The Gentle Genius Behind Neal Brown

L. Brown in Libertine

Neal Brown has cemented himself directly in the middle of the whirlwind also known as the Indy food scene. Many of us remember (and yearn for) his iconic but short-lived l'Explorateur. Indianapolis may not have been ready for such an ambitious culinary vision; it certainly was not the burgeoning mecca of eateries and drinkeries it is quickly becoming. Now known for Pizzology and Libertine, Neal Brown has emerged as a premier chef and a big (big!) personality championing the local food scene. Most recently, his DigINdiana efforts resulted in record-shattering attendance for the new event. He seems to be everywhere.

Pizzalogy specials men

Throughout the course of my various exploits, I ended up meeting Lindy Brown, his wife and a noted sommelier who spends most of her professional efforts with Libertine Liquor Bar. Hospitality insiders know Lindy as a sweet, honest, thoughtful woman who kicks the tail out of every wine list she touches. As one wine professional told me of her, "I find her to be incredibly kind and even more capable." She has a lot of industry respect, which is not always easy to come by in the foodie fishbowl of ego and bravado. On a related note, Brown's l'Explorateur wine list was my favorite of all time. Sigh...

kale-potato stew

1 med onion, sliced
1 bunch kale, chopped into 1-2" pieces
2 c of potatoes, chopped into 1" pieces (I only leave the skins on if they are thin)
6 c chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegan option)*
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
pinch of sugar (or 1/2 t. agave nectar)
3 T fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, chives all work great)
1 t ground coriander
1 t garlic powder
1 t white pepper
salt to taste

GARNISH: roasted chicken (chopped or pulled) and boursin cheese

On the Road Again (Louisville!)

At 21C letters rain down on you while waiting for the elevator

A wedding of some dear friends took Jeff and I to Louisville in July. I have family in the area, but truthfully haven't had a chance to explore the food scene in the 'Ville yet because I'm always busy with family events. We booked at the Hotel 21C, and I knew we would have a great weekend. 21C Museum Hotel is truly my favorite place to stay. Not only is it affordable, but it is mind-blowing. The lobby and lower levels of the hotel are actually a free modern art museum with revolving exhibits and lots of interactive installations (think Floor 4 of the IMA). Its restaurant/bar, Proof on Main, is also a see-and-be-seen spot for the Louisville "it" crowd. The whole situation may just be the epicenter of hipster-nouveau-art chic. Beware: it's edgy! In my opinion, in the best possible way, but some may be offended by some of the art (for instance, the first time I went to Proof on Main, there was a huge photographic installation of a collection of breasts that was so tasteful it took awhile to realize what exactly you were viewing, so you get my drift).

Modern art gallery in the lobby of 21C