Café Arazu Best Place for Al Fresco Dining
Winner of “Best Restaurant Opened in 2010” in our January/ February 2011 issue, Café Arazu returns as the “Best Place for Al Fresco Dining.” This Newburgh, Ind., restaurant (17 W. Jennings St.) offers unique Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean dishes, giving hungry customers delicious food as well as diverse cultures. Arazu, which means wish or desire in Persian, is a driving force for restaurant owner Penny Nejad, who strives to offer a space where people of all backgrounds can unite. Along the banks of the Ohio River, the restaurant offers a river overlook too picturesque not to be a crowd favorite. As good food brings people together, so does a nice view from an outdoor patio.
Victoria National Golf Club E. Erickson Design & Antiques Best Antique Shop
Eddie Erickson is one of the most referenced sources for homeowners whose homes have been featured in Evansville Living. In fact, Erickson’s home in the Riverside Historic District was featured in the January/February 2007 issue of this magazine, where our writer noted: “Erickson is always in the mood to buy, and while he does sell much of what he obtains, he also has numerous acquisitions he would never part with.” Like his home, his showroom at 225 Main St. is filled with treasures. Thankfully for us, he is willing to sell his objects of desire — and to help clients select, then incorporate, unique finds in their own homes.
Best Kept Secret
editors’ pick
About 10 miles southwest of Mount Vernon, Ind., is perhaps the best-kept secret in the Tri-State: the Twin Swamps Nature Preserve. As the name implies, Twin Swamps is a wet, wooded preserve with two swamps. Visitors can follow trails through some of the preserve’s nearly 600 acres, which include rare views of bald cypress, swamp cottonwood, and overcup oak trees, as well as close glimpses of reptilian and amphibious wildlife. Just be sure to bring bug repellant in warmer months. 38 January | February 2013 Evansville Living
Nestled in 418 sprawling acres of rural Newburgh, Ind., Victoria National has a long list of accolades to match its even longer list of amenities. Ranked 35th in Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses,” this club has been voted best in the Tri-State. From world-class meals to an elegant yet cozy clubhouse to luxurious overnight cottages, the service, staff, and facilities at Victoria provide an unparalleled experience.
Best Family-Friendly Attraction
Any day you wish to visit the zoo, they’re ready for you — 365 days a year. With more than 700 animals on 50 beautifully laid-out acres, visitors can always make a new discovery. Ongoing educational programs and conservation projects create an array of opportunities for all ages to be part of the zoo’s mission to “celebrate the rich tapestry of life.” It’s located at 1545 Mesker Park Drive.
Five Guys Burgers and Fries Best Burger
When Five Guys opened on the East Side (5402 E. Indiana St.) in February 2011, it was an instant hit among our readers. Voted the “Best Restaurant Opened in 2011” in our January/February 2012 magazine, the eatery beat out longtime local favorites to win the title of “Best Burger” this year. The franchise, originally opened in Arlington, Va., in 1986, has grown to include more than 1,000 locations nationwide. With grilled-to-perfection burgers and 15 free topping choices, the chain is likely to just keep growing.
Eclipse Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Best Place for Small Plates Opened in July 2010, Eclipse remains a unique, tasty addition to Downtown Evansville (113 S.E. Fourth St.). Occupying a dramatically renovated space with brick and faux-painted walls as well as a beautiful tin ceiling, Eclipse is small, but comfortably so, and the same could be said of its small plates. Offering paella, salad, desserts, and, of course, many varieties of tapas, Eclipse is just the place to go when you need a little something to hit the spot.
Photo credits: e. erickson design and antiques by will steward. eclipse by hannah jay.
Twin Swamps Nature Preserve
Best Golf Course
Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden