Taste This! by Robin Vargo

Grand Rapids Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

www.grmag.com

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ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT OF

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TO SMELL THE BREAD. INDULGE YOUR APPETITE. AND MAKE YOURSELF COMFORTABLE.

New Orleans flavor right here in West Michigan! Featuring the best Neo-American Creole Frusion style cuisine including our famous Seafood Gumbo, Jambalaya and Red Beans and Rice. Come in and experience the spices of New Orleans. Dine in or take out Catering available

220 W. 8th Street, Holland, MI 616.355.1994 | WWW.BLUEHOUSEBISTRO.COM

Welcome to West Michigan’s

dynamic dining scene EvERyonE hAs A fAvoRITE restaurant or two. Like old friends, you know what to expect: They greet you warmly, keep you engaged with attentive service, and offer comfort and sustenance with every visit. However, as the old song advises, it’s always good to make new friends. By J. Stapleton-Burch • Photography by Michael Buck

rant profile. If you have a smartphone, the QR codes will transport you to the restaurant for a virtual visit and truly give you a peek into the venue. Watch the chefs creating in the kitchen, check out the ambiance of the dining room, and salivate over the meals to come. All you have to do is download a free app that will allow your smartphone to read QR codes, and then scan the code and watch the fun begin.

est Michigan’s dining scene is full of new friends just waiting to be discovered. It offers a vast array of impressive destinations to fit any hunger. In this guide we offer a peek into some of the area’s most distinctive dining venues. Dive in and explore. Then set out with a determination to add at least one new friend to your list. To make that enjoyable task even easier, we’ve embedded Quick Response (QR) codes into each restau-

Opposite page: ÂŠistockphoto.com/Synergee; ÂŠistockphoto.com/whitekieran

(616) 855-WINE // REsERvEGR.com

Experience Reserve

ReseRve is a Grand Rapids experience not to be missed. Executive Chef Matthew Millar’s imaginative menu at this iconoclastic wine bar offers a world class, seasonally driven menu embracing the farm-to-table philosophy. It boasts Michigan’s most extensive charcuterie bar with a wide range of regional and international meats and cheeses. Guests can tailor their dining experience to suit their appetite; choose shared small plates or full entrees prepared with the season’s finest ingredients. Reserve’s custom Cruvinet wine dispensary offers 102 wines by the glass, including many Michigan features. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned oenophile, Reserve’s trained and friendly staff is ready to guide you through the journey. The stylish bar also offers a selection of Michigan craft beer, liquor and specialty drinks. In the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Reserve’s main floor offers casual dining with communal high-tops and personal tables, or sit outside on the 2nd floor patio just adjacent to the mezzanine dining room. Private dining space is available for special occasions or corporate dinners. Downstairs, “The vault” — aptly named in honor of its authentic early 20th century bank vault door still evident at the far end of the room — can hold up to a dozen guests for a completely private and intimate dining experience. The second floor features a semi-private dining area that can accommodate up to 16 guests seated for dinner, or 30 for casual reception-style events. Reserve opens at 4 p.m. Monday through saturday.

(616) 863-8181 // REds-lIvE.com

Reds on the River: In a class by itself peRched along The banks of the Rogue River in downtown Rockford, Reds on the River has made quite a name for itself, earning accolades as Grand Rapids Magazine’s 2007 “Best new Restaurant” with “fine Dining Awards of Excellence” every year since — including Chef of the year in January of 2011. Reds’ exceptional food, outstanding service and inviting Tuscan design set the table for a dining experience like no other. Executive Chef Glenn forgie and his culinary team pour their hearts and souls into making sure that Michigan’s #1 outdoor dining venue goes

above and beyond its picturesque location. Every dish is made from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients, stocks built nightly, and flavors layered in to please the palate. Known for its aged, hand-cut steaks prepared on an 1800-degree broiler and served sizzling at the table, Reds’ menu also includes such signatures as seasonal fish flown in daily, freshly prepared panseared scallops, roasted lamb and duck, pork tenderloin, eight-layer lasagna, jambalaya, and the ever popular Torch Lake Chicken. Gourmet salads, sensational soups, creative appetizers, and delectable desserts, along with a 250+ varietal wine list, specialty cocktails, and tableside hand pressed coffees truly put Reds in a class by itself.

(616) 954-2002 // uccellos.com

Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge: Exceeding guests’ expectations

The family-owned Uccello’s Ristorante is well known to both culinary and sports enthusiasts alike. They offer the fresh taste of pasta imported directly from Italy, served with homemade sauces whose recipes have been passed down over generations. Besides specialty pastas and authentic Italian entrees, Uccello’s also offers American cuisine: tender steaks, baby back ribs, and thick and juicy burgers. A talented culinary crew with eyes — and taste buds — for detail, makes all menu items from scratch. It is the perfect place for relaxing family dinners. Sports fans revel in cheering for their teams on the HD big screens while eating some of the city’s finest appetizers and handmade pizzas. Grand Rapids Magazine readers

have often recognized Uccello’s as the “Best Happy Hour,” “Best Sports Bar,” and among the top three “Best Pizzas” in town. Each location has several HD big-screen TVs, flat-screen TVs throughout the bar and dining

room, and every seat has a great view of the game. They have an extensive wine list and 22 beers on tap, featuring Michigan microbrews. Activities like NTN Trivia, Texas Hold’Em, Keno, pool tables, video games and free wireless Internet keep diners busy in the sports lounge, while summer months offer live music on the patios of the Grand Rapids and Caledonia locations. It’s a famous gathering spot for socializing, and their banquet rooms are ideal for rehearsal dinners, parties and business meetings. Uccello’s will exceed your expectations.

(616) 447-7750 // WWW.thousaNdoaksGolf.com

The Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks Golf Club: So much more than award-winning golf

waRm and fRiendly with a no-fuss attitude, The Acorn Grille at Thousand oaks Golf Club welcomes the public all year round and goes above and beyond to ensure a distinctive dining experience. Their innovative-yet-classic, seasonally inspired menu offers traditional American fare with an international flair, created under the careful guidance of Executive Chef

David Dalton, whose versatile menu includes excellent lunch options as well. The Acorn Grille at Thousand oaks has consistently garnered critical acclaim since 2001 when it was voted “Best new Restaurant in West Michigan” by on-the-Town Magazine. other honors include “Best Golf Course Restaurant in the Midwest” from readers of Great Lakes Golf, and it is a perennial nominee for Grand Rapids Magazine’s dining awards. With its fullscale windows, warm col-

ors, lustrous cherry wood accents and cozy fireplace, the dining room presents beautiful views of the award-winning Rees Jones-designed championship golf course. Guests enjoy relaxing on the large screened-in deck or alfresco patio that fronts the course, while winter months are spiced up with crackling fires and winter-wonderland views. Inviting, beautifully appointed banquet facilities, complete with state-ofthe-art audio/visual equipment, provide a fairytale setting for a wedding reception — in fact it was voted “Best Reception venue” by The Knot Magazine 2010 & 2011 — or a congenial spot for corporate events, meetings, seminars, business lunches and social occasions. no matter what your needs, the attentive staff at Thousand oaks is prepared to meet them year-round.

(616) 242-1448 // IlovEthEJW.com

six.one.six: A world-class feast for the senses emanaTing an inviTing cosmopolitan vibe that cleverly combines comeas-you-are comfort with big-city cool, JW Marriott’s signature restaurant, six. one.six, maintains a cutting-edge focus on creativity and freshness. six.one.six’s unique name underscores its commitment to serving locally grown, top-quality cuisine, hand chosen from local farms and regional producers. Passionate about growing the culinary experiences of guests and putting our city on the map as a gourmet’s travel destination, Executive Chef Justin Dalenberg’s simple-yet-refined menu is dictated by the seasons and the best local farmers have to offer. his dedication extends to harvesting a fresh variety of heirloom vegetables and herbs straight from the JW’s own bountiful urban garden overlooking the Grand River. The six.one.six mantra is: Eat local. feel global. Their dishes do just that. Utilizing the freshest, best-quality ingredients, Chef Justin and his talented culinary crew craft those ingre-

dients into globally inspired culinary experiences that keep patrons coming back for more. In addition to the upscale casual dining room and alluring outdoor “jdek” — complete with fireplace, lounge sofas and heaters — guests enjoy sitting at the Chef’s Lab, an interactive culinary bar that hosts up to 17 in counter seats that open to the kitchen. It encourages friendly conversation with the restaurant’s culinarians as they prepare food and offer an amuse-bouche — complimentary bite-sized appetizers from the chef. It’s both a learning and dining experience not to be missed.

(616) 234-3700 // WWW.GRcc.Edu/hERItaGE

Photography by Johnny Quirin

The Heritage: Discover tomorrow’s great chefs today

simply puT, one would be hard pressed to find such creative, daring and dynamic culinary fare as that found at the student-run restaurant, The heritage, on the downtown campus of Grand Rapids Community College. It possesses the single freshest ingredient in town — unbridled new talent. And while these future star chefs take the culinary world by storm, you discover that one of the finest restaurants in town is right in your own back yard. At The heritage you’ll find unique and

innovative twists on classic meat, poultry, vegan and pasta favorites, all made from scratch with the strictest attention to every culinary detail. Tableside cooking — chic, entertaining and difficult to master — is a staple, making the dining experience an event in which to revel. The heritage staff and its culinary prodigies from the secchia Institute of Culinary Education take seasonal menu creation, eye-appealing presentation and service perfection very seriously. Their outstanding wine list is carefully selected to en-

hance each dining experience, while the well-appointed dining room overlooking the city exudes casual elegance. Parking is conveniently located underneath the restaurant with entry off Ransom street. The heritage is the place to sample the work of tomorrow’s great chefs, today. If you have yet to discover it, your first trip to The heritage will amaze, while those in the know may regret that their favorite little secret is out. 11

(616) 392-6883 // thEodoREshollaNd.com

holland’s mosT eXciTing new dining venue, Theodore’s has set the bar for casual fine dining with its contemporary, urban ambiance and sophisticated fare from their open kitchen overseen by Executive Chef Matt Leal. Located in the beautifully reclaimed Baker Lofts building, Theodore’s offers open views from its large bank of windows, with exposed brickwork, restored hardwood floors, wall-sized glass walkin wine cellar and dramatically curved granite-topped full-service bar — where you can find specialty cocktails and an extensive by-the-glass wine list. Those who prefer to dine alfresco will love Theodore’s intimate patio. 12

The restaurant also offers partitioned dining spaces for larger groups and private party nooks that provide seclusion without shutting you away from the action. only open for dinners Thursdaysaturday, with happy hour 5-7 p.m. on fridays, the entire venue is also available for private parties and corporate events. Their partnership with Baker Lofts Events allows for large celebrations onsite as well as off-site catering

at your venue of choice. At Theodore’s, no dining detail is overlooked, from the arrival of its crusty artisan breads direct from sister company, Deli Joe’s in the same wing of the building, and delightful menu with its eclectic fusion of American, spanish and Mediterranean-influenced cuisines, to the artful presentation of each small plate, entrée and dessert. Committed to fresh, cutting-edge fare and spectacular service, Theodore’s is a dining destination that will impress even the most discriminating guests.

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Theodore’s: Feel the excitement

(616) 454-6700 // lEosREstauRaNt.com

Leo’s: Fine dining for every day

even afTeR seven yeaRs, Leo’s remains diners’ favorite restaurant. Leo’s is once again celebrating the distinction of winning Grand Rapids Magazine’s “Restaurant of the year,” making it the fourth time awarded this honor. Leo’s is also a popular choice with our readers voting them “Best seafood Restaurant,” “Best Downtown Restaurant,” as well as “Best Chef” and “Best Bartender.” Leo’s offers a diverse wine list, and the creative menu is based on the highest standards of quality and taste. It boasts a wide variety of seafood flown in daily, but those who prefer top quality meat, poultry or pasta will find plenty to tempt them, too. And don’t think that the spectacular cuisine, ambiance and service translate to prices out of reach for daily dining. Leo’s offers a variety of entrée selections under $20. It’s also

an ideal lunch destination with many sandwich and salad choices as well. Their spacious bar, elegant décor and big city views make for a comfortable environment which make Leo’s the downtown dining destination for everyday fine dining. But it’s not amazing food alone that makes Leo’s such a great restaurant. The well-trained attentive staff provides gracious service and is committed to total guest satisfaction. It’s clear that owners Leo and Amy Beil understand the importance of considering every aspect that influences the dining experience. Their belief has always been that “success rests on a foundation of unflinching quality, honest value and attentive service.”

(269) 983-3882 // thEboulEvaRdINN.com

Bistro on the Boulevard: Indulge yourself

someThing special awaits you high on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan in the charming town of st. Joseph. Just a short car ride away, The Bistro on the Boulevard will surprise and delight patrons looking for that out-of-the-ordinary dining experience. Awarded “Best fine Dining Restaurant in the Region” by shore magazine, the Bistro’s fresh and inventive menu changes seasonally. Executive Chef Ryan Thornburg creates unforgettable fare inspired by the best locally grown produce and seasonal ingredients. Their extensive wine list is recognized by Wine spectator magazine with an Award of Excellence as having “one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world.” open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Bistro on the Boulevard’s sunday brunch buffet is famous for its deli-

ciously diverse offerings. The venue is welcoming and comfortably elegant, the service exceptional and attentive. And with the Boulevard Inn’s beautiful banquet rooms, both in-house and off-site catering options will make your business meeting, special event or private party a truly memorable experience. Lose yourself in spectacular sunsets as you take in sweeping views of the lake and the north Pier lighthouse from the expansive deck. Indulge yourself and someone you love. surrender to the magic of the Bistro on the Boulevard.

“Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.”

©istockphoto.com/dimafoto

— Mae West

(616) 350-9604 // shEpaRdsINc@yahoo.com

Shepard’s Grill & Tavern: A comfortable home away from home

eveRybody needs a no-fuss place where they can go to unwind. shepard’s Grill & Tavern is that place. open daily, shepard’s is a friendly neighborhood bar and grill where owner Dave shepard is not only onsite, but often can be found in the kitchen making sure nothing but the best is delivered to his guests. The succinct, made-from-scratch menu offers comfortable bar fare with just enough flair to keep it interesting. That includes appetizers like the bacon-wrapped shrimp skewers and homemade chicken tenders, a soup selection made daily, entrée-sized salads, chargrilled Koegel vienna hotdogs and chili dogs with various toppings, and signature sandwiches like the Chicagostyle Italian beef sandwich, the fresh lake perch or Jamaican jerk chicken sandwiches, and the Broadcaster — charbroiled ground sirloin on grilled rye bread topped with green olives, sautéed onions and American cheese. fresh

lake perch and Kobe Top sirloin round out the affordably priced entrees. Best of all is the friendly, approachable atmosphere and staff. The décor offers hints of the Islands, and at night, small lights twinkle through the bar top. The fully stocked bar offers five beers on tap, both domestic and imports, and they make a mighty mean martini. Guests enjoy playing Keno and there is a small patio out front for those who like it alfresco. Come see why shepard’s Grill & Tavern has already earned a great reputation and loyal following.

(616) 451-6184 // WWW.thEchophousEREstauRaNt.com

The Chop House: Prepare to be pampered! with a sommelier on staff, rest assured that the wine selection matches the caliber of the menu. Exceeding all expectations, impeccable, unpretentious team service is the standard, while the atmosphere is lovely and relaxed with a Chicago-esque feel. for the piece de resistance, go downstairs to La Dolce vita, their well-ventilated dessert and cigar lounge. It offers a plethora of handcrafted cigars, after-dinner drinks such as rare scotch, cognac and signature martinis, and sinfully rich desserts made onsite. A popular after-work destination as well as a fun place before and after a downtown event, the space also offers rooms for private functions. And if you dine on your birthday, your meal is essentially complimentary. The Michigan-based Chop house offers an elite American steakhouse dining experience. What’s not to love?

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in The TRadiTion of America’s finest steakhouses, The Chop house brings intimate sophistication to a new level in downtown Grand Rapids. Just across the street from the Amway Grand Plaza, The Chop house will impress even the most discriminating diners. Its menu offers only the best Midwestern grain-fed UsDA Prime beef, aged to meltin-your-mouth perfection. (only two-percent of all beef raised in the nation are graded Prime.) Lamb, pork and veal chops also grace the menu, along with chicken and top-of-the-catch seafood brought in direct from the boat. It’s that kind of attention to detail that sets The Chop house apart. And

(616) 774-8272 // saNchEzbIstRo.com

San Chez, a Tapas Bistro and Café: A dining experience unlike any other breakfast and lunch fare with true artisan flair. It also houses a new deli and market for ready-to-go goodies, meats, cheeses and gelatos to serve its urban neighbors. The third floor offers the fully equipped san Chez Banquet and Business Center, with enough space to accommodate up to 300 people for private celebrations or corporate events. visit san Chez, a Tapas Bistro for legendary dining, or enjoy a remarkable breakfast or lunch at san Chez Café.

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since fiRsT inTRoducing the spanish tradition of tapas-style dining to our city almost two decades ago, san Chez, a Tapas Bistro has become one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved restaurants. Its exquisitely prepared, sharable plates are a feast for the eyes and palate, offering uniquely flavored, top-quality spanish fare that is unmatched in Grand Rapids. Relying on locally sourced and sustainable products, everything on the impressive menu is made from scratch, with additional creative chef specials inspired by the season’s finest. separate menus exist for those with food allergies, and the full bar includes an extraordinary array of compatible wines and craft beers. san Chez gives off a hip and happy vibe with its open kitchen, tiled mosaic columns, patterned-tin ceiling, and full windows with downtown views. It would be difficult to find a more accommodating and knowledgeable wait staff. The Bistro’s adjacent sister restaurant, san Chez Café, offers spanish and traditional

(616) 459-2500 // WWW.muER.com

Charley’s Crab: A Grand Rapids tradition

finding fResh fish and seafood this close to the Great Lakes is easy: just visit Charley’s Crab in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. Whether seated in the elegant, floor-to-ceiling window-fronted dining room, the casual steamer raw bar, or eating alfresco on the deck, guests enjoy a truly fine dining experience with a majestic view of the Grand River below.

Just a short walk to area attractions, Charley’s Crab offers some of the city’s most mouthwatering creations with the freshest seafood and finest steaks. It is a favorite of both culinary aficionados and those who simply love a good meal. Charley’s Crab provides professional, comfortable tableside service while behind the scenes, their top-notch culinary staff combine their considerable

talents to present the day’s freshest catches. fresh fish is flown in daily and menu items change regularly to reflect the best of the market. Guests enjoy a full range of creative cuisines from lip-smacking appetizers and delectable entrees to delicious desserts, an award-winning sunday brunch (10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) and a fantastic happy hour from 4-7 p.m. weekdays. Another advantage is the large parking lot and free valet parking. no matter what the occasion, you’ll find an incomparable dining experience awaits you at Charley’s Crab. 19

— Frank Lloyd Wright 20

“Dining is and always was a great artistic opportunity.”

(616) 774-2000 // WWW.amWayGRaNd.com

Cygnus 27: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s AAA Four-Diamond destination fRom iTs lofTy peRch on the 27th floor atop the Amway Grand Plaza hotel, Cygnus 27 enjoys panoramic views of the city that are unsurpassed. It presents a modern, colorful, big-city vibe yet exudes hospitable service and global yet elegant dining options. But the views cannot be the only reason to visit this AAA four Diamond-rated dining destination. Cygnus 27 offers an extraordinary dining experience that relies on the talents of Chef de Cuisine Werner Absenger. his adventuresome spirit and culinary liberties add an atypical spin to his locally sourced, globally inspired cuisine. Menu options spanning from small plates to full multi-course meals, will surprise and delight the eye as well as the palate. suit and tie are totally optional. The evening is enhanced with a professional wait staff that leaves you feeling pampered and special. Prior to a show or for a night on the town, Cygnus 27’s lounge offers a

wide selection of specialty cocktails, liqueurs and premium wines, with happy hour specials daily from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and $5 martini Wednesday’s. Cygnus 27 offers two private dining spaces accommodating 32 guests for intimate dinners, or up to 80 for mix-and-mingle affairs. In addition to everything else ... valet parking is complimentary. A visit to Cygnus 27 will make you fall in love with this city.

(616) 45-GRIll // WWW.louIsbENtoN.com

Louis Benton Steakhouse: Grand Rapids’ premier steakhouse in febRuaRy 2012, Louis Benton steakhouse will celebrate its tenth anniversary of bringing fine steakhouse dining to downtown Grand Rapids. Although renowned for their mouthwatering steaks seasoned with their signature spice rub, superb seafood, excellent entrée selections and delectable desserts are also a Louis Benton hallmark. Executive Chef Joseph Rivera’s award-winning menu offers American classics such as Midwestern grain-fed filet mignon and all-natural new york strip steak along with herb-roasted prime rib and the freshest of seafood that is hand selected daily. The superior dining experience they offer — complete with complimentary valet parking — has garnered

them “Best steaks” awards year after year from Grand Rapids Magazine readers, and they have been recognized with an Award of Excellence from Wine spectator magazine. signature libations can be found in their casual dining room bar, and on weekends their cosmopolitan nightclub, The Leopard Lounge, offers specialty cocktails with a lively DJ and dancing from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. for special occasions, Louis Benton will astound even the most discerning with private rooms available for smaller parties, business meetings and celebrations, while their banquet facilities can accommodate up to 350 guests. open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through friday and for dinner from 5-10 p.m. Monday through saturday, Louis Benton steakhouse stands ready to impress. Come see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

(616) 235-9339 // WWW.tREcuGINI.com

Tre Cugini: Chicago’s favorite Italian restaurant is right here in Grand Rapids The awaRd-winning Tre Cugini celebrates its tenth anniversary this year — never digressing from the high standards that earned them recognition in the Chicago media. owners Adriano and Carol Moscatelli, along with Executive Chef Joe frizzell, pride themselves on Tre Cugini’s authentic Italian, made-from-scratch menu that stretches from their soups, stocks, sauces and mozzarella to their breads, pastas and spectacular desserts. Tre Cugini’s multi-regional menu includes a variety of inventively prepared fresh pesce (seafood) selections along with creative carne (meat) entrees, Prime steaks and chops, and of course, primo pasta specialties, extraordinary risotto selections and daily chef creations that take advantage of the freshest seasonal offerings. Tre Cugini’s full cocktail bar includes an extensive wine list specializing in regional Italian wines chosen to enhance every meal. Their well seasoned wait staff delivers outstanding service with the strictest atten-

tion to detail. The restaurant’s cozy, neorustic décor is reminiscent of a stylish Italian courtyard, complete with a strolling accordion player weekend evenings. The adjacent catering facility, La scala, provides a distinctively unique venue for celebrations and private parties from 20 to 200. situated in the core of the city, the well-appointed alfresco patio overlooks the activities of Rosa Parks Circle. Tre Cugini beckons with an authentic, upscale, fine Italian dining experience that draws in guests from around the globe. Come discover this local Italian treasure that has Chicago buzzing.

(616) 774-2000 // WWW.amWayGRaNd.com

Bentham’s Riverfront Restaurant: Casual ﬁne riverfront dining

benTham’s RiveRfRonT Restaurant has been reborn. It now offers the famous Grill at 1913’s chef-attended buffet at lunch, and a creatively revamped dinner menu that showcases the skills of longtime Chef de Cuisine Mike Abram and his high-caliber culinary creations. open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and after, Bentham’s offers a perfect balance between fabulous dining and casual comfort. Perched on the edge of our city’s namesake river, the ever-changing 24

vista offers tantalizing views of the Grand River. When the sun goes down and the bridges light up, it’s a whole new scene. Low-key, unpretentious and familyfriendly, Bentham’s gastro pub fare is an innovative take on comfort food that’s sure to satisfy. The desserts alone are worth a visit. Bentham’s offers full bar service and an extensive wine list, and the service is attentive and accommodating. for those who don’t want to face

unpredictable Michigan weather, selfparking in the Amway ramp is available, complete with a covered walkway to the hotel. Bring along your parking ticket and the restaurant will validate it for two hours of complimentary parking. one visit to Bentham’s and you’ll be hooked.

“Laughter is brightest where food is best.”

— Irish Proverb

(616) 785-5344 // WWW.amoREtRattoRIaItalIaNa.com

Amore Trattoria Italiana: Discover an Italian treasure if iT isn’T alReady on your radar, it’s time to set your GPs for Amore Trattoria Italiana. It’s a treasure that will wow you with its authentic Italian cuisine, accommodating service and comfortable ambiance. husband-and-wife team/owners Maurizio and Jenna Arcidiacono have set the stage at this northwest Alpine Avenue venue to ensure a dining experience that will leave you begging for more. With native-Italian Maurizio helping Jenna in the kitchen, their comfortably casual Italian trattoria has earned rave reviews since opening a year ago. The restaurant’s charm can be attributed to 26

the couple’s warm-hearted Italian-style hospitality and Jenna’s significant culinary talent, creating authentic regional Italian dishes with considerable flair. Don’t be surprised to find her stopping by your table to ensure a satisfactory dining experience. At Amore, everything is made from scratch — from breads, pizza dough, gnocchi, soups and sauces to tiramisu, ricotta cheesecake, gelato, granitas and truﬄes. Wherever possible, locally sourced products are utilized. The seasonally inspired menu offers palate-exciting Italian food with a gourmet twist.

Dishes are listed in Italian along with the correct pronunciation and a description of how it is made. The full-service bar and companionable wine list nicely accompanies their cheese tray options — select a variety of cheeses and they are appropriately paired with fruits, jellies and nuts. vegetarian dishes, vegan and glutenfree options are also on the menu, and dishes are beautifully presented. Go explore Amore.

(616) 363-7748 // WWW.oNthERIvERGR.com

The Landing Restaurant & Lounge: At the Radisson Riverfront Hotel locaTed aT The Radisson Grand Rapids Riverfront hotel with over 40 years of riverfront dining, this landmark restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, and for socializing, you can enjoy live music five nights a week at the lively Landing Lounge, where you can dance to local bands (fri-sat) and share a laugh with area comedians at The sunday night funnies. When entering The Landing for dining, you are greeted with magnificent views of the Grand River from every seat in the multi-tiered room. Executive Chef Clark frain dares to explore creative twists to the classic American fare. The new menus emphasize locally grown products, such as produce from Ingraberg farms, fresh Michigan proteins, free range chicken, fresh fish, stellar Kobe steaks and fantastic surf & Turf combos. signature dishes such as the 40-year tradition of its blue cheese and bacon-topped Classic Landing salad, as well “old Time German” and European favorites remain. Chef specials are offered daily at astonishingly afford-

able prices: great for business breakfast, power lunch or refined dinner, overlooking the Grand River. sunday brunch, another popular feature at The Landing, offers smooth jazz bands playing on the last sunday of each month, called “Rad” Jazz Brunch. holiday brunches are spectacular. Renovated banquet facilities make it the perfect place to host business meetings, seminars and personal celebrations. Contact Catering and sales Manager nichole steele. Whatever the occasion, you’ll be happy you stepped aboard The Landing at the Radisson Grand Rapids Riverfront hotel.

(616) 949-7447 // shIRazGRIllE.com

Shiraz Grille: A Persian delight in West Michigan trée from scratch, using only the freshest of ingredients, the dishes at shiraz Grille will leave you craving a return visit. owner/chef Ali Ghebleh works along with his lead chef to authentically recreate dishes from the Persian Empire. “Through shiraz Grille, I feel that I am able to share with the guest not only the food from my home country, but the culture, history and customs as well,” he says. Regular live violin and guitar players and occasional belly dance performances add to the feeling of being transported to an exotic culture, while the full bar with its unique martinis and large wine selection offers a safe haven from the world.

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TucKed away on the northwest corner of Breton and 28th street, just one mile west of Woodland Mall, shiraz Grille is a jewel of a restaurant that greets guests with its authentic Persian décor, warm and classy ambiance, subdued lighting and cozy bar. Beautifully appointed, fully equipped banquet facilities can accommodate up to 80 for private parties and corporate events. shiraz Grille offers fine Persian dining with selections that include gourmet firegrilled kabobs, a variety of Persian rice dishes, indescribably delicious sauces and delicate stews called Khoreshes. vegetarian and vegan entrees also grace the menu. While each one of shiraz’s offerings is unique and delicious, their lamb shank entrée remains a diner favorite. Pistachio baklava and saffron ice cream will tempt you toward dessert. Creating each en-