In the early 1800s, The Landing was the hub for business in Fort Wayne, Indiana, due to its proximity to the three rivers and the railroad. The first Fort Wayne post office opened here, along with the newspaper, theater, and eventual railway station. 

Now, this historic spot is becoming an epicenter of revival in downtown Fort Wayne, with incredible dining options you won't want to miss. Whether you are looking for something sweet or savory, The Landing is the perfect spot to relax and refuel during your stay!

A Foodie Guide to Dining on The Landing in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Restaurants on The Landing

Papi's Pizza Mural

Papi's Pizza

Find inventive combinations of flavors with whole pies and pizza by the slice. Papi's decor is a throwback to 90s culture and great for families. 

111 W Columbia St. | (260) 387-7289

Interior of the bar and liquor shelves at Dana's bar on The LandingPictured: The bar at Dana's on The Landing

Dana's and Night Train

Welcome to Dana's — a French-inspired neighborhood tavern featuring cocktails crafted to perfection and bold, creative dishes. Head downstairs and discover the coolest basement bar around — Night Train. Open late (until 3am), Night Train serves up great drinks and top-notch bar food in an eclectic atmosphere. The vibe? "Unapologetically fun."

Be sure to take in the charming details and hidden gems throughout the space — reminders of the great times and good company enjoyed in the historic building over many years. Let the tradition continue.

135 W Columbia St.

Mercado

Traditional Mexican fare meets the west coast for a flavor explosion at Mercado! You'll love the bright and energetic atmosphere, Agave Spirits, and seasonal garage door that opens into the heart of the Landing! Guests rave about the Pachola Burger, Lobster Mac, and Cali AF Tacos. Bring friends for a late-night cocktail or a Saturday Morning brunch. Either way, it's a fiesta! 

111 W Columbia St. Suite 103 | (260) 387-6160 

Pad Thai noodles with lemon and bean sprouts garnish
Pictured: Pad Thai Me Up from Nawa

Nawa

Nestled under the Bison mural is Nawa, "inspired Asian Cuisine." Eclectic in both style and flavors, Nawa combines many cultures and traditions to create distinct dishes and "custom-crafted" cocktails. Find funky twists on your favorites such as Hawaiian Fried Rice, Basil Stir Fry, or Ramen Noodle Soup, or try something new like the Curry Flight, Kung Pao Cauliflower, or Thai Duck Panang.

Nawa means "New Beginnings" in Thai and is the perfect introduction to dining on the Landing! 

126 W Columbia St. | (260) 399-7501

Seafood at TolonPictured: Scallops from Tolon 

Tolon 

This industrial-chic spot serving farm-to-table fare feels both familiar but oh, so fancy. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you'll be delighted by these unique culinary creations. Start the day with weekend Brunch at Tolon and try the "Nashville Hot" chicken and waffle or blackened shrimp and grits. At night, dine inside or on the patio and devour the Duck Fat Frites, Butternut Squash Risotto, or the Wood Farm Ribeye. Finish the evening with a slice of caramel apple cheesecake or a house Old Fashioned. 

614 S Harrison St. | (260) 399-5128

Marquee

Marquee on the Landing is an upscale urban bar and restaurant — part of the Cunningham Restaurant Group family of establishments around the state. This luxurious, scratch-kitchen features a wide variety of dishes using locally sourced ingredients and exceptional service. Dinner guests can expect mouthwatering dishes like Lamb Shank, Kimchi Meatloaf, and Sous Vide Tomahawk Pork Chops. The Poutine is a must-try for people who are french-fry fanatics!

123 W Columbia St. | (260) 222-7174

 

Coffee and Light Bites:

Two lattes with latte art
Pictured: Dirty Chai Latte and Vanilla Latte in background 

Utopian Coffee + Kitchen

Utopian is a coffee lover's dream. This globally-conscious coffee company has been roasting for over 10 years, and has brought its talents and passion to the Landing. Visitors love the urban-bohemian feel with large sun-streamed windows, cozy chairs, and collaborative spaces. Grab a coffee to go, or linger inside with a latte and avocado toast. Whether you bring a friend or a laptop, once you settle in, you won't want to leave.

118 W Columbia St. | (888) 558-8674

Kanela

Kanela is on a mission to bring made-to-order healthy food and drink options to the downtown area. Whether you come for an on-the-go breakfast, an afternoon study spot, or a quick lunch with friends, you are sure to find something to satisfy! This cozy corner shop specializes in blended smoothies, juices, and coffee, but also offers salads, wraps, and sandwiches. Personal favorites include the Pumpkin Patch Blended Drink, Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie, or the Healthy Hummus Sandwich.

618 S Harrison St. | (260) 755-1838

Restaurants Near The Landing

The Bradley rooftop diningPictured: Birdie's Restaurant and Rooftop Bar at The Bradley 

The Bradley Hotel: Arbor & Birdie's

Located on the ground floor of The Bradley Hotel, just steps from The Landing, Arbor's bold prints and pops of color energize guests well before their first cup of Joe. Glancing at the brunch menu, served 7-5 daily, you'll notice comfort foods you know and love with a gourmet spin. Start the day with cinnamon oatmeal, avocado toast, a frittata, or a croissant sandwich. Or choose lunch favorites like the Margherita pizza, roast turkey BLT, and more. After 5pm, the dinner menu offers small plates and charcuterie, delicious pasta dishes, brick oven pizzas, and large plates of hanger steak, pork belly, and roasted chicken.

In the evening, sip a cocktail and relax above the city at Birdie's Restaurant and Rooftop Bar. Enjoy a curated menu of tasty bites to pair with any cocktail or mocktail you choose! You'll love the Kalua pork sliders, ahi tuna poke, skewered pork belly, and loco moco burger. Round out your experience with an affectionately named cocktail, like "Early Bird" or "Nest Egg," or choose the "Promenade" mocktail — a nod to the adventure and excitement at nearby Promenade Park!

204 W Main St. | Arbor: (260) 800-8685 | Birdie's: (260) 800-8686

Gnocchi and braised lamb on plate
Pictured: Bistro Ragout courtesy of Cam Kaminski 

Bistro Nota 

Bistro Nota has taken our familiar Midwestern favorites and added a delicious, French-inspired twist. Their frequently changing menu is made from scratch and uses only the best local ingredients to create small plates, entrées, and desserts. Start your intimate dinner experience with the Bistro Ragout – braised lamb served with vegetables and in-house Parisienne Gnocchi. Then, move to the main course and delight your taste buds in the Beef Teres Major – a shoulder tenderloin served with potato velouté, sofrito, and house-made Focaccia. Be sure to save room for the Bistro Blondie! The bistro is currently open Wednesday-Saturday, and reservation is recommended.

620 S Calhoun St. | (260) 488-6682

A case of fudge and chocolate covered rice crispy treats at Kilwins
Pictured: Fudge and Desserts at Kilwins Fort Wayne

Kilwins

Stop inside Kilwins to watch sweet treats made right before your eyes! Gather the family and experience nostalgia with some Mackinac Island Fudge, "The Perfect" Caramel Apple, or hand-crafted chocolates and truffles. In the mood for some ice cream? Try one of Kilwins' 24 Original Recipe flavors in a fresh-made waffle cone. They say you can't buy happiness, but you can buy Kilwins and that's basically the same thing. 

626 S Harrison St. | (260) 444-3569

Coney Island in Downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana
Pictured: Entrance to Coney Island 

Coney Island

The oldest coney stand in America has called Fort Wayne home for over 100 years. When you glance through the window you'll notice not much has changed since their opening in 1914. Their Coney Island Hotdogs are still grilled to perfection, slathered in chili sauce and hand-cut onions, and nestled in a steamed bun. Not a fan of coney dogs? Try a hamburger or a slice of homemade pie. Either way, grab a seat at the bar, pop the top off an original Coca-Cola glass bottle, and be taken back to simpler times.

131 W Main St. | (260) 424-2997

Sweets on Main

Open year-round, Sweets on Main is dishing out delicious hand-scooped ice cream cones, sundaes, flights, and floats. With unique and rotating flavors — including dairy-free options — I can guarantee you’re going to want an extra scoop. Elevate your ice cream experience with a warm Ghirardelli brownie, or a glass of Root Beer for the perfect float.

Don't forget to take your cool creations outdoors to enjoy the colorful patio and mural painted by Lyndy Bazille, a part of Fort Wayne’s Art This Way project. Find the mural on the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail!

123 W Main St. | (260) 424-0244

Ready to visit?

Find shopping, parking, and more in our complete guide to The Landing!

The Landing Map

This post was originally published in 2021. Last updated: March 2024