What goes best with a Tippecanoe Place prime rib?

Perhaps, a murder mystery pinned by a local playwright and performed by local actors.

For a little more than a year, Tippecanoe Place Restaurant, 620 W. Washington St., South Bend, Ind., has been offering a murder mystery dinner show to those wanting a little intrigue with their fine dining experience.

It’s a concept catching on in the Michiana area.

“Everybody has absolutely loved it. They are excited to have something like this to attend here in South Bend,” said restaurant owner Kristi Matteoni. “Tippecanoe (Place) seems to be the perfect place to have something like this with us being a historical landmark and old-world mansion.”

Built in 1884 by Clem Studebaker, the Tippecanoe Place Mansion retains its historic charm throughout its 24,000 square feet, approximately 40 rooms and 20 fireplaces.

Gayle Staci Carter-Wilson, founder of JustUs Performances, has been offering a new murder mystery show every three months at Tippecanoe Place Restaurant. Each show is performed once a month, typically on Saturdays, for three months, before a new show is introduced.

The final performances of the current show, “Wondering Eyes, Deceiving Looks… Murder’s Brewing”, are scheduled for 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, July 28, and 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17.

Matteoni said they having seating for 75 to 80 people. Reservations are required.

“Book as soon as possible because they do sell out,” Matteoni said.

Private showings can be arranged as well for large groups.

Cost for dinner and show is $40. It includes a three-course meal and no-host bar. The meal includes a choice of prime rib, tilapia or herb roasted chicken, along with garden salad and house dessert.

Matteoni said the play is non-interactive, so patrons can relax while taking eating and taking in the show.

“We offer a beautiful dinner experience while at the same time you are getting a great whodunit murder mystery,” Matteoni said.

A cocktail reception precedes each sh ow.

The show is performed by JustUs Performances.

To make reservations, call 574-234-9077.