The other day, a detour on my drive home from work sent me down a route I don't normally take. Passing through Grand Rapids' Boston Square neighborhood, I noticed 7 Mares Restaurant looked dark during what should've been a busy dinner rush. It felt off, and now we know why.

100.5 FM The River logo
Get our free mobile app

Devastating Kitchen Fire Forces Temporary Closure

On July 21, a severe fire broke out at the restaurant, causing heavy damage to the kitchen. Everyone made it out safely, but the destruction forced the family-owned spot to temporarily close its doors.

Google Street View
Google Street View

Serving Grand Rapids Authentic Mexican Cuisine for Over 25 Years

For over 25 years, 7 Mares has been serving up authentic Mexican food at 1403 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Grand Rapids. They're known for classics like burritos, tacos, and enchiladas, but also for seafood like their signature Siete Mares soup loaded with shrimp, scallops, tilapia, crab, and octopus.

READ MORE: Saved By Grand Rapids - Beloved Independent Book Store to Reopen Under New Ownership

7 Mares via Facebook
7 Mares via Facebook

How to Support 7 Mares at the Boston Square Fundraiser

Rebuilding after a kitchen fire takes time, but local groups are stepping in to help. The Boston Square Neighborhood Association, Amplify GR, and Oakdale Park Church are teaming up with the restaurant to host a pop-up fundraiser in the church parking lot, and the whole community is invited to come out.

UP NEXT: Fried Chicken and Seafood Joints Shuts Down in Grand Rapids After One Year

7 Mares Fundraiser Details:

  • Location: Oakdale Park Church Parking Lot (961 Temple St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507)
  • Friday, August 14: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, August 15: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, August 16: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Stopping by to grab a meal helps support their staff through the closure and directly funds their rebuilding efforts.

👇BELOW: LOCALS SAY THESE ARE GRAND RAPIDS 'HIDDEN FOOD GEMS'👇

As the 7 Mares family shared on Facebook,

Come enjoy your favorite 7 Mares dishes, spend time with family and friends, and help us take another step toward reopening our doors. Every meal purchased, every share, and every act of support makes a difference. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in us. 7 Mares has always been more than a restaurant, it’s a place where community comes together. We can’t wait for the day we welcome you back through our doors.

Follow 7 Mares for reopening updates!

Check Out These 'Hidden Gem' Food Spots In Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is known for its excellent food and beer scenes. Some spots have great food but might not get the attention other places do. Check these spots out, courtesy of Grand Rapids locals.

Gallery Credit: Tommy McNeill

More From 100.5 FM The River