We’ve all been counting down the days to Savor Fort Wayne, and it’s finally here—that magical time of year where local restaurants offer exclusive, multi-course menus that give you the chance to taste what they’re all about.
Savor Fort Wayne kicks off on Wednesday, January 18 and lasts through Sunday, January 29. That’s 12 whole days of delicious deals! And it only happens once per year, so use this as an opportunity to explore the riches of Downtown Fort Wayne’s food scene (without breaking your budget).
There’s no shortage of other things happening Downtown, too, so make a day or a night of it! Broaden your experience by catching a movie at the Cinema Center, taking a stroll around the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, or skating at Headwaters’ ice rink. There are so many options that I can’t list them all. So here’s a calendar of exhibits and events, so you can plan your date.
Ready to savor the flavors of our Downtown food scene? Here’s everything you need to know!
Savor the flavors of modern American-fusion:
Birdie’s
On the rooftop of The Bradley boutique hotel, you’ll find Birdie’s, one of the city’s most beautiful eateries. It’s no surprise that this spot is spectacular, being the brainchild of Vera Bradley’s Barbara Baekgaard. In addition to its island-chic aesthetic, Birdie’s offers succulent fare and stylish cocktails. Check out their Savor menu for a unique mix of Hawaiian and Asian-inspired cuisine.
Pricing: $30
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert; vegetarian options available (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Bistro Nota
Right around the corner from the Landing (and a block away from Birdie’s), you’ll find Bistro Nota—a cozy, yet cultured scratch-kitchen bistro. Bistro Nota’s menu leans French (and a little Southern), but is sprinkled with Midwestern twists all its own. You’re bound to find something rich and comforting on their menu. Bonus: they offer wine and beer pairings for any dish.
Pricing: $35
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert; while none of their Savor menu items are vegan or gluten free, they are happy to provide substitutions for anyone with special dietary needs (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Conner’s Kitchen + Bar
Looking for a solid brunch spot or a hoppin’ happy hour? Head to Conner’s Kitchen + Bar inside the Marriott Courtyard, where you’ll find all sorts of zhuzhed-up bar staples and abundant vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. If I had you at ‘brunch’, their Savor brunch menu, fully equipped with bloody marys and mimosas, is available on Saturday and Sunday.
Pricing: $28-$33
Features: 3-course dinner—choice of starter, main, and dessert; 2-course brunch—choice of beverage, starter, and main; vegan and gluten-free options (see menu)
Parking: Validated garage parking at the Marriott’s garage and nearby street parking
Copper Spoon
Touting an eclectic menu, a James Beard nominated chef, and a nationally-recognized bar team, Copper Spoon is a local favorite for a reason. On top of Copper Spoon’s many accolades, they source a lot of their ingredients from local farms and food producers. So when you dine their saporous Savor menu, you’ll be getting a true taste of our region’s palate.
Pricing: $40
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert; vegan and gluten-free options (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Junk Ditch Brewing Company
With a seasonally-inspired menu, creative comestibles, and scratch-made everything (the food, the brew, even the baked goods are all made in-house), Junk Ditch is another local favorite, where you’re sure to have an exceptional culinary experience. Snag a table or bartop, enjoy the industrial-chic backdrop, and have yourself a meal to remember!
Pricing: $30
Features: 3 courses for—choice of appetizer, main, and dessert; substitutions for dietary restrictions available upon request (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking
Marquee at the Landing
Marquee, a Landing newcomer, strikes the right balance with the rest of its lively neighbors. Marquee supplies sensational dining with upscale provisions, a menu that rotates with the seasons, and a winding list of wine, beer, and spirits. It’s a luxurious spot for gathering with friends or for a special date night.
Pricing: $39
Features: 3 courses—choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert; vegetarian and gluten-free options (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Savor the flavors of the American steakhouse:
Club Soda
Another Fort Wayne staple, Club Soda, is a contemporary steakhouse known for its inventive eats, stocked martini bar, live jazz music, and a smoked gouda dip that will haunt your dreams. Enjoy a lavish night out, or an elevated lunch date with Club Soda’s special Savor menus—offered day and night!
Pricing: $18-$40
Features: 3 course dinner—choice of appetizer, soup or salad, entree, and dessert; 2 course lunch—choice of soup, entree, and dessert; vegetarian and gluten-free options (see menu)
Parking: Typically Club Soda offers free parking in their attached lot, but it’s currently closed due to construction. Click here to see their updated parking map.
Don Hall’s Old Gas House
They just don’t cook ‘em like they used to. Be transported back in time with Gas House’s antique touch and vintage atmosphere, an ode to the renovated historic gas plant it’s housed in. Nostalgia is also peppered into the Gas House’s menu with classic steakhouse fare and cocktails. It’s a romantic spot to start your rendezvous around town.
Pricing: $20-$45
Features: Choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert; vegetarian options (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking
The Oyster Bar
Just outside of downtown, you’ll find the Oyster Bar, one of Fort Wayne’s legendary restaurants. This beloved staple is known for serving up the finest seafood in its charming historic building. Try their four-course Savor selections, and you’ll see why they’ve been going strong for decades.
Pricing: $33.95
Features: 4 courses—choice of appetizer, soup or salad, entree, and dessert; possible vegetarian and gluten free options, contact for special dietary restrictions (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking and nearby street parking
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris is a steakhouse chain that’s nationally-revered for its elegant environment and high-end dining. If you’re looking for the perfect meal to celebrate something or someone special, this is it! If you or your special someone is a steak enthusiast, Ruth’s Chris is a must-try.
Pricing: $50-$60
Features: 4 courses—choice of starter, side, entree, and dessert; gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Attached parking garage or nearby street parking
Tolon
Tolon was one of Fort Wayne’s first farm-to-fork restaurants, and its success helped pave the way for other restaurateurs to join the locavore movement. Chef Matt Nolot’s menu features his artful spin on seasonal comfort food, made with the finest regional ingredients and inspired by cuisines from all over the world.
Pricing: $49-$69
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert; vegetarian and gluten free options (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Savor the flavors of American comfort food:
The Arbor
On the ground floor of the boutique Bradley hotel, you’ll find The Arbor, another chic, instagram-worthy space from Vera Bradley founder Barbara Baekgaard. On any typical night at The Arbor, you’ll find a blend of dishes, some inspired by northern Italian cuisine, and others by the American steakhouse. For this year’s Savor menu, they’ve put a modern twist on comfort food classics—perfect for a mid-winter feast.
Pricing: $40
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
B&B Market
B&B Market is one of the remarkable dining destinations that’s found a home on the new Electric Works campus. Its founder, Chef Jason Brown, already has a faithful following in Warsaw with his flagship restaurant, 110 Craft Meatery. Now, he’s bringing his same philosophy for thoughtful, sustainable, community-focused food to the Union Street Market, this time in the form of a custom vintage-style butchery and seafood market. Come by for lunch to enjoy a smash burger or seafood boil—both out of this world!
Pricing: $15
Features: Choice of smash burger and kettle chips + seasonal soup; gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Lot and nearby street parking
Davey’s Delicious Bagels
Over in the historic West Central neighborhood, Davey’s Delicious Bagels is slinging steamed bagels, lattes, and an assortment of sandwiches. It’s a sweet spot to sit back and relax, with its art-laden walls and wafts of espresso lingering in the air. Stop by for breakfast or lunch, and you won’t be disappointed.
Pricing: $13-$25
Features: Choice of bagel sandwich and latte—dual or single; gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking next to The HEDGE and nearby street parking
Local Apple Cart
Local Apple Cart is another delicious find inside Union Street Market that’s full of surprises. Stop by for a hot dog, stay for the boozy ice cream. If you partake in the latter, be aware that this ice cream is surprisingly strong, even though it goes down smoothly—scoop responsibly. They have kid-friendly ice cream and sweets, too, so prepare a visit for the whole family!
Pricing: $10-$22
Features: Choice of hot dog, beverage, and dessert or choice of boozy ice cream float; gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Lot and nearby street parking
Penny Drip
Comfort food, but make it hip! That’s practically Penny Drip. This contemporary coffee bar (and real bar) is all the rage and for good reason: Everything that Penny Drip serves is top tier. What’s more, it boasts an ambiance that’s peaceful enough to study or work in, but energetic enough to enjoy a happy hour. It’s the best of both worlds.
Pricing: $10-$36
Features: Pick 1, 2, 3 or 4 shareable appetizers, breakfast sandwiches, lattes or cocktails; vegan options available (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking or nearby street parking
Savor the flavors of southeast Asia:
Banh Mi Pho Shop
Banh Mi Pho Shop is right outside Downtown Fort Wayne and is another favorite among locals. Known for their pho, noodle bowls, banh mi sandwiches, and boba, Banh Mi Pho Shop is a gem for Vietnamese fare. No matter what you order, expect refreshing, savory bites that are sure to satisfy.
Pricing: $25-$40
Features: 3 courses—choice of cocktail or boba tea, appetizer, entree, and dessert (option to make it double); vegetarian options (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking
Don Hall’s Takaoka of Japan
Named after one of Fort Wayne’s sister cities, Takaoka is a hibachi bar stir-frying up some Japanese-inspired dishes. Not only is the food unforgettable, but so is the service. Takaoka’s staff will have you belly-laughing and your belly grumbling as they perform jokes while cooking your meal right in front of you.
Pricing: $20-$35
Features: 4 courses—choice of entree + shrimp appetizer, soup, salad, hibachi vegetables and rice; vegetarian options (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking and nearby street parking
Nawa Inspired Asian Cuisine
Nawa is another favorite on the Landing, serving upscale plates influenced by the flavors of Thailand and other southeast Asian countries. From curries to wok-fried staples, you’ll enjoy bold flavors and spices. Complete with Asian-inspired cocktails and an ambiance that’s moody and romantic, it’s the perfect date night spot.
Pricing: $35
Features: 3 courses—Choice of starter, entree, and dessert (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking and nearby street parking
Savor the flavors of Mexico:
Mercado on the Landing
Mercado is a Cali-Mexican restaurant located on the Landing, with stellar drinks, zippy eats, and an eye-catching atmosphere with mural-clad walls and major tropical vibes. Chef Johnny Perez superbly fuses chicano flavors with some west coast favorites. There’s a lot of zest in the air (and in the dishes) at Mercado, so prepare to sit back and take it all in!
Pricing: $35
Features: 3 courses—choice of starter, main, and dessert; vegetarian and gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Pikoso Burrito Co.
At the Union Street Market, Pikoso Burrito Co. is serving up Mexican staples, from tasty tacos and tortas, to bountiful burritos and burrito bowls. Their brick and mortar location may be new, but the owners have been all around Fort Wayne in Flora & Lily’s Mexican food truck. Any of their options are great for a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice any of the flavor.
Pricing: $20
Features: 2 course—choice of burrito or burrito bowl, drink and churros; vegetarian options (see menu)
Parking: Lot and nearby street parking
Savor the flavors of Italy:
Alto Grado
In the mood for pizza? Let’s be honest, who isn’t? And Alto Grado is certain to satisfy your craving. Their woodfired, Neapolitan-style pizzas use the finest ingredients and are masterfully fired to perfection. Their grinders are also woodfired and exceptional, if an Italian sandwich better suits your appetite.
Pricing: $14-$28
Features: Choice of breadsticks, pizza, and dessert or choice of grinder, chips and drink; vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Savor something sweet:
Kilwins Fort Wayne
Kilwins is in the business of making phenomenal treats and lasting memories. Breathe in the smell of freshly made waffle cones as you take your pick of Kilwins’ gourmet sweets. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong! Bring the whole family and make some sweet memories together this Savor season!
Pricing: $19.95
Features: Includes a quarter pound of fudge, two caramel chews, 5oz bag of caramel corn and choice of caramel apple (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Savor something healthy:
Elijah’s Restaurant & Bakery
Elijah’s is a Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern-inspired restaurant from Chef Kevin Muhammad. The vibe at Elijah’s is fine dining meets family restaurant. Think thoughtful presentation and quality ingredients without all the stuffiness. Chef Kevin’s cooking is health-conscious, but that doesn’t mean he skimps on flavor. His menu is vibrant and complex, with a lot of unique finds, like vegan caviar and navy bean pie.
Pricing: $35-$60
Features: 3 courses—choice of three curated 3-course meals; vegan and gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Herculean Meal Prep at Union Street Market
Herculean Meal prep provides macro-focused frozen entrees, to make your meal planning convenient and tasty. Herculean was founded by two brothers—one a bodybuilder and the other a home chef. The pair have combined their passions to create nourishing meals to satisfy folks looking to stay healthy, even on the tightest of schedules.
Pricing: $15
Features: 3 meals—choice of frozen, ready-to-eat meal prep entrees; gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Lot and nearby street parking
Kanela Blended Drinks, Coffee, & Bites
If you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up, Kanela has your back! Kanela offers lattes, smoothies, and juices galore, with lite bites to accompany your beverage of choice. Chill out and savor your meal in their stylish cafe, or grab something nourishing to go!
Pricing: $10-$13
Features: Choice of breakfast sandwich and small latte or fruit smoothie and avocado toast; vegan and gluten-free options available (see menu)
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Savor a night out:
The Charlie Horse
The Charlie Horse’s full bar at the Union Street Market is the perfect place to plan a happy hour with friends! Snag a seat at their bartop and catch the game, or while you imbibe, explore the new state-of-the-art market and visit some of the other food vendors on campus. Start your night off right!
Pricing: $25
Features: Choice of beer and cocktail + chips & dip (see menu)
Parking: Lot and nearby street parking
Country Heritage Winery Downtown
For a special tasting, check out Country Heritage’s downtown location! You can grab a bottle, sip on a slushie, or opt for a wine flight, where you can try various wines, choosing between dry or sweet wine with sweet or savory food pairing options. This sensory experience is perfect for wine connoisseurs or for anyone looking to learn more about wine.
Pricing: $25
Features: Choice of two flights—dry wine & savory food pairing; dry wine & sweet food pairing; sweet wine & savory food pairing; sweet wine & sweet food pairing
Parking: Nearby street parking, parking garages, and paid lots
Hop River Brewing Company
Hop over to Hop River’s German-style beer hall for some the best brews and bites around. It’s always a good time at this family-friendly brewery, with pinball machines, foosball, board games, and a scrolling list of craft beer that’s brewed in-house. Accompany your ale with Hop’s delectable snacks and sandwiches.
Pricing: $30
Features: 3 courses & a pint—choice of starter, main, dessert and one pint of beer; vegan options (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking
Summit City Brewerks
Right outside of Downtown Fort Wayne, in the historic Bun Bar factory, lives Summit City Brewerks—a playful brewery with 32 taps of their house-made craft beer. They cater to the playful and the hungry, with darts, pool, and board games, and amped up pub food to enjoy with your brew. Bonus: this brewery is family-friendly, so you can bring the whole crew with you!
Pricing: $28
Features: 3 courses—choice of beer or starter, main, and beer or dessert; vegetarian and gluten free options (see menu)
Parking: Free lot parking and free street parking
For more, check out the Savor Fort Wayne page on Visit Fort Wayne’s website—where you can see all participating locations and filter by cuisine or your neighborhood!
Molly Conner is a Fort Wayne native and freelance writer. Having lived in Downtown Fort Wayne throughout her twenties, she loves watching her stomping grounds grow. With her love of storytelling and community in tow, she’s eager to tell Downtown Fort Wayne’s story piece-by-piece—exploring the people, spaces, and organizations that make it thrive.