KENT COUNTY, Mich.—Where are the safest places to eat in Kent County?

The county health department is answering that question with the 2013 Food Safety Awards.   The agency whittled down the list of 1,654 eligible restaurants to just 269 facilities, based on routine restaurant and food service inspections over the past year.  Under the county’s criteria, restaurants that earn the award must have a certified food safety manager, no confirmed violations of the Michigan Smoke Free Law and no confirmed foodborne illness outbreaks during the year.

WYOMING, Mich.—A family-owned restaurant that closed its doors in Caledonia is now open in Wyoming.

Monterey Grill opened to the public in early October.  The new restaurant is located at 1820 44th St. SW, formerly home to Time Out GR restaurant.  Monterey Grill’s new menu includes many old food favorites from Caledonia.  Monterey Grill’s new location also includes a dining area complete with fireplace and a bar with multiple flat screen televisions.  Harder & Warner landscaping of Caledonia transformed the yard surrounding the Wyoming restaurant.

Monterey Grill closed in Caledonia on June 9, after serving up food to the community for 12 years.  The owners, Bruce and Kerri Higgins said their family had decided to pursue new career opportunities.

KENT COUNTY, Mich.—  A new bakery in East Grand Rapids has earned a sky-high honor.

Cakabakery’s creation for Southwest Airlines’ inaugural event at Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been named “Cake of the Week” by Anna-Aero, an airline network and news analysis website.

The cake was presented Sunday, August 11, when Southwest began service out of Grand Rapids.  The dessert was designed by Jason Kakabaker, owner of Cakabakery, located at 1436 Wealthy St. SE.  Kakabaker was recently featured on Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars,” where he finished second.