eat local

So this is a follow up post to my last post.  In addition to supporting our local brewpubs, Tom and I love to hit up the local eateries that Indy has to offer as well.  Sure, you know what you are getting when you go to the chains but if you can step outside of your comfort zone a bit, you will find some pretty surprising options here in the Hoosier state.  In the eat and drink portion of my blog, you will find reviews of the local joints we have tried that I feel deserve a shout out.  I would love to hear any suggestions you might have on groovy places near you so please feel free to comment on places Tom and I should try.  I stumbled upon this list of the top 25 local Indy restaurants to try published by visitindy.com that I plan on adding to my bucket list.  Tom and I hit up one of our favorite brunch places this morning called Zest! Exciting Food Creations (which does happen to have made the top 25 list).  They are located in the eclectic Broad Ripple Village area.  The interior of Zest! is as unique as its neighborhood and the food will blow your mind.  It is comfort food elevated to a point you didn't believe possible.  It somehow evokes nostalgia but at the same time introduces a taste combination that is completely new and exciting.  Tom had their sausage quiche.  I stole a bite and it was hands down the best quiche I have ever had.  It had a creaminess that I have never experienced in a quiche before and I highly suggest it!  I had their meatloaf sandwich with famous macaroni and cheese.  I very rarely order meatloaf at restaurants because the result can be pretty sketchy.  Zest's meatloaf however is melt in your mouth delicious...so much so that I took a picture of it. lol

drink local

I am a huge advocate of supporting local businesses, especially when it comes to locally grown food and drink.  Tom and I are fans of the microbrew movement and were pleasantly surprised to learn of all the great brewpubs right here in our backyard.  If you want to expand your beer horizon with some super tasty and incredibly fresh choices, this is the way to do it.  The Indiana Brewers Guild represents 55 different Hoosier microbrewers and brewpubs.  Your choices are endless!  Although I have definitely not had a chance to visit them all (I have made it to 10 and counting), my favorite to date is Sun King Brewing Company.  They offer free tastings on Thursday-Saturday and growler fills Monday-Saturday.  If visiting for the first time, I suggest going on a Friday night.  On Fridays they offer $5 growler fills for their three house beers:  Sunlight Cream Ale, Osiris Pale Ale and Wee Mac Scottish Ale.  In addition to the house beers, you will have the opportunity to taste two to three seasonal and specialty beers that change weekly.  You will see all walks of life in the tasting room, both young and old.  It offers a great environment to people watch and socialize.  Sun King often allows local non-for-profit organizations an opportunity to promote their causes during tastings by providing booth space where patrons can drop by to learn more about their organization.  You just can't go wrong drinking great beer and learning how you can help animals at your local Humane Society.  That's the beauty of local businesses...they have more stakes in the community and do more to support it.  So pick out a local brewpub or microbrewery near you and enjoy.  Cheers!

happy new year!

As I mentioned in my last post, we spent New Year's Eve at a close friend's wedding.  It was a great way to ring in the new year, surrounded by love and friendship...of course the tasty treats and cocktails didn't hurt either. lol  The attire was black tie so it gave Tom and I an excuse to clean up right.  I think we didn't do too shabby, if I do say so myself. 

After sleeping in on New Year's Day, I got to thinking about what 2014 will hold and reflecting on all the adventures of 2013.  This past year has been the happiest I can remember.  I spent it next to the man I love, strengthening our relationship and learning more about one another...it just doesn't get much better than that.  It seems that my contentment has drifted into other areas of my life as well.  My job continues to challenge me and keep me on my toes.  This is perfect for me because I hate routine and really thrive when I can be creative.  My family and friends are all in good health and in wonderful places in their lives.  2013 has given me many blessings that I hope to never take for granted.  I have a sneaking suspension that 2014 is just going to keep getting better.  I wish you and your loved ones health, wealth and happiness in the new year!