The Story of

The Grand Marsh

Where History and
Hospitality Cross Paths

The Grand Marsh was born at the meeting of two waters, and two ways of life shaped by them.

Here in Momence, along the quiet wetlands of the Kankakee, the land teaches patience. The river moves steadily, supporting farms, families, and generations who value care, hard work, and community. Across the ocean, in the Venetian lagoon, a similar rhythm exists where water has long demanded respect, resilience, and craftsmanship.

Our Story

A Daydream Made Real

Chef Alessandro Farinati comes from the city of Vicenza, where cooking is shaped by the land and has been influenced over centuries by the wider Venetian world. Its cuisine reflects movement: of trade, of seasons, of techniques passed down through the generations. At The Grand Marsh, Alessandro brings that layered heritage to the table with intention and curiosity, honoring where he comes from while allowing those traditions to live in a new place.

Alongside him, Laura Emme, Director of Hospitality and Sommelier, desires every guest to feel welcomed, translating craft into comfort through thoughtful service and carefully chosen pairings.

Building on History and Culture

The name Bragozzo comes from a traditional Venetian working boat, hand‑built, sturdy, and purposeful, once used by fishermen and traders to navigate the shallow lagoon waters. Neither grand nor ornamental, the bragozzo was designed to carry what mattered, guided by experience, weather, and trust in the journey. It is a fitting symbol for a place rooted in water, work, and welcome.

Momence, Illinois

Main Street Momence, IL. 1800s

A beacon rising from the Grand Kankakee Marsh.

Founder Jeff Van Drunen envisioned The Grand Marsh as a way to give something meaningful to Momence, a place where neighbors gather, stories are shared, and the community is celebrated. We are grateful to bring this table to life here and to share it with those who call this place home.

Here, the wetlands meet the lagoon.
And the table becomes common ground.
Thank you for joining us!