By Dana Kroll, Uptown Marketing and Communications Specialist
We wait all year for this. Especially those of us that (one) love West Michigan, (two) love local and independent businesses, and (three) love awesome, equitable, and FREE journalism – we’re looking at you, Revue West Michigan! The incredible team behind this beloved regional publication has once again worked their tails off to keep one of our area’s most beloved of traditions alive and thriving. That is, the Best of the West competition (it’s eighth annual, might we add). Now that their work is done, it’s time for our part, and that is, to offer hearty congratulations to all of our district’s winners. This year, Uptown netted 58 winners and finalists; up by 11 from last year. Seems safe to say it: When it comes to local businesses in Uptown, we’re not only growing,- we’re growing winners.
It’s important to mention that while our organization always appreciates the opportunity that this contest provides us to beam pride about our businesses and the people who operate them…it’s also a good time to be reminded of how grateful we are for all of the voters. Perhaps you’re one of them! If so, you should know that a ‘Best of the West’ recognition is one that small and local businesses, like ours in Uptown, hold near and dear to heart. Casting your vote is a really meaningful way to support local, and directly impacts the visibility and brand recognition of the finalists and winning businesses.
And now for the main event – it’s time to shout out our winners. We are so proud of these fantastic establishments, and we hope you can take time to experience them soon to find out why they’ve been awarded the title of the very BEST in their categories, in all of West Michigan!
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST COFFEE: Madcap Coffee
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST FRIED CHICKEN: Hancock
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST HOT DOGS: Yesterdog
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST MEDITTERRANEAN: The Pita House
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST SOUP: Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST NEW RESTAURANT: Black Napkin
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST SUSHI: Maru
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST BREWERY: Brewery Vivant
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST CRAFT COCKTAILS: Long Road Distillers/Less Traveled
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST DISTILLERY: Long Road Distillers/Less Traveled
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST GIN: Long Road Distillers/Less Traveled (Long Road MICHIGIN)
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST VODKA: Long Road Distillers/Less Traveled (Original Vodka)
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST MARGARITA: Donkey Taqueria
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST BARTENDER: Cassie Heuton, Pursuit of Happiness Co.
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST WELLNESS CENTER: Grand Rapids Wellness
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST YOGA: Funky Buddha Hothouse
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST GIFT SHOP: Rebel
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING: Lee & Birch
2023 THE BEST OF THE WEST SHOPPING DISTRICT/DESTINATION: Eastown
In addition, we celebrate the following businesses who scored a finalist position in their categories as listed:
A few final and special callouts we would like to mention. First: Two of our four business districts are to be recognized this year. Both our Eastown and Wealthy Street corridors were who YOU picked as your favorite shopping destinations, in all of West Michigan. Thanks! Also – Way to go, Long Road Distillery. They’ve netted their second “Golden Certificate” – that means they are two for two (as this extra competition category began just last year), and that their stellar brand scored first place wins across the most total voting categories. Find their incredible sips at the Less Traveled Cocktail Bar in East Hills.
Congratulations again to all of our winners. To find out more about any of these wonderful establishments, check out the Business Directory on our website.
Meanwhile, be sure to pick up your copy of the August Revue WM magazine, found on newsstands throughout countless local businesses in our district (it is also digitally distributed – find it here).