Patrons of the recently closed Redwood Inn, 1432 W. Main St., have been on pins and needles for months after owners Barry Levy and Melissa Earls announced last summer they would be temporarily closed and would move to a nearby location. 

Well, there’s good news and even better news. 

Redwood Inn will reopen soon — we don’t have a date yet — and it’s staying put in its spot on Main Street. 

A post on their Facebook page announced, “Barry and Melissa are now proud owners of both the business and the property.” 

In January 2023, the building was sold, fueling speculation that the days of sausage rolls, grinders, clam chowder, taco pizzas, cruise-ins, and patio concerts were in danger. 

The owners said the business would remain open, and they had a year left in their lease. 

That remained the case, and they remained open until September. They’ve been closed since then, but have promised to reopen.

Well, that promise appears to have been kept.

Redwood Inn has been around at its West Main location for more than 50 years.

Mercado hosting holiday brunch

Mercado, 111 W. Columbia St., Suite 103, on The Landing will host a special holiday brunch Sunday, Dec. 22. 

Typically, they only offer it on Saturday, but in the spirit of Christmas, they’ll have it open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

They’ll have their stand-bys from their Saturday brunch and include margarita pitchers, lattes from Spoke & Ivy, and pastries. They tease that they may have some other surprises in store. 

Reservations are encouraged by calling (260) 387-6160 or by going to mercadofw.com.

Alicia Pyle performs at Charlie’s Place

Speaking of midday meals, take a break with a Christmas brunch this weekend at Charlie’s Place, 4201 N. Wells St. 

The meal from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 21-22, features holiday dishes, drinks, and music from Alicia Pyle. 

Sandwich shop coming to Riviera Plaza

A new sandwich shop is coming to northeast Fort Wayne. Mr. Sandwich is setting up shop at 3213 St. Joe Center Road in Riviera Plaza with plans to open early next year, moving into the space that housed Waffle Station. Owned by George Bourounis, they’ll serve soup, salad, and sandwiches, naturally.

Eateries get in on Irish, Hoosiers action

Portside Pizza, 5310 N. Old 102, at Tri-Lakes is hosting a college football Watch Party for the Indiana-Notre Dame game on Friday, Dec. 20. 

The party starts at 7 p.m., just ahead of the 8 p.m. kickoff for the opening fame of the College Football Playoff. 

Attendees are asked to bring an appetizer to share. 

Whether it is the Irish or the Hoosiers, everyone can cheer for Powers Hamburgers, 1402 S. Harrison St. 

The downtown hamburger joint is also getting into the spirit of the game. 

For $100, you’ll get 24 cheeseburgers, a dozen Coney dogs, a half gallon of chili, and a party-sized tray of fries. They recommend you order in advance. 

During a recent visit, I was told the party pack could become a regular option if there is enough demand. 

For more information, go to their Facebook page. You can also place your party pack order (or any order) there. 

Conner’s hosts Elf-themed pop-up bar

The Buddy the Elf pop-up bar continues through Dec. 30 at Conner’s Rooftop Bar, 1150 S. Harrison St. 

It’s a scene right out of the 2003 Christmas movie, Elf, that includes food, drinks, and lots of holiday spirit. 

Conner’s is open from 5-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 3 p.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday.

Mark your calendars for Savor

Savor Fort Wayne returns Jan. 15-26. 

It’s billed as Fort Wayne’s Restaurant Week — 12 days of three-course meals, special prices, special treats, and a showcase of local establishments downtown and all through the county. 

In 2024, about 90 locations were involved. For twelve days, local restaurants show off special menus and prices in partnership with Visit Fort Wayne. 

News and Venues covers Northeast Indiana’s music and arts organizations, venues, and colleges, from large to small. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.