When someone says “Indianapolis restaurants”, you probably think more along the lines of pork tenderloins the size of your head rather than cutting-edge culinary arts. And hey, those tenderloin sandwiches definitely have their greasy glory. But somewhere between racing around the oval track and giving Peyton Manning a standing ovation, Indy has quietly assembled a full starting lineup of seriously tasty restaurants that foodies can no longer ignore.
Turns out, amongst all the farmland and wholesome Hoosier hospitality, this city has been holding out on us. Behind Indianapolis’ humble midwestern facade, a Foodtopia has emerged filled with top chefs, eclectic eateries, and more hidden gem restaurants than there are ears on the Indy 500 trophy. I’m talking everything from tres chic cafes slinging European fare to exposed brick haunts with Vietnamese street food that would make Anthony Bourdain weep tears of joy into his phở bowl.
So buckle up for the culinary ride of a lifetime through the underrated food dimension known as Indianapolis. Ahead, we’ll make some of the best stomach-rumbling pit stops at local restaurants that are taking Indy’s flavors from flyover city to foodie mecca.
The 7 Best Restaurants in Indianapolis
We’re talking inventive takes on comfort classics, global spice bringing the heat, and avant-garde masterpieces that redefine farm-to-table. Don’t worry about racing to finish—with cuisine this good, you’ll want to savor every bite on the quest to discover Indy’s tastiest restaurants.
Conner’s Kitchen + Bar
Conner’s Kitchen + Bar is an upscale American eatery offers craft beers, craft cocktails, and a great dining experience. The restaurant offers elevated American fare for brunch, lunch, and dinner. You’ll also find a late-night menu and a selection of regional and craft beers. Conner’s offers a casual setting where you can enjoy savory Midwestern appetizers and wood-smoked entrees.
For cocktails, you can enjoy one of the many specialty drinks and regional craft beers. There’s also a cocktail bar featuring connoisseurs of classic cocktails, premium international wines, and light bites. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. It has a sidewalk patio and features an alcohol-lit wall. The prices are reasonable, with most dishes costing between $10 and $20.
Service options: Dine-in | Takeaway | Delivery
OP Italian Indy
OP Italian Indy offers authentic Italian dishes in a modern setting. The restaurant offers an open kitchen and communal tables. It also has a wine room with a selection of vintages. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. OP Italian’s menu includes dishes such as short rib pizza and tomato braised lamb shank. OP Italian has won the Diner’s Choice Award from OpenTable.
Indy’s expansive food scene has helped the city shed its “flyover” reputation. While it’s known for its large number of chain restaurants, there’s also a thriving independent scene. The city’s neighborhoods are home to an impressive range of dining experiences. The city’s Italian-style cuisine has everything from traditional to creative dishes.
The restaurant’s menu is extensive. From breakfast to lunch, OP Italian offers a diverse menu and an expansive wine list. Its deli offers a selection of Italian, European, and American fare, including sandwiches and salads. The deli’s famous rye bread is a must-order, as is the pepper beef sandwich. Other dishes include all-beef franks and a Reuben sandwich.
Service options: Dine-in | Takeaway | No delivery
Long’s Bakery
This local institution is a must-try for those visiting the city. This cash-only establishment serves a wide range of pastries and treats. The ambiance is unfailingly cozy and welcoming. The artisan-made items here are both delicious and affordable. To put it simply, Long’s Bakery is home to some of Indianapolis’ best doughnuts.
The restaurant was first opened in 1894, and it’s been a family favorite for generations. Aside from doughnuts, Long’s Bakery also offers a wide selection of other baked goods and drinks. Their chocolate milk and frappes are outstanding. In addition to delicious pastries and a good coffee, Long’s Bakery is known for its friendly staff.
Long’s Bakery makes thousands of yeast and soft cake donuts daily. There are two locations in Indy, and each location offers a wide variety of fresh-baked goodies. Famous for their blueberry and applesauce donuts, Long’s Bakery also has other traditional bakery items.
Service options: Takeaway | No dine-in | No delivery
Livery
Livery Restaurant is Indy’s award-winning restaurant that offers a modern atmosphere and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. You can order a variety of entrees at affordable prices. In addition, you can enjoy the views from the rooftop terrace.
This upscale restaurant features the best ingredients, including local produce. The menu focuses on dishes that are seasonal and sourced locally. The chefs’ menus are based on traditional Italian cooking. The restaurant serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. It also offers an extensive wine list and offers live music.
The Livery serves a variety of traditional and unique dishes. Some menu items include chicken tikka masala, slow-cooked in a creamy red sauce. Another popular dish is goat beets. These are dry masala-rubbed beets. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options and chapati.
Service options: Dine-in | Kerbside pickup | No delivery
Vida
Vida is a contemporary American restaurant that embodies worldly influence and modern cooking techniques. The restaurant features a seasonally changing menu, as well as a Chef’s tasting menu. In addition, the restaurant is also the only restaurant in Indiana to earn AAA four-diamond status. It is a relatively new restaurant that has already received 4-diamond honors.
The menu is full of high-minded dishes that are visually appealing. You can try dishes like crispy squab with a spiced carrot mousse and huckleberry-habanero gastrique. The atmosphere is relaxed, which makes it an ideal place to meet friends or family for a dinner date. The interior is modern and features a cool blue and a range of beige colors.
Service options: Dine-in | Takeaway | No delivery
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is a fine-dining steakhouse that specializes in dry-aged steaks. The restaurant also offers fresh seafood flown in daily. The restaurant is located in the Conrad Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. Guests will enjoy an upscale ambiance and award-winning wine collection. They can reserve a private dining room or use the patio for a romantic dinner. This restaurant is a great option for any occasion and offers an extensive menu of classic and modern American dishes.
Besides serving heart-wrenching steaks, The Capital Grille is also home to a vegetarian menu with vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. This restaurant also offers valet parking. The Capital Grille is a wonderful place to celebrate a sports game. In addition to steaks, the city has some excellent grills and steakhouses. While you are in Indianapolis, you might want to try a Cuban sandwich cafe or a high-end burger restaurant. In addition to their great food, these Indianapolis high-end restaurants have unique settings that make them a great choice.
Service options: Dine-in | Takeaway | No delivery
Burger Theory at Holiday Inn Indianapolis Airport
Burger Theory at Holiday Inn Indianapolis Airport is a family-friendly restaurant serving burgers and more made-to-order with quality ingredients. The Burger Theory Indy has a rustic-chic concept and energetic waitstaff make for a fun, relaxing atmosphere. The menu features six specialty burgers, as well as mini desserts and a wide selection of local craft beers.
Service options: Dine-in | Takeaway | No delivery
