16 Best Restaurants in Indianapolis, IN

Visitors to Indianapolis, Indiana's capital, are often intrigued by the city's vibrant culinary scene. Known affectionately as the Circle City, Indianapolis presents a diverse array of gastronomic delights sure to enthrall any food lover.

From quaint, family-owned diners dishing out heartwarming comfort food, to upscale restaurants offering exquisite culinary creations, Indianapolis caters to a wide range of palates.

This article presents a curated list of standout dining spots throughout the city. These establishments have earned accolades for their distinctive offerings, hosting memorable family occasions, friendly gatherings, and serene evenings of reflection.
 

Vida

It was my partner's birthday and I decided to surprise her with a dinner at Vida, a popular choice among the locals.

Now, I must tell you, the moment we walked in, we were taken aback by the trendy ambience - a cozy fireplace, a lavishly stocked bar, and an eye-catching herb wall that added a touch of nature to the chic setting.

We opted for the four-course meal and believe me when I say this, it was an absolute treat to our taste buds. The plates were modern American, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. The cocktails were refreshingly unique and absolutely worth every penny.

But what really impressed us was the tranquil atmosphere - no deafening music or noise to drown out our conversations, just the comforting crackle of the fireplace.

Fast forward a couple of months, we found ourselves at Vida again. This time to celebrate our anniversary. The cauliflower dish and the desserts were extremely delicious. Every detail of the dining experience was amazing and the service, just like the first time, was impeccable.

Now, we are regular patrons of Vida.

It's the place we choose for special occasions, for amazing food and drinks, for memorable conversations, and for an overall wonderful dining experience.
 

Livery Indianapolis

I've lived in Indy for years, and I've seen plenty of restaurants come and go. But let me tell you, Livery Indianapolis is here to stay.

This bi-level beauty is a prime spot for those who crave Latin classics and a good tequila selection, and it's got an all-season rooftop patio that's a perfect match for Indiana's temperamental weather.

My taste buds are no strangers to Livery's delectable menu.

Each dish is a gastronomic masterpiece, a culinary kaleidoscope of flavors and textures that explode in your mouth.

And oh, the cocktails. They change them every few months, much to my delight, because each drink is a well-balanced mix of creativity and exquisite taste.

It's become my new go-to spot for meals, whether it's for appetizers or main dishes.

The Yuca Fries and Pan de Queso are to die for, and let's not forget about the Cauliflower that's so good, it could be a meal in itself.

If you're into spicy food, the Paella is a must-try.

It's one of the spicier items on the menu, and I guarantee you, it's worth every bite.

I can't talk about Livery without mentioning its atmosphere.

It's hard to beat, truly. If the weather cooperates, take my advice and grab a seat under their covered patio area.

But whether you're dining indoors or out, this Latin Fusion restaurant captures the vibrant, lively spirit of Latin America right here in Indianapolis.
 

Union 50

It was one of those nights that called for good company, innovative American cuisine and local beers - and Union 50 delivered.

I can't help but be drawn to the industrial-chic ambiance that just raises the bar for casual dining.

I remember walking in with a group of friends, seven of us in fact, and even without a reservation during Devour Indy, they found us a comfortable spot in less than a quarter of an hour. Now, if that's not accommodating, I don't know what is.

The menu wasn’t overwhelming, rather it was simple yet filled with tantalizing options. I opted for the swordfish - a decision I didn’t regret.

The food was fantastic, a testament to the chef’s expertise. The gnocchi, paired with a generous serving of chicken, was another delightful surprise that evening.

Of course, the experience wouldn’t have been complete without their signature drink – the whiskey sour, but one of their watermelon drinks caught my attention. Let's just say, the drinks were as great as one could hope for.

Oh, and did I mention the fries? They were pretty awesome too.

And then came the dessert - a unique date appetizer with an unforgettable taste. It stood out not only for its unique combination of flavors but also for its memorable presentation. Union 50 stands out, not only in the culinary scene but also in the level of service it provides.

If good food, excellent service, and a chic environment is what you're after, then Union 50 is where you need to be. I’m already planning my next visit!

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