Billy Club team to open restaurant inside Lewiston's Frontier House

Fairbanks set to open this year

The historic Frontier House, a landmark of Lewiston since 1824, is about to welcome a new tenant that will delight food lovers and history buffs alike. Fairbanks, a restaurant by acclaimed restaurateurs Daniel Hagen and Jake Strawser (Billy Club), is set to open its doors in 2024, offering a unique dining experience that celebrates the rich terroir of the Northeast.

Fairbanks is the second venture by Hagen and Strawser, who have earned rave reviews and loyal fans for their first restaurant, Billy Club, in Buffalo. At Fairbanks, they will showcase their signature style that combines local ingredients, seasonal flavors and creative techniques to create dishes that are both delicious and memorable.

"We are thrilled to bring our passion for food and hospitality to Lewiston," Hagen said. "We have always admired the Frontier House for its historic charm and significance, and we are honored to be part of its revival. We hope to create a place that will become a destination for locals and visitors alike, where they can enjoy great food and drinks in a beautiful setting."

Fairbanks will feature a menu that changes frequently based on the availability and quality of the ingredients sourced from nearby farms, orchards and vineyards. The restaurant will also offer a curated selection of wine, beer and cocktails that complement the food and reflect the region's diversity.

The restaurant's name pays homage to Joshua Fairbanks, who built the Frontier House in 1824 as a hotel and tavern. The building has served various purposes over the years, such as a post office, a bank, a museum and a gift shop. It has been vacant since 2004, until a recent restoration project by Ellicott Development, the Town and Village of Lewiston, and the Williams family brought it back to life.

"We are delighted to welcome Fairbanks as our first tenant in the Frontier House," Ellicott Development Director of Development Tom Fox said. "We believe that Fairbanks will be a great addition to Lewiston's vibrant culinary scene. We look forward to working with Dan and Jake to make their vision a reality."

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Fairbanks will occupy the first floor of the Frontier House, which has been renovated to preserve its original features while adding modern amenities. The restaurant will seat approximately 100, including a bar area and a private dining room. The decor will reflect the restaurant's concept of blending tradition and innovation, with rustic elements mixed with contemporary touches such as sleek lighting fixtures, colorful artwork and cozy seating.

Fairbanks is expected to open in 2024. The restaurant's hours are yet to be determined, but expect expanding availability in the spring and summer months.

For more information, visit www.fairbankslewiston.com or follow @fairbankslewiston on social media.