Perfect Pairings – Dinner and a Show
Posted on January 25, 2023 by Dina Miller
Whether you are looking for a special night out with your Valentine, or just in search of some late winter indoor fun, Indiana’s Cool North has award-winning food experiences perfect for pairing with our many concerts and shows — everything from professional acts to small intimate performances in quirky settings or bars.
Artisan and The Lerner Theatre
Where: Elkhart
Artisan – Not only is Artisan a AAA Four Diamond Award winner, it is also the only restaurant in the state of Indiana listed on Open Table’s Top 100 restaurants. Elegant and imaginative Midwestern cuisine draws raves from diners at stylish Artisan.
The Lerner Theatre – has been carefully restored to its original luster and beauty, and the year-round performances make this a theater that declares “life is a performance.”
Venturi and Ignition Music Garage
Where: Goshen
Venturi – The only certified Neapolitan restaurant in Indiana, Venturi was recently voted the 15th “Most Life-Changing Pizza” in the U.S. by Esquire Magazine blog readers.
Ignition Music Garage – Just go around the block to enjoy live performances with an urban edge in a funky setting at this former garage.
Wagner's Ribs and Emagine Portage
Where: Porter and Portage
Wagner’s Ribs (Porter) – A long-time favorite for the most award-winning ribs in Indiana.
Emagine Portage (Portage) – A movie-going experience like no other, complete with advanced ticket sales, plush power recliners and/or premium rockers, and expanded concessions.
Fish Camp and Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa
Where: Michigan City
Fish Camp – winners of the South Shore Chefs of Steel contest, it is located in the historic Michigan City Yacht Club; their waterfront dining offers the region’s largest and freshest selection of seafood. There may even be live music in the house!
The Blue Chip Casino, Hotel, and Spa offers entertainment in addition to 24/7 casino fun.
Byways Brewing and Hard Rock Cafe
Where: Hammond and Gary
Byway Brewing menu offers chef-driven food and finely-crafted beers. They use fresh ingredients and make everything in house, including the ketchup!
After your meal head 8 minutes down the road to the Hard Rock Cafe Northern Indiana, where there is live music every weekend at Hard Rock Cafe & Council Oak Bar.
LaSalle Grill and The Morris
Where: South Bend
LaSalle Grill – You’ll know exactly why this upscale bistro is Indiana’s only restaurant to receive a four-diamond rating for 20 years in a row when you take your first bite of a juicy wood-fired steak.
Morris Performing Arts Center – the largest historic theater in the region, in South Bend, presents Broadway touring shows, concerts, and symphony.
Cerulean Restaurant and Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts
Where: Winona Lake and Warsaw
Cerulean – In the mood for sushi? Leaning towards something a little more Mediterranean? You’ll find both at Cerulean Restaurant in Winona Lake.
Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts in Warsaw features Broadway-quality theatrical productions in an intimate threater-in-the-round setting, plus concerts and performances by well-known entertainers.
Blue Gate Restaurant and Blue Gate Theatre
Where: Shipshewana
Blue Gate Restaurant known for their famous “Family-Style” dining – an all-you-can-eat dinner with from-scratch Amish favorites such as fried chicken and ham.
Blue Gate Theatre – Music abounds in both theatrical performances and concerts by top entertainers in either the Blue Gate Music Hall or the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center.
Lakehouse Grille and Wild Rose Moon
Where: Culver and Plymouth
Lakehouse Grill, Culver – Quirky and fun, with a sailboat hanging from the ceiling and nautical decor. Enjoy delicious steaks and burgers in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Wild Rose Moon in downtown Plymouth – includes feature performance series, artists who are actively touring, an Open Mic program, Moonitics comedy improv classes and a Jam Night.
Can't Find a Sitter? Try The Mascot Hall of Fame Pasta Bar
Where: Whiting
If you have your heart set on a Valentine celebration, but can’t find a sitter, may we suggest the following? The Mascot Hall of Fame is offering a Valentine’s Day Pasta Bar (on February 10) with a table set for two at the Furitorium. This is a two-hour seating where you can build your own pasta dish from the various pastas, sauces, proteins and toppings provided. The trained staff will entertain kids at the museum while you relax and enjoy your meal! Children must be over the age of 2 and no longer in diapers.
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