From internationally-inspired dishes to fine dining in historic surroundings, northern Indiana’s culinary scene is sure to please every appetite.
LAKE COUNTY
Try a little bit of everything during Savor the South Shore Restaurant Weeks February 26-March 10 featuring specially-priced three-course menus or discounts from participating restaurants. It’s the perfect time to explore the region’s amazing culinary treats and revisit local favorites. No need for coupons; simply ask your server for their Savor menu. www.southshorecva.com/ savor/ for updated participating restaurants.
A must-see hidden gem in Hobart is nestled inside one of the area’s historical buildings. The Caribbean On Lake George prides itself on making authentic mouthwatering Puerto Rican cuisine. Enjoy the eclectic yet speakeasy vibe and experience a handcrafted tropical cocktail at their 1929 curved bar. Absolutely amazing Caribbean flavors.
In Crown Point you’ll find Bedarra Bar, a hip and distinguished hot spot located near downtown. Serving exquisite hand-crafted cocktails along with an exceptionally tempting menu of small plates and deliciously shareable food, Bedarra Bar is 21+. Take a journey, drink, eat and share your stories. Named after the owner’s favorite vacation spot, Bedarra is an exquisite island in Australia off of Dunk Island. They wanted to bring that same feeling of paradise and enjoyment and share them with visitors.
Tiny’s Coffee Bar, in the heart of the Miller Beach Community near Gary, is a coffee shop, restaurant and full-bar service all in one. Their mission is to be a favorite destination to relax and kick back in at the Indiana Dunes. Family owned and operated, they offer unique coffee and coffee bar drinks.
For small batch doughnuts made fresh all day, check out Parlor Doughnuts in Munster. They specialize in layered doughnuts that combine cake and yeast, and offer some unique flavor combinations. Be sure and visit their other location in Valparaiso.
NEWTON COUNTY
When visiting one of the area’s top destinations, Fair Oaks Farms, be sure and reserve a table at The Farmhouse Restaurant. This outstanding eatery features fresh dishes that are created from ingredients grown and harvested right on the premises, along with other farms within the region. Wine and beer are also served.
The Old Colonial Inn in Kentland is a fine dining establishment housed in a building from circa 1894. The menu echoes the original when the restaurant opened in 1964 and features superior quality meats and seafoods. Dinner reservations are preferred.
Also in Kentland is the Downtown Lounge & Trattoria. The owners wanted to bring the collective flavors of their backgrounds, and serve them in an upscale, casual, fine dining atmosphere, which is also family friendly. The décor is Chicago style with lots of ambience, color, and a Mediterranean and Latin flair. They specialize in family recipes of southern Italian specialties and Mexican staples from the Baja peninsula, along with a variety of American dishes.
PORTER COUNTY
Journeyman at the American Factory in Valparaiso features dining at Union Hall, serving all the classic Journeyman spirits such as Last Feather Rye, OCG, Pit-Spitter Cherry Whiskey, and more. Union Hall stands as an inspired showcase of Midwest staples. Beyond distilling, Journeyman has curated a family-friendly restaurant that offers modern American fare for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. The culinary journey at Union Hall is a perfect complement to the diverse and exceptional spirits crafted on-site. In addition to the distillery and restaurant, Journeyman’s brewery, Sea of Monsters, unfurls its own captivating story. Inspired by nautical legends and the courage to face fears of the unknown, the brewery promises bold house brews and an invitation to partake in storytelling, reminiscent of those who once explored uncharted waters.
Valparaiso Events has many partners downtown that are great dining spots. You’ll find everything from smoked ribs to sushi and wood-fired pizza to handcrafted burgers. Essentially, there’s a restaurant in historic downtown Valparaiso to satisfy any taste bud.
LAPORTE COUNTY
Inspired by the historic and iconic Michigan City microbrewery, Zorn Brewing in Michigan City offers the finest flavors of today. Come discover the all-new selection of expertly crafted beers, and savor the smooth, satisfying experience in every glass. Whether you crave a rich, bold dark stout or a mellow, pale amber ale, they have a favorite new brew for you.
The City of La Porte’s food scene has exploded over the last few years. Bare Bones Gastropub got the ball rolling offering quality food from quality ingredients, focusing on making almost everything from scratch. They have an impressive draft list and fun cocktails. Across Lincolnway, Bon Viet offers a unique menu of delicious, healthy and full-flavored cuisine passed down through three French Vietnamese generations whose passion is evident in every dish from noodles and rice to the banh mi sandwich.
ELKHART COUNTY
Goshen Brewing Company is a family-friendly brewpub serving a wide selection of beers and seasonal, local, farm-to-table food. And interestingly, they are a 100% solar and wind-powered facility. They recycled the former Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) building to provide a comfortable, industrial space to eat, drink, and socialize. They offer big, open tables where you can sit and get to know your neighbors. Located two blocks off of Main Street, they’re close to downtown and feature a patio that overlooks the woods and the river, with easy access from the Millrace bike path.
LAGRANGE COUNTY/ SHIPSHEWANA
Blue Gate Restaurant is an award- winning Shipshewana restaurant known for its Amish style cooking and 25-plus kinds of pies. Here you’ll experience a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. You can relax on one of the many glider chairs surrounding their wrap-around porch, and also brows in their shops.