Not Everyone Savors Cooking for a Crowd
For those of us who are not Martha Stewart. For those of us who are just terrible at cooking for a huge group (because, well…math!). And for those of us who, let’s face it, are just too crazy busy to fathom attempting either of these feats, we have the list for you!
We asked our readers for some of their favorite caterers and places with private dining space around Grand Rapids for those times when you need to throw a great event, but need a little help with the food.
Favorite Grand Rapids Catering
These chefs will create delicious meals for your party or family get-together so you can spend more time on all the other details that go into a gathering. Here are caterers that our Facebook readers recommended.
1 – Adeline Leigh Catering | 1132 Chicago Drive SW, Wyoming, MI | 616-452-1403
Whether you are in need of catering for a wedding, a funeral, corporate meeting boxed lunches, or any other occasion, Adeline Leigh Catering will give you quality food with a beautiful presentation.
“Very nice staff, easy to work with, and very yummy food!!” – LG
2 – Chick-fi-a | 700 54th Street SW, Wyoming, MI | 616-534-2961 & 1545 Edgeknoll Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-656-6000
More than just a quick stop for fast food, Chick-fil-a offers inexpensive and delicious catering options. From packaged meals, to salads, to breakfast, to classic chicken options and more, you will find what you need for your event with Chick-fil-a’s catering.
3 – Electric Hero Sandwich Shop | Grand Rapids, Rockford, Holland, Grand Haven
Offering unique sandwiches, salads, and soups via platters, boxes or food trucks, Electric Hero’s goal is to be your destination for tasty, interesting, and quick eats.
4 – Flo’s Sports Bar | 1259 Post Drive, Belmont, MI | 616-785-1001 & 107 South Lafayette, Greenville, MI | 616-785-1001
Flo’s offers express catering to other sites as well as on-site banquet rooms with plated dinners, buffets and other options. Make Flo’s your choice for business meetings, anniversaries, birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, fundraising, and other events.
5 – Frankie V’s Pizzeria | 1420 28th Street SW, Wyoming, MI | 616-532-8998
If pizza is what you want, Frankie V’s has been in the family pizza business for over 40 years. And pizza isn’t the only item on the menu – Frankie V’s offers subs, pasta, paninis, burgers, salads and more for your group gatherings.
“The food was amazing! Fabulous service and prices too.” – SN
6 – Fresh Coast Kitchen | 1633 28th Street, Suite L, Wyoming, MI | 616-608-5121 & 2289 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-805-4746
With two locations serving Grand Rapids, Fresh Coast sources Michigan product whenever possible, delivering delicious, casual eats to parties around West Michigan.
“Fresh Coast Kitchen is fabulous for lunch or a casual dinner. The BEST subs! Their salads, pizzas and hot dogs are awesome too!” – LW
7 – Mudpenny | 1000 East Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-259-5353
Creative and delicious food is what you will find at Mudpenny. Catering for large groups include sandwiches, soups, salads, breakfasts and more.
8 – Panera | Various Grand Rapids area locations
With conveniences like online ordering, delivery, a customizable menu and same day service, Panera is perfect for your business or personal event. Panera’s large menu includes everything you need for breakfast, lunch or dinner, including bagels, pastries, sandwiches, salads, coffee, and more.
9 – Pietro’s | 2780 Birchcrest SE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-452-3228
Pietro’s presents you with three catering options to suit your event’s needs – pickup, delivery, or full service. And with a large and diverse menu ranging from breakfast to buffets to plated entrees and more, Pietro’s is ready to make your event all that you dreamed it would be.
10 – Vault Catering | 200 Ottawa, Mailbox 148, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-454-3847
The mission of Vault Catering is to bring culinary innovation and personalized service to those they serve. Whether they are catering a wedding, a corporate event, or another large gathering, their goal is to contribute to the success of the event.
11 – Yo Chef’s | 34 44th Street SE, Kentwood, MI | 616-608-3003
Affordable excellence is what you will get with Yo Chef’s Catering Company. Offering services for weddings, graduations, corporate events and more, Yo Chef’s will bring creativity, quality and a memorable charm to your event.
Favorite Restaurants that Serve Large Groups
So many times I’ve seen the question pop up on Facebook – “Help, my family is coming to town and we don’t know what restaurant can seat us all!” Well, look no further – here are some of our readers’ favorites.
1 – Bistro Bella Vita | 44 Grandville Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-222-4600
Whether you are planning for a large event or a smaller scale event, Bistro Bella Vita has you covered. For larger events, the Private Dining Room offers a customizable menu, audio visual options, live entertainment services and more. For more intimate events, the VIP Cellar Table is perfect – order off the menu or customize.
2 – The Euro Bistro | 6450 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-719-2017
The Euro Bistro specializes in French and European cuisine, using fine meats and fresh produce, much of which is from right here in West Michigan. Rent out the private dining room or rent out the entire restaurant!
3 – Gravity Taphouse | 3210 Deposit Drive, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-719-4944
Not only is Gravity conveniently located just off the highway, but they have three private dining areas to accommodate up to 60 of your guests. With a diverse menu and a full beverage menu (including 64 craft beer taps), Gravity is a perfect place to hold your next event.
4 – The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar | 5301 Northland Dr ive, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-301-0600
The Score uniquely offers eight rent private dining areas – four outdoor areas for the warmer months and four indoor areas for the cooler months. Choose the party buffet menu or select pizza and appetizers for your guests.
5 – Ramona’s Table | 17 Squires Street Square NE, Rockford, MI | 616-951-7100
Reserve the upstairs space at Ramona’s Table and take in the view of the vintage grain mill which houses the restaurant while enjoying their delicious and unique farm-to-table food.
6 – The Chop House | 190 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI | 888-456-3463
The Chop House has both private and semi-private dining rooms that accommodate anywhere from seven to 40 guests. Dine in comfort and elegance while savoring their menu of the finest and freshest food.
7 – San Chez Bistro | 38 West Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI | 616-774-8272
For a unique dining experience, reserve private dining space at San Chez Bistro. Your guests will be treated to tapas served family style in a warm and welcoming environment.
Thanks for the information. I am looking for options for an upcoming office event. Although I would be comfortable catering the event myself – company rules prohibit such activity!
I was surprised by the identity of this author and wish her a happy day!