Just south of Fort Wayne along historic US-27, Nine Mile Restaurant has served hearty American comfort food since 1837. It is widely considered the oldest restaurant in northeastern Indiana, and it still trades on big portions, friendly service, and a genuinely historic room.
A Taste of History
Nine Mile earns its name from geography: the original tavern sat exactly nine miles from the Allen County Courthouse, and the name stuck. Founded in 1837 and once known simply as "The Tavern," it has carried that tavern tradition into its third century. Today's owners, Joe Strack and Barry Liggett, have run it since 1996.
Inside, it is part lively bar and part cozy dining room. Come in for coffee and pancakes in the morning or settle in for a slow dinner. Either way the food is dependable and the portions are not shy.
Menu Favorites for Every Appetite
Blueberry Pancakes & Farmers Omelette, classic breakfasts served any time of day
The "Mess of Lake Perch" & fresh seafood, lightly battered with classic sides
Homemade onion rings & the Nine Mile Burger, generous crowd-pleasers
Grilled, breaded, or battered tenderloin & chicken fingers, casual lunch or dinner staples
The menu also runs to soups, salads, pizza, and daily specials, plus fresh-baked pies from Waynedale Bakery that are worth saving room for.
Plan Your Visit
Nine Mile Restaurant is at 13398 US-27 South in Fort Wayne, open Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. If you are anywhere near Fort Wayne and want classic American comfort food with two centuries of history behind it, this is the stop.
