Was very excited to try Garden District as we are BIG NOLA fans. They don't disappoint. Ordered a number of items to try amongst our group. Cocktails were great, only disappointment was they did not stock Pimm's. Veronica was our server and was great. Helped with menu, cocktails and overall experience. Will absolutely be back soon! read more

I went Saturday the atmosphere is nice I ordered the catfish po boy and it was not good the fish didn't have any seasoning on it and it was sitting on top of the roll the fries were not good either they had no taste I tasted my friends red bean and rice that was tasty and well seasoned so I didn't understand why the fish was bland I don't think I would go back and hate I didn't send my sandwich back read more

I really wanted to like Garden District. It has a very comfortable vibe. The cocktails were good. The apps were good. And the entrees were good. And our server was very friendly and polite. However... I absolutely hate being rushed through a meal. We felt rushed from the very beginning. Even before our cocktails arrived we were asked what we wanted to order. Twice. Then we had barely started the cocktails and we were asked again. We were barely halfway through our apps and they delivered our entrees. The last thing I want to do is watch my entree get cold while I finish my app. I hate that. When asked why they brought the entrees so soon, the person who appeared to be the manager responded by saying that this is not fine dining and that when things are ready they bring them out. Seriously? Then why are they charging fine dining prices? Last time I checked a $19 appetizer qualifies as fine dining. Sent the entrees back. Then when they brought out the entrees again, she showed some attitude by slamming the app plates together and walking off. Finally, my wife was barely half way through her entrée when they asked what we wanted for dessert. Wow. And why are you bringing out dessert in plates that are chipped? How do I know the chip is not in the food? I know Garden District gets great reviews, and maybe our experience is not typical. But this was not a very pleasant dining experience at all. read more

I wish I had taken a picture! We went to The Garden District for the first time last night. We had the blackened fish, red beans and rice, shrimp po boy, gumbo yaya, and the pound cake for dessert. Absolutely everything was fantastic. The portions were generous, waitstaff was knowledgeable, efficient, friendly and fun, and all food being served looked amazing. We will definitely be back. read more

I went with a group of 6. We had a reservation and got sat immediately. We were right by the open kitchen and it was cool to see all the dishes being assembled and sent out! The interior is very well decorated! I had the Muffulatta. It is definitely a large portion. It was delicious but could use a sauce! It comes with cajun fries. Delicious! Would return!! read more

See all

Great food and very nice staff We wanted something we can't normally get back home and they did not disappoint read more

The pecan pound cake was heavenly and reason enough to visit. The servers were great and I loved the peach daiquiri .

Cool place. Good food. We' were there during an actual tornado. So. That's gonna put a damper on any experience. Without the tornado I'm guessing it gets an extra star. read more

Excellent Cajun food. Exceptional cocktails. Great service. The Red Beans and Rice, Yakamein, and Étouffée are all stellar. Didn't care for the Beignets. Bland. Bananas Foster is to die for. Decor would make Robert Irvine proud. We plan to meander through the menu whenever we are in the area. read more

My husband and I had another amazing dinner here Friday night. He had a shrimp PoBoy and I had the jambalaya. Both were delicious and beautifully presented. The jambalaya has just the right amount of spice and it has plenty of huge shrimp. The service was excellent, but I didn't catch the young woman's name. We love the music and atmosphere, and feel like we're back in New Orleans every time we go. This is our 4th time coming to the restaurant, and everything we've tried is authentic and as good as any restaurant I've eaten at in New Orleans. Highly recommended! read more

See all

An absolute gem! Despite being open for just a week, the food, service, and ambiance were already operating at an exceptional level. The quality here easily surpasses many high-priced restaurants in Grand Rapids--at a much more reasonable cost. The drinks? Simply outstanding. Each one is perfectly balanced, crafted by a true mixologist behind the bar. The mussels, Étouffée, and Gumbo were nothing short of spectacular, delivering bold, authentic flavors that left a lasting impression. Garden District is a must-visit, and I can't wait to return! read more

See all

Not the best experience here yesterday. The table we were sat at was right by the cold door and we were freezing the entire time. We were so cold that we actually asked for the check immediately after getting food so we could leave, which was disappointing because we initially were excited to stay awhile and have a dessert and nightcap. The food was fine, we ordered the crawfish beignets (delicious but shouldn't be called beignets, but would recommend). The etoufee and blackened fish were also good. Service was so-so. Overall I wouldn't recommend this place--we were visiting from out of town and would go elsewhere on our next visit to rapids. But the food itself was solid if you are wanting some Cajun vibes. read more

The food was amazing! Our waitress was very friendly. The restaurant is decorated in a very NOLA fashion! Will definitely go again!

While visiting Grand Rapids this restaurant was recommended a few times. I'm from Chicago where we don't lack good food but this food here was so delicious. I had the Jambalaya with Pasta, a side of red beans and rice and a side of Gumbo. All good! The dessert I took with me but it was delicious as well. Pecan pound cake with a glaze icing. Everything was good. You should try it.... read more

See all

Just tried this last night. Everything was amazing. They were extremely busy so I was expecting slow service but our server was attentive and quick with everything. She had a very large table but was able to take care of everyone. The food was great. It had the right amount of spice and flavor. I had the gumbo and my friend Asha's the red beans and rice. Both were so good. I would go back and will recommend it to everyone. read more

Good food, good service, friendly staff. I got the crawfish Poboy, it was good but I feel like the crawfish flavor gets overpowered by the breading. The sauce is great. Music was a bit too loud inside. read more

Cute New Orleans themed Cajun spot. Service was great. We loved the food. Poboys and jambalaya were on point. Loved the Cajun fries as well. Oddly a glass of iced tea is $4 when other soft drinks are $3. Found that strange when the food cost for iced tea is like 8 cents per glass, it's actually the cheapest beverage you can serve besides water... But anyway, the iced tea was good and we loved the meal. read more

The food was good. The owner came over and greeted me which was nice. The restaurant is small which explains it being quite noisy at times. My overall experience was good read more

Heard mixed reviews before coming here. Glad we tried it for ourselves. The hostess and servers were friendly and attentive. We did outdoor seating which was lovely. I don't remember the name of the drink that I had but it was one of the best tasting cocktails I've had. The catfish Poboy was delicious. The southern hospitality meal was also very good. The crispy honey chicken thighs were cooked to perfection and had amazing flavor. The only downside is that they are very small. Had we had known, we probably would've ordered an appetizer first. All and all it was a nice experience. read more

See all

Amazing! The owners are so welcoming the food is fresh and unique! I frequent this location.

So good. I went with a friend of mine and we got the crawfish beignets which were crispy and delish. My friend got the blackened grouper and I got the gumbo both were very good with a little kick to it. If you are spice intolerant you'll most likely find the gumbo at the top of your spice tolerance. We finished off with the banana foster which the waitress(shout out Stephanie) got us the last one of the night. All in all great food with good flavors and spice. read more

Apperizers good, main good, drinks good, server good, atmosphere good. Everything was REALLY GOOD! First time coming and definitely coming here again. Sorry no pics too busy eating. read more

Lovely spot with great service and tasty food. The crawfish beignets are amazing, and the drink menu is fab. read more

Garden District - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

Definitely would eat here again. Great flavors, good menu, consistent theme, service was also great. Highly recommend

It's not New Orleans but it's worth a look. The service was good, the food came out fast for a Friday night and the staff were attentive.

The shrimp po boy was incredible! Our service was fantastic. I can't wait to return for dinner and to try the drink menu as well.

The food here was really great! The fish was well seasoned and battered. The portions were good and service was quick. It was a little on the pricier side, but it is downtown and seafood. The restaurant itself was gorgeous! The rotating shrimp in the window, the atmospheric photos and decorations, and the open kitchen all made for a great experience! read more

Red bean & Rice,Great! Food, Service and Ambiance were all Outstanding. We will be back soon . read more

My wife and I finally tried the Garden.District with another couple we all shared tastes and it was fantastoc. The food was spot on NOLA fare. Creole and Cajun done right. The service was very good despite being down a server. The low level of traditional Big Easy music, combined with the decor was great! Everyone was friendly and our server knew exactly how to describe the whole menu. Kudos to the owner! He checked on tables, was very kind at each table. Jewas willing to talk foods well as the Big Easy in general. read more

See all

Had an awesome dinner at the new restaurant Garden District GR which is New Orleans Creole food inspired restaurant. We were there to celebrate my son's birthday. Our waitress we had was absolutely fantastic. We had the Gumbo Yaya, Red Beans and Rice, and Jambalaya, pictures below. Not pictured was the pecan pound cake which we had back at the house which was spot money. A very small quaint atmosphere with about 12 tables or so. Tends to get a little on the loud side because there's so few places. But very quaint inside. An open air kitchen to watch the chefs do their magic. Drinks were cute and weren't overly strong so just right. One of the owners Jessica Jones stopped over and spoke with us for a few minutes which was very nice. Will definitely go back. Do yourself a favor and make the online reservation. Also number listed in Google/ maps is currently incorrect their phone number is 616-376-4002 read more

See all

Food was EXCELLENT! A true Cajun menu. Had the Mussels with French Bread, Muffuletta, with season fries, Red Bean & Rice with Andouillie sausage. Finally we couldn't leave without sharing their Banana Foster. The Ambiance was pleasent, with Jazz music playing nicely. The service was great even while they were very busy. We are a demanding family, with asking for specials and custom. Both the server and the Chef accommodated our request. We definitely recommend Garden District for a New Orleans flair! read more

The food was amazing, the drinks are great as well, be prepared if you are going to drink and eat, it's going to be a decent bill. For two people with two-three drinks each my bill was 135 before tip. But it was all worth it. I'll go back for the souther spin ramen they had been sold out of. read more

Last night I tried the Garden District Restaurant in downtown Grand Rapids. What a delightful addition to the city's restaurant scene. When my husband and I first walked in, we were impressed by the New Orleans ambience. The music, and the decor. The staff was friendly, well versed on the menu and welcoming. After being there for around 20 minutes, our food arrived. I had the gumbo ya ya and my husband had the jambalaya. Both dishes were delicious with great flavor. Though, they weren't without a little heat. With every bite, the heat lessened and the Cajun/Creole flavor moved to the forefront of both dishes. I definitely recommend The Garden District to anyone who longs for an authentic New Orleans experience!! read more

This place is amazing!! Having been many times to New Orleans I can tell you that this place gets it right!! Shrimp Po boy ranks amongst my favorites. The cafe du monde martini was delicious. Family had the gumbo and it was wonderful. Desserts were fantastic. Wonderful service. Thank you Sophia. We WILL be back!! read more

See all

Our server was very attentive and the atmosphere is well suited for the restaraunt theme. We had mac & cheese and it had no flavor. The Fried Seafood Platter had overcooked crawfish and was totally bland. The fries were the only thing that had seasoning. My daughter had blackened salmon and it was mediocre. We are from out of town and my daughter wanted to treat to lunch in Grand Rapids to this restaraunt because she heard it had creole dishes. This was a total disappointment. There was no cajun or creole spice in any of our dishes. Only the fries. read more

I arrived with a few friends on a Friday evening and were told 45 minutes for a table, 1.5 hours later we were sat and waited another 15 minutes for our waitress who did not bring us water, then when we asked for water she forgot and we had to ask again. Food was boring and bland with up charges not worth it. $2 for a little extra un toasted white bread for our dip. $2 for sauce that had no flavor. Mac n cheese had no flavor. Shrimp po boy was boring. Very loud in there, which would have been less annoying if we were not annoyed with the food and service. read more

My friend and I were excited to try this new restaurant! Went for lunch today to support them after seeing their story shared on the news, seemed worth a try. First off I will say the service, from our waitress Sophie, was amazing. She was great. I ordered the shrimp po'boy which came with Cajun fries but I substituted fries for the mac and cheese. I figured that I would be upcharged $2 because that was the difference from fries ($6) and macaroni ($8) Po'boy was equivalent to any other one I've ever consumed, nothing special. The mac and cheese was just that literally just noodles and cheese absolutely no flavor. I would go as far as to say it didn't have any seasoning to include salt or pepper. My friend had the etouffee which was so spicy she couldn't even enjoy it, she does normally like a normal level of spice. Bills come out. I am charged for my sandwich with a side and mac side separately. I ask about it, assuming there should be some discount since I didn't receive the fries. As I'm discussing it with the server, Jessica the owner walks over and interrupts us. She begins by saying 'what's going on' and that the server 'doesn't know the menu' which I thought was a very bold comment about her employee. No smile, no chance for me to explain my request just immediate talking at me. I simply wanted to pay for what I had received and not what I hadn't gotten. She says that the macaroni is 'handmade' and cannot be substituted but that she would 'take a little off'. Long story short I would unfortunately not recommend. read more

Wonderful! Great service. Incredible flavors. My partner had Yakamein (Old Sober) which he said of "I'd like to swim in the broth". The Sassy Salmon salad was rich with the most perfectly cook salmon, piles of ripe avocado and tomatoes. We'll be back, bringing friends, often! read more

Great addition to Grand Rapids cuisine. Ambiance passes the vibe check and staff is great. Both of our meals were delicious and we'd recommend to our friends! Po Boy was delicious & Cajun Fries slap read more