10 Best Restaurants in Indianapolis You Can't Miss | Indy Luxury Rentals

10 Best Restaurants in Indianapolis

9/18/2024

A gourmet plate of lasagna is presented with layers of meat, cheese, and pasta, topped with a delicate cheese crisp. A hand sprinkles seasoning from above, adding a final touch. The dish is accompanied by a glass of red wine, olive oil, and seasoning bottles in the background, set on an elegant dining table.

Indianapolis is more than just the home of the Indy 500; it's a hidden gem in the food world. In fact, Indy was named the most 'Underrated Food City in America' by Condé Nast Traveler, and for good reason. The city's culinary scene is booming with everything from beloved, long-standing favorites to exciting new eateries. From wood-fired pizzas to down-home comfort food, Indy's dining spots have something for everyone.

And let's face it—every memorable trip begins and ends with a great meal! When you stay at Villa on Meridian, you’re in the heart of the action—close to all the best food spots near Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and the Convention Center.

So, let's dive into some of the best places to eat while you're in town!

1. Iozzo’s Garden of Italy - A Taste of Authentic Italian Cuisine

A plate of angel hair pasta is elegantly presented, topped with creamy shrimp sauce, fresh herbs, and garnished with chopped parsley. The dish is served on a white plate, with a sprig of basil leaves placed in the center, offering a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.

Location: 946 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Family-owned, cozy, and perfect for an authentic Italian meal.

Just two blocks from Villa on Meridian, Iozzo’s Garden of Italy offers old-world charm with real, authentic Italian recipes. This family-owned spot has been serving delicious meals for generations, offering a menu packed with traditional Italian fare. They even have a coffee bar to pair with their house-made desserts. Whether you're craving a pasta dish or want to sip wine in their beautiful outdoor seating area, every bite here tells a story of rich Italian heritage.

2. Shapiro’s Delicatessen - Tasty Sandwiches Made From Locally Sourced Ingredients

Location: 808 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Casual cafeteria-style with big portions of comfort food.

A block away from Villa on Meridian, Shapiro’s Delicatessen has been serving hearty Kosher-style dishes since 1905. Known for its massive sandwiches and nostalgic, cafeteria-style dining, Shapiro’s is a must for anyone seeking a true taste of Indianapolis’ food history. Pop in for a quick bite or grab a meal to-go before heading out for a day of exploring downtown.

3. Slippery Noodle Inn - Indiana’s Oldest Bar

A juicy cheeseburger is served on a wooden board, featuring a beef patty topped with melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles, all encased in a toasted bun. To the side, a portion of golden French fries completes the classic meal, set against a neutral background.

Location: 372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Laid-back with a touch of nostalgia and old Indianapolis charm

Looking for a bit of history with your meal? The Slippery Noodle is Indiana’s oldest continuously operating full bar, just 2 ½ blocks from Villa on Meridian. With live blues bands, good food, and a great atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot to unwind with friends after a day of exploring. Plus, the place is packed with cool history, including ties to the Prohibition era and even gangster lore.

4. St. Elmo Steakhouse - The Perfect Date Night Spot

Location: 127 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Historic and elegant with a legendary menu.

You can't talk about dining in Indianapolis without mentioning St. Elmo Steakhouse. Located just minutes from Lucas Oil Stadium, this legendary spot has been serving steaks and seafood since 1902. Known for its fiery Shrimp Cocktail (seriously, it packs a punch), St. Elmo’s offers a dining experience you won’t soon forget. It's the perfect spot to enjoy their tasting menu with a date or for a special celebration.
Their Shrimp Cocktail we mentioned above is actually world-famous - so make sure to order some the next time you’re in!

5. Pier 48 Fish House & Oyster Bar - Seafood Lovers’ Paradise

Location: 130 S Pennsylvania St Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Vibe: Casual and coastal, with fresh seafood flown in daily.

Craving some fresh seafood? Pier 48 brings the flavors of the East Coast to the East Side of Indy. Located across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Pier 48 is perfect for anyone looking to dive into fresh seafood after a day at the game. Whether you're a fan of oysters or lobster, Pier 48 offers a taste of the sea right in the heart of Indy.

6. Barringer’s Tavern - A Southside Tradition

A well-stocked bar featuring a wide variety of liquor bottles, including whiskey, rum, gin, and tequila, is displayed behind a polished countertop.

Location: 2535 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: A dive bar with new age appeal and live music on Saturday nights

A southside institution since 1879, Barringer’s Tavern is a fun spot to hang out with friends, enjoy live music, try out some local beer, and dig into hearty comfort food. Just a few blocks from the Villa, Barringer’s is a great spot to grab a casual meal and experience a true piece of Indianapolis history.

7. The Eagle’s Nest - Wine and Dine with Skyline Views

A sophisticated table setting features four glasses of rosé wine, elegantly arranged around a candle in the center. The soft glow from the candlelight and surrounding decor creates a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a fine dining experience.

Location: 1 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Vibe: Upscale and romantic, with revolving, panoramic views of the city.

For an unforgettable dining experience, head to The Eagle’s Nest, located in the Hyatt Regency. This revolving rooftop restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of the Indy skyline and a fine dining menu to match. Whether it’s a special occasion or you just want to enjoy an elegant dinner with breathtaking views, The Eagle’s Nest delivers on all fronts.

8. Chef JJ’s – Kamado-Style Grilling at Its Finest

Location: 42 W South St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Laid-back, Kamado-style grilling spot perfect for foodies who love grilling.

Chef JJ’s offers a unique, hands-on dining experience, specializing in kamado-style grilling. Whether you’re there for a team-building event or just want to enjoy a perfectly grilled meal, Chef JJ’s focuses on high-quality, innovative dishes served in a casual and fun setting.

9. The Hangar - Food and Fun

Location: 501 Madison Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Vibe: Playful and energetic, with fun activities like golf simulators and pedal pubs.

The Hangar is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. From golf simulators to pedal pubs, it’s the go-to spot for fun in Indy. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with a great menu and activities, such as charcuterie boards, e-bike rentals, gold simulators and more, makes it a fantastic place you don't want to miss.

10. Mt. Fuji - Hibachi Fun and Sushi Rolls

A neatly arranged plate of sushi rolls featuring fresh salmon, cucumber, and rice wrapped in seaweed. The dish is accompanied by a garnish of crisp green lettuce on the side, presented on a white plate against a soft yellow background.

Location: 49 W Maryland St Unit C12, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Vibe: Interactive and lively, with hibachi grills and fresh sushi.

For a dining experience that’s as entertaining as it is delicious, head to Mt. Fuji for hibachi-style meals prepared right in front of you. Located in Circle Centre Mall, it’s the perfect spot for a fun night out, complete with fresh sushi and fantastic hibachi options.

Follow the TravelingFoodieGuyde for More Local Spots

Want more food inspiration while you're in Indy? Follow the TravelingFoodieGuyde on Instagram! His feed is packed with mouth-watering food recommendations from all around the city, and he’s got the best tips for foodies looking to discover hidden gems and local favorites.

Stay at Villa on Meridian in Downtown Indy and Enjoy the Best of Indy's Dining Scene

After exploring Indy's incredible food scene, you'll love returning to Villa on Meridian, located close to Fountain Square, for a relaxing, comfortable stay. Located just minutes from the city's top restaurants, it's the perfect place to rest after a day (or night) of eating your way through Indianapolis. Whether you're here for the weekend or a longer stay, Villa on Meridian is your home away from home.

Book your stay today and start planning out your food stops in Indy!

0 Comments

Villa Blog