Devour Downtown Starts Today

Hey, kids, it's the summer version of Indianapolis restaurant week. Starting today and running through June 15, most of the restaurants downtown have $30 prix fixe menus. It's a great way to try something outside your budget, or get a great deal at a place that's one of your favorites. We did a little preview last week and here are a few tips:

Capital Grille: I still think the steakhouses offer some of the best deals for Devour Downtown. In most cases, you're getting an entree that would be $30 on its own plus an appetizer and full size dessert. Capitol Grille has a dry aged 10 oz Kona crusted sirloin that's pretty damned great. (Also look for their half roasted chicken, their 8 oz filet, and grilled salmon in a sweet citrus glaze ("Atlantic" farmed salmon, but what are you gonna do.) My tip for Capital Grille? Add the suggested wine pairings from Greg Van Winkle, their in-house wine guy. Just say yes to the Hess Collection Block 19 Cuvee from Mt. Veeder with the filet, the Terrazas Malbec Reserve Mendoza with the Kona-crusted sirloin, and the Iron Horse rose and the I'M Sonoma Chardonnay with the salmon and chicken respectively (or frankly, just on their own. I loved that I'M chard.)

The Oceanaire: Oceanaire's summer menu is always a treat and this one is no different. Ryan has a real talent for elaborate salads with fresh fruit, crunchy veg, and cured seafood. Look for a frissee salad with in house smoked or cured salmon, goat cheese, grapefruit and fennel and my recommendation for a main course, a scallop dish with mushrooms, bacon and a little "something" that turned out to be mint. They scale their dessert portions down for this menu which is smart since everybody gets one. Keep in mind that Oceanaire's menu may change -- over a two week period, they sometimes switch it up.

Other tips:

14 West: I love their pretzel bread and they'll have sangria by the pitcher if you want to sit outside.

Claddagh: Two eat at Claddagh for the $30 price with one appetizer to share, choice of shepherd's pie or fish and chips and a dessert to share.

J. Gumbo's: Mike Deweese may struggle with concepts, but the guy knows his beer. Beer fans will note this $30 menu includes beer pairings with each course. Elbow Room's menu also comes with a glass of house wine.

R Bistro: Regina's going old school with a brined, spiced BBQ pork loin, cornbread and cole slaw. That sounds so good to me right now.

Be sure to check out the full list of restaurants at the Devour Downtown website or make reservations via Opentable. Most of them have menus online with specials for restaurant week. Check out the menu at the Harrison room at the Columbia Club. It says call for reservations, so I'd say if you've been wanting to check it out, go for it!