Commentary by Anna Skinner
Being in the throes of winter, there’s not much more comforting than sitting in a warm restaurant to get out of those winter winds and enjoying a nice, warm bowl of soup. I made it my mission to tour Hamilton Co. and search for the best, soul warming soups offered by local restaurants.
Clam Chowder
Get it at Langton’s, Carmel
First up is Langton’s clam chowder. The chowder was served piping hot and there was no often common problem of too much potato and not enough clams. The chowder was dense and heavy enough to be a meal if so decided. Not only was the soup phenomenal, but the option of ordering it in a rosemary bread bowl made in house awarded this the perfect winter choice. The bowl had a nice, baked crust on the exterior, with plenty of airy bread on the inside to absorb the chowder.
Tomato Basil Soup
Get it at Rosie’s Place, Noblesville
Being winter, tomato soup is a favorite of cold and sleepy people. Rosie’s Place offers a variety of homemade soups each day. The day I happened to wander in, their soup of the day was tomato basil. The soup was the perfect blend between thin and thick with just the right portion of tomato chunks. I slurped it down without waiting for the steam to abide, it was that good. Their soups do differ daily, so call the café at 770-3322 to clarify what the soup of the day is.
Braised Beef Chowder
Get it at The Rail Epicurean Market, Westfield
I had never heard of braised beef chowder, and was not exactly sure what to expect, but I knew the Rail wouldn’t let me down. They offer unique and tasty soups all the time, and the beef chowder was no exception. The creaminess of the soup was perfect for the chilly day, and the beef practically melted in my mouth. The chives on the top were a nice, colorful touch. The Rail’s menu changes daily, so be sure to check out their Facebook page and learn what they will be offering so you’re not surprised.
Tomato Artichoke Soup
Get it at Café Patachou, Carmel
When I wandered in Café Patachou in Clay Terrace on the morn of New Year’s Day, soup was the last thing on my mind. As you would expect, I was yearning for some greasy breakfast food to start the year off right. Yet when I learned the French café served a thick tomato soup with artichokes – of all things to pair it with – I had to try it. There was absolutely no absence of parmesan cheese or croutons to add a little crunch to the thick soup, and the thin strips of artichoke were not too overbearing and added a unique touch. Must I say, it was the perfect breakfast. Bon appetit.
