Small Town Sandwich Shop in Spring Lake

At the Small Town Sandwich Shop

If you’re a resident of the Tri-Cities, you’ve likely driven past the Small Town Sandwich Shop a thousand and one times.  It’s the site where Derk’s, FixhX2, Marie’s Diner, and (according to Diva Sharon) an A&W Root Beer stand used to be located (909 W. Savidge Street in Spring Lake).  It’s right across the street from the Holiday Inn.  

But, have you ever stopped in to try one of their delicious sandwiches?  As Kelle, Sharon and Nancy recently discovered, there’s a very good reason that its parking lot seems to always be full!

For our latest dining adventure, we planned to meet at the Small Town Sandwich Shop on Tuesday, March 22, at 12:30 p.m.  But, since Kelle was running late (due to an interview for a film documentary project she’s working on), we actually met at 12:45 p.m., which was smack dab during the lunch hour rush.  So we got a chance to see what things were like at their busiest time of the day.  Fortunately, we found a table (picnic table style with adorable cushions on bench seats) for four, and placed our orders.  

We couldn't help but notice the pay it forward kindness on the wall which made a great impression!  

The Wheel of Good Fortune

Nice

Sweet

Prime Rib French Dip $8
Shaved prime rib, caramelized red onion, white cheddar cheese and horsey mayo served on a hoagie roll with a side of onion soup for dipping.  

Sharon:  "I couldn't help but reminisce when this establishment was the old A&W Drive In 45 years ago.  I had my first Patty Melt served on a metal tray hanging off the side of my car!  Today, I had the Prime Rib French Dip which has the reputation of being one of the most popular of many delicious sandwiches.  I can see why. The au jus was a side of Onion Soup. Best combo ever with prime rib shaved and seasoned perfectly!

To top it off I ordered the Oatmeal Raisin ice cream sandwich which was also delicious.  Homemade cookies with creamy vanilla ice cream. 

The staff is friendly and helpful. The decor fun.  Can't wait to return.  No wonder the parking lot is often full."  

Nancy:  "Since I had heard that the Small Town Reuben sandwich ($7) was “the best Reuben ever” by more than one person, I decided to give it a try.  It was also listed first on the menu board.  I wondered, would it be possible to beat the Reuben at Hearthstone (since I think theirs is outstanding)?  So, I ordered a Reuben half-sandwich with turkey and a cup of soup ($7).  The Reuben is served with your choice of corned beef, pastrami or turkey, and Swiss cheese, sauerkraut (my choice) or fresh red cabbage slaw, and 1000 Island Dressing on toasted rye bread.  As my soup, I chose the Caramelized Onion with Asiago.  And I also ordered a side of Classic Fries ($2.50) to share at the table, which are French Fries dusted with an interesting seasoned salt.  My total bill came to $10.07, including tax.

Then I realized that I forgot to order a drink.  “Could I have some water, please?” I asked.  The answer: “Sure!  There’s bottled water in the cooler… just help yourself.”  What!?!  Free bottled water???  Impressive!  

Our orders were delivered to our table amazingly quickly, given that all tables were filled and the restaurant was brimming over with lunchtime diners.  And I’m very pleased to report that everything was absolutely delicious!  I’ll definitely plan to return… among the things I’d like to try in the future are their Smashed Guacamole starter ($4), Greek salad ($6), BBQ Pork Melt sandwich ($7), and Perch Dinner ($12). 

Prime Rib Melt $7.50
Shaved prime rib, white cheddar cheese, caramelized red onion and tomato on toasted sourdough bread


Kelle:  "This is my first time at the Small Town Sandwich Shop since I didn't know it was there until Nancy mentioned it one day.  (No doubt I've driven past it 1000 times). I'm all about a great deli sandwich now and then, so I was completely on board to check it out for a lunch review.  It took me a long time to make up my mind since everything looked tempting.  I went back and forth between the Prime Rib Melt and the Cuban, but decided on the Prime Rib Melt since I love toasted sourdough bread.  I also added a side dish of deviled egg potato salad ($2.5).  I'm surprised I haven't been back to try the Cuban yet, but I won't hold out too much longer."

Tips Appreciated

Small Town Sandwich Shop

909 W Savidge St

Spring Lake, MI  49456

616.414.7900

Check out their menu (where you can even order online) at: http://www.smalltownsandwichshop.com.

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual dining experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.  

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The Arboreal Inn - Spring Lake

On Thursday, February 18, the Dining Divas decided to return to a legendary restaurant in the Tri-Cities area – The Arboreal Inn!  

The “original Divas” reminisced about dining at the Arboreal nearly two years ago, and thought it was time for a return visit.  This time we welcomed a new Diva – Spring Lake’s own Sharon Bedford, who owns a catering business.

Born and raised in Northern California, Sharon grew up "farm to table."  She started cooking at home when she was around 10 years old.  Her favorite pastimes are reading cookbooks, trying new recipes, extensive travels in search of the best restaurants, and Italian cooking classes.  

Today, she's a retired elementary teacher and reading specialist.  While she was still teaching, Sharon started Edible Art Catering over 20 years ago and remains actively involved in her business.

"I've loved planning dinner parties and cooking for as long as I can remember," Sharon said.  "I am passionate about not only fantastic food, but presentation as well...my trademark." 

This year, we opted to forego Arboreal’s more formal dining room and dine in the cozy/rustic bar area at one of the high-top tables.  

Both Nancy and Bari chose a glass of the Sterling Cabernet Sauvignon ($9 for 5-oz pour) to accompany our delicious smoked whitefish dip (which was SO good that Kelle considered ordering it for her entrée!).  

This dip ($11) is described as a “Hearty portion of smoked Lake Superior whitefish spread accompanied with shaved red onions, capers, and flatbread.”  Although we might have preferred it with a blander, less seedy cracker (like a water cracker), we’d go back in a minute for this appetizer.  

We also chose to share an order of the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms (five for $12) – fresh mushrooms filled with a blend of crab, shallots and baby spinach.

Fresh P.E.I Mussels sautéed in white wine, herbs, and garlic $10

Bari:  "We really enjoyed the ambiance and charm of dining in the bar.  My wedge salad was very generously sized, and a pleasant change since it was served with crisp romaine leaves instead of a wedge of iceberg.  It had a good-sized portion of blue cheese dressing on the side as well.

The presentation of the mussels was the best I've seen in the area:  the crostini circled the bowl of mussels, setting the stage for dipping that I enjoyed very much.  The mussels were good...all open and small.

Although my favorite dessert at Arboreal is the profiterole, our evening's finale was the carrot cake that we all shared, even me!  (I was full and am not a big sweets eater, anyhow.)  I'm also pleased that we tried it because it prompted Nancy to offer to make her carrot cake recipe for the Divas one of these days.  (Nancy's frosting uses more cream cheese.)"

  

Parmesan Crusted Whitefish - $24. Filet of great lakes whitefish encrusted in parmesan and herbs and drizzled with lemon beurre blanc sauce

Kelle:  "This was my second time dining at the Arboreal and I have to admit I was a bit skeptical since my first visit there wasn't what I had hoped for. But I really like the woodsy cozy location with the proximity to my home. I was happy when Bari said she'll make our reservation in the bar area versus the dining room. The bar decor has a way of making me feel like I'm on a getaway up north. The high-top table was comfy for four, even though it was a little tight with two appetizers sitting in the middle at the same time. 

Our server, Erin, was helpful and patient. We were constantly chatting versus looking at the menu, but she rolled with it and continued to make frequent stops to see if we were ready to order. I asked her which dishes are popular and she immediately responded with the Parmesan crusted whitefish. So, that's what I ordered.  I was surprised when Erin brought it out since the fish portion took up the whole plate. I knew I'd be having half of it for lunch the next day. It was very tasty and I'd gladly go back and order it again. Later on I told a friend we could easily split the fish with a nice side salad and it would be plenty of food. 

Unfortunately, I thought the carrot cake was a bit of a letdown. I was at Two Tony's in Spring Lake a few weeks earlier and a friend (Joan G) surprised me with a piece of the ultimate carrot cake loaded with cream cheese." 

Broiled Salmon with our house seasonings and finished with a dill cream sauce - $24

Sharon:  "We agreed that the bar is cozy and the place to sit!  We ordered the Stuffed Mushrooms and Smoked Whitefish, which were very tasty! However, I would have stepped up the presentation of both:  The mushrooms would look great on Chinese Porcelain spoons, and I would have enjoyed a more simple cracker with the fish appetizer, perhaps a simple table water or crostini.  The cracker distracted from the outstanding flavors of the whitefish.

I enjoyed my Salmon entree with wonderful Dill Sauce and broccolini. I do love carrots, but would have preferred a simple organic carrot sliced lengthwise with a 1/2 stem left on... not the baby carrots on that particular plate.  

We shared a carrot cake which was tasty, but very dense... almost like an apple cake and a bit over baked."

Nancy:  "For my entrée, I ordered a half-rack of Arboreal’s barbecued baby back ribs (served with broccoli and baby carrots, and a scoop of au gratin potatoes).  The ribs aren’t on the regular dinner menu, but (fortunately!) were a special feature that night.  The half-rack was $18 (full rack was $24), and even the smaller portion was large enough to supply leftovers for my lunch for the next day.  The ribs were moist and tender! I ordered extra barbecue sauce on the side (50 cents)... great for dunking and adding a little extra kick if you like spicier/smokier ribs." 

Carrot Cake $6.00

The Arboreal Inn is open Monday through Saturday from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. (dinners only), and is nestled into the woods at 18191 Old Grand Haven Road.

Call (616) 842-3800 

Open Monday - Saturday 5PM-10PM

18191 Old Grand Haven Road

Spring Lake, MI 49456

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual dining experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.

Follow us on Facebook:
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The Grill Room in Grand Haven with Guest Diva Barbara Lee

Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance at the Jingle Bells parade downtown Grand Haven!  Bari found a condo balcony to capture this bird's-eye view just in time.  

One local retailer estimated there could be as many as 20,000 people in downtown Grand Haven for this year's Jingle Bells Parade.  And, in fact, there were thousands lining the streets to await the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in Central Park. So, what fun it was to plan our Diva Review to coincide with all the holiday festivities!

Because we knew we'd be in downtown Grand Haven already (Nancy to play with the Prevailing Winds Community Band in Central Park, Bari hosting the Rotary party at Consider It Done/Desserts by Design, and Kelle and Guests joining the Rotary party) along with thousands of others, we thought a reservation would be in order. 7:00 p.m. at The Grill Room (2 Washington Ave. at the corner of Washington and S. Harbor Drive).

Sarah Sanders treated Bari Johnson to a face painting session at Consider at Done/Desserts by Design at the Rotary party.

Trio of Violinists at Consider It Done/Desserts by Design 

Barbara Lee, Founder of Extended Grace (left) and Kendra Higgins 

Nancy Levenburg, playing flute with Prevailing Winds in Central Park, was the last to arrive for dinner so she could accompany the community singing of three Christmas carols after the tree was lit.  

After Santa and Mrs. Claus made a pass through downtown, we were ready to come in from the cold and glad we had a reservation in place at The Grill Room. Our server, Cole, was especially cheerful and very attentive.  We were glad our Guest Diva, Barbara Lee, brought her friend and Board President, Kendra Higgins, to join our adventure.  

Needless to say, not only did we love the food and ambiance, we hung out until 10:00 pm with our guests since we had so much to talk about!  Barbara is incredibly passionate about some upcoming events she has in the community.  

"Extended Grace focuses on Social Justice and Human Rights.  Our mission is to nurture, educate and inspire the individual so that together we can address social justice and human rights.  We are a collaborative agency, seeking to connect people who want to make a difference with opportunities to do so... we don't believe it is anyone's job to solve all the problems, but we do believe everyone can do something.  Extended Grace is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Mental Illness on January 11th at the Grand Haven Community Center at 6:30 pm."

More information is on our website at www.extendedgrace.org.  

As always, we included some fine dining with our group discussion!  Bari and Kelle decided an appetizer and half a salad would be enough for dinner.  Nancy, Barbara, and Kendra treated themselves to a succulent entree.  We noticed the side dishes are an extra charge (Kendra had a whopping serving of mashed potatoes with her pork tenderloin) and they are plentiful.  As in, we think it's possible to make a meal out of a couple side dishes (hint, next time!).    

Seared Ahi Tuna - spice crusted, cucumber slaw, pickled ginger $13.50

Kelle:  "Outstanding, delish, will gladly go back for more!"

Nancy decided to order the Grilled Sea Scallops ($21.95), which were accompanied by root vegetables (sweet and regular potatoes), smoked almonds, baby spinach, and herb pesto.  The serving size was plentiful - very sharable with four good-sized scallops! - and absolutely delicious!  The almonds, in particular, added a crunchy, fun touch.

The Grill Room Salad - iceberg wedge, roma tomatoes, housemade roquefort dressing, local bacon $8.50

"This half salad serving size was just enough to enjoy with an appetizer at the same time."

Tuscan Mussels - toasted bread, marinated tomatoes, garlic, white wine broth, parmesan cheese $14.95

Bari:  "The mussels were excellent.  The best I've had there.  The broth was so good that I had to share... Kelle and Nancy were dipping their bread in it."  

Flourless Chocolate Cake

"Even though everyone was stuffed, we couldn't possibly break tradition and leave before splitting one dessert with five forks.  To be honest, it was four forks since Bari doesn't like chocolate.  Simply divine!"  


Happy Holidays! 


The Grill Room
2 Washington Avenue
Grand Haven, MI  
616.846.3299

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual dining experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.  

Follow us on Facebook:
Http://www.facebook.com/westmichdiningdivas 

The Lake House in Muskegon with Guest Diva Cindy Anderson

We can't help but brag a second month in a row about our summer season in beautiful West Michigan, which made it real easy to pick a destination right on the water that captures the sun sinking into Lake Michigan at approximately 9:20 pm. 

Terrace Point Marina in Muskegon Lake (Bari Johnson snapped this photo just in time!)

The Lake House restaurant, bar and conference center is located on Muskegon Lake behind the Shoreline Inn and overlooks the Terrace Point Marina.  You can dine inside or enjoy the view with music when you sit outside on their spacious deck. We went on a Tuesday night and the place was packed! 

We were excited to have Carla Hill back for a review. Being the CEO of the West Michigan Symphony is a busy job, so we don't get to see her all the time.  But when we asked her to join us at The Lake House, she made sure to wipe her slate clean and leave the office on time!  She told us about a few acting gigs she has coming up -- "Love, Loss, and What I Wore" at the Howmet Playhouse in August and at The Block in September.    

We love ALL our guests and how diverse they are.  We could hardly wait to meet our Guest Diva, Cindy Anderson, from Grand Haven.  She amazed us with one story after another which is why we hung out past sunset.  From her hiking up a mountain in Uganda (East Africa) to watch the gorillas in action, to supplying desks and building a school for children in Uganda, to chairing the 100 Women or More Who Care in Spring Lake, to heading up a fundraiser for Humanity for Prisoners in Grand Haven this fall... the list goes on.  She literally puts her heart and soul into helping others and is a walking definition of compassion.  We are planning to see her again on September 24th at the Humanity for Prisoners community event.  We asked her to tell us a little more about the two people that are coming to speak and why. Oh my, we learned a lot at dinner.  

Cindy Anderson

"Currently I serve on the Board for an organization called Humanity for Prisoners (HFP).

On September 24th, HFP in conjunction with The Bookman, is thrilled to introduce the inaugural Community Read and Discussion by bringing Ronald Cotton and Jennifer Thompson to tell their story and discuss their book, PICKING COTTON. Ronald Cotton spent eleven years in prison for a crime he did not commit.  The woman who identified him, Jennifer Thompson, was filled with guilt for wrongly identifying him as the culprit.  

The news is filled with similar horror stories in prisons, from wrongful convictions to abuse to terrible living conditions. Through HFP, Doug and Matt Tjapkes work daily to right some of these wrongs and help establish a system better able to address the injustices. 

Years ago, Doug became friends with Jennifer Thompson, who was raped at knifepoint by a man who broke into her apartment while she slept. After she escaped, she told police she was certain she could identify the man who had been inches from her face. She picked Ronald Cotton out of a lineup. Ronald insisted that she was mistaken, but Jennifer's positive identification was the compelling evidence that put him behind bars. After serving 11 years in prison, Ronald was released when a DNA test proved his innocence. Two years later, Jennifer and Ronald met face to face - and forged an unlikely friendship that changed both of their lives. 

Their story offers a glimpse into what happens when the system fails both the victim and the accused, a story that will challenge our ideas of memory and judgment while demonstrating the profound nature of human grace and the healing power of forgiveness.

We are encouraging book clubs, churches, university students and the community at large to read the book, PICKING COTTON and attend the event. We hope this event encourages discussion, raises awareness and helps fund the work of Humanity for Prisoners.  Tickets are available at the Bookman in Grand Haven or on the Humanity for Prisoners website www.humanityforprisoners.org."

Bruschetta $11
Fresh baked crostini - tomato - mozzarella - basil - yellow tomato - sunflower seed/lemon/mint pesto - parmesan - balsamic drizzle

"If you have it once, you'll want it every time you go to the Lake House.  Yup, it's that good."  

Oberon Beer-Battered Seabass Tacos $16

Nancy:  "I always like seabass (a mild-flavored, grouper-like fish that's often used in Asian foods).  And I also like Oberon beer (Bell's Brewery).  So, why not the two together?  These tacos (two for $16) and REALLY good!  The mango/watermelon salsa is colorful, fresh and sweet.  And the red chili mustard adds a little kick - even for those who aren't a fan of the "M" word (mustard)!"  

Bari:  "Very nice red wines--I tried two different full-bodied reds; they were both good. I believe the price was $9/glass. 

The bruschetta small plate was very tasty from the fresh baked crostini with red and yellow tomatoes to fresh basil and mozzarella to the sunflower seed/lemon/mint pesto to the balsamic drizzle. It was a perfect size to share or would easily make a meal for someone.

There are so many interesting menu items that it might be hard to choose. Among our divas there was much discussing with our delightful server about the pros and cons of the dishes. Only Carla knew immediately what she was having as she's a regular. I settled on the tacos after getting our server's advice between the perch or the seabass. She indicated the Oberon really made a difference and the batter wasn't heavy. 

She was correct about the taste and the lightness of the batter! The taco was generously filled with sea bass--unusual in my fish taco experience where there's more filling than fish--while the guacamole, cilantro and red chili mustard blended nicely. Having the salsa on the side so I could add it as I wanted was was a good touch. It was a splendid fish taco and one that I would order again. 

All in all we had a delightful dining experience, with Cindy Anderson adding a fun dynamic. Learning about her new project with Doug Tjapkes made it extra special. I'm sure she'll be back for another evening."

Mesquite Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish $28

Cindy:  "It was a real treat to be asked to join the Dining Divas in Muskegon for dinner at The Lake House.  I already knew and enjoyed Bari and Kelle.  Meeting Nancy and Carla was fun and interesting.  The wonderful dinner was even better with excellent company.

Our server set the tone of a fabulous dining experience with her delightful smile and her complete and enticing descriptions of each dish.  She was attentive and efficient throughout the meal.  I ordered the swordfish special of the day.  It was absolutely delicious.  The fish was prepared perfectly with a light lemon butter sauce and accompanied with asparagus and roasted new potatoes.  The appetizer we ordered, a bruschetta, and the swordfish filled me up so much I didn’t have room for dessert, one of my favorite things to order.  I will definitely return to The Lake House in the future for the wonderful food, view and service."  

Mussels ~ chorizo - fennel - leeks - tomatoes - garlic - shallots - rustic bread - white wine broth $16

"Carla gets her favorite dish every single time!"

Cajun Seafood Linguini $24

Kelle:  "Even though I love pasta dishes, I rarely order them when dining out.  However, this one really caught my eye (and taste buds) with all the seafood mixed in the sauce which has a nice kick, but not too spicy.  Just how I like it.  They sure know how to make garlic toast too.  I'd gladly get it again."   

The Lake House
730 Terrace Point Blvd
Muskegon, MI  49440
231.722.4461
www.thelakehousemi.com

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.  

Follow us on Facebook at:  http://www.facebook.com/westmichdiningdivas