Bartenders see it all, for better or worse. They see sober people, completely drunk people, nice people, rude people, picky people, knowledgeable people, cluess people, and everything in between.

Over the past year, some incredible restaurants and breweries have opened that we hope are here to stay, forever. Sadly, we’ve also lost a few beloved West Michigan establishments due to pandemic struggles and staffing issues.

Michigan is surrounded by lakes, yet seafood is scarce. Sure, you can find freshwater fish at most restaurants in town, but what about the lobster rolls? The Old Bay? The big, messy seafood boils? That’s where Beacon Corner Bar comes in.

Brewery Nyx makes top-notch beer that has a full body, pours a nice head, and tastes delicious — it just happens to have no gluten.

As much as Grand Rapids is known for its beer and craft food scene, it’s also making a name for itself with a number of specialty bakeries and sweet shops.

When the night is young but the body is ready for bed, that’s when caffeine and cocktails collide.

Local baker turns Food Network win into new business with The Cake Boutique.

We saw the return of the naked cake in 2018, macrons all over IG in 2019, quarantine bread baking in 2020, and a bubble tea explosion in 2021. Ready or not, food trends flux like side parts and skinny jeans.

As we head into a new year, it couldn’t be clearer that hard seltzer is here to stay.

Despite being an Eastside institution, Bobcat Bonnie’s was born and raised in West Michigan.