The Green Frog Inn, a beloved establishment in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has officially reopened its doors under new ownership. This iconic bar, which has been a staple of the community since 1933, is now in the hands of Eric Kissinger, a seasoned bar manager with extensive experience in the Allen County area.
A Legacy Continues
The Green Frog has a rich history, previously owned by Cindy Henry, the wife of former Mayor Tom Henry. Kissinger expressed his desire to honor her legacy while bringing his vision to the establishment. “I’ve been a Fort Wayne resident for a good part of 30 years, and this was the one on the radar that I really wanted,” he shared. Despite facing challenges in previous attempts to purchase the bar, Kissinger was determined to be the first in line when it became available again.
Upgrades with a Respect for History
While Kissinger plans to make some upgrades to the Green Frog, he emphasizes that the changes will not be radical. His goal is to maintain the historical charm of the building while enhancing the overall experience for patrons. Planned improvements include:
- A new taps system
- Upgraded kitchen equipment
- New furniture
- Updated branding
- Enhanced audio/visual systems
- A revamped menu tailored to the community’s tastes
These updates aim to modernize the bar while preserving its unique character, ensuring that longtime customers feel at home.
A Familiar Face at the Helm
Zach Felger, the new General Manager of the Green Frog, is no stranger to Kissinger. He got his first bartending job working for Kissinger at one of his previous bars. When Kissinger reached out to him about managing the Green Frog, Felger was excited to take on the challenge. “He hit me back up when I was there and he was like, hey I have one person in mind to run this store and it was you. Can you do it for me? I said hell yeah!” Felger’s enthusiasm reflects the shared commitment of the new team to serve the community and uphold the Green Frog’s legacy.
As the Green Frog Inn embarks on this new chapter, both Kissinger and Felger are eager to welcome back patrons and create a vibrant atmosphere that honors the bar’s storied past. The reopening marks not just a change in ownership but a renewed dedication to serving the Fort Wayne community.
