Mecca is to many..... the Mecca of Food. Mecca Tavern located in Mecca (Parke County) population 330. It became a town in 1833 and is just six miles west of Rockville, Indiana. The town houses one of the beautiful Mecca Covered Bridge on the National Registry for Historic Places. (To learn more about how the city of Mecca and the Mecca Covered Bridge was named click here)

The tavern itself is the oldest Tavern in Parke County established in 1899. (Their tag line is "Oldest bar in Parke County and we have the floors to prove it".) Founded in 1899 by the Roberts Family and surviving population and economic decline, the tavern has really remained the epicenter for the community. A gather place to have a libation, good food, and catch up on the town news. (21 and older only)

What started out as a longtime dream of owner and local football coach, Brad Sanders, turned reality and a family affair at Mecca Tavern. Brad's Aunt, Susie Schilling, is the head cook. This lady may not be a professionally trained chef, but she has people coming from all over the Midwest to try her food. Brad's wife, Patty and Mother, Pam, are also heavily involved in the restaurant.

I immediately fell in love with this restaurant as it reminded me of my Grandfather's Tavern. The shotgun type bar with seating inside and patio seating outside. It is quaint and like a step back in time with wood flooring. It is simple in its décor but the food sets it apart from other taverns. So much of their limited menu is popular which is what makes this place a must taste place in Indiana. Initially, the tavern had limited food but as word of mouth traveled, the menu has grown too!

The Meathead Burgers range from 1/4lb to 1 pound Burgers using Clinton Spindles Meat, a locally owned Meat Company, in Indiana. Patted and grilled to perfection. The 8oz and 1 pound Ribeye Steak are specials on Saturday, but also available in 8oz all week long.

The Weekend Specials on Friday Nights are Catfish and Frog Leg Dinners. The weekend specials whether seafood, steak, or sandwiches bring in the crowds, so be sure to time your visits accordingly.

The recent addition has been the Hoosier Favorite, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. Available in grilled or breaded. Susie Schilling uses her own special breading to make the succulent sandwich. It is a HUGE sandwich much like other tenderloins in State. However, Susie has a demand of the Tenderloins from her special breading and the hand pounded to perfection. Her breading is spot on and is the talk of Tenderloin Lovers from afar. (They are currently in the running for best Pork Tenderloin Sandwich in Indiana by Visit Indiana, Vote Here.

Whether you're visiting the beautiful bridges of Parke County or simply passing through, make sure Mecca Tavern is a stop along the way. You will be enamored by the history, friendly people, and fantastic food. Mecca Tavern is currently a member of Indiana Foodways Alliance's Tenderloin Trail, Here Fishy Fishy and Burgers, Brews and Dogs Trails. (NOTE: The Mecca Tavern is 21 and Older ONLY) Blog by Lindsey Skeen