While I consider myself a West Michigan native, my parents certainly are not. They spent their childhoods and a good part of their young adult life down south in Louisiana. So, even though I may have grown up in the north, there was certainly a constant Southern influence in the house. The South is well known for its hospitality and it’s hard to be a great host without serving great food. Anyone who has gone to New Orleans knows, the food there is hard to beat. Cajun is full of flavor, culture, and is one of NOLA’s (local’s shorthand for “New Orleans, LA”) best offerings. Growing up, there was never a bland meal on the table at home, and local restaurants had some tough competition.

There are few things my family values more than a good meal we can share together. At any celebration, special event, or time we are all together, we are either cooking a giant meal to share or trying a new restaurant. We are far from picky eaters, and love to go outside our comfort zone. Michigan has given us a far bigger range of restaurants and cuisine than my parents ever thought we would get.  

One of our favorite places we’ve tried is Bistro Bella Vita in Grand Rapids. With delicious pasta and pizzas among other Italian favorites, we were sold after one experience. Now, whenever my parents come to visit me, we try to have at least one meal there. A beautiful restaurant that is walking distance from my apartment, and now a family favorite, Bistro Bella Vita is a perfect example of a location that we feel fortunate to have been able to try. 

Another spot I’ve scoped out with friends is the Blue Dog Tavern. As a burger lover, this location is always at the top of my list for recommendations. Taking American classics: hot dogs, hamburgers, and tater tots to the next level, Blue Dog has a homey environment and is the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch with friends. They even feature a New Orleans classic: jambalaya, and I was not disappointed when I gave it a try. This place reminds me of home for all the right reasons.  

One type of food I discovered I love is sushi. Back home I got used to it coming from a grocery store, but here is the first time I’d ever seen a true “sushi place”! Soho Sushi is my go-to spot on a lazy weekend, one call and it’s delivered right to me. They have great specials that allow me not to break the bank, but still get something different when I feel like it.  

These three spots are only a few examples of some of the best food our area has to offer. I’ve found a great place for gyros, Chinese, barbecue, and Mediterranean too. The options seem to be endless, and even though back home might be small, it also has its fair share of places I look forward to going to every time I get the chance. I think our family has been pleasantly surprised at the food West Michigan has to offer, and the variety of options there are as well. We continue to find new places and experiment with different types of food, and have yet to hit a road block in finding something delicious no matter where we are.