Exploring Bridge Street in Grand Rapids

Bridge Street, located just across the Grand River from downtown GR’s Medical Mile, is the gateway to the city’s West Side neighborhood. An influx of investment in the past decade or so has transformed once abandoned and neglected buildings into some of the city’s trendiest restaurants and nightspots – and given rise to the Bridge Street Entertainment District. Yet residents also value their history, and some of the businesses on this list have been operating for generations.

Bridge Street is a 10-minute walk from downtown’s DeVos Place Convention Center and it’s a stop on the city’s FREE Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) route. Street parking is limited but there are four city parking lots and a number of private lots just steps away.

Art & Culture

Stanley Ketchel Sculpture

A larger-than-life bronze statue in front of Arktos Meadery depicts world champion boxer Stanley Ketchel, aka “The Michigan Assassin.” The Grand Rapids native won the middleweight championship in 1907 and held it until he was killed shortly after his 24^th birthday in 1910. Ketchel was a beloved son of the Polish immigrant community that congregated on the city’s west side. Massachusetts-based sculptor Ann Hirsch created this piece, which is part of the Grand Rapids Community Legends Sculpture initiative. 442 Bridge St. NW.

“Palate/Palette” Mural

The Bridge Street Market is the site of this 23-ft x 108-ft mural, viewable from the first floor of the Market’s adjacent parking structure. North Carolina artist Lara Nguyen painted the piece, which depicts a “community table” of different kinds of produce meant to honor the beauty of diversity. “Palate/Palette” is a stop on the West Side Murals Tour, which includes nine large-scale murals within a mile or so of the Market. 405 Seward Ave. NW (corner of Seward and Bridge St.).

Polish Halls

There are 10 Polish and Lithuanian halls on the West Side, all within two miles of Bridge Street. Most are membership-based but many are open to the public for various events through the year, including the annual Pulaski Days celebration (October), when they share Polish food, drink and culture with the entire Grand Rapids community. The Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids maintains a list of the halls and their offerings.

West Side Churches

The area’s early immigrants erected four majestic Catholic churches, three of which still serve the area’s faith community. The Irish built St. James (733 Bridge St. NW), the Germans built St. Mary’s (423 First St. NW), and the Polish built Sacred Heart (151 Garfield Ave. SW) and the Basilica of St. Adalbert (645 Davis Ave NW). All are within a mile-and-a-half of Bridge Street. St. James is closed but you can still admire its soaring Romanesque exterior.

Family Fun

Clique Lanes

Named one of the top 10 bowling centers in Michigan, Clique Lanes combines a retro 1950’s feel – it opened in 1953 – with updated technology. Two floors of the facility contain eight lanes each, and the upper lanes are often rented for private parties (and by touring musicians like Aerosmith and Styx). You can bowl for as little as $3 a game – plus $3 for shoe rental – and there’s a full kitchen serving comfort food, beer and spirits. “The Clique” is just two-tenths of a mile off Bridge Street at 533 Stocking Ave. NW.

Grand Rapids Public Library – West Side Branch

The West Side Branch of GRPL opened in 1907 and transferred to its current location in 1927. GRPL’s first branch specifically built to be a library, it contains about 80,000 books as well as public computers and multiple reading rooms. Join in the fun of Family Storytime every Tuesday morning, and special events throughout the year.10am-6pm Tuesday-Wednesday & Friday-Saturday, and noon-8pm Saturday. 713 Bridge St. NW.

West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology

WMCAT is a non-profit organization that makes space for teens to elevate their voices and build creative confidence through visual arts and technology engagement. West Michigan teens are eligible to participate in afterschool experience, field trips, workshops and summer camps. Exhibitions and open houses throughout the year are an opportunity to view student work and stimulate your child’s creativity. Located behind Bridge Street Market at 614 First St. NW.

Food & Drink

Outdoor Refreshment Area

Much of the Bridge Street Entertainment District is included in the Downtown Grand Rapids Outdoor Refreshment Area. That means you can purchase alcoholic beverages from participating food & drink providers – there are 15 on Bridge Street – and enjoy them while you stroll down the sidewalks. Click here for a map and list of participating businesses.

Maru Sushi

Maru Sushi is the first Bridge Street restaurant you’ll encounter after crossing the Grand River. The menu features a wide variety of sharing plates, nigiri, sashimi and sushi rolls and long with some grilled items. Full bar, too.  Open Tuesday-Saturday from 4-9pm. 415 Bridge St. NW.

New Holland Brewing – The Knickerbocker

A Grand Rapids brewpub operated by acclaimed New Holland Brewing, The Knickerbocker features an indoor and outdoor beer garden, three separate bars, a wood-fired oven, and artisanal and locally sourced food along with a full line of craft beers and spirits, small-batch pub brews, handcrafted cocktails and more. 4-10pm Tuesday & Thursday, 4-11pm Wednesday, noon-11pm Friday & Saturday, and noon-8pm Sunday. 417 Bridge St. NW.

Morning Belle West Side

A breakfast/brunch menu that incorporates healthy and indulgent items, champagne and cocktails, and even a special kids’ menu make Morning Belle a popular way to start the day. Lots of delectable lunch choices, too. 7am-2:30pm daily. 434 Bridge St. NW.

Fratelli’s Pizza

Build your own pizza or try one of 15 specialty pizzas at Fratelli’s, which also offers sandwiches, pastas, salads and appetizers. There are a few tables but it’s primarily a takeout operation – enjoy a slice as you stroll around. 11am-11pm Sunday & Monday, 11am-midnight Tuesday-Thursday and 11am-2am Friday & Saturday. 435 Bridge St. NW.

Butcher’s Union

“Meat & Whiskey” is the tagline here, but rest assured Butcher’s Union offers a broader selection than that implies. This modern gastropub was ranked one of Yelp’s Top 100 Midwest Restaurants in 2023, signifying that the food, ambiance and service here are just as impressive as the selection of 100+ whiskeys. 4pm-11pm Monday-Friday, 11:30am-11:30pm Saturday and 10am-10pm Sunday. 438 Bridge St. NW.

Arktos Meadery

Head to this traditional mead hall for some “nectar of the gods” – an ancient drink crafted by fermenting honey. Arktos makes its own meads as well as beer and braggots (a collision of mead and beer), all available on tap. Craft sodas from Holland, Michigan-based Kittywampus Soda Brewing round out the beverage menu, and there’s a small (but delicious) food menu, as well. 4:30pm-10pm Tuesday-Friday and noon-midnight Saturday. 442 Bridge St. NW.

Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar

Offering a modern take on classic Sicilian cuisine – including pizzas, pastas, salads, handhelds and sharables – Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar is owned by the family as the pizza place next door. Wines and cocktails are also available, and an outdoor patio is a popular spot in warm-weather months. 11am-10pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-midnight Friday-Saturday and 11am-9pm Sunday. 443 Bridge St. NW.

Anchor Bar

As new breweries and restaurants pop up left and right on Bridge Street, The Anchor holds true to its roots and provides a traditional old-school vibe. It’s a go-to stop among locals looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, stiff (and affordable) drinks, and comfy booths for smaller groups. The fantastic neon sign above the front entrance hints at the art deco style inside. 11am-2am Monday-Friday and 11am-2am Saturday & Sunday. 447 Bridge St. NW.

O’Toole’s Public House

Modeled after Boston’s ubiquitous Irish public houses, O’Toole’s offers a relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe along with Guinness and Harp on tap and plenty of Irish whiskeys. Lots of local and regional beers on tap, too, plus bottled beer and cans, seltzers, wines and cocktails. Burgers, sandwiches and salads dominate the food menu. 11:30am-1am Tuesday-Thursday, 11:30am-2am Friday & Saturday, and 11:30am-10pm Sunday. 448 Bridge St. NW.

Condado Tacos

Build-your-own tacos and nachos at Condado Tacos, accompanied by housemade chips and a selection of dips. Wash ‘em down with a broad selection of margaritas and other cocktails, tequila, beer or wine. Take time to appreciate the colorful indoor murals crafted by local artists. 11am-11pm Sunday-Thursday and 11am-midnight Friday & Saturday. 449 Bridge St. NW.

Nonla Burger

Locals fell fast and hard for the funky, retro diner feel of this elevated fast food joint when it opened in 2022. Nonla Burger offers three 100% beef burgers and a plant-based alternative, as well as a fun daily burger special. The chicken sandwiches are just as good. Try the Nonla Way fries topped with cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos, cilantro and Nonla spread. 11am-10pm Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-midnight Friday, 10am-midnight Saturday and 10am-7pm Sunday. 449 Bridge St. NW.

General Wood Shop

Catering to the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, General Wood Shop is a place to feel at home and be yourself. With sassy drink names, splashes of glitz and glam, stunning small-plate food dishes and a comfortable ambiance, it feels somewhat like an elevated dive bar. Have the bartender whip up a signature cocktail or mock cock for you, or opt for a beer, cider or seltzer. There’s a nice selection of elevated bar food, too, including baos, a Ramen Burger and Dijon Sesame Salad. 4pm-midnight Tuesday-Thursday, 2pm-midnight Friday & Saturday, and noon-midnight Sunday. 507 Bridge St. NW.

One Bourbon

Named one of America’s Best Bourbon Bars by The Bourbon Review, One Bourbon features more than 400 bourbons and whiskeys along with a menu of elevated comfort food – from deviled eggs and cheese curds to ratatouille and cider-braised chicken. Monthly cocktail and food specials showcase the staff’s creativity, and a private patio feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Bridge Street. 4-10pm Tuesday-Thursday and 4-11pm Friday & Saturday. 608 Bridge St. NW.

Maggie’s Kitchen

Family-owned Maggie’s Kitchen has been serving up authentic Mexican cuisine here since 1982, long before Bridge Street got trendy. Tacos, burritos and other familiar Michocán-style Mexican fare are made from scratch in an open kitchen amidst colorful décor. Breakfast is served on Saturdays. 9am-7pm Tuesday-Friday and 8:30am-7pm Saturday. 636 Bridge St NW.

Steel Cat Bar

The Steel Cat is home to Michigan’s first and only frost rail bar, and it serves its selection of draft beers out of three frozen towers, ensuring that your brew is always crisp and cold. There’s a well-stocked Bloody Mary and Mimosa brunch bar on Saturdays and Sundays, and Wednesday features $5 bombs all day. 7am-2am daily. 640 Bridge St. NW.

Küsterer Brauhaus

This Bavarian-style beer hall brought authentic German brews and deli food back to Bridge Street when it opened in 2022. In fact, the name pays tribute to Christopher Kusterer, a 19th century German immigrant who founded Grand Rapids’ City Brewery in the mid-1800s. Küsterer biers are brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law) and contain only water, malt, hops and yeast. 3-10pm Tuesday-Thursday, noon-11pm Friday & Saturday, and noon-7pm Sunday, plus assorted other times for Bundesliga soccer watch parties. 642 Bridge St. NW.

Flamingo Lounge

A second Bridge Street dive bar with a pretty cool neon sign of its own, the Flamingo Lounge is a local hangout that is friendly to newcomers. It’s not fancy, but the drinks are cheap and the service is excellent. Check out the wall of album covers, play pool and listen to occasional live music. Free parking in a spacious lot. 10am-2pm daily. 930 Bridge St. NW.

El Granjero Mexican Grill

El Granjero prides itself on serving delicious, authentic Mexican dishes – from tacos and tortas to grilled cactus and Jamaica (pronounced ha-my-cah) juice made from the Jamaica flower. The restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients to prepare its dishes and leads the Latino Business for Sustainability campaign, which promotes recycling, composting and other sustainability initiatives. 11am-7pm Sunday-Thursday and 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday. 950 Bridge St.

Tacos El Cunado

This quick-service restaurant offers some of the best Mexican food in town, according to numerous local surveys. Tacos El Cunado is primarily takeout – it has no indoor seating but there are a few tables with umbrellas outside in warm weather. Great prices and flavors. 10am-10pm Monday-Saturday. 1024 Bridge St. NW.

Eden Café

This “Garden of Good Vibes” offers a wide array of delicious, creative coffee and non-coffee drinks, with a collection of new flavors introduced every season. Eden Café also offers a delightful collection of homemade treats and selections from local Van’s Pastry Shoppe and Just Enjoy Cookies. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive for people from all walks of life. 6am-2pm Monday-Friday and 8am-3pm Saturday & Sunday. 1034 Bridge St. NW.

The Søvengård

A very popular Scandinavian-inspired restaurant that was once located at the east end of Bridge Street has moved about a mile west to secure more space and launch a produce and artisan market. A 4,000 sq. ft. biergarten features an outdoor bar and garden, living wall and garden. Summer 2024 opening. 1232 Bridge St. NW.

Sip Shine Lounge

Set to open in summer 2024, Sip Shine Lounge is a Nashville-style restaurant and tasting room from Grand Rapids-based moonshine brand Sip Shine. It’s across the street from the Bridge Street Market at 401 Stocking Ave NW.

Bakery Margo

About 400 feet north of Sip Shine, Bakery Margo – aka Panaderia Margo – is known for its authentic Guatemalan bread and other treats. 10am-8pm Monday-Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday. 443 Stocking Ave. NW.

Turnstiles

Another 400 feet beyond Bakery Margo, on the opposite side of the street, is Turnstiles. It offers an extensive menu of elevated bar food and adult beverages as well as live bands, karaoke and open mic nights. 11am-2am Monday-Friday and noon-2am Saturday & Sunday. 526 Stocking Ave. NW.

Morning Ritual Coffee Bar

Morning Ritual is a botanical coffee bar specializing in unique, handcrafted floral and herbal flavors of coffee and tea. You’ll also enjoy a selection of locally made pastries. 7am-6pm Monday-Friday and 8am-6pm Saturday & Sunday. 637 Stocking Ave. NW.

Blue Dog Tavern

Housed in a renovated century-old building, the Blue Dog Tavern specializes in American comfort food with a few twists – like Chorizo Queso Tots, Pork Nachos and Mahi Tacos. Great burgers and all-beef hot dogs, too, plus a wide range of beers, wines, seltzers and cocktails. 11am-midnight Sunday-Thursday and 11am-midnight Saturday & Sunday. 638 Stocking Ave. NW.

The Monarchs’ Club

Sandwiches, hot dogs and other bar food share the Monarchs’ menu with a vast selection of beers, ciders, wine and more, all for enjoying indoor or on the seasonal patio. Established in 1925 and still going strong. 3pm-2am Monday-Thursday and noon-2am Friday-Sunday. 646 Stocking Ave. NW.

Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza

Serving Grand Rapids since 1976, Salvatore’s offers an extensive menu of homemade Italian food: bruschetta, breadsticks, pasta, salads, oven-baked sub sandwiches, Sicilian steaks, chicken parmigiana and more. Every dish has its fans, but the pizza is really next level. 11am-10pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-11pm Friday and 4-11pm Saturday. 654 Stocking Ave. NW.

The Holiday Bar

Opened in 1905, The Holiday Bar is one of the city’s favorite burger joints, though it offers plenty of other food selections, from Polish eggrolls to escargot. The adult beverage menu is bounteous and the outdoor patio is hoppin’ when the weather cooperates. 11am-10pm Monday & Tuesday, 11am-2am Wednesday-Saturday and 11am-midnight Sunday. 801 5^th St. NW.

Gin Gin’s

Opening in summer 2024, Gin Gin’s is a steak, seafood and pasta restaurant with a full bar and outdoor patio. It occupies a renovated industrial building just a few hundred feet south of Bridge Street. 345 Summer Ave. NW.

Broadway Bar

About a half-mile north of New Holland Brewing - The Knickerbocker is an old-school tavern known for its over-the-top Christmas decorations. (What other dive bar do you know that takes reservations  around the holidays?) Try the Broadway Burger, which consists of two huge patties sandwiched between two thick slices of Texas toast. The Broadway Bar also offers a bunch of other burgers and comfort foods as well as adult beverages. 740 Broadway Ave. NW.

Music & More

Turnstiles

Just two-tenths of a mile off Bridge Street, Turnstiles hosts live bands on Friday and Saturday nights, open mic nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and karaoke night on Mondays. Two jukeboxes are wired into one of the best sound systems in town to serenade you when there are no performers on stage. 526 Stocking Ave.

Sullivan Field

Built in 1937, this ballpark hosts several outdoor concerts and other events each summer – click here for a list. Sullivan Field is about seven-tenths of a mile north of Bridge Street. 650 Valley Ave. NW.

Outdoor Adventure

Douglas Park

Just a tenth of a mile south of Maggie’s Kitchen on Lexington Avenue, Douglas Park is a small neighborhood park that manages to pack in a picnic area, playground, basketball court, walking paths and bike racks.

Lincoln Park

Located just past the Eden Café, Lincoln Park is an oasis of green on bustling Bridge Street. Guests enjoy a playground, fenced basketball courts, a summertime splashpad and plenty of picnic tables and grills. The park’s historic Lincoln Lodge is wrapped in a colorful mural representing the area’s many old oak, chestnut and maple trees. 231 Marion Ave. NW.

Shopping

Bridge Street Market

Fred Meijer built America’s first superstore in Grand Rapids in 1962, and there are now hundreds of Meijer stores across the Midwest. Bridge Street Market is the Meijer corporation’s first neighborhood grocery store concept, providing a local and inclusive shopping experience within a space personalized to fit the aesthetic of the West Side. You’ll find a large selection of fresh produce and local and artisan groceries here, as well as Meijer and national brand products. A dedicated parking ramp is free for shoppers. 7am-10pm daily. 405 Seward Ave. NW.

Dodds Record Shop

With approximately 80,000 used LPS and 45s for sale, covering all genres from the 1930s to today, Dodds Record Shop is a treasure hunter’s dream. (What more would you expect from the oldest record shop in Michigan?) You’ll also encounter some amazing pop culture memorabilia on your searches. Saturdays from noon-5pm. 808 Bridge St. NW.

Bridge Street Electric

Located here since 1929, Bridge Street Electric continues to stock a tremendous selection of unique lamps, fixtures, shades, wall art and mirrors. You’ll also find vintage lamps and accessories in the shop’s antique showroom, along with an ever-changing array of additional vintage items. Lamp repair, antique lamp restoration and parts replacement services, too. 9am-5:30pm  Monday-Friday and 9am-3pm Saturday. 812 Bridge St. NW.

Hotels

The BlueJay

Opened in 2024, The BlueJay is a boutique hotel in a renovated 1930s-era building. Six uniquely designed suites include first-floor accessible accommodations. Guests can rent individual rooms or the entire building and take advantage of the hotel’s event space (with seating for 36) plus a back patio featuring a fire pit, grill and plenty of extra space for yard games. 644 Bridge St. NW.

Events

Pulaski Days

Pulaski Days is an annual Grand Rapids event celebrating General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish immigrant and American Revolutionary War Hero. Polish halls on the West Side open their doors to the general public for authentic Polish food & drink, polka music and more. Pulaski Days take place every October.

You can explore more of Grand Rapids’ West Side via our Leonard Street and West Fulton Pages. Both commercial districts are less than a mile from Bridge Street.

Note: Menus and hours are subject to change. Check individual business websites to confirm.