Drive 15 minutes east of Shipshewana and you’ll find Fireside Craft Burgers & Brew, the first and only brewery serving LaGrange County. That’s a mighty tall order and one that Owner Marsha Gill-Dunker is proud to offer locals and visitors alike. “It’s the kind of place where you can unwind, connect with the community, and experience something different. If you’re looking for an authentic, relaxing experience, LaGrange County is definitely worth a visit!”
With its original home in Shipshewana, Fireside serves handcrafted burgers, house-smoked meats, craft beer, and specialty cocktails. First starting in 2014 as Fireside Cafe, Marsha decided to relocate to LaGrange a few years later with a rebrand adding Craft Burgers and Brews to the name. In 2019, a larger building was purchased at 101 S Detroit Street, and that’s where the restaurant has been ever since.
Marsha is no stranger to moving or the restaurant scene either. Originally from Chicago, she has lived in Shipshewana since 2013 and has spent the majority of her professional life working in restaurants.
She’s also a fighter and proud breast cancer survivor. “In 2023, I was diagnosed with aggressive stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer and jumped right into treatment. It’s been a challenging couple years, but I’ve learned a lot through the experience and am grateful for the support from family, friends, and this incredible community.”
Having a strong community to depend on is a powerful driving force for Marsha, and that experience is felt all throughout the region. It’s one of the many reasons people visit. A sense of tranquilness blended with the sound of horse-drive buggies clopping down the street. People travel from all over the world to immerse themselves in the culture, receive friendly service, and enjoy delicious meals made by local experts.
“LaGrange County is a truly unique place—it feels like a step back in time with its charming, small-town atmosphere and plenty of one-of-a-kind spots to visit. Whether you’re exploring local businesses, enjoying the great food and drinks, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, there’s a special energy here that makes you feel at home. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind, connect with the community, and experience something different.”
“Our guests are phenomenal—delicious food and beer really do bring in wonderful people, and it’s so rewarding to see them enjoy what we’ve created. We also have an absolutely amazing staff who genuinely take pride in the food and drinks we serve. They’re always focused on making sure every guest has an exceptional experience, every time.
That exceptional service is one reason Fireside Craft Burgers & Brews made the cover of FoodiN Magazine’s Indiana Foodways Alliance and Culinary Trails. Working directly with the LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Anti-Carb burger is featured front and center in the publication. A full-page article is dedicated to the restaurant and other establishments in Shipshewana as well.
As for the future, Marsha and the team are constantly working to bring new ideas to the menu. One of those creations is the Lavender Ginger Lemonade, made with fresh lavender from LaGrange’s Bloomfield Schoolhouse Lavender. “We love partnering with local businesses and organizations, so keep an eye out for fresh collaborations coming your way! It’s shaping up to be an incredible year full of great food, drinks, and fun experiences!”
