50 Best Cafes in Indianapolis

“Excellent food that shouldn't be missed. Blink and you'll miss this gem of Eritrean/Ethiopian cuisine.“

“I enjoy the atmosphere and people, the coffee and treats are good, there is seating and space to have a chat over coffee, and bathrooms are in good condition. It’s great to have a local coffee place in Nora.“

“My favorite cafe. Great coffee, better baked goods, and the nicest group of people who put it all together. I got the tee shirt and you should too!“

“Today was my husband and my first time at Tams and it exceeded our expectations! The food was delicious and the staff was so warm and welcoming. & the salted caramel brownie was easily the best brownie we’ve ever had!! 11/10 would recommend“

“This was the cutest place ever! The cats are the sweetest! I would recommend adopting a cat! If I could I would have adopted all of them!“

“great selections of locally roasted coffee. this place is great for relaxing or getting things done. fun community events too“

“I was not sure what to expect but have wanted to try real Chai for a long time. My visit was on a Thursday at mid-day. I loved the atmosphere and was hoping to understand a bit about Chai but must admit I was puzzled by the taste of the Chocolate Chai I ordered. I am hoping to try a visit at another time to see if I can determine why the taste was so different from what I expected.“

“I absolutely loved this place! They have a great outdoor patio! They have a full coffee bar ! It sucks that Starbucks doesn’t have a vegan PSL. But do you know who does? Soulshine Cafe!!! With vegan whipped cream!!! The food was hearty and filling even though the portions seemed small. I got a sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit. I thought the egg was a little tough to eat but the sausage and biscuit was sooo good I didn’t even mind. I got a side of gravy to dip everything into ! I also got a side of their loaded Mac and to be completely honest I kept getting anxious because none of it tasted like it was vegan ! The wait times for food can be a little long but I found out today it was one of their busiest days ever!!! Broad Ripple isn’t super close to me but I hope I can come back more often !!! Thankful for Soulshine for being here for the vegan community and for serving great food!“

“Gluten free waffles are amazing here! Dedicated iron. Gluten free sourdough toast made locally. My fiance had an amazing BLT with fresh mozz on regular sourdough (could have been on GF instead but he's not NCGI like me). Great find for GF!“

“EXCELLENT food!! Great service! Try this place.... it's a hidden GEM! We will be back and often. Homemade ketchup, hot sauce, bread, biscuits and even pickles! Grape salad is to die for! Cinnamon roll alone is worth the trip and I don't live in Indianapolis!Parking: Parking spots available right in front of restaurant“

“Great vibe, family oriented, was greeted immediately, had a couple of gals ask if I'd like something to drink as soon as I sat down. I got the classic bacon n eggs, w/hash browns, sourdough toast tasted homemade! Bacon was thick & crispy.... Since I couldn't make up my mind I also got their classic French toast to go for dinner! Highly recommend this quaint diner.“

“Amazing service and food!“

“I like the overall vibe of Lulus. I was greeted with a compliment on my attire and treated like an old friend. Awesome people working there. The coffee is on par with the vibe. Really good vanilla latte. I live 45 minutes away. I’ll pass by several coffee shops on my way to return here. Cool place.“

“Ruth’s is simply the best, no matter what you order off their menu of varied and interesting breakfast and lunch options. It’s all delicious!“

“Best tea shop in Indy (Nap). Where else can you get a scrumptious pesto breakfast sandwich on croissant ? for about 10 bucks!? ??? Always lifts my spirits & my wellness! ☺️ ? S/o to Tamika + her whole family! Teryna - you are a Star ?Affordable rent space annnnddd! Catering? Yes, please. ??? ? It's been a pleasure to watch the tea shop expand since walking in their doors nearly a decade ago!Keep Smilin, Keep Shinin! ✨ ?? Dietary restrictions: Smart bacon options, small salads, fruits, andddd... vegan cookies ? ?Kid-friendliness: Booster seats. Changing space“

“Neidhammer's is an incredible place to meet up with co-workers or clients, or just to work alone. It's a cozy, quiet place with plenty of tables and couches. I love it more everytime I visit.“

“Every single time I come here it's pure joy! I should come more often honestly! A small gem in the neighborhood. Staff is friendly. Food comes out fast. Quality of food is superb. I have never had something here I didn't like. They have soup and pies to go. Bread and pastries. Breakfast is served until 11 am. Patio seating is always clean and ready. I would suggest it to anyone!“

“Wonderful meeting place! Great space to work alone, small group or even host an event! Kudos to The Haverstick“

“I absolutely love this coffee shop. It is the prettiest and cutest shop in the whole state in my opinion. I also love their changing menu menu as I can visit frequent and always get something new and different. Aesthetically it's also such an adorable place and the service is great.“

“Every time I come into Cleo's bodega and Café, I have a time! Between the customer service, the energy, the culture, the artwork on the walls it's all just amazing! Also, the food is really good, seasoned well in the smoothies are Yum. Yum! The manager D is doing some great things in the community, and I love the live music that comes out on Fridays for lunchtime! This is the perfect place to come and work and listen to some music because if the live music is not happening, they have the radio on and the songs are perfect! I would write this five stars if the building was a little warmer, but other than that, it's a happy place to be!Pros Energy Culture Dee Food Smoothies Cons Cold- bring a jacket“

“Cosmic Cardinal is just the absolute best lunch spot in Indy. Leah is so kind and takes care of her customers as if they’re her personal friends. She has great options for everyone on her menu.I almost forgot to mention, every menu item is absolutely delicious. My office goes here multiple times a week for lunch.“

“Fantastic local coffee shop.“

“First time visiting this restaurant. I did not think i would find something i would care for because of the vegan and vegetarian style menu. However, the pecan pancakes were awesome as well as their private blend of blueberry cobbler coffee! The service was excellent. The atmosphere took a hit because it can loud inside when it is full.“

“Fast service and good service“

“It was my first time in here, I was a bit confused on entering but I found the cafe & I wasn’t disappointed. It’s a really nice chill spot, either with friends or alone. There is also rock climbing & a gym. Definitely recommend!“

“Had an absolutely lovely lunch yesterday. For $20 you get a three course meal, and if you want, for a little extra, beer, wine or a cocktail. The dining room is on the top floor in the old home of Stouffers restaurant at 28th and Meridian with gorgeous views of the city on three sides. Staff was warm and accommodating and is happy to please. Seems to be every Thursday for lunch and dinner. I encourage EVERYONE to support this Culinary School at Ivy Tech!“

“I had the pleasure to get to know some of the management team and baristas recently while shooting some branding/business photographs for them! The staff was so kind and inviting, they were friendly and familiar with their customers and communicated very well with each other and guests. The location is great and a very cozy place to relax and drink a latte. I absolutely recommend visiting their location and getting to know the team!“

“Such a cute and cozy cafe with delicious food and great service!“

“If you are in Indianapolis Friday-Monday brunch/lunch time, milktooth is a must eat! Menu is in constant flux with great inventiveness from the chefs, but there are always fantastic sweet and savory-Dutch babies, waffles, salads, usually a burger and damn that grilled cheese. The coffee/latte menu is also always new and so so good. No liquor, but beer/wine/lovely aperitifs. Currently set up also to do quick take out breakfast sandwich plus coffee for a really good price.“

“Love Handle is a trendy cafe that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner on the north end of Mass Ave. The dining room is colorful with the walls decorated in vintage paint by number art and other quirky items. The bright yellow and green vinyl seating is fun and comfortable. The menu is on a chalk board near the counter where you order. The best way to describe the good is Southern-inspired. I wanted to try the biscuit sliders that were in other Yelp reviews but they were not on the menu. I asked and the clerk said they could make some for us, the sliders are $7 each. The sliders came out in about 12 minutes served on vintage mismatched plates. I loved the sliders. The fried oyster biscuit slider was delicious. The oysters were juicy and had a lot of flavor with a light breading. The biscuits are salty, flaky and very good. There was a sauce on the oysters and melted cheese. The beef brisket biscuit slider was very good. There were two thick slices of tender brisket, melted cheese, a delicious sweet jam on one of their signature biscuits. The meat was slightly fatty, but good. They serve coffee, tea and assorted bottled and canned beverages, including beer. There are a few games around to play while you drink your coffee. There is metered street parking out front.“

“Loved everything we got there. Would have went back the next day if we didn't already agree to not eat anywhere twice during our Indy staycation. We will definitely be back our next stay in Indy. Cheapest and best meal the whole week.The wait staff was very helpful on things to do that near by too. I love that the restaurant has a cookbook of all the recipes they make. Will be trying to recreate their meals“

“First time visiting since they moved to the Regions Tower and it was great! I've been there twice this week, (so far). The first time I had the cubano and this morning I had a sausage, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich. Everything has been fresh and delicious and they are the sweetest people! I know I'll be back regularly! So happy to have them close by!“

“Love their signature flavor salted bourbon caramel that I usually get with their lattes. I'm on a cold brew kick right now so I just get cold brew because its less milk/alternative milk heavy and I only drink cold coffee drinks. Their cold brew is really good and I highly recommend! Lots of outlets to use so it's a good place to work from too!“

“First Watch is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary sanctuary for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted with a warm ambiance and the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee.The menu is a symphony of breakfast classics and innovative creations, crafted with the freshest ingredients and a touch of culinary mastery. Whether you're craving fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup, indulgent avocado toast topped with poached eggs, or a hearty omelet bursting with savory fillings, First Watch has something to satisfy every palate.The service is impeccable, with attentive staff members who ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you're dining solo, with a loved one, or a group of friends, you're made to feel like a cherished guest from start to finish.But perhaps the crowning jewel of First Watch is its commitment to health-conscious options without sacrificing flavor. From their extensive selection of superfood bowls to their fresh fruit juices and smoothies, you can nourish your body while treating your taste buds.In conclusion, First Watch is a culinary gem that transcends the ordinary breakfast experience. With its inviting atmosphere, delectable menu offerings, and exceptional service, it's the perfect destination for anyone seeking a memorable breakfast or brunch experience.“

“Cater Me Cafe did a great job catering an event this past weekend. I highly recommended them. Thank you Bobbie and Scott!“

“Amazing food and service! Highly recommend it!“

“I love this place for a light lunch or an afternoon snack and a cocktail. The decor is delightful and fun and they have an event space upstairs. The "house spritz" is my favorite drink and is very refreshing. I also enjoy pairing that with a popcorn flight. My service has always been good. Last time I was there an employee asked if I wanted to see the upstairs. I said yes and now I am trying to think of an event to host there. It's so pretty! Definitely pop in if you're in the Broad Ripple area.“

“Awesome food the staff was friendly food comes out hot“

“I was looking for a cafe to get a bit of work done begin an appointment nearby, and came across this cafe at the Binford location of Northview Church. It's a beautiful newer church campus and as you enter the front of the building, the cafe is directly to the left of the auditorium. It was very quiet when I came in which I appreciated because I had a call to take.As mentioned in other reviews, the menu is basic but it's enough to get the job done. I ordered a chai latte and it did the job. There is worship music playing on the speakers in the background which did not bother me at all. There was no pressure from anyone as I came in, and there were a few people working. Plenty of comfy seating and outlets were available. I am definitely going to utilize this place again in the future. I'm not a member of Northview but am happy that I felt welcomed to come on in and have a seat for a while.“

“We stopped in for a slice of gluten free cake and decided to stay for lunch. Delicious! And the GF cake was extraordinary!“

“I really love eating here there. But they sold me some scorched beans. The last time she gave me the option this time no option. So no I don't want any scorch beans. I will probably visit again.Cause I like their sandwiches and their beans.“

“We purchased strawberry Cheesecake great price and delicious!!! Must go check it out.“

“Good food, great service!“

“First time trying the Cafe Bistro and it was excellent. We ordered a tomato basil soup and chicken lemon pesto gnocci - both of them were flavorful and tasted perfect. Or server was fantastic - he checked on us frequently, offered water and chocolate mints to go, and overall was welcoming and friendly. If I owned a restaurant, I'd hire him right away!“

“Great music and atmosphere“

“Furst time Visit for dinner on a Wednesday. Other customers there but not really busy.Waitress came to table shortly after we sat down.Menu had large selection, many "homecooked" type of meals, i.e. meatloaf, Manhatten, ham , chicken, with potato and veggies sides andsoup / salad .I had beef Manhatten and'coleslaw, my friend had ham, mashed potatoes w/ gravy and vegetable. Both were large servings and very good.Very reasonable priced, and good service.We planned on returning. Unfortunately when we did they had changed their hours to breakfast and lunch.Hopefully they will return to dinner hours in future.“

“1) Some of the best coffee in Indianapolis. 2) Definitely the best quiche I ever bought-- and we've tried a bunch, and it's better than some of the quiches we've made at home. This is our go-to place for coffee in Indianapolis. We very much like the people and enjoy hanging out on the porch with coffee. It's a nice location right on the Monon. The indoor dining area was open as of late December 2023, and I enjoyed an espresso indoors and meeting somebody who was staying at the Broad Ripple Hotel.“

“Outstanding food! So many people know about this great little place, that it is wildly crowded, lines are long and the noise is so loud your ears will ring. I guess that is a good problem for a business to have. Will try to hit on off days, if there is such a thing.“

“Best tacos in Indianapolis! I’ve tried dozens of places in the midwest and nothing compares to this spot. I highly recommend this to anyone looking an authentic Mexican street tacos. The al pastor is hands down the best and you have to try their green sauce. 5 stars!“

“It was a beautiful day at the zoo! I have always loved going to zoos. I think the Indianapolis Zoo has done a good job giving animals nice, well kept areas being a zoo located within a big city. I am always a little disappointed when animals are temporary not on display, but understand this happens for various reasons. I also wish discounts for tickets were given to members. Can't wait to visit again.“