Three new restaurants have opened in downtown Spring Lake in recent months, each bringing its own flavor to the community.
These new ventures are Mia's Village Eats, Dr. Rolf's Barbeque, and Hamburger Mikey.
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Courtesy of Mia's Village EatsAlex and Brad Ashcraft, owners of Mia's Village Eats.
Mia's Village Eats: Fresh and local
Owned by husband-and-wife team Alex and Brad Ashcraft, Mia's Village Eats focuses on providing healthy, delicious options that celebrate local ingredients.
“We started our food truck Smokin' Ashes in 2020, and brick and mortar was always in the back of our heads,” Alex says. “We were very basic, looking around Grand Haven, Fruitport, not really any further than that.”
When the opportunity arose to take over a local space at 218 W. Savidge St., formerly Mama Mia's pizzeria, they jumped at the chance.
“We heard word of mouth that the previous owners might be thinking about selling, and it was a little bit of a process, but it never hit the market.”
They kept part of the name, but they have made the restaurant their own.
“We wanted to keep the legacy of Mama Mia's pizzeria but also add our own touch and rebrand,” says Alex.
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Photo by Brittany MeyersMias Village Eats in downtown Spring Lake.
The Ashcrafts emphasize their commitment to supporting local farmers and producers, which is reflected in the ingredients they use.
“Everything is made in-house, from our dough to our sauces and dressings,” Alex explains.
“The local community has been very supportive, and we've had a lot of positive experiences,” Alex says. The restaurant’s rotating weekly specials, including Taco Tuesday and Wing Wednesday, offer dishes like chicken tortilla soup and chicken pesto pizza, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
“We have steady hours and offer quick service, making us a convenient option for lunch or a quick dinner,” she adds
The Ashcrofts each bring different backgrounds and skills to the business.
“My background is in customer service and event planning, while my husband has a diverse culinary background,” Alex says.
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Photo by Brittany MeyersDr Rolfs Barbeque
Dr. Rolf's Barbeque: A doctor’s precision for the kitchen
Dr. Rolf's Barbeque, 971 W. Savidge St., is the latest addition to the Hissom family's culinary ventures, which started with a restaurant of the same name in Muskegon.
According to Judy Hissom, co-owner and wife of Dr. Rolf Hissom, their decision to open this location felt like a homecoming.
"Our family has lived in Spring Lake for over 30 years. We raised our five children in the Spring Lake community. Opening our second Dr. Rolf's Barbeque here in this community was like coming home."
The Hissoms pride themselves on their smoked meats and homemade sides, all inspired by Rolf's own recipes.
"The rubs, smoking process, sauces, and sides are a result of years of Rolf cooking for our family and our community," Judy Hissom says.
Rolf's culinary journey began with a passion for cooking that evolved over the years. "Rolf has always had a passion for cooking and feeding people,” Hissom says. “In 2017, as our youngest son graduated from high school and another son moved home, we began growing this idea of taking Rolf's recipes, coming up with a menu, and opening up a barbecue joint."
They opened their first location in Muskegon in 2019, and the Spring Lake location opened over the summer.
Diners at the Spring Lake restaurant can enjoy amenities beyond what the Muskegon restaurant offers.
"Unlike our Muskegon location, we have a full bar menu here in Spring Lake. We also offer deck (outside) dining that is dog friendly, and there is even an opportunity for boaters to tie up alongside the docks."
The journey hasn't been without its challenges, from opening the Muskegon restaurant during the polar vortex of 2019 to navigating the COVID pandemic and launching a second location. "The key for us has been determination and surrounding ourselves with exceptional staff," says Hissom.
The business is a family affair, with their sons and daughters-in-law actively involved.
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Photo by Brittany MeyersHamburger Mikey in downtown Spring Lake.
Hamburger Mikey: A twist on the classic burger joint
For burger enthusiasts, Hamburger Mikey, at 909 W. Savidge St., delivers classic fare with a commitment to quality. Managing partner Tim Taylor has expanded the popular Muskegon brand into Spring Lake, bringing its signature burgers, fries, and shakes to a new audience.
Taylor says dedication to quality and service sets Hamburger Mikey apart.
“We're all about our customer service being as equal as the food that we serve,” Taylor explains. “We always tell them that we're not fast food, but we're good food.”
One unusual aspect of the menu is the “burger of the month” collaboration with local restaurants.
Taylor says Spring Lake “is an amazing community” in an ideal location, situated between Grand Haven and Holland.
“Spring Lake is a great place for our business because of the busy traffic and the welcoming community.”
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Photo by Brittany MeyersHamburger Mikey restaurant.
Taylor says the response from the community has been encouraging.
“The community has embraced us right off the bat, even before we opened. They have been very welcoming and supportive.”
Taylor hopes the business will play a meaningful role in the community.
“We hope to contribute to the local community by being involved and raising money for different causes,” he says.