by: Jodi Hillman
Restaurant week in Grand Rapids is the perfect time to sample the variety of cuisines the city has to offer. With over 60 restaurants to choose from, there is something for everyone and every taste bud out there. Some restaurants participate in lunch, some dinner, and some both.
Lunch is a new addition to the event this year. It comes with a two course meal for just $14 per person. Now you don’t have to wait until dinnertime to taste what Grand Rapids has to offer; just grab a few of your coworkers and try something new.
If you are on a special diet, such as gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian, many of the restaurants will accommodate your needs. Most of the menus already offer menu are vegan and gluten-free options, and this stays true for Restaurant Week. If you don’t see anything that accommodates your diet, just ask. Many of the places are willing to help you out.
Another nice feature of restaurant week is $1 from each meal is donated toward the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education Student Scholarship Fund. Since 2010, over $110,000 in donations have been received by students of this culinary program at Grand Rapids Community College.
If you’re not sure where to start, the following are some of the highlights of Restaurant Week in GR. The list covers everything from Italian to Mexican to Indian. Most restaurants take reservations, so get your spot early!
Amore Trattoria Italiana
5080 Alpine Ave. NW
Comstock Park, MI 49321
(616) 785-5344
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Amore Trattoria Italiana is an authentic Italian restaurant that is an experience in itself. The owner, Maurizio Arcidiacono, was born in Italy and will talk to you in Italian if you prefer a more genuine experience. Their dinner menu includes five courses with three choices from each course. Some of the highlights from each course include Heirloon Bruschetta, Fennel Parmigiano Soup, Green Bean Salad, White Lasagna with S & S Lamb, Farm Country Truffle Cheese and Mushrooms, and a Lemon Pistachio Cannoli.
All five courses are included in the $28 price, and they have gluten free options in each course option. The menu also offers vegetarian and vegan options. For $15, you can have wine pairings with your meal. Enjoy sitting outside while enjoying the authentic Italian cuisine in Comstock Park, just northwest of downtown Grand Rapids.
Brewery Vivant
925 Cherry St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
(616) 719-1604
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The Brewery Vivant is located in a refurbished funeral home. They are the first LEED certified brewery in the United States, and are focused on sustainability. The brewery sources local ingredients to craft Belgian and French style beers and make delicious food.
For Restaurant Week, Brewery Vivant is offering three courses. The appetizer course includes olives, mushrooms, grilled cheese, and country bread. Course two consists of Sea Bass with ceviche of granny smith, mango, grape, and purple potato. The dessert course is a Peach Melba Crepe with raspberries, Chantilly crème, and mint.
This unique brewery offers a nice atmosphere to drink craft beers and hang out with friends. The food is delicious and they have a rustic lineup for restaurant week. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and children are welcome. If you are uptown GR, make sure to stop in here, even if it’s just to try a beer.
City Built Brewing Co.
820 Monroe Ave. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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City Built Brewing Co. is located downtown Grand Rapids. The brewery has an industrialized look with modern booths dotted down the middle. It is designed to encourage an open atmosphere where people can meet with friends.
The food features flavors from Puerto Rico. The brewery offers three courses with three choices for each course. Some of the highlights from each course include Morcilla – a house stuffed Puerto Rican blood sausage, Tacos de Barbacoa – beef cheek tacos on corn tortillas, and Exotica Coco – a chunky coconut sponge cake with Havana club lime mousse.
The Puerto Rican tradition comes from the owner, Ed’s grandfather. He tells a story of how his grandfather was so welcoming he accidentally picked up the wrong family from the airport, and fed them a traditional Puerto Rican meal. The owner continues this tradition by feeding friends, family, and community members traditional Puerto Rican cuisine in a modern atmosphere.
Indian Masala
5769 28th St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 259-7394
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Indian Masala serves up traditional Indian cuisine. It is located on the southeast side of Grand Rapids. The bright, colorful interior welcomes guests as soon as you walk through the door. The aromatic spices and numerous choices of food make this a good option for Restaurant Week.
The restaurant offers three courses with one to two choices for each course. The first course is a vegetarian option Samosas. This is a puffed pastry stuffed with seasoned potatoes, green peas, and delicious chutneys. Course two offers a choice between a vegetarian dish and Dilruba Panner. The third course is a choice between any non-vegetarian dish and Butter Chicken. Each guest receives a complementary dessert.
This is a must see restaurant if you love excellent Indian food with traditional surroundings. The cozy interior is inviting, and it is a great place for family and friends alike.
Lindo Mexico Restaurante
1742 28th St SW
Wyoming, MI 49519
(616) 261-2280
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Lindo Mexico Restaurante serves fresh Mexican food in a lively environment. They have live music and host community events. Their unique flavors and combinations should definitely be on your list to check out.
For Restaurant Week, Lindo Mexico is offering three courses where you pick one, two, and one choice from each course. Some of the highlights include Uchepos – two semi-sweet corn tamales that are homemade, Enchiladas de Pollo con Mole, Tacos al Pastor, and Pastel Imposible – a two layer cake that consists of chocolate cake and flan. The restaurant also has a variety of margaritas, micheladas, and coladas to complement your meal.
The atmosphere of Lindo Mexico Restaurante is active and perfect for families. When you are in Grand Rapids for Restaurant Week and are searching for authentic, Mexican food that is made with high quality ingredients, this is the place to go.
Restaurant Week is a great time to grab your family and friends and try out different food the city has to offer. With over 60 restaurants participating in the event, you will have no shortage of options. Now is the best time to try the restaurant you have been waiting for.
