Silva Proves Grand Rapids Deserves a Seat at the Fine Dining Table

Grand Rapids finally has a dinner experience that will leave you retelling the story for weeks.

Silva, located at 975 Ottawa Ave NW in Grand Rapids, is a unique “dinnertainment” venue that combines dining, entertainment, and social interaction. And, after going with my husband recently- it truly is a show unlike anything you’ve seen in West Michigan.

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The menu is a mix of sophistication and comfort, with creative small plates, fresh seafood, and high-quality steaks that rival some of the best I’ve had while traveling. The cocktail list is just as impressive, featuring beautifully balanced drinks that feel right at home in a sleek, upscale setting.

Silva offers a variety of experiences, including an incredible bar that feels like it was ripped right out of the side of a vintage carousel.

Their menu is incredible, flavorful and unique. We had their appetizer platter, which included wings, house-made mozzarella sticks, and a single sticky rib that fell off the bone with a single fork poke.

For dinner, I had their pork chop with gruyere potato cakes and a bacon onion jam.  I’ll be thinking about the complex and unique flavors surrounding every level of this dish for weeks. It was absolutely incredible.

For our entertainment that evening, a belly dancer brightly dressed in red, made her way around the floor moving from table to table, and interacting with everyone as they enjoyed their drinks and food. Silva emphasizes a digital detox environment, encouraging guests to engage in and foster real human connections.

The venue celebrates the artistry of food by sourcing seasonal ingredients and crafting dishes that honor and revive traditional recipes while embracing new ones. In addition to its current offerings, Silva has plans for future expansions, including indoor bocce courts, event spaces, and a 1,500-person event area for concerts or weddings. The design concept draws inspiration from the building’s rich history as the former Berkey & Gay Furniture factory, blending past and present to create a dynamic space that contributes to the vibrancy of Grand Rapids.

Walking into Silva in downtown Grand Rapids, I felt like I had stepped into one of my favorite high-end restaurants from a bigger city—Chicago, Orlando, Nashville, even New York. The ambiance, the carefully crafted menu, and the thoughtful presentation all felt like something you’d find in a major foodie destination. But the best part? Silva brings that elevated experience to Grand Rapids at a price point that doesn’t make it feel out of reach.

Grand Rapids has an incredible food scene, but Silva raises the bar in a way that makes me excited for what’s to come. If you’ve ever wished for a dining experience that feels straight out of a major metro without the major city prices, Silva is the place to be.