Kingma's is a family-owned and operated retailer providing fresh produce, 250+ cheese varieties, gourmet coffee, a deli, groceries, a butcher shop, dairy, micro-brew beers, wines and a lawn and garden center.

Eat Local Challenge Participant: Heather Van Dyke, Co-Owner of Bear Manor Properties

Locally Owned Business: Kingma's Market & Butcher Shoppe (2225 Plainfield Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505)

What did you eat? I purchased Michigan-made cider, brie and fontina cheese, veggies, fruit, butter, cream and honey comb.

What did you learn? Bob Kingma provided me with a list of all the things they carry that are local (just ask--they'll give you one)!  I've decided to buy fair-trade organic coffee (not local!) because I can't seem to give it up.  Kingma's carries fair-trade organic coffee that is roasted in Grand Rapids--their store was actually the first to carry this roaster's coffee. 

Why did you take the Eat Local Challenge? I knew that if I immersed myself in the Challenge I would make connections to our local food economy that I wouldn't otherwise make.  I enjoy learning about the connections between business (like Kingma's and the coffee company), food and place.