WELCOME TO FORTY ACRES SOUL KITCHEN Forty Acres is an Authentically American restaurant and bar with a resilient, unapologetic style. Our modern, urban space invites community members from every culture to come together at the table to celebrate black culture, community and success.

Our Purpose As passionate Grand Rapidians, Forty Acres owners Darel Ross and Lewis Williams recognized a story that needed to be told—the story (and celebration) of Black America. Our promise at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen is to not only share this story with the community but to celebrate this rich culture—and invite people of all cultures to celebrate with us.

With the establishment of Forty Acres, we aim to: Share the real story and the rich history of African Americans in our city, state and the U.S. as well Offer authentic, upscale soul food in a comfortable, local establishment including bar service Support local workforce efforts by hiring local residents Engage in socially-responsible activities by supporting LINC UP, a local non-profit in which owners Darel and Lewis strongly invest their time and energy Our Story One of America’s original cuisines—harvested and prepared by slaves on plantations—nurtured America’s soul and shaped her emerging identity. During the Industrial Revolution, African Americans preserved their traditions and their cuisine, giving us a taste of the original Americana.

Forty Acres celebrates this authentically American heritage and the history, resilience and success of the African American community at its location in the heart of the Wealthy Street Business District. We honor this community with classic soul food, a superior dining experience, quality sourcing and leadership, and an unapologetic story to tell so that everyone can taste what has made this country.

Our Brand The Forty Acres brand is a blend of celebrating soul food’s authentically American heritage while sharing our unapologetic story and what it represents in our communities. So... what does it represent?

Our story represents not just overcoming adversity but succeeding as well. It represents a group of like-minded folks with a genuine, progressive, driven, community-building, and most importantly, unapologetic attitude. Here at Forty Acres, we have a serious love for our purpose, our history and our cuisine—and you'll feel the passion throughout your entire dining experience.

Join us in our celebration of the rich history and the African American community—we'd love to have you.