REVUE West Michigan - April 2024

HIDDEN GEM EATERIES

WEST MICHIGAN MUST EATS

BEHIND THE BAR

WHAT'S NEW IN TOWN CHOOSE YOUR OWN [DRINKING] ADVENTURE GREAT COFFEE SHOPS IN WEST MICHIGAN

Two Scotts Barbecue. PHOTO BY STACY FEYER-SALO

If you’re human, eating and drinking are a big part of your daily life.

If you’re not human, please write in so we can update our reader demographics.

Our annual Dining & Drinking issue is tasked with diving deep into the local restaurant and bar scene, which is a tall order to fill when you have so many amazing options across all of West Michigan.

This year, we take a look at Revue’s “Must Eats,” the places we think all visitors, new arrivals and locals alike need to try at some point. The list includes everything from takeout joints to fancy dinners and breakfast nooks. On the flipside, we shine a spotlight on Hidden Gems around town—feel free to let us know which ones we missed!

For the drinking side of things, we focus on classic bars (over the breweries, distilleries and wineries you’ll find in other issues). Check out Behind the Bar to hear from local bartenders about what they both love and dread when slinging drinks for us. And if you’re planning a day on the town, check out our Choose Your Own Adventure guide to find neighborhoods perfect for bar-hopping.

We also have our first ever Coffee + Tea spotlight, rounding up just a few excellent spots to cozy up with a steeped drink and read/work/socialize/stare off into the distance (my personal favorite things to do at a coffee shop).

You’ll also find plenty of great things to do in the pages ahead, whether it’s rafting with our new Get Out! column, Sum 41’s show at GLC Live this month, or Broadway’s To Kill A Mockingbird coming to town.

If you became a homebody in the past few years, I totally understand—it’s so nice to be horizontal. But I promise you, being home is much more satisfying when you’ve spent some time out and about. So try out a new restaurant, grab a drink at your local dive, then head home and embrace your couch like a long lost friend. You won’t regret it.

'Til next time,

WHAT’S GOING ON, APR '24

4/6

IRA GLASS

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

April 6, 8 p.m.

devosperformancehall.com

If you know NPR, you know Ira Glass. Join as Ira shares “Seven Things I’ve Learned,” a live performance that covers Glass’s career in seven points. The audience will get to hear stories and in-depth commentary on recent This American Life episodes, and the multimedia performance will include audio and video clips to make for a dynamic and engaging evening.

OMNIUM CIRCUS

Miller Auditorium

1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo

April 6, 6 p.m.

millerauditorium.com

Omnium means “of all and belonging to all,” which certainly fits with this world-renowned comprehensively inclusive circus company, bringing excitement, thrills and joy to people of all ages as only a circus can! Step into a world of all things possible where we discover the power, the passion, and the perseverance of the human spirit within each of us.

4/9

CELTIC WOMAN 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

April 9, 7 p.m.

devosperformancehall.com

With 15 studio albums under their belt, Celtic Woman is ready to carry on their legacy of uplifting performances packed with breathtaking harmonies and instrumental virtuosity. The 20th Anniversary Tour will be delighting audiences with a fresh blend of traditional and contemporary Irish music that echoes Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage, while reflecting the vibrant spirit of the country today.

THE MOUNTAIN GOATS

404 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo

April 9, 7 p.m. kazoostate.com

For decades, The Mountain Goats have enchanted the music world with their distinct blend of narrative songwriting and evocative melodies. At the helm is John Darnielle, a visionary artist whose lyrical prowess has garnered a passionate and devoted fanbase. The band’s ability to tell stories through music has set

them apart in the indie rock genre, earning them not just fans but avid followers. This show is supported by indie songwriter Katy Kirby!

4/11

BRAD WILLIAMS

GLC Live at 20 Monroe 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids April 11, 9:30 p.m. livenation.com

Brad Williams’ larger-than-life personality and razor-sharp wit make him a force to be reckoned with on stage—and he’s one of the most in-demand comedians working today, appearing on TV shows, in movies, and even with Cirque de Soleil. Come see his observations on pop culture, love, and his own experiences as a little person.Top of FormBottom of Form

4/12

VINTAGE PARLOR ORCHESTRACLASSICAL BREWS

Creston Brewery

1504 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids April 12-13 vpogr.com

The Vintage Parlor Orchestra works to get orchestral music out of the concert halls and into the community. This month, they’re returning to Creston Brewery for two nights, so you can grab a beer and experience classical music like never before! The night will feature a relaxed atmosphere, clapping between all movements, a 35-member chamber orchestra, and some seriously tasty Creston brews.

4/14

CERAMICS & POTTERY POP-UP

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

435 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids

April 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. downtownmarketgr.com

Embrace the beauty of artfullycrafted creations and hand-thrown pottery at this indoor ceramics popup at the Downtown Market! Shop for hand-made mugs, kitchenware,

dishes, vases, planters, wall hangings, and more in the beautiful second floor Greenhouse and Banquet Room. Peruse a selection of pieces—glazed, fired, and formed—then head downstairs for a bite to eat.

AJR: THE MAYBE MAN TOUR

Van Andel Arena

130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids April 14, 7 p.m. vanandelarena.com

The Met brothers—Adam, Jack and Ryan—make up AJR, an indie pop band who’s seen huge success lately thanks to incredibly catchy and relatable tunes. AJR make the kind of music that encourages you to keep going. For as much as their multidimensional soundscapes, theatrical delivery, and big screen-worthy vision provide an escape, the trio also manage to intimately empathize with listeners everywhere.

THE PINEWEIRD DERBY

Broad Leaf Brewery & Spirits

2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd, Kentwood April 14, 5 p.m. broadleafbeer.com

This ain’t your child’s pinewood

Omnium Circus. PHOTO BY MAIKE SCHULZ

Brad Williams. COURTESY PHOTO

4/24

derby. Calling all car, physics and woodworking enthusiasts! Join us April 14th. Broad Leaf is happy to host the first annual, no designs barred, Pineweird Derby. Maybe a Co2 cartridge would have pushed your design over the line all those years ago, and now is your chance to find out, with prizes running up to $100.

GRAND RAPID FEMINIST

FILM FESTIVAL

Wealthy Theatre

1130 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids

April 14, 2-9 p.m. grfff.squarespace.com

It’s back! The 2024 Grand Rapids Feminist Film Festival (GRFFF) at Wealthy Theatre is a FREE one-day celebration dedicated to elevating voices and showcasing talent from historically underrepresented groups in mainstream media. Expect short films, panelists and performances all day.

4/18

CRAIG CONANT

Dr. Grins Comedy Club

20 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

April 18-20 thebob.com

With an evergrowing following, Craig Conant was the standout “Unrepped New Face” at the prestigious Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal. He was born in Los Angeles to a Mexican mother and an angry white father, growing up

with a lot of baseball and illegal fireworks. Conant is now sober, (“despite the look on my face”) and was also recently fired from Trader Joe’s, come find out why!

4/20

BASS COUNTRY 2024

The Intersection

133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave., Grand Rapids April 20, 8:30 p.m. sectionlive.com

Enjoy 4/20 with a community at Bass Country, THE local event for fans of house, drum and bass, dubstep and other electronic bangers. You’ll dance, you’ll wobble, you’ll wubwub—all across four different venues inside The Intersection.

BRIDGE ST. MAKERS MARKET & BAR HOP

One Bourbon

610 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids

April 20, 1-6 p.m. iheartindiemarkets.com

I Heart Indie Markets is back for another fun spring market full of artists, makers and delicious cocktails! Join at Bridge Street Market, One Bourbon and Küsterer Brauhaus to shop local artists, makers and vintage vendors with a drink in hand. Products will be a wide variety of handmade and vintage goods including original art, home decor, clothing, paper products, metal working, jewelry, soap, candles, and a whole lot more!

THE GILMORE PIANO FESTIVAL

Kalamazoo

April 24-May 12 thegilmore.org

The Irving S. Gilmore International Piano Festival is a crown jewel in West Michigan’s arts scene. This bi-annual festival brings the greatest pianists and accompanying musicians from all around the world for newly commissioned world premieres, free community concerts, films, workshops, musical theater and so much more. It’s an astonishing undertaking we’re incredibly lucky to have here, an absolute must for anyone who considers themselves a fan of music or the arts at large.

4/27

SUZANNE VEGA

Midtown at Studio Park

123 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids April 27, 7:30 p.m. themidtowngr.com

Widely regarded as one of the foremost songwriters of her generation, Suzanne Vega emerged as a leading figure of the folk revival of the early 1980. Since the release of her self-titled, critically acclaimed 1985 debut album, she has given sold-out concerts in many of the world’s best-known venues. Known for performances that convey deep emotion, Vega’s voice has been described as a cool, dry sandpaper-brushed near-whisper by The Washington Post

Celtic Woman. PHOTO BY DONAL MOLONEY

UNIQUE THC TREATS

Edibles have come a long way from brownies made by a coworker at your minimum wage job. There was something special about the amateur attempts of yore, where you never really knew how high you were going to get. Two hours later, would it be a total dud, or would your soul be transported out of your body? It’s a toss up!

As the recreational cannabis marketplace came online, edibles came almost exclusively in the form of gummies. In 2024, there is a shocking variety of culinary cannabis creations. We’ve seen everything from ice cream sandwiches to infused toothpicks.

So, here’s a look at just some of the unique, exciting and unexpected edibles on the market today.

Pure Options

CHOCOLATE

Found at: P ure Options

FREEZE-DRIED

Found at: Olswell

Found at: Love Supreme

| by Josh Veal

GAGE

MIXED

Pincanna

FUNKY-UNS

Pincanna

Found at: Ascend

INFUSED

Ascend

FRUITY

Found at: Pharmhouse Wellness

GARLIC

Found at: House of Dank

NOXX

ORANGE CREAM CHOCOLATE BAR by Midnight Roots Found at:

MACKINAC ISLAND FUDGE by Ryba’s Roots

CARAMEL PUFFS by Triple Phoenix

INFUSED OLIVE OIL (10 MG PER TBSP) by Love Supreme

COOKIE BAR BITES by Mojo Found at:

BERRY GRANOLA BITES by Michigan Organic Rub Found at:

SNACK RINGS by Funky Extracts Found at:

HOT CHEESE CURLS by Funky Extracts

FREEZE DRIED MANGOS by Triple Phoenix Edibles Found at:

RICE CRISPY TREAT by Treetown

PARMESAN PRETZEL STIXX by Motor City Cannabis

MILK CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUPS by Detroit Edibles Found at:

SUM 41: The Final Score

Like they’ve done throughout their nearly 30-year career together, Canadian pop-punk/heavy metal band Sum 41 have called it quits their own way.

Going out with an absolute bang, the Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling group has a massive tour planned all the way through their final show next January – including their last stop ever in Grand Rapids at GLC Live at 20 Monroe on April 26.

Not just their last hurrah as a band, the tour supports Sum 41’s final record, the double-album, Heaven :x: Hell , released late last month.

Already receiving rave reviews, the record features the band’s latest single, “Landmines,” which became their first song to top the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart in over 20 years, when their iconic hit “Fat Lip,” reached that milestone back in 2001.

“This is the perfect love letter to our sound,” Sum 41 lead guitarist/backing

vocalist Dave “Brownsound” Baksh said about Heaven :x: Hell

The double album has one side filled with 10 songs leaning more in the band’s pop-punk direction, led by lead singer/ guitarist/songwriter Deryck Whibley’s signature vocals, and another side with 10 songs showcasing their shredding, heavy metal guitar power.

“One of the cool things about Deryck’s writing style is that he lets the music decide where to go,” Baksh said. “In this case we also listened to the music as far as when to stop. This record has everything we’ve wanted to do and have done on it.

The rebuild since 2014 has been a fun and exhausting process to end with, so it’s the best way for us to go out.”

Formed in Ontario in 1996 while still in high school, Sum 41 has really seen it all, from mixing it up on the top of MTV’s “TRL” back at the turn of the millennium, to struggling through countless hardships until pop-punk’s

recent renaissance in the 2020s.

After nearly a decade with the band, Baksh left Sum 41 in 2006 to pursue other projects, before officially rejoining in 2015.

“We all felt that without the whole unit there is no Sum 41,” Baksh said. “I think we are the tightest we’ve ever been. Thanks to this being our last run, I’m focusing more on the moment with our crowds than my lukewarm guitar abilities. That means I find myself in the room with the crowd as opposed to my past where I’d be a little more in my head about my most minute mistakes.”

Connecting with REVUE while on tour all throughout Asia last month, including becoming the first international band to play in Nanjing, China, Baksh said the surreal feeling of Sum 41’s return to success just as they’re calling it quits doesn’t escape him.

“At this point in life I’m not one to spend too much time in the past,” Baksh said. “I suppose it hits me most when I’m on stage, or we’re about to walk to stage,

| by Eric Mitts

it’s usually me saying to myself: ‘Holy shit, how did this happen?’ It’s those moments of clarity that bring my head round and make me smile. Anyone can make music, the difference with us is our experience has been fueled by people taking time out of their lives to spend with us. I’m grateful, but I also know the more you think about your success the less time you spend on improving.”

Back in September, Whibley had a near brush with death due to having COVID-19 and pneumonia, so it comes as no surprise that the band savors every moment of this final tour together.

“I’ve known Deryck for almost three decades, and we share a bond that surpasses blood relatives of mine,” Baksh said. “My life went on pause for that moment when I heard. Kendra, my fiancée, and I immediately looked into flights to help with the kids, forgetting that he has a great mom who would drop anything to help. We felt positive though, because he assured us he was OK, and would pull through.”

Baksh had a health scare of his own near the end of the pandemic when both he and his mother were diagnosed with cancer.

“We had an amazing group of people around us that helped us heal,” he said. “As far as the band, it only made us hungry for more touring and shows. As soon as we returned, we hit the ground running with Simple Plan and toured the world.”

Now that they’re playing their final shows, Baksh said he can look back on what Sum 41 has accomplished, and how they influenced a new generation of bands, but he knows that it’s the fans that will truly carry their name into the future.

“We grew up on some amazing and inspiring music, survived the last wave of excess, and thrived in the new world of music,” he said. “I only hope that our love for what we do shines through in the recordings we leave behind. Interviews like this keep us relevant and in the people’s minds, so thank you. In the end, though, a legacy is decided by the popular opinion of the listeners.” ■ SUM

Sum 41. COURTESY PHOTO

FRONTIER RUCKUS: Bringing It Home

Musicians are no stranger to living on the road. But living at home? That’s a challenge most artists have to eventually face.

Just before the pandemic, Matthew Milia, frontman of Frontier Ruckus, decided to stop touring and start a family–a decision that began with falling in love.

“I had met the love of my life and realized I didn’t want a tour or 200 dates a year to make a living. So I kind of totally faked my way into advertising as like a 32-year-old summer intern at a Detroit agency,” said Milia.

Milia is now an associate creative director at a different advertising agency, where he’s found success working on Cadillac car commercials. But for Milia, his climb on the corporate ladder was first boosted by his career as a songwriter.

“There aren’t a ton of segues that you can do into the corporate world from being a very idiosyncratic songwriter,” Milia said.

“But I spent 10 years learning the craft of writing and honing my writerly voice. Writing commercials is a different craft, but there is a lot of overlap in terms of being able to turn the blank page into something resonant, and something that compels other people to listen or watch.”

While having a successful corporate career, wife, one-year-old son and dog might seem standard to many, these experiences did not come naturally to Malia. For a touring musician, making the choice to transition off the road with Frontier Ruckus took some major adjustments.

“This isn’t revolutionary, to nestle oneself into domestic life. But for me, it was very different from the way I spent my 20s, which was sleeping on floors and touring in a van with my best friends,” Milia said.

“It’s something I talk about with my therapist, because it is kind of traumatic to shift gears that much. There’s so many factors of why. There’s logistical and financial factors, and considerations of self-identity,” said Milia.

Measuring success as an artist is very different from most jobs, not to mention the vulnerability that comes with the career.

“I kind of valued myself by how many tickets I sold every night. If I wasn’t filling rooms that my booking agent was booking, I felt like a failure, and I got really depressed. When you stop putting yourself through that, it’s like, ‘Oh, am I a quitter now? Did I give up on my dream?’ I sold out to do something where the money is way more reliable, and now I make enough where I could support a family,” said Milia.

But on the heels of his seventh studio album, On The Northline , which was released just this February, Milia has found that he doesn’t have to fully sever his musical journey in pursuit of stability.

“I’m blown away by people still caring so much,” Milia said.

“Our fan base is by no means mainstream, but it’s super devoted and thoughtful. These

people have taken the songs into their hearts and their lives in a really meaningful way, and it far exceeded any expectation I ever had when I first started writing songs.”

It’s not by chance that Frontier Ruckus’ fanbase has stayed dedicated for more than 15 years, though; the band has nurtured these relationships since their beginning.

“If we didn’t play a song fans wanted to hear, we played it in the parking lot for them after the show. We just prided ourselves to be in that kind of band that was really accessible to people that liked us,” said Milia.

“There are people with my lyrics tattooed on their arms, and it blows my mind. I love being that kind of band that has this cult kind of following.”

As a born-and-raised Michigander, Milia’s songs have connected with a hyper-local audience thanks to his direct references to places in the state.

“Metro Detroit is a very amorphously large and complex region of all these colliding communities and socioeconomic identities, and I’ve always been endlessly fascinated with how it all comes together. So I just kind of endlessly investigate that in my songs,” Milia said.

“My songs are love songs to Michigan in such a real way. The state has always been my muse.”

Milia, alongside his bandmates David Jones and Zachary Nichols, went back to these roots while recording On The Northline . The album possesses the purity of their first songs. Without the pressure to write and record songs for a label, they stripped back production and celebrated lyricism that paints glory on the mundane.

“My life is in an achingly wholesome place, but I’m proud that I found this balance, right? I’m in a stable place mentally with my mental health and my family life, and I can still make art. I don’t have to suffer to make art, which is to me an achievement in itself,” Milia said.

“Everything has, no matter how small or mundane, a hidden beauty to it.”

If you met Milia today, you might not realize that his titles of father, husband, and creative director are founded on his decades of songwriting with Frontier Ruckus. While his transition from life on the road to staying at home was filled with tough adjustments, Milia wouldn’t rewrite his story any other way.

“I look back with nothing but immense pride and gratitude,” Milia said.

“I’m so grateful for the state of Michigan and every town that we’ve built a little fanbase in. I’m just so proud to be known as a Michigan songwriter.” ■

FRONTIER RUCKUS

themidtowngr.com

Frontier Ruckus. COURTESY PHOTOS

| by Michaela Stock

DIY PUNK with Jeff Rosenstock

| by Zachary Avery

In the increasingly ineffable and diverse genre of punk music, there has persisted a leading voice within the decadespanning DIY movement: Jeff Rosenstock. With his roots laid in basement shows of the Long Island pop punk scene from the early 2000s, Rosenstock’s vociferous sound, replete with violent outcries full of angst and emotionality, erratically shifts between a variety of genres: ska punk, folk punk, power pop and many others. His latest album, HELLMODE, is no different, albeit perhaps with a bit more production value than his previous records.

“I’m pretty psyched that when this record came out that people could feel we dialed things in a different way,” Rosenstock said. “Especially since NO DREAM and POST- were so focused on this thick layer of washy, shoegaze-y fuzz. There’s not so much of that on HELLMODE, and so it caused us to peel back the layers.”

DREAMING BIG

Considering how Rosenstock’s 2020 release, NO DREAM, was so critically well-received, even being included in Pitchfork Magazine’s top rock albums of that year, it’s encouraging to see him strike gold twice. Choosing to be more deliberate with pedal choice and tone for each track, HELLMODE’s result is an incredibly varied album that expands the genre in a way that feels reminiscent to Rosenstock’s earliest punk inspirations, including Fugazi.

“Something that always stuck with me about that band, musically, is how dynamic they are and how quiet they’re willing to get so that the big parts feel really big,” Rosenstock said. “That’s always a good idea, I think, to try and be dynamic with punk music.”

“Dynamic” could be used to describe Rosenstock’s career as a whole. Starting with “The Arrogant Sons of Bitches” (or ASOB) in the late 1990’s out of Long Island’s burgeoning hardcore scene, then transitioning toward a clearer ska punk style with his beloved and revolutionary band, Bomb the Music Industry!, Rosenstock has consistently innovated his sound while never making too massive a departure from the DIY genre.

“Punk is supposed to be this thing where everyone can belong there and find their place there,” Rosenstock said. “No matter what kind of person you are, no matter how

weird you are, now matter how anxious you are, no matter anything.”

DOING IT THEMSELVES

Within the punk genre, however, it wasn’t always fashionably cool to “do it yourself.” In an already competitive music industry, the end goal always seemed to be securing some sort of record deal and attaining mainstream success. Rosenstock’s first two projects, however, focused almost entirely on establishing legitimacy and a fanbase through sheer will alone. For instance, at Bomb The Music Industry!’s first show in 2005, a bandmate held up signs with written lyrics for a sing-along to their track, “Blow Your Brains Out On Live TV.” This immediately roped the audience into the performance, even without having heard a single note of Rosenstock’s music before.

This inventive approach to fame would eventually inspire the creation of Rosenstock’s own label, Quote Unquote Records, where he prides himself on making his entire repertoire completely free and available to download online. In those early days, this might’ve rubbed some folks the wrong way, especially after the paranoia surrounding pirated music platforms. However, like-minded artists, including Grand Rapids’ own Rick Johnson (previously of ska band Mustard Plug), could see the genius in Rosenstock’s methods.

“Mustard Plug was one of the first bands to be nice to us and want to take us on tours and want to play shows with us,” Rosenstock said. “I think a lot of people were scared because we were very chaotic, but Mustard Plug was not scared.”

Other collaborations, including the band Antarctigo Vespucci with musician Chris Farren and covers for Neil Young songs with keyboardist and vocalist Laura Stevenson, continued to help ingrain Rosenstock’s style of songwriting and performance into the ever-growing DIY punk scene.

His energetic, enigmatic lyrics aim to pull at your most extreme of heartstrings, reaching between incredible rage and incredible joy, and his music videos range from the absurd and surreal to sometimes shocking: from a fistfight with an obnoxious puppet to a satirized public stabbing during a live performance (in which Jeff’s own fans begin to eat his beef taco comprised innards). Suffice it to say, while Rosenstock

may be serious about making music, his own music is not always that serious.

“It’s the freedom to go wherever you want to go with it, as long as you’re being expressive and being real and being truthful,” Rosenstock said. “All those things have guided how I do anything in my life.”

NEW HORIZONS

Beyond his solo projects, Rosenstock has also made a name for himself as a television and film composer, having worked on both the Emmy-nominated animated children’s show Craig Of The Craig and its subsequent HBO Max movie. Creating music for function, either as a background to a film or a theme song to a TV show, has stretched Rosenstock’s style even further. These days, he is more willing to experiment with tones outside of the regular skate punk sound, including ambient music. Those new inspirations shine all throughout HELLMODE, but especially in its middle track “HEALMODE,” a gentle-sounding ballad that almost floats between your ears.

“Doing that first Neil Young EP with Laura, that and Craig Of The Creek, really encouraged me to feel comfortable singing quietly and to explore different facets of my voice,” Rosenstock said. “I don’t know if I’d feel comfortable singing something like ‘HEALMODE’ without that first Neil Young cover.”

Now, after five solo albums and 20 years of performances, Rosenstock will be bringing his chaotic troupe of musicians to The Pyramid Scheme, where its limited seating was sold-out within the first week of tickets being made available online. And with an opener like Sidney Gish, another proponent of the DIY genre, Rosenstock’s latest tour and new album is surely a testament to punk music’s past, present and future.

“I think it sounds good live, I’ve been told we’re doing okay,” Rosenstock said. “It’s played 20 percent faster and sung 20 percent less good.” ■

JEFF ROSENSTOCK W/ SIDNEY GISH AND GLADIE

The Pyramid Scheme

68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids April 12, 7 p.m. pyramidschemebar.com

Jeff Rosenstock. COURTESY PHOTO

DANCE LIKE THERE'S NO TOMORROW:

Rare 111 brings new, one of a kind techno experience to The Mint

| by Eric Mitts

Embracing the underground music scene, RARE Invites intends to showcase local and regional DJs and producers exploring the rawer, darker side of hard techno and trance music.

The monthly series launched last month at The Mint (inside The Intersection), with a performance by Grand Rapids native, turned Detroit techno artist Henry Brooks.

Curated by GR DJ/artist Kar Powell, aka KARUTH, and local event promoter, record label, fashion label, and management company RARE 111, the monthly series has shows scheduled for the rest of the year, beginning with a late night set from KARUTH on April 12.

“This will be my first proper headline as KARUTH, which will be an emotional release,” Powell said. “To have artistic freedom over a three-hour set is truly rare and a blessing. I’m so grateful for anyone who cares to listen.”

Powell, who also works in marketing and graphic design at The Intersection, fell in

love with DJing six years ago.

“In 2017, Deborah De Luca DJ’d at Château de Chambord, a castle in France,” Powell said. “After seeing her performance on YouTube, I became obsessed with the idea of DJing. I did my research, got some equipment and didn’t leave the house until I figured it out. DJing and releasing mixes soon became my main form of self-expression, and still is. That castle is still on my vision board, and I hope to play there someday.”

Around 2022, Powell made up her alter ego KARUTH, a combination of both her and her grandmother’s names, as a way to strengthen her confidence and intuition.

Last fall she released her debut single “Heavenly” in honor of her grandmother.

“To me it’s about finding shimmering, heavenly moments, even when you feel surrounded by darkness,” Powell said about the track. “KARUTH honors beauty and darkness, roses and thorns. I’d describe my sound as raw, emotive, and atmospheric,

with intentional track selections and original productions to match.”

She said listeners should expect her to go hard with her RARE Invites set.

“In my opinion, GR fiercely wants and deserves more techno music,” she said. “RARE Invites has the opportunity to impact the scene by offering something different. Dance music that is harder, faster, darker and edgier than what GR is used to.”

She added that having a series like RARE Invites means everything to her as an artist because it’s a matter of dreams becoming reality.

“The RARE Invites series is passionate and in the moment, made for those who want to dance and get completely lost in the music,” she said. “The Mint is the perfect setting, because it’s very intimate with stripped down production and concrete.”

With future nights already slated each month for the rest of the year, the series also intends to be about more than just music,

by providing a way for artists of all types to connect.

“I hope it serves as monthly inspiration and euphoria for everyone who attends,” Powell said. “RARE 111 invites musicians, fashion designers, photographers, dancers, and artists of all kinds to come out early and network. From doors until the headliner starts, there’s an hour to socialize and discuss artistic ideas with RARE individuals.”

KARUTH plans to release her next single, “Wanted,” soon, and has even more music on the way.

“There’s so much more coming,” Powell said. “I’ve only scratched the surface.” ■

RARE INVITES: KARUTH

The Mint (inside The Intersection), 133 Cesar E Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids April 12, 10 p.m.

Sectionlive.com, rare111.net

KARUTH. COURTESY PHOTO

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CHILLIN' ON A RIVER

| by Allison Kay Bannister

Afriend and member of my group often says, “It’s either a good time or a good story.” (Hi, Sue!) In the case of winter rafting with Pine River Paddlesports, it was both. When I first suggested this activity to my group in early 2023, many of them balked. Still, eight of us ended up going in February, and, after proving the adventure to be both dry and drama free, a whopping eighteen people joined this year. We not only had a blast, we earned some bragging rights, given that it does, at first notion, seem like a crazy thing to do.

But, this is no polar plunge or whiteknuckle, raging-rapids expedition. It’s more of a serene meandering on the winding Pine River in Luther, Michigan, which is nationally recognized as a “Wild and Scenic River.” More emphasis on “scenic” in this

instance. The trip they offer lasts a little over an hour, and, if it’s snowed recently, it’s even more charming. If you’re shaking your head right now, just hear me out.

First, the boats are rigid inflatables that sit high above the water’s surface. They’re sturdy, and unlike other watercraft, they would be pretty difficult to flip. In all their years of hosting winter rafting, the PRPS team say they’ve never had anyone fall in. Can confirm; our group did not break their streak.

Second, if you dress properly—which is true for any outdoor winter activity—it’s pretty easy to just enjoy yourself. Last year, it was below 30 degrees, so lots of layers were required. This year, it was in the mid 40s, and since we were similarly dressed as the year before, a few of us actually got warm. With our size group, we needed four

rafts. The first held four passengers and a guide, who steered from the rear. The remaining boats had 4-5 people in each, with two front rowers and an experienced paddler in back. Those with oars were responsible for keeping the boat moving and headed forward. This did not happen a lot of the time, and we all got a good laugh when we found ourselves spinning like the Mad Tea Party ride or getting stuck on a protruding rock. I will admit that most of these shenanigans did seem to happen with the raft I was on. Hmm!

Normally, we’d just pass right over these obstacles, but the river was running well below average. The sunshine, while welcomed, cast shadows on the water, too, which made it harder to distinguish dark reflections from large boulders—until we were on top of them! Even with these mishaps, which were

only minor, it was incredibly entertaining. And, if there were any egos at the onset of the trip, they were quickly humbled, allowing us all to just relax, have fun, and take any setbacks in stride.

All of us managed to stick the landing at our end point, gracefully hitting the shore like pros. Most chose to hike the Silver Creek Pathway back to our cars, and that was equally picturesque.

Thinking of trying this? I have two words for you: Do. It.

Even if it’s getting too late for snow this year (jinx!) you can plan for fall or later. Or, if warmer weather is more your speed, they also rent kayaks, canoes, rafts, and SUPs in summer for both the Pine and Big Manistee rivers, and they have camping options, too. Check it all out at thepineriver.com. ■

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PINE RIVER PADDLESPORTS / JASMINE FLINTOFF

HIDDEN GEM EATERIES

| by Josh Veal

There’s nothing better than finding a new favorite restaurant or takeout joint you didn’t even know existed.

On the other hand, there’s nothing worse than when they close doors because no one knows about them. To do our part in combatting that tragic fate, we want to do away with gatekeeping and instead shine a spotlight on some of the best hidden gems in town.

Some gems are hidden because they’re visually discreet or in a low traffic area. Some are hidden in the sense that word simply hasn’t got out to the larger community.

Either way, here are some of our favorite unsung heroes of the Grand Rapids food scene.

PARTAGE

834 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids experiencepartage.com

As Partage built out their new café space on Cherry, they were serving food with Sidedoor Sammies, which required ordering online and knocking on an inconspicuous side door. Now, the café is open, and you can—and should—get an amazing sandwich like the Cold Cut Shop, a brilliant NY deli invention.

THE COMMONS

547 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids commons-gr.online

Driving past The Commons, all you’ll see is an 8-story apartment building with a black awning. If you manage to find the door and step inside, you’ll be greeted with an incredible vintage vibe that feels like your grandma’s living room in the best way possible. The menu fits, with tasty burgers, goulash and even meatloaf dinner.

COUSINS TASTY CHICKEN

1209 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids cousinstastychicken.com

Fried chicken, fried fish, fried potatoes, wings, plus burgers and all the sides you could ask for—from cheese curds to coleslaw and okra—Cousins has it all, and at an affordable price. This is everything you could hope for in a fried chicken spot, including an incredibly friendly staff who bravely stand over hot fryers all day, just for you!

LITTLE AFRICA

956 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids

For a time, Little Africa was an especially hidden gem in that the hours seemed to be “when we feel like it.” Now, you can stop by for lunch or dinner just about any day and enjoy some amazing, unique, all-vegetarian Ethiopian food and spiced tea that’s all made for sharing. In our experience, everyone who eats here becomes a dedicated fan.

MAD DOGZ

3916 W. River Dr. NE, Comstock Park themad.dog

For 15 years now, Mad Dogz has been serving up all beef hot dogs with wildly creative toppings in Comstock Park. How’s the Goofy sound, with chili, peanut butter, pickles and corn chips? Or maybe the Pit Bull, with cream cheese, pineapple, olive, banana pepper, nacho chips and celery salt? This isn’t just a gimmick though—the ingredients are quality and the flavors always work.

JAMAICAN DAVE’S

530 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids facebook.com/jamaicandaves

If you want authentic curried goat, jerk chicken, plantains and other traditional Jamaican dishes, all soundtracked by a steady stream of reggae music, this is the place to be. The menu is simple and handwritten on a whiteboard, but the flavors are complex, with spices and peppers delivering an explosion of taste.

La Huasteca. PHOTO BY GREEN FROG PHOTO

The Commons. COURTESY PHOTO

THE ELBOW ROOM

501 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids elbowroommi.com

In some ways, The Elbow Room is one of the most visible spots in GR, sitting right off the highway exit on Fuller. But what you may not know is that this bar is serving up some of the best burgers and sandwiches in town. It’s a casual, inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy spot-on pub grub, elbow to elbow with your friends.

LA HUASTECA

1811 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids lahuasteca-gr.com

In Creston, you’ll find incredible Mexican food cooked by a passionate and loving family at La Huasteca. The small, unassuming eatery is serving up big flavor in everything from tacos to wet burritos, fajitas, mole enchiladas, tamales, tortas and much more. You can’t go wrong with a single thing on the menu here.

TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE

536 Leonard St. NW, Grand Rapids twoscottsbbq.com

Two Scotts might be right on Leonard, but since they’re only open for lunch (except Fridays), you may not have stopped in yet. If so, it’s time to fix that. This barbecue is simply exceptional, and a 1/2 pound of the meat of your choice with some pickles and sauce on the side is enough to fill your heart and stomach. ■

WHAT'S NEW IN TOWN

West Michigan’s food and drink scene continues to grow every year, both in volume and diversity, and we love to see it.

Of course, we’ve also sadly lost some local favorites in recent times, but it’s encouraging to see that new chefs are always ready to come on the scene and add to the region’s culinary tapestry.

So, here’s our roundup of the local eateries and watering holes who have opened in the past year or so. If you’re looking for something new to try, check them out!

Nonla Burger arrived in Grand Rapids after seeing much success in Kalamazoo. This popular eatery focuses on doing a relatively small menu very, very well, with super creative specials that change daily. If you like burgers, chicken sandwiches and fries, head to 449 Bridge St. NW.

Toastn’ Tea opened at 2500 E. Beltline Ave., Grand Rapids, featuring a huge variety of boba drinks, whether you want milk tea, fruit tea, smoothies or “lava lattes.” They also have a ton of great food options, from a variety of Asian wings to banh mi, bulgogi nachos, fresh rolls, pho and more.

Tia Juana joined the Mexican cuisine vanguard in Grand Rapids at 2289 E. Beltline Ave. NE. Rave reviews have poured in, praising the food as truly authentic and highly memorable. Try out a mulita, “often referred to as mini-quesadillas on steroids,” with steak, cilantro, onion and guacamole fried between two tortillas and cheese.

There’s a new cocktail bar in Kalamazoo at 344 North Rose Street. Dabney & Co. Cocktail Bar and Lounge is blazing the way forward while paying tribute to the many Black mixologists before them. Come on in for delicious drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, scored by soulful, funky, jazzy, disco, bluesy, R&B and hip-hop music.

You are cordially invited to an immersive tea time experience at High Tea , now open at 1522 Wealthy St., Grand Rapids. This highly curated shop offers the full

Afternoon Tea spread, which includes your tea of choice, deliciously simple tea sandwiches, scones, clotted cream, preserves, pastries and more.

Under the helm of James Beard Award-winning Chef Paul Berglund, Ada has an impressive new pizza and pasta restaurant called Myrth . Visit at 7423 River St. SE for bold, satisfying meals, with offerings like a potato and leek pizza.

For a morning or afternoon pick me up, head to the new Vibe Energy Café at 900 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids. Their energy drinks start with a housemade Vibe Energy base, then are infused with flavors like orange, coconut, even caramel apple. They also offer sodas and a full coffee menu—along with a few breakfast wraps and biscuit sandwiches.

Pursuit of Happiness Co. came out swinging, quickly gaining fans thanks to the good vibes and great drinks. Located in Eastown at 1426 Robinson Rd SE, this casualyet-chic champagne and cocktail bar also offers charcuterie plates, toasts and tinned fish—not to mention espresso drinks and mocktails!

Welcome to a whole new world of cotton candy. Fluff Buckets opened doors at 3917 Leland Ave. NE, Comstock Park, offering not just cotton candy but also cereal milkshakes. Head into the store for dozens of unique flavors from Sour Grape to Orange Soda, Smores, Cherry, Cola and so much more.

Enjoy fro-yo before or after your movie at Studio Park with Elsa’s (121 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids), which just opened doors. Pick from more than 12 flavors to start in whatever size you’d like, then load up as many toppings as you want—they don’t weigh (or judge).

Hot pot arrived in the form of King Pot , a Korean BBQ and hot pot eatery at 4176 28th St., Kentwood. If you’ve had Korean BBQ before, you know the drill—you order your meats, veggies and sides as a table, and cook them up right there on a grill. Hot pot is the same concept, except with a communal soup, which means you also have noodles, broths and additional veggies to work with.

Over on Front Avenue, right across the Grand River from Sixth Street Park, you’ll find 5Knives Café , a breakfast and lunch eatery with high quality grab and go options. Stop in at 678 Front for affordable yet fresh morning options and come through at lunch for creative but approachable sandwiches like the eggplant pesto panini and grilled steak sandwich.

K-Pocha opened doors at 5751 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, serving up exceptionally distinctive Korean street-style food. There are crowd-pleasing options like Korean-style wings, loaded fries and the Tater-nado, a spiral cut, deep-fried potato topped with spicy mayo. Or build your own corn dog, with batter, ramen, hot Cheetos, or Fruity Pebbles! They also have bingsu, a light and fluffy shaved milk treat.

Chicago Beef Joint moved in at 822 Ottawa Ave. NW. Owner Krupp is bringing classic Windy City cuisine to West Michigan with Italian Beef sandwiches, Chicago Dogs, Polish Sausage and more—quickly gaining a

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by Josh Veal

following thanks to authentic and bold flavors.

The Caribbean Bite has joined the ranks of Studio Park (122 Oakes St. SW, Grand Rapids), serving up Puerto Rican and Dominican cuisine. At this second location, you’ll find variations on rice, plantains, tacos, marinated meats, salad and more.

We also gained another Chicago-style Italian beef spot with Jack Danger’s opening at 1499 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids. With a varied menu of Italian beef, Italian sausage, Vienna beef hot dogs, chili, fries and old school shakes & malts, Jack Danger’s is the real deal.

Rake Beer Project opened their new location in Downtown Muskegon at 500 W. Western. This brewery focuses on “progressive farmhouse ales,” crafting unique brews like a Crawler, a black Kolsch, and Pickle Joose, a golden sour conditioned on cucumber, dill and sea salt.

Caledonia welcomed a new restaurant specializing in barbecue and bourbon: Butcher Block Social . Head to 9900 Cherry Valley Ave. SE for this collaboration between Wildwood Family Farms and Saladino Smoke. It’s a communal atmosphere, where guests are free to roam about and socialize, while enjoying smoked meats and roughly 200 varieties of bourbon.

The former Chinatown restaurant at 69 28th St., Grand Rapids is now RIO Peruvian & Mexican Cuisine . The restaurant can seat nearly 280 customers with a full bar and two dining rooms. Head here to try out a number of Ceviches, a large seafood menu, grilled entrees, burritos, tacos and much more, all drawn from Peruvian and Mexican cuisine.

Street Chef Shaw opened his brick-and-mortar location, Mizizi, in Creston at 1539 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids—the former site of Rinaldi’s. For years now, chef Kirel Shaw has been serving up a fusion of Latin American and East African street foods out of his traveling food truck (as well as City Built Brewing, for a time). Head to the cozy take-out joint for quick service and delicious tacos, burritos, chappatis, pilau and more.

The people behind Social Misfits downtown expanded their kingdom into the ceded lands of Wahlburgers with The Foolery (10 Ionia Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), a

“fine dive bar” serving up Detroit-style square pan pizza, nostalgic craft cocktails and cold beer. Head in to try one of their distinctly unique pies like The Short King, with poached shrimp, Spanish chorizo, pickled red onion, marinara and queso fresco.

Mangiamo is back in the historic mansion at 1033 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids. After seven years away, Mangiamo has returned with elevated Italian entrees like Lobster Tail Risotto and Conchiglie al Pesto, or go for a cut of American Wagyu beef from Snake River Farms. In the basement, you’ll find the new Mo’s Lounge, a retro cocktail lounge with libations ranging from a classic Aperol Spritz to the fresh and herbal Lana del Slay. Salute!

Inside of Amazing Myanmar Asian Cuisine (3740 28th St. SE, Kentwood), you’ll now find Adobo Boy, a Filipino eatery run by local icons Ace and Jackie Marasigan. Stop by to try one of the most popular dishes in the world, a Pork Adobo Bowl, and try out one of the other rotating offerings like Tinolang Manok (a warm, healthy, gingercentric soup) or Pancit Bihon, a rice noodle dish with pork and veggies.

Eastern Kille Distillery was finally able to open its Rockford location at 7755 Childsdale Ave. NE, right down the road from Third Nature Brewing. The new production space, restaurant and cocktail bar is the first time Eastern Kille has a kitchen, and they’re serving up pizza, apps and salad alongside a seasonally revolving menu of cocktails highlighting their own spirits, of course. Head on in for a meal before or after a walk along the White Pine Trail!

Up Leaf Café joined the lakeshore dining scene at 12371 James St., Holland. This is no ordinary café—the menu is full of rice bowls, noodle bowls, large spring rools, salads, and plant-based energy drinks. If you’re looking for healthy Asian fusion food in Holland, this is the place to be.

What was once the casual yet lively J. Gardella’s Tavern is now Scholar (11 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids), a refined, charming, welcoming 3-story restaurant with a delicious fine cuisine. Each level has its own bar, dining area and charm, but across all three you’ll find the same expert hospitality and elevated cuisine.

At 1202 W. Fulton St. right by the John Ball Zoo, Mercadito Mexican Eats and Treats just opened doors. From the owner of El Granjero comes this concept, serving authentic dishes like pambazo, flautas, elote, mini pancakes, waffles, gansito preparado and more.

Forest Hills got a new eatery in the form of Buka Bakehouse . Head to 884 Forest Hill Ave. SE, Grand Rapids for Balkan-American baked goods, such as burek, a pastry made with thin, flaky dough and fillings. Or try the kifle, pide or seeded bread—they have it all. ■

WEST MICHIGAN

MUST EATS

| by REVUE Staff

When you’re traveling or have just moved to a new city, one of the first questions to ask is always, “Where do I absolutely HAVE to check out?”

In West Michigan, the list is long—much longer than we have room for here—and if we’re being honest, pretty subjective. Some locals will point you toward longtime institutions (like Yesterdog, Wolfgang’s and Founders), while others will insist on the high-end favorites (like MDRD and The Chop House), and many will insist on a local brewery with killer food (like Harmony, The Mitten and Brewery Vivant).

Those are great picks, and you’ll find them winning our annual Best of the West readers survey frequently. That’s why for Revue staff’s own list of Must Eats, we sought to broaden horizons with eateries that personify what we love about the region and boast a devoted following, but may not top the search engine results.

Here are a few of our top suggestions to anyone putting together an edible bucket list for West Michigan.

BUTCHER’S UNION

438 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids butchersuniongr.com

Of everything on our list, Butcher’s Union is the one most likely to be found on every other list you read—and the one most likely to have a 2-hour wait. It’s well worth it though (and there are excellent establishments nearby to bide your time), as Butcher’s immaculate atmosphere, sumptuous entrees and robust cocktails are all unforgettable. Head here for a big city feel but approachable menu, and more than 100 whiskeys behind the bar.

RESERVE

201 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids reservegr.com

Reserve is the kind of place where you try a dish largely composed of ingredients you’ve never heard of (because that’s what local farms have in season at the moment) and end up falling in love with a whole new world of food. It’s a great place to share—start with a cheese board, move on to a ridiculously fresh salad, then wrap your tastebuds in a blanket of housemade pasta. Not to mention the huge, yet highly curated wine list.

SAN CHEZ

38 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids sanchezbistro.com

San Chez is one of those local institutions that has survived and thrived by sticking with what works while innovating new additions. They’re known for tapas served in a jovial atmosphere, with a widely varied menu home to nearly 30 shareable plates, including vegetarian, meat and seafood options—all showcasing the rich, vibrant flavors of Spain.

MAX’S SOUTH SEAS HIDEAWAY

58 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids maxstiki.com

Tiki enthusiasts have traveled across the country to visit Max’s, and the moment you step in, you’ll see why. This tropical urban oasis has three bars (one shaped like a ship) across two floors and plenty of dining room seating, all filled to the brim with tiki mugs, artifacts, mid-century art and one giant aquarium. Perhaps more importantly, Max’s serves delicious Polynesian inspired food and a tiki cocktail menu with dozens of offerings.

PRINCIPLE

230 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo principlekzoo.com

Here at Revue, we’ve said it time and time again: Principle Food & Drink is a must-visit when in Kalamazoo. The cocktail program is outrageously good, with their bartenders using housemade ingredients to innovate on classic recipes that go back a century. Where else are you going to find “duckfat washed rye” in your glass? The food follows the same path, elegantly elevating classic dishes.

THE SOUTHERNER

880 Holland St., Saugatuck thesouthernermi.com

If you visit Saugatuck without checking out The Southerner, you have, quite simply, messed up. Appalachian roots come through in a simple, stellar menu of fried chicken, catfish, biscuits and other such comfort food delights. And it’s all right on the Kalamazoo River, so it feels like you’re eating on your grandma’s cottage’s back patio.

BLACK NAPKIN

966 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids blacknapkingr.com

Black Napkin has absolutely taken GR by storm, thanks to sinfully delicious smash burgers and chicken sandwiches with innovative topping combinations and luscious sauces—plus flavor-dusted fries (like Kimchi & White Cheddar). The dining room is tiny and the line regular stretches out onto the sidewalk, but things moves fast, and even if they didn’t, you would never regret waiting. Try the pistachio orange blossom soda, and thank us later.

CHERIE INN

969 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids cherieinn.com

This European-style café is everything we want in a breakfast spot. The delightfully cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere is calming, while the smell of eggs, potatoes and coffee is rousing. The menu has everything you could hope for to start your day, plus rotating specials that are always tempting. And the hollandaise? Well, some say it’s the best they’ve had anywhere. It's a special place.

STAFF PICKS

SARAH SUYDAM | When friends visit from out of town, we always catch brunch at SpeakEZ Lounge (I can’t pass up the Casino Royale). I also always find something delicious at Brass Ring Brewing —I’m still dreaming about their Dill Pickle Soup special.

KELSEY SHOEMAKER | Tupelo Honey (super cute cocktails, and obviously fried chicken is always going to make my day), Black Napkin (I dream about their smashburgers lol), Sapporo Ramen & Noodle Bar (solid spot for ramen and they have a lot of great small plates!) and The Old Goat —I seriously can’t stay away from their goat cheese appetizer, even as a lactose intolerant person.

KELLI BELANGER | For anyone looking for a casual, yet delicious meal made from seasonal farm-to-table ingredients, I recommend Terra in Eastown. Whether you want to dine inside or out, have a group or just want to go out for drinks, Terra has it all. Their brunch menu, which has a nice variety of options, is one of my favorites in the city. My go-to order is the breakfast pizza with their Browned Butter Tea brunch cocktail to drink. Yum!

JOHN KISSANE | KCM , an unpretentious JapaneseKorean restaurant in downtown Grand Rapids, is selling what’s easily some of the most delicious food in the city. Start with the hire katsu curry and come back for everything else.

ERIC MITTS | Ever want to escape to Middle Earth? How about eat some of the best pizza you’ve ever tasted and feel like you’re transported to the magical world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Hobbits? Then don’t pass up Bilbo’s Pizza (3307 Stadium Dr) in Kalamazoo, a favorite of the Western Michigan University community since 1976. With whimsical pizza and sandwich names pulled right from “The Lord of the Rings,” pasta, and the legendary “Pizzookie,” you’ll want to go there and back again.

ZACHARY AVERY | The hire katsu at KCM may have earned them an NY Times ‘Best Dishes of 2023’ mention, but their veggie kimbap is phenomenal! A perfectly refreshing, lunch-sized meal to have as you’re cruising around Eastown.

MICHAELA STOCK | For those of us who are gluten free, it can be tough to find options on menus other than salad. That’s why I love Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop . They offer soups, grilled cheeses and even sides of bread without gluten, making it one of the most delicious dietary-friendly restaurants in West Michigan.

ALLISON KAY BANNISTER | It’s impossible to go to Creston Brewery and not get the Nashville hot chicken. I’m not even sure what else is on the menu, TBH. But, just a warning, it’s HOT. Don’t tell anyone, but I usually get the sauce on the side, and it’s still a burner. I always make

sure I have We Were Infinite by Creston or Cottonmouth Crusher by Saugatuck Brewing close to wash away the pain. Hurts so good, as they say.

If you still call Rezervoir Lounge by that other name (rhymes with, ahem, “azerac”), you’re not alone. Old habits die hard. I’m still a diehard fan, no matter what it’s called. I love that they’ve maintained an admirable offering of cajun cuisine, alongside menu standbys like mac & cheese and specialty pizzas. Top picks are the gumbo, Cajun fritters, and Da’ Gov. Oh, and if you’re listening, Rez, please bring back the diablo burger.

JOSH VEAL | The simplest way I can describe Cafe Mamo is: They truly understand and deeply love food. Substantial thought and care is put into the ingredients they source from the best farms around, the menu they craft every week to let those ingredients shine, and the cozy dining room/kitchen designed to feel like home. Nothing is too much, nothing is too little. It’s real food, exemplified.

As an American, I’m biologically hardwired to crave hot dogs. They’re essential to my mental and physical health—a doctor I found online told me so. One Stop Coney Shop understands my needs, and takes care of them with dogs like the Chippy Dippy, topped with dill chip dip, wavy potato chips and fresh dill. It’s a picnic on a bun! Not to mention the smash burgers, Belgian fries, milkshakes, and insane(ly good) concoctions like the Coney Crunkwrap. ■

Butcher's Union. PHOTO BY HANNAH RUSHTON / Reserve. PHOTO BY KYNDA Principle, Cherie Inn, One Stop Coney Shop, Cafe Mamo. COURTESY PHOTOS

BEHIND BEHIND

THE BAR

| by Josh Veal

THE UNICORN TAVERN

with Phil Anderson, Bartender/Manager, Mack Bee, Bartender & Garry Boyd, Bartender/Owner

WHAT DRINK ORDER DO YOU DREAD?

PA: I actually don’t dread any drink order that comes through. Maybe I’m wired a little different. I enjoy giving people what they want no matter what their palate or desire is.

MB: Espresso Martini ordered after 10 p.m. It’s an oxymoron and will never make sense to me.

GB: Long Island Iced Tea. To me, it says one of three things: I am super frugal, I am an inexperience drinker, or I have one purpose in life right now and that’s to get f*cked up! The worst-case scenario is when it’s all three.

WHAT’S ONE SPECIAL THING YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR PLACE OF WORK?

PA: I love the Unicorn Tavern because we are like Wonka’s secret drink lab. We make all of our own syrups and mixers, and the staff is experienced and creative enough to come up with things on the fly. For example: We don’t have Fireball, but the person that ordered 3 shots of it got 3 shots of it.

MB: Two special things: Mama Kristal and Garry AKA Garrlic Bread. I think most people search for a place of employment that makes them feel special and wholesome. Those two do just that, day in and day out they work tirelessly for their employees and for excellent guest experience. Plus they hire dope people who have made my life immensely better just by working with them.

GB: I love The Unicorn Tavern because I have always wanted a workbench/laboratory/office like this. I even have a light switch labeled “Disco Ball” and I’ll give you one guess as to what it does.

WHAT’S YOUR OWN GO-TO BEVERAGE?

PA: Negroni. Just 3 ingredients. All equal parts. So easy to mess up and so difficult to perfect.

MB: If I am feeling sweet, Amaretto Sour (made with Disaronno, of course). If I am feeling spicy, I go for some delicious Tequila Blanco, as a shot with an orange slice.

GB: My go-to right now is a Verte Chaud. I discovered this drink over the “winter” while doing some research on European aprés ski cocktails and had to try it. I was hooked! If I see a bottle of GC behind the bar, there’s a good chance my first question is gonna be inquiring on the availability of hot cocoa. I add a barspoon of our house rich syrup and use our house-made vanilla vodka spiked whipped cream but it’s basically the same. Any excuses to get 2 oz. of Chartreuse in front of me… am I right?

WHAT’S YOUR OTHER FAVORITE PLACE TO HANG OUT WITH A DRINK?

PA: Long Road locally and Wonderland in Muskegon. Great cocktails made with quality spirits they distill themselves.

MB: Burzurk Brewing Company has been a great environment for me to go and enjoy a beer and wind down. I love the atmosphere and knowing that there is another safe space for my wife and I to enjoy.

GB: Burzurk Brewing Company, Sporty’s or The Hiway Inn. All three of these are East End, Grand Haven watering stops, and I know I will find something to drink, and someone I was hoping to run into. And I’ll happily take over the jukebox, so watch out!

WHAT’S ONE OF THE WILDEST OR MOST MEMORABLE THINGS YOU’VE SEEN AS A BARTENDER?

MB: One day as a bartender on a passenger train car in Alaska, we were making our way down the rails back home to Anchorage. We were about 2 hours away from the station when the train came to a stop in the middle of nowhere. Everyone is looking out the windows and we see two passengers disembark the train in a frazzled state, with all their belongings disarrayed in their arms. After the train begins to move again, the conductor informed us he had two unruly and belligerent passengers that he got tired of dealing with, so he stopped the train and kicked them off, out in the Alaskan wilderness. To this day, I don’t know if they made it back to civilization safely.

GB: Probably someone getting thrown through a big ass plate glass window. Or during Coast Guard Saturday, the basement of the place I was working flooded with sewage because some asshat flushed a shot glass down the toilet.

KALAMAZOO HOPCAT

300 E. Water St., Kalamazoo

with Peyton Elkins, Bartender

DREADED DRINK ORDER?

By far, I dread dirty martini’s the most. Every person that drinks them has a preference on how dirty they want it, and trying to nail the right amount of olive juice they want is hard, not to mention that was the first drink that I ever had sent back, which left a scar.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I’m a huge craft beer geek, and being a bartender here gives me the opportunity to be around not just a huge variety of craft beer but also the opportunity to meet and chat with the people responsible for the beer I love.

FAVORITE OTHER PLACE TO HANG?

My go-to hangout is a bar called the Library Kitchen and Tap House. It’s across the street from where I live, where I’m friends with all of the bartenders, and through the years I’ve spent enough time there to the point where I feel at home. There’s no better feeling than getting off work, sitting in my normal seat and sipping on a Corona or rum and coke and chatting with the bartenders.

WILDEST MEMORIES?

One of the most wild days I’ve had as a bartender was the morning of an event called Snow Jog, a bar crawl hosted by Bell’s Brewery. Unfortunately for the other bartender and I, we had no idea. We were made aware of it by the 100 people that walked in at the same time and came straight up to the bar rail. I’m pretty sure I blacked out for a solid two hours while getting through a rush that was three people deep around the entire rail.

THE MEANWHILE

1005 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids

with Dakota, Bartender & Mandy, Bartender

DREADED DRINK ORDER?

D: 6 espresso martinis at once.

M: Pangalactic Gargle Blaster. Don’t ask for it please.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK?

D: I like that I can be me at work. I don’t have a dress code I have to abide by, I can listen to whatever music I want, I don’t have to act like a customer service drone, and the people that come in really enjoy that we’re real people because we can be ourselves.

M: I love the sense of community The Meanwhile has. We have a really great clientele and a relaxed environment where we can just be ourselves.

GO-TO BEVERAGE?

D: A cheap beer and a decent tequila shot.

M: A very dirty Martini. A little dry.

FAVORITE OTHER PLACE TO HANG?

D: The Commons. I love sitting at their bar and hanging out, their staff are some of the most genuine people I’ve come to know. And Blue Bridge games, I’m a big nerd and I just love the people that operate it, some of the sweetest people I’ve ever met.

M: Buffalo Traders is so good. Love when we make it over there. Also Max’s South Seas. Incredible drinks and the food is fantastic.

FAVORITE MEMORIES?

M: Mine isn’t wild, more wholesome, but a time that sticks with me is when we came in for our bachelor/ bachelorette party, and the entire bar cheered us. We really felt the love and support that night.

D: Had to be when I was working the 15th Anniversary and watching people try to do “The Gauntlet”. For the anniversary party, we ran all our daily specials for the week on one day, and watching people try to do the gauntlet of the whole week was hilarious.

SPEAKEZ LOUNGE

600 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

with JP, General Manager & Bob, Bar Manager

DREADED DRINK ORDER?

JP: When people say, “Will you make me this made up drink that so-and-so bartender made me this one time? It was blue or red or I don’t know.”

Bob: I dread making mixed or layered shots. Just grow up and drink Fernet.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK?

JP: The staff. Much of the staff came from either: corporate restaurants, catering, neighborhood restaurants, fine dining restaurants, or dive bars. We all landed here and we pull our unique experiences together to create what SpeakEZ is: weird.

Bob: I love that we get to serve so many varieties of clientele; rowdy Soccer fans, Business Execs, outof-towners staying at the hotel down the street, Local Government officials, fellow Industry friends, Neighborhood regulars, Local Music fans during our live music events. It’s sort of a mix of every type of person in G.R on any given day.

GO-TO BEVERAGE?

JP: Give me a Montucky Cold Snack or PBR, then I’ll scan the bar for an amaro to chase it with. Or basically anything nice and easy for the bartender.

Bob: I prefer an Old Fashioned or a bottle of High Life (or Low Life) and shot of Fernet.

FAVORITE OTHER PLACE TO HANG?

JP: Pickwick or Eastern Kille.

Bob: West Side neighborhood bars. I used to enjoy Kale’s Korner for darts, RIP.

WILDEST MEMORIES?

JP: USA matches during the World Cup (2014 & 2022).

At capacity 3 hours before every match, 3 to 4 deep at the bar the entire time. If you can live through that, you can live through any shift.

Bob: Bartending with Miles Teller when he came to visit SpeakEZ on his trip to Grand Rapids.

JOEY'S TAVERN

1125 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids

with Justin, Bartender

DREADED DRINK ORDER?

Long Island.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT JOEY’S?

Working with a veteran staff that I have been working with for years (family).

GO-TO BEVERAGE?

Miller Lite, shot of Jamo.

OTHER WATERING HOLE? Anchor Bar.

WILD MEMORIES?

I once overheard what I thought was a couple turn out to be neighbors planning on cheating on their spouses, then proceed to ask me where the closest hotel was.

THE PYRAMID SCHEME

68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids

with Troy Coalter, Bartender, Emilee Idalski, Bartender & Danny Howard, Bartender

DREADED DRINK ORDER?

TC: A drink I dread making is a Superman shot just because it sounds gross. LMAO!

EI: Anything that starts with, “I don’t know, just make me something!” As beneficial as mindreading would be as a bartender, I’m trying to get you something you like, and promptly. I do not want to bomb and serve something that a customer thinks is gross.

DH: Long Islands. The drink is easy, but the interaction? Usually not so much.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR WORK?

TC: The unique or special thing about my job is my friends and coworkers. I’ve met and befriended some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met, even started some bands with them.

EI: I love that in being a music venue we get to meet so many people from all around the world. I also love the fact that we are not only a fun local watering hole, but are involved in the community and host a number events that bring people together for a good cause.

DH: The staff is probably the biggest, we have a really solid crew. Beyond that, working at a venue, there’s just a lot of exposure to new art or music or comedy I may not have known about before, and I think that’s cool.

GO-TO BEVERAGE?

TC: I love a nice cold tequila sunrise with pineapple juice instead of OJ.

EI: My shining star is coffee. Always has been, always will be. It is the backbone of functionality after being in the service industry for nearly a decade.

DH: It was Rumplemintz for years, but recently I’ve switched to Crown Royale. I guess a Hendricks and Tonic if I’m drinking during the day.

WILDEST MEMORIES?

TC: One wild thing that comes to mind is when the lead singer from Larry and His Flask got carried from the stage to the bar, did a shot while they held him up over the bar top, and then passed him all the way back to the stage where he continued to keep playing the song! It was a pretty cool moment!

EI: Honestly nothing surprises me much anymore. People will do anything and everything. Whatever just came to your mind, yeah, it probably has happened.

DH: I don’t think I can tell those stories, but you see your fair share of weird stuff working downtown specifically, haha. ■

The Pyramid Scheme, Emilee Idalski. COURTESY PHOTO

CHOOSE YOUR OWN [Drinking ] ADVENTURE

| by Josh Veal

Sometimes, the ideal way to spend a Saturday is picking an area and walking from bar to bar with friends.

You don’t even have to get wasted! Of course, that’s an option, but enjoying some treats (alcoholic or non) with pals while getting a change of scenery and socializing with the locals is the real goal here.

Having been in this position though, we know how much energy it can take to pick a spot and plan the day. That’s why Revue has put together our own guide for choosing your own bar adventure— though this is in no way comprehensive.

Here are a few of our suggestions for the best areas to bar hop in West Michigan.

The Westside of Grand Rapids is absolutely rife with watering holes, including breweries, distilleries and even a meadery. As for the bars, we suggest starting with The Holiday Bar to enjoy their excellent patio, happy hour specials and filling pub food. Then you can trot right down the road to Monarchs Club , for rustic charm, craft beer on tap, board games and pool tables. Directly across the street is Blue Dog Tavern , serving delicious hot dogs and tater tots with affordable cocktails and craft beer. Keep heading down Stocking Ave. to hit Turnstiles a bar with a focus on music that also happens to have incredible food, including multiple mac and cheeses (macs and cheese?). A bit further and you can pop into both Steel Cat for a “frost rail bar” and fun cocktail concoctions, then take a few steps to Küsterer Brauhaus next door for a Bavarian-style craft beer hall. Down the road, you hit the motherlode with new gay bar General Wood Shop longstanding dive bar Anchor , and Irish pub O’Toole’s What a day!

MEDICAL MILE

This iconic hill (look, we only have so many of those in Michigan) is home to multiple longtime establishments who’ve survived a lot over the years. To avoid walking uphill, start at Duke’s , a proud dive bar with cheap drinks, dim lighting and great food. Then pop over to Bob’s Sports Bar

which is nothing like Buffalo Wild Wings and more like your uncle’s cool basement bar area, complete with wood paneling and stained glass. Make sure to get a Chambong while here. Head across the street to Birch Lodge , which has recovered from a fire and is back with highly affordable pub grub, buckets of beer and great vibes.

Just one block over is Maggie’s , a welcoming and inclusive bar where you can often join in on karaoke, and can always enjoy cheap yet tasty sandwiches and pub food. Then, it’s off to Logan’s Alley for more a large draft list of amazing craft beer alongside the cheap stuff you know and love, plus craveworthy food and free popcorn.

EASTSIDE

On the eastside of Grand Rapids stands Pickwick Tavern , one of the oldest bars in Grand Rapids. With just three beer taps, no kitchen, a million vintage signs, a bathroom stall with no door, and cash only, it’s exactly what we want and expect from a historic dive. Then you can walk a few minutes down Diamond to reach The Meanwhile , a hip yet welcoming dive bar with impressive drink specials every single day, not to mention the legendary patio, pinball machines and craft beer selection.

dance floor hosting DJs and bands just about every night of the year. Head across the street for Eastown Sports Bar, a multi-level dive with pool tables, darts and foosball. Wrap it up with Mulligan’s next door, which is the absolute epitome of a dive bar, and we mean that in the best way possible. Order a Mulligan Stew.

MUSKEGON

Whether you’re there for a beach day or just want to experience the increasingly diverse offerings of Muskegon, there are plenty of bars to enjoy. At Sandbar , you’ll find ice cold beer, delicious burgers and a welcoming atmosphere, all not far from the lake. Legends is known for an inviting and clean atmosphere with multiple TVs, classic bar food (plus a big salad bar) and stellar bartenders. DJ’s Pub & Grill is a classic local dive bar through and through—karaoke, club keno, pool tables and an outdoor patio. Down the road is Hank’s Tavern, with a great menu of both American and Mexican grub in a classy (but not too fancy) setting. Then head over to the famous Skeetown Tavern to experience the local community, boasting Tex-Mex food, craft beer, fancy cocktails and more. Finally, check out Pints & Quarts for a pub that’s been around for 20 years, serving a large, delicious menu of elevated bar food.

SAUGATUCK

Saugatuck is a friendly place, and The Sand Bar Saloon is one of the friendliest places in Saugatuck. This watering hole has been around for over 30 years for good reason, boasting “the coldest beer in town.” Wicks Park Bar & Grille is a community favorite restaurant with solid bar vibes and plenty of live music. Wally’s Bar & Grill , meanwhile, has all the West Michigan bar food you could ask for, including olive burgers and wet burritos, in a nice quirky atmosphere. For a small town pub atmosphere with pub food, drinks and billiards, hit up The Cover . And in the summer, make sure to visit The BARge , a waterfront (and we mean waterfront) bar and “boatel” with specialty drinks and food.

KALAMAZOO

Kalamazoo is chock full of great bars to visit, with everything from classic dive bars to cocktail lounges. For instance, you can start your day with the Kalamazoo Beer Exchange , which functions like the stock market except for craft beer. While your financial portfolio may be stressful, this is actually a chill hang, just with a fun concept! Then, head around the block for Shakespeare’s Pub , with creative pub grub and craft beer in a former fishing rod factory. A short walk away is Old Dog Tavern , an eclectic getaway offering bar grub (including pasties, a Michigan favorite), cocktails, pool and ping-pong. Then, you have to hit up the iconic Louie’s Trophy House , a lodge-style bar that’s more than 100 years old, with a large and invent food menu set amid wood paneling and taxidermy. ■

The Holiday Bar, Turnstiles, The Meanwhile, The BARge, Skeetown Tavern, Old Dog Tavern.

FROM BEAN TO CUP:

Great Coffee Shops in West Michigan

| by Michaela Stock

To a coffee drinker, there’s nothing better than a well-crafted cup of caffeine. I can’t be the only one who goes to bed excited for that first sip of morning espresso. Luckily, West Michigan has no shortage of creative, quality, and community-oriented cafes to explore. Whether you’re into eco-conscious brews to city-sleek interiors, there’s something for everyone, no matter your cup of joe.

THE BRADBURY | 714 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids | stofferhome.com

The Bradbury is a European-inspired café tucked inside Stoffer Home, a stunning furniture store in Downtown Grand Rapids. Though their menu may seem simple with its small selection of espresso drinks, The Bradbury also crafts exquisite seasonal beverages. They offer rich drinking chocolate and a variety of teas, as well as homemade syrups to add to your lattes. If you’re craving a unique-yet-upscale coffee experience, The Bradbury is the place to be.

HAS HEART COFFEE SHOP | 22 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids | hasheart.us/coffeeshop

Veteran owned and operated coffee shop Has Heart recently opened its doors in Grand Rapids, and their mission goes beyond serving excellent espresso. Through employing veterans’ spouses and pioneering creative spaces for veterans and artists to connect, the nonprofit is on a mission to uplift the West Michigan community. Has Heart proudly serves Madcap Coffee, and their menu features an array of caffeinated and decaffeinated beverages fit for the whole family.

CHATEAU GRAND RAPIDS | 955 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids | chateaugrandrapids.com

Chateau Grand Rapids, a new coffee and wine bar located in East Hills, is where Brooklyn meets Paris. With its sleek-yet-inviting interiors, Chateau Grand Rapids is the perfect spot to have your morning coffee and evening wine. Their menu also hosts locally made pastries, small bites, and non-alcoholic options beyond coffee, making it an ideal hangout for all hours of the day.

LAST MILE

CAFE | 1006 Hall St. SE, Grand Rapids | lastmile.cafe

Do good while drinking coffee at Last Mile Cafe, a visionary coffee shop that donates 10% of its profits to organizations and communities in need. From aiding environmental causes to supporting at-risk youth, Last Mile Cafe is a people-first business that goes beyond their Grand Rapids storefront. If that’s not enough, Last Mile Cafe even roasts all their own beans, and offers tasting and home brewing classes, as well as event catering.

MOKA ROOTS | 3321 E Paris Ave SE., Grand Rapids | supergreen-market.com

Located inside Super Green Market in Grand Rapids, Moka Roots is a new coffee shop that serves authentic Yemeni coffee and tea, as well as Turkish coffee. The café’s atmosphere is adorned with glass chandeliers, cozy seating, and intricate decor, so you’ll want to skip taking your drinks to-go and stay a while. Moka Roots offers unique sweets too, and its attached grocery store sells a variety of baked goods and produce that’ll be sure to provide inspiration for dinner later.

KIN COFFEE AND CRAFT HOUSE | 1200 Ottawa Beach Rd., Holland | kincoffeeandcraft.com

Kin Coffee is the perfect spot to grab coffee before and after trips to Lake Michigan. Located on the way to Holland State Park, the café offers a second home to their community by providing a place for families and friends to come together and slow down. They host art classes and monthly creative nights for artists of all levels, not to mention their menu goes beyond basic espresso drinks. With yummy treats like a Creamed Root Beer Cold Brew and Rose Cardamom syrup, Kin Coffee is a family-owned business that encourages folks to come, sip, and stay.

FACTORY COFFEE | 213 E. Frank St., Kalamazoo | 205 W. Lovell St., Kalamazoo | factorycoffee.co

Factory Coffee is a roastery and café that believes good coffee starts with good people. With two locations across Kalamazoo, this family-owned business is on a mission to support community-driven farms, amplify women and minority voices in coffee, and reduce their own carbon footprint. Factory Coffee has a beautiful menu of handcrafted beverages and quality eats, including rotating quiches and seasonal drinks.

QUICKWATER COFFEE ROASTERS | 8 E. Bridge St. NE, Rockford | quickwatercoffee.com

Inspired by the rivers and streams of Michigan, including Rockford’s own Rogue River, Quickwater is all about making a great cup of coffee from the bean up. They roast their own coffee and use that to create great pourovers and fun, balanced seasonal lattes. Stop in to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and grab some beans for home brewing.

SCHULER’S BOOKS CHAPBOOK CAFÉ | 2660 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids | schulerbooks.com

Schuler's Books Chapbook Café is an ideal hangout for the coffee drinker who also loves to read. They serve Ferris Coffee, alongside breakfast, lunch and dinner options. In the winter, Chapbook Café turns on a cozy fireplace. When the weather warms up, their outdoor patio is a great spot to unwind with a treat. Between the books and the brews, you can’t go wrong.. ■

PLACES TO GET LOOSE

Topping the list is Global Infusion , which has been a fixture in East Hills for two decades. They not only have the best Masala chai in town (IMHO), they also have an impressive wall of loose-leaf teas, tea blends, and botanicals that can be purchased by the ounce or in bulk. The shop is also a great place to meet a friend for a chat or sip and shop interesting finds from around the world.

143 Diamond Ave SE globalinfusion.net

Harvest Health is another old-school establishment, with deep-rooted locations on Eastern Ave. and Cascade Rd., plus newer shops in Holland and Hudsonville. They have a section of pre-packaged loose tea, spices, and herbs plus an aisle of boxed teas from top brands.

6807 Cascade Road & 1944 Eastern Ave harvesthealthfoods.com

A lesser-known spot, but no less noteworthy, is Moondrop Herbals on the Westside. Organic, herbal tea blends with charming names like “La La Land” and “Unravel Ur Frazzle” are available, as well as green, black, white, and red teas—and the selection just keeps on growing. They also sell mugs, teapots, and infusers, alongside locally made natural bath, body and skincare product. Plus, jewelry, crystals, books and gifts!

638 Fulton Street West moondropherbals.com

Spice Merchants , located in the Downtown Market, is also a favorite for bulk and packaged maté, oolong, and a host of varieties in between. They also carry flowering tea buds that blossom into an aromatic and exquisite display when steeped. Cool!

435 Ionia Ave SW spicemerchants.biz

TEA for YOU

| by Allison Kay Bannister Spice Merchants, Moondrop Herbals, High Tea

For ages, coffee reigned supreme in West Michigan, but over the last several years, more tea shops and broadened beverage menus have begun to emerge, creating a respectable scene for those seeking out additional choices for libations.

As more people become dry curious, there’s also been a quiet demand for alternatives to beer, wine, and spirits—as well as places to enjoy them.

We’re spilling the tea on some of the best places around to find…tea!

COFFEE SHOPS WITH A TEA SIDE GIG

A popular Westsider, The Bitter End slings more than just java. Their menu features an array of teas, including loose leaf tea service by the pot, with harder-to-find options such as lapsang suchong, assam, gunpowder green, and sencha.

752 West Fulton thebitterendcoffeehouse.com

Whether you like it iced or hot, Sweetwaters has you covered. In fact, this coffee shop is more of a tea house in terms of selection. Ginger, jasmine, cinnamon, and matcha are just a few of the flavors you’ll find in their Asian-inspired tea offerings. They also sell containers of loose-leaf tea curated by the owners.

601 Bond Ave. NW sweetwaterscafe.com

Haggerty’s not only has Masala chai and matcha by the cup, they also serve loose-leaf tea by the mug or pot in a variety of caffeinated and herbal favorites. In addition, they have a pretty hearty bubble tea menu, with either traditional tapioca pearls or popping boba.

1600 E Beltline Ave NE haggertysgr.com

NOT SO TINY BUBBLES

Toastn’ Tea is one of several boba tea cafés in town. They offer milk and fruit teas, as well as butterfly pea tea. And, they have a pretty extensive food menu, with primarily Vietnamese and Korean fare, plus Japanese honey toast— the perfect accompaniment to a tall glass of deliciousness.

2500 E Beltline Ave SE toastnteagr.com

Located in downtown GR, Ding Tea focuses mostly on iced drinks, from brewed assam, jasmine, and oolong teas to flavored black and green teas with boba pearls. Milk teas are also available, as are a few hot teas. For something unexpected, try their fermented, probiotic beverage called yakult.

45 Ottawa Ave SW DingTeaGR

Jade Tea is a perfect place to stop before or after seeing a movie at Celebration Cinema North. They have all the fruit and milk teas you’re looking for, plus Thai iced tea and a frozen matcha smoothie. They offer tapioca, popping, and crystal boba, plus cream cap swirls in salty or sweet.

2090 Celebration Dr NE www.jadeteagr.com/menu

PROPER TEA

If you’re really serious about your tea, then there’s nothing to do but go for an allout experience at High Tea GR. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday, and while walk-ins are accepted, they strongly encourage a reservation. This is upscale, yet approachable, dining with a traditional British afternoon tea—complete with an assortment of savory finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, petite desserts, and, of course, a pot of brewed loose leaf served in an elegant cup and saucer. China rose petal tea is considered their signature tea, but they offer several other selections as well, including decaffeinated. With prior notice, they can provide gluten free and/or vegetarian sandwich and sweets options. This is an opportunity to take in authentic British culture, as well as make connections, so be sure to bring your besties. If you don’t have time for a sit down, stop in and shop their retail area and take-away bakery case.

1522 Wealthy St. SE highteagr.com

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD:

| by John Kissane

She only wrote one good book. But if you write a book that good, you only need to do it once.” Neil Gaiman said that of Hope Mirrlees, author of Ludin-the-Mist , but he could as easily have been talking about Harper Lee.

To Kill A Mockingbird may be the only book Lee ever wrote—its purported sequel, Go Set A Watchman, is widely believed to be an inferior early draft rather than a completed manuscript—but it’s good all the way through, from roots to crown.

Set in Alabama in the heart of the Great Depression, To Kill A Mockingbird is narrated by one of the greatest characters in American literature: Scout Finch, a six-year-old tomboy. Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, is appointed as defender of Tom Robinson, a Black man wrongly accused of rape. What follows is a story that, in its unearthing of difficult truths, remains all too relevant to this day.

Injustice, Compassion and Redemption

In 2018, a play based on the novel opened on Broadway. Aaron Sorkin, who adapted it, had made a name for himself over the years through writing that was earnest, witty, and sometimes selfrighteously angry. Most prominent was his work on The West Wing , a show starring Martin Sheen as President of the United States and focusing on the difficult but important work of translating idealism into practicality.

Sorkin’s play differed from the novel by centering Atticus, the lawyer, and not his daughter, Scout, a change significant enough to result in a lawsuit from the estate, who felt the play wasn’t faithful enough to its source material (the lawsuit was later settled). By stripping away some material, Sorkin created something closer to a courtroom drama, one in which ideas and words were given their full due. Critics

were generally positive; NPR called it “one of the greatest plays in history.” The production won the Pulitzer Prize.

From April 23rd-April 28th, the touring Broadway production will be onstage at DeVos Performance Hall thanks to Broadway Grand Rapids. It’s recommended that attendees be at least twelve years old, given the racially charged language and sexual abuse references.

Richard Thomas stars. The Emmy Award-winning actor knows he has difficult shoes to fill: those of Gregory Peck, who starred in the beloved 1962 film version. Thomas told Milwaukee magazine that “For any actor…to have created a part that lives on, one that people identify with and has a life of it own, is one of the greatest privileges any actor could experience.” By all accounts, he’s taken that iconic role and made it his own.

At 2 hours and 50 minutes, it’s a long show; but that’s not unusual. What’s less common is for Broadway Grand Rapids to feature a non-musical play. It’s a tribute both to the success of this adaptation and to the lasting power of Lee’s work that its spotlight will be trained not on a high-kicking revue or on a soaring group of singers but on a song-less drama set simultaneously in the world of almost a century past and, painfully, today. ■

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

Broadway Grand Rapids

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

April 23-28

broadwaygrandrapids.com

THE SOUNDS OF MAGIC

at St. Cecilia

| by John Kissane

On Thursday, April 18, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will bring to the stage String Magic, an evening of music ranging over 140 years and demonstrating the enduring beauty of the art form.

Since 2012, the society has partnered with St. Cecilia Music Center in Grand Rapids. “It’s an amazing partnership,” said Cathy Holbrook, Executive and Artistic Director of St. Cecilia. “This is the most important organization of its kind in the United States.”

Holbrook works directly with Wu Han and David Finckel, co-artistic director of the chamber music society. “They have connections with all the best chamber musicians in the world,” Holbrook said. She emphasizing the fact that, in attending one of these shows, audience members are seeing–and, more to the point, hearing–something fresh. “You’re not hearing a string quartet on tour for a year with that same program.”

Although often associated with the kind of classical music played by symphonies, chamber music is very much a distinct art form. Often played by only a handful of musicians, chamber music is music in which there is only one instrument per part; rather than a wall of sound, you hear individual instruments. There is no conductor, and,

often, no amplification. Audience members are often close enough to see facial expressions, and to sense how the musicians are wordlessly communicating with each other as they play. The result is a supremely intimate experience.

St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium, which Wu Han herself described as a “little Carnegie Hall,” was built specifically for unamplified music. “It’s one of the best chamber music halls in the world,” Holbrook said. And on April 18th, it will host five world-class musicians, two on violin, two on viola, and one on cello.

The program for String Magic consists of works by four composers: Beethoven, Françaix, Bridge, and Mendelssohn. The Beethoven piece is Trio in E-flat major for Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 3. We no longer know when it was written, or where, only that it predates the 19th century. His first string trio, it’s gorgeous, lyrical, and light.

“Trio for Violin, Viola, and Cello” by Françaix follows. A twentieth-century composer, Françaix in some ways rejected his own time. He eschewed atonality and what he perceived to be aimless wanderings. His trio is typical of his work in its classical rigor and beauty.

Bridge’s slow, stately “Lament For Two Violas” has been described as an elegy and a search for spiritual consolation

after the horrors of World War I. Bridge, an Englishman and a pacifist, seems to have dipped his pen into ink composed of deep uneasiness and sadness. To close your eyes and to hear it is to remember how many young men were swallowed up by the earth and how many mothers feared that the worst would come, and were right to have feared it.

Mendelssohn’s “Quintet No. 2 in B-flat major for Two Violins, Two Violas, and Cello, Op. 87” begins in deceptive simplicity but reveals itself, by its end, to be a complex and mature work, one that soars to huge, primarycolored heights.

A bit of lagniappe: after the performance, attendees are invited to attend a post-show celebration upstairs, at which they can meet the performers (this is standard with St. Cecilia’s concerts).

It’s impossible to talk to Holbrook about this evening of music, or any of St. Cecilia’s shows, without hearing her passion. She remains grateful that the organization weathered the pandemic. “I remember saying to Wu Han, ‘What if we can’t have concerts again?’ She said, ‘Listen. There has always been live music. There will always be live music. We will be back.’”

She was right, of course. The patron saint of music, ever generous, never fails to intercede, as should prove more than evident when the musicians behind String Magic take to the stage. ■

STRING MAGIC

St. Cecilia Music Center 24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids April 18, 7:30 p.m.

scmcgr.org

APRIL ARTSCalendar

| by Revue Staff

It’s 2024 and arts organizations in West Michigan are thriving, with incredible, jam-packed seasons of art, conversations, fun and community involvement. This month, you can visit the theaters for big Broadway shows and intimate plays, listen to symphonies play the classics and modern pieces, and head to local museums for a variety of stunning art. Check it out.

AVENUE FOR THE ARTS avenueforthearts.org

3RD THURSDAYS, Apr. 18

BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS

122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids broadwaygrandrapids.com

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, Apr. 23-28

FARMERS ALLEY THEATRE KALAMAZOO

221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo farmersalleytheatre.com

SONDEIM ON SONDHEIM, Apr. 25-May 12

FONTANA CHAMBER ARTS

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 200, Kalamazoo fontanamusic.org

AMERICAN BRASS QUINTET, Apr. 20

FRAUENTHAL CENTER

425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon frauenthal.org

TONY N’ TINA’S WEDDING, Apr. 12-20

GILMORE THEATRE/WMU THEATRE  1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo  wmich.edu/theatre

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS, Apr. 5-14

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM

101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

BRICK BY BRICK: THE CREATIVE ART OF LEGO, Through May 19

UNCHARTED WAYS THROUGH: MAPS, LAND, AND THE IMAGE, Through Apr. 7

SKY HOPINKA: MNEMONICS OF SHAPE AND REASON, Through Apr. 28

BORDER CANTOS, Through April 28

GRAND RAPIDS BALLET

341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, Grand Rapids  grballet.com

IN THE UPPER ROOM, Apr. 26-May 5

GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

30 N. Division Ave., Grand Rapids grct.org

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS, Apr. 19-May 5

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY

300 Ottawa Ave. NW Ste. 100, Grand Rapids grsymphony.org

A GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY CHORUS CELEBRATION, Apr 12-13

MOZART’S HAFFNER SYMPHONY, Apr. 26

HOLLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

96 W. 15th St. Ste. 201, Holland  hollandsymphony.org

NIGHT AT THE OPERA, Apr. 27

KALAMAZOO CIVIC THEATRE

329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo kazoocivic.com

FOREVER PLAID, Apr. 5-14

THE LION KING JR., Apr. 19-28

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS

314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org

AMERICAN REALISM: VISIONS OF AMERICA, 1900-1950, Through Apr. 14

KYUNGMI SHIN: A STORY TO FINDING US, Through May 12

KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 100, Kalamazoo kalamazoosymphony.com

OPERA RETURNS! PUCCINI’S TOSCA, Apr. 19

KENDALL COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

17 Fountain St. NW, Grand Rapids kcad.ferris.edu

MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE

THESIS EXHIBITION, Apr. 22-Jul. 20

2024 ANNUAL STUDENT EXHIBITION, Apr. 29-May 4

LOWELLARTS

223 W. Main St., Lowell lowellartsmi.org

38TH ANNUAL LOWELLARTS WEST MICHIGAN ART COMPETITION, Through Apr. 27

MILLER AUDITORIUM

2200 Auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo millerauditorium.com

OMNIUM CIRCUS, Apr. 6

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon muskegonartmuseum.org

OLIVER JEFFERS: 15 YEARS OF PICTURING BOOKS, Through May 26

EXPRESSIONS, Through May 19

JOHN STEUART CURRY: WEATHERING THE STORM, Through Sept. 2

OPERA GRAND RAPIDS

1320 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids  operagr.org

LA BOHÈME, Apr. 19-20

SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

400 Culver St., Saugatuck sc4a.org

MR. SOCIETY OF 23, Through May 17

RE-WILD, Through May 10

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER  24 Ransom Ave. NE, Grand Rapids  scmc-online.org

MARCH COHN, Apr. 11

STRING MAGIC, Apr. 18

THE GILMORE

359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo thegilmore.org

THE GILMORE PIANO FESTIVAL 2024, Apr. 24-May 12

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

360 W. Western Ave. Ste. 200, Muskegon  westmichigansymphony.org

WMS AROUND THE WORLD PART II, Apr. 19