From the Heart
I live just four blocks from the corner of 10th and Logan streets. For the past few months I have watched, with great anticipation, the building on the northwest corner being transformed into the Grindstone Public House.
I know that I tend to exaggerate but I am not, this time, when I say that if you have never had the opportunity to taste a Clancy’s Topper, you have missed out on a culinary delight.
It was in May of 1965 when Clancy’s opened the doors at 10th and Maple streets. I was just finishing up the fourth grade at First Ward School. Back then we would walk home for lunch and then walk back to school. I would venture to say that a few students veered of their usual path and headed to Clancy’s.
I remember in fifth grade at North Elementary we had a cafeteria. It was a special treat for me to have my mother pick me up and take me to lunch at the place I always chose to go … Clancy’s.
A Clancy’s Topper and the best French fries in town were served by the friendliest of workers. It was like having my mom fix my lunch.
A few years down the road, they served made to order breakfast. Seriously, you could order an egg, over easy, as well as biscuits and gravy. I’m talking ordering and picking up in the drive thru.
In 1982 the Fogelsong Family, which owned Clancy’s, opened up Grindstone Charley’s at the top of the hill by Riverview Hospital. My kids were 5 and 1. Many a Sunday after church we would head to Grindstone’s where everyone seemed to know each other. It was like having Sunday dinner with about 20-30 of our forever friends. Every menu choice was a winner. It was hard to pick a favorite.
A few years ago Clancy’s came back to Noblesville for the Street Dance. Those not familiar with Clancy’s were asking why there was a line wrapping around the sidewalks at 9th and Conner. An hour long wait just to bite into a Topper. So worth it!
Then the announcement came a few months ago, that the Fogelsong Family was opening up the Grindstone Public House at 10th and Logan, where Eddie’s Corner Café had been. The taste buds of old Noblesville people began salivating. Could this really be happening?
So many mouthwatering items on the menu, besides the famous Topper, you can choose Tenderloins, Fried Green Tomatoes, Fried Bologna Sandwiches, Sugar Cream Pie and their ever so famous steaks. Other choices include, well let’s just say, you won’t be hungry when you leave.
Perhaps it’s not just the food that will bring the old Noblesville people into Grindstone Public House but the memories. Nostalgia at its most glorious along with the delicious taste of yesteryears. Many a “remember when” will be heard.
I’ve said for many years now, “If they build it, people will come.” Welcome Home Grindstone and the Fogelsong Family. We are glad you are back!
Now let’s line up and enjoy!