I received a call from my friend who is always looking for the next fabulous restaurant. As we checked our schedules, I wondered to myself, “where will we go this time?”
Shortly after my inner monologue, she asked if I wanted to go to Black Market.
This was such a genius idea. We traveled through the cold and rain to Black Market, a restaurant and bar located at the east end of Mass Ave.
Walking into the establishment I was completely blown away. Black Market is small, but is packed with so much style and character. Complete with exposed brick, community style dining tables and stunning light fixtures above the bar, I had a feeling this experience was going to be something special.
The aesthetics of the bar were impressive, however, I didn’t allow myself to become too worked up. I’ve been duped before by restaurants with fabulous décor serving less than average food at ridiculous prices.
We found a seat, surveyed the scenery a bit more and turned our attention to the menu. The brains behind the operations kept to a trend that has boomed in Indy – small, but well-thought-out menus.
Their claim to fame is serving comfort food with a modern update and the revolving menu is reflective of that.
My friend goes crazy for a restaurant’s version of French fries. Sticking true to her fancy for fries, she placed an order for them along with the bluegill and cheddar grits.
I played it semi-safe and ordered the apple brined pork chops.
Our food was super delicious, filling and had typical upscale dinner prices. After a wonderful meal and lots of gossip, our server had no trouble tempting us into a shared helping of graham cracker beignets.
If you don’t want to pay dinner prices, visit the downtown eatery for lunch. The menu is smaller, but still packs a punch with out-of-the-box items such as appetizers like roasted marrow bones; the breakfast panzanella salad; a grilled peanut butter and preserves sandwich; and the baked rigatoni and house mozzarella as an entrée.
They also have a full beer and wine list.
This restaurant is nothing like I’ve ever seen and in my opinion has lasting power because of its simple and cozy décor and delectable and exciting cuisine. Black Market is definitely high on my list of awesome Indianapolis restaurants.
