by Meagan Francis on May 23, 2013
Outdoor Summer Concert Series at Meijer Gardens
Grand Rapids is passionate about the arts, and nowhere is that more evident than in the live music found readily throughout the city. But while live music is a year-round way of life in Grand Rapids, summer is a particularly great time to experience the richness of the local music scene.
Perhaps nowhere is the diversity and enthusiasm of Grand Rapids’ music lovers better represented than during the annual Outdoor Summer Concert Series at Meijer Gardens. Now in its its 11th year, the 2013 line-up features 29 concerts from an impressive line-up of talent, including B.B. King, Sheryl Crow, The Beach Boys and Harry Connick, Jr.
The concert series enjoyed massive success over its first decade, growing from a handful of artists in its first year, to 25 in 2012, says Andrea Wolschleger, Public Relations Manager for Meijer Gardens. And the concert series reaches a broad audience: Wolschleger reports many inquiries from Chicago, Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and beyond. [read more…]
by Meagan Francis on May 16, 2013
Bistro Bella Vita’s Atlantic Salmon, which can be prepared gluten-free
Does it seem like the world has suddenly gone gluten-free? You’re not imagining things. The NPD Group, an organization that analyzes and tracks consumer trends, recently reported that nearly 30% of Americans are interested in eliminating or cutting down on gluten – a protein most commonly found in wheat, rye, and barley – in their diets, and brands have responded by offering more and more gluten-free options.
Grand Rapids restaurateurs have also heeded the demand, creating menu items – and sometimes, entire menus – that cater to gluten-free diners.
Consumers avoid gluten for a variety of reasons, says Luke Theaker, chef at Bistro Bella Vita in Grand Rapids. “Some people are sensitive to gluten, some are allergic to it and others have severe gluten allergies. And then there are the customers who are living a gluten-free lifestyle for the health benefits,” which are reported to include better digestion, more energy and even weight loss. [read more…]
by Kirsetin Morello on May 9, 2013
Crisp Country Acres stand at the Grand Rapids Outdoor Market on opening day
The farm to table movement in Grand Rapids continues to grow, as restaurants like Grove and Trillium Haven wow restaurant-goers with dishes like the Gazelle Perfect Protein Salad (Trillium Haven) and Jambalaya (Grove)— two of my go-to favorites.
As more restaurants embrace sustainable cooking, more residents find themselves in search of fresh, local ingredients to prepare in their own kitchens. Last Saturday, Grand Rapidians had of plenty produce (and meat, cheese, baked goods, and kettle corn…) to choose from, with the 91st opening of the Fulton Street Farmers Market and the grand opening of the new Outdoor Market downtown. [read more…]
by Kirsetin Morello on May 2, 2013
by Kirsetin Morello on April 25, 2013
One Trick Pony, Grand Rapids
You can’t visit Grand Rapids without feeling the impact of its philanthropic denizens. From beautiful Meijer Gardens (Frederik Meijer) to DeVos Performance Hall (Richard M. DeVos), evidence abounds. But philanthropy in Grand Rapids isn’t limited to corporate business owners. Restaurateurs and entrepreneurs in Grand Rapids have found creative ways to give back to the community, including one innovative program that aims to end hunger for children.
One restaurant owner who’s serious about giving back is Dan Verhil, owner of The Cottage Bar and One Trick Pony. “Philanthropy is contagious,” he says, “and this is a very philanthropic community we live in. There are a lot of good models of people who have given back. If I can do that in even a small way I’d like to emulate that.”
That’s exactly what he’s done—but in a rather big way. [read more…]
by Kirsetin Morello on April 18, 2013
