Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Open Thread: My Next Review

I'm on a roll! It's funny how free time is cyclical and last week, the stars aligned to allow me to get to Bloomington (more than once, I can't believe it) and the new SI. Reviewing is tough for me because, I like to go to places where I know I'll like the food and service. I'm don't like to spend money when I know it will be subpar. But I'm feeling adventurous! (Also, ready to break out of my winter routines.)


So, here's the question: What restaurant would you readers like to see me review next? Keep in mind I typically do fine dining -- higher end -- as opposed to all the funky ethnic eateries (although Kirts does a good job of dragging me along to try something new.) I tend to avoid chains, but would give one a look if they stepped above and beyond. And I don't tend to venture too far afield in, say, Carmel or Zionsville, but could for a good reason. So, what place are you curious about? What are you dying to try? Any suggestions?

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

We had a really good meal last Saturday night at Bistro de Paris on Main St in Carmel although teir wine list needs a little work. Give it a try.

Anonymous said...

The new incarnation of Brix in zionsville would be a good place. They have been open about a month so you should be able to get a "good read" on what they are doing. Also, I've heard from few people that Z's in castleton is pretty good.

Anonymous said...

do you ever head to marco's? we love it!

Big Ed said...

How about Richards Kitchen in Franklin Indiana
Duffy's review:
http://www.evergladeshostel.com/media/articles/richardskitchen.htm

Anonymous said...

I'd suggest La Trattoria in Greenwood. Fantastic steak.

Anonymous said...

Kind of off the subject, but still speaking of new places, have you heard anything re: 45 degrees at mass ave and college? A friend overheard a discussion between the owner and some others at starbucks and said their idea sounded interesting - although i'm not a fan of blu martini or its food (i'm more of a pub girl) it will be nice to have another sushi option downtown.

braingirl said...

Bistro de Paris and Noah Grant's (the former Brix) are definitely on the radar.

You can search the site, but I've covered what's up with Forty-Five Degrees (as has Cory at Property Lines) at least as much as we know. They'll be in the bottom of the corner building (where the old Abby used to be). Their build out is going slowly -- but yes, it will be ultra-loungy, sushi and small plates. They used to do good sushi at Blu Martini years ago so I expect it will be a welcome addition to Mass Ave if they pull it off.

Anonymous said...

Whomever you review, just be objective. I've been back in Indy for two years now and have only had one meal start to finish that was great/amazing. Yet, I read week after week, review after review of all the amazing places in Indy. I'm not saying that there are not chefs in town doing great things. I've had a fair share of 'WOW' dishes. I have just found it nearly impossible to find a place that has all of the elements down, consistently. It sounds like you are off to a good start with your last two reviews. Perhaps you could revisit some of your favourite places with a more critical eye. Indy and some of the chefs here have the potential of making this a real food town. But if you look at larger markets and internationally and compare apples to apples, price for price Indy mainly serves up a lot of mediocrity. Just my humble opinion.

braingirl said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

In Bloomington there are a handle full of restaurants that I would frequent when I lived there: Talent's, Le Pettit Cafe, Little Tibet (if you like Indian food)

Anonymous said...

Definitely give Bistro de Paris a try. I'd be interested in hearing your take as we thought it was really disappointing last Saturday. Very uneven and unfortunately the scale only went from "okay" to "not okay." The chef is a total sweetheart, though, and clearly wants to succeed (and, yes, we did convey the unevenness of everything to him). We'll try it again when they've had a little more time under their belts, but my hopes are not high.

Anonymous said...

Bijou in Lebanon might be an idea. Or Bongee's (if only to just to go 'cause it's fun). I've also been curious about the revamped Corner Wine Bar, but not curious enough to get out my wallet. :)

braingirl said...

Krissy and Dave wouldn't be able to get me to leave if lived in Bloomington. I'd also weigh 300 pounds from all the foie.

The sous chef at Bistro de Paris is Steve. (see the post on the PACE/OAR fundraiser). FYI, if you search, you'll find my coverage of Bongi's and Corner Wine Bar.

Some interesting ideas, though, and thanks!

Barb said...

I recently heard that Augustino's has a Sunday brunch. I would be curious to hear a review of that. Also, I second the request for a review of Z's. I am very interested to hear your take on it.