Carmel, IN October 2023

Savoring the Flavors: Uncovering the Best of Carmel's Eateries

FOOD + BEVERAGE

THE HAPPIEST HOUR: INSIDE THE WORLD OF LOREN'S AF BEVERAGES

Food for Your Soul

Dear Reader,

As the crisp autumn air sweeps through Carmel, we are thrilled to welcome you to the October Food and Beverage Issue – a celebration of the very best our city has to offer. This season invites us to embrace the flavors of autumn, savoring dishes that warm our hearts and connect us to cherished memories.

On a personal note, I said a final goodbye to my Grandmother last month. She was a truly exceptional person and a huge influence in my life. Her passing brought a flood of fond memories. During my grief, I find solace in the recipes she lovingly prepared for special occasions. These were recipes passed down through generations, with each dish bearing significance in our family's rich history. Among them, a recipe for "Fruitless Cobbler" harkens back to the days of the Great Depression when fruit was scarce. And then there's the “special occasion punch” that has graced countless weddings, baby showers, and joyous family gatherings. As I recreate these dishes for my family today, it's a heartfelt way to keep her memory alive, bridging the gap between past and present.

Not only is this issue filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town, it also features the people who make the local food scene truly exceptional. We had the pleasure of sitting down with some amazing businesses – Cinnaholic, Loren’s Alcohol Free Beverages, Eggshell Bistro, and Monterey Coastal Cuisine to talk about exciting foods and beverages worth trying.

Creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies the palate but also evokes memories is indeed an art form. The aroma of certain spices and foods has the power to transport us back to our childhood, a profoundly comforting experience. Food has the unique ability to bring us together, whether it's a cozy family meal or a lively night out on the town. The moments spent savoring food are treasures.

Thank you for being part of our vibrant community of readers. Your continued support, as well as the support of our advertising partners inspires us to bring you the very best of Carmel's food and beverage scene. As you explore the pages of our October issue, remember that food is not just nourishment; it's a source of connection and a keeper of memories.

As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Andrea Kulsrud | andrea.kulsrud@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Hillarie Finley | hillarie.finley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Hillarie Finley, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maverick Marketing, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

ANDREA KULSRUD, PUBLISHER @CARMEL.CITY.LIFESTYLE

We are your Local. Honest. Plumbers.

We hope you grow with us, learn about plumbing, and always feel safe knowing you have a neighborhood plumber on call. When it comes to our services, no job is too big no issue too small! From a running toilet to a new sewer line and every type of plumbing in between, we are at your service.

At House of Colour Carmel, we are celebrators of individuality and curators of confidence! It is our mission through bespoke color and style sessions to help clients build a lasting, easy to manage, sustainable wardrobe that not only looks great and provides confidence, but also represents each client’s authentic self.

317.506.8804

angie.scott@houseofcolour.com

www.houseofcolour.com

V @houseofcolourcarmel

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @carmel.city.lifestyle

1: Keeping Up In Carmel (@keepingupincarmel) celebrated its one year anniversary on Aug 1, 2023. 2: Upland Brewing’s soft launch at Clay Terrace. (Opened 9/1) 3: Beautiful tables at Coxhall Guild’s Posh Picnic 2023. 4: Keeping Up In Carmel (@keepingupincarmel) celebrated its one year anniversary on Aug 1, 2023. 5: Taylor Swift-themed table at Coxhall Guild’s Posh Picnic 2023. 6: Fab Too (Beatles cover duo) performing at the Fire & Flow Yoga grand reopening. 7: Alicia and Brendon Buckley enjoying the grand reopening of Fire & Flow Yoga.

CHELSEA KOPELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

DENNIS MCCLINTOCK

CINDI ODLE

CINDI ODLE

DENNIS MCCLINTOCK

CHELSEA KOPELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

@CLAYTERRACEMALL & @UPLANDBREWCO

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Russell Painting Company

Russell Painting Company, Inc. is a full-service residential and commercial painting company. We perform both interior and exterior painting in the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Because we are locally owned and operated, exceptional customer service and high-quality work are consistently achieved. Over one thousand projects have been completed by Russell Painting Company, Inc. in the Indianapolis Area since 1993. We have worked in many local schools, churches, offices, and hundreds of homes.

Scan to read more.

BeelievAbility

BeelievAbility is an outpatient pediatric clinic founded by co-owners, Allie (Occupational Therapist) and Maggie (Physical Therapist). We offer intensive therapy utilizing dynamic movement intervention (DMI) as a main treatment tool. Our mission is to greatly improve a child’s quality of life and empower families in a safe and caring environment. Our goal is to never give up on a child’s potential and help guide them to reach their greatest abilities. The first step is Beelieving.

Scan to read more.

Circle Real Estate

Jason O’Neil founded Circle Real Estate in 2021 with a unique twist on residential real estate: A data-driven marketing firm that sells real estate.  Circle Real Estate is the premier boutique real estate firm in Central Indiana. Inspired by boutique firms in other industries and a demand for smaller, more localized services, the real estate experience at Circle is second to none. The firm attracts incredible agents and benefits the homebuyers and sellers they represent.

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Carmel

Photography Russell Painting Company

Photography Circle Real Estate

ARTICLE BY HILLARIE FINLEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK, MAVERICK MARKETING

Cinnaholic’s gourmet cinnamon rolls will please every sugar fanatic.

Savoring the Flavors

UNCOVERING THE BEST OF CARMEL

In the vast and diverse world of food, some establishments stand out for their unique offerings and captivating ambiance. We dive into the world of three exceptional culinary havens that will leave you longing for more.

Our first stop is a global fusion bistro, which offers a unique take on traditional dishes from around the world. Guests can always expect to find something delicious and unexpected, including delicious coffee and tea selections. The bistro’s menu changes to reflect the freshest ingredients available and the new discoveries of the owner and chef. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic dish with a twist or something completely new, their global fusion food is sure to please.

Next, we head to a coastal-inspired restaurant, which brings the beach right to Carmel with exquisite seafood, tantalizing cocktails, and wine selections sure to win anyone over. Ask for a food and wine pairing from their level 2 sommelier and immerse yourself in a delicious meal. With a cozy ambiance, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Finally, we visit a gourmet vegan, scratch-made bakery that will delight your senses with their plant-based baked goods and toppings galore. It is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Join us on this gastronomic journey that promises to satisfy your cravings for the best of Carmel.

Eggshell Bistro interior.

Chef and owner of Eggshell Bistro, Larry Hanes

Eggshell Bistro

51 City Center Dr. Carmel, IN. 46032

Eggshell Bistro is an award-winning restaurant that opened its doors in December 2011. Chef and owner Larry Hanes has an extensive history as an art director, but his passion is crafting delicious interpretations of classic dishes worldwide. Fans of the bistro describe it as a community hangout and the cheapest way to travel without flying.

1. Most Popular Menu Item.

Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish with poached eggs in a simmering tomato sauce with spices. In Eggshell Bistro’s case, this dish features a Tunisian-spiced tomato base, habanera, onion, garlic, chèvre, zhoug, sousvide poached eggs, and ciabatta bread.

2. Underrated Menu Item.

Labneh Tartine is a Middle Eastern dish packed with flavor. The house-made lemon-sumac labneh cheese has a goat cheese-like texture and is seasoned with a rose-petal za’atar mix, sous-vide poached hen’s eggs, blueberry-fig chutney, rose water & petals, and grilled ciabatta bread.

3. Sip on Coffee, Tea, and Tisanes.

Eggshell Bistro partners with Four Barrel Coffee and SerendipiTea for exquisite brewed beverages. Their most popular drinks include the New Orleans Iced Coffee, Turmeric Latte, and the newly concocted Red Rooibos Cappuccino.

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Monterey Coastal Cuisine

110 W Main St Suite 135, Carmel, IN. 46032

Monterey Coastal Cuisine combines classic culinary techniques with California-inspired flavors as a new approach to casual fine dining. Although the menu is inspired by coastal cuisine, it also features seasonal and locally-influenced flavors to create a unique experience.

1. Most Popular Menu Items.

Monterey’s Miso Butter Seabass is a true delight for seafood enthusiasts. This delectable creation features miso butter, fragrant scallion rice, Brussels sprouts, and a sweet pea puree.

The Life-Changer Cocktail is a secret menu item with a passionate fanbase. Bartenders use Tanteo Habanero Tequila and secret ingredients for a unique take on a spicy margarita.

2 . Underrated Menu Items.

The 12-ounce Pork Chop from Monterey is a revelation, showcasing that pork chops don’t have to be dry and flavorless. This dish also contains fingerling potatoes, a flavorful bacon onion marmalade, a balanced Granny Smith apple slaw, and a sweet pea puree.

Want a refreshing cocktail? Try the Slim Citrus Flip, a vodka and Seaglass Sauvignon Blanc-based drink with sugar-free simple syrup, lemon, lime, and soda.

3 . Favorite Food and Wine Pairing

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with soy ginger aioli and Napa cabbage slaw pair beautifully with the Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc. Try it the next time you visit Monterey Coastal Cuisine, or ask their level 2 sommelier for a recommendation.

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Cinnaholic

1350 S Rangeline Rd, Carmel, IN. 46032; and 13185 Harrell Parkway, Suite 150, Noblesville, IN. 46060

Cinnaholic is a popular and growing bakery that makes gourmet vegan and plant-based baked goods. They’re best known for their “create your own” model for cinnamon rolls, making them customizable for every baked goods enthusiast. Their rolls are made from scratch daily, plus the company is committed to sustainability. The owner of the Carmel franchise, Sanya Strawser, loves the community she’s built since her store opened in 2022.

1. Most Popular Menu Items

Signature Rolls steal the show. The beauty of Cinnaholic is that people can customize their desserts to their preferences. Some of the most popular rolls include Old Skool (cinnamon roll with vanilla icing), Caramel Apple Pie Roll (caramel frosting topped with fresh apples, pecans, homemade pie crumble and caramel sauce), and Very Berry (cake batter frosting topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberry jam, and powdered sugar).

2 . Upcoming Menu Items

Cinnaholic is launching weekly specials. Stop in and see what’s new! Aside from rolls, Cinnaholic provides gluten-free, allergy-friendly, and completely customizable options for a sweet treat anyone can enjoy.

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317-800-8758

modishpool.com

Modish Pools specializes in unique designs and custom features tailored to each client’s specific needs. Whether it be the design and construction of a new pool or the renovation of an existing one, let Modish Pools help you make your backyard dreams a reality.

I am thrilled that you have taken the time to read a little bit about the passion and commitment my team and I have at PPCI for all postpartum mamas. I hope this brings you the confidence and permission to reach out and allow us to take care of you!

Xoxo, Stacia

confidence

tackle that 4th trimester.

The Happiest Hour

INSIDE THE UNIQUE WORLD OF LOREN’S AF BEVERAGES

In 2021, sisters Andee Simpson and Kristin Patrick quit drinking alcohol. After doing so they unexpectedly discovered the joys of alcohol-free alternatives. In their first year of sobriety, the two stumbled across an article in Vogue titled “Booze-Free Bottle Shops are Making Dry January Easier Than Ever.”

The concept of an alcohol-free bottle shop intrigued and excited them. Simpson and Patrick realized they could put their newfound passion for non-alcoholic drinks to work in the form of a new business venture. By June 2022, Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages (Loren’s AF) opened in Carmel. Now, the pair runs two stores.

At Loren’s AF, the goal is to be disruptive and inclusive. Simpson and Patrick want to disrupt the narrative that alcohol is necessary for events while teaching hosts to be more inclusive. The pair works hard to source and curate the most interesting and exciting alcohol-free drinks around so customers never get bored.

The decision to open in Carmel was a no-brainer.

“We’re big believers in shopping local,” Patrick says. “I always say our ideal Saturday is jumping in a car, going to a new location, and wandering in and out of shops. That’s what we love.”

From the beginning, the local community embraced the concept.

“I thought that we were going to have to spend six months or a year explaining what we’re trying to do, but right from the get-go, people got it,” Simpson explains.

The shop stocks something for everybody, from red and sparkling white wines to craft beers and spirits. A newer category of products offered in the shop is adaptogenic drinks, which offer functional benefits that help people adapt to stress without the negative side effects of alcohol.

As for advice for sober-curious people, Simpson encourages people to do what feels right. “If you want to be quiet about it, you can be quiet about it. If you want to be vocal about it, there’s so much support out there.”

ARTICLE BY HILLARIE FINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN CLARK, MAVERICK MARKETING

Simple ingredients, flavorful drink.

Grapefruit Radler Mocktail

A radler is a refreshing and citrusy beer-based drink. The radler originates in Germany as a drink for cyclists, but the fruity aroma and zesty flavor makes it a popular choice worldwide.

Simpson and Patrick recommend using a blonde ale like Busty Lush She’s Golden Blonde. The duo found this recipe from Soberish Mom (@soberishmom on Instagram), and customers love it as a tasty and invigorating option for brunch.

Ingredients :

• 3 ounces grapefruit juice

• Juice from 1/2 lemon

• 1/2 ounce simple syrup

• 8 ounces non-alcoholic wheat beer or ale

• Lemon or grapefruit for garnish

Directions:

1. Add grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a glass. Stir.

2. Add ice.

3. Gently pour beer on top of ice and gently stir again.

4. Garnish with lemon or grapefruit and enjoy!

Recipe Credit: https://www.soberishmom.com/post/grapefruit-radler-mocktail

Delicious!

The sisters also recommend A Cut Above Zero Proof Whiskey with Cherry Vanilla Olipop on ice.

Pour Cherry Vanilla Olipop on ice, then add in a zero-proof whiskey.

Axis Home is the premier destination for high-end luxury outdoor furniture. We offer a wide range of products, including dining sets, lounges, and accessories, all made from the finest materials and designed with the utmost attention to detail.

We offer a premium product at a fraction of the cost of other luxury retailers. That’s because we believe that everyone deserves to enjoy the beauty and comfort of a luxurious outdoor space, regardless of their budget.

THE FLAVOR OF FALL

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cure-all, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with this simple recipe.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling: Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice cream.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 13TH

Friday the 13th Tasting

LOREN'S AF EAST, 5790 EAST MAIN STREET, SUITE 150, CARMEL, INDIANA 46033 | 7:00 PM

Join food and beverage businesses featured in the October issue for some spooky food, beverage, and fun! Next to Café Patachou facing Hazel Dell Parkway

OCTOBER 14TH

Salem Sisters

KITS & KABOODLE CLASSIC TOYS, 723 HANOVER PLACE, CARMEL, IN 46032 | 11:00 AM

The Salem Sisters will be entertaining children with stories and picture-taking opportunities.  A boo package will be available to take home, including a craft from Wikki Stix.  Hocus Pocus toys will be available for purchase.

OCTOBER 14TH

The Arts in Autumn (Trick-or-Treat Sponsor: Circle Real Estate)

MIDTOWN PLAZA CARMEL | 2:00 PM

The Arts in Autumn will feature food vendors, arts and crafts merchants, family activities including trick or treating, a screening of Hotel Transylvania at 2 p.m., live entertainment, a custom photo booth, a dog costume contest, and City of Carmel giveaways. Attendees and pets are welcome to dress up in costume. This event is free and open to the public.

OCTOBER 14TH

Meet Me on Main

ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT | 4:00 PM

Make your way to Main Street and Range Line Road for an evening of art, shopping, and more. The event includes expanded options for “hands-on” art for the public every month. The event highlights local art galleries and businesses along Main St.

OCTOBER 19TH

Little Haunt on the Prairie

COOL CREEK PARK NATURE CENTER | 5:00 PM

Little Haunt on the Prairie at Ghoul Creek Park is fun for the whole family! Spooky, yet age-appropriate Halloween activities will be offered for children ranging from preschool to school-ages and their families! Come in costume and enjoy nature interpretation, entertainment, a hayride, food for purchase, and activities for kiddos as they trick-or-treat their way through this spooky event.

OCTOBER 21ST

Boo 'N Brew Fall Festival

CLAY TERRACE | 2:00 PM

Celebrate an early Halloween at our 11th Annual Boo 'n Brew! Children 10 and under are invited to trick-or-treat from store to store with the vendor booths on Clay Terrace Boulevard. Boo 'n Brew hosts a variety of fall fun for kids and families of all ages! Guests and pets are encouraged to show up in their best Halloween Costume.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Carmel

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Skylights can be opened to allow fresh air to flow into your home, promoting a healthier indoor environment and reducing the need for air conditioning.

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Experience the wonder of gazing at the sky before bedtime with our skylights.

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