A round-up of the biggest openings, closings, and other changes for local businesses.
OPENED:
Michigan Nature Co. joined Sparta at 201 E. Division Street. This shop north of Grand Rapids “celebrates the raw nature and experiences of the Michigan outdoors” with all kinds of apparel, hats, candles, pillows and more. Everything is inspired by the great outdoors surrounding us right here in the Mitten State. If you don’t feel like driving, consider shopping on their website.
New to Grand Haven, Unicorn Tavern opened their doors in February. According to Garry and Krystal Boyd, the idea goes back to their first date 27 years ago. This new restaurant and bar at 415 S. Beechtree St. focuses on Belgian eats and drinks, such as the Mitraillette, a traditional sandwich with ham, pomme frites, trappiste cheese sauce, hot pepper rings and Monk’s mustard on a ciabatta hoagie bun. Plus, beer and wine of all kinds.
Pochi’s Sweet Designs is a new, cute little spot at 44 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids, founded by Latina entrepreneur Paola Carlson. Located in the former Menna’s Joint spot, the shop offers her “sweet designs,” meaning flowers, chocolate covered strawberries and other treats. But it’s also a Colombian café, offering traditional Colombian coffee alongside empanadas, arepas, patacones, salchipapas and more. Don’t know what any of those are? Go check it out!
Toastn’ Tea is a new spot at 2500 E. Beltline Ave., Grand Rapids, featuring a huge variety of boba drinks, whether you want milk tea, fruit tea, smoothies or “lava lattes.” They also have a ton of great food options, from a variety of Asian wings to banh mi, bulgogi nachos, fresh rolls, pho and more. There’s something for everyone here.
Tia Juana joined the Mexican cuisine vanguard in Grand Rapids, serving up both delicious and authentic food at 2289 E. Beltline Ave. NE, just a bit north of Celebration. Rave reviews are in already, praising the food as truly authentic and highly memorable. Try out a mulita, “often referred to as mini-quesadillas on steroids,” with steak, cilantro, onion and guacamole fried between two tortillas and cheese.
There’s a new cocktail bar in Kalamazoo. Head to 344 North Rose Street for Dabney & Co. Cocktail Bar and Lounge. This lounge is blazing the way forward while paying tribute to the many Black mixologists before them. Come on in for delicious drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, scored by soulful, funky, jazzy, disco, bluesy, R&B and hip-hop music.
Did you think Daddy Pete’s BBQ was gone? So did they! But the overwhelming support of the community after they announced their closure, combined with a short break to rest and reset, allowed the beloved barbecue joint to continue on. So head to 2921 Eastern Ave. for more ribs, brisket and plant-based fare.
