Meridian on Meridian brings fine dining to Indianapolis with a touch of history and loads of ambience. The restaurant is located on beautiful Meridian Street with views of the majestic homes that line this historic street.
The restaurant itself is a restored log cabin built in the 1880s with some of the original beams still standing in the structure.
Despite its rustic foundation, Meridian has an understated elegance that makes it a welcome respite to relax and enjoy an outstanding meal. The dining room has a lodge-like feel, with beautiful, wood- frame candelabras that hold over 20 flickering candles. The wood ledge surrounding the frame of the dining room is also lined with candles (imitation I assume to avoid a fire hazard).
The menu at Meridian is sophisticated without being intimidating. The dishes are an eclectic mixture of contemporary steaks and seafood along with comfort food with a twist.
The shrimp and grits are a classic, downhome, southern dish that are exactly what the name suggests. Cheesy grits are topped with cooked shrimp and served with a delicate tomato and Tasso gravy made with Cajun cured ham.
The crispy artichoke hearts are also excellent. Simple fried artichoke hearts served with lemon aioli. Melt in your mouth good.
The signature smoked corn puree is truly unique. The smoky flavor is distinct but doesn’t override the sweet cream of corn taste.
The entrees are pretty much all excellent. You can’t go wrong with the NY Strip steak frites. A little expensive at $32.50, but it’s worth it. The strip is cooked exactly to your specifications and served with a piping hot pile of crisp French fries. A classic meal for those in the mood to indulge.
The scallops are delicious, but not exactly filling if you are hungry. Three scallops sit atop 3 butternut squash risotto cakes with grilled onion and zucchini and an apple cider gastrique (wine reduction sauce). For $28.75 they are an pure indulgence.
Meridian is even swank enough to draw in celebrities. Peyton Manning is a frequent guest. And during Super Bowl week in Indianapolis, I spotted Alec Baldwin heading to the private room upstairs.
Create your own private party and try Meridian for a special occasion. You won’t be disappointed.
Meridian on Meridian
5694 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis
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