About Business

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 a passionate Grand Rapidian, Forty Acres owner Darel Ross recognized a story that needed to be told—the story (and 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 a passionate Grand Rapidian, Forty Acres owner Darel Ross 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 owner Darel strongly invest his 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. Read More

Mission Statement

At Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, our mission is to celebrate the rich heritage of African American cuisine while creating a welcoming and vibrant gathering place for all. With a dedication to flavor, authenticity, and community, we strive to serve soulful, scratch-made dishes that nourish the body and uplift the spirit. Through our commitment to sourcing local, sustainable ingredients and supporting At Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, our mission is to celebrate the rich heritage of African American cuisine while creating a welcoming and vibrant gathering place for all. With a dedication to flavor, authenticity, and community, we strive to serve soulful, scratch-made dishes that nourish the body and uplift the spirit. Through our commitment to sourcing local, sustainable ingredients and supporting local farmers, we aim to promote a healthier and more connected food system. With warm hospitality, cultural pride, and a commitment to social justice, we seek to honor our roots, inspire dialogue, and create lasting memories around the communal table. Read More

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