Dec 23

Written by: Mark Carboni
12/23/2009 5:55 AM

During my visit to Indianapolis on Monday to tour Riley Hospital and handle some foundation work, my lunch break took place at Harry and Izzy's. Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, this restaurant is the sister to St Elmo's Steak House. Some similarities of being siblings are visible, perhaps the darker decor, the elegant menu, a few signature dishes are shared but the professionalism of the wait staff rang as loud as those dang Salvation Army red can people.

As we walked in, it was hard not to be drawn to the bar. I could envision the celebratory atmosphere that must take place in the evening, after work, after a Colts game as the bar plays center stage for this American Grill restaurant. The chairs were leather, the napkins were cloth, and the place was standing room only at 12:45 on a Monday.

I ordered the Peppercorn Steak Salad - mixed greens, bleu cheese, hunks of bacon and two medallions of steak. Juicy, mouth watering steak that was coated in peppercorns. The salad was similar to a Caesar salad, but not as much garlic. Perfect portion for a lunch, yet not skimpy to where I was seeking bread or something else to fill the void. Our waiter, dressed in a coat a bit big for him, but I think this was truly intentional, was funny, interactive but not obnoxious as some wait staff feel they need to be a part of the last sentence you spoke. "the kids play was wonderful ... oh, I have kids, they are 4, 7, 9 and 33...blahblahblah"

The price points on the menu were not off-the-chart, but fairly comfortable if you are wanting a decent, classy, elegant but less formal time on the town. This is one restaurant I look forward to visiting again.

Season's Greetings Folks.

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