Indianapolis – Slapfish, the fast‑casual seafood chain founded by the Weghorst family, is set to open its fifth Indiana restaurant at the corner of 49th and Penn on Saturday, Nov. 14. Owners Mark and Lauren Weghorst announced the grand opening during a live interview at the Home & Garden Show, hosted from Sullivan Hardware’s Boo & Beers booth.
Grand‑Opening Details
The ribbon‑cutting ceremony will begin at 11 a.m., and the first 100 customers in line will receive a free lobster roll. “Whoever’s in line, get in line early,” Mark said, noting that the couple has already given away more than 200 lobster rolls at previous openings.
What Slapfish Offers
Mark described Slapfish as “very approachable, affordable, high‑quality seafood,” positioning the brand as a family‑friendly alternative to traditional sit‑down seafood restaurants. Signature items include the lobster roll, a power bowl featuring shrimp and salmon, and classic fish and chips. For the launch, the owners also brought lobster dip and homemade chips to share with the crowd.
Local Roots and Community Support
The Weghorsts emphasized their deep ties to the neighborhood. Mark’s father, known locally as Broccoli Bill, grew up in the area and attended Immaculate Heart High School. Lauren added that both she and Mark spent much of their childhood walking the streets of this community. “We know everyone walks,” Lauren said, noting that limited parking is not a concern because the location is pedestrian‑friendly.
Mark praised the neighborhood’s history of supporting local businesses, citing nearby Sullivan’s as an example. “We’re just really excited to be part of this community,” Lauren said.
Slapfish’s Growth in Indiana
The first Slapfish opened in 2019 inside Broccoli Bill’s restaurant, followed by a second location on Mass Ave. Subsequent expansions included a spot at Fishers’ The Yard and a Carmel location connected to the Market District, which opened about ten months ago. The new 49th and Penn site marks the chain’s fifth Indiana restaurant.
Looking Ahead
With the grand opening, the Weghorsts hope to continue providing a family‑oriented dining option that aligns with traditional values of quality, affordability, and community involvement. The restaurant’s fast‑casual format is designed to serve busy families and individuals seeking a wholesome seafood meal without the formality of a full‑service restaurant.
For more information about the opening schedule or menu offerings, interested residents can follow Slapfish on social media or visit the restaurant on opening day.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
