15 of the Best Places to Eat in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, MI, may be famous for its endless varieties of craft beers, but the food scene in Grand Rapids is also worth a journey. There are always new and unique restaurants popping up to serve the area’s ever-growing population, which means that for those who like to eat something new and exciting in unique environments, Grand Rapids is the perfect place! Check out 15 of my favorite places to eat in Grand Rapids, and let me know which ones you’ve tried or which I should add to the list in the comments below!

 As always, all opinions are my own – I’m so excited to share one of my favorite cities in Michigan with you!

Shoutout to my sister Catharine for some of these fantastic recommendations and for being such a wonderful companion whilst exploring the town. Love you!

Ando Sushi:
A beautiful, modern space to enjoy traditional and contemporary fusion Japanese dishes such as sushi, ramen, and more.
I Recommend: Vegetable Bibimbap, Kimchi Ramen, Crazy Tuna Roll

Belt Line Bar in Grand Rapids, MI
Belt Line is a low-key Mexican joint that serves the best Margaritas in Grand Rapids. They’re seriously amazing, and the food is delicious too!
I Recommend: De Casa Plus Margarita, Prickly Pear Margarita, Black Raspberry Margarita, Rice & Bean Chimichanga

Le Bon Macaron:
Le Bon Macaron is an inviting, lovely little French-inspired cafe with handcrafted Macarons rivaling those we enjoyed in France. All of their products are gluten-free and made with Almond flour.
I Recommend: Rose, Jasmine, Watermelon, Orange, Margarita, and Lemon

Butcher’s Union:
This meat-centric restaurant had delicious options for us pescatarians, and the atmosphere and flavor combinations were incredible. If you’re a meat lover, this is the place for you!
I Recommend: Sweet Corn and Romaine Salad, Smoked Salmon Bahn Mi, Sweet Potato Lentil Enchilada

Donkey Taquería:
This place is so obscure it doesn’t even have a sign. Located in the Cherry Market District of Grand Rapids, Donkey Taquería offers guests fresh, authentic Mexican foods and inventive cocktails using alcohol from Mexico and Latin America.
I Recommend: Charred Fish Tacos, Chips & Housemade Guacamole, Grilled Brussels sprout & corn tacos.

Electric Cheetah in Grand Rapids, MI
Electric Cheetah specializes in macaroni & Cheese and Draft Root Beers, one of the best combinations! Although they offer many other drinks and foods, ignoring their massive 30+ root beer selection is impossible. I don’t usually go for soda, but they have so many delicious varieties that I’ll make an exception. Fun Fact: The bathrooms are wallpapered with finished puzzles – it’s wild!
I Recommend: Hot Pretzels, Baked Classic Macaroni and Cheese sans Bacon, Ole’ Mexican Quinoa Kurt, Dang Butterscotch Root Beer, Boylan Birch Beer

Ju Sushi:
Ju Sushi uses the freshest ingredients we’ve ever tasted at a sushi joint, and they offer the most exciting twists on rolls and classic rolls. Their noodle and rice dishes are also delightful!
I Recommend: Salmon Nigiri, Tobiko Don Dish, Seaweed Salad, Sweet Potato Roll, Fire Mountain Roll (it’s served on fire!), Sweet Potato Roll, Red Bean Ice Cream

Little Bird Cafe:
Little Bird has a very cozy vibe and the best breakfast I’ve ever had (and I’m an expert on breakfasts). There’s something for every palette and preference here, and the waitstaff is incredible.
I Recommend:  Biscuits with Mushroom Gravy, Smoked Salmon, and Farmer’s Soft Scramble (SO delicious!)

Lucy’s Cafe:
This had one of the best tofu dishes I’ve ever had. Everything is locally sourced and cooked to taste, making Lucy’s a truly unique dining experience in the area. Lucy’s Cafe has many gluten-free and vegan options.
I Recommend: Tofu Scrambler (Vegan Crêpe), Avocado Toast, Marijane’s Quinoa Bowl

Marie Catrib’s:
This is the perfect place to stop if you want to picnic without any of the work, which is precisely what we did! Grab some sides and find a spot in the park or Frederik Meijer Gardens, and you’re set for a beautiful lunch!
I Recommend: Trio of Dips, The Larry David, Salmon Hash, KT Bowl

Omelette Shoppe:
One of several locations across Michigan serves organic, local foods in fresh, traditional meals. Omelette Shoppe has two locations in Grand Rapids, MI, and Traverse City, MI; I love them both! I recommend calling ahead and putting your name in. These locally-owned restaurants are trendy
I Recommend: Vegetarian Omelette, The Veggie Scramble, Veggie Quiche, Fresh Squeezed OJ

San Chez:
Tapas take on a chic new attitude in Grand Rapids at this restaurant. While it’s not required, we like to dress up and enjoy a lovely multi-course meal. We each order a tapa to share, enjoy it, and order more!
I Recommend: Croquetas de Patatas Con Queso, Patatas Bravas, Coles de Bruselas, Fabada Asturiana, Paella Verduras

The Søvengård:
This Scandinavian bar and eatery features a cozy interior with inviting Scandinavian Hygge decor, and a red shipping container turned outdoor bar and dance floor, which is one of the most unique places to eat in Grand Rapids.
I Recommend: Smoked Trout Rillette, Heirloom Beans and Maitake Mushroom with Kale, Root Vegetable Puree and Crispy Shallots in Onion Broth Seasoned with BLiS No. 9 Sherry Vinegar, Walk in the Woods, The Black Butte XXX

Westsider Cafe:
This was the second-best breakfast I had in Grand Rapids, and that’s saying something because they were all delicious!
I Recommend: Potato & Veggie Scramble, Quiche of the Day

Wiki Wiki Poke:
Unique, minimalistic restaurant featuring some of the freshest fish in Grand Rapids creatively concocted into Poke Bowls.
I Recommend: The Gucci Sushi, OJ Sushi Bowl

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