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The B.O.B.
20 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, United States
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Ca
Review №1

Gillys restaurant is absolutely not worth the money. Unfortunately I chose the restaurant, based upon walking distance from my hotel. I have been to the B.O.B many other times, Gillys was an absolute disappointment, especially after watching the manager make sure his buddies were taken care of before I was. Within 10 minutes the managers friends had food and drinks and even watched as the expeditor ran ketchup over to their table. Meanwhile my order was placed at least 10 minutes before theirs,yet still no food. Now for the food brisket isnt supposed to be dry. When meat taste BETTER because you use BBQ sauce.... well that should tell you everything. While I dont usually call things about or anything, but honestly I felt like I was treated a little different,did I express my feelings at the time nope. Why? Because its not always the best way to handle things. The waiter I had was awesome,in fact so much he got a 50% tip. Will I return......pass Remember as public business, you never know who is coming in the door,treat everyone the same. That leads to better reviews and more business.

Mi
Review №2

Love the portobello sandwich. My wife really liked the buns on the hamburgers. Very tasty. Reasonable prices and good atmosphere.this was our first time but we will be back. Its got a great vibe

Al
Review №3

Gillys smokehouse was phenomenal if you havent been I suggest you get there quick. We had the special which was a pork shank and mashed acorn squash and the meat sampler. The meat was all so flavorful and easy to eat. The sampler left us with enough meat for another meal!

Ca
Review №4

Our waiter was pretty solid: friendly, attentive and (mostly) accurate. The food was also good, and felt just *barely* on the expensive side for what it was... which is to say Id gladly eat there again. The charcuterie board was not the one in the photos (it was much smaller), but it wasnt very expensive, and had a decent selection of meats and cheeses. I got the meat sampler and the beef portion was great. The pork was ok, and I would not order the chicken again... it just tasted not... fresh. The other appetizer we got (mushroom spread on toast) was excellent.

J
Review №5

Highly recommend checking this place out. Has a great variety of bars inside that serve all age groups. Did not have any food but from the looks of the place the food would most likely be top notch. The patio is a great place to hangout on a cooler day and the bar in the basement area has corn hole and looked like possibly beer pong.

Al
Review №6

One of the best spots in GR. A one stop shop for good times with friends. Start off with dinner and drink. Move on to the comedy show (spectacular!), then enjoy multiple options for your evening. Staff are rock-stars.Have you ever had a hug in your mouth? Well, their chefs will deliver!

Th
Review №7

Did not really go to the B,O.B, yet we actually went down stairs to the steak house Judsons Steak house.

P
Review №8

Outside environment is nice but service can be improved. Management/general service should approach all patrons not just college student regulars. This act really disturbs tourists from outside MI areas. Service is the all end all!

As
Review №9

I got the all you can eat pizza lunch buffet. What a deal. It was totally worth it. The pizza was delicious, the breadsticks were amazing, and they had more options then I could have ever wanted. I cant say enough about how awesome this place was for lunch. You should go here just for the pizza buffet.

Jo
Review №10

Awesome place never a boring time here. I would definitely recommend this place for a good time.

Ch
Review №11

Horrible experience. Had family in town and decided to bring them here. We were up next to enter, and the manager decided to let a group with younger girls cut in front of us. After confronting the manager and basically getting a FU, we decided to leave. Definitely didnt deserve our business. Im ashamed of you Grand Rapids.

Ba
Review №12

It was nice. We went to Judsons and the food was good, but way over priced for the amount of food. Service was ok.

J
Review №13

Awful service. I asked how long of a wait it would be while they were still serving food and the bouncer was very rude once I stated it was my birthday and my first time in Grand Rapids asking how long of a wait it would be for a table of 2... And he proceeded to mock me and reiterated his age, talked about how he doesnt eat carbs, and then shamed me for my weight. Once i called up to the restaurant and asked the person who was working the wait and told them about the bouncer they hung up on me. I will never recommend such disrespectful service in my life. If you are paying for quality service DO NOT go here.Edit: Someone commented on my review asking me to email them to resolve this issue, I did email them and never got a response back. They comment on the reviews to make it seem like they care, but once you actually reach out to them no response. Ive seen other reviews that have said the same thing about never getting a response.

Ga
Review №14

By far the best hangout in Grand Rapids! We were in town for four days and came here twice. We ate at the bar down in the basement (Bobs Brewery serving Gilly’s Smokehouse food). The wings were the best chicken wings I’ve ever had. They have a great selection of their own brews and so much to do in the games corner too. Cole who was on the bar was amazing and so kind to myself and my friend. Definitely a credit to The BOB.

Gr
Review №15

The B.O.B. has to be one of my favorite places to go in Grand Rapids. The variety of food, drink and entertainment is endless. The location is perfect for bar hopping. The staff is friendly and the prices are affordable. There’s inside and outside options... What more could you ask for?

Ti
Review №16

Great food and after enjoyed some live music while dancing in our seats due to covid restrictions on dancing:)!

He
Review №17

We went in as it was opening, it did take time for someone to greet us. When the bar tender finally came over we had a great experience! Food was pretty good and the beer was great!

Da
Review №18

Delicious salads, loaded fries and cocktails before a concert. Quick and friendly service!

Da
Review №19

A local couple off the street recommended this place. Then a family walking out with leftovers highly recommended the BBQ platter. Our server was Gabe and his service was excellent and attentive. I had the filet mignon which was great and my husband had the BBQ platter and IT was fantastic! And yes there was enough to take home leftovers.

Ed
Review №20

This was a very nice bar. Good drinks. Friendly service. But they were playing Disney music the entire time we were there. Had to ask several times before the manager turned it off. Disney on ice was in town that weekend. But come on!

Em
Review №21

We were in Grand Rapids for a weekend trip and heard the B.O.B. was a great choice. Probably wont return on our next trip up there. Rooftop bar was awesome. Server inside was perfect. Brussel sprouts were not so great. Communication between front, back and stage needs a whole lot of improvement.

Ch
Review №22

This place was incredibly fun, had great music, and delicious food. Other people there, as well as the staff, were all super chill.Got some pizza and it hit the spot. Tasted kinda like a higher quality version of MOD pizza.Easy view of the Van Andel to check on the lines for concerts (or other events). Having an entrance into 20 Monroe is another big plus.

Ke
Review №23

Really had a blast. Walked over from the Kiss Concert. Line moved fast. Service was great. Prices on drinks were average for the area. Top floor is where the actions at. Good time.

Jo
Review №24

Lots of dining options, many restaurants, bars and a comedy club (Dr. Grins). You can get anything from a burger to pizza to fish and steak... From casual to fine dining. The Bob Brewery offers many of their own local brews. Fun place for groups, couples or even alone. Staff is helpful and friendly. If you are an out of towner, dont miss all that the BOB (Big Old Building) has to offer.

Da
Review №25

Great food. Always busy. They do need to add restrooms to main level.

BR
Review №26

Very good service. good food.

Ca
Review №27

The location is great, the place looks amazing, the food is delicious, a bit pricey but well worth it!

Er
Review №28

Awesome atmosphere to have fun and relax with friends. The beers are good and at a great price. We had pizza that was decent.

Da
Review №29

I love the BOB. Theres always something going on, and its an easy location to hop around downtown as a starting point. Theres usually a cover, especially if there are live events, but its never more than $5 or $10 in my experience - which is worth the live music and events!

Ma
Review №30

Awesome as always. Nice to be back.

Je
Review №31

It has always been great but after this rona happened its kinda boring

Em
Review №32

I love this place! Live bands! Different bars for different people! Women typically dont have a cover charge. Its very hard to get a drink at the Eve but I drink downstairs because its pointless to bring your drink on the dance floor. The bathroom is usually clean. The bartenders are nice but direct because its busy. I love the diversity this place brings. Ive never had the food. But the wine is great!

Ti
Review №33

You deserve the 5 Star review!In town for a conference and we are at the B.O.B. the wait staff was prompt, KiKi a helpful and understood our humor and bantered with us! (Major brownie points there!) Drink service was spot on and the food was beyond amazing! We will definitely be back!

ma
Review №34

First time in grand rapids and loved the place. Didnt get to stay long after the show but would love to go back and see what they have going on, on all floors.

Ke
Review №35

It was very busy, but, we were seated quickly. Appetizer came very soon after ordering. Had several different items from the menu, burgers were great! Service was awesome, kept table cleared and drinks full. Party of eight and all were satisfied.

St
Review №36

BBQ was just amazing. The gumbo took me back to New Orleans. Spot on. Will be back!

Pa
Review №37

GREAT food... Amazing bar service from Drew!

Ja
Review №38

Awesome Place All Around!!! My Wife and I Loved It!!!

Kr
Review №39

I love coming here every time we’re in town for a show. It’s a great place to just hang out and grab a beer before an event. It has a wide selection to choose from! They even had a good selection of ciders which were delicious.

He
Review №40

Was looking for some dancing and drinks while visiting from out of state and the B.O.B. did not disappoint. Great food, so much fun and a variety of music and cuisine. Love they have coat check and live music and the set up is great you dont get a mishmash of music between rooms, its completely clear.

An
Review №41

Cool spot. Multi level bar that spans from fine doning to country bar. Service is friendly and fast. Brews are inventive (try the peanut butter porter) and creative. Certainly a must is GR.

Ro
Review №42

Went for art prize. 3 story complex. Historic venue downtown Grand Rapids. Comedy club, bar, fun place to be.

Sh
Review №43

Great venue! Friendly staff with excellent security.

be
Review №44

Multiple floors of fun!! Grey place to visit!! Great beers and live music kicking on many floors.

Jo
Review №45

The location is convenient, the portions are large, the food is delicious and the prices are moderate.

Ja
Review №46

So much to experience under one roof. Hillarious comics at the comedy club, yummy martinis and great service! Will visit again if back in the area.

jk
Review №47

This place has been here for a while and is a cool place to go eat. Several different restaurants inside and is cool decor. Food is pretty good and is a great tourist destination for a bite to eat.

Ar
Review №48

Super cool place and great food

De
Review №49

First time in Grand Rapids...Food and service was amazing #winning

Ra
Review №50

GR Art Prize 2018....nice pieces on display

Ry
Review №51

Theres truly something here for everyone. With the brewery in the basement, and the comedy club that brings in nationally recognized comedians, to 20 Monroe Live being connected right next door, there really is something for everyone here

Au
Review №52

Had a late dinner with the family, food was excellent. Peanut butter porter was amazing.

Ke
Review №53

Something for everyone. Check out Dr. Grins, a really fun night. The people are helpful but the place gets packed. You need to traverse the stairs a lot, but dont stay away... Drinks and food are fun.

Do
Review №54

Wish they were fully open

Ti
Review №55

Great place. Service was a bit slow. The beer was great. The pizza was good except for they put some mushrooms on it. Which I had specifically asked not to put any on. But they addressed it readily and compensated for it.

Ot
Review №56

We went to Bobarinos. Alena, our server, was fantastic! Perfect timing between drinks, appetizers and entrees. Very well done for a party of 12! I loved the Brussels sprouts and the Carnivore burger. Unfortunately, no burger picture because I couldnt wait to dig into it.

ki
Review №57

We stopped in for a couple drinks. Atmosphere is great. Servers were friendly. Cant wait to go back and try their food.

An
Review №58

Huge place. We had a even here and it was awesome. The food was good, bar tender remember my drink I thought it was pretty cool. I recommend it for your next event

St
Review №59

Went to Chad Daniels at Dr. Grins this evening.. Favorite comedian all time..What a great show! Hope they invite him back soon..Oh and great venue I must add, Cool intimate setting for a comedy show and the staff is spot on as well.

Ry
Review №60

Amazing service, live music, add great food.

Aa
Review №61

Attended a wedding reception. Great atmosphere and the wait staff was at the top of their game. Food and bar service was excellent as well.

Be
Review №62

Really cool building with something for everyone! A great steakhouse, comfort food, a pizzeria, a brewery with house made beers, a club + a comedy show & private event space. Plus more that Im probably forgetting.

CH
Review №63

Nice brewery. Good place to hang out during the weekends. Eve on the 4th floor has a good dance floor. Bob has the best dance floor/DJ in and around Grand Rapids area. Prices are very reasonable. Entrance to bob is $5 and entrance to eve is $5. I would definitely recommend this place

An
Review №64

Its a great mid-point local meeting place that has everything you could want. It has a sports bar, a fine dining resteraunt, a very inviting comedy club, and so much more. Check it out, you will not be disapointed.

Za
Review №65

Really cool updated old building in downtown Grand Rapids. I have never been to another place even comparable to it. They have bars, restaurants, all kinds of cool activities in this building. Both my drinks and my food here have always been great, and there are many of games to play while enjoying your time at the BOB.

Ma
Review №66

A little bit crazy, not quite the place for me. That being said, all staff was aware and helpful, taking time out to make sure guests knew where to go and what was available. Plenty of options, and if confused about where to head, just ask.

Ro
Review №67

First time in GR and we go here. Cool looking place but got my jacket stolen. The manger was not helpful in the slightest. Didn’t believe me and said there weren’t any cameras in that area. After talking to a few other ppl there they too had similar stories. “A guy tried you steal my purse earlier this year.” Another person said they too had their jacket stolen. The place was a nice bar, great pool tables, but their customer service on the management level was poor. I thought GR was supposed to be a nice area.. I haven’t had anything stolen from me in Detroit. The owner needs to add cameras in those areas to reduce the number of thefts occurring in your establishment.

Do
Review №68

We ALWAYS have a great experience at the B.O.B. We go before every Hockey game, and look for a particular Bartender. Rip is always cheerful and attentive; even if the bar is packed. Reason for 5 star is mainly because of the way we are treated by Rip!

Ro
Review №69

This is a really unique old building with really cool design on the inside. It has several different places inside to eat each with a different atmosphere. I ate at Gillys smokehouse and had an excellent burger. They have a variety of different BBQ sauces that are all really delicious. I would definitely recommend the B.O.B.

Pa
Review №70

Great service, delicious food, fantastic seasonal drinks

Sh
Review №71

Great shrimp cocktail and Lobster tails!! (In addition to their big steak)

ka
Review №72

Judson steak house is one of the main reasons I head out to Grand Rapids. The bartender Rip is a main reason I go back or and over. The laughs, the beers, the food, its a perfect mixture of fun food and drink. One of my favorite bars in North America

Cu
Review №73

The B.O.B. has several options for food, drinks, and entertainment. It has become a Grand Rapids place to go for entertainment. There is a lot of parking options in the area, but expect to pay for it most of the time. There is an indoor entrance for 20 Monroe Live as well. So you don’t have to stand out in the cold.

Do
Review №74

Visiting from Chicago and this place is nice. You have to pay for parking on the streets and parking lots. I paid $15 for lot parking. Really big facility. Something for everyone. Beer pong. Jenga. Pool. Beer bar. Club with dj. The club have a small dress code. Restaurants. The food is really good and reasonable price. Drinks are OK and reasonable price.

Ka
Review №75

Definitely a place to visit while in Grand Rapids. There are different joints inside to choose from. Good music, nice beer, a good place to spend the night at.

Ra
Review №76

The Elote is so good, and the spoon bread is what to come for.

Be
Review №77

Unique building with a bar downstairs and bbq restaurant on the mail level. Great place! Good service and craft beers and generous portions.

Th
Review №78

Beautiful Big Old Building. The bathrooms have always been clean, the restaurants are always good as expected and its in the perfect location for shows. Some restaurants have good pricing, a very few are a bit higher priced due to the selections and products they offer. Check out the menus before sitting, they truly do have a variety of American dining.

Sh
Review №79

Great venue. I am volunteer for Laughfest and love volunteering at The BOB. A great place for comedy and food.

As
Review №80

4 floors each one with a bar, good music, sports playing on tv, good beer on tap and delicious pizza! Very cool!

Le
Review №81

Awesome set up. Multiple restaurants with open atmosphere in one building with outside options as well.

Al
Review №82

This is a very fun place to hang out at before a concert at 20 Monroe live or anything else downtown. Great atmosphere.

Ki
Review №83

I visited the Bob to go to a comedy show at dr. Grins. The show was so good. the future comedian was one of the funniest I have ever heard. And it was only $5 to get in! It was as good as a show but you would pay$50 to $100 or more for. It is a smaller venue so every seat is great.

Ka
Review №84

Love this place! Great food, friendly staff and it is close to the Van Andel Arena. Makes it really convenient when going to a Hockey game!

Bo
Review №85

Such an awesome bar. Right by the van andle arena too. We saw a kiss show at van andle and programmed here. They had a tribute band going. Very cool. Good service. Huge place. Must stop if your in the area looking for a drink. Gets crazy busy.

Cy
Review №86

Great food and entertainment. Always makes me chuckle when I go in and remember my days when we used to come to the Crush at night. Now I cant stay up past 10PM. I guess they have entertainment for all ages.

Ja
Review №87

Love. Smokeys has the perfect portions and the location is fun.

Oa
Review №88

This is a fun place to be and I really like the concept for each floor having its own theme. Its a great place for adults who want to have a good time. The drinks are not that strong on the 4th floor but the bottom floor they are good. The only issue I have is the security can be rude at times but a couple are nice. I would recommend going here.

Ra
Review №89

Good beer and atmosphere!

Mi
Review №90

Good pizza in a dark somewhat dinghy bar.

Ra
Review №91

One of the most unique dining and entertainment complex you will ever visit. Constantly reinventing itself. A true gem in beer cities crown.

Ri
Review №92

Went to the BBQ restaurant. Good food. The cornbread is delicious.

Pr
Review №93

Great place to eat.Very busy when we went there.

Fa
Review №94

If you have ever been to Navy Pier in Chicago this place reminds me of a vertical version of that with many entertainment and food options just not as kid friendly as Navy Pier but in a good way. The basement (or Brewery) reminded me of a college frat house with giant Jenna, beer pong, bags, darts, maybe foosball. That is not a bad thing as there is plenty to do down there but if you happened to be with folks where this is not their thing then it will not be a good place to hang for long. They have the same menu as Gilly’s BBQ on the main level and our server was very nice.

Ro
Review №95

Really cool place, we got great food, drinks and service in the lower level, Bobs Brewery. We met a nice couple hanging out like us, waiting for The Who concert. After an awesome concert we headed back for drinks, but they were closing. I would definitely recommend this place. I just wish they would have stayed open on that concert night to hang out. There must have been 100+ people heading in after the concert that we saw and probably more. I would think on a concert night they might stay open longer, after a concert you are wide awake and want some drinks, especially since we were staying at the Marriott a few blocks over and didnt need to leave town. We loved it though! Well be hanging out there this fall when we come back for another concert!

Cl
Review №96

We went to Laughfest and really enjoyed the venue. Nice job folks.

Na
Review №97

Very eventful night at the B.O.B.! My fiancé and I dined with a group of friends; she and I had the meat sampler and various sides (mac and cheese, elote corn and grilled vegetables). She had a flight of beers and I ordered an oatmeal stout. The food was pretty good, especially the meat. Just after exiting, I realized that I had forgotten my winter hat. When I went back in to ask to go look for/get it, I was denied by the doorman/bouncer. He said that I needed an ID to re-enter the bar/restaurant. This was a curious request because A) I just wanted to get my hat and B) I was already admitted to the bar and served alcohol without presenting an ID. There was a brief standoff during which I repeated my request to get my hat, and he denied my entrance. He then demanded that I leave; I refused, citing that moments ago we had spent $150-$200 and I only wanted to get my hat. He proceeded to put me in a chokehold and force me out of the premises. Shortly thereafter, another employee of the B.O.B. threatened to harm me, citing his experience as a high level boxer. While I repeated my request to find my hat, he asked if I’d prefer his right or left hand to realign my face; fearing facial realignment, I retreated to the sidewalk. In short: don’t forget your winter accessories in the B.O.B.; if you do, prepare for verbal and physical attack!

No
Review №98

I frequent H.O.M.E. and its always a great time. I cant speak for much of the rest of it.

Ni
Review №99

Had a great time when we were in town with a group of friends. Nice draft beer selection, good music on the dance floor and karaoke in the basement was a blast!

Ma
Review №100

First of all, the restaurant on the second floor was easily a 4 or 5 star in service and quality. The lower rating comes from the experience we had in the first restaurant we attempted to eat at. Three wait staff walked past our table and didnt acknowledge us at all. The place was not busy and others appeared to be having the same issue. After 10+ minutes we got up and headed up the stairs and had a great meal.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.2 Rating
  • Address:20 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, United States
  • Site:http://www.thebob.com/
  • Phone:+1 616-356-2000
Categories
  • Comedy club
  • Bar
  • Barbecue restaurant
  • American restaurant
  • Event venue
  • Live music venue
  • Night club
  • Pizza restaurant
Working hours
  • Monday:5pm–1am
  • Tuesday:5pm–1am
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:Closed
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:5–10pm
  • Sunday:5–10pm
Service options
  • Curbside pickup:Yes
  • Delivery:Yes
  • Dine-in:Yes
  • No-contact delivery:Yes
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • Takeaway:Yes
Highlights
  • Great cocktails:Yes
  • Great dessert:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
  • Rooftop seating:Yes
  • Sport:Yes
Popular for
  • Dinner:Yes
  • Solo dining:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Coffee:Yes
  • Comfort food:Yes
  • Happy-hour drinks:Yes
  • Happy-hour food:Yes
  • Kids' menu:Yes
  • Late-night food:Yes
  • Organic dishes:Yes
  • Small plates:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Dinner:Yes
  • Catering:Yes
  • Dessert:Yes
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Bar on site:Yes
  • High chairs:Yes
  • Toilets:Yes
  • Wi-Fi:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Historic:Yes
Crowd
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
  • University students:Yes
Planning
  • Dinner reservations recommended:Yes
  • Accepts reservations:Yes
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