A new culinary destination is about to open in the heart of our Arts District in downtown Michigan City. The Heron, a French-inspired restaurant, is expected to open their doors by the end of February 2025, bringing a fresh dimension to the local dining scene. I sat down with recently spoke with owner Heather Nath and team member Abigail Yanz to learn more about this exciting addition to our community.
A Vision Takes Flight
The Heron’s story begins with Heather Nath’s love of Michigan City. After purchasing her first property here in 2016 – a brick Victorian she affectionately named “Victory House” – Nath found herself increasingly drawn to the city’s authentic character. It wasn’t just the architecture or being nestled next to the lake that she found appealing; the residents of Michigan City left a mark on her heart, noting that Michigan City wasn’t just a tourist town. “They were real people with real jobs and real lives here.” she reflects. “That’s hugely important.”
This connection to the community led her to acquire the stunning neoclassical building on Franklin Street, built in 1926 as an Elk’s Lodge. The building’s rich history, which includes time as an Eagles lodge and various retail establishments, made it the perfect setting for Nath’s vision of an elevated dining experience.
French Cuisine with Midwest Heart
When asked why they chose French cuisine, Nath and Yanz enthusiastically lit up. “French cooking is really one of the foundational cuisines,” Nath explains. The menu will feature familiar comfort foods with a French twist, like beef bourguignon, which Yanz playfully describes as “basically gravy, meat, and potatoes – the most Midwest dish there could possibly be.”
The restaurant will also offer more adventurous options like escargot and beef tartare, providing a unique culinary experience that’s currently unavailable outside of Chicago. “We have ample amounts of American, Italian, you know, really great hotspots,” notes Yanz. “But this gives us an opportunity to elevate the dining experience in the area just a little bit.”
A Labor of Love
Every detail of The Heron has been carefully curated, from the moody yet sophisticated wall colors to the specially selected stone countertops. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from Audubon’s Blue Heron illustration, creating a stunning, cozy space with a Parisian flair.
The team’s commitment to the local community runs deep. Approximately 90% of their staff, including their chef, are Michigan City residents. “The people are the heart, the beating heart of what makes this place as wonderful as it is,” Yanz shares, expressing her excitement about working alongside fellow community members.
Looking Ahead
As Michigan City continues to evolve and grow, The Heron stands as a testament to the city’s bright future. “This is the place to be right now,” Nath affirms, and looking at the careful restoration and thoughtful design of this newest addition to our dining scene, it’s hard to disagree.
Whether you’re a French cuisine enthusiast or simply looking to explore new flavors, The Heron promises to be a welcoming addition to Michigan City’s vibrant culinary landscape. Keep an eye on their social media for the official opening announcement that is coming soon.
The Heron is located in the historic Arts District of Michigan City, Indiana. Opening late February 2025. You can follow their updates here.
