Flavor Meets Community: A New Culinary Gem in Lagro
By: Christine Flohr
A hot new eatery is set to open in Lagro, a close-knit, charming community of 450 in Wabash County. Ben and Jen Bailey, longtime Lagro residents, aim to revitalize the town with a unique dining experience that blends local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. This restaurant is expected to bring fresh energy and strengthen community ties, making it a destination for both locals and visitors. Visit Wabash County (VWC) spoke with Jen Bailey to learn more about their decision to invest in Lagro.
What attracted you to Lagro for your restaurant?
Ben and I have called Lagro home since 2001, when we bought a property at the end of Dora Road. Lagro has truly become our home, and when we purchased three downtown buildings from the Lagro Canal Foundation, we saw the potential. Lagro has only a few dining options, and we believe there’s room for one more to add to its charm!
How do you think the community will respond to your restaurant?
We think Lagro will be excited! Good food in a small downtown setting is always a win. While Wabash is close by, staying local is priceless. Plus, our buildings haven’t been used in years, so just seeing the lights on is exciting!” “What unique qualities of Lagro do you think will benefit your restaurant?
Lagro has a laid-back vibe, where neighbors support each other. The outdoor amenities like the river, Wabash River Trail, state forest, and hiking make this a perfect spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s the “quality of life” that makes Lagro special.
What are your long-term goals for the restaurant, and how will it contribute to the town’s growth?
Opening a restaurant in a small town like Lagro gets people’s attention. Our hope is that locals and tourists will see our belief in Lagro and invest in it too. One business can inspire more to follow, and before you know it, the town thrives again. We see potential in all our projects and hope to inspire new investors to dream big here!
What’s next on your list of projects?
We have several properties in Lagro we’re reimagining, so there are always many projects happening at once! It’s fulfilling to know we’re making a difference in the community we love and where we raised our family. We’re lucky to call Lagro home!
Investing where you live, like Jen and Ben, strengthens communities and fosters growth. Their new eatery is set to open in spring 2025.
