What Food is Indianapolis Famous For? 10 Must-Try Local Dishes

When visiting Indianapolis, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find yourself caught up in the city’s unique food scene. It has a lineup of flavors that’ll make you question whether you came for the sights or just the bites. From a shrimp cocktail that’ll clear your sinuses to a classic pork tenderloin sandwich that’s bigger than the plate it sits on, Indy’s food scene is packed with many dishes as memorable as they are delicious.
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So loosen your belt, grab a napkin, and dive into these 10 must-try dishes that showcase the flavors (and quirks) of Indy’s culinary culture.

St. Elmo Steak House Famous Shrimp Cocktail

Start your Indy food adventure with a classic “icebreaker”—and by that, we mean St. Elmo’s legendary shrimp cocktail.

Served with a dollop of cocktail sauce that’s 90% horseradish, this isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a full-on sensory experience. The spice level ranges somewhere between “Wow, that’s bold” to “I might have seen my life flash before my eyes,” but trust us, it’s worth it. It’s been a rite of passage since 1902 for guests to enjoy the atmosphere of their dining room while partaking in this iconic appetizer, so muster up some courage and give it a try!

As an added benefit - St. Elmo Steak House is only 3 blocks away from the Villa on Meridian!

Yats’ Chili Cheese Étouffée with Crawfish

For a taste of New Orleans with a Midwestern twist, head to Yats on Mass Ave and order the chili cheese étouffée with crawfish.
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This signature dish combines a rich, roux-based sauce with chili seasoning, cumin, and coriander, then finishes with cheddar cheese and crawfish tails for a fusion of hearty and comforting flavors. It’s Cajun food with an Indianapolis flair, served up in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that makes Yats a local favorite.

Breaded Pork Tenderloin at Plump’s Last Shot

The breaded pork tenderloin at Plump’s Last Shot is less a sandwich and more a commitment.
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It extends far beyond its comically small bun, with a mouthwatering crispy, golden crust and juicy center. Taking a bite is like tasting a piece of Indiana’s heritage, rooted in German schnitzel tradition but turned into uniquely American cuisine. This tenderloin demands you throw tradition out the window and dive in however you can. Slice it, fold it, stack it—just don’t let it go to waste. Pair it with sweet potato fries, and you’re in for a true Hoosier treat right on broad ripple street!

Shapiro’s Famous Reuben Sandwich

If corned beef and rye had a fan club, Shapiro’s would be the headquarters. This isn’t your average deli sandwich—it’s piled high with corned beef, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a swipe of classic Russian dressing, all grilled to a golden crisp. Every bite is a blend of savory, tangy, and buttery perfection, and it’s been stealing hearts (and stomachs) for over a century. Plus, Shapiro’s old-school, cafeteria-style setting adds to the authentic experience.

Detroit-Style Pizza at Sam’s Square Pie

For pizza lovers, this one is for you! To try pizza with a twist, head to Sam’s Square Pie, where they specialize in Detroit-style, pan-baked pizza.
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With a thick, airy crust that’s crispy on the edges and loaded with gooey cheese, each slice is topped with a signature stripe of tangy tomato sauce. It’s a unique take on pizza that has quickly won over Indy locals, and Sam’s has even earned recognition at international pizza competitions. And don’t forget to try the garlic knots—they’re soft, buttery, and just as irresistible as the pizza!

Glazed Yeast Donut at Long’s Bakery

Long’s Bakery knows how to do donuts right. Their classic glazed yeast donut is a pillowy masterpiece, with a delicate sweetness that lingers on your tongue. Freshly made daily, these donuts are impossibly light and fluffy, with a subtle hint of vanilla in the glaze that enhances the melt-in-your-mouth experience. Enjoy it while it’s still warm for the ultimate treat.

Gray Bros. Cafeteria’s Fried Chicken

No culinary journey through Indy is complete without a stop at Gray Bros. Cafeteria, where the lines are as legendary as the food itself. Famous for its scratch-made pies and small-town charm, this cafeteria has captured hearts with its crispy, juicy fried chicken. Here’s the thing: this isn’t just any meal. At Gray Bros., the deep fryers are working overtime to keep up with demand—about 1,400 pieces of chicken flying off the line daily! With this relentless pace, each batch comes out fresh, piping hot, and perfectly crisp, with no time to languish under heat lamps.

Cinnamon Croissant French Toast at Cafe Patachou

Café Patachou has made a name for itself as a “student union for adults,” and their cinnamon croissant french toast is an essential item on the menu.
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Thick slices of toast are generously buttered and topped with a perfect layer of cinnamon sugar, making each bite a sweet, crunchy morsel. It’s the ideal breakfast treat, especially when paired with one of Café Patachou’s famous omelets or a pitcher of mimosas.

The Batali at Goose the Market

Named after a cured-meat genius, the Batali at Goose the Market is the ultimate sandwich for anyone serious about flavor. With layers of coppa, soppressata, capocollo, and provolone, plus a spicy kick from giardiniera, each bite is an experience in rich, savory goodness. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you question why all sandwiches aren’t like this.

Sticky Toffee Pudding at Late Harvest Kitchen

Finish your culinary adventure with a taste of sticky toffee pudding at Late Harvest Kitchen. This indulgent dessert is made with a moist date cake soaked in rich toffee sauce and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Chef Ryan Nelson’s twist on this classic British dessert has been a fan favorite since the restaurant opened in 2011, and it’s the perfect way to end your day of eating in Indianapolis

Ready to Taste the Best of Indy?

Indianapolis isn’t just a city you visit; it’s a city you taste. With each iconic dish—from St. Elmo’s fiery shrimp cocktail to Long’s Bakery’s melt-in-your-mouth donuts—you’ll find a flavor that sticks with you. Indy’s food scene tells a story of tradition, innovation, and community, and there’s no better way to savor it all than from the comfort of a place that feels like home.

At The Villa on Meridian, you’re perfectly positioned to explore Indy’s top eateries, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods—all while enjoying a stay that’s as personal and memorable as your dining experiences.

Ready to take a bite out of Indy? Book your stay at The Villa on Meridian, where local flavor meets local hospitality. We’ll keep you comfortable, and Indy’s finest will keep you coming back for more.