Greencastle, a quaint town in Putnam County with a population of just under 10,000 and home to DePauw University, is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. Its dining scene is a delightful blend of regional charm and diverse culinary experiences. While students might opt for the convenience of fast food chains, the town’s alumni, professors and locals are drawn to the unique flavors of its independent eateries.
Chef Sal Fernandez, a recent James Beard semi-finalist who cooked under notable chef Brandon McGlamery (Bay Area’s The French Laundry, Delfina and Chez Panisse), oversees the cuisine at Bridges Craft Pizza & Wine Bar, a sophisticated pie and vine experience. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, the restaurant offers wood-fired artisan crusts with a blend of toppings. From classic Margherita to creative creations like the BBQ chicken with rhubarb and pickled ramps, the menu caters to various tastes, including pasta and meat lovers. Additionally, oenophiles will surely be pleased as they peruse the impressive wine list from domestic and international vineyards.
BreadWorks by Bridges, another standout in Greencastle’s food scene (and also from the Bridges group), offers a richly textured and surprising European experience in America’s heartland. The artisanal bakery and café bakes fresh goods in a French-inspired space with an amusing art piece of dangling rolling pins in the foyer. Bread made daily ranges from rustic sourdoughs to hearty whole grains, along with a mighty American pastry selection like Danishes, apple fritters, muffins and a doughnuts ranging from glazed to long Johns. BreadWorks also offers a range of sandwiches, soups and salads. A second location can be found in Indy’s South Broad Ripple area and offers a selection of breakfast bowls, burritos and sweet confections.
Greencastle boasts other dining options that provide a more Midwest eating approach. At the 30-plus-year-old Almost Home, located in the square, owner Gail Smith and her chefs serve up delicious American fare with an international flavor twist. Not to be missed are the house-made potato chips smothered in gorgonzola, buffalo hot sauce and scallions and the Putnam County pork burger featuring locally sourced meat.
Whiskey lovers Tosh and Joel Everson opened The Whisk in 2021 and serve more than 200 bourbons from around the world, including some distilled locally. Head over to its IG page, where Tosh recites the specials and discusses the featured whiskey along with its $5 pours. The Whisk also offers small plates, weekend brunch and Friday night dinner specials.
The dining scene in Greencastle is rich with character and flavor, with a warm community spirit that helps define the city’s approach to dining.
