Northwest Indiana is a hidden gem known for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant urban atmosphere. But one aspect that often goes unnoticed is its thriving culinary scene. From upscale steakhouses to quaint cafes, Northwest Indiana boasts a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the 10 best restaurants in Northwest Indiana, their unique offerings, and why they should be on your must-visit list.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant – Merrillville: A Symphony of Flavors
Address: 2110 Southlake Mall, Merrillville, IN 46410
Phone: (219) 795-9463
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-9:30pm, Sunday 11am-9pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: https://chwinery.com/locations/indiana/merrillville
Menu: https://chwinery.com/menu
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, located in the heart of Merrillville, offers a unique blend of exquisite cuisine and award-winning wines. The restaurant takes pride in its farm-to-table approach, using fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft their dishes. With an extensive menu that caters to all tastes and preferences, Cooper’s Hawk provides a memorable dining experience for all.
Ambiance and Service
As soon as you step into Cooper’s Hawk, you are welcomed by a warm and inviting ambiance with dim lighting, wooden accents, and elegant decor. The restaurant also features a stunning outdoor patio area, perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. The staff at Cooper’s Hawk are attentive and knowledgeable, providing excellent service throughout your dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
At Cooper’s Hawk, every dish is thoughtfully crafted to pair perfectly with their signature wines. Some of the must-try dishes include the Asian Pork Belly Tostadas, Pistachio-Crusted Grouper, and the Filet Mignon with Merlot Shallot Butter. And don’t forget to end your meal with their famous Cooper’s Hawk Chocolate Cake, which is a heavenly indulgence.
Kitaro Surf & Turf & Sushi: A Culinary Fusion Adventure
Address: 9503 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 46322
Phone: (219) 923-8886
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 12pm-9pm
Reviews: 4/5 on Yelp
Website: https://www.kitarohibachi.com/
Menu: https://www.kitarohibachi.com/menu.html
Kitaro Surf & Turf & Sushi takes diners on a culinary journey, fusing together the flavors of land and sea. Located in Highland, this restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring sushi rolls, sashimi, and hibachi-style dishes. With fresh ingredients and skilled chefs, Kitaro provides a unique dining experience that satisfies all your cravings.
Ambiance and Service
The ambiance at Kitaro is modern and lively, with a sushi bar, hibachi grills, and private dining rooms. The chefs put on a show as they prepare your food right in front of you, adding to the overall experience. The staff are friendly and accommodating, making sure you have a memorable dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
From classic California rolls to specialty rolls like the Volcano Roll and the Amazing Mango Roll, Kitaro has something for every sushi lover. If you’re in the mood for something other than sushi, their hibachi dishes such as the Filet Mignon and Lobster Tail or the Chicken and Shrimp Combo are worth trying. Don’t miss out on their signature Kitaro Fried Rice, which is a crowd favorite.
William B’s Steakhouse – Blue Chip Casino: Fine Dining at Its Best
Address: 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone: (219) 879-7711
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 5pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 5pm-11pm, Sunday 4pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: https://www.bluechipcasino.com/dining/william-bs-steakhouse
Located in the Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City, William B’s Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience like no other. The restaurant prides itself on its USDA Prime Steaks and fresh seafood, expertly prepared by their culinary team. With an elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and delectable cuisine, William B’s is a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
Ambiance and Service
William B’s exudes sophistication with its dark wood accents, intimate lighting, and cozy seating. The restaurant also features a bar area where guests can enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or a post-meal drink. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of perfection.
Must-Try Meals
As a steakhouse, William B’s has a variety of prime cuts to choose from, including Filet Mignon, Ribeye, New York Strip, and more. If you’re in the mood for seafood, their Lobster Mac & Cheese and Seared Scallops are highly recommended. Don’t forget to try their mouth-watering sides such as Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Grilled Asparagus.
Gamba Ristorante: A Taste of Italy in Northwest Indiana
Address: 455 E 84th Dr, Merrillville, IN 46410
Phone: (219) 736-5000
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 12pm-8pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: http://www.gambarestaurant.com/
Menu: http://www.gambarestaurant.com/our-menus.html
For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in Northwest Indiana, look no further than Gamba Ristorante in Merrillville. This family-owned restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel like you’re dining at a home away from home. From homemade pasta to wood-fire pizzas, Gamba serves up traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Ambiance and Service
The ambiance at Gamba is rustic and charming, with exposed brick walls and warm lighting. The owners and staff go above and beyond to make their guests feel like part of the family, providing excellent service throughout your meal.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their famous Focaccia Italiana, made fresh daily and served with garlic herb butter. For mains, try their signature Gamba Pasta, a hearty dish of penne pasta with sausage, peppers, and onions in a spicy tomato cream sauce. And don’t forget to leave room for their homemade Tiramisu for dessert.
Gino’s Prime and Surf – Dyer: A Steakhouse with a Twist
Address: 1259 Joliet St, Dyer, IN 46311
Phone: (219) 865-3854
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 3pm-9pm, Friday-Saturday 3pm-10pm, Sunday 1pm-8pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: https://www.ginossteaks.com/
Menu: https://www.ginossteaks.com/prime-surf-dining-menu
Gino’s Prime and Surf in Dyer is not your average steakhouse. Along with their prime steaks and fresh seafood, this restaurant offers a unique concept – the “surf” side of the menu changes daily, featuring dishes inspired by different cultures and cuisines. With an upscale yet relaxed ambiance, Gino’s is perfect for any occasion.
Ambiance and Service
The restaurant features chic decor, plush seating, and dim lighting, making it an ideal spot for a special date night. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing recommendations and ensuring that guests have an exceptional dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their famous White Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese, a luxurious dish made with four cheeses and black truffle oil. For mains, the Prime Bone-in Ribeye or the Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass are highly recommended. And don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails, such as the Gino’s Manhattan or the Raspberry Mojito.
Lighthouse Restaurant: A Scenic Dining Experience
Address: 7501 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
Phone: (219) 374-9283
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 4pm-9pm, Friday-Saturday 4pm-10pm, Sunday 2pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: https://www.lhrcedarlake.com/
Menu: https://www.lhrcedarlake.com/dinner-menu.html
Perched on the shores of Cedar Lake, the Lighthouse Restaurant offers stunning views of the water along with delicious cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create their dishes, which are a fusion of American and European flavors. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a family outing, the Lighthouse Restaurant is the perfect spot.
Ambiance and Service
The restaurant features an intimate dining room with large windows overlooking the lake, creating a serene ambiance. During the warmer months, guests can also dine on the outdoor patio, enjoying the beautiful views. The staff at Lighthouse are friendly and accommodating, making sure that your dining experience is nothing short of perfect.
Must-Try Meals
For starters, try their Crab Cake Sliders or the Grilled Octopus served with chorizo and chickpeas. For mains, the Seared Duck Breast or the Pan-Seared Scallops are highly recommended. And don’t forget to end your meal with their famous Bread Pudding or Chocolate Molten Lava Cake.
Farina’s Supper Club: A Casual Dining Experience
Address: 39 S Main St, Valparaiso, IN 46383
Phone: (219) 462-0677
Operating Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm
Reviews: 4/5 on Yelp
Website: https://farinassupperclub.com/
Menu: https://farinassupperclub.com/menu/
Located in downtown Valparaiso, Farina’s Supper Club is a local favorite for its casual dining atmosphere and delicious Italian-American cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create their dishes, which range from classic pasta dishes to gourmet pizzas and sandwiches.
Ambiance and Service
Farina’s has a cozy and laid-back ambiance, with rustic decor and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing exceptional service to make sure you have a pleasant dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their signature Farina’s Meatballs served in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. For mains, the Baked Ziti and the Italian Beef Sandwich are highly recommended. And don’t miss their famous Farina’s Pizza, made with homemade dough and fresh toppings of your choice.
German Cafe: A Taste of Germany in Northwest Indiana
Address: 3936 N State Road 127, Angola, IN 46703
Phone: (260) 833-2536
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-2pm & 4:30pm-8pm, Saturday 4:30pm-8pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: https://germancafe.net/
Menu: http://www.germancafe.net/menu/
For an authentic German dining experience, head to the German Cafe in Angola. This restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, along with traditional German dishes that will transport you straight to Bavaria. With a variety of schnitzels, sausages, and other German specialties, the German Cafe is a must-visit for any food lover.
Ambiance and Service
The German Cafe has a quaint and charming ambiance, with Bavarian-inspired decor and friendly staff. The owners are from Munich, and their passion for German cuisine shines through in every dish they serve.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their classic Beer Cheese Soup or the Bavarian Pretzel, served with homemade honey mustard. For mains, try their Schnitzel Platter, which includes three different types of schnitzels – pork, chicken, and veal. And don’t forget to end your meal with their delicious Black Forest Cake.
33 Brick Street: Where Comfort Food Meets Fine Dining
Address: 333 S Main St, Martinsville, IN 46151
Phone: (765) 342-4398
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-8pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Website: http://33brickstreet.com/
Menu: http://33brickstreet.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Dinner_2019.pdf
33 Brick Street in Martinsville offers a unique dining experience, combining comfort food with fine dining. The restaurant features a diverse menu with options such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with more upscale dishes like filet mignon and baked mac and cheese. With a warm and inviting ambiance, 33 Brick Street is perfect for any occasion.
Ambiance and Service
The restaurant has a rustic and cozy atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and wooden accents. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing excellent service throughout your meal.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their famous Fried Green Beans or the BBQ Chicken Nachos, both of which are crowd favorites. For mains, try the Balsamic Glazed Salmon or the Blackened Ribeye. And don’t forget to end your meal with their signature Bread Pudding, topped with bourbon caramel sauce.
El Compadre: Authentic Mexican Cuisine in Northwest Indiana
Address: 317-319 N Market St, Monticello, IN 47960
Phone: (574) 583-8376
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm
Reviews: 4/5 on Yelp
Website: https://www.elcompadremexicanrestaurant.com/
Menu: https://www.elcompadremexicanrestaurant.com/menu
For a taste of Mexico in Northwest Indiana, visit El Compadre in Monticello. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic Mexican dishes that will transport you to the streets of Mexico City. With a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service, El Compadre is a must-visit for any Mexican food lover.
Ambiance and Service
The restaurant features festive decor, bright colors, and lively music, creating a fun and upbeat ambiance. The staff are welcoming and attentive, making sure that guests have an enjoyable dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
Start off with their famous Guacamole made tableside, served with house-made chips. For mains, try the Carne Asada or the Enchiladas Verdes. And don’t forget to wash it all down with one of their signature margaritas.
Conclusion
Northwest Indiana may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a gastronomic adventure, but its diverse culinary scene will surprise and delight you. From cozy and casual eateries to upscale fine dining, this region has something for everyone. So next time you’re in Northwest Indiana, make sure to visit one of these top restaurants and indulge in their delicious food, excellent service, and inviting atmospheres.
