Shop Local: Quarantine Food Edition
In light of all the negative things that are happening right now, I’m trying to find the silver lining. Because there has to be some good that comes out of all this, right? I refuse to think otherwise. For me, I’ve been reevaluating my shopping habits, specifically where I’m buying my food. It took being in quarantine to realize what a poor job I’ve been doing. Oh sure, I’ll go to the farmers market in the summer but I don’t always make it a point beyond that. My coffee comes from the grocery store, along with my eggs and milk and bread. All of those things I can find from someone local. And so during these past few weeks, I’ve been taking steps to change that.
I want to do my part to support our communities here in West Michigan, so I’m sharing with you all the places that are open and ready to serve you. Think farmers, grocers, restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops. I’ve kept the list to places I’ve been to (with a couple exceptions) and would recommend to you. If you’re not from around here, I hope this post will encourage you to look at ways you can help boost your local economy.
Grocery Items:
Crisp Country Acres (Holland- North): The perfect stop for fresh produce, jam, maple syrup, honey, eggs, milk, meat, ice cream, coffee. If you love Water Street Coffee (I recently made cold brew with it, so good!) this is an easy way to get it. Go support Crisp Country Acres! https://www.facebook.com/crispcountryacres/
Visser Farms (Holland- South, Chicago Drive.): Seasonal produce (currently: think kale, potatoes, carrots), as well as eggs and honey. They are also at the Fulton Street Market in Grand Rapids. Check their Facebook page for details and hours. https://www.facebook.com/visserfarms/
Earl’s Meats (Holland- South): I haven’t been, but it comes highly recommended. For all your meat needs. https://www.facebook.com/earlsmeats/
Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions (Saugatuck): Always going above and beyond; the staff here is amazing. And naturally during this time, they are offering everything! Pre-order a CSA box (full of in-season produce) and support those local farmers. But make sure to bring home some baked goods, soup, coffee, bread, cheese, meat, etc… When quarantine is over, you should stop by in person. If you’re a fan of Madcap coffee, get your 616 here. https://www.pennyroyalprovisions.com/csa-program
Zeeland Bakery (Zeeland- Downtown): A favorite for fresh bread and burger buns. https://www.facebook.com/zeelandbakery/
Uncommon Coffee Roasters (Saugatuck): Let’s stay caffeinated during this. Especially parents of young children. I see you. Make that second pot of coffee already. Oh and order online, get your coffee shipped if you don’t live close. https://uncommoncoffeeroasters.com
Ready-Made Food/Takeout:
The Farmhouse Deli (Douglas): The nicest staff around with some amazing food too. Right now they are offering different entrees, soups, sides and staple items like flour and eggs. Don’t forget dessert (if you like carrot cake, order it!). Check out their menu on Instagram. Pre-order, they offer food pick-up twice a week. https://www.instagram.com/farmhousedeli/
DeBoer Bakery (Holland- South): Where do I start? Personally, I ordered one donut so I can snack on it on the way home with my other goods (smart huh?). The ham and gouda croissants are my favorite, also pig-n-blankets, soup, frozen pizza dough, sweet treats and coffee. Pre-order for Saturday pick-up. They sell out fast so order as soon as possible. https://www.instagram.com/deboerbakery/
Donutville (Holland- South): To my husband’s delight, his favorite donut place is still open. Of course I had to surprise him on his birthday with a few treats. His favorite, Chocolate Fried Cinnamon. Mine, everything. Bring cash.
Bowdie’s (Saugatuck): I was hesitant to cook such a good steak at home. Well I’m so glad we did. It was amazing! Treat yourself during quarantine to some high-quality red meat. Oh and don’t forget your side items, they have plenty to choose from. https://www.bowdies.com
American Char (Drenthe): Get the chicken tacos, or the olive burger, or the brisket burrito (!!!). Of course they have their staples too like smoked brisket, chicken wings and pulled pork. My son personally loves the pork from Chef Len. Check their Facebook page for rotating daily specials. https://www.facebook.com/americanchar/
Captain Sundae (Holland-North, Holland- South, Zeeland): Is ice cream essential? To some it is. I’ve been enjoying my soft serve chocolate ice cream lately, with sprinkles. The Zeeland and Holland South locations offer drive-thru. https://www.captainsundae.net
Dairy Dayz: A Saugatuck classic. The portions are large, but isn’t that what you want from your ice cream? https://www.facebook.com/Dairy-Dayz-Ice-Cream-196146923744104/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&eid=ARD1EKXy2W2fssGA_Gm_9I0VkMvfG3oADkbQrYdoAOIQWZZidNe525Ys5yWRpt36XfHm1_JZViW9giYL
The Mitten Brewery (Saugatuck): I’ve only been here once, clearly I have many more pizzas to try! Feeling traditional? Try the Margherita. If you’re feeling adventurous, how about the Westerdog? Take-out available Wednesday-Sunday. https://www.facebook.com/mittensaugatuck/
Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant and Winery (Fennville): Get your sweet tooth fix with dessert from a local favorite. Pick up a cherry pie, or red raspberry or apple. Don’t forget about their preserves, apple butter, maple syrup or homemade sloppy joe mix. Ask about their wine and hard cider options. https://www.cranespiepantry.com/order-a-pick-up.html?fbclid=IwAR20EcSGF3AJfb-aKb6sLqBFZ9zuwo3vjq6si4kGdQRuzriKzAPNKp3Xpeg#/
Crane’s in the City (Holland- Downtown): If you don’t want to drive as far as Fennville, Crane’s in the City has pie for you too. As well as pre-made meal options. I recommend the City Cristo, I’ll take apples on my sandwich all day. Sandwiches, soups, salads, apple cider, they have it all! Order online or call. https://www.cranesinthecity.com/order-pies
Petrino’s (Holland- South, Holland-North, Zeeland): For fresh, authentic Italian pizza, this is your place. Order your pizza + the Italian Bread Bites, you won’t be disappointed. Three locations to serve you (some locations may be temporarily closed).
China Inn (Holland- North): Shout out to my husband’s favorite Chinese takeout. And they have the best hot tea. I get it every time (along with General Tso’s Chicken). https://www.facebook.com/pages/China-Inn-Restaurant/116214415070365?ref=br_rs
Albert K’s Lakeside Cafe (Holland- North). Coffee + food. I’ve haven’t tried the food yet but I’ve heard good things. Tell me if you’ve been! They are located on the way to the Holland State Park, if you’re going for a drive (are we allowed to do that?) grab food at the same time. Call ahead to order. https://www.facebook.com/albertkscafe/
Big Lake Brewing (Holland- Downtown): For your food and beer fix. Call to order, don’t forget about the tots. https://biglakebrewing.com/food/
The Biscuit (Holland- South. Washington Square): A brunch staple for this family. We love The Biscuit. Everything is good here. Matt has been known to order two meals at a time… https://www.facebook.com/The-Biscuit-85875947567/
Mi Favorita Grocery (Holland- South): I personally have not been here, but it comes highly recommended. I’ve heard the tacos are a must. After seeing photos on their Facebook page and website, I’d say I’m due for a visit. Call ahead. https://www.mifavoritagrocery.com/?fbclid=IwAR3h5fPQePXw3chzdmmQur2NYEd7qXOvcQPcMEc5AlGiGv8Fazmtb45Dbco
Goog’s Pub & Grub (Holland- South): The place to go when you need that burger and fries. I don’t have a favorite because they’re all good. http://googspub.com/menu