Homes of former City Historian Steve Baker to become a restaurant and inn

Baker's homes before the addition of a third structure.

One of the two historic homes left when Monrovia City Historian Steve Baker died will be turned into a restaurant, called Viola's, which should open around May 25. The other two homes on the property will be an inn.

Baker's property, which held two historic Monrovia homes, was purchased by Saxony Design Build, a Monrovia company that specializes in historic restoration. The company added a third historic-style home at the south end of the property on the east side of Ivy just south of Lemon.

According to the website, WhatNow.com, the restaurant, which will be in the middle of the three homes on the property, will have a nostalgic atmosphere and serve small plates for brunch and dinner - "French bistro meets Southern influence." Plus beer, wine and cocktails.

- Brad Haugaard