Michigan | Pochis Colombian Cafe ❤️❤️❤️

Michigan | Pochis Colombian Cafe ❤️❤️❤️—My Go-To Grand Rapids Gem! If there’s one restaurant in Grand Rapids I could eat at every week (and let’s be real, I basically do), it’s Pochis Colombian Cafe! I’ve been here 4 or 5 times already, but the owner always whips up new dishes that make me go, “I need to come back right now” 😍. This spot used to be a cozy little cafe, but now it’s transformed into a total hidden gem of a restaurant—and I’m obsessed. Let me gush about why it’s my non-negotiable stop every time I’m in Grand Rapids! First off, let’s talk about the new dishes that just added to my “must-order” list. The owner has such a knack for mixing classic Colombian flavors with fresh, creative twists. Recently, I tried their fried fish with cassava and avocado 🐟—the fish was crispy on the outside, flaky and juicy on the inside, and served with creamy avocado slices and soft, starchy cassava (a Colombian staple!). The tartar sauce that came with it had a hint of lime, which cut through the richness perfectly—every bite was bright and satisfying. Then there’s the corn chicken soup 🌽—warm, hearty, and packed with chunks of tender chicken, sweet corn, and a splash of coconut milk that made it extra creamy. I sipped it on a chilly Michigan day, and it felt like a hug in a bowl. My friend got the creamy seafood rice 🍚, and I may have stolen a few bites (okay, more than a few)—it was loaded with shrimp, mussels, and chunks of fish, all mixed into fluffy rice coated in a rich, saffron-infused cream sauce. It’s indulgent, but so worth it. And let’s not forget the desserts—they’re as pretty as they are delicious! Last time, I had a mango tres leches cake: moist sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk, topped with fresh mango slices and a drizzle of caramel. It was sweet but not overpowering, and the mango added a fresh, tropical kick that made me feel like I was on a beach (not in Michigan!). The presentation was so cute too—served in a tiny glass dish with a mint leaf on top, it looked like something from a fancy bakery. Even the “old favorites” keep me coming back. Their empanadas 🥟 are hands down the most crispy ones I’ve ever had—thin, flaky pastry that crunches when you bite into it, filled with either beef, chicken, or cheese (I’m obsessed with the cheese one). They’re served with a side of ají, a spicy Colombian sauce that’s bright red, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat. Pro tip: ask for extra ají—you’ll want to dip everything in it (trust me, I’ve dipped my rice, my soup, even my dessert… no shame). And get this—they give the ají for free! It’s the little things that make this spot feel like home. Oh, and let’s talk about the beef tongue 🥩 I had on my third visit—game-changer! It was slow-cooked until it was tender enough to cut with a fork, then seared to get a crispy edge, and served with roasted potatoes and a tangy chimichurri sauce. I was nervous to try it at first (beef tongue sounds intimidating!), but it was so flavorful—mild, savory, and nothing like I expected. Now it’s one of my go-to orders when I’m feeling adventurous. What makes Pochis even more special is the fun events they host. Every July, they throw a party for Colombian Independence Day 🇨🇴 with traditional dancing, music, and extra-special Colombian dishes (think arepas stuffed with cheese, churros, and more!). I went last year, and it was such a blast—everyone was dancing, laughing, and sharing food. The owner even taught me a few basic salsa steps (I was terrible, but it was so fun!). It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a little slice of Colombia right here in Michigan. And let’s be real: in a state where good international food can be hit or miss, Pochis stands out. I’d even say it’s better than most American Chinese restaurants I’ve had—sorry, not sorry! 😂 It’s authentic, flavorful, and the owner is so welcoming—she remembers my order now, and always asks how my week’s going. It feels like eating at a friend’s house, but with way better food. If you’re in Grand Rapids—whether you’re a student at Michigan State, a tourist exploring the area, or a local looking for a new favorite—do yourself a favor and visit Pochis. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. And with new dishes popping up all the time, you’ll never get bored. 📍 Address: Pochis Colombian Cafe, Grand Rapids, MI #ColombianCuisine#GrandRapids#MichiganStateUniversit#HiddenGemRestaurant#MichiganTravel#MichiganRestaurants#GrandRapidsRestaurants#MichiganFood#GrandRapidsFood#AfternoonTea