Explore our team's favorite Grand Rapids dinner spots in this week’s blog. From upscale steakhouses to taco joints and cozy gastropubs, these local gems offer diverse, delicious experiences.
This week on the blog we’re taking a detour from our traditional marketing tips and tricks to talk food. Specifically, our favorite dinner spots in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our plan here was to each think of our two favorite spots and give you a brief an intro to each place. This was a fun a topic to think about in the office and it definitely made us hungry. If you have questions about any of the following places, send us a DM on instagram, we'd love to discuss!
Leo’s - Leo’s is a sophisticated seafood restaurant in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. Known for its fresh seafood and refined dishes, it offers an elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions or a refined night out. With a menu that includes an array of seafood favorites, steaks, and an extensive wine list, Leo’s pairs its upscale cuisine with attentive service. Their ambiance combines chic modern décor with a welcoming, intimate feel, making it a top destination for fine dining in the city. It's the go-to spot for seafood lovers seeking an elevated dining experience.
Butchers Union - Butcher’s Union is a popular Grand Rapids restaurant known for its hearty meat-centric menu, featuring dishes like steaks, burgers, and comfort foods. It also boasts an impressive whiskey selection and craft cocktails, making it a go-to for both food and drinks. The rustic, warm atmosphere creates a laid-back yet lively dining experience, perfect for both casual meals and special nights out. Located on Bridge Street, it's a staple for meat lovers and whiskey enthusiasts alike.
Condado - Condado Tacos is a vibrant, fast-casual spot known for its build-your-own tacos, tequila, and fresh margaritas. The colorful atmosphere and customizable menu offer an energetic dining experience that blends bold flavors and fun. Guests can enjoy everything from unique taco combinations to creative cocktails, perfect for casual outings or gatherings.
Tupelo Honey - Tupelo Honey offers Southern-inspired, scratch-made cuisine in downtown Grand Rapids. Known for its warm hospitality, the restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner with responsibly sourced ingredients. Their menu features Southern classics like fried chicken, biscuits, and seasonal cocktails, making it ideal for everything from casual meals to special occasions. With a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and a vibrant bar, it’s a perfect spot for Southern comfort food in the city. Tupelo is indeed a chain with locations in at least 15 states. They do a phenomenal job of making it feel like a locals atmosphere. You wouldn't know it was a chain.
Culver’s on Alpine Ave - Everything you know and love about your favorite Culver's meals. Butter burgers, concrete mixers, crinkle cut fries, you know the deal. Conveniently located on the east side of Alpine Ave. If you doing your shopping at what seems like every possible retail store that's located on Alpine Ave, Culver's on Alpine Ave has you covered for a bite to eat.
Culver’s on Wilson Ave - Another outstanding dining experience. Same great food, side, dessert and drinks, just located on Wilson Ave. Crazy how that works isn't it. Culver's has got it dialed in. They know how to do things right in the midwest.
Nonla - Nonla Burger is a fun, casual spot known for its smash-style burgers, made fresh to order with high-quality ingredients. With a minimalist menu focused on burgers, fries, and shakes, Nonla emphasizes flavor and simplicity. The friendly, no-frills atmosphere makes it a go-to for a quick, satisfying meal.
Luna - Luna is a trendy, Latin-inspired restaurant with two locations. One in Grand Rapids and one in Ada. Known for its inventive tacos, margaritas, and fresh local ingredients, it offers a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for groups or date nights. Guests rave about its salsa flights, guacamole, and creative cocktail menu. Luna’s vibrant ambiance, friendly service, and commitment to sustainability make it a standout dining spot. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a happy hour or a full meal, Luna delivers bold flavors in every dish.
Bowdies - Bowdie’s Chophouse in East Grand Rapids offers an upscale steakhouse experience, combining top-tier steaks with a classic, rustic atmosphere. Known for its exceptional service, Bowdie’s provides a high-end yet welcoming ambiance, ideal for special occasions or intimate dining. Their menu highlights premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails, all served in a cozy, elegant setting. With private dining options and a focus on quality, Bowdie’s is a must-visit for steak lovers.
Core Life - CoreLife Eatery on Burton Street in Grand Rapids offers healthy, made-from-scratch meals using whole, clean ingredients. Their menu features salads, grain bowls, broths, and options that cater to various dietary needs, including vegan, keto, and gluten-free. The casual, fast-casual setting makes it easy to grab a nutritious meal that fuels your day.
Max’s Hideaway - Max's South Seas Hideaway is a unique tiki-themed restaurant in downtown Grand Rapids, offering an immersive dining experience with Polynesian-inspired decor and exotic cocktails. Their menu features tropical flavors, small plates, and shareable dishes, making it an exciting spot for fun gatherings. Max’s vibrant atmosphere, intricate tiki carvings, and signature cocktails make it a must-visit destination for those looking to escape to a tropical paradise in the heart of the city.
Hopcat - HopCat in downtown Grand Rapids is famous for its extensive craft beer selection, laid-back vibe, and signature "Cosmic Fries." Located near Van Andel Arena, it’s a go-to spot for casual dining and pre-event drinks. With a cozy wooden bar, dog-friendly patio, and rotating local taps, it’s perfect for beer lovers and foodies alike. HopCat also offers weekend brunch and hosts happy hour specials throughout the week, making it a versatile destination for any meal or occasion.
Rockwell Republic - Rockwell Republic is a trendy gastropub in the Heartside district of Grand Rapids, offering a diverse menu of seasonal dishes made from scratch. The space features a cozy, exposed-brick interior, a rooftop patio, and a lounge perfect for cocktails and gatherings. Known for its award-winning happy hour and craft cocktails, it's a local favorite for casual dining or date nights, with a laid-back yet lively vibe.
The Winchester - The Winchester, located on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, is a neighborhood gastropub offering a welcoming atmosphere with locally sourced, seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. Known for its laid-back vibe and cozy interior, the menu features creative options like truffle fries, kimchi nachos, and a signature smash burger. The Winchester also has a popular weekend brunch and a dog-friendly patio, making it a favorite spot for locals to gather.
Our takeaway from this is we're blessed to have an increasing number of great spots to eat here in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It's cool to see new spots opening up. In 2024 we specifically welcomed in Scholar, Gin Gin's and Foolery, three phenomenal additions to the city (I recognize there's other new spots not mentioned, those were just the three that came to mind as I sit here sipping my coffee this morning)
Anyways, we appreciate you tuning in this week. We're feeling grateful to be part of this great community we call Grand Rapids, Michigan.
