The former American Pankake House location in Mishawaka is about to get new life.

McAlister’s Deli is set to open on March 27 at the corner of Grape Rd. and Indian Ridge Blvd, according to the South Bend Tribune.

The deli will mark the opening with a special event. At 10:30 a.m., the doors will open and the first 50 people will receive a coupon for a free meal, drink and cookie.

The parent company, Southern Rock Restaurants LLC, has spent $1 million on renovating the former pancake restaurant since the past fall.

This is the second McAlister’s Deli location in our area. The other is in the Eddy Street Commons near Notre Dame.

McAlister’s Deli locations are also popping up elsewhere. Seven restaurants are expected to open in the next year, including a second location in Fort Wayne.