I am excited to share that 101 Smokehouse is coming to 138 S Main St in Downtown Marion, the space most recently occupied by Ray Ray’s.
If you are not familiar with 101 yet, their story is the kind that sticks with you.
101 Smokehouse built a strong following in Kenton, and in the early morning hours of July 31, 2024, a fire destroyed the restaurant. It was a total loss.
Over the last few months, after our Marion space came available, I reached out and started getting to know owner Andy Ayers. The more I have learned about Andy, the more excited I have become. He is a hospitality minded operator with big ideas, a clear standard for experience, and a real passion for serving people well.
101 has been a grassroots endeavor that is growing into something special. They have operated as a food truck that grew into catering and a brick and mortar, and they also run 101 Creamery, a spot that blends 101 Smokehouse food with hand dip and soft serve ice cream.
I cannot wait to see what Andy brings to Marion, and I believe 101 Smokehouse is going to be a great addition to the growing mix of food, beverage, and entertainment options in our downtown.
More info soon as they get closer to opening this spring!
We’ve gotten word that due to some equipment delivery delays, Whit’s Grand Opening has been pushed back a week to March 6th. The frozen custard creamery will start with serving up some fresh March flavors. You’ll have to keep up with their page to find out what!
We are getting so excited, and we know many of you are too. So close!!
Connect Coworx is your lively home base in downtown Marion. Make work a little more fun with the vibrant atmosphere and inspiring spaces. Tour Connect and inquire about pricing and all member benefits. Make 2026 a productive one!
Last week’s Lydia Lofts ribbon cutting and open house was one of those nights that gives me energy and reminds me why we do this challenging, yet rewarding work. Seeing over 100 people walk through the building, hearing the feedback, and watching those spaces feel alive again was a big moment for our team.
And it is already translating into momentum. We are starting to get interest in the apartments, and I want to ask a simple favor…if you have family, friends, coworkers, or a twenty something or thirty something in your world who might be a fit for downtown living, please share the Lydia Lofts with them. Even if you just text a link and say, “Hey, I saw these and thought of you” it helps more than you know.
These are beautiful spaces, right in the heart of a downtown that keeps adding more reasons to not just visit, but also live here! And with places like 101 Smokehouse and Whit’s Frozen Custart opening soon, that heartbeat is only getting stronger.
Even more good news to share soon!
Better Together,
Luke Henry Col 3:23
