From historical theater to restaurant

MARQUETTE — After years of planning, preparation, and anticipation; The Delft Theater has begun its transformation into what will be the Delft Bistro restaurant.

Roughly a week of construction has passed, and as the progress grows, so does the cause for optimism. That’s thanks to owners Jen Ray and Tom Vear, who are responsible for the revitalization of Donckers next door. The couple plan to keep as much of the historical aura that encompasses the building as possible.

At the beginning, the restaurant will be opened for dinner and have a seating capacity of just under 200. Those visitors will still be welcomed by the timeless marquee outside.

“The plan is really just a nice restaurant,” said Co–Owner of The Delft Tom Vear, “with a movie on the wall that sort of ambience. It’ll be a hundred year historical theater and it should be a really fun place to come with a balcony and great food, and great seating.”

Food and menu options are still being determined. Delft Bistro is expected to be open sometime in the fall of 2016.

As part of the remodeling process, the bridge that connects the buildings on Washington and Main Street will be demolished, creating two separate buildings. A plan for the building on Main Street is yet to be determined, but will be approached sometime after the Delft Bistro is up and running.