Collin Rainey

Jack in the Box, the San Diego-based hamburger chain that boasts over 2,200 stores in 20 states, has finally put down roots in the Indianapolis area, with locations in Avon (9769 E. U.S. 36, 317-209-8279) and Greenwood (8950 S. U.S.31, 317-883-3035), as well as a third eatery to open at 2130 N. Post Road on April 16. Hoosiers have already grown accustomed to the chain’s eclectic menu that ranges from hamburgers and chicken sandwiches to tacos and teriyaki bowls. Even the Jumbo Jack and bacon shake have entered our fast-casual lexicon. But what local diners might not know about this recent transplant is that the chain’s antenna ball-headed mascot, Jack, has a distinctive Hoosier connection. In fact, he and Indiana go way back, as witnessed in this Jack in the Box commercial that aired a few years ago:

Sometimes it’s only the thought of breakfast that is able to pull us from the cozy clutches of sleep. “Daytime Cafe” First Watch, a chain founded in Pacific Grove, California, in 1983, is opening in Indianapolis in mid-April at 3309 E. 86th St., with a full line of breakfast and lunch options. Meals worth waking up for include eggs, pancakes, yogurt parfaits, homemade French toast, and signature items such as eggs rolled inside thin crepes. The menu includes a number of gluten-free, low-fat, and/or low-carb foods, and diners can pour their morning cup of Joe from personal pots. The eatery will remain open through the afternoon, with a lunch menu of salads, soups, and sandwiches, such as the Not Guilty Your Honor wrap of spinach, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, tomato, cucumber, and feta tossed together, folded into a wheat tortilla, and served with a side of hummus.