If it is not already, northeast Indiana is quickly becoming a wine connoisseur’s dream. That dream became even more enchanting when Vinland Reserve Winery opened on Fort Wayne’s north side over the weekend.

Last year, when the winery/restaurant announced its plans, it promised a “wine destination with an adventurous spirit.” They have succeeded.

What we have is an elegant, secluded, out-of-the-way piece of property at 4494 Provision Parkway, near Diebold and Union Chapel Road roads, not far from Parkview Regional Medical Center. 

Along with wine, the family-friendly Nordic-themed spot also has a fine food selection that includes sandwiches, lobster rolls, burgers, steak, and brunch items.

Regally set against a pond and wooded area, it boasts exceptional wine and food. Operators pledge to use the best grapes and juices from across the nation for on-site winemaking. 

As if the great wine and food were not enough, there will also be live entertainment from 6-9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. The upcoming music slate includes Adam Baker on Friday, May 26, and Gray Matter on Saturday, May 27.

Reservations are “strongly recommended” according to Vinland’s Facebook page, but some walk-ins will be accepted. 

Vinland is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. with brunch served until 2 p.m.

Strong turnout for Salvatori’s in Warsaw

Beginning in New Haven, Salvatori’s modest Italian restaurant empire continues to grow. 

The popular eatery recently opened their sixth location, the latest being in the former Richard’s Restaurant along U.S. 30 in Warsaw.

According to Salvatori’s Facebook page, demand was so great that one of their first nights in Warsaw was cut short after running out of supplies. As they continue to fine-tune operations and build their staff in Warsaw, Salvatori’s has decided to cut out carryout services and hours. For now, hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.

Starting in New Haven, Salvatori’s has expanded to two spots in Fort Wayne and locations in Auburn, Leo-Cedarville, and Warsaw.

New diner opens at Pilot Travel Plaza

A new operator is running the restaurant at the Fort Wayne Pilot Travel Plaza on Goshen Road. 

You will notice that Mom and Pop’s Diner has replaced The Point and is serving some of the favorites from Angel’s Cafe, which closed at Georgetown Square this year. 

Mom and Pop’s hours are 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 

Conner’s, Hotel Tango host Tailgate Takeover

On Thursday, May 25, Conner’s Kitchen and Hotel Tango Distillery will kick off the Memorial Day weekend with the Tailgate Takeover at Conner’s in the Hampton Inn on South Harrison. 

Patrons will get in the holiday mood with games, samples, and door prizes from 4-6 p.m. before taking in Thirsty Thursday at the Fort Wayne TinCaps game. 

Speaking of Hotel Tango, they just celebrated their sixth birthday in Fort Wayne last week.

Farmers market coming to Churubusco

Another Farmers Market is popping up in northeast Indiana.

Churubusco is launching its first Turtle Town Artisan Market on Saturday, May 27, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot at the IGA supermarket. 

The market will feature produce, flowers, and other homemade and handmade goods. It’s organized by Churubusco Main Street and returns June 3, July 1, July 15, Aug. 5, Aug. 25, Sept. 2, and Sept. 16.

Vitale joining Big Brothers Big Sisters gala

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana’s annual Gourmet Dinner is Wednesday, May 31, at Grand Wayne Center in downtown Fort Wayne with ESPN broadcaster Dick Vitale. 

The gala includes a multicourse meal, reception, drinks, speaker, and prizes to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters programs.

Off the Eaten Path is the Whatzup weekly column that covers Northeast Indiana’s restaurant and food news. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.