Heard a commotion in the mop bucket. Was it a squirrel? Nope…
Grain elevator turned restaurant
The Depot grain elevator building was first built in 1906 adjacent to the Pennsylvania RR tracks about a block south of the National Road. Throughout the decades the site changed hands, sat empty, and was finally bought by a group of Greenfield business men in order to stop impending destruction.
Hand hewed beams used in remodeling
Old conveyor belt bins from the elevator
Bar made from section of old grain bin
The reconstruction of the exterior and interior repurposed as much of the original building as possible. Look around, you will see marvelous examples of early 1900’s architectural details including hand hewed beams, wood planking and material handling conveyors and screens.
Main bar and beverage station
Looking at the basement machinery
1940’s CO-OP sign
Outdoor patio seating
Today The Depot is a full service family restaurant with an adjacent “bar seating” area. The menu is quite extensive, and offers many types of cuisine and drink options. In addition there is a second floor seating area and bar suitable for special events. There is, on the main floor, a glass floor observation deck exposing some original machinery in the basement.
Sher enjoyed the Vegetarian Flat Bread and I ordered the Philly Cheese Steak with a side of Tater Tots. Both were most delicious with farm fresh ingredients. The iced tea, both sweetened and unsweetened was more tasty than most teas you find. All in all, this was a fun experience. The service was great, all the staff made you feel welcomed. The food and drinks were exceptional. The mantra of Food. Drinks. History. is perfect for the Depot.
Selfie fail
Home town café
You always hear that the local, non-chain eateries are the best. The Chaperral Cafe in Shelbyville, Indiana proves that theory is correct! Located a couple of blocks from the downtown square, this landmark is known for its all day breakfast and “the best breaded tenderloin” around.
Local history in photos
A sincere personal welcome
Bigger than your head!
You barely see the bun peeking out
Cut in half, still too big for the bun!
I had a wonderful lunch Friday. I met one of my sons there, and as a bonus he had my 2 year old grandson with him. A special treat for this PaPaw! I had wanted to visit the Chaperral for quite sometime as their breaded tenderloin has become legendary. (Breaded tenderloins are a Hoosier favorite!) Well, this sandwich absolutely exceeded my expectations. The tenderloin was just the right thickness, the breading was not overpowering and the “crunch” was perfect! I cut mine in half, ate part in the bun, the other with knife and fork. Gonna have to go back and try biscuits and gravy sometime soon!
Los Reyes Mexican restaurant
On a day trip recently we stopped in Martinsville, Indiana for a bite to eat. We spotted Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant right on the downtown square. We lucked out and got a parking space right across from the restaurant. We appreciate it when we don’t have to walk very far! We enjoy Mexican cuisine, so we thought we’d give this place a try.
Entrance w/Court House across the street
Fancy sun dial
Colorful furnishings
Wall to wall decor
After the host escorted us to our table, it became apparent that this was going to be a treat for the eyes as well as the palate! We have been to a lot of Mexican restaurants, but this one had every square inch of the walls, tables, chairs and support columns completely covered with those colorful 3D raised decoration/pictures.
Good chips/salsa
Margarita!
Both our meals pictured
Sher ordered a vegetarian plate with enchilada, quesadilla and tostada served with frijoles. She also had a margarita. As I was driving, I had water with my beef chimichanga served up with frijoles and rice. We enjoyed the meal, served hot and of course we also enjoyed the chips and salsa. Seems as most Mexican restaurants have pretty much the same fare, but it still makes for a decent meal.
Morgan County Heroes
There is a remarkable black granite three sided monument dedicated to the men of Morgan County, Indiana who gave their lives in 20th century wars. Starting with the French and Indian Wars up to and including the War on Terrorism, this monument speaks to the ultimate sacrifices made throughout the centuries. The honors are flanked by Old Glory, Indiana’s State Flag, and the black POW*MIA flag.
The Memorial is located in small plaza across street from the courthouse in downtown Martinsville, Indiana. I could not find a date of dedication, , the first reference I found was 2009.
Lavender farm near Mooresville
Lavender field in bloom
Rows of Lavender
Recently we had a delightful day trip suitable for not only seniors like us but people of any age. The Willowfield Lavender Farm is south of Mooresville, Indiana southwest of Indianapolis.
Enjoying the sweet Lavender Mint iced tea
Healthy Lavender plant we now have
I had a glass of their fresh Lavender-Mint tea. It was so good that Sher had to have one too. The gift shop was fun to see, and the staff was very friendly and informative. We even bought a live Lavender plant and some lavender soap.
Comfortable seating under shade
Go to the Willowfield Lavender Farm website for hours, directions and special event calendars.
Honey farm in Martinsville
Martinsville, Indiana is a quaint little town south of Indianapolis in the beginnings of southern Indiana’s hill country. West of town is a family owned, fourth generation of beekeeper’s honey farm producing a multitude of products from bees.
Store signage
Honey for sale!
Hunter’s Honey Farm has 65 beautiful acres providing homes for bees, timber and Christmas trees. The family has been producing honey and honey related products in Indiana for over 100 years.
More honey products
Round table is full of samples!
The store on site is filled with anything and everything honey! Available for sale is honey, honey comb, honey mustard, honey candy, honey products, raw honey, honey sticks, and a variety of honey based soaps and lotions.
Live bees at work in an award winning display
Of course we bought some honey!
The farm also offers tours of the grounds, including trips out to the timber and Christmas Tree areas as well as bee hives and beekeeping demonstrations. Go to Hunter’s Honey Farm website for details concerning farm tours and upcoming special events. This is a great day trip destination.
Ford’s Garage Restaurant
Chewbacca and Zorro
These are our grand dogs living with our Columbus Ohio family.
Zorro looks dapper with his bowtie
Chewy loves laying on your feet
Chewy really looks like Chewbacca of Star Wars fame when his hair is grown out each winter. Zorro is a real sweetie and is convinced he’s a lapdog. “Hey, if Chewy can sit on your lap why can’t I?”
Roadtirement 