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There are a lot of big chain restaurants in Indianapolis and if you aren't careful, you can find yourself in a dining rut. So when a new, locally owned and operated chain begins to sprout up, I find myself eager to give it a try. While some of the old favorites are always welcome, what really excites me when trying a new restaurant is interesting and new takes on classics. In search of something unique, I set off to experience Scotty's Brewhouse, located on East 96th Street.

The Experience

Scotty's Brewhouse, located at 3905 East 96th Street, has an inviting ambiance. While it calls itself a "brewhouse", it is certainly a family-friendly restaurant with a higher end sports bar interior. Inside, the brick walls are lined with TVs and the booths actually have personal TVs, which can be changed to watch any sport. Seating includes both booths and tall wood pub tables large enough for eight. In addition to the main dining room, Scotty's also has a private room. If you're there for business or just want to catch up on Facebook, free wi-fi is available.

The Service

The service at Scotty's was great. We visited on a Sunday at lunchtime and were seated immediately. We originally were expecting another family to join us so we requested a table for seven and then waited for awhile before the other family called to cancel. Our server, Leah, was friendly and patient with us, despite being busy with other tables. During our extended wait, we were able to get drink refills and order an appetizer without any trouble.

The only lull we experienced in service was waiting for the bill once we were finished and then waiting for it to be processed. But, given that this was a Sunday lunchtime, I was happy with the service.

The Food

If I had to categorize the food at Scotty's, I would call it pub food. But, it's really more than that because in addition to old standbys like buffalo wings and burgers, Scotty's vast menu features a lot of interesting combinations. One thing that sets Scotty's menu apart from other restaurants is it has an entire gluten-free menu, including appetizers, salads, entrees and even desserts.

In addition to their regular specialties, burgers, chicken and wraps menu, they also have a separate brunch menu which they serve on Saturdays and Sundays. As I mentioned before, one thing that really stands out from Scotty's menu is the interesting food choices. One example of this is the Twisted Pretzel burger. The half pound burger is served on a pretzel bun, schmeared with sharp cheddar cheese spread and topped with crispy brew-homemade onion rings. If that isn't daring enough, try the Shewman Special. This half pound burger is topped with peanut butter, jalapenos, cheddar cheese and bacon. For an interesting twist on breakfast, you might also want to try the Crunch Berry French Toast. It's homemade french toast, battered in Cap 'N Crunch Crunch Berry cereal. For just $5, you can create your own Bloody Mary to accompany brunch. Entrees range from $7 to $22. Lunch specials and daily drink specials are also available.

 

The Review

After waiting awhile for our friends to show up, I was starved and opted to order an appetizer. I didn't get too creative with my choice, but was very pleased with the spinach and artichoke dip. The blue corn tortilla chips were fresh and salted lightly which was the perfect combination with the creamy cheese blend of the dip. I'm a big fan of spinach and artichoke dip and I could have ordered that for a meal and been satisfied. For my entree, I ordered the Brew-Homemade Quesadillas. While this is listed as an appetizer, it was large enough for lunch and a snack later that evening. I enjoyed the spicy combination of cajun-dusted chicken and red onions.

Our young son ordered the children's Lizzie Noodles, which is penne pasta in butter. We added fresh parmesan to it. A small cup of parmesan was $1.25 which I thought was a bit steep. He loved his pasta, however and was able to eat the leftovers for dinner that evening. The kids meals at Scotty's are large and include both a drink and animals crackers. Most also include a side. On Tuesdays and Sundays, kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. Ranging from $5 to $7 per kids meal, this can add up to big savings.

My husband ordered the Spicy Sirloin Steak sandwich for his lunch. This sandwich, too, has a kick with chipotle marinated sirloin steak, green peppers, spicy mayo, tomato and pepper jack cheese. The sandwich is served on sourdough bread and comes with a choice of side. For his side, my husband opted for the waffle fries, coated in Scotty's cajun spice. He enjoyed the sandwich and with its generous portions, was also able to take some of it home.

Because we were adequately full and each had leftovers to take home, we didn't try any of the desserts at Scotty's. I did glance at the menu and found myself tempted to try one, but had to decline. Their "Sweet Teeth" menu features tempting treats such as carrot cake, peanut butter pie, German chocolate cake and the cookie monster, an enormous chocolate chip cookie served with ice cream and chocolate syrup.

What sets Scotty's Brewhouse North apart from some of its other locations is that it was the first Scotty's to feature a full bar. In addition to its plentiful wine and beer menu, Scotty's Brewhouse North also offers a variety of specialty drinks. Scotty's Brewhouse website is the best I've seen at promoting all their great specials, coupons and events. Be sure to visit it before you head to Scotty's. If the Indianapolis North location is not close, Scotty's has another location downtown, just north of Conseco Fieldhouse on Pennsylvania. I found our dining experience at Scotty's to be enjoyable and relaxing, even on a hectic Sunday. I would recommend the food for its fair price, generous portions and surprising flavor combinations. If you're looking for someplace comfortable to dine with good food, Scotty's Brewhouse North won't disappoint.

Recommendations

• Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Brew Homemade Quesadillas
• Spicy Sirloin Steak Sandwich

Pros

• Good food
• Moderate prices
• Clean Environment

Cons

• Expensive Up-charges

 

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