5 Best Comfort Food Restaurants in Carmel to Try

Carmel blends Hoosier heartiness with modern polish—cozy taverns, scratch kitchens, and chef-driven spots that honor nostalgia.

These favorites serve the kind of plates that make winter nights and celebratory dinners feel special.

Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream

A Monon Trail classic, Bub’s is comfort with a competitive edge thanks to its “Big Ugly” burger challenge.

Patties are hand-pattied and grilled to a juicy char, buns are sturdy, and the sweet potato waffle fries with marshmallow dipping sauce are a cult favorite.

Add a thick shake or a scoop of house ice cream for maximum nostalgia in a family-friendly setting.

Eggshell Bistro

Artful yet deeply comforting, Eggshell Bistro turns breakfast and brunch into an everyday treat.

Think truffled eggs, shakshuka, brioche French toast, and savory croques with melty cheese pull.

Coffee is taken seriously, pastries are pristine, and the intimate space feels like a European café—perfect for a slow, restorative morning.

Charleston’s Restaurant

Reliable, warm, and classic, Charleston’s is a neighborhood comfort standby.

The chicken fried steak comes with peppery gravy, baked potato soup is creamy and crowd-pleasing, and the prime rib is a weekend staple.

Honey-drizzled croissants at the start are dangerously good, and service is consistently attentive.

Bazbeaux Pizza

For carb-centric comfort, Bazbeaux’s thin-crust pies with high-quality toppings are a local staple.

The Quattro Formaggio is oozy and satisfying, while specialty pies add veggies, meats, and herbs without skimping.

Salads are crisp and substantial, and a slice with a cold drink after a stroll in the Arts & Design District hits the spot.

Divvy

Shareable comfort in a modern, loungey space.

Divvy’s small plates range from truffle mac to short rib sliders, deviled eggs, and warm dips—ideal for mixing and matching a table full of cozy bites.

Cocktails lean balanced and fun, and the ambiance makes it an easy date-night or friends’ night out pick.