Restaurant Review: Papa Roux

There's just something about Indy's east side.

It's as if they refuse to adhere to the rules of chain restaurants and retail shops. They keep plopping Mom and Pop stores and eateries all over the neighborhood and then have the audacity to not care if the rest of the metro area population likes it or not.

For those of you who have not made it to that side of Indianapolis ... it's not your luxurious, with-a-view community comparable to the far north and south sides. It's what used to be referred to as a blue-collar neighborhood.

No frills.

No nonsense.

However, you'll find that non-chains are, well, hit and miss, actually. I won't say they are better than chains, neither will I vow all chains are spectacular choices for service or food.

It's much like everything else in life; good, bad, and that unforgivable level---  mediocrity.
You'll remember I encouraged, practically begged, you to check out Oishi Sushi at 10th and Shadeland Avenue last year. A diamond interior shelled by a rough exterior, I called it.

Papa Roux is not a serene interior with a plain exterior. Nope. What you see on the outside is exactly what you're going to get on the inside. Located at 10th and Post (look close or you'll miss it) this joint is having none of your fanciful ways.

You want Cajun food? Have a seat.
You want linen and crystal? Move along.
Kings, carpenters, and restaurant critics all get the same treatment. Want to be placed on a pedestal? Hit the road Jack. These folks treat their customers all the same, as it should be. Loyal customers stop in frequently for a dose of the say-it-like-it-is personality of Papa Roux and his staff. Not rude, or even impolite, just down-to-earth, and busy, very busy; this is always a good sign.
 I met up with a buddy of mine, Dick Davis (Burger Meister, I call him), who writes a blog (smallerindiana.com/group/burgerquest) about, you guessed it, burgers. He's foregone burgers and eaten at Papa's several times and was dismayed when I mentioned that I "have been meaning to get over there" but hadn't made it yet. I wanted to take a chance on finding a great muffelatta and check out that wall I keep hearing about.

Deciding if one Cajun or Creole eatery is more authentic is as futile as determining which restaurant's fried chicken is more Midwest-authentic. There are many cooks and styles in every locale. It's more about capturing the essence of the region.

Let’s get to the food.

The red beans and rice were, quite frankly, the tastiest I have ever eaten, anywhere, including in the French Quarter, with a balanced seasoning and spice combination. The French bread pudding was softly textured with a creamy, cinnamon flavor. Some other sides offered were etouffee and cornbread.

Po Boy sandwiches are the house specialty, with the pulled pork taking top vote over my coveted muffaletta. Po Boys are served topped with cole slaw. All sandwiches are also served with unlimited sides.

Unlimited...

I suggest getting a full-sized sandwich, eating half there with the unlimited sides, and take the other half home.

Bottom Line: All in all, Papa Roux is worth twice the drive, for the food, the value and for the atmosphere. Remember to put your name on the wall.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93.1 WIBC and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@gottago) and at GottaGo.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us.

Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter, and Indiana Weekender

Photo credit: E J Musgrave

Flipped

Hollywood royalty visited Indy for Rob Reiner’s newest flick, Flipped which opens August 27. I got a chance for some up-close, red-carpet moments and caught the prescreening of the Heartland Truly Moving Pictures award-winning movie.

Reiner, director of numerous mega-hits including A Few Good Men, When Harry Met Sally and The Bucket List, was kind enough to answer all questions and even pose for photos.

Also walking the red carpet was Chicago-resident John Mahoney who portrayed Bryce's grandfather, Chet Duncan. Receiving a bigger reception than any of the guests, save Reiner, Mahoney, best known as the father on sit-com Frazier, reported that he “loves Indianapolis.” Rather than fly in for the event, he stated, “It’s so close, I just drove on down.”

When not on television or the silver screen, Mahoney continues to regularly perform on stage at Steppenwolf Theatre. Originally from England, the popular actor moved to the United States, becoming a citizen and serving in the Army.

Also walking the red carpet were Anthony Edwards (E.R.), Penelope Anne Miller (Carlito’s Way) and Madeline Carroll (Swing Vote, Santa Claus 3: The Escape Clause).

A veteran at a young age, Carroll’s vitality and youthfulness is balanced by her professionalism; so rarely seen in a child actor. Dressed in fuchsia, Carroll joined Reiner and company as they all joked and traded stories, while answering questions from the audience.

Flipped relays the worst part of the preteen and teen years of middle school: love. Whichever term you care to use, first love, puppy love, crush, it is the one which remains with us throughout our lives. Other loves may be more fun, more hurtful or longer lasting, but nothing tops that first realization that the opposite sex is on earth for more than swapping cooties.

When young Juli Baker’s new neighbors move in, she, played by Carroll, immediately flips head-over-heels in love with their son, Bryce, portrayed by Callan McAuliffe. He immediately runs the opposite direction, at top speed. The chase continues through elementary school and into middle school.

Told from both perspectives throughout the chase, the two grow into the realization that the other isn’t what they originally assumed. The families are radically different and the children attempt to become who they would like to be, while learning to deal with crushes, rejection, peer pressure and first kisses.

Acting as the glue to mend the families, and children, Duncan (Mahoney) shares insight, wisdom and acceptance with young Julie.

Although Reiner compared this film to his Stand By Me hit (River Phoenix, Corey Feldman), I found it akin to other well-known favorites. If you were a fan of television’s The Wonder Years and the film My Girl, you are in for a special treat.

Bottom Line: Take your grandparents, parents and children; this one is a classic. Wrapped in a favorite childhood blanket of nostalgia, Flipped is the type of film you’ll flip over.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93.1 WIBC and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and at gottago.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter, Indiana Weekender

Photo credit: Mark A. Lee, www.greatexposures.net

Photo credit: Warner Bros.

Beef and Boards: Church Basement Ladies

Church Basement Ladies, based on the writings of Janet Letness Martin and Suzann Nelson, is currently playing to sold-out audiences at Beef and Boards, 9301 N. Michigan Road. The setting is a familiar one to most of us: a church basement. The cast of five represents two elderly women, one middle-aged woman, her daughter and the pastor of a Lutheran church. The story begins in 1964, in a small town in Minnesota.

The plot is as old as time, the changing of the guard from one generation to the next. No one probably takes it harder than a woman whose identity is as strongly defined as that of a church basement lady.

Toiling through decades of potlucks, weddings, funerals and holidays, these women, under-appreciated and overworked, become territorial when younger generations want to change things up a bit. Add in the leader of the church with a new wife, one who clearly does not fit in, and the comedy of real life ensues.

The audience was kept entertained by the culture, food and language of our friends from the north, along with the antics of Mavis Gilmerson, portrayed by Karen Pappas who was last seen in High School Musical. With the heaviest Minnesotan accent among the cast, Pappas’ physical comedic abilities kept the performance flowing and the audience laughing.

Playing off Gilmerson’s zaniness were overly judgmental Mrs. Snustad (Licia Watson), mediator Karin Engelson (Katherine Proctor) and rebel college student Signe Engelson (Lisa Bark).

Caught between the upstairs congregation and the downstairs matriarchs was Pastor Gunderson, portrayed by Eddie Curry.

If it sounds a little like a northern version of Steel Magnolias, you’re almost correct. There are no frills, however, in the lower floor of the barely-making-it church with a need for a new furnace, a new maintenance hero and with meals to make on a shoestring budget. However, laughter still proves to be the best medicine.

Teachings of Norwegian foods, lutefisk, dried cod, rommegrot, a pudding, and krumkake, a cookie, are blended with common Minnesota sayings. Life lessons of humility, strength, courage and friendship are learned through laughter, fighting and cooking.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93.1 WIBC and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and at gottago.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us

This column was originally published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter

Photo credit: juliecurryphotography.com
Visit online at beefandboards.com

The Cabaret at The Columbia Club: Deb Mullins

Singing the Blues this week was Indianapolis native Deb Mullins for Bebop, Boogie and Blues at The Cabaret at The Columbia Club, 121 Monument Circle.

Mullins’ connection with the audience is enhanced by her ability to create a balance of upbeat bebop and boogie tunes with the slowed-down blues. Creating an intimate mood, the local songstress brought the audience to its feet more than once in admiration of her powerful vocals.

Talented accompanists included Troye Kinnett, Steve Dokken, Steve Hanna and Sandy Williams, each with an outstanding individual career.

Bottom Line: Whether drawing you close with the vulnerable Good Morning, Heartache, or belting out powerful ballads, such as Feels Like Home, Mullins brings everyone along for an emotional ride.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel and leisure writer, and theater critic. Follow her on Facebook and catch her on 93 WIBC's Saturday Morning News Show as Indy's Arts & Entertainment. Send comments to elizabeth@gottago.us.

*Photo Credits: Mark A. Lee greatexposures.net

This column was originally published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter

American Cabaret Theatre: A Funny Thing...Forum

BobDirex has taken up residence once again in the Athenaeum. Its second performance, A Funny Thing Happened on the way to the Forum, stars Claire Wilcher.

Wilcher, last seen by this reviewer in ACT’s Victor/Victoria is the mainstay of this program, garnering laughter from the audience at every turn. Surrounded by a delightfully animated stage set of a Roman village, Wilcher, portraying Pseudolis, combines her own endearing brand of cheekiness with dead-on comedic timing.

The musical farce plays every card in regard to mistaken identities and physical comedy. Other noteworthy talent includes Scot Greenwell as Hysterium, adding the deadpan balance for Wilcher’s zaniness.

It’s always nice to see a performing arts venue open in the Indy area and even nicer to see one located in the historically rich Athenaeum open its doors once again.


Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. You can catch her on WIBC Saturday mornings as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and at gottago.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us.

This column is published in the following newspapers: West Side Community News, West Indianapolis News, South Sider Voice, New Palestine Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter, Pendleton Times-Reporter, Indiana Weekender

**Photo credits: Furnished by Bobdirex

Brickyard 400 2010

I've always been one to learn from my mistakes. Okay, not always.

But I did learn from my O'Reilly Raceway Park incident and I did not wear my 4-inch heels to my first outing to the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Smart move.

If you've never been to the NASCAR race at the famous track in Speedway, Indiana, take my advice. You should. At least once.

Since you probably have already heard who won the race, not my guy No. 33 Clint Bowyer, who won the most money and who crashed, I'm going to tell you about the other activities.

With a family friendly game area for kids and a beach area for kids of all ages, the racetrack has made it an all-day event. Coolers full of food and cold drinks, shorts, sandals, beach balls and sunscreen kept everyone in a festive mood throughout the hot, humid day.

Besides the normal fair-style food, live music and events over by Turn 3, there was something I've never seen before or even heard about. It's one of those you've-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it kind of things.

People kissing bricks.

Seriously.

No, not the winner's obligatory lipsmacking session at the winning line.

Regular people, bending over and playing kissey-face with the brick line outside the Pagoda. Quite a popular past-time it seems. Local and out-of-towners were getting their pictures taken bent over, tush in the air (ZZ Top would have been delighted) getting friendly with the walkway.

So, I took a few photos of my own, including John Davidson and soon-to-be son-in-law Jim Cooper.

Did I kiss the bricks? Well, I always did like trying out new experiences.

So.....

Maybe next year...if Clint Bowyer wins.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. You can catch her on WIBC Saturday mornings as Indy's Arts & Entertainment Adviser and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and at gottago.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us.

Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, West Indianapolis News, Pendleton Times-Reporter, New Palestine Reporter and Fortville Reporter.

Cabaret: Roger Schmelzer

I had a chance to hear the mellow singing style of Roger Schmelzer at The Cabaret at The Columbia Club Saturday evening. Schmelzer, an Indiana native, recanted his love life’s ups and downs in Heartsongs: A Playfully Romantic Cabaret. Intermingled with the tale were excerpts from his CD, about now, and standard favorites such as Bewitched and What are You Doing New Year’s Eve?

The audience enjoyed his laid-back style and self-effacing jokes as Schmelzer took us through time, from the angst of his teen years to his current matrimonial bliss. Adding to the story was the fact that he had met his wife while at The Cabaret, bringing it full circle.

Accompanying Schmelzer on piano was Mark Timko who received well-deserved appreciation from the audience for his solo, My Funny Valentine.

Schmelzer, seeming more relaxed in the second set, showed more of his playful side and enthusiasm the longer he entertained. Bringing to the top that which lingered just below the surface throughout the evening would have catapulted this show to the next level. Certainly the audience seemed eager to see his quirkier side and hear more of his tales.

This reviewer would encourage Schmelzer to unleash the simmering fun side and allow himself, and the audience, to enjoy the full force of his humor. Coupling that suggestion with fewer quiet songs and a few more rowdy-comical love songs would provide the audience with a broader view of his talent.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel and leisure writer, and theater critic. Follow her on Facebook and catch her on 93 WIBC's Saturday Morning News Show as Indy's Arts & Entertainment. Send comments to elizabeth@gottago.us.

*Photo Credits: Mark A. Lee greatexposures.net

This column was originally published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter

Bravo Chef Cook Off

I was recently invited to be a judge at Bravo restaurant's annual Chef Cook Off, regional division. Held at the Greenwood, Indiana location, I was to eat every dish made by every chef and then judge. Supplied with a nice glass of Pinot Noir, I felt up to the task.

Our panel of four judged in categories such as taste, appearance, whether the dish was in keeping with Bravo's style and presentation. We nibbled our way through various dishes, all rather tasty. However, only one chef could win and that one person was Cassandra Presley from New Orleans.

Presley's winning dish was Prosciutto-wrapped Shrimp Salad with a spicy caper vinaigrette. Key ingredients which helped to push Presley over the top were spicy pecans and the addition of pear quarters. Surprising to the panel was the fact that Presley had been with the company less than a year. Her win lifted her to the next round to be held in Ohio.

Other noteworthy dishes include "Corona Di Prosciutto" from Chef Micahel Minch. The dish, a crispy bread stick stuffed with prosciutto, was served marinara and a Gorgonzola cream sauce.

Chef Demetrio Estrada's "Veal Saltimbocca" was made of veal, sage and prosciutto, braised in white wine. The addition of chopped tomatoes and mozzarella enhanced the tender meat.

The winning chef in the championship round wins an all-expense trip to Italy to study Italian cuisine. The winning dish also holds the possibilty of being added to the regular menu at Bravo restaurants.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter and catch her on 93 WIBC's Saturday Morning News Show as Indy's Arts & Entertainment Adviser. Send comments to elizabeth@gottago.us.

*Originally published in the following newspapers: West Side Community News, West Indianapolis Community News, South Sider Voice, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.

Travel: Romp in Richmond

A girls-only romp took me to the Richmond area recently. Guys are not invited for this Bed & Breakfast getaway package of shopping, spa, food, wine and fun located less than an hour from Indy.

The Lantz House Inn, circa 1823, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and faces the Historic National Road, U.S. 40, in Centerville.

Just as in times of old, the B&B offers charmingly adorned bedrooms to travelers. Breakfast is prepared by the inn's gourmet cook and vivacious proprietress Marcia Hoyt. Her signature breakfast of mouth-watering lemon-ricotta pancakes are complemented by shipped-in-weekly Vermont maple syrup.

Stories of the inn regularly adorn newspapers and covers of magazines including 1996's holiday issue of Midwest Living, recanting tales of the warm Midwestern welcome Hoyt shows all who enter her home.

Warm Glow Candle Outlet, at exit 145 on I-70, has something special besides high-quality candles. The World's Largest Candle draws attention from miles away to the shopaholic's dream outlet store.

Inside is an array of hand-dipped candles, including the top selling Snickerdoodle, seasonal and home decor items and gift baskets. Another area of the store I checked out could easily be considered the World's Coolest Men's Restroom with vintage airplanes adorning the walls and ceiling.

This Hoosier area, known as Antique Alley, boasts a staggering 900 antique shops, generating a buzz among those looking for vintage furniture, lamps, jewelry and more.

Dubbed the Grand Central Station of the Underground Railroad, Levi Coffin House is a local Quaker home-turned-museum. Estimated to have harbored one thousand slaves seeking freedom in the north, it remains open to the public.

Locally owned Clay Pot Cafe is becoming well known for its unique bread. Accompanied by strawberry butter, the soft, clover-looking bread is baked and served in a miniature clay pot.

Several trails are available to follow in this eastern Indiana town. The recently unveiled Chocolate Trail includes Ghyslain for painted chocolates and chocolate desserts, Olympian Candies' handmade turtles and chocolate fudge at The Pour House. There is even a liquid chocolate in the form of chocolate-raspberry wine at J&J Winery.

Overlooking a serene two acre pond and four acre wooded area, J&J seduces you with its laid back attitude and nonchalant elegance. A gentle breeze blows softly across the veranda as we sip award-winning reds and whites. The Rameys and Haists, the charming foursome who own the wedding-popular scenic spot, have paid attention also to the menu. Dining on European style wood-fired pizza and a cheese and fruit plate left no room for the raspberry martini dessert.

Before receiving a customized facial at The Loft's upscale Metamorphosis Spa & Fitness, it was shopping time. Located on the first floor are Coco's Boutique, featuring out-of-the-ordinary items, and At Home Kitchen and Gourmet shop's selection of gourmet culinary merchandise.

Likenesses of legendary people such as Hoagy Carmichael and historic and modern scenes make up The Mural Trail. Painted on houses and buildings, the murals are easy to locate on the marked map.

Gennett Records Walk of Fame is a winding trail of mosaic and bronze sidewalk plaques bearing the names of artists who recorded at Gennett Studios in the 1920s and '30s.

Reminiscing on the town of trails, music and history, I find myself once again ready for a fun Romp in Richmond.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, theater critic and travel writer. You can follow her on Facebook and catch her on 93 WIBC's Saturday Morning News Show as Indy's Arts & Entertainment adviser of restaurants, festivals, events, theater and films. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us.

*Originally published in the following newspapers: West Side Community News, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times-Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter, New Palestine Reporter and South Sider Voice.

Gotta Go Guide
visitrichmond.org
lantzhouseinn.com
warmglow.com
jjwinery.com
thepourhousesweets.com
nationalroadantiquemall.com
olympiancandies.com
ghyslain.com
starrgennett.org
The Clay Pot 765-966-2233
Levi Coffin House 765-847-2432
Metamorphosis Spa 765-965-5638

*Photo credits: Izzy Evans, TStorm, Elizabeth J. Musgrave

Michael Buble

Grammy-Award winning crooner Michael Buble sauntered into Indy for a one-night-only performance June 29 at Conseco Fieldhouse. With a stage setup and orchestra worthy of a Vegas headliner, the crooner declared the event to be a party, releasing beach balls and confetti throughout the show. Both his latest, and No. 1 ranked, CD Crazy Love, and the like-named tour seem to be about proving he is more than just a "rat pack" imitator.

And prove it he did.

Stepping out from behind the shadow of Frank Sinatra and company, Buble's biggest response from the audience came when he slid into his own smash hits including Everything, Home, and newest hit single, Haven't Met You Yet.

Noteworthy front act Naturally 7 received its own standing ovation for its rendition of Broken Wings and While My Guitar Gently Weeps. The a capella group, which became a sensation after a performance on a Paris subway platform was posted on YouTube, also performs with Buble on his latest CD.

Touring the world on a fast-paced, grueling schedule, Buble took the time to pack, along with his famous 80 suits, his happy-go-lucky attitude, holding nothing back from the ticket holders.

Perhaps that’s the secret of his obvious success.

The ruggedly handsome Canadian with the boyishly impish charm promises his admirers to always, "give so much more than I get." His working man's outlook on giving everyone their money's worth at his show, along with his heartfelt speeches throughout the performance, endears him even more to his fans.

This causes confusion for me.

Upon showing his fans so much respect, thanking them for their loyalty and crediting them with his rise to fame and fortune it seems odd that he would then disrespect the same group of people with offensive locker room language and humor.

Certainly a man able to create such beautiful lyrics should understand his romantic, poetic side is what draws people to his concerts and the music stores. Can he not refrain from unnecessary, and inappropriate, bar room antics for two hours?

Aside from the awkward comments, Buble’s performance ran at full speed, with the singer intermingling with the crowd while covering standards and contemporary tunes. The song list was wide-ranging, allowing fans to enter his world, from childhood through his adult years. Besides his own hit singles, Buble also covered standards, such as All of Me and Mack the Knife, and personal favorites including, Heartache Tonight, At This Moment and Twist and Shout.

Bottom Line: Michael Buble, the hardest working performer currently on tour, turns in an A+ performance of high energy, sincerity and quality. Prerequisites for attending a Buble performance: a party attitude, a willingness to join in and an inside aisle seat.

*This column was originally published, in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times-Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter and New Palestine Reporter.

*Photo credit: Lisa Gissara