Issuu

Destination

Dining

Meals worth the trip to Kokomo, Fort Wayne, Champaign, and Louisville

PLUS! THE FRENCH QUARTER COMES TO FOUNTAIN SQUARE

Where It All Comes

DESTINATION: DINING

A 100-mile drive for dinner is a tough sell, but a trip for a full day of culinary fun might be the perfect adventure to refresh your restaurant routine. Here are four dining days just a tank (or charge) away.

EDITED BY EVE BATEY

52 JOHN GREEN’S LATEST DIAGNOSIS

In Everything Is Tuberculosis, the Indianapolis YA author takes on the real-life story of a Sierra Leonean boy stricken with the world’s deadliest disease, proving that fact is more harrowing than fiction.

BY SAM STALL

56 CHARTED TERRITORY

A pair of empty nesters constructs a unique fusion of their favorite design styles and motifs on a wooded lot in Geist, using their bucolic surroundings and love of sailing as inspiration.

BY MICHELLE MASTRO

Photograph by Andrew Doench

Chicken pibil salbutes from Louisville’s Mayan Cafe

PHOTO BY

25Years of Fighting FOR

extraordinary LIFE

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•First in Indiana to offer CAR T-Cell therapy

•100+ transplants performed annually

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•Best Outcomes in Midwest*

* Center for International Blood & Marrow Transplantation 2023

CIRCLE CITY

SPEED READ

A recent Princeton University analysis found that none of Indiana’s nine congressional districts are competitive. It’s time for a refresher on gerrymandering.

THE HOOSIERIST

Our Indiana expert homes in out-of-town developers monopolizing housing stock.

BETS

Five can’t-miss events in Indy this month.

After enduring years in research facilities, laboratory primates rest easy at Peaceable Primate Sanctuary.

Broadway musician Sean Imboden has performed with some of the greatest artists of our time, but he still calls Indy’s jazz scene home.

GOOD LIFE

21 WANTED

Tap into the timeless power of natural materials with Shine Design Home’s statementmaking marble table.

SHOP TALK

Dabblers and committed artists alike find inspiration and hard-to-find supplies on the shelves of the Stutz Building’s Griffy’s Art Supply.

Sunny finds herald spring.

PROJECT

Pups and humans can make friends, wet their whistles, and attend fun events at Westfield’s Crate Escapes, while cats can enjoy the outdoors in safety on a custom-built catio.

Shelbyville, Kentucky’s friendly antique shops, boutiques, old-time eateries, and distilleries offer a welcoming dose of vintage Americana.

THE DISH

Rise & Revel serves up coffee by day and cocktails by night, including The Afterglow, a refreshing combination of grapefruit and bourbon. 32

FIRST BITE

Bar Ellis boasts a year-round rooftop lounge, Jenna Unrue encourages giving gluten-free goods a go, and TeaG teases eye-poppingly cute treats.

TASTE TEST

Rise and shine and give breakfast burritos the glory. 36

FOODIE

Following her father’s tragic death, Brockelle Nelson of Pa & Ma’s Backyard BBQ is resolved to keep filling bellies and supporting those in need.

38 REVIEW

After building a reputation in New Orleans, Nick Detrich brings his years of experience to oyster bar Magdalena.

APRIL

ADVANCED DEGREES

Our profiles of Midwest colleges and universities provide information about graduate degrees and workforce certification programs. With online study, evening and weekend courses, and competency-based learning options, these entities tailor their offerings to accommodate working adults.

65 // HEALTH WATCH: ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

With medical advances like robotic- and AI-assisted procedures, minimally invasive and nonsurgical techniques, and regenerative medicine, orthopedic specialists have a growing number of tools they can use to effectively treat their patients’ pain and discomfort and improve mobility.

75 // HOMETOWN: DOWNTOWN

If you haven’t ventured downtown to experience the magic of its cultural scene, iconic landmarks, independent businesses, and fun-filled calendar of events, we offer you a full roster of occasions to explore the heart of the Circle City in April.

PRIVATE EDUCATION

Independent schools offer custom learning environments for students of all ages. We’ll give readers a peek inside each campus, highlighting details about curriculum, class sizes, student activities and clubs, and culture.

TRAVEL

Start planning your spring and summer getaways with our guide to vacation destinations throughout the Midwest. This special section highlights top events, activities, and attractions in Indiana, Ohio, and the surrounding region.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Homecoming Dinner

WHEN I VISIT my parents in Kokomo, the trips are usually focused on spending time with the folks at their house—the place they’ve called home since I was a year old. I beeline directly to their door and directly back to mine without devoting much, if any, energy to getting out and exploring what’s new in my hometown. My mom and I take walks in the neighborhood, so I take notice of updated paint colors and fresh landscaping around my old stomping grounds. But it wasn’t until recently, when our editorial staff discussed this month’s destination dining cover feature (p.42), that Kokomo came onto my radar as a dining hot spot. Who knew?

Andrea Ratcliff Editor-in-Chief

The short answer is Brian Garrido, who collaborated with Eve Batey and Terry Kirts to compile a roundup of standout establishments in Kokomo, Fort Wayne, Louisville, and Champaign, Illinois—another locale to which I sometimes travel to visit family. When I read through Garrido’s Kokomo writeups, I was pleasantly surprised to see some familiar names: Frittata’s, where my cousin worked; Half Moon Restaurant & Brewery, the site of a mini-reunion with high school friends a decade ago; The Foxes Trail, a cozy spot tucked away just south of downtown that’s popular with my parents’ friends; and Radish Market & Cafe, an adorable restaurant and shop on the courthouse square with a healthy, satisfying lunch menu (so charming!). The Korean barbecue spots are now calling my name, but I’m at least reassured that I haven’t missed out on Kokomo’s apparently burgeoning culinary scene after all. It was right under my nose all along; it just took a little nudge from a colleague to reintroduce me to my own hometown.

( CONTRIBUTORS )

PUBLISHER Ivy Bayer

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Andrea Ratcliff

FEATURES EDITOR

Julia Spalding

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Christina Vercelletto

FOOD & DINING EDITOR

Eve Batey

MANAGING EDITOR

Camille Graves

DIGITAL EDITOR

Clay Maxfield

Art | production

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Margo Wininger

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Vu Luong

EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR

Maura Broderson

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Christiana Bertsch

Advertising | Business

SALES DIRECTOR

Holly Whitney

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Amy Cecil, Matthew Clements, Jena Jennings, Nancy Oliphant

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Missy Beiting

IndianapolisMonthly.com/ advertise-with-us

Lorrie Barrett

Freelance writer Lorrie

Barrett has been fascinated with animals since she was a little girl, collecting tadpoles and raising orphaned bunnies with her dad. She’s rehabilitated many creatures, trained monkeys, volunteered at a tiger sanctuary, and prepares meals for the retirees at Peaceable Primate Sanctuary (p. 16) whenever she can.

Longtime music lover and freelancer Caiden Cawthon has covered art and culture for an array of outlets. When he’s not tapping a pencil to his head while working through an article, he’s tapping on the keys of a piano. On page 18, he gives an overview of the dazzling career of Sean Imboden and the big bandleader’s debut album.

PUBLISHED BY

Cincinnati Media, LLC, A SUBSIDIARY OF HOUR MEDIA, LLC

Andrew Doench

Based out of Cincinnati, Ohio, commercial and advertising photographer Andrew Doench has worked in the industry for 15 years. Excelling at food photography. Doench has shot some amazing dishes for Indianapolis Monthly and enjoyed road-tripping around the Midwest for this month’s destination dining feature (p. 42).

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT John Balardo

EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING OFFICES

Indianapolis Monthly 8909 Purdue Rd., Suite 130 Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-969-6954

Subscriptions 1-866-660-6247

IndianapolisMonthly.com/ subscribe

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Caiden Cawthon

Being thoughtful in building a home is about considering not just the aesthetics, but also the functionality. It’s about understanding the needs and desires of the people who will inhabit it. It’s evident in the layout, that feels special and inviting... more than just a structure; it becomes a sanctuary, a place where memories are made and that you're proud to call home.

The Shape of Power

On May 6, Indiana voters—or, if history is any guide, a small subset—will show up to the polls for Primary Election Day. While it’s likely not the sole reason for our consistently dismal turnout, one factor pops up again and again. It’s time for a refresher on gerrymandering.

( SPEED READ CONTINUED )

GERRYMANDERING IS A MANIPULATION OF THE REDISTRICTING PROCESS, A 10-YEAR ADJUSTMENT OF STATE AND FEDERAL VOTING DISTRICTS. At the beginning of each decade in Indiana and 43 other states, the legislature redraws the districts that elect members of the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as state representatives, using the latest census data. The reason (at least the stated one) is to make sure each district contains a roughly equal number of voters.

GAMING THE REDISTRICTING SYSTEM IS NOTHING NEW. Almost since the dawn of the republic, state political parties that have held the majority have drawn boundaries in their favor. They dilute the strength of the rival party by splitting populations between multiple districts, called cracking. Another option is to jam voting blocs into only a few districts, cutting their influence in the rest of the state, i.e. packing. Either can account for gerrymandering’s hallmark: districts in weird shapes. In fact, the name comes from a district created in 1812 by Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry, which resembled a salamander. A cartoonist at the Boston Gazette gave it demonic wings and a beaked head, calling it a “Gerry-mander.” Here in Indiana, one of the most brazen instances occurred in 1852, when the Democrat-controlled legislature redrew the map so masterfully that 10 of the 11 congressional districts elected Democrats, even though the party earned just 53 percent of the popular vote.

THE PRACTICE IS ESPECIALLY ENTRENCHED IN INDIANA. A recent analysis by Princeton University found that none of Indiana’s nine congressional districts are competitive. Election forecaster FiveThirtyEight calculated that the two U.S. House districts “packed” with Democrats have a 91 and 97 percent chance of staying blue, while the odds of Republicans hanging onto the seven seats they hold range from 94 to 99 percent. During the last two redistricting cycles, Republicans, who held supermajorities in the Indiana Statehouse, redrew the state districts with

“SINCE THE TASK OF REDISTRICTING RESTS WITH THE LEGISLATURE, THE SUPERMAJORITY CAN CREATE AND PASS MAPS WITHOUT ANY OF THE SUPERMINORITY LEGISLATORS’ SUPPORT.”

no input from the opposition party or anyone else. George Washington University political scientist Christopher Warshaw reports Indiana Republicans get around 56 percent of the statewide vote. Yet somehow the Republican Party occupies 70 of the 100 seats in the Indiana House of Representatives, a spread that’s remained more or less static for years.

TECHNOLOGY ONLY MAKES MATTERS WORSE. Politicians bent on putting a thumb on the electoral scales can now use software—DistrictBuilder and Districtr are both open access—that combines voting data, demographic information, and other factors to generate hundreds of district designs that can be manipulated down to a single block.

GERRYMANDERING CAN PROMOTE EXTREMISM. Theoretically, politicians seeking office in a district containing a relatively balanced voter base would be willing to compromise and temper their positions. In Indiana, with every district controlled by one party or the other, a candidate who doesn’t adopt a hardcore stance risks defeat during the primaries by a more middle-of-the-road opponent in their own party.

IT SUPPRESSES CANDIDATE PARTICIPATION.

Of the 100 Indiana House seats that were up for grabs in 2024, 36 incumbents ran unopposed. Yes, the voters in those districts quite literally had no choice. In many cases, this happens because the district is tipped so heavily toward one party or the other that any potential opponents decide it isn’t worth their time to run.

AND ULTIMATELY VOTER TURNOUT. Likewise, constituents understandably may be loath to take the time to vote when the end result seems preordained. Last year, only 13 percent of Marion County voters bothered. According to the Indiana Civic Health Index, Hoosiers’ participation in the most basic functions

of a democratic society, registering to vote and then going to the polls, has declined every decade since the index began. Indiana’s voter turnout rate has fallen since the 1980s by as much as 14.5 percent; meanwhile, the national voter turnout rate rose to its highest level. “Indiana’s voting infrastructure and election laws contribute to that decline,” says Linda Hanson, president of the League of Women Voters of Indiana.

THE FOX GUARDING THE HENHOUSE IS NOT PROHIBITED. There are no brakes at all on the existing system. The dominant party can redistrict any way it likes, and that’s that. “Since the task of redistricting rests with the legislature, the supermajority can create and pass maps without any of the superminority legislators’ support,” says Hanson.

YET, REFORM COULD BE POSSIBLE. Nine states, including Arizona, California, and Michigan, use independent commissions for redistricting. In most cases, the panel draws both state and federal districts, with elected officials typically barred from participating in the process. Indiana’s Citizens Action Coalition and two dozen partner groups formed the All IN for Democracy coalition to advocate for something similar here. During the 2020 Indiana General Assembly, the coalition attempted the quixotic task of developing legislation to create a bipartisan citizens redistricting commission. This went about as well as one might expect. Both the Indiana House and Senate refused to even give the reform a hearing. Local activist Sampson Levingston nevertheless counsels perseverance. “People think their vote doesn’t count, but that isn’t true,” says Levingston. “If your vote didn’t matter, politicians wouldn’t go to such lengths to try and control it. Doing nothing definitely isn’t the solution. The more people who understand what’s going on, the better the chances for change.” —SAM STALL

Rise of Rentals

Q : OUT-OF-TOWN INVESTORS ARE SCOOPING UP INDY-AREA HOUSES TO RENT. WHERE IS THE PROBLEM WORST? A: It’s getting particularly bad in Lawrence and on the east side, but just like black mold, you’ll find it almost everywhere. In Greenwood, Noblesville, and McCordsville, developers have gone so far as to build entire communities made up of houses destined to be rented. The trend is problematic for homeowners, whose property values may crater if their cul-de-sac fills up with rentals poorly maintained by absentee landlords. Homebuyers, meanwhile, are left to bid against corporations using AI to evaluate new listings, then waiving inspections and paying cash. Municipalities are contemplating ordinances proscribing such sales or limiting them to 10 percent of single-family homes in a specific subdivision or on a particular street. Fishers is leading the charge. In the meantime, homebuying isn’t going to get any less stressful. —SAM STALL

( UNSPOKEN RULES )

Indy Film Fest

A MANNER-FESTO FOR OUR BIGGER-THAN-EVER CELEBRATION OF CINEMA APRIL 23–27

Embrace surprises. Many films are premieres, so don’t count on reviews. Nab a festival pass, which gets you into any and all of the films. Dress to impress. If you skip the opening- and awardsnight parties, you skip half the fun. Plan your time. Both shorts and features—longer than 40 minutes— are screened. Bring your state pride. More Hoosier-made films and ones shot in Indiana are in this year’s mix. Grab popcorn from Just Pop In! Stream any flicks you missed through EventLive until May 4. Consider helping out next year. IFF runs on volunteers.

$1,595

Rent is slightly cheaper at $1,340, and you don’t have to make a down payment. No, you won’t build equity, but you’ll also never have to hunt for a plumber when your water heater springs a leak at 11 p.m.

ask THE HOOSIERIST

(1) Indians vs. Cubs

April 1

Be there to cheer on our Indianapolis Indians as they face the Iowa Cubs in their first home game of the season at Victory Field. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with Rowdie the Bear. milb.com/ indianapolis

(2) Peter Frampton

April 11

Frampton comes alive!

The English guitarist and newest Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee will perform “Baby, I Love Your Way” and more of his classic rock staples at The Palladium. thecenterpresents.org

(3) Presidential Egg Roll

April 12

For Peeps’ sake, hop over to the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site for Indy’s only Easter egg roll. The little ones can also make crafts, meet the holiday hare himself, and hunt for prize-filled golden eggs. bhpsite.org

(4) The Temptations & The Four Tops

April 13

It’s been 60 years of sunshine on cloudy days and sugar pies with honey bunches. Two legendary Motown groups merge their incomparable talents in one memorable show at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre. livenation.com

(5) Church Basement Ladies Opens April 17

In Beef & Boards’ cheeky musical set in a Midwestern church, four stalwart kitchen volunteers try to organize lives along with weekly meals. Hilarity ensues. beefandboards.com

Golden Years

WHEN LAB PRIMATES OUTLAST THEIR USEFULNESS, INCREASINGLY MORE ARE RETIRING TO THE RURAL INDIANA TOWN OF WINIMAC. BY LORRIE BARRETT

DRIVING UP the gravel driveway leading to Peaceable Primate Sanctuary, it’s surprisingly quiet.

Small buildings surrounded by chain-link outdoor enclosures dot the front of the property. Farther back, the buildings and yards get larger. A metal-framed building houses the small apartment where director Scott Kubisch stays with his rescue dogs. It’s decorated in all things monkey—figurines, paintings, stuffed animals, and framed photos of residents, past and present.

Approximately 110,00 primates are housed in U.S. pharmaceutical and cosmetic company research facilities. Most of the 101 under Kubisch’s care are baboons and macaques, the latter quickly becoming the most common species in labs. Recently, a third became part of the fold, albeit in small

numbers: lemurs. Not all the residents are survivors of labs. A few were taken from roadside attractions or abusive owners. One such rescued monkey was kept in a tiny, filthy cage and fed a diet of ketchup sandwiches for years.

Of the six baboon species, two are represented in the sanctuary: the olive baboon, a gray-green variety known to bark and wa-hoo, and the hamadryas, which is recognizable for its wise expressions and silvery mane. Animals retrieved from the same situation who arrive already bonded are kept together. The rest are carefully observed to note their habits and preferences, then housed side-by-side with a prospective troop, an audition of sorts. Once it seems likely they’ll get along, they’re officially introduced. Lip smacking is a sure sign the newbie has been accepted.

wanted him to go into the trades because it was “respectable work.”

But his grandmother urged him to pursue his passion, so that’s what he did, going to work at a children’s zoo right out of high school. Years later, after being a zookeeper at Brookfield and Lincoln Park zoos in Chicago, he started to dream of his own facility, one where laboratory primates who’d had dismal existences could enjoy the rest of their lives. Such communities for chimpanzees existed, but none of any size for baboons. So he cashed in a retirement account to purchase land in Winamac, near where his grandparents once lived. Though he was a lifelong Chicagoan, property was cheaper and red tape not as onerous in Indiana as in Illinois. An endowment from a docent he befriended as a zookeeper enabled him to welcome his first residents, baboons Violet, Juniper, and Periwinkle.

Baboons have personalities. Olivia is gregarious, rushing right over to the fence to greet visitors, picking greenery, then coquettishly twirling it under her nose. Amelia loves the rain, even thunderstorms, racing to the highest platform and tilting her face back to feel the drops. Dyson and his wingman Moses, 6-year-old best buds, get along with the ladies, but other males? Not so much. Kubisch emphasizes that while movies frequently make baboons look malevolent, males often put their lives on the line to protect their troop. And primates in general tend to be loyal to their caregivers, even playing favorites. Sissy, a petite macaque, seems to have a crush on Kubisch. She calls out, then looks at him and quickly looks away, classic primate—and human, for that matter—flirting.

Seeing a newcomer enjoy an experience for the first time is always a thrill. Being groomed by another monkey after years of solitude or touching grass reliably elicit surprise, then joy. Playing with a Kong dog toy or tasting sugar-free Jell-O? Utter glee. And while Kubisch treasures such moments, he’s looking at the big picture now. “I get the most satisfaction out of seeing the big difference our sanctuary is making. We started a new movement. Now, sending animals to retirement, rather than THE BEAT

Kubisch has loved animals for as long as he can remember. His dad

to terminal studies or euthanasia, is becoming the norm.”

Kubisch books speaking engagements with the laboratory community, and it’s paying off. “We’re growing fast now,” he reports. A hospital with a surgical suite was just finished; a new indoor/outdoor enclosure building with in-floor heating is next. The retirees get excellent medical care, including birth control. One baboon and two macaques take anxiety medication. Some get natural remedies like milk thistle for liver health. Since most are middle-aged or older, many take CBD for aches and pains. One of eight caregivers gives medications in peanut butter or rice cakes. Macaque Wilma needed daily injections for diabetes. Sugar-free Red Vines, specially ordered from Indiana’s own American Licorice, secured her cooperation. She passed away peacefully at age 18.

It costs roughly $5,000 a year to care for each primate. Financial support comes from laboratories, grants, corporate sponsors, and individuals. Kubisch takes no stand on the ethics of animal testing, allowing him to accept funding from both labs and animal rights groups. He also relies on veterinarians and a veterinary dentist who donate their services, Purdue interns, and volunteers.

Food is prepared daily in a commercial kitchen. A menu favorite is an enriched dry pasta-and-cereal mix. Chickens and peacocks provide eggs. Corn on the cob is a coveted treat—it’s a party when a local farmer arrives with a donation. Kubisch recently acquired an adjacent property with fruit trees ready to harvest this year.

Visitors aren’t allowed unless they book a tour in advance or attend the biannual Festival de Monos fundraiser (named for the Monkey Buffet Festival in Thailand). Paid interactions like holding a macaque would doubtless be popular but violate Kubisch’s mission. The retirees have earned the right to do only what they choose to do. Two new species will arrive by year’s end: squirrel and spider monkeys. And Kubisch granted his father’s wish after all. “These animals have performed a valuable service to humanity and now deserve to live out the remainder of their lives with dignity.”

“Adopt” a resident for a day or donate an item from the sanctuary’s Amazon wish list at peaceableprimatesanctuary.com.

APR 12–AUG 3

Featuring more than 100 works of art by Canadian and U.S. Native Bead Artists

Katherine Boyer (Métis) The Sky Vest, 2021 Seed beads on smoked moosehide Collection National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa. © Katherine Boyer.

Photo: Don Hall, Courtesy MacKenzie Art Gallery

Swing of Things

A BROADWAY MUSICIAN FINDS HIS TRUE COMMUNITY HERE IN INDY.

BY CAIDEN CAWTHON

AFTER graduating from Indiana University in 2006, jazz band leader Sean Imboden went to New York City to get his Master of Music degree—-and found fast success on Broadway, touring with Hairspray, South Pacific, and Young Frankenstein. Yet when he moved back to Indianapolis in 2015 to teach music at Ball State and Butler universities, Imboden realized home is the perfect place to continue pursuing his passion. He was soon drawing crowds at the Chatterbox. The members of the Sean Imboden Large Ensemble—aka SILE— met at a gig in 2017 and have been harmonizing since. What Imboden calls “a modern big band” blends exuberance with control, creating bouncing and interlocking rhythms that captivate both the ear and the mind. Their perserverance paid off: SILE is releasing its debut album, Communal Heart, and celebrating with a special show at The Jazz Kitchen April 26.

THE TICKET

He finds the sense of belonging and the liveliness within Indy’s jazz scene to be just as fulfilling as performing at Radio City Music Hall. Hoosiers have a “genuine sense of connection,” he observes. He hopes they’ll listen to the 38-minute album as SILE intended, in one sitting. “I want to inspire people. Not inspire them to pick up a sax or a trombone, not anything like that. But in terms of what [they think] is possible for themselves.”

Born to musicians, Imboden was introduced to the thrill of performing early. “I very much came up in the music world,” he recounts, noting his rise from gigs as a student at North Central High School to star-studded shows. “A lot of it had to do with just being on the scene long enough,” he says. “I had the opportunity to appear on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon with The All-American Rejects, to play with Johnny Mathis, Aretha Franklin, and Idina Menzel. It all came from making connections.”

FAVORITE THINGS

In spring, Imboden enjoys walking the Monon Trail and the Newﬁelds grounds.

When Imboden wants to be in front of a stage instead of on one, he heads to The Cabaret.

When

IMBODEN

PHOTO COURTESY

RICH VORHEES

Imboden returned to Indy, Spoke & Steele had just opened. It became his new favorite spot.

This 18,000-square-foot luxury show home combines cutting-edge design and amenities with seclusion and natural beauty on 8 wooded acres near Geist Reservoir in Fishers. The creative teams of Carrington Homes, Revkah Design, and Emily Handke Design collaborated on the high-end signature residence that includes custom features such as a gaming lounge, indoor basketball court, wellness center, gourmet kitchen, pool and spa, and more.

GOOD LIFE

Ready to Rock

This bright white marble table is a popular pick at Shine Design Home. That’s hardly a surprise: The modern aesthetic and sleek, tapered shape make it a stunning piece. At 40 inches across, it can elevate an entryway or, paired with banquette seating, leave an impact in a breakfast nook. “Our clients are drawn to this table because it deﬁnitely makes a statement yet also feels timeless because it’s marble,” says Shine Design owner Sunshine Brooks. “They’re catching on to the fact that natural materials always have more staying power in design.” $4,273. Shine Design Home, 7216 N. Keystone Ave., 317-974-9029 —CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

Griffy’s Art Supply

ADDRESS

1060 N. Capitol Ave.

HOURS

Tue–Sat, noon–6 p.m.

( SHOP TALK )

True Colors

A NEW CREATIVE HAVEN FOR ARTISTS CLOSES A RETAIL GAP. BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

A.J. and Lauren O’Reilly moved from Bloomington to be near family, closing their “scrappy” art supply business—and resurrecting it in a sunny nook at the Stutz Building. Griffy’s Art Supply brims with brushes, paints, canvases, sketch pads, and more high-quality accoutrements of committed creators. But dabblers find inspiration on the shelves too. Manager Miranda Perez, whose background is in painting and drawing, guides with a smile. Need an opaque paint that resists water? “Right over here.” Wish water-based paint was easier to control? “Check out these paint pens.” A.J. is trained in fine and graphic arts. “All the graphic artists I know dream of opening their own store,” he says. He leaned on “blind faith” to pursue that dream, adding that the couple is filling a void in Indy. “We’re the only independent store for working professionals and serious hobbyists in Indianapolis.” And the name? “We lived near Griffy Lake,” explains A.J. “It sounded like a store that’s been around for decades.” He intends to live up to that: “We want to grow from here.”

WHAT A UNIQUE DRESS!

It’s by local artist Denise Mayfield Sanders. The way it sways makes me feel exceptionally confident. It’s a wonderful conversation starter at galas and benefits.

(1) Punilabo pig pen case, $20 (2) Olo reﬁllable brush alcohol markers, $4 each (3) Gansai Tambi watercolor set, $41 (4) Handmade Wild water cup for paintbrushes, $50 (5) Profolio Midtown felt pouches, $7 and $9; other colors available

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE. Sophisticated business casual.

ANY GO-TO STORES? Torrid, Von Maur, and Nordstrom.

WHO INFLUENCED YOUR FASHION SENSE?

My grandmother in Chicago. She was a seamstress with an incredible eye for quality fabrics and construction. Watching her work taught me to appreciate how different materials drape and move, which inﬂuences how I mix styles today. —C.V.

Rochelle Jerry Professional Fundraiser

Like Buttah

SUNNY FINDS HERALD SPRING

BY STEPHEN GARSTANG

(3) The Original Bogg Bag is even better in a fresh, buttery hue. $90. Civvies, 1134 E. 54th St., 317-653-1169. Faux tulip bundle tied with twine, $40. Pottery Barn, The Fashion Mall

(4) Brighten up your winter-weary home with this Barrick Design candle $35. Wood coaster made in the Phillipines, $10. Artifacts, 6327 Guilford Ave., 317-255-1178

(5) Stash candies, cookies, or small odds and ends in this cheerful, yellow-crested cockatoo ceramic jar $48. Be the Boutique, 5607 N. Illinois St., 317-257-3826

(6) Littles will be walking on a cloud in Crocs kids’ rain boots. The cute rainbow handles make it easy for small hands to pull them on. $50. Nordstrom, The Fashion Mall

Jen’s Floral Design Is More Than Flowers

arrangements—she gets to know her clients and adds a personal touch to everything she does.

FOR TWENTY YEARS, Jennifer Treadway has been celebrating unforgettable design. Operating from her home-based shop—she’s created a service where personal touches and an artistic vision tell a story through every arrangement she crafts. You know you’re getting a thoughtful gift or unique wedding arrangement because Jen’s Floral Design is known for their customized approach. “It’s all about the heart,” says Treadway. “People are sending something because they’re thinking of them, or they’re concerned for someone. Through my work, I want to express that.” Her signature is adding personalized elements to every arrangement, whether that’s an unexpected

JEN'S FLORAL DESIGN

13010 COYOTE RUN FISHERS, IN 46038

317-847-5481

makes each creation memorable.

Over the years, she’s cultivated a loyal following that stretches from local Indianapolis communities to clients as far away as Canada

Building on her extensive experience in event production and wedding planning, Jennifer’s

Consultants, she offers comprehensive services including wedding consultation, destination travel coordination, honeymoon planning, and negotiation for discounted hotel room blocks for clients. This full-service approach has made her a sought-after option for weddings and events. “There’s no doubt that God put me on this path, and I’m beyond fortunate to be on it,” says Treadway. “It’s brought me a lot of success, and like anything, there are trials

and tribulations and learning curves almost daily.” This spiritual foundation infuses her work with purpose, driving her commitment to the art whether she’s crafting elaborate wedding installations or creating a thoughtful sympathy arrangement. “I love my people,” says Treadway. “Whether it’s a bride or one of my clients who calls me on a regular basis, we build relationships, that’s what it’s about.”

Jen’s Floral Design

arrangement options at all price points, including holiday specialties, birthday arrangements, and custom gift baskets.

Release the Hounds

CRATE ESCAPES IS INDIANA’S ONLY BAR WHERE THE TOP DOGS ARE ... DOGS.

BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

ANY PARENT knows that having kids brings built-in opportunities to socialize. But what if you’re mom or dad to a Frenchie? You head to Crate Escapes (crateescapeswestfield .com), situated on 3 acres next to Grand Park. Pups romp off-leash in an indoor/ outdoor space while their humans chill with fellow dog people. Sip a seasonal cocktail at the bar or amble over to the 20-tap, self-pour beer and wine wall. (To be clear, the canines aren’t bellying up to the bar. They wet their whistles in the clean and copious water bowls.) Coastal Cantina serves nibbles inside or out on the covered patio.

A separate area for pooches less than 25 pounds is thoughtfully designed, but my 13-pound Pomeranian, Peach, insisted on hanging with the big kids. I needn’t have worried. Trained staff are on hand to keep the peace. To

that end, plenty of balls are provided, so leave that favorite toy at home. Peach held her own just fine with Harold, a gangling basset hound, giant schnauzer Titan, and a chow chow named Pow Pow, all vying for her affections. One of the rufferees, if you will, cheerily cleaned up piddle after piddle produced by Pow Pow, giddy with love, doubtless. Special events are enough to make even the dog-less drop by: Puppies Night Out, live concerts, trivia competitions, dog yoga, adoption gatherings, Puppy Bowl, Mardi-Paws, and ... wait for it … Puppy Prom.

Founders and sisters Meg Schaffer and Jen Ehlers make dog birthday parties (in the pristine paw-ty room) and cleanup (in a bathing room stocked with hypoallergenic oatmeal shampoo and towels) a breeze. Annual memberships that come with an array of perks as well as month-to-month memberships and day passes are available.

Fri–Sat 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

( EXPLORE )

Born Free

Custom cat patios are getting two toe beans up.

INDOOR KITTIES gaze longingly out windows, often at nothing more than blowing leaves. While it’s tempting to let them romp outside, dangers await.

For their part, the cats are all about their new pads. Darger observes they’re often comically fixated on his progress, “like they want to make sure the job is done right.” —C.V. ADDRESS 18595 Carousel Ln.,

Enter catios, indoor/ outdoor enclosures tricked out with perches, scratching posts, even swings. Your precious puss can feel the sun on her fur and the breeze in her whiskers in safety. They’re a boon to wildlife too. Indiana Audubon advocates for them, noting high numbers of endangered birds fall victim to roaming cats.

The structures are customized, even for felines with disabilities, says local Cat Topia (thecattopia.com) builder Antoine Darger. Catios range from simple window-box styles to elaborate tunnel systems. “Here in Central Indiana, with changeable weather and predators, we use durable cedar or redwood and heavy-duty, PVCcoated steel wire that thwarts birds of prey,” adds Darger.

PET PROJECT

Country Charm

Shelbyville, KY

NOSH, SIP, AND EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE SLOW LANE IN SHELBY COUNTY.

BY LOU HARRY

SITTING west of downtown Louisville, Shelbyville is watched over by a statue of Squire Boone, Daniel’s kid brother, who established the first European settlement in what would become Shelby County. Now the county seat, its downtown was taken over by the cast and crew of the 2023 film about the life of author Flannery O’Connor, Wildcat, set in the 1950s. But Hollywood embellishment is superfluous. Shelby Main Street, the town’s central district, is Americana to the core, with longstanding antique and collectible shops, a clarinet purveyor, and old-time eateries.

Dating to 1902, the Bell House Restaurant (bellhousewebsite.com) serves the best take on a local staple, the Hot Brown. Happy with your cheesy, bacon-turkey-tomato sando? Ring the fire bell out front. A bust of Kentucky’s famed poultry-peddling colonel presides over the dining room of the Claudia

Sanders Dinner House (claudiasanders shelbyville.com), named for the colonel’s wife. The couple lived in the building across the parking lot. Visit on a Sunday for a fried chicken buffet. Down the road in Simpsonville, locals pack Weathered Oak Farms (weatheredoakfarms.com) for the homemade sourdough cinnamon rolls.

Aside from stick-to-your-ribs comestibles worth texting home about, a big draw is the bevy of distinctive bourbon distilleries. Chief among them is Jeptha Creed Distillery (jepthacreed.com), a woman-owned family operation that boasts a “ground to glass” methodology, the alcohol version of farm-totable. In season, you’ll see fields of heirloom corn behind barns housing aging barrels, furnished with easy chairs for tasting events. Lovers of the high-rye brand that heralded the modern whiskey boom will want to stop at Bulleit Distilling Co. (bulleit.com/visit-us) for a tour or a workshop that lets you paint or pour a candle as you sip.

IF YOU GO

SHOP The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass (theoutlet shoppesoftheblue grass.com) include Cole Haan, Keen, and Tory Burch.

RELAX Little Mount Lavender (littlemount lavender.com) infuses the locally grown herb in salad dressing, cobbler, and more.

HORSE SENSE Book a tour of Kismet Farms (kismet farmsllc.com) to learn how saddlebreds differ from thoroughbreds and get up close to world-class specimens.

Life, uh, finds a way … to South Bend. Mysterious dinos like Spinosaurus, Quetzalcoatlus, and ceratopsia swarm the new INDIANA DINOSAUR MUSEUM . Exhibits are designed through a decidedly modern lens: understandable, Instagrammable, and fun. Don’t miss the real dinosaur skin and the avian dino nursery. indianadinosaurmuseum.org

Bourbon and Branch

West Fork Whiskey Co. branches out this month with Rise & Revel, a coffee shop and craft cocktail bar on the ground ﬂoor of glossy new Fountain Square apartment building Union Square. During the day, expect java and pastries—both new offerings for the distillery. At night, expect high-end mixed drinks like The Afterglow, a refreshing combination of grapefruit and bourbon. It was concocted with people who shy away from unadulterated liquor in mind, says co-founder David McIntyre. “The best way to introduce people to a new spirit is via a cocktail. Over time, they grow to appreciate it, and the next thing you know, they’re drinking a whiskey on the rocks.” 1233 Shelby St. —EVE BATEY

SWOON

Photo by TONY VALAINIS

( CHEERS )

The High Life

NOBLESVILLE’S NEW BAR ELLIS BOASTS A YEAR-ROUND ROOFTOP LOUNGE. BY EVE BATEY

AFTER LISA and Bill Wampler sold their decade-old Cicero restaurant, 10 West, “We took the summer off, then were like, ‘Should we do one more restaurant?’” Lisa says. Around the same time, they met the owner of a historic building just off Noblesville’s town square. “It was just a shell,” Lisa says of the 1869-built structure. “We had to climb a ladder to get to the second floor, but when we saw that view, we were sold.” That view came up again as the Wamplers and partner Chamron Baird worked to bring Bar Ellis to life. Stuck with a small interior dining room, the trio extended the restaurant onto the building’s second-floor outdoor space, adding see-through walls, lighting, and a cozy heating system. Now it’s known as one of the region’s few rooftop options that is open year-round. “Even if it’s freezing out, it’ll be so toasty and warm out there,” Lisa says. 841 Conner St., Noblesville, 317-764-2571, bebarellis.com

( NEW IN TOWN )

PINCH OF WISDOM

“Ten years ago, it was hard to ﬁnd good gluten-free baked goods, but it’s not that way anymore! Still, some people are scared to give GF foods a taste. I usually just tell people, ‘Hey, just try it. What’s the worst that could happen?’”

— Jenna Unrue, owner 4 Birds Bakery

Sweet Inspiration

TeaG is serving some of Indy’s most Instagrammable desserts.

DEREK FONG was born in Hong Kong but came to Indy in 1997, where he built a career as a real estate agent. It was in that role that he met April Sun, an aspiring restaurateur from Shanghai who was looking for a space to open a bakery specializing in adorably decorated Asian-inspired sweets and house-crafted boba drinks.

The duo partnered to open TeaG, with Sun creating new dishes in the kitchen as Fong manages its business side. Fong, a longtime Fishers resident, is excited to share Sun’s new twists on dishes from his youth with the community—and he’s also loving his role as test subject for Sun’s ingenuity.

“People are coming back every day to see what new things we have,” Fong says.

“I love to eat it all, too.” 8910 E. 96th St., Fishers, 317-5372087, tea-g.com —E.B.

MACARON MAGIC Indy farmers market fave Filigree Bakery will soon open its first storefront in Broad Ripple. Construction to convert a former Carrollton Avenue home into a bustling bakery is underway. ROAD RULES House Bill 1461 would allow Indiana counties to tack extra fees onto food deliveries in an effort to fund much-needed road maintenance. If passed, it could generate an estimated $24 million in Indy alone. —E.B.

Wrap Stars

BREAKFAST BURRITOS ARE A SAVORY, FILLING, AND DELICIOUS BREAKFAST TREAT. HERE ARE SOME STANDOUTS TO TRY.

BY AMY LYNCH

Paco’s Taqueria

Available all day, this handheld protein-packed meal tucks ﬂuffy scrambled eggs with your choice of meat into a warm ﬂour tortilla, while beans and cheese round the party out. It’s not fancy, just super satisfying. Multiple locations, pacostaquerias.com

LOVE HANDLE

It’s hard to pass up this Mass Ave spot’s OMG Fried Chicken and seasonal vegan hash variations. But the gut-busting breakfast burrito is where it’s at, a meaty and mouthwatering masterpiece all wrapped up with eggs and cheese. 877 Massachusetts Ave., 317-384-1102

Rosie’s Place

Heat lovers ﬂock to Rosie’s for the Spicy Burrito, which packs scrambled eggs, chorizo, green chiles, tomatoes, green onions, and pepper jack cheese into a tortilla that’s topped with cheddar cheese and subtly hot ranchero sauce. There’s even a serving of country potatoes on the side. Multiple locations, rosiesplace.net

RIZE

You had us at “bacon fat–confit potatoes,” RIZE, but this hearty burrito also includes eggs, chorizo, peppers, and two kinds of cheese. A lime crema and finely diced salsa fresca lend a dash of brightness to the rich flavor profile. Multiple locations, rize-restaurant.com

GoldLeaf Savory & SweeT

Seasoned potatoes, onions, tomatoes, eggs, and pepper jack cheese play together nicely in this menu mainstay. Zingy housemade tomatillo salsa (make sure to order extra) is served on the side. Want to add some sausage and sour cream to your order? Of course you do. 1901 E. 46th St., 317-600-3542, goldleaﬁndy.com

PHOTO

Tragedy to Tradition

BROCKELLE NELSON KEEPS HER FATHER’S LEGACY ALIVE.

BY BRIAN GARRIDO

PA AND MA’S Backyard BBQ opened three decades ago when founder George Nelson started cooking family recipes in the backyard of his home. In 2024, Nelson moved his restaurant from a rented College Avenue location to a larger Martin Luther King Jr. Street space; a visit from Guy Fieri for an episode of Food Network series Diners, Drive-ins and Dives soon followed. But in August, George was fatally shot following a disagreement with a handyman.

The tragedy prompted daughter Brockelle Nelson to return to her hometown. “I moved at 18 to attend Howard University,” she says of the Washington, D.C., HBCU. She stayed in that city for the next 15 years.

Now Brockelle and her mother, Monica, operate the business with the strong support of their trusted staff “I literally grew up in the restaurant business, where I was responsible for peeling potatoes and cutting corn,” Brockelle says, but just as important

to her is finding a way to continue her father’s legacy. George had plans to grow the business that Brockelle and Monica are eager to carry out, and the pair is also committed to continuing his focus on supporting the community.

A big part of that is offering job training and work to people who were previously incarcerated. Many businesses refuse to hire people who have a conviction on their record, “but

we still expect them to be contributing members of society,” Brockelle says with a disbelieving laugh. “That doesn’t matter to us. Do you want to do the work? Can you do it? That’s what we want to know.”

Brockelle is still in mourning, but she’s looking resolutely forward. “It’s been hard,” she admits. “But his spirit lives on through me. I am my father’s daughter.” 2621 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St., 317-835-1695

(1) Washington, D.C. “Living in a city with a big Black population helped me see how our community built this country.” (2) Weightlifting. “Challenging your body is the best thing you can do.” (3) In Search of Satisfaction, by J. California Cooper. “Everybody ends up realizing the happiness they were seeking was there all along.” (4) Octavia Butler. “I do a lot of short ﬁction writing; she’s my idol.” (5) Mancala. “It’s just you, your thoughts, the marbles, and the wood.”

FAVORITE THINGS

FOODIE

Southern Story

AFTER SPENDING YEARS IN NEW ORLEANS, INDY’S NICK DETRICH RETURNS TO OPEN A FOUNTAIN SQUARE STANDOUT. BY

IF YOU’RE LUCKY enough to catch Nick Detrich out of the kitchen at Magdalena, the spirits-forward, New Orleans–inspired oyster bar and bistro he opened in the former Thunderbird space on Shelby Street late last autumn, he’s bound to tell you a story. It might be about the Murder Point oysters he’s sourced from Bayou La Batre, Alabama, with a deep bowl-like shell that’s great for presentation. It might be the history of one of his favorite spirits, Madeira, first discovered when wine from Portugal was “cooked” by the high heat of ships’ holds

TERRY KIRTS

on long ocean voyages. Or it just might be the story of how he never intended to open another restaurant when he returned to Indiana in 2021.

But restaurants get into your blood, and they become part of a restaurateur’s personal narrative. After years spent opening and operating such esteemed New Orleans spots as Manolito and Jewel of the South (the latter a James Beard Foundation and World’s 50 Best Bars honoree), the westside native came home to open Southerninflected Small Favors in Bloomington, which he shuttered in February of 2024 when the college town’s summer down-

MAGDALENA

1127 Shelby St. 317-691-8021

magdalena.bar

HOURS

Sun–Tue 5–10 p.m.; Thu 5–10 p.m.; Fri–Sat 5 p.m.–12 a.m.

VIBE

New wave oyster bar

TASTING NOTES

New Orleans and Lowcountry-inspired raw bar, small plates, and seasonally inspired dinner offerings with classic Crescent City cocktails and innovative rotating elixirs.

NEIGHBORHOOD

Fountain Square

MUST-ORDER

Ultra-fresh oysters with red wine and shallot mignonette; sweet blue crab claw tips; light, crispy fried chicken livers; Brussels sprouts with ricotta and miso bagna càuda; cast-iron ham steak with pimento cheese grits and a rich red-eye gravy.

3-STAR RATING

From left: City ham with pimento cheese grits and gravy; Magdalena’s cozy dining room.

season made it financially unsustainable.

Now, he’s at the helm of a raw bar and hearty small plates spot that could have been transplanted to the heart of Fountain Square from the French Quarter. A penny tile floor (“I’ll have to regrout it each year,” he says), limewash walls (“The same finish was used on Sumerian pyramids.”), and a milky white marble bar top (“I framed it and then got the marble custom cut.”) are the distinctive decor features. They’re a clean, straightforward backdrop for sipping one of the smoothest Sazeracs you’ll get outside of the Big Easy, made to the original specifications.

You could do well with just a drink at Magdalena or perhaps a platter of one of the most thoughtful oyster selections in the city. You can get Pink Moons, another of Detrich’s favorites, from New London, Prince Edward Island. They’re small, mild, and transport well, and they come beautifully dressed with cocktail sauce and an eyedropper of shallot and red wine mignonette. Among other seafood starters, a Northern nod of smoked whitefish dip or pickled shrimp, both served with fried saltines, are standouts. When the tiny tips of blue crab claws dressed in aromatic Meyer lemon and fennel, both bulb and fronds, are on the day’s menu, get them.

A plate of crisp, lightly battered

Photos by TONY VALAINIS

chicken livers, Detrich’s homage to local fried chicken traditions, could make a meal, served with buttermilk-tossed chicory and pepper jelly.

Hearty eaters or avid sharers would do well with a cast iron-seared slice of city ham atop pimento cheese grits and a deeply savory “redder” eye gravy. Collard greens “stuffed” with boudin, bacon, and purple-eye peas, as well as Brussels sprouts that deviate from the typical with fragrant benne seeds and a rich miso bagna càuda, show a rare attention to side dishes.

While the kitchen’s influences are solidly from the Louisiana bayou and the Lowcountry cuisine of Charleston, which Detrich has visited for years to promote his NOLA restaurants, he’s brought on Brian Kanne, formerly of Bluebeard, and Eric Neylon, most recently of Tinker Street. Detrich eschews the brigade system (that is, the “yes, chef” style kitchen made famous by The Bear), and each cook contributes as a team. This successful partnership is exemplified by Neylon’s rich, comforting mushroom agnolotti filled with ricotta and blue oyster mushrooms from local Forage & Cultivate, enlivened with marinated king oysters, lemon zest, and fines herbes.

Among desserts, cornbread pudding with a rum glaze and buttermilk ice cream is a lusciously restrained finale. If that’s not available, a thick, custard-like posset set with Cara Cara orange juice and finished with the sweet, tannic notes of dates soaked in coffee and chicory is an excellent substitute.

Detrich left Indiana with an English degree in 2007, following friends who moved to New Orleans. (Full disclosure: Detrich took an IUPUI creative writing course I taught in the early 2000s, back when his only restaurant experience was as a pizza shop dishwasher.) And while he never figured he would go down the path of restaurant life, he just kept taking jobs at bars. “Working behind the bar is all about storytelling,” Detrich says. “I’ve heard so many.” Whether or not he gets to tell you his story in person, you’ll definitely read it in every dish that arrives at your table.

Clockwise from top left: Brussels sprouts with miso bagna càuda; Magdalena owner Nick Detrich; chocolate cremeaux with orgeat almonds and meringue.

HOTEL CARMICHAEL

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Join us for Indianapolis Monthly ’s newest dining event, which promises a night of total indulgence. A five-course chef’s menu, welcome champagne, wine pairings, live music, and surprises throughout the evening will delight and indulge.

Destination:Dining

Written

A 100-mile drive for dinner is a tough sell, but a trip for a full day of culinary fun might be the perfect adventure to refresh your restaurant routine. Here are four of the best dining days you could imagine, all at unexpected destinations just a tank (or charge) away.

by Eve Batey, Brian Garrido, and Terry Kirts

Photos by Andrew Doench

Caprae’s beet salad, made with chioggia, ruby and golden beets, harvest loaf crisp, and chevre

Destination:

Kokomo, IN

By Brian Garrido

Start your day at a classicGreek diner

Caffeinate like a DJ

Sit down for a farm-fresh lunch

Rock out with a nightcap

DRIVE TIME: 1.25 hrs

FRITTATAS RESTAURANT Father and son Nick and Spiro Papagiannis use Mediterranean ingredients reﬂecting their Greek heritage in their breakfast and lunch Midwest diner. If gyros and feta aren’t your thing, their frittatas served with a house-made biscuit should be. 306 Espanol Dr., 765-626-0239

Or try...

MO JOE COFFEE HOUSE • Coffee and pastry with community events. 106 N. Main St., 765-244-1007

DAN’S VARIETY BAKERY • Housemade doughnuts from crullers to cake. 1800 S. Union St., 765-4534591, dansvarietybakery.com

BLACK WAX CAFE A unique coffeehouse that may be Indiana’s largest vinyl record shop. Used records wallpaper the shop and music store, putting an unusual turn on the typical java hut; rotating food and retail vendors spin their wares on certain weekends. 910 N. Washington St., 765-457-3373, blackwaxcafe.com

RADISH MARKET & CAFE For 11 years, Adrienne Partlow ran the Kokomo Farmers Market before opening Radish Market & Cafe in January 2022. Three years later, she’s become the retail leader in the region’s agricultural space, providing a cozy indoor venue for growers and makers. At lunch, diners enjoy freshly made sweet potato burgers or Thai chicken wraps; during brunch, scratch biscuits and gravy or breakfast tacos with locally sourced meats and eggs are served. 115 W. Sycamore St., 765-419-7958

Or try...

HALF MOON RESTAURANT & BREWERY • Kokomo’s only brewpub opened in 2007 and offers bar food and beers made in their on-premise tanks. Expect IPAs and rich lagers. Check their website for weekly food and beer pairing specials. 4051 S. Lafountain St., 765-445-2739, halfmoonbrewery.com

MR. K KOREAN BBQ • A sophomore location for the familyowned, Georgia-based Korean mini-chain offering traditional gogi-gui. Gas tabletop grills allow patrons to cook marinated meats such as bulgogi and classic Korean dishes abound. 1833 S. Plate St., 765-614-2211, mrkbbqkokomo.com

THE COTERIE Evening jam sessions with touring and local musicians are paired with craft cocktails, a 40-package beer menu, and creative food in a convivial and welcoming atmosphere. 107 W. Sycamore St., 765-450-5002, kokomocoterie.com

SUTE KOREAN BBQ HOUSE

When Governor Eric Holcomb announced a second, $6.3 billion joint venture between Stellantis and South Korean company Samsung SDI’s Starplus Energy Gigafactory in 2023, it created not just 2,800 new jobs but also led to a seismic dining shift in the city of 60,000. Burgers and pizzas remain omnipresent across Kokomo’s eating scene, but a fresh wave of Korean restaurants thrills long-standing locals while pleasing the city’s newest residents.

Opened with the city’s corporate transferees and visiting executives in mind, this glossy and modern restaurant offers cultural touch points like Korean-style metal chopsticks alongside a very American-feeling kids’ menu of french fries and quesadillas. Owner Sean Park relocated his family from the Southeast Asian peninsula to Kokomo for the business, creating a well-designed interior and an upscale yet welcoming menu. Standouts include an East-meets-West ribeye bulgogi slider, a playful kimchi slider, and japchae, a classic Korean comfort dish of noodles and vegetables. 521 N. Buckeye St., 765-926-3062, sutebbq.com

Or try...

THE FOXES TRAIL • Solid steak, chops, and sandwiches and a full bar on the Riverwalk beside Wildcat Creek. A large-scale mural outside honors the Miami Nation of Indiana, while old-school taxidermied animals lurk inside. 305 S. Main St., 765-450-7670

SOKURI SUSHI & SHABU SHABU • Korea-born Jay Lim moved from New Jersey to open this casual sushi and bap house on Kokomo’s square. Korean fried chicken and japchae are highlights of the pan-Asian experience, as is the traditional Japanese tonkatsu, a yoshoku take on German schnitzel. 108 N. Main St., sokurikokomo.com

Clockwise from top: Sute's Royal Galbi; japchae; Sean Park (r) and colleague; chicken wings

dinnerHavelike a tech exec

Destination:

Champaign, IL

By Terry Kirts

Start your day on the front page

Grab some java with the undergrads

COURIER CAFE

Have a meat-cute lunch

Wind down with a seasonal nightcap

DRIVE TIME: 2 hrs

Stained glass, chandeliers, and brass chimes set the scene at this storied spot in the onetime home of the Champaign County Herald newspaper. The cafe’s pancakes, French toast, breakfast platters, and Ham & Cheddar Scrams are worthy of headlines of their own. 111 N. Race St., Urbana, 217-328-1811, couriercafeu.com

Or try...

THE LITERARY • Tucked into a funky alternative bookshop, this all-day spot features a solid selection of vegan brunch dishes. 122 N. Neil St., Champaign, 217954-1500, literarybookbar.com

PEKARA BAKERY & BISTRO

• This artisan bakery and deli offers generous toasts, crepes, and pastries. 811 W. Springﬁeld Ave., Champaign, 217-607-8179, pekarabistro.com

BREWLAB COFFEE Sip and snack with the undergrad set at this always-packed spot offering precision pours and creative espresso drinks such as the staple Oatmeal Cookie Latte. Artful laminated pastries, cakes, and cookies are supplied by the shop’s sister patisserie. 630 S. 5th St., Champaign, 217-666-2770, brewlab.coffee

BLACK DOG SMOKE & ALE HOUSE This Twin City standard is known for its juicy brisket burnt ends, smoked seafood offerings, and tasty side dishes. A historic brickand-wood location in the old city depot oozes charm and tradition as freight and passenger trains roll past during your meal. Go for a combo platter to sample the pitmaster’s talent with slow-cooked meats, and be sure to double up on bold house sauces such as the Carolina red or Alabama white. Daily specials are good bets, especially the brisket panini, smoked wagyu burger, and jambalaya. 320 N. Chestnut St., Champaign, 217-954-0465, blackdogchampaign.com

Or try...

BALDAROTTA’S PORKETTA & SICILIAN SAUSAGE • Drawing on his Sicilian heritage, chefowner Jordan Baldarotta dresses up delectable deli sandwiches, none better than the porketta with salsa verde and provolone. 208 W. Griggs St., Urbana, 217800-5726, baldarottas.com

THE SPACE • This punk-inspired renovation of a former MerryAnn’s Diner location pushes the envelope with a lunch menu of duck conﬁt or bone marrow and fries, lamb burgers, grilled octopus, and a knockout salmon salad. 1 E. Main St., Champaign, 815-575-9514, thespacecu.com

PUNCH! BAR & LOUNGE This one-of-a-kind cocktail spot in the Hyatt Place hotel is surprisingly serious about its seasonal menu of craft spirits, served in plush and colorful surroundings with vibrant lighting and fun design touches. 217 N. Neil St., Champaign, 217-531-2800, punchbarchampaign.com

CAPRAE RESTAURANT AT PRAIRIE FRUITS FARM

A relative newcomer on the Central Illinois food scene, this farmstead charmer at a 20-year-old goat creamery in the ﬁelds north of town channels the season’s ﬂavors and the dairy’s best offerings for an unexpected dining experience.

Chef Garron Sanchez, whose credits include restaurants in Chicago and on California’s Central Coast, crafts fresh, globally inspired small plates such as delicata squash with piri piri and house feta, barbecued carrots with pistachio dukka, and lush butternut squash soup with pomegranate seeds and spiced pepitas. French and New World inﬂuences appear in pumpkin tamales with duck conﬁt, a generous cassoulet, and a skillful chicken roulade with a silky white bean puree, chimichurri, and turnips cured with coriander and lemon. Recently purchased by Martinelli’s Market owners Lauren and Jeffrey Brokish, the farm and restaurant offer a chef’s tasting menu, themed dinners, and events such as goat yoga and hikes. 4410 N. Lincoln Ave., Champaign, 309-204-5057, prairiefruits.com/caprae-restaurant

Or try...

KOFUSION • This Asian mainstay serves straightforward but painstakingly executed takes on Korean classics, sushi, seafood, and steak inside the vibrantly renovated marble lobby of a 1902 bank. 30 E. Main St., Champaign, 217-531-1166, kofusion.com

TIMPONE’S • A beloved Urbana trattoria, the restaurant has been the go-to for pastas, chianti-braised short ribs, and roasted duck breast since it opened in 1986. A perfect stop before a show at nearby Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. 710 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana, 217-344-7619, timpones-urbana.com

Enjoy a dinner date with a goat

Clockwise from top left: steelhead trout; assorted dishes; Garron Sanchez

Destination: Louisville, KY

By Eve Batey

Wake up with over-thetop baked goods

Worship at the coffee altar

Lunch with the coolest sliders ever

It all ends with bourbon

DRIVE TIME: 2 hrs

BUTCHERTOWN GROCERY BAKERY The massive biscuit sandwiches and fruit-and-cream-stuffed croissants are the headline at this cozy breakfast spot, but rotating savory-meets-sweet pastries—not kidding; sometimes there’s a Doritos crufﬁn—are worthy of a leap of faith. These folks know what they’re doing. 743 E. Main St., 502-742-8315

Or try...

THE HOUSE OF MARIGOLD • Owners Kris and Adrienne Cole made their bones in some of Louisville’s biggest restaurants, and it shows in their thoughtful menu of breakfast dishes. 10310 Shelbyville Rd., 502-384-3767, thehouseofmarigold.com

THE BROWN HOTEL • The Hot Brown isn’t technically a breakfast food, but this iconic Louisville mess of sauce-covered meats on toast—invented here—was born to be your ﬁrst of the day. 335 W. Broadway, 888-888-5252, brownhotel.com

GRALEHAUS Expertly prepared coffee drinks made from Ruby Coffee Roasters beans attract lines out the door of this converted Victorian home, now a cafe and “bed and beverage.” The shop is part of The Grales, a triumvirate of drinking and dining operations that sprawls into an adjacent church—sister business and taproom Holy Grale supplies Gralehaus with its famous “breakfast beer.” 1001 Baxter Ave., 502-857-7457, thegrales.com/gralehaus

OSKAR'S SLIDER BAR Sliders may not be the ﬁrst food you associate with Scandinavian cuisine, but that’ll change after a visit to Oskar’s, which typically offers a baker’s dozen of the small sandwiches alongside fries, salads, and the inevitable meatballs. 3799 Poplar Level Rd., oskarssliderbar.com

Or try...

80/20 @ KAELIN’S • Said to be the birthplace of the cheeseburger, this updated diner also has a rotating list of 20 house-made ice creams and malts. 1801 Newburg Rd., 502200-8020, 8020atkaelins.com

JACK FRY’S • Scene-y power-lunch spot that feels straight out of a John Grisham novel. 1007 Bardstown Rd., 502-4529244, jackfrys.com

BOURBON DISTRICT This city is so serious about distilling that it’s got a walkable downtown neighborhood dedicated to the art. Each of the nine (as of publication time; more are in the works) spirits producers along the 2-mile stroll offers the standard drinking experience; many also boast tours, educational events, and gift shops.

Clockwise from top: Mayan Cafe owner Bruce Ucán; huevos motuleños; cochinita pibil

Have a dinner that looks forwardbackwardand

MAYAN CAFE

Born and raised on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Indigenous Mayan chef Bruce Ucán grew up with dishes specific to his culture, but when he came to the U.S. in 1987, he could only find work preparing familiar Mexican American dishes such as standard tacos or burritos. A food truck he launched in the 1990s that specialized in Mayan cuisine was a hit, and for nearly 30 years, his subsequent restaurant has also been packed with crowds. The Yucatec Salbutes—freshlymade corn tortillas that are flash fried and topped with a rotating daily special—is the ideal way to get a feel for Ucán’s POV, but in a perfect world, you’d order everything with a large group and share it all. 813 E. Market St., 502566-0651, themayancafe.com

Or try...

THE SILVER DOLLAR • An homage to the Dust Bowl migration, this restaurant and bar is a loving recreation of a 1930s juke joint in Bakersﬁeld, California, with a South-meets-West menu and extremely strong drinks. 1761 Frankfort Ave., 502-6537233, whiskeybythedrink.com

610 MAGNOLIA • Chef-owner

Edward Lee might be Louisville’s best-known chef/food writer, with three books and even more restaurants under his belt. This spot distills his progressive dining philosophies while honoring Louisville’s past. 610 W. Magnolia Ave., 502636-0783, 610magnolia.com

Destination:

Fort Wayne, IN

By Eve Batey

Eat the best breakfast at the worst table

DRIVE TIME: 2 hrs

KLEMM’S KAFE bears a big neon sign promising the “best breakfast in town,” and it just might be right. A classic diner that leans into nostalgic dishes such as ﬂuffy French toast and gigantic omelettes with a big slice of American cheese on top, it also boasts no shortage of wit: There’s a smothered fries dish it calls the “Garbage Plate,” and a sign at the table nearest the door warns that it’s the “worst” one in the joint. 11429 N. Wells St., 260-426-0928

Or try...

THE BLUEBIRD RESTAURANT

• Huge waffle selection and croissant French toast. 4410 Bluffton Rd., 260-478-4976

Sip some magical caffeine

JOANNA’S FAMILY

RESTAURANT • Buttery crepes and ﬁlling frittatas. 10368 Leo Rd., 260-471-4848

CONJURE COFFEE This cafe and roastery chooses beans from small farms and co-ops, then hand-roasts the harvest on-site. Single origin and blends are both available, as are bags to go. There’s also a concise menu of toasts, bowls, and a few eggy dishes. 3710 W. Jefferson Blvd., 260-399-5165, conjurecoffee.com

Warm up with some pho

Throw back a seasonal cocktail

BANH MI PHO With brother Will Le and niece Hien Le, South Vietnam-born Thao Nguyen has been at the forefront of the region’s Vietnamese street food scene, serving up banh mi on house-made baguettes and soul-stirring bowls of noodlepacked pho. Pescatarian, vegan, and vegetarian options abound, as do traditional meat dishes such as gân bò (beef tendon) and pork belly. Occasional specials include Korean corn dogs with inventive toppings such as Oreos or Pop Rocks. 1925 Fairﬁeld Ave., 260-745-4388, banhmiphoshop.com

Or try...

LOLA’S CAFE • Born and raised in El Salvador, owner Lloy Flores offers excellent pan–Latin American dishes such as tacos and empanadas, but the menu of pupusas is what sets Lola’s truly apart. It’s hard to eat just one of Flores’ house-made corn tortillas stuffed with a variety of meats, cheeses, and beans. 2801 Lower Huntington Rd., 260-402-9707

ZIFFIES RIB BAR

• Generous baskets of ribs, gigantic grinders, and a surprisingly solid salad list tops the menu at the decades-old barbecue spot. 6340 E. State Blvd., 260-493-1222, zifflesribbar.com

THE SIDECAR Only open in the warmer months, this outdoor drinking oasis starts pouring craft cocktails again in April. As beﬁts a summer place, the signature drinks tend toward the Tiki, but standard shots, beer, and even some wine are also on offer. 301 W. Jefferson Blvd., 260-755-1019, copperspoonfw.com/sidecar

RUNE

After Sean Richardson’s first restaurant struggled to find an audience, the chef spent some time ruminating on what he’d learned. “I was trying so hard to be familiar, to be what everyone wanted. We closed after 18 months.” So when he opened Rune in 2024, he vowed only “to cook the kind of food that I want to cook and have the kind of dining room that we want to have,” and this time his business has been met with rave reviews. It’s rare to find a place that feels like a neighborhood joint but offers fine dining touches like a tightly edited menu of confident dishes such as a crispy-skinned duck breast alongside a celery root rarebit.

“There was a time when Fort Wayne had a reputation as having the most chain restaurants per capita,” Richardson says. “And there’s still a lot of formula-style businesses, places that serve familiar and unchallenging stuff.” He knows it’s an uphill battle to introduce change-averse Hoosiers to new ways of dining. “So I’m just really friendly, and we provide nice, cozy hospitality, and that helps ease everyone in the door.” 2725 Broadway, 260-278-0674, runerestaurant.com

Or try...

CHANCE BAR • Owners Corey and Amy Bowers took their experiences at Michelin-cred Chicago spots and spun them into a loose and casual pan-European comfort-food menu that rotates at a whim. 4301 Fairﬁeld Ave., 260-449-9099, chancebarfw.com

TOLON • Before farm-to-table became a marketing buzz phrase, chef Matthew Nolot was already a stickler for using only what’s in season. During the colder months, that means menus that lean toward meats and root vegetables, while summer provides a remarkable bounty. 614 S. Harrison St., tolonrestaurant.com

Have dinner on the cutting edge

From top: Rune's seasonal dishes and drinks; owner Sean Richardson

John Green’s Latest Diagnosis

In Everything Is Tuberculosis, the king of quirky, tearjerking storytelling takes on a real-life epidemic, proving that fact is more heartbreaking than fiction.

By Sam Stall | Photos by Jes Nijjer

Atfirst glance, YA novelist and internet celebrity John Green’s newest longform writing project is clearly a radical departure from his previous work.

Instead of producing another devastatingly quirky novel along the lines of Looking for Alaska, Paper Towns, or his breakout The Fault in Our Stars (which has sold some 30 million copies, making it one of the 21st century’s most popular books), he has released a nonfiction volume under the auspices of Crash Course Books, his new imprint from Penguin Young Readers.

Published last month, Everything Is Tuberculosis tracks the medical, political, and cultural history of a disease that kills around 1.25 million people worldwide every year—although it’s been curable since the 1950s. The book is full of all the requisite facts and figures but also includes something that will be familiar to fans of Green’s previous works: a deeply sensitive, articulate teen protagonist who’s also very sick. In this case, he’s ill from TB.

Also in this case, the protagonist is real. His name is Henry Reider, and he’s the reason Green spent more than half a decade delving ever more deeply into the history of, and the struggle to control, TB.

Green has for years collaborated with his brother, the prolific, Montana-based creator Hank Green, on numerous internet projects, building a YouTube audience of roughly 4 million for the duo’s videos. The brothers use that massive fan base to champion a variety of causes, many associated with global health philanthropy. Which is why in 2019 Green and his wife, art curator and educator Sarah Urist Green, found themselves in the impoverished West African nation of Sierra Leone touring hospitals and maternity clinics financed by the nonprofit Partners In Health, for which he serves as a trustee.

On the last day of the grueling trip, Green, exhausted and feeling ill, was quite ready to go home. But their guide had one last thing to show them—Lakka Government Hospital, Sierra Leone’s only dedicated tuberculosis facility. It was old, underfunded, ramshackle, and absolutely packed with sickly, emaciated men, women, and children in the

throes of TB. “I was just shocked,” Green recalls. “I was shocked by the prevalence of the disease and by how sick the patients were.”

One of them, a diminutive boy named Henry Reider, who shared his first name with Green’s son, took it upon himself to give the author a tour of the place. Reider’s sister had already died of tuberculosis, and his mother was ill with the disease. Green initially thought Reider was perhaps only 9 years old before discovering he was actually 16. Years of sickness severely stunted his growth. “I was extraordinarily moved by meeting Henry,” Green recalls. “And I’m still moved by his family’s story, what they’ve been through, and how they’ve stuck together through it.”

“

” I don’t know how to conceive of 1.25 million people dying every year of a curable illness. I just don’t know what that looks like.

Green was so deeply affected that he embarked on years of intensive TB research—so intense that his wife accidently supplied the book’s title when she remarked that he seemed to think that “everything is tuberculosis.” The resulting book is not a 600-page doorstop but a slim, easy-to-tackle 200-pager that weaves Reider’s ordeal into the larger story of why a disease that’s totally curable nevertheless took his sister (along with millions of others) and has haunted him for most of his life.

The reason, Green says, is because TB prospers in tight, airless spaces such as tenements and factories, and the medications that treat it most effectively can be expensive. Or rather, expensive in a place like Sierra Leone, one of the poorest countries in the world. A disease that is a barely remembered curiosity in the West still rampages through parts of

Asia, Eastern Europe, and sub-Saharan Africa. It would take a great deal of work and cash to stamp it out worldwide, but Green believes human perception stymies such efforts. Put simply, while the raw statistics of TB’s toll are widely known, they don’t make much of an impression on people who haven’t experienced the havoc it causes on a personal level. People who, in other words, haven’t met Henry Reider.

Green hopes the boy’s presence in Everything Is Tuberculosis will forge that missing emotional connection. “I wanted to focus on one person’s story because, in the end, we’re not moved by statistics but by human stories,” Green says. “I don’t find tuberculosis compelling because it’s the world’s deadliest infectious disease. I care about it because I watched someone I care about go through hell in order to get access to what you or I would be able to access with no problem.”

The drugs needed to defeat TB are readily available in rich nations, and many of the things that can exacerbate it, such as malnutrition and extreme stress, aren’t big deals here either. “I try to grapple with that because I don’t know how to conceive of 1.25 million people dying every year of a curable illness,” Green says. “I just don’t know what that looks like. I’ve seen 400,000 people together at the Indianapolis 500, but I don’t know who their parents are, who would grieve for them when they’re gone, and I certainly don’t know how to expand that crowd times three and imagine all of them dying annually from a disease we can cure.”

GIVEN THE SORTS of issues Green wrestles with, it’s no wonder the Indianapolis native, who lives on the north side with his wife and their two kids, Henry, 15, and Alice, 12, sometimes struggles to get out of bed in the morning. Like, really struggles. “I’m a bit of a depressive personality type,” he says. “Many days I don’t want to get out of bed, but coffee helps.”

On a typical day, Green drops his kids off at school, then spends the morning in his basement office, writing. He’d like to do a novel next, though he hasn’t yet nailed down exactly what the story might be. He also thinks he won’t write about illness in a nonfiction capacity for the rest of his life.

In the afternoon, he switches to what he calls his “day job”—answering emails and conducting lots and lots of remote meetings concerning the many projects of which he’s a part, including the Good Store, a collaboration with his brother that currently sells coffee, soap, socks, and merch, with 100 percent of the profits going to charity. “If you told me 10 years ago that I would be doing a lot of meetings, I would have been astonished,” Green says. “As for writing, I like thinking of it as something I do for fun, even though it’s actually the only source of income I have.”

He typically clocks out sometime between 5 and 6 p.m. to spend time with his family. In the summer, he also gardens with his mother, who lives next door. The two of them plant and tend pepper plants, then can hot sauce in the fall. When he wants someone else to do the cooking, some of his favorite restaurants include Speedway cafe and gourmet market Borage; Jonathan Brooks’ award-winning Beholder; and the Latin cuisine at SoBro mainstay Delicia. His non-gustatory pursuits include bowling and playing old-school pinball. “But in general, what I most want to do is be with my family and close friends,”

Green

says he thinks of writing as something he does for fun. “Even though it’s actually the only source of income I have.”

Green says. “I enjoy an evening out with my buddies.”

In fact, that’s one of the reasons he’s still in Indianapolis. Like most people his age, he finds it incredibly hard to make new friends. But he’s already got plenty of friends in Indy, most of whom knew him “back in the day,” before he became a celebrity. Indeed, it’s one of the strongest reasons why a man who could live just about anywhere chooses to stay here. “Making friends in adulthood is hard,” Green says. “I always tell my kids, ‘I know it’s hard when you’re kids too, but hold onto those friendships if you can, because there’s nothing like a friend you’ve had for 30 or 40 years.’”

He’s also a longtime fan (and, with his wife, a sponsor) of an English soccer team named AFC Wimbledon. Not because the team is particularly good but because he is enamored of the club’s unusual, fan-owned business model. “We all own the club together, and even those of us who put in more money still only get one vote in its leadership,” Green says.

GREEN HEARS a lot of bad news during his teleconferences and in-person meetings with representatives from various health organizations. Especially these days, with a self-described enemy of conventional medicine leading our nation’s top health agency and research and

science-focused initiatives under siege from “cost cutters” in the Trump administration. For instance, The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been credited with saving some 26 million lives since its establishment during the second Bush administration by providing treatments for patients and therapies to prevent babies of infected mothers from getting the disease. But now that money has abruptly vanished. “It’s heartbreaking and devastating,” Green says. “I get regular briefings on global health issues and recently had one where someone burst into tears.”

It’s easy to be sad and overwhelmed by it. Or in the case of Green, who makes no secret of his struggles with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder, to become so devastated that he retreats to his bed, especially these days, when so many of the causes he champions—even his belief in being good to others being key to living a good life—seem under siege.

Yet he perseveres. “This is a huge step backward for us as a species, but it’s not the end,” Green says. “At least, I don’t think it’s the end. I’m extremely optimistic on that front. After all, we’re not the first generation to believe we were near the end, and every one of those others has been wrong.”

He’s also optimistic about his decision to stay in Indianapolis. Sure, the city could use more ambitious public art projects and better public transportation, but it’s obvious (at least to Green) that over the last few decades, things have vastly improved. There have been ups and downs, but the general trend has been positive. Why shouldn’t future years see a similar pattern? He’d certainly like to use the city as a setting in future writing projects. “I love writing about Indianapolis,” Green says. “I feel like it’s a fascinating place to write about, and there’s lots of cool stuff happening here. The thing I’m writing now isn’t set in Indianapolis, and I miss it.”

Green’s fondness for his hometown seems undiminished even though everyone from business contacts to reporters solemnly ask him why he stays here. His response, that he just “f—king loves it,” is a measure of his enthusiasm. “It’s an awesome place to live. You get four seasons. You have the White River,” Green says. “I think people who live in Indianapolis wildly underrate it.”

CHARTED TERRITORY

A pair of empty nesters constructs a unique fusion of their favorite design styles and motifs.

BY MICHELLE MASTRO

PHOTOS BY TONY VALAINIS

SHIP SHAPE

AA HOME ON a wooded lot comes with plenty of benefits, from builtin forest bathing to an exquisite view of trees alive with squirrels, birds, and other cute forest dwellers. It feels like one’s own personal woodland hideaway.

This was Mark and Julie Beebe’s dream when they discovered one of the last undeveloped wooded lots on a curve of Courageous Drive in the Feather Cove community in Geist. While the neighborhood was already 50 years old, the site was untouched by builders. “We bought the lot in 2020,

and we were surprised to see it left over, as people thought it was unbuildable due to its extreme terrain, like the large slope, dense woods, and the general lack of room for a grass yard. But we liked that about the lot—there would be no need to maintain a lawn,” says Mark. Instead, the pair could craft their dream forever home, a modern treehouse of sorts, perched on the sprawling tree line. “But we could still be a part of a neighborhood in Indianapolis. It was like having the best of both worlds. We could stay in the city,

but the lot felt like we had suddenly landed in a piece of Brown County on the edge of a big city.”

Another factor in their decision was their new role as empty nesters. They had children about to graduate from high school and set off for college. So, the couple was ready to spread their wings and glide toward a slowerpaced lifestyle that suited their interest in nature. “The prior neighborhood we lived in was located downtown, and there was a really strong sense of neighborhood cohesion,” says Mark. “We

loved it there for raising kids because there was an ‘everyone has a front porch facing the sidewalk’ type of feel with the homes. And our kids could walk to school every day. But now that the kids are older, we wanted to move away from being in the center of everything,” Mark explains. “We didn’t want to leave the city, exactly, but at the same time, we were pining for somewhere like Brown County full of rolling hills and beautiful slopes.”

As an architect, Mark has designed dozens of homes in the Indianapolis area.

Homeowner Mark Beebe, an architect and avid sailor, designed his modern L-shaped abode with angles reminiscent of a ship.

This time, he was tasked with designing a home for himself and Julie, merging their individual aesthetics. Mark gravitates to midcentury modern style, known for its clean, simple lines, its emphasis on wood and glass, and its bold shapes. Meanwhile, Julie prefers more of a farmhouse style, characterized by neutral shades, homespun materials, rustic

touches, and comfortable furnishings.

The house is a blend of the two styles. The main living space’s exposed beams show off Julie’s preferred aesthetic. “The wood tones are warmer than what I would have chosen,” says Mark. The wood is balanced by large-format, pale aqua glass tile in the kitchen, an element Mark prefers. An Eames-style chair is another bridge between their preferences. Its brown tones complement the warm wood shades running throughout the home.

“We aren’t planning on moving again, so we decided to lean into what we wanted, especially since the other neighborhood we used to live in had so many restrictions on what you could add or build around your home,” says Mark. “Now we have the freedom to do whatever we want.”

Much of the new home’s design aligns with the pair’s new empty nester lifestyle. Mark planned the house to have a simple expanded L shape, with the primary living spaces—the kitchen, great room, and dining room—on one side, and the garage on the other. The primary suite is located above the garage, and the other bedrooms and family room are below the rest of the main living spaces. “We wanted our suite far away from the other rooms for privacy’s sake.”

INTO THE WOODS Cleared trees were milled into sleek trim boards and the backdrop behind a replica of a famous racing yacht.

INNER BEAUTY

Raised clerestory windows throughout the home let diffuse light pour in.

The pair also thought ahead to how they could age in place. Though the floor plan is similar to a splitlevel with the stair located at the elbow of the L, the extreme slope of the lot worked to their favor. “We were able to design the house to continue with the slope down the hill, so the house flows in a way that reduces the number of stairs and steps.”

The feeling that the home’s footprint flows with the landscape interestingly fits with Mark’s pastime as an avid sailor. It could be argued that he designed the home to lay across a “sea” of woods, with the high points mimicking the crow’s nest of a ship. “My favorite spot in the house is where the corner glass wraps around the point that the leather Eamesstyle chair sits in,” says Mark. “Sitting in the chair feels like you are in the treetops overlooking everything.”

The L shape of the home itself is 15 degrees wider than a standard 90-degree angle, recalling the

angles on a ship. “It’s my subtle reference to sailing, but in a purposeful way as well, for these angles happen to open the house up to better views from the pool deck,” he says. “Plus, the angle helps situate the garage doors closer to the drive and makes the house face away from the street to maximize separation and privacy for the

pool deck and other spaces.”

These sailboat references fit with the nautical-themed street name in the address.

“While most of the neighboring street names have obvious sailing references— like Bowline, Halyard, and Catamaran—our street’s name, Courageous, hearkens to a 12-meter racing yacht that won the 1974 America’s Cup and then went on to win again in 1977,” he says.

The rooms of the home that overlook Courageous Drive have smaller, carefully located windows, like portholes peering out from a ship. “There are many things I love about sailing,” Mark says, “including the pull of the wind. The architectural design for our home has large

expansive views to the exterior, and a 15-degree angle and triangles that show up in the plan and elevation, referencing the angles of a jib and mainsail.”

On the other side of the house, the main living spaces including the kitchen and living room are lined with expansive operable glass windows overlooking the river and woodland. Mark

BELOW DECK

Empty nesters who relocated from downtown, the Beebes took advantage of the site’s extreme slope to build a distinctive multilevel home that opens onto a secluded deck and pool. The main living area, which includes a glass-tiled kitchen, is well separated from the guest rooms and family room located below. “That way, when the kids come back to visit, they have their own space,” the homeowner says.

and Julie wanted to be able to open these windows like giant sails to let in fresh breezes and natural light. These design choices fit the midcentury modern aesthetic, Mark explains, as architects during that era liked to play with natural light and the transition between the interior and the great outdoors. Because of the home’s shape, the sloping site required some clearing. Repurposing as much of the wood as he could, Mark had the trees—which

included hickory, white oak, cherry, and poplar—milled into trim boards to be used for stair treads, countertops, and windowsills.

One of the most prominent uses of this harvested wood is a display shelf near the front door, where a replica of the actual Courageous yacht is mounted, further cementing the couple’s blend of design styles and interests. “I wanted the home to feel anchored within time and space,” says Mark.

Designed for moms and babies, with care for the whole family on the same campus

Being cared for together beneﬁts both moms and babies. That’s why we’ve expanded and continue to advance the care we deliver to your family. The new Women and Infants Hospital, located on the Ascension St. Vincent Indianapolis campus and connected to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, includes leading high-risk pregnancy care, a maternal and NICU Level IV Perinatal Center and “couplet” rooms, offering postpartum moms and NICU infants care in the same room. We’re here for the entire family, too — with routine to the most complex care — across our entire campus.

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Learn more about the latest medical advances orthopedic specialists use to effectively treat pain and discomfort and improve mobility.

Improved Operations

Orthopedic surgeons apply innovative methods and technologies in knee, hip, and spine procedures to enhance patient outcomes and reduce recovery time.

BY SHARI HELD

ARE YOU OR a loved one experiencing knee, hip, or spine pain? You might want to visit an orthopedic surgeon.

“People are often worried or afraid to see a surgeon because they think that means they’re going to have surgery,” says Jean-Pierre Mobasser, M.D., a neurosurgeon with Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine.

No one wants to hear those words, but doctors often rule out surgery in favor of other nonsurgical options. Mobasser estimates Goodman Campbell offers surgery to less than 20 percent of the patients it sees.

If orthopedic surgery is necessary, rest assured that recent advancements have made the process easier, improved patient outcomes, and reduced recovery time.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

Over the last 20 years, surgeons have focused on achieving the same or better patient outcomes using minimally invasive surgical techniques—making the smallest possible incisions and resulting in the least amount of tissue disruption.

“It has now become accepted that less blood loss, less post operative pain, reduced infection, and an earlier approach,” Mobasser says.

An early adopter of minimally invasive techniques, Mobasser is a founding member and past president of the Society for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery. Combining technologies when performing minimally invasive spine surgery can make it even more effective. Mobasser says image-guided spinal navigation is the perfect technological advancement to pair with minimally invasive techniques. An intraoperative CT scan uses a computer and special cameras that can detect special surgical instruments and can be tracked with submillimeter accuracy. This technology allows the surgeon to see critical surrounding structures such as nerves and arteries that are covered by bone or muscle, making them visible during surgery.

Anterior hip replacements, where an incision is made in the front of the body, are becoming more common than posterior hip replacements. Why? Anterior hip replacements require a smaller incision, are muscle

weeks after surgery.

“It has now become accepted that less blood loss, less post operative pain, reduced infection, and an earlier return to work are beneﬁts from a smaller surgical approach.”

“That’s what I do for the majority of my hip replacements,” says Mark Hood, M.D., director of the Center for Joint Health at Community East. “Anterior hip replacements also have a lower dislocation rate because you are causing less trauma to the hip joint during surgery.”

Minimally invasive surgery is today’s gold standard, but new technological advances are already being used or coming soon. The 109,000-square-foot Lucas Family Brain and Spine Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent, scheduled to open this summer, will have all the latest technology. And Indiana Joint Replacement Institute was recently launched by R. Michael Meneghini, M.D.

New Noblesville Facility

The Indiana Orthopedic Institutes’s new flagship state-of-the-art center is a 38,000 square foot facility offering a comprehensive patient-focused experience.

Robotic Surgery and More

Neurosurgeons are beginning to use robotics, but it’s instruments, is commonly used for knee and hip surgery.

used to have to do to obtain the proper alignment in

With robotic-assisted procedures, surgeons can achieve more precision and accuracy.

some robots, you’re able to plan the surgery ahead of

Depending on the robotic type used, it may require a special type of X-ray or a CT scan prior to surgery.

anecdotal evidence suggests patients recover quicker

One advancement on the horizon is the use of

that creates a 3D model of the patient’s knee, giving the doctor real-time feedback. More informed decisions during surgery lead to more accurate placement of implants.

including orthopedic surgery.

reconstructive procedures is currently under study.

Regenerative Medicine

that regenerated the cartilage, bone, or tissue your body needed? While successfully used for some acute muscle surgery remains to be seen.

currently focused on PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, and stem cell therapy. With PRP therapy, plasma from a knee cartridge.

“Many people worldwide are looking to see whether AI is going to play a role in the joint replacement world. It’s exciting to think about the future of AI in orthopedics.”

the use of regenerative medicine for the spine.

“The spine is far more complicated [than hips and

Ready-made and Artiﬁcial Implants

they are rarely used.

“It is very expensive, and none of the research shows that it adds any clinical

In addition, patients are also exposed to radiation in the special scan needed to

When a dysfunctional disc applies pressure on the nerve or spinal cord, it can current standard of care, is that patients can fusion candidates are also candidates for an

There has been more focus on rapid recovery protocols in the past two years. Hospitals are using multiple modalities to decrease perioperative pain and the use of narcotic pain medicines to treat it.

Post-Operative Care

on rapid recovery protocols in the past

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Movement

At Midwest Center for Joint Replacement, we prioritize efﬁcient, patient-centered care with minimally invasive, same-day hip and knee replacement surgery. With a focus on patient care, convenience, and accessible locations, we help you get back to your daily life faster—with less pain and a seamless recovery.

WHY CHOOSE MCJR?

EFFICIENCY & CONVENIENCE: With multiple locations and a streamlined process, scheduling an appointment is quick and hassle-free.

PERSONALIZED PATIENT CARE: From consultation to recovery, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and long-term success.

EXPERT SURGEONS: Our team of fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists delivers the highest level of expertise in hip and knee replacement.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE TECHNIQUES: Less pain, smaller incisions, and faster recovery.

SAME-DAY SURGERY: Most patients return home the same day for a more comfortable recovery.

From Left to Right: Michael E. Berend, MD, Wesley G. Lackey, MD, Colin T. Penrose, MD, Joshua L. Carter, MD

John S. Orthopedic Patient

Knee Care: Choose the Team With the Best Record

WHEN DR. SHELBOURNE opened his first orthopaedic practice in 1982, he completely changed the face of knee care. His ACL rehabilitation protocols are now utilized around the world with research results shared in more than 150 medical journals. Today, he runs the Shelbourne Knee Center with Dr. Benner and an experienced team of physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers and research staff. Their main focus: getting patients back on the field and back to their lives as quickly

as possible with the best long-term outcomes. What sets Shelbourne Knee Center apart are the research-based rehab programs it customizes to each patient’s unique needs. These treatment plans are based on more than 30 years of continual research, proven results and a true dedication to total knee care. That dedication pays off for patients: For ACL injuries, Shelbourne Knee Center has a return-to-sport rate of 85% vs. the industry average of 50%.

To learn more about our proven results for all knee care, from injuries to arthritis, go to fixknee.com.

Shelbourne Knee Center

1500 North Ritter Ave., Suite 500 Indianapolis, IN 46219

317.924.8636 or 888.FIX.KNEE FIXKNEE.COM

K. Donald Shelbourne, MD, and Rodney Benner, MD

Whether you live in the area or you’re visiting from elsewhere, all are welcome in downtown Indy for a vibrant array of events, from art exhibits, to music and theater performances, to sports matches.

Winner’s Circle

If you haven’t ventured downtown to experience the magic of its cultural scene, iconic landmarks, independent businesses, and fun-ﬁlled calendar of events, we offer you a full roster of occasions to explore the heart of the Circle City in April.

MARCH 22–OCTOBER 1 Opening in late March, the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis puts powerful designs from movies such as Black Panther, Selma, Roots, and Malcolm X on display. 3000 N. Meridian St., 317-334-4000, childrensmuseum.org

MARCH 26–APRIL 6 Dubbed the “second-greatest spectacle in racing,” the Indiana State Museum’s Pinewood Derby event pits racers against each other on a two-story, 125foot track. Race Day and Best in Show are April 5. 650 W. Washington St., 317-2321637, indianamuseum.org

APRIL 4–MAY 22 As part of the Indy Arts Council’s Art & Soul program supporting Black art and music, Kierra Ready: From the Inside Out opens at Gallery 924 just in time for First Friday. 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 317-631-3301, indyarts.org

APRIL 5 Downtown goes to the dogs during this year’s IndyHumane Mutt Strut. The annual charity walk for pet welfare takes place at Celebration Plaza in White River State Park. 801 W. Washington St., 317-872-5650, indyhumane.org

APRIL 3–6 The Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel hosts the ballroom dancing showcase Indianapolis Open Dancesport Competition. 31 W. Ohio St., 317-430-5029, indianapolisopendancesport.com

APRIL 4 The Cabaret puts jazz vocalist and Grammy nominee Jazzmeia Horn center stage for a sold-out performance. 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 317-275-1169, thecabaret.org

APRIL 5 A follow-up to the Beautiful Dogs Netﬂix special and Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast, Shane Gillis Comedy Show brings Gillis’ comedy act to Gainbridge Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St., 317-917-2727, gainbridgeﬁeldhouse.com

APRIL 9 The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center hosts Flavors of the Heartland, a monthly gathering highlighting regional cuisine. The April event features British rock cakes made by Indiana Historical Society director of education and engagement Bethany

Hrachovec. 450 W. Ohio St., 317-232-1882, indianahistory.org

APRIL 9–MAY 11 The Indiana Repertory Theatre opens its monthlong production of The Play That Goes Wrong by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields. 140 W. Washington St., 317-635-5252, irtlive.com

APRIL 10–27 When a trans actor named Will conducts a seance to summon the spirit of William Shakespeare in Gender Play, or What You Will at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre, the two Wills become fast friends and celebrate gender ﬂuidity. 705 N. Illinois St., 317-635-7529, phoenixtheatre.org

APRIL 10–AUGUST 3 The Eiteljorg Museum opens a new textile-focused beadwork exhibit Radical Stitch with an artist meet and greet, gallery talks, a panel discussion, hands-on family activities, and artist demonstrations. 500 W. Washington St., 317-636-9378, eiteljorg.org

APRIL 11 Heartland Film’s fundraiser Cinemania pays tribute to dance ﬁlms of the ’80s (think Flashdance, Fame, Purple Rain, and Xanadu) at The Crane Bay Event Center. 551 Merrill St., 317-464-9405, heartlandﬁlm.org

APRIL 12 The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis takes a prehistoric approach to Easter fun with its Bunnysaurus Rex Egg Hunt in the Dinosphere and select galleries. 3000 N. Meridian St., 317-334-4000, childrensmuseum.org

APRIL 12 Indiana State Museum curators take visitors on a special tour of Through the Eyes of an Artist: John Wesley Hardrick to explore the life and work of this proliﬁc Indiana painter. 650 W. Washington St., 317-232-1637, indianamuseum.org

APRIL 12 Easley Winery’s Groovin’ on Ice event features live music by Rob Amrhein while guests enjoy indoor picnics and hot chocolate wine. 205 N. College Ave., 317-6364516, easleywinery.com

APRIL 12–13 The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra accompanies Marty McFly on his journey in the DeLorean time machine during Back to the Future in Concert at Hilbert Circle Theatre. 45 Monument Circle, 317-639-4300, indianapolissymphony.org

APRIL 19 Take a run (or walk) through White River State Park with the family during the Easter Egg 5K & Kids Dash. Indoor waiting

Discover the Hidden Stories of Indianapolis

Tune in now! The latest Conversation Piece episode showcases how strong our Indy community is. Don’t miss this one!

is available at the National Institute for Fitness and Sport. 250 University Blvd., 317-6960196, runsignup.com

APRIL 21–26 Celebrate creativity with Indy Design Week workshops and meetups themed around the inﬂuence of hues and colors on visual works. Events take place at multiple locations, including the Indianapolis Propylaeum,

10 East Arts Hub, the Stutz Building, LongSharp Gallery, and more. indydesignweek.com

APRIL 22 Experience Alex Honnold’s death-defying climb up Yosemite National Park’s El Capitan rock formation during a screening of Free Solo: The IMAX Experience at the IMAX Theater in the Indiana State Museum. 650 W. Washington St., 317233-4629, imax.com

APRIL 24–MAY 11

Set over the course of a Thanksgiving holiday, The Humans by Stephen Karam explores family dynamics in this Tony-winning production at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre. 705 N. Illinois St., 317-635-7529, phoenixtheatre.org

Verve Pipe. 121 Monument Circle, ﬁnefairs.com/ indianapolis

APRIL 25–26 As part of the Glick Philanthropies Broadway at The Cabaret Series, Tony-nominated stage actor and Derek Klena performs a two-night set. 924 N. Pennsylvania St., 317-275-1169, thecabaret.org

APRIL 26

In partnership with Ball State University, the Athenaeum hosts Shape: A Live Event, which ampliﬁes the voices of people affected by mental health and substance use disorders through arts. 401 E. Michigan St., 317-655-2755, athenaeumindy.org

APRIL 26 The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra makes Monument Circle its stage for the outdoor Symphony on the Circle event featuring live music, food trucks, and community organizations. The day ends with a livestreamed ISO performance broadcast on a big screen. 1 Monument Circle, 317-6394300, indianapolissymphony.org

APRIL 25–26 The inaugural Indianapolis Rare Book Fair at the Columbia Club features a guest lecture by Theodore Roosevelt’s great-great-grandson Kermit Roosevelt III as well as a solo acoustic music performance by Brian Vander Ark of The

APRIL 26 Storytelling Arts of Indiana promises an evening of thought-provoking humor during “That Ain’t the Whole Plan” Featuring Bil Lepp at the Eugene & Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. 450 W. Ohio St., 317-576-9848, storytellingarts.org

APRIL 29 The Murat Theatre at Old National Centre celebrates Irish heritage with a performance by Shamrock Tenors Jimmy Johnston, Tom Brandon, Matthew Campbell, Raymond Walsh, and Jack Walsh. 502 N. New Jersey St., 317-231-0000, livenation.com

Connect, learn and play as you experience the Indiana State Museum! This spring break, visit us on the Downtown Canal.

650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204

PLAY BALL!

SPORTS FANS CONGREGATE IN DOWNTOWN INDIANAPOLIS TO CATCH THEIR FAVORITE TEAMS SQUARING OFF AGAINST COMPETITORS THIS MONTH.

NBA fans can cheer on the Indiana Pacers as they take on the Charlotte Hornets (April 2), Utah Jazz (April 4), Washington Wizards (April 8), Cleveland Cavaliers (April 10), and Orlando Magic (April 11) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. 125 S. Pennsylvania St., 317-917-2727, nba.com/pacers

The Indianapolis Indians start their home season off with a six-day series against the Iowa Cubs April 1–6. After traveling to Louisville the following week, the Indians will be back at Victory Field to play the Toledo Mud Hens April 15–20. 501 W. Maryland St., 317-269-3545, milb.com/indianapolis

Soccer enthusiasts can venture to Michael A. Carroll Stadium to check out the Indy Eleven against North Carolina FC (April 5) and Charleston Battery (April 19). 1001 W. New York St., 317-685-1100, indyeleven.com

The historic Baxter house, a stunning French Norman-style home built in 1931, will showcase the work of 26 local designers and landscapers.

Proceeds from this year’s event will support the John and Kathy Ackerman Center at the Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center, marking the fourth year of a million-dollar pledge toward training mental health providers.

SPECIAL EVENTS

APRIL 12, 9 a.m.

DASH BY THE PAST

Family-friendly 5K Run/Walk or 1-Mile Walk on historic Meridian Street.

Presenting Sponsor

Stock Yards Bank & Trust

APRIL 17, 6-10 p.m.

EVENING WITH DESIGNERS

Be the ﬁrst to tour the show house and meet the designers. Food, drinks, and music after the tour.

Presenting Sponsors

The National Bank of Indianapolis

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

The Somerville Team

Photo

TONY VALAINIS

Lone Pine’s BBQ Carrots with pistachio dukkah. (p. 86)

V Vegetarian friendly

$ Under $20 Named one of IM’s Best Restaurants in 2024 New addition to the guide

$$$$ $50 and up

$$$ $30–$40

$$ $20–$30

Restaurants included in this guide are selected at the discretion of the Indianapolis Monthly editorial staff based on food quality, innovation, atmosphere, service, value, and consistency. IM does not accept advertising or other compensation in exchange for dining coverage. Price symbols indicate the average cost of a meal per person (without tax, tip, or alcohol). Due to limited space, this list does not cover every evaluated restaurant. For a more comprehensive guide to Indianapolis dining, visit IndianapolisMonthly.com/Dining Feedback? Please email ebatey@IndianapolisMonthly.com

9th Street Bistro

BR 2024 SEASONAL Co-owners Samir and Rachel Firestone Mohammad’s tiny innovator is almost always packed by fans eager for the duo’s globally inspired Midwestern dishes. In response, the pair has created a community dinner series to allow even more patrons to sample their takes on the local farmstead ingredients that inspire their dishes. Mussels in aromatic broth, house-made burrata with of-the-moment garnishes, and pasta with shrimp and lemony cream sauce still anchor the menu, but it’s better to let the creative duo keep you guessing. 56 S. 9th St., Noblesville, 317-774-5065, 9thstbistro.com V $$$

Abyssinia

ETHIOPIAN This spot—where diners use a spongy sour flatbread known as injera in lieu of utensils—provides a thorough introduction to Ethiopian cuisine. Aficionados of East African food will be impressed by the seasoning of the stewed lamb, beef, and spicy chicken; vegans and vegetarians will appreciate their greens, lentils, and chickpeas. 352 W. 38th St., 299-0608, abyssiniaindy.com V $$

Ali’i Poke

POKE Follow the IU and Purdue students to this delightfully fresh fast-food spot just off the now-separate schools’ Indianapolis campuses. The scooped-to-order poke bowls have a rice base (sticky or brown) over which customers layer their protein of choice (chicken or tofu are also on offer) and a rainbow of add-ons. Fresh mango, edamame, avocado, pickled ginger, seaweed salad, and unagi sauce are just a few of the available toppings. Go wild ladling them on, or get the Hawaiian Style with just rice and fish. Multiple locations, aliipoke.com V $$

Anthony’s Chophouse

STEAKHOUSE The interior of this swanky heavy hitter along Carmel’s Main Street has the polished gleam of a new Vegas hotel, with an upper-level lounge containing the salvaged mahogany bar from The Glass Chimney, another fine dining legend. The food has equal flourish. Lobster bisque with

a hunk of tempura-fried meat begins a meal that might include a cowgirl ribeye, a flight of filets, or a domestic wagyu burger. Take note—the steak menu also lists a spinalis. You may never eat another steak this perfect. Black-suited and professional servers, an impressive wine list, and well-composed cocktails keep the high-dollar meal running smoothly. 201 W. Main St., Carmel, 317740-0900, anthonyschophouse.com $$$$

Aroma Experience

INDIAN Vinita Singh’s portfolio of restaurants expanded in March 2024, when she brought a new location of her Aroma mini-chain of restaurants to Carmel City Center. Those who enjoy her Aroma Indian Cuisine and Bar spots in Fountain Square and SoBro will find plenty to like in this glitzy, date-night venue. The other locations’ daily dinner menus of Northern Indian dishes such as tikka masala and Kerala-style curry are on offer, as are ambitious entrees including a lehsuni prawn dish that plays notably with Aroma’s coconut and cashew naan. (There’s also a chili garlic naan so engaging that one could enjoy it unaccompanied.) Lunch, which is served daily, is a more concise affair of bowls, rolls, and wraps. There’s also a full bar and some standout, homemade ice cream–based desserts. Multiple locations, aromaindy.com V$$$

Ash & Elm Cider Co.

CIDERY Ash & Elm’s array of complex and quaffable ciders gets broader all the time, with funky cocktails demonstrating a flavor profile well beyond sweet apples in the vibrant tasting room at the former Ford Assembly Plant on Washington Street. The food pairs beautifully with the drinks, from the now legendary elote fritters made with Indiana corn and cilantro crema to the crispy fried Brussels sprouts flavored with cider vinaigrette. A thick-cut Cuban and an Italian hoagie with all the meats are great choices among sandwiches, though the pimento cheeseburger with pickled green tomato is hard to beat. But more uptown offerings, such as ricotta gnocchi with seasonal garnishes or a lunchtime bulgogi noodle bowl, showcase how cider brings out the flavors in world cuisines as deliciously as fine wines. 1301 E. Washington St., 317-600-3164; 525 North End Dr., Carmel, 317-740-1991; ashandelmcider.com V $$$

Athens on 86th

GREEK Whether you select a large chicken gyro or the kota psiti—a roasted chicken with green beans and Greek potatoes—add an order of the fries, served here with feta, Mediterranean spices, and Greek dressing. Their gyro pizza is a fun marriage of the craveable classics, and it’s hard to argue with their multiple takes on the classic Greek salad. For the hungry, indecisive, or just plain adventurous, the sampler platter gathers nearly everything in the expansive menu onto one plate. 2284 W. 86th St., 317-879-8644, athenson86th.com V $$

Auberge

FRENCH Brick Street Inn’s classic French bistro installed talented chef Toby Moreno (of The Loft at Traders Point Creamery and Plow & Anchor) in early 2022 and immediately sent him to Paris, where he trained in the kitchens of famed chef Alain Ducasse.

Moreno has added that continental know-how to the vintage dishes he makes fresh with as much local produce, meats, and cheeses as he can. That translates to an impressive plate of buttery escargot topped with croutons, seasonal salads, and a deeply flavorful French onion soup with a rich broth. Seafood shines among the entrees, especially crispy-skinned roasted cod, though diver scallops with asparagus puree showered with herbs and toasted almonds also impress. 175 S. Main St., Zionsville, 317733-8755, auberge-restaurant.com $$$$

Baan Thai Bistro

THAI Roxanna Williams’ cozy Thai eatery, which she opened in a former house and hair salon in late spring of 2023, is a welcome addition to Wanamaker’s dining offerings, bringing aromatic flavors and artful presentations to dishes like the lightly breaded and fried Son-in-Law Eggs (Kai Look Keuy), which is drizzled with earthy-sweet tamarind sauce, and generous summer rolls that come with a trio of tangy dipping sauces. Less expected starters to split include rich and flavorful Isan Thai Sausage with just the right amount of spice, served with a not-too-hot dipping sauce and a darling bamboo basket of sticky rice; a Crispy Rice Salad that crackles and pops; and airy steamed dumplings. Hearty Boat Noodle Soup and Crispy Pork Belly Ramen with a light mushroom-scented broth are good bets for main dishes, as are the kicky Crying Tiger Steak and more typical curries and noodle dishes. Adventurous diners will want to try one of three fish dishes redolent of ginger and basil, and a sumptuous mix of whole chicken drumsticks and sweet curry noodles makes for a comforting supper. 8705 Southeastern Ave., 317-759-8424, baanthaibistro .com V $$

Bearded Bagel

DELI Food truck veteran Tom Race opened this brick-and-mortar bagel deli on Indy’s northeast side in late 2021, featuring his signature steamed bagel sandwiches with dozens of topping combinations. Breakfast versions, such as the Slammin Sammy with bacon, egg, and American cheese or the Hangover Helper with spicy cream cheese, bacon, egg, and three slices of cheese are a no-brainer. But whimsical tributes to fast-food favorites, such as the R-Bee’s with roast beef and extra cheddar, are great lunch choices. Vegetarians can opt for the Urban Farmer with “all the veggies,” avocado, and cheese, and traditionalists can sink into a cream cheese–schmeared bagel with lox, tomato, capers, onions, and cucumbers. Puffy cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy, and loaded tater tots complete the menu, along with a short list of cookies and brownies. 7305 E. 96th St., 317-516-5938, beardedbagel.com V$$

Beholder

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY You never know what to expect from restaurateur Jonathan Brooks’ Windsor Park kitchen, aside from one of the most innovative and wellexecuted meals in town. The menu is difficult to track, mainly because Brooks builds his dishes around seasonal ingredients that are fresh and of-the-moment. Impeccable servers will guide you through the evening’s offerings, which start small at the top of the menu (fresh

oysters, perhaps, or pork rinds with kimchi and chicken liver mousse) and bulk up toward the bottom (think wild boar Bolognese or a massive pork Wellington portioned for two). Finish with the most exotic flavor of house-made ice cream. 1844 E. 10th St., 317-419-3471, beholderindy.com V $$$$

Bluebeard

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY Tom and Ed Battista’s charming little restaurant has led the charge in getting Indy’s dining scene on the national radar. A perennial nominee for the James Beard Awards with mentions in outlets such as The New York Times and Bon Appétit, Bluebeard—which takes its name from one of native son Kurt Vonnegut’s novels—still delivers on the hype. The menu has settled into a comfortable groove, starting with shareable small plates such as house-frizzled chips and French onion dip, gourmet bar nuts, and grilled bread from sibling bakery Amelia’s served with a flight of slatherings. A plate-spanning Faroe Island salmon, beef-and-pork Bolognese, and other larger entrees make for a nice, lingering dinner accompanied by ambitious cocktails in a dining room decorated with shelves of books and Vonnegut-era typewriters. 653 Virginia Ave., 317-686-1580, bluebeardindy .com V $$$

Bodhi Craft Bar + Thai Bistro

BR 2024 THAI This Mass Ave restaurant serves a small, focused menu of Thai dishes like massaman curry with braised beef and Bodhi’s own version of pad thai. Cocktails get a lot of attention on a drinks list designed by beverage director Dalton Lineback. 922 Massachusetts Ave., 317-941-6595, bodhi-indy .com V $$$

Bonge’s Tavern

AMERICAN Opened in the 1930s near the rush of the White River and purchased by Charles Bonge a little over 10 years later, Bonge’s Tavern has been a part of Indiana dining history for more than 90 years. In the fall of 2023, Burgess Restaurant Group purchased it and installed Dean Sample as executive chef. The centerpiece of the menu is still the signature tenderloin, appropriately named the Perkinsville Pork. Other favorites include a stuffed duck breast and a fresh fish entree. Chef Sample inflects his own ideas into the menu, with a Southern influence. It’s worth the risk to order whatever delightful special he adds to the menu. Make sure to grab a reservation long before you plan to go—they go quick—and arrive early enough to tailgate in the parking lot with other diners, a Bonge’s tradition worth keeping. 9830 W. 280 N, Perkinsville, 765-734-1625, bongestavern.com $$$

Borage

BR 2024 ALL-DAY CAFE Josh Kline and Zoë Taylor’s long-awaited all-day cafe, dinner spot, and market took years longer to open than they expected when they chose its Speedway site. Some even despaired that the couple in business and life—who met while toiling in the kitchen at Milktooth— might never see their dream realized. But suddenly last summer, Borage threw its doors open, and all worries vanished. Every menu lineup, from breakfast to dinner and everything in between, is a collage of standby ingredients,

such as polenta or milk bread, reimagined into well-portioned small plates that will fill your table. Mussels float in kimchiflecked coconut broth alongside a meatloaf sandwich made with brisket and bacon. Every aspect of the restaurant, its bakery, and the attached retail space feels thought-through and intentional. Borage was worth the wait. 1609 N. Lynhurst Dr., 317-734-3958, borageeats.com V $$

Che Chori

BTS BUZZ

After 18 years in business, Bee Coffee Roasters has changed hands. Speedway java shop The Spark has purchased the company and plans to open up a new roastery, as well as an additional location that will serve as a lab and educational hub that will take customers behind the coffee scene.

ARGENTINEAN The focus of the menu at this colorful drivethru is a selection of traditional butterflied-sausage sandwiches and warm empanadas filled with seasoned meats. Make sure to pick up the house-made dulce de leche, which is sold by the jar, as well as their churros and specialty Argentinian shortbread cookies. And don’t overlook the cook-at-home sausages, from Spanish-style chorizo to Argentinean black sausage. 3124 W. 16th St., 317-737-2012, chechori.com $$

Cheeky Bastards

BR 2024

ENGLISH Co-owners Michael Rypel and chef Robert Carmack fell in love with British culture and cuisine during travels abroad. Their Geist restaurant is a true tribute to the food, serving not only a classic full English breakfast and sausage rolls made with imported meat but also a very convincing fish and chips featuring crispy planks and hand-cut potatoes. Don’t forget to ask for the malt vinegar or the HP Sauce for the full UK experience. 11210 Fall Creek Rd., 317-288-9739, cbindy.com $$

Chin Brothers

BURMESE One of the oldest Burmese restaurants in town, this brightly lit and friendly spot attached to a large, well-stocked market serves as a cultural center for immigrants from the Chin state of Myanmar. Invigorating refreshers such as sweet tea with condensed milk and a cane syrup beverage with puffed rice offer a colorful taste of Burmese culture. Fried rice and soups are solid standards here, as well as luscious and tender curried goat. Their Lahpet Thohk salad, made with fermented tea leaves, greens, and spices, may be one of the best in the region. 2320 E. Stop 11 Rd., 317-888-1850, chinbrothers.com V $$

Chopped Cheese Boys

DELI New York’s beloved bodega snack is the eponymous specialty at this no-frills Irvington convenience store and takeout deli. True to form, well-seasoned ground beef gets chopped on a sizzling flattop, then pressed into a sub sandwich roll, and finally topped with plenty of gooey cheese and mayo, which makes for a rich and flavorful mashup of the smashburger and a Philly cheesesteak. But be sure to dip into the eye-popping menu of wings, chicken tenders, fried fish, and—another Big Apple food cart favorite—chicken over rice (tender grilled chicken breast meat with a signature white sauce slathered over rice) with falafel. 1520 N. Arlington Ave., 317-377-4951 V $$$

Commission Row

BR 2024 FINE DINING

This glossy spot from Indy’s near-ubiquitous Cunningham Restaurant Group is just steps from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and it reflects its neighbor’s baller vibes with a three-figure seafood tower, caviar service, and an eight-steak menu (which offers add-ons such as foie gras and lobster tail). Sure, you can play small with its excellent burger or sizable salads, but if you do, you’ll be missing the point. Appropriately, its wine list leads with bubbles by the glass or bottle, while its cocktail list boasts eight takes on a classic martini. 110 S. Delaware St., 317-550-2500, commissionrow.com

$$$$

Convivio

ITALIAN With a menu that traces the geographical regions in Italy, this is not your average red-sauce joint. The pasta, including curled nests of black squid ink spaghetti and purple beet-infused fettuccine, are all made in-house. The torchietti pasta, tossed with dried figs, black olives, basil, goat cheese, and parmesan, has been known to induce deep cravings in the weeks after eating, and the frutti di mare packs a generous serving of mussels, clams, shrimp, scallops, and calamari with tonnarelli pasta in a spicy and bright tomato sauce. Beyond pasta, the menu offers Neapolitan-style pizzas served blistered and hot from the imported Italian pizza oven, rotating regional specials, and an easy-to-navigate, Italian-heavy wine list that makes picking a bottle for the table a pleasure. 11529 Spring Mill Rd., Carmel, 317-564-4670, convivioindy.com $$$

A Cup of Chai

TEAHOUSE Punjab native Pravy Nijjar’s cozy, funky teahouse, which opened in July of 2023 on a secluded section of Shelby Street in Fountain Square, offers a true taste of Indianstyle chai with several different spice profiles. For the genuine article, go for the masala chai, a dairy-forward drink that features ginger, cardamom, fennel, and cloves, equally good hot or iced. Pair that with one of Nijjar’s street food–inspired snacks, such as golden, aromatic samosas or tasty kati rolls (tender paratha stuffed with spiced chicken, paneer, or potatoes). Coffee drinkers can get an espresso or cappuccino, and those avoiding caffeine can go for a spice-infused golden latte, mango lassi, or minty pineapple lemonade. 1028 Shelby St., 317-998-4463, acupofchai.us $

Fernando’s

Mexican & Brazilian Cuisine

BR 2024 LATIN AMERICAN

A subtle name change in the last year, owing to a legal request from the international fast-food chain Nando’s, has done nothing to diminish the spirit and vibrant flavors of this Broad Ripple restaurant featuring the cuisines of Mexico and Brazil. Enjoying a flight of fruit-infused caipirinhas and a plate of crisp, savory chicken croquettes on Fernando’s spacious sheltered patio is still a warm-weather delight, and dishes

SMALL BITE

like feijoada with fall-apart-tender pork and rich stewed black beans, as well as chicken stroganoff and a delectable Brazilian take on the homey pot pie, remain hearty staples that are hard to find elsewhere. Fare such as queso fundido and arroz con pollo more than hold their own against the best, and refreshing desserts such as an ultra-creamy flan and Brazilian-style guava cheesecake are worth saving a few bites of your entrees to make room for. 834 E. 64th St., 317-377-4779, fernandosindy.com $$$

Gather 22

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY This colorfully cozy all-day hangout and cocktail spot in Fall Creek Place from Byrne’s Grilled Pizza owners Adam Reinstrom and Pablo Gonzalez draws on Reinstrom’s love of interior design and Gonzalez’s background in innovative mixology. Vibrant wall fixtures by creators such as Bootleg Signs & Murals and revolving works by locals from the LGBTQ art community provide a funky backdrop for sipping seasonal elixirs; salads include a wedge with smoked blue cheese and roasted-poblano ranch. Byrne’s original pizzas, cracker-thin and charred, are on offer, as are thicker-crusted Roman-style oval pies with well-chosen toppings. Fresh takes on shareable plates include crispy-skinned salmon with kale and quinoa and intriguing scallop sliders with Asian-style slaw. On Sundays, the brunch menu features classics such as egg dishes and French toast. There are also breakfast pizzas such as the Chilaquiles, a thin crust topped with chorizo, salsa, eggs, and fried tortillas. Coffee drinks and a solid sandwich list anchor the daytime menu, and desserts feature a luxe take on the Hoosier classic sugar cream pie. 22 E. 22nd St., 317-258-2222, gather22.com $$

Julieta Taco Shop

BR 2024 MEXICAN Gabriel Sañudo and Esteban Rosas’ taco shop in the Stutz Building shows the pair’s skill and fine dining experience in little details such as the marinades for meats, tortillas handcrafted from heirloom corn varieties, and surprisingly flavorful vegetarian options. Their tender grilled or braised meats are excellent but the signature taco al pastor is the star. 1060 N. Capitol Ave. $$

King Dough

Lone Pine

NEW STEAKHOUSE Beholder partner Josh Mazanowski’s solo restaurant pulls inspiration from his background at West Coast and Indy restaurants, married to a Montana ranch sensibility. The end product is a cutting-edge chophouse with a menu that has a range as wide as Mazanowski’s palate, which he’s honed during his career as a sommelier. While steaks remain a mainstay, much of the menu is a rotating feast. Watch for items like a cassoulet with Old Major Toulouse sausage, smoky roasted carrots with tahini, or creamy local greens with miso. Desserts are made in-house and include a stellar panna cotta, and the wine list leans heavily on some of Napa Valley’s best, with some notable bottles from France and Italy to also consider. 710 S. Rangeline Rd., Carmel, 317-907-0177, lonepinecarmel.com $$$

Love Handle

SANDWICHES Daily lunch and brunch features such as schnitzel and waffles and a pulledchicken Hot Brown are the main draw at Chris and Ally Benedyk’s cheeky sandwich shop. The chalkboard menu (which is also updated online) also offers side options in the form of braised greens and potato salad with roasted tomatoes. Fridays often see a fish special, and weekends are a chef’s playground of eggy experiments, satisfying hashes, and sweet sides. 877 Massachusetts Ave., 317-384-1102 $$

Maialina Italian Kitchen + Bar

ITALIAN Straw-wrapped chianti bottles, wooden cross-back chairs, and family photos give a throwback trattoria feel to this addition to the city’s Italian scene. Meatballs from a family recipe with a solid house marinara are always a good choice. Pastas range from a straightforward toss of rigatoni with sausage and broccoli rabe to a rich, three-meat Bolognese lavished atop plump gnocchi. 1103 Prospect St., 317-982-7676, maialinaindy.com V $$$$

Max & Tilly’s

DINNER, SHOW

Make your reservation now for the Downtown Dinner Theatre at the Old National Centre, which kicks off next month. After a three-course supper from Greenwood’s Grafton Peek Catering, patrons will ﬁle from the historic building’s Oasis Lounge and Tunisian Room to its Arabian Room for a themed musical revue.

BR 2024 PIZZA This industrialfeeling pizza spot began as a student-friendly Bloomington destination in 2014; now it’s a local mini-chain with three locations. The huge wood-burning pizza oven (it’s named Thunder Dome) is the first thing diners see when they enter the space, and the open kitchen feels like a grown-up version of the exhibition pizzerias so popular in the 1980s. But this is present-day pizza, bubbly and charred, with seasonal toppings such as truffles and imported Taleggio cheese. Multiple locations, kingdoughpizzas.com V $$

BRITISH A traditional UK-style chip shop from the owner of Tilly’s Tea Room, Max & Tilly’s serves traditional pub classics such as cock-a-leekie soup and mushy peas alongside housebaked scones, spotted dick, and Bakewell tarts. It’s the fried offerings that transport you to a cozy mystery mindset, especially the Filthy Fries with hot shredded roast beef and, of course, the golden planks of beer-battered cod over hand-cut chips. 8701 E. 116th Street, Fishers, maxandtillys.com $$

Milktooth

BR 2024 BRUNCH This airy diner-style cafe has a playfully gritty vibe and a menu that changes with both the seasons and the whims of its chef. The early morning counter service featuring pastries and coffee gives way to a full-service brunch and lunch menu—if they’re serving a Dutch baby pancake, get it. Daytime craft cocktails are also

on offer, pairing well with a rotating selection of substantial savory offerings such as latkes, sandwiches, and salads. 534 Virginia Ave., 317-986-5131, milktoothindy.com V $$

Mr. Patakon

COLOMBIAN The name of Diana Moreno and Brenda Sánchez’s cheerful, authentic southside Colombian eatery comes from the popular Latin and South American dish patacones— flattened, fried plantains filled with everything from shredded barbecue chicken criollo to cheese, corn, and shredded beef. Or try the Super Perro hot dog, which is topped with every meat in the kitchen, quail eggs, and a special house sauce. Mazorcada (heaps of sweet corn topped with meats, cheeses, and potato sticks) is a delectable side dish. Fruit drinks and desserts, especially obleas (wafer cookies filled with dulce de leche and cheese), are worth the extra calories for a flavor experience like no other in the city. 7415 U.S. 31, 317-6929829, mrpatakon.com $$

Negrill Jamaican Restaurant and Bar

JAMAICAN You’ll need to come early to this spirited island spot if you want to score some of the day’s tender, rich oxtail stew or aromatic curried goat, served up in “lickle” (little) or larger portions dressed with rice and peas, steamed cabbage, and sweet fried plantains. Jerk chicken has just the right heat. Beef patties, fried or “escovitch” fish garnished with tangy veggies, and soups, depending on the day, round out the menu. 3701 W. 10th St., 317-602-8553, negrillrestaurant.com $$

Nowhere Special

COCKTAIL BITES Dan Cage’s funky cocktail lounge and small bites spot is far from its all-too-modest name. Sleek banquettes in earthy greens and brushed brass tabletops provide an elegant backdrop to classic pours and a host of new elixirs created by the talented bar staff. Try the light and fruity Love Island with passion fruit liqueur, tangy citrus cordial, and bubbles. 608 Massachusetts Ave., nowhereindy.com $$

Oakleys Bistro

CONTEMPORARY The meticulously plated fare at Steven Oakley’s eatery hails from a culinary era when sprigs of herbs and puddles of purees provided the flavor, and every single element on the plate served a purpose. The presentations are wild, with menu descriptions giving little more than clues as to what might arrive at the table. Heads-up on anything that appears in quotes, such as a creative “Coq au Vin.” 1464 W. 86th St., 317-824-1231, oakleysbistro.com V $$$

Our Table

CONTEMPORARY The location is suitably cozy and out of the way for one of Bargersville’s most popular fine dining destinations. Chef and owner Joe Miller focuses on gorgeous, rustic plates of steak, seafood, and Old World lasagna made with fresh pasta and generous layers of beef Bolognese, mozzarella, and creamy ricotta. The brioche sliders (containing buttermilk fried chicken or beef tenderloin with crispy onions and horseradish creme fraiche) are little bites of heaven. 5080 State Rd. 135, Bargersville, 317-847-4920, ourtablerestaurant.com V $$$

SMALL BITE

Revery

CONTEMPORARY This Old Greenwood bistro inside an 1800s-era drugstore offers approachable fine dining, with a more casual bar on the historic building’s back end. Small plates have included beets with whipped goat cheese and wasabi, while entrees are seasonal and skew toward seafood, with lobster, halibut, and mussels on recent menus. Whiskey drinks get priority on the cocktail menu, and their old fashioned feels fresh and new. 299 W. Main St., Greenwood, 317-2154164, reveryrestaurantgroup.com V $$$

Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza

PIZZA When husband-and-wife team Richard Goss and Meg Jones first fired up their restaurant’s massive brick oven in 2009, chain pizza ruled the Central Indiana landscape, either delivered within 30 minutes or served in a cavernous room with a singing, mechanical rodent. Franklin was a risky place to launch their vision of high-quality Neapolitan pizza made with fresh, often local ingredients—but the gamble paid off, and 15 years later, it’s become a destination for diners. Pastas, custom calzoni, and lasagna round out the menu. 229 S. Main St., Franklin, 317-7383300, richardskitchen.com V $$$

St. Elmo Steak House

best to save room for the main attraction. Carryout is available, but dining in is always a good time. 2829 E. 10th St., samssquarepie.com V $$$

Shadow Lounge

SOUL FOOD After a major renovation, the former Marco’s Restaurant and Lounge has been transformed into a rollicking dining destination. Chef Tia Wilson, late of wing spot Chicken Scratch, is in the kitchen, serving Southern and soul-infused dishes such as lamb lollipops, Cajun penne, and garlic-parmesan wings. The cocktails are strong, the music is loud, and while dinner is delightful, brunch is the real scene. 2380 E. 54th St., 317-974-9288, shadowloungeindy.com

$$$

Shapiro’s Delicatessen

SPEAKEASY, PLEASE

A fourth location of St. Elmo’s speakeasy spinoff, 1933 Lounge, is set to open in a new, $30 million Carmel building this month. This outpost joins spots in Fishers and downtown Indianapolis; a location at the Indianapolis airport is also slated to open this spring.

BR 2024 STEAKHOUSE Since 1902, this stately house of red meat has served as the unofficial ambassador of downtown Indianapolis—the walls carry decades’ worth of celebrity photos, the burnished bar hearkens to an earlier era, and the servers remain starched and bow-tied. The drill remains the same, as well: a generous martini or bottle from its vast and lauded wine list, a shrimp cocktail with that notoriously hot cocktail sauce, the bean soup or tomato juice, the wedge, and one of the well-aged, gorgeously marbled and completely legendary steaks. 127 S. Illinois St., 317-635-0636, stelmos.com

$$$

Sam’s Square Pie

BR 2024 PIZZA Detroit-style pizza obsessive Jeff Miner’s pop-up pie shop now has a permanent home on Indy’s near east side, giving followers and newcomers easy access to his square-cut pizzas. Just don’t expect a long list of available toppings or side options like salads and wings. This spot is a single-minded homage to pan-baked pizzas with a signature crown of well-browned cheese around the edges of the chewy, sturdy crust. Topping combos include the signature El Jefe with two styles of pepperoni, kicky Italian sausage, dollops of ricotta, and a drizzle of spicy honey. Slightly thinner and larger Sicilian pies occasionally appear on the menu, so snag one if you can, especially the sausage-topped High Plains Drifter that garnered second place at Las Vegas’ Pizza Expo. Cheesy garlic bread made with Miner’s pizza dough and garlic knots slathered in butter are also available, but it’s

DELI Slide your tray along and take your pick of kosher comfort foods at this familyowned downtown institution. Hot pastrami and corned beef sandwiches on rye have drawn long lines for more than a century. The Reuben is a contender for the city’s best, and heartier fare such as potato pancakes, stuffed cabbage, and matzo ball soup are perennially satisfying standbys. If you don’t load up on a massive slice of cheesecake or pie, you haven’t really had the proper Shapiro’s experience. 808 S. Meridian St., 317-631-4041, shapiros.com $$

Shiba Pho

VIETNAMESE Deep bowls of the namesake aromatic noodle soup get top billing at this no-frills Brownsburg spot, which also makes a special vegetarian broth for the plant-based. Starters such as spring rolls and dumplings set the tone, while deep-fried wings (served with three sauces) are standouts even in our chickenrich region. Don’t miss the Chef’s Specials or the sensibly stuffed banh mi sandwiches, served on fresh baguettes. 578 W. Northfield Dr., Brownsburg, 317-286-7018, shibapho.net $$

Siam Square

THAI Soothing red and green curries—redolent of coconut milk, Thai chili paste, and fresh veggies—play strictly by the book. The same goes for the fresh shrimp-and-chicken spring rolls packed inside a filament of rice paper, as well as the refreshing Som Tum salad, which is big enough for two. Made with crisp papaya and peanuts, then funkified with a generous pour of fish sauce, it’s the ideal start to any meal. 936 Virginia Ave., 317-636-8424, siamsquareindy.com V $$

Sidedoor Bagel

BRUNCH Appropriately dense and chewy with that required crackly sheen, the handrolled sourdough rings at Josh and Emily Greeson’s walk-up bagel shop are the stars of the show. Flaky salt, everything, sesame, and poppy are all solid standbys, while more adventures options such as rosemary sea salt or cinnamon sugar sesame beckon. Order

yours sliced and schmeared at the counter, or go for one of their generously stuffed bagel sandwiches. Then score an outdoor table or head back home (it’s carryout only) to enjoy while its hot. Boxed selections are available by the dozen or half-dozen, and schmears are available to go, with a vegan option from local companyEat Surreal also on the menu. 1103 E. 10th St., sidedoorbagel.com V $$

Tinker Street

BR 2024 NEW AMERICAN Diners are in for a delightful treat at this cozy, detailoriented restaurant where the open kitchen almost feels like part of the dining room. The menu changes with the seasons, but the soup is always something lush and vegan, the Duck & Dumplings (featuring duck confit and truffled dumplings) sells out fast, and the person who orders the pork chop will be the most envied diner at the table. The cocktails are delicate, the wine list well-curated, and its bar staff ready to offer mocktails. Don’t skip dessert, especially if it involves a scoop of ice cream. While Tinker Street sets aside some tables for walk-in diners, reservations are available online and are a good idea Thursday through Sunday. 402 E. 16th St., 317-925-5000, tinkerstreetrestaurant.com V $$$

Vicino

BR 2024 ITALIAN More than filling Mass Ave’s pasta needs, this modern, colorful trattoria from the owners of The Oakmont measures up to some of the best Italian spots anywhere in the city. Pastas are rotating and seasonal, as is a menu of substantial mains and blistered, wood-fired pizzas. A solid wine and craft cocktail list rounds the experience out nicely. 350 Massachusetts Ave., 317-798-2492, vicino indy.com V $$

Wisanggeni Pawon

BR 2024 INDONESIAN The talents of chefs Bambang Wisanggeni and Putri Pratiwi make dining at Wisanggeni Pawon a superb experience. The husband-andwife duo presents the complex, spice-forward dishes of their homeland, as well as some hibachi favorites drawn from their experience at nearby Japanese restaurants. Split a platter of martabak telor, a hearty beef omelet encased in crispy wonton skin, or share some steamed Indonesian dumplings with a rich peanut sauce. The signature beef rendang also stands out. Save room for the ube spring rolls dessert. 2450 E. 71st St., 317-756-9477, wpawon.com V $$

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SMALL BITE

Prince Hall Masonic Temple

THE STATELY REAGAN PARK STRUCTURE HAS BEEN A PILLAR OF THE MASONIC COMMUNITY SINCE 1916.

BY JEANA HARRIS

SITTING ON THE CORNER of Central Avenue and 22nd Street, what is today Prince Hall Masonic Temple was originally built in 1916 as Oriental Lodge No. 500, headquarters to a gathering of powerful Indianapolis Masons. The four-story brick building’s exterior is in the exotic revival style: Intricate, geometric brick patterns, terra cotta friezes, and keyhole windows emulate Islamic architecture. Membership of the lodge dwindled after World War II and following desegregation in the 1970s. That same decade, lower-level windows were infilled due to rising crime in the area, which led to the building being sold in 1983, when it became the home of the Grand Lodge of the Prince Hall Masonic Temple Association. That entity belonged to the historically African American group

of Prince Hall Freemasons, the oldest and largest African American fraternity in the U.S. In the years since, the building has been used for fellowship, meetings, and ceremonies. While pop culture loves shrouding Masons in mystery, the temple doesn’t contain trap doors or secret tunnels. Original features have been beautifully preserved, a testament to the rich history within its walls. “The most interesting thing about the building is the two-story Lodge Room. When you find your way up and discover the space, it’s unexpected. It’s in really good condition,” reports Mark Dollase, vice president of Preservation Services at Indiana Landmarks. Other notable areas include a social lounge, a dining room, a commercial kitchen, a custodian’s apartment, and a pipe organ room.

Wherever you are in life,

LOVE IN VERONA

Indianapolis Monthly April 2025

Destination

Dining

Where It All Comes

DESTINATION: DINING

52

JOHN GREEN’S LATEST DIAGNOSIS

56

CHARTED TERRITORY

25Years of Fighting FOR

extraordinary LIFE

CIRCLE CITY

GOOD LIFE

THE DISH

APRIL

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65 // HEALTH WATCH: ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

75 // HOMETOWN: DOWNTOWN

PRIVATE EDUCATION

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The Shape of Power

Rise of Rentals

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Swing of Things

A BROADWAY MUSICIAN FINDS HIS TRUE COMMUNITY HERE IN INDY.

THE TICKET

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Ready to Rock

True Colors

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Like Buttah

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Jen’s Floral Design Is More Than Flowers

JEN'S FLORAL DESIGN

Release the Hounds

( EXPLORE )

Born Free

Country Charm

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The High Life

( NEW IN TOWN )

PINCH OF WISDOM

Sweet Inspiration

Wrap Stars

LOVE HANDLE

RIZE

Tragedy to Tradition

Southern Story

HOTEL CARMICHAEL

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