10 Best Indianapolis Restaurants

Indianapolis is famous for the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. This Indianapolis famous food consists of a large, pounded-thin, breaded, and deep-fried piece of pork loin served on a small bun. Another iconic dish is the St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail, which is an extremely spicy, horseradish-heavy cocktail sauce. Sugar cream pie, the unofficial state pie of Indiana, is also a local specialty. 

The average cost of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Indianapolis is between $15 and $20. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs an average of $70 to $90. Prices for meals at fine-dining establishments start at $85 per person for tasting menus and vary based on the specific restaurant and menu selections.

The most popular fast-food restaurants in Indianapolis include national chains and local favorites known for their speed, price, and classic offerings.

• Steak 'n Shake: A classic American diner-style chain with a strong presence in Indianapolis, it is popular for its affordable Steakburgers, thin fries, and hand-dipped milkshakes. Its quick service and nostalgic feel make it a local favorite. A location is at 4105 E 96th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
• Mug-n-Bun: This is a classic, old-school drive-in restaurant on the west side that has been a local institution since the 1960s. It is popular for its house-made root beer, onion rings, and the iconic Indiana breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, all served quickly via carhops. Located at 5211 W 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46224.
• Chick-fil-A: This national chain is extremely popular in Indianapolis for its consistent quality, fast service, and signature chicken sandwiches. Its reputation for customer service and speed makes it a go-to choice for a quick meal.
• Schoop's Hamburgers: Originating in Northwest Indiana, this regional chain has locations in the Indianapolis area and is known for its "Mickey" burgers, which are smashed thin on the grill until the edges are crispy. It is popular for offering a unique, old-fashioned style of burger.

Some of the new places to eat Indianapolis has recently welcomed are listed below:

• Commission Row: A modern steak and seafood restaurant located downtown across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, offering an upscale experience with a raw bar and extensive wine list. Located at 110 S Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
• Good Omen: An intimate restaurant in the Broad Ripple neighborhood that serves a seasonal, multi-course tasting menu in a cozy, minimalist setting. Located at 6027 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220.
• JINYA Ramen Bar: A ramen restaurant in the Fishers Test Kitchen serving authentic, slow-simmered ramen bowls with a wide selection of toppings. Located at 9713 District N Dr Suite 100, Fishers, IN 46037.

The most upscale restaurants in Indianapolis such as Vida and St. Elmo Steak House provide elegant settings and refined food, making them ideal for special occasions. Listed below are the fancy restaurants in Indianapolis known for offering top-tier dining experiences:

• St. Elmo Steak House: This historic steakhouse is an Indianapolis institution. Its elegant, classic atmosphere with dark wood and professional service makes it a top choice for a special occasion. It is famous for its prime steaks and iconic shrimp cocktail.
• Vida: Vida is a modern American restaurant with a sleek, sophisticated atmosphere. It is the only restaurant in the state to hold a AAA Four-Diamond rating since its opening, making it perfect for a celebratory meal featuring its seasonal tasting menus.
• Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse: Located downtown, this steakhouse offers an elegant, upscale atmosphere with a menu of classic steakhouse fare, including prime steaks, chops, and seafood towers. It is a go-to spot for a luxurious dining experience.

The best diners in Indianapolis serve classic American breakfast in a nostalgic, old-school setting. Listed below are the top diners that Indianapolis residents go to for their hearty, no-frills morning meals:

• Shapiro's Delicatessen: A landmark Jewish deli since 1905, Shapiro's has an old-school cafeteria-style vibe. It is famous for its breakfast sandwiches with pastrami or corned beef, and its matzo ball soup is available all day.
• Charlie Brown's Pancake & Steak House: This diner has a classic, retro vibe and is a local institution for breakfast. It is known for its large, fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and traditional biscuits and gravy.
• The Workingman's Friend: While famous for its burgers, this historic, cash-only dive bar serves a simple, classic breakfast in an authentic, old-school setting, making it one of the essential breakfast restaurants Indianapolis has to offer.

Yes, many restaurants in Indianapolis offer a brunch menu, especially on weekends. The brunch spots in Indianapolis range from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, as shown below:

• Cafe Patachou: This is one of the most popular brunch spots in the city, with multiple locations. It is known for its bright, modern cafe atmosphere and a menu that uses local ingredients, featuring dishes like cinnamon toast and broken yolk sandwiches.
• Milktooth: Located in a former auto-repair shop, Milktooth is a nationally acclaimed brunch-only restaurant. Its brunch is special because of its unique, chef-driven menu that changes seasonally and includes creative dishes like sourdough waffles and lamb patty melts.
• Gallery Pastry Bar: Among the cute brunch places Indianapolis has, this spot offers a chic, modern atmosphere. Its brunch is special for its bottomless mimosas and a menu that combines sweet pastries with savory dishes like croque madames.

Indianapolis has a selection of restaurants that serve vegan food. Black Leaf Vegan is a family-owned, 100% plant-based restaurant serving vegan comfort food like Vegan Chili Cheese Fries and Mac and "Cheese." 10th Street Diner is another fully vegan spot with a retro diner feel, serving dishes like a Vegan Reuben and Seitan Wings. Broad Ripple Brewpub offers a dedicated vegetarian menu with many vegan options, including a Vegan Fish and Chips.

Many restaurants in Indianapolis serve gluten-free food. Vida, an upscale restaurant, can accommodate gluten-free requests for its tasting menus. Cafe Patachou has a gluten-free menu and offers gluten-free bread for its sandwiches. Bluebeard, a farm-to-table restaurant, has a menu that changes daily and can accommodate gluten-free diners with its focus on fresh ingredients. Shapiro's Delicatessen offers gluten-free bread for its famous deli sandwiches.

The most famous types of food in Indianapolis reflect its Midwestern roots and a growing modern food scene.

• American / Steakhouse: Indianapolis is a classic steak-and-potatoes city. It is famous for its historic steakhouses like St. Elmo and its many pubs and diners serving American comfort food, including the iconic pork tenderloin sandwich.
• Italian: The city has a strong Italian heritage, which is reflected in the many restaurants serving traditional Italian-American food, from neighborhood spots to upscale establishments on Mass Ave.
• New American: A growing number of restaurants focus on a modern, chef-driven approach to American food, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. These establishments are popular for their innovative tasting menus and farm-to-table ethos.