Mike McAlpine's Blog-Pond
Monday, January 30, 2006
The Grand Coney
Living in West Michigan, I’ve struggled to find a good Coney Dog. After my visit to The Grand Coney 809 Michigan St NE Grand Rapids, I need not search anymore. This place has it all. The coney itself was perfect. Koegel Viennas, grilled on a flat grill, served ala carte with Detroit Style chili, chopped white onions, and mustard out of a reusable yellow rubber squeazy bottles that has about 20 years of grime built up on the outside from the not-so-sanitary patrons that frequent the place. Don’t get me wrong, this place wasn’t dirty to point where you wouldn’t want to eat there. But just enough to know that it gets a lot of traffic due to the quality of their food. As many of my readers know, I have a serious obsession with germs and wouldn’t put the McAlpine stamp of approval on a place that isn’t safe to dine. The atmosphere is ideal for coney consumption. The huge counter (bar seating) in the middle must seat at least 20; with plenty of other options of booths or tables depending on you preference. In true Coney Island fashion there was just enough cigarette smoke in the air where it set the mood but didn’t overwhelm the scent of French Fries from the kitchen. For those who prefer variety, they also offer a Flint Style (meaty chili), a coney with shredded cheese and jalapeños, and a few others. The jalapeños was a great addition I never before considered but now highly recommend. As you look out the window you’ll notice a boarded up Hot ‘n Now restaurant across the street. Just imagine, how back in the day, this section of the city must have been thriving with two exquisite eateries right next to each other. The GR dining scene gained some serious points with this diamond in the rough. I can’t wait to go back!!!
Monday, January 23, 2006
Ate at Euro Food on 28th St today with Greg and Nick. Probably the last time I do so. The meat was pre-sliced and likely warmed up in the microwave prior to inserting it in the greasy, doughy flatbread. If there was one positive thing that came out of this experience, it is that we set up plans to make gyros in the office using the Ronco "Set it & Forget it." Until then, I'll have to live off the memories of the Gyro King on Ogden Ave Dowers Grove, IL. And so the quest for a respectable Gyro sandwich in West Michigan continues........
