McAlister's closing, free food, a new local gym and what's next

Good morning Market Basket readers, 

There's a lot of excitement happening in South Bend at the moment, particularly in the Market District.  If you're like me, you're probably wondering where that is exactly. The Market District is an area near the South Bend Farmer's Market on Mishawaka Avenue and Northside Boulevard in South Bend. And it's where some new businesses are moving in.

Fitting in: When I talked to Kerri Anderson about her new fitness gym, there was an obvious excitement about the new business. Maybe it was the light yellow paint or the new equipment, but the space already had energy flowing through it. In a few short weeks, it'll be fully open and it'll likely kick your butt. 

Group classes and personal fitness:Boutique gym K Fit Health and Wellness to open on Mishawaka Avenue in South Bend

In downtown: You may remember that 14 businesses in downtown South Bend recently qualified for a new grant geared towards updating facades, with projects ranging from simply adding permeant heaters to more extensive plans like expanding outdoor patio space. But one project underway for The General Cafe and Deli will temporarily affect its hours in the next six weeks. 

Pimm's Cup: A classic, yet locally unfamiliar, cocktail has become quite the conversation starter at LangLab's new beverage bar. And that's not the only thing served in this local hidden gem.

McAlister's Deli: Has closed its Eddy Street Commons location. Eagle eye Market Basket readers alerted me to the closure, noting that signage at the Angela Blvd. location was abruptly removed and posters were hung on the glass doors referring customers to the Mishawaka location on Grape Rd.

For subscribers:What we know about McAlister's closing and Rapha Roast opens new coffee trailer

Free food: Firehouse Subs will recognize National First Responders Day on Oct. 28 by offering a free medium sub to police officers, firefighters, military personnel and EMTs. First responders must arrive in uniform or show proper identification to qualify for the deal. Firehouse Subs is located in Wilshire Plaza at 5716 Grape Rd. in Mishawaka.

What's next? You tell me: It took a long time for Trader Joe's to come to town and, now that it's here, many can't help but wonder, what's next? And I want to find out for you. So send me your hopes, dreams and wishes on what companies or concepts you would like to see come to our area. I'll reach out to the top ten most requested businesses (already looking at you, White Castle) to see what's even logically possible. Let me know who and where at mshown@gannett.com. 

Cheers, 
Mary 

Contact Mary Shown at 574-235-6244 and mshown@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter: @maryshownSBT and @marketbasketSBT.