Ah, the humble dive bar. A topic near and dear to my heart. You know the kinda place I’m talking about. Ice cold domestic beer, served in pitchers. Classic rock on the jukebox. The faint aroma of cigarettes that were smoked decades ago, their scent permanently bonded to the bones of every dive bar in … Read more
There’s nothing like enjoying a pint of Guinness or a taste of Irish whiskey at one of West Michigan’s fine Irish Pubs. Pair your drink of choice with some corned beef, and you’re living the good life. Whatever kind of Irish Pub in Grand Rapids you’re looking for, I’ve got you covered. Want to dance … Read more
Looking for a spot with a view? I’ve got you. Sip in style at the best rooftop bars in Grand Rapids. Admire the feminine, graceful curves of DeVos Place. Enjoy the beautiful, newly refaced facade of the Amway Grand Hotel. People watch from above as hordes of people make their way into Van Andel Arena. … Read more
Pride month is right around the corner. Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally like me, let’s celebrate! Put your favorite gay anthem on the stereo and crank the volume up. I’ve got Born This Way by Lady Gaga spinning. What did you pick? Vogue by Madonna? I Will Survive? Timeless. Okay, now that we’ve got … Read more
To quote LCD Soundsystem – I was there. I was there, at local sports bar Uccello’s. It was 2007, and I witnessed what is colloquially known as “The Horror.” One of the greatest sports upsets of all time. The final score: Appalachian State 34, Michigan, 32. Michigan was the #5 team in the country, and … Read more
Okay gang, here’s the deal: leave your car keys at home. Don’t pull out your ride-sharing app – you won’t need it. We are going to hopscotch around downtown Grand Rapids, and we’re going to do it on foot. Use that money you saved on gas or Uber to buy a round of drinks for … Read more
Get in formation, wine heads. Calling all vinophiles. We’re taking a tour of the best wine bars in Grand Rapids, and we’re going to keep all the flabby pours out of our glasses. After all, nothing hits on a hot summer day like a slatey chablis. Pure elegance. Or how about a rich Zinfandel with … Read more
Bloody Marys are of those drinks that have no business being so delicious. It’s like something a hungover frat guy threw together because his pantry was depleted. Tomato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, celery, some olives, and vodka? Recite this list of ingredients to a child, each ingredient more offensive than the last. Watch their … Read more
Having lived in Akron for my entire adult life, finding an inclusive and supportive community has always been important to me. When I first moved here as a young college student, one of the avenues to do this was to visit the local bars and nightclubs. What quickly became my favorite? The locally owned gay … Read more
I may not be much of a sports fan, but I am a fan of anywhere with fantastic food and drinks. In my experience, sports bars usually win in both of those categories, especially in St. Louis. So whether you’re in it for the big game or just the food, here are my picks for … Read more