Downtown Kokomo Eateries Continue to Grow

Shrimp & Pepper Sauté over Red Beans & Dirty Rice. Photo credit: Boondocks Food & Spirits in Downtown Kokomo

The choices for eateries in Downtown Kokomo have continued to grow over the past year, with a variety of culturally diverse flavors and choices available.  Joining anchor restaurants Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub, Main Street Cafe, and Foxes Trail, Boondocks Food & Spirits recently opened on the Courthouse Square offering an authentic Cajun experience. Selections include Po Boy sandwiches, bourbon pecan pie, crab cakes, frog legs, and catfish.  Burgers, steaks, pasta, and chicken are also on the menu, and check out live music on the weekends.

Earlier this year, Oscar’s Pizza and 3 Amigos Mexican Grill opened in the Depot District behind the L.E. & W. Railroad Depot on Buckeye Street.  Other eateries and bakeries recently new to the Downtown’s Historic Depot District include Gabetta’s (with unique burgers, paninis, and breakfast served all day) and the Gingerbread House Bakery, known for doughnuts and sweet treats.

Now is a great time to visit Downtown!  Not only to enjoy a good meal, but also to explore unique shops, art, walking & biking trails, and historic sites.

Kokomo on FOX59’s “Your Town Friday”

Photo Credit: FOX59

FOX59’s Kristin Kane and Scott Jones came to Kokomo today for their Your Town Friday segment.  In case you missed it, a recap of their visit and videos can be seen at: http://fox59.com/2014/08/15/your-town-friday-heads-up-to-kokomo/.

Three great local businesses were highlighted, including Kokomo Opalescent Glass, Martino’s Italian Villa, and Kokomo Toys & Collectibles.  They also previewed the Taste of Kokomo, one of Kokomo’s largest events featuring lots of great local food, live music, kid’s activities, and fun food contests and competitions (like the Hot Wing Eating Contest and Taco Throwdown!)  Benefiting the United Way of Howard County, the Taste of Kokomo will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2014 from 5:00-10:30 p.m. in Downtown’s Foster Park.  Admission is free.

Thanks FOX59 for making Kokomo “Your Town Friday!”

2013 Taste of Kokomo brings food, fun & music to Foster Park!

LoCash Cowboys will perform at the 2013 Taste of Kokomo in Foster Park

Where can you experience food from 25 local restaurants, kid’s activities, beer garden, 5 bands, and fun contests, including: Coney Dog Throwdown (vote for the best coney in town!), Hot Wing Contest, Pie Eating Contest, and a Gourmet Burger Cook-Off?  Don’t miss the Taste of Kokomo in Foster Park on Saturday, August 17, 2013 from 5-11 p.m.

Bring the entire family out for an evening of fun and live music featuring headliner LoCash Cowboys with special guests Uncle Boozie, Paul Stout Country, Jason Skaggs Band, Rewind, and Inside Out.  Admission is free!  For more information, call the United Way of Howard County at (765) 457-6691 or visit their website.

It’s Howard County Fair time!

The Howard County Fairgrounds are once again filled with families enjoying 4-H exhibits and live entertainment, fun amusement rides, and the wonderful smells of delicious fair food.  The Howard County Fair runs July 8-13, 2013.

Highlights include the WWKI/Texaco Country Showdown, Motocross, Demo Derby, Talent Contest, Great Little Bear Show, ITPA Truck Pull, and performances by Aaron Kelly, Cook & Belle, and BritBeat – A Tribute to the Beatles (plus lots of other great live entertainment and demonstrations all week long!)

New this year, The City of Fists Rollergirls will battle it out with the Dire Skates of Richmond during their first roller derby home bout on July 13th at 2 p.m.

For a complete schedule of events all week long, visit www.howardcounty4-hfair.org.

 

Celebrate the 4th of July in Kokomo with Haynes-Apperson Festival & Fireworks!

The Fourth of July holiday brings fun, fireworks, and the annual Haynes-Apperson Festival in Kokomo!  We invite you to join us as we celebrate our community’s history and automotive heritage.  Admission is free.  Enjoy food, rides, car show, cruise-ins, sports, parade, and fantastic outdoor concerts in Downtown Kokomo’s Foster Park on July 4-6, 2013.

All concerts are free, and headliners include Blue Oyster Cult (July 4), Here Come the Mummies (July 5), and Night Ranger (July 6.)  Parade will be held Saturday, July 6 at 2 p.m.  Fireworks will be Saturday night around 10 p.m.  For a  complete schedule of activities, including parade route, amusement ride bracelets, and entertainment line-up, visit www.HaynesAppersonFestival.org.

Also, celebrate the Fourth during the annual fireworks show at the Howard County Fairgrounds in Greentown on July 4, 2013 at dusk.

For more information on special events, tours, and family fun in Kokomo, go to www.VisitKokomo.org or download the Visit Kokomo Mobile App!

Sweet Poppin’s and Front Porch Pretzels named Indiana Artisans

Local Kokomo businesses Sweet Poppin’s and Front Porch Pretzels have been named Indiana Artisans.  Indiana Artisans supports entrepreneurs who create high-quality art, crafts, and value-added foods in the Hoosier state.  Artists are juried into this state-wide group.  There are nearly 250 Indiana Artisans across the state, including over 80 foodists.  We are proud to have two of these Indiana Artisan foodists from Kokomo!

Sweet Poppin’s gourmet flavored popcorn

Sweet Poppin’s, located in Downtown Kokomo, makes gourmet flavored chocolate covered popcorn in many indulgent flavors, including Pralines & Cream, Lemon Pound Cake, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Peanut Butter Popcorn.  Since their inception, over 30 popcorn flavors and/or combinations have been created.  Visit their website to find out why this heavenly treat is “a dream come true!”  Sweet Poppin’s popcorn can be purchased online or at their shop located at 107 East Sycamore Street.

Jams made by Front Porch Pretzels

Using all organic ingredients, Front Porch Pretzels makes hand-rolled soft pretzels, specialty breads, pies, and soups.  However, they were juried into Indiana Artisan with their delicious jam made with organic fruit.  Jam flavors offered include strawberry-rhubarb, pear-apple, dutch apple pie, and blueberry.  For more information or to place an order, call 765.455.2085 or follow them on Facebook.

To find out more about Indiana Artisans throughout the state and the process to become designated by this program, visit www.IndianaArtisan.org.

Have a Sweet Time at Kokomo’s Chocolate Celebration – Feb. 1, 2013!

Calling all chocolate lovers!  Mark your calendar for Friday, February 1, 2013 as hundreds of chocolate lovers gather to satisfy their sweet cravings at the 11th Annual Chocolate Celebration presented by J. Edwards Fine Chocolates & Gourmet Cakes.  Local restaurants, caterers, bakeries and businesses will offer delicious chocolate creations from 11 am-2 pm at Kokomo First Church of the Nazarene (located at the corner of Washington & Lincoln.)  Chocolate selections include fudge, brownies, cupcakes, chocolate-covered fruit, pastries, homemade candy, and much more!  Here are a few photos of desserts offered at last year’s event . . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tickets are 2 for $5 with each ticket redeemable for one chocolate treat.  Come early for best selection!  Admission is free.  Shopping bags and To-Go containers will be available so you can purchase sweet treats for friends, family or co-workers.  Proceeds will benefit Samaritan Caregivers.  Join us in Kokomo for the sweetest event of the year!  For more details, call 765.453.7611 or visit their website.

 

 

Think Local for Holiday Parties & Family Gatherings!

The holiday season is here and all those holiday gatherings will be in full swing.  Kokomo has several local establishments that will allow you to celebrate the season in “Kokomo Style”!  When planning that holiday office party or family Christmas gathering, think local.

 

The Quarry

The Quarry, located at 2130 W. Sycamore Street, is accepting holiday group reservations.  Experience inspired cuisine along with fully stocked bar and seasoned mixologists to handcraft your favorite holiday cocktail.  The Quarry only serves prime meats and the freshest of seafood.  The Quarry also has a private dining area that can accommodate up to 40 people. Larger groups, no problem.  Just call (765) 250-5650 for special reservations.  Visit www.thequarrykokomo.com to see upcoming events and to view the holiday menu.

Pepperwhistle Bakery and Cafe is the perfect spot for the office holiday lunch.  Located at 106 N. Main in Downtown Kokomo, this downtown eatery specializes in gourmet sandwiches and homemade desserts.  Go to www.pepperwhistle.com or call (765) 398-1851 for daily specials and holiday hours.

Drakes Bar & Grill will be celebrating its first holiday season in Downtown Kokomo.  Reserve the private dining space for that special holiday occasion.  Drake’s has a full menu and a secret family recipe for slow smoked barbeque.  Call (765) 457-1611 or visit www.drakesbarandgrill.com for reservations, specials and hours of operation.

 

Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub

Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub is the place to be for any holiday occasion.  Whether you are sharing that celebratory cocktail, an intimate dinner for two or the holiday office party, Cook McDoogal’s provides exceptional atmosphere with attention to every detail of quality service.  They’re located on the square in Downtown Kokomo at 100 N. Main Street. Call (765) 450-6134 or visit www.cookmcdoogals.com for reservations or to book your holiday gathering.

For more information on local restaurants and unique dining in Kokomo, visit our website at www.VisitKokomo.org.

Enjoy Local Cuisine at the 2012 Taste of Kokomo

You won’t want to miss the 2012 Taste of Kokomo, which will be held in Downtown Kokomo from 5:00-10:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 18th.  From fantastic music, great food, live food challenges (events are listed below), kid’s activities, wine tasting and beer garden, this year’s event is setting up to be the best yet!  Below is information provided by the organizer, United Way of Howard County.  To find out more details about the festival, call (765) 457-6691 or visit their website.

The 16th annual Taste of Kokomo, voted Kokomo’s best event ten years in a row, will be held Saturday, August 18, 2012 from 5pm to 10:30pm around the courthouse square. All proceeds will benefit the United Way of Howard County.

The Taste of Kokomo offers a “taste” from local restaurants, caterers, coffee shops and pubs. From the basic to the obscure, there is something for everyone. Last year’s event found Jamaican jerk chicken, beef satay, chicken & dumplings, corn on the cob, brats and ribs lined up around the square. The dessert menu was stacked high with Texas sheet cake, sugar cream tarts and chocolate mousse. This year’s list of restaurants and menu choices is filling up quickly.

Local bands from all genres will be playing on two stages. Entry tickets sold the day of the event are $3 (children 5 and under free). Presale entry tickets will be available for $3 and includes 2 free food tickets. All food and drink items are sold for tickets not cash. One food/drink ticket is worth $1. All items cost between 1-5 ticket(s). Wine and beer will be served in the beer garden.

Bands playing at the 2012 Taste of Kokomo:
Gypsy Revival
BL Benson Band
Southside
Shiny Penny and the Critical Shoes
Rewind
Roger’s Ritual
Linda Lee

Events & Food Challenges:
5:30pm Gourmet Burger
6:30pm Burrito Chomp
7:00pm Tenderloin Throwdown
8:00pm Red on Red, Wine and Steak Pairing
9:00pm Buffalo Wild Wings’ Blazin’ Challenge
9:30pm McClure’s Orchard Wine Tasting
10:00pm Mixology, Bartending Competition

Kokomo Eateries Added to Indiana Culinary Trails

Several local restaurants and bakeries in Kokomo were recently added to the Indiana Foodways Alliance Culinary Trails.  Kokomo is now a stop along several trails established throughout the state, including Burgers & Brew Trail (Half Moon Restaurant & Brewery), Hoosier Pie Trail (Moore’s Pie Shop), Pizza Trail (Martino’s Italian Villa), Tenderloin Trail (Artie’s Tenderloin & Ray’s Drive In), Sweet Temptations Trail (J. Edwards Fine Chocolates), Just Crusin’ Trail (Ray’s Drive In), I Scream for Ice Cream Trail (Jamie’s Soda Fountain), and Prime Rib & Steak Trail (The Quarry.)

To read more or to find out about Indiana’s Culinary Trails, visit www.indianafoodways.com.