WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org
West Michigan foodies looking for an authentic taste of Mexico can enjoy the “Olé to Molé” festival on Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22.
A variety of local restaurants will offer their own twist on a sauce sometimes called “Mexico’s national dish.” Participants can sample each restaurant’s offering by visiting one, a few, or all of the locations between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day, then vote for their favorite using a provided QR code. Pricing and availability of samples varies by location.
Molé is a sauce traditional to Mexican cuisine that typically includes a variety of chili peppers, nuts, and spices. It is often served as an accompaniment or marinade for chicken or other meats.
The nine restaurants participating in the multi-site event are all located along the South Division corridor between Hall Street and 28thStreet. They include:
- Agave Sports Lounge, 2053 Division Ave South
- El Globo, 2019 Division Ave South
- Las Rocas, 2106 Division Ave South
- La Vencedora, 1961 Division Ave South
- Los Dos Amigos, 1642 Division Ave South
- Mi Tierra, 2300 Division Ave South
- Restaurante Cancún, 2140 Division Ave South
- Tacos Yanga, 1338 Division Ave South
- Tres Mangos, 2023 Division Ave South
Parking is available in the City of Grand Rapids Burton Heights lot, located just behind El Globo and Tres Mangos on the west side of Division Avenue, south of Burton. Easy transportation for the event up and down Division Avenue is available on The Rapid’s Silver Line or Route 1.
Funding for the festival comes from the Burton Heights Business Association, the Grand Rapids Office of Special Events, and the Grand Rapids Office of Equity & Inclusion.
Questions about the event may be directed to Angelica Velásquez, president of the Burton Heights Business Association, atlacasadelacobija@gmail.com or 616.617.4400. Media inquiries may be directed to Jon Shaner at The Salvation Army Kroc Center, jon.shaner@usc.salvationarmy.org or 616.401.9835.
