Unearth The Voyage
Indiana is renowned for its iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, known for their enormous size and succulent taste. Originating in Huntington, Indiana, these sandwiches feature a thinly pounded, breaded, and deep-fried pork cutlet that often extends well beyond the bun. Paired with traditional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, each bite offers a hearty experience. Whether a long-time fan or newcomer, these sandwiches showcase Indiana’s rich culinary heritage. Here’s a list of ten must-try spots across the state that serve sandwiches so large, they’ll cover your whole face.
1. Mug-n-Bun
Speedway’s Mug-n-Bun is a nostalgic drive-in experience that has been delighting taste buds for years. Their 1-pound pork tenderloin is a legend unto itself, pounded thin, yet vast enough to peek out from every angle of the bun. This eatery keeps things simple, focusing on delivering a gigantic, flavorful sandwich that overhangs generously. The charm of Mug-n-Bun lies in its retro vibe, reminiscent of the golden age of drive-ins where food was both entertainment and sustenance. Patrons often find themselves basking in the novelty of the place, where the sandwich is as big as the experience itself.
2. C.R. Heroes Family Pub
In Fishers, C.R. Heroes Family Pub offers a gargantuan delight named the “Hoosier Daddy” tenderloin. It’s a sandwich that claims its place among giants, with a crispy exterior and a satisfying crunch. The cutlet, thin yet expansive, stretches far beyond the bun’s capacity, making every bite an adventure. This pub is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination for families looking for hearty meals and good times. Known for embracing community spirit, C.R. Heroes adds a personal touch to every order, ensuring the tenderloin is memorable not just in size but in taste and hospitality.
3. The Aristocrat Pub
Indianapolis’ The Aristocrat Pub is where the art of the tenderloin gets a sophisticated twist. Known for its impressive size, the meat here is pounded thin to achieve that signature overhang that fans adore. It’s a sandwich that doesn’t just fill the plate but fills the senses with its savory aroma and hearty flavors. The ambiance adds to the experience, offering a cozy, classic pub vibe where locals and visitors can indulge in Indiana’s beloved dish. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious traveler, The Aristocrat invites you to experience the tenderloin in its most glorious form.
4. Dooley O’Toole’s
In the Greater Indy area, Dooley O’Toole’s beckons with a tenderloin that commands attention. Known for serving a full-size breaded tenderloin, this establishment offers a meal that’s as inviting as its name. The sandwich, with its lightly seasoned breading, extends beyond the confines of the bun, promising a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. This family-friendly spot exudes warmth and charm, making it a beloved choice among locals. With its blend of generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, Dooley O’Toole’s ensures that each visit is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
5. Oasis Diner
Plainfield’s Oasis Diner is a throwback to the retro era, serving a pork tenderloin that’s as big as the nostalgia it evokes. This classic diner offers a sandwich where the meat confidently hangs off the bun, a visual testament to its generous size. With every bite, patrons are transported back to simpler times, when diners were the heart of the community. The Oasis Diner, with its shiny chrome exterior and vintage style, provides not just a meal but a full-blown experience that caters to both the appetite and the soul. It’s more than just a sandwich; it’s a journey back in time.
6. Mayberry Cafe
In Danville, Mayberry Cafe is where small-town charm meets massive flavor. Known for its hefty breaded tenderloins, this diner draws in locals and visitors alike with sandwiches that spill over the bun in pure defiance of portion control. The atmosphere is as welcoming as the sandwich is large, reminiscent of a bygone era where meals came with a side of friendly conversation. Mayberry Cafe stands out not just for its culinary offerings but for the cozy, communal vibe it nurtures. It’s a place where every meal feels like home, wrapped in the warmth of a small-town embrace.
7. Nick’s Kitchen
At Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington, the story begins. Known as the birthplace of the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, this historic diner serves a version that truly extends its legacy. Dating back to 1908, Nick’s has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a sandwich where the pork cutlet hangs generously beyond the bun. You can feel the nostalgia in each bite, a connection to a time when culinary innovation mattered. The atmosphere mirrors its rich history, with vintage decor and a charm that makes you feel like a part of the legend. Nick’s Kitchen isn’t just about food; it’s about tradition and passion for Indiana’s culinary roots.
8. Big Lug Canteen
Indianapolis’ Big Lug Canteen is an adventure for the taste buds. Their brewpub version of the tenderloin is a sight to behold, served on a knot roll that barely contains its grandeur. Known for making it to the “Top 10” lists, this sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an event. The lively atmosphere of the brewpub enhances the experience, offering a place where craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers unite. Big Lug Canteen creates a space where every bite of their oversized tenderloin is savored amidst laughter and good company, making it a must-visit for the curious and the hungry.
9. That Place Bar & Grill
That Place Bar & Grill in Indianapolis is the go-to destination for serious pork lovers searching for that perfect oversized tenderloin. Known for its very large sandwiches, this spot is a favorite among those who believe bigger is better. The bar and grill atmosphere hums with energy, a haven for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal in a lively setting. Each tenderloin served is a testament to the art of the sandwich, ensuring that every patron leaves satisfied. It’s not just about eating; it’s about celebrating the joy of food and the community that gathers around it.
10. Four Day Ray Brewing
In Fishers, Four Day Ray Brewing combines the best of two worlds: excellent beer and an unforgettable tenderloin. While better known as a brewery, their hand-breaded pork tenderloin has earned accolades for its impressive size and taste. The sandwich dramatically overshadows the bun, a visual cue to the feast awaiting each patron. The energetic vibe of the brewery, with its array of craft beers, creates a unique backdrop for enjoying this Indiana classic. It’s a place where the love of good food and drink merges, inviting everyone to partake in a meal that’s as memorable as the camaraderie it fosters.
