14 West Restaurant
Posted Wednesday, March 19, 2008 by Mike Pecchia

14 West Restaurant
14 West Maryland Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205
(317) 636 - 1414

Genre: Mixed (French, Asian, Italian)
Rating: 4 out of 5
Location: Downtown Indianapolis

I was fortunate enough to muster up enough cash to enjoy this restaurant last summer.  I chose this restaurant with the mind-set that I wanted a urbanite feel while also maintaining the integrity of my wallet.

I was impressed from the get-go.  I ordered the 14 West Crab Cake and found myself in a complete trance.  The crab cakes were phenomenal!  Just the perfect size for two people.  The butter sauce was a great compliment to the cakes.

For the main dish, I ordered the Lobster Ravioli.  I was impressed by the presentation of the dish and the timeliness of the service.  The ravioli was a pleasant compliment to the Jack Daniels and Coke I was enjoying.  The lobster filling was the perfect consistency and the confit sauce was delicious.  

The reason for my rating is that I thought that it was a little pricey for the food and drinks.  One of my biggest peeves is ordering a drink and getting a splash of liquor.  Other than that, I would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an intimate feel and amazing crab cakes in Indianapolis!




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Italian Food
Posted Tuesday, March 11, 2008 by kristen hanschu
Buca de Beppos has been a downtown Indianapolis restaurant staple since 1979. Known for their great food as well as huge portions, this is the place to go for  food. Recently remodeled, the  place feels warm and cozy, yet not cramped and closed in. It's a wonderful atmosphere where you can truly relax. Calming mood music plays in the background, and we were delighted to be serenaded by the likes of Bobby Darin, Dean Martin, and "The Chairman of the Board" Frank Sinatra. I was impressed at how knowledgeable and extremely helpful our waiter Brian was. The other wait staff that I observed seemed to be just as exceptional. The establishment was absolutely spotless.
Complimentary Bread with a nice thick Italian crust is served, and is accompanied by a wonderful Garlic Pesto Butter. The parmesan on the table seemed to be of good quality as well. Many  items have small or large portions to choose between. The small portions are anything but, and the large portions are enormous. Larger portions also include your choice of fresh tossed salad, Caesar salad, or homemade soup.


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Yummy Tex Mex
Posted Tuesday, February 12, 2008 by kristen hanschu
As I stated before, by no means am I the expert in restaurant critiquing.  But I must say that my new favorite place to go is Indianapolis' very own Alculpolco Joe's.  Staying true to its name, it is everything the name makes it out to be.  If you like Mexican food, you will like this place.
   
There is so much to try here, your mouth will be watering once you take a look at their extensive menu.  We started off with the chicken avocado soup.  This soup is perfect for chilly winter weather when you just want to curl up next to a fireplace with a comforting, warm meal. Each bite holds a variety of textures and flavors such as chewy, shredded chicken and smooth chunks of avocado. Additional tastes of garlic and onion add flavor to this delicious soup.
   
They have green chile rellenos have a wonderful warm flavor when roasted, which is perfect for a chilly evening. They are stuffed with cheese, dipped in an egg batter and fried.  The flavors and textures blend perfectly together. Queso fresco (fresh Mexican cheese) is a traditional choice for this wonderful dish.
   
I ended the evening with the sopapillas.  It's a classic Mexican snack made with a little sugar to sweeten it. Usually "sopes" as they are sometimes called are topped with meats and veggies, but these sweet versions are topped with fruit.
   
Another fine Indianapolis Menu Guide find.  This wonderful little downtown Indianapolis restaurant is the cat's meow!
   
This commercial for Best Tex Mex says it all:




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Sushi Restaurants Indianapolis
Posted Tuesday, February 12, 2008 by kristen hanschu
 
I would not call myself a sushi connoisseur by any means, but I have been to enough sushi restaurants in the country to have an opinion on which are the best.  I would have to say that out of all the sushi restaurants in this great country, my favorite would have to be one that I found in the Indianapolis Dining Guide.  It is an upscale place called Sushi on the Rocks.  It is a spin off of another restaurant by the name of Yummy Chopsticks.  Sushi on the Rocks is by far the best downtown Indianapolis restaurant there is.
One of the delicious rolls
It has a unique blend of modern decor with a touch of traditional Japan.  There are many menu items to choose from.  You can order anything from chicken teriyaki to seaweed salad.   They have the most exciting selection of rolls as well.  I suggest trying either the spicy tuna roll or the volcano roll.  They have over 40 to choose from, so there is one for everybody.  Everything is prepared extremely well and fresh.  Of course, lunch is lovely too, and that's when I was here. The menu is extensive, offering a la carte sushi, Korean and Japanese dishes, and sandwiches and salads with an Asian bento box.
      
Next time you are in the mood for sushi, try this place and enjoy!  You can find this lovely place at 235 South Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46225.


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The Best Steak's In Indy
Posted Tuesday, February 12, 2008 by kristen hanschu
Indianapolis is known for its beautiful downtown area, nice mid-western people, and of course, the food!  This city has some of the most fantastic restaurants in all the region.  I do have to say that out of all the steak houses and rib places in the city, the best one is by far Flemings Steak House.
 
I originally found this place in the Indianapolis Menu Guide and have to say that it was worth every penny.  It is a bit on the pricey side, so if you are looking for Burger King pricing, stay away from here.  Known, for its excellent service and fine wines, Flemings Steak House was everything it was even better than I could have imagined.  My company and I arrived and were promptly greeted by one of the hostesses.  She knew that we had a reservation and seated us right away.  Once we sat down we were blown away by their wine selection.  The waiter came quickly and went over it with us in detail along with the evenings specials and appetizers.
   The Indianapolis Steak House
I started off with a salad, and my friend began with the lobster bisque.  We Flemings Steak House followed these up by two of the most incredible steaks.  We ordered a fillet  mignon with mashed potatoes and a porter house with the vegetable medley.
   
Of course dessert was offered, and quickly accepted on our end.  We were so full after the meal that we decided to split one of these succulent desserts.  We went with a tradition cheesecake, but there was nothing traditional about it.  It was nothing short of fantastic.  It came with three different kinds of sauces that you could tell were prepared by one of the best chefs in the business.
   
So next time you are looking for steak in Indianapolis, look no further.  Stop at Flemings Steak House and you will not be disappointed.


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Perhaps the best steak restaurant in Indianapolis
Posted Saturday, November 17, 2007 by Chris Baggott
St. Elmo's Steak restaurant downtown

Are you looking for a great night in our capitol city of Indianapolis. Well St Elmo’s Steak House might be  the place for you. With a menu that tops the charts this restaurant is simply fantastic.

Although it might be a little pricey, it is definitely worth it. Located in Downtown Indianapolis on Illinois Street, their steaks can’t be beat. Started in 1902, it is the oldest steakhouse in Indianapolis.  But not only does it have great steak it also has a magnificent selection of seafood. I enjoy it very much and I highly recommend it.




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Downtown Indy Pizza and Beer...as nature intended
Posted Tuesday, October 30, 2007 by Chris Baggott
Dugout best pizza Indianapolis IndyDugout  (Map)
621 Virginia Ave
Indianapolis, IN  46203
317-916-1514

You know…..Indianapolis has some great restaurants.  But because we are so chain-heavy often it all has sort of a polished…almost Disney feel.   Sometimes you just want to find a place that’s (cliché alert) real.

Dugout is just such a place…it’s a bar.  Remember them?  Like your dad used to go to when he blew the family paycheck.

It’s close to downtown Indianapolis and Fountain Square, it’s friendly and it has some of the best pizza in Indy.  Oh, and it has drinks too…great stop for that low pressure, after work date.   Trust me, She’ll either think you’re cool….or never speak to you again. 




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Is Bazbeaux the Best Pizza in Indy?
Posted Thursday, October 25, 2007 by Chris Baggott
Bazbeaux PizzaIndianapolis Pizza Restaurant Bazbeaux
Broad Ripple
811 E. Westfield Blvd.
317-255-5711

Downtown
334 Mass Ave
317-636-7662

I think for location, ambiance and a hang loose vibe, Bazbeaux’s is the best pizza restaurant in Indianapolis.   The whole thing has a college feel that is decidedly un-chain…something that is getting very hard to find in Indianapolis Restaurants.

For an old fashioned Italian Pizza, this might not be the best restaurant…although they do make great traditional pizza.  What Bazbeaux’s is known for however are their unusual Gourmet Pizza.  They have a great Seafood Pizza with Shrimp & Crab and a Barbeque Chicken Pizza that features owner Deb Berman’s own recipe barbeque sauce.  For those with a more Mexican taste,  there is the Tchoupitoulas pizza who’s toppings include Cajun shrimp, a ridiculous andouille sausage (kind of Mexican/French I guess) and roasted red peppers.  There is even a vegetarian Pizza that will thrill the most ardent PETA supporter.

If you are looking for the Best Pizza Restaurant in Indianapolis, Bazbeaux might make an excellent choice.


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Palomino one of the best Indianapolis restaurants downtown
Posted Tuesday, October 23, 2007 by Chris Baggott
PalominoPalomino Best Restaurant In Indianapolis
49 West Maryland Street
Indianapolis, In 46204
317-974-0400

Every time I think of the best restaurant in Indianapolis for a date, Palomino enters my mind. This restaurant is the essence of a tasteful yet cool downtown restaurant.

The key to a successful date here is to try the custom mixed margaritas served Martini Style. The other key is to avoid a regular table and sit in the bar. As you know, a big part of a successful date is seeing and being seen. Getting a table in the bar is worth waiting for and if you can score a window seat, well let’s just say you have really scored…

You won't find Pizza slices or breakfast, but you will find great seafood, steak, Italian dining in an excellent environment. Take my advice and take your date downtown to one of my favorite and best restaurants in Indianapolis…Palomino.




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El Rodeo: excellent mexican dining with a great menu!
Posted Monday, August 20, 2007 by Dean Stratman

Location: El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant

Address: 2203 N. State Street Greenfield, IN 46140

Phone Number: (317)462-5272

Description: So, you are on the east side of Indianapolis and you are having a major craving for Mexican food. You are in a major rush, so you need food in a flash. Of course, anywhere on the east side of Indianapolis during the late afternoon or early evening is extremely crowded and busy, leaving very few restaurants to choose from besides fast food. In my opinion, for some of the best Mexican food you can find, and for a reasonable price, also in a flash, El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant in Greenfield is the place to go. No, I am not just recommending a random restaurant that I have never been to--I go there frequently. In fact, my family recently visited El Rodeo for some fine Mexican dining. First of all, I would like to comment on their menu and prices. For a Mexican restaurant, El Rodeo has quite a large menu and reasonable prices. One of their best dishes is the steak and cheese burrito. Not only is it the size of your head, but it is placed at a very reasonable $8.00, and that includes a side of rice and beans--a staple of Mexican restaurants in the United States. As for the service, most of the employees speak English very well, and it is rare that my food does not come out within four or five minutes of ordering. The salsa is excellent, so the time goes by very quickly anyways. Overall, I would say that if you are sick of downtown dining and you want some fast and good-tasting food, you should take a quick fifteen minute drive out to Greenfield, as it is just off I-70, and visit El Rodeo Mexican restaurant.

Website: unavailable 

Rating: 4 stars




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Mozzi's Pizza: the next best thing
Posted Tuesday, August 7, 2007 by Dean Stratman

Location: Mozzi's Pizza Greenfield

Address: 2221 W. Main Street Greenfield, IN 46140

Phone Number: (317)462-2999

So, you are hungry and need to find food within half an hour of Indianapolis, Indiana. You've had enough of all the traffic and congestion of downtown, and you want some good, homecooked food in a much less congested area. Well, if this is truly what you are looking for, then Mozzi's Pizza in Greenfield, Indiana (about 20 miles east of Indianapolis on US 40) is the place for you. First of all, Mozzi's pizza is one of the best, if not THE best, pizzeria that I have been too (and I have been to a LOT of pizzerias). It is somewhat of a sports restaurant, as the walls are lined with autographed pictures of famous sports heroes, and make sure not to miss the autographed basketballs lining the ceiling in the main area! The floor itself resembles a basketball court, yet despite its focus on basketball, it seems to have a feel of home to it for me. I go to Mozzi's at least 1-2 times per week, mostly because it's menu is large, and it is relatively low-priced. Also, Mozzi's is good for just about any occassion, and I can definitely voucher for that statement. I have held birthday parties, team parties, get-togethers, dates, family dining experiences, and even after-school lunches or brunches. The pizza itself is excellent, and of all the items on the menu, I would recommend the Chicago crust pepperoni and bacon pizza, and for starters, I would also recommend the buffet-style breadsticks. Overall, I would give this place 6 stars on a five star scale, as it is my favorite restaurant that I have been to in my entire life

Website: www.mozzispizza.com

Rating: 5 stars

 




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14 West is the cream of the crop in Indy
Posted Tuesday, July 31, 2007 by Mike Hinker
All of my friends rave about how great 14 West is and now, after finally going there, I have become a believer as well.  I have never had scallops as tasty as the scallops in tomato confit.  The pork chop with pear chutney is also to die for.  Our server did a wonderful job of pairing our meal with a white wine that was extremely enjoyable.  The food is absolutely delicious and the modern atmosphere is relaxing.  Since it is located downtown it is the perfect beginning to a night in Indy.


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St. Elmo's steak is a rare find!
Posted Tuesday, July 31, 2007 by Mike Hinker

I had never been to St. Elmo’s steak house but had heard all about it when I moved out to Indianapolis for school. It is located in downtown Indy so I would often see it when I was in the city going out with friends or heading to a game. I finally made it there and now I know why everyone loved St. Elmo’s so much, it was honestly the best steak I have ever had… and that’s saying something. Even though the menu price is a little steep it is definitely worth the experience. St. Elmo’s instantly became my favorite restaurant in Indianapolis!




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Sullivan's is my favorite place for a great steak
Posted Friday, July 13, 2007 by Mike Hinker
If you want a great steak and don't feel like going into downtown Indy, my favorite restaurant, Sullivan's, is the place for you!  The warm brick oven atmosphere is the ideal place to spend the evening enjoying the finest wines in the midwest and a New York Strip that will melt in your mouth. While your wallet may be a little lighter after your indulgence, the price is well worth the steaks and your total experience.


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