Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
If all goes according to plan, a restaurant blending the styles of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine will open its doors before the end of the month.
For local shop owners and visitors to Winona Lake, the restaurant couldn't come at a better time.
Last year, Caleb France and Nate Munson, operators of Flying Fish Catering, were approached by the Village of Winona and asked to develop a dining establishment that would appeal to the "creative class" of the community (ages 25-55.)
The two envisioned a restaurant they hoped could create a niche in Kosciusko County, with unique dishes and a distinct atmosphere unlike any other in the area.
After months of research and planning, Cerulean Restaurant and Sushi Bar will hold its grand opening on Canal Street during the evening hours of June 30.
"The need we're trying to fulfill in Warsaw is a good pasta dish," France said. "We're fusing modern styles with traditional dishes. It's something people can't find anywhere else."
Their menu will consist of pasta and tapa dishes blended with the essence of Italy and Spain, as well as a full sushi bar.
France said he hopes the menu will appeal to any clientele in the Warsaw and Winona Lake area.
Modern art and furniture also will add to the dining experience, France said. Local artwork from Village of Winona craftsmen will be showcased throughout the restaurant. Contemporary lighting, urban seating and a streaming waterfall at the front entrance are all characteristics of the establishment that France hopes will fascinate customers.
"Our goal is to make you feel like you're not in Warsaw," he said. "I want people to come inside and be enchanted by what they see, like they're in a whole different world."
Maximum seating is still being finalized, but France said he feels they have adequate space for the restaurant's expected traffic. Tables are positioned inside the restaurant, in both the dining area and sushi bar, and outside seating is available during the warmer months.
A private dining room will be available for parties of up to 30 people.
Beer, wine, sake and sangria are to be part of the menu, with a significant list of imported beer and micro-brews to be available.
But the main focal point of the restaurant could be its sushi bar, complete with nigri, maki and sushi selections, miso soup and a variety of seaweed salads.
"We want to compliment the sushi bar accordingly," Munson, the main sushi chef, said. "People will be able to get the full experience that comes will sushi now. Even with something like our selection of Japanese beers, it will really add to the overall dining experience."
Construction of their building is estimated to be finalized in the next 10 days. Until then, France, Munson and their kitchen and waiting staff will be busy putting the final touches on their business.
"In order to appeal to Warsaw and Kosciusko County's creative class, we needed to create an atmosphere they can enjoy themselves in and thrive off of," France said. "I'm confident we're reaching that level."
Projected restaurant hours will be Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, and Saturday hours will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 11 p.m.
