100+ Year Old Grand Rapids Italian Market Reopens with New Location
It's back! A market that served the Grand Rapids area for more than a century is now open in a new location - it's new restaurant and bar are now open too!
A new version of Russo's Italian Market is in operation at Tanger Outlets in Byron Center.
History of Russo's Markets in Grand Rapids
Giovanni B. Russo arrived in Grand Rapids from Sicily in 1902. He bought his first small store in East Grand Rapids in 1905. A few years later, Russo purchased a building on S. Division in Grand Rapids, where G.B Russo & Son survived throughout The Great Depression, natural disasters, and even riots.
In 1976, Russo's moved to 2770 29th St. SE.
The family also operated John Russo's Wine Warehouse & Deli in the Towne & Country Plaza at 4301 Kalamazoo Ave. SE for a period of time.
Russo's returned to downtown Grand Rapids in 2017, opening a second location on Fulton Street. After less they a year, they closed that store.
The last remaining Russo's Market, the 29th St. location, shuttered in 2019. A retail store called Mega Bev has since opened at that location.
Russo Ristorante & Mercato Opens at Tanger Outlets
At the beginning of 2023, Russo's announced the market would be reopening soon and include a restaurant at Tanger Outlets at 350 84th St. SW in Byron Center.
According to a release, John Russo has passed the CEO torch to fifth generation family member, Greg Russo, who with his siblings, Gina, Mike and Dominic "will carry on the tradition of quality products and services".
The new eatery, Russo Ristorante & Mercato, will have a full-service restaurant, deli, wine bar, specialty food and wine market, and more!
As of Nov. 20, Russo's is in the soft open phase of the retail half of the Tanger Outlet location. Owners say the restaurant side will open soon after faulty equipment is repaired.
UPDATE 11/24: As of Wednesday, Nov. 24, owners say the restaurant and bar are now open! For appetizers you'll find arancini, calamari, bruschetta, mussels, and more. Entrees include chicken, veal, and red snapper dishes, ribeye, panini, pasta, and pizza. Check out the full menu here.
In September, they shared a peek at some dishes they were testing out for the new restaurant.
Russo Ristorante & Mercato has the same hours as the rest of the Tanger mall stores:10a.m. to 9p.m. On Black Friday, the store will be open 6a.m. to 9;p.m.
Follow them on Facebook for updates on the opening of the restaurant!
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Gallery Credit: Janna
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