My Favorite Seafood Dishes in Grand Rapids

Most of you know I’ve been a pescatarian for over 10 years. This means I eat a plant-based diet, but I also eat fish. I’m not vegan (I still eat eggs and cheese), but I don’t eat any meat products like chicken, beef or pork. When I moved to Chicago after college I lived on my own for the first time. The idea of cooking meat for myself in my tiny apartment wasn’t an enjoyable experience. So, I decided to try a plant-based diet for a few weeks. To be honest I was never a big meat eater growing up, so this was a pretty natural step for me. I don’t miss eating meat, and really love seafood or the new plant-based meat products that are available now. Since I order seafood regularly at restaurants, I decided to share my favorite seafood dishes in Grand Rapids.

Terra

You guys know how much I love Terra here in Grand Rapids. I’m a big fan of their pizza, but I’m also a huge fan of their seafood options. The Gazelle Salad is one of my favorites with mixed greens, farro, green lentils and a lemongrass vinaigrette. I always add salmon to the salad because I love how they cook the salmon leaving the crispy skin. Trust me this salad is amazing and great for lunch or dinner.

Leo’s

You can’t go wrong with the seafood at Leo’s. I always enjoy their fresh catch specials like the salmon or whitefish or grouper. Everything is so fresh and served with great customer service. Whether you’re downtown for lunch, happy hour or dinner if you’re craving seafood Leo’s is a great option! PS the oysters are also fantastic here.

Butcher’s Union

I always feel like I’m back in Chicago when we eat at Butcher’s Union (which I love). Cory loves the meat options at Butcher’s Union, and I’m always a fan of their Butter Roasted Salmon. I mean what’s not to like when a dish includes salmon, shrimp and a butter sauce? Paired with a cocktail or glass of wine and this is my ideal date night dish.

One Twenty Three

If you haven’t been to One Twenty Three yet you need to go! This is a perfect spot to enjoy dinner before a movie or just a date night downtown. Plus, they have great seafood like their delicious salmon. Their salmon is served with green beans, shallots, a roasted lemon vinaigrette, brown butter and dill. How amazing does that sound?

New Hotel Mertens

When I’m craving mussels I head to New Hotel Mertens. I love their steamed mussels with a white wine and parsley broth served with fresh baguette. The mussels are cooked perfectly, and the broth is perfect for dipping the baguette. Trust me you have to try these!

Bowdie’s Grand Rapids

We recently dined at Bowdie’s in East Grand Rapids last weekend, and were blown away at how great the food and service was. Of course they have a lot of meat options, but I couldn’t get enough of the Faroe Island Salmon. The salmon is served with a seasonal preparation and cooked medium which I love. I’ve heard their seafood tower is also incredible…I might have to try that next time.

If you like this post, don’t miss these ideas for a winter date night in Grand Rapids!