9 Restaurants You Have to Visit in Indianapolis Before You Die

This downtown steak house, established back in 1902, is easily the most famous restaurant in Indianapolis. While it’s known for its World Famous Shrimp Cocktail, St. Elmo features a wonderful menu full of steaks and seafood, as well as a stocked bar featuring delicious wines from around the world and signature cocktails like the "Elmo Cola." Whether you’re visiting the city or have lived here for years, getting a table at this historic restaurant needs to be on your to-do list.

127 S Illinois St., Indianapolis, IN 46225

For a delicious breakfast and brunch spot, head to this downtown cafe. This eatery is owned by Chef Jonathan Brooks and his wife Izzy and their goal is to provide Indianapolis with unconventional spins on classic morning-time meals. If you’re in the mood for coffee, cocktails, and creative breakfast dishes, then you’ll want to head here. Be sure to try the raspberry and blackberry dutch baby pancakes. You won’t be disappointed.

534 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203

One of the newer restaurants on this list, Livery opened less than a year ago and has been a popular Mass Ave dining spot ever since. Featuring a Latin-themed menu that includes Pork Pastor and multiple Empanadas — not to mention a lot of tequila — this restaurant is a can’t miss. Set in a restored 1890s stable house that includes an all-season rooftop patio, this is one spot you’ll want to see and experience for yourself.

720 N College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202

One of the go-to spots in the historic Lockerbie District, Vida is the first, and only, Indy-based restaurant to receive the prestigious Four Diamond Award from AAA. Set in a beautifully decorated, modern-styled space, Vida features two dining styles: an a la carte seasonal menu as well as a rotating 5-course tasting menu. Every dish uses locally-sourced ingredients and pairs well with one or more of the restaurant’s fantastic bottles of wine. Trust us when we say that you’ll want to make a reservation.

601 E New York St., Indianapolis, IN 46202

Headlined by Chef Micah Frank’s rotating farmhouse menu and more than 100 different rums, this Mass Ave restaurant and bar has become a downtown hot spot since its opening back in 2011. Whether you’re looking for a complete dining experience or just a small place and a cocktail, you won’t be disappointed at Black Market. Enjoy your food and drinks on the patio, which features a gorgeous garden filled with herbs and vegetables that are actually used in the restaurant’s kitchen.

922 Massachusetts Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202

Situated in a renovated 1924 warehouse, Bluebeard is yet another downtown hot spot featuring a rotating menu. Open for lunch and dinner, this popular restaurant has something for everybody. Whether you’re in the mood for shrimp, pork, or even octopus, Chef Abbi Merriss and her "New American" menu can accommodate you. Share a plate, have a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere of Indy’s Holy Rosary neighborhood.

653 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203

Slightly outside of Indianapolis — Greenwood, to be specific — sits this family-friendly, hip eatery featuring progressive, American cuisine. With a focus on locally-sourced game, produce, and livestock, Revery is another on the list of new restaurants looking to support Indiana growers and farmers. Stop in for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch for a relaxing time in Revery’s rustic yet modern environment.

299 W Main St., Greenwood, IN 46142

Near downtown’s Old Northside Historic District, you’ll find Tinker Street, a restaurant and wine bar featuring a widely accommodating menu. Whether you’re looking for a vegeterian, vegan, or gluten-free food option, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with your abundance of choices. This restaurant puts a great emphasis on its international wine selection, even employing the expertise of beverage director and sommelier Lindsay Slone.

402 E 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202

With how rapidly Indy’s Mass Ave has established itself as the place to be on nights and weekends, it’s no surprise that yet another of this neighborhood’s restaurants is featured on our list. Union 50, established back in the summer of 2014, boasts a seasonal American style menu as well as a wide selection of local, craft beers. You’ll find live music to enjoy and behind the bar a fantastic assortment of whiskey.

620 N East St., Indianapolis, IN 46202