Travel

Dining Outside the Home: Ernestine and Hazel’s in Memphis, Tennessee

Dining Outside the Home: Ernestine and Hazel’s in Memphis, Tennessee! Housed in a building steeped with southern history lies a gathering place where the burgers are greasy, the music is hypnotic, and the liquor is smooth. People connect with the heart and soul at the mere thought of Chuck Berry or Ray Charles, listening as the jukebox plays on. Upstairs an aura of mystique practically oozes from the heavily color-draped walls. That’s no coincidence, especially after hearing murmurings of shadowy figures and other unexplained phenomenon based on the dozen or so tragic deaths that occurred there. Perhaps that is why the seasoned bartender keeps his head down, humming under his breath, and serves up a stiff one.

Dining Outside the Home: Roscoe’s Coffee Bar in Richmond, Indiana

Dining Outside the Home: Roscoe’s Coffee Bar in Richmond, Indiana! For a nice stop on the east side of town, go for impressive organic coffees, fruit smoothies, and gastronomic food. Although the atmosphere might be laid back, the menu compensates with imaginative options. Take a seat inside at one of the warm wood communal tables while sipping on a nitrogen-infused cold coffee or perhaps an imperial brown ale. Friendly strangers might join you for a little conversation. The food is locally sourced, using a quality blend of fresh ingredients. Overall, Roscoe’s East Side is pretty down-to-earth and easy on the pocketbook.

Dining Outside the Home: The Library Restaurant and Pub in Indianapolis, Indiana

Dining Outside the Home: The Library Restaurant and Pub in Indianapolis, Indiana! Whether you choose private dining for celebrations, a gastro-pub atmosphere where sports abound, or tasteful seating among works of art, you’ll feel at home at The Library Restaurant and Pub. Seasonal favorites, as well as chef specialties, enhance an already extensive menu. For starters, indulge in Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail bathed in a zesty horseradish sauce. Move on to make a meal of Grilled Romaine, drizzled with olive oil, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. Mmmm. There’s a method to my madness, you see. The made-in-house desserts make a grande finale. I recommend the Crème Brûlée topped with caramelized sugar. C’est Magnifique!

Dining Outside the Home: 2 G’s Barbecue in Bellefontaine, Ohio

Dining Outside the Home: 2 G’s Barbecue in Bellefontaine, Ohio! Jump in your car for a road trip to the county seat of Logan County, an area rich in history and once the village of Shawnee Chief Blue Jacket. If it’s soul food you’re looking for with home style BBQ slow-cooked to perfection, 2 G’s will not disappoint. The melt-in-your-mouth ribs slide off the bone in a thick tangy sauce that is lip smacking good. The baked chicken selections aim to please the hungry appetite. And there’s more. Seafood lovers drool between tiger shrimp and catfish filets. Don’t forget the southern sides and classic cornbread, included with most menu items. And the name, you wonder? Ask the friendly staff. They’ll smile from ear to ear while sharing the remarkable story. 

Dining Outside the Home: The Cheesecake Factory in Cincinnati, Ohio

Dining Outside the Home: The Cheesecake Factory in Cincinnati, Ohio! Mention the word “cheesecake” and watch pupils dilate and lips begin to smack in anticipation of heavenly bliss. After all, what’s not to love about a dessert composed of cream cheese and butter? Add to it the combination of light-as-air cake with unbelievable fillings and mind-boggling toppings! The fact that The Cheesecake Factory offers an extensive menu of healthy options just gives us one more reason to make room for dessert. If I eat salad, then I can reward myself with dessert, right? Of course you can. And if the portions are too large, no worries. That’s what doggie bags are for. 

Dining Outside the Home: Calico Café in Coldwater, Ohio

Dining Outside the Home: Calico Café in Coldwater, Ohio! As the days grow shorter and the chill of Autumn sets in, people gravitate to a bustling café in Coldwater, Ohio. Step through the door and be embraced by the soothing aromas of homemade soups, a daily special, and delectable desserts that go down easy. Mary, the owner, knows her regulars by name. She takes a moment to share a story or two before scurrying back to the kitchen in response to an oven timer. This is why people drive a few miles out of the way to a place where simpler times are met with a smile…not to mention, a generous slice of dark-chocolate cake with rich ganache icing. 

Dining Outside the Home: Galo’s Italian Grill in Richmond, Indiana 

Dining Outside the Home: Galo’s Italian Grill in Richmond, Indiana! Like a gondola ride through the canals of Venice, complete with serenade, the relaxed atmosphere of Galo’s Italian Grill will sweep you away. Choose a lovely table under a patio umbrella for quiet conversation and dining al fresco. With food that is hand made fresh, there is no shortage of menu options. The pride of being family-owned reflects traditional values and quality service. Go ahead, indulge in mouth-watering food where generous portions turn tomorrow’s lunch into the ultimate reward. 

Dining Outside the Home: Morton’s The Steakhouse in Cincinnati, Ohio

Dining Outside the Home: Morton’s The Steakhouse in Cincinnati, Ohio! With a stunning view of Fountain Square and a wait staff that aims to please, it’s easy to see why Morton’s Steakhouse on Vine Street sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. For starters let’s try a modern “Mortini” like Pimm’s Cup. Oh, my! A peek at the extensive menu, known for their aged prime beef and signature dishes, leaves one already planning another visit. But for now, relax and enjoy the anticipation of lavish delight. Perhaps a nibble or two of Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, engulfed in a misty fog of dry ice as it makes a grand entrance to the table. Sublime. Prepare to share generous side portions for the ultimate dining extravaganza. After all, the grande finale is Soufflé for Two.