At The Local Epicurean, owner Ryan Raredon, who has been profiled in the Grand Rapids Press, began pasta-making as a hobby. But his handmade pastas and seasonings soon became so popular at local farmers’ markets that he was inspired to open his own store. Beyond pasta, today the space is filled with fine infused oils, cheeses, breads, and other sundries that make customers' pasta feasts all the more special.

But the store is more than just a point of sale for artisanal foods. A chocolate lounge area is filled with selections of cocoa-based confections and organic coffees and teas where guests can sit and peacefully sip. There's even a space for classes where students meet to learn the fine art of pasta-making, with pasta flavors varying based on seasonality and the commands of a magic 8 ball.