Many of you are probably wondering about all the changes taking place in Downtown Willoughby. Towards the end of 2015 and the beginning of 2016 we saw the rise of Sol and The Morehouse. Sol was once Gavi’s, while The Morehouse is located in the old John’s Cafe building. Both brought major changes to their establishments, and helped bring rise to a new culture of restaurants in downtown Willoughby. In 2016 we have seen many changes to some of our favorite establishments, and more are on the way.

Arabica will be back soon!

First things first, Arabica will soon be reopening in their new location roughly 40 to 50 feet from their old location. They will be located between The Art Gallery and Wild Goose. Frank Suponcic, the owner, has renovated the space in a way that resembles the old feel of Arabica with delicious coffee and wonderful bakery items. Be on the look out for the announcement of their grand reopening. Word is that they will have a soft opening as early as later this week.

A new coffee shop and bakery, Fiona’s!

A new coffee shop and bakery are coming to town in the old space where Arabica used to be located. The name is Fiona’s, after Seamus Coyne’s daughter. They look to bring a new style of coffee shop Bakery in downtown Willoughby offering another location for people to meet for business activities, getting together with friends, and simply enjoying some people watching. Word is they are going to be having fresh mini-donuts with various toppings. Mmmm! The new location is expected be open by the middle to end of November, just in time for the Tree Lighting.

There is a new brewery in town: BRIM

Many have heard by now that a new brewery is coming to downtown Willoughby. The old owner of the Willoughby Brewing Company, TJ Regan, is opening BRIM, an upscale Brewery. TJ is a lifelong resident of Willoughby and really loves the downtown community. The concept of the new brewery is going to be a positive injection of transparency, freshness, and simplicity into the downtown community. BRIM will be located across from the Willoughby Court House on Erie Street, with 150 parking spots for guests.

Host your next party at The Wild Goose

A local favorite, The Wild Goose, has recently opened their party room in the former location of Blue Envelope. The expansion adds a new dining experience to the Wild Goose whether you are stopping in for a meal, or hosting a family party. That isn’t all, they have made massive changes to their menu offering a wider selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and more.

Say it ain’t so! Fanucce’s has left the downtown community

Have you been wondering what has happened to our favorite Italian restaurant, Fanucce’s? They have relocated to downtown Cleveland, across from Cleveland State University on Euclid Avenue. We are sad to see them go, but wish them the best. Don’t worry though, the location will not be empty long as the new owners have already begun their renovation of the soon to be Hook & Hoof!

New Restaurant Announcement: Hook & Hoof

Have you heard the news? Chef Hunter Michael Toth, formerly of The Morehouse, and Chaz Bloom are opening Hook & Hoof, New American kitchen and cocktail. They have been working hard to remodel the old Fanucce’s and transform it into their new location. The menu is driven by local food purveyors and the seasonal availabiliy of produce. There will be a strong focus on the meat and seafood homage dishes and techniques, with a modern touch. Not only will there be a strong focus on meat, but there will be an assortment of vegetarian and vegan dishes. As is with the culinary aspect, the freshness of the cocktail program will be just as important, with rotating cocktails using the most fresh seasonal ingredients. Chef Hunter says they plan on offering a hearty wine, and beer selection, as well. As for a date for opening, it’s not good luck to give one, but they plan on opening during the upcoming holidays.

To sum this article up, there are a lot of positive changes happening in and around downtown Willoughby. New restaurants are moving in, adding new life and vibrancy back into the downtown community. If you ever have questions, feel free to visit the Downtown Willoughby Organization website or Facebook page. When more updates are available, we will make you aware of them