A Steak Affair: Ruth's Chris Opens in Grand Rapids

I have been to many steakhouses in the world and this Ruth's Chris located inside the Amway Grand Plaza hotel has got to be one of the sexiest joints I have ever been to. Thanks impart to the Ruth's Chris development team, the design team at the hotel and the impeccable touch of interior designer, Wendell Gooch, of Wendell Gooch Design in Chicago.

I had distinct pleasure of getting a sneak peak prior to its official opening on Monday, September 12. The staff under the leadership of veteran restauranteur, Buzz Goebel, and chef, Chris Madsen, are prepped to launch the most
anticipated restaurant opening this year; just in time for the festivities surrounding the 30th Anniversary of the Amway Grand Plaza this month and the also for the highly anticipated rush during ArtPrize 3.

I will finally have the opportunity to taste the "sizzle" this evening. If the food tastes just as amazing as the interiors, then I can comfortably say that I will be frequenting this steakhouse on a fairly regular basis.

Welcome to GR Ruth's Chris!

The Most Memorable Shrimp Cocktail in the World

Residents of Indianapolis talk about the Shrimp Cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House as if it's the only thing that mattered in the city. I couldn't make it to St. Elmo's the first time I visited Indy, but I was certain not to miss the opportunity to try this supposedly incredible appetizer on my second trip this month. In fact, I went to St. Elmo's twice in a span of 24 hours. 

Well, the residents are absolutely correct. This Shrimp Cocktail is the most memorable one I have ever tasted in my life. The shrimp itself is no different from most nice dining establishments - U12's. However, it's the fresh horseradish that

leaves a stamp of noteriety to this dish. A heaping mound of made-daily horseradish cocktail sauce sits on top of the shrimp to which there is no option but to try it. A boy did this dish have a lasting zinger! The horseradish climbs up your nostril so fast you really have no time to react to it. WOW! Despite the burning sensation, I couldn't have enough of the darn things.

Make sure to stop at St. Elmo on your next trip to Indy. A dose of the Shrimp Cocktail and in the words of Chef Emeril  ..."BAM!" Enjoy and let me know if I was correct.

The White Out Party

It was not your typical Sunday night in Grand Rapids. About 200 guests packed the jdek for the summer's White Out Party. Grand Rapids' very own Hat Trick band opened the evening with their popular and classic renditions followed by the spectacular Ark reggae band from Detroit. In addition to the jdek, there was a waiting list in six.one.six and the JW Marriott was near capacity. What's going on in GR these days? You just have to visit to see it for yourself.

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