Indianapolis’s Culinary Landscape: 50+ Must-Try Restaurants

By rpmindiana

April 21, 2025

Indianapolis has truly blossomed into a dynamic and diverse culinary destination, offering far more than just its famous pork tenderloins. This guide delves into the heart of Indy’s food scene, highlighting over 50 restaurants that showcase the city’s rich tapestry of flavors, from upscale fine dining to casual global eats.

Downtown Indianapolis

1. St. Elmo Steak House: A legendary institution, serving up prime cuts and the iconic, fiery shrimp cocktail.
2. Vida: An award-winning restaurant with a focus on contemporary American cuisine and an elegant tasting menu.
3. The Fountain Room: A glamorous spot with a supper club vibe, offering elevated classics.
4. Harry & Izzy’s: St. Elmo’s sister restaurant, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent steaks.
5. 1933 Lounge: An upscale lounge located in St. Elmo, perfect for enjoying cocktails and appetizers.
6. The Capital Grille: A sophisticated steakhouse with an extensive wine list.
7. Tony’s of Indianapolis: A modern steakhouse serving huge portions of hand-cut steaks and seafood.
8. Commission Row: Offers the highest quality steaks, chops and seafood in a unique dining and entertainment experience.
9. Slippery Noodle Inn: Indiana’s oldest bar, providing a side of blues music with its pub fare.
10. Mikado: A go-to for high-quality sushi.
11. Subito: Offers delicious soups, sandwiches, and salads.
12. 120 West Bar & Grill at Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites: Offers refined American dishes.
13. Conner’s Kitchen + Bar: Serves contemporary American cuisine.
14. Serliana: A cocktail bar with a focus on elevated drinks.
15. Fat Rooster Diner: A classic American diner experience.

Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave)

16. BODHI: Offers some of the best authentic Thai food in the city.
17. Modita: Serves modern Asian cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and cocktails.
18. Livery: Features Latin American cuisine with a modern twist.
19. Mesh: A local favorite for contemporary American cuisine.
20. R Bistro: Provides an upscale dining experience.
21. The Eagle: Specializes in American cuisine with Southern influences.
22. Union 50: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and American cuisine.

Other Notable Neighborhoods

Fletcher Place

23. Bluebeard: A James Beard-nominated restaurant with a focus on creative American cuisine and local ingredients.
24. Milktooth: Celebrated for its innovative brunch and shared plates.
25. Beholder: Offers experimental American cuisine in a unique, moody setting.
26. Futuro: A popular spot for Detroit-style and Chicago tavern-style pizza.
27. Amara: Showcases innovative dishes from the Indian subcontinent.

South Broad Ripple (SoBro)

28. Mama Carolla’s: Provides a cozy, villa-style setting for authentic Italian dining.
29. Root & Bone: Serves elevated Southern comfort food.
30. Tlaolli: Offers highly-rated Mexican, vegan, and vegetarian dishes.
31. 3 in 1 Restaurant: Known for its delicious Mexican, Salvadoran, and vegan cuisine.
32. GoldLeaf Savory & Sweet: A great spot for beer, wine, and wraps.
33. Gallery Pastry Bar + Bistro: Offers European-inspired pastries and brunch.
34. 9th Street Bistro (Noblesville): Offers a diverse menu inspired by seasonal and local ingredients.

Near Northside

35. Tinker Street: Features a creative, seasonally inspired menu in an intimate setting.
36. Bocca: Serves modern Italian dishes with beautiful outdoor seating.
37. Gather 22: A popular brunch destination with a great patio.

Speedway

38. Che Chori: Known for its authentic Argentinian cuisine, especially empanadas.
39. Borage: A favorite for brunch, dinner, and house-made cafe offerings.

Irvington

40. Strange Bird: A unique blend of tropical rum bar, oyster bar, and ramen spot.

Other Gems Around Indianapolis

41. Our Table (Bargersville): An American bistro with a focus on fresh seafood and flatbreads.
42. Shapiro’s Delicatessen: A classic deli famous for its piled-high sandwiches.
43. Cafe Patachou: A beloved spot for breakfast and lunch, emphasizing local ingredients.
44. Long’s Bakery: Famous for its glazed yeast donuts and other pastries.
45. Workingman’s Friend: A no-frills spot for classic smash burgers.
46. Bazbeaux Pizza: Offers unique pizza combinations on thin crust.
47. Yats: A local favorite for Cajun and Creole cuisine.
48. Iozzo’s Garden of Italy: Serves authentic Italian cuisine.
49. Prime 47: An upscale steakhouse.
50. Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood: Another top spot for steak and seafood.
51. Late Harvest Kitchen: Offers contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
52. The Rathskeller: A historic German restaurant and beer garden.
53. Anthony’s Chophouse: An upscale steakhouse with a refined atmosphere.
54. Oakley’s Bistro: Known for its fine dining and seasonal menus.