New Year’s Eve Cocktails to Match Your New Year’s Resolution

Posted on December 28, 2020 by englishivys

Other than the fantastic parties and festive indulgences we get to partake in at the end of each year, the best part about celebrating on New Year’s Eve is deciding what you want to make your New Year’s resolution. After all, a new year is like a fresh, clean slate for a brand new you! So, what will your New Year’s resolution be for 2021? Do you wish to be more audacious? Do you want to embrace some healthier habits? Whatever your New Year resolve might be, have some fun by matching it to your New Year’s Cocktail! That’s right; there are some great, classic cocktails that you can order this New Year’s Eve while celebrating the commencing of the New Year!

Scroll down to see which New Year’s Eve cocktails match your New Year’s Resolution for 2021!

New Year's Eve Specials Downtown Indianapolis — Professional bartender pouring margarita cocktail with strainer and cocktail tools

What’s in a New Year’s Resolution?

Before you can decide what’s in your New Year’s Eve cocktail, you must first understand what is in your New Year’s resolution. Traditionally, a New Year’s resolution is a personal determination made on the very brink of the coming year, either to better oneself, continue in good practices, or change an objectionable behavior or habit. Do you have any bad habits or undesirable behaviors you would like to modify? Do you have health or nutrition goals that are important to you this coming year? Or perhaps you want to explore the bounds of your personality and become a more open version of yourself? Whatever your resolve might be, there is a guaranteed good cocktail to go with it!

Match Your New Year’s Drink With Your New Year’s Resolve!

Once you resolve for the New Year, you can match a classic, well-known, and delicious cocktail to compliment your night of New Year’s Eve celebrating! Here are some fun, traditional New Year’s drinks that are pleasing, delicious, and will perfectly compliment your New Year’s resolution:

Wish to Meet New Health and Nutrition Goals?
🍈 Your Drink is a Vodka Soda With Lime

If you are looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in traditional style, but wish to support your New Year’s resolution to be healthier or fitter, you will want to aim for some good, old-fashioned vodka cocktails. Vodka is a low-calorie liquor with a mild taste, making it perfect for creating a wide array of drinks. The healthiest vodka cocktails are those without sugary mixes, heavy syrups, or preservatives found in canned beverages. The best low calorie, low carb cocktail to drink this New Year’s Eve is the classic vodka and soda with a fresh lime wedge. With only 100 Calories, you can feel good about your cocktail choices on New Year’s Day!

Want to Be More Daring and Adventurous?
🍹 Your Drink is a Bloody Mary

To be more adventurous and daring is a great aspiration. So, if your 2021 New Year’s resolution is to add a little more spice to your life, then your New Year’s Eve cocktail is a Bloody Mary! Bloody Mary’s are fantastic cocktails that have a rich history and come in a wide scope of variations. Made with spicy ingredients like hot sauce, pepper, and chili’s, you can order a Bloody Mary in endless combinations of garnishes, from the usual suspects like celery, lemon wedges, and pickles, to the more progressive culinary alternatives like candied bacon, banana peppers, cornbread, shrimp, and even an entire bottle of beer! Best of all, they are suitable for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, which is great news for anyone who needs a little more hair of the dog that bit you on New Year’s Day!

Determined to Simplify Your Life a Bit?
🍸 Your Drink is a Daiquiri

If you want to keep things simple in 2021, or perhaps simplify your life a bit more, then the classic daiquiri is your New Year’s Eve cocktail! Made with just a few, simple ingredients (the key word here is simple), a daiquiri delivers layered flavor in a melding fashion that pleases even the testiest of taste buds. Simply put, a daiquiri keeps it real; real simple and real clean. They are made with white rum, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice, so any bartender can make you one on the fly! You can add some fruit puree to make a strawberry or pineapple daiquiri, and even order them frozen for an exotic cocktail experience!

Wish to Finally Solve Your Digestion Issues?
🥃 Your Drink is Tequila

If you suffer from chronic digestion issues like heartburn, indigestion, and similar digestive conditions, it is no surprise that your New Year’s resolution to finally get some professional help! When you go visit your doctor, he may not be pleased to know that you drank the night away on New Year’s Eve, but he can at least appreciate that you chose tequila as your cocktail of choice! That is because tequila is a source of natural probiotics, similar to those found in yogurt and fermented cabbage. Probiotics help restore good bacteria in the gut. Also, tequila is good for digestion. Drink it before a meal to stimulate your appetite this New Year’s Eve, and then drink it after to aid in your meal’s digestion!

Where to Get These Cocktails and More This New Year’s Eve

English Ivy’s – Your Downtown Indianapolis Neighborhood Eatery and Pub!

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask about the New Year’s events and specials our downtown Indianapolis restaurant is offering this holiday. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and surf and turf, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this New Year’s on our exclusive, custom-created menus! With neighborhood prices and the friendliest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

How to Make a Spontaneous Cocktail Using Whatever is in Your Fridge

Posted on November 9, 2020 by englishivys

Whether you didn’t expect to have company over, or suddenly have the urge for a stiff drink, don’t shy away from being creative when it comes to curating a cocktail for the occasion. There are several ways to concoct or create a delicious alcoholic beverage using whatever is in your fridge. Even the most sparse refrigerators might likely have something you can use to satisfy your need to imbibe.

Continue below to learn some ways you can make an impromptu cocktail with what you have in your kitchen right now!

Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Make the Best with What You Have on Hand

When it comes to creating a cocktail, your basic element will be your liquor of choice, or whatever alcohol you have on hand. From there, you can build upon your drink by combining your own personal creativity with the current options you have on hand. But don’t stop at your refrigerator either; the pantry and cabinets might also house ingredients that will improve or complete your concoction. Even your garden or landscape might provide a certain element for your desired cocktail.

Items to Look for in the Fridge:

▸ Soda
▸ Sparkling Water
▸ Juice
▸ Fruit Cups
▸ Jelly
▸ Olives
▸ Citrus Fruit
▸ Berries
▸ Fresh Herbs
▸ Jalapeños

Items to Look for in the Pantry or Cabinet:

▸ Sugar
▸ Agave
▸ Jams
▸ Honey
▸ Maple Syrup
▸ Cayenne
▸ Tajín
▸ Salt/Pepper

Some Ideas to Spark Your Ingenuity

🍯 Jam and Honey

Do you have a lemon and a jar of preserves? A tablespoon of jam can really enhance the flavor of a cocktail. Whiskey pairs well with fig jams, marmalades, and berry jams. All other common liquors can be paired well with any flavor jam, from grape and strawberry, to hot pepper jelly, pineapple compote, and much more. Add a slice of lemon to balance the flavor profile, and you’ve got yourself a great drink! If you like margaritas, choose a citrus-based jam and pair it with a lime. Sugar, honey, and agave work well as sweeteners or rimmed garnishes for any cocktail.

🌿 Herbs and Spices

Whether your herb and spice collection come from the fridge or the pantry, they can help you make a good cocktail with very little other ingredients. Upon your base liquor of choice, muddle or garnish your cocktail with herbs like mint, basil, rosemary, or ginger. White rum combined with mint, sugar, soda, and lime will give you a classic mojito. Vodka, rosemary, soda, and lemon is refreshing and satisfying take on the classic mojito. Pair bourbon and basil together, alone or with ginger beer for another great drink. Want something spicy? Muddle some jalapeños, add a Tajín rim or sprinkle in some cayenne.

Other Ideas:

► Use the juice of a fruit cup as a mixer.
► Muddle green olives and add olive juice to vodka or gin.
► Add a few drops of maple syrup into a bourbon.

✨ Try Out These Great Whiskey Cocktails
✨ Try These Low Calorie Cocktail Options
✨ Try These Iced Tea Mocktail and Cocktails

Where to Get Great Cocktails in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious dinner and drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. From classic wings and beer, to prime rib, cocktails, stage entertainment, and more, we have exactly what you are looking for in both flavor and fun! With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully-satisfied with every visit. We look forward to being friends!

How to Cure a Halloween Hangover

Posted on October 28, 2020 by englishivys

If you are a fan of Halloween, you probably have big plans this weekend. And with all the Halloween parties, specials, and festivities you are keenly awaiting, you will likely be indulging in more way than one. Whether it’s from too much sugar, too much booze, or a combination of both, waking up the morning after Halloween feeling sluggish is never fun. But don’t let the fear of next-day malaise turn you off from celebrating this weekend!

Continue reading to learn how to cure a Halloween hangover in no time at all.

Halloween Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Hungover After Too Much Halloween Fun? Try These Remedies

🥤 Reach for the Water

Water is your best friend today. Although you should try to drink a lot of water every day of your life, when you are feeling ill from a food or alcohol hangover, you need even more. The general rule of thumb is to drink at least 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight. Typically, this averages out to be about 8 ounces, but since every human body is different, the water-to-weight ratio is more accurate. If you are a coffee or tea drinker in the morning, limit your intake to one cup. Too much caffeine can worsen hangover symptoms.

Why is water so helpful for a hangover?

Well, when you are hungover from alcohol, your body is dehydrated. This is just a common symptom of alcohol consumption, whether you have one drink or five. Replenishing the body’s water reserves will minimize headaches, body aches, fatigue, and more. It will also get your body’s internal systems working optimally, which will detox you faster and get rid of any lingering mental fog. If you are hungover from too much sugar or food, water will help with digestion issues, and flush the contents of your bowels quicker.

🍳 Eat Something Healthy

If you are hungover from overeating, whether sugar or food, get your body back on track by eating something healthy. Although you might feel like you shouldn’t eat at all after eating so much, fasting can worsen any residual stomach or digestion issues. Choose a healthy meal to counter the greasy, salty, or sugary delights you had the night before. Focus on half your plate being a lean protein, like grilled fish or chicken, and other half clean vegetables. Add a garden salad on top of that and you are really going to notice the impact on how you feel.

Now, if you have a hangover from too much drinking, then just focus on getting some food in your stomach. Sometimes, a hangover can make you feel so ill, you don’t want to eat, but you must if you want to feel better, sooner. And although it is recommended to still eat healthy when hungover, the reality is, greasy or comfort food is what we all want. Just be sure to follow up your next meal with something healthier.

💊 Take Some Medicine

Over-the-counter headache medicines and pain killers are also your friend when suffering from a hangover from alcohol. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and patiently await the relief. If you are hungover from too much food or sugar, consider anti-diarrheal medicine, gas pills, antacids, or even stool softeners to help ease symptoms of boating, diarrhea, or constipation. Be sure to consult with your primary doctor before mixing medications or taking them for the first time.

The Place to Come Celebrate Halloween in Downtown Indianapolis

English Ivy’s is open this Halloween weekend, Friday through Sunday from 5PM to Midnight!

Call 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner and drink specials we are offering this Halloween. We serve a full lunch, dinner, and late night menu, and even brunch on Sundays! From icy cocktails and beers, to an assortment of wines, liquors, shots, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this Halloween weekend at our exclusive Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Find out more about our upcoming events and announcements on our Facebook page!

If My Beer is Delivered Cold, Will it Go Bad if I Let it Get Warm?

Posted on September 11, 2020 by englishivys

Right now, beer delivery is not an unusual concept. In fact, it has turned into a fairly ordinary and routine service. The pleasure of having ice-cold beer delivered right to your doorstep is an experience worth every dollar spent. But many people are concerned about maintaining the quality of beer when it is delivered in a cold state. It is a common understanding that beer will go rank or rancid if it is not kept cool once it’s already cold. But not all of us can get our jugs, kegs, bottles, and cans straight into the refrigerator right away. So, does this mean we will waste our beer and our money, but worse, our beer?

Continue reading to learn the truth about cold and warm beer, including tips on storing your beer delivery to support optimal flavor and longevity.

Downtown Indianapolis Beer Specials 317-822-5070

Chilled Beer Stays Fresher for Longer

Although the practice of chilling beer serves the purpose of keeping it fresher for a longer period of time, your beer will be just fine if it cools down to room temperature and you want it cold again. It is a common misconception that if cold beer gets warm, you cannot chill it again without it having some sort of negative effect on its taste and overall quality. This is colloquially known as “skunk” or “skunked” beer. The truth is that skunk beer only occurs as a result of light exposure, not temperature fluctuations. So, re-chilling beer that was once cold will not make it taste bad or cause you any illness.

Skunk Beer is Not Caused by Temperature Changes

Skunk beer results from a reaction with sunshine known as light strike. Light strike is basically a complex chemical reaction involving blue spectrum and ultraviolet light in sunlight. These reactions cause the hops molecules to separate and produce sulfur, which causes the rank smell and taste in skunked beer. To avoid light strike, it is recommended to not store glass bottled beers near light.

Your Beer Delivery Should Be Safe

Whether you had beers delivered to your home but had to work later than you thought, you picked some up on the way home but accidentally left it on the counter, or you simply do not have enough room in the fridge, do not have to worry about it going bad. Your beer purchase should be perfectly safe, and equally delicious, even if it goes from cold, to warm, and back to cold again. Of course, there is one great way to avoid a warm beer situation, and that is to visit your local Downtown Indianapolis pub and eatery for fantastic beer specials and weekly deals!

Get Great Deals on Beer and Food Takeout in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to place a carryout order for beer and food in Downtown Indianapolis. Although our interior dining is reopened at recommended capacity, we are still offering 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!

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!

Downtown Indianapolis Beer and Food Takeout — Call 317-822-5070 to Place an Order.

Test Your Alcohol Expertise With This Fun Quiz!

Posted on February 25, 2020 by englishivys

You might be a seasoned drinker or a craft cocktail connoisseur; but just how well do you really know your alcohol facts? In spirit of Mardi Gras, and for the sake of responsible drinking, take this quiz and see how you and your friends score!

Indianapolis Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Drink Specials – (317) 822-5070

➀ What Kind of Alcohol is Used for Making Alcoholic Drinks?

a. Methyl
b. Ethyl Alcohol
c. Isopropyl Alcohol

➁ What Alcoholic Beverage has the Highest Percentage of Ethyl?

a. Wine
b. Beer
c. Champagne

➂ Which is NOT a Property of Alcohol?

a. Flammable
b. Denser Than Water
c. Higher Boiling Point

➃ What Area of the Brain is Affected First by Drinking Alcohol?

a. Limbic System
b. Hypothalamus
c. Cerebral Cortex

➄ Which Area of the Brain Affects Memory and Emotion Control When Drunk?

a. Medulla Obligata
b. Cerebral Cortex
c. Limbic System

➅ Which Organ(s) Breaks Down Ethanol in Alcohol?

a. Liver
b. Kidneys
c. Gallbladder

➆ How Much Alcohol Can Your Body Burn in 1 Hour?

a. 0.10 Ounces
b. 0.15 Ounces
c. 0.5 Ounces

➇ How Much Alcohol is Removed in the Bloodstream By Exhaling?

a. 1%
b. 5%
c. 10%

⑨ Which Body Tissue Will Not Dissolve Alcohol?

a. Epithelial Tissue
b. Muscle Tissue
c. Fat Tissue

⑩ Which Statement is a Common Misconception About Alcohol?

a. Drinking Alcohol Will Make You Warm
b. Drinking Alcohol Will Dehydrate You.
c. Drinking Alcohol Will Help a Hangover.

⑪ Why Does Drinking Alcohol Cause Sweaty and/or Flushed Skin?

a. Increased Body Heat
b. Increased Blood Flow
c. Dehydration

⑫ What Influences the Absorption Rate of Alcohol?

a. Level of Activity, Water In-Take, and Body Weight
b. Concentration, Age, and Body Weight
c. Concentration, Carbonation, and Food In-Take

⑬ Which Statement is a Correct Fact About Alcohol and Sex?

a. Sexual Performance is Increased
b. Sexual Performance is Reduced
c. Sexual Performance is Not Affected

⑭ Which Area of the Brain Controls Touching Your Finger to Your Nose in a Sobriety Check?

a. Limbic System
b. Cerebellum
c. Medulla Oblongata

⭐ ✨ How Did You Score? ✨ ⭐

Answer Key:

1) A – Ethanol is carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
2) C – Champagne contains 12% alcohol compared to wine, which has 11%, and beer which has 4 to 8%.
3) B – Alcohol is less dense than water and evaporates at lower temperatures. This is why it can be distilled.
4) C – This part of the brain manages speech, judgement, and perception.
5) C – This part of the brain includes the hippocampus and septal area, which deals with emotions and memory.
6) A – The process of ethanol breakdown is called oxidation, which is enabled by an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase.
7) C – A 12 ounce can of beer would take an average of 1 hour to burn off.
8) B – The lungs exhale 5% of alcohol, which is detectable by a breathalyzer.
9) C – Alcohol does not, cannot, dissolve in the water within fat tissue.
10) A – Although alcohol increases blood flow temporarily, it actually causes your body to lose heat.
11) B – Alcohol increases blood flow to the skin, which temporarily gives a warming sensation, but decreases body heat.
12) C – These three factors affect how quickly alcohol absorbs into the blood stream.
13) B – Sexual behavior may increase, but performance declines.
14) B – This part of the brain controls fine movements.

Enjoy Fat Tuesday Drink Specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

How to Clean Your Home With Vodka

Posted on February 10, 2020 by englishivys

Last year, we discussed the various suggested health and wellness benefits of vodka, including antiseptics, anesthetics, beauty aids, and treatment for minor ailments like bad breath, dandruff, headaches, toothaches, stress, and much more. Well as it turns out, vodka is more than a possible therapeutic and medicinal remedy, it is also an excellent cleaning agent!

That’s right; you can clean and sterilize glass, countertops, fixtures, and more using this simple, easily-accessible, store-bought cocktail base to keep your home sparkling clean. Continue reading to learn how!

Vodka Cocktails Downtown Indianapolis — Weekly Vodka Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

What Makes Vodka a Cleaner?

Vodka has a high alcohol content, usually between 30 and 40% by volume. This high alcohol content is what makes it an effective cleaning agent. Vodka can be used to clean all kinds of surfaces, such as countertops, plumbing and art fixtures, windows, floors, mirrors, and even clothing. It effectively eliminates dirt, grime, mold, mildew, adhesives, grease, and more.

Selecting a Vodka Brand

When it comes to choosing a vodka to clean your house with, you don’t require a fancy brand. Avoid expensive options, and instead, stick with a basic, generic brand of vodka. The quality of the liquor will not have any influence on its cleaning and sterilization power, so reserve the top shelf stuff for yourself and your guests! On the other hand, organic vodka comes highly recommended for cleaning since it does not contain any residual chemicals used to grow the grains, such as corn, rye, and wheat, or other foodstuffs, like potatoes, grapes, and soybeans.

Using Vodka to Clean

To prepare your vodka solution, all you need is a clean plastic spray bottle, which you can buy at your grocery store in the cleaning aisle, or at your local home improvement store. They are also available at your local dollar store! You will also need your conventional cleaning supplies, like rags, sponges, and rubber gloves. Fill your bottle up with your vodka of choice, and get ready to clean!

✅ Mold and Mildew – Vodka will make bathroom mold and mildew removal a breeze. Just spray the affected area, wait 15 minutes, then scrub it clean. Rinse thoroughly to reveal the fruits of your labor!

✅ Glass and Mirrors – To achieve that spotless, streak-free shine on mirrors and glass (including drinking glasses), mist the surface, then wipe clean with a microfiber rag or even some bunched up newspaper.

✅ Clothing and Fabrics – To reduce or eliminate residual odors in clothing, upholstery, curtains and rugs, simply mist them with vodka and let them dry. Don’t worry; it doesn’t leave a scent behind!

✅ Sticky Adhesives – To get rid of that leftover gunk or residue left behind from stickers or labels, generously spray the area with vodka, wait a few minutes, and then see how easy it is to scrub away.

✅ Hardware and Fixtures – Remove fingerprints and oily marks from anything metal, such as faucets, doorknobs, and more, with a little spray of vodka. Just spray and wipe for full sterilization.

✨ Now pour yourself a vodka cocktail for all the cleaning you did!

Where to Find the Best Vodka Specials in Downtown Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our fabulous Downtown Indianapolis drink specials we offer all week long. Visit us on Mondays for $4 EFFEN VODKA drinks and $6 MULES! Be sure to try our Dutch Mule made with Ketel One! Or come in on Wednesdays for $5 ABSOLUT DRINKS and $6 EFFEN MARTINIS, and Fridays for $5 KETTLE ONE drinks! Visit us on Saturdays for $4 EFFEN VODKA and $5 KETTLE ONE drinks! And you can’t forget about Sunday brunch that features our famous $5 BLOODY MARY’S! So, if you need a new place to wine and dine with your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Recommended Grocery Store Wine and Cheese Pairings

Posted on January 27, 2020 by englishivys

What’s not to love about wine and cheese? All over the world you will find various kinds of cheese and wines being produced, and with modern-day importing and exporting, we are lucky to have our pick of many right here in the United States. That’s not to say that local North American wines and cheeses are not worth the choosing. We are also benefited by local wineries and cheese farms that grace us with their passion for quality craftsmanship and value.

But you don’t have to be an enthusiast or connoisseur to create your own wine and cheese pairings at home. Your local grocery store right around the corner is all you need to build the perfect charcuterie tray for your next night in. There are several quick and easy wine and cheese combinations you can go with to ensure you are coupling the right flavors and aromas for the perfect pairing experience.

Continue below to review some recommendations for both grocery store wines and cheeses that perfectly complement each other, and available at Kroger, Trader Joe’s, or Fresh Market locations in Indianapolis!

Downtown Indianapolis Wine Specials 317-822-5070

Red Wines and Cheese Pairings

When choosing a red wine, be sure to store it at 60 degrees Fahrenheit to allow the flavor to fully develop. And remove cheese trays from the refrigerator 30 to 40 minutes before serving to allow the cheeses to soften. Below are some easy red pairings to consider.

Cabernet Sauvignon:

🍷 SIMI Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 – $20
🧀 Presidente Soft-Ripened Brie Cheese – $6

Merlot:

🍷 Beringer Merlot Founders’ Estate 2010 – $16
🧀 Tillamook Medium Sharp Cheddar Cheese – $5

Pinot Noir:

🍷 Francis Coppola Pinot Noir 2014 – $16
🧀 Red Apple Smoked Gruyere Cheese – $8

Chianti:

🍷 Castello Di Gabbiano Chianti 2014 – $11
🧀 Galbani Mozzarella Fresca Marinated – $6

White Wines and Cheese Pairings

When choosing a white wine, be sure to store and serve at 45 degrees Fahrenheit for that perfect flavorful finish. And remember to remove the cheeses from the refrigerator prior to guests arriving. This will ensure every bite is gentle and pleasing. Below are some easy white pairings to consider.

Chardonnay:

🍷 Cupcake Vineyards Chardonnay 2014 – $8
🧀 Dofino Creamy Havarti – $6

White Zinfandel:

🍷 Barefoot White Zinfandel 2014 – $13
🧀 Boar’s Head Muenster Cheese – $4

Riesling:

🍷 Schmitt Sohne Riesling – $14
🧀 Castello Blue Cheese – $9

Sauvignon Blanc:

🍷 Yellow Tail Sauvignon Blanc 2014 – $15
🧀 Montchevre Chevre Goat Cheese – &5

Pinot Gris:

🍷 Chateau Ste Michelle Pinot Gris – $10
🧀 Private Selection Van Gogh Gouda Cheese – $7

Where to Wine and Dine in Downtown Indy

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our fresh menus and specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis pub and eatery! Visit us on Mondays for ½ PRICE PREMIUM WINES, or Tuesdays for our $3 HOUSE WINES! We have a full bar stocked with all your favorites, including wine, premium liquors, beer, and more. To accompany your glass of wine, you can also order some delicious appetizers and entrees from our lunch and dinner menus! So, if you need a new place to wine and dine with your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Celebrate 2019 New Year’s Eve at English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis!

Posted on December 30, 2019 by englishivys

This New Year’s Eve, celebrate with friends and family at English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub! We are open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with extended hours, which means you can come for dinner and drinks, and then stay for all the fun holiday festivities. You’ll love our convenient location in the beautiful Historic Saint Joseph Neighborhood, in Downtown Indianapolis!

Continue below to review our holiday business hours for New Year’s this year, as well as our brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, drink specials, events, directions, and more!

Downtown Indianapolis Bar & Restaurant 317-822-5070

🍾🌟 We’re Open Until 2AM New Year’s Eve! 🌟🍾

Brunch served Every Saturday and Sunday until 3PM. You can enjoy $5 Bloody Mary’s and $18 Champagne Bottle and Orange Juice Carafe packages! Aside from brunch, every day of the week we offer a full menu of starters, lunch items, dinner entrees and house specialties. Monday nights are Surf & Turf and 50 cent wings!

Tuesdays are designated BOGO days, which means buy one select app and get the 2nd app half off, or buy one burger and get the 2nd burger half off! In the middle of the week, visit us on Wednesdays for more wings specials, and Thursdays for pork, chicken, beef, and steak taco specials! Fridays are reserved for Prime Rib, making it an extra special dinner event.

Check out all of our dining room and bar menus, here.

New Year’s Eve Specials

On New Year’s Eve, enjoy these classic food and drink specials we have to offer:

BAR:
➲ $2 Domestics
➲ $3 Wells
➲ $3 House Wines

KITCHEN:
BOGO Tuesday!
➲ Buy One Select App & Get the 2nd App Half Off
➲ Buy One Burger & Get the 2nd Burger Half Off

New Year’s Day Specials

Come back to English Ivy’s on New Year’s day to enjoy these specials:’

BAR:
➲ $7 Patron
➲ $6 Effen Martinis
➲ $4 Margaritas
➲ $3 Corona Bottles
➲ $5 Absolut and Absolut Martinis

KITCHEN:
➲ 50 Cent Wing Night
➲ Chef’s Special

Bring in the 2020 New Year With English Ivy’s!

Contact us at 317-822-5070 to learn more about our menus, specials, events, and more. We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. And as an added convenience, we have both lot and street parking available, so visiting us is never a hassle. With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully- satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indiana bar and restaurant! We look forward to being friends!

The 3 Basic Cocktails and How to Make Them

Posted on December 9, 2019 by englishivys

If you are hosting a holiday party this month, you should impress your guests with some fancy bartending skills. But you don’t have to put in a lot of studying and practice. All you really need is some basic bartending knowledge. A good place to start is by learning what the three basic cocktails are and how to make them. Continue below to get started!

Classic Cocktails Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Classic Cocktails Leave a Lasting Impression

When it comes to the holiday season, everyone loves traditions. What better way to embrace holiday traditions than by serving some classic cocktails? Classic drinks, like martinis, daiquiris, and Old-Fashioned’s, are always a hit, as they are very universal. You can customize these basic cocktails in an endless array of flavors and themes, all of which will certainly leave a lasting impression on your friends and family. By knowing these basic cocktails, you can use your own personal tastes and creativity to build upon them and make them your own!

🍸 Martini

When it comes to constructing a great martini, all you need to do is know the basic recipe. From there, you can customize a martini into anything you want, from dirty martinis made with olive juice and lemon drop martinis that offer a citrus splash, to expresso martinis that give a good pick-me-up, and much more.

Recipe for Basic Martini:

2 Ounces Vodka or Gin
1.5 Ounces Dry Vermouth
2 Dashes Orange Bitters (optional)

Add all ingredients into a shaker. Add ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into martini glass. Serve with a lemon peel or olive. You also have the option of stirring your martini, rather than giving it a good shake. But as Bond requests, “Shaken, not stirred.”

🍹 Daiquiri

Daiquiris are fun cocktails because they can be made frozen slushy or as a drink. As a refreshing drink that can be customized in thousands of ways, you can never go wrong serving up a tray of traditional daiquiris. You can also use their recipe as a base for shooters.

Basic Daiquiri Recipe:

2 Ounces White Rum
0.75 Ounces Simple Syrup
0.75 Ounces Lime Juice

Add all ingredients into a shaker and fill with ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds and then strain it into a chilled glass. Garnish your daquiri with a lemon twist. For frozen daquiris, add all ingredients into a blender with ice, and blend until you reach a slushy consistency.

🧉 Old-Fashioned

Old-fashioned cocktails are among the most revered classics, making it an important recipe to add to your bartending acumen. They are great to serve to guests because they appear fancy but in fact quite simple to make. Although bourbon is customary, you can use any base liquor.

Recipe for a Basic Old-Fashioned:

2 Ounces Bourbon (or any liquor)
1 Sugar Cube (or 1 tsp. maple syrup)
2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
1 Dash Water

Place a sugar cube inside your glass and saturate it with bitters. Then add a dash of water. Muddle the sugar cube until it is fully dissolved. Now fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon. Finish by garnishing it with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry on a toothpick.

Where to Get Classic Cocktails in Indianapolis This Holiday

English Ivy’s is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 11AM to 12 PM this year! Call 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner and drink holiday specials we are offering this season. We offer a seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menu that is locally-sourced and curated by our chef. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and baked scallops, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this holiday on our exclusive holiday menus. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!