Jan 5-8, 12-15 — “Taming of the Shrew” (Pigeon Creek) Feb. 16-19 — “Bard on the Run” (Pigeon Creek) April 12-15, 19-22 — “Romeo and Juliet” (Pigeon Creek) June 21-24 — “Love’s Labour’s Lost” (Pigeon Creek) FOREST HILLS FINE ARTS CENTER
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY (TOP); PAUL KOLNIK (BOTTOM)
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS
hosts an annual subscription series (to be announced) that includes an eclectic group of performances from national recording stars to Broadway musicals. Its Artists in Residence program (see below) offers month-long exhibits in the lobby. www.fhfineartscenter. com Sept. 6-29 — Lisa Burrows-Dionne (reception 6-7:30 p.m. Sept. 8) Oct. 5-28 — Larry Blovits (reception Oct. 13)
Grand Rapids Ballet Company celebrates its 40th anniversary with a performance by Maria Kowroski.
Grand Rapids Symphony “Ballroom with a Twist”
Jan. 6-27 — Steven Huyser-Honig (reception Jan. 12) Feb. 2-24 — Kathleen Mooney (reception Feb. 9) March 1-26 — T.J. Aitken (reception March 8)
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET COMPANY celebrates its 40th anniversary in September with a gala celebration that will include a performance by Maria Kowroski. The season opens with Paul Taylor’s “Company B,” set to songs of the Andrews sisters. Performances take place at GRBC’s Peter Martin Wege Theatre, except as noted. www.grballet.com Sept. 15 — 40th Anniversary Gala Celebration Sept. 16-18, 23-25 — “Company B,” “Fairy Doll,” “Serenade” Oct. 27-30 — “Dracula” Nov. 5 — “Johnny Starfish and Friends” (children’s performance, Forest Hills FAC) Nov. 25-27, Dec. 9-11 — “The Nutcracker” (DeVos Performance Hall) Feb. 10-12, 17-19 — “Amore and More,” featuring “Red Angels,” “The Envelope,” “Con Amore” and “The Flower Festival in Genzano” May 4-6, 11-13 — “Black & White,” a new ballet by Mario Radacovsky, who created “Romeo and Juliet” for GRBC last season. GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE will open its season with the drama “Twelve Angry Men,” followed by a theatrical adaption of the classic film “Night of the Living Dead.” “Bye Bye Birdie” is a Civic Theatre premiere. The season also includes a play especially for children. www.grct.org Sept. 9-18 — “Twelve Angry Men” Oct. 21-30 — “Night of the Living Dead” Nov. 18-Dec. 18 — “The Wizard of Oz” Jan. 13-29 — “Harvey”
Feb. 24-March 18 — “Bye Bye Birdie” April 20-29 — “Pinkalicious” (children) June 8-24 — “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”
GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY marks its 82nd season, offering multiple concert series that range from Pops to classical, and from Rising Stars to the out-of-the-box SymphonicBoom. Three GRS musicians have composed “ArtPrize Triptychs,” taking place in October. For Family Series and Lollipop concerts, see website. www.grsymphony.org Sept. 16-17 — “Mozart Double Piano” Sept. 23-25 — “Gershwin’s Greatest Hits” Oct. 6-7 — “ArtPrize Triptychs” Oct. 7 — “A Schubert Symphony” Oct. 21-22 — “Mendelssohn Violin Concerto” Nov. 5-6 — “Disney in Concert” Nov. 11-12 — “Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony” Nov. 17-18 — “Creative Pathways” Nov. 18 — “Bernstein & Copland” Dec. 15-18 — “Nestle Gerber Holiday Pops” Dec. 21-23 — “Cirque de Noel with Cirque de la Symphonie” Jan. 6-7 — “Cinematic Shostakovich” Jan. 13-15 — “Swingin’ with Sinatra and Dorsey” Jan. 27-28 — “Mozart and Beethoven” Feb. 10-11 — “Romantic Piano” Feb. 17 — “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” Feb. 23-24 — “Two Brandenburgs” March 3 — “Symphony with Soul” March 9-10 — “Rach 2 Meets Sibelius” March 16-18 — “Live and Let Die: The Music of Paul McCartney” March 22-23 — “Colorful Contrast”
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Opera Grand Rapids’ performance of “La Boheme”
HERITAGE THEATRE GROUP was founded in 1990 with the mission of presenting “classic plays and plays with classic themes.” Its season runs from spring through fall; plays are performed at various Grand Rapids’ venues. This year’s season ends with a classic comedy by Moliere. www.heritage theatregr.org Sept. 29, 30, Oct. 1, 6-8 — “The School for Wives” (Dog Story Theater)
mances are at DeVos Performance Hall. www.operagr.com Oct. 28-29 — “Il Trovatore” Feb. 3-4 — “The Magic Flute” May 4-5 — “La Boheme”
ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER’s Great Artist Gala opens the season with worldrenowned violinist Sarah Chang performing at SCMC’s annual fundraising event. St. Cecilia also offers two concert series, one classical and one jazz. www.scmc-online.org Jazz vocalist Jane Monheit will perform at St. Cecilia Music Center.
MASTER ARTS THEATRE is an independent, nonprofit community theater “guided by a Christian world view” and founded in 1985. This season’s production of “The Sound of Music” will include an audience sing-along. www.masterarts.org Sept. 15-Oct. 8 — “Miracle Worker” Oct. 14-Oct. 16 — “Smoke on the Mountain Homecoming” Nov. 17-Dec. 10 — “The Sound of Music” Feb. 2-25 — “Rehearsal for Murder” April 19-May 12 — “The Importance of Being Ernest” OPERA GRAND RAPIDS celebrates 45 years of bringing professional opera to the city. The 2011-2012 season includes classic operas from three of the world’s most beloved composers: Verdi, Mozart and Puccini. Performances feature award-winning visiting artists, local performers and music by the Grand Rapids Symphony. Perfor-
Fire, Baroque April 12 — Classical Series: Jupiter String Quartet May 3 — Classical Series: Jeffery Kahane and members of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
VAN SINGEL FINE ARTS CENTER in Byron Center opens its season with Emmywinning actor Ed Asner portraying FDR. Van Singel also offers Broadway touring productions and concert performances, including Honky Tonk Angels, featuring songs by country legends such as Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. Facebook Oct. 20 — Ed Asner as FDR Dec. 1 — The Lettermen Feb. 2 — “The Music of ABBA” with Arrival From Sweden March 22 — “Honky Tonk Angels” April 27 — “An Evening of Cool Jazz” May 12 — “The Rat Pack”
Colleges and Universities
West Michigan colleges present a variety of performances and exhibitions by students and teachers. These higher education institutions also showcase artists and performers from around the world. Schedules for the 2011-12 school year are subject to change. Check websites for updates and detailed information. Oct. 13 — Great Artist Gala with Sarah Chang Oct. 27 — Jazz Series: Joe Lovano and Us Five Nov. 30 — Jazz Series: Jane Monheit Feb. 9 — Jazz Series: Nicholas Payton March 8 — Classical Series: Apollo’s
AQUINAS COLLEGE celebrates its 125th anniversary this year with several special events, and its Contemporary Writers Series celebrates 15 years with a fundraiser featuring author Scott Turow in March. www. aquinas.edu
Photography courtesy Opera Grand Rapids (top); Unlimited Myles, Inc. (Bottom)
March 27 — “Ballroom with a Twist” March 30-31 — “Beacon of Hope” April 20-21 — “Mahler’s Symphony of a Thousand” May 11-13 — “Behind the Mask” May 18-19 — “Heavens Above, Earth Below”
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Aug. 28-Sept. 25 — “Four Corners” art exhibit by Takeshi Takahara Oct. 6-9 — “Good Night Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet” (theater) Oct. 9 — Music Department Open House and Sampler Concert Oct. 27 — Luis J. Rodriquez (Contemporary Writers) Nov. 20 — Chamber Concert Dec. 1-4 — “Xanadu” (theater) Dec. 11 — Christmas Concert Feb. 9 — Thylias Moss (Contemporary Writers) Feb. 19-March 23 — Madeline and Darlene Kaczmarczyk exhibit Feb. 23-26 — “The Arab Israeli Cookbook” (theater) March 14 — Scott Turow (Contemporary Writers fundraiser) April 19-22 — “Isle of Marvels” (theater)
March 10 — Artist Series: Turtle Island Quartet
CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY’s theater department will present four productions for young and old, wrapping up the season with Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” www. cornerstone.edu Oct. 21, 22, 27-30 — “Arsenic and Old Lace”
September and events continue into early December. Its Shakespeare Festival begins Sept. 30 and includes performances of “Twelfth Night.” In the spring, the theater department will present the world premiere of a new English translation of “Antona Garcia.” Performances from the music and dance departments also take place throughout the year. www.gvsu.edu Sept. 30-Oct. 9 — “Twelfth Night”
CALVIN COLLEGE starts its theater season with the classic Greek play “Antigone.” Art exhibits at the Center Art Gallery change regularly, and musical performances take place throughout the year, including the Artist Series, which brings nationally known performers. www.calvin.edu Calvin College Center Art Gallery
The Lettermen will perform at Van Singel Fine Arts Center. Dec. 1-4, 8-11 — “The 1940’s Radio Hour” Feb. 2-4, 9-12 — “A Little Princess” March 29-31, April 1, 12-15, 19-22 — “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”
Photography courtesy calvin college center art gallery (top); van SingEl FAC (Bottom)
Photography courtesy Opera Grand Rapids (top); Unlimited Myles, Inc. (Bottom)
GRAND RAPIDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Sept. 6-Nov. 5 — Associated American Artists: Art by Subscription Sept. 24 — Artist Series: Preservation Hall Jazz Band Oct. 29 — Artist Series: Irish Chamber Orchestra with Leon Fleisher, piano Nov. 3-5, 10-12 — “Antigone” Nov. 11-Dec. 17 — Light Work, by Rebecca Cummins; A Nickel and a Kopek, Photographs by Bill Franson Dec. 2-3 — Handel’s “Messiah” by the Oratorio Society Jan. 6-Feb. 18 — Alumni Painting Exhibition; In My Own Back Yard, by Mary Abma Feb. 8 — Artist Series: St. Olaf Choir
kicks off its GRCC Players performances with “Paragon Springs” by American playwright Steven Dietz, a PEN U.S.A Award winner. Music performances include various choral and instrumental ensembles and the Kent Philharmonia Orchestra, among others. Visual arts are presented in the GRCC Collins Art Gallery. www.grcc.edu Oct. 28 — “Ghoulfest” by the Kent Philharmonia Orchestra Nov. 3-5 — “Paragon Springs” (play) Dec. 4 — “Songs for the Holiday” concert Jan. 12-14 — “T Bone N Weasel” (play) Feb. 24 — “Pianorama VII” March 1-3 — “For Better” (play) March 15 — Winter Jazz Night (Shades of Blue, Jazz Orchestra and Combo) April 4-6 — Student-Directed One Act Plays April 20 — Musical Moods 64, a collage concert by all ensembles
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY’s annual Fall Arts Celebration begins in
Oct. 11 — “Music of South America,” coincides with Arte Argentina art exhibit Dec. 3-4 — Dance concert Nov. 11-13 — “Our Country’s Good” Nov. 20 — Bandorama (Laker Marching Band) Feb. 3-12 — “The Light in the Piazza” (opera theater) March 30-April 7 — “Antona Garcia” April 12-13 — Choral concert April 20-21 — Spring dance concert
HOPE COLLEGE theater department will present “Two Gentlemen of Verona,” a comedy by William Shakespeare, in November. Its Visiting Writers Series begins in September. Art exhibits are shown in its DePree Gallery, and music performances take place throughout the school year, including a Guest Artist Series. www.hope.edu Sept. 27 — Chris Dombrowski, poet, and Mira Bartok, author Oct. 14-15, 19-22 — “Marion Bridge” (play) Oct. 14-Nov. 18 — Faculty Art Exhibition by Bruce McCombs Oct. 20 — Guest Artist Series: Joel Harrison Septet Nov. 1 — Guest Artist Series: Dave Liebman Nov. 3 — Jaimy Gordon, author
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Nov. 14 — Edward Hirsch and Adam Zagajewski, poets Nov. 17-19, 21-22 — “Two Gentlemen of Verona” Dec. 3-4 — Christmas Vespers, Dimnent Memorial Chapel
“Cirque Dreams Holidaze” comes to WMU’s Miller Auditorium.
KENDALL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN has four art galleries. Kendall Gallery focuses on work by visiting artists from around the world and occasional exhibits by faculty. It also hosts the Studio Excellence Awards at the end of the school year. Gallery 114 focuses on graduate thesis exhibits as well as exhibitions by visiting artists. Gallery 104 features undergraduate exhibitions and is run by students. Gallery 602 features competitions for painting undergraduates and select juried exhibitions.
MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY’s Wharton Center in East Lansing presents a wide range of entertainment in a Broadway Series, a Performing Arts Series and a Family Series, among others. A few of the upcoming performances are: Jackson Browne Sept. 24; “Jersey Boys” Sept. 28-Oct. 16; Tony Bennett Oct. 28; Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo Feb. 18; and Joshua Bell April 21. www. whartoncenter.com
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY’s Miller Auditorium on the Kalamazoo campus offers a choice of subscription series of national performances, including the PNC Broadway in West Michigan Series, complete with West Michigan premieres and returning Broadway favorites. The 201112 line-up opens with “My Fair Lady” Oct. 18-19, and also includes such productions
as “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” Nov. 29-30, “Rock of Ages” Jan. 31 and “In the Heights” Feb. 24. The Lake Michigan Mailers Spotlight series offers a variety of entertainment, including dance, musical performers and comedians (such as Bob Newhart Oct. 23). www.millerauditorium.com GR
Kendal Pektas is a Gemini intern and a student at Grand Valley State University.
GRAM’s Friis-Hansen: ‘Shout it from the rooftops’ he really means it. After introducing himself, the new director and CEO of Grand Rapids Art Museum launched into a 15-minute spiel about what he loves about the city, the museum, the people, the culture. “Sorry,” he said, finally pausing to breathe. “I’m just really excited.” Friis-Hansen moved to Grand Rapids from Austin, Texas, where he most recently served as executive director of the Austin Museum of Art. Coming from a city regarded as one of the coolest, most artsy places in America, Friis-Hansen said he sees that same potential in West Michigan. “There’s a synergy happening and we have to shout it from the rooftops,” he said. “People here know about it. I want them to be more engaged.” His colleagues around the country are jealous of the opportunities, he said. “When they look at the site of GRAM in the center of downtown Grand Rapids, adjacent to an artist-designed park, surrounded by shopping, restaurants, corporations and apartment buildings — it’s a spectacular situation to be at the epicenter of that. I see all sorts of ways that we can serve the community, to excite the community with arts, activities, conversations and dialogues. Museums need to be catalysts. That’s one of the things that I find most exciting.”
He paused for another breath. Friis-Hansen does have plans for GRAM. He wants to broaden the base of the audience and “get more diversity. I want people to come back more often. My vision of a museum is to be a place for all people — a community convener.” He wants GRAM to be a catalyst for creative thinking. “The museum is not only about art history, but creative thinking in all its forms. We have a fantastic education program that teaches people of all ages how to look at art and gives tools for critical thinking.”
Photography by Johnny Quirin (bottom); courtesy Western Michigan University (top)
When Dana Friis-Hansen says he’s excited about his new job,
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City Guide
at Cambridge House, the duck pot pie is served in a mini cast-iron skillet. » pg67
Photography by Michael Buck
Inside » Chef profile 60
» Dining Review 67
» grand vine 72
» Fresh Hops 79
» clubs ‘n’ pubs 92
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City Guide: Chef Profile
Practice makes perfect Italian cooking is his passion, but Tre Cugini’s Joe Frizzell says it took years of working with talented chefs to hone his skills. By Julie Burch
Photography by Michael Buck
N
ew restaurants often come and go, but great restaurants become a legend. Such is the case with Tre Cugini, celebrating 10 years of serving authentic regional Italian cuisine in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. The culinary stylings of Executive Chef Joe Frizzell, who grew up on a dairy farm in Lakeview, play a large part in that equation. While in college, he took a trip out west where he was “thrown into the kitchen.” He dropped out of school and cooked at national parks and ski resorts. Upon his return in ’98, he enrolled in GRCC’s culinary program and was snagged at a job fair to work as an apprentice alongside Chef Chris Madsen at The 1913 Room. He later moved to Vail to become chef at The Inn at Beaver Creek, and from there, moved to the Larkspur Restaurant at the base of the mountain. When he returned to GR to be closer to his family, he rejoined the Amway Grand Plaza, working at the reinvented Cygnus 27 before taking on the executive chef role at Tre Cugini more than four years ago. How did you get started cooking? When I graduated high school, I didn’t even know what a chef was. This was before anyone talked about food — before the Food Network. Out west, I was peeling onions and washing dishes and decided I wanted to cook. I got drawn into it. I worked with the hardcore breed of chefs: They weren’t in it for fame; it’s what they knew to do. They’re all adrenaline junkies. What is it you like about cooking? I like the buzz. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s nice to make people happy for the work you do, even though it’s short-lived. How would you describe the menu at Tre Cugini? The overall menu is traditional with high-end ingredients. We look around region to region to see what’s available and what’s in season, and go from there. The weekly specials let us get really specific on what’s available on a week-byweek basis. We also do a monthly threecourse prix-fixe menu that is still seasonal
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City guide: Chef profile but is a little more static and a little less expensive, so it lets people who might not be familiar with our restaurant come in and try a few things. What differentiates good italian fare from fine italian dining prepared by an expert chef? Practice. Talent is important, but in a professional kitchen environment, talent comes from relentless hard work: head down, only talking when it concerns the table order. Italian food is my passion now, but it took a lot of years working with many very talented chefs to hone my skills. Italian food is simple to learn, but it takes a lifetime to master. I’m a student for life. Do you have advice for home cooks preparing italian food? Let the water
get hot and pay attention to the pasta. Don’t just dump it in and walk away. Little things like that will make your meal better. Also, it’s important to work clean. If an at-home cook stays organized and cleans up as they work, everything is easier. Do you have a signature dish or a favorite to make? We have a lot of fun braising meats — slow cooking on low heat for a long time — like osso bucco, lamb shanks and braised sweet and sour pork. Tell us about the recipe you’re sharing with us here: This recipe is for the sweet and sour braised pork, which is brined first. It’s a two-day process with a lot of steps but is relatively easy to do. gr
“italian food is simple to learn, but it takes a lifetime to master. i’m a student for life.”
Joe Frizzell’s
agrodolce Brasato di maiale serves: 10-16
1 10-pound boneless pork shoulder (or butt) portioned into 10-ounce pieces
Brine: 2 gallons water 4 cups sugar 2 cups kosher salt
Combine brine ingredients and stir until salt and sugar are dissolved, then add the pork, cover and refrigerate in the
photography by michael buck
photography by michael buck
For braising process: 6 medium carrots 3 spanish onions half bunch of celery 15-ounce box raisins
15-ounce box pitted prunes ¼ cup chopped garlic 4 bay leaves
season pork with salt and pepper while heating oil in sauté pans at medium-high heat. Dust pork in flour and “spank” off the excess, then place in the pans and cook till brown on all sides. remove and place in roasting pan. using the same sauté pans, add the vegetables and cook until brown and soft. when finished, add to the roasting pan with the pork. De-glaze the sauté pans with some chicken broth and a wooden spoon by scraping off the goodies stuck on the pan. add the goodies to the roasting pan.
time needed: 48 hours
¼ cup whole black peppercorns ½ cup juniper berries 1 bunch fresh thyme brine for 6 to 12 hours. when ready to cook, remove pork and discard brine. 1½ quarts champagne vinegar Chicken broth – enough to cover the pork by the length of a finger tip
flour for dusting blended olive oil
add raisins, prunes, garlic, bay leaves, vinegar and chicken broth to the roasting pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place in preheated 300 degree oven for four hours. remove foil and let the pork cool in braising liquid overnight if possible, allowing flavors to mingle. remove the cooked pork and set aside. re-heat the braising liquid to a simmer and puree with a blender or other suitable device. warm the pork in the finished sauce until it is fall-apart tender.
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City guide
Dining listings
The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. we have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing.
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, 8055581. twentyfivegr.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ bar dIVanI — wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. european-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrees. Closed sun. 15 ionia ave sw, 774-9463. bar-divani.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ FbIstro 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 $ blue house bIstro — neo-american Creole fusion fare from new orleans-trained chef/owner. entrees reflect best of market, while jambalaya, gumbo and a creative steak dish are staples. also, appetizers, soups, sandwiches/wraps and pizzas. not licensed for alcohol. Closed Mon. 220 w 8th st, holland, (616) 355-1994. bluehouse bistro.com. h, l, D, v, MC, ae $ blue Water grIll — wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. nice wine selection and The bob’s microbrews. lakeside views, outdoor patio with fireplace, full-service bar. 5180 northland Dr ne, 363-5900. thegilmorecollec tion.com/bluewater.php. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ bobarIno’s at the bob — grill on 2nd floor of The bob offers a wide variety, from woodfired pizza, burgers and sandwiches to pasta and up-scale entrées. full-service bar with The bob’s microbrews on tap. live entertainment in Cisco’s island lounge. 20 Monroe ave nw, 3562000. thegilmorecollection.com/bobarinos.php. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $ butch’s — new York-style deli by day, fine dining cuisine by night. Menu changes seasonally. More than 200 bottled beer selections and 700 varieties of wine available for takeout. Closed sun. 44 e 8th st, holland, (616) 396-8227. butchs.net. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $$ -caMbrIdge house — Menu has been revamped to offer locally sourced items, including shark tacos, heirloom salad, pulled pork nachos, grass-fed oxtail flatbread and more, as well as several gluten-free and vegan items. lots of liquor choices and good-size wine list. Takeout available. 600 Monroe ave nw, 356-1622. cam bridgehousegr.com. l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$ caJun cat — Cajun-influenced menu features by-the-pound or half-pound fish and seafood
selections from catfish and cod to shrimp, lake perch and more. gumbo, red beans and rice, sandwiches with andouille sausage, pulled pork barbecue, chicken salad. Take-away or grab one of eight seats. shares parking lot with walker roadhouse. 3280 remembrance rd, walker, 7352416. on facebook. h, l, D, v, MC ¢-$ 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 $-$$ cobblestone bIstro — eclectic, globally inspired menu executed with pizzazz in attractive surroundings, complete with fireplace, waterfalls and koi pond. full bar. open for weekend breakfasts. 9818 Cherry valley ave se, Caledonia, 5883223. mycobblestone.com. h, (b), l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $ Fcygnus 27 — stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor of the amway grand plaza. Casual, seasonally driven menu encourages sharing. open Tue-sat eves; sun brunch labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe ave nw, 776-6425. amwaygrand.com. h, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds, rsvp $$ 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 $ 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. 1015 wealthy st se, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. h, l, D, C, 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) 857-4240. 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. graydons crossing.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, 808-3566. 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 $-$$ FMarco neW aMerIcan bIstro — Cozy dining in french-country-casual, white-linen atmosphere. Creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu available for takeout. full bar, nice wine list. Closed sun. 884 forest hill ave se, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds, rsvp $-$$ 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 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 ¢-$ 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 ¢-$ 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 ¢-$$ reserVe — one of the top wine bars around with superb by-the-glass selections and ever-changing culinary options to match. small plates to share or create your own charcuterie and cheese choices in big-city surroundings that include gr’s first artprize winner, “open water no. 24.” opens at 4, closed sun. 201 Monroe ave nw, 855-9463. reservegr.com. h, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ rockWell-republIc — Diverse menu emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. California cuisine, sushi, steaks, great lakes fish, chicken, pastas, creative comfort food, plates to share. Multi-level, arts-inspired décor with upper-level outdoor seating. 45 s Division ave, 608-6465 or 551-3563. republicgrandrapids.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ rose’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. thegilmo
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Chef ’s Classic Salad FEATURING
Herbette Dressing For this recipe and more, visit thehotelkitchen.com.
Great meals start with g r e at i n g r e d i e n t s . The flavors of fine dining and garden bounty—in your kitchen, year-round. Take some home with you today! The Hotel Kitchen products are available for purchase at the Plaza Essentials Gift Shop at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, the JW Marketplace at the JW Marriott, and the Downtown Courtyard by Marriott’s Market.
thehotelkitchen.com
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The hoTel kiTchen
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City Guide recollection.com/roses.php. H, B (weekends), L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS $
St, Holland, (616) 392-5888. 8thstreetgrille.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE $
SALT & PEPPER SAVORY GRILL & PUB — Pubgrub with creative twists using Michigan-sourced ingredients. Full bar. Back patio for alfresco dining. Closed Sun. 11539 E Lakewood Blvd, Holland, (616) 355-5501. saltandpepperpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $
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 ¢-$
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. saltoftheearth fennville.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 $-$$ TAVERN ON THE SQUARE — Tapas-style fare with small plate/appetizers, soups, green plate/ salads, house specialties and desserts. Full bar with wine; nice list of microbrews. Open daily; patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavern onthesq.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ THE LAKE HOUSE — Laidback-yet-sophis-ticated décor, overlooking Muskegon Lake. Small plates, salads, pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, specialty burgers. Select entrees emphasize locally grown ingredients. Live entertainment. Open daily. 730 Terrace Point (between Terrace Pointe Marina and Shoreline Inn), Muskegon, (231) 722-4461; thelakehousemi.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ ➧THEODORE’S — Eclectic, diminutive-but-impressive menu features American/Spanish/ Mediterranean-influenced dishes in hip, stylish surroundings with large granite bar, glassed-in wine cellar and outdoor patio. Open Thu-Sat at 5 pm. In the former Till Midnight location in Baker Lofts building. 217 E 24th St, Holland, (616) 3926883. theodoresholland.com. H, D (Thu-Sat), C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ WILD DOG GRILLE — Interesting appetizers, salads, sandwiches, stone-baked pizzas and entrees marry a complexity of flavors. Desserts made inhouse. Closed Mon in winter months. Full-service bar. 24 Center St, Douglas, (269) 857-2519. thewilddoggrille.com. H, L (Fri-Sun), D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$ 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 ¢-$
ACORN GRILLE AT THOUSAND OAKS — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaks golf.com. 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 $ Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and fine dining selections from an extensive seasonal menu. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1770. mainstreet mediagroup.com. B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$ BEAR LAKE TAVERN — Historic North Muskegon tavern offers favorites that include yellowbelly lake perch dinner, BLT burger and hand-cut onion rings. 360 Ruddiman Rd, North Muskegon, (231) 744-1161. 4gr8food.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, ¢-$ DS BENTHAM’S RIVERFRONT RESTAURANT — Upscale selections served in casually elegant surroundings. Open daily in the Amway Grand Plaza, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com/bethams.html. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ BIL-MAR RESTAURANT — Beachfront dining with a great view of Lake Michigan; a wide selection of fine-dining entrées. Full bar; open daily. 1223 S Harbor St, Grand Haven, (616) 842-5920. bilmargrandhaven.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, $$ DC THE BISTRO — Formerly Blue Plate in the Marriott Downtown Courtyard Hotel; offers warm, urban décor with large-screen TVs, wraparound bar and barrista serving Starbucks. Casual menu covers all tastes from breakfast through dinner. Open daily. 11 Monroe Ave NW, 242-6000, ext 6646. marri ott.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $
Classic American
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 $-$$
8TH STREET GRILL — Entrées range from catfish Valdosta to ribs, with sandwiches, salads, burgers and pasta also on the menu. Closed Sun. 20 W 8th
BONEFISH GRILL — Offers fresh-from-the-seas fare. Casual, white-linen dining. Seafood selections augmented by innovative sauces and toppings; also chicken, beef and pasta dishes. 1100 East Paris Ave SE, 949-7861. bonefishgrill.com. H,
Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country.
D, C, V, MC, AE, DS
$-$$
BONFIRE GRILL & PUB — Muskegon smokehouse in the former Sardine Room space. Rotisserie chicken, ribs and brisket are the claim to fame; also an extensive menu filled with interesting items like lobster tacos, alligator snaps, creative “samiches,” specialty dogs, burgers and full gamut of entrees. 2536 Henry St, Muskegon, (231) 760-5204; bonfiregrillpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ BOSTWICK LAKE INN — Roomy, cottagestyle 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, 363-1723. 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. thebullshead tavern.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ 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 $-$$ 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 Cascade Rd SE (at Old 28th St), 949-1540. H, L, D, C, V, AE $-$$ CHARLEY’S CRAB — Fresh seafood from a menu that changes nightly. Located on the Grand River. Early menu (4:30-6 pm daily), Sun brunch. GR Steamer Bar has its own menu. 63 Market
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City Guide Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS, RSVP $-$$ 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. thechophouserest aurant.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $$
Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. stone $ watercc.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE FLAT RIVER GRILL — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building on the river in Lowell. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from American comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar with extensive wines by the glass and The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. Superb brunch. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollec tion.com/flatriver.php. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$
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 Mon-Thu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 2812300. 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 $ FRY DADDY’S FRESH FISH — Fried fresh fish,
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 $$ DEE-LITE BAR & GRILL — Nice selection of appetizers, house-made soups, salads and sandwiches. “Fresh-Mex” dinner selections, plus seafood, chicken, steak and pasta. Live music and martinis in the Theatre Bar. Open daily; Sun brunch. 24 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 844-5055. harborrestaurants.com/dee lite/. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ THE DINING ROOM AT CLEARBROOK — New entrées daily feature locally grown products. Known for hand-cut steaks, double-cut lamb chops, Canadian walleye. More casual dining in The Grill Room. Open daily in summer. Clearbrook Golf Club, 6594 Clearbrook Dr (just north of Saugatuck), (269) 857-2000. clearbrookgolfclub. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$ 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. dockersfish house.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ DUGAN’S PUB & GRILLE — Casual dining with steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at the Highlands Golf Club. Adjacent Glendevon offers banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 4532451. grandrapidselks.org. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE FALCON’S NEST — Creative lunch menu with a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, barbecue ribs, appetizers, chili and salads. Open 11 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 ¢-$
We’ll sell your home or we’ll buy it! NOW FOR ASSISTED LIVING. For the first time in Grand Rapids’ retirement community history, the guaranteed Home BuyOut Program is being offered for Assisted Living. If you or a loved one needs assistance with daily activities, Holland Home can now sell or buy your house or condo.
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FIREROCK GRILLE — Sunny, bistro-style atmosphere, nightly features and extensive menu of imaginative fare that includes FireRock options: cook your own on a 500-degree stone. Open daily. September 2011 Grand Rapids 65
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City Guide 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 GRAND RAPIDS BREWING CO. — Microbrewery with extensive menu that matches the handcrafted beers and natural ales. 3689 28th St SE, 2855970. 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 $-$$ GRAND TRAVERSE PIE CO. — Bakery and café offer an extensive menu that covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with quiche, soups, salads, sandwiches and pastries. Open daily. 3224 28th St SE, 977-7600. gtpie.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ GRAND VILLA — Longtime favorite serving prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar, full service bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. grandvillarestaurants.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ GREAT LAKES SHIPPING CO. — Kitchen does everything from beef, seafood, fowl and beyond in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. No lunch, but open Sun afternoons. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ GRILL HOUSE & ROCK BOTTOM BAR — Allegan’s 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, $-$$ DS, RSVP (weekends) THE GRILL ROOM — Aged steaks/chops, fresh seafood and fine wines in top chophouse tradition, served in an unpretentious atmosphere. Closed Sun during winter. Kirby House, 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmoreollec tion.com.grillroom.php. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ 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. holiday inn.com. H, B, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ THE GRILLE AT WATERMARK — Innovative menu in relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf course. Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Sat; Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Banquet facilities. Reservations accepted. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. water markcc.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, RSVP $-$$ HANDSOME HENRY’S — Smartly decorated, bigcity vibe dining room and sports-screen-packed bar offer tasty options with signature twists. Extensive menu ranges from appetizers, pizzas and from-scratch soups to perch, fall-off-the-bone ribs and hand-cut, aged steaks at reasonable prices. 3065 Henry St, Muskegon, (231) 747-8583. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ HONEY CREEK INN — Daily specials are the highlight, mixed with traditional fare that earns rave reviews from patrons. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. honey
creekinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC
¢-$
HUDSONVILLE GRILLE — Steaks, chops, chicken, soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican favorites and breakfast, as well as fish specialties. Full bar; closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Suite F, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ J BAR — The BOB’s steakhouse restaurant caters to those with a penchant for meat and potatoes with style and expertise. Open 5-11 pm; closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. H, D, C, local 3, V, MC, AE $$ 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 $-$$ KIRBY GRILL — Casual side of the Kirby House offers more than an average grill with innovative touches to the American menu. Familyfriendly dining upstairs. 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. thegilmorecollec tion.com/kirby.php. L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ KOPPER TOP — Uniquely GR. Raw copper tops the bar and tables at this GR staple with a longstanding tradition of seasonal decorations. Entrées with a homemade taste. No lunch Sat, closed Sun. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 459-2001. On Facebook. L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE ¢ THE LANDING — Nautical décor with windows overlooking the Grand River. Menu features American favorites and German specials. Live music and dancing in the lounge. 270 Ann St NW (Radisson Riverfront Hotel at US 131), 363-7748. radisson.com/hotels/migrapno/dinings. H, B, L, $ D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS OLEO’S — Combines fine dining and casual comfort with great service, impressive wine list and full bar. Fresh seafood is the specialty, but steaks and other dishes are just as good. Street level in parking ramp at Ottawa and Louis. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaur ant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ 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 $-$$ MAIN STREET PUB — Casual restaurant and sports bar offers large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and nice entrée selections. Open 11 am daily, with breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MAXFIELD’S — Vast lunch and dinner menus are enhanced by daily feature buffets. Open Tue-Sun. 11228 Wyman Rd, Blanchard, (800) 550-5630. maxfieldsrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $$ 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 $-$$
MIDDLE VILLA INN — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands; in Grand Rapids call 891-1287 for restaurant info. Open daily. 4611 N Middleville Rd, Middleville, (269) 795-3640. middle-villa-inn. com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, DS $ MOE’S CONEY & GRILL — Coney Island-style hotdogs and extensive menu from sandwiches to entrees. Wide-ranging breakfast menu, all reasonable prices. Open daily; closes 2 pm Sun. 3603 S Division Ave, 514-1650. On Facebook. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MR. BURGER — Longtime favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. 2101 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-6291; 5181 Northland Dr NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St SW, 538-4439; 1750 44th St SE, 4558604; 950 44th St SW, 538-0363; 5835 Balsam Ave, Hudsonville, 662-5088. mrburger.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ NOEL RESTAURANT — It’s Christmas year-round at this restaurant in a former church and parsonage family-style dinners, lighter fare on lunch menu. Gift shop on lower level. Hours now by reservation only; parties of 10 or more preferred. 2371 Riley St, Jamestown, 896-6427. noelrestaur ant.com. H, L, D, V, MC, RSVP ¢-$$ 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/ot.php. H, ¢-$$ B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS PAL’S DINER — A real diner with breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, served in fun surroundings. No alcohol served. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 9427257. palsdiner.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢ PEARL STREET GRILL — Bright, airy restaurant in the downtown Holiday Inn (formerly Days Hotel). Breakfast, lunch and steaks, pasta, chicken and fish for dinner. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 2357611. guestservice@higrdt.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, $ MC, AE POP’S FAMILY RESTAURANT — Family-friendly spot serves breakfast all day long, along with classic American comfort food and Mexican specialties. Open daily. 1339 Walker Village Dr NW, 453-9339. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ RAINBOW GRILL — Longtime favorite offers breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily luncheon specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, ¢-$ DS RED JET CAFÉ — Gilmore Collection restaurant in the former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar along with breakfast, omelets, crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, specialty pizzas and more in casual, upbeat surroundings. Full bar; opens 7 am. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/redjet.php. H, B, L, D (Tue-Sat), C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FREDS ON THE RIVER — Located on the Rogue River, Reds combines casual sophistication with Tuscan sensibilities. Varied menu, good wine list. Lunch served 11-4 pm; closed Sun. 2 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ RIO GRAND STEAK HOUSE & SALOON — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more are offered at these Western-style Schelde restaurants. Open
66 Grand Rapids September 2011
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City Guide: Dining Review
Innovative tastes, good vibe
by Ira Craaven Diners awarded
As ArtPrize opens this month and thousands of visitors and artists pour into downtown, finding places to eat becomes a priority. Of course there are numerous restaurants serving a variety of cuisines — many, in fact, are venues. Cambridge House, a few blocks off the beaten path at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Trowbridge Street, is worth a visit for those looking for shareable plates and locally sourced ingredients. While Cambridge has been around for several years offering pub-type fare, the restaurant has revamped its menu to include innovative dishes with pork, beef, sausage, seafood, duck, pasta, risotto and more. The restaurant gets high points for showcasing West Michigan produce, meats, cheeses and beer (Creswick Farms, Ingraberg Farms, Mudlake, Dancing Goat and several Michigan microbrews). Vegan and vegetarian creations are available, as well as a separate menu listing 17 gluten-free items. The restaurant exudes a gastro-pub vibe with raised booth seating along one wall, and privacy panels that separate the dining room from the hubbub of the bar. At the other end of the space, there’s a pool table and dartboard lanes, along with casual, comfortable seating by the fireplace.
85
Points
Cambridge House 600 Monroe Ave. NW (616) 356-1622 www.cambridgehousegr.com
Ira’s Rating System Food: Selection, variety, product quality, taste, preparation, innovation and consistency. Service: Hospitable, knowledgeable and prompt.
Photography by Michael Buck
Value: Pricing, number of à la carte items, consistency. Beverages: Selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Ambiance: General atmosphere; overall cleanliness. (Grand Rapids Magazine editors, American Culinary Federation Greater Grand Rapids chapter, GRCC’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education instructors and beverage distributors all contributed to these established guidelines.)
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City Guide: Dining Review The restaurant exudes a gastro-pub vibe with raised booth seating along one wall, and privacy panels that separate the dining room from the hubbub of the bar.
CONDOS 90% Sold
New Pricing
Developer Closeout
Open House
Average discount of Mon.-Fri. 10-5pm
$45,000
Sundays 1-4pm 940 Monroe Ave. NW
616 . 988 . 6466 www.boardwalkgr.com
We saved the BEST DEALS for last. New pricing gets you $12,000 to $83,000 off!
1 Bed. River View. $142,900. 2 Beds. River View. $162,900. 3 Beds. 2 Baths. $177,900. 19 Custom Condos under $200,000. 3% Down. Fixed Rate. No PMI.
We started the meal with an appetizer of oxtail flatbread ($10), which consisted of Cambridge flatbread with a walnut-pesto sauce topped with oxtail from Creswick Farms, nitrate-free lamb bacon from S&S Lamb and chèvre from the Dancing Goat. Very tasty, it seemed as if the flatbread had been pre-crisped, brushed with olive oil and heated before the addition of the pesto-walnut spread because it had a nice crunch. Dollops of mildly flavored goat cheese were melted on top, along with the braised oxtail and the lamb-flavored bacon. All dishes included a small pile of crisp and spicy house-pickled giardiniera, which added a crunchy texture. We also ordered a bottle of Casillero del Diablo Pinot Grigio from Chile ($31/ bottle, $7.75/glass). From the sharable small-plate listings, we ordered the grass-fed spare ribs ($12): Dragon’s Milk barbecued, charred pork spareribs from Creswick Farms, with fresh Mudlake greens dressed with gorgonzola vinaigrette. The amply portioned ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender and lightly glazed with the beer-based barbecue sauce, which left it a little dry, yet it still earned points for flavor. The fresh red and green leaf lettuces were perfectly dressed with the tasty vinaigrette. Next we tried the duck pot pie ($12), beautifully presented in a cast-iron skillet with a puffed pastry floating atop the brothy house-made duck gravy, which was rife with corn, potatoes, green beans, pearl onions and tender shreds of braised and slow-roasted duck from Ashley Farms. Flavored with thyme and pungent Chinese five-spice mix, we found it a little too exotic for our liking. While we enjoyed the heat from the pepper portion of the spice mix, the star anise imparted a flowery flavor. It was an intriguing dish that we were glad we tried in a sharable situation. The standout dish was the threecheese baked pasta ($6). It included
gemelli pasta spirals with spinach, herbs and spices along with fontina, stilton and four-year-aged sharp cheddar. Topped with crisped panko breadcrumbs, the flavors blended perfectly without being overly rich. Another favorite: Brussels sprouts sautéed in brown butter flavored with dill and sesame seeds ($4). A nice list of made-in-house desserts graced the menu. The daily cheesecake special was turtle, but we chose the flourless chocolate almond brownie ($5). The huge chocolate-rich delight was served warm with whipped cream and chocolate chips scattered on top, with a side decoration of cocoa powder. Our server was attentive and helpful throughout the meal, recommending dishes, explaining preparation and suggesting wines for pairing. The menu listed wine and beer accompaniment selections, so both brew fans and oenophiles are accommodated. Most wines were available by the glass and by the bottle, and if you take a bottle to go, there is a $10 discount. Cambridge also will cap an unfinished bottle to take home. The full-service bar also lists specialty cocktails and after-dinner drinks. Tasting flights are offered for a handful of alcohols such as scotch, tequila and bourbon. Daily happy hour specials are 4-7 p.m. GR
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City Guide
Look Good. Feel Good.
daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266; 1820 44th St SW, 534-0704. michiganmenu.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ROSEBUD — Sandwiches, soups and pizza for lunch; steaks, ribs, pasta and more pizza for dinner. Live music Thu-Sat. Open daily. 100 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-7788. rosebudgrill. ¢-$ com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, 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 ¢-$ RUSH CREEK BISTRO — Diverse menu of starters, soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, generous entrees and desserts, all done with flair in handsome, club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ RUSS’ RESTAURANTS — Fast service, family friendly, inexpensive fare. Closed Sun. 3966 Plainfield Ave NE, 381-7545; 2750 28th St SE, 9498631; 2340 28th St SW, 538-3410; 531 Alpine Ave NW, 784-2230; 6444 S Division Ave, 281-2790; 4440 Chicago Dr, Grandville, 531-1146. russrestaur ants.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. sandisfamilyrest aurant.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
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New space. New Art. Proud to join the East Hills Gallery District.
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), 956-5644; 40 Pearl St NW (breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Tue-Sat), 776-1616. 4gr8food.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, 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. swan innmotel.com. H, B, L, C, D, V, MC, 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
LAFONTSEE GALLERIES U Rapids: N D E R G R O U N• D S T U D I O Grand 616.451.9820 Douglas: 269.857.1676
www.lafontsee.us pa r t o f t h e a r t o f l i v i ng i s l i v i ng with art. September 2011 Grand Rapids 69
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City Guide (off US 131), (269) 672-5202 or (888) GUN-LAKE. baypointeinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC, RSVP $-$$ THAT PLACE ON PLAINFIELD — Classic American diner food, along with some surprises like Filipino and vegetarian dishes, in diner-style surroundings at reasonable prices. Closed Sun. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 365-6669. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢ TILLMAN’S — Uniquely GR. Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste, from liver and onions to frog legs and escargot. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, RSVP $-$$ 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. timbers inn.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 $-$$ TWISTED ROOSTER — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar featuring 18 beers on tap, local beers/wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twistedrooster.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢-$$ VILLAGE INN PIZZA PARLOR — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, soups, salads, Mexican and more. 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. waldorffbrewpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, 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) 394-0111. holland.doubletree.com. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ 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. whitefishgolfand grill.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ 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 $
Pubs & Taverns
Daytime casual
84th STREET PUB AND GRILLE — Broad menu offers pub grub and American fare from pizzas to steaks in modern, laidback surroundings with flat-screen TVs and full bar service. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr, Byron Center, 583-1650. 84thstpub. com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
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. On Facebook. 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 ¢ 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, 241-4080; 5430 Northland Dr NE, 361-1808. H, B, L ¢ RED GERANIUM CAFÉ — Popular spot is known for its specialty omelets, homemade soups, 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. On Facebook. 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. On Facebook. H, L, D, 3 ¢
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 ¢-$ 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. On Facebook. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ CHEERS — Popular neighborhood spot with something for everyone: munchies, salads, southof-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) 857$ 1868. 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 — 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, 4549088. cottagebar.biz. 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. curraghhol land.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$$ ELBOW ROOM BAR & GRILL — Cozy neighborhood watering hole with bar food to match: burgers, sandwiches, nachos, salads, chicken fingers, etc. Open daily 10 am-2 am. Play darts, Golden Tee or the jukebox. 501 Fuller Ave NE, 454-6666. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ FLANAGAN’S — Popular Irish pub, imported beers, 20 on tap, includes Guinness stout. Homemade soups and stews, specialty sandwich-
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City guide es, munchies and entrées with an irish influence. frequent live music. Closed sun. 139 pearl st nw, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds, DC ¢ Founders breWIng co. — sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and sat. expanded menu features sandwiches and light pub fare. Covered (heated) porch. 235 grandville ave sw, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. h, l (11-2 Monfri), 3, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢ gp sports — sports bar and restaurant with three big screens and 40 flat-screen Tvs. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, along with salads and sandwiches. Closed sun. amway grand plaza hotel, 776-6495. amway grand.com. h, l, D, v, MC, ae, Ds $ grand Woods lounge — Year-round alfresco dining complete with fireplace. eclectic menu selections mix with upscale takes on comfort foods. live entertainment, pool tables, spacious bar. 77 grandville ave sw, 451-4300. grandwoods lounge.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ the holIday bar — Classic 40-foot horseshoe bar with nine hD Tvs, 12 beers on tap, a variety of appetizers and homemade “porter” pulled pork. fun atmosphere with pool tables, darts, golden Tee, nudgemaster and Club Keno. 801 5th st nw (at alpine ave), 456-9058. on facebook. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds c-$ 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 $
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 ¢-$
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 ¢-$
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 wed-Thu, 7 pm fri-sat, DJ, dancing, pool tables, vip room and
nIte cap bar & grIll — roomy and bright
Continued on page 74
EPS SEcurity LifE SafEty Day
hopcat — 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 (satsun), 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 nibbles, soups, sandwiches, dinnersize salads, steaks and other appealing entrées. banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe ave nw, 454-8590. jdreardons.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. jgardellas tavern.com. h, l, D, C, 3, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢ logan’s alley — 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 ¢-$
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SaturDay, SEPtEmbEr 17 noon-4 P.m. John baLL Park Join us for the EPS Security Life Safety Day at John Ball Garden in Grand Rapids from noon - 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 17th for a FREE child safety event. In partnership with Klaas Kids Foundation, EPS will provide fingerprinting and database registry for children 3 months and older. The event includes musical entertainment, face painting, bounce houses and games for the kids while parents can rest easy knowing they’ve taken an extra measure of security to protect their children. Visit EpsSecurity.com or call 616.459.0281 for more information.
Authorized Security Dealer
PRESS RELEASE September 2011 Grand rapids 71 EPS Security / Marc Klaas (father of Polly Klaas) invite families to a FREE Child Safety Day “Print-A-Thon” Event. EPS Security will host a KlaasKids Print-A-Thon to promote and educate families about child safety and fingerprint and photograph children at no cost. Each participating child will receive
8/2/11 12:47 PM
City Guide: Grand Vine
Top-scoring varietals by A. Brian Cain
This is not a category where any old wine will sell. Customers know what they want and demand quality.
At this year’s Tasters Guild Wine Judging, my panel evaluated some remarkably good wines. We tasted four Sauvignon Blanc wines in the $13-$16 range, and I gave gold medals to all four. We tasted five Merlots under $8, and I gave four of them golds. Of the four $10-$13 Zinfandels we tasted, I gave two golds and two silvers. Among the six $16$35 Zinfandels, I gave four golds and two silvers. A flight of four $25-$35 Petite Sirah wines garnered — you guessed it — four gold medals. I mention this because it is so unusual. Looking at my total score sheet for some 500 wines, roughly a third of the wines I judged received no medal, and less than 20 percent received a gold medal. A high number of wines in the $25-$35 received no medals. The opposite was true with the top flight of Petite Sirah we judged. I have some theories: Sauvignon Blanc in the $13-$16 range has become dominated by New Zealand. Any wine from California, Chile or elsewhere must measure up to New Zealand’s high standards and impeccable style. This is not a category where any old wine will sell. Customers know what they want and demand quality. With a glut of Merlot grapes, many mass market wineries are making serious wines at bargain prices. What remains of the dying Zinfandel category is fanatic-like producers making boutique quantities of wine from old vines on the very best growing sites. Although Petite Sirah is a growing category, the size of the category is so small that only producers with the best sources of grapes can survive and grow. Petite Sirah is the underdog of the wine world.
The following Gold medal rankings are mine. Many of these wines did not fare as well with some of the other judges. Brian Cain is a certified wine educator and freelance wine writer.
Brian’s Winners Gold Medal wines under $8 2009 Turning Leaf Merlot (Calif.). Classic fruit purity and perfect varietal flavors coat the mouth and leave one with a rich, lasting fruit memory. 2009 Fish Eye Winery Merlot (Calif.). Soft chocolate-like flavors, ripe round fruit, hints of lead pencil and cedar along with a long complex sense of earth in the finish add up to first-class drinking. 2009 Flip Flop Wines Merlot (Calif.). A surprisingly big wine for this kind of money. The meaty bouquet and fat fruit fill the mouth with rich soft tannins that last. 2009 Frunza (a Cameron Hughes Selection) Merlot (Romania). The rich black/red color suggests the velvety mouth feel and long, rich, fruity aftertaste.
Gold Medal wines $10-$13 2009 Zynthesis Zinfandel (Calif.). The fine red fruit purity is almost Merlot-like, yet persistent ripe, dried fruit nuances and a long finish are pure Zinfandel — pizza wine at its best. 2009 Cameron Hughes Lot 219 Zinfandel (Calif.). Considering the source — Monte Rosso Vineyard — this wine should cost $30-$40 per bottle. To get a quintessential brambleberry Zin with fat lush fruit and an endless velvety finish for under $13, it was a cinch for a Gold Medal.
Gold Medal wines $13-$16 2010 Husch Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc (Calif.). Steely, with yellow fruit and fresh acidity, it finishes perfectly balanced for seafood and poultry. 2010 Captain’s Walk Winery Sauvignon Blanc (Wisc.). The rich yellow fruit is quince-like, with refreshing mineral nuances and a soft juicy finish. 2010 Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). The first impression is a mélange of green herbs, composting leaves and grapefruit. A stony mineral nuance mingles with citrus fruit, finishing crisp and clean.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
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City Guide: Grand Vine
2010 Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). Like the Stoneleigh, rustic, herbal, stony flavors assault the palate, leaving a remarkably refreshing aftertaste.
Gold Medal wines $16-$20 2009 Pedroncelli Winery Zinfandel (Calif.). Chewy chocolate flavors with candied cherries and ripe prune-like nuances make this big devil a great choice with blue-cheesetopped steak burgers. 2009 Windsor Vineyards Zinfandel (Calif.). Blood orange peeling and raspberry first hit the nose, while soft lush fruit envelopes the palate and finishes like velvet.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Gold Medal wines $25-$35 2008 Desert Hills Estate Zinfandel (Canada). Who would have thought it was possible to ripen Zinfandel to this degree in Canada? Blackberry, black raspberry, exotic spice and fat-yet-edgy ripe black fruit combine for a vividly fresh, intensely juicy mouth feel. 2008 V. Sattui Zinfandel (Calif.). The bright raspberry aroma leads beautifully into the soft fat mid-palate, finishing appetizingly long. 2008 Lava Cap Petite Syrah Reserve, Granite Hill Vineyard (Calif.). The rich red robe catches the eye, while sweet oak stimulates the nose. The mouth feel is big and rich and lasts forever. 2008 Satori Cellars Estate Petite Sirah (Calif.). The color is like red ink. Ripe, rich and round, the fruit seems fat and lush, yet very firm tannin grips the palate and lasts for several seconds. 2007 Satori Cellars Estate Petite Sirah (Calif.). Like the 2008 but with a hint of earth, tons of black fruit, and a finish, though no less demonstrative, that melts away softly. 2008 V. Sattui Winery Petite Sirah (Calif.). This is a huge wine — massive black fruit and velvety tannin completely fills every corner of the mouth.
STUDIO DUO architecture + interior design
“I can’t thank STUDIO DUO enough for what they’ve done for me and my family.” – Danny Glover, actor
616.656.2182 studioduo@me.com
www.STUDIODUO.net September 2011 Grand Rapids 73
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City Guide Continued fom page 71 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. Family-friendly Peppino’s Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 4568444. peppinospizza.com. 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 ¢-$ 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. 1420-1424 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. quinnand ¢-$ tuites.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC 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 $ THE SCORE — Restaurant and sports bar with a wide-ranging menu that includes pizza, ribs, handcut steaks, seafood, chicken and comfort dishes like meatloaf. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. 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. Open daily at 11 am. 2501 Wilson Ave NW, 735-3888. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ ➧SHEPARDS GRILL & TAVERN — Affordably priced appetizers, salads, burgers, signature sandwiches, fresh lake perch and Kobe top sirloin in attractive surroundings. Open daily. Weekday happy hour drink specials 3-6:30 p.m. Cascade Center, 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. On Facebook. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS ¢-$
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 ¢-$ TEAZERS BAR & GRILL — Burgers and pastas, sandwiches, salads and Southwestern bites. Kids menu. Look for live music on the stage. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 459-2481. teazersbar.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S SPORTS LOUNGE & PIZZERIA — Serving pizza and pasta plus legendary panini 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 ¢-$ 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 ¢ 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 ¢-$
Delis, Dogs & Bagels Places that serve sandwiches, bagels and/or hot dogs.
BAGEL BEANERY — All locations bake a variety 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 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, 554-7915. babcorp.com. H, B, L, D, 3 ¢ BIGGBY COFFEE — East Lansing-based chain offers specialty coffee and non-coffee drinks, fresh-daily selection of baked goods, fruit cups, yogurt parfaits, bagel sandwiches. Wi-Fi, seasonal outdoor seating. More than a dozen locations in West Michigan (see website): www.biggby.com. ¢ BITE — Deli side of Ottawa Tavern features daily soups, big wraps, salads and build-yourown burgers. Weekday Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials 4-7 pm. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. thegilmorecollection. com/bite.php. 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, 451-6061. 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, 235-9115. 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. On Facebook. 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 ¢ 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. On Facebook. H, B, L, D ¢ 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 ¢ JONNY B’Z DOGS AND MORE — Southern-style, all-meat chili dogs on Texas-toast-style buns: fatty’s (all beef), skinny’s (all turkey) hotdogs, house-made gumbo, burgers, “cajon” sausage, smoked brisket, sandwiches, vegan dogs, vegetarian chili; lots of toppings; modern-retro ambience. Closed Sun, open until 2 am Thu-Sat. 638 Wealthy St SE. On Facebook. L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ 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. On Facebook. H, B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ 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. On Facebook. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC ¢
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City Guide 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 (halfsize available), pizza, salads and pasta selection. 6504 28th St SE, 954-1964. mamaspizza andgrinders.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ 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, 4560600; 3195 28th St, 942-8020; 3700 Rivertown Parkway SW, Grandville, 531-6572. olgaskitch en.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ 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. onestop coneyshop.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ RAMONA’S TABLE — EGR deli with selections made from scratch: soups, sandwiches, salads, baked items and meals from 8 am-8 pm Mon-Sat; 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 ¢-$ 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 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 ¢-$ 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 ¢-$
WINDY CITY GRILLE — Authentic Chicago-style sandwiches: gyros, Italian beef, Chicago dogs and more. Greek and chicken salads, soups and, with 24-hour notice, will make tabbouleh to suit. Cozy atmosphere peppered with Chicago photos. Closed Sun; will cater. 5751 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, 261-2489. On Facebook. H, L, D, V, MC, (AE w/$50 purchase), 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 ALPENROSE — European-inspired restaurant with fare ranging from Certified Aged Black Angus steaks to poultry and fish dishes. Five private dining rooms, banquet facility, bakery and café. Award-winning Sun brunch buffet. 4 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 393-2111. alpenroseres taurant.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. House-made desserts. Banquet facility available. Closed Mon; no lunch Sat. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretratto riaitaliana.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC $ ➧ANGELA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA — A Sparta favorite since 1983 for authentic Italian dinners, pizza, stromboli, subs and desserts in comfortable surroundings. Lunch buffet, full-service bar. Delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 240 E Division, Sparta, (616) 8871913. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ BIG BOB’S PIZZA — A local favorite pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village with wine and beer on tap in comfortable surroundings, or to go. 661 Croswell SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ BELLA MIA PIZZERIA & ITALIAN GRILL — Italian dishes and New York-style 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 ¢-$ 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, 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 — Long-time favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. 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 ¢-$ ➧G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers award-winning traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas emphasizing fresh ingredients. Delivery Thu-Sat until 2:30 a.m. Open daily, with a handful of tables for dining in. 340 State St, (616) 7424773. grandrapidspizza.net. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, ¢-$ DS MANGIAMO — Historic mansion houses family-friendly 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. thegilmore collection.com/mangiamo.php. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ MARINADE’S PIZZA BISTRO — Specialty woodfired pizzas, ethnic salads, sandwiches, appetizers, dips, soups, desserts and coffee. Open daily. 2844 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-0200; 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863-3300; 450 Baldwin, Jenison, 457-7400. marinadespizzabistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ MARRO’S — Authentic Italian fare and housebaked goods, extensive array of pizza toppings. Open mid-April through autumn; closed Mon. 147 Waters St, Saugatuck, (269) 857-4248. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ 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, 4936686. 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 ITALIAN RISTORANTE — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Fresh-baked breads, Tuscan wines, desserts and cappucciSeptember 2011 Grand Rapids 75
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City Guide nos. 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. $$ com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, RSVP SALVATORE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT — Sicilian and southern Italian fare using family recipes. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Weekday lunch buffet. All menu items, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Closed Sun. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salva toresgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ SAN CHEZ, A TAPAS BISTRO — Legendary downtown hotspot offers Spanish bill of fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. Extensive wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W Fulton St, 7748272. sanchezbistro.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, $-$$ DC, DS SEASONAL GRILLE — Hastings’ Italian-themed eatery features fresh, locally sourced, creative fare in handsome surroundings. Full bar, craft cocktails, nice wine list. Open daily. 150 W State St, Hastings, (269) 948-9222. seasonalgrille.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $ TRE 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. trecug ini.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, 458-2090), takeout 458-3766. theoriginal vitales.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. vitalesada.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ VITALE’S PIZZERIA — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from original Vitale family recipes. 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, 5308300. vitales.us. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$
Asian
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 ¢-$
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 ¢-$
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
Including Thai and Indian fare.
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. angelsth ¢-$ aicafe.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 — 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, Jenison, 6678901; 15 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, 3565550. bangkoktaste.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ 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. beijingkitchengr.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ BLUE GINGER ASIAN KITCHEN — Extensive menu is vegetarian-friendly. Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market strip mall), 261-8186. blue gingergr.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. On 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 ¢-$ CHINA CITY — Nice selection of Chinese cuisine. Lo mein is a specialty, along with Hong Kong-style
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 ¢-$ 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 Kalama-zoo Ave SE, 698-8933. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$ EMPIRE CHINESE BUFFET II — Full scale, all-youcan-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 $ ERB THAI — Traditional Thai roots. Appetizers, soups, salads, noodle dishes, stir-fried rice, curries, chicken, beef, pork, tofu, shrimp, scallops and crab; desserts, kids’ menu, bubble tea smoothies. Will accommodate special diets: vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG, etc. Simplistic surroundings. Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, Suite 1A, 356-2573. L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢ FAR-EAST RESTAURANT — Serving Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes; vegetable-oil-only 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 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088. firstwokgr.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, RSVP $
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City Guide FUJI YAMA ASIAN BISTRO — Attractive surroundings offer seating at hibachi grill tables with show-chef preparations, or in the dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. letseat.at/fujiyama. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
Create ...
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. for tunechefcaledonia.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 $
An Impression
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 ¢
Registered Landscape Architects 4353 Three Mile Road N.E. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 616-363-6400 www.kappeslandscapes.com
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 HIBACHI GRILL & SUPREME BUFFET — PanAsian cuisine from sushi to buffet, offering 200plus Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American dishes at reasonable prices. Watch chefs prepare specialties at the glassed-in hibachi grill. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Ridge Shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/hibachigrillsupremebuffet. ¢ H, L, D, V, MC, AE, 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 ¢-$
SiNcE 1968 . . .
The brand is everything Selections from around the world include fine wines, fresh deli products, homemade pastry items, specialty cheeses, imported groceries, beer, spirits and cigars.
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, children’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 ¢-$ 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
Wine Merchants 200 Union nE | 616-459-0911 www.mvwi n e s.com
Voted “Best Beer & Wine Merchant 7 years in row! September 2011 Grand Rapids 77
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City Guide
Dance with someone Special… you may Never Let Go!
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 ¢-$ ➧MING TEN — A mixture of offerings from one of the biggest all-you-can-eat buffets: Japanese, Chinese, sushi bar, hibachi grill cooking and American selections. Full range of a la carte sushi options. No liquor. Open daily. Reduced prices for children. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), (616) 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
Step out tonight and step into the fun. $ 2500 introductory private lesson. CALL NOW!
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 ¢-$
3089 29th St. SE Grand Rapids (616) 940-9894
4485 Plainfield NE Grand Rapids (616) 363-7632
3819 Rivertown Pkwy. Grandville (616) 608-5149
Call today and start dancing tonight!
www.arthurmurraygr.com
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 ¢-$ 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 ¢
THAI, JAPANESE, CHINESE
Asian Dining Award of Excellence 5 years in a row!
xo
• Full service Sushi Bar
(Half-price every Tuesday, dine in only).
• Beer and Wine & Spirits Available
ASIAN CUISINE 58 Monroe Center Phone (616) 235-6969
www.xoasiancuisine.com
GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE
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
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City Guide: Fresh Hops
Brewed for the buzz
Photography by Johnny Quirin
I believe most beer drinkers would say taste is the most important quality of a beer — not the ingredients or the temperature or the glassware. I also believe there is a group of consumers, a minor percentage, for whom taste is a secondary quality. Whether the beer is fire brewed or made with the finest hops and Two Row English Barley Malt is of little consequence. They value the alcohol content: the buzz. For these people, we have malt liquor. Sometimes considered beer’s abominable cousin, malt liquor is confusing to beer aficionados. Where did it come from? Who drinks it and why is it called “liquor” and not beer? In looking into these questions, I came across a fascinating article on the Internet and discovered West Michigan is partly responsible for this contentious drink. As the story goes, malt liquor is an American invention. After the repeal of prohibition in 1933, beer drinkers were complaining that beer didn’t have the same “kick” they remembered. Whether this was due to accurate memory or a self-medicating nation is open for discussion, but this was a period of scarce resources for the nation as a whole and the beer industry in partic-
by Jon C. Koeze
ular. Producing beer with more “kick” requires more sugar content from grain, typically barley, resulting in higher production costs and a more expensive bottle of beer. In 1937, the Grand Valley Brewing Co. in Ionia began marketing a new drink it called Clix Malt Liquor, considered the first beverage to use the words “malt liquor” to differentiate it from beer. According to the label, Clix added dextrose to the brewing process to increase the gravity of the beer and therefore the alcohol content. Dextrose is a simple sugar often used in commercial food production. It is cheaper than barley and ferments well in the right environment. A few years later, Gluek Brewing Co. of Minneapolis also began producing a malt liquor, apparently unaware of what was happening in Ionia. Gluek must have known it was on to something because, in 1948, it received a patent on a new process to make malt liquor. Malt liquor took off in the 1950s. Incredibly, it was originally marketed as a sophisticated drink for discerning socialites. With names like Country Club Malt Liquor, produced by the Goetz Brewing Co. of St. Joseph, Mo., and University Club, produced by Gettleman Brewing Co. of Milwaukee, Wis., these beers were marketed to the professionals and gentlemen who spend weekends betting on polo matches. Some malt liquors also were presented with an affinity to champagne. Using names such as Champale, Sparkling Mardi Gras and Champetite, they tried to convince us that malt liquor was to beer what champagne was to wine. That soon changed. Producers figured out who liked their product, and it wasn’t Biff and Buffy down at the country club. Now the names Colt 45, Steel Reserve and King Cobra indicate that malt liquor is little more than a cheap alcohol delivery device for a culture more interested in effect than taste. Considering all of today’s great high-gravity beers, malt beverage coolers and alcopops, it is hard to imagine malt liquor will gain popularity in the future — except to offer a cheap buzz. Perhaps producers will find a way to make it taste better. Perhaps. Contributing editor Jon Koeze, cable administrator for the city of Grand Rapids, has made and tasted beer since 1980.
Producing beer with more “kick” requires more sugar content from grain, typically barley, resulting in higher production costs and a more expensive bottle of beer.
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City Guide St), 773-2454. shanghaiichiban.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, RSVP $-$$
sizzling dishes. Open daily. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$
SOC TRANG — Chinese and Vietnamese restaurant in Caledonia with a wide selection of offerings representing both cuisines. Open daily. 1831 Market Place Dr, 871-9909. gosoctrang.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢-$
Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean
SPICES ASIAN CAFÉ — Byron Center eatery serves authentic Chinese fare with create-yourown stir fry options, Korean dishes, vegetarian options and broasted chicken dinners and buckets to go. Open daily. 2237 84th St SW, 878-0109. spicesasiancafe.com. H, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ Sushi Kuni — Authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine including sushi, teriyaki, hibachi, tempura, bulgogi and more, and fusion fare. Private groups can eat in traditional (shoe-free) Japanese tatami room. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, RSVP ¢-$$ 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 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 $
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. mariecat ribs.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL — Gyros, kabobs, shwarma, falafel, fattousch, hummus, kafta. All meats are halal, in accordance with Islamic requirements. Cozy, attractive dining room with handpainted murals. Closed Sun. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. raadmediterranean $ grill.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 ¢-$
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 ¢-$
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 ¢
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 ¢-$
FSHIRAZ 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 $
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 ¢-$
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. zeytinturkishrestaurant.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $
WEI WEI PALACE — Chinese seafood restaurant features huge menu of Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. Fresh lobster and crab. 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 $
Latin American/ Caribbean
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 $-$$ YUMMY WOK — Combo platters, sweet and sour dishes, Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes, chow and lo mein, chop suey, tofu and Peking
7 MARES — Full-scale Mexican meals and specialty dishes that go well beyond the norm. Excellent seafood selections, along with Friday fish fry by the pound. Super breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. On Facebook. H, B, L, D ¢-$$ 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 ¢ FBELTLINE 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 full-service bar. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 9499120. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS, AE $ CHEZ OLGA — Caribbean and Creole fare. Red beans and rice, gumbo, fried plantain, Creole chicken, pork ragout and more. Vegetarian/vegan options. Lunch specials. Open until 2 am Fri-Sat, closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. L, D, V, MC ¢ CINCO DE MAYO — Mexican eatery offers fajitas, tacos, burritos and enchiladas, carnitas and steak asada. Full bar service. 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 former JoJo’s Americana Supper Club space. 107 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, (269) 857-1523. On Facebook. H, D, C (wine/beer), V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ ➧DON JULIO’S — Mexican restaurant and bar offers a wide variety of specialties, combination plates, vegetarian options and specially priced dinners-for-two. Open daily. 5039 28th St SE, 575-9171. H, L, D, C, 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, 4585595. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢
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City guide el soMbrero — offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. weekly specials. Closed sun. 527 bridge st nw, 451-4290. 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. villadugeon.com. h, l, D, C, 3, 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. 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 ¢
Lights Out Lunch Thursdays 11am - 4pm Buy One Soup and Sandwich of the Day and Get the Second One FREE If everyone in America turned off one light for one hour every day, we’d save 18 million kilowatt hours, which is the equivalent of powering 1600 homes for a year. Come help raise awareness!
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. lindomexicorestau rant.com. h, l, D, v, MC, ae, Ds, DC ¢-$
Follow us on Facebook 310 Pearl Street NW | Grand Rapids, MI 49504 | (616) 235-1342 www.holidayinn.com/grandrapidsdt
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 $
800-292-3831 indiantrails.com NG
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MeXIcan conneXIon restaurante — Mexican favorites in large, inviting surroundings. open daily. 131 s Jefferson st, hastings, (269) 945-4403. l, D, v, MC ¢-$
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MaggIe’s kItchen — authentic Mexican food, homemade with a lighter taste in bright café setting. breakfast, too. Cafeteria-style ordering. 636 bridge st nw, 458-8583. h, b, l, D ¢
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. 334 burton st sw, 4520018. h, b, l, D,v, MC ¢-$ MI tIerra restaurant — Tacos, burritos, enchiladas and other traditional Mexican dishes from spanish-speaking staff whether dining in or driving through. 2300 s Division ave, 245-7533. on facebook. h, l, D, v, MC ¢ ➧pIkosItos — authentic Mexican food on the avenue for the arts. fresh tacos, quesadillas, burritos and vegetarian dishes with house-made salsas and tortillas in stylish surroundings with local artwork rotations. Closed sun. 122 s Division ave, 454-3847. h, l, D, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢ 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. on facebook. h, l, D, C, v, MC ¢-$$ su casa — full array of Mexican choices with burritos especially popular. breakfast served
Comfort and Luxury
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September 2011 Grand rapids 81
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9 Locations Throughout West Michigan!
The best that Italy has to offer in the heart of Grand Rapids... AWARD WINNING
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
Globally Influenced American Cuisine
cygnus27.com
616.774.2000
www.PaneraBread.com
Business luncheons, intimate dinners, appetizers and cocktails. Or, our award winning Sunday brunch. Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring your visit is excellent.
122 MONROE CENTER, ST NW DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 616-235-9339 www.trecugini.com
2006, 2007, 2009 & 2010
Mon - Thurs 11:30 - 10 and Fri 11:30 - 11 Sat 4:30 - 11 (no lunch) Sun Brunch 10 - 3, Dinner 4:30 - 9
VOTED BEST PIZZA 6 YEARS IN A ROW! PIZZA AND A WHOLE LOT MORE!
400 Ada Dr. SE (in the thornapple village)
676-5400
www.vitalesada.com
63 Market St., Downtown Grand Rapids 616.459.2500 www.muer.com
xo
Thai, Japanese, Chinese • Sushi Bar half price every Tuesday (Dine-in only) • Full service bar
Award Winning in Cascade
asian Cuisine
58 Monroe Center • Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 235-6969 www.xoasiancuisine.com
Open to the
Public
Buy one dinner enTrée, geT one Free! (Up to $13.00) Dine in only, not valid on Holidays. One coupon per table | Expires 12-30-11
Mon-Thur 11:30-10 | Fri-Sat 11:30-11:30 | Sun 10-8
www.watermarkcc.com • 616.949.0570
Now is the time for change Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner
Fine Persian Cuisine Restaurant and Banquet
2010 Dining Award of Excellence NW corner of Breton & 28th St. • Grand Rapids
(616) 949-7447 For full menu, upcoming events and specials, visit our website www.shirazgrille.com
310 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids
616-235-1342 complimentary parking
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City Guide
Your partner in technology! “We absolutely love our new system. The AVI team did a great job!”
beginning at 8:30 am; open daily in the Super Mercado, 306 W Main St, Fennville, (269) 5615493. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢-$
— Jeff & Amy M., Grand Rapids
TACO BOB’S — Fresh-Mex tacos, burritos, quesadillas, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hardshell 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 — Burritos, tacos, enchiladas, tostadas to combination plates. 3475 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-7111; 6539 28th St SE, 956-3424; 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 ¢ TACOS EL RANCHERO — Mexican fare in low-key surroundings to eat in or take out. Cash only. 1240 Burton St SW, 245-6514. H, L, D ¢
The AVI Group is a collective of professionals providing unsurpassed levels of performance in both audio and video system design, integration and installation. Our mission statement is simple, when “Good Enough” just won’t do. Come visit us in our “lifestyle” showroom conveniently located on the mezzanine level of the Breton Village Mall in East Grand Rapids.
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
avigroup.biz | (616) 942-1000 1830 Breton Ave. SE, Suite 1900 Grand Rapids, MI 49506
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 2010 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2010 Award of Excellence — Chef Profile in this issue
Japanese Steak House & Asian Bistro
Flash and Flavor Habachi • Japanese • Chinese • Thai • Sushi Bar
1501 East Beltline, NE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-719-1859 There’s InTegraTIon
Then There’s Premovation N e w r e ta i l s t o r e f r o N t !
Where will your music take you?
Fulfilling your personal and home audio/video needs.
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.
616.396.6405 | www.premovation.com | 37 E 8th St. Holland, MI 49423 September 2011 Grand Rapids 83
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City Guide
Clockwise from left: Boy Scouts from the Gerald R. Ford Council B.J. Young, Nicholaus Rollenhagan and Justin Heft stand next to Sgt. Doug Roesler of the Michigan State Police; Kate DeMann, 7, signs the condolence book at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum; Ruth Rabaut, 6, waits with her brother Tom, 8, for the motorcade to pass by; Rick and Stephanie Wiltse take pictures of the Fords’ burial site.
Photography by Alissa Lane (top, far left, right); Johnny Quirin (center and bottom center)
West Michigan Honors Betty Betty Ford is back home. The former first lady, who died July 8 at age 93, returned to Grand Rapids to be laid to rest beside her husband, 38th U.S. President Gerald R. Ford, on the grounds of his presidential museum. Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome the independent woman who was never afraid to speak her mind and who gave hope to so many.
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City Guide
Photography by Johnny Quirin (top and bottom left, bottom right); Alissa Lane (top and center right)
Photography by Alissa Lane (top, far left, right); Johnny Quirin (center and bottom center)
“I was an ordinary woman who was called onstage at an extraordinary time. I was no different once I became first lady than I had been before. But, through an accident of history, I had become interesting to people.” — (From “Betty: A Glad Awakening”)
Clockwise from top left: Security guard Dale Robinson keeps watch over the Ford tombs; family members watch as Mrs. Ford’s flower-draped casket is carried out of Grace Episcopal Church; the Ford children, Mike, Steve, Jack and Susan, stand together at the church; visitors line up outside the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to pay their respects; inside the museum, they watch a video of Betty Ford’s life while waiting to sign the condolence book and view the casket.
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Last year, there were sightings of Elvis. This year, visitors can expect to see characters from favorite TV shows. It’s all part of the sixth Live Mannequin Night, as downtown Holland’s stores and restaurants compete Sept. 16 for several awards. The 2011 theme is “Television” and more than 40 businesses and 100 volunteers will participate, decorating storefronts and posing as mannequins. “One of the greatest things about Live Mannequin Night is that the entire community is involved,” said Kara de Alvare, event coordinator. “Almost all of the mannequins are volunteers, and thousands of people come downtown for the event. Half of the fun is seeing who you recognize posing in the storefronts.” The free event runs 7-8:30 p.m. The public will vote to select which storefront will receive the coveted People’s Choice award. A panel of judges will choose winners for Most Creative, Best Mannequin and Best Overall.
Calendar of Events
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.
Special Events Sep 2-5 - SHORELINE SPECTACULAR: Four days of entertainment, food, arts and crafts, parade, kids activities, car/motorcycle show and more. Ross Park, Norton Shores. www.shorelinespec tacular.com. Sep 4-5 - CARS FOR CANCER: Seventh annual car and bike show benefits Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care. Kickoff party begins 5 pm Sun with beer tent, live music and car cruise. Registration 5-8 pm Sun, 7-11 am Mon; voting 11 am-1 pm Mon. Mercy Health Partners Lakes Campus, Harvey St off US 31 between Muskegon and Grand Haven (Pontaluna Rd exit). $18 pre-registration with T-shirt, $10 day of show. Spectators free. www. differentstrokescarclub.com. Sep 5 - GRAND HAVEN LABOR DAY WALK: Bridge walk begins at 9 am at Mulligan’s Hollow, Grand Haven. Sep 5 - GRAND RAPIDS BRIDGE WALK: The city of GR hosts Grand Crossings, a five-mile Labor Day walk crossing seven bridges. No sign-up necessary. Wheelchair accessible. 8 am. Starts and ends at Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 210 Front St. Sep 5 - HOLLAND LABOR DAY BOARDWALK: Begins at 9 am at the Kollen Park Boat Launch, continuing along boardwalk and Window on the Waterfront to Windmill Island Gardens. All-youcan-eat pancake and sausage breakfast follows
($5 adults, $3 ages 3 and up). Sep 5 - SAUGATUCK BLUE STAR BRIDGE WALK: Fun-time, all-too-brief .12-mile bridge walk begins 9 am on Douglas side of Blue Star Bridge. Sep 5 - WHITE LAKE LABOR DAY WALK: Community bridge walk begins at 10 am at Hart-Montague Bike Trailhead behind Whitehall Products in Montague, crosses bridge into Whitehall and ends at Chamber of Commerce. Sep 8 - FASHION’S NIGHT OUT: Stores in downtown GR, Eastown, EGR and East Hills stay open late to promote local buying. 6-11 pm. www.fash ionsnightoutgr.com. Sep 8-10 - CELEBRATION ON THE GRAND: Annual city celebration includes live music and family fun at Rosa Parks Circle and Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown GR. Also children’s activities, Taste of Downtown, family-friendly entertainment and fireworks. 5-10:30 pm Thu and Fri, 3-11 pm Sat. www.celebrationonthegrand.org. Sep 9-11 - GRAND VALLEY AMERICAN INDIAN LODGE POW WOW: 50th annual family-friendly event features Native American dancing, drumming, crafts and food. 10 am-dark Fri and Sat, 10 am-5 pm Sun. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave NW. Free. www.experiencegr.com. Sep 9-11 - HISPANIC FESTIVAL: Annual celebration of cultural heritage with entertainment, food, art and products from Latin, Central and
South America. Noon-midnight Fri and Sat, noon5 pm Sun. Calder Plaza. Free. hispanic-center. org. Sep 9-17 - ALLEGAN COUNTY FAIR: Rodeo, parade, off-road demo derby, motocross, tractor pulls, duck races, camel rides, animal barns, food and music. Entertainers include Kid Rock, Jason Aldean with Chris Young and Thompson Square, and Big Time Rush with Hot Chelle Rae. $5 adults, $2 children (thru 12th grade), $5 parking. www. allegancountyfair.org. Sep 13 - STORY SPINNERS: Folk tales and original stories for all ages. 7 pm. Meijer Gardens Café, 1000 East Beltline Ave NE. www.storyspinners. net. Free. Sep 15 - GR BALLET 40TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CELEBRATION: Guest artists, including Maria Kowroski, and GR Ballet dancers showcase their talents. Reception and showcase of the past 40 years. 7 pm. Peter Martin Wege Theatre. $60 (454-4771, ext 10, or www.grballet.com). Sep 15 - MICHIGAN WINE GARDEN: Walk-around dinner and sampling from 12 Michigan wineries, plus live jazz guitar with Greg Miller. 6 pm. Mangiamo, 1033 Lake Dr SE. $30 (at door). Sep 15-18 - BARNUM 200: Circus featuring 130 performers, Asian elephants, horses and tigers. 7 pm Thu and Fri; 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun. Van Andel Arena. $15-$68 (Van Andel box office or Ticketmaster). Sep 16 - LIVE MANNEQUIN NIGHT: Merchants in downtown Holland compete for awards by displaying live mannequins posing in scenes from popular TV shows. 7-8:30 pm. www.downtown holland.com. Sep 16-17 - FALL BRIDAL SHOW OF WEST MICHIGAN: Area wedding exhibitors plus fashion shows. 5-9 pm Fri, 11 am-4 pm Sat. DeVos Place. $6 (at door). www.kohlerexpo.com. Sep 16-17 - WEST MICHIGAN MOM’S SALE: Bargain shop for gently used children’s clothing up to size 8, toys, baby gear, baby/toddler furniture and maternity clothing. 9 am-2 pm. DeltaPlex. Tickets $3, $5 for both days. www. westmichiganmomssale.com. Sep 16-18 - GRAND HAVEN SALMON FEST: Waterfront festival features live jazz, Michigan wine-tasting pavilion, grape stomping, gourmet salmon cook-off, beer, fine art fair, Big King salmon fishing contest, Fresh Catch Fish Boil. 4:30 pm Fri until noon Sun. Grand Haven Municipal Marina. www.visitgrandhaven.com. Sep 16-18 - TULIP CITY GEM & MINERAL SHOW: Displays, demonstrations, Petoskey polish, children’s games, door prizes, silent auctions and dealers of minerals, fossils, jewelry and equipment. 9 am-8 pm Fri, 9 am-7 pm Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. Holland Civic Center. $2 adults, $.50 children (at door). Sep 17 - COTTAGE BAR CHILI COOKOFF: 30th annual event features 40 chefs and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit Gilda’s Club of West Michigan. Noon-5:30 pm. Cottage Bar, 18 LaGrave Ave SE, and One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. www.cottagebar.biz. Sep 17 - EASTOWN STREET FAIR: All-day familyfriendly party with live music and entertainment on three stages, arts and crafts, kids activities, food and more. 9 am-10 pm. Lake Dr and Wealthy St SE. Free. 451-3025, www.eastowngr.com.
Photography Courtesy downtown holland principal shopping district
Posing in Holland
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City Guide Sep 17 - WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S: Threemile walk, shorter route available. Register online: www.kintera.org/FAF/home/default. asp?ievent=452113. 9 am registration, Millennium Park. Sep 17 - WHOLE NOTES: North American Choral Company annual dinner and dancing fundraiser. 6 pm. Koetsier’s Greenhouse, 1601 Spaulding Ave SE. $95 (www.thechoralcompany.com). Sep 17-18 - CIVIL WAR MUSTER: Holland Museum presents “Return to Bull Run” with battle scenes, historical figures, vendors, dinner and a night fire. 9 am-9:30 pm Sat, 9 am-3:30 pm Sun. Van Raalte Farm, Holland. Free. www.hollandmuseum.org. Sep 17-18 - GRAND ROGUE LIVING HISTORY ENCAMPMENT: Re-enactors re-create life in early America with authentic costumes, musket and cannon firing, and drill and tactical demonstrations. Sponsored by West Michigan Living History and Education Association. Camping available. Begins 10 am Sat. Grand Rogue Campground, Belmont. www.grandrogueencampment.com. Sep 17-18 - TULIPANES LATINO ART AND FILM FESTIVAL: Free citywide festival in Holland celebrates Latino culture. Films, mostly in Spanish, include short, animated, feature length and documentary in several venues (principal venue is Centennial Park). Also, fine arts, dance, food, music and more. www.tulipanes.org. Sep 19 - MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD BANQUET: West Michigan Jazz Society honors vocalist Edye Evans Hyde, plus dinner and cash bar. 6:30-10 pm. Watermark Country Club, 5500 Cascade Rd SE. $30 (735-4744 or www.wmich jazz.org). Sep 22 - REDESIGNING HOME 2011: FRENCH FARMHOUSE: Reception and tour of a renovated historic EGR residence on Reeds Lake. Benefits American Red Cross. 6-9 pm. $125 (616-4568661, ext. 3608, or american.redcross.org/rede signinghome2011).
Sep 23-25, Oct 1-2, Oct 8-9 - ROCKFORD HARVEST FESTIVAL: Three weekends of entertainment, scarecrow building, hayrides, chili cook-off, kids activities and car show. Downtown Rockford. 866-2000, www.rockfordmichamber. com.
Photography courtesy istockphoto.com/knape
Photography Courtesy downtown holland principal shopping district
Sep 23-24 - WEST MICHIGAN OKTOBERFEST: Celebrate Oktoberfest with the Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids. Live music all day with activities for kids, along with German food, wine and beer. Noon-11 pm. South lawn of John Ball Park. Free. www.edelweissclubgr.com or oktoberfestwest michigan.com.
Sep 23-24, Sep 30-Oct 1 - RED FLANNEL FESTIVAL: Annual event with parades, Fire Barn open house, pancake breakfasts, lumberjack suppers, chili cook-off, carnival and more. Red Flannel Day is Oct 1. Downtown Cedar Springs. (616) 696-2662, www.redflannelfestival.org. Sep 30-Oct 1 - MOPS CONSIGNMENT SALE: Sunshine MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) hosts a sale of kids’ clothing, toys, books, equipment and maternity clothes. 9 am-3 pm Fri, 9 am-noon Sat. Sunshine Community Church, 3300 East Beltline NE.
Music Sep - ACOUSTIC STEW: One Trick Pony features varying live artists 8-11 pm Thu. See website for schedule. 136 E Fulton St. www.onetrick.biz. Sep - FRIDAY NIGHTS AT GRAM: GR Art Museum hosts live music, social games, gallery talks, cash bar and dinner options 5-9 pm every Fri. Sep theme: ArtPrize. See website for details. 101 Monroe Center. $5 nonmembers, members free. www.artmuseumgr.org. Sep - THE INTERSECTION: Nightclub hosts local and national music. Sep 18, They Might Be Giants. Sep 19, Marc Broussard. Sep 22, Andrew Ripp. 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. Sep - MUSIC AT MID-DAY: Free concerts 12:1512:45 pm every Tue. Sep 20, Jim Metzler, organ. Sep 27, Jeff Dwarshuis, classical guitar. First Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Place NE. www. parkchurchgr.org. Sep - THE PYRAMID SCHEME: Sep 17, Heavier Than Air Flying Machines, Bars of Gold and Jowls. Sep 21, Xiu Xiu featuring Kindest Lines/ Hedgehog. Sep 29, Dominique Young Unique. See website for updates. Ticket prices vary (Vertigo Music or www.ticketweb.com). 68 Commerce SW. pyramidschemebar.com. Sep 5 - JAZZOO: Free jazz concert. 6-8 pm. John Ball Zoo Bandshell, 1300 W Fulton St. www. wmichjazz.org.
Sep 6, 20 - FARM MUSEUM JAM NIGHT: Bring your guitar, fiddle or other non-electric instrument. Singers and listeners welcome. 5 pm doors open, 6-9 pm jam. Coopersville Farm Museum, 375 Main St, Coopersville. Free with admission ($4). www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Sep 7 - TAIZE SUNG PRAYER SERVICE: Taize worship consists of repeated choruses, often accompanied by instruments, vocal solos. 7 pm. First United Methodist, 227 E Fulton St. www. grandrapidsfumc.org. Sep 9 - JOHN MCANDREW: Benefit concert for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. 7 pm. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 47 Jefferson St SE. $10, $30 family (at door). Sep 9, 23 - PEKICH PARK CONCERTS: Local musicians play 7-9 pm. Cherry St and S Division Ave. Sep 10 - BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA: Hope College presents a concert. 7:30 pm. Dimnent Chapel, Hope College. $6-$18 (www.hope.edu). Sep 10 - MAZE, FEATURING FRANKIE BEVERLY: Soul and jazz group with hit singles such as “Running Away,” “Love is the Key” and “Can’t Get Over You.” 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $51.50-$87.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Sep 11 - KATY PERRY: Pop singer with hits such as “California Gurls” and “Firework.” Also Janelle Monae. 8 pm. Van Andel Arena. $37.50$47.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).
Party for the pets One doesn’t often wear tennis shoes with formal attire, but the Humane Society of West Michigan encourages that behavior at Tuxes and Tennies. The Sept. 23 fundraiser will feature two events at the JW Marriott: an exclusive VIP dinner for 200 with ArtPrize 2011 artist Dale Rogers, who will decorate the Blue Bridge with 100 hanging monkeys. Following the dinner is a Ballroom Bash featuring drinks and a live D.J. playing 80’s music. The fundraiser will help the local humane society afford needed medication for the animals and enable it to take on more extreme cases. “It costs us about $30 a day to care for each animal,” said Nicole Cook, HSWM marketing coordinator. Average stay per animal is 16 days, and the costs are not covered by adoption fees. “Also, we are frequently called to help with cruelty cases and hoarding situations,” she said. Funds raised from Tuxes and Tennies “will also give us the financial stability to continue helping animals who have been through these extreme situations.” The cost for the VIP dinner is $250 per person; Ballroom Bash tickets are $20. Visit tuxesand tennies.com.
Sep 30-Oct 1 - THE CARVE: Nationwide culinary students compete in a national fruit and vegetable carving competition. Holland Farmers Market, 8th St Market Place, 150 W 8th St, Holland. www. thecarve.org. September 2011 Grand Rapids 87
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City Guide
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Restaurant and Banquet Banquet room available for private parties, corporate events and wedding receptions Fire-grilled kabobs, gourmet stews, variety of rice and vegetarian dishes Full bar with unique martinis and a large wine selection Lunch, Dinner & Take-Out Weekly entertainment: Violin, Middle Eastern Dance, and Monthy Wine Dinners
Sep 12 - “A NIGHT IN HAPSBURG VIENNA”: GVSU Music Department performs music from 18th century masters. 8 pm. Louis Armstrong Theatre, GVSU PAC, Allendale Campus. Free. www.gvsu.edu/fallarts. Sep 12, 19 - CIRCLE THEATRE CABARET SERIES: Sep 12, The Divas of Soul. Sep 19, The Harmonizers. 7 pm. Aquinas College PAC, 1607 Robinson Rd SE. $15 (456-6656 or www.circle theatre.org). Sep 12, 26 - HAT TRICK SERIES: WYCE 88.1 presents concerts that raise money for a local nonprofit. Sep 12, TBD. Sep 26, David Wax Museum. 7:30 pm. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. Donations accepted. www.wyce.org. Sep 14 - “FREE PLAY 22”: GVSU presents Taimur Sullivan, saxophone. 8 pm. Large Dance Studio, GVSU Allendale Campus. Free. www.gvsu.edu/ fallarts. Sep 16-17 - “OH WHAT A NIGHT!: BILLBOARD HITS FROM THE 1960s”: West Michigan Symphony presents Ron Bohmer, Tituss Burgess and Bradley Dean with music from The Four Seasons, Elvis, Ray Charles, The Beach Boys, Bobbie Darrin and others. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater. Tickets TBD (231-726-3231 or www. westmichigansymphony.com). Sep 16-17 - “MOZART DOUBLE PIANO CONCERTO”: GR Symphony opens the season with an opera overture. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Sep 16-18 - FALLFEST: West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association presents its 16th annual Bluegrass music festival with bands, workshops, jams and raffles. Camping available. Begins 6 pm Fri. Kent County Fairgrounds, 225 S Hudson St, Lowell. $25 weekend pass, $10 Fri, $17 Sat, $5 Sun (at gate). www.wmbma.org
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Sep 16-18 - MICHIGAN IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL: Three days of Irish music (Slide IE, Scythian, Old Blind Dogs, Beoga, Makem & Spain Brothers, Seamus Kennedy, Goitse, Blackthorn, The Kreellers, Kennedy’s Kitchen and more), and Feis, an Irish dance competition. Plus food, pub tent, marketplace, Sunday Catholic mass (9 am) and more. 5-11 pm Fri, 11 am-11 pm Sat, 8:30 am-6 pm Sun. Heritage Landing, downtown Muskegon. $8 Fri, $15 Sat, $10 Sun for adults; $2 children 6-12; 5 and under free; $25 three-day pass. www. michiganirish.org.
Matthews Auditorium, Cornerstone University. $10 (at door). Sep 29 - SWITCHFOOT AND ANBERLIN: Calvin College hosts a concert by these two bands. 8 pm. Hoogenboom Center. $25 (Calvin box office, 526-6282). www.calvin.edu. Sep 29 - TOMMY EMMANUEL: Guitarist and Grammy nominee. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $35-$45 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Sep 30 - MLC 10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT: Mid-Life Crisis, Brian Vander Ark, Troll for Trout, Domestic Problems and others host a concert to benefit Kids Food Basket. 6:30 pm doors open, 8 pm concert. DeVos Performance Hall. $15-$20 (DeVos Place box office, Ticketmaster or www. mlcband.com).
Art Sep 1, 8 - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: 7:30 pm Sep 1, Artist Critique Night. 7:30 pm Sep 8, Program Night. Free and open to public. 1345 Monroe Ave NW, Ste 130, www.grandvalleyartists.com. Sep 4, 11 - SUNDAY ART MARKET: Juried open air market of West Michigan artists’ original art and contemporary fine crafts. 11 am-2 pm. Under green canopy at Chinook Pier, Grand Haven. Sep 10 - AVENUE FOR THE ARTS MARKET: Local artists and live entertainment. 4-9 pm. Heartside, between Weston and Cherry on S Division. www. avenueforthearts.com/streetmarket. Free. Sep 10 - GARFIELD ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR: Garfield Park Neighborhood Association hosts more than 200 vendors, food, entertainment and kids activities. 9 am-4 pm. Garfield Park, 334 Burton St SE. Sep 17-18 - FALLASBURG FALL FESTIVAL: 43rd annual festival with more than 100 fine arts and crafts booths, plus craft demonstrations, entertainment, food, kids’ activities, raffle. 10 am-5 pm both days. Fallasburg Park, Lowell. 897-8545, www.lowellartscouncil.org. Sep 21-Oct 8 - ARTPRIZE: Third international art competition with $250,000 first prize for the artist with the most public votes. Pre-registered visitors vote online at www.artprize.org or by text messaging while they view the art. Various venues (indoors and outdoors) throughout downtown GR area. www.artprize.org.
Sep 17 - JAZZ VESPERS: Live jazz. 6 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www. grandrapidsfumc.org. Free.
Sep 21-Oct 8 - GRAND HAVEN ARTWALK: Local artists display their work throughout downtown and waterfront while public votes on favorites. www.ghartwalk.com.
Sep 23 - SLEEPING AT LAST: Calvin College hosts this band from Wheaton, Ill. 10 pm. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Ave SE. $10 (Calvin box office, 526-6282). www.calvin.edu.
Sep - CALVIN CENTER ART GALLERY: Thru Nov 5, Associated American Artists. Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle, 526-6271, www.calvin.edu/centerartgallery.
Sep 23-25 - “GERSHWIN’S GREATEST HITS”: GR Symphony’s pops concert features favorite music from Broadway to the concert hall. 8 pm, 3 pm Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $18$90 (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org.
Sep - DEPREE GALLERY: Thru Oct 1, Island Reflections: The Contemporary Art of Curacao; artist reception 5-6 pm Sep 9. Hope College, Holland, (616) 395-7500, www.hope.edu.
Sep 24 - CALVIN ARTIST SERIES: Preservation Hall Jazz Band performs New Orleans-style jazz. 8 pm. Calvin College FAC. $35-$45 (Calvin box office or 526-6282). Sep 29 - “ECCLESIASTES”: Cornerstone Uni versity presents music by Michael Card. 8 pm.
Sep - DESIGN QUEST GALLERY: Thru Sep 15, Wood Turning by Matthew Hutchinson. 4181 28th St SE, 940-0131, www.d2d2d2.com. Sep - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Sep 21-Oct 8, ArtPrize entries. Sep 21-Dec 31, Sculpture Today: New Forces, New Forms. Permanent exhibits include world-class sculptures indoors and in the 30-acre park. See
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City Guide Museums & Attractions. Sep - FULTON ST ARTISANS MARKET: Open-air market featuring photography, sculpture, textiles, jewelry, woodworking and more. 11 am-3 pm Sun thru Sep 25. 1147 E Fulton St. Sep - GALLERY UPTOWN: Sep 1-Oct 1, Maggie Bandstra, Patricia Dee and guests; artist reception 5:30-8 pm Sep 2. 201 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-5460, www.galleryuptown.net. Sep - GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Sep 21-Oct 8, ArtPrize entries. 10 am-5 pm Tue, Wed, Thu and Sat; 10 am-9 pm Fri; noon-5 pm Sun; closed Mon. General admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors/ students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www.artmuse umgr.org. Sep - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Thru Sep 4, Good Sports: Early 20th Century Team Photos. Thru Sep 25, Dutch Arcadia: 19th Century Romantic Landscapes. Dutch Galleries exhibit 17th- to 20thcentury Dutch paintings and cultural objects. See Museums & Attractions. Sep - KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Thru Sep 4, Yousuf Karsh: Regarding Heroes. Sep 10-Dec 4, Turning Point: Japanese Studio Ceramics in the Mid-20th Century. Sep 10-Nov 6, Second Skin: Peeling Back the Layers, Entang Wiharso. Sep 17-Dec 4, Off the Wall: Art in Three Dimensions. 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.
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Sep - LEEP ART GALLERY: Thru Oct 4, Becoming: Beauty and Identity in the 21st Century by Tracy Mae Fouts. Pine Rest, 300 68th St SE, 222-4530. Sep - LOWELLARTS!: Michigan Photo Compe tition Sep 13-Oct 22. 149 S Hudson St, Lowell, 897-8545, www.lowellartscouncil.org. Sep - MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Thru Oct 23, International Connections: Selected Works of Art from the David W. Baas Collection; free tours 1-3 pm every Thu in Sep. Thru Nov 6, Neighbors: Photography by David Myers, and Local Interest: Photography from The Muskegon Chronicle Archives. Noon-4:30 pm Sun; closed Mon; 10 am-6 pm Tue and Thu; 10 am-4:30 pm Wed, Fri and Sat. $5 adults (Thu free); members, students, kids under 17 free. Thru Sep 5, free admission to active duty military personnel and up to five family members. 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, www.muskegonartmuseum.org. Sep - RIVERTOWN ARTISTS GUILD: Thru Sep 30, Mary E Carter, EGR Library, 746 Lakeside Dr. Thru Sep 30, Wendy Gretzinger and John Knight, Wyoming Library, 3350 Michael St. Thru Sep 30, Gene Sampson, GR Association of Realtors, 660 Kenmoor SE. Thru Oct 8, John Knight, Walker Library, 4293 Remembrance Rd. Sep - TERRYBERRY GALLERY: ArtPrize entries Sep 21-Oct 9. Lower floor, St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE, 459-2224, www.scmsonline. org. Sep - UICA: Thru Sep 4, Seven X 11: Art for Art. Sep 21-Oct 8, ArtPrize entries. Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, 2 W Fulton St, 454-7000, www.uica.org.
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Film Sep - CELEBRATING THE CLASSICS: Film reviewer John Douglas introduces the Tue and September 2011 Grand Rapids 89
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City Guide Thu 3 pm and 5:45 pm screenings of Hollywood classic films, which show at 12:15 pm, 3 pm and 5:45 pm Tue and Thu, plus Sat and Sun matinees (check website for times). Sep 3-8, “Charade.” Sep 10-15, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Sep 17-22, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Sep 24-29, “At the Waterfront.” Celebration Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Dr NE. $4. www.celebrationcinema. com/classics.
A experience.
sep - Uica: Urban Institute for Contemporary Art shows independent, foreign and documentary films. 2 W Fulton St. Call for schedule. (454-3994, www.uica.org).
Stage sep - coMeDy MonDays: Dog Story Theater presents improv, standup, sketches, films, music, puppets, magic, one-act plays at 8 pm and 9 pm, and a free, open improv jam at 10 pm. 7 Jefferson Ave SE. $5. www.dogstorytheater.com. sep - Dr grins coMeDy cLUB: Stand-up comedians perform 9 pm Thu, 8 pm and 10:30 pm Fri and Sat. Sep 1-3, Dan Grueter. Sep 8-10, Greg Warren. Sep 15-17, Carl Labove. Sep 22-24, Kyle Dunnigan. Sep 29-Oct 1, Hal Sparks. See website for updates. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. Ticket prices vary (356-2000, www.thebob.com). thru sep 4 - scott neVin’s one night stanD: Standup comedian presents insider Hollywood gossip, personal anecdotes and vocal impressions. 8 pm, 7 pm Sun. Mason Street Warehouse, 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. $36.50$39.75 adults, $33-$36.50 seniors and students, $26 Sun matinee (269-857-4898 or www.mason streetwarehouse.org). sep 8-24 - “ain’t MisBehaVin’”: Circle Theatre presents a musical set in 1930s Harlem. 7:30 pm, 5 pm Sep 18. Aquinas College PAC, 1607 Robinson Rd SE. $20-$25 (456-6656, www.circle theatre.org).
Real-world research opportunities. Get ready to be inspired. Our faculty combines academic study with student-directed research projects to give undergraduate students the kind of hands-on learning and professional opportunities reserved only for graduate students at other schools. It’s a grand experience that challenges and motivates our students and sets Grand Valley apart. gvsu.edu/GRAND | 616.331.2025
Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum for WOULD YOU SURVIVE THE JOURNEY?
sep 9-18 - “tWeLVe angry Men”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents the story of a diverse group of jurors who discover the case is not what it seemed. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. 30 N Division Ave. Tickets TBD (Civic box office or Star Tickets). www.grct.org. sep 10, 24 - riVer city iMProV: Calvin College alumni improv team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. 6:30 pm doors open, 7:33 pm show. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. $10 (at door or Calvin box office). www.rivercityimprov.com. sep 15-oct 8 - “MiracLe WorKer”: Master Arts Theatre presents the story of blind and mute Helen Keller and her volatile relationship with her teacher. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sat. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $15 adults, $13 seniors and students (455-1001, www.masterarts.org). sep 16-25 - “coMPany B”: GR Ballet presents Paul Taylor’s production of America after the Depression and heading into the Second World War. 7:30 pm. Peter Martin Wege Theatre. $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 children (ballet box office or Ticketmaster). www.grballet.com. sep 29-30 - riVer north Dance chicago: Hope College presents a concert. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, Hope College. $6-$18 (www.hope.edu). sep 29-oct 8 - “rUst”: Actors’ Theatre presents a world premiere work based on interviews
Gaze, chuckle and wonder at this unique collection of favorites from the Museum’s archives!
November 12 - December 31, 2011
FEBRUARY 11 MAY 6, 2012
And, every day you’ll enjoy: 3 floors of fascinating exhibits · Carousel and Planetarium Café and Curiosity Shop
272 Pearl St. NW • Grand Rapids 616.456.3977 • www.grmuseum.org sePtember 2011 Grand rapids 91
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City Guide: Clubs ’n’ Pubs
Z’s Bar & Restaurant Location: 168 Louis Campau, Grand Rapids Hours: 11 a.m.-2 a.m., Mon.-Sat.; noon.-1 a.m. Sun. Contact: (616) 454-3141; www.zsbar.com Features: Burger specials every Sunday noon-6. Happy hour: 2-7 p.m. Kitchen stays open until closing time.
What’s not to love? There’s always something happening at Z’s Bar & Restaurant in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, making it a prime spot during ArtPrize. By Alexandra Fluegel
With its close vicinity to downtown hotels, Z’s is a popular destination for visitors, too, and on weekends — and during ArtPrize — this can sometimes provide more entertainment than what is on TV or on stage. moment and none of the headache that downtown hot spots can sometimes bring. Though being the seven-time winner of the Taste of Grand Rapids’ “Best Ribs” makes anything containing BBQ sauce a popular choice, Z’s also offers burritos, pizzas and sandwiches that definitely are worth bragging about. Most recently, Chef Phil You has begun infusing the menu with Asian features, including a Vegetarian Stir Fry and Crab Rangoons that he said are quickly becoming crowd favorites. He also runs weekly specials, giving folks the chance to try something new. While many places have come and gone in downtown over the years, Z’s has been a constant go-to destination for concert goers and construction workers for almost two decades. For anyone who has stopped in, this comes as no surprise. GR
Photography by Johnny Quirin
L
ooking for a place downtown that serves award-winning ribs and authentic Asian cuisine? Maybe not, but if you’re in the mood for surprising combinations, Z’s Bar & Restaurant has you covered. From the food to the crowd, the downtown staple shows that there is a place with a little something for everyone. A cool mix of working professionals and rib-loving sports fans, Z’s crowd of regulars creates an enjoyable atmosphere where business casual meets casual business. It’s a Happy Hour home base for many downtown dwellers, and a great location for those meetings where you need to get things done and want to have a bit of fun while you’re there. For sports fans, the surplus of satellite HDTV flat screens makes it the perfect place to catch a game and grab a beer with friends, and the framed memorabilia on the walls may provide that trivia question answer that’s been plaguing you since the off-season. With its close vicinity to downtown hotels, Z’s is a popular destination for visitors, too, and on weekends — and during ArtPrize — this can sometimes provide more entertainment than what is on TV or on stage. During a summer Saturday night on the patio, we celebrated alongside three separate wedding parties, burned off some steam with suited-up conference attendees, and heard stories about composting laws from a Portland transplant. Never a dull 92 Grand Rapids September 2011
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City Guide with GM workers after the company closed a Wyoming, Mich., plant in 2008 after 75 years. 8 pm. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St NE. $24 adults, $20 students and seniors (234-3946). www.actorstheatregrandrapids.org. sep 29-oct 8 - “the schooL For WiVes”: Heritage Theatre Group presents a comedy by French playwright Moliere. 8 pm. Dog Story Theater, 7 Jefferson Ave SE. $18 adults, $14 seniors, $10 students (www.heritagetheatregr. org). sep 30-oct 9 - “tWeLFth night”: GVSU’s Shakespeare Festival presents Shakespeare’s comedy. 7:30 pm Thu-Sat, 2 pm Sun. Louis Armstrong Theatre, PAC, Allendale Campus. $14 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students (616-3312300, box office or Star Tickets). www.gvsu.edu/ artscalendar.
Museums & attractions sep - BLanDForD natUre center: Sep 24, Get Into Geocaching ($5). 143 acres of diverse ecosystems, trails, natural history exhibits, Heritage Buildings (log cabin, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse). Interpretive Center open 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 735-6240, www. blandfordnaturecenter.org. Free. sep - caPPon & settLers hoUse MUseUMs: Restored Cappon House is the Italianate Victorian home of Holland’s first mayor, 228 W 9th St, Holland. Tiny Settlers House recalls hardships of early settlers, 190 W 9th St, Holland. Noon-4 pm Fri and Sat. For admission prices, see Holland Museum. (616) 392-6740, www.hollandmuseum. org. sep - cooPersViLLe FarM MUseUM: Thru Sep 30, Quilts and Their Stories. Regular exhibits include tractors from 1930 to present, eclipse windmill, 100-year-old barns, interactive kids area. 10 am-4 pm Tue-Sat. $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children 3-18, under 3 free. 375 Main St, Coopersville, 997-8555, www.coopersvillefarm museum.org. sep - cooPersViLLe & Marne raiLWay: Restored 1920s-era railway has Fall Color Excursion rides at 11 am and 1 pm Wed and Sat; $10.50 adults, $9.50 seniors 60 and over, $7.50 ages 2-12, under 2 free. Pumpkin Train rides 11 am and 2 pm Sep 24, 1 pm and 3 pm Sep 25; $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.
PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin
sep - DegraaF natUre center: 18-acre preserve includes Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch and more than 240 plant species. 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. sep - FreDeriK MeiJer garDens & scULPtUre ParK: Sep 16-Oct 31 Chrysanthemums and More, annual celebration of autumn with chrysanthemum displays, color tours, tram rides and seasonal children’s activities. Sep 3-4, Heirloom Tomatoes Weekend, and Fall Rose Show. Sep 17-18, Herb and Gourd Event. 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, 11 am-5 pm Sun. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students with IDs, $6 ages 5-13, $4 ages 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 957-1580, www.meijer gardens.org.
Vi n e y a r d s & Wine Cellar
sep - geraLD r. ForD MUseUM: Permanent exhibits include The 1970s; Watergate scandal; White House Oval Office; New Mood at the White House. 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.
A great wine experience is close at hand. Visit
sep - hoLLanD MUseUM: Cultural attractions from the “old country” and exhibits that explore local history. I Spy Adventure and kids activities in Mark’s Room. 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.
Fenn Valley Vineyards & Wine Cellar, where you can sample from over 25 award winning wines.
sep - John BaLL Zoo: Attractions include Mighty Mike and his crocodile pals, 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. Redesigned petting zoo (Red’s Hobby Farm) includes goats, Mexican micro pigs, a cow and more. Thru Sep 5: 9 am-6 pm daily; $8.50 adults and seniors over 62, $6.50 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. Sep 6-Oct 31: 10 am- 4 pm; $5 adults and seniors over 62, $4 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www.johnballzoosociety. org.
You’ll discover what we mean when we say it’s
“the lake effect everyone loves.”
Enjoy our popular educational wine tasting tours in the vineyard, free wine tasting in the tasting room and winery direct discounts.
sep - KaLaMaZoo natUre center: 1,100 acres of forests, prairies and wetlands. 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. sep - KaLaMaZoo VaLLey MUseUM: Thru Sep 5, Wizard of Oz. Sep 3-Jan 22, Fractals: Mathematics and Science as Art. Sep 17-Jan 1, CSI: Crime Scene Insects. Permanent exhibits include simulated mission to space, 2,300-yearold mummy and Science in Motion. See website for planetarium shows ($3) and 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. sep - LaKeshore MUseUM center: 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. muskegonmuseum.org. Free. sep - 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. sep - Meyer May hoUse: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house 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, 246-4821, meyer mayhouse.steelcase.com. Free. sep - PUBLic MUseUM: Thru Sep 3, Summer Fun Days include themed activities 11 am-3 pm
grmag
6130 - 122nd Ave. Fennville, MI 49408 800-432-6265 fennvalley.com sePtember 2011 Grand rapids 93
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City Guide
Sep - ROGER B. CHAFFEE PLANETARIUM: Stateof-the-art, Digistar-powered shows. 2 pm SatSun and 7 pm Tue, “Cowboy Astronomer.” 2 pm daily and 8 pm Tue, “Everybody’s Sky.” 3 pm Sat and Sun, “Under Starlit Skies.” Museum admission plus $3. Closed Sep 19-Oct 9. Van Andel Museum Center (see Public Museum). Sep - TRI-CITIES HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhi bits include train depot, Michigan Logging and Early Pioneers. 9:30 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 12:30-5 pm Sat and Sun. 200 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, 842-0700, www.tri-citiesmuseum.org. Free. Sep - VEEN OBSERVATORY: Astronomical observatory owned and operated by GR Amateur Astronomical Association. Public viewing: 8-10:30 pm Sep 10 and Sep 24, weather permitting (call 897-7065 for updates). $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17, children under 5 free. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave SE,
Lowell, www.graaa.org.
Lectures & Workshops Sep - BABY BELOVED CLASSES: 10 am Sep 10 and 6 pm Sep 14, Breastfeeding: Getting a Strong Start ($40). 10 am Sep 24, Maximizing Milk Supply ($20). Registration required. Baby Beloved, 555 Midtowne St NE, Ste 100, 977-5683, www.babybelovedinc.com. Sep - ENHANCEFITNESS: Senior Neighbors fitness program increases strength and endurance and improves balance. 11:30 am Mon, Wed and Fri. Baxter Community Center, 935 Baxter Ave. (616) 233-0283 or www.seniorneighbors.org. $2 suggested donation. Sep - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Programs include adult computer classes, reading clubs, Parks for Everyone: The Story of Grand Rapids Parks and kids activities (see Kidstuff). Complete schedule at GRPL Main Library, 111 Library St NE, or www. grpl.org. Free. Sep - GR TANGO: Beginner and intermediate dance lessons 8-9:30 pm Thu, followed by free practice 9:30-10:30 pm. Richard App Gallery, 910 Cherry St SE, www.grtango.org. $12 drop-in. Sep - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Programs include book discussions, computer classes, career transition workshops, Early Childhood
Think pink Thousands of runners and walkers are expected to participate Sept. 24 in the 14th annual Susan G. Komen West Michigan Race for the Cure. The annual 5K event raises awareness and funds for the battle against breast cancer. “Watching 7,000 advocates come together to take a stand against breast cancer is the most empowering and emotional event I have been a part of,” said Emma Powell, executive director of the West Michigan branch. This year’s goal is to raise more than $510,000 in donations, with 75 percent of that staying in the West Michigan area. The organization also wants to educate people on the resources offered in the area, such as free mammograms. Register for the event online at www.komenwestmichigan.org until Sept. 21. Teams can register on-site until Sept. 23. Runners and walkers will take their place at the starting line at 8:30 a.m.
Essentials and kids activities (see Kidstuff). See website for complete list. www.kdl.org. Sep - METRO STROLLER FIT: Metro Health offers Mommy and Me Stroller Workout. 1-2 pm every Wed. Registration: 252-7117. Metro Health Professional Building Lobby, 5900 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming. $5. Sep - SWING DANCING AT ROSA PARKS CIRCLE: Grand Rapids Original Swing Society hosts swing, ballroom and line dancing with live music in downtown GR. Instruction begins 7 pm every Tue thru Sep 27. Free (donations accepted). Sep 9, 23 - GRAND RIVER FOLK ARTS SOCIETY: Dance instruction events. 7 pm Sep 9, Second Friday International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St SE, $5. 7 pm Sep 23, 4th Friday Contra Dance with music jams, 5th St Hall, 701 5th St NW, $6. www.grfolkarts.org. Sep 10 - HEALTHY LIFESTYLES CONFERENCE: Great Start Collaborative of Kent County hosts a free conference for parents and child care providers. Topics include asthma care and management, healthy menus for kids and tips about ADHD, plus keynote speaker Tim Cusack. 8 amnoon. Meijer Gardens, 1000 E Beltline Ave. www. greatstartkent.org. Sep 10, 15 - LITERARY LIFE BOOKSTORE: 2-4 pm Sep 10, book signing with Lois Hoitenga Roelofs, author of “Caring Lessons: A Nursing Professor’s Journey of Faith and Self.” 7 pm Sep 15, Professors’ Poetry Panel with David Cope, Patricia Clark and Keith Taylor. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418, www.literarylifebookstore.com. Sep 13, 20, 27 - LIBRARY VOLUNTEER READING PROGRAM: Herrick District Library and the Great Start Collaborative of Ottawa County offer a training program for volunteers to read to children in local health clinics. 7-8:30 pm. 300 S River Ave, Holland. Registration: ssmallwood@herrickdl.org. Sep 17 - AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE: Deaf Expressions offers an eight-week class for ages 12 and up. 10 am-noon Sat. 2133 McKee SW. $150 (includes workbook). Register at 856-9885 or deafexpressions05@gmail.com. Sep 17 - DANCEgr: Ballroom dance lesson (7-8 pm), followed by social dance (8-11 pm). Social Dance Studio, 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, www. dancegr.com. $10 lesson, $11 dance, $16 both. Sep 22 - DYSLEXIA SEMINAR: New Chapter Learning offers info on thinking style, learning differences and gifts of visual thinkers. 6:30 pm. Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave, Grandville. Registration: 534-1385. www.new chapterlearning.net. Free. Sep 22 - GVSU LECTURE: “Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?” by Michael Sandel. 7 pm. Eberhard Center, GVSU Pew Campus. Free. www. gvsu.edu/fallarts. Sep 26 - GR AUDUBON CLUB: “Journey of the Cranes” by naturalist Gary Siegrist. 7 pm social hour, 7:30 pm presentation. Grand Rapids Theological Seminary Auditorium, Cornerstone University, 3000 Leonard NE. Free. www.glsga. org/grac. Sep 26 - GRCC DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES: Speaker: Nicholas Kristof. 7 pm. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St NE. Free. www.grcc.edu/ lecture. Sep 29 - MARRIAGE WORKSHOP: How to grow
Photography Courtesy West Michigan Affiliate of Komen West Michigan
daily. Sep 21-Oct 8, ArtPrize entries. Thru Dec 31, American Seating Celebrates 125 Years in Grand Rapids. Thru May 2012, Thank God for Michigan!: Stories from the Civil War, more than 100 artifacts including uniforms, weapons, photographs and letters (free with admission). Permanent exhibits include Streets of Old Grand Rapids and 1928 carousel ($1). 9 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat, 9 am-8 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Sep 4-5 and Sep 19-20. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 ages 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St NW, 4563977, www.grmuseum.org.
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City Guide intimacy and find closeness in marriage. 6:308:30 pm. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St SE, Cutlerville. $45/couple (455-5279). www. pinerest.org.
Sports Sep - WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS: Profes sional minor league baseball team, member of the Midwest League and Class A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. Home games: Sep 3-5 vs Fort Wayne TinCaps. 7 pm Sat, 1 pm Sun and Mon. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 W River Dr, Comstock Park. $6-$13 (800-CAPS-WIN, www.whitecapsbaseball.com). Sep 3 - HOLLAND ROTARY 5K RUN/WALK: Holland Rotary sponsors a fundraiser for the Youth Exchange Program, Life Leadership, Leaders of the 21st Century Project, and other youth-focused programs. 8:30 am. Smallenburg Park, 13th and Fairbanks, Holland. www.hol landrotary.org. Sep 3 - RUN FOR SIGHT: Sixth annual 5K run and walk benefits the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. One-mile fun run for children under 9 years. 8 am. Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon. $25 run, $20 walk. www.goracego. com. Sep 10 - RHOADES MCKEE REEDS LAKE TRIATHLON: Half-mile swim, 17-mile bike ride and five-mile run around Reeds Lake in EGR. 7-11 am. Limited to first 1,000 registrants; preregistration required: www.eastgr.org. Sep 10 - WEDGWOOD WELLNESS 5K RUN/ WALK: Tribute to Terry Chamberlain who supervised the Wedgwood Medical Services Department, and fundraiser for Wedgwood services. 9-11 am. Wedgwood Christian Services, 3300 36th St SE. $20. www.wedgwood.org/5K. Sep 18 - BRIDGE RUN: 10-mile and 5K races throughout downtown GR. 6 am registration, 8 am start. Rosa Parks Circle. $40 5K, $45 10-mile. www.gazellesports.com/info/131-BridgeRun. html.
Photography Courtesy West Michigan Affiliate of Komen West Michigan
Sep 24 - AQUINAS 5K RUN/2K WALK: Aquinas Colleges hosts the third annual run/walk benefiting Kids Food Basket. 9 am-1 pm. Sep 24 - PARK2PARK HALF MARATHON AND 5K: Race along Holland’s lakeshore, organized by nonprofit Neighbors Plus. 8:30 am. Harderwyk Christian Reformed Church, 1627 West Lakewood Blvd, Holland. $45 half marathon, $25 5K. www.park2parkrace.com. Sep 24 - SUSAN G. KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE: 14th annual 5K run/survivors walk. 6:30 am registration, 8:30 am race. RiverTown Crossings Mall, Grandville. $25. www.komengr. org.
Kidstuff Sep - ALL DAY WITH THE ARTS: GR Art Museum offers family programming every Sat, with artmaking activities, family activity guides and garden room art stations. Kid-friendly tours 11 am and 1 pm. 101 Monroe Center. Free with admission. Sep - BALLETMORE REGISTRATION: Dance, ballet, pointe, jazz/tap, jazz/hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary. Classes begin Sep 12. Balletmore, 2335 Burton SE, 307-3561, www.balletmore.com.
Sep - 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. Sep - FINE ART FOR KIDS: Cynthia Hagedorn’s studio offers themed fine art time for kids. 194½ S River Ave, Holland, www.cynthiahagedorn.com. Sep - GRAND RAPIDS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Thru Sep 11, Happy Animal Clinic. Thru Sep 19, Excavation Station. Permanent exhibits include Mercantile Wee Bank, Spin Table, 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. 9:30 am-5 pm Tue-Sat, until 8 pm Thu, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $6.50, under 2 free. 22 Sheldon Ave NE, 2354726, www.grcm.org. Sep - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Literacy classes for babies, toddlers and kids include storytelling, music, dramatic play and art activities. Times and locations vary. Complete schedule at any branch or www.grpl.org. Free. Sep - GYMCO: Noon-2 pm Mon-Fri Sep 5-30, Lunch Bunch. 8:30 am-6 pm daily, Gymtime Day Camp. Sep 9, Kids Night Out. Sep 16, Cartwheel Clinic. Sep 24, Princess Party. Gymco Sports, 2360 Camelot Ridge Ct SE, 956-0586, www. gymco.com. Sep - HOP SCOTCH CHILDREN’S STORE: Free events 10:30 am Mon. Sep 12, Music Time: All About Me. Sep 19, Play Centers with Green Toys. Sep 26, Make and Take Play Dough Event. 909 Cherry St SE, 233-4008, www.hopscotchstore. com. Sep - JAVA GYM: Children’s entertainment center with four levels of soft play, toddler area, party rooms, and coffee and free wi-fi for parents. 8:30 am-5 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am-8 pm Sat, 10 am-6 pm Sun. 2211 East Beltline Ave NE (near Knapp), 3619800, www.javagymgr.com. $7 ages 3 and up, $3 ages 2 and younger. Sep - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Story times for young children, plus Mad Science and Katie L’s Big Top Birthday. Teen programs include Wii games. See www.kdl.org for dates and locations. Sep - KINDERMUSIK: Playgroup 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). Sep - 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). Thru Sep 30 - AMERICAN GIRL PARTY REGIS TRATION: Home School Building Bookstore and Library hosts an American Girl party for moms and daughters (6 and older) with crafts, historyfocused games, snacks and a doll parade. Party is 6:30-8 pm Oct 11, Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. Registration: $5 per child (532-9422, ext 6, or resourcecenter@ homeschoolbuilding.org). Sep 3 - FIRST SATURDAY FOR KIDS: Literary Life Bookstore hosts Wendy Anderson Halperin, illustrator of “Planting the Wild Garden.” 11 am. 758 Wealthy St SE, 458-8418, www.literarylife bookstore.com. Sep 3-4 - MEET ME AT THE FAIR: Meijer Gardens September 2011 Grand Rapids 95
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City Guide hosts fair activities (beanbag toss, sack races and hula-hoops) plus contests (hobby horseracing, paper airplane flying and ice cream eating), live animals and demos. 1-4 pm Sat and Sun. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 957-1580, www.meijergar dens.org. Free with admission. sep 8 - aLLegro schooL oF MUsic oPen hoUse: Ice-cream social and open house with registration available for Kindermusik classes. 6:15-7 pm. 4301 Ambrose Ave NE. $5 per child or $4 each for two or more siblings. 301-3888, www. allegrogr.org. sep 10 - “nUtcracKer” aUDitions: Caledonia Dance Center holds auditions for kids 10 and up (3-4 pm) and ages 5-9 (4:30-5:30 pm). 131½ E Main St, Caledonia. Register at (616) 891-1606. www.caledoniadancecenter.com. sep 17, 19 - Master arts theatre aUDitions: Auditions for “The Sound of Music,” which runs Nov 17-Dec 10. 10 am Sep 17 and 6:30 pm Sep 19. 75 77th St SW. www.masterarts.org.
Calendar legend coMMonLy reQUesteD VenUe anD ticKet oUtLet inForMation FoLLoWs.
Coming this December ...
FIVE-STAR DOCTORS
The first “Top Doctors” list tied to patient outcomes at hospitals and other objective criteria, not subjective consumer surveys. Designed to help patients find the best doctors.
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 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), 2 W. Fulton St., 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
Call (616) 459-4545 to subscribe or advertise
calendar items must be submitted two months prior to the magazine issue date. Please send submissions for the november calendar no later than sept. 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.
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An exquisite dining experience set in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. Treat your senses to all that is Leo’s in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. 60 Ottawa NW | Downtown Grand Rapids | 616.454.6700 | www.leosrestaurant.com
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“Restaurant of the Year” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 “Dining Awards”
Gift certificates and menus are available online at leosrestaurant.com
7/26/11 10:40 AM
Power through your day. Introducing three delicious ways to start your day. For a high-powered, high-protein breakfast, nothing beats our Breakfast Power Sandwich, made with hardwood smoked ham and sharp Vermont Cheddar. Or power up with our new Wild Berry Smoothie, a healthy option rich in vitamins B6 and B12. You can even indulge in our energy-infused Strawberry Granola Parfait, a flavorful blend of fresh strawberries, organic yogurt and our signature maple pecan granola, guaranteed to help you get your day running.
For other breakfast options, try one of our 12 varieties of freshly baked bagels. Voted Best Bagel in Grand Rapids.
panerabread.com Š2011 Panera Bread. All Rights Reserved.
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