GRAND RAPIDS, MI — A walk-up window in Grand Rapids has savory bites that are as tempting as its sweet treats.
Too Tall’s, known for its towering ice cream cones, has a concise menu that’s constantly evolving under the leadership of chef-owner Andy Engle, who took over the business five years ago.
The shop features freshly ground steak burgers, Black Angus hot dogs with Detroit chili, and weekend smoked specials.
“We’ve elevated everything,” Engle said. “We’re using beef tallow in the fryer, bringing in brioche buns from Michigan Bread Company, and putting a huge emphasis on fresh quality ingredients.”
“I’ve added that chef touch to it,” he said.
The transformation began when Engle, a former executive chef at Noco Provisions, streamlined the previously extensive menu to focus on perfecting core items.
The small staff at Too Tall’s is concentrated on executing at a high level whether from the small kitchen space or rows of chest freezers.
Weekend smoked brisket has become particularly popular, with Engle often staying overnight to tend the smoker.
“One of the best compliments is stumbling upon someone talking in a forum asking ‘Where can I get brisket in Michigan?’ and seeing us come up,” he said.
Too Tall’s, at 2963 Coit Ave. NE in Grand Rapids, Mich. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c
Its a simple menu at Too Tall’s that consists of burgers, hot dogs, chicken and fried appetizers.
The Too Tall Steak burger for $8.49 is a quarter-pound patty on a toasted brioche bun topped with all the fixings — American cheese, lettuce, onion, tomato, pickle, ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise.
The Olive burger for $9.49 is the more adventurous option. It features house-made olive-tapenade.
The Chili Dog for $3.75 is dressed with Detroit-style chili, ketchup, mustard, onion and pickle.
Too Tall’s, at 2963 Coit Ave. NE in Grand Rapids, Mich. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c
The carefully selected ice cream are often the star of the show, especially in the summer. First timers will be surprised by how the large the large really is.
Too Tall’s offers soft serve cones, sundaes, flurries, shakes and slushies.
A medium soft serve cone costs $4. A double hard scooped cone cost $5.
While maintaining the charm of the original Too Tall’s, which operated for 26 years under previous ownership, Engle and his wife Larissa have created a destination that draws customers from beyond the neighborhood.
Too Tall’s, at 2963 Coit Ave. NE in Grand Rapids, Mich. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c
Too Tall’s is open 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. A craft smokehouse menu is available weekly on weekends.
The couple is surveying options to operate year-round, but typically stay open through late November or December before opening again for the season.
For more information, customers can call (616) 363-3305 or visit Too Tall’s website here.
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Dining and Cooking