News Summary
FIKA, a new plant-based and gluten-free eatery, has recently opened in Grand Rapids, MI, offering a tranquil dining space and diverse menu geared towards individuals with food sensitivities. The restaurant promotes social connection and community through its unique concept inspired by the Swedish tradition of fika, providing a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Located in the Creston Neighborhood, FIKA features a varied menu, including breakfast and lunch options, as well as local art and vegan cookbooks available for purchase. The eatery is also actively hiring as it settles into its new location.
Grand Rapids, MI – FIKA, a new plant-based and gluten-free eatery, has opened its doors at 1359 Plainfield Ave. NE. The restaurant, which began welcoming guests only two weeks ago, is set to provide a tranquil dining experience free of dietary restrictions, offering breakfast and lunch options that cater to patients with food sensitivities.
The menu at FIKA includes a variety of choices designed to appeal to health-conscious diners and those with specific dietary needs. Signature offerings feature Chick’n and Waffles for $19, Breakfast Sando for $18, and Tot and Sausage Hash for $19. The eatery further enhances its appeal with smoothies, fresh salads, and smaller dishes whimsically categorized as “Kids at Heart.” In addition to food, FIKA serves Squibb coffee drinks and features a market on the to-go side offering local art and vegan cookbooks.
Owner Becca Van Liere explained that FIKA embodies the Swedish practice of fika, which translates to a coffee break or social gathering with loved ones. This concept is reflected in the design of the eatery, which encourages patrons to “unplug” from their daily stresses and connect with friends and family in a welcoming environment. The establishment promotes community by providing a space where individuals can share meals safely and comfortably.
Located in the Creston Neighborhood, FIKA occupies a spacious 3,095-square-foot area within the Lofts on Grove apartments. The eatery features two separate entrances: one designated for in-house orders and another for takeout customers. FIKA’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For those looking for more information about the menu or current job openings, details are available on their website.
The Van Liere couple previously embarked on their culinary journey by baking vegan pastries from their apartment, leading to the establishment of Rise Authentic Baking Co., a vegan and gluten-free bakery in Grand Rapids. The opening of FIKA aims to address the growing demand for gluten-free breakfast and lunch options across West Michigan, positioning the eatery as a vital contributor to the local food scene.
FIKA’s opening is symbolic of a larger trend in consumer dining preferences towards healthier, more inclusive options that cater to various dietary requirements. With the establishment of this new eatery, along with its commitment to community building and connecting patrons through shared meals, FIKA stands poised to become a beloved addition to Grand Rapids’ culinary landscape.
As they continue to settle into their new location, FIKA is actively hiring and accepting applications through their website, demonstrating their commitment to not only fostering community through food but also providing job opportunities within the area.
FIKA’s grand opening is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025, marking an exciting milestone for the eatery and its founders. As FIKA establishes itself, it promises to be a place where diners can enjoy delicious, safe options while embracing the spirit of connection and relaxation that the concept of fika embodies.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: New Eatery Offers Plant-Based Gluten-Free Brunch in Grand Rapids
- WOOD TV: Vegan Gluten-Free Brunch Spot Coming to Grand Rapids Creston Neighborhood
- RE Journals: Plant-Based Brunch Restaurant Secures New Space in Grand Rapids Creston Neighborhood
- The Game 730 AM: New West Michigan Restaurants 2025
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Vegan Gluten-Free Bakery to Open Restaurant in Creston Mixed-Use Development
- Wikipedia: Plant-based diet
- Google Search: plant-based restaurants
- Google Scholar: vegan gluten free restaurants
- Encyclopedia Britannica: gluten-free diet
- Google News: Grand Rapids restaurants
