Bloomington is more than a college town—the surrounding woods, rolling farmland, and Indiana University campus help foster a dynamic, creative food culture packed with tradition and innovation.
Whether you’re a hungry student, a visiting parent, or a longtime local, these five restaurants make the city’s culinary magic sing.
1. Uptown Cafe
A Bloomington legend since 1976, the Uptown Cafe offers the best of Cajun-tinged American bistro fare in a cozy, brick-walled dining room just steps from Kirkwood Avenue.
Start your day with spiced homefries, eggs Benedict, and steaming chicory-laced coffee at breakfast. Later, join the IU faculty crowd for shrimp étouffée, blackened salmon, or a legendary burger at lunch or dinner—and save room for southern-style bread pudding.
The staff runs like clockwork but treats every guest like a regular, and the jazz soundtrack is the city’s unofficial lunchtime anthem.
2. Farm Bloomington
Farm is the city’s colorful, bohemian hangout—a riot of retro décor, mismatched tables, and fresh flowers in soda bottles.
Chef Daniel Orr’s menu celebrates all things local and seasonal: Amish chicken, Indiana pork, farm vegetable hash, legendary biscuits and jam, and ornate desserts (including a famous carrot cake).
Cocktails play with infusions and local fruit, and brunch draws IU students, artists, and visiting foodies alike.
On weekends, the underground bar hosts funk and bluegrass—every bit as creative as the food above.
3. Samira Restaurant
Since 1996, Samira has brought the bold flavors of Afghanistan to southern Indiana.
A family-run kitchen filled with tapestry and tile, Samira’s menu is packed with comforting classics (lamb stew, chicken with cherry rice, eggplant borani) and an expansive daily lunch buffet.
Warm naan emerges from the tandoor; portions are generous and the hospitality is authentic.
Vegetarians and newcomers are always welcomed with samples, warm conversation, and advice on navigating the menu’s delicious depths.
4. Big Woods Bloomington
Big Woods is more than a gastropub—it’s a gathering place, with a sprawling patio, IU memorabilia on the walls, and a menu of big-flavor comfort: pulled pork nachos, hand-crafted burgers, and Indiana bison chili.
Try house beers from the award-winning Quaff ON! Brewing Co., and, in good weather, share pints under the string lights with a lively crowd of students, alums, and families.
5. Taste of India
A beloved spot for over two decades, Taste of India draws a diverse crowd for its lunch buffet and extensive menu—spanning buttery chicken tikka, Goan fish curry, vegan-friendly specialties, and fiery fresh-baked naan.
Portions are big, spice levels can be tailored, and the staff is happy to suggest new dishes for the adventurous.
There’s always a mix of townies, professors, and international students bringing the room to life.
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