Executive chef and owner Isaac Weliver is partnering with local small business owner, Sean Grundy of Grundy Woodworks to deliver a new bar and lounge to the current Francis & Mount concept.
Francis & Mount will be expanding the 131 N. Washington St. restaurant. The new extension will include a full-service bar in the current restaurant space while the steak and seafood restaurant has shifted to the adjoining 129 N. Washington St. location.
“I’m excited to be working with another hardworking entrepreneur, Sean, on this next phase of the project,” Weliver said. “Over the past year I’ve listened to the community and catered to their needs. Steak and seafood has been successful, and we are ready to fill another obvious need in Crawfordsville.”
The new bar and lounge concept will feature pub favorites by utilizing their scratch kitchen and classic techniques. Menu additions were recently shared on social media including fried pickles, half pound burgers and a selection of baskets featuring signature sandwiches. As for drinks, the bar will continue to offer a variety of craft cocktails, an assortment of beer options and collection of wines. In addition, the bar side will include daily specials as well as the ability to showcase sporting events on multiple televisions.
Grundy has been the mastermind in the new design plans to create an eclectic, laid back feel that will showcase custom designs that will pay homage to the spaces’ namesake store. The historic building features its original soaring tin ceilings and late 19th century style architecture. The new interior features will compliment such and be made solely using locally sourced materials to honor the past, present and future of Crawfordsville. Renovations are set to be complete prior to Thanksgiving.
“My goal is to provide the community with a space that capitalizes on the community around it,” Grundy said. “The people of Crawfordsville deserve an establishment that marries all aspects of dining out — delicious food and drinks, fair pricing, excellent service and a feel-good environment.”
Francis & Mount is currently in its debut year as Weliver has been creating menu options to provide a distinct experience for diners in and around Crawfordsville. In addition, he has partnered with other businesses such as Legacy Meats, Ideal Food Group, Dugdale and MSC Seafood to only showcase locally-sourced ingredients but also expand its menu options. Weekend specials offer surf and turf on Friday nights as well as prime rib on Saturdays.
“In my rookie year as a restaurateur in Crawfordsville, I’ve had some growing pains,” Weliver said. “I hope with the newly expanded concept, the community will see the versatility in Francis & Mount. We love serving the patrons of this town and welcome everyone.” Weliver said.
Francis & Mount will continue to operate during normal business hours throughout the continued bar renovation, 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Reservations and carry-out are available by contacting 765-918-8858. Upon completion of both spaces, expanded hours will be offered.
For more information, follow Facebook.com/francisandmount and check out www.francis
andmount.com.
