Asuka shares space with the Chinese restaurant Noodle Town, giving diners the option of Chinese food, hibachi, or sushi. Chefs become showmen at their hibachi stations, tossing knives and spatulas and flipping bits of food into diners’ mouths. Sushi is reliable with a variety of standard and specialty rolls available. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Th. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

Find this unassuming Chinese spot just off of the downtown Square near the 4th Street parking garage. The dining room doesn’t look like much but there’s plenty of spicy Szechuan flavor inside. If you can handle the heat, start with the dandan noodles or pork wontons, both slicked with mouth-numbing chili oil, then cool down with an order of garlic-smashed cucumber. Other notable specialties include bubbling hot pots, cumin beef or lamb, and spicy dry-fried string beans. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat–Sun. 11:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

From the simple to the extravagant, the Brown County Inn has a variety of healthy choices. The restaurant's dinner entrée menu includes a New York strip steak and Peach & Bourbon Pork Chops, but also features a humbler black beans & rice dish with pilaf and sweet corn salsa. There's also a soup and salad bar. Appetizers include cheese boards and shrimp cocktail, as well as French fries and nachos. Vegetarian options are available. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Th. 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. • Bar: Yes • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., DC • Outdoor Seating: Yes

Bub’s is a Bloomington outpost of a Carmel, Indiana, burger joint, and burgers (and ice cream) are what they do well here — from the full pound “Big Ugly” to the 1/4 pound “Settle for Less Ugly” burger in ground beef or healthier elk. Dress ‘em as you like ‘em and add sides of fries, slaw, potato salad, or onion rings. Hand-dipped shakes and malts are added bliss! • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. daily • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

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

In business since 1953, Cafe Pizzaria was not only the first pizzeria in Bloomington but, according to store legend, the first restaurant to serve the Midwestern version of the Stromboli sandwich (with ground sausage, onion, cheese, and sauce on a sub bun). The original recipes are still in use, and owner Larry Webb purchases local Indiana beef from Fischer Farms. Daily specials, seating for 100. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: 11 a.m.–11:30 p.m. daily • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

Just west of the downtown square, Crazy Horse is one of Bloomington's oldest eateries. The specialties of the house include flavored martinis, Angus beef burgers, quesadillas, steaks, and barbecued ribs. Each day of the week offers several drink specials, including half-priced wine bottles on Wednesday and Sunday. Live bands play Sundays from 8–10 p.m. • Prices: $-$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Wed. 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; Th.–Sat. 11 a.m.–2 a.m. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., DC, Campus Access • Outdoor Seating: Yes

This Asian fusion restaurant adds Korean flavor to the melting pot of international food on East 4th Street. Bamboo ceilings and lots of warm, dark wood transform the converted house into a comfortable dining destination. From ramen to shareable hot pots, the menu is full of warming soups, stews, and curries. Bulgogi, a classic Korean dish of marinated grilled beef, is a popular choice. Try it in a bento box. • Prices: Lunch: $-$$; Dinner: $-$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Wed. 11 a.m.–midnight; Th.–Sat. 11 a.m.–3 a.m.; Sun. noon-10 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

This oversize Japanese restaurant on Bloomington’s west side is split into hibachi and sushi zones. Choose hibachi for a bit of dinner theater, fun for kids and groups. Sushi options range from basic avocado rolls to the fiery Heart Attack, a tempura-fried jalapeno filled with spicy tuna and cream cheese. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Th. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

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

Chef Daniel Orr’s FARM is a cheerful, tongue-in-cheek salute to the best of Hoosier eating. In the old Oddfellows Building, revamped to look like a country farm store, FARM sells lunch, snacks, and locally made products in the market and delicious supper fare in the restaurant. The menu changes seasonally, but try to catch the seared skirt steak with fabulous garlic and chili fries. Orr’s raw fish preparations are excellent, as are the pizzas in the bar. • Prices: $-$$$ • Hours: FARM: Tu.–Fri. 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Closed Mon; Root Cellar: Weeknight hours vary; Fri.–Sat. 8 p.m.–3 a.m.; Closed Sun.–Mon. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

Read our review of FARMbloomington here!

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

Read our review of Feast here! 

Housed in a historic former dry-goods store that has stood at the corner of Main and Van Buren in downtown Nashville since 1873, the Hobnob serves home-baked goods and classic American fare like long-simmered pot roast, liver and onions, and peach shortcake (when in season). Sandwiches, pasta dishes, and salads also available. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Mon. 8:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.; Tu. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.; Wed.–Th. 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m. (Hours vary seasonally; call ahead.) • Bar: Wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., DC • Outdoor Seating: No

Step into Ireland when you enter this pub with its gorgeous 1860s bar, located just west of the downtown Square. Start your meal off with an order of escargot, baked potato skins, or Leprechaun Wings. For dinner, try the Chicken Cordon Bleu, Leg O' Lamb, or indulge in a Filet Mignon. Specialties include oysters, lamb, corned beef and cabbage, and Irish stews. After dinner, enjoy a slice of Irish Apple Walnut Cake or Whiskey Pie. Nightly specials. Full array of Irish and European imported beers; 57 single-malt scotches. Brunch is served from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. on Sunday. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–3 a.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–midnight • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc., DC • Outdoor Seating: Yes

Read our review of The Irish Lion here!

A Bloomington favorite, with its checked tablecloths and IU-decked walls, Janko’s is one block west of the downtown Square. Lamb and pork chop specials are featured regularly, and the menu offers Eastern European specialties like fiery Bucharest meatballs, but fabulous steaks are the reason most people line up to get in. • Prices: $$$–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Th. 5–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 4:30–10 p.m.; Closed Sun.; Reservations recommended. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, DC • Outdoor Seating: No

Read our review of Janko's Little Zagreb here!

“I cook foods I like to eat,” says Marina Fiore, chef of this quaint, family-oriented restaurant. Her tastes run to French classics — rabbit dishes, cream sauces, crème brûlée, and chocolate mousse. Vegetarian options are always available. • Prices: $$–$$$ • Hours: Tu.–Wed. 5:30–9 p.m.; Th. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 5:30–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 5:30–9 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 5:30–9 p.m.; Closed Mon.; Reservations are required for large parties. • Bar: Beer, wine • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Open-air dining room

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

Read our review of Lennie’s here! 

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

Read our review of Malibu Grill here!

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

Read our review of Nick’s English Hut here!

Located in and named for an old tavern, this family-owned restaurant specializes in hearty fare that includes barbecued ribs, wild game, pheasant, turkey, smoked pork chops, and pot roast. There are lunch specials, and a piano player performs from 6–8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Sun.–Th. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–midnight • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

This funky café is Bloomington’s first all-vegan bakery. They whip up dozens of fun cupcake flavors, such as Sweet Coconut Curry and Chai Latte. The types of cupcakes available change daily. They also offer a varying assortment of baked goodies, such as doughnuts, cookies, and cinnamon rolls. Many of their treats are gluten-free, or can be specially ordered that way for an extra charge. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Tu.–Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Closed Mon.• Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

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! 

Chef Jack Cody—“Smokin’ Jack”—specializes in (what else?) smoked ribs, but be sure to try the pulled pork, too. He offers five different sauces: regular, Jack’s sweet barbecue, Louisiana hot, barbecue hot, and Jamaican jerk. Collard greens and cornbread salad are among the sides. Monday is buy-one-get-one-free night for seniors from 4–9 p.m. Specials are offered every day. • Prices: $–$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Closed Sun. • Bar: Beer • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

This casual joint serves up fast Korean fare. Walk up to the counter and order off the large menu board, and in a few minutes you’ll have a tray of steaming Korean cuisine. For some comfort food with a twist, try the bibimbap. This traditional dish is served in a stone bowl, filled with rice, veggies, slices of meat, and a fried egg. Mix it all up and enjoy. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.– 2:30 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

Homey and quaint, this gem of a restaurant with wood floors and folksy memorabilia on the walls serves fresh food made from local ingredients. On weekends, live chamber music is featured. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 5–9 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.; Dinner reservations always required; reservations at other meals required for parties of six or more. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes

Read our review of The Story Inn here!

There’s karaoke on weekends at Sushi Bar, which offers regular $1 sushi specials. The Birthday Roll includes tempura shrimp, eel, spicy shrimp, avocado, and crab. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Lunch: Mon.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Sun. noon–2:30 p.m.; Dinner: Mon.–Wed. 4:30–10 p.m., Th.–Sat. 4:30 p.m.–3 a.m., Sun. 4:30–10 p.m. • Bar: Beer, wine, sake • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: No

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

Read our review of The Uptown Cafe here!