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DOWNTOWN. This sophisticated storefront cafe, located just across from the Monroe Mall amphitheater, is one of downtown's more popular alcohol-free hangouts, especially with the introspective, artsy crowd. If it's cold out, treat yourself like royalty and order an espresso con panna, cafe au lait, chai tea, or espresso macchiato. If you're looking to escape the summer heat, one of their brilliant Four Friends Milkshakes, Shakey Shakes, or smoothies may be the way to go. As for eats, you'll find a versatile menu that features everything from breakfast bagels, Texas-style grilled cheeses, and baguettes to muffins, scones, and cookies. Every now and then, Four Friends offers live music (most shows start at 9pm), and there are also a few computers available for those wanting to surf the Web.
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Gaia Cafe
209 Diamond St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 · 616-454-6233
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EASTOWN. One of the east side's trendier lunch and dessert destinations, Gaia is a favorite with the cool neighborhood crowd. A small gallery area promotes the work of local artists (many of them from the neighborhood), and the skilled kitchen staff makes sure that the artsy clientele always has plenty of hot food, homemade sweets, and fresh gourmet coffee to enjoy while they pass the time chatting about the latest film, book, or play to hit the scene. A fabulous juice bar and several vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, too.
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GASLIGHT VILLAGE. For parts of five decades, this sweet gem has been treating customers to some of Western Michigan's tastiest ice creams and desserts. As the story goes, the building's unique design (it resembles an old railroad station) inspired the name – of course, the Jersey cow contributed a bit as well. Renovated to look much as it did when it opened in October of 1963, the old-fashioned parlor and candy store features display cabinets and shelves packed with Nerds, Pop Rocks, Fun Dip, and homemade ice creams. Famous flavors include Traverse Bay cherry chocolate, watermelon sherbet, coconut fudge delight, and turtle sundae.
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Robinette's allows the whole family to experience a traditional, less complicated way of life. Plan to spend a good portion of your day here, touring the grounds, learning about the apple-growing business, and even having a homemade lunch in the farm's dining hall. Horse-drawn hayrides lead happy guests on trips through the orchards and are a big hit. The farm's shop, located in a barn that dates from the 19th century, carries souvenirs and gift baskets. There's also a 5-mile mountain biking trail that becomes a cross country skiing track in the winter. Rentals are available.
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Rosie's Diner
4500 14 Mile Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341 · 616-866-3663
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ROCKFORD. This classic roadside diner, located just off I-96, has changed little in appearance since it first opened in the mid-1940s. You'll still find shiny chrome accents, neon lights, and apron-wearing waitresses. The fare is 100% American, featuring burgers, steaks, and Rosie's famous meatloaf. Additions to the menu over the years include baked lasagna, battered fish fillets, and a mac-and-cheese dinner. Of course, if you do nothing else, visit Rosie's just to sample famous Diner-Made Pies, Uncle Bob's Famous Cheesecake, or the kitchen's daily dessert special. A small gift shop carries neon signs, Rosie's t-shirts and caps, and a variety of other neat souvenirs.
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Starbucks
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2172 Wealthy St SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 · 616-451-0871
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GASLIGHT VILLAGE. This Gaslight Village favorite is the place to go to get your day started, take a break, or wind down. In the early hours, you can order the wake-up call of your preference, and frappuccinos and iced coffees are available for mid-day refreshment. Choose from hot chocolates, mochaccinos, and cappuccinos as a means of rewarding yourself after a long day. From flavored coffees and cafe lattes to teas and ciders, the menu on the wall has it all. An enticing selection of muffins, biscotti and pastries is also on display.
Looking for a restaurant? We've explored the options, checked with critics, and pounded the pavement to offer only the best. Recommendations come complete with contact information and a brief description highlighting the important features of the restaurant. Fit our choices to your mood, or let us guide your tastes. You'll likely find a few places that not even locals know about.
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