Indiana Restaurant and Dining Guide

Indiana: a land where the golden hues of cornfields meet the urban buzz of city streets. From the echoing footsteps of pioneers to a bustling modern-day bistro scene, Indiana's been quietly cooking up a storm. Did you know, for instance, that Indiana was the home to some of the first-ever pizza joints in the Midwest? And that tradition of crafting top-notch pies has only grown stronger.

Let me spill some tea; while Indianapolis might be a hub, boasting chic spots like Petite Chou Bistro (imagine sipping premium cocktails while savoring every bite of their upscale menu), cities like Lafayette are no slouch either. I mean, Bistro 501? What a dreamy rendezvous with French flair, right in our backyard. Heading north to Fort Wayne? Paula's On Main is a seafood lover's dream, offering a fresh catch in a quaint, cozy setting. And Bloomington's Lennie's Brewpub knows the perfect pizza-beer combo.

Here’s the lowdown - if you’re yearning for a place where history meets flavor, and where every meal feels like a hearty Hoosier hug, Indiana's your go-to. Who’s hungry?

Indy Eats: From Racetracks to Remarkable Plates

Indianapolis, famously known for its iconic speedway, doesn't just race through time; it’s been dishing out culinary revolutions over the years. There's a hearty rhythm here that blends historic tastes with cutting-edge flavors. Who'd think that the home of the Indy 500 would also be a haven for food lovers?

If you’ve got an appetite for some French finesse, the Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar is an absolute gem. Dive into their Knife & Fork Burger, where rich Camembert and Bordelaise create a harmonious blend, and the Mussels Meuniere is an experience in itself - those duck fat pommes frites? Divine. Then, Livery tosses a Latin spin in the mix. The two-story beauty, once a horse stable, now serves Paella bursting with flavors of shrimp, scallop, and chorizo, not to mention the Skirt Steak with its hot tomato crema and manchego-polenta fry that's simply off the charts!

Root & Bone? Oh, they're in a league of their own! Imagine seared duck complemented with plum BBQ or a Surf & Turf that brings scallops and housemade pork belly together. And Pier 48 Fish House? Their Blackened Mahi Mahi is a savory splash of ocean and the Lemon Mustard Chicken, a testament to their culinary versatility.

Speaking of ocean, why not catch one at the Indianapolis Zoo? After feasting on the city's delicacies, a stroll here or maybe a relaxing evening at the White River State Park could be the perfect chaser. And for a cultural twist, the Eiteljorg Museum offers a vivid canvas of the American West.

Fort Wayne: Historic Roots & Hearty Plates

Fort Wayne, nestled in the heart of the Midwest, not only boasts a rich history with tales of Native American and European settlements but also serves up an incredible culinary scene that holds strong to its roots.

Who'd guess that nestled among the city's brick streets and historic landmarks is Cork ‘N Cleaver? This cozy joint does more than steak; their Bone In Pork Chop, perfectly poised over roasted jalapeno and cheddar smashed potatoes, is a revelation. Or, if you're feeling bold, their New York Pepper Steak is legit unforgettable with its whole peppercorns, sautéed onions, and Chardonnay brown sauce. However, a trip to Fort Wayne isn’t complete without a bite from Fort Wayne's Famous Coney Island. A hot spot since 1914, their Coney Island Hot Dog is what legends are made of. And their Cheeseburger? Simple, fresh, and just the way you like it.

Over at Paula's On Main, the vibe is laid-back nautical. Dive into their Blackened Swordfish with horseradish sauce and crispy shallots or their crispy Plate O' Perch. And then there’s Baker Street Steakhouse, a gem that’s not just about the steak. Ever tried Butternut Squash Fettuccine or a Ribeye topped with bacon marmalade and fried eggs? Well, now’s your chance.

As for sights, the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory offers tranquility amidst lush greens, while the Fort Wayne Museum of Art captures the city's artistic spirit. And for a touch of retail therapy, Jefferson Pointe Shopping Center awaits.

Evansville: Nostalgic Nosh Meets Modern Flavor

From its World War II naval relics like the USS LST-325, which saw action and then lived to tell the tale, to the mesmerizing animal kingdom at Mesker Park Zoo, Evansville, resting gracefully along the winding Ohio River, has history as rich as its flavors.

You know that feeling when you stumble upon a gem? Turoni's Pizzery & Brewery gives you just that with their House Special Pizza. It's a mouthful in every sense, and if you lean towards the meatier side, their Stromboli Sandwich is legit a knockout. Now, if you’re up for more Italian vibes, and who isn’t, Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano serves up some mean Garlic Shrimp Oreganata. And their Chicken Pietro is an absolute mood. And for those cool, relaxed nights, Sauced takes you on a love affair with Italian cuisine. Their Red & White Plate? It's the best of both worlds. But don’t miss out on their Shrimp Pugliese. It's the kinda dish you chat about over a cold brew.

Speaking of stories, the Evansville Museum offers a perfect blend of art, history, and science. It's like taking a stroll down memory lane but with a touch of today.

South Bend: Vintage Vibes & Culinary Crafts

The charm of South Bend isn't just about the mesmerizing Basilica of the Sacred Heart or the sleek vintage cars at the Studebaker National Museum. It's also the city's commitment to crafting something fresh every day. And I’m not just talking about the seasonal finds at the South Bend Farmers Market. I’m diving headfirst into the food scene here, and let me tell you, it's straight-up delightful.

Ever been to a spot where the menu's a delightful mystery every time you drop by? No.6 Scratch Kitchen is that place. Their daily-changing menu keeps things fresh and oh-so-interesting. I'm still daydreaming about their No 6 Meatloaf Burger – it’s like all the flavors you love, in one epic bite. Their Pork Sugo is the kinda comfort you need after a long day, trust me on this.

For those into the seasonally inspired dishes, Roselily delivers. The Barramundi with its tamarind glaze is amazing. And the Coconut Semifreddo? A sweet twist you didn't see coming. But if you’re craving a blend of Mexican and Thai, CINCO International’s Bistec Ranchero is a cross-cultural treat you’ve got to try.

Bloomington: From Lakeside to Gourmet Slices

There's a rhythm to Bloomington that’s hard to miss. It's a mix of academia, artistry, and of course, appetites. Take a stroll around Monroe Lake, and you'll sense the old-world allure the city carries, echoing its storied past. But what truly ignites the city's heartbeat? The platefuls of creativity coming out of its kitchens.

Over at Samira Restaurant, their Chicken Manto feels like a warm hug from a dear friend. It's a comfort meal with a cultural twist, one that’s perfect after an afternoon at the Eskenazi Museum of Art. And if it's pizzas you’re vibing with, Lennie's Brewpub’s A Love Supreme Pizza is the pie-talk of the town. With each bite, you're diving into a world of saucy goodness. Thirsty? Why not chase it down with their killer Root Beer Float?

But wait, there's more. Runcible Spoon is all about keeping it whimsical. Their Shrimp & Scallop Linguine? Oh, man, it’s to die for! And if you've got kiddos, fuel up before heading to the WonderLab Science Museum with their Spoon Chicken. It's the right kind of hearty.

Hammond's Hearty Eats: Legacy on a Plate

Tucked neatly by Lake Michigan, it's more than just a gateway to the windy city; it's a culinary playground with history peppered all over. Got a craving for authentic Mexican flavors? Say less! El Taco Real, a long-standing jewel since 1974, delivers tradition on every plate. Dive into their Carne Con Chile, and you’ll taste generations of culinary prowess. And for those feeling a bit daring their Pollo Endiablado is a must-try; spicy, smoky, and oh-so-delish.

On the flip side, if all-day breakfasts or down-home American fare is your jam, Johnel's Restaurant is where it’s at. The Texan Special Sandwich is the kind of dish that makes you go, "Why didn't I try this sooner?"

Of course, eating isn’t the only thing on the agenda here. Fancy a serene walk post-meal? Wolf Lake Memorial Park’s pristine landscape might just become your new chill spot. And if you're in the mood for some live entertainment, Towle Theater’s got you. There’s always something rad happening there.

Lafayette: Sizzling Steaks and Historical Streets

You know a place like Bistro 501? It’s not just another eatery; it’s a testament to Lafayette’s love for global flavors. Sink your teeth into their White Bean Cassoulet, and you're instantly transported to the heart of France. If that doesn't tantalize your taste buds, their Spare Rib Style Roasted Wagyu Bone Marrow is seriously next level.

East End Grill offers that urban feel with dishes that scream, "Eat me!". Ever tried a salad that feels like a hug? Their East End House Salad does just that. And those ribs? Seven hours of pure braising love. Speaking of love, Mountain Jacks Steakhouse is where meat lovers unite. Their Prime Rib isn't just a dish; it’s an award-winning experience, melting in your mouth with every bite.

Oh, and between bites, why not take a stroll? Whether you’re exploring the lively Columbian Park Zoo or getting lost in the expansive corn maze at Exploration Acres, Lafayette packs in both flavor and fun.

Savoring Indiana: More Than Just a Pit Stop

Well, who knew? From the buzzing streets of Indianapolis to the tranquil corners of Bloomington, Indiana's culinary landscape is as varied as its scenic backdrops. It's a smorgasbord of flavors, where every town, be it Fort Wayne's classic diners or South Bend's modern eateries, tells a delicious tale of its own. You got a taste of Hammond's fiery dishes and then swung by Lafayette for that French flair, didn't you?

Now, I've got to ask, when was the last time you paired a gastronomic extravaganza with a serene lakeside view or a theatrical spectacle? Indiana, with its delightful blend of food and attractions, urges you to do just that. Ever thought of sharing a pizza slice while recounting historical tales, or sipping on a craft beer with the backdrop of a mesmerizing sunset? If not, well, Indiana's got you covered. Dive deep, taste widely, and remember, in this state, every meal is paired best with a side of adventure. So, grab a plate and soak in those Hoosier vibes!

Must-Try Restaurants in Indiana

Roselily

701 S Main St, South Bend, IN 46601

My husband and I contacted the restaurant a couple weeks ago and made reservations, at that time we communicated that there was a severe salt restrictio...

Delivery

Superb99 Reviews4.9

Root & Bone - Indianapolis

4601 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205

My son & new daughter-in-law Celebrated here after their Wedding Ceremony. Beautiful Restaurant, excellent Staff, fabulous food and such Great Servic...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb353 Reviews4.3

Pier 48 Fish House and Oyster Bar

130 S Pennsylvania St Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Service was great and so was the food! I had the Mahi Mahi (not the sandwich) and was not disappointed!

Take-Out

Delivery

Good215 Reviews4.2

Livery Indianapolis

720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Been here multiple times and always had a great time. The food is amazing! Service is great and the restaurant itself is very stylish and well designed.

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb527 Reviews4.6

Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano

6401 E Lloyd Expy #3, Evansville, IN 47715

The atmosphere, food and the service was beyond phenomenal. Our waiter was phenomenal and for it only being his second week there, he rocked it

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb168 Reviews4.3

Bistro 501

501 Main St, Lafayette, IN 47901

Absolutely hands down the finest restaurant in Lafayette. From the moment you enter it has the best staff taking care of you. Friendliest bartenders, har...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb90 Reviews4.6

East End Grill

1016 Main St, Lafayette, IN 47901

Wonderful birthday dinner for my son and his friends. The staff were wonderful. The food was amazing. The price was extremely reasonable. Thank you for d...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb148 Reviews4.7

El Taco Real

935 Hoffman St, Hammond, IN 46327

Been going there for over 25 years. Real authentic Mexican food. Some and tostadas was our choice of the day.

Take-Out

Delivery

Good131 Reviews3.9

Johnel's Restaurant

4145 Calumet Ave, Hammond, IN 46320

Far from the madding crowd of Chicago, we hit this restaurant on our way out of Chicago back to Pennsylvania. It was nice not to have to fight traffic/ p...

Take-Out

Delivery

Good101 Reviews3.5

Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar

823 E Westfield Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46220

The menu descriptions list the ingredients well, but some of them I just didn't know what they were due to my ignorance of French.
The host...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb154 Reviews4.4

Runcible Spoon

412 E 6th St, Bloomington, IN 47408

Amazing breakfast/brunch at Runcible Spoon. Everything we ordered (corned beef hash, smoked salmon benedict, pancakes, etc.) were outstanding. The dish...

Take-Out

Delivery

Good140 Reviews4

Samira Restaurant

100 W 6th St, Bloomington, IN 47404

We came in to downtown with a reservation for dinner at Che Bello. After literally being ignored for 20-30 minutes after being seated we walked out and w...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb96 Reviews4.4

Lennie's Brewpub

514 E Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408

We had a group is 13 people and everyone had a great time at Lennie’s!! The food/drinks were exceptional!! Also, the service was spectacular! Kelsey w...

Take-Out

Superb171 Reviews4.5

Sauced

1113 Parrett St, Evansville, IN 47713

The food is good. Not great by any means, but good Italian food. The service is good like always, and the atmosphere is cozy. What I can’t get over is th...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb65 Reviews4.6

Turoni's Pizzery & Brewery

408 N Main St, Evansville, IN 47711

Super slow service. Told it would be maybe a 30 Minute wait that turned into a hour wait to get seated. Ordered our food with our drink order and 50 minu...

Take-Out

Drive-Through

Superb103 Reviews4.4

Paula's On Main

1732 W Main St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed everything about our dinner at Paula's On Main. The atmosphere was charmingly rustic. The fish was very fresh and...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb105 Reviews4.7

Fort Wayne's Famous Coney Island

131 W Main St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802

If ever in Fort Wayne. No better place to stop then here! What a place to eat and experience!

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb292 Reviews4.7

Baker Street Steakhouse

4820 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

We had made reservations for table # 2 over 6 weeks prior to celebrate our 53rd wedding anniversary on Saturday October 19, 2024. I also called 2 days pr...

Take-Out

Delivery

Good336 Reviews4.2

CINCO International

112 W Colfax Ave, South Bend, IN 46601

Food was great! Service was phenomenal. The other places serving Thai downtown have really gone down hill, so I'm glad this place hit the mark! I ha...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb88 Reviews4.5

Mountain Jacks Steakhouse

4211 South St, Lafayette, IN 47905

Best filet mignon I've ever had. One of the best dining experiences I've had too

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb187 Reviews4.3

Recently Opened Restaurants

Wild Eggs

1279 N Emerson Ave Suite A-1, Greenwood, IN 46143

Kayla took great care of us! Food and service was wonderful. They have just opened and were very busy but we felt that everything went very smooth consid...

Superb39 Reviews4.5

Shin Dig

1351 Roosevelt Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

We were greeted when we walked in. We didn't have a reservation and was told the waiter would be about 15 minutes however, we were seated in a out 5...

Take-Out

Superb49 Reviews4.6

CM Korean Fried Chicken (indianapolis)

2236 E 62nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46220

One of the best fried chicken I've ever had! It was the garlic chicken. I love the crisp.

Delivery

Superb10 Reviews4.3

Han Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

6342 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46250

I was taken here for my birthday dinner. This was my first visit and I know I will definitely return! The staff from the moment we walked in was pleasant...

Take-Out

Superb10 Reviews4.5

The Alchemist

1660 Bellefontaine St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

My favorite kind of coffee shop is one that feels more like a cozy living room that someone puts thought and care into as opposed to a cafe. The Alchemis...

Superb22 Reviews4.3

magdalena

1127 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203

We recently went on a cruise with Blue Dolphin Charters, and overall, it was a good experience with a few ups and downs. The day started super early, but...

Superb15 Reviews4.6

Cafe Patachou Nickel Plate

8654 E 116th St, Fishers, IN 46038

Great omelettes, coffee and service. A tad noisy but then nobody knows what you're saying when they're talking loudly themselves. Definitely go...

Take-Out

Average8 Reviews3.2

Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse

8487 Union Chapel Rd #240, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Salad bar was awesome. I'm not much of a red meat eater. My wife loves red meat. I thought most of the meat was overcooked. The shrimp was overcooke...

Superb34 Reviews4.6

Hannah’s Bar N’ Grill ( Indian Cuisine )

6221 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46220

Amazing Indian Cuisine. I ordered this for my daughter in laws birthday party. Everyone raved about the food. The only complaint was we needed more rice ...

Take-Out

Superb12 Reviews4.8

Fire & Ice Café

6211 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46220

I met a couple friends at Fire and Ice for lunch last week. So cozy on a winter day. I had the ham and cheese galette and warm potato salad. Both Delicio...

Take-Out

Superb12 Reviews4.9

ICHIDDO RAMEN

5608 Coldwater Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

Stopped by Ichiddo Ramen on a Saturday afternoon around 3:00 PM. The place was nearly empty, with just one other patron dining, which made for a quiet an...

Take-Out

Good119 Reviews4.2

CRISP & GREEN

6436 E Florida St ste 104, Evansville, IN 47715

I appreciate them so much for bringing a healthy option to Evansville where there are very few.

The inside is beautiful. You're p...

Take-Out

Superb76 Reviews4.4

Mis Tres Potrillos Mexican Restaurant Bar and Grill Terre Haute

1290 Lafayette Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47804

As a lover of all foods Spanish and Mexican, and having been to Spain once before, I can say that Los Tres Potrillos is the closest to traditional Spanis...

Superb108 Reviews4.5

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers

701 E Coliseum Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Finally! Canes is in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I loved their chicken and their fries. The sauce was pretty good and so was their bread. It is truly delicious!

Superb13 Reviews4.6

Culver’s

6244 IN-930, Fort Wayne, IN 46803

My wife, Terry, and I decided to go out for a relatively late dinner tonight, and we chose to visit the new Culver's in New Haven. Before heading ov...

Superb8 Reviews4.6

Recent Reviews

Hong Kong Restaurant

949 N Washington St, Marion, IN 46952

Authentic feel, but the food was not up to par with other Chinese restaurants. Plus, our waitress was clearly not wanting to be there, and took it out. I...

Take-Out

Delivery

Good50 Reviews3.9

Barker's B & K

1100 E Markland Ave, Kokomo, IN 46901

Their money dogs and onion rings were outstanding. Coney sauce is best I've had. Prices are very reasonable 2 of us ate for 9.53. Couldn't beli...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb58 Reviews4.3

A&O Sweet Shop Tavern

1734 High St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808

I was told there were no menus,"Look around and see what others are eating,and that's what we have,"Ordered a hamburger,ketchup,pickles.Wh...

Superb29 Reviews4.7

Hollyhock Hill

8110 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Having been a customer of Hollyhock Hill for over 30 years, I can easily say that the current ownership has turned it into the worst restaurant in Indian...

Delivery

Good190 Reviews4.2

Brass Elk Brewing

333 Nibco Pkwy, Elkhart, IN 46516

We traveled to Elkhart for the GLVC swim meet and ate at Brass Elk two times, both wonderful experiences. Delicious food both times.

Take-Out

Delivery

Good92 Reviews4.2

Noble Roman's Craft Pizza & Pub

1315 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260

Derrick was a very good manager and very accommodating and will be back because he was so nice

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb122 Reviews4.4

BB's Indian Kitchen

3235 N Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805

This is the ONLY authentic Indian restaurant in Fort Wayne. The food was delicious and flavorful. Better than some of the other places I've tried in...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb178 Reviews4.9

Koroke Asian Cuisine

3901 45th St, Highland, IN 46322

It's been a long time since I've gotten good Chinese food around here but this place was awesome. Everything tasted fresh and great flavor. Hig...

Take-Out

Drive-Through

Good65 Reviews4.2

Pizza X West

1610 W 3rd St, Bloomington, IN 47404

Yes we called to have a pizza delivered they delivered pizza here before they cannot work the credit card machine and this time that we ordered pizza and...

Take-Out

Superb37 Reviews4.3

Cafe Royal

1451 S Memorial Dr, New Castle, IN 47362

The original owners are back and so is the quality! We also have changed a few things and now offer Organic Coffee and espresso. Stop by sometime and che...

Take-Out

Drive-Through

Superb41 Reviews4.3

Noodle Alley

2370 Miracle Lane, Mishawaka, IN 46545

I ordered the Chicken Fried rice thru DineIn on 2/9 and thought I received the wrong order as there were no vegetables at all, different rice and raisens...

Take-Out

Delivery

Good41 Reviews4.2

BRU Burger Bar - Noblesville

350 Westfield Rd STE 100, Noblesville, IN 46060

Needed some lunch, this was close to the office. It definitely hit the spot. I'll be back.

Take-Out

Delivery

Good127 Reviews4.1

Incredible India - Fine Dining

7525 E 96th St, Indianapolis, IN 46256

We ate here last night and it was exceptional! We went with a native of India who has been eating here often because he loves the food. They have auth...

Take-Out

Delivery

Superb372 Reviews4.4

The Brass Rail Bar and Grill

225 N Michigan St, Plymouth, IN 46563

The food used to be better. Our onion rings tasted like fish. Our server said it was gross, but never offered a replacement or refund of them.

Take-Out

Good87 Reviews4

WhatchamaCAKES

201 S Main St, Kendallville, IN 46755

I attended a fund raiser at Black Pines Animal Sanctuary and this bakery supplied the most beautiful but also the most DELICIOUS tiger cookies! They were...

Take-Out

Delivery