This past weekend, all of our friends were in town for Butler Homecoming. One friend in particular brought his new girlfriend for all of us to meet who is a food blogger. That made me think - if I had one shot to show a foodie our local cuisine, where would I take them in Indy? Here's my list of the top 10 Indy restaurants:
10. 10-01 - Indy's newest hot spot in Broadripple, 10-01 has the perfect classy bar atmosphere in the city. I haven't had dinner there yet, but I've been multiple times for drinks and appetizers, and they've never disappointed! Friends who have had dinner there say the food is very southern - think fried chicken and heavy side dishes - so make sure to go with an appetite for a meal! www.1001fooddrink.com/
9. Tastings - For every rule, there's always an exception, right? Tastings is technically a franchise, but there aren't many locations - yet. Tastings is a wine bar with exceptional food. All you do is put money on a Tastings card and off you go, tasting all kinds of wines from all over the world. Tastings range from $2.50-$15+, so there's something for everyone. Make sure you order the hummus and white bean dip when you go. The pizza's are great too. If you work downtown, Tastings is the perfect lunch spot because it's never too busy, and the menu's price point is perfect for lunch. www.awineexperience.com/
8. Bazbeaux - A local establishment, Bazbeaux's serves Indy's best pizza. If you're up for a casual dinner with friends, this is the perfect spot. Try the side salad with their cucumber dressing for your first course. It's delicious! http://bazbeaux.com/
7. Taste - This is a new breakfast and lunch favorite of mine. Taste has the best pomme frites in the world and amazing desserts. Go in the spring or fall to enjoy their outdoor dining. www.tastecafeandmarketplace.com/
6. Petite Chou - Talk about memories! I have had so many fantastic girls days at Petit Chou. My favorite memory of all was my bridal shower thrown by my wonderful bridesmaids the weekend before my wedding (the theme was "something blue" and they even made us a specialty blueberry champagne cocktail). This restaurant is the sister restaurant to Cafe Patachou (my ultimate favorite breakfast spot). Their tomato soup is wonderful, and the egg salad tartine is delicious! Check out their parent restaurant's website for the complete menu at Petit Chou. www.cafepatachou.com
5. Cafe Patachou - You know a place is legit if their tag line is: "a student union for adults since 1989." The omelets at Cafe Patachou are as big as your face and worth every bite. My favorite is the Overachiever. It has feta, bacon and potatoes, but I swear that everything they make there is good! www.cafepatachou.com
4. Chatham Tap - This restaurant is one of the reasons I love living in a city: diverse food. Chatham Tap is a local English pub downtown. I've heard they opened a second restaurant in Fishers, but that's yet to be confirmed as fact. To start, try the fried pickles and continue on to an apple & brie or pear & gouda sandwich. The fish and chips are great too, but let's be honest - you can get fish and chips at Long John Silvers. This place has so many interesting menu options, it's a shame not to try something new! www.chathamtap.com/ordereze/1000/Page.aspx
3. Ambrosia's - This is Indy's BEST Italian restaurant, hands down. I've tried them all, and Ambrosia's offers the widest selection and most authentic pasta entrees. They will gladly substitute any type of pasta on their menu and any ingredient, so by the time you've finished ordering, you're practically getting a custom, home made Italian meal. If you're feeling linguini instead of bow tie, switch it out! Every appetizer is wonderful and ask for a wine recommendation - their waiters know their stuff! www.ambrosiaitalian.com
2. Harry & Izzy's - Harry & Izzy's is the perfect not too stuffy steak house in Indy. As the sister restaurant of the classic Indy-based steakhouse, St. Elmo's, Harry & Izzy's serves all of the signature St. Elmo's dishes and has a large selection of entrees for those who aren't into steakhouse dining. Perfect for lunch or dinner - you can't go to Harry & Izzy's without order the shrimp cocktail for an appetizer. www.harryandizzys.com/main/
1. Mesh Restaurant - Located on Mass Ave, this restaurant is a must! The cuisine is to die for. I would throw any diet out the window for a meal at Mesh. My favorites are the Sea Bass and Smoked Cheddar Bacon Burger. Oh - and their caesar salad is phenomenal! This is my go to spot for taking out of town guests, and everyone has loved it. www.meshonmass.com
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