Press Release – BBQ and Bell’s
From a Millennium Restaurant Group press release….
Central City Tap House to Feature Rare Brews for Bell’s Brewery Tap Takeover During BBQ & Bell’s Event
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Bell’s Brewery—brewing out of Kalamazoo, MI since 1985—will be doing a tap over at downtown Kalamazoo’s Central City Tap House on Sunday, September 18 as part of their BBQ & Bell’s event. The event, co-hosted by the restaurant and the brewery, will be a celebration of the changing of the seasons, craft beer, fresh food, and live music. The event is free for guests to attend with no cover charge.
Starting at 5pm, nine of Bell’s beers will be featured on tap, along with a hand-pull cask ale. To complement the special beers, Chef McKinney will feature a special BBQ menu for the evening, which will be prepared on a grill outside, weather permitting, on Central City Tap House’s front patio on the Kalamazoo Mall until 7pm. The menu will feature grilled baby romaine Caesar salad, house made coleslaw, citrus baked beans, BBQ St Louis-style pork ribs, BBQ Otto’s chicken breasts, and a red velvet cake with spiced crème anglaise.
The evening will also feature music from Andrew Schrock, Terrance Massey, and Hugh Little—of Kalamazoo’s Funktion—as they play an acoustic set in the restaurant from 6pm-8pm. Brewers Andy Farrell and Rik Dellinger of Bell’s will also be in attendance for a casual meet-and-greet throughout the evening.
The following beers are set to be featured:
- Black Note Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout (11.5%abv) blends the complex aromatics of Expedition Stout with the velvety smooth texture of Double Cream Stout and ages the combination in freshly retired oak bourbon barrels for month (very rare)
- Deb’s Red Ale (6.3%abv) this beer is technically retired (no longer brewed)
- Kalamazoo Hop Solution (part of the Illinois-only series, this will be the first time it is released in Michigan)
- The Oracle DIPA Ale (10%abv) two separate dry-hop sessions with Amarillo and NZ Pacific Jade
- Batch 10,000 (9.2%abv) Uses 100 different malts, grains, and other fermentables, and followed them up with a blend of 60 different hop varietals. This keg will be the last of the local supply.
- Octoberfest (5.5%abv) just released with a very limited draught presence, spends a full six weeks maturing in the fermentation vessels
- Also featured: Kalamazoo Stout, Two Hearted, Third Coast, and Pale Ale on Cask
Central City Tap House will host BBQ & Bell’s on Sunday, September 18 starting at 5pm. The event will feature a Bell’s tap takeover, live acoustic music, and a featured BBQ menu. The event is of no extra cost to guests. For more information please call Central City Tap House at (269) 492.0100
Press Release – An Evening With Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert
From a Theater Council press release….
GOOD VS. EVIL: An Evening with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert
LIVE AT DeVOS PERFORMANCE HALL ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19th
Two chefs. Two unlikely friends. Two very differentcareers and philosophies sharing one stage.
(GRAND RAPIDS, MI)- Good vs. Evil: An Evening with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert, live at Grand Rapid’s DeVos Performance Hall on Sunday, February 19th. Join Anthony Bourdain, chef, author of Medium Raw and host of The Travel’s Channel’s No Reservations and Eric Ripert, renowned chef of Le Bernardin, author, host of “Avec Eric” on PBS and regular guest on Bravo’s Top Chef as they share stories and muse on the place of food in our personal, community and global life. It’s an evening of storytelling and observation providing frank and provocative insight into what really goes on behind the kitchen doors.
Anthony Bourdain has been dubbed “the bad boy of cuisine” for his rock star look and blunt observations about the world of restaurants, chefs and cooking. Bourdain, the Chef-at-large at New York’s famed bistro Les Halles, is the author of the bestselling novels, Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly, and most recently Medium Raw: A Bloody Valentine to the World of Food and the People Who Cook. His show on The Travel Channel, No Reservations, has been nominated for an Emmy and recently concluded filming its seventh season.
Eric Ripert’s Le Bernardin continues to receive universal critical acclaim for its food and service and the Zagat Guide has recognized the restaurant as the “Best Food” in New York City for the last seven consecutive years. Ripert has also served as guest judge (and “fan favorite”) on Bravo’s Top Chef for the past four seasons. This past fall, Ripert published his fourth book entitled, Avec Eric: A Culinary Journey with Eric Ripert in addition to his previous titles: On the Line and A Return to Cooking and the Le Bernardin Cookbook.
Tickets go on sale to the public September 16 and range from $32.50 – $125 for VIP packages and are available online at Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000 and all Ticketmaster locations.
A limited number of VIP tickets will be available, which includes premiere seating within the first six rows, access to an exclusive meet and greet session with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a VIP tour laminate and a limited edition poster. Grand Rapid’s acclaimed Bar Divani is pleased to be the Official Restaurant Sponsor of the evening, and will be providing an innovative selection of appetizers for VIP Reception attendees.
Copies of Bourdain’s new book, Medium Raw: A Bloody Valentine to the World of Food and the People Who Cook, and Ripert’s Avec Eric: A Culinary Journey with Eric Ripert along with other titles from their back catalogs will be available for purchase on site from Schuler Books and Music, the official bookseller for the event.
Press Release – Ruth’s Chris Opening in Grand Rapids…..
…..on September 12th.
There….now all you people finding this blog looking for that date, you’ve got your answer….
….anyone want to buy me dinner? 🙂
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Set to Open in Grand Rapids on Sept.12
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Sept. 7, 2011 – Ruth’s Hospitality Group (Nasdaq: RUTH) is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of its newest restaurant in Grand Rapids, MI on Sept. 12. The venue, which marks the 132nd for the brand and the second in Michigan, is locally owned and operated by the Amway Hotel Corporation and situated in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Reservations are currently being accepted.
“Ruth’s Chris is an internationally recognized company and we are thrilled to bring this dining experience to Grand Rapids,” said Joe Tomaselli, president of the Amway Hotel Corporation. “This restaurant is another keystone to the development of the downtown area, and the brand is well aligned with our hotel’s philosophy, quality and service.”
Guests in Grand Rapids will now be able to enjoy New Orleans-inspired appetizers, the finest U.S.D.A. Prime steaks, fresh seafood and classic desserts, all complemented by an award-winning wine list. Ruth’s Chris Steak House Grand Rapids seats 200 people, and is designed to create a variety of smaller areas including an open bar area to see and be seen in, the Captain’s Table to celebrate special events and three private dining rooms to seal the next business deal. The three elegant private rooms boast state-of-the-art media and satellite capabilities, and can seat 70 people when combined, a perfect location for off-site business meetings.Designed by the team of Gooch Design Studio from Chicago and Concept Design Group from Grand Rapids, Ruth’s Chris Steak House Grand Rapids captures the flare of a contemporary New York steak house with hidden treasures and surprises around every corner. Ruth’s Chris has a special vibe and edge, while also possessing a traditional character, exemplified by the red, black and cream colors contrasting with a smoky, mysterious and fun forward-looking aesthetic.
Michael O’Donnell, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc. added, “Grand Rapids is a strong addition to our worldwide group of restaurants. I am pleased that we will have a presence in this successful market, and a great partnership with the Amway Hotel Corporation. I know they will continue Ruth’s legacy of service and hospitality as they introduces us to the citizens of Grand Rapids.”
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Grand Rapids is located at 187 Monroe Ave. NW, and is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and the bar is open until midnight Monday through Thursday, and until 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
For reservations and additional information, please call 616.776.6426 or visit www.ruthschris.com. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ruthschrisgrandrapids.
Press Release – Eat Local, Kalamazoo to Screen “Urban Roots”
From a Fair Food Matters press release….
“Urban Roots” film explores Detroit’s urban ag scene
“Eat Local, Kalamazoo” will present a free screening of the new documentary film “Urban Roots” in honor of National Food Day. The screening, which is open to the public, will take place Sunday, October 23, from 2-4 p.m. at the Texas Township Campus of Kalamazoo Valley Community College (room 4240). Doors open at 1:30 p.m.
“Urban Roots” tells the story of the urban agriculture movement in Detroit. The film will be followed by a question-and-answer session with Mark MacInnis, the film’s director and a native of Detroit.
Through the mid-20th century, Detroit was one of this nation’s most populous and affluent cities. But since 1950, the city has lost nearly half its population and more than 15,000 businesses; some 70,000 vacant lots now cover a third of Detroit’s 139 square miles, and it is viewed by many as an icon of post-industrial America.
Enter urban agriculture. Today, seeds of change are taking root in the empty lots, in the old factory yards, and between the sagging blocks of company housing. A number of grassroots groups, allied with environmental and academic groups, has started an urban agriculture movement with the potential to transform not just a major American city after its economic collapse, but also a country after the end of its industrial age.
This free screening is presented by Fair Food Matters, the International Studies program of Kalamazoo Valley Community College, the Michigan Land Trustees and the Office of Sustainability at Western Michigan University.
More information about the film can be found at http://urbanrootsamerica.com/urbanrootsamerica.com/Home.html.
Press Release – Upcoming Fundraisers for Fulton Street Farmers’ Market
From a Promote Michigan press release….
Upcoming Fundraisers to Benefit Capital Campaign
for Fulton Street Farmers Market Improvements
(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich) – The Fulton Street Farmers Market (FSFM), located in the southeast corner of the Midtown Neighborhood, is the last remaining of three original Grand Rapids farmers markets established in the early 1900s. Originally constructed in 1922, the market has retained its regional popularity over the years. Drawing more than 8000 patrons per week during the peak of the season, the market generates millions of dollars worth of revenue for local growers each season.
With the recent influx in “buy local” initiatives, the Fulton Street Farmers Market is seeing a resurgence in both the number of participating growers and in customers. As such, the market is literally busting out at its seams. Earlier this year, a $2.0 million dollar “Our Goodness is Growing Campaign” was announced by the Midtown Neighborhood Association, which will generate funds to provide much needed infrastructure improvements to the space, including:
- · Permanently covered, open-air sheds with increased water and electricity access points
- · Reconstructed plaza with added space for seating, bicycle storage and vendor overflow
- · A small LEED-certified building with indoor stalls for year round vending
- · Traffic flow reconfiguration
- · New parking area pavement, landscaping and striping
- · Two sets of wheelchair-accessible restrooms
- · Complete site re-grading to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards
- · Upgraded heating / cooling systems, insulation and wiring
- · Rebuilding of the east side retaining wall
- · Storm water retention system reconstruction
“When complete, the renovated Market will offer a better overall experience, more capable of serving local neighbors, area shoppers and our regional farming vendors,” says Diane Griffin, Campaign chair. “Most importantly, the facility upgrades will provide a space where people can continue to enjoy the finest in locally-grown food, flowers and other goods.”
To date, $1.6 million of the project funds have been raised, leaving just $400,000 to go. Thanks to the strong fundraising efforts and a dedicated group of community leaders and volunteers, organizers will break ground on the new facility in November and celebrate the grand re-opening in May, 2012.
Upcoming fundraising events to benefit the Fulton Street Farmers Market “Our Goodness is Growing” campaign include:
- · Friday, September 16 (6-9pm)
An Evening in the Neighborhood
From the Heart Yoga Center – 714 Wealthy Street SERelax and enjoy a delicious dinner provided by local restaurants, using locally-grown goods, as well as local wine and cider pressed from West Michigan apples. Participate in the silent auction for local goods and services and listen to the music from Jimmie Stagger and local chef & blues guitarist Jim Powell and his son, Sam.
Tickets $50 each (including food & drinks) are available at:
- o Fulton Street Farmers Market (in office near Fulton)
- o From the Heart Yoga Center (on Wealthy)
- o Jeffrey Richard Salon (on Wealthy)
- o Art of the Table (on Wealthy)
- o BarterTown Diner (on Jefferson)
- o Grand Central Market (on Monroe Center)
- o Or by calling 616-328-9547.
- · Tuesday, September 27 (11am-1pm | 4-8pm)
Brick Sale for Fulton Street Farmers Market
Grand Central Market – 57 Monroe Center, Downtown Grand RapidsLocal singer/songwriter Susan Picking will provide music throughout the day. Purchase a brick or paver and have your name forever etched into the history of the market.
- o Brick (2.5×8 inches | one line | 16 characters): $35
- o Half Paver (4×8 inches | three lines | 14 characters per line): $50
- o Full Paver (8×8 inches | four lines, 14 characters per line): $100
- · Wednesday, October 5 (11am-1pm | 4-8pm)
Brick Sale for Fulton Street Farmers Market
BarterTown Diner – 6 Jefferson Street
- o Brick (2.5×8 inches | one line | 16 characters): $35
- o Half Paver (4×8 inches | three lines | 14 characters per line): $50
- o Full Paver (8×8 inches | four lines, 14 characters per line): $100
- · Wednesday, October 19 (5-9pm)
An Evening in the Piazza
Tre Cugini’s La Scala Banquet Room – 125 Ottawa, Downtown Grand Rapids (Ledyard Building)Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by Tre Cugini’s culinary team – using locally-grown ingredients. Participate in the silent auction for goods and services donated by local businesses. A cash bar will be available.
Tickets $75 each (including food & drinks) are available at:
- o Fulton Street Farmers Market (in office near Fulton)
- o BarterTown Diner (on Jefferson)
- o Grand Central Market (on Monroe Center)
- o Or by calling 616-328-9547.
Press Release – Kalamazoo Cook! Bringing Culinary School Experience
From a Kalamazoo Cooks! press release…
KALAMAZOO COOKS! BRINGS THE CULINARY SCHOOL EXPERIENCE TO KALAMAZOO
Kalamazoo, Michigan – September 3, 2011 – On Saturday, Kalamazoo Cooks Culinary Programs are announced the addition of several local Chef Instructors to their classrooms.Jared Dellario, Executive Chef, Entertainment District; Kirk McKinney, Executive Chef, Epic Bistro and Tap House; Jorge Sanchez, Founder of Sanchez, A Tapas Bistro, Author and Consultant.
Will Sprague who is the founder and Program Director at Kalamazoo Cooks, feels that this is just the beginning.“These are some of the greatest Chefs that West Michigan has to offer. And, bringing this collective wisdom to the classroom is what our program is all about.”Kalamazoo Cooks offers hands-on culinary training for food enthusiasts, home cooks, and industry professionals. Each class is designed to be taken independently and generally ranges from 2 to 3 hours.Kalamazoo Cooks Program Director, Will Sprague, feels that this is just the beginning.“These are some of the greatest Chefs that West Michigan has to offer. And, bringing this collective wisdom to the classroom is what our program is all about.”Chefs Dellario, McKinney, and Sanchez will be offering courses through Kalamazoo Cooks in a variety of cuisines and cultures. A complete fall schedule is expected to be announced early next week.Individuals who are interested in attending classes through Kalamazoo Cooks may enroll through their website: http://www.kalamazoocooks.org or by calling 269.216.4596.
Pizza King
5236 Portage Road- Portage, MI 49002
- (269) 381-8692
- No Known Website
- Menu
Well, we had big ideas for today. In reality, we got a lot done chore wise. Not the most fun way to spend a holiday weekend, but we felt accomplished.
Around 5:00, we both started getting hungry. J said pizza. I was thinking pizza. The only question remaining was ‘from where?’
There’s a couple off the beaten path pizza joints we haven’t tried yet. We tried one, but their phone wasn’t working and J couldn’t understand anything the person on the other end was saying. She hung up and tried option number two. Their phone was working so J put the order in.
Pizza King doesn’t look like much when you pull in to the parking lot on Portage Road across the street from the airport. It’s next to a liquor store and a gold buying place. When this little strip mall was built, it was probably pretty fancy, but now, it’s just dated. Faux brick walls and a brown shingled awning make this place sort of look like a dive. Read more…
Rhino’s Hometown Pub
107 S. Main StreetShort weekend for me this week. Holiday’s mean nothing in my line of work and I got drafted to work Labor Day even though Monday’s are usually a day off for me. I’m alright with it though….double time.
Since we’ve only got the one day off, we had to make the most of it. I set an alarm to get up early thinking we’d go to breakfast, but we decided to wait around until lunch. I’m alright with that too.
I’m sure you’ve figured out we have an affinity for sports bars and we’re running short on sports bars we haven’t been to in the area. Because of that, we have to start branching out to the surrounding areas.
Rhino’s Hometown Pub is on Main Street in Plainwell right at the intersection with M-89/Bridge Street. Being a downtown area, there really isn’t a lot of parking. Since it was a Sunday, parking wasn’t an issue.
The pub is set up like a typical sports bar. There are flat panel TV’s above the bar showing a variety of sporting events. The main dining area is filled with four top tables and there’s a row of pub tables against the back wall. Read more…
East Egg – Mattawan
33901 City Center CircleEven though I was working all weekend, J’s parents came to Kalamazoo for a few days to help us do some things around the house. I wasn’t able to work, but J’s step-dad accomplished a pretty large to-do list that we’ve had for a while I don’t have the skills to do.
On Sunday morning, J woke me up and asked if we could take her parents to breakfast before they headed back to Chicago. Of course, I was more than willing to get up even though I knew I’d end up back in bed later in the day.
I originally thought they were just going to follow us and then head straight for home, so I picked a place in Mattawan. I figured they could just hop on the Interstate after we eat and make their way back towards Chicago.
There are not a lot of dining choices in the small town right off I-94. I did remember hearing about an East Egg opening recently and thought that would be a place we would all enjoy.
The first task when trying to eat at East Egg in Mattawan is finding it. It’s on City Center Circle, but that’s not going to come up on any Google search or GPS. The road is brand new and part of a new commercial development just off Main Street north of the village. Read more…
Smashburger – Grand Rapids
25 Michigan StreetWhenever one of my co-workers asks me about a quick place to eat in Kalamazoo, I almost always point them towards Smashburger. Sure, it’s a chain, but it’s not something that they had in Grand Rapids. A few weeks ago, that changed.
I read a story in the Grand Rapids Press last month about the new store finally opening in Grand Rapids. It’s kind of an odd location. It’s not a stand alone shop. It’s actually inside 25 Michigan which is one of the large buildings on The Medical Mile. The atrium between 25 Michigan and 35 Michigan is now set up with a little food court. Smashburger is the first to open. It will soon be joined by a Qdoba and a Zoup.
If you in one of the surrounding buildings for something, the atrium food court is a pretty nice feature. It’s gotta be better than the hospital food….am I right? (disclaimer: that’s a joke. I’m sure the hospital food is great. I’ve never had it.)
If you just want to stop in for a quick lunch, it’s kind of a pain. Actually, a real pain. There is no surface lot nearby or even street parking. You have to go in the parking garage underneath the building which means you’re going to have to pay to park just to get lunch. Read more…
SW Michigan Dining 
