Social Misfits — Restaurant in Grand Rapids

Officially obsessed with this place. I'll admit, my first time going to this restaurant, I checked the menu prior and was a bit skeptical. The eccentric ingredients listed in the entrees' and drinks, and the fact they only served waffles (like not blatantly listing eggs and bacon etc. as sides. But! I know for a fact you can have a sunny side up egg on the side, just ask). Anyways, the Waffles themselves, like alone, are amazing. First bite I was like... these some good * waffles. The concoctions and combinations with the waffles just make them more amazing. One thing I especially noticed was the quality of the meat and fish. RBG and Country Grammar are favorites and mainly because (for the CG) the Chicken Thigh/Breast is cooked tenderly to perfection (I don't play about quality y'all). I was surprised because for one, I wasn't expecting food quality from this new aesthetically pleasing place (i.e. some of these new restaurants décor be so beautiful but food be mid like.... I'm paying for ambiance huh), which brings me to my second point that all I was thinking like wow.. this is what I was expecting Tupelos Honey's chicken to be (very disappointed), but that's a conversation for a Tupelo's review. Any who, we find ourselves here every weekend, to a point where we've become acquainted with one of the waiters who we always thought was super nice, but also that kind of waiter that doesn't hound you every 5 seconds if you know what I mean. But on our most recent visit, and the reason I wanted to go ahead and write a review, he remembered our drink and food orders from last time, we talked gaming and fitness (the whole spectrum lol), and he just remembered who we were and that made us feel good. Oh wow and the bar! Can't forget to talk liquor lol. As of last visit my new goal is to try every cocktail on the menu, they're that good. Again, eccentrically described on the menu but honestly, just try one, you won't be disappointed.

Overall just check this place out if you haven't yet... or maybe I shouldn't say that because the venue is kind of small i.e. there are ~30min +/- 15mins wait times on busy mornings :( I could even see them expanding one day but it's honestly in the perfect location (across the street from Van Andel and 8min walk to Studio Park to chill and enjoy downtown before seated). Or now that the BOB is open again, what if they did late weekend nights!? Walk drunkenly to get some fire waffles uhh yes! Just an idea credit me lol. But yeah, new scale vibe, very inclusive, loved the black-inclusive artwork and 90's décor (maybe 80's? idk lol), love the red illuminated bathrooms. I have just felt very welcomed here and will probably be back this weekend.

peace

P.S. @Social Misfits I didn't realize when I updated this with a photo it would delete your guys response of which I loved btw. See you guys...

I am a bit embarrassed the city I live in has rated Social Misfits so highly.

I've given them an earnest try on three separate occasions, and it's just been so bland and uninspired each time I've been. I've gotten three different savory waffles (not a sweets guy) and hand to god they did not add salt to a single one of them. Just a bland ordinary waffle with bland toppings. The coffee and drinks are stellar, only thanks to the pricey equipment and expertise of the staff. Service is also generally good, I have nothing bad to say of the staff.

For such an eclectic place, you'd think the food's flavors would be in your face, bold, huge, exciting. You will find none of that here.

This is not an uninformed opinion, I have been an operating chef in Grand Rapids for the past 9 years so please don't take this as "he just didn't like it." I give every restaurant at least three attempts to win me over, Social Misfits did not even come close. 60$ for two coffees and two waffles is a crime. I understand better than any the rising costs of food and the challenges restaurants face. That does not explain how I can head to a diner and get the same quality food (with salt added!) for 10-13$ a pop.

Also, if I may speak directly to the person in charge; SURELY you have gotten endless complaints about the table I sat at during my last visit. You have a high top directly against a wall where the thermostat is that has a MASSIVE PLASTIC COVER on it right where the guest's arms are used for cutting. I spent the entirety of my last visit slamming my elbow into this device. It was absolutely hilarious imagining all the people who sat exactly where I did, slamming their elbow into the thermostat cover, complaining about it, and then the management STILL keeps the table there! What the hell are you guys doing?

Easily a one star joint without the...

Social Misfits coffee house is a captivating haven for coffee aficionados and social butterflies alike. From the moment you step in, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelops you, setting the stage for a sensory journey like no other. The eclectic decor, adorned with mismatched furniture and vibrant artwork, creates an inviting and unique atmosphere that mirrors the diverse community it attracts.

The baristas at Social Misfits are not just coffee makers; they are true artisans, crafting each cup with precision and passion. Whether you're a connoisseur seeking the perfect pour-over or a latte lover in search of velvety perfection, their menu caters to every palate. The variety of ethically sourced beans and creative concoctions showcase a commitment to quality and innovation.

Beyond the exceptional coffee, Social Misfits stands out as a hub for meaningful connections. The communal tables and cozy nooks encourage conversations to flourish, making it a hub for creative collaborations, study sessions, or simply unwinding with a good book. The staff's friendly demeanor adds a personal touch, making every visit feel like catching up with old friends.

What truly sets Social Misfits apart is its dedication to social responsibility. From supporting local artists with rotating art installations to using environmentally friendly packaging, the coffee house seamlessly blends a passion for coffee with a commitment to making a positive impact on the community and the planet.

In a world of generic coffee chains, Social Misfits stands tall as a beacon of authenticity, creativity, and social consciousness. It's not just a coffee house; it's a vibrant tapestry of flavors, conversations, and shared experiences that leaves an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to savor...