All right, everyone. Time to come up with a comprehensive "Travel Guide" for fans coming in to Valpo.
What are the sights and hotels in the area? Great places to hang out for students? Alumni? Fans? What is there cool to see on campus?
Let's put this together for the fans from all the schools!
I had a project like this going before, but since the tourney is at Valparaiso it would be nice to finish this by the weekend so people have time to prepare.
Yes, what hotel is best to stay in? I am not sure if anything new has been put in besides the Fairfield, Hampton, Courtyard, and Holiday Inn Express
Quote from: valpotx on February 22, 2012, 12:05:30 PM
Yes, what hotel is best to stay in? I am not sure if anything new has been put in besides the Fairfield, Hampton, Courtyard, and Holiday Inn Express
The Super 8 is a nice, cheaper option: http://www.super8.com/hotels/indiana/valparaiso/super-8-valparaiso/hotel-overview (http://www.super8.com/hotels/indiana/valparaiso/super-8-valparaiso/hotel-overview)
My typical game weekend (this weekend happens to be one) includes:
A stay at holiday inn express or Hampton decent price and kept up pretty well
Tony's pizza(amazing but cash only)
The game
Duffys place, pass times, and north sides for "refreshments"
Committed, traveling Panther fans know about Buffalo Wild Wings on Lincolnway, right? Pretty good sports bar with free wifi.
Quote from: PatVU07 on February 22, 2012, 12:45:23 PMTony's pizza(amazing but cash only)
Since it's cash only, this must be Tony's the Italian place downtown?
I'd not thought of them for pizza! Thin crust? If it's recommended, I might have to try it sometime...
I like Gelsosomo's fairly well. But, there are a huge number of pizza places in town, most of which I've not tried... (Someone liked Giggles?)
Here are a couple of sites, really doesn't appear to be much going on at the campus, although you could always go to see the current exhibit at the art museum!
City of Valparaiso site:
http://www.ci.valparaiso.in.us/ (http://www.ci.valparaiso.in.us/)
Here is a restaurant site:
http://www.urbanspoon.com/n/172/19625/Indiana/Valparaiso-restaurants (http://www.urbanspoon.com/n/172/19625/Indiana/Valparaiso-restaurants) I'd say Strongbow's is always a good bet although I haven't eaten there is several years!
Another chamber of commerce sit:
http://www.valparaisochamber.org/community/valparaiso-lodging.php (http://www.valparaisochamber.org/community/valparaiso-lodging.php)
Good luck!
Quote from: blackpantheruwm on February 22, 2012, 11:32:13 AMAll right, everyone. Time to come up with a comprehensive "Travel Guide" for fans coming in to Valpo. What are the sights and hotels in the area? Great places to hang out for students? Alumni? Fans? What is there cool to see on campus? Let's put this together for the fans from all the schools! I had a project like this going before, but since the tourney is at Valparaiso it would be nice to finish this by the weekend so people have time to prepare.
Best Hotels (in my personal opinion order)
1. Country Inn (http://www.expedia.com/Northwest-Indiana-Hotels-Country-Inn-Suites-By-Carlson.h1522875.Hotel-Information?rm1=a2&pmicid=TA_1756271&)
2. Holiday Inn Express (http://www.hiexpress.com/hotels/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=EX®ionCode=1&localeCode=en&hotelCode=vpzin&cityName=valparaiso&numberOfAdults=1&numberOfChildren=0&numberOfRooms=1&rateCode=6CBARC&GPC=null&_IATAno=99504425&destination=46383)
3. Fairfield Inn (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/vrpfi-fairfield-inn-and-suites-valparaiso/)
4. Hampton Inn (http://www.expedia.com/Northwest-Indiana-Hotels-Hampton-Inn-Suites-Valparaiso.h892572.Hotel-Information?c=8caa924b-2481-4339-aba1-5430a31d30bd&&hashTag=default&hwrqCacheKey=399d6310-03c5-432a-96be-7daf47a80d2dHWRQ&sp=KygIKjE7PWVpaGl2aW1-KygbMDMRNmVoa3dob34rKAgqMTs9GxdlaWhpdmltfisoGzAzFy0sZWhrd2lo&c=3a17e806-ed80-4f40-84ac-f4c3dd29c7f2&rfrr=-30461&rm1=a2&)
Those are also the closest to the University and actually walking distance from the ARC (especially Country Inn. Country and Holiday Inn are newest hotels in town followed by Hampton, Fairfield,and Super 8. Courtyard being oldest in town)
5. Super 8 (http://www.super8.com/hotels/indiana/valparaiso/super-8-valparaiso/hotel-overview)
6. Courtyard (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/vrpcy-courtyard-valparaiso/)
Could go high end at the Inn at Aberdeen:
http://www.hotelsone.com/valparaiso-hotels-us/inn-at-aberdeen.html?as=g&aid=8658958478&dsti=234650&dstt=8&label=ggehoeu-bh234650&akw=inn%20at%20aberdeen%20valparaiso&asrc=Search&ast=&gclid=CLODrJSnsq4CFQNeTAodLg1xRw (http://www.hotelsone.com/valparaiso-hotels-us/inn-at-aberdeen.html?as=g&aid=8658958478&dsti=234650&dstt=8&label=ggehoeu-bh234650&akw=inn%20at%20aberdeen%20valparaiso&asrc=Search&ast=&gclid=CLODrJSnsq4CFQNeTAodLg1xRw)
or, The Songbird:
http://www.hotelsone.com/valparaiso-hotels-us/songbird-prairie-bed-and-breakfast.html (http://www.hotelsone.com/valparaiso-hotels-us/songbird-prairie-bed-and-breakfast.html)
Again these are just my opinions.
Best Pizza place (sit down, carry out, or delivery) is Greeks Pizza
http://www.greekspizzeriavalparaiso.com/ (http://www.greekspizzeriavalparaiso.com/)
Not cheapest in town, by far, but the best tasting! Knots are awesome. Credit cards if your total is like over $25 and they have an ATM inside. Also serve some booze.
Suzies Cafe
Home made bread and just awesome everything
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/172/988230/restaurant/Indiana/Suzies-Cafe-Catering-Valparaiso (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/172/988230/restaurant/Indiana/Suzies-Cafe-Catering-Valparaiso)
Quote from: agibson on February 22, 2012, 01:16:40 PM
Since it's cash only, this must be Tony's the Italian place downtown?
I'd not thought of them for pizza! Thin crust? If it's recommended, I might have to try it sometime...
Never thought of Tony's for Pizza? That's what they are famous for!
It's right next door downtown to BW3. Of course, people from Valpo say that BW3 is next door to Tony's.
Best pizza, right up there for sure with Greeks I suppose.
IMO BWs is the worst place ever for wings. There is a Wings Etc off Sillhavy that has better food and better service.
Tony's pizza is awesome, again in my opinion, better than Greeks or Gelsosimos. The deep dish, which isn't quite like Gino's or any Chicago deep dish is the way to go.
Quote from: PatVU07 on February 22, 2012, 02:20:47 PM
IMO BWs is the worst place ever for wings. There is a Wings Etc off Sillhavy that has better food and better service.
Tony's pizza is awesome, again in my opinion, better than Greeks or Gelsosimos. The deep dish, which isn't quite like Gino's or any Chicago deep dish is the way to go.
I actually don't go there for the wings. I go there for the wifi and the salads ;) So, I mentioned it not as any kind of culinary recommendation. I also know that the traveling Panther brood has gone there before on their way to the ARC for the annual matchup.
Quote from: PatVU07 on February 22, 2012, 02:20:47 PMTony's pizza is awesome, again in my opinion, better than Greeks or Gelsosimos. The deep dish, which isn't quite like Gino's or any Chicago deep dish is the way to go.
Ah, the deep dish, not the thin crust? 89, do you concur?
Do they do take-out pizza? Delivery?
They do take out, I'm not sure on delivery.
http://www.tonysplacepizza.com/Home_Page.php (http://www.tonysplacepizza.com/Home_Page.php)
I'll warn you now, obnoxious music is played when the webpage opens.
RESTAURANT GUIDE:
*Gelsasamo's is the best, in my opinion. It's been years since I've had Tony's. Not a big fan of Greeks, Giggles or the other chains.
*Wings Etc>Buffalo Wild Wings all day, every day...food and atmosphere is better in my opinion.
*Maria Elena's near campus (which now has a new name...anyone remember what it is?) has a tasty diverse menu. Mexican, Italian and American food. El Salto and Margarita's are not bad for Mexican either.
*Several very cool, but slightly expensive places downtown---Pikk's Tavern, The Valley and Bon Femme are all good
*Blackbird Cafe is the best deli in town...right on Lincolnway as well.
SITES TO SEE:
*There are no sites to see in Valpo.
Quote from: MattCarter on February 22, 2012, 01:21:15 PMBest Hotels (in my personal opinion order)
1. Country Inn
2. Holiday Inn Express
3. Fairfield Inn
4. Hampton Inn
Those are also the closest to the University and actually walking distance from the ARC (especially Country Inn. Country and Holiday Inn are newest hotels in town followed by Hampton, Fairfield,and Super 8. Courtyard being oldest in town)
5. Super 8
6. Courtyard
My sister really liked the Songbird (B&B), mentioned elsewhere in the thread.
To be clear, the Country Inn is the only one really adjacent to campus. And they're all a mile (ok 0.9 miles) or more walk from the ARC. And the Courtyard's closer than some of the others (the Super 8's off by itself, a bit further; the other four are relatively near each other, with the Country Inn a bit closer than any of the others). Even the Super 8 is, I guess, only 1.6 miles for 32 minutes walking (from Google).
More hotels in Merrillville and Chesterton.
Quote from: Crusader03 on February 22, 2012, 02:46:14 PM*Maria Elena's near campus (which now has a new name...anyone remember what it is?) has a tasty diverse menu. Mexican, Italian and American food. El Salto and Margarita's are not bad for Mexican either.
It's now Gabriela's, but with the same menu. I think it passed from the previous owner to their brother/sister, with Gabriela, the new owner's daughter, heavily involved in operations.
Someone mentioned Strongbow's as a sort of a stalwart. It's certainly classic Valpo. But, I'd think of Bistro 157 as the act to beat (at least six years ago; I've not had a chance to go again, since moving back to town). Some people like Dish well, if we're aiming at the "premium" category. And Don Quixote's is worth a mention (the only spanish restaurant in Indiana!). As a student, especially, I liked Billy Jack's well (now "BJ's"?) as a sort of a "date" place.
Quote from: Crusader03 on February 22, 2012, 02:46:14 PMSITES TO SEE:
*There are no sites to see in Valpo.
Harsh. But, I suppose, we're not loaded with museums, and the like. Campus activities will be pretty non-existent, since it's spring break.
The chapel (one of the largest collegiate chapels in the country/world) is well worth a visit.
Depending on the weather, the Indiana Dunes state park and National Lakeshore are worth a visit. Valparaiso's got a great disc golf course.
Quote from: agibson on February 22, 2012, 02:54:17 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on February 22, 2012, 02:46:14 PM*Maria Elena's near campus (which now has a new name...anyone remember what it is?) has a tasty diverse menu. Mexican, Italian and American food. El Salto and Margarita's are not bad for Mexican either.
It's now Gabriela's, but with the same menu. I think it passed from the previous owner to their brother/sister, with Gabriela, the new owner's daughter, heavily involved in operations.
Someone mentioned Strongbow's as a sort of a stalwart. It's certainly classic Valpo. But, I'd think of Bistro 157 as the act to beat (at least six years ago; I've not had a chance to go again, since moving back to town). Some people like Dish well, if we're aiming at the "premium" category. And Don Quixote's is worth a mention (the only spanish restaurant in Indiana!). As a student, especially, I liked Billy Jack's well (now "BJ's"?) as a sort of a "date" place.
That's right---Gabriela's....we ate there recently and enjoyed it. It's a nice date atmosphere at night.
Billy Jack's is still pretty good...I haven't eaten at Don Quixote's...always thought it was crazy expensive. Strongbow's is good, as is Kelsey's. I need to give 157 a try sometime
Quote from: agibson on February 22, 2012, 03:00:56 PM
Quote from: Crusader03 on February 22, 2012, 02:46:14 PMSITES TO SEE:
*There are no sites to see in Valpo.
Harsh. But, I suppose, we're not loaded with museums, and the like. Campus activities will be pretty non-existent, since it's spring break.
The chapel (one of the largest collegiate chapels in the country/world) is well worth a visit.
Depending on the weather, the Indiana Dunes state park and National Lakeshore are worth a visit. Valparaiso's got a great disc golf course.
Yeah, I'm mostly kidding. The campus is nice, but that will take about an hour max to see it all. If the weather was warmer, the Dunes are great....but it will probably be too cold to be enjoyable.
There's a reason that most of us drive to Chicago or South Bend for our entertainment. :)
I assume that Red Hot is no longer around?
Quote from: valpotx on February 22, 2012, 03:08:14 PM
I assume that Red Hot is no longer around?
No idea what that is.
Was a hot dog place near where Dairy Queen is/was (not sure if DQ is still there even)?
Quote from: valpotx on February 22, 2012, 03:11:04 PM
[Red Hot] Was a hot dog place near where Dairy Queen is/was (not sure if DQ is still there even)?
Oh, right. It was somewhere around Culver's? DQ is indeed still there, now next to the Country Inn and Suites.
Red Hot's is gone - I never did visit. Most recently, El Charro (which occupied the old BK on lincolnway, for a number of years) is now closed.
Someone asked about Tony's deep dish or thin? Both are great. The thin isn't really what I would call thin, just basic. They do carry out only, I believe. But again, probably the cheapest prices for the quality of pizza.
Shoe's Pizzeria is also good. It's NY style pizza. The owner bought out BuffaLouie's, and has the BuffaLouie's wings.
Red Hots is long gone. It was in the old DQ building, but they built the new one across the street at what is now the controversial LaPorte-Lincolnway-Sturdy roundabout.
If you're visiting the area and you're a runner, and looking for a good place to run on Saturday or Sunday, go to the Dunes to run the trails or Coffee Creek, which is located at the toll road exit on state road 49.
Quote from: agibson on February 22, 2012, 02:28:55 PM
Quote from: PatVU07 on February 22, 2012, 02:20:47 PMTony's pizza is awesome, again in my opinion, better than Greeks or Gelsosimos. The deep dish, which isn't quite like Gino's or any Chicago deep dish is the way to go.
Ah, the deep dish, not the thin crust? 89, do you concur?
Do they do take-out pizza? Delivery?
I remember the deep dish being the best at Tony's. This was 25-30 years ago, but if they are still in business, it must still be good!
I remember Pass Times from 20 years ago - are they still affiliated with Strongbow's? Strongbow's is always good, and the Sunday brunch was excellent. Last time I was in Valpo I went to the Old Syle on the square - ate outside so the dog wouldn't be in the car. They brought out a water dish and a treat. Had a nice lunch and told the story about how my mother and friends had to get out of the bar area quickly, as my grandparents were coming in for dinner. This was probably 50-55 years ago.
I highly recommend hitting Figure 8 Brewery on the west side.
Amazing craft beer and a kick butt little joint. No food, but you can get food off site and bring it in and eat while drinking their beer.
They're moving into a bigger place right downtown on the square, but I don't think it will be open by the tournament so you'll have to head west on L'Way. It's just a mile west of Campbell and well, well worth it!
Quote from: covufan on February 22, 2012, 03:36:06 PMI remember Pass Times from 20 years ago - are they still affiliated with Strongbow's?
What was the connection with Strongbow's? Pass Times management has apparently changed one or more times over the years, so maybe whatever connection once existed is gone.
They still have a reasonable selection of beer, decent outdoor seating. Not inexpensive. Worth a visit.
I'll second the Figure 8 recommendation, even if almost everything is over-hopped. I'm eagerly waiting to try their new location.
Quote from: agibson on February 22, 2012, 03:43:45 PM
Quote from: covufan on February 22, 2012, 03:36:06 PMI remember Pass Times from 20 years ago - are they still affiliated with Strongbow's?
What was the connection with Strongbow's? Pass Times management has apparently changed one or more times over the years, so maybe whatever connection once existed is gone.
They still have a reasonable selection of beer, decent outdoor seating. Not inexpensive. Worth a visit.
I'll second the Figure 8 recommendation, even if almost everything is over-hopped. I'm eagerly waiting to try their new location.
The owner of Strongbow's started Pass Times.
If your goal is to visit NWI but to not necessarily stay in Valpo, the Radisson Hotel - Star Plaza in Merrillville might be a good alternative, particularly if you're planning on hitting the Casino boats at night since most are located in Hammond or Gary. I haven't been there in a while but I've heard it's still a good place to stay. Merrillville is about 12 miles or so west of Valpo.
http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv (http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv)
Chef may have a few ideas for places to eat as well.
Quote from: crusaderjoe on February 22, 2012, 04:26:26 PM
If your goal is to visit NWI but to not necessarily stay in Valpo, the Radisson Hotel - Star Plaza in Merrillville might be a good alternative, particularly if you're planning on hitting the Casino boats at night since most are located in Hammond or Gary. I haven't been there in a while but I've heard it's still a good place to stay. Merrillville is about 12 miles or so west of Valpo.
http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv (http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv)
Blue Chip in Michigan City is a better option if this is your itinerary.
It's all in one place. Gambling, great rooms, great food.
And a 25 minute drive to Valpo.
I'll do it because I love this little town I live in........
Restaurants
Breakfast: Suzie's Cafe or The Viking Chili Bowl
Steak: Kelsey's
Ribs: Wagners
Something quick and close to campus: Culvers
Sit down: Dish
Wings: Wings, etc
Pizza: Tony's
Chinese: House of Kobe (Merrillville)
Italian: Pesto's
Spanish: Don Quixote
Bars
Good water holes: Duffy's, Franklin House, Northside
Nicer place for drinks: Passtimes, Parea, Dish
Figure Eight Brewing for craft beer
Butler Winery (chesterton) and Anderson Winery (Valpo) for wine
Things to Do
Valpo University / Chapel
Franklin house usually has a band, as does Martini's.
A lot of people go downtown around the Courthouse square / Lincolnway when it's nicer out
Memorial Opera House ( an Old Grand Army of the Republic Building, next to the Old jail/ History Museum and Court house)
Taltree Arboretum
Broken Wagon Bison Farm
Porter County History Museum
Rogers Lakewood Park
In the Area
Michael Jackson house in Gary
Casinos (Blue Chip is my favorite in Michigan City, followed by the Horseshoe in Hammond, also have the Magestic Stars Gary)
Car Museum (rag tops) in Michigan City
Another winery, Shady Creek, in Michigan City
Coffee Creek (between Valpo and Chesterton)
Indiana Dunes (catch a sunset, climb the dunes, see Chicago across the lake) (Chesterton)
Bailey Homestead (Chesterton)
Portage Waterfront (Portage)
Take a trip to Merrillville, tons of restaurants with even some Chicago ones (Portillo's, etc)
Albanese Candy Factory (Merrillville)
Ice Skating at Deep River Water Park (Merrillville)
Southlake Mall (Merillville)
Star Plaza (Merrillville)
John Dillinger Museum (Hammond)
Cabela's / Bass Pro Shops (Hammond / Portage)
DC Country Junction - line dancing (Lowell)
If you want to make a little trip out of it, could always hop on the South Shore Train and take a Trip into Chicago or South Bend too, or make your way into Michigan for the Wine Trail and Casino's there
As previously said, the Bluechip Casino would be a fun place to stay. They have two bars in the casino / hotel that usually have pretty good entertainment. But no minors allowed and twenty five minutes from campus.
Quote from: valpotx on February 22, 2012, 03:08:14 PMI assume that Red Hot is no longer around?
The former "Red Hot" which was (in my kid years) Dairy Queen was torn down as part of our "roundabout" construction. For food along those lines, go down the road just a few blocks for King Gyros
Visitors coming to Valpo for the HL tournament should check out indianadunes.com, the website for the Porter County Tourism Bureau. You can check out hotels, restaurants, things to do close to campus; the site has maps and links to businesses websites.
Quote from: milldew72 on February 22, 2012, 05:14:23 PM
Quote from: crusaderjoe on February 22, 2012, 04:26:26 PM
If your goal is to visit NWI but to not necessarily stay in Valpo, the Radisson Hotel - Star Plaza in Merrillville might be a good alternative, particularly if you're planning on hitting the Casino boats at night since most are located in Hammond or Gary. I haven't been there in a while but I've heard it's still a good place to stay. Merrillville is about 12 miles or so west of Valpo.
http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv (http://www.radisson.com/merrillville-hotel-in-46410/merrillv)
Blue Chip in Michigan City is a better option if this is your itinerary.
It's all in one place. Gambling, great rooms, great food.
And a 25 minute drive to Valpo.
Who are you, the Blue Chip Casino company spokesperson or something? Ha! They could use your post for a commercial.
Seriously, this is good infomation--I may have to check this place out the next time I am in the area based on your remarks.
Tony's has really great pizza and their other dishes are very good and inexpensive. As mentioned previously...cash only.
BW3 is horribly overrated. The service is very slow. Wings Etc is excellent. Got TVs also.
Suzie's is great for breakfast, but my favorite is Jimmy's on Michigan Street downtown. I have probably eaten 2000 meals there over the past 35 years. Saturday and Sunday mornings see tons of VU students. Not a big place but great food.
Wagners is just east of VU and has excellent ribs and other sandwitches. The Buffalo Chicken sandwitch on pretzel roll with waffle fries will set you back $7.50 and is a huge sandwitch...with a kick.
Red Hot is long gone (moment of silence please). However, as previously mentioned King Gyros is still serving great sandwitches just off campus. The owners of Red Hot own Kosmos which is on Calumet Avenue. It is the "go - to" lunch spot for my son and me. Lunch for the two of us will run about $10. They have huge breakfasts there which will run about $4.
There is a new BBQ place on the northside of town called Smokey's (I think). They smoke in house, ribs, pork butts (pulled pork) and beef brisket. Real good.
The Hollywood Cafe is just off of VU campus at US 30 and Rt 2. Huge menu, reasonable prices, quick service, good food. What more does one expect from a Greek / American restaurant?
Round the Clock - downtown across from Tonys...Huge menu, reasonable prices, quick service, good food. What more does one expect from a Greek/American restaurant?
Kelseys - best steakhouse (only steakhouse) in town. Really good.
Strongbows - I am personally not a big fan, simply because turkey, dressing, mashed potato, etc are best at home. Their bakery is top notch...no make that TOP NOTCH. Try their cinamon rolls.
Bon Femme - absolutely outstanding dining at reasonable prices. $20-$30 per person plus drinks. Never, ever had anything other than top notch food.
Pikks Tavern - next door is a small downgrade from Bon Femme, but not by much. Pretty good food.
Old Style Tavern - really good solid food/value. Generally an older crowd. Never been disappointed.
Northsides Tap - younger folks bar.
Franklin House - middle age bar...and pretty good bar food.
Billy Jacks/BJ - incredible Italian Chicken sandwitch...outstanding.
If it were up to me:
Breakfast at Jimmy's or Suzie's, lunch at Billy Jacks or Jimmy's (hey I have eaten 2000 meals there) and dinner after the game at Wings, etc.
lowposter
I really don't like Tony's but I'm definitely in the minority. There really isn't going to be much to do, but if you stop by rTrail Collective Edge, my wife is one of the featured artists in an art show there during the month of March.
http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-hl-loves-valpo.html (http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-hl-loves-valpo.html)
there's also a small aviation museum over at the airport, which is kinda cool.
Another pizza vote:
Greeks is my favorite - NY style pizza (cut in pie shape pieces, not squares) and the garlic knots are to die for. Several long tables for big groups.
Quote from: sectionee on February 22, 2012, 07:28:53 PMI really don't like Tony's but I'm definitely in the minority. There really isn't going to be much to do, but if you stop by rTrail Collective Edge, my wife is one of the featured artists in an art show there during the month of March. http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-hl-loves-valpo.html (http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-hl-loves-valpo.html)
u r not alone. I CAN'T eat Tony's as I am allergic to onion and they have raw and cooked onion within their pizza sauce. I always thought it looked pretty greasy and nasty, but do have family that swears by it. If I eat that stuff, I know exactly where I would b spending the HL Tourney...and it isn't my bleacher seat :-[
Hearing all these familiar restaurant names is bringing back the memories, thank you. I forgot about King Gyro's, and didn't know the Red Hot owners brought in Kosmos. That place opened up just before I graduated I believe.
Is Figure 8 a Brew Pub? I have a co-worker that I talk Valpo with, as her cousin lives in Valparaiso, keeping her updated on what is going on in the area. Supposedly I am in for a big surprise in regards to places to shop/dine in area, versus 8 years ago when I was last in Valpo to receive my baseball jersey at the alumni event.
Quote from: valpotx on February 23, 2012, 03:25:30 AM
Hearing all these familiar restaurant names is bringing back the memories, thank you. I forgot about King Gyro's, and didn't know the Red Hot owners brought in Kosmos. That place opened up just before I graduated I believe.
Is Figure 8 a Brew Pub? I have a co-worker that I talk Valpo with, as her cousin lives in Valparaiso, keeping her updated on what is going on in the area. Supposedly I am in for a big surprise in regards to places to shop/dine in area, versus 8 years ago when I was last in Valpo to receive my baseball jersey at the alumni event.
Yes. F8 is a brew pub, but again, no food yet. You can buy a pizza or something and bring i to the pub and eat it, but they don't serve food. But the beer is very, very good.
Nothing against Tony's, but I would say the pizza is better at Gelsosomos, Shoe's, and Aurelios. You can always get a good breakfast at Broadway Cafe right next to campus. On the higher end PIkk's Tavern and The Dish are both excellent. Blue Chip is the closest casino and has a very good sports bar. The best poker room is at the Horseshoe in Hammond.
Quote from: milldew72 on February 23, 2012, 08:49:26 AMYes. F8 is a brew pub, but again, no food yet. You can buy a pizza or something and bring i to the pub and eat it, but they don't serve food. But the beer is very, very good.
So, for me, this isn't quite the same as a brew pub ;) It's a brewery with a tasting room that includes some tables. They also sell some snacks (nuts, etc.), apparently allow you to bring in food, and do a very brisk take-out business (only place in Porter county to buy beer on Sunday!).
I definitely appreciate the local brewing effort. They make some good stuff. Most of it's very, very hoppy. I guess that's a popular American style these days. If it was cheaper in growlers, I'd definitely drink more of it at home.
They're aiming at something more like a brew pub, SW of the courthouse. Not sure of the schedule.
Brew pubs do really well in my area. The main one is a place called BJ's, and that place has amazing food to go with their good beer.
Quote from: agibson on February 23, 2012, 09:14:51 AM
Quote from: milldew72 on February 23, 2012, 08:49:26 AMYes. F8 is a brew pub, but again, no food yet. You can buy a pizza or something and bring i to the pub and eat it, but they don't serve food. But the beer is very, very good.
So, for me, this isn't quite the same as a brew pub ;) It's a brewery with a tasting room that includes some tables. They also sell some snacks (nuts, etc.), apparently allow you to bring in food, and do a very brisk take-out business (only place in Porter county to buy beer on Sunday!).
I definitely appreciate the local brewing effort. They make some good stuff. Most of it's very, very hoppy. I guess that's a popular American style these days. If it was cheaper in growlers, I'd definitely drink more of it at home.
They're aiming at something more like a brew pub, SW of the courthouse. Not sure of the schedule.
The pub should open in late March. The current joint is a taproom, as it stands now.
Perhaps a forum gathering is in order...
any suggestions?
Lowposter
Quote from: lowposter on February 23, 2012, 04:18:46 PM
Perhaps a forum gathering is in order...
any suggestions?
Lowposter
that sounds like a fantastic idea. i'd love the opportunity to meet you guys, if only i wasn't so far away.
Quote from: vuweathernerd on February 23, 2012, 06:41:48 PMQuote from: lowposter on February 23, 2012, 04:18:46 PMPerhaps a forum gathering is in order... any suggestions? Lowposter
that sounds like a fantastic idea. i'd love the opportunity to meet you guys, if only i wasn't so far away.
I agree for those of us local and/or coming in for tourney. For those who can't make it, perhaps someday a skype kinda multi person thing? Just FYI, These days I am a lot more King Gyros money than Pikk's money ;D
I'm up for a party - say Friday night or Saturday lunch time?
blackpanther:
It would be great to meet you and others from around the conference.
lowposter
Travel guide up at PantherU.com!
I'm driving up Friday, but I'll be attending the 2nd round games. I would normally take in our women's game on Saturday, but just try to imagine how easy it would be to talk me out of that ;)
Quote from: StlVUFan on February 27, 2012, 02:30:50 PM
I'm driving up Friday, but I'll be attending the 2nd round games. I would normally take in our women's game on Saturday, but just try to imagine how easy it would be to talk me out of that ;)
careful, or there may be a poll started for 'hater of the week' to go with 'poster of the week.' ;)
Quote from: vuweathernerd on February 28, 2012, 04:18:08 PM
Quote from: StlVUFan on February 27, 2012, 02:30:50 PM
I'm driving up Friday, but I'll be attending the 2nd round games. I would normally take in our women's game on Saturday, but just try to imagine how easy it would be to talk me out of that ;)
careful, or there may be a poll started for 'hater of the week' to go with 'poster of the week.' ;)
That could be grounds for Stl to not be nominated as Poster of the Week....
Quote from: vuweathernerd on February 28, 2012, 04:18:08 PM
Quote from: StlVUFan on February 27, 2012, 02:30:50 PM
I'm driving up Friday, but I'll be attending the 2nd round games. I would normally take in our women's game on Saturday, but just try to imagine how easy it would be to talk me out of that ;)
careful, or there may be a poll started for 'hater of the week' to go with 'poster of the week.' ;)
To go with "poster of the week," I believe the official category for "hater of the week" is called "posterior of the week." ::)
Quote from: valpopal on February 28, 2012, 07:09:02 PM
Quote from: vuweathernerd on February 28, 2012, 04:18:08 PM
Quote from: StlVUFan on February 27, 2012, 02:30:50 PM
I'm driving up Friday, but I'll be attending the 2nd round games. I would normally take in our women's game on Saturday, but just try to imagine how easy it would be to talk me out of that ;)
careful, or there may be a poll started for 'hater of the week' to go with 'poster of the week.' ;)
To go with "poster of the week," I believe the official category for "hater of the week" is called "posterior of the week." ::)
:clap:
This thread has been awesome! People are saying a lot of things I agree with so I don't want to repeat them on restaurants and stuff.
http://www.valpofanzone.com/2012/03/01/valpo-fan-zone-hl-tourney-travel-guide/ (http://www.valpofanzone.com/2012/03/01/valpo-fan-zone-hl-tourney-travel-guide/)
If you are going to go as far south as DeMotte, then you need to also go farther west in Lake County and include Teibel's restaurant in Schererville. This place arguably has the best chicken dinners in the state of Indiana--certainly the best in the Region, IMO.
http://www.teibels.com/ (http://www.teibels.com/)
Quote from: crusaderjoe on March 01, 2012, 07:12:30 AM
If you are going to go as far south as DeMotte, then you need to also go farther west in Lake County and include Teibel's restaurant in Schererville. This place arguably has the best chicken dinners in the state of Indiana--certainly the best in the Region, IMO.
http://www.teibels.com/ (http://www.teibels.com/)
Did you know that the original owner of Teibel's was a Valpo alum? Martin & Stephen Teibel (not sure which was the Valpo alum) started the restaurant in 1929 about 10 years before Strongbows. I believe the Teibel Family still owns the restaurant today. I don't know of any connection between Tiebel's and VU currently.
Remember the old beacon neon sign which let you know for sure you had reached US 30 and US 41?
http://www.worldisround.com/articles/10133/photo14.html (http://www.worldisround.com/articles/10133/photo14.html)
Good stuff historyman. Had no idea one of the owners was a Valpo alum. And that sign...classic. For a restaurant, it's a pretty nostalgic "yesteryear" sort of place.
I think in general they are known for their chicken, but their lake perch isn't that bad either. Whenever we visited, we usually couldn't choose one or the other, so we just ordered both.
I did alot of traveling,doth domestic and international,during my corporate career. Never and I mean never did I look forward to dinning in Naptown. The pits. No need to cowtow to our Indy visitors,let them eat Valpo s--t. They are use to it. :(
Naptown!
Quote from: historyman on March 01, 2012, 07:28:46 AMQuote from: crusaderjoe on March 01, 2012, 07:12:30 AMIf you are going to go as far south as DeMotte, then you need to also go farther west in Lake County and include Teibel's restaurant in Schererville. This place arguably has the best chicken dinners in the state of Indiana--certainly the best in the Region, IMO. http://www.teibels.com/ (http://www.teibels.com/)
Did you know that the original owner of Teibel's was a Valpo alum? Martin & Stephen Teibel (not sure which was the Valpo alum) started the restaurant in 1929 about 10 years before Strongbows. I believe the Teibel Family still owns the restaurant today. I don't know of any connection between Tiebel's and VU currently. Remember the old beacon neon sign which let you know for sure you had reached US 30 and US 41? http://www.worldisround.com/articles/10133/photo14.html (http://www.worldisround.com/articles/10133/photo14.html)
If its important to you...or just a neat fact about Tiebels that many don't know. The awesome chicken they have been known for since forever is supplied from Indiana and has been local poultry for years and years. The man who owns the poultry business they are supplied by has an extremely good looking nephew. So really, they've been all over that local/organic kinda craze long before it was cool.
Quote from: MattCarter on March 01, 2012, 10:14:30 AMhas an extremely good looking nephew
That wouldn't be anyone we would know on this board would it??
My father-in-law a "53" alum, God rest his soul, would take us to Teibel's when he would come back from DC for alumni events. I have fond memories of those meals. ;D
Yes, even I want to say screw Indy!!!!! :o
Does anyone know what the exact connection is between VU and Teibel's?
Quote from: FWalum on March 01, 2012, 11:08:01 AMQuote from: MattCarter on March 01, 2012, 10:14:30 AMhas an extremely good looking nephew
That wouldn't be anyone we would know on this board would it??
Why yes. A very good looking barber type...I think he floats around this board sometimes. Occasionally he is seen on ESPN yelling at Brad Stevens. I have very fond memories of making the chicken run with Jack from Remington to Teibels and hanging in the plant
I am going to kindly disagree about the best chicken in NW Indiana.
IMHO the best chicken in the area is Harolds Chicken. It is Chicago legendary. What is not known is there is a store in Gary. Buyer beware...I have not been there and have been warned not to go there for safety reasons.
I am simply saying that if the Harolds in Gary is as good as Chicago, then Tiebels should not be crowned King of Chicken without the benefit of a playoff!
Looking forward to a great playoff weekend.
lowposter
Unfortunately, the warmer weather this week has left the region. Instead, It looks like Valparainwindsnow is going to live up to its name this weekend. The forecast is for rain and possible thunderstorms on Friday followed by wind and an accumulation of slushy snow Friday night into Saturday with gusts and colder temperatures plus a few more snow showers Saturday night through Sunday morning.
Quote from: lowposter on March 02, 2012, 09:42:47 AM
I am going to kindly disagree about the best chicken in NW Indiana.
IMHO the best chicken in the area is Harolds Chicken. It is Chicago legendary. What is not known is there is a store in Gary. Buyer beware...I have not been there and have been warned not to go there for safety reasons.
I am simply saying that if the Harolds in Gary is as good as Chicago, then Tiebels should not be crowned King of Chicken without the benefit of a playoff!
Ooh - Harold's. I only had it a few times, in Hyde Park, but it's certainly an institution. However, I'm skeptical whether a Gary branch of a Chicago chain should be in the running in a Valpo-centric discussion. I do wonder if we should be more open to our neighbors to the west (I was very impressed by the beach in Miller!), but it's a hike for take-out chicken. Then again, Schererville (is that the right location?) is already a bit of a stretch.
I'll have to try Tiebel's chicken sometime. I was there once, for a wedding reception, but don't think we had chicken.
And, if we're talking Schererville we should mention that very good middle eastern place on 30. Is it called Alladin's? Great, fresh pita, hummous, soups, etc. Fantastic stuff - I was very impressed (six years ago).
Ok, stayed in Chicago last night, as well as most of today. Took a quick drive with the gf around Valpo at 9 pm tonight, and it has changed A LOT in just 8 years. Many more retail locations and restaurants, and the campus looks great. I look forward to walking around in the day tomorrow, and beating Butler at night!