Known as “The Circle City”, Indianapolis is home to numerous restaurants and attractions that are unique to the city itself. Whether you are planning a romantic night out or even a quick dinner at a local eatery, it is important to do your research to have the best food, drink, and service possible.
With that in mind, in no particular order, here are 15 of the best restaurants in Indianapolis that we think you should try:
1. Bluebeard
Bluebeard is not just a restaurant, it is an experience.
Known for its farm-to-table ingredients and special events, such as immaculate wine tastings, exclusive dinners, and even private dining experiences, this restaurant values an intimate atmosphere with delicious food.
2. The Garage Food Hall
The Garage Food Hall prides itself on community and the idea that great food brings people together. With that in mind, this space is home to a rotating lineup of food vendors and a hotel you can book a stay at to immerse yourself in the experience.
3. Caplinger’s Fresh Catch Seafood Market
Bringing “the taste and freshness of the coast” to downtown Indianapolis, Caplinger’s Fresh Catch Seafood Market includes a full restaurant with ingredients that are fresh to order. All of the warm and delicious meals also include high-quality ingredients with homemade sauces and breading.
So, whether you are looking to pick up some fresh fish, or even sit for a nice meal downtown with friends or family, make Caplinger’s your choice for seafood in Indianapolis.
4. Harry & Izzy’s
If you are looking for an upscale American grill with three distinct locations in the Indianapolis area, then you should try Harry & Izzy’s. Whether you are looking to plan a small gathering or even host a private meal for friends, family, or coworkers, you can trust that the staff at Harry & Izzy’s will accommodate your party for up to 100 guests.
The private dining experience also comes with various menu options to choose from to ensure that all of your guests are satisfied with their meals.
5. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is known for its comfortable elegance, nationally renowned steaks and seafood, and acclaimed world-class wines. With a menu that is meant to engage the senses and delight the customer, you can trust that your meal will be carefully and uniquely crafted with fresh ingredients to exceed your expectations.
6. Mama Carolla’s
If you are looking for unique and authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Indianapolis, Mama Carolla’s delivers both. Deemed one of the most romantic places to eat downtown, this restaurant provides an intimate dining experience with dishes cooked for you as if you were family.
7. The Tamale Place
Since 2003, The Tamale Place has been creating delicious tamales in the Indianapolis area. With their most notable recipe being for their white corn tortillas, this authentic restaurant serves a diverse array of tamales, tacos, and tortas that are made fresh to order.
8. Shapiro’s Deli
With over 100 years of Jewish tradition, Shapiro’s Delicatessen is a family-owned Indianapolis institution. Best known for the piled-high sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and matzo ball soup, they always have Indianapolis residents coming back for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
If you are looking for box lunches and catering for a special event, Shapiro’s Deli can be considered a great option!
9. Ale Emporium
Since 1982, Ale Emporium has been home to “Honest Pizza and World-Famous Hermanaki Wings”. This restaurant also frequently includes live music and Sunday night patio performances at the Indianapolis location if the weather permits.
Overall, if you are looking for a sports pub in the Indianapolis area with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and beers local to the area, Ale Emporium for your next meal out!
10. The Eagle
From having several locations scattered across the east coast and the Midwest, The Eagle is known for its southern-comfort cuisines, such as fried chicken and macaroni and cheese. Accompanied by a cold glass of craft beer, you are able to enjoy your meal in a lively atmosphere with a blues-heavy soundtrack.
11. Bazbeaux Pizza
Pizza lovers far and wide are going to want to get a piece of Bazbeaux Pizza. Their menu includes a diverse assortment of specialty pizzas, such as the Pizza Alla Quatro Formaggio, Colossus, and The Luke for your enjoyment.
Additionally, if you are also looking to host a special event without the hassle of planning, Bazbeaux Pizza will take care of all the finer details to bring your event, whether a birthday party or company function, to fruition!
12. Rick’s Café Boatyard
Located on the waterfront of Eagle Creek’s Reservoir, Rick’s Café Boatyard can be considered dinner with a view. When ordering, you can expect fresh seafood, as well as steaks that are locally sourced for your enjoyment.
Rick’s Café Boatyard also offers a carryout option and opportunities to celebrate your event in one of their private venues.
13. High Velocity
At High Velocity, you will never miss a game accompanied by an American fare or local beer on draft. On gamedays as well, enjoy a unique game day special and pregame, such as an all-star lineup of beers on draft, or even a tailgate of your own in one of our private dining rooms!
14. Livery Restaurant
Livery provides a dining experience that allows you to experiment with the rich flavors of Latin America with every taste. Known for their empanadas and wide selection of top-shelf spirits, cervezas, and tequilas, Livery’s restaurant and private dining options can be considered unique and authentic to the Indianapolis area.
15. Leviathan Bakehouse
Leviathan Bakehouse is the place for you if you are looking for a local-meets-global bakery in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Whether you are looking for a fresh loaf of bread or even looking for a croissant sandwich for on the run, this bakehouse ensures that each order is baked with quality ingredients above all else.
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