Extol April-May 2018 | Page 35

THE CHEAT SHEET EXPERIENCE River City Winery Crab Cakes One of my favorite date or girls night spots is River City Winery, which is located in the historic Baer Building in downtown New Albany. Owner Gary Humphrey restored the building and opened to the public in 2009 – and there are plenty of reasons why his business is still going strong. For starters: the wine. Produced and bottled in the basement, the numerous varieties ensure there’s something for every preference (I love the Chardonel). Wine tastings and wine cellar tours are available. The pet-friendly patio offers prime viewing of Bicentennial Park and is a coveted locale in warm weather months. And, despite it being a winery, kids are always welcome. When it comes to food, River City Winery’s Brick Oven Pizzas are delicious (try the Roasted Pear & Blue Cheese…my mouth watered just typing that). The pies are 20 percent off on Sunday and Tuesday and if you like ordering to share, the Charcuterie Plate is always a hit. So, too, are the Hummus and Classic Caprese Stack. But – the must-try item on the menu is the Pan Seared Crab Cake. I’ve yet to find a crab cake that can even halfway compare. Cooked to perfection every single time, the massive cake comes topped with black eyed pea corn salsa, Sriracha lime aioli and cilantro, and is so visually beautiful, I always take a moment (and a photo) to appreciate it before taking that first bite. River City Winery is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. RIVER CITY WINERY 321 Pearl St. New Albany 812.945.9463 rivercitywinery.biz BY ANGIE FENTON PHOTO BY JOSH KEOWN APRIL/MAY 2018 : EXTOL 33