Mrs. K. and I decided to go out to dinner on Christmas Eve. Bonefish Grill, 4501 E. 82nd St., Indianapolis, sounded good as we hadn’t been there in a few months and really enjoy the place. The last time we were there was for a Happy Hour visit, and they have a very good dinner menu.
I went online a few days beforehand to make the reservation and found that any times after 5 p.m. and before 9 p.m. were already taken. We decided on 5 p.m. – we really don’t mind an early dinner.
When we arrived, the parking lot was full and the place was surprisingly crowded for the early hour. Not every seat was taken, but I’d say it was well over half full – Christmas Eve! We were shown to our table and our server Alexa gave us the rundown on specials before taking our drink order. Mrs. K decided on the Kendall Jackson Chardonnay, and I took my usual at Bonefish – Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio.
We had looked at the menu online before we left home and we both were interested in a shared meal offered on the Specials Menu. For just over $40, it consisted of two selections from a list of salads and soups, an array of four menu items (no choices, but a good selection: Glazed Salmon, Ahi Tuna, Grilled Mahi Mahi, and Grilled Shrimp served with a chopped combination of fruit and veggie bits) plus two premium sides. We had ordered it before and had enjoyed the variety it offered.
We usually decide on a soup and a salad in order to share both. The Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is so good at Bonefish and for the soup we chose the Corn Chowder with Lump Crab topped with Bacon. We could have added Bang Bang Shrimp for half-price ($7), but thought that might be too much food.
Alexa brought over a small loaf of crusty bread with oil and herbs for dipping. Looking around the room as we shared the bread, it was a festive gathering – lots of big families and plenty of couples and smaller groups as well. Our soup and salad arrived quickly. Both were delicious and sharing the two bowls was satisfying.
Next came a plate with our four seafood selections on it and the side dishes – we had ordered Au Gratin Potatoes and Roasted Brussels Sprouts to go with our entrees. My favorite of the lot was the Glazed Salmon – it was sweet and tangy and the fish was very moist. It was served in a tangy sauce as well. My wife always prefers shrimp dishes and this one did not disappoint. The chopped fruit and veggies were just the right touch for the five large shrimp. I have had Ahi Tuna before and it has never been my favorite, nor is it for Mrs. K. It was good, but it was the only thing we left much of on the serving plate. The Grilled Mahi Mahi was also very tasty, although it’s a bit of a heavier white fish and we both prefer the lighter varieties.
All told, it was a wonderful dinner with a lively atmosphere and good service. Afterward we drove around to see some Holiday Lights in our area, winding up at our home for a glass or two of Bailey’s and a wonderful show from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra to put us in a quiet Christmas mood.
Happy New Year everyone!
Ken Klingenmeier offers this series of columns, called “A Seat at the Table,” wherein he reviews Indy-area restaurants – specifically their Happy Hour offers. Keep reading The Reporter for future restaurant reviews.