You may have heard of R&B star Fats Domino and his 1956 classic “Blueberry Hill.”
What you may not know is that after music, Fats Domino’s first love is food; the man simply loves good food, whether it is prepared by him or someone else. Musicians have said one of the perks of touring with him is knowing they will end up with a good meal.
Now, at 82, Domino still performs, and if he visits Indianapolis anytime soon he might decide to rewrite his romance song to honor Blueberry Hill Pancake House.
Located in a shopping area on East Washington Street, Blueberry Hill has become a favorite among patrons who enjoy family restaurants that serve traditional favorites at reasonable prices.
Independent and family owned, Blueberry Hill has presented itself as a “home-style” alternative to national chains with similar cuisine, such as Bob Evans, Denny’s, IHOP and Perkins. In fact, Blueberry Hill is located in a building that once housed a Perkins restaurant, and quickly filled the void left by its departure.
When patrons arrive at Blueberry Hill they will be happy to notice that, even if it is busy, they will be seated almost immediately. The atmosphere is very friendly and relaxed; with comfortable seating and large windows, you almost feel like you’re about to dine in a sunroom behind someone’s home.
Probably the best word that can classify the food here is “homemade.” Blueberry Hill’s fare is second only to your grandma’s cooking, presuming that she is a good cook. Most of the items taste like they were made from a loving heart, just for you and with the best ingredients.
Just one try of the various omelets or Belgian waffles will prove that the above statement is true. Other popular choices seem to be biscuits and gravy, chicken noodle soup, veggie stir-fry, country fried steak and cinnamon swirl French toast.
Be prepared for the rush of home-style flavor that comes from the restaurant’s namesake – blueberry pancakes. They are prepared perfectly, unlike those you might find at other places that can be overcooked or flavorless.
The restaurant might be billed as a pancake house, but it does offer numerous lunch and dinner options such as taco salad, fried pork chops and steaks, which are often offered with daily specials. I was told that frequently ordered items include various salads.
Perhaps the top selling point for Blueberry Hill Pancake House is its prices. Two people can have dinner, drinks and dessert for less than $20, which is uncommon for most quality “dine-in” establishments.
Also, you will receive plenty of whatever it is you order, so be ready to share with someone else or take some leftovers home.
Do yourself a favor and take time this week to visit Blueberry Hill Pancake House, and find new meaning to the lyrics, “I found my thrill, on Blueberry Hill.”
Blueberry Hill Pancake House
7803 E. Washington St.
(317) 358-8401
