Who’s up for finding some new favorite restaurants? Indiana’s food game is pretty fierce, so uncovering great places to eat is pretty easy. However, we’ve kicked it up a notch with this collection of mouthwatering restaurants that you absolutely have to try. Dig in!
1. Thai Spice - Indianapolis
Located just on the cusp of Greenwood and Indianapolis, it’s easy to almost drive right by this gem. This place has some of the best Thai food you’ll find in the state and always offers up heaping portions. Be warned: it’s called Thai Spice for a reason. Don’t try to brave the "hot," "extra hot," or "Thai hot" heat levels if you don’t think you can take it. Work your way up with "mild" or "medium" first. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to try out this prolific menu; once you eat here, you won’t be able to stay away.
2. The Pour Haus - Tell City
Tucked away in Tell City is this amazing example of American pub food done oh so right. Their take on the blooming onion called a "River Blossom" is beyond amazing. They also have great beer selections and a fun, industrial feel to the place. Other favorites include their pork chop and BBQ pulled pork.
3. Mi Casa Restaurante - Seymour
How could you turn down out of this world tacquitos, homemade salsa, and Hawaiian fajitas from a local joint? Mi Casa Restaurante has superb Mexican food which is available to eat in the restaurant and for takeout. Plus, the prices are so reasonable, you’ll find yourself trying out as many menu options as possible.
4. Pea-Fections Culinary Connections - Vincennes
This restaurant/cooking school offers up some truly amazing culinary masterpieces that are perfect alternatives to greasy lunches. From their own unique take on gumbo to chicken salads and delicious sandwiches, there’s something for everyone to love here. The true magic happens when you order dessert though. The most-requested item? Their famous bread pudding (though you can’t go wrong with any dessert here!).
5. Sunrise Cafe Uptown - Noblesville
Looking for your new favorite breakfast or brunch spot? Sunrise Cafe Uptown will keep your coffee cup full while you dine on some of the best breakfast foods around. The corn beef hash, eggs benedict, biscuits and gravy, and eggs florentine are some of the most popular dishes to try. Waking up early has never tasted better.
6. Mesh - Indianapolis
Mesh is nestled in the midst of the thriving Mass Ave district of downtown Indianapolis and never disappoints. The atmosphere is quite unique, with a romantic or intimate feel to the room and is great for special occasions, as well as normal dinners out. One tip: make a reservation. This place gets packed fast. Be sure to try the duck, frittes, or lobster bisque at least once. And don’t forget to try their brunch!
7. Guru Authentic Indian Cuisine - Chesterton
With an all you can eat lunch buffet, Guru in Chesterton makes great Indian food affordable and easy to try out. The naan is top notch and many customers swear by the chicken tikka masala, paneer, and lamb roganjosh. You can also request a specific spice level or take your meal to go if you’re running short on time.
8. Carter’s Nearly World Famous Hot Dogs - Muncie
Any Ball State student knows about this hot spot in Muncie. Carter’s is much more than a hot dog stand; this stand and Carter are local legends around Muncie. Sure, you might have to wait in line for your hot dog, but any resident will tell you that you’d be crazy not to wait. With hand-grated cheese and homemade chili as just a few of the toppings, you’ll get a personalized dog that you’ll never forget.
9. El Chile Poblano - New Castle
Some swear the Mexican food here is just as good as in the South. El Chile Poblano resides in New Castle and offers up some of the best Mexican dishes around. From their unique and toasty version of chicken and rice soup to their raved about carnitas, you’ll quickly fall in love with this hot spot. Vegetarian? No problem. Their vegetarian fajitas are outstanding!
10. Sylvia’s Brick Oven - Lafayette
Sylvia’s is a beloved Italian restaurant located in Lafayette. They have a variety of salads, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, and pastas, and even have vegetarian and dairy-free options. Their homemade sausage and Sylvia’s fettucine (with sauteed chicken, tomatoes, onions, artichokes, and peas) are popular choices. But what captures everyone’s heart here are the extra garlicy garlic knots.
11. Jamaican Reggae Grill - Carmel
If you’ve never experienced Caribbean food before, you have to test it out at Jamaican Reggae Grill in Carmel. From the usual suspects like jerk chicken and a variety of curries to less likely suggestions like fried plantains and rum bread, you’ll be hooked the first time you eat here.
12. Fiddlehead Restaurant - Michigan City
Stop into this awesome American food joint when you have a little extra time to kill. The wait staff is beyond friendly and accommodating and the restaurant uses local, fresh ingredients. They have a fantastic wine selection and a ton of craft beer. Their lobster mac and cheese includes huge, tasty chunks of lobster and their blue gill is perfectly breaded and cooked.
Have any of these mouthwatering restaurants piqued your interest? Did we miss anything that every Hoosier has to try? Let us know!
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