Cheers to Cinco de Mayo: Celebrate with 5 Refreshing Cocktails

Posted on May 5, 2023 by englishivys

Happy Cinco de Mayo! 🍻🎉

Cinco de Mayo is here amigos! Whether you’re celebrating with a small gathering of friends, hosting a larger party, or hitting up your favorite Downtown Indy hot spots for some holiday fun, adding some festive cocktails to the menu can really make your celebration special.

From classic margaritas to creative twists on Mexican-inspired drinks, here are five delicious and refreshing cocktail recipes that will help you celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style. So, get your ingredients ready and let’s get mixing!

Call Us at 317-822-5070 to Learn About Our Cinco de Mayo Specials in Indianapolis Indiana

Cinco de Mayo Cocktail Recipes –

Make at Home or Order at the Bar

1. Traditional Margarita: Nothing says Cinco de Mayo quite like a classic margarita. To make, mix together 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 ½ ounces of tequila, and ¾ ounce of orange liqueur. Serve over ice in a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a slice of lime.

2. Paloma: This traditional Mexican cocktail is made by mixing together 1 ½ ounces of tequila, 2 ounces of grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice, and the juice from half a lime. Pour into an ice-filled highball glass and garnish with a wedge of lime for extra flavor. The Paloma has only 100 calories per serving, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.

3. Spicy Mango Margarita: Get the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with this delicious twist on a classic margarita. Start by muddling 1 jalapeño slice in the bottom of your glass, then mix together 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of triple sec, 3 ounces of mango nectar, and ½ an ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice. Serve over ice and garnish with a slice of jalapeño for an extra kick.

4. Tequila Sunrise: This colorful cocktail is easy to make and always looks impressive! Mix together 2 ounces tequila, 4 ounces orange juice, and ¾ ounce grenadine syrup. Pour into an ice-filled glass and watch as the colors separate to create a beautiful sunrise effect.

5. Mexican Mule: This refreshing cocktail is perfect for summer and requires just a few simple ingredients. Start by filling a copper mug (or any highball glass) with ice, then add 1 ½ ounces of tequila, 4 ounces of ginger beer, and the juice from half a lime. Garnish with a lime wheel for extra flavor.

These five delicious drinks are sure to make your Cinco de Mayo festivities even more special! Whether you’re celebrating with friends or hosting a bigger party, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave everyone feeling refreshed and happy. ¡Salud!

Lo-Cal Tequila Cocktails to Try Out

▶ Ranch Water

This drink recipe consists of just three simple ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and Topo Chico sparkling mineral water. But don’t let its simplicity fool you- Ranch Water packs a punch of flavor that’s sure to satisfy. To make it, simply combine two ounces of tequila and one ounce of lime juice in a highball glass filled with ice. Top off with Topo Chico, give it a quick stir, and enjoy the refreshing taste of the West Texas classic.

▶ Skinny Margarita

The Skinny Margarita is another great option for those looking for a low calorie cocktail. It is made with tequila, fresh lime juice, agave nectar, and sparkling water. The Skinny Margarita has only 95 calories per serving.

▶ Spicy Grapefruit Margarita

The Spicy Grapefruit Margarita is a twist on the classic margarita that adds a bit of spice. It is made with tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, jalapeño slices, and agave nectar. The Spicy Grapefruit Margarita has only 120 calories per serving.

Are you looking for great Cinco de Mayo cocktails in Downtown Indianapolis? Come to English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery for our Cinco de Mayo drink specials – including $4 Modelos, Coronas, and Margaritas! Tonight’s dinner special is our famous PRIME RIB! We also have a full bar that can make any cocktail you request! We are located on N. Alabama Street and have both lot and street parking available.

10 Ways to Support LGBTQIA Youth in Your Community

Posted on April 6, 2023 by englishivys

Many LGBTQIA+ kids and teens face many challenges and obstacles in their daily lives, but there are ways to help them. Whether it’s through a donation of time, food, or money, you can make a difference in the lives of LGBTQIA+ youths by supporting them and their community.

Below are 10 ways that you can support LGBTQIA+ kids and teenagers in your community.

Call 317-822-5070 to learn how to drop off food donations for the 2023 IYG food drive!

How to Show Your Support for the LGBTQIA+ Youth Community in Indianapolis

1. Donate

Donate to an LGBTQ-friendly food pantry or other charity organization that serves LGBTQIA+ people. In fact, Indiana Youth Group is hosting another food pantry drive this month for the LGBTQIA+ youth community! The organization has centers located in cities all over Indiana, so you can easily find one near you. They accept canned and non-perishable food donations on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Currently, English Ivy’s is partnering with Indiana Youth Group too! So, you can also drop your donations off at English Ivy’s, anytime. Every ounce of assistance will be profoundly appreciated. We are striving to ensure that our young people don’t go hungry. You may also contact Greyson Gullion, Youth and Center Specialist for IYG at ggullian@indianayouthgroup.org for more details or opportunities to volunteer.

IYG HEADQUARTERS:
3733 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46208

ENGLISH IVY’S:
944 N. Alabama Street
Indianapolis, Indiana 46202

That’s Not All! Here are Some More Ways to Help:

2. Attend – Attend local events focused on the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community such as marches, rallies, and fundraisers.

3. Volunteer – Volunteer at local organizations dedicated to helping LGBTQIA+ individuals with housing, job training, mental health services, substance abuse programs etc.

4. Participate – Participate in online communities for queer youth where they can find acceptance and support from peers who understand their struggles firsthand.

5. Speak Out – Speak out against bullying directed towards queer youth both online and offline.

6. Challenge – Actively challenge homophobic language when you hear it used around you.

7. Support – Support businesses owned by members of the LGBTQIA+ community whenever possible.

8. Educate – Educate yourself on issues facing queer people today so that you have the knowledge needed to take action when necessary.

9. Advocate – Advocate for policies at school or in your local government that protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination. Be sure to vote!

10. Share – Share the stories of queer individuals with your friends, family, and anyone else who will listen so that their experiences are understood by a wider audience.

Give Your Support and Help Indiana’s LGBTQIA+ Kids and Teens

By taking action to support LGBTQIA+ youth in your community you can make a difference in their lives. Every contribution matters and is a step closer to creating an environment full of acceptance and love for all members of the LGBTQ community. Join us today in supporting our young LGBT peers!

So, what are you waiting for? Help IYG collect their much-needed non-perishable and canned good food donations while you still have time! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Eatery and Pub to drop off your IYG donations from now until April 28^th. Let’s do this together! While you’re there, be sure to enjoy our daily specials, menus, and more!

Everything You Want to Know About Devour Indy Winterfest 2023

Posted on January 20, 2023 by englishivys

Are you ready for Devour Indy WINTERFEST 2023? It starts next week! Benefiting Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, this annual winter foodie event is one of the most popular seasonal events in downtown Indianapolis. With over 100 restaurants participating, it’s a great way to explore all that the city has to offer while trying out some amazing food and drinks! From unique Devour Menus to special meals and deals, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Devour Indy Winterfest.

Let us enthusiastically cover everything you need to know about Devour Indy Winterfest 2023 – from what restaurants are participating, to how much it will cost you, and more! So, let’s get started!

Call 317-822-5070 to Hear About Our Weekend Specials! — Get Food and Drink Specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

Devour Indy – WINTERFEST 2023

Participating Restaurants

First and foremost, you’ll need to know which restaurants are participating in Devour Indy Winterfest 2023. This year there are over 100 unique eateries involved – from popular favorites like Punch Bowl Social and Bru Burger Bar to hidden gems like OP Italian and Union 50. Check out the full list of participating restaurants to find your favorite spot!

Devour Discounts and Deals

Many of the restaurants will be offering Devour Menus, which are special price-fixed menus with three courses for a discounted price. Additionally, many of the restaurants are also offering discounts on drinks and desserts. So, don’t forget to ask about any deals that may be available at your favorite spot!

Winterfest Activities

Finally, Devour Indy Winterfest 2023 will be offering several different activities and events throughout the month. From cocktail contests to wine tastings, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Additionally, many of the restaurants will also be hosting special events like beer dinners and cocktail parties. So, make sure you check out the full list of Devour Indy Winterfest 2023 activities to find something that interests you!

Gear Up for Great Food and Fun!

Well, there you have it – everything you need to know about Devour Indy Winterfest 2023. From amazing restaurants and Devour Menus to discounts and deals, there’s sure to be something for everyone at this year’s event. So don’t miss out – head downtown Indianapolis and explore all that Devour Indy Winterfest 2023 has to offer!

Good news! You don’t have to wait until Monday to get started on Downtown Indy foodie fun! Visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery and enjoy lunch, dinner, delicious drinks, and even brunch on the weekends! Our menus are crafted with seasonal flavors and carefully sourced from local ingredients. You’ll come across a plethora of foodie-inspired options – all brought to life by our talented head chef. Furthermore, we provide plenty of daily drink specials, as well as game nights complete with live music. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

The Difference Between Champagne and Sparkling Wine

Posted on December 29, 2022 by englishivys

What comes to mind when you think of New Year’s Eve? Sparkling wine, of course! But while many people may use the terms “sparkling wine” and “champagne” interchangeably, there is actually a difference between these two types of bubbly beverages. Sparkling wines can come from all over the world, while champagne originates exclusively in France.

To learn more about the distinction between sparkling wine and champagne, read on!

Call 317-822-5070 to Hear About Our New Year's Drink Specials! — Call 317-822-5070 to Hear About Our New Year’s Drink Specials!

Champagne Versus Sparkling Wine

The main difference between sparkling wine and champagne is the location in which they are produced. Sparkling wines can be made anywhere, while champagne must be created in Champagne, France within a specific region to legally be called “champagne”.

Sparkling wines have the same ingredients as Champagne (Chardonnay or Pinot Noir grapes and yeast) but without the Champagne label. Sparkling rosé is a type of sparkling wine that has a pink hue, due to the juice from the red grapes used for production. Sparkling wines come in varying tastes, styles, and more than just your standard white or rosé options.

Champagne also varies in taste and style but must be produced within the Champagne region of France. Sparkling wine is usually more affordable than champagne, as it does not need to come from a specific area. Additionally, Sparkling wines have different levels of sweetness depending on their production process.

Shopping Around for Good Bubbly

When shopping for sparkling wines or types of champagne, consider your tastes and preferences first. Sparkling wines come in a variety of flavors, including dry and sweet varieties. Champagne also comes in several styles, such as brut (a drier sparkling wine) or demi-sec (a sweeter option). No matter what you choose, be sure to choose wisely so that you may enjoy the bubbly!

A Sip of Knowledge

So, there you have it — Sparkling wine and champagne may seem similar, but they actually come from different places and vary in taste. Sparkling wines can be a great choice for any occasion, while champagne is typically reserved for very special moments like New Year’s Eve or celebrations. Hopefully this article has cleared up the confusion between sparkling wine and champagne and helped you to select the perfect bubbly for any occasion!

Looking for a great place to get some delicious food and all the bubbly this New Year’s Eve in Indy? Visit English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub in Downtown Indianapolis for our 2022 New Year’s Eve Special that features a 3 course meal! Enjoy Lobster Bisque or Salad, along with a 6 oz. Hand-Cut Filet, 5 oz. Lobster Tail, Twice-Baked Potato, and a Slice of NY cheesecake for only $45. Make your reservations now!

The Best Way to Use Your Thanksgiving Leftovers: 5 Inspiring Ideas

Posted on November 23, 2022 by englishivys

It is here already, folks! Turkey Day is actually tomorrow! Thanksgiving is a time to come together with friends and family, give thanks for all we have, and enjoy some delicious food. But once the feast is over, what do you do with all those leftovers? Here are five inspiring ideas for using your Thanksgiving leftovers.

Thanksgiving Restaurant Indianapolis Indiana — Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Sandwich

5 Easy Recipe Ideas for Thanksgiving Leftovers

1. Turkey and Stuffing Sandwiches

Obviously, one of the best parts of Thanksgiving is the leftovers. And one of the best ways to enjoy those leftovers is by making a turkey and stuffing sandwich. Just take some sliced turkey, add a spoonful or two of stuffing, and pop it in between two slices of bread. Add a little cranberry sauce or gravy, if you like, and you’ve got a delicious sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack. So, when you’re cleaning up after Thanksgiving dinner, be sure to set aside some turkey and stuffing for sandwiches. Your taste buds will thank you!

2. Thanksgiving Pizza

Thanksgiving Another amazing recipe idea for Thanksgiving leftovers is pizza. That’s right; Thanksgiving pizza! A thanksgiving pizza is the same as regular pie, but made with all your favorite thanksgiving foods, like turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, and of course, pumpkin pie. It’s the perfect way to use up all those delicious leftovers and have a tasty Thanksgiving treat at the same time. So next time you’re wondering what to do with all those Thanksgiving leftovers, remember, thanksgiving pizza is the way to go.

3. Turkey Pot Pie

The traditional turkey pot pie is the perfect day-after Thanksgiving treat. This classic dish is the perfect way to use up all those delicious leftovers, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Best of all, it’s easy to make! Simply start by chopping up the turkey into small pieces. Then, sauté some onions and add them to the turkey in a large pot. Next, stir in some flour and chicken stock, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add some frozen peas and carrots, and let the mixture simmer until thickened. Then, pour it into a prepared pie crust and bake at 400 degrees until golden brown. Voila! You’ve just made a delicious thanksgiving turkey pot pie that your whole family will love. Bon Appetit!

4. Thanksgiving Tacos

It’s the day after Thanksgiving, and you’re staring at a fridge full of leftovers. Turkey, stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce…what to do with it all? One great option is to make Thanksgiving tacos! Start by heating up some tortillas in the oven or on the stove. Then, start assembling your tacos with all of your favorite thanksgiving fixings: turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and even a little bit of gravy all makes great taco toppings. And of course, don’t forget the mashed potatoes! Thanksgiving tacos are a delicious way to use up your leftovers, and they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. So, why not give them a try this year?

5. Frittata

What to do with all those Thanksgiving leftovers? Make a frittata! A frittata is a great way to use up leftover cooked veggies, meat, and even mashed potatoes. Plus, it’s an easy and delicious way to feed a crowd. Here’s how to make a Thanksgiving Leftover Frittata:

First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Then, in a large skillet, sauté some chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add in any leftover cooked veggies you have on hand – think green beans, carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and so forth. Once the veggies are heated through, add in some chopped leftover turkey or chicken. If you have any mashed potatoes left over, stir them in now.

Finally, crack 8-10 eggs into the pan and scramble everything together until the eggs are set. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the frittata mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Would you like to know where to get the best day-after-a-big-holiday meal in Downtown Indy? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy a hearty brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks all weekend long. We are also featuring a fabulous 3-course Thanksgiving meal on Turkey Day! Will also be offering pizza and appetizers.

Why Surf and Turf is a Good Choice for Any Dinner Occasion

Posted on November 23, 2020 by englishivys

When it comes to quickly choosing something off the dinner menu, you can never go wrong with a Surf n’ Turf selection. When in doubt, opt for this traditional meat and seafood combination for a sure-to-be-good meal to remember. Continue reading to learn more about this special culinary pairing, and where you can get the best Surf n’ Turf in Indianapolis.

Tuesday Surf and Turf Dinner Special - Downtown Indianapolis - 317-822-5070 — Tuesday Surf and Turf Dinner Special – Downtown Indianapolis – 317-822-5070

Surf n’ Turf Meals

Surf n’ Turf dinners earned their popularity because they are simple, yet delicious. Land meeting sea makes an especially-good tasting duo, and the menu selection only continues to grow in innovation and creativity, making each dish unique to its chef. Although traditionally, surf and turf style meals are served with a red meat and a type of shellfish, primarily filet Mignon and lobster tail. However, new takes on Surf n’ Turf dinners are popping up all over the world every day, so you may find wildly different options at other restaurants, or choose your own combos at home!

Enhancing Your Surf n’ Turf Experience

Opt for the highest-quality beef. As mentioned, filet Mignon, is the usual selection. It is taken from the beef tenderloin portion of a cow, and is the tenderest cut. Because of its natural flavors, very little seasoning is required other than sea salt and cracked black pepper. Although, a nice helping of melted butter on top really brings a filet to life.

As for the shellfish portion of a Surf n’ Turf dinner, the traditional choice is lobster tail with a side of clarified butter. Main lobster tails are a popular choice, but here in Indiana, we really love shrimp. Shrimp can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it a top-recommended choice for any Surf n’ Turf meal. Try your shrimp Cajun style, or in a garlic-chili sauce, all of which would complement a filet perfectly.

Surf n’ Turf Wine and Cocktail Pairing

To bring your Surf n’ Turf dinner experience to another level, add a complimentary beverage. Whether you are a wine drinker or more or a cocktail person, you can accompany your steak and shrimp with a drink that brings out the flavor of both. For wine options, consider red. Although white is just fine, selections like Cabernets, Malbecs, and even Zinfandels are the best pairings with steak. For cocktail lovers, consider an Old Fashioned, or perhaps a dirty martini.

Where to Get the Best Surf and Turf Meal in Downtown Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our fabulous weekly dinner specials, such as our Tuesday Surf n’ Turf! Our Surf n’ Turf comes with a succulent, dry-aged, 100% grass-fed filet mignon and sauteed shrimp, and your choice of side! Add an appetizer and salad to the mix, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate dinner experience! Don’t forget, we also have a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails for your added pleasure. Come in soon and enjoy some delicious Surf n’ Turf dinner special this Tuesday! Order takeout, delivery, or join us inside!

Quench Your Thirst This Spring With These Beer-Based Cocktails

Posted on April 9, 2020 by englishivys

The weather has certainly been unpredictable so far this spring. One minute it’s hot and sunny, and the next, high winds are causing chaos all over the place. But one steady indulgence we can always rely on in the spring is beer. Beer is the perfect springtime refreshment because it is so satisfying and smooth, and readily available. Best of all, it is very versatile. Not only can beer be brewed in infinite flavorings and notes, it can also be dressed and customized by adding ingredients of your own! In fact, beer cocktails are becoming more and more popular every year! That’s right; a little liquor or juice to your beer can magically transform it into something entirely new and exciting!

Continue below to learn the recipes to 3 delicious and simple beer-based cocktails trending this season, and treat yourself!

Irish Layered Black and Tan Beer with Lager and Stout

Irish Black and Tan

This beer cocktail is nothing new. Many people have enjoyed this layered beer option for many years. In a pint glass, pale ale is topped with an equal portion of Guinness Stout. Be creative and come up with your own layered beer concoctions!

Micheladas

If you have every taken a trip down south, you have certainly seen Micheladas on the menu. This traditional beer-based cocktail is a combination of Mexican-style beer, lime juice, soy sauce, and Worcestershire. Finish with salt and pepper to taste. If you are in a pinch with ingredients, skip the lime and sauce, and tomato juice or bloody Mary mix!

Watermelon Beer

Got some watermelon that’s a little too ripe to eat by itself? Well, it’s perfect for this beer cocktail! Just muddle your watermelon in a pint glass (sin seeds), and top with your favorite wheat beer, like Blue Moon. It is custom to add vanilla-flavored simple syrup as well, but if you do not have this, forget it altogether or replace with a teaspoon of sugar.

Summer Shandy

Although the name suggests a different season, this beer cocktail is perfect for any type of warm weather! Simply mix your beer of choice with lemonade to create this refreshing and appealing drink! It is recommended to avoid dark beers, and opt for wheat or light beer.

Trojan Horse

If you like dark beers, especially stouts, this drink is for you. It starts with a stout beer, like Guinness, and then topped off with regular cola. The sweetness and caffeine are great for spring! You can also use diet cola!

Black Velvet

This beer-based drink is perfect for anyone who prefers the fancier things in life. A equal combination of champagne and stout beer will deliver a sophisticated flavor in a classy glass!

Corrido Prohibidos

Another southern-inspired beer cocktail, the Corrido Prohibidos is a stronger choice. Combine your favorite Mexican-style beer with a shot of blanco tequila and enjoy! Just don’t pour yourself more than 1.5 ounces, otherwise you might be on the floor before your next pint!

BOOZE and FOOD Takeout in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to place a carryout order for booze and food in Downtown Indianapolis. Although our interior dining is closed for the remainder of March, we are still open for both kitchen and bar takeout orders, and even provide delivery within a 5 mile radius for food orders! Best of all, all FOOD takeout orders are currently 20% OFF! Please support our amazing staff members during these strange times and stay healthy out there!