Where to go: The HC Tavern + Kitchen
Address: 9709 E. 116th St., Fishers
What to get: Lobster-cargot
Price: $24
Anna’s take: I’m always one to try something new. I first sampled escargot a few years ago while vacationing in the Caribbean. Since then, it has become one of my favorite dishes, so when I visited The HC Tavern + Kitchen in The Yard at Fishers District, I was thrilled to see escargot and lobster-cargot on the menu. The buttery morsels have a hint of garlic and are topped with a rich Havarti cheese. A side of Tuscan bread is served for dipping. The escargot is $14. The lobster-cargot is a bit pricier but worth the splurge. Other excellent starters include bourbon maple candied bacon ($16), locally sourced from Smoking Goose, and steamed shrimp dumplings ($14), served with a ponzu sauce.
Suggested pairings: Try the Apothecary ($12), an infusion of New Amsterdam Grapefruit Vodka, Pamplemousse Rose Liqueur, Aperol, pineapple, lemon and fresh beet juice. It has a vibrant color and taste.