(La Porte, IN) - A national restaurant chain has plans on coming to La Porte.

So far, city officials working closely with the developers are keeping the restaurant's name under wraps. However, officials described it as a nationally known "fast-casual restaurant."

Fast-casual restaurants offer the convenience of fast-food restaurants but more of a dining experience. Fast-casual restaurants include places like Five Guys, Panera Bread, and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Bert Cook, Executive Director of the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership, said the restaurant agreeing to come here is probably what most people have expressed an interest in having in the city.

“They’ve signed a letter of intent,” he said.

The restaurant plans to occupy a 12 unit strip mall-like facility that will be constructed sometime in the coming months along Pine Lake Avenue beside the La Porte Park and Recreation Office.

Doc's Smokehouse, a regional chain known for its barbecue and bourbon, will also anchor the strip-like mall.