News Summary
Rika’s Chicken and More, a cozy eatery in Grand Rapids, has quickly become a local favorite. Owned by Sherika Dennard, this restaurant is known for its fresh-to-order chicken, wings, and fish. Open for 18 months, it offers a diverse menu at affordable prices and brings a family atmosphere to the community. With daily meal deals and a commitment to quality, Rika’s Chicken is a delicious staple that continues to thrive and transform the neighborhood.
Rika’s Chicken Soars in Grand Rapids: A Delicious Dream Come True
In the heart of Grand Rapids, a remarkable story of determination and flavor is taking flight. Rika’s Chicken and More, owned by the talented Sherika Dennard, has become a beloved destination for locals seeking comfort food. This cozy eatery has been open for about 18 months at 736 Butterworth St. SW, and it’s already winning hearts with its promise of “the best chicken in town.”
A Flavorful Journey Begins
Sherika’s culinary journey began when she was just a young girl. By the age of seven, she was already whipping up meals for her siblings. With a love for cooking that blossomed under her mother’s guidance, she honed her skills over the years, creating dishes that delighted everyone around her. After experimenting with various seasonings in her kitchen and gathering feedback from family and friends, her dream of running a restaurant was finally within reach.
Thanks to a little encouragement from her granddaughter, Sherika set her plans into motion, and thus, Rika’s Chicken was born. The restaurant specializes in fresh-to-order wings, tenders, and fish, providing a personalized experience that sets them apart from the rest. Each day, the food is battered fresh and made-to-order, ensuring each bite packs a punch of flavor.
The Menu that Makes Mouths Water
At Rika’s Chicken, customers can indulge in a variety of options. Menu items include whole wings, thighs, legs, and tenders, all available for just $2 each. If you’re in the mood for something other than chicken, the fishing offerings include a 3-piece perch for $3, half-pound catfish nuggets for $6, and 10-piece jumbo shrimp for $11. For those who crave fried sides, there are delicious choices like French fries, onion rings, okra, and cauliflower, not to mention soul food classics available every Sunday.
Bargain hunters will appreciate the restaurant’s $8 meal deals available every day, and the fantastic $1 wings on Wednesdays! With convenient operating hours from noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, and even late-night service on Friday and Saturday until 2 a.m., Rika’s Chicken makes it easy for everyone to grab a delicious meal. Customers can place orders online or by phone at (616) 893-7770.
Family Matters at Rika’s Chicken
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Rika’s Chicken is the family atmosphere it embodies. Sherika’s three sons contribute to the business, bringing a sense of togetherness and support that is palpable. However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. When Rika’s Chicken first opened, some neighbors expressed their discontent, branding the eatery as unwelcome in the quiet residential neighborhood. Despite receiving such notes, many community members voiced their appreciation for Rika’s presence and the positive impact it has had on the area.
Community and Growth
Sherika remains committed to her craft and vows to continue serving quality food to the supportive community that surrounds her. While there may be criticisms, there are also countless guests who have welcomed Rika’s Chicken with open arms, cherishing the delicious meals that have brightened up their days. Reports from locals indicate that the restaurant has transformed an area that was once considered mundane into a vibrant spot where friends and family gather to enjoy great food.
As Rika’s Chicken continues to flourish, Sherika Dennard’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams. With every fresh batch of chicken served, she is not just feeding the community; she is bringing people together, creating memories, and filling hearts with joy. So, the next time you’re in Grand Rapids, make it a point to taste what has become a staple of the city—because at Rika’s Chicken, every treat is a reason to celebrate.
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Additional Resources
- WZZM13: Rika’s Chicken Soars in Grand Rapids
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Mexican Restaurant Eyes New Location
- MLive: Grand Rapids Eatery Boasts Best Chicken
- Google Search: Rika’s Chicken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grand Rapids Michigan
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
