16 Best Restaurants in Indianapolis to Try Today (2024)

Indianapolis, the capital city of Indiana, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to every palate.

From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy eateries serving comfort food, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new dining spot or a visitor eager to explore the city’s gastronomic offerings, here are the 17 best restaurants in Indianapolis that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

1. St. Elmo Steak House

St. Elmo Steak House is an iconic Indianapolis establishment renowned for its impeccable steaks and timeless ambiance.

Established in 1902, it’s not just a restaurant; it’s a piece of history.

Their signature dish, the world-famous shrimp co*cktail, packs a spicy punch and is a must-try for any visitor.

From perfectly aged steaks to fresh seafood, every dish is crafted with precision and served with a side of old-world charm.

2. Bluebeard

Named after Kurt Vonnegut’s novel, Bluebeard is a culinary haven located in the historic Holy Rosary neighborhood.

The restaurant’s commitment to using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients shines through in every dish.

Whether you’re indulging in their house-made pasta or savoring a wood-fired pizza, each bite is bursting with flavor.

The cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a memorable dining experience.

3. Milktooth

Milktooth has revolutionized the brunch scene in Indianapolis with its creative take on breakfast classics.

Chef Jonathan Brooks’ inventive dishes are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious.

From their decadent Dutch baby pancakes to their savory breakfast sandwiches, each dish is a work of art.

The restaurant’s hip, industrial-chic vibe adds to the overall experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

4. Mesh

Nestled in the heart of the Mass Ave district, Mesh is a contemporary American restaurant known for its impeccable service and vibrant atmosphere.

The menu features a diverse selection of dishes, ranging from fresh seafood to mouthwatering steaks.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Mesh offers a dining experience that is both refined and approachable.

5. Vida

Vida is a celebration of Latin American cuisine, with a menu that draws inspiration from the flavors of Mexico, Peru, and beyond.

The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted co*cktails set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

From their ceviche to their sizzling fajitas, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Latin America.

Whether you’re in the mood for spicy salsa or creamy guacamole, Vida has something for everyone.

6. Tinker Street

Tinker Street is a hidden gem located in the historic Herron-Morton Place neighborhood.

The restaurant’s ever-changing menu showcases the best of seasonal ingredients, with dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious.

From their crispy Brussels sprouts to their indulgent duck confit, each dish is a culinary adventure.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Tinker Street a favorite among locals looking for a unique dining experience.

7. Mama Carolla’s Old Italian Restaurant

Mama Carolla’s Old Italian Restaurant exudes old-world charm, with its cozy dining rooms and rustic Italian cuisine.

From their classic spaghetti and meatballs to their decadent tiramisu, each dish is made with love and served with a smile.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of Italy, Mama Carolla’s is the perfect destination for a memorable meal.

8. Caplinger’s Fresh Catch

Caplinger’s Fresh Catch is a seafood lover’s paradise, with a menu that features everything from succulent crab legs to buttery lobster tails.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish, with seafood that is always fresh and flavorful.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic shrimp co*cktail or a decadent seafood platter, Caplinger’s has something to satisfy your cravings.

9. The Eagle

The Eagle is a down-home eatery known for its mouthwatering fried chicken and hearty sides.

The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

From their crispy chicken sandwiches to their cheesy mac and cheese, each dish is comfort food at its finest.

So grab a seat, dig in, and get ready to experience fried chicken like never before.

10. Marrow

Marrow is a carnivore’s dream come true, with a menu that celebrates the whole animal from nose to tail.

The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish, with locally-sourced meats that are butchered and prepared with care.

Whether you’re indulging in their juicy pork chops or savoring their tender beef tongue, each bite is a testament to the art of butchery.

So come hungry and get ready to experience meat like never before.

11. Black Market

Black Market is a culinary gem located in the bustling Mass Ave district, offering a menu that is as diverse as it is delicious.

The restaurant’s commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every dish, with flavors that are fresh and vibrant.

From their inventive small plates to their hearty entrees, each dish is a celebration of the season’s bounty.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Black Market a favorite among foodies looking for a memorable dining experience.

12. Turchetti’s Salumeria

Turchetti’s Salumeria is a hidden gem located in the historic Fountain Square neighborhood, offering a mouthwatering selection of house-cured meats and artisanal cheeses.

The deli’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite, with meats that are cured and smoked in-house using traditional methods.

Whether you’re indulging in their savory prosciutto or their spicy chorizo, each bite is a testament to the art of charcuterie.

So stop by, grab a sandwich, and experience the flavors of Italy right here in Indianapolis.

13. Repeal Restaurant

Step back in time at Repeal Restaurant, a prohibition-era speakeasy located in the heart of the Fletcher Place neighborhood.

The restaurant’s vintage ambiance and expertly crafted co*cktails transport diners to a bygone era, while the menu offers a modern twist on classic American cuisine.

From their mouthwatering steaks to their decadent desserts, each dish is a celebration of the flavors of the past.

So raise a glass, toast to the good times, and experience a taste of history at Repeal Restaurant.

14. The Tamale Place

The Tamale Place is a beloved local institution, offering authentic Mexican tamales that are as delicious as they are affordable.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every bite, with tamales that are handmade daily using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.

Whether you’re indulging in their savory pork tamales or their spicy chicken tamales, each bite is a taste of Mexico.

So stop by, grab a dozen tamales, and experience the flavors of Mexico right here in Indianapolis.

15. Patachou

Patachou is a beloved local chain known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings, with a menu that is as diverse as it is delicious.

Whether you’re craving fluffy omelets, decadent pastries, or hearty sandwiches, Patachou has something to satisfy every craving.

The restaurant’s commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every dish, with flavors that are fresh and vibrant.

So stop by, grab a seat, and start your day off right with a meal at Patachou.

16. Rook

Rook is a culinary gem located in the historic Fletcher Place neighborhood, offering Asian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.

The restaurant’s sleek, industrial-chic ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, while the menu offers a tantalizing array of dishes that are as creative as they are delicious.

From their crispy Korean fried chicken to their tender pork belly buns, each dish is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Asia.