Two new sandwich shops are set to bring fresh flavors to Fort Wayneapps dining scene in early 2025, offering everything from hearty comfort foods to health-conscious fare.
Dreaming Tree Cafe, led by chef Lindi Miller, plans to open in mid-January. The locally owned eatery will serve soups, sandwiches and lighter options such as avocado toast, fresh salads and açaí bowls. Miller, known for her previous work with popular downtown delis, brings years of culinary expertise to the venture.
The cafe, which is in the former Anastasiaapps Cafe at 7121 W. Jefferson Blvd., will also offer specialty coffee sourced from local roaster Pure Earth Coffee.
Dreaming Tree Cafeapps name draws inspiration from the Dave Matthews song of the same name and reflects the ownersapp vision of creating a space where customers can enjoy great food while pursuing a balanced lifestyle. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
On the cityapps northeast side, Mr. Sandwich plans to open in Riviera Plaza on St. Joe Center Road in late January or early February. Owned by George Bourounis, the restaurant will serve a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts.
Keep an eye out for opening updates and menu previews from both Dreaming Tree Cafe and Mr. Sandwich in the new year.
Redwood to reopen
Redwood Inn has announced plans to reopen in its historic location, with the original building now under new ownership by the team that has long been dedicated to the iconic eatery.
The building at 1432 W. Main St. was sold at the end of 2022, and the business officially closed in September. The news of its reopening has been met with excitement from loyal patrons of the iconic spot, known for its legendary pizza and sausage rolls. Owners Barry Levy and Melissa Earls recently shared that they now officially own both the property and the business.
appThis has been our goal since we first took over in 2018,app they shared on social media. appA few really hard obstacles along the way, but look at us now. Thank you to everyone who supported us and stood by through the uncertainty over the past few months. We are so grateful!app
The reopening will involve a few cosmetic updates to the space, but the owners assure customers theyappll soon be back serving up the food that has made Redwood Inn a neighborhood favorite. Fans can look forward to the same signature pizza and famous sausage rolls that have defined its long-standing reputation.
A reopening date has not been announced.
Jolly events
The holiday season is in full swing, and there are two festive events this weekend to help you celebrate with family and friends.
Draft Taproom & Coffee, 1833 N. Wells St., will host a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday.
Attendees can take photos with the Clauses, share their wish lists and enjoy drink specials, including a peppermint mocha menu and other new winter offerings.
Guests are encouraged to bring a new book to donate to Kateapps Kart.
Mercado, 111 W. Columbia St., will host a holiday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The event will feature a variety of treats for all ages and a special surprise drink feature. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 387-6160 or visiting .
Crescendo Coffee & More, 1806 Bluffton Road, is hosting a special holiday event with Santa Claus from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.
Mrs. Claus will also be on hand to help decorate cookies, with $5 cookie kits available for purchase.
The event will feature a hot chocolate station, photo opportunities with Santa and the full menu from Crescendo Coffee & More.
Christmas plans
For those who prefer to dine out on Christmas Day, several local restaurants are welcoming guests with festive menus and cozy atmospheres. Whether youappre in the mood for a steakhouse, sushi or BBQ, these options have you covered this holiday season.
Ruthapps Chris Steak House, 224 W. Wayne St., will be open from 3 to 8 p.m. on Christmas Day, offering its signature steaks and upscale dining experience.
Eddie Merlotapps, 1502 Illinois Road S., will open its doors from noon to 8 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Haru Sushi Izakaya, 4036 Coldwater Road, will also be open for business with their regular hours on Christmas Day. Lunch is 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner hours are 4:30 to p.m. Reservations are encouraged to secure a spot. To book, call 755-3975.
UNIQ BBQ & Shabu, 6045 Stellhorn Road, will be open on Christmas Day. The dinner menu, which includes Korean barbecue and hot pot, will be available from noon to 9 p.m. Reservations are recommended; call 387-6785.
Wings Etc. rankings
Wings Etc. Grill & Pub was ranked 10th in a list of the top 15 chicken franchises of 2024 by , according to a news release.
The Fort Wayne-based chain was also named one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneurapps Franchise 500 for its performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power, according to the ranking.
appWeappre pleased and honored that Entrepreneur has recognized Wings Etc.apps strong growth,app CEO Rob Hensmann says in a news release. appWe stand in good company among other major brands on Entrepreneurapps list, and we remain committed to seeing our franchisees flourish.app
The brand has more than 80 locations, of which 56 are franchisee-owned. Priority markets for growth include Florida, Kentucky, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, according to the release.
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Other franchises on the top 15 list include Popeyeapps Louisiana Kitchen at No. 1, followed by KFC, Wingstop, Slam Chickens and Golden Chick in the top 5. Popeyeapps, KFC and Wingstop have stores in Fort Wayne.
ܱapps opens
ܱapps has brought its signature Butter Burgers and frozen custard to New Haven with the opening of its 1,000th location.
The new restaurant, which is at Indiana 930 and Maplecrest Road, officially opened Monday.
The location will be open 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Column on break
The Dish will be on hiatus during the holidays. The column will return Jan. 8.
The Dish features restaurant news and food events and appears Wednesdays. Fax news items to 461-8893, email kdupps@jg.net or call 461-8304 at least two weeks before event or desired publication.
