Zing Restaurant

Ashley and I were thinking about a place to go for our next Tuesday night dinner. Ashley goes to IUPUI, which is near the corner of West Street and Indiana, so we pass by Zing Restaurant on a regular basis. As soon as we saw the multiple levels and outdoor patio seating (even though the January weather would keep us inside), we knew we'd like to try it sometime. And when it was our turn to choose a restaurant, we knew this was our next stop.

When entering, there is a bar and seating on the lower level, with stairs leading you up to the main dining area. While looking at the menu, you will notice something different. I am going to plagiarize the official Zing website:

"ZING Restaurant is a small plate dining experience. Rather than offering individual starters and main courses, ZING serves dishes that are designed for sharing among friends and are brought to the table steadily and continuously throughout the meal."

To say that that this dining experience was unique is an understatement.

The Tapas style is something that was new to us. Luckily, we had a great waiter who was more than helpful. Our first order was a couple of sample trays, which consisted of two meats, two cheese, and a salad. The tray that was on our end of the table had Soppressata and Prosciutto with Provolone and Grana-Parmesan. We also had an order of Steak Frites. Once the plates were on the table, everyone started grabbing. It was great. We talked, laughed, and ate. The recipe for a great dinner.

After the first round was done, we placed another order for a few small plates. This time we went with Fried Risotto Balls stuffed with Mozzarella and Peas, Zing Zing Shrimp, and two orders of Calamari. The Risotto Balls were out of this world! Perfectly crisp outside, with melted mozzarella on the inside. I am literally salivating just think about it. I would have loved to have tried the Zing Zing shrimp, but Laura ate them all.

As far as drinks go, they have 8 draft beers, over 20 domestic and import bottles, craft beers, full service bar, and an almost endless list of wines. Also, Tuesday night is Hoosier Beer Night, all Indiana-brewed beers only $3. But I must say, the real winner at Zing is the Goose Island Root Beer. That was Ashley's drink of choice. Just believe us, and try it.

All-in-all, it was a great time. We have struck gold the first two weeks of our Takeover. I would love to go back to Zing in the summer, sit outside on the patio, and take in the view of Downtown with my friends.

Canal Bistro Mediterranean Grille

This evening, the Shanahan cousins dined at the Canal Bistro Mediterranean Grille on Guilford Avenue in Broad Ripple. It promised us "the freshest, tastiest, most authentic Mediterranean food you can get," and they did not disappoint. The Canal Bistro Mediterranean Grille delivered to our party a comfortable and charming atmosphere that was accompanied by delicious appetizers, entrees, and drinks.

Briefly, here are a few plates we enjoyed and would like to share. First, we'll begin with appetizers. Hummus and Pita Bread is a great starter and should be shared by all. If you are into greens, try the spinach pie rolls. And for you vegetarians out there, begin with the portabello mushroom because it will change your life and, quite honestly, will be large enough to fill your stomach for the rest of the evening.For the entrees, try the Lamb Kafta Kabobs and appreciate its tenderness. If you have a huge appetite, order the Gyro Platter and understand leftovers will be in your car on the way home. This is a great problem to have. A party member ordered the Grilled Fresh Fish and couldn't quit smiling the entire night. Suspicious but really no big deal.

While dining, we enjoyed our food with a few beverages. The restaurant had a wide range of drinks, including coffee, wine, beer, and of course, water. Milk might be an option but can not say that with confidence:) Fat Tire was a popular choice along with various glasses of wine.

If you find yourself in the Broad Ripple area and have a craving for Mediterranean food, we recommend the Canal Bistro Mediterranean Grille. See ya next Tuesday!