Talent is moving back: Mise + Place visits Copper Spoon to talk fine dining and state of the city

“Mise & Place” is a short film series that follows Fort Wayne restauranteurs for a night on the town, visiting some of their favorite local establishments. Dreamed up by a crew of Fort Wayne filmmakers, artists, and restaurant staff, it tells the story of the city's food scene from the perspective of workers behind the swinging doors at local kitchens.

Season 1 is hosted by the team at Mercado on The Landing, including Owners Johnny & Esli Barron Perez, Event Coordinator Thomas Beckman, and Beverage Director Spencer Maule. They meet with staff at three of their favorite spots: J.K. O'Donnell's Irish Ale HouseLanding Beer Co., and Copper Spoon. (Watch the first and second episodes here.)

In Episode 3 (above), The Mercado team makes their last stop at Copper Spoon to share a conversation with Chef Aaron Butts and General Manager Theresa Smith Allevato. They discuss the evolving nature of fine dining and the state of Fort Wayne.

“Mise & Place” is produced by: Upper Valley Film Co.
Enjoy this story? Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.

Read more articles by Kara Hackett.

Kara Hackett is a Fort Wayne native fascinated by what's next for northeast Indiana how it relates to other up-and-coming places around the world. After working briefly in New York City and Indianapolis, she moved back to her hometown where she has discovered interesting people, projects, and innovations shaping the future of this place—and has been writing about them ever since. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @karahackett.