Game Time @
Arena is your neighborhood sports bar on the north side of town—a comfortable spot to settle in with friends. Pull up a chair, grab a cold drink, and let us cook for you. Our menu is classic bar fare made with care, from scratch-made thin-crust pizzas (yes, we make the crust and sauce in-house) to wings people talk about. We can even finish the wings on the charbroiler for that smoky edge most places can’t offer.
Karaoke brings the fun: Thursdays 8:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., plus Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. We open at 11:00 a.m. every day for lunch, we’re here seven days a week, and we show every NFL game with NFL Sunday Ticket all season long, so your team always has a home base.
Want the latest deals? Check our social pages for daily food specials and new menu highlights. Planning a celebration or tailgate? We also cater alcoholic beverages for wedding receptions and other events, too.
Whether you’re catching a game, singing with the regulars, or grabbing a relaxed weeknight dinner, Arena keeps it easy: warm service, generous portions, and prices that play nice with the wallet. Come by, get comfortable, and make it your spot.
Scan the QR code for more information!
Food Issue
Hello Readers,
This is our October Food Issue—your playbook for a delicious month. Start downtown with Tolon’s farm-to-table style, slide to Copper Spoon for precision cocktails and smart plates, then head north to Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard for a glass that tastes like Indiana in October. Keep going. Brunch spots, late-night kitchens, barrel proof liquors that sell out before noon—it’s all here.
We built this issue to be used. Book the reservation. Try the chef’s seasonal feature. Order something you’ve never had. Share the table with friends and make space for one more chair. Our restaurants thrive when we show up— curious, hungry, and generous. Hospitality is a two-way promise. Owners invest, teams train, farmers deliver. You arrive hungry, patient, and ready to celebrate craft. That exchange is how Fort Wayne keeps leveling up.
A quick word before the candy: be safe this Halloween. Slow down in neighborhoods, add reflective gear to costumes, and choose a designated driver or rideshare if you’re out. Hospitality begins with how we care for each other beyond the dining room.
Thank you for reading and for supporting your local businesses. Your enthusiasm keeps this city cooking.
With appreciation,
Billy Moore
Billy Moore, Publisher publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
SCAN ME!
Visit our Website www.fortwaynelifestyle.com
FORT WAYNE lifestyle
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Billy Moore | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
VP OF OPERATIONS
Matt Coffel | matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Breanna Spillers | bree@fortwaynelifestyle.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Duane McCoy | nightvigil468@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Giovanny Durand | Giovannydurand22@gmail.com
HEAD WRITER
Jessica Shultz | iwritepoetrysometimes@yahoo.com
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Carol Fakih | carolfakih@ymail.com
We are dedicated to consistently delivering top-notch content about the vibrant community of Fort Wayne, from the parks and local attractions to various entertainment venues. The Summit City offers a variety of activities for families to relish and enjoy. Whether it’s watching a baseball game with the Tin Caps, local movie night or visiting the zoo. Fort Wayne Lifestyle is all about you.
Saisaki & Magik Sing:
Two Ways to Gather, Eat, and Sing in Fort Wayne
Opened in 2021 at 200 E. Main Street, a downtown stretch where many restaurants come and go, Saisaki is the one that has made it this far. The owners are hands-on in the kitchen and the dining room, building a loyal following with scratch-made cooking, fresh, quality ingredients, and no MSG added beyond what may be present in canned or bottled components. The menu reflects Saisaki’s diversity: vibrant sushi rolls, hearty bento boxes, Japanese and Thai soups, indulgent hot pot, and playful fusion plates. It’s also an event favorite, thanks to a spacious free indoor garage, no-fee private rooms, and full bar service.
Cocktails lean fruity and refreshing with big-city polish—Lychee Martini, Strawberry Guava Martini, and Cherry Blossom among them—and a deep list of Japanese whiskies, including Suntory Toki and Hibiki Harmony, powers a standout Old-Fashioned. Despite modern, elegant decor, Saisaki is family-friendly, with delicious dishes for kids alongside more adventurous options.
Daily lunch and drink specials run Monday through Sunday.
Info: saisakifw.com | 260-739-5286 | 200 E. Main St.
On the northeast side, Magik Sing debuted with a ribboncutting on July 30, 2025, bringing a polished karaoke-andlounge experience to 5745 Saint Joe Road. Private karaoke rooms are rented by the hour, giving guests control and comfort without long waits common to crowded bar stages. Each room pairs a full bar with plush seating and a top-tier sound system, making it ideal for birthdays, postwork hangs, or a quiet duet night—true to the motto, “Come for the duets, stay for the drinks.” Family-owned and kid-friendly until 8 p.m., the lounge serves shareable apps and desserts and can be reserved outside normal hours by phone.
Event coordinators also use the space for ballroom and line dancing, DJ sets, and other small-scale programs. Info: magiksingfw.com | 260-492-7464 | 5745 Saint Joe Rd.
Scan the QR code for more info!
AROUND TOWN
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Our Town
1. Julie spent the day at Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and managed to capture a picture of one of their beautiful giraffes.
2. Neesh Wear worked hard on these custom title patches for the ILKW Weekend in Indianapolis.
3. Colvin Kitchen & Bath raced over to the ACD Fast and Fabulous event at the Auburn Courthouse.
4. Reader Carol enjoyed Redwood Inn’s Garlic Parmesan Wing Basket.
5. Zeigler’s Window Coverings took a stroll through Salomon Farm, enjoying all that nature had to offer.
6. Fort Wayne Lifestyle took advantage of the cool weather and fired up the smoker to enjoy some delicious Tomahawk steaks.
Blade ‘N Bottle
What can you say about Cork ‘N Cleaver in Fort Wayne, Indiana?
Oh, man — a lot. As a partner at Fort Wayne Lifestyle magazine, this place holds a special place in my heart. Over 30 years ago, my mom first took me there. I remember the stuffed mushrooms, the signature salad bar, the warm lighting — it was magic. The flavors were unforgettable.
Now, decades later, I still go. It’s the exact same in the best way possible. And while the food is somehow even more delicious, the only difference is... now I must pay for it — because back then, my mom used to.
From the original founders to the current leadership under Josh Seward, CEO, the Cork ‘N Cleaver has remained committed to quality, service, and tradition. Every detail is executed with care — the fresh salad bar, the perfectly cooked prime rib, the handcrafted cocktails. It’s a place where memories are made and where new ones are born.
The atmosphere feels like home, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. It’s no wonder it’s been a staple in Fort Wayne for decades — the kind of place where time stands still in the best way possible.
At the Cork, they don’t just serve food — they serve experiences. With their cleaver-style menus, curated wine list, and exhibition style cooking, every meal feels like a celebration.
As a proud partner of Fort Wayne Lifestyle, I can confidently say: this place still has it. The oldies are still the goodies. Cork ‘N Cleaver isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a legacy.
So go ahead. Bring your kids, bring your friends, or just bring your appetite. Cork ‘N Cleaver has a seat waiting for you — and it’s still just as special as you remember.
— Publisher Approved. Fort Wayne Approved. Scan the QR code below for more information!
BUSINESS UPDATES
BIG NEWS! TRUX Unlimited - Trux It 2nd Location Coming Soon!
The TRUX Unlimited family is growing, and they are excited to share the next big step in their journey — their new Angola, Indiana, location now has an official address and a building!
185 N Hetzler Ct, Angola, IN 46703 will be the new home for truck, Jeep, and SUV transformations in Steuben County and beyond. Why Choose Trux Unlimited in Angola?
At Trux Unlimited, they specialize in providing customized solutions for your truck, Jeep, SUV, or off-road vehicle. Whether you’re looking for durable off-road tires, stylish custom wheels, or functional bed covers, they are here to help you enhance both the performance and appearance of your vehicle.
Parrish Orthodontics is proud to welcome Dr. Leah Stetzel to the team!
A Fort Wayne native, Dr. Stetzel returns home after practicing orthodontics in Tucson, AZ, where her husband served in the U.S. Air Force. She brings a keen eye for aesthetics along with a strong foundation in orofacial development and occlusion. Her warm, personable approach has already made a great impression on both our team and our patients. Dr. Stetzel joined Parrish Orthodontics to give back to the community she loves, and we’re thrilled to have her helping us create confident, healthy smiles right here in Fort Wayne.
Mayor Sharon Tucker announced today that Mitchell’s Downtown and Flashbacks Downtown will be opening at 1216 N. Harrison St. Mitchell’s Downtown will feature a scratch kitchen, an upscale bar menu, family-friendly dining, an outdoor patio, and numerous large screens for sports enthusiasts. Flashbacks Downtown will revive the classic dance club vibe on the second floor — complete with a riverfront patio, for ages 30 and up. Both venues are planned to open in mid-to-late 2026.
Want to be in the upcoming issue? Contact us today! Publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com www.fortwaynelifestyle.com Big news for the historic Schaab Riverfront Development!
Ingredients:
2 lbs stew meat
FOOD for THOUGHT
Witch’s Brew Stew
2 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
Black pepper
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp butter
2 cups diced yellow onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups water, divided
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 cup red wine
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 bay leaves
2 cups Yukon gold potatoes, cut into1” cubes
Rosemary sprigs
2 cups butternut squash, cut into small cubes
Italian parsley for garnish
2-4 oz cream cheese
Sliced olives
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Rinse stew meat and pat dry with a paper towel. Toss with 2 1/2 Tbsp flour, salt, and pepper. Brown in 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium flame, working in batches. Remove to a plate. Lower the heat, add 1 Tbsp butter, and cook the onion for a few minutes, until translucent. Add garlic and cook for one or two minutes, until fragrant.
Deglaze the pan with two cups of water. Toss in two beef bouillon cubes, one cup of red wine, one tablespoon of balsamic, and the remaining two cups of water. Add bay leaves, potatoes, and add the stew meat back in. Tie rosemary with kitchen twine and add it to the Dutch oven. Then put the lid on, and put it in the oven for two hours.
Take the stew out of the oven, add butternut squash, and then return it to the oven for another hour. It’s ready as soon as the potatoes and squash are fork-tender.
While the stew is finishing up, roll cream cheese into balls (about a half tablespoon per eyeball), and press sliced black olives into each one.
Garnish the stew with chopped Italian parsley and serve each bowl with an edible eyeball.
Farm to Table… Your Table
In the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, Tolon brings a fresh, modern approach to Midwestern dining. The first restaurant from chef/owner Matthew Nolot and his wife, Nicky, Tolon blends elevated cuisine with a deep respect for local, seasonal ingredients. Nicky’s upbringing on a small family farm in North Central Indiana, where she learned about sustainable agriculture from her parents and grandparents, influenced everything from the sourcing to the spirit of the restaurant.
Inspired by the warmth of family gatherings and the memories of Sunday dinners, Matthew and Nicky have created a space where food is personal, thoughtful, and meant to be shared. Tolon’s menu highlights the best of Indiana—duck from Maple Leaf Farms, chicken from Hoffman Organics, meats from Smoking Goose, produce from Berry Hill Farms, and beef from Wood Farms— sourced from trusted partners who share the same values
Recognized as one of Fort Wayne’s most exciting restaurants for ten years, Tolon offers an upscale yet welcoming dining experience. Whether you're gathering with friends or enjoying an intimate dinner, every plate tells a story of craftsmanship, connection, and care. At Tolon, you’re not just a guest, you’re part of the family.
Hours:
Wednesday - Thursday 5-9 P.M.
Friday & Saturday 4-9 P.M.
Sunday 10 - 2 P.M.
Address: 614 S Harrison St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Phone: 260.399.5128
Scan the QR code below for more information!
kids quest
Halloween Cake PoPs
Ingredients:
One 15.25-ounce box yellow cake mix (plus required ingredients)
1 cup vanilla frosting, plus more as needed
10 ounces orange candy melting wafers
Jumbo black nonpareils, for decorating
10 ounces black candy melting wafers
Black sanding sugar, for decorating
Small orange nonpareils, for decorating
Directions:
Special equipment: 46 lollipop sticks (each about 6 inches long); two 9.8-by-11.8-inch Styrofoam blocks; a small piping bag.
Prepare and bake the cake according to the package directions for a 9-by-13-inch pan. Let cool completely. Break the cake into pieces and transfer to a food processor. Add the frosting and process until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the bowl, about 30 seconds. If the mixture doesn't come together, add more frosting 1 tablespoon at a time until it holds its shape.
Using a 3/4-ounce scoop, form the mixture into about 46 balls and put them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the orange candy melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high until melted, following the package directions. Dip 1/2 inch of the tip of each of 46 lollipop sticks into the candy and then stick each tip halfway into a cake ball. (It's ok to use one color for this part.) Refrigerate the cake pops until completely chilled, about 1 hour.
Microwave the orange candy again until melted, and then pour it into a tall, narrow glass. Dip 23 cake pops into the candy and let any excess run off. To make spider cake pops, place a jumbo black nonpareil on top and slightly above the center of as many of the orange-dipped pops as you choose while the coating is still wet. Stick the orange-dipped pops, both the plain and nonpareil-topped ones, in a 9.8-by-11.8-inch Styrofoam block and let them set completely.
Meanwhile, place the black candy melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, according to the package directions. Pour the candy into a tall, narrow glass. Dip the remaining 23 cake pops into the candy and let any excess run off. To make black sparkle cake pops, sprinkle as many of the black-dipped pops as you choose entirely with the black sanding sugar while the coating is still wet. To make black cake pops with orange nonpareils, sprinkle the remaining black-dipped pops with the small orange nonpareils, while the coating is still moist. Stick the finished black-dipped pops in a second 9.8-by-11.8-inch Styrofoam block and let them set completely.
Microwave the black candy again if needed. Transfer to a small piping bag and cut a small piece off the end of it.
To finish the spider cake pops, pipe a mound of black candy directly behind the jumbo black nonpareils. Then pipe 4 legs on each side. Stick the finished pops back into the styrofoam block and let them set completely.
To make orange spider web cake pops, hold each remaining plain orange-dipped cake pop over a sheet of parchment paper and pipe black zigzag stripes over the pops, letting the excess fall onto the parchment paper. Sprinkle with black sanding sugar while the piping is still wet. Stick the finished pops back into the Styrofoam block and let them set completely.
It’s a Dog-Eat-Dog World
Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island has operated at 131 W. Main Street since 1914, making it the city’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. A 1930s interior photograph on the west wall still mirrors today’s room: the spinning stools, sturdy tables, and even a late-1920s McCray cooler remain in use. Uniforms and fixtures have evolved, but the service ethic endures.
The business has been in the same extended family since 1916, part of a broader Macedonian lineage of Fort Wayne eateries. Vasil Eschoff acquired an interest in 1916 from one of the three Greek founders. Shares later passed among partners, including Jake Geroff (1924) and the Litchin family (late 1920s). Longtime employee Jimmy Todoran purchased the Litchin share in 2013; ownership today is split between Todoran and Kathy Choka. Russ Choka, the restaurant’s public face for more than five decades, took the helm in 1961 and worked until shortly before he died in 2011. A plaque honors Russ beside one for his son, Mike, who died in 1993
Operations favor speed and memory. Servers commonly take orders without writing them down, aided by a public shorthand: “three and a bottle” (three dogs with everything and a Coke) or “three without” (no onions). Daily routines include hand-chopping roughly 75 pounds of onions, stocking glass “little bottles” of Coke, and running an improbably compact kitchen. Regulars still know about the back-door entrance through the kitchen.
The menu centers on coney dogs—grilled franks in steamed buns with mustard, a house coney sauce made to the 1913 recipe, and fresh onions. They sell close to 2,000 hot dogs on an average day, with volume surging during the downtown holiday Santa display. Burgers on steamed buns remain a quiet favorite. Historically a haven for shift workers, Coney Island continues to function as a welcoming downtown landmark: tradition maintained, prices accessible, and service brisk—business as usual since 1914.
Whiskey Business
In the heart of Fort Wayne, where small-town spirit meets big flavor, Barrel Proof Liquors has become more than just a liquor store — it’s a destination for discovery. Whether you’re walking through the doors of the Butler liquor store or stepping into the enhanced selection in Grabill, one thing is certain: whiskey reigns supreme.
Founded on a passion for premium spirits, Barrel Proof Liquors was born from the vision of Zac Carper, a man raised behind a gas station counter who turned a lifelong love for retail into a journey of taste. Alongside General Manager Chad Maggart — a whiskey connoisseur with a soft spot for barrel proof bottles — the BPL team has cultivated a space where every bottle has a story, and every customer finds something to savor.
From single-barrel bourbons and hard-tofind ryes to craft beer caves and a growing selection of wine, each location offers a curated experience. Locals know: if you want something special, BPL will track it down. And they love the challenge.
At Barrel Proof, it’s not just about what’s in the bottle — it’s about the thrill of the find, the joy of the pour, and the stories shared over a glass of something exceptional. With locations in Butler, Grabill, Orland, Huntertown, and Fort Wayne, the BPL legacy continues to grow — one bottle, one smile, and one unforgettable drink at a time.
Barrel Proof Liquors — Your Destination for Premium Spirits. Cheers!
Scan the QR code for more information!
LOCAL EVENTS
September 30th - October 26th, 2025
Pumpkin Path Display
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory | Recurring weekly on Tuesday through Sunday
A local favorite, this scenic outdoor display returns to the Botanical Conservatory. Enjoy the spirit of the season while taking part in an autumn activity and posing for festive photo ops adorned with fall foliage and naturally harvested decor. Share @ BConservatoryFW a new favorite memory as part of your visit! This is included with regular Conservatory admission
October 3rd, 2025 - October 26th, 2025
Wild Zoo Halloween 2025
Fort Wayne Zoo | 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Fri, Sat, & Sun
Who’s ready for a merry, not scary, Halloween event? Visit the Fort Wayne Zoo from 10-3 p.m. each weekend in October for our Wild Zoo Halloween! Take part in spooktacular activities, including spooky Keeper Chats, Halloween-themed enrichment, delicious treats, and even appearances by some of your favorite Halloween characters! Costumes welcome! Wild Zoo Halloween is included in general Zoo admission and is free with a Zoo membership.
October 11th & 12th, 2025
Brickworld Fort Wayne 2025 – LEGO® Fan Exposition
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Sat, 10 AM–5 PM Sun, 10 AM–4 PM
Bring the entire family for an afternoon of fun! See 32,000 square feet of spectacular creations all built from LEGO bricks by local LEGO enthusiasts. Enjoy interactive activities, such as the LEGO and DUPLO play brick areas, graffiti walls, and more. Buy your favorite LEGO sets, minifigures, and LEGO accessories from various vendors.
October 11th & 12th, 2025
Rock Your World Halloween Psychic & Holistic Expo
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Enjoy a day with psychics, mediums, astrology charts, healers, body workers, aura photography, crystals, holistic products, plus fun shopping! You’ll love our midsize to larger venues where you can meet one-on-one with our vendors, psychics, healers, and receive a detailed reading or service for a reasonable cost.
October 14th, 2025
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Embassy Theatre | 7:30 PM
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is the iconic little movie that conquered Hollywood. The hit movie stars Tim Curry as the devious and fabulous Frank-NFurter; Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon as everybody’s favorite nerdy couple, Brad and Janet; Meatloaf as ex-delivery boy Eddie who dates a groupie, Columbia played by Nell Campbell; and Patricia Quinn as Magenta, servant to Riff Raff, played by the film’s creator Richard O’Brien.
October 15th, 2025
Wheel of Fortune Live!
Embassy Theatre | 7:00 PM
Wheel of Fortune LIVE! brings America’s Game® to your hometown! The all-new live stage show with a well-known host is the one-and-only way you can have the chance to spin a replica of the wheel and win prizes outside of Sony Pictures Studios. At Wheel of Fortune LIVE!, contestants are selected from the audience to go on stage and step into the game show itself.
October 18th, 2025
Howl-O-Walkoween
Promenade Park | 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Walk with us, join in the costume contest, or just watch for fun!
Howl-O-Walkoween offers a unique opportunity to win prizes, listen to music, enjoy food at the food trucks, and see some adorable pets dressed up in their howl-oween best. The visit is free, but a small donation is required to participate.
October 24th & 25th, 2025
Halloween at the Park
2302 Woods Road, Huntertown | 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Join us for a spooktacular event as we raise funds for From This Day Forward and the Huntertown Family Park. The treat trail is FREE for the community.
October 25th, 2025
Allen County Fairgrounds Fall Craft Bazaar
Allen County Fairgrounds | 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 25th, for a fun day of shopping with over 90 local vendors. They will have food available on the day of the event, and admission and parking are free for patrons. Come out and see what our local community has to offer! All events are located inside two connected and heated buildings and are handicap accessible.
October 26th, 2025
Trunk or Treat 2025
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum | 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Get ready to dust off those costumes because we’re throwing the ultimate Trunk or Treat bash at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum. FREE admission. Wander through our super cool museum, say, “Hi” to our friendly staff and volunteers decked out in their best friendly costumes, and snag some sweet treats at various stations and classic rides scattered throughout our stunning Art Deco space! Children must be with an adult.
Portillo’s
Fort Wayne
On a late evening 25 years ago, a young gal was born in the driveway of a small town called Oak Lawn, Illinois. That girl is me, Jess!
My dad, David, was born and raised in Chicago, so I have a deep love for the city. And I mean, I was born right there in the family van — that’s my home, baby! Growing up, I learned quickly that being from Chicago comes with its own kind of pride. There’s just something about the city that shapes you, that gives you a sense of belonging. And if you’re a local, you just get it — Portillo’s. I can smell it just thinking about it. If you know Portillo’s, you know that it’s not just a chain, but a home. An experience. The aroma and nostalgia of a comforting Chicago classic, right here in Fort Wayne.
Portillo’s is a staple in my hometown and many others. The classics — Italian beef sandwiches dripping with juice, chocolate cake shake, fries — don’t need anything else. Italian sausage, spicy chicken, nothing compares to the smell of Portillo’s. Chicago classics: sweet and hot peppers, chili cheese dog. They have what you need at Portillo’s. More than a restaurant, it’s a home. Where all are welcome, and you’ll experience the magic of homestyle cooking.
For me, Portillo’s is tied to moments. Birthday dinners where we laughed until the cake was gone. Late-night stops after long drives, where the comfort of a beef sandwich felt like a reward. Times when the chocolate cake shake you just had to have feels like a hug. Lunches with my brothers after days in the city. Family. Those memories are just as filling as the food.
For me, Portillo’s is Chicago in every bite. It’s memory, tradition, and love wrapped up in one. A taste of heaven in a Chicago classic.
Scan the QR code below for more information!
Spoon Fed
Tucked in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, Copper Spoon is far more than a restaurant — it’s an experience. What began as a modest wine bar has evolved into a nationally recognized destination for culinary and cocktail excellence. Locally owned by Gary and Kelly Skeel, this vibrant spot seamlessly blends Midwest hospitality with big-city sophistication.
What truly sets Copper Spoon apart is its unparalleled bourbon and whiskey selection. With nearly 1000 spirits behind the bar and a team of award-winning bartenders who are as passionate as they are knowledgeable, it’s a paradise for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you’re sipping a rare single-barrel bourbon or one of their expertly crafted house cocktails, every drink tells a story.
But the magic doesn’t stop at the bar. The kitchen delivers a seasonally inspired menu using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. From perfectly cooked steaks to house-made desserts, every plate showcases the culinary team’s dedication to flavor, quality, and community. It’s no surprise Copper Spoon has earned accolades like “Best Downtown Restaurant,” “Best Bar Staff,” and a prestigious Pin of Excellence from The Pinnacle Guide in 2025.
Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and inviting — ideal for a romantic dinner, a celebration with friends, or an unforgettable nightcap. It’s the kind of place where the staff remembers your name, your favorite drink, and always makes you feel at home.
In a city rich with charm, Copper Spoon stands out as a beacon of creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, one visit will show you why it’s the most amazing restaurant and bar in downtown Fort Wayne — and why there’s truly nothing else like it.
The Cinema of Taste
On Restaurant Row in Downtown Fort Wayne’s historic Landing district, Marquee at the Landing redefines upscale dining with a bold, chef-driven approach. Housed where the city’s story began, Marquee embraces its roots while pushing culinary boundaries. The restaurant’s scratch kitchen crafts are innovative, seasonal dishes using only the finest locally sourced ingredients— from Fischer Farms beef to Silverthorn Farm produce—offering guests an elevated yet approachable experience.
Whether indulging in a curated charcuterie board, savoring the richness of the Short Rib with red wine demi, or diving into the vibrant flavors of the Cajun Shrimp with dirty rice, Marquee’s menu is a celebration of Indiana’s finest. Small plates like Kung Pao Calamari and Loaded Potato Croquettes ignite the palate, while hearty entrées like the Bourbon Ribeye and Seafood Cioppino deliver depth and comfort.
Set against the backdrop of The Landing’s buzzing energy and historic charm, Marquee offers more than a meal—it’s a destination. With an emphasis on quality, sustainability, and creativity, it’s where locals and visitors alike come together for bold flavors, craft cocktails, and unforgettable experiences.
Scan the QR code below for more information!
All Tapped Out
Craving classic pub fare in Northeast Indiana? Start in Avilla at Taps Pub, 124 Green Dr., a friendly stop just down the road from the Marathon station. The menu leans American and satisfying: a juicy Bacon Burger, a hulking Jumbo Breaded Tenderloin, and a crisp Shrimp Basket that pairs well with a cold pint. With 20 drafts and more than 15 craft beers rotating, there’s always something new to sip. Order online for carryout or delivery when game night keeps you home; the kitchen aims for the area’s best wings and pizza, and regulars say the target is on point.
Scan the QR code for more information!
Dave, Donna, Doug, and Denise Walk Into Four D’s Bar & Grill
On Fort Wayne’s north side, Four D’s Bar & Grill keeps the comfort coming on Dupont Road between Bethel and Lima. The lineup covers the hits—burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and wings—plus pizza and toasted subs. Grinder fans can take their pick: Ham & Cheese, Italian Chicken, or a hearty Philly Steak, melted and handheld. It’s easy to make a satisfying meal your way.
Two stops. One mission: hot, familiar flavors done right. Whether you dine in with friends or carry out to the couch, Taps Pub and Four D’s deliver neighborhood favorites, cold beer, and zero guesswork. Expect friendly service. Scan the QR code for more information!
Meet the REAL Inspector Gadget
Derrick Lamb founded Diligent Home Inspections in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with one simple mission: to protect families like his own. After spending years in various construction trades, Derrick realized his true passion wasn’t just in building homes—it was in helping people protect them. His deep understanding of home systems, combined with a genuine safety concern, led him to the world of home inspections.
“I’ve always worked in some kind of construction,” Derrick says. “I love being out in the field, seeing how homes are laid out, and all the creative things people come up with—especially the DIY stuff. It’s fascinating, but it can also be risky if not done right.”
That hands-on experience became the backbone of Diligent Home Inspections, but the heart of the company comes from something more personal. In 2024, Derrick and his family underwent a poorly conducted inspection on their own home—an inspection marked by oversights, false reports, and a lack of accountability. It left a lasting impression.
“I’ll never forget how helpless we felt. I told myself right then— I’m going to inspect every house like my own kid is going to live there,” Derrick explains. That moment lit a fire in him to do better for others.
Today, Diligent Home Inspections offers comprehensive services including sewer scopes, water quality testing, mold and air quality assessments, well inspections, and 11-month warranty checks for new builds. Derrick doesn’t just check boxes—he educates his clients so they understand exactly what they’re walking into. “Buying a home is the biggest investment most people will ever make. I want them to feel confident, informed, and safe,” he says.
Most importantly, Derrick remains available for his clients even after the inspection is complete. “I’m always just a phone call away— for questions, concerns, anything. I’m not here to sell peace of mind; I’m here to give it.”
For Derrick Lamb, home inspections aren’t just a job—they’re a responsibility. One he takes personally, every single time.
Tree-Mendous Taste
Established in 1962, the Redwood Inn has been serving sausage rolls and hometown warmth for just a little over 40 years For generations, it was a favorite local dive — charmingly unpolished, reliably delicious, and always buzzing with the hum of regulars. But just before the world turned upside down in 2020, new owners Barry and Melissa stepped in with a vision rooted in grit, gratitude, and good food.
When COVID hit, many businesses faltered. But Barry and Melissa doubled down. While others paused, they powered through — refining recipes, refreshing the space, and reimagining what the Redwood could be. Through snowstorms and shutdowns, they transformed a beloved bar into the Mona Lisa of pizza, wings, and beer. Their garlic parm wings became the stuff of legend — fought over like treasure during blizzards and toasted over on sun-soaked patio afternoons.
What makes the Redwood Inn iconic isn’t just the food — though the sausage rolls alone could earn that title. It’s the atmosphere: the welcoming buzz of conversation, the clink of glasses, and that unmistakable small-town soul in a growing city. It’s the staff who remember your name and your drink, and the way Barry and Melissa made their hometown business feel brand new — without losing an ounce of its heart.
Whether you're grabbing a pint on Main Street, seeking shelter from a storm, or celebrating sunshine with friends, the Redwood Inn isn’t just a restaurant — it’s the place. A port in every storm. A landmark of local pride. An icon reborn, still rooted in everything that made it great.
