Destination Dining: Corndance Tavern
If a farm-to-fork restaurant named for a Potawatomi harvest rite and owned by a family that operates its own 50-acre bison ranch isn’t enough for you to make the drive up U.S. 31 to Mishawaka, then the restaurant’s signature dish might get you to gas up the car. Corndance Tavern’s playfully carnivorous Sword of John Adams—an actual blade—displays a panoply of grilled meats: steak, chicken, sausages, prawns, depending on the day. The presentation arrives on an outsized wooden stand loaded with steakhouse sides. Owners George and Tammy Pesek use plenty of their own bison in appetizers, burgers, and a delectable meatloaf with a bourbon cream sauce. Other local meats and produce abound on a menu peppered with just enough daring dishes (buttermilk-fried alligator, Peruvian ham hock) to draw in foodies. Those hoping for somewhat lighter fare can sample the tuna lettuce wraps, cauliflower hummus, and pastas served in glass jars with hinged lids. Blackboard specials also herald of-the-moment options, such as just-shucked oysters and lake perch crusted in crushed pretzels. 4725 Grape Rd., Mishawaka, 574-217-7584
Hours
Mon.–Sat. 5–10 p.m., Sun. 5–9 p.m.
Drive Time
2 hours 45 minutes
Know Before You Go
A new prix fixe menu is introduced weekly, offering three courses for $25.
What’s Your Hurry?
Head down the road to Evil Czech Brewery and Public House, the couple’s cheeky craft beer emporium. 3703 N. Main St., Mishawaka, 574-855-3070
