Russ and Mr. Burger

Russ' Restaurant on Chicago Ave in Grand Rapids.

There is a small chain of restaurants in and around Grand Rapids we stumbled upon in our first visit to Grand Rapids in 2018.  It's Russ'.

According to the history printed on their menu, the founder, J. Russel Bouws was 20 when he opened a restaurant in 1934.  He paid his rent by providing the landlord two meals a day.

He survived the Depression then experienced a business boom after World War II.  His sons joined the operation in the 1960s, adding two locations.  Today they have 12 stores in west-central Michigan.

Our first experience was at the Holland store where orders are placed by calling the kitchen using the phone at your table.  Our recent server told us that's the only restaurant still offering that option.

It's excellent comfort and American-food at reasonable prices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  We love it.

The Hudsonville, MI location of Mr. Burger (dwm)

  Mr. Burger was worth a second visit as well.  We enjoyed our first time at their Hudsonville store and made a point to return for lunch.

  It's a combination of buffet and fast-food.  You stand in line, grab a tray, and place your order.  Often you get the food quickly, place on the tray and slide to the check-out.  If the item takes longer they call your number or deliver to the table.  

 The family-style place opened in 1967 eventually growing into six locations around Grand Rapids. As an alternative to the big chains, it's a welcome change of pace.