In this edition of “Bites with Beca,” Watershed’s resident food critic writes, “In searching for the ideal restaurant to celebrate my father’s birthday this year I was on the hunt for ‘a place of perfect happiness’ and just so happened to find that exact definition in Kalamazoo’s Elysium (505 E. North St.).”

In this week’s Bites with Beca, Beca Welty writes, “By the time we were rolling ourselves out the front door, Maria’s was bustling with energy with every table occupied and a line queuing near the entrance. It seemed Sturgis already knew what we had only just discovered — Maria’s Mexican Restaurant is a true gem in the crown of Mexican restaurants in the community, and we will absolutely be back soon…sunny day or not.”

“While it does seem unclear the direction The Kent will decide to go as far as a theme, decor, or permanent menu, it does seem obvious that it is operating under the guidance of a chef who is comfortable in the kitchen and confident in his skills. It would be a mistake to attempt to compare this new establishment to the one previous, because the Miller family is here to leave their own memorable mark on Main Street.”

WSV’s Beca Welty writes, “If Bird Dog isn’t already on your list of Southwest Michigan restaurants to frequent, make note now. This establishment is busier than ever with their tantalizing brunch, lunch, and dinner menu and their options of dine-in or reservations for an igloo. Their dessert menu is also constantly updating and their social media presence is an excellent place to stay well informed on all new additions to their offerings. Pack up your appetite and head to Bird Dog in Mattawan for an unforgettable dining experience!”

WSV’s Beca Welty writes, “February in southwest Michigan might seem like an impossible time to enjoy your favorite meal on the deck of your ideal restaurant, but Martell’s in Kalamazoo has transformed that dream into a reality. Like a few of their sister restaurants in the Millennium group, Martell’s has installed cozy igloos for outdoor dining, and I was one of the lucky few to indulge in the experience.”