Downtown
National journalists call Indy one of the most walkable downtowns in the U.S. With our network of climate-controlled skywalks connecting 4,700 hotel rooms to downtown hubs like the Indiana Convention Center, it’s easy to walk to hundreds of restaurants safely in all seasons. Downtown offers more than 300 diverse restaurants with more always opening, and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, an urban bike and pedestrian path, puts even more into an easily accessible range.
Indy’s most famous restaurant opened in 1902 and has earned a national reputation for the quality of its steaks, seafood, cocktails, and service. It’s also renowned for its sizzling shrimp cocktail, a dish the Travel Channel deemed the world’s spiciest food. It’s so famous that a Major League Eating competition now takes place during each winter’s Big Ten Football Championship to see who can eat the most in ten minutes—the record is 18 lbs, 9 oz. The contest attracts legends like Joey Chestnut, Miki Sudo, Nick Wehry, and Darron Breeden.
Its modern allure works well with Indy’s rich history to create a sophisticated dining experience with locally-sourced ingredients, creative cocktails, and tempting desserts. The name pays tribute to Anton “Tony” Hulman Jr. who purchased Indianapolis Motor Speedway after WWII. The Hulman family is continuing his legacy at this restaurant inside Hotel Indy with intentional designs like checkered tiles and many photos of IMS through the years.
The Noodle is a legendary blues bar founded in 1850 that has caught the attention of heavyweights like Rolling Stone magazine. You can catch live blues every night, but it’s also a good destination for poppers and potato skins before or after a Colts game, a basket of wings for lunch, or a steak dinner with all the trimmings.
This taco and tequila joint one block from the Indiana Convention Center offers a chips and salsa flight, stuffed avocados, and so many delicious Mexican flavors that you’ll need to visit several times to try them all. And the drinks. Not only can you get the usual margaritas and sangria, but there’s also a fantastic selection of local brews, too.
A true gastropub with beautiful beer garden downtown prides itself on a fresh farm-to-table menu and wide selection of house-made beers. The family-friendly restaurant occupies a historic livery building from the 1800s, creating a unique space. The seasonal menu always features favorites like the ‘frites’ (fries) and incredible variety of house specialty sauces, and the menu of critically-acclaimed Belgian-inspired brews changes often.
Everything on the menu is designed to complement the beers, many of which are aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels. Whether it’s fried green tomatoes and buffalo cauliflower or strawberry kale salad with shrimp and grits, you’ll find your perfect pairing. In addition to the beers, the spirits menu also pays tribute to the restaurant’s home state with a large bourbon selection. Don’t miss the sweet potato beignets for dessert.
Punch Bowl Social
Foodertainment is a thing and Punch Bowl is winning. The fun atmosphere includes opportunities for skee-ball, giant Scrabble, foosball, bocce ball, karaoke, arcade games, and even bowling. The scratch kitchen food and craft cocktails add to the vibe.
If you’re looking for a sweet escape, here it is. The celebrity-endorsed, world-famous celebration destination is known for photo-worthy sweets and treats like the King Kong Sundae (serves 12 people with 24 scoops of ice cream , sprinkles, gummy bears, caramel and hot fudge sauces, and giant whirly pops). Over the top? Definitely. In addition to dessert, Sweet Factory serves cocktails, and menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pour some sugar on me!
An old-world steak house with a decidedly modern feel, this is a mecca for carnivores. Offering prime and wagyu grades, fresh seafood, a wine list that has received multiple Wine Spectator “Awards of Excellence,” and a dedicated staff. Built in 1895, Prime 47’s home, the Majestic Building, is a beautiful, historical space with original tile floors, marble columns, and 18-foot windows all creating an exquisite atmosphere.
Award-winning service is just the beginning of the Tony Ricci experience. Start with an inventive cocktail or a glass of wine from an extensive list, savor blue point oysters and seared ahi tuna tartare, then on to the main course: steaks, rack of lamb, seafood, chops, chicken, pasta, and so many delicious sides. Leave room for dessert.
A cozy European-inspired hidden gem in downtown Indy, Gallery specializes in pastries, coffee, brunch, cocktails, and dinner. Quality food speaks for itself on the approachable menu, the wine selection is top notch, breakfast drinks (more than mimosas) will get you going, and you will not regret ordering dessert. Sweet croissant fritters and a pear lavender latte won’t let you down.
Experience the rich flavors and traditions of Italian cuisine with a menu highlighting locally-sourced ingredients. Located inside downtown’s Alexander, Nesso reflects the same appreciation of art you’ll see in the boutique hotel. Your palate is the canvas and the chef uses expert techniques to create a beautiful dish for you.
