No Indy 500 race would be complete without a pork tenderloin sandwich, and the tenderloin should be perfectly crisp and golden – follow the crowds to the best stall.
Downtown
From cheap and cheerful cafés to upscale restaurants pushing the boundaries of fusion food, Downtown has a dizzying array of restaurants to suit every taste. If you’re on a tight itinerary between the cultural sights of Monument Circle, then Downtown’s food carts provide the perfect quick eat on the go. When you have time to sit down, St. Elmo Steak House should be high on your list of places to try, if only for the devilishly spicy signature shrimp cocktail. If you like to be surprised, head to Recess, a modern, minimalist dining venue where your dinner is limited only by the chef’s outlandish imagination.
• St Elmo Steak House, 127 S. Illinois Street, Indianapolis; • Recess, 4907 N. College Ave, Indianapolis;
Broad Ripple Village
With eateries to match this cultural district’s eclectic attitude, you’ll have your pick of world cuisines in Broad Ripple Village. After taking a boat ride on the White River, or strolling along the Monon Trail, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many bistros. Brugge Brasserie is a top choice, as you can enjoy the view from the terrace, as well as their savory crepes and excellent Belgian house beers. For an evening meal with a bit of sass, try Delicia, which serves up exciting Latin-American fusion food, such as Peruvian ceviche and Mexican ancho pork. Couple with a caipirinha and you’ll be ready to salsa.
• Brugge Brasserie, 1011 Westfield Blvd, Indianapolis; • Delicia, 5215 N. College Ave, Indianapolis; Tel. +1 317 9250 677
Northeast Indianapolis
To celebrate a special occasion, or just to dress up and enjoy a classy dinner, Northeast Indianapolis is the place to go. Boasting numerous dining options, it’s home to the luxurious Fashion at Keystone Mall, so you can squeeze in a spot of shopping before dinner. Located very close to the mall, Late Harvest Kitchen is a beautiful space, with high ceilings and exposed brick walls. The food is focused on the best seasonal produce. If you like your fish poached in Champagne, you’ll be right at home in nearby Ocean Prime. Enjoy small plates and cocktails in the lounge, or go for the full seafood and steak menu in the restaurant.
• Late Harvest Kitchen, 8605 River Crossing, Indianapolis; • Ocean Prime, 8555 River Road, Indianapolis; Tel. +1 317 5690 975
Speedway
Coming to Indy for the motor racing? You and a few hundred thousand others – and all those people need feeding, Midwestern style. Head to Speedway early, and you can stop off for brunch – Charlie Brown’s Pancakes and Steakhouse is no highfalutin' restaurant, but this greasy spoon dishes up some of the best pancakes in town, and the coffee is served hot and strong. For fully loaded Indy Speedway classics, visit Barbecue and Bourbon, a gourmet grill where you can fill up on beef brisket and the famous pork tenderloin sandwiches. Pair with one of a huge selection of bourbons for the ultimate race day feast.
• Charlie Brown’s Pancake and Steak House, 1038 W Main Street, Indianapolis; Tel. +1 317 2432 502
• Barbecue and Bourbon, 1414 W Main Street, Indianapolis; Tel. +1 317 2416 940
