By Amanda Steeb
Those who visit Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille in Valparaiso may come for their favorite all-American cuisine, but they leave with an appreciation for the hard-working men and women who revolutionized our country — including those who worked in the steel industry. So, it’s so appropriate that the restaurant is located in northwest Indiana, home to some of the country’s largest steel mills.
“Saluting American Greatness” is the theme of this very patriotic restaurant where every entrée is served with a toothpick American flag. Throughout the eatery, exposed brick walls are adorned with iconic black and white photographs from the industrial age, and quotes from famous inventors painted on bricks. Steel statues are just one element of the nostalgic décor of Industrial Revolution. Eleven life-size statues perched atop the roof greet you before you enter the building. These statues recreate the famous 1932 photograph, “Lunchtime on a Skyscraper,” which depicts ironworkers taking a break during the construction of the Rockefeller Center in New York City.
pepperoncini atop it, the Opportunity Pizza
is truly revolutionary.
Industrial Revolution’s menu offers traditional favorites like the piled-high red, white and blue-chipped Welded Nachos as a starter, followed by Chicken Fried Chicken, Legendary Meatloaf, or brick oven pizza. Revolution’s Originals also include favorites like Elijah McCoy’s Chicken Pot Pie, Mom’s Famous Double Shift Pot Roast, Dedicated Hero Chicken, “Captain Jones” Fish Tacos and Pot Roast Mac and Cheese. Industrial Revolution also offers a full-service bar featuring beers from local breweries.
A favorite attraction for diners is the surprise visit from a model train during their meal. Children and adults alike wait with excitement for the train to pass through on a track suspended from the ceiling. The train makes its way around the entire restaurant at various times.
Industrial Revolution is located along U.S. Highway 30, just steps from Valparaiso University.
AMANDA STEEB is the director of marketing and communications at Kankakee Valley REMC, headquartered in Wanatah, Indiana.
If you go …
Industrial Revolution Eatery and Grill
1084 Linwood Ave.
Valparaiso, Indiana
219-465-1801
Hours: Open every day but Tuesday
