I've had Brickyard Crossing Smokehouse bookmarked forever! Why have I waited so long to visit this…read moredelightful restaurant a mile and a half from my home? No longer! We'll be back soon to sample more of the menu option and take advantage of the beautiful view from the deck.
First, know you DO NOT have to pay track admission at any time, including race days (the 500 & 400), to dine at the restaurant. Just inform the yellow shirts (there during races) as you enter off 16th Street you're there to dine at the Smokehouse. They'll wave you right in. Their regular hours are 11 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. However, they opened Sunday from 11-5 for the Brickyard 400 fans. Free parking is conveniently located in front of the restaurant.
The Flag Room (over 21 only) is just off the lobby to the left and tastefully decorated in black and white race decor with a 60's feel. Slightly dated decor in the venue section of the building but it's coming back! The Flag Room has bar seating or 4-top tables with windows overlooking the back of turn 2 of the track. There was another dining area inside for under 21 patrons when we visited. Not sure if that area is always an option.
As we entered the Flag Room our server asked if we'd prefer to sit on the deck. Yes, of course, on this beautiful fall day. And thank you for asking!! We could see both the jumbotron at IMS, hear the cars right next door and enjoy the players on the golf course all while sitting on the deck. On normal, non-racing days it's very peaceful and quiet. The deck is a large, family friendly, three tier deck overlooking the stunning Brickyard Crossing Golf Course. Room for families, friends or co-workers after work or a quiet table for two.
The menu is larger than I expected. Simple two-sided menu with starters on one side and main courses on the other. A few of the appetizers are BBQ pulled nachos, smoked chicken wings, loaded fries, Smokehouse chili and three salads (Caesar, chef, tex-mex). Main courses are mostly sandwiches such as pulled pork hoagies, beef brisket, turkey bacon club, burger, tenderloin, chicken, smoked brisket tacos, house smoked baby back ribs and a veggie wrap.
My husband ordered the Brisket sandwich which was not only a delicious sandwich but a good value for the price. It was served with yummy, thick, homemade chips finished off with their own in-house seasoning. Quite tasty and I ususally don't care for thick chips.
I ordered a cup of the Smokehouse Chili with cheese and onion. I enjoyed the meaty, tomato based chili. For my entree I had the flavorful pulled pork hoagie served with excellent lightly battered fries. Again, it was a generous portion of pulled pork with a smokey sauce that had just a touch of sweetness. Most sauces are to sweet for me but I really enjoyed this one. The fries were amazing with a light batter, golden brown and seasoned well.
Our server, Alicia I think, was attentive, very personable and friendly. Our drinks remained full, our tasty food arrived quickly and the prices are reasonable for the portion sizes. Stop by for lunch or dinner and definitely take advantage of the deck before winter arrives.