BOTW 2025 DINING WINNERS
Dining is a defining aspect of any culture, going well beyond our biological mandate to eat.
The kind of food we have available to us is determined by access to fresh ingredients, population distribution, wealth, racial demographics, social trends, local taste and so much more—including the people who make it happen and the communities that support them.
All that to say: We’re darn lucky to have to such a fantastic variety of great dining across West Michigan, from local institutions to new restaurants, takeout joints and an ever-growing food truck scene. In fact, multiple of our finalists and even winners this year are food trucks, including the relatively new Taqueria Chilango.
Speaking of New Restaurants, our winner this year is Gin Gin’s, which comes as no surprise to us considering the near-legendary reputation of Butcher’s Union, from the same group. Gin Gin’s managed to capture the big city feel of its older sibling around the corner while bringing a slightly more deluxe, but equally crowd-pleasing atmosphere and menu. Food, drinks, vibes, service—it’s all top of class.
Our finalists for new restaurant include The Sovengard, which is actually a return for the New Nordic, farm-to-table eatery that loves to bring exciting new flavors to town, taking home first place for Most Innovative Cuisine as well. Then there’s SILVA, a shockingly unique, sprawling “dinnertainment” venue with high-quality bocce courts, billiards, dartboards, and a menagerie of performers—magicians, clowns, jugglers, stilt-walkers and more—roaming the space on weekends. Their menu is similarly eclectic, with cuisine from around the globe.
Since this is the 10th Annual Best of the West, we also have our Milestone Winners who have placed first every year since the contest began. For Fries, HopCat takes it home once again, thanks to their iconic Cosmik Fries (tastefully renamed a few years ago) coated in a memorable seasoning blend that’s a bit salty, a tad peppery and a touch sweet. The reigning king of Hot Dogs remains Yesterdog, a cornerstone of the Grand Rapids food scene as evidenced by a history of visits from celebrities and politicians. Then Maru is the longstanding Sushi champion, thanks to a reputation for consistent quality over the years (and a nice space on Cherry).
To run a restaurant right now is a challenge. To open a new restaurant is a daring leap of faith and passion. To keep a restaurant going and maintain devotion for 10 years, through a global pandemic, supply chain issues and inflation, is a monumental feat well worth celebrating.
STAFF PICKS
Bakery - Chartreuse Sisters
Frère Jacques, Frère Jacques, dormez vous? Well, if so, you'd better wake up. You don't want to sleep on this French-inspired bakery. The pastries on offer—which rotate, often including scones, cakes, cheesecakes, and more—are delicious, and so are their bright and inventive beverages. – John Kissane
Coffee - Midnight Express Cafe
If you don’t attend GVSU or traverse West Fulton, it’s easy to miss Midnight Express, but this café easily has some of the best lunch in town. The Chicken Pesto Wrap is a wonderfully saucy, vibrant, protein-packed feast that always heals my soul, whether it’s recovering from a hangover or fueling before the gym. Not to mention all the comfy seating, tons of natural light and great coffee. – Josh Veal
Mexican - Asada
Okay, Asada might actually be Tex-Mex, but close enough for my purposes! Basalt was always one of my favorite spots in GR, and Asada carries on the tradition of delicious, thoughtful, flavor-packed eats. The breakfast burrito remains iconic, but they also have stellar tacos, sides (like the Mac N Queso) and even smash burgers. Most important to me though is the Green Sauce. No matter what you order, the Green Sauce is mandatory. – Josh Veal
*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.
