Decked Out

I’ve never been one to spend every minute outside when it’s beautiful – and as you know in Michigan there’s no way we can plan ahead for that. We have to take it as it comes.

Lately, though, I’ve started taking to heart the enjoyable days. I’ve wanted to get outside. So already this summer I’ve sat in my backyard hammock chair reading a book, pedaled some of Grand Rapids’ terrific bike trails, and I’ve even walked the narrow, sunlit roads of Tuscany during a recent vacation. Back at home, I also recently enjoyed a Sunday afternoon on the patio at the Green Well. It was fabulous.

It was that in these things that I realized I spend far too much time in the air conditioning instead of outdoors somewhere – walking and talking or eating and sipping. So, as we embark on a new summer, I’m hoping to get out-of-doors more often and picnic on sunny afternoons; entertain friends in the backyard with fresh foods and newfound wines; and soak in the Meijer Gardens and a Picnic Pops concert or two.

I also plan to sit outside for lunch or dinner or drinks. When I started thinking of patios in the greater GR area, I started by listing some of my favorites. Then I asked others where they spend time. What I’ve generated is a list of places offering a wide variety of occasions and activities: watching people, enjoying the water, dining on fine food, or just simply grabbing a pint. By no means is this list complete. This is just a start.

“Sidewalk Café” types – The type where you go to grab a sandwich or coffee.

• Marie Catribs
• Kava House
• Red Ball Jet Café
• Wealthy Street Bakery
• Bobby J’s

“Water Watching” types – Where you go to feel the cool summer breezes, as evidenced by the ripples in the lake or river.

• Reds on the River
• Blue Water Grill
• Flat Water Grill
• Roses – A brand new deck awaits you. And, as you wait, fireplaces and cozy furniture!
• The Boatwerks
• Snug Harbor

“Seriously, I’m only going to have a beer (or martini)” types

• The Meanwhile
• Logans Alley
• The BOB, 3^rd floor

“Pub with a little grub” types – A place where you might eat something but really you’re going to hang out because it’s a beautiful summer night.

The Republic/Rockwell’s – which just opened and I have not yet experienced it. But they have one screened in deck and another open air.

• Hopcat
• Founders
• Ottawa Tavern/Bite

“The food and beverages go hand in hand” types

• The Green Well – you can’t miss their orange umbrellas and reasonably comfy chairs!
• San Chez
• Graydon’s Crossing – Located at Leonard and Plainfield with an upper AND lower deck. What’s more, their new location in EGR opens June 16 as of this writing.
• The Kirby House
• Thornapple Daily Grill

The “finer dining” types

• Tre Cugini
• XO Asian
• Bistro Bella Vita
• Mangiamo! – They really do have a great lawn. I mention it more because of the lawn and bocce.

So as summer progresses, I encourage you to give the outdoors your attention. Eat on your porch or in your yard. Eat foods from local farms and gardens, sip on libations from local stores and restaurants, sit outside at these fun places and enjoy watching the summer go by.