Indianapolis is a curious city, a little bit country and a little bit urban. Evermore growing as an attractive locale for international travelers and settlers alike. Known across the globe for its world-class restaurants, hotels and sites, there’s something intriguing about this big little city.
While it is my dream to breathe in the air of every country or at least every continent of the world, no matter how smog-ridden, at times it is just not financially possible to jet set at a moment’s notice. Don’t fret; there’s an abundance to explore right here in Indy. In 36 hours, you can calm that nagging wanderlust without leaving the city.
Curious to taste a little something south of the border? Make your way to West Michigan Street to Super Tortas Estilo Barrio for classic Mexican sandwich consumption. It’s not fancy, but it is clean, quiet and quick. The smells alone will compel your senses to a mouth-watering state of compulsion. After a bite, salsa your way to Chispas Discotheque for a little Calypso, Merengue and Reggaeton.
I love the movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” — it reminds me a lot of My Big Fat Black Family Gatherings where, as the Greeks would say, everything turns into a whore’s fencepost. Short of marrying an Adonis and having his mother stuff me with yummy treats, I frequent the Saffron Cafe on Fort Wayne Avenue or Ali Baba’s on Market Street.
Saffron Cafe is a special experience that transports you to Morocco. Chef Sentissi cradles each dish with love, and they arrive on your table in an aromatic cloud of fresh seasonings. With vegetarian-friendly dishes, I submit myself to the trio of Harrira, couscous and a splash of Atay (green tea).
Ali Baba’s is not nearly as fancy or expensive, but what it lacks in luster it makes up for with a traditional lounge area and Hookah. It’s a great place for a secluded snack or lunch break.
While you’re downtown, take an Uber or a bike share over to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Often hosting an exhibition au courant in nature, it’s a beautifully sculpted edifice that bears a delicate history and presence. Partake in the open galleries and maybe engage in discourse about the legacy of American Indians.
Next, follow the Indianapolis Cultural Trail to Kuaba Art Gallery, an international platform for world-class contemporary African art.
Need some heat? Hankering for a Caribbean cruise? Head east on Washington Street to Cafe Carib. Nestled in the Irvington neighborhood, it is oh so delicious. By now, you’re still sweating and feeling the Caribbean flare, so it’s time to move those hips to the pulse of Reggae at the Casba Night Club. In the basement under Usual Suspects in Broad Ripple lies the Caribbean cavern. Enter at your own risk, as you will be asked to dance post haste, so grab a Red Stripe and get your groove on.
I’m fond of any place that advocates for me to eat with my hands, so Abyssinia is my inner child’s oasis. Located in the International Marketplace area on West 38th Street, Abyssinia hosts traditional Ethiopian cuisine. After a chat with the owner about the similarities and differences between Ethiopian Injera bread and Caribbean-style Roti bread, I sit with my first-round plate, and away I go. I’m sure you will find it delightfully filling; lean back and allow the exotic spiced curries to take over your body.
One of my top three favorite restaurants in Indianapolis is Jiallo’s. It just reopened its doors in a new location on West 38th Street. It serves up the best African cuisine around. Their sizzling sweet fried plantains make my knees melt.
Specializing in busting guts and zippers, Jiallo’s single plates are enough to feed two, possibly three. The meals are hefty and beyond enticing. It can be difficult to stop one’s self from over indulging. Remember, they offer carryout containers. Control yourself!
Nestled on East 38th Street is Eat to Live Cafe, next to Muhammad Mosque. Coming from the east or the west, you will know you’re headed in the right direction and getting close when you see young men at the intersections selling oils and newspapers. The oils are delightful, and without a doubt you will be moved to smile as they greet you with the title “Queen/King.” Hey, it’s nice to have someone recognize your worth every now and then. Eat to Live Cafe is a quaint spot that serves vegetarian- and pescatarian-styled dishes from the Muslim perspective, and dang it, the most irresistible bean pies.
Ni hao ma? How are we doing so far? This excursion has one last stop — Super Bowl Pho in Westfield, Indiana. A bit of a trek but worth it, Super Bowl Pho dons a menu of delectable Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. The fragrance of authentic spices can be overwhelming, but thankfully they offer outdoor seating. It’s difficult to find any restaurant in Indy that serves Pho up right, so this locale is one you don’t want to miss. Preferred selections are the fresh spring rolls and the tofu lemongrass banh mi.
We’ve traveled far and wide on this trip, visiting the likes of Mexico, the Caribbean, Greece, Asia, Ethiopia, the Middle East and Morocco. Undoubtedly there are more sites to see and things to taste. Dig out that international wish list and if you can’t make it there, have a staycation and discover a hidden gem.
