Anyetsang’s Little Tibet
East Asian, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Indian, South/Southeast Asian, Thai, Tibetan, Vegan, Vegetarian
415 E. 4th St.
812-331-0122
This cozy restaurant occupies a vintage bungalow on Bloomington’s 4th Street restaurant row. Little Tibet serves house specialties of momo dumplings and curries from Thailand and India, as well as noodle dishes and vegetarian choices. And besides wine and Champagne, Anyetsang’s serves a large variety of mimosas. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Daily lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m., dinner 5-9 p.m. • Bar: Wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Bloomington Bagel Company
Breakfast, Fair Labor, Sandwiches, Vegetarian
113 N. Dunn St. • 812-333-4653
238 N. Morton St. • 812-349-4653
1318 E. 3rd St. • 812-287-8353
913 S. College Mall Rd. • 812-339-4653
Customers can watch employees make East Coast-style, kettle-boiled bagels from scratch while waiting in line in this laidback eatery. Bagelwiches (like the Lotsa Lox, with cream cheese, Nova lox, tomato, onion, and capers), salads, soups, coffees, and cookies are popular. Breakfast is served all day. • Prices: $ • Hours: N. Dunn St.: Mon.–Sat. 6 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.– 7 p.m.; N. Morton St.: Mon.–Sat. 7 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; E. 3rd St.: Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; S. College Mall Rd.: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. daily • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Accessibility Decal • Fair Labor Decal
BuffaLouie’s
American, Fair Labor, Sandwiches
114 S. Indiana Ave.
812-333-3030
In 1987, an IU student opened BuffaLouie’s, naming it after his grandfather. Wings, subs, and salads are the reason to visit this award-winning restaurant. In addition to their wings, try the Buffalo, Teriyaki, or Parmigiana Burger, or one of their many other sandwich or wrap options. Black bean patties are a great choice for vegetarians. Sides and appetizers include curly fries, mozzarella sticks, garlic bread, and onion rings. Hoosier and sports-themed memorabilia adorn the walls, and big-screen TVs keep you entertained. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sun. 10:30 a.m.–midnight • Bar: Beer • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Chocolate Moose, The
American, Fair Labor, Ice Cream, Sweets
401 S. Walnut St.
812-333-0475
Come summer, lines form well into the night at The Chocolate Moose. Grasshopper and Moose Chocolate ice creams are classics and well worth the wait. Soft serve is big, too, from tiny torch cones to chocolate-and-nut-dipped swirls. • Prices: $ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. noon–10 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
DeAngelo’s
European, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Italian, Pizza
2620 E. 3rd St.
812-961-0008
This Tuscan-themed restaurant specializes in New York-style pizzas, pastas, calzones, lasagnas, and spaghettis. The menu includes flat breads, salads, and Italian classics such as Chicken Parmesan and Fettuccine Alfredo. Some dishes incorporate creole flavors as well, including Chris's Spicy Jambalaya and the Crawfish Étouffée. All-you-can-eat spaghetti and meatballs is offered on Monday, and wine is half-off on Wednesday. Gluten-free pasta is available upon request. All items on the regular menu are available for carryout. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No • Fair Labor Decal
Esan Thai
Asian, Fair Labor, South/Southeast Asian, Thai
221 E. Kirkwood
812-333-8424
House specialties at this bright and airy restaurant at the back of Victoria Towers are based on family recipes. Try the Yum Khai, a spicy grilled chicken salad with shallots, cilantro, tomato, and lime juice, or the Moo Num Tok (grilled pork with onion, mint, and chilies). Noodle dishes and curries are also first-rate. • Prices: Lunch: $-$$; Dinner: $$-$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Mon., Wed.–Th. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Closed Tu.; Reservations recommended on weekends. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Feast Bakery Cafe
American, Bakery, Breakfast, Brunch, Cafés, Fair Labor, Small Plates, Vegetarian
581 E. Hillside Dr. Suite 104
812-822-0222
Market & Cellar
407 W. Patterson Dr.
812-287-8615
The stars at this café, bakery, and coffee shop are owner Erika Yochum’s handmade tamales — packets of masa and fillings, wrapped in cornhusks and steamed. Varieties range from traditional to gourmet but salads and sandwiches at lunchtime and more elaborate dinner entrées revolve around seasonal, local, organic ingredients. Gorgeous homemade pies, desserts, breakfast pastries, and cookies are topnotch. • Prices: $-$$$ • Hours: Bakery Cafe: Wed.–Sat. 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Closed Mon.–Tu.; Market & Cellar: Tu.–Sat. 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Closed Sun.–Mon. • Bar: No/Wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Laughing Planet Cafe, The
Cafés, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Mexican, Soup, Vegan, Vegetarian
322 E. Kirkwood
812-323-2233
Both vegan- and omnivore-friendly, this charming, funky shop offers delicious salads, soups, veggie burgers, quesadillas, and baked goods. Hungarian Mushroom Soup and the Spinach Black Bean Burrito are specialties. The restaurant serves organic and local produce and composts back to suppliers. • Prices: $ • Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Lennie’s
American, Brunch, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Italian, Pizza, Sandwiches
1795 E. 10th St.
812-323-2112
Home of the Bloomington Brewing Co., Lennie’s offers its own award-winning ales. Chef Fred Manion, a Culinary Institute of America graduate, creates eclectic dishes—main-course salads, gourmet pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and daily dinner and soup specials. Try the rustic flat breads — hearth baked daily and lightly topped with fresh ingredients. • Prices: $$–$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Th. 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–midnight (Pub closes nightly one hour after the restaurant.) • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX • Outdoor Seating: No • Accessibility Decal • Fair Labor Decal
Malibu Grill
American, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Seafood, Steaks, Vegan, Vegetarian
106 N. Walnut
812-332-4334
Malibu Grill, on the east side of the downtown Square, offers casual dining in an upscale atmosphere for 200. Specialties include the Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Caesar salad, Lime Chicken Fettuccini, and Caramelized Salmon. Live jazz Wed.–Fri. 6–9 p.m. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Th. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5:30–9:30 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5:30–10:30 p.m.; Sat. noon–10:30 p.m.; Sun. noon–9 p.m.; Reservations accepted only during the week; 20-minute call-ahead service available. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., DC • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Nick’s English Hut
American, Fair Labor, Pub Food
423 E. Kirkwood
812-332-4040
A Bloomington institution for more than 80 years, Nick’s is the place to go for Gregg “Rags” Rago’s famous Nick’s burgers, strombolis, pizza, soups, salads, and sandwiches prepared with locally produced meats and produce. Sandwiches include Italian Beef, Breaded Pork Tenderloin, Fresh Grilled Salmon, and the Black Bean Burger. For dessert, indulge in the cheesecake. Or, if you're looking for a fun night out, play Sink the Biz with friends while watching your favorite sports on the many high-definition TVs. A museum of IU memorabilia is displayed on the walls. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–2 a.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–midnight.; Reservations are recommended for large parties. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Cash preferred, but Visa, MC, and Disc. are accepted. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Owlery, The
Brunch, Fair Labor, Gluten-Free, Sandwiches, Vegan, Vegetarian
118 W. 6th St.
812-333-7344
This hip but comfortable vegetarian restaurant is furnished with vintage enameled tables and a small bar serving a carefully curated selection of beers. Menu options range from faux meat sandwiches to pierogies and Asian veggie bowls. Try a riff on fish and chips: Battered and fried tofu is flavored with nori, adding a hint of the sea. A display case full of vegan layer cakes and cupcakes provides visual incentive to leave a little room for something sweet. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. brunch 10 a.m.–3 p.m. • Bar: Beer • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No • Fair Labor Decal
Runcible Spoon Cafe and Restaurant
American, Breakfast, Brunch, Cafés, Fair Labor, Vegan
412 E. 6th St.
812-334-3997
A beloved Bloomington landmark, the Runcible Spoon has kept its funky atmosphere while expanding its menu to include not only luscious breakfasts, but also pastas and sandwiches at lunch and more classic dishes at night. It's a sin not to try their decadent pancakes and French toast, and great-tasting dinner options include the Pan-Seared Salmon and Gypsy Chicken. Order a glass of wine and enjoy live, traditional Irish music on Tuesdays. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Samira Restaurant
Afghan, Buffet, Fair Labor, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian
100 W. 6th St.
812-331-3761
Located on the north side of the downtown Square, Samira features Afghan dishes in an elegant, relaxing atmosphere. Specialties include kebabs and dumplings as well as a wide array of vegetarian dishes. Do not miss the samarok (a spicy mushroom appetizer) — you’ll want to sop up every drop of sauce with the chewy and delicious flatbread. Great baklava. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Lunch: Mon.–Fri. (buffet and lunch menu) 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Dinner Mon.–Th. 5–9 p.m. and Fri.–Sat. 5–10 p.m.; Closed Sun.; Reservations recommended. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Scholars Keep
American, Brunch, Fair Labor, Steaks
717 N. College
812-332-1892
Chef Drew Nickless’ eclectic menu emphasizes fresh food and offers specials every day in this romantic, 150-year-old brick mansion complete with fireplaces and an outdoor dining deck. The café serves creative dinners, burgers, and shareables. Definitely a place to bring a date! • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Sun. brunch 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; Dinner daily 5–11 p.m.; Desserts and appetizers until midnight; Reservations recommended. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Read our review of Scholars Inn Gourmet Café & Wine Bar here!
Soma Coffee House & Juice Bar
Cafés, Fair Labor, Juice Bar, Sweets, Vegan, Vegetarian
322 E. Kirkwood • 812-331-2770
1400 E. 3rd St. Suite C • 812-333-7334
Serving up the best latte in town, Soma works magic with coffee beans and an espresso machine. A prime downtown location and another in Jordan Square means more to love. Constant traffic means the coffee is always fresh. • Prices: $ • Hours: East Kirkwood Mon.–Fri. 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat. 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m.–10 p.m.; East 3rd Street Mon.–Fri. 6 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat.–Sun. 7 a.m.–9 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Taste of India
Buffet, Fair Labor, Indian, South/Southeast Asian, Vegan, Vegetarian
316 E. 4th St.
812-333-1399
This airy, casual restaurant specializes in northern-and southern-Indian cuisine. The tikkas, vindaloos, and kormas are all good and cooked to your desired level of spiciness. The southern-Indian dosa—a lentil-and-rice crêpe with various fillings — is terrific. Slather on some coconut chutney and enjoy with a savory tamarind lentil stew. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. daily • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Read our review of Taste of India here!
Upland’s Bloomington Brewpub
American, Fair Labor, Pub Food
350 W. 11th St.
812-336-2337
The menu changes seasonally but always includes pub favorites such as Fish and Chips, as well as many dishes that include Upland’s craft-brewed beers as ingredients. The menu runs from sandwiches (try the buffalo burgers) to entrées, and many vegetarian/vegan specials are also offered. Live entertainment. Beers regularly on tap include wheat, weizen, pale, IPA, porter, and amber. • Prices: $–$$ • Hours: Mon.–Th. 11 a.m.–midnight; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sun. noon–midnight • Bar: Beer, including carryout, and wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Uptown Cafe, The
American, Brunch, Cajun/Creole, Fair Labor, Steaks
102 E. Kirkwood
812-339-0900
The New Orleans-style Uptown Cafe is known for Cajun/Creole-inspired fare (try the Cajun meatloaf), fresh steaks, seafood, and extravagant breakfast and brunch items, including Cottage Cheese Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, and Michael’s Home Fries. Jazz and soul music complement your meal. The casually upscale environment provides the opportunity to dress up or down and enjoy a consistently tasty meal. Uptown’s bar area serves craft beer, fine wine, artisan spirits, and classic cocktails, as well as late-night food on Friday and Saturday nights. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Wed. 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Th. 7 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri. 7 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sun. brunch 9 a.m.–2 p.m. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal
Village Deli, The
American, Breakfast, Brunch, Delicatessen, Fair Labor
409 E. Kirkwood
812-336-2303
This long-established, upbeat restaurant on East Kirkwood serves breakfast all day (but all kinds of sandwiches and salads for lunch and dinner as well); “ginormous” pancakes and omelets are house specialties. The Huevos Rancheros are not authentic, but they are tasty! • Prices: $ • Hours: Mon.–Fri. 7 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat.–Sun. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal