The Icehouse
"Only in America"

Steve Roesly, a.k.a the Iceman, fulfilled a lifelong dream on December 28, 1988 when he opened the doors of the Icehouse restaurant. At 5:30 pm on a snowy Thursday, friends and supporters filed into the new establishment to christen what has become a culinary tradition in Marion, Indiana.

The Iceman remembers opening day with pride. "Only in America can a guy with a dream and a little change in his pocket build a business like this. From the very beginning I wanted to create a place where family and friends could eat and drink together and celebrate life in this great county of ours." And that is exactly what he has done. Roesly's personal motto, "Only in America" has become the restaurant's slogan. Guests at the Icehouse feel a sense of community that epitomizes the American Spirit.

The centerpiece of the Icehouse is a shiny bar complete with sports TV and in-the-know bar tenders with updates on today's scores and local happenings. The family dining area features tri level seating for great views of the spacious establishment. Patrons wave to friends at nearby tables or stop by the bar to chat with neighbors. Even first time visitors feel like family at the Icehouse. And like most families, The Icehouse proudly displays family photos. Over 300 framed pictures of the Icehouse "regulars" adorn the walls of the reception area. Roesly explains the tradition; we started taking pictures seven years ago. People would come in for proms, for family reunions and we were impressed that our restaurant played a role in such important milestones in peoples lives. Not all of the photos represent significant events, some are just couples or families stopping in for dinner but we take prided in being a part of peoples' everyday lives as well." Roesly admits to being sentimental. "There are pictures on the wall of loved ones who are no longer with us. People stop me to say how much it means to them to have those photos on display. On the lighter side, we have prom pictures that people see five years later and cringe with embarrassment. They beg us to remove them."

Great food at reasonable prices is the cornerstone of the Icehouse mission. The menu includes a variety of tempting salads and sandwiches, but the most popular items are the prime rib and filet dinners. Whether one is looking for a quick lunch or an evening of fine food and drinks, the Icehouse fits the bill.

There is no group friendlier than those who gather to eat at the Icehouse except perhaps those who serve there. Roesly is joined in the businesses by his wife, Connie, his sister, Nondus, and son, Steve Jr. The Roesly family tradition of high standards and neighborly service spreads like a warm smile throughout the staff. Familiar faces greet guests and provide efficient, courteous service.