50 Best Bars in Grand Rapids

“Was in tonight for dinner in GR on the front patio with a couple girlfriends and we were approached by a homeless man who tried to grab our bags. I’m reaching out to praise your manager and the rest of the staff for taking our concerns seriously and jumping into action. Top notch team you’ve got there. You were already a go to spot for us, but even moreso now. Thank you for a great spot, delicious menu, and for making your patrons safety a top priority!!“

“What a great experience here! Everyone was friendly and approachable and excited to tell us about their bubbly! Very clean and aesthetic environment! Overall we had a lot of fun here and we will be back soon!“

“very chill and tasty cocktails. great vibe. visitor from away. recommend“

“This place has socialize on the way but if you're having too much fun they'll tell you they have to serve another table amd tneed you to cash out. If you want to have fun and socialize...I Do NOT recommend you go to West Sife Socal because that is not the vibe of this place. More like ANTI social!!! Don't go...parking and socializing is terrible.“

“Was fun, and harder than I thought. Just a good time doing something different“

“Excellent assorted specialty coffees. The flat bread pizza was surprisingly good as well. Staff were all above and beyond in their service. Truly wonderful addition to Grand Rapids and Alger Heights.“

“Great staff. Friendly atmosphere. Fantastic drinks!“

“Mike was the first person who greeted me upon my first time here, he made me feel welcome and is very good at his job. He is the multitask master! Mack is also an honorable mention for being so sweet and kind, as well as good at what they do! This place has started to grow on me because of the service and overall fun atmosphere. Everyone here is great!“

“Went here for the first time tonight and will definitely be coming back! Me and my partner had a few great drinks and were able to relax and enjoy vinyl night. The owner was super sweet and obviously puts a ton of time and energy into making this business the best it can be and even made an effort to connect with every table at least once. Whether you’re looking to stop in for a few drinks or hang out for a couple hours this place is a great option!“

“This was our 1st visit to a Hop Cat and knew it was going to be loud. That would be the only negative I felt we need to mention, but overall we loved the place. Food was great, our server, Julia, was great. Everyone must try the Fries! Great beer selections, too! My husband had the Chicken Bowl and I had the Steak quesadillas and they were both very good. We will definitely go back.“

“I found Putt Putts when I was 23 yo and coming home from college as as Grand Rapids raised baby and found the most amazing burger ANYWHERE I've ever visited... nothing can compete to their Ultimate Burger. Got married and had a son because of my 1st date there and couldn't love them more even now that I've lived in every other state since then 💗“

“Situated just off the corner of Burton & Eastern SE, the Silver Derby is a classic little neighborhood dive bar in the Garfield Park & Alger Heights neighborhoods. With unique decor, the Derby has fantastic and attentive bar staff, a pool table, a back patio and the famous Derby Dog which is worth a try. The spirit of Southeast Grand Rapids runs strong at this must-visit joint.“

“Great service Great Lunch specials Fast efficient Clean and friendly“

“I stopped by this bar for a drink with a friend, and we happened to get there at a quiet time. It’s a very classy place with an upscale atmosphere, but the bartenders are friendly and down-to-earth. They have some rare drinks on their menu, but their cocktails are approachable and delicious. They don’t seem to water anything down, and the cocktails tend to be strong. I tried two: smooth criminal and lavender blues. I think I preferred lavender blues, it was light and floral, but both drinks were excellent. I’d love to come here again, and I think it’ll be easy to convince my friends once in a while.“

“Came in with my girlfriend for the Michigan vs USC game. Our server was Alicia. She was literally THE BEST! So attentive to our needs and the most personable friendly server we have ever had anywhere! If you’re coming to Logan’s Alley ask if Alicia is working! You won’t be disappointed!!“

“Really cute atmosphere friendly ppl who work there has a really good Philly cheese steak. I will be back for more 🤤 10/10 recommend“

“Food was delicious as always. We sat for almost 30 minutes before our drinks were brought out. Our appetizer was brought out with our food. I understand the restaurant was busy, I was just surprised the app or drinks weren't comped for the wait. The temperature was also very warm.“

“Vinny's is exactly what you think it is and it makes it a perfect dive bar full of lovely people and western Michigan culture located on the northeast side of Grand Rapids. Vinny's provides a down home spirit and a great place to grab a PBR and test your luck playing a little Keno. Come to Vinny's where you are sure to make a friend and have a good heartfelt conversation about the philosophy of life. Vinny's, it's exactly what you think it is where community is always on tap, even if the beers aren't.“

“I was only there for about an hour and a half back in May. I will definitely vist again the next time I'm in Grand Rapids. I like the raw nostalgic feel it presents. I felt completely comfortable.“

“Thanks to Bob's for steppin' up and taking Russian Vodka off the shelf in support of Ukraine. God Bless America!“

“Recommend… with qualifiers…the service from the staff, being greeted by the valet staff, front desk staff, concierge, etc was phenomenal! The room was spacious, the beds very comfortable… but… little things like dirty glasses in the bathroom, soap scum around the bathroom faucets, lack of seating (other than one desk chair) in the room is unacceptable in a high-end hotel. Disappointed there was no room service for breakfast or really any real breakfast options… I had better options at the 11 Best Western properties I stayed in during a 2023 two week road trip - full buffets (eggs, omelettes, pancakes, waffles, fruit, juice/milk, toast, bagels etc… INCLUDED as part of my reservation… ) the only breakfast option at the Amway Grand is grab-and-go cr*p… for an additional charge…from the Wolfgang Puck Kitchen Counter… located in the first floor of the hotel… As part of the “Curio Collection” of Hilton, and for the price of the room, I expect better. I never minded paying for room service as it was well worth the convenience,especially when staying for a business conference that has minimal time available to seek other more palatable options…Hotel was much better when run by the Amway company… I’d give the Amway Grand 2.5 stars at the most…“

“Great bar on the West Side of Grand Rapids! You can't beat the $6 burger and beer special on Wednesdays, and all the other weekly specials. Definitely a spot to check out!!“

“Great food, staff and friendly welcoming atmosphere 👍“

“We love this place. Great "dive" bar experience.“

“REOPENED and better than ever, but limited food options for a couple months.

I spoke with the bartender and he explained they were able to get most everything up and running again back in mid December, but there is still a bit of painting and they need to build up their revenue to purchase new kitchen equipment to bring their menu back fully. They do offer a few options like quesadillas, nachos, and so on, but not much.

- Service: Same great personable service.

- Atmosphere: Everything is clean and new.

They have two pool tables and they are in great shape. They cost $1, which is the going price for a game of pool these days. They also have dart boards, but we do not use them and cannot speak to that. They have an ATM machine and change machine.

The wood flooring brings new vibrancy. The walls are clean. Everything feels new (because it is). Some of the paraphernalia includes mild adult material, so I would not bringing kids.

- Conclusion: Glad to see The Web back on their feet better than before. I enjoy coming to play pool. Hope to have a burger there soon.

Visited on a Tuesday at 7pm.

Parking: The parking lot is actually bigger and nicer than previously.“

“Second time here ,so far ,itis good“

“Personally I've never heard of this establishment. Lived in GR for decades. Trying to find a facility that's open on a holiday and with billiard tables proved challenging. College Inn was both open and has two tables. Staff was courteous, kind and polite. On that specific day it was not overly busy. Appeared their customers were all content. Ones I spoke with were friendly and genuine. Will definitely go there again and reccomend others to do the same.
I hope their business is successful. Although, this is irrelevant.....whomever decided to mounting the Men's room wash sink at its height is brilliant. Never seen that in my entire lifetime. Not trying to take anything away from a good experience. That wash sink's height just topped it off. Again, an outstanding decision!! Great place to playbilliards, excellent staff and patrons.“

“Very relaxed no frills dive bar. Don't expect fancy cocktails or a large beer selection, but if you just want a quiet place to grab a beer and chat with folks it's a great spot.The drinks are cheap ($8 for a pitcher of Foster's) and they only take cash but there is an ATM inside. One of the oldest bars in town!“

“If a dive bar could be a chameleon, this place would be it. If not for the big mural screaming "Pump House," one would think this is the management office for the adjacent apartment buildings. Don't be fooled, for once you find this gem off of the beaten path of SE Kalamazoo near 42nd Street you will find a great and relaxed atmosphere with down-to-earth regulars and a pool table, and the drinks are more than affordable making this dive of SE GR a must.“

“Have fun every weekend !!!“

“Our favorite restaurant no longer serves Manhattan style clam chowder and we are nothing less than heartbroken. We didn't realize that our favorite thing there wasn't popular enough to retain as a menu item when Leo's changed hands. We can live with the smaller lobster tails, but this is really hard for us to take. Cry.“

“I spent a couple hours here one summer afternoon enjoying a few drinks and taking in the ambiance. It’s quite a cozy Irish pub that seems to have a group of regulars who give the bar a welcoming feel. I’ll definitely drop by again when I’m in the neighborhood.“

“I haven't been there in awhile. But like the last time 2,3,5,10 years ago the same. smile, Laughter Great food great service I have never been to a Bar, restaurants that you can sit down next to a stranger. Drink eat Laugh. and leave feeling like you are a part of a new group😉👍“

“My girlfriend and her friends have gone a few times and is a cool place. The security there on the weekends she has gone is great. Saturday nite ( I am pretty sure of the names) Jamie ( she said was walking around) and Matt ( was security at the door) were amazing. Very friendly and kept an eye on everything. Were on top of the place and my girl and her friends felt at ease with them watching.. They will definitely be going back feeling safe. The bull is amazing and the live music rocked. She said any questions she had Matt answered professionally and Jamie was ontop of keeping the tables clear and open for people to sit.“

“This is the best bar on the West side. I’m hesitant to recommend it, because I hate people. But I love gatherings. Weird, isn’t it?“

“Best servers I have ever had!! That blonde girl though!! Awesome service, great food.“

“Smells like mushrooms and People look like they want to hurt me. five stars. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“I’ve been to Anchor a few times now, and it’s been pleasant during each visit. The bartenders seem nice enough, and the seating is comfortable. It’s definitely an old-fashioned bar, but that makes it all the more appealing these days. The beer is cheap too, so that’s definitely not bad. As long as you’re not looking for something fancy, I think you can’t go wrong choosing the Anchor for a drink.“

“Great Southwestern food and you can bring your dog if you eat outside.

If the weather is good, a fun place to eat outside and people watch.

Pet friendly, water supplied for your dog.

Burgers are cooked exactly how you order, so you don't have to underestimate done ness. The toppings were all fresh, even the lettuce.

Pretty good amount of fries that looked dark, but were perfect.

Can't find anything to complain about, even with Artprize, bathrooms were clean.

Recommended.“

“Awesome place great food.“

“Atmosphere was great had a nice art deco feel. Line to get in kept moving no waiting forever for simple ticket check. The only problem we had was the drink prices were a bit high. Granted tic for comedy show we're not overpriced we understood the 2 drink minimum but when 4 drinks turned out to be $40+. Little much for high moon seltzers and jack/sprite“

“There are THREE sides to every story. First Side, the Triangle Bar is a classic westside neighborhood bar/establishment adding character to this old school westside community. Second Side, the staff and bar tender are PHENOMENAL and super friendly. This place has a loyal clientele who call this place home. Third Side, free popcorn a pool table and overall great local dive vibe. The Triangle Tavern is a MUST if you want to experience authentic lower westside culture.“

“We went for a show for TheWestside and LOVED the vibes. This place is awesome, atmosphere is fantastic, bartenders are some of the nicest people I’ve met at a bar. Drinks are average price(maybe slightly cheaper, it’s been awhile since we went out). Overall a great lil pub. They even have an upstairs area that you can view the music area of the Pub. Cool place, even cooler people.“

“Been coming to this place for years, the food is always amazing and the service. Today, Jacob served us and was super kind and attentive. We always recommend this place to friends and family, if you’re looking for a fun spot to dine this is a must!“

“This whole place is basically the bar area seating - great spot for making new friends. I had two hours before my flight and plopped myself down at the first available bar seat to have my liquid dinner. Had a quick chat with the bartender and all the beers suggested were solid. Meanwhile there were loads of chatty folks at the bar area and it made the two hours fly by. Didn’t try any of the solid foods, but the free smells were great.“

“If there was a 3rd space (not home but just as good, where you can relax and feel safe and make community), Speciation is it. Everyone who works here is completely lovely. They’re kind, thoughtful, and good humans, the sort of people you want to be friends with. You can put your feet up here and just be yourself. I haven’t yet touched on the beer yet but the beer is completely delicious and stellar, exceptional. It’s something to write home about, with interesting flavors, delicious and unexpected combinations (even for this foodie). They are known for their sours, but their slushies are extraordinary and I love their NA options. I always find something I love here, and not just one something, many somethings. Speciation is the place to meet friends or to come and work or to make new friends or to play trivia. There’s even a patio with lawn games. Speciation is the place to come in Grand Rapids, whether you’re from here or visiting for the weekend. It’s just right.“

“Jose was one of the best mixologist I have come across in Grand Rapids. I would highly recommend coming to AC for the service.“