Kiss The Cook By Susan Salaz
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Love is the secret ingredient for a special Valentine’s Day meal. Here are some of the best local restaurants we are crushing on right now, for all the right reasons.
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FOR THE ROMANCE:
Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine 40 S. Main Street, Zionsville and 11529 Spring Mill Road, Carmel convivioindy.com To chef, owner and native Italian Andrea Melani the essence of Convivio is to enjoy the special moments that come with sharing a meal. Here, he sweeps you off your feet—taking you back to his home country without ever leaving town. His meticulous, yet simplistic menu features fresh pasta made daily and changes seasonally to highlight regional Italian fare in an intimate setting. |
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FOR THE WINE:
Tucci's 11 W. City Center Drive, Carmel tucciscarmel.com Known for their lengthy list of premium wines, extensive by-the-glass offerings and discerning sommelier service, Tucci’s in Carmel City Center is a favorite fine-dining destination serving steaks, fresh seafood and pasta. From January 23rd through February 5th they are featuring a three course dinner for Devour Indy week, and always offer complimentary valet service. |
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FOR THE ATMOSPHERE:
The Fountain Room 830 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis thefountainroom.com “The Fountain Room is a great place on Valentine’s Day due to its unique and lively atmosphere,” says owner Blake Fogelsong. But the stunning space with boozy drinks, velvet banquettes, glowing chandeliers and a reel-to-reel machine evokes a sense of nostalgia and entertainment anytime. For Valentine’s Day, Executive Chef Andrew Popp will be featuring scallops, lamb lollipops, and a surf-and-turf special, along with homemade cherry amaretto and chocolate pie. |
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FOR THE COCKTAILS:
Verde Flavors of Mexico 12727 E. 86th Street, Indianapolis 11680 Commercial Drive, Fishers 1111 W. Main Street, Carmel 3221 S. US 421, Zionsville verdeflavorsofmexico.com Tequila will never go out of style, but according to owner Paul Aréchiga, mezcal can brighten up any gray winter day. The specialty cocktail currently turning heads is Verde is Vida (meaning“Verde is life”). Made with Mezcal and agave nectar, with hints of orange, lime and cucumber, this drink pairs perfectly with the authentic and elegant Mexican cuisine that Verde is known for. |
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FOR THE SWEET TREATS:
Gallery Pastry 1101 E. 54th Street, Indianapolis 319 E. 16th Street, Indianapolis 110 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis gallerypastry.com All of the desserts for the trio of Gallery Pastry locations are made on display at the downtown Indianapolis location (Gallery Pastry Bar), and none of the decadent treats, from the macarons they are famous for to classic French croissants, tangy fruit tarts and ultimate dessert boards last long in the cases, or on your plate. On Valentine’s Day, you’ll fall in love with a multi-course, interactive experience featuring sweet and savory plates from the Gallery Pastry chefs and a complimentary glass of champagne at the original Gallery Pastry location in SoBro. |