So this week was my choice in where the Marketing Staff at Compendium would be going for lunch. You can check out Compendium Blogware by Clicking Here.

This week I decided to go back to the cornucopia that is the City Market and try out this place called Philadelphia Steak&Cheese. Joined by Monica this time, we agreed that it was a good place to eat, but some felt like the food needed something else. We all ordered Philly Cheese Steaks, but there were also burgers on the menu along with breakfast foods that I believe are only served in the morning. Mikey and Monica felt that the sandwiches could have used more cheese. Monica also thought that the meat tasted like it was re-heated beef, which I guess has a different taste. She also said that the “seasoned fries” would be better if they had the peel on and they need to have lots more seasoning. Mikey mentioned, “The next time I go, I might opt for one for the burgers that I didn’t see until I got up to the counter.”  Meghan said that her sandwich and food was delicious. She had never had a Philly Cheese Steak before and doesn’t have anything to compare it to, but “for the first time it was really, really good and I want to go back.” As for the boss lady, Megan, she really enjoyed her Philly experience. She said that her food was fresh and hot, but could have used more seasoning and cheese. Megan mentioned that it was not as greasy as expected and she really liked the wheat bun (isn’t all wheat bread just wheat bread?). And since it was Boss’s day, we all pitched in for her meal and she loved “that my wonderful team paid for my lunch.” As for my meal, I felt like it was great. I had gone once before last spring, and it was just as good as I remembered. And just like everyone else, I wish there was a little bit more cheese on the sandwich, but overall I thought it was great.

Now the atmosphere of the whole lunch is something we all agree on. Meghan said, “As always, the atmosphere was excellent.” She also felt that the guys behind the counter brought Philadelphia to Indianapolis. Mikey thought the staff was awesome and if you speak even a little Spanish, there is a free lesson at the end of the line. The man there speaks Spanglish and as Mikey found out, if you speak even a little Spanish to him, he will talk in only Spanish. So who-ever said you can’t learn at a fast food restaurant, you can tell them they are wrong. Monica thought the service was very efficient and well organized. The owner really knows how to make a quick, good Philly Cheese Steak sandwich. However, don’t be polite to the cashier (who I think is a real Philadelphian) because he gets thrown off and doesn’t know how to respond. When I gave him my money, I said thank you (just like my mom taught me to do) and the cashier said, “Why are you all being some polite to me, I work in the fast food business, you’re supposed to abuse me.” But I think he was kidding…. a little.

So if you are in the mood for a quick taste of Philadelphia, you don’t have to worry about driving out there and the price of gas. Just cruise over to the City Market located at 222 East Market Street, right in downtown Indianapolis and get your free Spanish lesson along with a good sandwich.  If you want to check out was else the City Market as to offer you can Click Here.

Today we decided that the Marketing team here at Compendium Blogware needed to check out the City Market a few blocks down from us for lunch. If you want to check out Compendium’s website Click Here.

We originally went for some Greek food, but upon arrival we realized the cornucopia of merchants there. Meghan, Mikey, and I decided to check out this place called Las Senoritas instead of going with Greek (the other Megan stuck with her gut and got the Greek food). We each ordered something different to get a real feel for the place. Mikey went with the ‘Burrito Gigante’ which is a burrito with chicken, refried beans, some rice, and chips and salsa. He told me that it was great and, “It wasn’t life changing, but it made me briefly reflect on my life, ‘Wow I have this burrito in my life and only two blocks away.’” Meghan bought the ‘Lunch Special #1’ which was two tacos beans and rice (just a hint, don’t ask for steak in your taco because they only do that for burritos). I got the ‘Wild Burrito’ which is literally half chicken and half beef, kind of crazy… I know. It is one of those burritos that will fall apart when you try to pick it up and eat it, so defiantly grab a fork and napkins while you are waiting. The first few bites were beef, and then all of a sudden it was chicken on my fork. Very delicious and everything I dreamed it could be and more! As for the atmosphere of the City Market, in a word I would say, busy. There were several people there grabbing a quick bite to eat on their lunch break from work. Meghan actually said it was really cool and it was the kind of place you would see in like Seattle. As for price, it was pretty inexpensive for the food you get. However, make sure you bring your cash because it is only a cash only location.

As Megan who went with the Greek food, she came back with a Chicken Gryo. She said that it was a perfect proportion and they always seem to have fresh food. Also, the owner is always very friendly. She told me that the Tzatziki sauce is a little spicier than she remembered the chicken was a little dryer than she likes, but the pita was fresh and delicious and overall… she would go back again. As for the price, it is pretty reasonable for the proportions and would recommend it to anyone. There are several other places to check out at the City Market, so there might be more posts about this great place in Indianapolis!

While I was talking with colleague, Jenni Edwards, she started telling me about a place she had eaten at recently, and I felt I needed to share it with you. To check out Jenni Edwards' business blog Click Here.

Up on 82nd street there is a steak and sushi place called Sapporo.  It is a hibachi grill, where the cooks make your food right in front of you, which is always entertaining. Jenni told me the food was very good…the Miso soup is good because of the small portions that don’t overwhelm your meal. Their sushi is delicious as well, but what is phenomenal there is the Tempura Ice Cream! It’s a deep fried ice cream that is both hot and cold. If you do go there, I would highly recommend saving room for that dessert! As for the price, it is a little more than she expected. The atmosphere is great for almost any occasion, whether you are going with your family or just out to get a bit to eat and might even be a great place for a date. It was highly recommended overall and I am sure that anyone that goes would feel the same way. So if you’re in the mood for some Japanese cuisine here in Indianapolis…check out Sapporo!

Tucked away in the northeast side of Indianapolis on the Geist Reservoir lays one of my favorite sports bars and restaurants that I have ever been to.  One of the reasons for my preference of this excellent Indianapolis restaurant is the fact that lots of my friends work there, and I love getting to see people I know when I go out to eat, but the main reason is the fact that it serves delicious food in a restaurant known for its night life and family restaurant style during the day.  While I am not old enough to have much of an opinion when it comes to Indianapolis bars, or any bars for that matter, I would have to say that it seems to be quite an enjoyable place at night when I pass by it at night while driving to friends' houses.  However, I can comment on the delicious food that Casler's serves to me each and every time that I have been there!   If you are looking for a great burger, steak, pizza, or french fries (which I would assume just about everyone eats) then Casler's is the place for you.  My personal favorite at this restaurant would have to be either its cheese fries appetizer or its meaty pizza, as I usually end up eating the entire thing to myself when I go there for lunch or dinner with my family!  They also have a very nice atmosphere that mixes the sports bar and pub with the outside edges being booths for family enjoyment (not saying that the sports theme doesn't come across in the family section however!).  Casler's is a great place to visit, and I would suggest to anyone who is tired of the downtown traffic to head up to Geist Reservoir at Olio Road and 116th Street and check it out!





Casler's Kitchen and Bar
11501 Geist Pavillion Drive
Fishers, IN 46038
Phone:  (317) 596-9810
Visit:  Casler's Kitchen and Bar

In early May of 2008, myself and around eleven or thirteen other teenagers were trying to decide what type of restaurant downtown we were going to eat at right before we went over to the Children's Museum for prom.  We thought of plenty of places that we considered fine dining, but most of them were far out of our price range as seniors in high school.  Then, we tried to decide what type of food we wanted, and most of the girls in the group decided they either wanted Italian cuisine or a steak restaurant that had ample room for such a large group and that had a pleasant atmosphere.  So, we looked and looked, and finally we found the place:  Palomino Restaurant and Bar.  Not only is Palomino a great lunch and dinner restaurant, but on top of that, it was decently priced, has a pleasant atmosphere and bar area, and is an excellent place to take a date, just as we did before prom that night.  Every single one of us there absolutely loved the food, with myself and my date splitting the Fettuccine Alfredo, and some other people in our group got excellent looking seafood dishes like their calamari or some very delicious steaks.  In my opinion, the second most important part of a restaurant besides the taste and presentation of its food is certainly its atmosphere, and Palomino seems to have mastered blending fine dining with an upscale bar perfectly!  Afterward, we all enjoyed the dance, but the restaurant certainly brought our night up considerably, and I would suggest visiting Palomino to everyone I know:  friends, family, business colleagues, and everyone!  By the way, while our prom group is too young to experience it, the night life of the restaurant is said to be quite outstanding as well!


Palomino
49 W Maryland Street, #189
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone:  317-974-0400
Visit:  Palomino

Despite the fact that I have only visited Journey's seafood and buffet twice, and on special occasions, I have already found it to be one of the best buffet-style restaurants I have ever been to!  Simply put, Journey is an Asian seafood, steak, pizza, and dessert buffet, along with just about 100 other types of food from all across the globe.  For example, I recently visited Journey for my girlfriend's birthday, and ended up with pizza, green beans, steak, crab legs, and dessert all on one plate!  While it is somewhat of an unusual combination, it makes for a restaurant where a whole family can visit on a special occasion or just about any time and every person can eat (even if they are very picky).  Although I have only mentioned visiting Journey on special occasions, I would have to say that it would make a good location for a business lunch, a date with that special someone, or just a nice dinner with the family or friends.  Journey is a great place for everyone because it has all types of food and a very modern atmosphere, making for an amazing and memorable experience.  I tend to stay away from buffet-style restaurants, but after visiting Journey, I had to include it in my dining guide as one of the best buffet restaurants in Indianapolis by far!  By the way, don't miss the chocolate fountains near the buffet, as they are very good!  Enjoy!




The Journey
7155 E. 96th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Phone:  317-578-9933
Visit:  The Journey

While most of the restaurants I will include in my Indianapolis dining guide actually are located in downtown Indianapolis, sometimes a restaurant just grabs my attention enough that I feel the need to include it in my guide, even if it is located all the way out on Geist Reservoir.  Most people have heard of Geist if they are from Indianapolis, as it is a mere half-hour drive east on I-70 and north on Olio Road, but most probably haven't heard of a pretty good restaurant located on its shores, known as Eddy's Bar and Eatery.  I first heard about Eddy's through one of my friends that I went to high school with, and after the couple of times I have gone there for dinner, I sure am glad she told me about it.  Eddy's Neighborhood Bar and Grill is an indoor-outdoor sports bar, and delicious eatery that serves everything from great steaks to Italian cuisine, to local seafood, all at a very reasonable price for its prime location with a view of Geist Reservoir.  In my opinion, Eddy's is an anytime restaurant, in that one could have lunch or dinner there with colleagues, friends, relatives, business partners, families, or just about anyone else, because it has an atmosphere of what I would consider a seafood restaurant with an upscale twist.  The combination, however, makes for a delicious lunch and dinner restaurant, with a great view, and anyone who goes there is bound to have a great and memorable experience.  So, take the drive out to Eddy's Neighborhood Bar and Eatery--it is certainly worth it!

Eddy's Neighborhood Bar and Eatery
11693 Fall Creek Road
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Phone:  317-849-0925
Visit:  Eddy's Neighborhood Bar and Eatery

    Although it has been quite a few years since I have visited Shula's Steakhouse in downtown Indianapolis, I will never forget the experiences, nor the food, that I enjoyed there.  The first time I walked into Shula's, probably around the age of eight years old, I clearly remember trying to decide in my head whether it was some type of sports bar or fine dining restaurant, but never really figuring out which.  It isn't until right now that I have realized that it cannot be placed into some type of category as I had been trying to do, because it is a very interesting mixture of restaurants.  Not only is it a fine dining restaurant that serves probably the best steaks in Indianapolis, but it is also an elegant sports bar (the menus are actually footballs!), as one would expect coming from the coach of the Miami Dolphins' perfect season Don Shula.  In fact, Shula's Steakhouse could be included in many other categories in my opinion, because it is not so fine that children aren't completely welcome, making it an incredible family restaurant, but it is elegant enough to take a date on a special occasion or to hold a very professional meeting.  Shula's is an all-in-one dining experience, bringing together sports, fine dining, families, romance, elegance, and great steaks!  So, visit Shula's Steakhouse for any occasion and see why I consider it the best restaurant in downtown Indianapolis, by far.

Shula's Steakhouse
Westin Indianapolis Hotel
50 South Capitol Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone:  317-231-3900
Visit:  Shula's Steakhouse

Broad Ripple Steakhouse
929 Westfield Blvd.
Indianapolis, IN 46220

Genre: Steakhouse
Rating: 5 out of 5
Location: Broad Ripple

Broad Ripple Steakhouse may be a small white building on a corner in Broad Ripple, but it packs in a great amount of taste and atmosphere; I would give this restaurant a 5 on presentation alone.

The menu is a great compilation of every type of meat and seafood that can be grilled, seared, or marinated.  In my first dinner at Broad Ripple Steakhouse, I chose the Tenderloin Medallions with Cognac-Peppercorn Sauce.  This dish was absolutely amazing!  The sauce was especially delicious and a great combination with the tenderloin. 

The drink menu displays some of the finest Napa Valley and Italian wines.  I would highly recommend the Chateau Thomas, Cabernet Franc red wine.

If you are in the area, stop by Broad Ripple Steakhouse for a nice steak and fabulous glass of wine!

Bonefish Grill
4501 East 82nd. Street,
Indianapolis IN 46250
(317) 863-3474

Genre: Seafood
Rating: 4 out of 5
Location: North Indianapolis

Two summers ago I lived on the north-side of Indianapolis and I would always pass this restaurant on my way to work.  It looked like a pricey, extravagant, and overachieving anniversary type restaurant.  It wasn't until this past summer that I realized the true nature of the Bonefish Grill.

My girlfriend and I decided to make the most of the summer off and enjoy a relaxing night at Bonefish Grill.  To be honest, I was dreading the dinner because I had premonitions that I was going to spend an 'arm and a leg' for the meal.  Once inside, I didn't feel any better.  The interior was elegant and trendy with table displays of an expensive steak restaurant.  We sat down and I reluctantly opened the menu, fearing the numbers on the page.  My jaw almost hit the floor! The prices were well within my range and the dishes were promising.  I was so happy with the prices that I splurged and ordered an appetizer.  The one appetizer in particular that caught my eye was the Crab Cakes.   These large, delicious cakes hit the pallet just right!  I would highly recommend eating these “gifts from the sea” if you have the opportunity.  For the main course, I decided to try the Atlantic Salmon because I haven’t had this dish in a very long time.  I was very impressed with the dish.  It was what I remember Atlantic Salmon tasting like.  My compliments to the chef!

If I were in your shoes and have never tried this restaurant, I would immediately call my closest Bonefish Grill and reserve a table.  Not only do they offer spectacular ‘surf’ but also a wide variety of ‘turf’ dishes.  You can check out the menu here!

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.
   
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.

Woodfire Grill
Plainfied Indiana
St. Rd 267 at Interstate 70
Next to Thortons Gas Station

I've not had the pleasure, but Woodfire Grill has been voted the best burger in Indianapolis.   I'm sure it's for good reason judging by the menu and the apparent ambience.   As the name implies, this Hamburger & Steak Restaurant cooks everything over an open fire.

If you find yourself in Plainfield, look up the Woodfire Grill for what's billed as the best burger in Indianapolis.

Claddagh Irish Pub
234 South Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN  46225
317-822-6274
Other Indianapolis Locations

So in spite of Claddagh being a chain, it's one of the best restaurants in Indianapolis if you are looking for an authentic pub experience.   With a great hamburger and steak as well as seafood, Claddagh is really great at the traditional Irish fare offering a full menu of some of the best food in Indianapolis.

Although this restaurant is absolutly family friendly, let's face it.....this is a Pub and it's really all about the beer.    The offer a full bar of course, but what make this really special is the great selection of terrific Pub style brews.

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.

Palomino
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.

Webber Grill
10 N. Illinois Street
Indianapolis IN 46204

Contact Info
Tel: 317-636-7600

What could be better than to take your date out to some terrific grilled meat? I’m not talking barbeque, but actual home grilled dinner…just like if you were doing it in your backyard…only better.

The Webber Grill is a great date restaurant in Indianapolis. In fact it is the best grill restaurant in Indianapolis. It’s fun, there is lot’s going on to talk about…the environment is kind of like Benihana’s without all the pressure.

If you are going on a first date and not sure what you will be talking about, this is the place for you. It’s one of my favorite restaurants in Indianapolis serving steaks, seafood and of course great burgers.

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

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!