Grand Rapids should definitely be on your list if you’re heading to Michigan. This small city or approximately 200,000 residents is full of attractions, and we got to explore for a couple days while eating and drinking our way through town. Here are some highlights from our short trip.
Arriving on a Monday wasn’t ideal as a lot of places are closed on Monday. We didn’t have a car, so we walked a few blocks from the hotel to a neighborhood that was mostly closed. But, Condado Tacos was open, it was on our list of suggested places, and we were famished. They had great food, great drinks, and a fun atmosphere. I highly recommend it for both quality and value. Their tacos were much larger than expected, and their unique flavor combinations were anything but boring. And they’re definitely leaning into the stoner decor…
Condado Tacos is conveniently located near a great grocer called Bridge Street Market, New Holland Brewing, and a fantastic dive bar: Anchor Bar. This is a must go-to late night watering hole. Three of us got a round of drinks for $9.00. That’s $9.00 TOTAL. When’s the last time you experienced that in Denver? Please tell me where, because I’ve yet to find that spot here.
We had two excellent breakfasts in Grand Rapids. Our first morning meal was at Morning Belle and this is definitely a place we would frequent as residents. Great food, great service, great Bloody Mary. And since tomatoes were in season, I HAD to go with the BLT. August and maybe September is the only time of year I’ll indulge in this sando because, let’s be honest, tomatoes should only be consumed raw in tomato season.
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is not to be missed. There’s a butcher, fish monger, spice shop, food stands, and a cheese monger at a bar called Aperitivo. It’s a great place to grab a glass of wine, beer, or local cider.
Farmers Market fans should flock to the Fulton Street Market. The produce was unique and inspiring as I imagine everywhere is in Michigan in August.
Coffee fans will appreciate local coffee roaster Madcap Coffee. We picked up some beans to take home as we do at every coffee roaster we visit and sat down and enjoyed a cold nitro and a pour over.
If you’re looking for an upscale and exceptional dining experience for lunch or dinner, we suggest Linear. Looking for tapas? San Chez is your spot. Bistro Bella Vita is also a very popular spot with the locals.
Another epic breakfast we had before heading out of town was Littlebird, a family owned bistro in the heart of downtown. Their breakfast sandwich was one of the best I’ve had in years and they also nailed the bloody.
If you’re a fan of fine chocolate, Mokaya is a must. It’s an artisan chocolate and confections boutique with bon bons almost too gorgeous to eat. While there, check out Fox Naturals, an apothecary across the street.
Our visit was too short to visit the sculpture park and museums and the 100+ breweries, so, we’ll table it for now and plan to return. It’s helpful that we have dear friends living a few hours away, so there’s a good excuse to return to beautiful Grand Rapids, Michigan.
