You played classic games in the arcade, drank craft beer from the taps, and sipped creative cocktails in the lounge upstairs. Now return to Arcademie (22 NW. Sixth St.) for another new experience. The two-story bar with a classic arcade has expanded its dining options, first by offering dinner service starting in November 2021 and now lunch.
Evansville Living took a wintery stroll down Main Street this week to sample the newest menu and margaritas. The menu is a curated list of seven customizable dishes made exclusively for Arcademie by Botanas by La Campriana. With “limited separation” between the bar area and dining tables, owner Carl Arnheiter says all ages can grab a seat and a bite to eat where the guacamole isn’t extra; it is its own meal.
For $4.50, our group received a mound of fresh guacamole and three palm-sized tostadas, served by Arnheiter himself. The unconventional presentation made our snacking more intentional as we each claimed a tostada, snapped it into bite sizes, and scooped a teetering tower of guacamole into our mouths. The dip was airy and refreshing, and it was enhanced by the crunch of its chunky ingredients and the crisp tostada.
“The atmosphere was great, but the food was even better,” says Sales and Marketing Coordinator Alec Kratzer. “The guacamole was refreshing, and I was so excited that they served tortas. My friends and I had nothing but praise to say.”
The $10 torta is a Mexican-style Telera bread sandwich stuffed with mayonnaise, refried beans, your choice of meat, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and Chihuahua cheese. My torta was a warm, savory hug filled with carnitas (braised pork), but diners can also choose from grilled steak, al pastor (marinated pork), Tingo (chipotle chicken), cactus, and mushrooms. Dress up any dish with mild guacamole, medium green salsa, or spicy red salsa.
“Botanas by La Campriana at Arcademie was incredible,” says Graphic Designer Morgan Dean. “The mouthwatering menu, friendly service, and unique ambience made for the perfect lunch spot. I’m already planning my next visit.”
Arcademie’s lunch menu is available daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dinner in effect 5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
