The Repair Shop That Saves Your Favorites: Meet Cascade Shoe Service
Mar 03, 2026
Sam Zarou’s 42-Year Legacy (and a Free Shine!) Is Part of What Makes West Michigan So Cool
Read Time: 90 seconds
In West Michigan, we love the people who keep things going—the craftspeople who quietly make life better, one repair at a time. In this episode of Coffee with Steve & Margaux, we sat down with Sam Zarou, founder of Cascade Shoe Service, to celebrate 42 years of restoring the things you love most.
Sam arrived in Grand Rapids in 1980 and built a reputation for expert repairs and old-school pride in workmanship. Today, Cascade Shoe Service is recognized as one of the top shoe repair shops in Michigan, and locals bring in far more than shoes. Think: belts, handbags, briefcases, saddles, sports gear, even unexpected items like golf bags and more. If it’s leather (or needs skilled hands), Sam’s team can probably save it.
What makes this story extra special? It’s a family legacy in motion. Sam’s son Eddie is now in the business, helping carry the craft forward—along with their team (shoutout to Nick). Their work is the kind that makes customers feel taken care of, not rushed. And the stories are incredible—like the 40-year-old saddle that came back to life after decades in storage.
Steve & Margaux have trusted Sam for decades, and once you meet him, you’ll understand why: West Michigan is full of good people—and Sam is one of them.
📍 Cascade Shoe Service
6504 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI
🎁 Special offer: Mention Coffee with Steve & Margaux for a free shoe shine.
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