Whether you’re searching for an upscale dining experience or just want to grab a quick bite on the go, you’ll have no problems with finding the perfect spot.
Let’s explore some of the top-rated eateries in town so that your next trip is filled with deliciousness from start to finish.
Overview of Grand Rapid's Food Scene
Grand Rapids, Michigan has become home to a growing number of restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for classic American dishes or unique international fare, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds in Grand Rapids.
The city's restaurant scene is especially famous for its delectable seafood. From award-winning sushi to succulent crab legs, the seafood selection in Grand Rapids is sure to impress any palate.
If you’re in the mood for something more traditional, there are plenty of delicious steakhouses, restaurants serving locally grown produce, and cozy breakfast spots too.
No matter what you’re craving, Grand Rapids has something to satisfy it. From small family-owned cafes to fine dining establishments, the city's restaurant scene is sure to please even the pickiest eater.
With so many options to choose from, you can be sure you'll find something delicious to enjoy in Grand Rapids.
Local Favorites
One of the best things about exploring a new city is trying all the different local flavors. Grand Rapids has some amazing restaurants and eateries that you won't want to miss out on during your visit!
Here are some of our top picks for local favorites in the city:
1. HopCat
This popular restaurant and bar serves up some of the best craft beer in the city along with delicious pub grub like burgers and fries.
2. Rockwell Republic
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, then head over to Rockwell Republic. They serve eclectic American cuisine with fantastic live music in an industrial-style setting.
3. Slows Bar BQ
Slows Bar BQ has been named one of the best BBQ restaurants in the country and it definitely lives up to its reputation. Enjoy brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and more alongside some delicious sides.
4. Founders Brewing Company
Grand Rapids is known for its craft beer scene, so you won't want to miss out on a visit to Founders. Enjoy some of their award-winning brews along with wood fired pizzas and other pub favorites.
5. The Cheese Lady
If you have a taste for cheese, then head over to The Cheese Lady for some delicious artisan cheeses made right in the city. They also offer an array of accompaniments like cured meats, jams, and crackers to pair with your cheese.
Popular Restaurants
Grand Rapids, Michigan is known for its vibrant food scene and its selection of delicious restaurants. From classic Italian to modern Mexican, there’s something for everyone in this city. Here are some of the best restaurants in Grand Rapids:
1. San Chez Bistro
This family-owned Mediterranean restaurant is a favorite in Grand Rapids, offering an eclectic menu that includes tasty tapas and wood-fired pizzas.
2. Grove
Enjoy farm-to-table dishes with a distinct Midwestern flair at this cozy eatery located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
3. Field & Fire
Dedicated to crafting delicious artisanal breads and pastries, the menu at this popular bakery also features savory sandwiches and other lunchtime favorites.
4. The Winchester
This stylish gastropub offers creative takes on classic pub fare along with a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
5. Cottage Bar
A local favorite since 1934, this classic bar and grill serves up delicious pub grub along with burgers, sandwiches, and steaks.
6. Wealthy Street Bakery
This quaint bakery is known for its delicious treats including cookies, cupcakes, and pies made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients.
7. Bangkok Taste Cuisine
This family-run restaurant is well known for its authentic Thai cuisine and flavorful curries.
8. Butcher's Union
A modern tavern featuring an extensive list of whiskeys, craft beers, and signature cocktails as well as classic pub fare like wings and burgers.
9. Cygnus27
Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, this fine-dining eatery offers contemporary American cuisine with global influences. Enjoy dishes such as crispy pork belly and pan-seared sea bass.
Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly Eats
Grand Rapids is becoming increasingly vegetarian and vegan friendly. There are plenty of options for those looking to enjoy delicious plant-based meals in the city.
Here are some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Grand Rapids:
1. The Green Well
This restaurant serves up a wide range of scratch-made vegetarian dishes, from salads and tacos to flavorful grain bowls and pastas. All of their ingredients are locally sourced, organic, and 100% vegan.
2. Bartertown Diner
This cozy diner is a favorite spot among vegans in Grand Rapids. They offer a full plant-based menu, including breakfast dishes like tofu scramble burritos and pancakes, lunch specials like tempeh sandwiches and veggie burgers, and dinner entrees such as eggplant parmesan.
3. Mudpie Vegan Bakery & Coffeehouse
This bakery serves up delicious vegan treats like cupcakes, cookies, muffins, and more. They also have a full coffee bar with vegan snacks and sandwiches.
4. Zivio
This restaurant serves up Mediterranean-inspired vegan dishes, like falafel, hummus, tabouli, and baba ganoush. They also offer a variety of vegan sweet treats at their bakery counter.
5. Lush Berries Café
This café specializes in raw and vegan dishes. They offer hearty salads, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices as well as sweet treats like cakes and tarts.
Best Cafes
Grand Rapids, Michigan is home to a vibrant and ever-growing food scene. From cozy cafes to some of the most exciting restaurants on the west side of the state, there’s something for every taste in this city.
1. Coffee & Contemplation
Serving up freshly brewed coffee and espresso beverages from local roasters, this cafe also has a wide selection of teas and decadent pastries. Come for the coffee, stay for the atmosphere.
2. Littlebird Coffee & Kitchen
This small but mighty cafe serves up strong drip coffee alongside specialty lattes and espresso drinks. They also offer breakfast and lunch options like sandwiches and salads made from locally sourced ingredients.
3. The Electric Cheetah
This chic cafe has an eclectic menu ranging from innovative breakfast dishes to creative sandwiches and salads for lunch. They also serve up artisanal pastries, coffee, and pour-over teas.
4. Harmony Hall
A Grand Rapids favorite, this multi-level craft beer hall also has a great cafe. Enjoy light snacks, soups, and sandwiches paired with craft beers on tap or one of their signature cocktails.
Nightlife Hotspots
Grand Rapids is a great city for nightlife. It has an array of live music venues and craft cocktail bars with amazing atmospheres.
Here are some top-rated spots to check out:
1. Foundry Hall
This is a great place to go for live music, art exhibits and theatrical performances. There's always something exciting happening at Foundry Hall. Plus, they offer an array of craft beers and delicious food.
2. SpeakEZ Lounge
This lounge is known for its lively atmosphere, craft cocktails, and delicious gastropub-style food. The SpeakEZ Lounge also hosts a variety of live events throughout the week, making it a great spot for nightlife in Grand Rapids.
3. The Pyramid Scheme
This bar and music venue is a great spot to spend an evening out. They offer craft beer, cocktails and tasty food along with live music events every night.
4. Billy's Lounge
This dive bar offers craft beers, cheap drinks, karaoke nights and pool tables which makes it a fun place to hang out. Plus, they offer live music performances throughout the week.
