Unearth The Voyage
Indiana’s food scene is a delicious mix of old-school diners, family recipes, and regional favorites that have been perfected over generations. From towering sandwiches to creamy pies, these dishes tell the story of Hoosier hospitality and history. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, these 14 iconic bites are worth seeking out at the legendary spots that made them famous.
1. Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A pork cutlet so huge it hangs over the edge of the bun like a crispy, golden umbrella, that’s the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, and it’s pure Indiana pride on a plate.
Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington has been serving this legendary sandwich since 1908, making it the birthplace of what many consider the state’s most famous food. The pork is pounded paper-thin, dipped in a seasoned breading, and deep-fried until it crackles with every bite.
Locals swear by the balance of juicy meat and crunchy coating. Pair it with pickles, mustard, and maybe a side of fries for the full experience.
2. Fiery Shrimp Cocktail
St. Elmo Steak House doesn’t mess around when it comes to horseradish. Their shrimp cocktail is famous across the country for its sinus-clearing, tear-inducing cocktail sauce that packs serious heat.
Operating since 1902 in downtown Indianapolis, this steakhouse has become a rite of passage for anyone who loves bold flavors. The sauce is made with fresh horseradish, and just a tiny dip will have you reaching for water.
Regulars love the challenge and the flavor. The shrimp are plump and perfectly chilled, but it’s that fiery sauce that keeps people coming back for more, even if their eyes water a little.
3. Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
Silky, sweet, and topped with a dusting of cinnamon, sugar cream pie is Indiana’s official state pie for good reason. It’s comfort food in its purest form, made with just a handful of simple ingredients.
Mrs. Wick’s Restaurant and Pie Shop in Winchester has been baking these beauties since 1944. The custard filling is rich but not too heavy, with a hint of vanilla and that signature cinnamon swirl on top.
You can grab a slice at the restaurant or order a whole pie online to enjoy at home. Either way, it’s a taste of Hoosier heritage that never goes out of style.
4. Coney Dogs
Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island has been slinging these simple, satisfying hot dogs since 1914. A steamed bun cradles a snappy beef hot dog, then gets smothered in a secret meat sauce that’s been perfected over a century.
The magic is in the simplicity. No fancy toppings, no complicated flavors, just a well-balanced combination that hits the spot every single time.
Locals have been lining up for generations, and the recipe hasn’t changed. It’s the kind of place where you order three or four at once because one is never enough, and the price won’t break the bank either.
5. Persimmon Pudding
Southern Indiana is persimmon country, and every fall, locals celebrate the fruit with festivals and family recipes passed down for generations. Persimmon pudding is dark, dense, and deeply spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
The Millstone Dining Room at Spring Mill Inn in Mitchell features this regional treasure on their seasonal dessert menu. The pudding has a jammy, almost molasses-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream.
It’s not something you’ll find everywhere, which makes it all the more special. If you visit in autumn, don’t miss the chance to try this Southern Indiana classic.
6. Old-School Sodas & Sundaes
Step into Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum in Columbus, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to 1900. The marble counters, mahogany fixtures, and vintage soda fountain are all original.
Order a phosphated soda, a fizzy, old-fashioned drink that’s hard to find anywhere else these days. The sundaes are piled high with house-made ice cream, rich sauces, and plenty of whipped cream.
But it’s not just about the sweets. The museum upstairs showcases antique music machines and memorabilia from the early 1900s. It’s a sweet treat with a side of history that makes every visit memorable.
7. Family-Style Fried Chicken
The Log Inn in Haubstadt is one of the oldest restaurants in Indiana, dating all the way back to 1825. Walking through the door feels like stepping into a piece of living history.
The fried chicken is served family-style, meaning big platters of golden, crispy pieces are placed right on your table alongside bowls of mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn. Everything is made from scratch, just like it has been for nearly two centuries.
It’s the kind of meal that brings people together. Expect generous portions, warm hospitality, and flavors that remind you why simple, home-cooked food never goes out of style.
8. Root Beer & Diner Burgers
Triple XXX Family Restaurant in West Lafayette has been a Purdue University staple for decades. Known for brewing its own root beer on-site, this diner serves up cold mugs of the frothy stuff alongside classic burgers.
But here’s the twist: they also offer a peanut butter burger that has earned a serious cult following. It sounds wild, but the creamy, salty peanut butter pairs surprisingly well with the savory beef patty.
Whether you go traditional or adventurous, the root beer is a must. It’s smooth, sweet, and the perfect complement to any burger on the menu, making it a favorite stop for students and locals alike.
9. Evansville-Style Stromboli
In Evansville, the word stromboli means something totally different than what you’d expect. Forget the rolled-up calzone version. Here, it’s an open-faced, hot sandwich loaded with meat, cheese, marinara sauce, and sometimes peppers.
Turoni’s Pizzery and Brewery is the go-to spot for this local favorite. The sandwich is messy, cheesy, and requires plenty of napkins, but that’s part of the fun.
It’s a Pocket City original that you won’t find anywhere else in the state. Locals have been ordering them for years, and once you try one, you’ll understand why this quirky sandwich has such a loyal following.
10. Fried Biscuits with Apple Butter
Brown County is known for its fall colors and charming small-town atmosphere, and The Nashville House has been welcoming travelers since 1927. Their fried biscuits are legendary.
These aren’t your typical biscuits. They’re deep-fried until golden and puffy, then served piping hot with a side of house-made apple butter. The contrast between the warm, crispy dough and the sweet, spiced apple butter is pure comfort.
It’s a nostalgic taste of old Indiana. Visitors often say it’s worth the trip to Nashville just for these biscuits, especially during the autumn months when the town is bustling with leaf-peepers and festival-goers.
11. Lake Perch (Region Fish Fry)
Northwest Indiana, known as The Region, takes its fish fries seriously. Teibel’s Family Restaurant in Schererville has been a family operation since 1929, and their lake perch is the star of the menu.
The perch fillets are boned, buttered, and fried to crispy perfection. They’re light, flaky, and full of flavor, served with coleslaw, fries, and rye bread on the side.
Friday night fish fries are a tradition here, drawing crowds from all over the area. The restaurant’s old-school charm and commitment to quality have kept it a beloved spot for nearly a century, and the perch keeps people coming back.
12. The 100 Shakes / 100 Sundaes
Ivanhoe’s in Upland is a sweet tooth’s dream come true. The menu literally lists 100 different shakes and 100 different sundaes, each one more creative than the last.
From classic chocolate and vanilla to wild combinations like peanut butter cup or banana split shake, there’s something for everyone. The portions are generous, and the flavors are rich and indulgent.
For many Taylor University students and local families, a trip to Ivanhoe’s is a rite of passage. It’s the kind of place where you can visit a dozen times and still not try everything on the menu, making each visit feel like a new adventure.
13. Farmstead Cheese Curds
Fair Oaks Farms is more than just a dairy operation. It’s an agritourism destination where you can watch cheese being made, tour the barns, and enjoy fresh dairy products straight from the source.
The Farmhouse Restaurant on the property serves warm, squeaky cheese curds that are absolutely addictive. They’re breaded and fried until golden, with that perfect squeak when you bite into them.
These curds are made from milk produced right there on the farm, so they’re as fresh as it gets. It’s a fun, family-friendly stop where you can learn about dairy farming and enjoy some of the best cheese curds in the state.
14. Classic Deli Corned Beef (with Hoosier Roots)
Shapiro’s Delicatessen has been an Indianapolis institution since 1905, serving up towering sandwiches and keeping Midwestern food traditions alive. Their corned beef is hand-sliced, piled high, and served on fresh rye bread.
The deli also features Hoosier staples like NK Hurst beans, connecting Indiana’s agricultural heritage to the plate. It’s a cafeteria-style setup where you can watch your sandwich being built right in front of you.
Locals love the no-frills atmosphere and the consistent quality. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or stocking up on deli meats to take home, Shapiro’s delivers authentic flavors that have stood the test of time.
