My wife and I had an amazing time here. Drinks and food were amazing, upstairs feels very intimate (great date night seating). Lucas was our server and he nailed it with recommendations. The BLT flatbread (I think it's seasonal but wish it was a permanent menu item) was superb. The bison short rib and Amish chicken were cooked beautifully. My only regret is the mashed potatoe cake that comes with the short rib was to small ( I swear it takes the spotlight from the rest of the dish. Id go back just for that.) read more

I'm writing this with genuine disappointment, as this has been my favorite local spot for years. As a neighbor who lives right next door, I have always been a proud and frequent supporter of this establishment. Unfortunately, the standard of service here has fallen dramatically. About a month ago on a quiet night after waiting patiently for over ten minutes while a new bartender was deep in a personal conversation with his friends at another table, I politely asked if we could get a drink before last call. In response, he and his friends just stared and snickered before he begrudgingly came over to serve us. The most shocking part, however, was when he dropped off the bill. He looked me in the eye and lectured me, saying something to the effect of, "Never interrupt me when I'm talking to my customers. It's poor restaurant etiquette." I was speechless. It was easily the most unprofessional and hostile encounter I have ever had in any establishment. But the real reason for this 1-star review is the management's complete failure to address it. I believe in handling things privately first, so over the past three weeks, I have tried to contact them multiple times through multiple channels: I sent a message via their website, sent a follow-up, and even sent a direct message to the owner on Instagram. I have been met with absolute silence. No acknowledgment, no apology, nothing. A hostile employee is one thing, but management that completely ignores a serious complaint from a loyal, local customer for weeks is a sign of a much bigger problem. It shows a fundamental lack of respect for the people who support their business. It's a shame, but I can no longer spend my money here or recommend a place that treats its neighbors and regulars with such disregard. read more

The food was excellent! We got the steak & the salmon. I loved both entrees. But the service was quite honestly terrible. Our waitress said "she forgot about us." When we were done with our appetizer, she never cleared our table, and then we were sitting there with our entrees finished, waiting for the checks, for probably 30 minutes. We went here for our anniversary too and they did nothing for the occasion. We made the best of it but we won't be coming back and we won't be recommending this place to anyone. read more

We will be adding this to our rotation of restaurants for sure. We made reservations for 6:30 dinner but showed up early to get a drink at the bar. They have a bar on each level and the host was able to tell us if there was available seating. We chose the lower level and it was super cozy with a fireplace. The cocktails were really unique and tasty. I loved the pistachio cocktail. The bar tender and our waitress were both really nice and attentive. The food was all spectacular. We started with the shrimp cocktail and meatballs and both were amazing. The shrimp was large and perfectly cooked. The meatballs were so interesting and also really good. They came with a berry sauce and had a coffee rub which really added an amazing flavor. I tried the Salisbury steak and it was topped with an amazing mushroom sauce and served with mashed potatoes, carrots, and peas. This was comfort food with class. It was so so so good. My husband got the Delmonico steak filet with asparagus and a shredded potato pie. The steak was perfect and cooked exactly as ordered. For dessert we ordered the apple cobbler. It comes with vanilla cake and ice cream. It was perfect. I'm so happy this place finally opened and I think it's an amazing addition to the downtown food scene. read more

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I would not recommend this restaurant. One, the food was slow with long waits for the appetizer and then for dinner itself. I'm usually fairly forgiving of this but when our dinner was served they gave the wrong meal to one of us and forgot another's meal entirely. It then took another 15-20 minutes to get the two guests their meals. At one point during this we asked about the timing of their food because we had been at the restaurant for 2 hours. To this our server rudely told us that the kitchen was a disaster. He essentially yelled at one of us who said "I used to be a server and I get it" by saying "then as a former server you know this isn't my fault but now it's my problem". We were never checked on again or even spoken to for the rest of the night. I would have given this restaurant 3.5 stars for ambience and quality of food, however, the service made this a 1 star. My meal was $75 and I've been treated better by teenagers at a fast food restaurant. read more

Great atmosphere. Corn chowder was to die for! Chicken was also quite good. Only complaint is the bar chairs are a bit too short for the bar! Next time I'll get a table. read more

Scholar - Chicken - Wine Bars Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The food was great! Seth did a great job with service making sure we had everything we needed! The crème brule was the best I've ever had! The basement in front of the fireplace was delightful! read more

Woo hoo! Grand Rapids has a new restaurant. For the last few months we had been walking by the space that used to be Gardellas and wondered what was going in. The gas lamps outside and the overall cozy vibe we could see taunted us and built up excitement for the opening. To start - I'm really glad that the owner and his team invested into the space and turned it into something fun. The interior design is awesome and fits the historic building well. The spaces are cozy and inviting - in some areas bordering on dark and mood (in a good way). We made reservations on open table and there was a good crowd when we arrived. The hostess got us to our table quickly and our waitress greeted us and went over drinks. We sat on the lower level at a cozy table and 2 large sofas. It was comfortable and spacious. For drinks I ordered the white Negroni and it was a 10!! Great flavor and well balanced plus not something you see on every menu. The rest of our group enjoyed wine and we appreciated that they had both high end and affordable options. For appetizers we had the clams casino and the French onion dip (served hot). The clams were oozing with flavor, I could have licked every last bite off the plate, it was also a generous portion perfect for splitting. The dip was a smaller portion perfect for 2 but maybe not for 4. Dinner really shined. Two of us ordered the short rib and it was killer. The sauce was sticky and savory, lots of umami flavor. My wife ordered the steak delmonico - big portion size and cooked the way she requested. Our server was friendly and the owner checked on us and other tables mid way through the meal. Looking forward to visiting again. read more

Scholar - clams casino! Amazing. - Wine Bars Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Scholar has a cozy dark library vibe, but it was almost too dark for us to see anything (including the menu) without a phone light despite the small lights on the table. We went to celebrate my mom's birthday and were seated at a large booth towards the end and the kitchen, which had a cold draft for a while. My pistachio wonder cocktail was pretty good, with drops of pistachio oil on top to decorate. The food was for the most part tasty, although this was probably the tiniest bone marrow portion I've ever ordered in my life. The mains were a better size. My brother and I got the bison short rib, which was very well cooked and tender, but we felt the coffee rub wasn't ground finely enough and came off too crunchy and distracting. The crispy potato cake was nice, but I wish there had been one more on the plate. I'd come back! read more

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Amazing food, and the customer service was too notch. Nice mood and music so smooth.. will definitely be back.

Such a great brunch experience. The featured menu was fantastic. The bagels are so fresh and the whipped cream cheese was light, fluffy and delicious. The brunch is almost as good as the dinner selection!!! read more

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Really enjoyed my first visit to Scholar. Quiet, elegant ambiance but not over the top, just a nice experience for a quiet dinner or business meal. Service, I would rate at above average for this level of restaurant, from seating to delivery, the staff was hospitable and knowledgeable in detailing dishes and wine pairings. Quality of the dishes was of highest quality in presentation and taste. I selected the short rib and it was excellent. I look forward to my next visit! read more

Came here on Saturday with a large party when everything on the Ionia strip had a 2+h wait. So glad we came in! We needed a place to hangout while our wedding venue was getting setup for the reception. This place was very classy and hip. We did have to go up almost two flights of stairs to get to our table, but the climb was worth it. Our server was great. Service was a little bit slow, but we also were a party of 10 and all ordered different cocktails. I can't fault them for that. The drinks were all great. I got the lemon drop and found it to be strong but pleasant. The Brandy Alexander reminded me of egg nog without the egg flavor - very tasty. My kids got some cocktails off the temperance menu which I appreciated that they had! They both loved their pina colada and lavender lemonade. Everyone at our table enjoyed their drinks. If we didn't have a reception to go to we would have stayed and noshed on what looked like a very tasty menu. I definitely recommend stopping in for a classy night out! read more

Scholar - Courtney's Drop, pina colada in the background - Wine Bars Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

Highly recommend!! We went as a group of 5 and had an incredible time. Drink menu was excellent for both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. For our appetizer we started with their unique and delicious take on deviled eggs. We also had a shrimp cocktail that was fresh. Two people in my group ordered the chicken and dumplings which they said was good. Another person in our group ordered the salmon and she said it was absolutely excellent. I ordered the Delmonico steak and it was incredible. The last person in our group ordered the scallops which she thought were just a touch too salty but she still ate it and still loved it. I would recommend trying the salmon and steak if you go here for sure!! The service was also good. I need to talk more about the amazing ambiance since it didn't even feel like we were in Grand Rapids. It is so cozy and classy. There are three levels to this restaurant and we went to each one to grab a drink at the bar. We will absolutely be coming back! read more

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This is a fantastic spot!!! What use to be Gardella's (probably spelled incorrectly, apologies) is a delightful and amazing place! The service is amazing and atmosphere casual. The carrot cake literally blew my mind and is a must try for a carrot cake enthusiast!!! read more

Scholar - This is the mind blowing carrot cake (gluten free)!!! - Wine Bars Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The best part is the indoor pool and skate rink. Love the Scholar and give to go and have fun read more

Scholar - Give me a holla and come to the Scholar. Slow wait staff but good drinks and ambiance. Get while it's hot . - Wine Bars Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

My wife booked reservations on Father's Day @11am. We were sat with waters, and the waitress said she'd be right back to take our drink order. It took 16 minutes for her to return to take the order. During this time we watched another 2 top be seated, and then leave 10 minutes later after never even being seen by waitstaff. It took a further 13 minutes to receive our drinks, one of which was forgotten entirely. Almost exactly 30 minutes to receive our drinks. The drinks were correct and tasted good when they did arrive. The food came out in a timely manner, and was the only redeeming factor. 5/5 for quality and presentation. The table next to us, a 5 top received similar service and voice concern to a manager, who only made excuses and failed to offer immediate solution. My wife and I would like to return, although I hope service has improved drastically. read more

Great place for a work dinner. This restaurant is beautiful and offers a unique setting in the heart of Grand Rapids. Had a customer dinner planned with a relatively sensitive topic on the agenda which i put in our reservation notes, the staff put us on the lower level which was quieter, inviting, and there is space between tables. I ordered the bison short rib which was cooked beautifully and came with a vegetable and potato and tasted spectacular. Service was fast and thorough. My one criticism is the portion sizes for the money and the fact that the server didn't ask if we wanted the appetizers or explain that entrees are simply entrees and we should have filled in with a couple of other dishes. Three of us left hungry. Beautiful building and environment, delicious food but overpriced for the portions. read more

Came here for a work dinner while in town. We were a group of 12 and they seated us upstairs in the private room. The service was great and our waitress was always on top of things. We ordered pretty much every appetizer on the menu. Highly recommend the deviled eggs and the special flatbread was buffalo chicken and was to die for (we started with one and then proceeded to order 2 more). Drinks were also great. Super unique cocktails. I had the bison short ribs and they were super tasty. Smaller portion compared to what others ordered but it filled me up. The meat fell right off the bone and the coffee rub was excellent. Everyone enjoyed their entrees. Overall our experience was awesome. Super cool ambience, attentive service and great food. A bit pricey but well worth it! read more

Food was very good. My picky husband went for a burger and it was good. I had the chicken, very good! Service was very good!! I loved the vibe here ! Dark and cozy! read more

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This place is phenomenal. I love seeing what an old college bar of mine turned into a posh, delicious, and luxury restaurant. The deviled eggs, steam, scallops...all excellent. The drinks were superb. Our service was great too. I loved the decor and different levels- even the bathrooms were beautiful! Highly recommend! read more

Love the vibe and ambience of Scholar! The food is delicious and the wait staff is beyond helpful!

Atmosphere, flavor, unique offerings and the best calamari ever! Lucas was attentive and engaging. Great experience!

We had high hopes and left completely disappointed. After a comedy show last night our party of 8 (along with many other event attendees) grabbed a table for a couple more drinks after the event. The place was packed but they were able to seat us upstairs (the downstairs was full already). It was just past 9pm. Our server greeted us but lead with, "If you are going to have more than one drink you should order it now because we'll be doing last call and close at 10p." Which shocked us... they're entire space was full of thirsty patrons. A few of us ordered seconds as the server instructed. Drinks were good and they were very attentive with water refills. About quarter to 10... maybe 30 mins after we sat down, they turned up all the lights which indicated it was time to leave... most of the crowd paid their tabs and left - which I suppose is what they wanted to happen. For us left at the small handful of tables we were now drinking our second bevs in the well lite space while the bartenders started bussing table and flipping chairs on table tops getting ready to mop up. Baffling. With so many other great options to grab drinks at after a show... we certainly won't be choosing Scholar next time. read more

Loved everything about this place! First of all I loved that they kept the old Brunswick bar from gardellas. The service was amazing as well. We never waited for anything and the food and drinks were out of this world. For apps we got the deviled eggs, bar cheese and the flatbread pizza. All three options were stellar. For the main entre I had the Salisbury steak which I would highly recommend. Shout out to the chefs! read more

I was excited to try Scholar after hearing some pretty great things for friends. Went before a show at Devos. In my opinion, their drink menu was some what small and limited. they had a drink for each spirit but wish there were more. Scholar gives of a very cool craft cocktail vibe with the decor but their menu didn't match that. I'm sure the bartender could make you wanted though. Food-They had very nice portion sizes for theor pricing which was nice. a little on the pricey side but very good. I had ordered the Cheeseburger and it did not disappoint.Came with fries, and they were delish. I wouldn't rush back, but it's a cute date night spot. read more

Cool vibe. Very laid back for being more up scale. Food was amazing. Apps did need salt. No pic but flirt was so so tender. Lamb chops fire but best thing on the plate was the pesto. And I don't like pesto. This was amazing. read more

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We checked out Scholar on a Saturday evening. It was quite busy, we were seated in a quiet room away from the hustle and bustle. The vibe is dark, sultry. I thought it would be more like a book bar which I don't think it necessarily is. I tried the pistachio cocktail which I enjoyed and our table split some wine as well. For food we had the clams and the pate and I had the steak that was on special that evening. Overall a pleasant experience. I'd return although I think I'd try to sit at the bar or in the main area next time! read more

Amazing place for eating with kids and enjoying atmosphere. Beautiful interior and very welcoming staff. We would definitely come back read more

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Stopped here after dinner because I've been wanting to check out the atmosphere. Really enjoyed the cozy lighting and seating. Not noisy at all and played good music for the setting. We had already eaten before coming, but got the flatbread to munch on while enjoying our drinks and it was complex, different and flavorful! Our server and the service were all top notch as well! Definitely going to come back to check out the other areas! read more

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A great place for a special occasion since it's a little pricier. The four of us enjoyed our different meals from salads to BBQ bison ribs to trout. Celebratory drinks were also delicious. Nice atmosphere upstairs with easy to hear acoustics. The round lounge table near the piano was comfortable & inviting. Service was attentive & helpful. read more

Trendy, industrial-vibe atmosphere with good service and decent sized portions. Food was above average and price was right in that $30-40 per plate range. Comfy atmosphere downstairs. Upstairs is very "airy" with high ceilings and exposed ductwork. Pretty cool vibe, but will reserve it for special occasions and when relatives come to town. read more

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The restaurant's decor and food were great. All 3 levels were remodeled beautifully. For being only open a few weeks, can't believe the food was this good. Everything was delicious. You should go check it out asap. read more

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Arrived on time for our reservation, was told that it would be five minutes, waited for over 20 and left for a better reception elsewhere. Disappointing. read more

I went for dinner because of the great drink reviews and food. I always start with a gimlet which is a 3 ingredient cocktail. I had to return it. It tasted like pure lime juice with no taste of gin. I decided to go for a non alcoholic lavender lady drink. It was very good. Started with the deviled eggs. They were so small that must of come from very happy pasture raised hens. I had the chicken n dumplings soup which was yummy. Finished with the Cobb salad which was beautiful in its round plate. So in all the food is good but not phenomenal and I hope the cocktails get better because my friends had the same experience a day before I was there. read more

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Great location, great services. They sat us upstairs so you will have to walk up a flight of stairs. We started off with the devil eggs which I highly recommend. Then we got a Cobb salad. The blue cheese wasn't strong at all. The salad also had the pork butt chunks just like the devil eggs. So the favor carried over. Then we ordered the sea scallops, which were good but also had the pork butt chunks mixed it. So I was tired of them by this dish. Overall I do recommend this place just weird we ordered everything with those pork butt chunks lol read more

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A first time visit for me. The atmosphere is classy, inviting, and has loads of potential to be a top 10 dining experience in GR. The bartender knew how to make a creative cocktail and was friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. Bringing my wife to enjoy a feast of food and drink. read more

Drinks, atmosphere, food, and service were great! Had reservations for the bottom level and it was running over so sat upstairs. No issues with that and were able to get sat right away. Liked the ambiance of the main level and the difference to the upper level. Prices were a bit high but everything was great. read more

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I loved the entire vibe of the restaurant. It's beautiful inside. Our waitress was very considerate as well, she asked if we were going to the show tonight which we were so she asked when we would like to be out by in order to make it to our show. On top of that, I had the best martini I've ever had in my entire life. I would recommend going there for a drink at least!!! read more

We had a date tonight to Scholar and had an AMAZING experience. The service was great, the drinks were delicious, and the food was *amazing*. We got the caramelized onion dip and it was so, so good. Something we'd come back just to have again with some drinks. For entrees we ordered the bison short rib ($36) and the scallops ($50). We both agreed that they were some of if not the best scallops we've had. The short rib was also fall off the bone tender. Can't wait to be back! read more