CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The scheduled grand opening of Farren’s at The Inman is facing a temporary delay due to unexpected equipment malfunctions, as announced by the owners.
Previously, the restaurant planned to open its new location at the historic Inman building on Monday, Aug. 4 at 11 a.m.
But, during final preparations for the move, a “critical piece” of kitchen equipment experienced an unexpected failure. Out of an abundance of caution, the team decided to pause the opening until they are sure the space is fully operational.
“We know the community is just as excited as we are to open our doors,” owner Carolyn Farren said. “This delay is frustrating, but our top priority is safety and ensuring everything is working exactly as it should when we welcome you in. We’re incredibly grateful for everyone’s patience and support as we work through these final steps.”
Once repairs and inspections are completed, the restaurant will announce a new opening date.
Farren’s Pub and Eatery announced that it planned to relocate to the historic Inman building, located at 17 East University Avenue, back in February.
Farren’s at The Inman plans to open its doors with its current menu and lunch and dinner service. Eventually, breakfast and café service will follow. The owners are also planning to include a weekday light buffet breakfast, weekend brunch and a lunch buffet option in the future.
“This is still Farren’s — it just fits us better,” Farren said in a news release. “We’ve grown alongside our community, and this new space gives us room to do what we love — offering good food, good drinks, and a place you want to come back to.”
For the first few weeks, Farren’s kitchen will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. There will also be a late-night menu available until 10 p.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m. on Saturday.
Once it’s up and running, the café will open daily at 7:30 a.m., followed by lunch and dinner service from 11:00 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Inman was built in 1915, and was restored by Royse + Brinkmeyer as a modern apartment hotel. Farren’s will also provide room service for guests staying upstairs.
