Have you ever driven or walked by a dining establishment and decided not to eat there because of the way the exterior looks? We’ve all done it. But as the saying goes, you can’t judge a book (or restaurant) by its cover, and the following list of unassuming restaurants in Indiana proves just that. Put these 10 hidden gem restaurants in Indiana on your foodie bucket list, and bring your appetite because some of these restaurants truly have some of the best food in the state.
1. The Vine - Elkhart
The Vine is described by customers as a casual, yet upscale dining experience. Pizza, lots of wine choices, and steak are just a few options waiting for you at this historic bistro. As for the best items on the menu, their "Garbage Salad" is absolutely a must-try.
2. Willie's Sports Café - Lawrenceburg
Willie’s Sports Café claims to have the best happy hour in the entire tristate area, and we don't disagree. Daily specials, delicious food, and spectacular views Hidden Valley Lake are waiting for you here.
3. Pho Saigon - Indianapolis
This is a very popular Vietnamese restaurant in the Indianapolis area. From the outside of the restaurant, it really doesn’t look like they have much to offer. In my opinion, even the design of their sign is a little on the basic side, but what they lack in exterior pizzazz they make up for with their incredible food.
4. The Beef House Restaurant & Dinner Theatre - Covington
Premium choice aged beef at prices any Hoosier can afford. This is why they are called the Beef House -- they are proud of the meat they sell to their customers. Located in Covington, this is actually one of many hidden gems I included in this list. This restaurant is great, but it isn’t one you really know about unless you live in the area.
5. Bonge's Tavern - Perkinsville
Customers agree that Bonge's Tavern is one of the best and most unique places to eat in the central part of the state. Again, this is a restaurant a lot of people don't know about or just tend to overlook. It's well-worth going inside and having a meal because their food is incredible.
6. Das Dutchman Essenhaus - Middlebury
Das Dutchman Essenhaus is an Amish style restaurant that's known for its folky setting. From the food to the environment, there isn’t anything you aren’t going to enjoy about this place! Everyone has to try eating here at least once.
7. Joseph Decuis - Roanoke
Joseph Decuis is an upscale American restaurant that serves Wagyu steaks along with seasonal entrees that are made fresh using ingredients from their very own farm. If you're in the mood for a fresh and locally grown meal, you can get that at this place. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the cooks are also incredible.
8. Joe Huber's Family Farm & Restaurant - Borden
Joe Huber's is a family-friendly farm with a cozy, country-style restaurant. Their home-cooked fare is basically a hug on a plate. With fresh produce from the farm, it's fine to eat your feelings here. They even have a pick your own produce farm, so you can take some of the delicious fruits and veggies home with you.
9. Sara's Harmony Way - New Harmony
Sara's is recognized as the coziest spot in New Harmony for you to eat, grab a coffee, and/or a drink. They have comfy leather chairs and delicious wine you can sample.
Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Sara's Harmony Way closed its doors. But here's another iconic diner in Indiana that you will love.
10. The Schnitzelbank Restaurant - Jasper
For authentic German cuisine in The Hoosier State, look no further than Schnitzelbank Restaurant. This restaurant is *the* place to go when you need a German food fix! Their German Sampler platter features brats, sauerkraut balls, potato pancakes, and house-made pretzels, and is basically Germany on a plate.
Have you ever eaten at any of these unassuming restaurants in the Hoosier State? What hidden gem restaurants in Indiana would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
And if you're hungry for more, be sure to check out these bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Indiana.
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