Absolute Living

Mike Deck

Steve Henke

Gary McNutt

PERFECTLY PAIRED AT HOUSEWORKS.

HOUSEWORKS has served the Indianapolis area for more than 37 years. Our team is methodical, innovative and passionate about their approach to helping our customers love the spaces they live in. We’re more than just a furniture store — we’re the way you live.

A TOTAL VIBE Pair neutrals with a few pops of color. It’s subtle enough to not overwhelm the eye, yet makes a huge impact!

NEW ADDRESS 4905 E. 82nd Street Indianapolis, IN 46250 317.578.7000 Mon. to Sat. 10 - 6 Sun. Noon - 5

CONTENTS

November/2022

THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA

Ready to get a jumpstart on fun this season? We've got you covered all over the central Indiana area, with the best family activities, cultural celebrations, and more.

2022 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

They're heeerrrre! The holidays are nigh upon us. Find all you need for the fashionistas, bag addicts, crafters, collectors, and sports fans in your life.

THE HENKE–DYE TRAIL

Mike Deck, Steve Henke and Gary McNutt

HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE

Celebrate with those you hold most dear at any number of the region's most elegant and upscale dining venues.

MERRY & BRIGHT

Mark your calendars for the area's most festive celebrations and dazzling seasonal light displays!

RAISING THE SOUND BAR

Escape from reality, if only for a moment, at the interactive Ovation showroom in Carmel.

For more information go to absolutelivingmagazine.com, call 317.509.3981, or email jpena@ absolutelivingmagazine.com. To sign up for Absolute Living's monthly newsletter, go to absolutelivingmagazine. com/newsletter. COMMENTS Contact us via social media or email us at jpena@absolutelivingmagazine.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

AbsoluteThe

AGENDA

By SuSaN Salaz

November

Ongoing until November 27

Monumental Drawing: An art exhibition featuring Constance Edwards Scopelitis

Art Museum of Greater Lafayette artlafayette.org

Wrapping up its final month on display at the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, Monumental Drawing is worth the drive north to see work by the highly regarded Indianapolis-based artist Constance Edwards Scopelitis. In 2023, the interactive show, which merges graphite drawings with digital media, will move to the Richmond Museum of Art.

November 10

Veterans Day Ceremony

Tarkington Theater carmel.in.gov

Honor our community’s veterans at this year’s Veteran’s Day Ceremony, held at The Center for the Performing Arts in the Tarkington Theater at noon. Hear patriotic music by the Cherry Tree Elementary School Choir, remarks from Mayor Jim Brainard and a keynote speech from Retired Lt. Colonel and local business owner Justin Crocker.

November 12 Sun King Fall Fest: A Celebration of Barrel-Aged & Sour Beer

Sun King Brewery (downtown Indianapolis location) sunkingbrewing.com

With locations in Fishers, Carmel, Kokomo and now Mishawaka, Indiana and Sarasota, Florida, celebrate fall where it all began, at the original downtown Indy Sun King Brewery. With an emphasis on barrel-aged and sour beer, sampling passports also include year-round and seasonal beers, as well as Fishers Small Batch Brewery beers.

November 12-13

Bloomington Handmade Market Monroe Convention Center Gallery bloomingtonhandmademarket.com

Head south to Bloomington for one of the season’s finest indie craft shows, featuring makers from across Indiana and beyond, showcasing one-of-a-kind wares. This year, look for gorgeous and functional ceramics from Lala Gallery & Studio, amazing light sculptures by Paper Acorn, fiber arts by Wooly Mammoth Design and so much more.

November 24

Bolt for the Heart Thanksgiving Day Run Carmel boltfortheheart.com

Work up an appetite running or walking through scenic Carmel—all for a good cause—at the 11th Annual Bolt for the Heart Thanksgiving Day Family 5K. Seeking to save lives, Bolt for the Heart’s goal is to add automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to every local law enforcement patrol car.

December 10

12 Bars of Christmas Crawl Broad Ripple Village xmasbarcrawl.com

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, so put on your most outrageous ugly sweaters, Santa suits and elf hats and take the day off to crawl through your favorite bars in Broad Ripple. They’ll all be decked out for the holidays, bringing tidings, good cheer, and good beer at every stop.

December 3

November 16-20

Disney’s Aladdin Clowes Memorial Hall butlerartscenter.org

Broadway comes to Butler University this month, where audiences will delight in a whole new world at performances of Disney’s Aladdin. This brand new version of the timeless story is a thrilling theatrical event for the whole family, full of beauty, magic and fun.

2022 Big 10 Championship Lucas Oil Stadium bigten.org

Head into the heart of Indianapolis for an all-day tailgate party on Georgia Street, the interactive Fan Fest inside the Convention Center, and more before the big game, where the champions of the East and West Divisions of the Big Ten College Football Conference will face off inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Looking for more holiday festivities or wondering where to see the best Christmas lights? Read about seasonal celebrations and the brightest bashes around town in our Merry & Bright story (page 54).

-----------------------------------------

Interested in more holiday markets and special shopping events? Our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide (page 19) lists all of our favorite local shopping days you won’t want to miss.

2022

Holiday Gift

Guide

By SuSaN Salaz

Readyor not, the holidays are here. If you haven’t finished your shopping (or even started), don’t worry! We’ve rounded up our favorite boutiques and specialty shops that make finding something for everyone not only easy, but fun. Whether you are shopping for your fur baby or a real baby, your kids, your mom or your crush, you are sure to find unique items from local retailers without driving all over town or worrying about ordering online. Read on for great gift ideas for the fashionistas, the bag addicts, the crafters, the collectors and the sports fans in your life.

After making your list and checking it twice, be sure to mark your calendar for the special shopping events we’ve included at the end of this section. Many shops and districts hold events for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, but these additional specialty pop-up shops, trunk shows and festive gatherings are a great way to support your community and make shopping social once again.

Hammitt by Purse Strings

Let’s be honest—leather bags always make a great gift, especially designer styles. Whether you’re looking for soft pebble-textured leather or Italian suede, a crossbody or a clutch, Hammitt has something for everyone on your list. The new Indianapolis location in the Fashion Mall, a partnership with local retailer Purse Strings, is the best resource around for these highly desired luxury handbags.

“We could not be more excited to be partnering with Hammitt, which is the fastest growing luxury handbag company,” says Purse Strings owner Paul Braun, noting this store is only the third of its kind, and the only location outside of Southern California, where the brand is based. “Once customers are able to feel the quality of the leather and hardware, it is easy for them to understand why so many have fallen in love with Hammitt,” he adds.

Visit Hammitt by Purse Strings in the Fashion Mall at Keystone at 8702 Keystone Crossing in Indianapolis. Find more information follow @hammitt_indy and @purse_strings on Instagram.

Addendum

“For two decades, Addendum has been the source for the ultimate holiday gifts for everyone on your list,” says owner and Carmel native Shane Hartke, the first retailer to open shop in Carmel City Center in 2011. Addendum has grown over the years, recently adding a second location within City Center exclusively dedicated to the whimsical, handmade décor by MacKenzie-Childs. This bright and welcoming space is dedicated to the coveted brand, known for its enameled stoneware in checkered motifs, but features other fabulous gift ideas found only here, including the popular Stoney Clover Lane line of colorful, customizable handbags and Lele Sadoughi headbands.

“From grand gestures to small tokens, we have your gift giving needs well covered here at Addendum,” Hartke adds.

Visit the one-of-a-kind AddendumMacKenzie-Childs shop at 751 Hanover Place, Suite 159, in Carmel City Center, to see the beautiful hand-painted collections for yourself. For more information, find them online at addendumgallery.com and follow @addendumgallery on Instagram.

8FIFTEEN

Dedicating her career to retail and fashion, longtime 8FIFTEEN stylist Elizabeth Lechleiter took over ownership of the popular Broad Ripple clothing boutique just a few months ago. Since then, she has enjoyed the opportunity to make an impact on the community and the city of Indianapolis, not only in terms of offering exclusive designer labels not found anywhere else in the area, but by giving back and hosting fun shopping events throughout the year that will benefit others.

Inside the store, clients can expect their favorite brands such as Golden Goose and Veronica Beard, but Elizabeth has put her spin on things too, adding more brands that women in the area don’t have access to, such as Splits59 activewear and the vintage-inspired Aviator Nation apparel. With a range of gift-worthy accessories including hats, bags and jewelry, as well as gift wrapping this season, 8FIFTEEN is a definite holiday shopping destination.

Stop in at 8FIFTEEN, located at 815 E. 65th Street in Broad Ripple, for fashionable holiday finds. For more information, find them online at 8fifteen.com and follow @8fifteenindy on Instagram.

Elan Furs

Santa shouldn’t be the only one wearing a fur hat this holiday season. Visit Elan Furs for a gorgeous selection of luxurious fur hats and gloves, a perfect gift for winter weather. Family owned and operated since 1988, Elan Furs is the city’s premier destination for authentic fur, leather and shearling apparel and accessories. “We have a wide variety of products including coats and accessories, and even home furnishings and novelty items such as teddy bears,” says Keith Himmel.

Good value and customer service are top priorities at Elan Furs, which features designers such as Michael Kors and Louis Feraud, as well as their own custom designs on the showroom floor. They offer repairs and custom orders as well, and can even repurpose your family heirloom furs, bringing new life to beloved items for generations to come.

See and feel all the beautiful furs at Elan Furs, located at 3841 E. 82nd Street in Indianapolis. Find them online at elanfurs.com and follow @elanfurs on Instagram.

Petite G Jewelers

Throughout time, jewelry has always been an impressive and most beloved holiday gift. The smallest box under the tree often proves to be the most significant. For the best selection in boutique jewelry, visit Petite G Jewelers at The Shoppes at 56th and Illinois Street, in the heart of Butler-Tarkington and Meridian Kessler neighborhoods, where owner Dana Friedman has curated an exclusive selection of classic pieces, eclectic finds and designer styles, along with the city’s premier estate jewelry case.

The knowledgeable and experienced team here can help you select the perfect gift for a loved one, or for yourself, this holiday season. Some of Dana’s favorites this year are the inspired Love Explosion Heart Charm earrings by Three Stories Jewelry, and anything by Sorellina, which melds vintage and modern, bold and delicate, to create timeless designs.

Stop in at Petite G Jewelers, 5609 N. Illinois Street, or visit petiteg.com online and follow @petitegjewelers on Instagram for dazzling holiday inspiration.

The Shop

Hometown gear always makes a great gift for friends near and far, and at The Shop you’ll find an amazing selection of tees, hoodies, hats, drinkware, stickers and more. Dedicated to sports, collegiate and hometown apparel, The Shop’s newest brick-and-mortar store, which opened in Carmel City Center earlier this year, is not your average T-shirt shop.

First of all, the shirts are not only high quality, but they are soft and comfortable—they are pre-laundered to ensure there is no shrinking

when washed. Secondly, they are cool. Of course, you’ll find your Indiana Hoosiers and Purdue Boilermakers on display, but you can also find rare and vintage logos from Roselyn Bakeries, Showbiz Pizza Place and Deer Creek Music Center, just to name a few.

Stop by The Shop, located at 836 S. Rangeline Road in Carmel City Center. Visit online at theshopindy.com and follow @theshopindy on Instagram for sales and specials.

Hey Little Diddle Baby

In its second iteration at Carmel City Center, Hey Little Diddle Baby takes everything down a notch, in size at least. While the original Hey Little Diddle offers gifts and designer clothing from ethical brands for birth through childhood, this new edition features unique take-home outfits and organic layettes, beautifully illustrated books, ecofriendly baby toys, stocking stuffers, décor and more—all with a focus on gifts you will feel good about giving.

“I am thrilled to be able to expand Hey Little Diddle and offer more thoughtful, beautiful gift options for new parents, family members and friends,” says owner Celeste Nance. “Carmel City Center is the perfect backdrop for shopping locally and supporting small businesses—all while customers receive the best and most unique items available.”

Visit Hey Little Diddle Baby at 736 Hanover Place in Carmel City Center, or shop online at heylittlediddle.com. Follow @heylittlediddle on Instagram to stay updated on new items and holiday events.

317Home

Recently celebrating its first anniversary, 317Home has found a groove and is looking forward to another fun holiday season. Located in Carmel City Center, the studio, owned and operated by Becky Null, maintains the city’s exclusive stock of Annie Sloan supplies, including chalk paint, wall and satin paint, waxes, brushes, lacquers, decoupage papers, quarterly magazines and more. “I carry stencils, transfers, molds and stamps,” says Null, adding that she also custom paints furniture for clients, along with teaching the techniques in classes and workshops.

Beautifully decorated every week to match the spirit of the season, 317Home is a gorgeous oasis of inspiration, offering seasonal décor, ornaments and unique home items. You’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for all the crafters, decorators and DIYers in your life, or maybe decide to take on a project yourself.

Visit 317Home at 715 Hanover Place in Carmel City Center. Find them online at 317home. square.site and follow @317homestudio on Instagram for more beautiful ideas.

Canine Cloud Nine

When it comes to gifts, you can’t forget your pooch this holiday season. Canine Cloud Nine in Carmel City Center is more than a full-service grooming salon and puppy play care facility—it’s a unique pet boutique with all of Fido’s favorites. Owned and operated by professional groomers Heather Bauer and Amber Hosford, Canine Cloud Nine carries a wide variety of unique toys, items and treats, including Cosmo's Chicken Jerky made here in Carmel, Indiana.

According to Heather, holiday shopping ideas should include Soggy Doggy Doormats (for those slushy, snowy, wet pet messes), treats from Shameless Pets Treat Company (made with upcycled superfood so they’re better for your pup and better for the planet), and a Starbarks Peppermint Frappuccino toy from Haute Diggity Dog (because dogs deserve coffee, too).

Visit Canine Cloud Nine, located at 885 Monon Green Blvd. Suite 114 in Carmel City Center, for the best for your pet this holiday. Find out more online at caninecloudnine. com and follow @caninecloudnine on Instagram for all the cute puppy pics.

Special Shopping Days and Events

November 10

Visit the Indiana Design Center for their Holiday Preview Night, featuring trunk shows, pop-up shops, holiday gifts and décor, along with wine and hors d’oeuvres by Corks & Caps mobile wine bar.

November 10

Stop by the Shoppes at 56th and Illinois Street for the annual Holiday Stroll. Be sure to visit our Absolute favorites, including Petite G Jewelers, The Secret Ingredient and Charles Mayer & Co.

November 17 – 20

For more than 50 years, the Junior League Holiday Mart at the Indiana State Fairgrounds has been the city’s one-stop-shop for all of your gift giving needs, while raising vital funds for the community.

November 18 – 19

Stop in at Petite G Jewelers for a Trunk Show featuring the stunning work of designers Lisa Nik and Cynthia Ann, who will also be on hand to meet and greet patrons.

November 19 – December 30 (select days)

Visit Carmel’s annual Christkindlmarkt at Carter Green for unique, handmade gifts including specialty ornaments, limited edition Glühwein boot mugs, bier steins and more.

November 25 – December 9 (Friday and Saturday evenings)

Ride the Holiday Trolley through the Carmel Arts & Design District, stopping at all of your favorite local shops along the way.

December 3

Not your average craft fair, the Handmade Vintage Market Holiday Mart, held at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds, is a juried event featuring the region’s finest makers, with gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

Mike Deck

Steve Henke

Gary McNutt

HENKE-DYE

THE TRAIL

By SuSaN Salaz

The Henke-Dye Trail is a unique trio of luxurious lifestyle communities, including The Bridgewater Club, Chatham Hills and Holliday Farms, all developed by Steve Henke featuring golf courses designed by the legendary Pete Dye. While Steve Henke has been the visionary, realtor Mike Deck and custom home builder Gary McNutt have been a part of the collaboration to grow these three highly desired neighborhoods into what they are today.

MikeDeck has played every hole along the Henke-Dye Trail, but says the undulation and natural beauty found on hole 15 at Chatham Hills make this dogleg his favorite among the three courses. “It just provides everything a golf hole could provide,” says the Real Estate Broker and Executive Advisor for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, noting the water and trees, along with the level of difficulty it offers. An avid golfer, Mike was intrigued 20-plus years ago when he noticed a sign and renderings for the Bridgewater Club along the side of the road near a tree farm north of Carmel. He was just beginning to grow his real estate business and was considering joining a country club himself. His curiosity led to an unforgettable Gator

(promotional content)

ride through the property with developer and visionary Steve Henke, and it forged a relationship that would become vital to his career. “Sure enough, everything he told me came to fruition even better than he could explain back then,” says Mike of the Bridgewater neighborhood. These days, it’s a thriving “live, work, play” community with more than 1000 residences, a variety of businesses and a list of amenities and entertainment options that goes well beyond golf.

Mike adds, "Steve is a once in a generation visionary. Not only is he a master of building anticipation, but he always executes his plans and makes them a reality."

An attorney for 40 years, Steve Henke has a love for developing real estate—and he claims it’s a passion that was founded in the fifth grade, when he was confined to his home for several weeks with a broken leg and got hooked on the board game Monopoly. Breaking ground at Bridgewater in 2002, he worked closely with the late Pete Dye, Carmel resident and one of the world’s most influential golf course designers. Pete went on to design the courses at Steve’s next developments, Chatham Hills and Holliday Farms, before his passing in 2020. Steve remembers always keeping Dairy Queen Dilly Bars (Pete’s favorite frozen treat) on hand for Pete’s many visits to the Chatham Hills site while he was designing the course. “He was a genius,” says Steve, who collaborated closely on the routing and home layout along the course. This kinship, along with the close proximity of the three neighborhoods, is what inspired Mike Deck to coin the Henke-Dye Trail,

and even commemorate it on a series of baseball caps he gifted to Steve. “I had obviously worked with Pete on all of those,” says Steve, “but I really had not thought about it like that.” Steve credits Mike and his real estate prowess to the success of the developments. “He was one of the strongest supporters coming in, and recognized early on the impact and the quality [Bridgewater] was going to have,” Steve explains, adding that he often seeks Mike’s input on what his clients are looking for in a neighborhood.

For now, the Henke-Dye Trail consists of the three aforementioned communities and courses, but Henke Development—a family business with Steve’s son Brad Henke and daughter Betsy Henke Garfield both involved in operations—is currently working on the Waterford development in Lebanon. This is planned as another mixed-use district, which should be underway by next year, that will highlight a medley of Pete’s most famous designs throughout the 27-hole golf course. Aside from golf, the neighborhoods along the Henke-Dye Trail offer the finest yearround resort amenities in the area, from restaurants and spa services to swimming pools, pickleball courts, fitness centers and even bowling alleys. “They have changed the platform up here,” says Mike, comparing the golf cart communities to Disneyland. Steve agrees that his goal has always been to create lifestyle communities that cater to the entire family, where the residents can feel like they are on vacation every day.

The immaculate grounds, generous lots and range of gorgeous homes throughout each neighborhood only add to the

Real estate agent Mike Deck and custom home builder Gary McNutt have grown up together in the business, collaborating with developer Steve Henke in all three neighborhoods along the Henke-Dye Trail since its beginning 20 years ago.

“The great thing about Mike is that he is very client-centric and solution oriented,” says Gary of Mike’s creative, nontransactional approach to real estate. “He believes that if you take care of the customer, the rest will take care of itself.”

appeal. While Mike and Team Deck are the number one selling agents and real estate experts along the trail, closing close to 600 transactions, Gary McNutt of Wedgewood Building Company is the top home builder, showcasing nearly 400 truly custom homes throughout the three communities. “Just like Pete Dye, the Henke family can take a really pretty piece of ground, one that’s already very interesting, and they preserve what’s great about it and they make the rest of it better,” says Gary. He adds that they are also respectful of the architecture, managing each development to preserve the quality and uniqueness and avoid monotony.

This trifecta of developer, builder and real estate agent—all willing to collaborate in order

to get the best result for the residents, land and community—has grown not only the Bridgewater Club, Chatham Hills and Holliday Farms, but the area as a whole, attracting talent and adding to its broader success. Mike Deck, a Carmel native living and working in Bridgewater, says he feels fortunate to have had the opportunity not only to have grown up here, but also to raise his family here. He enjoys seeing the changes first hand, and loves helping individuals and families lay down roots here along the Henke-Dye Trail.

For more information and current listings along the Henke-Dye Trail, contact Team Deck, specializing in golf course and country club, living at teamdeckrealestate.com and follow @teamdeckrealestate on Instagram.

Betsy heNke Garfield

Brad heNke

Guide Holiday Dining

By SuSaN Salaz

If hosting a holiday soiree is on your list this year, we’ve got you covered with the most elegant, upscale venues to eat, drink and be merry—without the mess or the stress.

One of the best ways to celebrate the season is by gathering with our loved ones to share a meal. These traditions bond us to our friends and family. By reflecting on the meaningful relationships in our lives, and through the generosity and gratitude this custom brings, we can better honor our values and navigate life throughout the rest of the year. We know this season is a busy one, but gather your tribe and celebrate in style with dinner plans at a great local restaurant. You’ll be so happy you did. The gift of this time together is better than any present you’ll find under the tree, especially when it comes with delicious food, five-star service, world-class settings and so much fun.

(promotional content)

Vivante

Feel the magic of the season in the heart of Carmel, where Vivante French Eatery presents a picturesque backdrop to your holiday celebrations. Here, Vivante, located in Hotel Carmichael, offers an elevated dining experience with approachable, from-scratch fare inspired by the French countryside. The exquisite space, with natural light cascading in by day and views of the glowing Christkindlmarkt by night, is Carmel’s premier destination for an elegant date night or festive gathering. Enjoy an intimate evening with family and friends in the restaurant’s private dining room, or host larger parties in the Cole Porter Grand Ballroom or private boardrooms.

Vivante's exquisite space is Carmel's premier destination for an elegant date night or festive gathering.

At Vivante, the menu changes with the seasons and is accompanied by daily soup and entrée specials. Local produce and the highest quality ingredients are of the utmost importance, escargot is a house favorite, and freshly baked bread with butter imported from France is always on the table. The inspired culinary masterpieces are matched with a brilliant wine list, which includes a remarkable selection of French wines unique to the area, and flawless service to create a finedining experience to remember. Make a night of it with a show at Feinstein’s— Hotel Carmichael’s cabaret—with festive entertainment, or have a nightcap at the cozy hotel bar, Adagio Lounge, where a fire burns in the wood fireplace and music plays on the grand piano. You can even make a weekend getaway of it with a room at the refined boutique hotel.

Visit Vivante French Eatery at 1 Carmichael Square inside Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more information, reservations and private dining resources, find them online at vivantecarmel.com and follow @vivantecarmel on Instagram. Follow Vivante French Eatery on Facebook for daily specials and more.

Convivio

Traditional and innovative regional cuisines of Italy, with a focus on simplicity, quality and authenticity.

Andrea Melani, owner of Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine (with locations in Carmel and Zionsville), believes nothing brings people together like good food. That is the essence of Convivio—a state of mind that epitomizes enjoying the moment, the company and the conversation that comes with sharing a meal. It’s something that is important throughout the year, but especially relevant during the holidays. Melani, a native of Riomaggiore—a coastal village on the Ligurian Sea, situated on the northwest coast of Italy—specializes in traditional and innovative regional cuisines of Italy, focusing on simplicity, quality and authenticity.

Here, the open kitchen is always on display, the pasta is made fresh daily, and authentic Italian recipes spotlight simplicity. Seasonal menu changes highlight a specific Italian region, for now focusing on Lazio in Central Italy, bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea, home to Italy’s most famous city: Rome. Brad Gates, Convivio District Chef, who joined the team two years ago, is the curator behind the latest menu changes and has been instrumental in the company's continued innovation and success. The menu’s traditional Bucatini all’Amatriciana pasta

//

dish hails from the region, as does Abbacchio alla Cacciatora, a hearty lamb stew often served during the holiday season. The Maritozzi al Miele is a sweet tradition—the dessert even has its own day (December 1 marks Maritozzo Day in Rome). Here, it’s served with fresh whipped cream and local honeycomb. From small dinners to elaborate banquets, Convivio is a favored spot for holiday merriment. Whether you are planning a night out with friends, celebrating with family or hosting corporate colleagues, the attentive service, gracious hospitality and culinary artistry at Convivio will not disappoint.

Visit

Convivio at 11529 Springmill Road in Carmel or at 40 S. Main Street in Zionsville. For more information and to view the private dining guide, visit convivioindy.com and follow @convivioindy on Instagram.

Verde

,

Flavors of Mexico

When the weather turns cold, warm up with an authentic dining experience at Verde Flavors of Mexico, with a new Zionsville location opening in December. This sleek new space, with a contemporary feel and a luxurious vibe, will likely be a hot spot to celebrate the holidays this season, but every Verde location offers a fun, sophisticated ambiance of its own. While Mexican food has grown in popularity across the nation, Verde distinguishes itself by providing carefully crafted recipes and highquality ingredients. “We like to specialize in dishes that have more depth and thought behind them,” says owner Paul Aréchiga, adding that the menu is in constant evolution.

For the holidays, Verde is bringing back a few dishes by popular demand, such as the Tomahawk steak—a 36-ounce cut of Australian Wagyu served with a unique Verde spin, including garlic herb butter, Spanish rice, beans and grilled chapulines (grasshoppers) on the side. Aréchiga says, “Plates like our Pozole (a hearty, traditional Mexican soup) and our Cochinita Pibil (slow-cooked achiote pork) provide a homemade and welcoming bite we all crave around this time.” Each Verde location also offers private event space and noteworthy catering packages perfect for holiday parties. “Every group is unique, and we love collaborating to come up with a customized and special experience,” says Aréchiga, noting that the adaptable packages range from casual buffets to plated service, complete with margaritas and tequila flights.

Celebrate the season in a memorable venue this year at Verde Flavors of Mexico, with locations in Carmel, Fishers and Ironworks, with Zionsville opening soon. For more information, visit verdeflavorsofmexico.com and follow @verde_flavorsofmexico on Instagram.

The Fountain Room

Step back in time at the city’s best new steakhouse, the Fountain Room. This upscale supper club, an elegant blend of Art Deco, midcentury and modern styles, has a speakeasy feel, welcoming guests to the historic Bottleworks District and greeting them with curated music playing on the vintage Akai reel-to-reel. “I think bringing some of that nostalgia when guests walk through the doors is one of my favorite things about the restaurant,” says Blake Fogelsong, owner and director of operation for Clancy’s, Inc., a family-owned and operated restaurant business with roots in Noblesville. With plush seating and an intimate feel, the luxurious space is ideal for those craving a first-class dining experience.

The menu, with beef sourced from Halperns’ in Colorado and seasonal specials prepared to perfection, along with an alluring bar complete with specialty drinks (including nonalcoholic options) and a commendable beer and wine list, combined with exceptional service and genuine hospitality make the Fountain Room an evident choice for holiday entertaining. “The Fountain Room is a great destination for any celebration big or small,” says event manager Kori Morris. “Our menu has a wide variety of options, from sandwiches to high-quality steaks. Whether you’re at the bar or celebrating

With its plush seating and exquisite ambience, The Fountain Room is the ideal spot for those craving a first-class dining experience this season.

a special occasion, our atmosphere makes everyone feel comfortable, and our professional and personable staff ensures each experience is memorable.”

The restaurant offers several private and semi-private event options with tailored menus and drink lists.

For a grand experience, visit the Fountain Room, located at 830 Massachusetts Avenue in the heart of the Bottleworks District. For more information, reservations, or to inquire about private events, visit thefountainroom. com and follow @the.fountain.room on Instagram for all their holiday specials.

Juniper on Main

Treat your guests to a dash of Southern charm in the heart of the Midwest this holiday season by sharing a meal at Juniper on Main. You’ll find them located just steps off the Monon, all aglow for the season, in the center of the Carmel Arts & Design District. “Juniper on Main celebrates with our light, bright and cozy historic cottage filled with quaint holiday touches all around, that always make for a wonderful gathering place for family and friends,” says coowner Diane Cannon. The enchanting restaurant offers authentic recipes and intricately plated dishes born of the mouthwatering coastal flavors of the American South.

Here, the menu is inspired by the decidedly Southern yet worldly cities of Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, while blending in a French Caribbean flair known to the region. Wintertime favorites include the Stout-Glazed Short Ribs, Savannah Crab Stew, and the Shrimp & Grits,

Juniper on Main provides guests with a mouthwatering dash of authentic Southern charm, right here in Carmel.

which are cherished year-round. For a celebratory drink, try a local Savannah favorite, the SpodeeO-Dee—a refreshing blend of Cabernet wine and lemon-lime soda over ice, with a splash of orange soda. “Let us help make your family gatherings or holiday cocktail parties special this season,” says Canon, adding that all of these Southern favorites are available for private events and catering. The venue in its entirety can be rented on Sundays for brunch or dinner.

Juniper on Main is located at 110 E. Main Street in the Carmel Arts & Design District—a beautiful destination during the holiday season. For more information, including the menu, catering options and private rental inquiries, visit juniperonmain.com or email info@ juniperonmain.com. Follow @juniper_on_main on Instagram for seasonal specials.

Tucci's

Nestled in the bustling Carmel City Center, Tucci’s is a holiday treat for those in the mood for small plates and a glass of wine while shopping, a fun evening celebration with friends or a coursed Thanksgiving feast. The chef-driven menu showcases California-Italian cuisine, specializing in certified Angus beef and weekly fresh seafood specials, artisan pizza and crafted pasta, says Kevin Black, corporate executive chef for CBL restaurants, which includes Tucci’s, Matt the Miller's Tavern and Manelé Café—all with locations in City Center as well. “About every two months we rotate the menu to keep it fresh and unique with seasonal ingredients,” adds Black, noting that Tucci’s has an inhouse sommelier to offer guidance when making wine selections, whether to pair with a meal or for those in the Vine Club—their retail wine membership.

A newcomer to the scene, Tucci's is already a local favorite for its innovative menu and outstanding service.

Tucci’s made its debut in town just this past January, and has already become a local favorite for its innovative menu and outstanding service. This year, you can enjoy Thanksgiving dinner at Tucci’s, featuring plated menu selections served three courses that include roasted beet salad, butternut squash bisque, filet mignon, braised short ribs, and of course herb roasted turkey and pumpkin pie. Tucci’s can also host private events for small groups of up to 40 guests. Tucci’s offers free valet service, located in front of Matt the Miller's Tavern, perfect for chilly nights and the busy holiday season.

Visit Tucci’s at 11 W. City Center Drive in Carmel City Center for a fantastic holiday dining experience. For more information visit tucciscarmel.com and follow @tucciscarmel on Instagram for seasonal specials and events.

Merry & Bright

By SuSaN Salaz

For old-world charm and a fresh new take on the holiday season, visit the Christkindlmarkt (carmelchristkindlmarkt.com) from November 19 through December 30 at Carter Green in the heart of Carmel. The open-air market features individual huts aglow with lights, offering authentic German food and one-of-a-kind gifts, along with live entertainment, activities and an outdoor ice-skating rink. “It’s amazing how much we’ve been able to pack into the experience at the market,” says Maria Murphy, who has served as the CEO and Market Master of the award-winning event since its inception in 2017, noting the market’s positive impact on the community. After your time at the market, be sure to check out the Magnificent Monon, an outdoor walking tour of holiday lights from Carter Green to Main Street along the Monon Greenway.

Winterlights (discovernewfields.org) may be one of the newest light shows in Indianapolis, but this spectacular show on the grounds of Newfields is undoubtably one of the best. From November 20 through January 8, you can take a stroll through the gardens, where more than 1.5 million (yes, million) lights surround your every step, sparkling through the cold winter nights, warming your heart yet again.

Since 1967, Christmas at the Zoo (indianapoliszoo.com) has been a winter tradition at the Indianapolis Zoo—the first zoo in the nation to hold a holiday lights event. “The zoo is truly a special place to make lifelong memories,” says Judy Palmero, director of public relations at the Indianapolis Zoo. From November 19 through December 30, guests can wander through the animal exhibits, view the lights from the train and even hear the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir caroling near the campfires on select Saturday nights.

For those that prefer a holiday light show from the comfort of their car, Magic of Lights (magicoflights.com) at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville is a dazzling drive-through experience on display from November 18 through January 2. Pass through the Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, ramble over the well-lit fields, and view time-honored holiday scenes with all of your favorite Christmas characters.

Visit Conner Prairie’s A Merry Prairie Holiday (connerprairie.org) for truly oldfashioned Christmas traditions, and some new ones. Open Fridays through Sundays, November 25 through December 18, as well as December 21 and 22, this magical event is perfect for guests of all ages. “Families will enjoy thousands of lights across acres of grounds with photo ops around every corner,” says Rich Cooper, VP and Chief Program Officer at Conner Prairie. “Discover how different cultures celebrated Christmas in the 1800s, delight in watching a 3D projection show on the historic William Conner Home, race down a tubing hill, and skate in your socks on our skating rink.”

‘Tis the season when the already quaint town of Zionsville transforms into a quintessential Christmas village, complete with horse-drawn wagon rides, strolling carolers and outdoor ice skating. From November 25 through December 18, find a variety of festivities at Christmas in the Village (business.zionsvillechamber.org) and from December 9 through January 2, skate the day away on the open-air ice rink—and then warm up with a hot cup of cocoa—at Winterfest (zionsville-in.gov) held at Mulberry Park Fields.

By SuSaN Salaz

Raising the Sound Bar

Need a cure for the winter blues? Find sound medicine at the Ovation showroom in Carmel.

Anew home theater isn’t just a great place to chill when the weather cools off—it’s an investment in year-round entertainment. The exciting Ovation showroom in Carmel offers an unmatched experience for those looking to customize their music and movie space with the best in high-performance audio/video. So grab a bottle of Coca-Cola Classic (they’ll offer you one when you get there), spin your favorite tunes on the retro jukebox, and maybe even play a few rounds on the vintage Beatlemania pinball machine.

After that, lounge, listen and look around—you’ll surely warm up to something.

For more than 30 years, the trusted Ovation name has been synonymous with high-end audio/ video equipment throughout the Indianapolis area. The new Ovation showroom, which opened in 2020, co-located within John Kirk Furniture, is the area’s premier home theater destination, offering end-to-end services from retail upgrades to fully customized systems. The expansive space

features an impressive video wall, multiple living room-esque vignettes showcasing different audio and home theatre systems, and an ultrahigh performance listening room, as well as the enclosed Atmos BTS theater—their top-of-theline Klipsch system made for Regal Cinemas. “It’s something everyone needs to experience,” says Chris Cruzan, the company’s COO, who

was a driving force behind the design and build out of the new Carmel space. “This show room at Ovation is for people to make informed decisions on how best to spend their money when it comes to electronics and home entertainment solutions,” he adds.

According to Cruzan and the tight-knit team of custom audio/video industry veterans at Ovation, high quality surround sound should be prioritized in every home theater design. “It doesn't matter whether you're watching a series on Netflix or a Marvel movie—the sound is what actually gets you involved,” says Cruzan, explaining that 70% of what you hear in a movie comes out of the center channel, while the rest of the speakers act to simulate motion corresponding to what you are seeing visually. Ovation offers a wide range of big screen TVs and home theater systems that not only sound amazing, but are all on display for you to listen, watch and compare.

One of North America’s top dealers for Klipsch products—designed and engineered in Indianapolis— Ovation has more Klipsch speakers on display than anywhere else in the world, including the entire Heritage series, along with other top-tier brands. Customers can consider an array of video options right in real time, from HD to 4K to QLED and more, and sample other smart home accoutrements to enhance the home theater experience, such as lighting, shades and wireless control systems. With options for all levels of investment, the adept team at Ovation streamlines the process of designing, engineering and installing home theaters for every lifestyle.

Visit the interactive Ovation showroom, located at 12345 Old Meridian Street in Carmel, for a one-of-a-kind home entertainment experience that isn’t just informative, but also fun. For more information, find them online at ovationav.com and follow @ovationav on Instagram.