Indianapolis is full of surprises. While it might be known to the world for high-speed racing and Hoosier hospitality, ask any local and they’ll tell you: the food scene here is something special. This Midwest city is brimming with diverse restaurants, unpretentious eats, and a handful of dishes that are downright legendary. From timeless staples to inventive twists, Indy has developed a number of culinary traditions that locals treasure and visitors crave.
So if you’re wondering what food Indianapolis is known for, buckle up. I’m sharing my favorite iconic bites that define this city and the meals and munchies that tell the story of Indy—one delicious plate at a time.
What Food Is Indianapolis Known For
Let’s talk favorites. From deep-fried classics to must-try morning fare, Indianapolis has a dish for every appetite. Here’s a breakdown of what you should try when you’re in the Circle City and exactly where to get it.
Popular Food in Indiana
There are many dishes—and restaurants—that define Indianapolis. Each popular option is rooted in Midwestern comfort, agricultural roots, and desserts so good, you’ll never stop thinking about them. I’ll get to my top Indiana restaurants below. But first? Let’s cover the basics: here’s the most popular food options Indianapolis is known for:
First up: the famous pork tenderloin sandwich. This is one dish that’s basically synonymous with Indianapolis, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Picture this: a piece of pork pounded thin, breaded, deep-fried to golden perfection, and served on a bun (usually hilariously smaller than the tenderloin itself).
Then you’ve got the Sugar Cream Pie, which is rich, simple, and somehow still feels elevated. It’s been an Indianapolis classic since the 1800s, when fruit was scarce and pantry staples were all people had. It’s made with vanilla custard, a caramelized cinnamon sugar topping, and a buttery pie crust. (My mouth’s watering just thinking about it!)
Next up: Hoosier Chili. It’s slightly sweeter, thick, and often served over pasta dishes as a go-to comfort food. And more times than not, you’ll find restaurants pairing it with comfort foods like fried chicken, corn on the cob, and casseroles. Hoosier Chili seriously feels like it’s straight out of a family cookbook.
If you’re someone who loves discovering low-key foodie moments, Indianapolis has plenty. Think local dinners, seasonal fairs, and small-town bakeries that will have you thinking about them long after you leave. It’s not overly trendy, just warm, familiar, and delicious.
Now, let’s talk about which restaurants to visit for all of these Indiana favorites:
Nice Places to Eat in Indianapolis
The Aristocrat Pub
Located in Broad Ripple, the Aristocrat Pub has one of the best traditional takes on Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches. Picture a huge hand-break fried-pork cutlet that sits on (teeny) tiny bun, served with a side of coleslaw. It’s one of the restaurants top-selling dishes for a reason. It’s crispy, juicy, and loaded with Midwestern charm.
Their pork tenderloin isn’t all you can enjoy here, though. They also have an incredible lineup of cocktails, desserts, pastas, house specials, sandwiches, and appetizers.
Photo Credit: The Aristocrat
St. Elmo Steak House
Legendary doesn’t even begin to cover it. The shrimp cocktail at St Elmo Steak House is one of Indy’s most iconic dishes—and not just because it’s famous nationally. It’s known for its fire-breathing, sinus-clearing cocktail sauce that’s heavy on the fresh horseradish.
The experience is part thrill ride, part culinary rite of passage, and it’s an absolute must whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong local. Trust me: your nose will tingle, your eyes might water, and you’ll love every second.
Long’s Bakery
Ask any Indianapolis native where to get the best donuts, and Long’s Bakery will be the immediate answer. No frills, no fancy toppings—just perfect, pillowy, melts-in-your mouth glazed yeast donut that is worth the inevitable line out the door.
Pro tip: Bring cash (they’re old-school) and order more than you think you need. One donut is never enough.
Milktooth
Brunch lovers, rejoice. If you haven’t had the Dutch Baby Pancake at Milktooth, are you even brunching in Indy? Located in a converted garage near Fountain Square, Milktooth turns breakfast into an art form.
The Dutch Baby is baked to order, served fluffy and golden with seasonal toppings that change regularly. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to take a photo—and then immediately dive in.
Shapiro’s Delicatessen
You can’t talk about Indy food without mentioning Shapiro’s Delicatessen, a historic institution that’s been around since 1905. This family-owned spot is famous for its piled-high sandwiches and classic deli fare.
- Try the Corned Beef Sandwich if you’re a traditionalist.
- The Pastrami Sandwich is smoky, peppery, and perfect.
- And you can never go wrong with their Reuben, arguably one of the best in the Midwest.
It’s the kind of place that feels like a warm hug from Indianapolis itself.
The Rathskeller
Located in the historic Athenaeum building downtown, The Rathskeller brings serious German flair to the Indy food scene. With hearty bratwursts, giant pretzels, and schnitzels that could feed a small army, it’s the place to go if you’re craving classic German comfort food.
In the summer, their Biergarten is the spot for live music, cold beer, and lots of lederhosen energy.
Good Places to Eat in Indianapolis
Jackamo Upper Crust Pizza
Indy might not be the first place you think of for pizzas, but locals know the city can hold its own for pizza lovers. Jockamo Upper Crust pizza is an Eastside favorite, with creative toppings and a laid-back vibe. Here, you have two options: make your own pizza by customizing the size, sauce, and toppings, or order one of their speciality pizzas, like “Lazyboy,” “The GP,” and “Nacho Fiesta.”
If you’re looking for what food Indianapolis is known for, add pizza to the list. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Bazbeaux Pizza
Another pizza spot, because you can never have too many. Bazbeaux Pizza is loaded with history—and incredible options to choose from. As a local favorite since 1986, your options here are seriously endless. With the cheese pizza, you can add traditional, exotic, or premium toppings, redefining just how well things pair with a little bread and cheese. Or, opt for their speciality pizzas, including options like “The Luke,” “Bayou Chicken,” and “Neptune.” It’s earned its reputation—and it shows!
Ale Emporium
People get seriously passionate about their wings in Indy—and for good reason. Ale Emporium is the gold standard, especially when it comes to their legendary Hermanaki wings (a sweet-savory mashup of teriyaki and their famous Herman sauce).
If you’re a wing lover, consider this your official Indy rite of passage.
Cafe Patachou
Sometimes referred to as the “student union for adults,” Cafe Patachou is one of Indy’s most beloved spots for a healthy but indulgent brunch.
Founded by local restaurateur Martha Hoover, Patachou prides itself on using local, organic ingredients whenever possible. It’s the kind of place you go for a croissant sandwich or their famous cinnamon toast—and leave already planning your next visit.
Sun King Brewery
Indy’s food scene isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about what’s in the pint glass, too. The city has a booming craft beer scene, with local breweries leading the charge.
One of the most famous is Sun King Brewery’s Sunlight Cream Ale, an easy-drinking beer that’s practically an Indy institution. Whether you’re visiting a taproom or grabbing a local brew with lunch, craft beer culture is alive and well in the Circle City.
Yats
Craving bold, Cajun-Creole flavors? Yats is your spot. This laid-back, counter-service restaurant is known for their deeply flavorful stews and rice dishes, all served at super affordable prices.
- The Chili Cheese Etouffee with Crawfish is a signature dish.
- I’m personally obsessed with the Chicken Maque Choux (pronounced “Mock Shoe”).
It’s comfort food at its finest, and once you go once, you’ll probably be back.
The Cake Bake Shop
For a little sprinkle of magic, head to The Cake Bake Shop. This storybook-worthy bakery and restaurant is pure whimsy, offering towering, sparkling cakes alongside full lunch and dinner menus.
Whether you’re stopping in for a slice of their famous Earl’s Court Chocolate Cake or celebrating a special occasion, it feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale—one that’s decked out in glitter and pink peonies.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Indianapolis
The Fountain Room
Named in America’s 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants by People and OpenTable, The Fountain Room is full of chandeliers, velvet banquettes, and a reel-to-reel machine that plays a range of ambient music. It seriously blends 1960s nostalgia with modern fining dining effortlessly.
Aside from the environment, The Fountain Room offers signature dishes that will refine the Indy experience. Think house-baked focaccia, brie brûlée, a raw bar, and world-class steaks. It’s a go-to spot if you’re craving a little elegance!
Harry & Izzy’s
This upscale American Grill is a companion restaurant to St. Elmo Steak House—the very one I mentioned earlier! It’s sophisticated, comfortable, and always has a lively bar scene. Plus, they have a few different locations, including Downtown Indianapolis, Northside Indianapolis, and the Indianapolis Airport, so you can find them pretty much wherever you go!
Expect options like shrimp cocktails, signature sliders, cilantro lime tacos, and South African lobster tail to seriously knock you off your feet.
The Oakmont
A popular restaurant and bar, The Oakmont is known for signature fishes like Tequila Chicken and Steak & Eggs. Located right in downtown Indy, it’s surrounded by notable hotspots that you’ll definitely want to visit after eating. (Think: the Old National Centre, Fountain Square, and local boutiques!)
Its high-energy “gastropub” vibe blends a lively atmosphere with chef-curated food, neon signs, modern art decor, and even a live DJ during weekend brunches! It’s a top-choice if you want to have a totally unique Indy experience.
Yard House
Yard House is one of the most popular (and top-rated!) restaurants in Indianapolis. It sits right near major attractions, like Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the Indiana Convention Center, making quick, easy access one of its most notable characteristics.
But that’s not all Yard House has to offer! It’s a super popular game day spot, with 20+ TVs, house beer flights, and classic dishes, like Chicken Nachos and BBQ Bacon Cheddar Burgers. Great food and a great atmosphere? You can’t beat it!
Indianapolis is known for plenty of food options—you just have to come and find out for yourself!
Indianapolis doesn’t always shout about its food, but it absolutely should. Whether you’re diving into a pork tenderloin sandwich, braving the cocktail sauce at St. Elmo Steak House, or lining up at Long’s Bakery for a warm glazed yeast donut, Indy proves again and again that it knows how to eat!
So, next time someone asks you what food Indianapolis is known for, you’ll know exactly what to say and exactly where to send them. Because in this city, good food is just part of the experience. And whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and delicious to discover.
Ready to plan your next foodie adventure? Be sure to check out more of my Indianapolis food guides like Best Brunch in Indianapolis, Best Coffee in Indianapolis, and Best Restaurants in Indianapolis, and follow along on Instagram @sierrainthecity for even more eats, treats, and hidden gems!
