Get Your Fourth of July Cookout Lit With These Big Batch Cocktails

Posted on June 29, 2021 by englishivys

Summer is officially happening here in Indiana, and this weekend, us Hoosiers are all looking forward to celebrating Independence Day! Whether your plans have you hanging poolside, dockside, in the backyard, or next to the grill, there is no better way to ensure your Fourth of July gets started on the right track than with the perfect cocktails! Expecting a lot of people? Opt for big batch cocktail mixes so that you can enjoy the holiday and avoid being stuck bartending for everyone else!

Continue below for some top-recommended big batch cocktails that are guaranteed to have your Fourth of July cookout LIT!

Downtown Indianapolis Drink Specials 317-822-5070

The Benefits of Big Batches

Not only do big batch cocktails ensure that all guests stay quenched and energized so that you can actually enjoy your own party, but they also save you a lot of time and money. With a big batch cocktail scheme, you do not have to appoint, nor pay for, a bartender, as everyone can simply pour themselves a freshie from the available jugs on the bar cart or table!

Also, big batch cocktails allow you to optimize your alcohol purchases. Instead of buying a hundred different ingredients to accommodate a long list of traditional and modernly trendy drinks, you can simply prearrange your recipes and buy exactly what you need without wasting a thing.

One of the best parts about big batch cocktail options is they avoid a big mess. When you display a large liquor and drink station, there are bound to be spills, sticky messes, broken bottles, and maybe even some over-pouring. With a big batch option, you simply need the batch, a cup, and perhaps a garnish.

Some Great Big Batch Recipes to Try This 4^th of July

To make your big batch cocktails, grab a pitcher and dump everything inside. Allow them to rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours to get really cold, then just pour over ice for a simple but delicious drink!

🎆 Pineapple Rosé Sangria:

1 Bottle Rosé (750ml)
2 Cups 100% Pineapple Juice
1 Cup Chopped Pineapple
1 Pint Blackberries
1 Pint Raspberries
*To give it some fizz, try it with sparkling rosé or champagne!

🗽 Summertime Lime Rita:

1 Can Frozen Limeade Concentrate (Thawed)
12 Ounces Tequila
12 Ounces Light Beer
12 Ounces Water
*Garnish With a Lime Wedge

🎆 Big Batch Bloody Marys:

6 Cups Vodka
9 Cups Tomato Juice
1/4 Cup Worcestershire Sauce
1/4 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice
2 Tbs Hot Sauce
1 Tbs Horseradish
1 Tbs Celery Seed
1 Tbs Black Pepper
Dash of Salt (optional)
*If in a hurry, replace tomato juice and seasonings with V8!

🗽 Hurricane Party Pitcher:

4 Cups Dark Rum
4 Cups White Rum
4 Cups Passion Fruit Juice
1.5 Cups Orange Juice
1.5 Cups Pineapple Juice
1/2 Cup Fresh Lime Juice
1/4 Cup Grenadine
*Garnish with Orange Wheel and Cherry

🎆 Bubbly Champagne Punch Pitcher:

1 Cup Brandy
1 Cup Triple Sec (or Grand Marnier)
1/2 Cup Raspberry Flavored Liquor (Chambord is suggested)
2 Cups No Sugar Added Pineapple Juice
1 Quart Ginger Ale (must be chilled)
2 Bottles Dry Champagne – 750ml (must be chilled)
2 Cups Raspberries
*Combine all ingredients but the champs and berries. Allow to chill for 4 hours, then add champagne. Garnish with raspberries.

🗽 Strawberry Wine Punch:

1 Bottle Moscato Wine – 750ml
1 Can Strawberry Daiquiri Mix
1 Bottle 2-Liter Sprite
Fresh Strawberries for Garnish

Are you now craving a refreshing summertime cocktail? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and check out our weekly specials! We are closed for 4^th of July, but open all day Friday and Saturday this weekend!

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Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant — 317-822-5070

Popular Cocktails Under 200 Calories

Posted on March 18, 2021 by englishivys

Having a few cocktails at the end of a hard week should be a great feeling, not something that makes you feel guilty come Monday morning. For those of you who enjoy great cocktails, but could do without all the added calories and sugar, finding something satisfying can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several delicious cocktail choices that eliminate the caloric overkill without sacrificing quality or taste.

Continue reading to review the some of the most popular low calorie cocktails you can order at any full-service bar or restaurant, or even make at home!

Weekly Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Try a Vodka Soda – Only 100 calories!

If You’re Watching Your Waistline, Try These Top Low-Cal Cocktails:

► Champagne

SURPRISED?
90 Calories!

► Gimlet

Any Liquor, Rose’s Sweet Lime Juice, Lime Wedge
180 Calories
*Substitute Rose’s for a dash of simple syrup and fresh squeezed lime for less calories.

► Gin and Tonic w/Lemon

Gin, Tonic Water, Lemon Wedge
150 Calories

► Martini

Vodka or Gin, Vermouth (Olives Optional)
175 Calories
*Order it “dry” and forgo the olives for fewer calories.

► Mojito

White Rum, Simple Syrup, Mint Leaves, Lime Wedge
170 Calories

► Old Fashioned

Bourbon, Bitters, Sugar
155 Calories

► Paloma

Tequila of Choice, Grapefruit Juice, Soda Water, Lime Wedge
165 Calories
*Forgo the sugar rim for less calories.

► Rum and Diet

Rum, Diet Soda of Your Choice (commonly Diet Cola), Lime Wedge
100 Calories

► Sazerac

Whiskey, Absinthe, Bitters, Sugar, Water
135 Calories

► Vodka and Soda w/Lime

Vodka, Soda Water, Lime Wedge
100 Calories

Are you now craving your favorite low calorie cocktail from the list? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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How to Choose Between Flour Tortillas and Corn Tortillas

Posted on January 28, 2021 by englishivys

When it comes to preparing Latin American cuisine, you can never get the full experience without having some form of tortillas around. But the age old question is, “which to choose?”, as many people have a hard time discerning between the two, let alone knowing which to choose for their particular dish. Well, if you have always wondered, “flour or corn tortillas?”, then you are in the right place.

Scroll down to learn the difference between flour tortillas and corn tortillas, including the dishes they compliment best, and where you can count on the freshest, tastiest Mexican food in Downtown Indianapolis!

Fish Tacos Special in Indianapolis — Call for Taco Thursday at English Ivy’s in Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Flour Tortillas or Corn Tortillas? That is the Question.

Ultimately, no matter which tortillas you choose, or happen to have on hand, they will be fantastic with whatever Latin American dish you are serving or ordering. They are both delicious and have their own unique qualities that will elevate any meal, Mexican-inspired or not. So, if ever confronted with the option, or left with no optional at all, flour and corn are both wonderful, as they are highly-versatile. But for your own personal understanding, and pleasure, below are some facts about flour and corn tortillas that might help you lean one way or another the next time you are enjoying some tacos or quesadillas!

Flour Tortillas

Flour tortillas are made primarily with, you guessed it, flour, just as the name reveals. They are soft and chewy in texture, mild in flavor, and range in a variety of sizes. More popular in the Northern parts of the Americas, flour tortillas make for excellent burritos, chimichangas, and quesadillas since they are much larger than corn tortillas, and stronger too. However, here in the states, they are commonly used for tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, sandwich and salad wraps, and even baked as bowls for taco salad.

Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are made from ground corn, and have a lot of salty and savory flavor. They are smaller than flour tortillas, but perfect for dishes like tacos, taquitos, enchiladas, street tacos, and tostadas. They are also the perfect tortillas to cut apart and make nachos with! Corn tortillas are prevalent here in the states, but they are the dominant tortilla in the Southern parts of the United States, and all throughout Mexico, Central America, and South America. If you want authentic Latin American food, go for the corn tortillas, as this is what you will find when you travel down south. An added bonus, those with dietary restrictions, such as wheat or gluten, corn tortillas are a great mostly-gluten-free alternative to flour-based ones.

Craving Something in a Tortilla Now?

Place an Order at English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery for TACO THURSDAY!

Contact us at 317-822-5070 to hear more about our current special of the week, TACO THURSDAY! Come in or place an order for steak, chicken, pork, and fish tacos tonight! We have other tortilla options on our Menus too, like our Southwest Quesadilla, Steak Wrap, and Chicken Wrap! Our Thursday specials are also showcasing drinks, including $5 Margaritas, $3.50 Corona bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 Pitchers, $10 Beer Buckets, and more! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. We look forward to serving you!

3 Reasons Why Moscow Mules are Served in Copper Mugs

Posted on January 11, 2021 by englishivys

Moscow used to just be a city in the Soviet Union. But now, when you hear the name Moscow, you likely imagine that frothy, delicious cold drink that is famously served in a glistening copper mug. What’s actually referred to as Moscow Mules, this always-trending, always-tasting alcoholic cocktail is highly versatile, and compliments virtually any occasion or dish. Traditionally made with ginger root beer and vodka, Moscow Mules have been reinvented in all sorts of flavors and enhancements. But there is one thing that remains common among them all: the copper mug.

Do you know why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs and glasses? Continue reading to learn 3 reasons why, and share them with your pals over a few this evening!

Indianapolis Moscow Mules Drink Specials 317-822-5070 a copper mug on a black table.

The Deal With Moscow Mules and Copper Mugs

Copper is an interesting metal because it retains some pretty incredible qualities. These qualities, coupled with a bit of nostalgic history, have to do with the reasons why Moscow Mules are traditionally served in copper mugs or glassware. The first reason is thanks to the history of preparing and serving Moscow Mules.

❶ History

Although stories are a bit conflicting due to its cloudy origins, it is suggested that the ginger beer and vodka cocktail was partly created by a man named Jack Morgan, who was the owner of an LA British pub called the Cock ‘n’ Bull. As with most cocktail origin stories, it is strongly suggested that the bartender there also helped create the famous concoction. Well, Jack’s lady owned a copper-making company, who is indicated to be a Russian immigrant by the name of Sophie Berezinski. You can connect the dots from there!

It is also suggested that Jack Morgan and John Martin, a man who had just bought Smirnoff at the time, invented the marketing campaign of the copper mug drink together because Jack was having trouble pushing ginger beer off the shelves, while John couldn’t get his vodka sales up. They went around the city taking pictures of celebrities holding Moscow Mules in the shiny copper mugs, thus increasing the drink’s popularity overtime.

❷ Temperature Control

As mentioned, the viable properties of copper metal play a major part in why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs. You see, copper is the ultimate thermal conductor, which is why it is used so predominately in electronics manufacturing and design. Anything electronic will contain copper because the copper regulates temperature. You don’t want your laptop getting too hot! Well, this thermal conductivity also keeps things cold, like Moscow Mules! The copper mugs actually react with the cold liquids inside, making the drink colder, and keeping the ice solid, for longer. A real Moscow Mule copper mug will be pure copper. There are other kinds of mugs that are just copper-plated, or lined with copper. They are actually made with steel, nickel, and tin.

❸ Flavor

It is suggested that Moscow Mules taste better when they are served in a true, copper mug! Perhaps it is because the copper decreases the temperature just so, rendering chill-worthy sips from start to finish, or maybe it’s due to some other chemistry. You see, copper also creates that extra fizz and carbonation that makes are Moscow Mules so crisp and aromatic. The copper is also said to enhance the core flavor of the ginger, citrus, and mint inside. Try it for yourself! Serve a Moscow Mule in a regular pint glass, then serve one in a copper mug, and then take the taste test!

Where to Get Fabulous Moscow Mules and Drink Specials in Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious weekly menu and drink specials we offer at our Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Visit us on Mondays for $6 Mule Mondays! Our famous Moscow Mules are served over ice, in a copper mug, with your choice of liquor, ginger beer, and lime wedge! We also have a fully stocked bar with all your favorites, including wine, premium liquors, beer, and more. To complement your Moscow Mules, order some delicious appetizers and entrees from our lunch and dinner menus! So, if you need to get your Moscow Mule fix on with your crew, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Indianapolis Moscow Mule Specials 317-822-5070

The 3 Quickest Ways to Thaw a Frozen Chicken

Posted on December 15, 2020 by englishivys

There are several ways to defrost a full, frozen chicken, but only a few will do it the fastest. The amount of time each method ultimately takes will depend on the size of the bird, as well as the cooking method you choose or have available to you. Continue reading to get started!

Downtown Indianapolis Takeout and Carry Out 317-822-5070

How to Quickly Defrost Frozen Chicken

Nothing is more frustrating than getting home after a long day of whatever it is you had to do, only to discover that you forget to defrost the chicken that you are supposed to cook for dinner. Fortunately, there are ways around this dilemma aside from ordering take-out, which is never a bad idea if you ask the rest of the family! But when thawing chicken, it is important to ensure to avoid unhealthy bacteria growth, which chicken is prone to doing if thawed improperly.

So, if you are in a time crunch, rely on these 3 methods of thawing a whole chicken. They are the fastest, and will render the same quality results.

❶ Microwave Thawing

If you have a microwave, especially one from this century, take a closer look at the buttons. You will likely see a defrost button. This button will work for your whole chicken, so long as you do the math right. Read your microwave’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to use the defrost setting. Be sure to stop the process every few minutes to check on the chicken and move it around. For average size whole chickens, you can expect this to take around 45 minutes.

❷ Refrigerator Thawing

Arguably the best option, thawing chicken in the refrigerator works every time. However, you need a day or two to let the chicken fully thaw. So be sure to plan ahead when using this method! Also, it is recommended to place the chicken on a place, even it if is wrapped in plastic. They are prone to leaking as they thaw!

❸ Cold Water Thawing

You should never thaw chicken in a bowl of hot water, but a bowl of COLD water is perfectly effective. Place your chicken in a sealable plastic bag, then place the bag of chicken into a large bowl filled with crisp, cold water. Be sure the chicken is entirely submerged. Allow the thawing process to take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. It is important, however, to change the cold water every 30 to 45 minutes.

You Can Cook it Frozen of You are Really in a Pinch!

Cooking frozen chicken is usually recommended for slow cooking or braising. Cooking frozen chicken comes out the most successful if you have a pressure cooker or slow cooker. Just be sure the pot is large enough for your chicken, and read the manual before getting started.

⚠ Never thaw chicken in room temperature, or in a bowl of hot water. ⚠

Don’t Have Time to Thaw a Chicken Tonight?

Order Takeout at English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub 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 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

English Ivy’s Warmly Welcomes All Our Guests Back to Our Downtown Eatery

Posted on September 4, 2020 by englishivys

English Ivy’s is so happy to announce that, after quite some time, our doors are officially open again! We want to give a warm, generous thank you to all of your support you’ve shown us over the past two weeks we have been reopen.

Although still working on making some adjustments, we are continuing with all the English Ivy’s fun! Continue below to learn about our new restaurant hours and menus, as well as, all the great specials you can expect this season!

Bar Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Call 317-822-5070 to Hear Our Specials!

Come for a Visit or Order Carry Out!

🕚 Monday: Closed
🕚 Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
🕚 Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
🕚 Sunday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm

Let Us Introduce Our New Menu!

We are anxiously looking forward to introducing our brand new menu, full of creative renditions, original recipes, seasonal favorites, English Ivy classics, and fresh, farm-to-table inspirations! You will simply fall in love this Fall with our new English Ivy’s menu!

🍴 Weekly and Daily Specials 🍴

We are planning on weekly food and beverage specials, and continuing with our daily specials too! Tuesday through Friday, stay hungry as we have a lot to serve you! You can expect some of the same classics you’ve grown to love over the years, including our weekend brunch! But you can also expect some new surprises that will leaving you wanting seconds, and thirds!

Don’t Forget About Brunch!✨🍾

English Ivy’s is still going strong with our brunch menu, serving it EVERY SATURDAY and SUNDAY until 3PM! Be sure to order extra for those Monday morning cravings when we are closed! Walk-ins are always welcomed, but feel free to call ahead for reservations, anytime. Just be sure to remember your mask!

No time to stay in and dine with us? We also take carryout orders! As an added convenience, we have both lot and street parking available, so finding a spot is never an issue for our guests. With cheap prices and the friendliest service around, you will be fully- satisfied with every experience you have with us, whether you dine in or take out.

Get in Touch for More Info!

Contact us today 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!

A Few Simple Recipes for Homemade House Cleaners

Posted on March 26, 2020 by englishivys

Right now, everyone is looking for ways to improve health, safety, and hygiene, both at home and in the office. But not everyone prefers the harsh chemical cleaners you can buy at the store. Many homeowners live an eco-friendly lifestyle, and choose to make their own, homemade cleaning products instead. Not only are these recipes easy to make, they are much cheaper than buying OTC cleaning products. Yet, the best part about these homemade cleaners is that they are healthy for you, your family, and your furnishings. You can get all the ingredients delivered right to your house by your local grocer too!

Continue reading for a look at a few popular recipes for making your own household cleaner right from home!

Anti-Bacterial All-Purpose Cleaner

For those everyday cleaning duties, this all-purpose cleaner is great. Use on kitchen counters, floors, appliances, and porcelain to clean, disinfect, and eliminate odors.

❐ 1 Teaspoon Disinfecting Essential Oil (i.e. tea tree, lavender, lemongrass, etc.)
❐ 2 Teaspoons Sodium Borate (Borax)
❐ ½ Teaspoon Liquid Dish Soap
❐ 2 Cups Hot Water
Combine all ingredients in clean plastic spray bottle and shake well. Allow the solution to sit for 15 minutes before wiping clean.

Floor Cleaner

Although you really only require the first two ingredients, consider the rest for an added cleaning boost and odor control. Apply to tile, laminate, linoleum, and wood floors.

❐ 2 Cups Hot Water
❐ 2 Cups White Distilled Vinegar
❐ 1 Cup Lemon Juice
❐ 4 Tablespoons Liquid Dish Soap
Combine all ingredients in a large bucket and apply with a clean mop or sponge.

Tile and Grout Cleaner

When grout gets dark, you know it’s time to get to work. You will need a hard bristled brush and some elbow grease, but this recipe works wonders on stained tile and grout.

❐ 4 Cups Baking Soda
❐ 1 Cup Water
❐ 1 Cup White Distilled Vinegar
Combine water and baking soda to make a paste. Add water and vinegar to a plastic spray bottle. Apply the paste liberally to grout lines, and then spray with your water/vinegar mix. When fizzing stops, scrub clean and then rinse.

Furniture Polish

Every now and then, valuable furniture requires a good polish. To avoid toxic over-the-counter, store-bought cleaning solutions, just rely on this super simple recipe instead.

❐ 1 Cup Water
❐ ¼ Cup White Distilled Vinegar
❐ 2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
❐ ½ Teaspoon Scented Essential Oil
Combine all ingredients in a plastic spray bottle and apply in small amounts with a microfiber cloth.

Bathroom Scrubber

Sometimes there’s a need for some serious cleaning, and bathrooms are one room where a simple wipe down won’t cut it. Use this non-toxic bathroom scrubbing cleaner on tubs, sinks, shower doors, and tile floors.

❐ 1 Cup Baking Soda
❐ 1 Tablespoon Liquid Dish Soap
Combine both ingredients to form a thick paste. You may have to add more baking soda or soap to get there. Then simply apply and scrub away!

✨ After all that cleaning, you are probably VERY HUNGRY!

Downtown Indianapolis Take Out and Delivery at 20% OFF!

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

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!

Tips for Cooking a Delicious Beef Roast

Posted on January 15, 2020 by englishivys

When you want to take credit for preparing the perfect beef pot roast, you have to learn what it takes to achieve it first. In today’s world, there are so many fancy gadgets, cooking methods, and recipes that can sometimes overshadow a perfectly good traditional cut of beef. But when it comes to beef, you really don’t need all the frills to ensure your main course comes out juicy and delicious. Instead, all you need to do is rely on some good, old-fashioned tips handed down by all those talented Grannies. With the right knowledge under your belt, you are fully-equipped to prepare the tastiest and most memorable roast beef your whole family will love.

Continue reading to cover some of the most important tips for cooking a succulent beef pot roast.

Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070 — Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special 317-822-5070

Use a Good Butcher or Cut

The most important part of preparing a great beef roast is to start with the butcher. You want to concentrate on procuring your beef meat through a trusted, organic sheep farmer who will provide any custom cut for a fair price. Farm-to-table, locally-sourced foods have several benefits, one of which being some of the highest quality product around. Ask your provider to remove the bone for easier preparation. If you prefer to shop at your local grocery store, you have organic options, or you can simply opt for your favorite, trusted cut.

Let Your Roast Come to Room Temp

Another important tip is to let the meat rest before cooking so that it can reach room temperature. This supports more even cooking and balanced flavors. Once your meat is at room temperature, spend the first 10 to 20 minutes searing it on all sides using a cast iron skillet on high heat. This will properly seal in all the delicious juices and flavors of the meat while it cooks in the oven.

Get Your Cooking Time Right

When it comes time to put it in the oven, you want to roast it slowly at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The amount of time you roast your beef will depend on its weight. The rule of thumb to follow here is 13 to 13 minutes per pound for rare beef, 17 to 19 minutes for medium, and 22 to 25 for fully cooked. For instance, if your beef roast is three and half pounds, you will want to roast it for at least 45 minutes for rare, and upwards of 90 minutes for well-done.

Let Your Roast Rest

Once you remove your roast from the oven, allow it to rest for 15 minutes to retain all the juices inside. The temperature of your meat is important, and will range depending on your personal preference. Be sure to check your meat with a meat thermometer to ensure it has achieved the proper internal temperature, which is around 145°F for medium rare and 160°F for medium.

Get Delicious, Homemade Beef Pot Roast in Downtown Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask us about our Sunday dinner special, Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special! Our patrons continue to beg us for the recipe, but we promised Granny we’d keep it a family secret! Fortunately, all you have to do to enjoy this special dish is join us for dinner on Sunday nights! We are open from 10am-3pm, so come in and check out our menus full of delicious appetizers, cocktails, and more! With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!