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, 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.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
If there’s one dish that’s basically synonymous with Indianapolis, it’s Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches. It’s 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).
You’ll find pork tenderloins all over town, but a few spots are extra special. Head to The Aristocrat Pub in Broad Ripple for one of the best traditional takes. It’s crispy, juicy, and loaded with Midwestern charm.
Photo Credit: The Aristocrat
St. Elmo Steak House Shrimp Cocktail
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.
Glazed Yeast Donuts at 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.
Dutch Baby Pancake at 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.
Pizza in Indianapolis
Indy might not be the first place you think of for pizza, but locals know the city can hold its own for pizza lovers. Two standouts:
- Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza – An Eastside favorite with creative toppings and a laid-back vibe.
- Bazbeaux Pizza – A Broad Ripple and Mass Ave staple known for their thin crust and loads of fresh toppings.
No matter which you choose, you’ll leave happy and full.
Chicken Wings at 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.
Indy’s Craft Beer Scene
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.
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!
