Underwriting support from:
Stella's Lounge has received national attention for their stuffed burgers. GQ Magazine compiled a list of 50 things America does "better than anyone else anywhere else" and, mixed in with Heinz ketchup and food trucks, Stella's made the list.
"The best burger in America right now is at a place in Grand Rapids, Michigan called Stella's," said Michael Hainey, GQ Deputy Editor, on the morning talk show Morning Joe.
"It was really cool hearing Stella's mentioned on MSNBC. Kind of surreal," says Mark Sellers, owner of Stella's Lounge.
"We haven't changed the recipe since we opened in May 2010," says Sellers. Sellers says their most popular burger is The Stella Blue, a burger with blue cheese stuffed in the center. He attributes multiple reasons for their burgers being so good.
"The beef has no additives or preservatives, is 100% black angus, and comes from farms in Michigan and Ohio. We hand-form the patties ourselves in our kitchen, rather than buying frozen pre-formed patties. We infuse the burgers with cheese and spices before cooking, and it oozes out all over when it's hot. The burgers are stuffed."
The beef being fresh and local "plays a huge role. Beef without additives, raised by smaller farmers close to us, and therefore not frozen, tastes the way beef is supposed to taste," says Sellers.
The rise of food trucks in America was also discussed on the MSNBC talk show.
"As for food trucks, we probably won't be doing a Stella's food truck anytime soon. A food truck is more of a low cost way for entrepreneurs to experiment and see what works before building their own restaurant. It's a beta test," says Sellers.
"That said, I'm all for food trucks in GR. I think it makes the city more interesting, and anything that makes the city more interesting is good for all of us. I definitely don't consider it competition to local brick and mortar restaurants," Sellers continues. "A food truck scene will help attract more people to live in GR. The more food trucks, the better. I love 'em."
The Rapidian, a program of the 501(c)3 nonprofit Community Media Center, relies on the community’s support to help cover the cost of training reporters and publishing content.
We need your help.
If each of our readers and content creators who values this community platform help support its creation and maintenance, The Rapidian can continue to educate and facilitate a conversation around issues for years to come.
Please support The Rapidian and make a contribution today.