Reviews 11

X-Factor Dining in Boone County

by Scott Hutcheson

Originally published in the Boone County Convention & Visitors Bureau 2010 Tourism Guide.

Watch American Idol or one of the other new-breed talent shows and
it won’t be long until you here someone talking about the “X-Factor.”
One of these shows even has this as its name. The X-Factor is the
certain something that sets apart from the fray that person with
superstar potential. This secret ingredient is usually not something
upon which you can easily place your finger but you know if when
you see it.

The same can be said of restaurants. Some eateries are just special. A single aspect or combination of characteristics set it apart from all others. Usually you can’t bottle the
X-Factor. There was only one Frank Sinatra and there will never be another group like the Beatles and love her, hate her, or have no idea who she is, Lady Gaga is an original. Most of the restaurants with the elusive X-Factor are also unique on this earth. Even when an establishment is successful and gets franchised all over the globe, the true X-Factor remains anchored at the flagship and the others pale in comparison.

Boone County may not have as many chain restaurants as does some of the other metro Indy counties but as far as I’m concerned, we’ve got the market cornered on one-of-a-kind places, Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, these are the restaurants were you should spend your hard-earned money, meet up with good friends,
or make memories with someone special.

Parky’s Smokehouse, Lebanon

Parky’s is no ordinary BBQ spot. They do serve a top-rate pulled pork sandwich and other traditional BBQ meats but they also get creative with incorporating these low-and-slow proteins into salads, onto pizzas, and even to top nachos. The menu also goes way beyond BBQ with a wide variety of steaks, sandwiches, salads, and more. They pay attention to every detail including their dressings for those salads, all of them housemade with Sweet Orange Vinaigrette and Barbecue Cheddar among the choices. Even a fish lover kind will have delicious options with salmon, mahi mahi and walleye to consider. Parky’s stage in their bar is frequently home to some of central Indiana’s top musical artists.

Read more by Scott Hutcheson at www.hungryhoosier.com

If You Go

Parky’s is located at 2479 N. Lebanon Street. They can be reached by phone at 765-482-1 OINK (1646). Parky’s is open daily by 11:00 a.m.