Those who remember and frequented Mitchell’s Sports Bar when it was located in the Marketplace of Canterbury would agree that it was the best sports bar in town. With its amazing atmosphere, food and service, it quickly became the new hot spot to go cheer on your favorite teams or gather and dine with family and friends. Sadly, in March of 2013 it came to an end in an unimaginable fire that engulfed the entire sports bar and also caused major damage to Piere’s Entertainment Center, just one month after the passing of Piere’s owner Stan Liddell, Todd Smith’s longtime business partner, mentor and friend.

Smith, the owner of Early Birds, Flashback and YOLO Event Center, knew that one day, when the time was right, he would bring that once amazing sports bar back to the Fort Wayne area for all to enjoy. Mitchell’s (so named because it is Smith’s middle name) was a Fort Wayne staple as well as a big and memorable part of Smith’s life. Once he found the perfect location in southwest Fort Wayne, Smith knew it was time to recreate that once amazing sports bar. Only this time, it was going to be bigger and better.

The new Mitchell’s Sports and Neighborhood Grill, located at the corner of Getz Road and Jefferson Boulevard, is in fact much bigger than the original sports bar, seating up to 2,000 guests. The attention to detail is impeccable, with sports memorabilia from vintage to new and sports-themed quotes placed perfectly from corner to corner throughout the entire restaurant. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by an amazing wall picturing the Cubs playing at the famous Wrigley Field baseball stadium. Upon entering the main dining area, guests see vintage arcade games, basketballs, foosball, pool tables and more for young and old to enjoy.

And TVs? Oh, yes, Mitchell’s walls are lined with over 40 flat-screen TVs, including a 20-foot big screen TV to enjoy along with an amazing state-of-the-art sound system. You would swear you’re at the actual game! Mitchell’s Sports and Neighborhood Grill is most definitely an amazing sports grill that all ages can enjoy.

Onto the menu, Mitchell’s has something to offer everyone, from pizzas to gourmet sandwiches and seafood, not to mention multiple vegan-friendly menu items. Among Mitchell’s most popular items is mouthwatering Canadian Poutine with French fries piled high, topped with slow-cooked pork, a silky white queso sauce and a touch of beef gravy. Another popular menu item is Mitchell’s amazing wings, cooked your way with a choice of baked, grilled or wet. Mitchell’s has 12 unique, house-made flavors from which to choose.

Looking for something a bit healthier? Michell’s has a wide variety of amazing salads, including a unique Pear and Strawberry Salad topped with pecans, feta cheese and a house-made poppyseed dressing created by Smith’s wife, Kristen. There’s also a Seared Tuna appetizer, an amazing Salmon entree seasoned with Cajun spices and paired with Apple Chutney that gives that perfectly sweet and spicy flavor that leaves you wanting more.

And the pizzas? Yes, the pizzas are to die for. Choose one of Mitchell’s nine flavorful pizzas – from classic pepperoni to a signature pear pizza made with olive oil, fresh sliced pears, Gorgonzola and mozzarella cheese and topped with sliced prosciutto. Mitchell’s clearly has something for everyone.

Features? Yes, everyone loves Mitchell’s amazing features: Tuesday is Taco Tuesday featuring $2 tacos; Wednesday is Half-Off Pizza; Thursday offers 50? Wings; and Friday is Fish Friday. You can also enjoy an ice-cold pint beer for just $2 seven days a week.

Like Bloody Marys? Mitchell’s has the city’s most flavorful Bloody Mary bar serving amazing Bloody Mary garnishes starting at 11 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday, and it’s accompanied by Mitchell’s delicious breakfast menu.

Like live entertainment? Mitchell’s weekly live entertainment acts are a big draw for the late-night crowd. Mitchell’s stage has been graced by The Why Store, Bad Advice, Chris Worth, Jon Durnell, Cougar Hunter, Morning After and James & the Drifters, to name just a few. Check out the lineup on Mitchell’s Facebook page and at whatzup.com.

Todd Smith has outdone himself again by bringing yet another staple to Fort Wayne’s restaurant scene. Mitchell’s Sports and Neighborhood Grill has been voted Fort Wayne’s Best Sports Bar. If you haven’t been in to check it out, we would say it’s time to go and experience the difference.