10 Best Evansville Restaurants

Evansville is famous for specific regional dishes like the fried brain sandwich, Grippo's Bar-B-Q potato chips, and the citrus soda, Ski. These items represent a unique part of the city's food culture that sets it apart from other Midwestern towns. The brain sandwich, a deep-fried pork or calf brain delicacy served on a bun, is a historical food item that draws curious food tourists. Grippo's chips, made in nearby Cincinnati, have a strong following in Evansville for their distinct sweet and spicy barbecue flavor. Ski soda is another regional favorite that is a staple beverage in the area. The city is also at the northern edge of the western Kentucky barbecue belt, known for smoked mutton.

The average cost for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Evansville is between $15 and $25 per person. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs between $50 and $90. At fine dining establishments, prices for a meal can start at $40 per person and increase based on selections.

Evansville's fast-food offerings include all the major national brands, with McDonald's and Taco Bell being very popular choices for a quick meal. The area also has a strong presence of Rally's, while the locally-owned Hacienda is a must-try for a fast-casual Tex-Mex experience. Other popular fast food restaurants in Evansville are shown below:

• McDonald's: Known for its Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, and World Famous Fries.
• Taco Bell: Serves Mexican-inspired items like the Crunchwrap Supreme and Doritos Locos Tacos.
• Rally's: A double drive-thru chain famous for its seasoned fries, burgers, and milkshakes.
• Wendy's: Offers square-patty burgers, the Frosty dessert, and chili.
• Burger King: Known for its flame-grilled Whopper sandwich.
• Chick-fil-A: A popular spot for its original chicken sandwich and waffle potato fries.
• Arby's: Specializes in roast beef sandwiches and curly fries.
• Subway: Offers made-to-order submarine sandwiches.
• Hacienda: An Indiana-based chain serving Tex-Mex favorites like the Wet Burrito in a quick-service format.
• Zaxby's: A chain specializing in chicken fingers, wings, and sandwiches.

Evansville’s new restaurants include Lobo Lounge which has brought an inventive menu of tacos and burgers to the Jacobsville neighborhood. Big M's Pizzeria introduced authentic New York-style pizza by the slice to the same area. Other newly opened restaurants are shown below:

• The Lobo Lounge: A neighborhood bar in a historic building serving smash burgers, birria tacos, and craft cocktails.
• Big M's Pizzeria: A counter-service spot on North Main Street specializing in large, foldable New York-style pizza slices and whole pies.
• Crumbl Cookies: A national franchise that opened a location in the Evansville area, known for its rotating weekly menu of large gourmet cookies.
• The Rooftop: An upscale restaurant and bar located on the top floor of the new Post House in downtown Evansville, offering food, drinks, and city views.
• Taco Bar: A new establishment on the east side offering a menu of street tacos and other Mexican dishes.

Downtown Evansville is a central hub for some of the city's best dining, with a concentration of restaurants along Main Street and the surrounding blocks. These establishments offer a mix of casual and upscale experiences.

• Schymik's Kitchen: An American restaurant with a seasonal menu that focuses on fresh ingredients, located in the Haynie's Corner Arts District on the edge of downtown.
• Cavanaugh's on the River: An upscale steakhouse inside the Bally's Evansville casino, known for its steaks, seafood, and views of the Ohio River.
• The Rooftop: A modern restaurant and bar situated atop the Post House, providing food, cocktails, and panoramic views of the city.
• Angel's Pizza: A casual spot on Main Street serving pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.
• Milano's Italian Cuisine: A long-standing restaurant offering traditional Italian-American dishes in a classic setting.

Yes, there are many lunch spots in Evansville worth trying. The Granola Jar is a popular cafe that serves from-scratch sandwiches, salads, and baked goods in a bright, modern space. Pangea Kitchen offers authentic Neapolitan-style pizza and house-made gelato for a unique lunch experience. For a classic deli-style meal, Schlotzsky's is a go-to for its signature round sandwiches on sourdough bread.

Yes, Evansville has good places for dinner that fit different occasions and tastes, ranging from historic taverns and casual eateries to intimate, chef-driven restaurants. Franco's Tavola Calda provides an authentic, upscale Sicilian dining experience in a small, personal setting run by the chef-owner. For a classic American steakhouse meal, Cavanaugh's on the River offers premium steaks and seafood with views of the Ohio River. Deerhead Pizza Tavern is a historic and casual choice, perfect for its famous double-decker pizza and a laid-back atmosphere. Schymik's Kitchen in the Haynie's Corner Arts District presents a seasonal, contemporary American menu in a stylish environment.

Evansville has restaurants that serve vegan food, including Yak and Yeti and Pangea Kitchen. Yak and Yeti Himalayan Cuisine offers a number of vegetable-based curries and dishes from its Indian and Nepalese menu that are vegan. Pangea Kitchen has vegan options for its Neapolitan pizzas and serves house-made vegan gelato. The Granola Jar provides plant-based choices for breakfast and lunch, such as avocado toast and salads. Some Mexican restaurants like La Campirana can also prepare vegan versions of their dishes upon request.

Restaurants in Evansville that serve gluten-free food include Schymik's Kitchen and The Granola Jar. Schymik's Kitchen offers a seasonal menu and can accommodate gluten-free requests for many of its contemporary American dishes. The Granola Jar has gluten-free bread available for its sandwiches and toasts, as well as other gluten-free menu items. Pangea Kitchen also provides a gluten-free crust option for its Neapolitan-style pizzas.

Evansville's most famous cuisines are American comfort food and German. The city's location in Southern Indiana and its history of German settlement have shaped its food culture. Listed below are the most common and popular cuisines in Evansville.

• American: This is the most prevalent cuisine, with a focus on Midwestern comfort food. Dishes like fried chicken, breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, and classic burgers are staples on many local menus at taverns and family restaurants.
• German: Evansville has a strong German heritage, which is celebrated with annual festivals and reflected in its food. Restaurants and butcher shops serve traditional items like bratwurst, schnitzel, and sauerkraut balls.
• Pizza: The city has a long-standing pizza culture with many neighborhood taverns and pizzerias. Local styles include the unique double-decker pizza from Deerhead Pizza Tavern and thin-crust pizzas found at many local spots.
• Tex-Mex: Tex-Mex is a very popular cuisine in Evansville, with local chains like Hacienda and numerous family-owned restaurants serving favorites like burritos, fajitas, and margaritas.
• Barbecue: Situated near the Western Kentucky barbecue region, Evansville has access to this specific style of barbecue, which is known for its focus on smoked mutton served with a tangy dip.