It’s hard to believe I’ve been writing this column for two years (time flies when you’re having fun and constantly stuffing your face), and I thought maybe it was time to do a brief recap on some of my favorite spots to dine. Some of the items I mention may no longer be on the menu, but the places listed have excellent food.
Where to go: Oakley’s Bistro
Address: 1464 W. 186th St., Indianapolis
What I got: Lobster Waffle ($14.75). The Lobster Waffle is exactly what it sounds like – a basil-roasted garlic waffle topped with lobster bites, sautéed zucchini, crispy leeks, mustard cream and tomato jam. Visit Oakley’s for a quiet, cozy date spot.
Where to go: 3UP Rooftop Bar
Address: 201 W. Main St., Carmel
What I got: Shaved Brussels ($11), short rib slammers ($15), fried oyster po’boy ($24) and Impossible Sliders ($14). A great place for small plates, great drinks and an excellent view of downtown Carmel.
Where to go: Porter Books and Bread
Address: 5719 Lawton Loop E. Drive, Lawrence
What I got: The Vonnegut ($13). The Vonnegut is a sandwich with city ham, smoked turkey, a kosher pickle and slaw on house-made focaccia bread smeared with Dijon and garlic/black pepper mayo. Porter Books and Bread is one of my favorite spots to bring a good book or some work and settle in for a few hours.
Oysters Rockefeller from 1933 Lounge makes the list for some of my favorite At the Table with Anna menu items the past two years. (Photo by Anna Skinner)
Where to go: 1933 Lounge
Address: 9707 District North Dr., Fishers
What I got: Oysters Rockefeller ($18). For patrons 21 and older, the restaurant has bar seating, sit-down tables and large, wing-backed leather chairs in a quiet corner, ideal for craft cocktails and good conversation. It’s a St. Elmo Steakhouse sister restaurant, so you know the famous shrimp cocktail is on the menu.
