Friday Foodie: The Hoppy Gnome

If you’ve been around me for long, you know that I’m a bit obsessed with tacos. It’s pretty much Taco Tuesday most days of my life. I never tire of them, but I have the worst time crafting all the delicious, layered flavors in my own kitchen, especially when using a spice mix out of a can.

You can imagine my delight when I learned a new “modern, globally inspired eats” gastropub featuring gourmet tacos was opening in my original hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana. I don’t get to Fort Wayne that often, so I have to strategically plan my taco outings. I decided to request a trip for my birthday because I knew the odds were in my favor of having people agree to support my taco obsession.

Fort Wayne isn’t known for being a foodie destination. In my experience, there are a few good finds surrounded by chain restaurants and strip mall surprises. I was pleasantly surprised, though, to discover that The Hoppy Gnome is bringing a bit of casual, culinary style to town. The concept is open with an industrial flourish. The menu features salads, small plates, local IPAs, and TACOS!

I shared an appetizer of chips and salsa (some of the best salsa I’ve ever had!) and then ordered one each of the Carne Asada and Mahi Mahi tacos. Since it was my birthday, I splurged with an adorable strawberry shortcake in a jar. All I can say is, “NOM, NOM!”

This place was SO GOOD! Great flavor, great service, easy parking, and great vibe. I could definitely see something like this surviving in the adorable neighborhood of Broad Ripple, where I live now. I need to make a return trip pronto to sample their new cocktail menu, so good thing I’m headed to Fort Wayne again this weekend.

Anyone else have recommendations for more amazing tacos?