The Nesst

A Pandemic Pivot: How The Nesst Took Flight in Noblesville
By Ariane Haile

When Sladan and Brandy Stanisic decided to open their restaurant, The Nesst, in the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, many would have called them crazy. But for this determined couple, it was a risk they felt compelled to take - a leap of faith fueled by their lifelong passion for the restaurant industry and their deep connection to the Noblesville community.

The name "The Nesst" holds special meaning for the owners. As recent empty nesters, they saw the restaurant as their new "home" - a cozy gathering place for the community. But the name also pays tribute to Sladan's name and a family tattoo, which features their spirit animals - an eagle for Sladan and a hummingbird for Brandy. The logo, with the birds nestled together, reflects this personal touch.

"It was the craziest thing I've ever done," Sladan admits. "But I felt very confident that this was going to work." With no investors or banks to fall back on, the pair poured their life savings into transforming a vacant space into their dream restaurant. The challenges were immense - from labor shortages and skyrocketing food costs to the uncertainty of opening a new business amidst lockdowns and restrictions. 

"I had no plan," Brandy recalls. "A week before we opened, my husband drove to Kentucky to buy a grill because we needed one." The couple worked around the clock, enlisting the help of beloved family and friends to get the restaurant ready. Wistfully recalling an emotional moment when she stained the floors on hands and knees to prepare for the quickly approaching opening date, Brandy says,  "I was crying, my knees hurt, and I couldn't stand up…but we had to get it done."  The pride and joy these two share for what they’ve built together is palpable as they recall the literal sweat and tears poured into bringing the restaurant to life.

Against all odds, The Nesst opened its doors in on November 1, 2020 to a community hungry for connection and a taste of normalcy amidst a precarious pandemic. And as he had hoped, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite. "January 2021 just skyrocketed," Sladan says of their popularity, "in February of 2022, we won Most Romantic restaurant in the Indy area."

But the early days were far from easy. The Nesst faced crippling supply chain issues, with the owners struggling to source everything from beef to paper goods. "I couldn't get brussels sprouts for three weeks," Brandy recalls. "Our take out containers never matched. You just ordered whatever was available." The couple also had to navigate the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19 restrictions, constantly adapting their operations to keep both staff and customers safe. "It was really, really challenging, but being the first year in business, we learned a lot," Brandy says. Through it all, Brandy and Sladan have remained steadfast in their commitment to quality, cleanliness and exceptional service.

The Nesst's success is a testament to the couple's unwavering passion and their deep love for Noblesville. Both longtime residents, Brandy and Sladan have raised their children here and are now embracing their roles as "empty nesters." 

But beyond the family ties, The Nesst has woven itself into the fabric of the Noblesville community.  Somehow they have managed to strike a beautiful balance between fine dining with their top quality steaks, fresh ingredients, and custom wine lockers, and a friendly casual atmosphere akin to walking into a scene of “Cheers”.  "We especially love it when kids come in, it's a family place" Brandy says. "...they also eat free on Tuesdays!”  The restaurant has become a gathering place, where regulars are greeted by name and treated like family.

Sladan is described as the kind of person who can make friends with anyone.  In fact the couple shares stories of families they have met as guests who are now dear friends.  "I tell people, if you can't be friends with me, something's wrong - you're the problem," Sladan jokes with a laugh. This warm, welcoming spirit has earned The Nesst a loyal following, with guests celebrating occasions from birthdays to birth announcements. They have even held a wedding at the restaurant.  

The Nesst's story is one of perseverance, passion and the power of community. In the face of overwhelming challenges, Sladan and Brandy have created a beloved local institution - a testament to the rewards that come from following your dreams, no matter how daunting the obstacles may seem.

So the next time you visit The Nesst, take a moment to soak in the warmth and energy of this special place. And remember the inspiring journey that brought it to life. "We truly do give you 100% every day," Sladan says. "This is my home. This is what we do."