Dine At These 10 Extremely Tiny Restaurants In Indiana That Are Actually Amazing
By Courtney Johnston|Updated on April 07, 2023(Originally published April 06, 2023)
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Courtney Johnston
Author
Courtney's originally from the East Coast, but has found a charming new home in Indiana. She loves checking out local music, reading, and trying new food. She's also a little too addicted to coffee and has a Maine Coon cat she answers to.
Sometimes big things come in small packages, especially when it comes to restaurants. Most Hoosiers know by now not to judge a restaurant by its exterior, but sometimes petite establishments just look too small to deliver amazing food. Of course, the best local restaurants in Indiana prove this stereotype wrong by offering superb service, excellent food, and a fantastic atmosphere. Prepare your taste buds for total indulgence, because you’ll feel right at home with the comfort food at some of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Indiana.
Winter in Indiana can be bitterly cold. As a result, locals often experience cabin fever... and they find themselves craving the irresistible flavors of summertime grillin'. Bravas is famous in Fort Wayne for its fresh burgers (whether beef or veggie). You can't go wrong with their patatas bravas or mac n' cheese as a side choice.
Converse is a historic and charming community with all sorts of surprising culture. In this small community, you'll also find some of the most mouthwatering farm-to-table barbecue anywhere in the area. Jefferson Street BBQ is easily one of the best smokehouses in Indiana. Sure, you might wait a bit on Fridays or Saturdays, but you'll be so glad you did. Try their famous pulled pork nachos, jalapeno corn bread, brisket, or any number of their famous sandwiches (...and don't forget the napkins).
What is it about nostalgia that tastes so good? In some indescribable way, an old-fashioned approach to dining seems to add its own particular flavor to indulgent and familiar dishes. This dive in Washington, Indiana definitely doesn't look like much from the outside, but anyone who's ever been here can tell you that The New White Steamer is the real deal. Their simple yet tasty burgers have been satisfying residents for decades. Their tenderloin and fish sandwiches are also top notch.
Traditionally, the word Nashville would invoke visions of spicy southern-style fried chicken and all sorts of traditional American comfort food. Here in Indiana, well... it conjures up visions of mouthwatering sandwiches. Whether you stop in for breakfast or lunch, you'll fall in love with the charm and quaintness of Our Sandwich Place. From their biscuits and gravy to their hot ham and cheese, this cozy restaurant aims to please with some of the best sandwiches in Indiana.
All of these mouthwatering pictures of food are probably making you hungry, and we don't at all blame you. It's important to remember, however, to save room for a bit of dessert. Ben and Penny's is a tiny place that's well known for their ice cream. Their flavors are inventive and delicious, and their location is gorgeously located right by the river.
Modest yet delicious, there's something for everyone at Lumpy's. With hand-breaded Hoosier tenderloins and an attention to detail that most large restaurants lack, Lumpy's Cafe in Cambridge City is a true gem. With hours ranging from breakfast to lunch time, be sure to double-check before heading over.
Just getting over that weekend drag? Treat yourself to Margarita Monday and Taco Tuesday meals! This dive in Elkhart has some of the best authentic, fast Mexican food around. Expect to cozy up to strangers to get a seat, but trust me, you won't mind, as these are some of the best tacos in Indiana.
Can't get enough of Tex-Mex cuisine? For great burritos, tacos, and more, everyone near La Porte knows to go to Tacos My Fren. Even their guac and salsa is a step above most other Mexican restaurants.
With an owner from Chicago, you know this food is bound to be good. South of Chicago is well known in central Indiana for their Italian beef sandwiches, deep dish Chicago-style pizza, and garlic bread. With multiple locations, you need to give one of these tiny places a try.
Have you ever eaten at any of these diners in Indiana? Did we miss any of the best local restaurants in Indiana? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Indiana is a diverse state when it comes to dining, and your taste buds are sure to enjoy touring The Hoosier State. Check out some of these authentic Indiana restaurants for a unique approach to local restaurants in Indiana.
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More to Explore
Tiny Restaurants In Indiana
Nikki Rhoades|January 26, 2020
Are there other small restaurants in Indiana worth trying?
The best restaurants in Indiana, you’ll find, are often the most unsuspecting. Carolyn’s Country Pizza-Ria has some of the best pizza in the U.S., and that’s just one of many locally coveted eateries.
What are the favorite local restaurants in Indiana?
The best local restaurants in Indiana are hiding in plain sight. Don’t be afraid to explore your community… and don’t be afraid to ask around for suggestions! And for countless suggestions, just do a quick search on our Only In Indiana page.
