Where Is Sondra

Tag: food

  • Valentine’s Day Ideas in Indianapolis + Central Indiana

    Valentine’s Day Ideas in Indianapolis + Central Indiana

    RED ALERT! Valentine’s Day is coming up in less than three weeks and your girl wants to do something romantic in Indianapolis (she told me). If you’re looking for the perfect dinner reservation in Downtown Indy, an activity she’ll brag about to all her friends, or just a night to remember in Indianapolis, you’re in the right spot!

    P.S. Click the locations below for links to individual videos dedicated to each location.

    Activities in Indianapolis

    For my more active couples, below is a list of activities that require varying levels of energy. And don’t worry! These activities are all indoors since Valentine’s Day in Indy is typically on the chilly side.

    PINS Mechanical Co. 📍 856 Carrollton Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

    16-Bit 📍110 E New York St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

    Pro Tip: I recommend pairing this one up with one of Indy’s romantic restaurants on Mass Ave. Recommendations below.

    The Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis📍1125 E Brookside Ave d9, Indianapolis, IN 46202

    Flying Squirrel Axe Throwing 📍 5748 Crawfordsville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46224

    Back 9 Golf and Entertainment 📍1415 Drover St, Indianapolis, IN 46221

    Activate 📍 8600 E 96th St, Fishers, IN 46038

    Entertainment in Indianapolis

    Helium Comedy Club 📍 10 W Georgia St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

    Feinstein’s 📍 1 Carmichael Square, Carmel, IN 46032

    BONUS: Make this a whole weekend staycation and book a room at the Hotel Carmichael (more details below). Also, they offer food before the performances, so arrive early and make this a dinner + show date night!

    Indy Staycation Ideas

    If your Valentine wants a romantic Indianapolis staycation for Valentine’s Day weekend, then we’d get along swimmingly. These three hotels in Indy are some of the most gorgeous I’ve stayed at in the whole country.

    Ironworks 📍2721 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240

    Watch the video for my full list, but here are my top recommendations to make this Indy staycation one that your Valentine will never forget: Blue Sushi for dinner, RIZE for brunch

    Bottleworks 📍 850 Massachusetts Ave Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46204

    Watch the video for my full list, but here are my top recommendations to make this Indy staycation one that your Valentine will never forget: Garage Food Hall for food + drinks, PINS Mechanical for fun, and Blue Collar for coffee

    Hotel Carmichael 📍 1 Carmichael Square, Carmel, IN 46032

    I know this one is actually in Carmel, but with Hotel Carmichael offering the Feinstein shows, amazing restaurants, and gorgeous views, your Valentine will never want to leave.

    Romantic Restaurants in Indy

    Blue Sushi Sake Grill 📍2721 E 86th St STE 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240

    3UP 📍 201 W Main St, Carmel, IN 46032

    Bocca 📍 122 E 22nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

    P.S. Bocca has a speakeasy in the basement!

    1933 Lounge 📍 175 S Rangeline Rd Suite 100, Carmel, IN 46032

    Pro Tip: I recommend the Carmel location for the most romantic vibes.

    Union 50 📍 620 N East St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

    RH Indianapolis 📍 4501 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46228

    Heads Up on RH: The food is pricey. However if you’re looking for the most gorgeous photo-ops in Indy, this is your spot. Occasionally, I’ll just get a glass of wine and walk around the estate (stay tuned for my Galentine’s Day recommendations).

    Indy Cocktail Spots

    We love a little sexy cocktail bar moment! I, of course, recommend pairing this up with one of Indy’s romantic restaurants to make this more of a nightcap situation, but to each their own. Cheers, lovers!

    8th Day Distillery 📍 1125 E Brookside Ave Suite D06, Indianapolis, IN 46202

    BONUS: They have an AMAZING Mocktail selection for my N/A baddies out there.

    Hotel Tango 📍 702 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203

    Quick note about the Hotel Tango video, I want to give a strong RIP to my favorite place ever, Duke’s Indy, which is now permanently closed. 😭

    The Vault 📍 1542 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

    Indianapolis speakeasy with vault door that requires a “secret” passcode to enter! (Pro Tip: They have the code in their Instagram bio!)

    Dinner + A Movie

    So you like the classics. I hear ya. However I want you to really impress your Valentine this year, so here is a local recommendation for dinner and a movie in Downtown Indy that truly has it all!

    Kan-Kan Cinema & Bar 📍 1258 Windsor St, Indianapolis, IN 46201

    In the video, I actually recommend going to 8th Day for a drink before heading over to Kan-Kan, but if you’re looking to keep it low-key, just grab some food and drinks in the cinema before or after your show. They used to do their own food, but now they serve King Dough Pizza. They do show more eclectic films (not necessarily blockbusters). But if your Valentine is really into film, they will love this!

    Explore an Indiana Small Town

    Wait, wait, wait. You’re telling me you want to get out of the city and explore some of the cutest towns in Indiana? You want to grab an iced coffee and explore antiques and bookshops all day with your Valentine? Oh, your girl will love you for this. *swoons*

    Noblesville, IN 📍 North of Indianapolis

    Watch the video for my full list, but here are my top recommendations: Chapter Book Lounge, The Courthouse Club.

    Franklin, IN 📍 South of Indianapolis

    Watch the video for my full list, but here are my top recommendations: Main & Madison, Wild Geese, candle-making at Woven Co.

    I wish you all a very happy Valentine’s Day! I hope this list helps makes planning an unforgettable weekend in Indy even easier (Feel free to send this to your Valentine to drop a hint).

    Stay sexy, Indy! Love, your Valentine, Sondra 💋

    Subscribe to this blog below, and don’t forget to check your junk/other folder to add me as a contact. That way, future blogs and lists like this will get delivered directly to your inbox:

  • Best Burgers in Indianapolis + Central Indiana

    Best Burgers in Indianapolis + Central Indiana

    When a burger craving hits, it HITS. Trust me, I get it. And, this year, I satisfied that craving at several of our Central Indiana burger establishments. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic American smash patty or a creative concept like my personal favorite, a peanut butter burger (shh, don’t fight me on this one), Indianapolis is home to some amazing burger restaurants you have to add to your list to try this year!

    Here are just a few burgers I’ve tried recently in Indy and the surrounding areas:

    Prefer a video visual? Click here for a round up of the Indiana burgers I have tried recently.

    Roots Burger Bar

    Technically, I am already cheating with this first one because I visited the Muncie, Indiana location of Roots Burger Bar while visiting my little brother at college (Ball up! Er… Chirp down? You know what I mean). Thankfully, my Indy friends are still in luck because they also have a Carmel, Indiana location which is why it is included on this Central Indiana burger round up.

    I tried the PB & J Burger which comes with bacon, peanut butter, jalapeño, cheddar cheese, and grape jam. Do you guys remember Scotty’s Brewhouse in downtown Indy? Well, I’ve been on the hunt for a peanut butter burger that rivals theirs ever since they closed down, and I am happy to report my search is over! This one HITS!!!

    Last thing about Roots: I really appreciate that they have different pricing based on the amount of patties you choose to put on your burger. For example, The PB & J was $13.99 for a single, $16.49 for double, and $18.99 for a triple.

    Future Sondra here, and I LIED! There’s one more thing: They give you popcorn for the table upon being seated so naturally, I’m obsessed.

    317 Burger

    Ok, you knew this was coming. What’s an Indianapolis burger round up without our beloved 317 Burger? 317 Burger is known for their old school atmosphere and creative burger concepts, like the Strawberry Hill, which I ordered on this visit. The Strawberry Hill came with spicy strawberry compote, peanut butter, bacon, and habanero-ghost pepper cheese. I, once again, opted for the peanut butter style burger, but can you blame me?

    I also learned a lot of fun history and Easter eggs from our server, like the fact that all the clocks on the wall are set to 3:17, and that the owls found all over the restaurant move occasionally and patrons try to find them all.

    One thing I will warn you about, Dear Reader, is that because this is in Broad Ripple, you have to pay for parking. Womp, womp. But still worth the visit. Especially if you are exploring some of the other fun shops/restaurants in Broad Ripple!

    The Courthouse Club

    Are you sick of me talking about The Courthouse Club in Noblesville yet? I truly can’t help it, so bear with me a little longer. While this isn’t a “burger restaurant” (in fact, there’s only one burger on the entire menu), I wanted to include it since it’s one of the best I’ve had in recent memory. My husband got “The Burger” (yes, that is exactly what it’s called on the menu), and gave me a little taste before literally devouring it whole.

    The Burger comes with truffle spread, tempura mushroom, and white cheddar. It does come with a slightly higher price tag at $24, but have no fear! This one actually comes with fries you don’t have to order and pay for separately (I’m looking at you, Every Burger Restaurant In Indianapolis).

    Curious what else is on the menu at The Courthouse Club? Check out our video review here.

    Kick Starrt

    One of the most unique burgers I’ve had recently, or perhaps ever, was at Cafe Kick Starrt in Carmel, IN. I got to try basically their entire menu when I visited, but the main standouts were the two burgers I got to try. SPOILER ALERT! If you are on the hunt for a breakfast burger, or just a place you can get a burger AND coffee any time of day, this is your spot!

    They had a classic smash burger that was insanely good, but I also loved their Spicy Beef Burger with Omelette which features a juicy halal beef patty topped with a fluffy omelette, fresh crisp salad, and ketchup. Pictured above.

    BONUS: This Indiana cafe is HMS Zabiha Halal.

    Curious what else is on the menu at Kick Starrt? Click here for my full video review.

    Wayback Burgers

    I know this is a chain, but it was too juicy not to include! Wayback Burgers in Fishers, Indiana had by far the juiciest cheeseburger I tried all year. Plus, I am a sucker for sides and they truly had it all. I’m talking cheese curds, fried pickles, onion rings, and of course fries (including those of the chili cheese variety).

    Want to see the full video of our visit to Wayback Burgers? Click here.

    BRU Burger Bar

    I know I’m so basic for saying this, but this is absolutely my go-to burger in Indy. To know me is to know my love for BRU Burger. I literally just get the regular “Burger Snack” (which I remember being $5 back in the good ol’ days, but now we are at $10). I believe you can now get almost all of the burgers in a “snack” size which is honestly plenty because—and listen to me carefully—you have to get the nachos as an appetizer.

    I know this is a burger round up, so I’ll shut up after this, but my favorite meal of all time is the BRU Burger BBQ Chicken Nachos. In college, my best friend and I would get the nachos and the BRU Fries about twice a month. We actually still do this to this day BTW! Shout out to the Lexington, KY location for real.

    Pro Tip: The best fries are at the Plainfield location. IYKYK.

    Indy Burgers on my 2026 List

    Now, I know what you’re thinking: Sondra, why the HECK have you not tried my favorite burger place ABC, XYZ, FITB?!? And to that I say, drop a comment here and tell me who has your favorite burger spot in Indy, Central Indiana, or beyond. I am looking for new places to try in 2026 and would love your suggestions!

    I have absolutely had my fair share of burgers in Indianapolis, but I know I am missing some. A few on my list for this year are:

    The Workingman’s Friend – Unofficially coined as Indy’s Best Burger. It is cash only and 21+!

    Kuma’s Corner – Fountain Square area. I have also heard they have amazing salads.

    Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream – I have been to this one, but it has been a WHILE. I think I’m due for a revisit.

    Subscribe to the blog below, and don’t forget to check your junk/other folder to add me as a contact. That way, future blogs and lists like this will get delivered directly to your inbox:

  • Winter Farmers Markets in Indianapolis

    Winter Farmers Markets in Indianapolis

    3 Winter Farmers Markets around Indy you have to try this season!

    Since winter doesn’t mean the end of fresh finds, I’m highlighting three winter farmers markets in Central Indiana that are perfect for supporting local vendors, grabbing fresh goods, and getting out of the house during the colder months.

    The Indy Winter Farmers Market

    The Indy Winter Farmers Market at the AMP by 16 Tech is one of my favorites, including warm weather, outdoor markets! Proven by the fact that it was the first (okay, third) post to @whereissondra ever! This market takes place every Saturday until April 25th from 9a.m. to 12:30p.m. The AMP is an Indy hidden gem in itself with several restaurants, vendors, and events taking place regularly. Located at 1220 Waterway Blvd, Indianapolis, IN.

    Broad Ripple Farmers Market

    The Broad Ripple Farmers Market happens year-round, but they move it indoors from November to April. All food items sold by vendors at the Broad Ripple Farmers Market are grown, raised or produced locally, so you can proudly support Indiana businesses all year long! Happening every Saturday from 9a.m. to noon at 1115 Broad Ripple Ave Indianapolis, IN.

    Carmel Farmers Market

    The Carmel Farmers Market does technically take you out of the Indy area, but they have over 50 local vendors selling fresh meat, vegetables, milk, and more! They even have live music occasionally and the cutest cafe set up inside, so you can enjoy some of the yummy goodies you purchase at the market. This one is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon until March 28th at 611 3rd Ave SW, Carmel, IN.

    Hi! I’m Sondra, the creator behind @whereissondra. I spend my time exploring Indianapolis, highlighting local businesses, food spots, and events worth checking out.

    Want more local recs? Check out @whereissondra on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. Subscribe to the Where Is Sondra Blog and get posts like this delivered directly to your inbox:

  • Local Coffee Shops I tried in 2025

    Local Coffee Shops I tried in 2025

    This year filled my cup in more ways than one, but the local coffee shops I visited in Indy, and beyond, deserve some special recognition. Here is my 2025 recap of coffee I had in Indianapolis, Indiana, South Carolina, Arizona, and beyond! If you’re looking for the best coffee shops in Indianapolis, save this list!

    You know that song that asks how you measure your year? In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee? Well, I really took that to heart in 2025 and made a point to visit as many local coffee shops in as many places as I could. In a year that brought me to more destinations than ever before, taking slow mornings in places that pay attention to every comforting detail, every particular ingredient, every song on the coffeehouse playlist, allowed me moments peace and joy during a year that harbored a lot of change and risk.

    I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee.

    Not many know this, but the idea of Where Is Sondra was born in a coffee shop. The very first destination I ever showcased was Evvy’s Coffeehouse in La Porte, IN. I walked into this shop while my husband was coaching a baseball tournament and immediately felt inspired. Every detail of every space within Evvy’s was thoughtfully curated to bring people together over good coffee and conversation. I held on to the images I captured that day for over a YEAR, before I finally started @whereissondra. I would often look back at those photos and know they had to be seen. I had to get over my fear of starting social media again, and tell the people about this business that inspired me so much.

    Evvy’s has since closed down, but I do believe that you can still see that dream within so many local coffee shops, no matter where you are. The dream to intentionally create moments of peace, of collaboration, of laughter, and of creativity. Because I know it’s more than “just coffee.” A local coffeehouse, or any local business, is someone’s dream they once saw within the clouds of their coffee.

    And with that, let’s get into the 2025 Coffee Round Up:

    Indianapolis + Indiana Coffee Shops

    Downtown:

    The Alchemist – 1660 Bellefontaine St, Indianapolis, IN

    Leviathan Bakehouse – 1101 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN

    The S E L E N E by OVA – OVA Lofts, 1317 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN

    Westside:

    Borage – 1609 N Lynhurst Dr, Indianapolis, IN

    Mansion Society – 202 Steeples Blvd, Indianapolis, IN

    The Beehive – 55 E Main St, Danville, IN

    Southside:

    The Mocha Nut – 1625 East Southport Road, Indianapolis, IN (They are rebranding, so stay tuned for the new name!)

    Fresh Pots – 50 N Madison Ave. Greenwood, IN (They moved locations this year, so the video is showing their old building)

    Milk & Honey Coffeehouse – 8505 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, IN

    Hopscotch – 212 N Madison St, Bloomington, IN

    Northside:

    Blue Mind – 646 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN

    Hubbard & Cravens – Meridian Kessler Area, 4930 N Pennsylvania St
    Broad Ripple Location, 6229 Carrollton Ave

    Ascend – 5941 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN

    Fire & Ice Cafe – 6211 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 

    Bovaconti – 2 W Main St, Carmel, IN (They also have a Fountain Square location)

    Prufrock – 275 Veterans Wy Suite 120, Carmel, IN (They also have a Broad Ripple location)

    1832 Brew Espresso Bar – 111 W Main St Suite 130, Carmel, IN

    Cafe Jardin – 3200 Sheridan Rd, Noblesville, IN (Inside of the cutest home decor shop!)

    Chapter Book Lounge – 996 Conner St, Noblesville, IN

    The River Coffeehouse – 127 S Main St Ste D, North Webster, IN (This video shows their North Webster location, but they are also in Warsaw and Winona)

    Carmel, Indiana has a few spots on this list, so if you live on the northside of Indianapolis, or you are visiting the Hamilton county area, check out this video for coffee and brunch recommendations in Carmel, IN.

    South Carolina Coffee Shops

    Vintage Coffee Cafe – 219 Simmons St, Mt Pleasant, SC

    Owlbear Cafe – 1964 Riviera Dr J, Mt Pleasant, SC

    Summit – 411 Hibben St, Mt Pleasant, SC 

    Millers All Day – 120 King St, Charleston, SC

    Arizona Coffee Shops

    Little Snitch – 8700 E Pinnacle Peak Rd Suite 106, Scottsdale, AZ

    Tourist Home Flagstaff Cafe – 52 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ

    Kentucky Coffee Shops

    The Amsden – 151 S Main St, Versailles, KY

    California Coffee Shops

    Herst Coffee Roasters – 3400 Via Lido, Newport Beach, CA 

    Looking for a Google Maps List for easy access to all these places? Check out a full list here.

    Like this post? Subscribe to this blog to get more lists delivered directly to your inbox.