• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
sand and snow logo

Sand and Snow

Travel | Food | Beauty | Disney

  • About Sand and Snow
  • Travel
  • Food & Drinks
  • Disney
  • Beauty
  • Talk & Tech
  • Privacy

Eating My Way Around Northern Indiana Part 3: Hendricks and Hamilton Counties

June 7, 2016 by Karyn Locke Leave a Comment

57 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet

Getting to know a state through its foodie options is my idea of a perfect road trip! The Kid and I hit the road in late spring and headed west to check out some popular food offerings in Northern Indiana compliments of Indiana Foodways Alliance. They set up the itinerary, we plugged in the GPS- and traveled over, around, and through some well-known counties and some if-you-don’t-know-about-them-you-need-to-get-there immediately counties to taste test the best of the state. Not only did we have a delicious visit, we learned about our home state’s neighbor to the west. Curious? If you’re a food lover, you should be. Third leg of the journey? Hendricks and Hamilton Counties! If you missed any part of this delicious Northern Indiana food series, there’s Part One and Part Two to catch you up to speed.

The Kid and I ventured into foreign road trip territory in early May- but never assume foreign is a bad thing when it comes to road tripping. We learned so much about Northern Indiana culture- and learning about its culture through a foodie tour is my idea of fun! We traveled by state routes and back roads, all the while making pit stops at fun restaurants that serve delicious dishes.

Northern Indiana road trip part three was all about Hendricks and Hamilton Counties, Indiana. Both counties have a booming foodie scene and are super close to Indianapolis. Although food was our main reason to road trip to both, we soon happily found that there was far more to Hendricks and Hamilton Counties than we expected.

Disclosure: I was hosted by all of these amazing restaurants, cities, and CVBs to give you fine folks the scoop on what makes the Northern Indiana foodie scene so incredible. All opinions and photos are my own!

Hendricks CountyHendricks County, Indiana

Think of Indiana as a whole and you’ll probably have a picture something exactly like this one in your mind. Beautiful fields, open spaces, and an all-around Midwest ambiance that makes you want to get outdoors and take in all of that quintessential beauty. Ok, I’ll admit, I did make a pit stop on of the back roads in Hendricks County to take this picture (I don’t have the opportunity to get this close to cows, after all) because it simply screamed Midwest beauty, but there’s so much more to Hendricks County than pretty fields and picturesque views (as if that wasn’t enough to sway me to visit!). The county has fun cultural spots and museums, quaint shopping areas filled with local artisans, and of course, an awesome food scene.

Oasis Diner Indiana

The thought of picking up an entire diner in New Jersey, loading it onto railroad cars, and placing it in Plainfield, Indiana, is not only quizzical but downright fun. This was exactly the scene in 1954. After many years, the Diner close din 2008 and was placed on Indiana Buildings “10 Most Endangered Buildings” list. The town rallied, moved the Diner four miles down the road, completely restored both inside and out, and reopened in 2014. Even with all of the restoration, Oasis Diner keeps true to its original form by making everything from scratch- except for the French Fries!

Fried Pickles Oasis Diner Indiana

And from scratch doesn’t just mean adding breading to sliced pickles- the Diner makes its own pickles! The breading is thick and perfectly fried with no hint of mushy. And the pickles? Some of the best I’ve ever tried. They have a snap (again, no mush) and the flavor melds perfectly with the breading.

Oasis Diner Pork Tenderloin Indiana

Here’s a quick lesson in Indiana food. The breaded Pork Tenderloin is the official food of the state of Indiana. Oasis Diner’s version was the size of my face, hand breaded,  and served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle and garlic mayo. There’s no way I could have eaten the entire sandwich it was so massive.

Beignets Oasis Diner Indiana

As for dessert, the Diner has homemade soda floats, Strawberry Shortcake served in a giant bowl, and our fave, Beignets. I know what you’re thinking, how does a New Orleans specialty fit in to a diner in Indiana, but it does. They’re made to order and topped with so much powdered sugar that you’ll end up with it all over your hands and face and it’s totally worth it.

WHO North America Indiana

After dinner, we had to make a pit stop to WHO North America- the largest retail store featuring all things Doctor Who in North America. The Kid was in heaven (she’s a huge fan) and the company is adding to its already- impressive space with a soon-to-be opened Doctor Who Museum. Seriously, if you can’t find what you’re looking for there, you’re probably not going to find it.

Bread Basket Indiana

The next morning (after a pit stop near a cow field), we made a bee line for Bread Basket Café.  In the heart of Danville, Indiana, the restaurant outgrew its old spot and now resides in a former home. When we walked in, I commented to The Kid that it felt like walking into the home of one of your favorite relatives. Wooden floors, quaint tables and a counter that looks like it should be in your grandmother’s house, Bread Basket Café is a breakfast hot spot. The restaurant has homemade sausage biscuits and gravy, omelettes with creative ingredients including smoked salmon and avocado, and my favorite, the Breakfast Sandwich.

Bread Basket Breakfast Sandwich Indiana

And here’s why I love breakfast sandwiches: they’ve got an entire breakfast wrapped up in two slices of perfectly-toasted bread. I ordered mine with bacon, cheese, and egg whites only, and it was so filling and delicious.

If you’ve got a morning sweet tooth (or one any time of the day, for that matter) head to the dessert counter for homemade scones, giant cinnamon rolls (they’ve got fruit-flavored ones as well), and cakes to take home.

Hamilton County

Hamilton County Indiana

Hamilton County is bang next to Indianapolis and its easy location to the capital gives it a hip, urban vibe but still with touches of rural Indiana. Whether your visit includes Noblesville filled with county history and easy walking streets or Carmel filled with hip restaurants and an all over cool vibe, you’ll find one common tie: restaurants that are always filled compliments of their delicious meals and friendly atmosphere.

Eggshell Bistro Interior Indiana

And speaking of a hip vibe, Eggshell Bistro in Carmel fits the description perfectly. Owner and chef Larry Hanes is not only an amazing chef that bases all of the restaurant’s dishes on eggs with a global kick, he’s quite a proficient artist. Serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch only, Hanes does all of the cooking. He’s coined the term “twistorical” and I’m loving the translation: putting creative spins on historic global recipes with a focus towards balance & flavor depth…discovering fresh uncharted realms, all influenced by his relentless research, travel, cross-cultural influences and personal experiences.

Eggshell Bistro Dish Indiana

Shakshuka is one of those dishes that, if you like a spicy kick, you’ll keep returning back to inhale. The dish features a Moroccan-spiced tomato base, habanera, onion, garlic, kale, chèvre, baked hen’s egg, with a grilled baguette on the side.

Eggshell Bistro Indiana

I’m all for traditional-style egg dishes and Eggshell Bistro’s Quintessential Quiche was so up my alley. Applewood bacon, caramelized leek, roasted tomato, Comté, multi-grain crust, and a fruit tasting is perfect for any time of day, but you’ll have to head there pretty early to score a plate full.

Rosie's pie Indiana

Dessert time! We headed to Rosie’s Place in Noblesville. Sitting in The Square filled with mom and pop shops, Rosie’s the THE place to go in the city for pie and desserts. We hit the restaurant after lunch so many of its pies had sold out, but we did get to sample a slice of Coconut Cream pie. I could taste the love. On the Hoosier Pie Trail, the restaurant prides itself in using local, organic ingredients and baking fresh offerings daily.

Koteewi Range Indiana

To work off all of those calories, a trip to Koteewi Range was in order. Neither The Kid not I had ever tried archery and, always up for a challenge, we happily gave it a go. Also in Noblesville, the archery range has ranges that cater to every ability and style. We stuck with the beginner’s range and, using their equipment (yep, you can rent bows and arrows onsite), The Kid has a new hobby. She actually mentioned that she wants to find a local archery to take lessons. Score.

If you missed any part of this delicious Northern Indiana food series, there’s Part One and Part Two to catch you up to speed.

Eating My Way around Northern Indiana Hendricks and Hamilton Counties

Next week? Part 4 and the reason why this delicious Indiana foodie tour all began: Anderson, Randolph, and Jay Counties!

 

Filed Under: Food and Drinks, On the Go Tagged With: Archery, Bread Basket, Eggshell Bistro, Food tour, gastrotour, Hamilton County, Hendricks County, Indiana foodie, indiana foodways alliance, Indiana restaurants, Indiana Road Trip, Koteewi Range, Oasis Diner, Rosie's Pies, WHO North America

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Thanks for popping by the site! Sand and Snow is dedicated to provided travel tips, fun recipes, reviews, and plenty of theme park planning tools. Email klocke@sandandorsnow.com with questions and comments.

Connect with Us

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Disney Park Planning

TRON Lightcycle / Run Debuts April 4

Tron Lightcycle: A Game-Changing Ride at Magic Kingdom

March 22, 2023 By Karyn Locke

Disney Dress Code Violation - disney bounding like Minnie Mouse

Disney Dress Code Violation – How to Stay Within Guidelines

March 21, 2023 By Karyn Locke

Best Day to Arrive at Disney World

Best Day to Arrive at Disney World – Easy Tips for Every Park

March 7, 2023 By Karyn Locke

10 Disney World Extras that Are Worth It - Fireworks dessert party

10 Amazing Disney World Extras that Are Worth It – and One That’s Not Worth Your Money

February 4, 2023 By Karyn Locke

Footer

About Our Affiliate Links

Sand and Snow uses affiliate links in its posts and articles and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Program that provides earned advertising fees at no additional cost to the reader.

Recent

  • How to Splurge at Nemacolin Resort – A Guide to Luxury in The Laurel Highlands
  • Hidden Gems in Canton,Ohio: 14 Best Kept Secrets You Won’t Want to Miss
  • Indy’s Retro Scene: 16 Ways for Vintage Fun in Indianapolis
  • 10 Surprising Ways to Celebrate Easter at Disney World
  • 4 Easy Upgrades To Make Right Before You Sell Your House

Search

Copyright © 2023 · Magazine Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

We Value your Privacy
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT