Beloved Soul Food Restaurant In Grand Rapids To Close, Fresh Concept Launching Soon

Grand Rapids is saying goodbye to another restaurant, though the owners say this isn’t about defeat—it’s about completing a mission and looking ahead to what’s next.

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Honoring a Legacy of Soul Food and Culture

Since opening at 1059 Wealthy St. SE seven years ago, Forty Acres Soul Kitchen has been a place to celebrate Black culture, community, and success.

Founded by Darel Ross, the restaurant brought people of all backgrounds together over plates of soul food in a modern, urban space.

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Forty Acres Soul Kitchen: Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights

Made-from-scratch dishes like fried chicken, brisket, catfish, shrimp, andouille sausage, and turkey legs became favorites—served on their own, in gumbo or po’ boys, or as part of hearty platters.

Classic sides like mac and cheese, greens, black-eyed peas, and grits rounded out the menu, alongside vegan options like fried cauliflower, soul rolls, wraps, and gumbo. And let’s not forget the bar menu packed with cognac, craft cocktails, beer, and wine.

Get in soon though if you want one last meal at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen!

Forty Acres Soul Kitchen Closing in Grand Rapids—New Concept Coming

Owner Darel Ross shared news of the restaurant's closure on Facebook, calling it the end of a powerful chapter. “This wasn’t just a place to eat. It was a place to gather, to be seen, to celebrate who we are,” Ross said.

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As he steps away from restaurant ownership to focus on other ventures, Chef Trimell Hawkins—the original culinary mind behind Forty Acres—is preparing for a new chapter. Hawkins plans to launch a new concept, Solace, in the same space this September.

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Fans have been sharing their memories and gratitude online.

Tansy says,

Thank you for being part of the community and playing such a tender role in so many lives, events and cherished memories. Wishing all the absolute best in next endeavors.

Breeyn writes,

Y’all catered my 2019 wedding. We over ordered and had so many leftovers that we threw a “take a plate” party the next morning and people came with ziplock bags and Tupperware. Our house was packed out and overflowing with guests coming back for seconds.

Cameron shares,

I am gonna miss rocking the mic on R&B karaoke nights. Brunches and more. I am glad I got to experience it!

Forty Acres’ final day of service is Wednesday, July 30.