News Summary
Grand Rapids is preparing for the launch of FIKA, a new vegan and gluten-free brunch destination set to open in Spring 2025. Located in the Creston neighborhood, FIKA will offer a diverse menu featuring dishes like Chick’n and Waffles, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches, while also including a market area for local art and snacks. Owners Becca and Nick Van Liere aim to create an inclusive dining experience that fosters community engagement. Construction is currently underway, and local feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Grand Rapids is set to welcome FIKA, a new vegan and gluten-free brunch destination scheduled to open in Spring 2025. The restaurant will be located at 1359 Plainfield Ave. NE, situated on the ground floor of the Lofts on Grove apartments in the Creston neighborhood.
FIKA aims to be an inclusive spot for all diners, offering a menu designed to cater to various dietary preferences. The owners, Becca and Nick Van Liere, are no strangers to the plant-based culinary scene, having previously established Rise Authentic Baking Co., a bakery known for its vegan and gluten-free options.
The restaurant’s menu will emphasize breakfast and lunch offerings, featuring items such as pancakes, Chick’n and Waffles, savory skillets, smoothies, salads, and sandwiches. Among the specific items to be offered are:
- Chick’n and Waffles: A Belgian-style waffle topped with battered and fried tofu nuggets, complemented by vegan butter and a choice of spicy maple syrup.
- Breakfast Sando: A delicious sandwich made with Just Egg, Violife cheddar cheese, spicy Sriracha mayo, and a choice of bacon or chickpea sausage, all served on an English muffin.
- Tot and Sausage Hash: A hearty combination of tater tots, chickpea sausage, spinach, red onion, vegan goat cheese, and Mama’s Lil’ Peppers, served with toast.
In addition to the main menu, FIKA will offer a market area on the to-go side, featuring local art, vegan cookbooks, and convenient grab-and-go snacks. To enhance the dining experience, the restaurant has partnered with Squibb Coffee to provide a variety of coffee, tea, and espresso beverages.
Community-Focused Design
The interior design of FIKA is intended to create a comfortable gathering space, allowing guests to relax or work while enjoying their meals. The Van Lieres aim to cultivate a sense of community through their offerings, ensuring that their restaurant is a welcoming space for everyone.
Construction Progress
Construction for FIKA is now underway, with concrete flooring recently laid and wall preparations in progress. Since the announcement of the restaurant, the Van Lieres have received positive feedback from the local community, indicating a strong interest in the upcoming brunch destination.
Background of the Owners
Becca and Nick Van Liere have been a couple since high school and are passionate about providing delicious vegan options while fostering a sense of community through their culinary pursuits. Their experience with Rise Authentic Baking Co. has equipped them with the skills and knowledge to offer a diverse and appealing menu at FIKA.
With the anticipated opening of FIKA in Spring 2025, the Creston neighborhood of Grand Rapids will soon have a new hotspot for vegan and gluten-free brunch lovers, emphasizing inclusivity and quality food for all.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grand Rapids’ Thriving Brunch Scene: A Culinary Journey
Lucy’s Named Best Breakfast Spot in Grand Rapids Poll
Grand Rapids Welcomes New Vegan Brunch Spot Fika
Grand Rapids Gears Up for a Brunch Renaissance
FIKA Opens in Grand Rapids: A Plant-Based Eatery
Additional Resources
- MLive: New Eatery Offers Plant-Based Gluten-Free Brunch in Grand Rapids
- Wikipedia: Brunch
- Grand Rapids Magazine: Top Brunch Spots in Grand Rapids
- Google Search: Brunch in Grand Rapids
- WOOD TV: Vegan Gluten-Free Brunch Spot Coming to Grand Rapids
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Veganism
- Rejournals: Plant-Based Brunch Restaurant Secures New Space in Grand Rapids
- Google News: Grand Rapids brunch
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.
