10 Best Restaurants in Bloomington Indiana

Bloomington, a vibrant city in the heart of Indiana, is not only known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also for its diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a student at Indiana University or a visitor exploring the city, Bloomington offers an array of lunchtime delights to tantalize your taste buds. In this blog, we’ll take you on a delectable journey through the Top 10 restaurants and best place to eat in Downtown Bloomington, Indiana, where every bite is a delightful experience.

1. Uptown Café

Address: 102 E Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: Uptown Café is a beloved local eatery with a cozy atmosphere and an eclectic menu. They are known for their innovative and mouth watering dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet sandwich or a hearty salad, Uptown Café has it all.

Must-Try Dish: Don’t miss the Thai Peanut Noodle Salad, a flavor-packed combination of marinated chicken, vegetables, and Thai peanut sauce served over linguini.

2. Trojan Horse

Address: 100 E Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: Trojan Horse is an iconic Bloomington restaurant that has been serving delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine for over four decades. The inviting ambience and friendly staff make it a popular lunchtime spot.

Must-Try Dish: Sink your teeth into the Gyro Platter, featuring tender slices of gyro meat, pita bread, and a flavorful Greek salad.

3. B Hive Restaurant

Address: 2608 E 10th St, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: B Hive is a hidden gem with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Their menu offers a diverse range of options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes. The farm-to-table approach ensures freshness and quality in every bite.

Must-Try Dish: The Portobello and Goat Cheese Panini, with marinated portobello mushrooms, goat cheese, roasted red pepper, and arugula, is a delightful vegetarian choice.

4. Grazie! Italiano

Address: 106 W 6th St, Bloomington, IN 47404

Why It’s Special: Grazie! Italiano is the go-to place for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant boasts a warm and welcoming ambiance, making it perfect for a leisurely lunch. From pasta to pizza, the menu is filled with authentic Italian flavors.

Must-Try Dish: Savor the Gnocchi Bolognese, a dish of handmade potato dumplings in a rich meat sauce with a touch of cream and Parmesan cheese.

5. The Owlery Restaurant

Address: 118 W 6th St, Bloomington, IN 47404

Why It’s Special: The Owlery is a vegetarian and vegan paradise in Bloomington. This cozy restaurant is known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical dining. The menu is brimming with inventive and delicious plant-based options.

Must-Try Dish: Their award-winning Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos are a must, featuring crispy cauliflower bites, buffalo sauce, avocado, and ranch dressing.

6. Anatolia

Address: 405 E 4th St, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: Anatolia is a charming restaurant that offers a taste of Turkey in the heart of Bloomington. The menu is filled with traditional Turkish dishes made with fresh ingredients and a whole lot of love.

Must-Try Dish: Order the Lamb Adana Kebab, seasoned ground lamb skewers served with rice, grilled vegetables, and pita bread.

7. Lennie’s Restaurant & Brewpub

Address: 1795 E 10th St, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: Lennie’s is a local favorite known for its delicious pub fare and craft beer. The warm and friendly atmosphere, along with their extensive beer selection, makes it a great place to unwind during lunch.

Must-Try Dish: The Thai Peanut Stir-Fry is a delightful combination of chicken, broccoli, carrots, and peanuts in a flavorful Thai peanut sauce, served over jasmine rice.

8. BuffaLouie’s

Address: 114 S Indiana Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: BuffaLouie’s is a sports bar and grill that’s a hit with locals and students alike. It’s the perfect place to catch a game and savor some of the best wings in town. Their diverse menu offers a variety of wing flavors and other pub favorites.

Must-Try Dish: Dive into a plate of their famous Buffalo wings with your choice of sauce, from mild to fiery hot.

9. Snow Lion Restaurant

Address: 113 S Grant St, Bloomington, IN 47408

Why It’s Special: Snow Lion brings the flavors of Tibet to Bloomington. This family-owned restaurant offers a unique and delicious dining experience. The serene setting and the friendly staff add to the charm.

Must-Try Dish: Taste the Beef Shapta, tender slices of beef stir-fried with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and Tibetan spices.

10. Samira Restaurant

Address: 100 W 6th St, Bloomington, IN 47404

Why It’s Special: Samira Restaurant is a culinary gem that serves delectable Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance complements the rich flavors of the dishes. From hummus to shawarma, their menu is a journey through the flavors of the Middle East.

Must-Try Dish: Savor the Chicken Shawarma Platter, featuring tender marinated chicken, rice, and a colorful array of salads and sauces.

In Conclusion: A Lunchtime Delight in Bloomington

Bloomington’s dining scene is a reflection of its diverse and vibrant community. From Greek gyros to Italian pasta, and from plant-based delights to Turkish kebabs, these lunch restaurants offer a wide range of flavors to satisfy every palate. So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bloomington, these culinary hotspots are ready to provide you with a memorable lunchtime experience that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy the delicious journey through Bloomington’s culinary landscape, where each bite is a delectable discovery.