Grand Rapids?

[Waitman]

So, any hints for Grand Rapids, besides drink the beer?*  Their restaurant week looks a little frightening, though I'm pleased that Applebee's is participating.

* The U.S. Rowing Master's National regatta touts the on-site beer garden. The hosts are sponsoring microbrewery tours (15 in the city limits!).  The first half of the "Things to Do In Grand Rapid" web page is devoted to beer. And, in case you were wondering, Grand Rapids is Beer City USA. It's too bad I have to actually race while I'm there.

[Joe H]

I haven't been to Grand Rapids in four or five years but I stayed there annually dating back to the early '90's.  Much prefer the JW Marriott over the Amway. Outstanding location downtown which literally backs to the river.  http://www.sanchezbistro.com/%C2'> the San Chez Bistro which is a tapas bar a couple of short blocks away.  I've probably been there a half dozen times and it became something of a routine including the Marriott stay and walking over there for dinner.  Usually I would sit at the bar.

What's important is that this place has a great deal of character with decent to good tapas.  It's not Jaleo but the room feels much more like Spain and much less like Michigan.  Actually, I like Grand Rapids a lot and would look forward to my overnights there.

As for beer, it's my loss, since I drink wine.

[Seanchai]

* The U.S. Rowing Master's National regatta touts the on-site beer garden. The hosts are sponsoring microbrewery tours (15 in the city limits!).  The first half of the "Things to Do In Grand Rapid" web page is devoted to beer. And, in case you were wondering, Grand Rapids is Beer City USA. It's too bad I have to actually race while I'm there.

..

Speaking of beer, Founders is one of the best breweries in the country and they do have a taproom menu;  it's gotta be better than Applebees's ...