Whether you are now new to Grand Rapids or you have lived here your entire life, there are bound to be some new hidden gems for you to explore when it comes to dining here in the city. Let’s face it, we all try to pack our lunches for our busy workdays, but sometimes we may want to snag a bite to go or get lunch out with a co-worker. We may work from home but want to walk to a local joint or order “to go” for a change of pace. However way you want to spin it, there are endless lunch options for you to grab a quick bite or to sit and stay awhile. Whether it is during the busy week or during the weekends when you have some time to relax and be with friends and family, look no further than this lunch spot guide that will be sure to satisfy all of your tastebuds.
Rockwell Republic – Let’s start with a fan favorite for any type of craving you may have. With a modern industrial and sports bar-like feel inside and a sunny patio out back, with two floors and two very different sides of the restaurant to choose from, meet the Rockwell Republic. This American and Asian cuisine has everything from sandwiches to sushi, burgers to chicken and rice dishes that are sure to please. The beer garden and two indoor bars are sure to fit whatever mood you are feeling in to enjoy lunch.
Donkey Taqueria – Located in the heart of the Wealthy St district, Donkey Taqueria is the one-stop shop for all of your Mexican favorites. Whether dining in or if you work around the Wealthy St. area this spot has something for everyone to enjoy. Choose from delicious street tacos, chips and dips, and salsas, and be sure to take advantage of their virgin drinks (during the work week) or if you are brunching on the weekend their delicious margaritas. Again, this is a spot that you can walk to on a sunny day and enjoy dining inside or outside on their patio.
The Electric Cheetah – Also located on Wealthy St., this electric and quirky decorated restaurant has an eclectic menu that will be sure to make you say, “Whoa”! From delicious mac and cheese to sandwiches, salads, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a bite and run back to the office to finish up the day feeling full and fueled for your afternoon.
Grand Rapids Downtown Market – Needing a very quick bite and wanting a lot of options in one place? Look no further than the Downtown Market located on Ionia Street downtown. This market has everything from Sushi to BBQ, to sandwiches and salads, to fried fish, and so much more. Not only can you enjoy a quick bite during the week, but on the weekends, enjoy a long lunch and then follow it up with wine tasting, great coffee, ice cream, and some shopping with many local vendors. The options are truly endless at the market!
The Winchester – Meet elevated bar food in this East Hills Neighborhood gastropub. This neighborhood favorite has a fun patio that is open pretty year-round, so you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine or the coziness of the heaters in the wintertime. At The Winchester, you will find delicious wraps, salads, entrees, creative appetizers, and the famous Winchester burger and the infamous Bloody Marys. Dine in or out during the week for a fulfilling lunch or enjoy this spot for brunch or lunch during the weekends and enjoy the full bar.
Anna’s House – Located on the East Beltline, right by Woodland Mall, Anna’s House is a family-owned restaurant right here in Michigan and has been around since 2002. This hot spot is known for providing fresh, local, and quality ingredients while offering everything from gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and more. Wraps, salads, burgers, and more, there is something for everyone to get their hands on, not to mention the all-day breakfast (for lunch), which includes everything from the sweets like waffles and pancakes to health-conscious options like oatmeal and veggie omelets and more.
Maru Sushi – Mari is the place to be if you love sushi! Maru features delicious hand-rolled rolls, specialty rolls, and hibachi cuisine. Maru also has an amazing selection of nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks, appetizers, and traditional Asian cuisine sides. Grab a seat inside or on the patio, or get your sushi takeout while you are on the go. There is something for all to enjoy and experience at Maru!
Luna – Coming in at another Mexican fan favorite is Luna, located on Ionia Street right by Van Andel Arena. This industrial, dark, and modern feel spot is perfect for tacos to go by ordering ahead and bringing them back to your desk or enjoying your food sitting down or at the full-service bar. Choose from a variety of tacos, delicious sides, and unlimited chips and salsa. This will be sure to satisfy that spice craving and set the fire back into your body to finish up your day.
The Green Well – Come enjoy classic dishes taken to the next level. Enjoy the famous Green Well burger, delicious truffle fries with addicting aioli, a salad to fit any craving, piled-high sandwiches, and so much more. With a brand-new look as of Spring of 2023 and another sunlit patio option, this spot is quick, convenient, and delicious if you are in the Greater Grand Rapids/Cherry St. District.
Terra GR – Here at Terra, you will find a seasonal farm-to-table menu that features hearty dishes, wood-fired pizzas, crisp salads, brunch items, and more sourced with local ingredients. Terra is a great spot to meet co-workers, friends, or family for lunch, and the beautiful brick inside that offers lots of natural window light is the perfect spot to connect. Stop in today to see for yourself!
Written By Kaleigh Teunessen
