Another New Restaurant Opens in Grand Rapids and it’s a Gem

I had the pleasure of "hanging out" with two of my favorite people Thursday night. Executive Chef and partner, Eric Chaitin and his partner, Jim Bultema, have opened the new Matchbox Diner & Drinks restaurant, formerly the Brandywine, on Lake Drive in Eastown, and it's a gem.

My wife Kathy, daughter Molly and grandson Charlie joined me as we got to experience a new "hot spot" in the making.

It's not a large space, but they have made it modern, cozy and welcoming with a good vibe. Service seemed top notch. our waitress was great and helped pick a great wine for us.

They continue to serve breakfast all-day, as the Brandywine did, great lunches and delicious dinners. We tried a couple of the appetizers, the chicken boat and the shrimp.

Oh, the shrimp....so good. Then on to the main course. Kathy had White Fish, Molly the half-chicken, Charlie a cheese burger and me? The braised short-ribs, of course. All of them were fantastic and full of flavor.

The Matchbox, in Eastown, has to be your new favorite restaurant.