Brunch All Day at Milktooth in Indianapolis
I feel like a traitor of the restaurant industry for admitting it but I love brunch.
The weekend comes a long and if I'm not traveling, my weekend agenda is simple - get outside with my hubs and pups and go to brunch with friends. I love exploring Indianapolis’ food scene and Milktooth is one of my favorites. Yes you have to wait a long time. Yes it is worth it.
This Fletcher Place hotspot has been packed since opening day in October of 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down. This is the first restaurant for Chef/Owner Jonathan Brooks and his wife Ashley, and rumor is it won't be their last. Despite offering a brunch only menu is Brooks was named Food and Wine's Best Chef and Milktooth made Bon Appetit's list of America's Best New Restaurants in 2015. With these accolades, you shouldn't need more convincing to visit Milktooth but you should read on at least for some yummy pics.
Important Things to Know
no reservations
closed Tuesdays
there is usually a wait
open 7am-3pm (coffee & pastry counter)
9am-3pm brunch seatings
casual dress
Coffee & Booze While You Wait
I like to take my time on the weekends so even if there is an hour wait, don't get hangry. Grab a drink or coffee and a pastry after you put your name down on the list and hang out in the garden and listen out for your name.
Once you get settled inside or on the patio, grab another beverage. Their signature coffee drinks are really unique; my go to in the spring and summer is the Caffe Shakerado: espresso, mexican brown sugar syrup, shaken over ice. Or keep it classic with a latte or cappucino.
Milktooth has great booze menu too; big fan of the sour rose from the Bubbles & Blood section. There are plenty of house-made cocktails, craft beer, and wine, to choose from as well.
Mainstays on the Menu
For main dishes, you can't go wrong. They have several mainstays like this insane grilled cheese.
Cranberry walnut & raclette grilled cheese: Amelia’s bread, local cheese, black truffle honey, sunny local duck egg ... If this sandwich doesn't make you a brunch believer I'm not sure what will.
Another favorite item in the Classic Stock section is the Potato & Rutabaga Latke. The accompaniments change seasonally but it is always delicious. I recently paired this one topped with squash butter, harissa cream, and scallions with a side of grits.
If you like pancakes or just favor the sweeter side for brunch, try the dutch baby. They typically offer two, one more savory and one a little sweet. The flavors change with the season and they are divine. My friend Cara got this one recently with Manchego cheese and grapefruit.
Of the Moment
I usually get something from the Of the Moment section. These items only last for a few weeks so get them while you can. Like this deliciousness...
Spicy tomato sauce with a poached egg, local bread and dressed greens on top. So good it doesn't need a name. Ok. I can't remember what they called it but who cares. It was delicious.
Who's hungry?
If you're visiting Indy, check out the Alexander Hotel downtown. It's a gorgeous and affordable hotel within walking distance to Milktooth. Trust me; after this brunch you'll welcome the walk.
