By the time you read this, Harmony Brewing Company (1551 Lake Dr. SE) will finally have opened its doors in Eastown. "It's got to be open by then," sighed co-owner Heather Van Dyke. Transforming the abandoned Jack's Liquor Store into a neighborhood brewpub has been an ordeal, even for the experienced hands at Bear Manor Properties. Brew master Jackson Van Dyke has been busy crafting drinkable, clever brews that will be appreciated by hop heads and newbies alike. There will be six brews on tap, such as the Brownson Pinchot, Fiddlestix IPA and Black Squirrel Peaty Porter.
The brewpub will have a light cafe feeling that will be kid friendly. Look for a menu that features garden-inspired foods, breads and cheeses, as well as wood-fired pizzas. You will also be able to choose from beer cocktails, wine by the glass and specialty cocktails. With live music an impossibility due to the genteel neighborhood, Harmony plans to host beer-fueled talks by the professors, teachers, authors, experts, kooks, rabble-rousers, know-it-alls, mystics, cranks and blowhards who make Grand Rapids insufferable. Free Market can't wait to heckle.
Eastown went gourmet, finally, with the opening of the Local Epicurean (1436 Wealthy St. SE). Owners Steve Bowyer and Ryan Reardon spent a month fumigating the patchouli and scraping the cannabis resin left by the previous tenants of the old Windmill Building. Free Market was thrilled by the 32 different kinds of organic hand-cut pasta made with local eggs and flour from Harvest Health. The classy Miss Carolita enjoyed the Garlic Basil Pappardelle pasta. Other delicacies include handmade chocolate truffles, all natural infused sea salts, three different kinds of raw organic tomato sauces and 19 types of raviolis. Steve admitted they ate ravioli every day for a month while testing the recipes. Look for the pasta at Grand Central Market in Grand Rapids, Poindexter's Specialty Marketplace in Rockford, and Ninth Bridge Market in Ada.
Striders (1551 Wealthy St. SE) recently opened in the heart of the Grand Rapids running community. The popular Grandville store was able to add a second location in Eastown when Blockbuster realized that robots can rent DVDs, as well as liberal arts majors. "We want to encourage people to explore an active lifestyle," said owner Ben Pickel, as Free Market dipped his deep-fried Twinkie into gravy. These aren't the K-Mart ankle-breakers that we remember from the 1970s. Striders is the only store locally to offer the ASICS Gel Excel 33 that promote the natural motion of barefoot running. And they are red, which is cool. Ben has worked in running shops since high school, even repping for New Balance, and he has put together a staff that matches his passion for health and fitness. Let them use mysterious video and bio-mechanical techniques to help you find the right shoes for your feet and running style. It almost makes Free Market want to start running. Almost.
The Green Restaurant (2289 E. Beltline Ave.) recently opened with an emphasis on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Owner Mike Meyer has worked in restaurants his whole life and you can see the dedication and attention to detail in the space, which is warm and inviting. The ostrich and elk burgers are must tries. Free Market and little Miss Lourdie had the daddy and daughter burgers - beef because we are scaredy cats - with hand-cut fries. The patties were perfectly grilled and served on a fresh bun. The fries were crunchy and salty. Perfect. We can't wait to tackle the rest of the menu.
Freebies
Butch's Restaurant in Holland features pasta and wine specials every Wednesday night throughout the winter. Don't forget to check out Butch's new winter menu too, which Chef Adam keeps fresh with seasonal goodness.
Free Market heard whispers that the Acton Institute, West Michigan's own think tank, is once again planning to leave their comfy digs in the Waters Building. We can't wait to learn where Acton's piously prickly pastor Rev. Robert A Sirico lands.
P.F. Chang's China Bistro opened at Knapp's Crossing after Kent County squared away its dire drainage drama. The parking lot is packed every night. Do they stuff $20 bills into their sickly sweet Dynamite Shrimp? Free Market prefers Ning Ye (6747 Fulton St. E) for home-cooked Chinese fare.
Rockford's Old World Olive Press staked its claim to downtown Grand Rapids with a new shop at Ottawa Avenue and Monroe Center. While we miss the free sandwiches at Blake's Turkey Shop, Free Market can't wait to sample the olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
Skaters will enjoy the Outdoor Ice Rink in downtown Muskegon. Located at Jefferson and West Western, the rink will offer affordable skate rental on the weekends through February.
Free Market welcomes Juan Magallan as the new owner of Gregordog in Holland. This hole-in-the-wall serves the tastiest tube steaks in town.
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Pictured: Top — Handmade pasta from Local Epicurean; Above — Shoe selection at Striders. Photos by Steven de Polo.
This month, I am excited to launch a new column called The Free Market. While I will miss hanging out in Grand Haven and Battle Creek, I am excited to talk about the new and exciting things happening in the businesses and nonprofits in West Michigan.
HyperOptik (1134 Wealthy St. SE) is a new eyewear boutique that opened next to Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids last month. Owner Rob Conens and son Christopher opened HyperOptik as the urban and casual incarnation of Cascade Optical, which is West Michigan's premier source of Japanese and European eyewear. Located on a bustling stretch of Wealthy Street, the 1,200-square-foot storefront features brick walls, brightly colored furniture and friendly opticians. But the focus is on the racks of smart and stylish eyeglass frames. You will find fun, fierce and funky brands like Theo, ic! Berlin, Anne et Valentin, Cutler & Gross, Tart Optical, Booth & Bruce, FriezeFrames and L.A. Eyeworks.
In the back you can see the shop's open-air optical lab. The professional lab technicians can provide a more accurate and comfortable fit than the factory-like mega labs used by big box stores. Prices are slightly more affordable than Cascade Optical, befitting the Bohemian neighborhood. "We were drawn to this neighborhood by our more artistic clientele, and our prices reflect what they can afford," Christopher said. The space will also serve as a photography studio for Rob, who shoots customer portraits for Cascade and HyperOptik's ad campaigns. Not only are they excited to be part of the renaissance of the Uptown shopping district, they are proud that Rob's father Bernard — immigrated from the Netherlands — opened his first optical shop just across the street in the mid 1960s.
Head downtown and you will find the newly opened Grand River Cigar (131 S. Division). Replacing a dysfunctional photocopy shop, it is just what you would picture when thinking about a cigar lounge. Think wood floors, brown leather sofas and chairs, sterling silver cigar cases and a 186-square-foot walk in humidor. Built out of Spanish cedar, the humidor has its own temperature and humidity control system that can keep cigars fresh indefinitely. The shelves are stocked with yummy cigars like the CAO MX2, Padron 1962 Anniversary and the Arturo Fuente OpusX. Prices range from $5 to $70 a piece. Co-owners Robin Day, Charles Rossi and Tina Day decided to open the shop after Governor Granholm signed the smoking ban. "It was impossible to enjoy a fine cigar in public anymore," Charles said. Having become expert in the new smoking regulations and purchasing the necessary exemptions, along with two massive HEPA filters, they were able to open the lounge. If things go well, they hope to get a liquor license in a couple years.
Located on Monroe Center, MoDiv (40 Monroe Center) is a retail experiment. This micro mega mall, or pop-up shop on steroids, takes up about 8,500 square feet of the Peck Building where the sad sack Little Bohemia used to hustle its dusty beads. Rockford Construction completely gutted the space and thankfully fumigated the patchouli scent and paranoia. Now you will find nearly a dozen smaller retailers offering a range of cool and stylish clothing, gifts, antiques and food. "We wanted to provide a fun shopping experience downtown," said Mike Mraz, vice president of retail development for Rockford Construction.
MoDiv includes the Wolverine Company Store that would look at home in SoHo with its to-die-for 1000 Mile Collection of boots and shoes and brick walls. Vue Design offers gorgeous bridal wear, Chai Boutique has an eclectic mix of handcrafted jewelry and vintage furniture, and the Kitchen Sinc Store sells fresh and healthy groceries to urban workers and homesteaders. Kitchen Sinc also has a fully licensed professional kitchen that can be rented by food entrepreneurs. Look for a new showroom by Interphase Interiors, the exclusive Haworth dealer in Grand Rapids, and Eastern Floral is expected to open a cash-and-carry European flower market in the space.
When you don't want to go out, try shopping at the Mitten Made Boutique. This online store was created by Kerri Wischmeyer to sell unique clothing, jewelry and gifts made by Michigan artists. While shopping on the Internet can be a freak show, Kerri does a great job selecting the best items. You will find prints by Rick Beerhorst, colorful owl-themed dresses for your little fashionista and trendy fabric zipper bracelets that will look perfect at the next dance party. Only 27 years old, Kerri is a natural entrepreneur who is following in the footsteps of her father and brothers. "Besides my family, I was really motivated by this city to launch the site. I love the culture and the pride in shopping local that exists here," she said.
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Pictured —Top: HyperOptik on Wealthy Street; Above: The Wolverine Store at MoDiv.
East Grand Rapids is a bedroom community of split-levels and pre-fab colonial homes with access to good schools. Having been raised in Grosse Pointe, I can say that EGR is populated with overly competitive, sports-obsessed middle-class people who wear a lot of North Face clothing. It's Rockford with trees. However, it does have sweet shopping and restaurants.
The Derby Station (2237 Wealthy St.) is where you go for something special. The large restaurant recalls an English pub, which reflects its roots with the Anglophile L&B Restaurant Portfolio that also includes Logan's Alley, Cambridge House and Graydon's Crossing. The room is airy with dark woods and solid furniture and the patio is spacious. The Michigan Micro Mania Sampler is awesome: Short's Spruce Pilsner, Vander Mill Whit Cider, New Holland Ichabod Ale, Dark Horse Crooked Tree IPA and Vivant Farm Hand Ale. Compliment that beer with some excellent food. The extensive menu reflects a respect for local and sustainable farming. Trust Poppa Steve and begin with the Stumbling Nachos, which includes drunken chili, Arcadia Hopmouth cheese sauce and pickled jalapeno peppers. Then get a typical pub-style entree such as the Cottage Pie, with stewed ground beef and vegetables topped with garlic-mashed potatoes. Sit on the patio if it is nice.
Next, our culinary adventures take us to Osta's Lebanese Cuisine (2228 Wealthy St.). The restaurant opened in downtown Grand Rapids in 1993 and then moved to Gaslight Village to be closer to customers. The land of the Phoenicians, who were the Original Gangstas, Lebanon has been influenced by many cultures and their cuisine reflects that sophistication. The flavors are delicate and carefully balanced to thrill the palate. "This is the food you would find when you walk off the plane in Lebanon," said Co-Owner Diane Aouad. When this reporter asked for hot sauce she arched her brow. Her husband, the chef, does not want to cover up the flavors with heat. "The Lebanese in Detroit will put anything on the food," she added. Diane made a couple suggestions for me and my sister Lovely Lucy. She had the Fatoush Salad, which contrasts crisp fresh vegetables with crunchy toasted pita chips and the zing of the homemade vinaigrette dressing. I had the Kafta Kabob on a pita with creamy hummus and onions, which was delicious. As they say in Lebanese, Sahtein . . . to your good health.
Down the block, Crazy Charlie's (2184 Wealthy St.) focuses on one thing: hot dogs. In a town of ascots, Rolex watches and Bentley cars, sometimes you just want a good tube steak. My girl Little Lulu goes there once a week with her benevolent grandmother, who never seemed to spoil her only son in such a deliciously deleterious manner. Lulu calls it Good Time Charlie's and you don't have to be drunk to eat the hotdogs. Lourdie gets the Mom's Favorite, which has Coney sauce, pickles, onions and mustard. You can also get fries and shakes.
There are many more spots for adventuresome foodies in Gaslight Village. Ramona's Table (2232 Wealthy St.) is a boutique deli with its own pastries, prepared foods and take-away dinners. Get the Ramona, a spiced-rubbed steak covered in wild mixed greens, garlic aioli and fresh tomato bruschetta, served on a freshly baked French roll, my petal flower. Jersey Junction (652 Croswell Ave.) is a sweet tradition for generations of families. The bright red shop is known for its generous scoops of Hudsonville Ice Cream. Poppa Steve likes the Turtle Sundae while Qiqi the monkey girl always buys sour candy. Go across the street for some fantastic pizza at Big Bob's (661 Croswell Ave.). Set back from the street, the restaurant may be easy to miss. Nevertheless, don't pass up the legendary pizzas with the homemade crust. The Big Bob's Deluxe is always a winner with ham, pepperoni, mushroom, onions, green peppers and bacon. Order a microbrew and watch the game on one of the flat-screen televisions.
After all that eating, you need to pamper yourself. Smooch Beauty Boutique (2213 Wealthy St.) opened five years ago and recently expanded. Let the professional makeup artists help you explore high-end lines such as NARS, Stila, ID Minerals and Philosophy. Or, they can take you in back for manicures, spray tans, waxes and facials. Ask for manager Feme Marie Naigow, with her skin like liquid butterscotch, who will freshen your look and possibly suggest a raw/vegan recipe that will lighten your spirit. Seva Yoga (2213 Wealthy) has been one of the most popular yoga studios in town for years. Classes such as Breath, Meditation and Yin Yoga with Gretchen Biggs are appropriate for everybody. The bright, warm space also includes a full-service salon. Look for Raven Basset, who is masterful, or the smart Jessica Stone to style your locks, my pets. Almost every boy in East got his first haircut at Gas Light Village Barber Shop (2149 Wealthy). An old-time barbershop with fair prices, it offers clip jobs to bankers and slouching tweens. The barbers would prefer to give yer kid a proper crew cut, but they can do the Bieber Shag, the Zac Effron fauxhawk, the Taylor Lautner spike, the Nick Jonas bush, K-Pop feathering and the Mark Zuckerberg dead wombat.
Gaslight Village is also known as a shopping Mecca. Papers Plus (2213 Wealthy St.) is perfect for browsing for fine stationary, announcements and beautiful gifts including Vera Bradley. I was able to find the ingredients for a fragrant sachet for the serene Miss Carolita at 5 p.m. on a Friday. Have them print personalized thank you cards for you and be remembered in this heartless world of social media. Rosa's Closet (2141 Wealthy) is a fun place to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank. The boutique offers upscale women's resale clothing as well as brand new items, with new items every couple of months. Owner Rosa Piccione, who opened the shop four years ago, also co-owns Lia Rose in downtown Grand Rapids. The shop is cozy and her customers become friends. "Some come into just to chat and others are hunting for a unique piece that no one else has," Rosa said. Empty out that closet and update your wardrobe.
East Grand Rapids offers many family events to keep the hoi polloi entertained. The EGR Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held the evening of Nov. 25, the first Friday after Thanksgiving in Regatta Plaza. Hosted by WZZM 13's Val Lego, the ceremony includes a fire pit with s'mores, refreshments and trolley rides. Santa, Mrs. Clause and a reindeer will be available for free pictures all evening. The Fourth of July is an all-day community affair. The parade includes 7,000 people cheering 45 community groups and booing hapless Justin Amash. Everyone gathers in John Collins Park for music, inflatables and a water ski show by the famous Grand City Skiers on Reeds Lake. There is a twilight concert by the earnest Grand Rapids Federation of Musicians followed by fireworks that light up the nighttime sky with 1,000 exploding shells. Oooh and ahhhh.
The city's Parks and Recreation Department organizes soccer for boys and girls. The Coed Youth Soccer program teaches soccer fundamentals on smaller fields to K-5th graders. The Coed Fall Soccer League for Grades 6-8 is held at the Manhattan Park Recreation Area and includes three practices a week as well as weekly games against area middle schools. Finally, a Daddy Daughter Dance is held around Valentine's Day. The semi-formal event is for girls and their dads, uncles, granddads or those rascally stepdads. There is pizza, bruised toes, the Craziest Tie Contest and good memories. Poppa Steve would win every year.
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Rockford is a cultural outpost, a culinary oasis, north of Grand Rapids. With tree-lined streets, cute shops and championship athletics, it is livable and sophisticated. Once you pass through Rockford, don't bother stopping until you get to Traverse City. Trust me.
Rosie's Diner (4500 14 Mile Rd. NE) is the most famous diner in the world. Seen in commercials for Bounty paper towels in the dinosaur ages, Rosie's has been featured more recently on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives." While the 120-seat restaurant is a stainless steel and neon icon to America's car culture, this is no Vegas-style recreation. Rosie's is the real deal. "You will feel like you stepped back in time," said Owner Jonelle Woods, when you experience the diner's old-time ambience and are greeted by the friendly staff. The extensive menu includes classic American diner fare made with care and served with generous portions. The Homemade Meat Loaf is sliced thick and smothered in gravy, served with mashed potatoes and stuffing. Because you don't order vegetables at a diner, my pets. You can also try the Bounty Burger with melted Swiss cheese, grilled ham and secret diner sauce and order the Chili Cheese Fries on the side. Get the full diner experience when classic cars, muscle cars and motorcycles descend upon Rosie's Diner during Wednesday Cruise Nights and Thursday Bike Nights. During the summer, Rosie's opens an ice cream stand with hand-dipped sundaes, cones and milkshakes that bring all the boys to the yard. [UPDATE, Oct. 12: Rosie's Diner has closed.]
The Corner Bar (31 North Main St.) may have even more character than Rosie's. The bar is located in the oldest brick building in Rockford. Built in 1873, it survived the Great Fire of 1883, the Main Street Fire of 1896 and South Beach Diet of the 1980s. Originally a bootery, it transformed into a grocer, and finally, a tavern. During the 1930s it was a "pool hall." When Prohibition ended, owner Carl Hyde wanted a beer license, which meant the business had to serve food. The bar's manager and cook put their noggins together and the Corner Bar Hot Dog was born. It's food, right? Donnie Berg bought the bar in 1965 and created the prestigious Hot Dog Hall of Fame in 1968. More than 5,000 carnivores have found immortality by eating at least 12 dogs. The bar changed owners in 2000 when it was bought by Andy Tidey and Jeff Wolfe. They launched the Most Wanted campaign to inspire heart-attack candidates to break the record of 42 1/2 hot dogs. And on Dec. 3, 2005, Balinda Gould ate 43 hot dogs in four hours. She remains the amateur champion. The Corner Bar may be known for tube steaks, but it boasts an extensive menu. It recently made the Top 5 Best Burgers in West Michigan. Look for the Spicy Hot Cheese Cubes, the ½ Pound Sizzler and the Wet Burrito El Grande (which reminds me of my senior trip to Cancun).
Head out of town and you'll find Herman's Boy (220 Northland Dr. NE). This foodie haven has filled tummies from Detroit to Chicago for more than 30 years. Herman's Boy combines a coffee roaster, bakery and deli, candy and fudge shop, a kitchen gadget shop and an outdoor cooking shop and smokehouse. It was once located downtown and called the Melting Pot until those fondue phonies showed up. Owner Floyd Havemeier changed its name to Herman's Boy, since his father's name was Herman and then moved the shop to a classic farmhouse three-quarters of a mile away. Herman's Boy is best known as a coffee roaster. Herman's Boy bought out the Coffee Ranch, which had roasted coffee since the 1920s at Division and Monroe in Grand Rapids for customers such as the Pantlind Hotel. Last year, Herman's Boy roasted 4,000 pounds of coffee for Thanksgiving, including the popular Pantlind Blend. The Bakery and Deli serves excellent food at affordable prices. "It's good American style food. We don't try to be too gourmet," said Jeff Havemeier. Herman's Boy makes almost everything in-house, including the smoked turkey and hand-boiled bagels, which keeps the prices down and the flavors up. A family can lunch there for less then $15. Don't forget the fist-sized Jumbo Cinnamon Pecan Rolls on Saturdays and Sundays. The O'Fudge Candy shop offers Mackinac-style fudge stirred in copper kettles and formed on marble top tables. You can also get a rack of baby back ribs steaming from Herman's Boy Smokehouse. Tell your friends you grilled it yourself. Herman's Boy won't say anything.
If you have a sweet tooth, head over to Rudy Kazoody's (54 Courtland St). Conveniently located downtown , it is the perfect place to bring the family. Owners Tammy Barth and her mother Marge Cavender opened Rudy Kazoody's because there was no candy shop in Rockford. Smart. The shop boasts an extensive collection of retro and nostalgic chocolates and candies. "If it is out there, we have it," Tammy says. Take your children to a bygone era as they browse shelves creaking under the weight of Necco Wafers, Bun Bars, Zotz, Sugar Daddy caramel suckers and candy cigarettes (classy). Buy some for yourself and fill a fancy gift basket. For parents, Rudy Kazoody's sells premium chocolates by Polly's Passions. These handmade truffles, turtles, toffee and other chocolate treats are made with the best ingredients in West Michigan. And if you are daring, you can sample some of Rudy Kazoody's edible bugs. These dehydrated scorpions, larvae and crickets are sold as suckers and dipped in chocolate for your entomophagic explorations.
Every child looks forward to the Annual Rockford Santa Parade. The 68th edition of the parade will be held on Dec. 3 at 11 a.m. in downtown Rockford. The charming city will look like a Thomas Kinkade painting decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, fragrant wreaths and boughs and hundreds of cheery red ribbons. Watch the jolly old fellow spread good cheer from his white carriage to the thronging crowds. He will be joined by an armada of cute floats sponsored by area businesses along with proud marching bands and patriotic scout troops. Santa will end his journey at the Rotary Pavilion. There will be crafts for the children while they wait and goodie bags for everyone. The good boys and girls can sit on his lap and tell him their Christmas wishes. Think Legos.
If you enjoy art, the Rockford Area Arts Commission can help. The commission sponsors the Rogue River Artists Association, which is a juried artists group that includes artisans in fabric, jewelry, oils, pastels, pencil, pottery, handbag crafting, acrylics, charcoal and watercolors. Members meet the second Tuesday of every month at the Rockford D&W. Bring three new pieces of art and you can apply to join. The group will hold their annual Holiday Art & Fine Craft Show, Nov. 5 at the Rockford United Methodist Church (159 Maple St.). If you are interested in museum-quality paintings, prints and crafts, visit the Frame and Mat Shop (65 Courtland). This family run business always has unique and beautiful work by talented local and regional artists on display.
The arts commission also hosts musical performances, which help to knit together the fabric of the community. These all-volunteer groups include the Rockford Community Band, Choir and Orchestra. "Lots of people sang in the choir or played in the band in school, but they have no way to perform as adults. These groups can help people express themselves," said Jeff Lewis of the arts commission. There are no auditions, so anyone can join. All three groups, which rehearse weekly around town, are currently getting ready for the Holiday Community Concert, Dec. 4 at the Rockford Fine Arts Auditorium.
Bargain shoppers, runners and workers will want to visit the Rockford Footwear Depot (235 N Main St.). Owned by Wolverine Worldwide, the attractively designed outlet store offers a wide selection of shoes and clothing for adults and children by Bates, Caterpillar, Harley-Davidson, Hush Puppies, Merrell, Patagonia, Sebago, Wolverine and more. Look for the Wolverine's 1000 Mile Boots, which are amazing. Then head to the back of the store to browse the clearance annex, where you may be able to find shoes up to 90 percent off.
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The JDek at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids (235 Louis St. NW) is a haven from downtown's hustle and bustle. George Aquino, the hotel's general manager, dug out the rickety patio and put in the spacious new deck overlooking the Grand River. A half-dozen sky-blue cabanas ensure a fantastic time no matter the weather. You can reserve a cabana if you plan to spend at least $500. You can reach that tab by exploring the JDek's lounge menu. Get the Seared Ahi Tuna Salad and a Cone of Truffle Fries along with a Jdub Cocktail, a delicate tincture of Stoli Strasberi, Chambord, Grand Marnier and cranberry juice, and do some people watching.
The JDek offers the best vantage to enjoy ArtPrize from Sept. 21-Oct. 9. You will be able to see the artwork displayed in the Grand River and on the Blue Bridge. Go and explore the two-week art festival, which includes 1,582 "artists" who are showing their work in 164 "venues" throughout downtown. Some stand next to their artistic "excretions," begging for votes too close to your face. Make sure you vote for photographer Jon Clay's (#46911) HDR panoramic photo of Rosa Parks Circle.
Look across the river and you will see the Grand Rapids Public Museum (272 Pearl St. NW). Celebrate the Civil War's Sesquicentennial by attending THANK GOD FOR MICHIGAN! Stories from the Civil War, on display through May 2012. According to legend, President Lincoln exclaimed, "Thank God for Michigan!" when told that the First Michigan Volunteers answered his call for troops at the start of the Civil War. The exhibition tells personal stories from the home front to the battlefield and showcases the museum's vast collection of Civil War artifacts. Visitors will be able to try on uniforms and a field pack; get a whiff of the battlefield; grab drumsticks and tap along to unique marching cadences; and explore the era's sometimes-frightening facial hair.
Open Concept Gallery (50 Louis St. NW) brings SOHO downtown. Located in a former penthouse Masonic Lodge chapel, the gallery features the most influential contemporary artists from Europe and Asia. Open Concept is currently working with Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone to bring his monumental neon work Big Sky Mind to the gallery. Affixed to the side of the building, the rainbow-themed artwork will break through the cynicism of the art world to encourage people to open their minds and look at the big picture.
The new UICA (2 W. Fulton) will be the gateway to downtown. Founded in 1977, the Urban Institute of Contemporary Art continues to be Michigan's largest contemporary art center. From 8,500-square-feet of gallery spaces to the state-of-the-art film theatre to the beautiful youth and ceramic studios, the new UICA is like no other arts center in Michigan. The four-story Vertical Project Space will showcase monumental hanging sculpture and the Ramp Project Space will display large-scale murals. Current exhibitions include Cheryl Wassenaar, Untitled; Holly Greenberg's installation Lost In Translation; and the UICA's ArtPrize 2011 artwork, all concluding Nov. 27.
Explore artwork by up-and-coming artists during the Market organized by Avenue for the Arts. Held on the second Saturdays July through September, the Market lines the sidewalks of South Division between Oakes and Cherry with indie artists, musicians and local craft businesses. You will be able to find paintings, jewelry, prints, photos, t-shirts and handmade goods. The festival also includes a diverse mix of street performers and live music scattered throughout. Go and chat with the talented artists and musicians who live and work downtown.
If you think the Market's artists are over-commercialized sellouts, then you will like the DAAC (115 S. Division). Founded in 2003 and re-born in 2007, the Division Avenue Arts Collective is a volunteer-run performance and art venue that brings the hottest emerging bands to town. These nationally touring acts include Hate Your Guts and Of Fortune and Fame, as well as local heavyweights We Call This Irony and Stepdad. The shoebox space has a cramped stage full of disreputable gear in back and a merch table manned by diaphanous girlfriends by the door. Shows at the DAAC are all ages and tickets are usually $6.
Looking for a show, but it's not at the DAAC? Maybe it's at Mexicains Sans Frontieres (120 S. Division Ave. #226). The internationally irrepressible Hugo Claudin operates the music venue/apartment like the Grand Rapids version of Andy Warhol's Factory. If you like the bands you see, buy their music at Vertigo Music (129 S. Division Ave.). Owner Herm Baker and his expert staff can help you pick through the thousands of CDs, DVDs and vinyl records. You will leave with your arms full of music and a head full of knowledge.
All this art and culture will make you hungry, my peach. Louis Benton (77 Monroe Center NW) is Grand Rapids' premier steak house. You will enjoy the dry-aged Queen Filet Mignon, King Filet, Emperor Sirloin, Tomahawk Ribeye, Ninja New York Strip and the Widow Maker Porterhouse. It's like eating a Steven Seagal movie. The classy restaurant is the perfect spot to take that very skinny, very tanned yoga instructor on almost a date. You order a juicy filet with grilled shrimp and she gets lobster. It's the type of place where the chef comes out to check on your meal, starts flirting with your date, sends her glasses of wine and then sits with her as you eat. You leave, paying for both meals and go home to watch Resident Evil: Apocalypse. That Alice is a survivor.
Stella's Lounge (53 Commerce Ave. SW) is a little more laid back with the best jukebox in town. The ‘70s-style dive bar pours stiff drinks and the schwag beer you stole from your dad's garage fridge. The chill scene and vegan menu keeps the douche bag quotient low. The food is quite good. Try the Blessed Black Wings, which are zoologically impossible vegan hot wings. You can start the week right with Sh!t Show Sundays. The free "White Trash" Buffet including Sloppy Joe, Veggie Chili, Fritos and all the fixins. There's half off select whisky and free arcade games. Then sign up for Michigan's only Gong Show Karaoke. Sh!t.
For something a little more discrete, try to get into the Viceroy (53 Commerce Ave.). This private, ‘30s-style cocktail lounge is dark and elegant with an emphasis on sophisticated libations. Whet your whistle with a Classic Martini, Singapore Sling or Moscow Mule. You will need a password to get in and, the word on the street is that you can use #POPPA.
Soak up the Rolling Rock and cocktails sloshing around in your stomach with Grand Rapids Pizza Delivery (340 State St. SE). The pizza joint has dine-in hours until 11 p.m. on weekdays and 12:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. But that doesn't mean the chow fest has to stop. Late-night delivery is available until 2:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
To spice things up, try Angel's Thai Cafe (136 Monroe Center NW). The Delft blue interior is simple, but relaxing with decorations bought in Thailand. Look for owner Julie Lee, who is frequently fussing over the guests. The menu boasts food that is colorful, fragrant and attractive without the greasiness of most storefront fried wing shops. Every dish can be customized by ingredient and spiciness. Poppa Steve is fond of the Vegetable Spring Rolls and Pork Preaw Warn. The suave Miss Carolita gets the Three Chocolate Mousse for dessert, even when we eat elsewhere.
With award-winning baristas and a cavernous interior, you know you are in coffee heaven at MadCap Coffee Company (98 Monroe Center NW). Let barista Josh Dunigan serve you up a Japanese-style slow drip coffee using Ethiopian Ardi Sidama Coffee. Just set aside an afternoon for the brewing and drinking process.
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Photos, from top: "Civil War" exhibit at GR Public Museum; Vertigo Music, shot by Jon Clay; Madcap Coffee, shot by Steven de Polo.
Grand Haven has been defined by its lighthouse for more than 170 years. The current bright red lighthouse and pierhead are charming in the summer, but they speak to the merciless fury of Lake Michigan that has consumed grizzled mariners and foolhardy frat boys alike. Respect the riptides, my pets.
Instead of jumping off the pier, take your dog to Grand Haven City Beach on Harbor Drive. According to Grand Haven's favorite daughter, Lorena Slager, not too many people know that dogs are permitted on the City Beach south of the southerly swim buoy during the summer. If you don't have a dog, you should visit P.J. Hoffmaster State Park (6585 Lake Harbor Dr.). Located five miles north of Grand Haven on Lake Michigan, the 1,100-acre park features sand dunes, beaches, hiking trails, nature center and camping. The park is an excellent location for viewing migrating songbirds, including wood thrushes, orioles and many species of warblers and sparrows. Go in early May for the Trillium Festival when you can buy trillium plants from the Gillette Visitor Center as a fundraiser.
Kirby House (2 Washington) is the can't-miss restaurant in Grand Haven. The former hotel boasts three distinct dining experiences that delight boaters and foodies. Think The B.O.B. on the Lakeshore with old world charm and a lively crowd. When you walk through the doors, you are in the Kirby Grill, which is an American style bar and grill. Grab a massive wood table, write your initials on the brick wall and check out the playing card stuck to the 20-foot-high ceiling. Ask about how it got there. Poppa Steve recently scarfed down the Stacked Corned Beef Reuben and the wistful Miss Carolita tucked into the Fisherman's Seafood Linguine. Both meals were made with fresh ingredients and plated stylishly by culinary professionals. The Grill Room is located discretely behind oaken doors off the main entrance. Boasting a classic chophouse experience, the Grill Room has a casual luxury with muted lighting and white tablecloths that allows the food to shine. The menu of hand-cut aged steaks and seafood flown in from Hawaii is flawless. Families should head upstairs to K2, the lively wood-fired pizzeria. The staff prepares all of the sauces and dough in-house for the freshest possible pizza. When you are done, go play video games or shoot pool in the arcade across the hall. The Kirby House has three outdoor seating areas to enjoy the sun and then you can party the night away in the Dark Room, a sophisticated lounge in the basement.
Next, walk down the street to Fortino's (114 Washington). This old-fashioned gourmet store is a Grand Haven classic. The family-run shop has sold everything that makes life living for more than100 years. Peek inside and you will find handmade chocolates, fresh roasted coffees, gourmet cheeses, Italian salamis, fine wines and top shelf liquor. Fortino's is proud to have served five generations of customers, who often make their first visit as children with a fistful of coins to buy candy. You will find shelves of old-time favorites like Black Cow chocolate caramels and Slo Pokes vanilla caramel suckers. Mmm, cavities! According to Rita Fortino Brook, Fortino's has thrived in a world of chain store mediocrity by accommodating what people want. "People like old-fashioned stores. It reminds grandparents of how things used to be, parents can get the candy of their youth and it's new and exciting for the children." Take your kids to Fortino's and start a new family tradition.
When I asked what to do in Grand Haven, everyone said Tip-A-Few Tavern (10 Franklin Ave.). Part dive bar and part Mexican restaurant, the Tip has been a neighborhood favorite for more than 30 years. The waterfront spot opened as a hotel in 1874 and was later called the Chicken-Inn before the Tip-A-Few moniker stuck in 1945. Lifelong Grand Havenite Steve Vink bought it in 1979. And despite having a sign featuring a beer stein, he began serving award-winning Mexican food. The tavern has classed itself up lately, but you can still get a stiff drink and a sloppy wet burrito for a good price, my pets. You'll know why Tip-A-Few is a Grand Haven legend. After your meal, take a stroll along the Grand River on Grand Haven's famous Boardwalk.
While on the Boardwalk, stop and get some desert at Captain Custard (211 South Harbor Dr.). Located in Bicentennial Park under the Riverview Deck, Captain Custard offers the creamiest soft serve and premium Hudsonville Ice Cream in town. Renee Page, her husband Bob and son Matt opened the shop in 2002, expanding in 2003 to offer sirloin burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken and fries. The chili cheese fries are a decadent treat, my peach. Captain Custard expanded in 2006 to three storefronts and began offering Hawaiian shaved ice, along with real fruit smoothies and stuffed pretzels. Wait, it gets better. In 2010, it added deep-fried dill pickle spears. And in 2011, the Pages completed the domination of their section of the Boardwalk. In celebration of their tenth anniversary, they took over the final two storefronts to create the Boardwalk Food Court, home of Captain Custard. They now offer fresh sub sandwiches with plans to add a small retail shop. Despite an out of the way location, Captain Custard offers tasty food with plenty of seating and views of the Grand Haven Pier and the Musical Fountain.
Seating is also available for Pronto Pup (313 S Harbor Dr.). For 64 years, this small shack on a no-longer-desolate stretch of beach has sold just one thing: Pronto Pups. This delicacy is not to be confused with a corn dog - the gooey, chewy bastard of the carnival midway. First, Chuck Nelson and then his son Carl and family dip their Michigan-made all-beef dogs in a wheat batter and then fry them in 100 percent vegetable oil. The wheat dogs are crisp and light without overpowering the flavor of that warm wiener in your mouth. Get them with mustard, ketchup or naked. Some say that if your Pronto Pup comes with the ketchup on the right and mustard on the left, you will meet the love of your life. If the ketchup is on the left, you will die alone. But don't despair, just order another Pronto Pup!
With your veins clogged with sugar and grease and salt, let's fill your head with culture. Grand Haven's Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company is Michigan's only touring professional Shakespeare company. Founded in the summer of 1998, the troupe attempts to recreate the audience experience in Shakespeare's time. That includes non-traditional theatrical spaces, universal lighting, minimal sets, cross-gendered casting (oh my!) and actors performing multiple roles in a production. Pigeon Creek's gender-bending productions continue with its staging of Henry IV Part I with an all-female cast. This is epic history play follows the exploits of Prince Hal, who rebels against his father Henry IV. When famed soldier Henry "Hotspur" Percy leads a revolt against the king, Hal must choose between Sir John Falstaff and his ne'er-do-well friends and his duty to his father. The talented cast will feature Kathleen Bode, Heather Folkvord, Lindsey Hansen, Kat Hermes, Claire Mahave, Amy McFadden, Katherine Mayberry, Janna Rosenkrantz and Sarah Stark. Henry IV Part 1 will be performed at the C3 Exchange, 225 East Exchange St. in Spring Lake, Sept. 8-11; tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for students.
The Central Park Players have been offering family friendly community theater since 1959. Built on a proud tradition laid in 1862 when local thespians entertained Civil War soldiers at the Ottawa County Courthouse, the Central Park Players currently perform in the handsome auditorium in Grand Haven's Lakeshore Middle School (900 S. Cutler). Upcoming performances include Seussical the Musical, scheduled for late November through early December, and The Effect of Gamma Rays On Man in the Moon Marigolds, Paul Zindel' s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama about a dysfunctional family and how they cope with their difficult status in life that is slated for late February 2012.
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Muskegon is a city that works hard and plays hard. While some of the businesses have moved away, others thrive at the hands of entrepreneurs and idealists who keep the city lively. Grab your best pair of jeans and a t-shirt and you can hang out with violinists, painters, bikers, activists, industrialists and paupers all under the Taj Mahal of the lakeshore: the beer tent.
The Muskegon Motorcycle Gang has big bikes and big hearts. In the late 1970s, a group of men and women came together to ride motorcycles and raise money for charity. They jokingly started to call themselves a gang and the Muskegon Motorcycle Gang name stuck. Over the past three decades, the group has grown to be one of the largest and most recognized motorcycle clubs in the area. The club has patched members from their early twenties into their 80s and everybody rides hard and hangs out. Besides riding, the club raises money for charities like Every Women's Place and the Special Olympics. Its biggest event is the Freedom Run on July 9, which begins 11 a.m. at Hot Rod Harley-Davidson in Muskegon. Held to honor fallen riders, organizers expect more than 500 bikes to make the run. Last year, more than $20,000 was raised for Webster House Youth Services and Gilda's Club. This is a public event and everyone with a motorcycle and an ability to help is welcome.
Whether charitable or churlish, all bikers end up at Pat's Roadhouse (157 S. Getty St.). Grab your best leather jacket and head over to the Muskegon landmark. Pat's Roadhouse offers classic pub grub, frosty Buds and stiff drinks with a laid-back vibe. If you like your bars a little more upscale, try the Tipsy Toad Tavern (609 W. Western Ave). This classic tavern boasts a wood bar, hard rock on the sound system and a roof deck during the summer. Let General Manager Darlene Krause walk you through the menu and get you one of the bar's cheap drinks. The cheeseburger I had there was the best in town.
After grabbing a brew, head over to watch the Muskegon Lumberjacks play in the L.C. Walker Arena (955 Fourth St.). The Lumberjacks were established in 2010 and play in the United States Hockey League. This is junior hockey, which means the players can develop their talents while maintaining their amateur status. The young team plays fast and physical hockey with the players always dictating the play. Muskegon is a great place to watch games. The city has an 80-year hockey tradition, fans are passionate, the arena underwent a multi-million dollar upgrade and the team is stocked with many Michigan players. High-scoring rookie Ryan Lomberg (99 goals in 57 high school games) will be fun to watch under the tutelage of new assistant coach Steve Palmer.
The Muskegon County Museum of African American History (7 East Center St.) in Muskegon Heights developed out of the county's civil rights movement in the 1960s. As times changed, the organizers wanted to go beyond protests to make a difference in Muskegon. "You can demonstrate and yell, but unless you know your history, you will never make any progress," said Museum Chairman Dr. James Jackson. Recently expanded in 2010, the museum puts on exhibitions, conducts research and hosts meetings. The Obama Corner is a permanent exhibition co-curated by students in the Muskegon Heights Middle School. Other exhibitions explore the Underground Railroad, Black Panthers and the migration of black people to Muskegon. On Saturday afternoons, the museum screens documentary movies like Slavery and the Making of America by PBS. The Museum of African American History is open to people of all walks of life. "African American history is American History," Dr. Jackson said.
Continue your study of African American culture around the corner at Rite Way Communications (60 E. Broadway) in Muskegon Heights. Formerly called Harold's House of Music, the storefront has an incredible selection of classic R&B, Jazz, Soul and Gospel music as well the latest Hip Hop hits. People from Detroit shop there for the great selection and low prices, with albums starting at 50 cents. The knowledgeable staff will help you navigate the stacks and racks filled with the vintage albums, cassettes and CD boxed sets. Young bucks coming in for the latest joints of Hova or Weezy may leave with seminal tracks by Coltrane and Gil Scott-Heron. Go and explore.
The Muskegon Summer Celebration (Heritage Landing) transforms a county park into "The Big Party" July 1-4 and July 6-9. Started in 1993 as a 10-day festival with a $170,000 budget, Summer Celebration has grown into an 11-day all-star extravaganza with a $600,000 music budget. The festival also includes a fine art show and craft market, fireworks, community picnic and midway located along the shore of Muskegon Lake. This year, the Main Stage will rock out with Trey Songz/Hot Chelle Rae for the kids, Theory of a Deadman/Skillet for mom and dad and Charlie Daniels Band/Aaron Lewis (of Staind) for the blue hairs. Local acts like Deadwood Stone and Troll for Trout perform as well. Recharge in the Snake Pit with schwag beer and the famous Station Burger. Tanya Gonzalez, the festival's assistant executive director, tells of how a patron was impressed that the Porta-Johns had a purse holder. "The holder was actually the urinal," she noted.
The West Michigan Symphony is part of a proud musical tradition in Muskegon. Mr. Palmer Quackenbush and a group of 40 musicians founded the West Shore Symphony Orchestra in 1938 to perform classical music in city schools. The group was renamed the West Michigan Symphony in 2009 and has gained national recognition under current Music Director Scott Speck. When asked about why the symphony is special, Speck said, "These are some of the best musicians to be found anywhere in the tri-state area. Not only do they perform with jaw-dropping technical virtuosity, they play with passion." See that passion with the Cirque de la Symphonie (March 2 and 3, 2012), which will be a circus-like extravaganza. Beethoven and Blue Jeans (March 23 and 24, 2012) will feature a Philip Glass Violin Concerto by soloist Timothy Fain, who was featured in the movie Black Swan. The symphony really shines when performing in the historic Frauenthal Theater.
The Muskegon Museum of Art (296 W. Webster Ave.) is old Muskegon. At his death in 1905, lumber baron Charles H. Hackley established the Hackley Picture Fund to purchase paintings for Hackley Library, which was operated by the Muskegon Public Schools. The school board hired Chicago architect Solomon Beman to design a Classical Revival gallery to house the collection, which opened in 1912 and was expanded in 1980. Must sees include the cinematic New York Restaurant by Edward Hopper and the jewel-like landscapes of Saint Jerome in Penitence by Flemish artist Joos van Cleve. Elizabeth Catlett's otherworldly bronze Glory is a hidden treasure. The museum's Regional Exhibition (through Aug. 3) reflects its service to the artistic community. Now in its 83rd year, the annual juried exhibition recognizes amateur and professional artists and is hailed for its competitive nature and professional presentation. Classically trained Thimgan Hayden of Plainwell won the Best of Show prize of $1,000 for her haunting painting Cedric and Chickadee.
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Because of the Waterfront Film Festival, Saugatuck is known from Hollywood to Halifax. Held this year June 9-12, the non-profit festival is one of the top five film festivals in the country. It attracts directors, producers, actors and movie mavens from New York and California to this laid-back summer resort village. But you don't have to be a Tinseltown temptress to enjoy the show. This reporter caught up with festival co-founder Hopwood Depree while he was in Hollywood. When asked about the festival's success he said, "People can relax on the beach and eat at one of the fabulous restaurants during the day. At night, everyone comes together to watch these amazing films shown in unusual spaces like boat sheds." Netflix can never duplicate that collective experience, sitting together in the dark and watching a film projected on a big screen. Get the $200 SuperPass and you'll have priority seating for all of the films and seminars.
Phil's Bar & Grille (215 Butler St.) has the best pub grub on the lakeshore. Poppa Steve admits he has walked past Phil's many times over the years, intimidated by the movie house facade and dark windows. We recently took our extended family to Phil's. Walking through the entrance, we found a large space with a bar along the right wall and plenty of seating. Phil Sauvé's joint prides itself on serving good quality food: it makes its own dressings and sauces and bakes its own bread. We were seated immediately and the friendly waitress quickly filled our Oberon-heavy drink order. The brisket sandwich with caramelized onions and cheddar saucy was juicy with a nice chewiness. The steak salad featured fresh greens and a flawlessly grilled piece of meat. The Portobello Mushroom Fries with stone-ground mustard dipping sauce looked yummy too. Squeeze your way in this summer; a full house can't be wrong.
Kalamazoo Institute of the Arts (314 S. Park St.) is the city's jewel box. After being housed in a number of Victorian mansions, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill designed a permanent home for the museum in 1961 based on the ideas of architect Mies vander Rohe. The KIA expanded again in 1994, and the 72,000-square-foot facility provides space for an art school and a collection featuring American painting, European and American prints and photographs, and pre-Columbian gold. Highlights include a massive Dale Chihuly chandelier hanging in the museum's atrium, a dozen Ansel Adams photographs, a growing collection of Tiffany art glass and a turquoise Art Deco ceramic bowl commissioned by Eleanor Roosevelt. This summer, look for a major exhibition on photographer Yousuf Karsh. "Regarding Heroes" (July 9–Sept. 4, 2011) will explore Karsh's masterful technique to capture iconic portraits of Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, Albert Einstein, Audrey Hepburn and many other 20th-century celebrities.
The Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers in the Epic Center (359 S Kalamazoo Mall) has been Kalamazoo's home to modern dance for 30 years. Cori Terry, Wellspring's founder and artistic director, trained in New York City and performed throughout the United States and Europe. In 1980, she was WMU's artist-in-residence and then formed Wellspring in 1981. The company has been in the Epic Center for 11 years, performing in the state-of-the-art Wellspring Theater and a second rehearsal studio, Studio 19, on the lower level. Watch the creative process by attending the company's open rehearsal during Art Hop on May 6. The company's Spring Concert of Dance, May 12-15, will help shake off the dreariness of a Michigan winter.
Learn how to become a performer of a different sort at the Crescendo Academy of Music, on the lower level of the Epic Center. The academy evolved from a violin program that was part of Western Michigan University's Community Arts Program. It offers private lessons on most orchestral instruments, theory and composition classes and chamber music. Practice sessions are held in 19 teaching studios and two large ensemble rooms at the academy. All students are encouraged to perform at public recitals given approximately ten times per year.
The Nature Connection operates out of a storefront space in the Epic Center facing onto Kalamazoo Mall. The attractive shop is great place to find nature-related books, toys, educational items and gifts sourced from "Kalamazoo to Timbuktu." The friendly staff can also show you a delicious selection of Michigan food products. You will find Charles Layton truffles from Traverse City, which are adored by the sprightly Miss Carolita, as well as several new coffees from Schuil Coffee of Grand Rapids and a number of tasty items from Cherry Republic of Glen Arbor. Buy some educational toys for you and that special youngster in your life.
The community's historic theaters balance gilded elegance with technical excellence. The Riviera Theatre (50 N. Main St.) just to the south in Three Rivers was originally billed as "Southern Michigan's Most Beautiful Amusement Palace." The Riviera Theatre has served patrons almost continuously since 1925, closing only for a long and meticulous renovation by the current owners. The Vaudeville palace offers a lively calendar of movies, live music, stage productions, televised events, and variety acts. On May 7, the theatre will stage the Heavy Hammer Jamboree with root-music acts like the Tillers, Calamity Cubes and Ten Foot Polecats. You can also attend the Riviera's Chaplin Film Series with The Great Dictator in May and Monsieur Verdoux in June. Before and after the show, bend your elbow at the Riviera Theatre Bar. The fully stocked bar has live music every Thursday and serves the tastiest movie theatre popcorn with the best Michigan-made liquors, beers and wines.
The ornate Kalamazoo State Theatre (404 S. Burdick) is a popular live music venue from spring through the fall. Designed by renowned theater architect John Eberson for the larger-than-life, it'sbig enough to hold rocking shows but not so cavernous that you feel like you're in another ZIP code. Ya hear me Wealthy Theatre? The theater is currently dark until September, but keep an eye out for an exciting 2011/2012 calendar of events.
You can drink that microbrew and listen to live music all in one place at Bell's Brewery (355 E Kalamazoo Ave.). How efficient, my peach. Bell's became the first Michigan brewery to serve beer by the glass to the public on June 11, 1993, which should be a state holiday that consists of pumpkin launchers and tossing unicorns into volcanoes. The brewery recently spent 17 months and $3 million to transform its drab warehouse into the Back Room at Bell's Eccentric Cafe. The Back Room will be able to host national touring acts that couldn't squeeze into the Front Room. The first band to play in the new space was Greensky Bluegrass, which has been playing at Bell's for 10 years. Look for upcoming shows like Jacob Fred's Jazz Odyssey and the first ever Bell's Prom with Ella Riot. Don't worry; you will still be able to listen to music under the stars while sipping from 20 beers on tap in the Beer Garden. Save a Round House IRA for Poppa Steve.
The Strutt (773 W Michigan Ave.) is an eclectic coffee shop and diner during the day and smoking bar and recording studio at night. Sit and sip a 6 oz. Espresso Con Panna while penning the next great jangly Emo chart topper. Later, you can chow down a Pollo Pazzo Pizza as you wait for the band to get back together. 
Then head down to Strutt Studios, which is located below the bar/venue/cafe and record a masterpiece that will do justice to your skinny jeans and shaggy haircut. The Strutt's Jazz Brunch is a fine way to wile away a Saturday afternoon. And don't miss the May 13 CD release pretty for Small Brown Bike, a post-hardcore/Emo band from Marshall with the Casket Lottery from Kansas City and the Minutes from Kalamazoo. Support local and alternative music, my pets.
Owned and operated by the extended Stamos family, Papa Pete's (502 South Burdick St.) opened its doors in 1991. If you like booze and live music, you're in luck. Papa Pete's has always featured live music from metal to house to shoegaze. The popular three-nights-a-week concert lineup featuring national acts and local bands started in 2003. Look for the Kazoo Destruct dubstep show on May 7 and a massive metal show on June 11 with Mine Enemies Fall, Tirade Parade, HeadCase, and Ill Hollow Chamber. Rough around the edges, the taverna does not skimp on its extensive wine list, full liquor selection and rotating beers on tap. Papa Pete's shares the same Greek and American food menu as its adjoining sister restaurant the Blue Dolphin. Nibble on some homemade Mousaka and Dolmades while you bang your head.
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New Holland Brewing Co. (66 E 8th St.) represents the best of Holland. Established in 1996, New Holland has grown from a scrappy two-man start-up to a thriving regional microbrewery that has a loyal following. Kelly Quintanilla, the Beer Babe, favors Mad Hatter IPA. Her parents bought her a bottle for her 21st birthday because of her teenage obsession with Alice in Wonderland. "It was my first taste of craft beer, and I've been a New Holland fan ever since," the Beer Babe said. The brewery has benefited from the trend favoring craft beer, which is growing while imports and macro breweries lose market share. When visiting New Holland's Pub, look for the high gravity beers, like Dragon's Milk Oak Aged Ale and Black Tulip Trippel Ale. The pub rolled out a new menu March 1 featuring Buffalo Chicken Stix, Beer Buddies pizza crusts and Dried Cherries and Spinach Salad. You may also want to try New Holland's artisan spirits. "The cocktail revolution is running strong in larger cities, but has not really reached West Michigan," said New Holland's Lindey Miller. "We have a new cocktail menu that will change with the seasons and promote the art of makinsag a great cocktail."
Holland's resilient frugality and a vibrant culinary tradition-think rich Letterbanket, buttery Nederlandse BotterKoek and sugary Frisian Suikerbrood-have made it fertile ground for casual dining chain restaurants. Luckily there are some home-grown options for you to enjoy. Salt and Pepper Savory Grill & Pub (11539 East Lakewood Blvd.) has a relaxed environment and tasty pub grub. Owner Mike Karas used to run Calypsos in the Holland Holiday Inn. Now he and his wife, Stephanie, are delighted to have a comfortable, laid-back spot where their guests are welcomed like friends. Try the Brandied Onion Pub steak, a top sirloin spice rub and grilled, then top with brandied caramelized onions over Mike's mom's mashed potatoes. A-FISHionados will like the Pecan Crusted Whitefish served over scallion basmati rice. Grab a spot on the patio and enjoy your meal under a beautiful Lake Effect sky.
More ethnic fare can be found at Pereddies Restaurant and Deli (447 Washington Ave.). Pereddies has been serving Italian cuisine in Holland's historic Washington Square for 20 years. The family-run business uses Old World recipes and everything is prepared using the highest-quality ingredients. You will want to try the Gorgonzola Penne with mushrooms, walnuts and pears over al-dente pasta or the Charbroiled Lamb Chops with redskin potatoes. Save room for delicious homemade cannolis, Italian sorbets and a variety of desserts. Pereddies' Scusi Bar (Italian slang for "excuse me") offers light fare and classic cocktails. Don't leave without visiting Pereddies' Deli and Bakery. Back in 1982, Pereddies introduced authentic Old World, hard-crusted Italian bread to Holland. Along with this great bread, the deli displays gourmet prosciutto, capicola, mortadella, fresh mozzarella and a huge selection of cheeses. Mangia!
After all of that eating, you will want to spend a night at the CityFlats Hotel (61 E 7th St.) in the heart of Holland. The only LEED Gold hotel in the Midwest, CityFlats' attention to detail can be seen in its 56 rooms that are all unique. Check into the 830-square-foot Luxury Suite and enjoy in-room luxuries like cork flooring, custom tile walk-in showers and hypoallergenic bamboo linens. The restaurant, located on top of the hotel, provides a refreshing respite from the humdrum dining experience of chain hotels. CityVū Bistro's chef has crafted a menu of flavor-infused meals. Try the fire-roasted Tandoori Chicken with saffron rice and roasted vegetables, while the Linguini Puttanesca is light and spicy. In the mood for a cocktail? Unwind with friends at CitySēn Lounge. Enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers during Happy Hour Monday through Friday evenings. Thursday is Sushi Night with Chef Shelly Rash preparing hand-rolled delicacies to live music.
Holland also has lots great shopping, with the emphasis on value. Make sure you stop in at Second Chance Design (486 Chicago Dr.). Husband and wife team RandiLynn and Jason Talsma opened the secondhand furniture business in February 2010 and business has been booming. The couple wanted to do something different after being in their family's new furniture businesses. Noting that Jesus recycles — remember the water to wine, my pets — the charming shop takes in used furniture and reworks the pieces to bring them back to original condition. What is not salvageable is remade into a new creation. "We find that the pieces that have our own signature style — and are obviously the most unique — sell the fastest," RandiLynn said. Second Chance specializes in Mid-Century Modern. "The style is really starting to get popular," Jason said. "The younger people coming in have not seen firsthand many of the styles, while the older people reminisce and it brings them back to childhood memories."
Enjoy the West Michigan's natural beauty at Hemlock Crossing, north of Holland. Opened in 2003, the park offers 239 acres of woods and wetlands along the Pigeon River. More than six miles of trails perfect for hiking and cross-country skiing meander through bottomland and upland forest, old pine plantations and along the river. Kayaking is a poplar pastime on the Pigeon River. When there is ample water, you can put in at Hemlock Crossing and go downstream to the Holly Drive takeout. In late summer, when the water at the park is low, put in at Holly Drive and paddle up and back. After 6:30 p.m., there is no wake on Pigeon Lake, and it's great to paddle out and take in a sunset. No fees at either launch.
Holland offers a more robust celebration of "nature" every spring. The 80th annual Tulip Time Festival will be held May 7 to 14 and feature millions of multi-colored tulips. The weeklong festival is a celebration of Dutch heritage and culture with three parades, numerous Dutch Dance performances and food. There are also numerous events for young and old alike. The Rock Camp Graduation Show, May 8 at the Park Theatre, will show off the musical chops of local teens with a headlining performance by The Outer Vibe. Tulipalooza, May 13 at the Sixth Street Stage, will be a Battle of the Bands with six bands chosen from three previous battles around West Michigan. A Floral Arrangement Class, May 10 to 11 at Eastern Floral in Holland, will show how to make fanciful arrangements using the namesake flower. Worried about walking? Last year, two women visiting Holland got off the Tulip Trolley thinking it was a shuttle service. After much walking, several cocktails and assistance from a friendly police officer, they found their car not too far away. Organizers are happy to offer a Free Shuttle Service to make getting around easier this year.
Holland offers a number of other community-wide events. Latin Americans United for Progress hosts the annual Fiesta May 6 to 7 at the Holland Civic Center and Eighth Street Market Place. The theme for this year's fiesta will be Fiesta Mundial, or World Festival, which reflects the global reach of the Hispanic community. The Street Performer Series will be held every Thursday evening June 9 to Aug. 25. You will enjoy singers, dancers, magicians and jugglers wandering around downtown. GrooveWalk will be held on April 16 and Oct. 22 this year. The spring event will bring back 11 of the most popular bands from the past five events, including The Outer Vibe, Zion Lion, Creolization and Greg Nagy. Finally, Holland plans to host the Collegiate Invitational Ice Sculpting Competition next January. Talented students from colleges around the Midwest and beyond will transform Holland into a Winter Wonderland during this weekend-long event.
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