News Summary
Fika, a new vegan and gluten-free brunch restaurant, has opened in Grand Rapids. Located in the Lofts on Grove, it offers a variety of plant-based breakfast and lunch dishes. Owners Becca and Nick Van Liere aim to create an inclusive and inviting dining experience, inspired by the Swedish tradition of taking a break with loved ones. Fika features a diverse menu that accommodates various dietary needs while fostering community engagement in the Creston neighborhood.
Grand Rapids, Michigan has welcomed a new addition to its culinary scene with the opening of Fika, a vegan and gluten-free brunch spot that officially opened its doors two weeks ago. Located at 1359 Plainfield Ave. NE, inside the Lofts on Grove apartment complex, Fika is designed to provide a tranquil atmosphere where customers can enjoy plant-based breakfast and lunch options, free from gluten-related concerns.
The concept of Fika is inspired by a Swedish tradition, which encourages taking a break to share coffee and snacks with friends and family. Owners Becca and Nick Van Liere aim to create an inviting space for all diners, regardless of their dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and comfortable while enjoying their meals.
Fika’s menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch items, including buttermilk pancakes, vegan chicken and waffles, savory skillets, smoothies, and sandwiches. Among the standout dishes are the Chick’n and Waffles priced at $19, the Breakfast Sando for $18, and the Tot and Sausage Hash also at $19. In addition to these hearty offerings, Fika also boasts a market area that provides grab-and-go options, local art, vegan cookbooks, and coffee sourced from Squibb.
The eatery features two distinct entrances—one designated for those dining in and another for customers looking to place to-go orders. Fika’s operational hours are structured to accommodate both early risers and late brunch enthusiasts, with service available Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
With their previous experience operating Rise Authentic Baking Co., the Van Lieres have a strong background in vegan cooking and are eager to contribute to the Creston neighborhood. Their vision for Fika includes not only offering a diverse menu to cater to various dietary needs but also fostering community engagement through participating in local activities and associations.
The interior design of Fika is geared toward encouraging customers to unwind and connect. It features comfortable pillowed seating and a prominent coffee bar, creating an environment conducive to social interactions. The owners emphasize a sense of inclusivity, providing options that accommodate multiple dietary preferences, thus allowing everyone to enjoy a delightful dining experience.
Fika is not just another eatery in Grand Rapids; it is a direct result of the Van Lieres’ passion for offering high-quality food options that appeal to a wide range of tastes and dietary restrictions. This new brunch spot is expected to become a local favorite as it cultivates a community-oriented atmosphere where individuals can relax, meet, and share good food.
In conclusion, Fika represents a thoughtful addition to the Grand Rapids dining landscape, emphasizing not just vegan and gluten-free offerings, but also a welcoming community experience. As it settles into its new home, Fika is primed to grow and evolve with the neighborhood, providing a haven for those seeking delicious brunch dishes that fit their lifestyle choices.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grand Rapids Gears Up for a Brunch Renaissance
FIKA Opens in Grand Rapids: A Plant-Based Eatery
Morning Belle Expands to Walker with New Brunch Location
Additional Resources
- MLive: New Eatery Offers Plant-Based Gluten-Free Brunch in Grand Rapids
- Google Search: Grand Rapids brunch
- Grand Rapids Magazine: Top Brunch Spots in Grand Rapids
- Google Scholar: Grand Rapids brunch
- Rejournals: Plant-Based Brunch Restaurant in Grand Rapids
- 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.