If you’re on the hunt for culinary adventure in Ada, MI, look no further than Forest Hills. This upscale, tree-lined neighborhood may be known for its top-ranked schools and beautiful homes, but it’s also a quietly thriving paradise for food lovers. From bustling breakfast cafés to inventive food trucks and cozy dinner destinations, Forest Hills delivers a deliciously diverse array of dining options. Let’s dig into the can’t-miss flavors of this Ada enclave—whether you’re a local or a curious visitor, these are the places you’ll want to try, and then try again.
Breakfast & Brunch: Mornings Made Perfect
- Nonna’s: The Trattoria
525 Ada Dr SE
Right on Ada Drive, Nonna’s is more than just an Italian spot—it’s also a wildly popular brunch destination. Locals rave about the ricotta pancakes and their creative takes on eggs benedict. The vibe is warm, rustic, and family-friendly, with fresh-baked pastries often greeting you at the counter. Prices range from $12-18 for most entrees, making it an affordable way to treat yourself to a weekend brunch.
- MudPenny – Ada
496 Ada Dr SE
Just down the street, MudPenny is a go-to for locals needing caffeine sustenance or indulging in their morning cravings. Their hearty breakfast burritos and rotating seasonal quiches pair perfectly with signature espresso lattes. The modern, airy space makes it a great place to linger with a laptop—or a Saturday paper.
Coffee & Sweets: The Heartbeat of Forest Hills
- Brody’s Be Café
Brody’s Be Café on Cascade Rd SE is a hidden gem with a heartwarming mission: employing young adults with disabilities. But beyond the good cause, you’ll find fantastic pour-overs, scratch-baked cookies, and a friendly community atmosphere. Grab a table outside when the weather’s nice, and don’t miss their artisan cold brews.
- Cakabakery Ada
Ada Dr SE, near the roundabout
Heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth, Cakabakery churns out everything from custom cakes (perfect for celebrations) to grab-and-go cupcakes and brownies. Their locally famous carrot cake and raspberry cheesecake bars are must-tries, and they offer gluten-free and vegan options. If you’re walking through Ada Village, you can’t miss their inviting storefront!
Global Flavors, Forest Hills Flair
- Saburba
7277 Thornapple River Dr SE
Tucked into a charming building just east of Ada Village, Saburba is a neighborhood standby for globally inspired wraps, sandwiches, and fresh salads. The Korean BBQ wrap has fans that swear by it, and their daily specials keep things interesting for repeat customers. Everything is quick, vibrant, and affordably priced ($9-15), perfect for a casual lunch.
- The Ada Pour House Gastropub
Ada Dr SE & Fase St SE
A staple in the heart of Ada Village, The Ada Pour House brings a speakeasy vibe to Forest Hills with a solid rotation of craft beers and a creative dinner menu. Think: carnitas nachos, wood-fired pizzas, blackened salmon, and an impressive vegan burger. It’s cozy for date nights or after-work meetups, with entrees generally $15-28.
Family Favorites & Upscale Eats
- Zeytin Turkish Restaurant
400 Ada Dr SE
Over near the community library, Zeytin draws diners from across greater Grand Rapids for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Feast on kebabs, fragrant rice pilafs, and savory meze platters in an elegant dining room. The cheese borek and lamb shank are particularly popular. Mains range from $17-30, making it perfect for a special family gathering.
- Noco Provisions
4609 Cascade Rd SE
Heading west on Cascade, Noco Provisions offers an elevated New American menu in a stylish-yet-casual setting. The short rib pappardelle pasta and wood-fired whole chicken are the talk of the town, but don’t sleep on their burgers or happy hour deals. This is an ideal spot for a business lunch or a laid-back celebration.
Food Trucks and Seasonal Treats
- Big O’s Café Food Truck
Often parked near Cascade Peace Park or Ada Village greenspace
When spring and summer hit, follow your nose (and social media) to track Big O’s Café food truck. Famous for overstuffed breakfast sandwiches, hand-cut fries, and Mexican-inspired street fare, they’re a regular at community events and weekly markets. Check their Instagram for exact locations and specials.
- Ada Village Market
Held at Ada’s Riverfront Park on Tuesday evenings (spring to fall)
The Ada Village Market isn’t a single eatery, but it’s a must for local foodies. Along with fresh produce, expect booths from neighborhood bakers, barbecue masters, and even ice cream artisans. There’s nothing better than a riverside stroll with a scoop of locally churned ice cream and a loaf of crusty, just-baked bread.
Hidden Gems for the Adventurous Appetite
- The Schnitz Ada Grill
4001 Cascade Rd SE
Classic German meets Michigan hospitality at this unassuming Cascade spot. The schnitzels are crispy perfection, the spaetzle is made in-house, and the dessert case is loaded with German tortes. If you crave comfort food or crave something different, it’s an affordable option that rarely gets crowded.
- Mikado Sushi
6749 E Fulton St SE
Just outside the main drag, Mikado serves up some of the freshest sushi rolls in the area. The tempura is always light and crunchy, and the bento lunches are fantastic value. It's beloved by locals for dine-in or takeout and offers a peaceful break from typical chain options.
What Makes Forest Hills a Foodie’s Dream?
What really makes Forest Hills special is the spirit of community woven through its culinary scene. Restaurant owners know their regulars by name, baristas remember your order, and neighborhood events prioritize local food trucks and farm stands. Whether you’re settling in for a leisurely dinner at Zeytin, grabbing picnic supplies from the Ada Village Market, or finishing a bike ride with pastries from Cakabakery, you’re sure to be greeted with warm hospitality.
Many eateries cluster around the main Ada Village roundabout (Ada Dr SE & Thornapple River Dr SE), with a second hotspot along Cascade Rd SE. This walkable “food corridor” means you can easily stroll between spots or make a progressive meal out of appetizers, mains, and dessert—right in downtown Forest Hills.
So next time you’re hungry for more than just a meal, dive into Forest Hills’ food offerings. Every bite tells a story of community pride and passion, and locals will tell you: it’s a flavor you won’t soon forget.