Writer / Janelle Morrison
Photographer / JJ Kaplan
While an extended trip to rustic Tuscany is always palatable, one can more practically experience authentic Italian cuisine and a bottle of Tuscan Brunello di Montalcino on the north side of Indianapolis at the Sangiovese Ristorante.
Founded in 1994 and purchased in 2007 by Owner and Operator Chris Evans, Sangiovese Ristorante has maintained their dedication to their customers by providing the highest quality ingredients and knowledgeable service. Since the re-opening at their new location in 2014, they have provided a modern yet warmly intimate environment that invigorates their dinner guests.
The locally renowned Italian restaurant is conveniently located in the Ironworks at Keystone complex, immediately accessible to I-465 and the Fashion Mall at Keystone.
“We are neighbors to a few notable establishments such as Ruth’s Chris, Profyle Boutique, G Michael Salon and to the approximate 150 residents who live in the Ironworks luxury apartments,” Evans said. “Bar none, we feel that we have the best location on the north side, especially for a restaurant.”
Evans explained that they went from 4,000 sq. ft. of space and 100 indoor seats at their original location on 86th Street to 3,000 sq. ft. and 80 indoor seats at their current venue.
“The reduction in square footage was by design,” Evans stated. “I designed the space to eliminate wasted square footage, so that we can better manage our dining area. The result is that we have created a higher level of service and better overall experience for our guests. We do have a private room that can seat up to 18 people, and we use that mostly for business meetings and small family gatherings.”
Loyal patrons have seen a dramatic evolution in the restaurant’s decor, boasting a warm black interior with chocolate brown undertones and wood grains accentuated with a brilliant instillation of compartmental spaces and lighting throughout the dining and bar areas. Evans’ vision for the design of the new location was inspired by what he saw trending in the restaurants in downtown Chicago and NYC.
White linen tablecloths has become an antiquated expression of etiquette and are no longer a requirement for a luxurious dining experience. Evans described his clientele as a broad demographic of ages and discriminating palates. While maintaining his existing clientele, he is also mindful to attract another generation of diners who will become regulars over the next 20-30 years.
While the location and decor of the Sangiovese Ristorante has undergone an incredible transformation, their delectable menu remains unaltered. Popular favorites such as their Scaloppini Marsala, a tenderized veal with sautéed mushrooms in a traditional Marsala wine sauce, and their Linguini con vongole with baby clams, peeled tomatoes in a spicy white wine butter sauce along with their other “house” favorites can be ordered along with a glass or bottle of exquisite wines from a variety of regions.
“The wine list changed drastically, and we expanded it to include some varietals that I personally enjoy and that our customers have recommended to us over the years,” Evans said. “Our previous menu boasted predominantly Italian wines, and now we offer a variety of Californian Cabernet, Italian Brunello, Barolo, Argentinian Malbec wines and Californian Chardonnay wines that pair beautifully with our menu.
“Our staff is highly educated on our wine selections, and we have built strong relationships with our vendors and wine makers to take our service to the next level. It is our goal to create an exceptional dining experience for our customers with every visit.”
If you have not yet visited the Sangiovese Ristorante at its new location or are looking to have an all encompassing, authentic Italian meal with impeccable service, make your reservation today and buon appetito!
For hours and menu information, visit sangioveseristorante.com.
