Catalpa - Northwest Indiana All Inclusive Small Event Venue and Short-Term Rental

If you are looking for a small intimate garden wedding, anniversary, or birthday party and have immediate housing for yourself and your closest family or friends, then Catalpa A Champagne Experience, Near the Lake is your perfect place! When Steve and Mary E., chose to marry at their first home together, it was Kismet! Now, a popular short-term rental with nothing less than 5 stars and perfect reviews, it is available for the romantic dreamer looking for the perfect private backyard wedding. Let the event planners and hosts of Catalpa let you make your celebration come to life! Feel free to contact us for availability, pricing, and possibilities! 

Catalpa 

Wedding Venue

Hosts: Steve and Mary E 

Bowler Man Confections: A Michigan City Gem

 

It was only a couple weeks ago that I first learned of Bowler Man Confections and low and behold the other day I was gifted with a gift card to this fine establishment. Although I live and work in Michigan City I had no idea that this gem of a place existed! Because I am like a kid in a candy store with a nickel in my pocket ready to spend, I had to use my gift card before too much time passed. I literally planned my entire day around my sojourn to the Uptown Arts' District located on Franklin St., in Michigan City. Just down the alleyway of the ArtSpace building sits this humble establishment. It is a lively, friendly place with evidence of "Santa's Culinary" elves working around the clock to fill the orders. As their website claims, it is "...Hidden In The Ally Of The Artspace Building 717 Franklin St. Michigan City, In 46360"

I had the pleasure of speaking with the pastry chef and owner of the Bowler Man aka Michael who shared that he has been a pastry chef for many years including many of those years as the head pastry chef at Four Winds. Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of eating at Four Winds knows this is no easy feat and the quality is well known. Today he proudly makes culinary delights such as house made croissants, chocolates, highly regarded carrot cakes, cookies and other amazing bakery treats including savory items such as galettes and quiches. Michael shared that Saturday mornings are a very special time and it is important to remember that if you don't get there quickly you will not get! They cannot keep their cases filled with savory and sweet treats. 

What is a truly amazing sign of quality? Word of mouth! There has been very little advertising. Small crew Mike, (Michael) Amanda, and Arthur keep patrons happy and that happiness is spread by word of mouth and by the gastronomical joy that they deliver on a regular basis. 

Although it is too late to get in on the Christmas ordering, orders are being taken for the New Year's weekend. Bowler Man Confections is not just a holiday experience, it is a year round celebration where only the finest delicacies will do! 

Bowler Man Confections 

717 Franklin St

Michigan City IN 46360

Catalpa Review by guest John B. Boss (06/22/2021)

Catalpa Review by John B. Boss

Less than two short hours from Chicago via the skyway is a charming getaway called the Catalpa Vacay Rental in Michigan City Indiana. Less than 10 minutes from Dunes Beach this charming and exquisite 3 bedroom and two bath home is the perfect destination for up to 6 guests. With a private drive and plenty of on-street parking, it is the perfect getaway. The lovely hosts Steve and Mary Champagne of Artsees Diner fame have tastefully decorated their home with warmth and fine attention to detail. Every wall and corner is covered in stunning blue, teal and seafoam decor which left a relaxing lakeside feeling during our visit. Each of the three themed rooms was adorned with one-of-a-kind furniture from local artist Marissa Rapier of Risscycled. We enjoyed a tropical, a Puerto Rico, and a Beatles-themed bedroom. All three rooms and surrounding decor reflected the host’s love of travel, music, and nature. The rooms provided a cozy and restful respite after visiting the many nearby attractions which include Canada Park, which was just down the street; and Blue Chip Casino, Friendship Botanic Gardens, St Julian Winery in nearby Union Pier, and of course the fine and friendly dining at Leed Public House.This one-of-a-kind vacation home has its own washer and dryer, superb WiFi, large television, and a fully stocked kitchen with everything need to entertain right down to the cake pans and platter. Each guest is treated to a bottle of Champagne from St Julian Winery and fresh breakfast muffins from Al’s Grocery. If the home isn't enough Le Garden de Champagne is a sight to behold. This on-site garden and venue is the perfect outdoor location for your personal stay or gathering under 25. The garden which is highlighted by a thriving Catalpa tree and over 30 varieties of plants is absolute perfection. The garden has plenty of tables, chairs, and of course umbrellas to comfortably host a small birthday, shower, wedding, or meeting. It also has a grill and performance spaces. Catering, wedding services, and entertainment are available for an additional charge. Evenings are the best at Catalpa. We took advantage of the fire pit and enjoyed a stunning array of lights which provided the perfect backdrop for the final evening of our stay. Steve and Mary are the perfect hosts making themselves available and assured our stay was a veritable treat. One of my guests broke a heel and Mary quickly came to the rescue with her glue gun. Everyone is welcome and loved at Catalpa. Everyone is family at Catalpa. It was a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chicago. Thank you, Steve and Mary. We’ll be back.

Link to Catalpa 

And...Introducing Catalpa!

Catalpa, a beautiful tree with heart-shaped leaves and orchid-like blooms in the spring, right? Well, yes you are right, however, it is also the name of the newest addition to the ArtSees Diner, Champagne Experience Family! It is our short-term vacation rental in the heart of the coolest beach community southwest of Saugatuck. Actually, the Hungry Hollow/Canada Park neighborhood is going to be the next Saugatuck, mark my words! 

Our beautiful little bungalow is a blend of chill and boho meets "artsee." You see there is currently only one tree in the private backyard oasis and that is a glorious catalpa. While neighboring properties lend ample shade, it is the catalpa that we believe defines this property. She is many things and produces many changes throughout the spring-summer season. 

Catalpa boasts the perfect backyard surrounded by a 6ft tall privacy fence that can be locked to increase privacy. There are numerous deck spaces as well as a cabana-like patio complete with a fire pit, gas grill, and wait until you see the flowers and plants! It is the perfect event space. We imagine small weddings, bridal showers, birthday parties, and even intimate live concerts.

The property is not conducive to our fur friends and children, but it is perfect for young couples, seasoned travelers, and individuals looking to go from simple to sublime at a moment's notice. We look forward to welcoming you and those you love to your home away from home experience. 

https://airbnb.com/h/catalpa-bungalow-garden-paradise-michigan-city

We Are "Zorn Again" and It Is Spring In the City! by the Chef - SRC

You know, there can be many reasons to be in the hunt for exceptional food, libation, and entertainment venue.

My wife and I, for example, spent the day eyebrow deep in the painting aspect of rehab-ing a property, and we're over 60, so after a day of honest physical labor, we were primed for some high-quality nutrition and pain relief front and center. And since we happen to be a big fan of a particular local brewery's liquid blessings, I went to bat for Zorn - which wife was on board with so quickly I knew we were en route to something special.

What did we have?

Well, what *didn't* we have?

Our server was upon us what seemed like just a smidge under half a moment before I was enjoying a shot of tequila and my first "Captain Campion" (brown ale), my wife some tequila and whatever (I think I heard the word 'Champagne' at some point..).. not long thereafter a phenomenal "Zeus Burger" (half price on Wednesdays!), gourmet fries, and the best jalapeno poppers anywhere.

Yes, a few more liquid treats followed. (You did read the part about our being 60+, right?)

Between that, our fantastic server, a four-piece live band doing some real jazz, and the unparalleled ambiance of the great Zorn outdoors, I can hardly remember the bodily aches I *might* have whimpered once or twice about.

Fun crowd, too.

Do make haste!

"Redheaded Mule" & She is BACK!

Yes, She is back! Who, well, ArtSees Diner of course! After a long period of time, energy, and focus being on things unrelated to my love, AD, it is time to return. What better reason to return to blogging other than something that tantalizes, tickles, and trips the light fantastic? A new libation! What better way to usher March than with a Redhead? 

I introduce "Redheaded Mule" by Mary E. Champagne, aka ArtSees Diner.

It is very simple - 

• Fever-Tree Ginger Beer 
• Mary E's housemade Cinnamon Liquor (recipe at the end) 
• Pour over ice and sip! 

Mary E's Housemade Cinnamon Liquor 

• Bourbon (cheap kind is best!)
• Fresh Cinnamon Sticks 
• Bottle and sit for at least 4 months
• A little sugar (or not) 

A Rosé By Any Other Name...and What the "Pubster - Gals" Think!

Spring has sprung, the grass is rizz'd, I wonder where my Rosé is? Spring in the Northern Hemisphere is the perfect time to be sipping on a nice, cool, crisp Rosé. But, then again, Summer is the perfect time to be sipping on a nice, cool, crisp Rosé. To that end, there is never a time when sipping on a Rosé isn't the right time.

When I was first entering the market as a legal wine drinker, Rosé was merely a White Zinfandel, blush, or pink wine. There were approximately two that were offered and typically came from a jug, they were Sutter Home and Gallo. Rosé, the American version, of White Zin, was first produced in the 1860s in Lodi and as a result, became a nice alternative to classic red or white wine. White Zinfandel is still one of the most sold, by volume in the US and has a lovely nickname "Cougar Juice." Over the years and with the growth of wine-drinking sophistication, so it goes more Rosé is being offered here in the US and it is no surprise as women are becoming one of the biggest purchasers of wine and the palette is forever becoming more sophisticated towards the wide variety of wine and beautiful food pairing options.

Rosé is one of the most consumed wines in France and in 2018 there was a huge concern that because of the growth in popularity and market for fine Rosé wine throughout the world and the United States that they might not have enough to get them through their summer. Fortunately, the wine-making industry in the United States is beginning to catch up with its much older French sister and as vines mature and the field of viticulture booms, the US winemaker is beginning to hold their own against the legacy of France, Italy, and Spain. How Do Local/Regional Winemakers Hold Up Against France and Italy?

Recently, I asked a group of my "Pubster - Gals" to join me in a Rosé wine tasting. Five willingly stepped up to the plate to humor me, but ultimately took their job very seriously. Two of the tasters had just returned from a Rosé wine event in Nashville, so their palettes were primed and ready for more!

Rosé for the tasting were:

Prophecy Rosé 2017 - Vin de France

Tasting Notes for Prophecy: Minerally, citrus, very dry, tangy, aligns well with a Sauvignon Blanc

St.Julian Winery Chambourcin Rosé 2018 - Michigan

Tasting Notes for Chambourcin: Fruity, berry (raspberry, strawberry, fruit forward, buttery after-tones.

St.Julian Winery Tempranillo Rosé 2018 - Michigan

Tasting Notes for Tempranillo Rosé: Light, fruity, herbal, earthy, smooth

Shady Creek Winery Rosé 2018 - Michigan City Indiana

Tasting Notes for American Rosé:Medium body, intense bouquet, oaky, cherry tones, vanilla after-tones

Villa Alena Rosé 2018 - Piedmonte Italy (Trader Joe's)
 

Tasting Notes for Villa Alena: Light, semi-dry, fruit-forward, raspberry

So the moment of truth; which Rosé came in first place with the Pubster Gals? St.Julian Winery Tempranillo Rosé 2018 - Michigan was the overall winner with Shady Creek Winery Rosé 2018 at a close second. 

ArtSees Diner highly recommends both St. Julian's Winery, (we prefer the Union Pier tasting room) and Shady Creek Winery in Michigan City. 

Follow the links above to discover more about each winery and make sure you visit very soon! 

The Brewery Lodge - The Perfect Get-Away

Chicago-land, you are missing out on the absolutely amazing corridor between 80/94 and the end of route 421 and Union Pier Michigan. There are so many amazing breweries, wineries, restaurants and yes, boutique hotels. Hotelier John Van Prooyen pooled his extraordinary talent to bring the people of LaPorte County a taste of the East Coast when he ventured a path into the uncharted territory of independently owned and operated hotel development.

The Brewery Lodge is built upon Zorn Brew Works phenomena and the Champagne Lodge history. When you drive up the quiet, secluded pathway towards the current 12 room lodge, you immediately question "where in the hell am I?" Well, you are in LaPorte County on the outskirts of Michigan City proper, just a stone's throw away from the beautiful Lake Michigan.

Each room is sweetly adorned with the special touches from a man who knows aesthetics and Feng shui, and Van Prooyen has a special touch and understands the understated benefits of connecting with nature. Let the Brewery Lodge be your next Walden moment.

When you are not up for an overnight, then drift away to a North Eastern Atlantic/Hudson Valley get-away and enjoy a night at the Brewery Lodge bar and enjoy the "Ichabod Crane-esque" vibe. Sit back and enjoy a pint or two in the rustic outback of Michigan City proper. Cheers!

Just a Sip Away - St. Julian Union Pier Michigan

Sometimes, you just gotta slip away to get away. Sometimes, you just gotta sip away to paradise. Whatever your need and inclination, we gotta suggestion; ArtSees Diner suggests you slip and sip away to the St. Julian Winery, Union Pier Tasting room. Whether you are being greeted by John, served by Tony or addressed by Candace, you quickly remember that you are arriving to a place where everybody knows you by face and even sometimes by name.

St. Julian's is one of the oldest wineries in the divinely glorious Michigan Winery industry. Angela and Jean warmly greet you through every single bottle of wine, spirit and brew.

We finally found our way to St. Julian Winery a couple months ago and we are delighted that we have become members of their fine wine family.

Be certain to add St. Julian Winery to your winery tour. Ask for any single member of the staff, they represent the brand very well! By the way, tell them Steve and Mary E, aka ArtSees Diner sent you!

Cheers, with love, ArtSees Diner

Sips, Suds and Songs at Barker Mansion, May 18th

Tickets Available here

Bistro On the Greens - Michiana's Newest Hot Spot

There is nothing better than celebrating your friend’s birthday! Well, maybe there is something better and that is celebrating your friend’s birthday with great food at a very special place. One that offers all the ambiance and class to make better - spectacular! Such was the case with my friend’s birthday celebration at Bistro On the Greens.

Bistro On the Greens is the brainchild of restaurant entrepreneur John Moultrie. John brings to his newest endeavor not only his love of fine NOLA, Southern cuisine but an extensive background in jazz to the restaurant nestled in the historical Legacy Golf Course, LaPorte Indiana. Moultrie’s clever double-entendre with the use of “Greens” provides a window into his creative flair. In short he has nailed a “whole in one.”

Let me recreate the evening for you; Upon arriving we encountered a few diners leaving the restaurant and asked them how their evening was. Aside from their very happy content faces we knew they were well pleased after asking them about their experience. Their response was, “fabulous!” My friend asked for recommendations and they quickly listed what they dined on and summarized by saying, “all of it is fantastic!” That was a great way to kick off the evening.

We were greeted by a lovely lady who was ready and willing to make our night a special one. John Moultrie’s attention to detail was everywhere from the warm welcome of the hostess to the subtle lighting and overall glow. But, that was only the beginning. Not only were we embraced by a cordial hostess and seductive lighting, but also by the music floating from a baby grand piano and “larger than life” jazz greats. Moultrie’s experience in hospitality is highlighted by the way he strategically placed the music front and center. It is very reminiscent of my favorite places to visit in Chicago and Manhattan. If you want music to be the entrancing spirit of the joint then, don’t put the music in the back as an afterthought let music be your muse. Bistro On the Greens’ has live music five days a week. Mike is the Bistro’s house musician and not only does he play a mean piano, but he is a spot on crooner with a vast repertoire.

Whether you are coming for a romantic dinner for two, or out with friends, just because, or with a large party ready to celebrate birthdays the “Bistro” is a perfect dining experience. The overall layout and seating has been designed to provide a wide variety of options from cozy intimate seating, a private dining room vibe, or a more open dining feel. Additionally, there is a gorgeous, well stocked bar manned by a local favorite Kyle. The bar is located in the back of the restaurant and has a great view of the greens for those who are out for drinks and live music. John Moultrie’s brings his down home sophistication and his love of Louisiana cuisine to Northwest Indiana in a way that very few entrepreneurs could. Do not be surprised when John comes to your table to make sure that you are content and are well cared for. It is his down home charm that really sets Bistro On the Greens apart from other restaurants.

What do I look for when I am out for a special evening and what makes a venue go from a place to eat to a place to remember? It is: 1) lighting, 2) music, 3) personable service 4) timing of food delivery 5) well crafted cocktails and fine wine 6) willingness to make the event special 7) food quality, variety and most importantly 8) an owner that lets me and my party know that our being there is all that matters. Bistro On the Greens earns 8 stars! Now onto the food!

Moultrie’s desire to share his Grandmother’s authentic recipes is at the heart of his menu. You will find all the traditional NOLA favorites like fried green tomatoes, alligator nuggets, jambalaya, gumbo, to ribeye steaks, hand packed hamburgers, salads, flatbread pizzas and more. Everyone in our party was well-pleased with their entrees. I enjoyed fried chicken breasts with greens (superbly done) smashed sweet potatoes and a cheese biscuit along with an appetizer of fried green tomatoes. Sadly there was no room for dessert, that will have to wait until next time.

Bistro On the Greens easy to get to and whether you live in the immediate area, including, Michiana, NWI, or are looking for a get away from Chicagoland, Bistro On the Greens is a must and well worth the drive!

Stop in and tell John that ArtSees Diner, aka, Mary E., sent you.

ADDRESS 299 West Johnson Road La Porte, IN 46350 CONTACT (219) 575-7272 BUSINESS HOURS (central) S-F 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Sa 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Steve Live in Front of The Canterbury in Uptown Michigan City

Dune Billies Beach Cafe: Open and already transforming the Canada Park Area of Michigan City!

In 2008 I moved into this neighborhood and have loved living here since. One of the fascinations was the building at the corner of Fogarty St., and Center St., in Michigan City Indiana. It is the perfect location and the point at which the lakeside community and the rest of Michigan City meets. I have adored this building and believed that some day it would be the perfect spot for whatever enterprise would snag the "great find!" Well, that moment has happened and after a few months of primping, perfecting and developing, Lisa Murray and crew has brought to this sweet, up and coming neighborhood, the quintessential corner deli. It is the Dunes meets Greenwich Village. Maybe in place of Dune Billies it should have been called Dunewhich. No,Dune Billies suits it just fine, as it is at the base of Bismark Hill, really a collection of three dunes that protects the neighborhood from the fervor and frenzy of Lake Michigan located just on the other side of "them, thar" dunes.

Guests can enjoy tasty sandwiches and wraps inside the quaint cafe, on the umbrella adorned deck, or they can carry out to their homestead or better yet, the beach which is less than 2,000 feet away. Ultimately patrons will be able to get basic staple items,as the menu and offerings expands. Until then the mix of breakfast and lunch sandwiches and wraps are more than to feed the locals and hungry beach-lovers. Current hours are 7a to 3p, 7 days a week. Dune Billies Beach Cafe 201 Center Street Michigan City, Indiana (219) 809-6592

Shady Creek Winery Becomes The Cabernet with Lahm,Champagne and Rapier

Shady Creek Winery welcomes back trio David Lahm, Steve Champagne and Mary E. Rapier for a night of wine and music. Guests will be treated to a wide variety of songs ranging from Beatles to Bacharach along with jazz standards and unique medleys. Guests are guaranteed a night of showstopping tunes and superb Shady Creek Wine. The trio is well known for their eclectic blend of keyboards, bass, acoustic and rich vocals. Come to the Cabernet! Tickets are $22 in advanced $26 at the door. Included in the price of a ticket is a glass of wine, small bites and music performed by David Lahm and Steve & Mary E.


"This trio of professional musicians is an act you do not want to miss!! Their outstanding musical interpretations of a variety of songs are outstanding and a lot of fun, too! I am looking forward to seeing them again at this upcoming event." Jerry 

David Lahm is a jazz pianist, songwriter and accompanist who divides his time between NYC and his second home in Harbor Country. He and his late wife Judy Kreston had a very successful cabaret act in New York, collaborated on three albums and concertized at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks several times, over their many years together. He has conceived and produced a couple of unique recordings: "Medleyfying: a Centennial tribute to Richard Rodgers" and two CDs featuring "Jazz Takes On Joni Mitchell." 

Over the last six years he has been, in his own words "very happy to have been able to work with some excellent performers in the Michiana area." This chapter of his career takes another step forward in his collaboration with Steve and Mary.

Mary E. has been singing for over three decades. She and her partner Steve Champagne were named Best Acoustic Duo in 2015 by the Kankakee Area Music Awards. For over 20 years, Mary E. has been a guest vocalist with Kankakee Municipal Band. Mary began her career singing standards, light opera, and Broadway. Since forming an acoustic duo with Steve in 2007, they have focused on a wide range of songs made popular between the 60s and 70s, and love bringing their music to the Michiana region.
Steve has dedicated his life to perfecting his knowledge of the Beatles and other favs. Some call him a walking jukebox the way he can recall lyrics, melodies, and overall style. He has been singing and playing guitar since his earliest memory. Together, Steve and Mary E. have hours of pop-rock play list along with standards.

Lahm, Champagne and Rapier -  is the newest endeavor of these three music lovers, and guests will be entertained with a whole new repertoire of jazz standards, new spins on old favorites, and songs that they love to perform. 

Tickets can be obtained through eventbrite or direct through snail mail (maryerapier@gmail.com) for address.

Contact us 

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Fire & Water: A Diamond On the Dune

Welcome to Michigan City Indiana! Only a select few seem to know of the wonders that this magical place holds for travelers looking for a place to unwind, "create, play and repeat." Let me paint a picture for you...

After a long work week you want nothing more than to escape the intense "City" heat and get out of the intense traffic that is often the case with Chicago and its surrounding burbs. Where do you go where you can still treat your family to a day in the sun without paying a fortune for fees, parking and food? You head east on the 80/94 corridor and come on into Michigan City Indiana by way of 12, 20 or 421. Michigan City is on the move and no matter which way you careen into the "City by the Lake" you will find at your journey's end the North End of this quaint home away from home Washington Park and sitting on the crown of this natural  resource is North Pointe Pavilion, the home of Fire & Water. 

Fire & Water is the brain child of entrepreneur and Michigan City's social guru, Mohamed Mroueh. Moe as he is lovingly called has brought a taste of his homeland Lebanon and has enriched us all as a result. From the first time you meet him, you just know that this guy knows customer service. It is not unusual to see Moe walking around meeting and talking with his customers. 

Fire & Water is located at 6 on the Lake and offers an upscale sandwiches, Moe's traditional hummus (the best you will ever taste), grape leaves, Baba ghanoush along with hamburgers, gyro's, fish tacos, pulled pork, jerk chicken and more. For those looking for an specialty cocktail or craft beer, you will find a full bar with professional bartenders ready to serve you up in style. 

Beautiful views of Lake Michigan and breathtaking sunsets.  

Perfect views from the rooftop invokes the photographer in you. Look for a perfect view of the Chicago skyline and see a sunset like you have never seen it before. Many who come here from tropical places say they never saw a prettier sunset. 

Keep your eyes on Fire & Water's facebook page for weekly events and specials. It is not unusual to have something extraordinary on Thursday nights so as to usher in the weekend in grand style. Additionally, every Sunday night there is *live music "Up on the Roof" ready to put to sleep a long weekend and kick off yet another amazing week here at the "City By the Lake." 

*Sunset Sundays features local musicians Steve Champagne and Mary E. Rapier, known as Steve and Mary E., every Sunday night from 6:30 to sunset singing songs from the 60's, 70's and assorted light rock, guaranteed to make you smile. 

A few things to keep in mind: Food is ordered on the lower level which also offers comfortable seating. Food runners are on hand to bring food up to your table after ordering. There are also rooftop servers who can take your food order, you will pay upon ordering and availability varies. 

A couple things to keep in mind: Local residents have access to free parking by obtaining a parking pass. LaPorte residents who are outside the Michigan City city limits can obtain an annual parking pass for $25. (More information here)  There is a $7 fee to enter the park and utilize the secure parking and all amenities that Washington Park provides the recreational enthusiast. This charge is not imposed by Fire & Water. The North Pointe Pavilion is a part of the Michigan City Parks Department and as a result the fee is necessary to maintain the overall upkeep of one of the finest parks in Northwest Indiana and surrounding areas. For those coming from the Chicago-land area the $7 parking fee is a very affordable one when compared to the cost of parking in the city.  The Fire & Water staff has done a phenomenal job at keeping the cost of food and drink way below the normal fees found found at outdoor venues which truly does help offset the inconvenient parking fee that some tourists are charged to park. 

For more information go to Fire & Water and keep up-to-date about all the amazing things this venue and the North Pointe Pavilion at Washington Park provides you and your family.  

Fire & Water : A Diamond on the Dune! 
6 On the Lake 
Washington Park, Michigan City Indiana 
$-$$ 
#MyMichiganCity can be #YourMichiganCity.