Marco New American Bistro
884 Forest Hill Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
Marco New American Bistro Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Grand Rapids for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Grand Rapids for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Grand Rapids for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
884 Forest Hill Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546 - Phone (616) 942-9100
- Website https://www.marcobistro.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
- Mon : 11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Brian B.
I have had many excellent dinners prior, but recently disappointed by take out/express. Ordered online only to have them not have order despite conf#, etc. Staff totally nonchalant about it! Acting like no big deal... I was on way home from work and jeesh big deal for me to have dinner ya'll!!!So much for the customer being always right! What a bummer. Avoid online that is for sure!
(2)Phil G.
After reading all the glowing reviews, I was anticipating something much better than I got... I came for lunch with my wife on a very cold day. We had both heard great things and, as usual, Grand Rapids Magazine praised it (which, I've learned, means essentially nothing.) It took quite a while for the staff to notice and seat us, and it was uncomfortably cold in a booth by the window. I ordered the quinoa cakes for an appetizer, and the waitress referred to them as "hockey pucks". Mmmmm...sounds appetizing, doesn't it? Although she was referring to their approximate size, the taste was apropos. We also got the house made rolls with two butter selections: yellow and green. If you closed your eyes, you could not tell them apart. I ordered the "Sister Havana" sandwich on the advice of our waitress, and soon wished for more hockey pucks. The grilled sourdough bread was quite tough, but it had nothing on the pulled pork. When I bit into the sandwich, the bread/pork combo was more than I could easily bite through which caused the excessive amount of slathered mayo to unexpectedly gush out all over my hands and the plate. After cleaning off my hands, I extracted a piece of the pork as I thought it might be gristle. Nope, it was really just overdone pork. I could not finish my sandwich and lost my appetite for anything else. My wife got the wedge salad and added chicken, but the meat resembled "Chick-n" more than actual fowl. She also could not finish her lunch. My nephew assures me that this place is normally great and that we just went on a bad day. A very, very bad day with an angry cook, perhaps. I agreed to give it another chance some time - but only if he's buying.
(2)Jim R.
One reason I like this place so well is that it is an oasis of good food in an area full of crappy fast food and poorly executed bar food. The food is consistent, reliable and high quality. It may be priced a little high for what it is, but hey, until this area of Ada gets more good restaurants they can charge what they want. It is great to have this place so close to home and I will continue to smile and eat their food. It is worth noting that this is one of those few places that has had the same professional wait and bar staff for years. The bar area in the entry is also a great place to have a drink and apps. Very friendly bartender.
(4)Ron M.
I met my mother here for lunch. I was nicely greeted and sat in a clean room at a linen covered table. The atmosphere is pretty sleepy (lacking any connection with the menu.) The staff was professional and the food was good with a pretty diverse menu and specials. It's pretty sterile as far as a feel/vibe/theme goes. I left satisfied and would recommend them based on food and service but there isn't really any ambiance.
(4)Matthew D.
Much more elegant than its stripmall location suggests, Marco's Italian bistro offers great food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Great for special occasions, or just for a night out if you're in the area - call ahead for dinner as it can get quite busy!
(4)Karen B.
I signed up for a yelp account just to write this review. I have been to this restaurant only 2 times. 1st time ordered pizza to go and it was pretty awful. Didn't think I would ever go back, until my friend wanted to have lunch there for her birthday. She knew she had received birthday coupons in the past for free lunch but she didn't have one in hand so we called ahead of time. We were told by the bartender it was not a problem! We ordered lunch including some afternoon bloody Mary's and before we even ordered we asked the waiter about the birthday lunch. Gave the name To look up in the system. We asked three times through the hour and half social lunch that included drinks and desserts. Each time we were told it was no problem. Well the $80 bill came and suddenly without the coupon for the free $8.50 sandwich was just not possible Because we did not have it in hand. We asked to speak to the owner. He came out and instead of acting like a proper business owner who values his customers by saying "happy birthday, let's double check your license and welcome back and thank you for celebrating with us!" we got "you aren't a regular customer so you aren't getting anything. Sorry my staff all told you something wrong but I am not going to do anything about it." he was past rude an arrogant. I stand by my original assessment I the food as being overly pretentious crap cooked by an owner who fancies himself a "chef".
(1)Kris R.
Food was good...I wouldn't call it $60 good. Took 46 minutes to get food on a Monday night..little slow for me. Server was very nice and apologized many times for the delay. Dinning area is small and cramped.
(2)Bec B.
I dined here during the Restaurant Week. I did the set course meal designed specially for the Restaurant Week. The server was personable and professional. but the service was a little slow. The timing was a bit off in between each course. I started out with the gnocchi appetizer. It was great and fresh. The presentation was great as well. I ate the fish as the main course. I thought it was a bit bland and dull and a small portion. There were no sides. The bread pudding as the dessert was good. But nothing great. I think I need to dine here one more time and order off the regular menu before i can fully assess about this restaurant.
(3)Jeremy J.
It is not a very nice January evening, cold creeping wet and slushy as we make our way, arm-in-arm, to the front entrance to Marco. We arrive before 6pm but already there are many cars in the lot; early-birders, no doubt, seeking nourishment before darkness descends entirely. We are greeted by a cheerful but business-like woman who quickly checks then informs us there is one table left in the dining room, unless we'd rather sit in the bar area? I am fearful of that cold following us through the nearby entryway, so opt for seating deeper within the building. As it turns out, our table in the far corner is also prone to random breezes (mostly from scurrying servers), but it doesn't distract too much. We are Michiganders, after all; we adapt to vagaries of temperature and clime. The menu is complex and delightfully varied. In past, I've thought Marco offered rustic Italian or Spanish fare, but in reality the dishes are French-influenced with some international highlights. Our server brings us ice water. He seems dour at first, but becomes friendlier and communicative as the night wears on. We begin with some sparkling wine from Michigan. The bubbles are nice, though the wine itself is much sweeter than I like. Still, it's a nice way to start the meal. Rather than go the obvious route (calamari), I decide to surprise Juliet and order the mushroom gratin. Her eyes light up--a phenomenon that I love and which, quite frankly, pushes me to perform surprising feats just so I can see her reaction. Is this one of those times? Yes and no. See, just a few days before, I had the extreme pleasure to try trumpet mushrooms at Reserve with sweetbreads and a rabbit gnocchi. They were so amazing, most of my fears were invalidated. I now feel compelled to try other varieties, and Marco's gratin claims "exotic mushrooms" among the ingredients. If by "exotic" they mean "button" they are correct. And I'm still not down with spongy, chewy, button mushrooms. Even so, the dip is thick, cheesy, buttery, with just the right amount of meatiness that, when spread on a crostini or (better yet) the fresh-baked rolls, it's a rich, decadent appetizer...though I am somewhat regretting not ordering the calamari. For a main entree, I only have eyes for the Chorizo Pizza. Then our waiter trots out tonight's feature: Garlic crusted Black Grouper atop ratatouille and mashed potatoes surrounded by a red pepper sauce. Dilemma! We quickly confer and agree to share those two dishes. Pinot Noir seems like the logical choice and it's a good thing we order two glasses. It is refined, steely, with subdued fruit and vanilla undertones...all of the characteristics of some of the finest Russian River Valley wines. Juliet guesses Williamette Valley. We are both surprised when our server informs us it is from Santa Barbara, from a small-batch winery who only produces 500 cases of this Pinot Noir. Marco is only one of two Michigan restaurants who offer it. (The name he gives us is "Elusive" though I've yet to find any more information on it.) Our food arrives. My first bite of the pizza is confounding. The chorizo is spicy; the crust is flavorful, light, and crunchy; and the toppings are fresh. But there is something among the pineapple, red onion, and cilantro that eludes me. Luckily, Juliet points out the sauce is actually roasted red peppers. It adds a nice heat and sweetness. Once that mystery is solved, I am able to fully enjoy another slice. The grouper, on the other hand, is immediately recognizable and accessible. I peel off a forkful of thick, moist fish meat, mixing in some veggies from the ratatouille, making sure I get a smidgeon of piped mashed potatoes and red pepper sauce. Simple amazing. The fish is almost like a pork chop, mild yet cloaked in a faux-skin of garlic crust. The ratatouille is as good as any I had in Paris. I find myself ignoring the pizza (for a moment) and digging in, again and again, to the fish. No room for dessert, unfortunately. I enjoy a quick espresso, then we bundle up again for the trek back out to the car. Chef bids us a good night from the host stand and we thank him for a lovely meal. Marco, with the exception of some recurring lighting difficulties, is an atmospheric and authentic dining experience that might have been plucked from any Parisien boulevard. We will be back, and soon I hope. Don't take my word for it, though; check out video and what my better half has to say about our culinary adventure on our website (linked in my profile)!
(4)Lola A.
This restaurant has had a few different owners. I first went to it when it was named Huds. I was initially hesitant of a restaurant location that was behind a gas station...but I was assured that I'd like it. I did. I've continued to visit this restaurant whenever I'm in the southeast/Cascade area around lunch. It's now named Marcos and has an Italian flair. The setting is whimsical and casually elegant...a good choice if you need to entertain clients or grab a bite with a good friend. The portions are not excessively large, so I've always had room for dessert. I've ordered from their soup and sandwich menu as well as entrees and I've not been disappointed. The desserts are pretty good too.
(4)Dan Y.
Creative French insured cuisine. Found it while yelping for lunch in Grand Rapids. First time was a lunch. Fantastic classic French onion and Salmon. Both did not disappoint. The bread and butter were amazing too. Good service, but they get busy so be warned. Go go go
(4)Vail I.
I came because my fiancées parents love this restaurant. They have been coming here for years, and the chef himself came out of the kitchen to seat our party at the chef'a table. Our server was Jill, a sweet and charming server with strong professionalism and deep ties with my new in-laws. The appetizer was a French style mushroom pastry. It was amazing. I had the lamb for my meal, it fell off the bone, so tender from slow-cooking. And we had the apple strudel and crime brûlée for dessert, with coffee. Wine was excellent, dinner was excellent. Amazing to find a gem like this his in Grand Rapids.
(5)Samantha D.
Pros: * Cozy atmosphere * Great wait service (our waiter was very chatty, but friendly and enthusiastic) * Delicious, uncomplicated food. (Be warned, though, that many of the savory dishes had a bit of sweet to them.) Cons: * Slightly pricey * Small-ish portions * Appetizers came out fast, but entrees took much longer All in all, good experience. Will definitely return.
(4)Mark J.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Grand Rapids area. I now live in DC but grew up in GR and get back to visit regularly. It's one of my parents' go-to places and they've had and raved about just about everything on the menu. I only ever get one thing: the pan fried walleye, which is to die for. I can't get walleye anywhere in the DC area so when I come home I make a point of coming here, because Marco does a great job with it. The service here has always been very good - the staff is informative, friendly, knows the menu well, and doesn't rush you but is prompt when you need service. The food from appetizers to deserts is delicious. The walleye (have I mentioned that yet?) is fantastic. Seriously, get the walleye. They have a good wine selection and an acceptable beer selection for a place that isn't trying to be a beer place. They don't have 20 taps or anything but they usually have a couple of top notch selections from local brewers. Oh and before I forget - the walleye is delicious.
(5)Rob S.
I will admit that this was the first time in quite awhile where we went somewhere that has tablecloths! We had reservations for a Saturday evening. The place was pretty full so I would suggest you do the same. You can make a reservation on their website and they will call you to confirm. I don't have a whole lot more to add to the other posters here. The food was excellent, the service was attentive and knowledgeable, the prices-while not cheap, are fair and reasonable for what I would consider a small step below fine dining (no jacket and tie required). The wine list is extensive, the dinner menu has something for every taste without being to big or busy. The dining room is rather small and the ceiling a bit low so it can be somewhat noisy when it's busy. Not Chucky Cheese loud, but you won't be able to whisper sweet nothing to your lover unless you're sitting cheek to cheek. The wall décor looked like it was picked up at Target and could stand an upgrade, but that in no way detracted from the wonderful food and kind service. Overall we had a great meal and look forward to visiting again in the not-to-distant future.
(4)Gretchen D.
Food: FABULOUS, Waitperson very attentive and really knew what she was doing!
(5)Jaime S.
I had no idea about this little place until recently. I will have to agree with Lola about the place being whimisical and casually elegant. Perfect description of the place. I was here for dinner and had the salmon, which was very nice. The portions are very nice without going overboard. Very nice place to entertain guests or a date. I will definately return.
(4)John L.
We dine at Marco very frequently as we live close by. Always first rate food and service. We are a little younger than most of the diners so we tend to eat at one of the six or so tables in the bar area where it is a little more of a youthful crowd. Mark, his mother Deb and all of his staff are always on their game, many have been with him since the begining. Special requests are not a probelm either. We have never ever had a bad meal here. Everything that they do is well thought out and exceptional. Very reasonable prices too. Really, we could dine here almost every night and we know some people that pretty much do!
(5)Gretchen D.
Very good. It's a bit hard to find off Cascade. We dropped in on a Saturday night. It was quite full but they seated us in the bar (same menu). They have things like fried calamari and french onion soup. My mom had the bistro burger which she said was excellent. It was served with a very nice mesclun salad on the same place. My sister had the chicken pizza. The crust was excellent--flaky and a buttery. Service was fine (but a bit too familiar; he kept putting his hand on our backs.) overall, very good quality at a reasonable price.
(3)Gaius Kaligula C.
This is as close to perfect as it gets in Grand Rapids. Impeccable service, and a well-curated, perfectly executed menu that appeals to everyone (even the jaded, demanding high-end diner like myself). If you come here often, join the rewards program - it is extremely generous. I won't even try and describe it, just go check it out. I'm pissed it took me as long as it did. If the "Nuts" dessert is there, GET IT.
(5)David M.
Many years ago I met two chefs and I asked them where they ate in Grand Rapids, where they thought the food was the best. I made a list, I still have it. One of the restaurants was Marcos. Their favorite dish....Lobster Gnocchi. I made it a point to dine there soon after and was a fan from the first bite. For some strange reason I never ordered the Gnocchi until last Friday. Well.....let me tell you. It may be one of the most delicious things I have ever place on my tongue. If you have never had it, Gnocchi is a pasta made from potatoes. This was a dish by and for poor people who had little to eat and wanted what they ate to taste good. Like always, I think "poor people" food is the best and tastiest in any culture. Gnocchi is lifted to a fine art here, and the good news is there are TWO different ways to try it. The Gnocchi in brown butter is an appetizer that is always on the menu. Simple, perfect, delicious. But wait...add lobster and some asparagus and some Marco Magic and you have Gnocchi raised to the next level. (God I hate that expression) Anyway, you get the point. So why has it taken me so long to try it? I have been eating there for five years...why the wait??? Because the rest of the food is so damn good. I couldn't get past the Walleye, The Skate, The Soup, and a really perfect Martini. Here is another great Marco idea. The menu is divided into "small" "medium" and "Large" portions so whatever your appetite, they can make you as much or as little as you wish. Prices reflect those choices, but all the food is very reasonable based on quality and portion. The wait staff is a wonderful group of knowledgeable and enthusiastic folks who seem to know they work some place special. Don't do what I did....make the Lobster Gnocchi your first meal here....you can thank me later. BTW I am always reluctant to give five stars....in this case it is an understatement. Tell Mark David says "Hi"
(5)Erin E.
Went there for take out. The staff didn't acknowledge me for about five minutes. When they did, the women behind the bar where just rude. The place itself is super loud. I could barely hear myself think. I got an angel hair pasta dish which was ridiculously bland. It had goat cheese, asparagus, pine nuts, & cherry tomatoes. It made no sense at all. Would never go there again or recommend it. Update: Unfortunately, my client loves this place and brought me a salad from Marcos today. It was a "Greek" salad. But it was made with ICEBERG lettuce and VERY little of it. Plus BLACK olives, not kalmata, their feta must be kraft brand. I just don't understand why they couldn't use quality ingredients, especially for what they charge. Another disappointment.
(1)Angel T.
This place is amazing! I hope I remember for next time in town. The service, food, atmosphere were all great. I had the Salmon and the chocolate ganache. Will definitely be back!
(5)Wendy O.
A late dinner on a Tuesday night during bad weather, Marco bistro food was excellent. House made rolls with flavored butter, very yummy. Spinach salad with lots of goodies added and a light dressing, delish. Shared that, as it was large. French onion soup was fine, nothing special, simply good. Veal ragu off the tapas menu was sweet and excellent, with nice chunks of meat. Portion was large enough for my dinner (as a light eater). The high light of my meal was the house made lobster ravioli from the appetizer list, FANTASTIC! My coworker ordered the steak, as he is a gluten free person. 3 items on the main course menu with (gf) noted. The wait staff mentioned that, after I asked about it, that the restaurant is known for it risotto. Owned by the chef and his family, mom stopped by our table as well. Much of the clientele is local "upper crust" who eat out often, read elderly. There was only one other table seated due to weather. We didn't look at the wine list, so not sure about that though I suspect it may be decent (from a California perspective ). Will definitely go back if I'm ever I the area again.
(4)Maryvonne M.
Excellent! Excellent When we come home to Grand Rapids, we always dinne at Marco's. One of the finest meal that we have and we are never disappointed. Shrimp dish, chicken Marsala, onion soup or specials have never failed us. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant, the service is good, the decor simple and peacefully. Our favorite restaurant for many years. Highly recommended.
(5)Julia B.
I went here to lunch with co-workers while in Grand Rapids for business. We got the gnocchi appetizer to share and after reading the Yelp reviews my expectations were really high. I thought the gnocchi was good, but not as great as some of the reviews made it sound. However, my co-workers loved the gnocchi and still rave about it. As my entree i got the crab cake sandwich. I didn't like the bread it was on but the crab cake itself was delicious! They also had some really great sounding specials written on a board in the front of the restaurant (lobster roll- yes, please!) but we were disappointed to learn that the specials are exclusively for dinner. Conclusion: I can't wait to try this place for dinner.
(4)Alice G.
I have been wanting to try Marco's for awhile and am so glad that I finally got here. The atmospher is excellent with linen tableclothes and so peaceful compared to some places, you just felt you could relax and enjoy your meal. We had the salmon and the walleye which were both very good. I also had the french onion soup that I would recommend to try. Service was very accomadating. Can't wait to go back and try there chorizo pizza.
(5)