Indianapolis might be a sports-centric destination best known as the home of the Indy 500 and the 2012 Super Bowl, but its food and beverage scene is also something to talk about.
Following is a sampling of some tasty group-friendly experiences.
- Recess (317.925.7529; www.recessindy.com)
The name was inspired by Chef Greg Hardesty, who “plays” in the kitchen like he’s at recess, creating a menu that changes daily, according to the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association (ICVA).
On the day this article was written, the menu featured monk fish, oysters and pasta, and since Hardesty makes a point of sourcing foods grown within the agriculturally rich soil of the state, Indiana-based Fischer Farms strip loin.
The restaurant is only open for dinner and will accommodate private events. - Sun King Brewery (317.602.3702; www.sunkingbrewing.com)
This new craft beer house is located downtown and open for tours and tastings.
In 2010, the brewer won two awards at the World Beer Cup, including a silver award for Sunlight Cream Ale. Among its other popular brews are Bitter Druid, which is an ESB, and Osiris Pale Ale.
The brewery offers beer-paired dinners, according to the ICVA. - Goose the Market (317.924.4944; www.goosethemarket.com)
“Built around the love of phenomenal food,” according to its website, Goose the Market is a fun place to visit.
This purveyor of cured meats and cheeses, according to the ICVA, offers five different sandwiches each day. It’s worth noting most items in the market are sourced within the state of Indiana, and the market features a Bacon of the Month Club, which gives visitors the chance to taste different bacons.
Flowers, coffee, pastries, gelato, produce, European dry goods like Spanish olive oil and French vinegar, beer, wine and Indiana syrups and honey are among the other tasty delights for sale at the market. - Mesh on Mass Avenue (317.955.9600; www.meshonmass.com)
This eatery opened in August 2010 a few doors down from the popular Chatterbox Jazz Club, where the Rolling Stones once played an impromptu concert.
The restaurant features a private dining room for up to 40 people and can customize menus to meet varying needs and budgets.
Some specialties here include appetizers like the Fischer Farms spare rib pot stickers and wild mushroom strudel, and main course options like filet mignon, chicken scaloppini, and grilled tofu.