Payne's Restaurant - Gas City, Indiana

After leaving the lake house behind, Stella (aka GPS) did it again. I asked her to steer us to a great lunch spot on Interstate 69, and we soon arrived at Payne’s Restaurant in Gas City, Indiana.

Tucked behind the typical chain restaurants you find along all of the interstate highways in America, Payne’s greets you with a Union Jack sign that let’s you know you’re really NOT in Gas City anymore!

The eclectic decor and an outside trellis-covered patio prepared us for a unique dining experience. The sound of classical music greeted us as we opened the door, and it set the tone for the many food and beverage choices we set out to explore for lunch.

Our pleasant server greeted us with a smile as she handed each of us a menu, and that came as another surprise. Each menu is tucked inside an old school book or a children’s storybook! A truly “novel” idea!

I couldn’t decide what to order, (it ALL looked delicious!) so I started with a cup of what turned out to be AMAZING “Scottish Split Pea and Lentil Soup” which was absolutely delicious. For a dish as “simple” as soup and bread, the layers of flavor were amazing. (It’s a good thing I took this picture when I did, because an empty plate and cup are not very photogenic…)

Our server assured us that all of their soups are homemade, and I would have loved an opportunity to sample EACH of them, since I’m quite certain they are all equally delicious.

We then ordered a Reuben…again! (I think that’s the third time we’ve shared a Reuben on this trip!) And we were not disappointed. It was served with kettle chips and perched on a few leaves of spinach that had been drizzled with a Balsamic reduction…a delicious twist, and a new flavor profile.

I complimented the young chef on his delicious cuisine and our enjoyment of the unique dining experience as we made our way out the door to continue our road trip. He told me he is from Yorkshire England, and as I snapped his picture I told him I kept waiting for him to “bring the car around” at Downton Abbey, judging from the way he was dressed.

So no matter WHAT your mode of transportation…if you find yourself on Interstate 69 near Gas City, Indiana…DO NOT MISS EXIT 259. And lunch at Payne’s Restaurant will give you a glimpse of why Hubby and I LOVE Road Trips. From delicious food to interesting people, you never know what adventures may await you beyond the next bend in the road…and behind the next door…

CHEERS!

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