As Midwesterners, March fills us with hope for warmer weather and marks the official start of spring on the 20th. Despite the ongoing 35-degree weather, we eagerly seek any opportunity to bask in the sun. Fortunately, those of us in Valpo have numerous reasons to venture out and explore our town this March.
#1 RICOCHET TACOS
Ricochet Tacos, a restaurant known for its intricate taco creations, has introduced its March Taco called “THE GANGS OF NEW YORK”. The taco is a fusion of a classic Reuben sandwich and a taco, filled with house-smoked pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, rye chip crumbles, sour cream, and onion dust. The unique combination is sure to pique your interest and leave you eager to try it. Along with the taco, the restaurant is also showcasing a cocktail called “THE BLACK LODGE” for the month of March. The drink is a blend of Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, Hotel Tango Distillery ‘Shmallow, Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur, Cinnamon Simple, Cold Brew, Chipotle Cacao Bitters, Oat Milk Cold Foam, and chili powder. Pairing the taco with the cocktail will leave you wondering why you haven’t added it to your weekend agenda already.
#2 BLOCKHEAD BEERWORKS
Next up is another local favorite, Blockhead Beerworks, a Brewstillery and Asian Fusion Eats. This month they are featuring three amazing dishes. First up, is none other than their roll of the month “ZONGO”. This sushi roll is made of spicy salmon, cucumber chili relish, soy yuzu reduction, chili crisp, scallion, and togarashi. From the plating to the garnishes, the pictures just don’t do it justice! Blockhead also has a special all year which is “Fried Rice Wednesday”, but this month they are featuring “CLUCKIN’ BELL”. March’s fried rice special contains crispy fried chicken, bacon, mushroom, corn, egg, ranch, Korean BBQ, scallion, and sesame. Lastly, their Bao this month is called “J TO THE ROC”. This consists of crispy hashbrowns, cheese curds, mxc, gravy, Cholula, shredded cheese, and micros. If that doesn’t make you want to immediately make a reservation, I’m not sure what will.
#3 AFTERMATH CIDERY & WINERY
If you’re looking for a night out with friends and any excuse to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early, check out Aftermath Cidery & Winery. This month they released a St. Patrick’s Day Flight. The first is “The Lucky Charm” a vanilla mint wine-based slushie topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. The second drink “Pot O’ Gold” is a lemonade wine-based slushie topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a rainbow. The third is “Irish Haze” which is a hard cider with edible glitter sparkle and candy. Lastly, “Drunken Leprechaun” is a margarita wine-based slushie topped with cereal and marshmallows. To say these are Instagram-worthy is an understatement. They taste as good as they look!
#4 TOMATO BAR
If you’re from the area, you know Tomato Bar always has great pizzas of the month. They are featuring “BIRRIA OR BUST” for March. This pizza has an oil and garlic base, Chihuahua cheese, smoked brisket, crispy cheese bites, diced white onion, cilantro, lime wedge, & Ricochet taco’s Consommé (onions and cilantro on top). If your mouth is watering like ours you need to try it before it’s gone!
#5 FLUID COFFEE ROASTERS
Calling all shamrock shake and matcha tea lovers. Fluid is featuring their Vanilla Mint Matcha this month. It’s all people are talking about and is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s made of imperial-grade MATCHA, pure Madagascar vanilla, and a hint of mint. If you find yourself needing a pick-me-up in March, head on over to FLUID to grab this!
#6 PEDDLERS PIZZA PUB
Located in downtown Valpo, Peddlers has one of the best atmospheres. This month, the restaurant is hosting “Music March,” featuring live music every Wednesday evening from 6-9 pm. Additionally, they have a special pizza of the month called “HOT HAM PAMMY,” which comprises fresh pizza dough coated with Peddlers’ sauce and garnished with ham, white American cheese, and house blend cheese. Whether you’re craving a cold drink, delicious pizza, or live entertainment, Peddlers is the ideal spot for you.
#7 DESIGNER DESSERTS
Looking for a sugar fix that’ll make all your social media followers swoon? Look no further than Designer Desserts, located in downtown Valpo. This bakery offers the most visually stunning desserts that taste as good as they look. If you’re in the mood to indulge, you can try their Lucky Charms Cookie, which is filled with marshmallow chips and rainbow crispies. This delightful cookie is then topped with whipped vanilla marshmallow buttercream, sprinkles, and marshmallow pieces. It’s a new addition for March, and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.