As a mother of six, Michelle Thomas often found herself seeking fast, healthy and convenient food for her family in the Fort Wayne area. And since one of her daughters is gluten- and dairy-free, this was no easy task. But while on a road trip to Florida in 2019, she discovered a delicious solution: a superfood cafe called Grain & Berry focused on healthy, customizable bowls, smoothies and juices along with flatbreads, quesadillas and toast – all without sacrificing taste.
Now that their children have grown into their teens and 20s, Michelle and her husband Rob Thomas have made a career change into the food industry, opening a Grain & Berry franchise in Fort Wayne in November 2023 – the only location in Indiana. As their business grows, they’re planning to expand into a food truck this fall and a second location in Fort Wayne in coming years, ideally with a drive-thru for added convenience.
Their current cafe at 9821 Lima Rd. is already a popular hangout for students, athletes and anyone seeking a healthy alternative to fast food. News about Grain & Berry’s proprietary sugar-free acai and its surprisingly tasty plant-based meat appears to be spreading quickly, too.
As we wait in line to order, customers and staff can’t help but recommend menu items, like the Kickin’ Chicken quesadilla – a favorite among several young adults bustling behind the counter, where you can also build your own smoothie bowls, if you don’t see one you want on the menu…