In 1870, August Wacker, the son of a German winemaker immigrated to
America. Moving west, Mr. Wacker found employment first with Mr. A
Weigand, a prominent Indianapolis Florist. Later, as his interests
broadened and prospered, he acquired a 90-acre farm at 30th and Meyers
Road, later to become Cold Springs Road, where many prominent
Indianapolis families resided in fine mansions. This is where August Wacker built his home. Eventually, he built and sold some forty homes
on this farm property. His foresight and civic enthusiasm were
instrumental in planning new streets, street lighting and street car
service in his area. He devoted much time, energy and money in
promoting the general improvement of property and living conditions in
the northwest section of Indianapolis.
The Wacker home and surrounding lands were sold and converted into
Highland Country Club and Clubhouse. During the second World War, the
house was used by the military in conjunction with forces stationed at
the nearby naval armory. Subsequently, it was reconverted into a
clubhouse.
In 1956 Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Kelso bought the Wacker home and
transformed it into The Iron Skillet Restaurant. Alterations in the
structure were held to a minimum so as to retain the original charm
which had graced the old home for more than a century. In 1996, Mr.
and Mrs. Kelso retired and sold the restaurant to Mr. Ronald Torr.
At 30th Street and historic Cold Springs Road, The Iron Skillet is
convenient to nearby Marian University and provides a delightful “dining
out” spot for faculty, students and their guests. In April and May, at
the height of the 500 mile race activity, racing enthusiasts from all
over the world find the food and gracious atmosphere of The Iron
Skillet a true delight – just a few minutes north of the Indianapolis
Motor Speedway.
Abundant meals, skillfully prepared and beautifully served in a
genteel, serenely comfortable setting. Soft music, candlelight,
delicate latticework – and fresh floral decorations, in season – all
contribute to the pleasure of relaxing dinners at The Iron Skillet.
The name “The Iron Skillet” was inspired by the original utensils in
which fried chicken and steaks were prepared – and in fact, some
entrees still are prepared in this manner. An enlarged replica of the
first iron skillets occupies one of the restaurant's several dining
rooms.
The Iron Skillet has acquired its cherished reputation both for the
superb quality of its food and efficiency in serving special groups.
For many years it has been a popular choice for banquets, wedding
rehearsal dinners, receptions, ladies’ club meetings and holiday
parties.
The Iron Skillet, now in its 53rd year, serves dinners in the
unique “family style” manner. All dinners begin with a choice of
homemade soup or a chilled juice. Also, pickled beets, cottage cheese,
apple butter and a wedge of lettuce with our famous house dressing
accompany the meal.
With your choice of entrees come generous bowls of vegetables,
served piping hot and may be refilled if needed. This course includes
a bowl of creamy chicken gravy and homemade (from scratch) baking
powdered biscuits. Coffee, hot or iced tea is included. To top off
this sumptuous three course meal, the waitress will bring ice cream
(or sherbet if you prefer) and an assortment of toppings so you can
make your own sundaes.
If you have company and don’t want to hassle with cooking or dressing
up to go out we have the complete dinner (less the appetizer and
dessert) that can be prepared to “carry out”. Just give us 30 minutes
notice. Call 317-923-6353 for carry out. Visit our
Carry Out page
