A Food Lover's Guide to Carmel, Indiana
For anyone who considers themselves a foodie, Carmel, Indiana is a must-visit destination. This city, located just north of Indianapolis, has emerged as a hub for culinary innovation in recent years, thanks to its diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Whether you're looking for classic American fare, international cuisine, or artisanal sweets, Carmel has something to offer every taste bud.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top food destinations in Carmel, highlighting the unique flavors and experiences that make this city a food lover's paradise.
Breakfast and Brunch
First things first: let's start with the most important meal of the day. Carmel, Indiana is home to several fantastic breakfast and brunch spots that are sure to satisfy your morning cravings.
One of the most popular spots in town is Eggshell Bistro, a charming cafe that specializes in breakfast sandwiches, crepes, and gourmet coffee. Their "Eggwich" is a must-try: a sandwich made with eggs, bacon, avocado, and arugula on a fresh croissant.
Another great option is Rosie's Place, a family-owned restaurant that serves up classic American breakfast dishes with a twist. Try the "Grown-Up Grilled Cheese" with bacon and avocado, or the "Buenos Dias Burrito" with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese.
If you're looking for something sweet, head to Donut Refinery, a quirky donut shop that lets you customize your own donut with toppings like bacon, Fruity Pebbles, and Nutella. Or, try the artisanal pastries and croissants at la Madeleine French Bakery and Cafe.
Lunch and Dinner
When it comes to lunch and dinner, Carmel has an abundance of options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Anthony's Chophouse: If you're in the mood for a fancy night out, Anthony's Chophouse is the place to go. This upscale steakhouse serves up premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and a carefully curated wine list.
- Bub's Burgers and Ice Cream: For a classic American meal, head to Bub's Burgers and Ice Cream. Their burgers are juicy and delicious, and they offer a wide selection of toppings and sides to customize your meal. Don't forget to save room for one of their famous milkshakes!
- Woody's Library Restaurant: Located in a former library, Woody's Library Restaurant is a unique dining experience that combines classic American fare with a literary theme. The menu includes dishes like "The Great Gatsby" (a filet mignon) and "Huck Finn's Catfish Fry."
- La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant: For a taste of Mexico, head to La Hacienda. This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, as well as unique creations like the "Mexican Lasagna."
- Sangiovese Ristorante: If Italian cuisine is more your style, Sangiovese Ristorante is a must-visit. Their menu features authentic Italian dishes like risotto, osso buco, and homemade pasta, as well as an extensive wine list.
Food Trucks and Festivals
In addition to its brick-and-mortar restaurants, Carmel is also home to a thriving food truck scene. Several local food trucks gather at the Carmel Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, offering a variety of delicious options like street tacos, BBQ sandwiches, and gourmet grilled cheese.
For a taste of the best food trucks in the area, check out the annual CarmelFest festival in July. This two-day event features live music, carnival rides, and of course, a wide selection of food vendors. From funnel cakes and corn dogs to artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, CarmelFest has something to satisfy every craving.
Another must-visit food festival is the Taste of Carmel, which takes place each August. This event features food from over 20 local restaurants and vendors, as well as live music and family-friendly activities.
Artisanal Treats
- Finally, no food lover's guide to Carmel would be complete without mentioning the city's artisanal sweet treats. Here are a few places to indulge your sweet tooth:
- The Cake Bake Shop: Known for its decadent cakes and pastries, The Cake Bake Shop is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Try the "Pink Champagne Cake" or the "Chocolate Bombshell" for a truly indulgent treat.
- Graeter's Ice Cream: This Cincinnati-based ice cream shop has a location in Carmel, and it's worth a visit for their handcrafted, small-batch ice cream. The "Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip" is a fan favorite.
- Best Chocolate in Town: As the name suggests, Best Chocolate in Town is the place to go for all things chocolate. From truffles to chocolate-covered pretzels, this shop has it all.
Conclusion
Carmel, Indiana may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of food destinations, but it's definitely worth a visit for any food lover. With its diverse selection of restaurants, food trucks, and festivals, as well as its artisanal sweet treats, Carmel has something to offer every palate. So why not plan a trip to this culinary gem in the heart of the Midwest? Your taste buds will thank you.
