One Westfield restaurant is exemplifying the word “local,” and making sure the concept involves more than just the name.
David Harding bought the Local Eatery and Pub in September, and gave it a facelift through redecorating, improving the TV system and installing panels that will deflect sound.
“This is almost like a rejuvenation for me,” he said. “It’s been a lot of fun, and the support from friends and people in the neighborhood has been amazing. Getting feedback from people, and spending time and talking with customers has been a lot of fun too. I could spend a lot of time just talking to people.”
The farm-to-table concept remains, and many Indiana suppliers provide menu ingredients. There are new menu items such as a rib eye steak and baby back ribs. The kitchen also serves meatballs made from a 100-year-old recipe. That recipe comes from a relative of Harding’s friend.
“We’re going to add more items from recipes from local people in the neighborhood,” he said. “We’re going to be offering salsas and different foods that people are making. We’re even naming some of the dishes after them. As a young boy, I would go down to the Ayers tea room at the corner of Washington and Meridian. One of their specialties was chicken velvet soup, and we’ve added that to the menu.”
Over the last 15 years, Harding has taken over 500 photos at restaurants where he’s been impressed with the food, presentation and overall experience. Recently the restaurant implemented an employee’s suggestion to serve gloves along with the ribs in case people don’t want to get messy.
“It’s always been my dream to own a restaurant,” Harding said. “We want it to be food, family and fun. In other words, we want the food to be good, we want people to feel like they’re family when they’re there and we can talk and have a good time. I want people, when they come in, to enjoy themselves and each other’s company.”
Harding says many people in the community have told him the restaurant is needed in the community due to its location and easy access.
Some customers have already become regulars at the Local, and brass plates are now on their chairs to recognize them.
This summer, the patio will be dog friendly and there will be a special dog menu. Vegetarian and vegan food options are available year-round.
The Local Eatery and Pub is located at 14655 Gray Road in Westfield, and is open seven days per week. For more information, visit thelocaleaterypub.com or call 317-218-3786.
