Top 4 Tips for a Responsible Night of Drinking

Posted on January 31, 2022 by englishivys

It’s a fact that many adults like to go out, let loose, and enjoy a selection of delicious cocktails with friends and loved ones. Whether it is the end of a long work week, special celebratory occasion, or just another fun weekend with your crew, if you are planning to go out for drinks, be sure to do so responsibly. With good knowledge and best practices, you can enjoy as much celebratory drinking as you like, while also being sensible and safe. This can also help to mitigate those nasty hangover symptoms that we all dread.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 tips for a responsible night of drinking, including a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials and downtown Indianapolis.

Bar Near Me Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Bar and Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Sensible and Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Alcoholic Beverages

When you are preparing to grab drinks at your local bar or pub with your friends, these 4 tips will help you have a successful, fun, and safe experience:

Pay Attention to Alcohol Content

When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is important to understand that some cocktails and drinks have a lower alcohol content in them compared to others. For example, dark beers can have up to 12% alcohol in them, while light beers can have as low as 4 to 5% alcohol. This means drinking 4 pints of Guinness will have a higher effect on your blood alcohol level, then drinking for Miller Lights.

The same principle applies to liquor. Some liquors are lower proof than others, so it is important to pay attention to what you’re ordering and how much is being poured in that drink. For instance, 3 ounces of 190 proof Everclear, a pure grain alcohol, will have more of an effect on your blood alcohol level than 3 ounces of 40 proof vodka.

So, if you are drinking a cocktail or beverage that has a higher alcohol content in it, understand that you are basically drinking doubles, and the effect of alcohol will impact you much faster and stronger compared to a less-strong beverage.

Pace Yourself

Along with understanding the alcohol content in each beverage, it is important to take your time when drinking alcohol. Pace yourself by drinking glasses of water in between each alcoholic beverage, and by drinking slowly. Avoid taking shots if you can, although this is sometimes impossible. If you take shots, just be sure you are staying hydrated with plenty of water throughout the night.

Eat Something

Perhaps one of the most important tips for drinking responsibly is to ensure you are eating. Food plays an important role in keeping you satiated, while also giving your stomach something to absorb all the alcohol. If you have ever gone drinking without eating anything, you know that you wake up with a severe hangover and a lot of sickness. You also get drunk really fast, which can actually spoil the night because it can cause you to get sleepy or sick too soon. So, while you’re drinking with friends or loved ones, be sure to order appetizers and continue snacking, or eat a full meal at some point in the night.

Look Out for Others

Another critical tip for drinking with friends or loved ones is to look out for each other. If you notice that one of your friends is becoming too intoxicated to quickly, offer them some food or a glass of water. If someone does end up getting too intoxicated, be sure to help them home safely. It is also important to look out for each other in terms of being victimized. Keep your eyes on your drink at all times and keep an eye out for anyone trying to slip anything into your friends’ drinks.

As promised, we are going to give you a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials, freshest cocktails, and quality bar menu selections in downtown Indianapolis. Visit English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis for daily food and drink specials and more! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant — 317-822-5070

Cozy Winter Cocktails to Keep You Warm All Season Long

Posted on January 10, 2022 by englishivys

Wintertime is the perfect season in Indiana to snuggle up with all of your cozy favorites, like over-sized sweaters, knitted socks, chunky throw blankets, and steaming cups of coffee. Speaking of coffee, why not mix a little tequila in to really give you a warm winter buzz? Seriously! Warm winter cocktails are trending this season, and there are plenty to choose, making it easy to find one you’ll love.

Continue reading to learn some of the top cozy winter cocktails to keep you comfy and warm all season long, plus where to go to get the best drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

Cocktail Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Hot Cocktails for the Winter Season

Traditionally, hot cocktails are made with liquors like bourbon, tequila, whiskey, scotch, and liqueurs like coffee, berry, cream, and chocolate. As for the bases, you can expect a lot of recipes to include hot tea, cocoa, and coffee. But as you explore recipes for hot winter cocktails, you can begin to customize your drinks with your favorite flavors and alcohols.

Here are some of the top cozy winter cocktails to try out:

Hot Toddy

Hot Toddy’s are one of the more traditional winter cocktails. These have been enjoyed for generations, and never seem to disappoint. They are very easy to make and even recommended as a cold remedy for sore throats, coughing, congestion, and chills.

You will need a ceramic or stemmed mug, as well as bourbon, fresh lemon, honey, water, and a cinnamon stick if you so choose. If you don’t have a cinnamon stick, you can simply use ground cinnamon. You can be extra festive by adding a star anise floater or even half a baked pear!

1 CUP OF WATER, HEATED
3 OUNCES BOURBON WHISKEY
1 LEMON WEDGE
2 TABLESPOONS HONEY
1 THIN LEMON SLICE
CINNAMON STICK (OR GROUND CINNAMON)

Heat 1 cup of water in the microwave it for 2 minutes. Be sure to use a glove to remove the cup because it may be very hot. Add the honey to your mug, then pour your hot water and bourbon in. Stir the concoction until the honey has dissolved, then squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge. Toss in a lemon slice and cinnamon stick, or sprinkle cinnamon on top.

Spiked Rosemary Tea

Now here’s a winter cocktail you may not have heard of before. Try out this delicious, sweet, and oh-so-soothing spiked Rosemary tea with a hint of lemon! It is special because it includes Fernet, a complex Italian spirit that is bitter and aromatic. You will also need some strong black tea, like Earl Gray, and of course a coffee mug.

1 CUP FERNET-BRANCA
6 BAGS OF BLACK TEA
4 OUNCES ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
4 OUNCES LEMON JUICE
4 OUNCES HONEY

How To Make Rosemary Simple Syrup: In a 2 quart pot, add 1 cup of water, 2 cups of sugar, and 6 rosemary sprigs. Then cut up a lemon into wedges and squeeze the juice of each wedge into the pot. Then toss the squeezed wedges into the pot with all the other ingredients. Keep this concoction on low heat until it creates a thick syrup.

To make your cocktail, first begin with your tea. Once your tea has been brewed, add all ingredients into your mug and stir until well dissolved.

Oaxacan Coffee

South of the border, they really know how to make a tasty cozy cocktail. We are talking about this delicious Oaxacan coffee! This recipe makes a whole pot, so gather up some friends or family! You will need some strong, black espresso to start. Then just mix all ingredients together and garnish with cinnamon sticks and cloves. For an extra treat, top off your cup with whipped cream!

4 CUPS OF ESPRESSO
4 OUNCES TEQUILA, RESPOSADA
1.5 OUNCES MEZCAL
4 OUNCES AGAVE (SWEETEN TO TASTE)
6 CINNAMON STICKS
6 CLOVES

Are you looking for a great place in Downtown Indy to enjoy some warm winter cocktails and delicious meals? 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!

Are Baby Back Ribs and Spareribs the Same Thing?

Posted on December 14, 2021 by englishivys

When eating ribs, do you prefer baby back or spare? Not really sure of the difference? Don’t be ashamed; you are not alone. Many people have no clue what separates these two common versions of barbecued ribs. And although you really can’t go wrong with either option, it helps to know the difference between the two.

Continue reading to learn the key differences between baby back ribs and spareribs, plus, where to get the tastiest BBQ baby back rib special tonight in Downtown Indianapolis!

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Comparing Baby Back Ribs to Spareribs

To an untrained palate, it may seem like all ribs are the same. But to a barbecue ribs lover, the difference is distinct. The confusion often happens with baby back ribs and spareribs because many diners can’t recall what it is that truly sets them apart. To understand the difference, you need to know that pork ribs come from the same two places on a pig, and the type of ribs depend on the area in which the meat is cut.

Facts About Spareribs

Spareribs are also known as side ribs. You can think of them as the bigger brother to baby backs. They come from the underbelly of the pig where the bacon comes from. Compared to the popular baby back cut, spareribs are thicker and meatier, and generally come with the sternum, costal cartilage, and flap still attached.

These are the ribs that are traditionally prepared St. Louis style or Louisiana style, which is something you will commonly see at restaurants and barbecue competitions. In these cases, spareribs that are prepared in these styles usually have their costal cartilage trimmed from the top and the flaps removed from the back, giving the meat a uniform rectangular shape.

Facts About Baby Back Ribs

Baby back ribs are also referred to as loin ribs or back ribs. They are cut from the backside of a pig along the spine, which also happens to be very close to the area where pork chops are cut from. Compared to spareribs, they are less meaty and fatty, and cook much faster; however, they still retain flavors and moisture very well when cooked properly, making them very tender. They are also the more commercially-promoted meat. This actually contributes to their higher price points because they are higher in demand due to mass marketing.

We get it; now your mouth is watering for some delicious, fall-of-the-bone ribs in Indy! Well, you are in luck! Just come into English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery tonight for our mouth-watering barbequed baby back rib dinner special in Downtown Indianapolis! Enjoy food and drink specials all week long, including weekend brunch!

Where Do Cocktails Get Their Names?

Posted on December 3, 2021 by englishivys

You may know what’s in them; but do you know where they got their name from? Popular staples in the bar industry like Bloody Mary’s, Manhattans, Screwdrivers, and Old Fashioned drinks have names that make you question their origins.

Below you can read through a list of popular cocktails just like these to learn a brief description of how they got their names. Then you can share this thought-provoking information with your peers the next time you gather together for a round or two!

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Famous Cocktails and Their Moniker Origins

Bloody Mary

Bloody Mary’s are tangy, spicy cocktails made from a tomato juice and vodka base and mixed with a variation of spices and ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, celery, Worcestershire, and more. Although the origin of the name has many stories and remains quite ambiguous, most agree that it is named after Queen Mary I of England, who was dubbed “Bloody Mary” for attempting to re-establish the Catholic Church.

Cosmopolitan

Also known as a “Cosmo” for short, the Cosmopolitan was made famous in the television series, “Sex in the City.” However, the Cosmopolitan was influencing the bar industry long before its red carpet debut. Primarily constructed with vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice, this popular martini-style drink’s name is said to have come from Neal Murray of the Cork & Cleaver steak house in Minneapolis in 1975. Supposedly, he added a splash of cranberry juice to a Kamikaze and said, “How Cosmopolitan.”

Dirty Martini

The Dirty Martini is a simple and sophisticated cocktail for vodka and gin drinkers. Primarily made with vodka or gin, vermouth, olive brine or juice, and garnished with green bar olives, this cocktail has a name that suggests something “unclean” or perhaps even “unscrupulous.” But the real origin of its name actually unknown. It is suggested that it describes the muddied, clouded appearance the olive brine gives the liquor.

Long Island Iced Tea

A Long Island Iced Tea traditionally contains vodka, tequila, light rum, triple sec, gin, and a splash of cola. It makes sense that this all-inclusive cocktail began in Long Island, New York; right? Well, this is actually true. A man by the name Robert “Rosebud” Butt claims he invented the drink in 1972 after entering a contest while working at the Oak Beach Inn in Long Island, New York.

Mai Tai

Mai Tai drinks are commonly made with white and dark rum, orange curacao, fresh lime juice, and almond flavoring syrup. These Polynesian-style ingredients may be what inspired the name. A man named Victor J. Bergeron claimed to invent the drink in 1944 when he made it for his friends who were visiting from Tahiti. In Tahitian language, “Maita’i” means “good.”

Manhattan

Universally made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters, the Manhattan is a classic bar drink. Although the origin is unclear, it is said that the drink was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the early 1870’s for a banquet in honor of presidential candidate, Samuel J. Tilden. People began calling this drink the “Manhattan cocktail” after the club. Pair it with a Beef Manhattan for a real treat!

Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is not exactly what the name implies. It is made by muddling sugar with bitters, then adding whiskey or brandy, and finished with a twist of citrus rind. But the ingredients are not where the name comes from. Traditionally, the Old Fashion is served in a short, round, tumbler-like glass called an “Old Fashion glass.” This is where the name likely comes from.

Screwdriver

There are several stories about this popular breakfast-style cocktail and its origins. The most supported story regarding its name suggests that it began with American oil workers working in the Persian Gulf during the 1920’s. They didn’t have a regular steel spoon to stir their drink, so they used whatever they had on hand that worked; and a screwdriver was always the most reliable tool nearby.

Are you craving one of these frosty, classic cocktails now? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all weekend long. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Delicious Drink Pairings For Thanksgiving Dinner

Posted on November 23, 2021 by englishivys

The Thanksgiving Day meal is one of the central pleasures of the holiday occasion. Every element is perfectly orchestrated to complement and incorporate the entire seasonal theme. But many people tend to overlook the importance of a Thanksgiving dinner beverage. A variety of liquors, beers, and wines improve the flavor profiles of roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and more.

Whether you are hosting, attending, or going out to a restaurant for Thanksgiving this year, be sure to enhance the holiday pleasure with these deliciously-fitting Thanksgiving dinner drink pairings!

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How to Pair a Perfect Drink With Thanksgiving Dinner

Wine

It doesn’t matter if you prefer red or white, you have many options for a perfect Thanksgiving dinner pairing. If you are a red wine drinker, opt for a Pinot Noir, Syrah, or even a Zinfandel. The low tannin, impugning the war is a delicate palate-pleaser that won’t overshadow the rest of your meal. Syrah and Zinfandel offer deep, complex flavors that are cozy for the fall season and complement the richness of a Thanksgiving dinner.

White wines recommended for Thanksgiving menus include Sauvignon Blancs, Rieslings, and Gewürztraminer. These whites perfectly complement the traditional herbs and seasonings used in a Thanksgiving dinner spread. They also pair well with potatoes. If you prefer sparkling wine, pour yourself a glass of anything labeled Brut; a sparkling rosé is a great pairing for smoked turkey.

Beer

If you are someone that loves a frosty cold beer to wash down your Thanksgiving dinner, direct your selection towards a Belgian style brew, preferably a Saison, which also happens to be an excellent palate cleanser. This rich and complex spiced ale pairs well with the seasonal flavors of Thanksgiving entrées and side dishes. If a yeasty Saison is not your first choice, any dark beer pairs well with a Thanksgiving dinner spread. If you are smoking your turkey, pour yourself a Scotch-style ale for an enhanced flavor profile.

Cocktails and Liquor

If wine and beer won’t cut it, you must be a cocktail drinker. Or perhaps you just like your whiskey neat. Either way, you have a load of options in store for you this holiday season. Gin and whiskey are two of the top-recommended liquors, either alone or in cocktails, for Thanksgiving dinner. The botanicals and herb base in gin brings out the flavor profiles in turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.

Both bourbon and scotch are rich and slightly sweet, which are attributes complementary to many traditional Thanksgiving menu options like stuffing and candied yams. Opt for a Glenlivet of any kind, or a Tennessee whiskey that offers notes of dried fruit and caramel, like Gentleman Jack. You can never go wrong with a traditional Old Fashioned! Just avoid whiskeys that are overly smoky.

Not hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year? You are so lucky! Looking for a place that will serve you a memorable and traditional holiday meal you will absolutely love? Visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery in Downtown Indianapolis for Thanksgiving dinner this year! We are open this Thanksgiving from 5PM to 12AM, kitchen closing at 10PM. No reservations required!

Does Flat Beer Have Less Alcohol?

Posted on November 9, 2021 by englishivys

We have all come across that random bottle of beer that was somehow forgotten about in your cooler from last summer. Well, there are some things you need to know about that beer before you decide to pop it open and drink it. Not only is beer prone to expiration, but it may also lose its alcohol content if it goes flat. So, would it even be worth the sip?

Continue reading to learn more facts about flat beer and alcohol content, as well as where to get the best beer specials and frosty beverages in downtown Indianapolis!

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Beer Goes Flat Overtime

Like wine, beer ages with time, but this is not a good thing. Although aged wine is a delicacy and something to be revered, aged beer is not. Now, aged beer is not unsafe to drink, but it will taste less appealing than a freshly bottled beer. As time goes on, beer becomes flat because the proteins within it begin to break down; and once beer goes flat, the flavor profile is significantly affected. The multiple flavor notes that once existed begin to dwindle down until a singular flavor is all that can be detected. Many people refer to this single flavor taste as skunky because it is a bit musty and off-putting.

Once a beer is bottled and capped, it generally takes around 3 to 6 months to peak in flavor. From there, the beer will begin to break down and go flat. Beers with a greater number of hops are intentionally aged, and therefore have a longer shelf life compared to lagers, pilsners, ales, and other relatively-lighter beers.

Alcohol Content in Old Beer

For some, it is the alcohol that appeals to them rather than the actual taste of a beer. Well, if that’s the case, old beer should be just fine. As beer ages, it is prone to losing flavor and depth, but it will not lose any alcohol content, nor will the alcohol content increase. The alcohol content in a beer is determined and designed during the fermentation process. As beer ages, the fermentation process continues, therefore sustaining the alcohol potency, but not changing it.

Bottom Line: If you come across an ambiguous or antique beer, steer clear just to be safe. It’s not going to taste good anyway!

Do you want to know how you never have to worry about flat beer or inadequate alcohol content in your frosty beverages? Just visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery in Downtown Indianapolis for all the best beers and bar specials in town! Join us Tuesdays for $2 domestics, Wednesdays for $3 Corona bottles, or Thursdays for $10 beer buckets!

Do Not Miss English Ivy’s Halloween Costume Contest This Weekend!

Posted on October 26, 2021 by englishivys

Halloween in Downtown Indianapolis will never be the same after this year! English Ivy’s is hosting a HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST this SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30^th at our very own Indy Pub & Eatery! Continue below for details on how to enter to win and when to arrive for the show!

Halloween Costume Contest Indianapolis IN 317-822-5070

Halloween Costume Contest at English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery

Saturday, October 30^th at 9PM

🎃 Party starts at 8PM and goes until 2AM!
🎃 Halloween Costume Contest starts at 9PM!

That’s right folks; get ready for a Halloween celebration extravaganza! And it’s all happening this weekend at English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery, located in the historical district of Downtown Indianapolis. This Saturday, October 30^th, we are hosting a Halloween Costume Contest! Come enjoy the fabulous and spooky festivities we are planning for you!

To enter, simply give us a call at (317) 822-5070 and we will provide you with all the information you need. Your only job from there is to create an ultimate Halloween costume that will shock and rock the crowd!

Food, Drinks and PRIZES!

🏆 1st place winner gets $150!

🏆 2nd place winner gets $75!

For all contestants and patrons, rest assured that everyone will come and leave fully entertained and satisfied! We offer a full dinner and bar menus, so come hungry and ready to party! This Saturday, we are featuring a weekly chef special of stuffed chicken breast! You can also come in on Sunday morning for hair of the dog and brunch, or Sunday evening for our chef special, beef pot roast!

Join Us For Brunch on Sunday

Don’t forget that English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery also does brunch! Join us this weekend, and every coming weekend too, to indulge in all our guest favorites! Served from 11am to 3pm on Saturdays, and 10am to 3 pm on Sundays.

✨ $5 Bloody Mary’s
✨ $5 Long Islands
✨ $4 Long Beaches
✨ $18 Champagne Bottle + Orange Juice Carafe

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear more about our amazing brunch, lunch, dinner, and drink specials for this Halloween weekend, or to enter our costume contest!

Try This French-Inspired Lager Cocktail!

Posted on October 15, 2021 by englishivys

Known as a French Monaco, you don’t have to be from France to enjoy this delicious and refreshing lager cocktail. This uniquely delicious recipe is a treat for anyone who loves a good lager and a little sweetness. Best of all, the combination of flavors makes it a perfect complement to any meal, any time of the year. So, if you have plans in Indianapolis this weekend, ask your bartender to make you a French Monaco, or simply make one yourself at home!

Continue reading to learn what’s in this tasty beer cocktail and the best place to get it in Downtown Indianapolis!

Beer Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

How to Make a French Monaco Beer Cocktail

There are 3 primary ingredients that make a proper French Monaco. These can be altered and adjusted to taste or depending on what you have on hand; however, if you have a chance to make a batch from scratch, it is best prepared with the traditional ingredients. These include lemonade, lager, and grenadine.

Select Any Lager You Like

Although you can use any style lager and the common red syrup you used to put in your Shirley Temples, it is meant to be constructed with a top-shelf lager and a premium grenadine made from real pomegranates. The French prefer Stella Artois, which is also the recommended lager to use for this recipe.

Use a True Grenadine

As for the grenadine, it is recommended to use a real pomegranate syrup, such as the one made by Liber & Co. You may also use a different version of pomegranate syrup, but the authentic version is made with real grenadine.

Lemonade Quality is Key

We’ve all had lemonade that was too tart to tolerate, and we’ve all had lemonade that was too sweet to enjoy. When choosing a lemonade for a French Monaco, or any cocktail for that matter, quality is key. Aim for a fresh-squeezed version. You can also choose a light lemonade drink if you want to cut back on sugar and calories!

What You Will Need:

▷ 2 Ounces of Lemonade (preferably made from scratch)
▷ 6 Ounces of Lager
▷ 1 Ounce of Real Grenadine
▷ Long Bar Spoon

➀ Start with a tall glass, such as a highball glass or a 16 oz. beer mug.
➁ Add 1 oz. of real grenadine to the glass.
➂ Add 2 oz. of lemonade.
➃ Top the glass with your lager.
➄ Gently stir your concoction one or two times.
➅ Garnish with a lemon wheel if you have one!

Ready to order your French Monaco or preferred beer cocktail this weekend? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and order from our full bar and cocktail menu! We offer beer, wine, and liquor drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis every day of the week!

Top Recommended Cheeses For a Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Posted on September 27, 2021 by englishivys

No matter how old you get, you never outgrow a classic grilled cheese sandwich. With so many cheese options and topping combinations, grilled cheese sandwiches never get old, nor do they ever get boring. But when it comes to enjoying the best grilled cheese sandwich possible, you must select the right cheese or cheese pairings. After all, the cheese is the star of the show here.

So, the next time you are craving a grilled cheese sandwich, consider using these top recommended cheeses!

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How to Select the Right Cheese for Your Grilled Cheese Sandwich

When it comes to selecting the right cheese for your grilled cheese sandwich, you want to strive for a good balance between melting points and flavor. This means sticking with soft and moist cheeses and avoiding hard or crumbly ones.

The cheese should melt well while also delivering optimal flavor. Although American cheese is the classic option for a grilled cheese sandwich, there are many other choices that can bring your grilled cheese sandwich to a new level of delicious.

Get Creative But Stick to What You Like

Really, you can use any cheese you like to create a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s all about personal preference. From a chewy cheddar and stringy mozzarella to a stinky taleggio and beyond, the options are really endless. But if you’re looking for culinary innovations, these are suggested to be the best cheeses to use when curating your ultimate grilled cheese sandwich:

🧀 American – American cheese is a classic option for grilled cheese sandwiches because it is a little salty and a little sweet, plus it melts exceptionally well. This is going to render a creamier finish to your sandwich.

🧀 Cheddar – As mentioned, cheddar cheese of any medium to sharp variety will deliver a chewy but melty consistency, leaving you satisfied after every bite. Consider jalapeno cheddar or garden vegetable cheddar cheeses for a heightened flavor profile.

🧀 Gruyère – Gruyère may seem like an off-the-wall choice for grilled cheese sandwich, but your taste buds will be pleasantly surprised and asking for more. Gruyère delivers a unique grilled cheese experience with nutty and slightly stinky flavors, and a chewy but creamy consistency. There is good reason why the French use this cheese in their famous croque monsieur!

🧀 Fontina – A popular Italian cheese, fontina delivers a great meltiness-to-flavor ratio. There are many varieties of fontina to choose from at your local deli or grocery store cheese counter, ranging in flavor from mild to a bit stinky.

🧀 Gouda – Gouda is a great option for grilled cheese sandwich if you are in the mood for a softer flavor profile. This Dutch cheese delivers a delightfully nutty and slightly sweet flavor that melts beyond perfection.

🧀 Muenster – Very similar to American cheese, muenster is mild and melts just as well as cheddar and Gouda. This is a great option for kids or for pairing other cheeses in your sandwich.

Grilled Cheese Add-On Options

Once you have your cheeses selected, consider adding some more proteins, vegetables, fruits, and condiments to really take your sandwich to the next level! Popular add-ons include bacon, ham, shredded pork, pepperoni, sliced apples, spinach, caramelized onions, peppers, jam, honey, and herbs like chives or green onion.

Are you craving a delicious and creamy grilled cheese sandwich now, but your kitchen is lacking the proper ingredients? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and order our famous grilled cheese sandwich that you customize by selecting your own cheese and bread options! Don’t forget to ask us about our daily menu specials too!

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2 New Takes on the Traditional Old Fashioned

Posted on September 17, 2021 by englishivys

The Old Fashioned is one of the most respected and honored cocktails that has maintained popularity for hundreds of years. Classically made with bourbon, bitters, and sugar, the Old Fashioned is admired for its depth, richness, and history. It is rumored that the drink was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the early 1870’s for a banquet in honor of presidential candidate, Samuel J. Tilden. So, people began calling this drink the “Manhattan cocktail” after the club.

Although the name implies that innovation is not something of interest, with such an easy foundation of ingredients it’s hard to resist the temptation to innovate and tweak the recipe just a little. You see, bourbon and sugar might be customary for making a classic Old Fashioned, but many are pleasantly discovering that you can use any base liquor and ingredients you would like, including sweet vermouth, tequila, and more!

If you are a fan of the Old Fashioned, but would like a fresh take on it, continue reading for two inventive recipes that may turn into your new go-to after-work or weekend drink!

Bar Near Me Indianapolis IN 317-822-5070 — Bar Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

It is Time to Change the Way You Think About an Old Fashioned

The classic recipe for an Old Fashioned is 2 ounces bourbon, 1 sugar cube, 2 dashes of angostura bitters, and 1 dash of water, then garnished with a cherry on a toothpick. However, as classic as this cocktail might be, it too has been altered overtime.

Many people substitute bourbon for other types of liquor, such as whiskey or scotch. Many have also substituted sugar cubes for sweet vermouth or even a teaspoon of maple syrup. Others eliminate the dash of water altogether. Some even swap the cherry for dried fruit, orange slices, olives, and rosemary sprigs.

For most, developing a personalized recipe for an Old Fashioned take some time and some adjusting. But as mentioned, if you are tired of the same old town bourbon cocktail you been drinking for years, try out these two recipes that may change the way you think about Old Fashioned cocktails forever!

Traditional Version of an Old Fashioned

Just as a reminder for comparison purposes, to make a traditional Old Fashioned cocktail, drop a sugar cube inside a rocks glass and saturate it with 2 dashes of bitters. Then add a dash of water. Muddle the sugar cube until it is fully dissolved. Now fill the glass with ice and add 2 ounces of bourbon. Finish by garnishing it with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry on a toothpick.

🥃 The Improved Whiskey Cocktail 🥃

This recipe is not a new one. It is actually a classic cocktail that was even mentioned in “The Bar-Tender’s Guide” of 1887. Try this improved whiskey cocktail the next time you visit your favorite Downtown Indianapolis bar restaurant!

▻ 1.5 OUNCES HIGH RYE BOURBON
▻ 1 SUGAR CUBE (substitute 1 tsp. maple syrup or 1 bar spoon of granulated sugar)
▻ 1 BAR SPOON MARASCHINO LIQUEUR
▻ 1 DASH ABSINTHE
▻ 1 DASH CHERRY OR LICORICE BITTERS
▻ 1 DASH AROMATIC BITTERS
▻ GARNISH WITH CITRUS PEEL

To make this cocktail, follow the same instructions you would for a classic Old Fashioned. In your rocks glass, muddle your sugar cube or sugar option with your bitters, absinthe, and Maraschino liqueur. Next, pour in your bourbon and ice, then stir. It is recommended to use a single large block of ice for this cocktail.

🥃 The Reposado Old Fashioned 🥃

If you are a fan of tequila, then this is the new take on a classic Old Fashioned you’ve been looking for. With a different selection of bitters, a bit of agave, and a different base liquor, this rendition of an Old Fashioned will have you feeling like you’ve gone south of the border.

▻ 1.5 OUNCES AGED TEQUILA
▻ 1 BAR SPOON SIMPLE SYRUP
▻ 2 DASHES AROMATIC BITTERS
▻ GARNISH WITH AND ORANGE PEEL

To make this new version, you will start off a bit differently than a traditional Old Fashioned. Begin by using a wide vegetable peeler to peel your orange. Use the orange peel to express all of the essential oils within inside the rocks glass. Add all of your ingredients into a glass including a single block of ice, and then stir. Garnish with a new orange peel.

Are you excited for these new versions of your favorite Old Fashioned? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and place your order with the bar today! You can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our daily specials, too!

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