Half off martinis Thursday night! This is a great place to end a classy date night or even start a girls night out. Came here with a few friends and we ordered one of each martini. Number Eight is by far my favorite, great tropical mix with plenty of alcohol. Kitchen close at 10pm and bar closes at 11pm so don't get here too late!
(4)
Danielle M.
My boyfriend and I ate dinner here before going to the paint nite event that's hosted here. The fries were really good. The place doesn't have ranch dressing. We both ordered burgers and his was good. Mine was way under done. I wouldn't go back for dinner. If you come here order a sangria with red wine!!!
(2)
Shannon M.
My friend and I strolled here on a recent Saturday night to give it a try for the first time after a disappointing experience at another nearby restaurant. We had a wonderful experience! We each ordered a drink and shared the charcuterie platter and absolutely loved it! I'm still thinking about the amazing gorgonzola with lavender honey. I ordered one of the special cocktails with a peach infused bourbon. So good and SO strong. It was perfect. The service was great and attentive but not overly so. We will certainly return!
(5)
Gail T.
First visit was a treat. Great service. Everything we ordered was delicious, but the star of the evening was the quinoa salad. It was satisfying and the definition of balance of flavor. I would go back just for that!
(4)
Derrick V.
My wife and I went here to have a snack before the Christmas tree lighting downtown. We ordered the cheese tray, a flatbread pizza, and I had a beer. The first two beers were out and the cheese tray had grapes on it that had visible mold. The waiter said yup I guess we should check them and took the grapes away. Nothing was ever addressed and the tray was left. Very unhappy with service from waitstaff and they showed no urgency while there. The mushroom flatbread was very delicious but that was overshadowed by everything else. We don't plan on returning anytime soon.
(1)
Christina B.
If you dine here, we hope you get the opportunity to be served by Royce; he's super fun, engaging, a terrific waiter, and is passionate about Bar Divani as well as its multifaceted history. Now let's talk about the 'tinis and the small plates: W-O-W!! No's 9 & 10 martinis (blueberry and pomegranate, respectively) are absolutley delish, martini perfection. And please PLEASE do not leave without trying (and swooning over) the shrimp and bacon grits small plate. Died and went to heaven, and didn't even have to go down South to Savannah to do it! Well done, Bar Divani. Props to the chef, DJ mixmaster, and our exceptional waiter, Royce!!
(5)
B M.
Last week, we had the luck to spend two evenings at Bar Divani. Both nights we sat at the bar, just to watch Chris craft cocktails. Chris isn't trying to be cool. He just is cool. The two cocktails he designed for the 2015 Grand Cocktail Competition (A Midsummer Night's Shrub and Emerald City Julep) are scrumptious. Our group is usually a challenge as each person prefers a different liquor (rum, vodka, bourbon). His ability to mix, shake, and stir is just spot on. From the Rum Sour to the Strawberry Quick to the Old-Fashioned Sanders Coffee drink. Each made us feel like kids again.
(5)
Bigboss A.
Wow! This place has taken a nose dive. We used to go here for our anniversary dinners, and it was an amazing place. After taking a few years off we returned for dinner last night and couldn't believe the decline. Our food was very mediocre, the wine was stale and the restaurant is in need of a major cleaning. Once one of my favorites, this place is now very far from my mind as a possible option. Very sad.
(1)
Amy M.
I booked a Paint Nite event with coworkers here & grabbed a bite to eat before we painted. The server was a tad bit funny, got my sense of humor which was cool but I don't think he was used to dealing with large groups. I got the wilted spinach salad and added chicken. It was really sub par. The menu said the salad included cranberries & cashews. There were maybe 3 cashews & 5 cranberries in the salad. The chicken I added was just ok. The white peach sangria was tasty - too bad each glass was only filled about 3/4 of the way. Some of my coworkers had the Korean BBQ ribs, hamburger, goat cheese, crab cakes & sweet potato croquettes. From what they all said the food was decent except for the goat cheese. I won't go out of my way to go back here. Just doesn't seem worth it to me.
(2)
Roxanne G.
Found this gem while attending a meeting in Grand Rapids. Great atmosphere and decor. Staff and owner were very friendly. Food was good and interesting. Quinoa salad and burger were delicious
(4)
Jim W.
In my previous review I stated that the management seems to be poor. Correction, the OWNER seems to be delusional. Apparently since I didn't immediately complain about our poor experience and instead wrote a private email upon our return home, to which I didn't get a response, the owner decided that my review is a "prank" and we didn't really eat there. This is the most ridiculous way to address the situation. A better way would have been to reply to my PRIVATE email. I assure you my wife and I were there and the food and drinks were not good with the exception of the fries. However, if you contend that this is untrue, please refund my credit card for the charges made by your restaurant as you claim we didn't visit.
(1)
Nina F.
The service is always great and they definitely know a thing or two about wine. This is my favorite place in GR, but as of lately they have the tendency to play the music way too loud to have a conversation with someone across the table. It never used to be "this" loud in here... or is it just me getting older?
(4)
Joe P.
My girlfriend and I love going to Bar Divani with the Groupon. A great bottle of wine and the cheese plate for right around the $40 groupon mark makes a great date. The atmosphere is wonderful and the servers never make you feel rushed. The food is amazing and would recommend trying a few of the small plates. The wine selection is excellent and the staff is very knowledgeable. STAY AWAY from the bartender though! He had short dark hair and will make you feel like like an idiot if you are not a wine expert. What a pretentious jerk of a bartender. It's just a couple looking to enjoy a nice night on Ionia St in Grand Rapids, MI not a sommelier on a road trip though vineyards in southern France.
(4)
Zachary H.
It's been a while since I came here so I don't remember too many of the specifics of our experience. I was a bit worried since there weren't many people here on a Friday night, but it ended up being quite nice. It was rather quiet so easy to hold conversations. They have a good drink menu. All the food we tried tasted pretty good. I'd definitely come back.
We had a wonderful time laughing at how bad the food was. The Drinks were terrible to. Nearly undrinkable. We should have known when there wasn't a table available anywhere in the area but they had plenty of seats. Don't go. Don't waste your money or torture your taste buds like that. Really. Don't. I would like to mention parking was not an issue, we parked in a nearby lot for $5. The walk was short. Also, the food came out quickly and was hot. Everything just tasted bad. My husband sent an email about our experience. He prefers to handle things privately, but he has yet to receive a response.
(1)
David M.
There is a mood created when you walk in to Bar Divani that seems different than most other places I have been to here in Grand Rapids. Quiet, ellegant, tastefull all describe the feeling but there is also the smiling faces of the emplyees who seem to genuinly know they work some place special and unique. Great food, great service and reasonalble prices. You are waiting for???
(5)
Lola A.
I had been to Bar Divani several years ago for an event, but had never gone there for a meal. So this past week, we decided to check out the menu on a Tuesday night. Arriving for an early dinner, we were promptly greeted and seated. A jazz singer was prepping for the evening and we were delighted to hear that she was going to be entertaining guests during the evening. The service was very attentitive, and the food was excellent. Some of the best peroggies I have ever had. My husband had ribs which were so succulent that they melted off the fork. My chicken dish was also full of flavor. Although we passed on dessert, I am glad that we didn't pass on making a long overdue visit to Bar Divani.
(4)
Michael R.
Let me start by saying I'm not a wine guy. Our group went to Bar Divani on a recent Saturday evening while in town for our annual brewery fest and some in the group wanted a break and enjoy wine. The shrimp and grits dish was quite good-grits were more of a polenta mix of cheese and jalapeno, while the shrimp were grilled and the sauce was well-proportioned. The pieces of bacon throughout were the highlight-these were not bits; rather, were sliced pieces of thick glazed bacon. Their menu for food is not huge but everything the table had was well done, while my party said the wine choices were good and weren't too marked up, so there you go. Desserts were also interesting, a chocolate mousse in particular.
I was just told that I do not know how to order an old fashioned. I was told I should specify if I want a 1990s old fashioned. Unreal. This place is not the same as it used to be. Kudos to the bartender for coming over and apologizing for the misunderstanding about the drink. I originally rated this one star, because of his balls I upped it. Too bad the manager didn't address my concern.
(3)
Rose Mary i.
Had a great night with yummy appetizers & entrees, perfect spirits, and a great vibe. We had reservations so they seated us right away. And the attentiveness of the staff was appreciated by all.
(5)
Nicholas S.
Very classy and a nice place for dinner and a drink. The Filet Mignon with potatoes and green beans was cooked to perfection. We have tried most of the steak places in the area and this was the best yet for steak. We were shy due to the reviews, but I think they are unwarranted. Seems to be nestled in an area of college bars so it just could be the surrounding area throwing it off. We will be back
(4)
Amanda L.
Experienced a wine tasting with a few friends for a bachelorette party. We were greeted promptly and escorted to our table in a semi-private area of the restaurant. Our sommelier explained the 4 wines we were tasting and gave us very generous pours of each. We shared the margarita flat bread, the cheese plate and the humus platter and each person was full from the drinks and treats at the end. Atmosphere is classy and chic with low lighting and ambient music. A great way to start a girls night out! Prices reflect the upscale setting, wine, and food options offered.
(4)
Jake R.
most bars in west michigan have this environment of unkept, classless, laziness. people show up in their UofM or MSU hoodies and a pair of worn in work jeans to throw back a couple beers with their buddies. there is a lack of culture and elegance in these places that i cannot stand. bar divani is an oasis of elegance and culture in a dessert of middle-american blandness. obviously this place has an exceptional selection of wines but what has taken this place to the next level is the full kitchen that the newest owner has added. the menu is small but incorporates a wude variety of authentic dishes from various cultures. each item on the menu is exceptional. the bar divani burger is one if the best i have ever had. the use of brisket in the patty is pure genius. the risotto is truly authentic with a wonderful combination of flavors. the quinoa salad is a fabtastic mix of textures and great for a light, healthy dinner. the environment if this bar is a breath if fresh air in a city filled with rowdy breweries. the music is something i personally love. playlists include artists from sam smith to al green. this adds to the elegant yet relaxed environment. the service is exceptional. the decor is modern and chic yet overwhelming or cliche. for any food snobs like myself that visit, i recomend having a conversation with the owner louis. the first time i visited i talked with him fir nearly half an hour and enjoyed it immensely. its clear that who truly is passionate about food and wine abd it shows through his conversation as well as bar divani. i strongly advis visiting bar divani whether for a dinner to start the night or for a drink or two to end it.
(5)
Alex B.
Bar Divani is an upscale restaurant in the bar district of Grand Rapids. It has a good location and a decent ambiance. Staff is helpful and attentive. That's where the compliments end. Visiting the restaurant this past weekend with a few friends, we came for drinks and a few small plates. My wife and I split a small plate and 7 drinks and left with an $80 tab. With their very limited beer list and stingy drink pours (a well-iced rum and coke goes for $6), this restaurant is priced for a much bigger city. We shared small plates with other couples at our table and were not impressed with any of the food. A small plate of lamb sausage was $15, dried out, and flavorless. The ribs were slightly better, but the quality and portion size were not worth the price the other couple paid. The point of small plates is to get several and try a variety. The prices of these plates made that not an option. Finally the ambiance. The inside of the building is very nice, decorated as a wine cellar which is pertinent for their multiple wine tasting events. However, the few times we've visited, the sports TVs have been the center of attention for the whole room, ruining the wine aficionado atmosphere that they have obviously spent a lot of time trying to cultivate. Ultimately, I would say that the only saving grace of this restaurant is their reputation for wine tasting events. But with other restaurants nearby that offer much larger wine selections with better food and a more affordable menu overall, why go here?
(2)
Kristen J.
Good food but small portions. If you like to not be hungry when you leave, get an appetizer or something with your meal. The food is pretty good and freshly prepared. They have a bar on sight which can get a little loud and annoying at times but overall, the place is quaint. They have lots of different seating including couched and chairs with nice tables. It's quite comfy. The server we had was new but knew the menu well. He was super nice and very helpful with menu suggestions. This place runs groupons often so check it out!
(4)
Jay S.
The service here has been exceptional especially our last visit. We had stopped here for drink prior to going to dinner elsewhere- our misfortune since the menu looks spectacular. We will be making plans for a more complete night at Bar Divani including dinner.
(4)
Marie B.
This was our first visit. My mom and I used a Groupon on a very slow Friday afternoon. We loved the ambiance, drinks, and especially the food. We had wonderful service too! Highlights: White BBQ chicken flat bread with duck bacon!! Lavender Vodka Lemonade Bar Divani reminded me of a lounge style bar/restaurant in L.A. It was a nice change of scenery. Looking forward to our next visit to GR!
(5)
Anissa C.
Wasn't too impressed. Came here dressed casual. Don't do it. Dress up, the staff might treat you better.
(2)
Emily K.
I went to Bar Divani's for the first time ever this past weekend for a Bachelorette party dinner. CLASSY! The place is so cozy, dim lights, gorgeous wine racks surrounding our seating area, and a massive wine list! All things I enjoy. I am originally from Traverse City and we have some VERY good restaurants here. Bar Divani's reminded me of dining in TC. Classy, original, fancy, but not too pricey. Perfect! I had the "number one" martini which tasted exactly like a Margarita- fabulous, and only $6 during happy hour!! I had two. I then had the Curry Chicken Salad Wrap for dinner....it was only $8.99. Very well priced for the experience you get here. Service was great also. Very kind wait staff, very professional. Gratuity was included which made things easy after you've had a couple drinks :) The only downfall was our table was by the door, and we froze every time people came inside. Due to popularity (and rightfully so) this happened A LOT. I will be going back here!!!
(5)
Jeff D.
Menu has changed quite a bit...used to be one of my favorite places because I love the atmosphere but the latest menu is not very appealing.
(3)
Tiffany H.
I came to Bar Divani for a recent 4-course wine pairing dinner. It's a fixed menu, and I believe they have a different "theme" each time they offer one. The one I attended was French. The food was pretty good, but not amazing. I really enjoyed the first two courses, foie gras on toasted baguette and escargot with puff pastry. Unfortunately, the tenderloin in my entree and the cake in my dessert were both dry. The potato side to the entree was also bland and unimpressive. The meal in general felt unbalanced, with every dish basically containing only meat and carbs. French food is rich, yes, but should leave you feeling satisfied, not heavy... and it should never be dry! That said, I really enjoyed the wine pairings. The server was able to give us an interesting history on the first two, before he got too busy for the later courses. I'm no wine expert, but each complemented the food well. I would say this is a great atmosphere for a nice dinner date, and I'd definitely come back to try some more wines and cocktails. Be warned - I don't know what their auto-gratuity policy is, but they tacked on 20% for the wine dinner (we had a table of 3).
(3)
Lara B.
After walking around all day at ArtPrize we were famished. We ordered the Eggplant Napoleon as a app- it was AMAZING, just DELISH and I don't even like eggplant that much! The BBQ ribs are some of the best I have ever had! I have had ribs all over the country, even in Texas! The app portion fed my husband for his main course. I had a Caesar salad-was good but lacked true Caesar details (no anchovies, no shaved cheese) just a parmesan crisp- which was good but I love cheese so that was a little disappointing. Also, had tomatoes...kinda strange.... I ordered an iced tea and this seemed to be a foreign concept to our server... they said they would have to brew the tea (nice, fresh, fine by me) then she brought out a tray of tea bags for hot tea...? I said "nevermind" how about a lemonade... I got iced water with pure lemon juice, no sugar...? Strange. Overall, it fixed our hunger craving & staff was friendly! We would eat here again!
(3)
Ryan N.
Went here with my wife and truly enjoyed the experience. The price was very reasonible, especially the Happy Hour menu (dialy from 4 to 7). They also had a very extensive wine and drink menu. The restraunt itself was very relaxing and classy. The staff was very friendly, attentive and helpful (Thank you Abigail). I had the 3 cheese flat bread which was very good and my wife had the vegetarian sushi, which she also enjoyed. We also had the homemade chocolate lava cake for dessert which was delicious. The martini's where amazing (we tried #4 & #10). We will definitely go back to Bar Davini and try more of their menu next time we are in Grand Rapids.
(4)
Ryan W.
I love this restaurant. The staff is super knowledgeable about their menu, GREAT food, extensive bar selection, reasonable prices--don't know what some of these fools are talking about when they bash their prices, it's very reasonable for the price--and I'm a law student saying this. What's not to like?
(5)
Ronda V.
I am sorry to report we had a bad experience at Bar Divani this weekend. I had the Risotto and the onions were burnt so bad it over powered the taste of the dish. We were also overcharge for our bottle of wine by $22. The waitress did a great job taking care of us and other issues that happened during the evening. But overall I would not return for the food. I would stop by for a glass of wine.
(2)
Jessica E.
Had a bug in glass experience there but other than that, service and food was great. However, I am a little nervous about ordering another martini due to the fly in the shaker.
(2)
Megan T.
I bought the living social coupon for Bar Divani and thought I would give it a try. Dressed up a bit and headed to the restaurant. Parking was easy to find (Wednesday night). Made a reservation, but the restaurant was not overly busy. Sat right down. The bar was busy, so it took a few minutes to get our drinks. I got a cocktail call the tiny birdie (I think) and my boyfriend got a beer. We each order a rice bowl. They were great, but my boyfriend left still hungry. The service was great, but the prices were kind of high for what you received. For two small plates and three drinks (2 beers 1 cocktail) it was over $50. I would recommend going here for wine and small plates, not dinner.
(3)
Michael L.
This bar/restaurant is great, and really does well to promote dining in Grand Rapids. I went with my sister for a late dinner. We came in on a friday around 11pm and were accommodated quite nicely. Despite the packed crowd of Def Leppard head's with their bleach blonde mullet wigs, headbands and 'Pour Some Sugar' shirts, they found us a non-smoking table. We both started with a glass of wine from a fairly diverse wine list. To my knowledge they didn't have a sommelier but their staff was quite knowledgeable about wine. We opted for their 3 course tasting menus that night featuring a duck stir-fry, a sweet shrimp dish and bone in lamb. Each course was delicious along with the paired wines. Our waiter actually suggested wines off the tasting menu that he felt went better. Definitely a place i'd come back to GR for which in turn i hope influences other restaurateurs in the area.
(5)
Brian J. B.
The vibe at Bar Divani is fancy-pants, and it's a nice place to go for a late dinner when you're out with somebody fabulous... On a recent visit, we were looking for something light, so we got the sushi, which frankly was sub-grocery store. The mushroom flatbread was divine, though. They've got an impressive beer list as well as an excellent wine list.
(4)
Allan M.
A little pricey, can be a little stingy on the pours. Decent beer selection. I have only eaten here a few times, food is good. The interior needs a little pick me up. It was once considered posh, but now is a bit stale. The service can range from excellent to lacking.
(3)
Mighty M.
I went out to dinner here with some friends during a recent visit to my favorite Michigan city. This place does cocktails right! I'm not really a martini kind of girl, but everyone raved about them, and who I am to argue? I ordered the # 4: Vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, white cranberry juice, and chilled grapes. It sounded so refreshing, and it was. Our awesome waitress first brought our glasses, each filled with the main fruit component of each drink (grapes for me). Then, followed up with an armful of martini shakers, and poured us each our concoction. Mine was fantastic, I'd order it again in a heartbeat! I also ordered the roasted portobella: roasted portobella cap, balsamic aioli, roasted red pepper, goat cheese and arugula on a toasted baguette. I literally just got hungry for it again writing that. The combination of savory mushroom, creamy goat cheese, and tangy red pepper left my taste buds singing. AND IT WAS AFFORDABLE. Big fan!
(4)
Kristin W.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Grand Rapids. The food is always delicious, the drink selection is superb, and the service is always good.
(5)
Jacob S.
Ambiance was cool, for sure. The wait staff was good as well. The advertised menu items were not all there. For instance, I ordered a 15yr Pappy van Winkle (which was on the menu), and I was offered a 12yr. Really, it would have been proper when an advertised item is not in stock, the drink should be upgraded with the difference of the drinks as the price. Oh, well. Additionally, after spending $75, I should not have left hungry. But I did. Ordered Cheese flight, Tuna Poke, and oysters. They all tasted good, but it was overpriced.
(2)
Brad K.
Amazing restaurant. Went here with my girlfriend on a busy Saturday night. Called ahead for a reservation. Ordered some wine flights, appetizer, dinner, and dessert and got out of there under 100 bucks. It is an awesome place for date night or just a random night on the town.
(5)
Stacy H.
This is my ultimate favorite place downtown Grand Rapids! It's so cozy and classy, nothing like some of the rowdy college bars nearby. I've been here many times for their happy hour, everyday from 4-7. Had to make a stop here last week when back in town on business. My favorite things: 3 cheese flatbread, spinach artichoke dip, general tszo's chicken (not on the menu this last time, bummer), risotto. Thursday night is great to visit for $5 moscato and even better deals on their happy hour martinis. I regularly crave the 3 cheese flatbread. Every time we've gone we've had great service as well. Can't wait until the next time we're in town so we can stop in again.
(5)
Audra K.
Chocolate olives were delicious! But at 10pm that's the only dessert we were able to sink our teeth into. Alas, we will have to return! It seemed like a place with great atmosphere when you crave a change from the bars.
(4)
Sarah S.
Expensive, but very high class. I had a specialty cocktail made with valentine vodka (which is locally made in Mi.), literally one of the best drinks I have ever had.... Ever! Worth a visit, and a drink.
(4)
l v.
Great date place. Yummy drinks. I had an off the menu drink called the 'jedi mind trick' (lambic beer with a shot of chocolate vodka) aptly named cause it's deceptively strong yet tastes like a chocolate covered berry. It will leave your date saying "you will have another drink, you will have another drink". The food is most def worth a try. Sidenote: the weekends can get kinda noisy here and fills with the 'beautiful people' quickly. My friends used to call this the trophy wife studio...it seemed as if they were all there struttin their stuff.
(4)
Jen J.
full disclosure, i have never eaten here so i can only speak to the drinks and the service. i think the atmosphere is a little pretentious, velvet curtains, lighted wine cabinets and whatnot, for a product that i don't think lives up. the tables are oddly placed and the staff running the place are really young and not super knowledgeable. that being said, it's a go to spot for me when i'm in town and want to have a chill night in downtown GR, which, let's face it, is most nights for me. i'm over dance clubs and sausage fests and buckets of bud. i want craft brews, bold red wines and creative cocktails. this place delivers on at least two of those three. i can't remember how many pages of beer they had because they have so many pages of wines and cocktail specials. i've come here now multiple times to have a late night heart to heart with my best friend over a bottle of wine, usually the laetitia, a bold red wine from california. i will say that like all wine bars they double or nearly the wholesale bottle prices and triple or quadruple the glass prices--i found this bottle of wine at my sam's wine store in chicago for less than $20 and bar divani charges $32. i shouldn't complain because that's every wine bar, but i'm still of the mindset that GR is trying soooo hard to be a real big city when they're just a real big town. but then again, i'm judgmental because i didn't want to stay living in my hometown. the servers are patient, will bring water with the wine and always let my friend and it talk and talk into the night. the last time i went, my other best friend and i met our best guy friend and we sampled all their beverage options. our guy friend had a nice belgian beer, my girlfriend tried a cucumber mojito and i had another bold red. we sat in a huge booth and talked to our hearts content. we also had a molten chocolate dessert one time, which was yummy, but decidedly unoriginal. lastly... now, i know that wine glasses are designed to let the wine breath and such, but the glasses here are ridiculously large. they're like pretty glass bowls on stilts and i think they're more than a bit unnecessary.
(3)
Seema T.
Bar Divani is one of my favorite places in Grand Rapids. My husband and I go there pretty often. They have a great wine selection and the food is really good. The ambiance is warm, cozy and inviting, again, nothing pretentious about it. The service is exceptional, have never had a bad experience. I highly recommend this place.
(5)
Eliza B.
15 of us went for my best friend's bachelorette party. We called a week in advance and they were ready for us. The server we had was great and the highlight was when she came out at the end and gave us ALL SEPARATE CHECKS for our many drinks!!!!! I have to admit that I remember the service and great vibe better than the drinks but that's worth multiple stars tome!!
(4)
Eric S.
Met a networking group here last week. There were about 14 of us. I've been there a few times and service has varied from ok to great. Service now was terrible - some of the worst I've had anywhere. Took 20-30 minutes to place order, that much to get our drinks, and about the same time AFTER drinks were empty to reorder. Restaurant was busy but not so bad that would delay service by so much. Manager was wandering around, but never checked on our table or removed empty glasses. We should have been charged happy hour prices but were charged full price. Took over 30 minutes between when we asked for check and when it was finally right. Never got apology from waitress, even when she spilled a drink on one of us. When we complained about slow service, she said we should have given her at least 20 minutes to get bills ready. (we had been trying to get her attention for almost that long.). Not going back-service is too spotty for the level they claim to be.
(1)
Jaime S.
My girlfriend and I stumbled in to this bar and it was packed but we still managed to find a seat in non-traditional lounge chairs. I only gave this place 4 stars because it was slightly too loud but the people watching was fun. You have all walks of life that roam into this bar. Baseball caps, jerseys, heels, and spagetti straps...they had it all. We opted for a couple of martini's that have no names...I got the #3 and my girl...#16. YUM! They make a nice production of it too with your glasses already filled with the main ingredient so you know you're gonna crawl outa the bar once your finished....and then they shake away and fill your glass with the flava...
(4)
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Address :15 Ionia Ave SW,Ste 130
Grand Rapids, MI, 49503
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Dinner, Late Night Parking : Valet, Street Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Quiet Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Fri, Sat Coat Check : Yes Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Amy Y.
Half off martinis Thursday night! This is a great place to end a classy date night or even start a girls night out. Came here with a few friends and we ordered one of each martini. Number Eight is by far my favorite, great tropical mix with plenty of alcohol. Kitchen close at 10pm and bar closes at 11pm so don't get here too late!
(4)Danielle M.
My boyfriend and I ate dinner here before going to the paint nite event that's hosted here. The fries were really good. The place doesn't have ranch dressing. We both ordered burgers and his was good. Mine was way under done. I wouldn't go back for dinner. If you come here order a sangria with red wine!!!
(2)Shannon M.
My friend and I strolled here on a recent Saturday night to give it a try for the first time after a disappointing experience at another nearby restaurant. We had a wonderful experience! We each ordered a drink and shared the charcuterie platter and absolutely loved it! I'm still thinking about the amazing gorgonzola with lavender honey. I ordered one of the special cocktails with a peach infused bourbon. So good and SO strong. It was perfect. The service was great and attentive but not overly so. We will certainly return!
(5)Gail T.
First visit was a treat. Great service. Everything we ordered was delicious, but the star of the evening was the quinoa salad. It was satisfying and the definition of balance of flavor. I would go back just for that!
(4)Derrick V.
My wife and I went here to have a snack before the Christmas tree lighting downtown. We ordered the cheese tray, a flatbread pizza, and I had a beer. The first two beers were out and the cheese tray had grapes on it that had visible mold. The waiter said yup I guess we should check them and took the grapes away. Nothing was ever addressed and the tray was left. Very unhappy with service from waitstaff and they showed no urgency while there. The mushroom flatbread was very delicious but that was overshadowed by everything else. We don't plan on returning anytime soon.
(1)Christina B.
If you dine here, we hope you get the opportunity to be served by Royce; he's super fun, engaging, a terrific waiter, and is passionate about Bar Divani as well as its multifaceted history. Now let's talk about the 'tinis and the small plates: W-O-W!! No's 9 & 10 martinis (blueberry and pomegranate, respectively) are absolutley delish, martini perfection. And please PLEASE do not leave without trying (and swooning over) the shrimp and bacon grits small plate. Died and went to heaven, and didn't even have to go down South to Savannah to do it! Well done, Bar Divani. Props to the chef, DJ mixmaster, and our exceptional waiter, Royce!!
(5)B M.
Last week, we had the luck to spend two evenings at Bar Divani. Both nights we sat at the bar, just to watch Chris craft cocktails. Chris isn't trying to be cool. He just is cool. The two cocktails he designed for the 2015 Grand Cocktail Competition (A Midsummer Night's Shrub and Emerald City Julep) are scrumptious. Our group is usually a challenge as each person prefers a different liquor (rum, vodka, bourbon). His ability to mix, shake, and stir is just spot on. From the Rum Sour to the Strawberry Quick to the Old-Fashioned Sanders Coffee drink. Each made us feel like kids again.
(5)Bigboss A.
Wow! This place has taken a nose dive. We used to go here for our anniversary dinners, and it was an amazing place. After taking a few years off we returned for dinner last night and couldn't believe the decline. Our food was very mediocre, the wine was stale and the restaurant is in need of a major cleaning. Once one of my favorites, this place is now very far from my mind as a possible option. Very sad.
(1)Amy M.
I booked a Paint Nite event with coworkers here & grabbed a bite to eat before we painted. The server was a tad bit funny, got my sense of humor which was cool but I don't think he was used to dealing with large groups. I got the wilted spinach salad and added chicken. It was really sub par. The menu said the salad included cranberries & cashews. There were maybe 3 cashews & 5 cranberries in the salad. The chicken I added was just ok. The white peach sangria was tasty - too bad each glass was only filled about 3/4 of the way. Some of my coworkers had the Korean BBQ ribs, hamburger, goat cheese, crab cakes & sweet potato croquettes. From what they all said the food was decent except for the goat cheese. I won't go out of my way to go back here. Just doesn't seem worth it to me.
(2)Roxanne G.
Found this gem while attending a meeting in Grand Rapids. Great atmosphere and decor. Staff and owner were very friendly. Food was good and interesting. Quinoa salad and burger were delicious
(4)Jim W.
In my previous review I stated that the management seems to be poor. Correction, the OWNER seems to be delusional. Apparently since I didn't immediately complain about our poor experience and instead wrote a private email upon our return home, to which I didn't get a response, the owner decided that my review is a "prank" and we didn't really eat there. This is the most ridiculous way to address the situation. A better way would have been to reply to my PRIVATE email. I assure you my wife and I were there and the food and drinks were not good with the exception of the fries. However, if you contend that this is untrue, please refund my credit card for the charges made by your restaurant as you claim we didn't visit.
(1)Nina F.
The service is always great and they definitely know a thing or two about wine. This is my favorite place in GR, but as of lately they have the tendency to play the music way too loud to have a conversation with someone across the table. It never used to be "this" loud in here... or is it just me getting older?
(4)Joe P.
My girlfriend and I love going to Bar Divani with the Groupon. A great bottle of wine and the cheese plate for right around the $40 groupon mark makes a great date. The atmosphere is wonderful and the servers never make you feel rushed. The food is amazing and would recommend trying a few of the small plates. The wine selection is excellent and the staff is very knowledgeable. STAY AWAY from the bartender though! He had short dark hair and will make you feel like like an idiot if you are not a wine expert. What a pretentious jerk of a bartender. It's just a couple looking to enjoy a nice night on Ionia St in Grand Rapids, MI not a sommelier on a road trip though vineyards in southern France.
(4)Zachary H.
It's been a while since I came here so I don't remember too many of the specifics of our experience. I was a bit worried since there weren't many people here on a Friday night, but it ended up being quite nice. It was rather quiet so easy to hold conversations. They have a good drink menu. All the food we tried tasted pretty good. I'd definitely come back.
(4)Eric M.
Bar Divani has just switched its menu over with a new Chef team at the helm and I must say I am a fan. With any switch-over it can take time for the kitchen teams to be able to gel properly and create real consistency in their dishes but my girlfriend and I decided to stop in and try things. I'm glad we did! We tried about six of the new dishes. Each dish was tasty and a very American Rustic feel with European roots. The Pulled Pork Won-tons were our amuse and hit home with the flavors. Asian presentation but deeply American South flavor. The pork was tender and delicious with the sauce just bright enough to keep the dish balanced. The two starters we tried were the Duck Pierogis and the Quinoa Salad. While the pierogi is normally accepted to be a bland Polish hot pocket, these were stuffed with duck confit and balanced with a bright and exciting chutney. The Quinoa was light and delicious, the salad was so refreshing. For our mains we tried two dishes. The Nicoise Stuffed Pasta was ingenuitive and playful with the French classic salad, reimagined and served as an entrée. The Duck 2 Ways was definitely our favorite. A seared duck breast is served alongside a confit duck leg, breaded in panko and deep fried. Served over rice and kale the dish was simply delicious. We also had the chocolate mousse for dessert but I did not get the photo . It was rich and decadent, dark chocolate and port wine each interplaying with the fresh diced strawberries. Very good way to end a delicious meal. In general I am very happy with how the kitchen is performing now. I won't lie about how questionable the past year and a half have been but their future can be very bright if they continue along the path they've begun now. I look forward to the menu improving as they continue to grow and will return often.
(4)Ashley W.
We had a wonderful time laughing at how bad the food was. The Drinks were terrible to. Nearly undrinkable. We should have known when there wasn't a table available anywhere in the area but they had plenty of seats. Don't go. Don't waste your money or torture your taste buds like that. Really. Don't. I would like to mention parking was not an issue, we parked in a nearby lot for $5. The walk was short. Also, the food came out quickly and was hot. Everything just tasted bad. My husband sent an email about our experience. He prefers to handle things privately, but he has yet to receive a response.
(1)David M.
There is a mood created when you walk in to Bar Divani that seems different than most other places I have been to here in Grand Rapids. Quiet, ellegant, tastefull all describe the feeling but there is also the smiling faces of the emplyees who seem to genuinly know they work some place special and unique. Great food, great service and reasonalble prices. You are waiting for???
(5)Lola A.
I had been to Bar Divani several years ago for an event, but had never gone there for a meal. So this past week, we decided to check out the menu on a Tuesday night. Arriving for an early dinner, we were promptly greeted and seated. A jazz singer was prepping for the evening and we were delighted to hear that she was going to be entertaining guests during the evening. The service was very attentitive, and the food was excellent. Some of the best peroggies I have ever had. My husband had ribs which were so succulent that they melted off the fork. My chicken dish was also full of flavor. Although we passed on dessert, I am glad that we didn't pass on making a long overdue visit to Bar Divani.
(4)Michael R.
Let me start by saying I'm not a wine guy. Our group went to Bar Divani on a recent Saturday evening while in town for our annual brewery fest and some in the group wanted a break and enjoy wine. The shrimp and grits dish was quite good-grits were more of a polenta mix of cheese and jalapeno, while the shrimp were grilled and the sauce was well-proportioned. The pieces of bacon throughout were the highlight-these were not bits; rather, were sliced pieces of thick glazed bacon. Their menu for food is not huge but everything the table had was well done, while my party said the wine choices were good and weren't too marked up, so there you go. Desserts were also interesting, a chocolate mousse in particular.
(3)Katy C.
I stopped in on a Friday night around 6 for a drink with my boyfriend before I had a dinner reservation with a friend. We sat at the bar and the bartender introduced himself, which I liked. He asked what flavor profiles we were looking for and I told him I wanted a cocktail that was refreshing and "not too sweet." To which he curtly replied, "cocktails aren't supposed to be sweet." Okay then. He made me a cocktail that he "won an award for", with tequila, cucumber and watermelon. It was pretty good. I was just not impressed with the way the bartender spoke to me. I appreciate being able to learn about craft cocktails, but it came off in the wrong tone. After our drinks, my friend and I sat down for dinner. It was restaurant week, so we did three courses for $28. Our server was- interesting to say the least. He kept making semi inappropriate comments that made us feel slightly uncomfortable. For example. My friend commented that she wasn't sure what she wanted. He said, "oh, I'll tell you what you want." Okaaaay. We were able to enjoy our meals but I was definitely turned off by the server's attention to us. We both ordered lamb chops for an appetizer. They were delicious. Perfectly cooked (rare), they came with pickled red cabbage and a sweet coulis. I could have eaten two more servings! For my entree, I got fried chicken and waffles. The flavors were amazing! The chicken was Panko crusted and it reminded me of Japanese katsu. The waffles were very good and there was a sauce on them. Together the components reminded me of chicken pot pie (in terms of flavor). My friend had the pork tenderloin which was a huge portion but not super flavorful. For dessert I had white chocolate creme brûlée which was so good! My friend had a cherry turnover which she enjoyed. Overall, I was very happy with the food. I would definitely go back for that. The service left a bad taste in my mouth though. The bartenders attitude and the inappropriate comments from our server made me feel uncomfortable. I would hope and assume that that's not typical of the staff at Divani.
(4)Justin S.
I was just told that I do not know how to order an old fashioned. I was told I should specify if I want a 1990s old fashioned. Unreal. This place is not the same as it used to be. Kudos to the bartender for coming over and apologizing for the misunderstanding about the drink. I originally rated this one star, because of his balls I upped it. Too bad the manager didn't address my concern.
(3)Rose Mary i.
Had a great night with yummy appetizers & entrees, perfect spirits, and a great vibe. We had reservations so they seated us right away. And the attentiveness of the staff was appreciated by all.
(5)Nicholas S.
Very classy and a nice place for dinner and a drink. The Filet Mignon with potatoes and green beans was cooked to perfection. We have tried most of the steak places in the area and this was the best yet for steak. We were shy due to the reviews, but I think they are unwarranted. Seems to be nestled in an area of college bars so it just could be the surrounding area throwing it off. We will be back
(4)Amanda L.
Experienced a wine tasting with a few friends for a bachelorette party. We were greeted promptly and escorted to our table in a semi-private area of the restaurant. Our sommelier explained the 4 wines we were tasting and gave us very generous pours of each. We shared the margarita flat bread, the cheese plate and the humus platter and each person was full from the drinks and treats at the end. Atmosphere is classy and chic with low lighting and ambient music. A great way to start a girls night out! Prices reflect the upscale setting, wine, and food options offered.
(4)Jake R.
most bars in west michigan have this environment of unkept, classless, laziness. people show up in their UofM or MSU hoodies and a pair of worn in work jeans to throw back a couple beers with their buddies. there is a lack of culture and elegance in these places that i cannot stand. bar divani is an oasis of elegance and culture in a dessert of middle-american blandness. obviously this place has an exceptional selection of wines but what has taken this place to the next level is the full kitchen that the newest owner has added. the menu is small but incorporates a wude variety of authentic dishes from various cultures. each item on the menu is exceptional. the bar divani burger is one if the best i have ever had. the use of brisket in the patty is pure genius. the risotto is truly authentic with a wonderful combination of flavors. the quinoa salad is a fabtastic mix of textures and great for a light, healthy dinner. the environment if this bar is a breath if fresh air in a city filled with rowdy breweries. the music is something i personally love. playlists include artists from sam smith to al green. this adds to the elegant yet relaxed environment. the service is exceptional. the decor is modern and chic yet overwhelming or cliche. for any food snobs like myself that visit, i recomend having a conversation with the owner louis. the first time i visited i talked with him fir nearly half an hour and enjoyed it immensely. its clear that who truly is passionate about food and wine abd it shows through his conversation as well as bar divani. i strongly advis visiting bar divani whether for a dinner to start the night or for a drink or two to end it.
(5)Alex B.
Bar Divani is an upscale restaurant in the bar district of Grand Rapids. It has a good location and a decent ambiance. Staff is helpful and attentive. That's where the compliments end. Visiting the restaurant this past weekend with a few friends, we came for drinks and a few small plates. My wife and I split a small plate and 7 drinks and left with an $80 tab. With their very limited beer list and stingy drink pours (a well-iced rum and coke goes for $6), this restaurant is priced for a much bigger city. We shared small plates with other couples at our table and were not impressed with any of the food. A small plate of lamb sausage was $15, dried out, and flavorless. The ribs were slightly better, but the quality and portion size were not worth the price the other couple paid. The point of small plates is to get several and try a variety. The prices of these plates made that not an option. Finally the ambiance. The inside of the building is very nice, decorated as a wine cellar which is pertinent for their multiple wine tasting events. However, the few times we've visited, the sports TVs have been the center of attention for the whole room, ruining the wine aficionado atmosphere that they have obviously spent a lot of time trying to cultivate. Ultimately, I would say that the only saving grace of this restaurant is their reputation for wine tasting events. But with other restaurants nearby that offer much larger wine selections with better food and a more affordable menu overall, why go here?
(2)Kristen J.
Good food but small portions. If you like to not be hungry when you leave, get an appetizer or something with your meal. The food is pretty good and freshly prepared. They have a bar on sight which can get a little loud and annoying at times but overall, the place is quaint. They have lots of different seating including couched and chairs with nice tables. It's quite comfy. The server we had was new but knew the menu well. He was super nice and very helpful with menu suggestions. This place runs groupons often so check it out!
(4)Jay S.
The service here has been exceptional especially our last visit. We had stopped here for drink prior to going to dinner elsewhere- our misfortune since the menu looks spectacular. We will be making plans for a more complete night at Bar Divani including dinner.
(4)Marie B.
This was our first visit. My mom and I used a Groupon on a very slow Friday afternoon. We loved the ambiance, drinks, and especially the food. We had wonderful service too! Highlights: White BBQ chicken flat bread with duck bacon!! Lavender Vodka Lemonade Bar Divani reminded me of a lounge style bar/restaurant in L.A. It was a nice change of scenery. Looking forward to our next visit to GR!
(5)Anissa C.
Wasn't too impressed. Came here dressed casual. Don't do it. Dress up, the staff might treat you better.
(2)Emily K.
I went to Bar Divani's for the first time ever this past weekend for a Bachelorette party dinner. CLASSY! The place is so cozy, dim lights, gorgeous wine racks surrounding our seating area, and a massive wine list! All things I enjoy. I am originally from Traverse City and we have some VERY good restaurants here. Bar Divani's reminded me of dining in TC. Classy, original, fancy, but not too pricey. Perfect! I had the "number one" martini which tasted exactly like a Margarita- fabulous, and only $6 during happy hour!! I had two. I then had the Curry Chicken Salad Wrap for dinner....it was only $8.99. Very well priced for the experience you get here. Service was great also. Very kind wait staff, very professional. Gratuity was included which made things easy after you've had a couple drinks :) The only downfall was our table was by the door, and we froze every time people came inside. Due to popularity (and rightfully so) this happened A LOT. I will be going back here!!!
(5)Jeff D.
Menu has changed quite a bit...used to be one of my favorite places because I love the atmosphere but the latest menu is not very appealing.
(3)Tiffany H.
I came to Bar Divani for a recent 4-course wine pairing dinner. It's a fixed menu, and I believe they have a different "theme" each time they offer one. The one I attended was French. The food was pretty good, but not amazing. I really enjoyed the first two courses, foie gras on toasted baguette and escargot with puff pastry. Unfortunately, the tenderloin in my entree and the cake in my dessert were both dry. The potato side to the entree was also bland and unimpressive. The meal in general felt unbalanced, with every dish basically containing only meat and carbs. French food is rich, yes, but should leave you feeling satisfied, not heavy... and it should never be dry! That said, I really enjoyed the wine pairings. The server was able to give us an interesting history on the first two, before he got too busy for the later courses. I'm no wine expert, but each complemented the food well. I would say this is a great atmosphere for a nice dinner date, and I'd definitely come back to try some more wines and cocktails. Be warned - I don't know what their auto-gratuity policy is, but they tacked on 20% for the wine dinner (we had a table of 3).
(3)Lara B.
After walking around all day at ArtPrize we were famished. We ordered the Eggplant Napoleon as a app- it was AMAZING, just DELISH and I don't even like eggplant that much! The BBQ ribs are some of the best I have ever had! I have had ribs all over the country, even in Texas! The app portion fed my husband for his main course. I had a Caesar salad-was good but lacked true Caesar details (no anchovies, no shaved cheese) just a parmesan crisp- which was good but I love cheese so that was a little disappointing. Also, had tomatoes...kinda strange.... I ordered an iced tea and this seemed to be a foreign concept to our server... they said they would have to brew the tea (nice, fresh, fine by me) then she brought out a tray of tea bags for hot tea...? I said "nevermind" how about a lemonade... I got iced water with pure lemon juice, no sugar...? Strange. Overall, it fixed our hunger craving & staff was friendly! We would eat here again!
(3)Ryan N.
Went here with my wife and truly enjoyed the experience. The price was very reasonible, especially the Happy Hour menu (dialy from 4 to 7). They also had a very extensive wine and drink menu. The restraunt itself was very relaxing and classy. The staff was very friendly, attentive and helpful (Thank you Abigail). I had the 3 cheese flat bread which was very good and my wife had the vegetarian sushi, which she also enjoyed. We also had the homemade chocolate lava cake for dessert which was delicious. The martini's where amazing (we tried #4 & #10). We will definitely go back to Bar Davini and try more of their menu next time we are in Grand Rapids.
(4)Ryan W.
I love this restaurant. The staff is super knowledgeable about their menu, GREAT food, extensive bar selection, reasonable prices--don't know what some of these fools are talking about when they bash their prices, it's very reasonable for the price--and I'm a law student saying this. What's not to like?
(5)Ronda V.
I am sorry to report we had a bad experience at Bar Divani this weekend. I had the Risotto and the onions were burnt so bad it over powered the taste of the dish. We were also overcharge for our bottle of wine by $22. The waitress did a great job taking care of us and other issues that happened during the evening. But overall I would not return for the food. I would stop by for a glass of wine.
(2)Jessica E.
Had a bug in glass experience there but other than that, service and food was great. However, I am a little nervous about ordering another martini due to the fly in the shaker.
(2)Megan T.
I bought the living social coupon for Bar Divani and thought I would give it a try. Dressed up a bit and headed to the restaurant. Parking was easy to find (Wednesday night). Made a reservation, but the restaurant was not overly busy. Sat right down. The bar was busy, so it took a few minutes to get our drinks. I got a cocktail call the tiny birdie (I think) and my boyfriend got a beer. We each order a rice bowl. They were great, but my boyfriend left still hungry. The service was great, but the prices were kind of high for what you received. For two small plates and three drinks (2 beers 1 cocktail) it was over $50. I would recommend going here for wine and small plates, not dinner.
(3)Michael L.
This bar/restaurant is great, and really does well to promote dining in Grand Rapids. I went with my sister for a late dinner. We came in on a friday around 11pm and were accommodated quite nicely. Despite the packed crowd of Def Leppard head's with their bleach blonde mullet wigs, headbands and 'Pour Some Sugar' shirts, they found us a non-smoking table. We both started with a glass of wine from a fairly diverse wine list. To my knowledge they didn't have a sommelier but their staff was quite knowledgeable about wine. We opted for their 3 course tasting menus that night featuring a duck stir-fry, a sweet shrimp dish and bone in lamb. Each course was delicious along with the paired wines. Our waiter actually suggested wines off the tasting menu that he felt went better. Definitely a place i'd come back to GR for which in turn i hope influences other restaurateurs in the area.
(5)Brian J. B.
The vibe at Bar Divani is fancy-pants, and it's a nice place to go for a late dinner when you're out with somebody fabulous... On a recent visit, we were looking for something light, so we got the sushi, which frankly was sub-grocery store. The mushroom flatbread was divine, though. They've got an impressive beer list as well as an excellent wine list.
(4)Allan M.
A little pricey, can be a little stingy on the pours. Decent beer selection. I have only eaten here a few times, food is good. The interior needs a little pick me up. It was once considered posh, but now is a bit stale. The service can range from excellent to lacking.
(3)Mighty M.
I went out to dinner here with some friends during a recent visit to my favorite Michigan city. This place does cocktails right! I'm not really a martini kind of girl, but everyone raved about them, and who I am to argue? I ordered the # 4: Vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, white cranberry juice, and chilled grapes. It sounded so refreshing, and it was. Our awesome waitress first brought our glasses, each filled with the main fruit component of each drink (grapes for me). Then, followed up with an armful of martini shakers, and poured us each our concoction. Mine was fantastic, I'd order it again in a heartbeat! I also ordered the roasted portobella: roasted portobella cap, balsamic aioli, roasted red pepper, goat cheese and arugula on a toasted baguette. I literally just got hungry for it again writing that. The combination of savory mushroom, creamy goat cheese, and tangy red pepper left my taste buds singing. AND IT WAS AFFORDABLE. Big fan!
(4)Kristin W.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Grand Rapids. The food is always delicious, the drink selection is superb, and the service is always good.
(5)Jacob S.
Ambiance was cool, for sure. The wait staff was good as well. The advertised menu items were not all there. For instance, I ordered a 15yr Pappy van Winkle (which was on the menu), and I was offered a 12yr. Really, it would have been proper when an advertised item is not in stock, the drink should be upgraded with the difference of the drinks as the price. Oh, well. Additionally, after spending $75, I should not have left hungry. But I did. Ordered Cheese flight, Tuna Poke, and oysters. They all tasted good, but it was overpriced.
(2)Brad K.
Amazing restaurant. Went here with my girlfriend on a busy Saturday night. Called ahead for a reservation. Ordered some wine flights, appetizer, dinner, and dessert and got out of there under 100 bucks. It is an awesome place for date night or just a random night on the town.
(5)Stacy H.
This is my ultimate favorite place downtown Grand Rapids! It's so cozy and classy, nothing like some of the rowdy college bars nearby. I've been here many times for their happy hour, everyday from 4-7. Had to make a stop here last week when back in town on business. My favorite things: 3 cheese flatbread, spinach artichoke dip, general tszo's chicken (not on the menu this last time, bummer), risotto. Thursday night is great to visit for $5 moscato and even better deals on their happy hour martinis. I regularly crave the 3 cheese flatbread. Every time we've gone we've had great service as well. Can't wait until the next time we're in town so we can stop in again.
(5)Audra K.
Chocolate olives were delicious! But at 10pm that's the only dessert we were able to sink our teeth into. Alas, we will have to return! It seemed like a place with great atmosphere when you crave a change from the bars.
(4)Sarah S.
Expensive, but very high class. I had a specialty cocktail made with valentine vodka (which is locally made in Mi.), literally one of the best drinks I have ever had.... Ever! Worth a visit, and a drink.
(4)l v.
Great date place. Yummy drinks. I had an off the menu drink called the 'jedi mind trick' (lambic beer with a shot of chocolate vodka) aptly named cause it's deceptively strong yet tastes like a chocolate covered berry. It will leave your date saying "you will have another drink, you will have another drink". The food is most def worth a try. Sidenote: the weekends can get kinda noisy here and fills with the 'beautiful people' quickly. My friends used to call this the trophy wife studio...it seemed as if they were all there struttin their stuff.
(4)Jen J.
full disclosure, i have never eaten here so i can only speak to the drinks and the service. i think the atmosphere is a little pretentious, velvet curtains, lighted wine cabinets and whatnot, for a product that i don't think lives up. the tables are oddly placed and the staff running the place are really young and not super knowledgeable. that being said, it's a go to spot for me when i'm in town and want to have a chill night in downtown GR, which, let's face it, is most nights for me. i'm over dance clubs and sausage fests and buckets of bud. i want craft brews, bold red wines and creative cocktails. this place delivers on at least two of those three. i can't remember how many pages of beer they had because they have so many pages of wines and cocktail specials. i've come here now multiple times to have a late night heart to heart with my best friend over a bottle of wine, usually the laetitia, a bold red wine from california. i will say that like all wine bars they double or nearly the wholesale bottle prices and triple or quadruple the glass prices--i found this bottle of wine at my sam's wine store in chicago for less than $20 and bar divani charges $32. i shouldn't complain because that's every wine bar, but i'm still of the mindset that GR is trying soooo hard to be a real big city when they're just a real big town. but then again, i'm judgmental because i didn't want to stay living in my hometown. the servers are patient, will bring water with the wine and always let my friend and it talk and talk into the night. the last time i went, my other best friend and i met our best guy friend and we sampled all their beverage options. our guy friend had a nice belgian beer, my girlfriend tried a cucumber mojito and i had another bold red. we sat in a huge booth and talked to our hearts content. we also had a molten chocolate dessert one time, which was yummy, but decidedly unoriginal. lastly... now, i know that wine glasses are designed to let the wine breath and such, but the glasses here are ridiculously large. they're like pretty glass bowls on stilts and i think they're more than a bit unnecessary.
(3)Seema T.
Bar Divani is one of my favorite places in Grand Rapids. My husband and I go there pretty often. They have a great wine selection and the food is really good. The ambiance is warm, cozy and inviting, again, nothing pretentious about it. The service is exceptional, have never had a bad experience. I highly recommend this place.
(5)Eliza B.
15 of us went for my best friend's bachelorette party. We called a week in advance and they were ready for us. The server we had was great and the highlight was when she came out at the end and gave us ALL SEPARATE CHECKS for our many drinks!!!!! I have to admit that I remember the service and great vibe better than the drinks but that's worth multiple stars tome!!
(4)Eric S.
Met a networking group here last week. There were about 14 of us. I've been there a few times and service has varied from ok to great. Service now was terrible - some of the worst I've had anywhere. Took 20-30 minutes to place order, that much to get our drinks, and about the same time AFTER drinks were empty to reorder. Restaurant was busy but not so bad that would delay service by so much. Manager was wandering around, but never checked on our table or removed empty glasses. We should have been charged happy hour prices but were charged full price. Took over 30 minutes between when we asked for check and when it was finally right. Never got apology from waitress, even when she spilled a drink on one of us. When we complained about slow service, she said we should have given her at least 20 minutes to get bills ready. (we had been trying to get her attention for almost that long.). Not going back-service is too spotty for the level they claim to be.
(1)Jaime S.
My girlfriend and I stumbled in to this bar and it was packed but we still managed to find a seat in non-traditional lounge chairs. I only gave this place 4 stars because it was slightly too loud but the people watching was fun. You have all walks of life that roam into this bar. Baseball caps, jerseys, heels, and spagetti straps...they had it all. We opted for a couple of martini's that have no names...I got the #3 and my girl...#16. YUM! They make a nice production of it too with your glasses already filled with the main ingredient so you know you're gonna crawl outa the bar once your finished....and then they shake away and fill your glass with the flava...
(4)