Lucas BrennanIndianapolis has quietly become a serious food destination in the Midwest. The area has evolved far beyond its reputation for corn and tenderloins.
Locals shaking up their Friday routines and visitors exploring the Circle City both find surprisingly diverse dining options here. Dining out is often just one part of the experience, and pairing a great meal with other things to do makes a night in the city even more memorable.
I have spent plenty of time exploring the nooks and crannies of this city to find the spots that truly deliver. This list breaks down the top places where atmosphere meets incredible flavor.
How much does dining cost in Indianapolis?
You don’t have to break the bank to eat well here, but you certainly can if you want a lavish night out. If you are grabbing a quick bite at a casual diner or pizza joint, you can expect to pay roughly what you would for a movie ticket per person. For a solid date night with appetizers and main courses, you should budget a bit more, similar to the cost of a concert ticket. However, if you are eyeing those upscale steakhouses or fine dining experiences, be prepared to spend significantly more. Generally, a standard budget for a nice meal out sits comfortably in the mid-range zone.
1. Livery
Website: https://www.livery-restaurant.com/location/livery-indianapolis/
Address: 720 N College Ave
Contact: +1 317-383-0330
Hours:
- Mon – Thu: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Fri – Sat: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Sun: 4 PM – 9 PM
Livery offers a refreshing departure from standard Indianapolis pub fare, bringing distinct Latin flair to a beautifully restored 1890s horse stable.
The building’s history is palpable in the architecture, which features a unique two-story layout and rooftop seating that is absolutely perfect for warm evenings.
During my visit, I headed straight for the rooftop to try the Paella. It was incredibly flavorful and felt like a proper feast. I like that the menu is generally designed for sharing, making this an ideal spot for a casual gathering.
One important note is that they don’t open until 4 PM, so you will have to look elsewhere for lunch.
However, for dinner, Livery is an exceptional choice where bold flavors meet historic charm.
Customer Reviews
Probably one of the best steaks I’ve ever had
Came to Livery after the Colts and Raiders game. My husband got Skirt Steak. Probably one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. The drinks were very good too. Empanadas were very flavorful. Would definitely recommend eating here if you’re looking for Mexican food while being in downtown Indy.
- Ashley Knokey | Google Review
Every single dish was a home run
This place is amazing. Very nice staff, Hannah who served us was great…. The food is ridiculously good. The flavors, the way the chef has combined them… we ordered 3 apps, 2 empanadas and shared the skirt steak. Every single dish was a home run. I am a foodie and this place is a really good.
- Khalil Naim | Google Review
2. Conner’s Kitchen + Bar
Website: https://www.connersindy.com/
Address: 350 W Maryland St
Contact: +1 317-405-6100
Hours:
- Mon: 6:30 AM – 10 AM, 11 AM – 11 PM
- Tue – Fri: 6:30 AM – 10 AM, 11 AM – 10 PM
- Sat: 7 AM – 11 PM
- Sun: 7 AM – 10 PM
Conner’s Kitchen + Bar is a solid choice for anyone looking for elevated comfort food in downtown Indianapolis. Located on West Maryland Street, it manages to feel both sophisticated and relaxed.
A standout feature for whiskey fans is their dedicated Rye Bar, which adds a nice touch of class to the casual atmosphere.
When it comes to food, they also don’t miss. During my visit, I tried the Shrimp + Grits and was really impressed. The texture was spot on, and it felt satisfying without being overly heavy.
One of the best perks here is the free parking in the Marriott garag which is a significant plus given the limited parking options in the surrounding blocks.
However, be mindful of your timing, as validation only covers two hours, and staying longer for extra drinks will mean paying standard rates.
It’s a reliable spot that consistently delivers a great experience for business meetings as well as relaxed family brunches.
Customer Reviews
Great service and awesome recommendations
Had 2 dinners at Conner’s while I was in town for the week. Comfortable and clean. Service was stellar and the food was outstanding. 1st night I had lump crab hush puppies and shrimp and grits. 2nd night I had the guacamole and steak frites. Definitely worth the trip. Thank you Darrian and Matt for the great service and awesome recommendations.
- Jimmy Enyeart | Google Review
Had an amazing, delicious and tasty burger at this restaurant
Had an amazing, delicious and tasty burger at this restaurant. Though I think expensive. I like the spacious interior with multiple big size sports TV. All the staff I encountered were courteous and I like they can explain the menu. Service was very fast I must add!
- Oludotun Babayemi | Google Review
3. The Fountain Room
Website: https://www.thefountainroom.com/
Address: 830 Massachusetts Ave Suite 1480
Contact: +1 463-238-3800
Hours:
- Mon – Thu: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Fri: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Sat: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Sun: 10 AM – 9 PM
Located in the historic Bottleworks District, The Fountain Room offers a modern take on the classic supper club. The setting is a total knockout since it is housed in a former 100-year-old Coca-Cola bottling plant.
I loved the Art Deco vibe with its velvet seating and elegant chandeliers, and it feels upscale and fancy without being stuffy at all. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic rather than quiet.
But the best part is their Australian Wagyu Center Cut Filet Mignon, which was incredibly tender and made for quite a filling meal.
Do take note that the restaurant actually promotes “sounds of mischief,” so the music and chatter can get pretty loud and contribute to a lively, high-energy dining experience throughout the night.
If you are looking for a silent or intimate romantic corner to have a quiet conversation, you might be out of luck here.
However, if you want fantastic cocktails and a lively backdrop for your night out, this is the perfect spot.
Customer Reviews
Great drinks, great dinner, very welcoming staff
Went here for my boyfriend’s birthday. Absolutely loved it! Our waitress was so friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, and offered great wine selections and different menu options. Beef Tartare was delicious, and I would recommend the sea bass and duck confit. Great drinks, great dinner, very welcoming staff and ambience was exactly what i was looking for. I will definitely be a repeat patron.
- M K | Google Review
LOVED everything about the fountain room!
LOVED everything about the fountain room! Ordered the shrimp and grits with a bottle of Prosecco on the side! The shrimp and grits were really really good! We ended up sitting at the bar because we were early for our reservation and ended up staying because of how friendly the bartender was. I will definitely be coming back to try more things on the menu!
- Christal Peterson | Google Review
4. Harry & Izzy’s
Website: https://www.harryandizzys.com/
Address: 153 S Illinois St
Contact: +1 317-635-9594
Hours:
- Mon – Thu: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Fri & Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
As the more modern sister to the legendary St. Elmo Steak House, Harry & Izzy’s offers the same elite culinary pedigree in a far more approachable setting. The vibe strikes a great balance between upscale and relaxed, honoring its founders with warmth and genuine hospitality.
But their main standout offering is the world-famous St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail. Its intense horseradish kick is powerful enough to clear your sinuses instantly, providing a spicy thrill that lives up to the reputation.
Beyond the seafood, the menu features incredibly high-quality steaks and unique options like their popular filet sliders.
While it might feel like a splurge for a casual meal, the attentive service and consistent quality make it worth every penny.
It is a fantastic choice if you want the classic Indianapolis steakhouse experience but with a slightly more contemporary and lively energy.
Customer Reviews
The food was truly exceptional and on point
The food was truly exceptional and on point. Recommend the Burrata salad and Cali Salad to start. Ahi Tuna was a great appetizer. Steaks were incredible, also enjoyed the Salmon and Cod. Great gluten free options and a dedicated GF menu! One of THE best gluten-free buns and burgers I’ve ever had. Good GF pizza as well. Don’t miss out on the green beans, delicious!
- Kareem Elgafy | Google Review
Service was fast, friendly and very helpful
Stopped in for a nice lunch for our anniversary. Shrimp Cocktail didn’t disappoint. It was amazing, Steak and Porkchop both cooked perfectly and tasted great. Also had a smoked old-fashioned, was yummy to finish dinner with. Service was fast, friendly and very helpful. Will go again.
- shane boehmke | Google Review
5. Salt on Mass
Website: https://www.saltonmass.com/
Address: 505 Massachusetts Ave
Contact: +1 317-638-6565
Hours:
- Sun – Thu: 4:30 PM – 9 PM
- Fri & Sat: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Salt on Mass is a standout for anyone craving wild and sustainable seafood in a landlocked state. They run a scratch kitchen and famously refuse to use freezers, which means every dish tastes incredibly fresh.
The vibe here is coastal-elegant and perfect for anything from a sharp business dinner to a special date night on Massachusetts Avenue. I tried the Avenue Surf and Turf to sample a bit of everything.
Their lobster tail was sweet and clearly fresh, with a delicate texture that avoided the rubbery chew you often find at major chain restaurants.
Overall, it felt like a refreshing and much-needed change of pace for the local dining scene, offering a more thoughtful and well-executed seafood experience.
The only real downside is that they are strictly a dinner spot, opening at 4:30 PM, so stopping by for a midday lunch is not an option.
That said, if you can wait until the evening, the high quality of the fresh catch makes it well worth the visit.
Customer Reviews
If you want fresh seafood this is the spot to be
Talk about fresh! This was amazing! The surf and turf app was on point! The bread and bread fire! Talk about amazing service Brandon was friendly and knew the menu with excellent recommendations! The old fashioned perfect not to heavy on the bitters! The steak was cooked to perfection! The lobster tail was juicy tender and full of flavor one of the best lobster tails I have had in a long time and it was a large size! The cheesecake omg talk about the best just wonderful flavor! If you want fresh seafood this is the spot to be.
- Nicholas Bush | Google Review
Everything was amazing!
My husband Brett and I dined here a few days ago. Everything was amazing! The food could have been a 0 out of 10, but still would give this restaurant a 10 because of our server. Hannah (spelled the same backwards) was the best part of the whole experience. My husband and I own a couple of restaurants and we know how hard it is to find great help. Hannah is 100% a keeper! For the record, the food was also a 10. We will be back.
- Erika Stiles | Google Review
