If there's one thing Hoosiers always do right, it's make great food! Looking for a great bucket list of restaurants in Indiana to visit before you die? Be sure to check off every one of these mouth watering fine dining experiences before leaving Indiana. Here are the 13 restaurants in Indiana you absolutely have to try.
1. Acropolis Restaurant & Catering - Evansville
The Acropolis Restaurant & Catering in Evansville has some of the finest Greek food in the country. From killer salads to gyro tortellini to the traditional rack of lamb, Acropolis won't disappoint in serving traditional Greek inspired dishes.
2. St. Elmo's - Indianapolis
St. Elmo's is often raved about as the best restaurant in Indiana, and we agree that you absolutely have to try their award winning steak or shrimp cocktail before you die.
3. Samira's - Bloomington
If you are up for something slightly different, Samira's in Bloomington is sure to pique your curiosity. Their delicious, traditional Afghanistan cuisine is raved about. This is a place you MUST try at least once.
4. Pastarrific - Kokomo
For great Italian food, you have to visit Pastarrific in Kokomo. Start with bread and salad, try a number of their pastas or dishes like eggplant parm, and finish off with a scrumptious dessert, like creme brule.
5. Fiddler's Hearth - South Bend
Traditional Irish food reigns supreme here, with classics like Fisherman's and Shepherd's pies, scotch eggs, and good old fashioned Irish whiskey and beer. Live music and great service will round out this fantastic dining experience.
6. Mudbugs Cajun Cafe - Carmel
Mudbugs in Carmel is a local favorite that serves the area's best Cajun inspired cuisine. From rice and beans to po'boys , catfish, and crawlfish, nothing tops Mudbugs for spicy, southern comfort.
7. Asparagus - Merrillville
If Asian fusion is what you're seeking, head up to Merrillville for some of the best Asian cuisine in the area. Many swear you'll find the best Pad Thai in the Midwest here.
8. Bru Burger Bar - Indianapolis
Bru Burger Bar serves more than just burgers. They craft delicious specialty burgers with homemade aioli, slaw, ketchup, and much more. From sriracha Caesar salads to jalapeno mac and cheese to craft beers, Bru has the best twist on classic American foods that you'll find in the state.
9. Panini Panini - Michigan City
Panini Panini in Michigan City is more than just great sandwiches. They have fresh pastas, steak and eggs, and delicious salads and appetizers. For fresh, amazing creations, you have to swing by this local legend.
10. Little Sheba's - Richmond
For the best small town cooking, visit Little Sheba's in Richmond. Little Sheba's has a pretty diverse menu and their foods consist of fresh ingredients. In the summertime, enjoy their outside patio area.
11. Bluebeard - Fountain Square (Indianapolis)
Named after the Kurt Vonnegut novel, Bluebeard is one of the highest rated restaurants in Indy. Located just north of Fountain Square in Fletcher Place, city dwellers can't seem to rave enough about this international cuisine joint. If you are ever in Indy, you have to check this place out. They won't take reservations, but the experience is well worth the wait.
12. Octave Grill - Chesterton
Octave Grill is another popular burger joint in Indiana, catering to the northwestern region. Along with burgers to die for (their menu changes often), they offer fondue, tots, sloppy joes, brats, and fantastic desserts.
13. South of Chicago - Indianapolis
South of Chicago has locations in downtown (Fletcher Place) Indianapolis and just recently opened a location in Fishers. As former Chicago residents, this family-owned restaurant knows Chicago cuisine. Their deep dished pizza and italian beef sandwiches are always to die for. Insider's tip: try the spinach and tomato garlic bread as an appetizer.
If there's one problem Indiana has, it's that we have too much great food in our state! These are just 13 of our best restaurants that you have to try at least once in your lifetime. But, we definitely recommend talking to locals and finding other favorite places to eat, because Hoosiers do food right.
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