Eating & Drinking in Fort Wayne

This place has “classic Fort. Wayne” written all over it. Open since 1914, this hot dog shop has been passed down as a family past-time for decades. It’s a modest establishment with an equally modest menu. “Coney Island Style” means that the hot dogs are grilled, the bun is steamed, and the toppings include grilled onions, mustard, and chili. One dog with all the fixings will cost you $1.25.

Great punk rock-themed, dive-bar in Fort Wayne. The bar’s stocked with good liquor and PBR flows on tap. And if you’re already thinking “pretentious hipster-cove,” stop. The Brass Rail is just a good, dirty meeting place for likeminded people who love music. Great indie bands like the Thee Oh Sees travel through here all the time so it holds an extra special space in my heart. The drinks are stiff, the jukebox is banging, and the bartenders are on top of their game.

I like this place cause it’s a classy, simple, and dark. There’s something about the atmosphere here that makes it: a nice hodgepodge of hipsters and regular folks with a goth-y vibe. The booths are big, ideal for lounging, and the bar is long, wooden, and old fashioned. Don’t go here if you’re in a hurry. While the staff is pretty relaxed, the service definitely takes some time. On the weekend it’s especially packed with regulars, so if you’re into that sort of atmosphere it’s a good time.

Usually vegetarian/specialty food is really expensive. Loving Café is the exception. This place specializes in vegan cuisine and serves it up for about $5 an entrée. If you’re apprehensive to vegan food I say just try it. You’ll be amazed at how good these cooks are at making fake meat. My fave is the Earth Friendly Salad. It’s vegan chicken strips, carrot, cucumber, and organic greens served with their house ginger dressing. It’s delicious, filling, and actually makes you feel good afterward.