GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Inside Baker’s Book House, shelves contain more than 60,000 pieces of literature — most authored to find a spiritual direction in life.

In the back of the store, a cafe aims to be something simpler by brightening mornings with fresh-brewed coffee and warm smiles.

Baker’s Beanery, 2768 E Paris Ave. SE in Grand Rapids, is tucked inside a third-generation operation that’s been around for over 85 years. The shop offers seasonal drinks and small bites.

The Christian bookstore opened the cafe in 2000 with a building expansion. Cafe manager Pete McGowen joined in September 2023 with fresh ideas for the space.

Book store diversity officer Dave Baker, whose grandfather Herman founded the company in 1939, said McGowen brought “personality” to the cafe.

McGowen, who also serve

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