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Indianapolis' best

Cool Italian food

Finding a space that balances traditional Italian flavors with a distinct, modern edge changes the entire evening.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Bar occupies an upstairs space with a wrap-around patio offering a rooftop view of downtown. Atmosphere balances chill vibe with live music and tabletop games, creating a relaxed yet engaging environment. Outdoor seating draws those seeking a quiet spot or a fun night out with friends.

Seafood pasta features shrimp and scallops cooked just right, while chicken fettuccine alfredo comes well seasoned. The menu stays simple with pasta, sandwiches, appetizers, and salads to cover different tastes.

Upstairs bar offers a really cool atmosphere. Two floors and tons of space create a cool-looking design and vibe.

People are saying

"You have to try their chicken wings; they're crispy and juicy."

"You've got to check out the top deck outdoor seating area for a great view."

"The seafood pasta here is perfectly cooked and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Karaoke takes place on Wednesday nights starting at 8 PM.

3

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 7 PM with a $5 entry fee.

02
Shadow Lounge & Restaurant image 1

Elegant black and gold decor creates a classy, sexy vibe with cozy split booths and a lively bar area. Live DJs spin music inside and outside, energizing the space with loud music and a vibing atmosphere. Outdoor patio accommodates large groups comfortably, blending style with a connected indoor-outdoor layout.

Pasta dishes stand out with flavorful Cajun chicken pasta, lamb fettuccine, and seafood pasta all tasting great. Bread served alongside complements the rich, delicious pasta well.

A nice, cool atmosphere sets the tone here. Security stays chill and straightforward, adding to the cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the salmon bites."

"It's a cool spot with an upbeat and lively atmosphere."

"The Cajun chicken pasta here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy times.

2

Thursdays feature a special 'Lamb Chops & Lemon Drops' event.

3

A 3% fee is added for credit card payments, along with an 18% gratuity for groups of four or more.

03
Slippery Noodle Inn image 1

Old building with historic charm and pressed-tin ceilings hosts live blues and jazz music on two stages. Atmosphere feels lively and fun, resembling a dive bar without being dingy. Multiple rooms and bars create a large, somewhat confusing layout with a steady crowd enjoying music and food.

Cajun Chicken Alfredo stands out with its rich flavor. Fresh, crispy breadsticks and Alfredo sauce complement dishes like fettuccine and pasta well.

Live Blues music plays regularly, creating a cool vibe throughout the bar. The atmosphere feels iconic and lively, with staff adding to the relaxed, friendly energy.

People are saying

"I found the food to be excellent, a step above usual bar fare."

"It's a cool spot with a super lively vibe."

"The Cajun Chicken Alfredo fettuccine is so good."

Good to know

1

Open Mic night occurs on the second Wednesday of each month.

2

Half-price drinks are available all day on Thursdays.

3

Expect a cover charge for live music events.

04
Iaria's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with old-school family charm and walls covered in quaint memorabilia creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Full bar area offers a 50's vibe that blends classic and hip styles. Loud and lively, it feels like a small-town gathering spot.

Authentic, homemade pasta stands out with dishes like Chicken Marsala and Fettuccine Alfredo. The spaghetti sauce dates back to 1912, adding a unique touch, and desserts include a classic cannoli.

Nostalgic atmosphere creates a cool vibe that feels rare today. The place keeps a classic charm alive, making it stand out as genuinely cool.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and better than any chain."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was perfectly cooked and delicious."

"It's cool to see such an old-fashioned, family Italian restaurant still around."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get full quickly.

2

Expect a wait of over 40 minutes if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Dinner service can take over two hours from reservation to dessert.

05
Aberdeen Social House image 1

Upscale restaurant offers a mid-century modern vibe with curated artwork and thoughtful architectural details. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable, zen atmosphere ideal for leisurely dining. The space balances swanky and welcoming energy, attracting those who appreciate quality and style.

Capri lasagna offers a solid take on Italian classics. Their twist on tiramisu stands out with a unique flavor.

The space has a cool vibe with an elegant atmosphere. The ambience feels relaxed and stylish throughout.

People are saying

"The food at these Date Spots is phenomenal and packed with flavor."

"The Italian food here, especially the lasagna, is really good."

"I found the vibe here to be cool and elegant."

Good to know

1

The menu changes frequently with local ingredients prepared by a creative culinary team.

2

Expect higher prices for unique dishes and elevated dining experiences.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special occasions.

06
Goodfellas Pizzeria - Mass Ave image 1

Speakeasy-style bar with moody lighting and sophisticated dรฉcor sits behind a pizza restaurant, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Leather sofas and dim lights add to a trendy lounge vibe. Outdoor patio seating offers an alternative dining experience.

Long, large breadsticks stand out as a highlight. Pizza and breadsticks both deliver very tasty flavors and good value.

Watching the staff spin dough to make pizzas adds a live craft feel. Huge slices and a cool banquet room create a unique and intimate vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza and breadsticks, is delicious and huge."

"The pizza here is top-notch and worth the wait."

Good to know

1

12-inch pizzas are half-price on Monday.

2

Lunch deals offer great value for money.

3

Pizza by the slice is always available.

07
Dusk Lounge image 1
Food and drink

Stylish lounge with unique ambiance blends elegance and comfort under low lighting from the bar and nearby tables. Live DJs and talented singers create a vibrant nighttime vibe, especially in the one-of-a-kind speakeasy basement. The atmosphere feels luxurious and distinct from other spots on Mass Ave.

Scallops have a good bite and risotto comes well cooked and seasoned. The tiramisu stands out as a sweet finish.

A cool Mediterranean vibe sets the tone with a great DJ spinning music. The lounge offers a speakeasy experience but mixes chic and tacky elements, creating an inconsistent yet interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The Italian food service staff was super friendly and sweet."

"The vibes here are cool, with a great DJ."

Good to know

1

The lounge policy requires guests to buy a bottle with a $300 minimum after dinner.

2

The dress code requires upscale attire; casual wear is not permitted.

3

Expect a Miami-like atmosphere during the โ€˜After Dusk Experienceโ€™ on weekends.

08
Xtreme Pizzaria image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines 90's theme with painted cartoon walls and a club-like atmosphere featuring music and lights. Games like Skip-Bo are available, creating a casual and fun vibe. Food includes flavor-packed pizza and Philly cheesesteak breadsticks, with portions generous enough to feed groups.

Philly cheese breadsticks stand out as a signature item. Custom pizzas come with options like cauliflower crust and extra toppings, paired often with pepperoni breadsticks or salads.

The place has a really cool atmosphere with a strong 90's theme. The paintings add to the vibe and make it stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is hot, fresh, and delicious."

"The painted cartoon walls and 90's theme here are really cool."

"The Italian food here is hot and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 25 to 30 minutes during busy times.

2

The lunch special costs $15 and offers good value.

3

Prices are higher than average, with a typical meal costing around $35.

09
Steer-In image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner with 1960's decor and a spacious dining area creates a cozy, small-town vibe in a city setting. Friendly regulars contribute to a welcoming atmosphere despite some wear and tear in furnishings. Known for generous portions and homestyle cooking, it feels like a neighborhood institution.

Large portions of lasagna come with salad and garlic bread, with a noticeable amount of mozzarella. The menu includes spaghetti and pizza alongside other dishes.

Greasy spoon diner vibe sets a cool local atmosphere with walls covered in memorabilia. The spot feels like a classic hangout with a relaxed, authentic energy.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the desserts and prime rib, is really good."

"It's a cool local restaurant with a great atmosphere."

"I loved their famous coconut cream pie, made fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special menus like Valentine's Day.

2

Expect large portion sizes for the price you pay.

3

The restaurant is known for its reasonable prices compared to fast food.

10
Pizza King Station - Bluff Road image 1

Restaurant recreates an old railroad station with train-themed booths and a model train delivering drinks. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and family-friendly, enhanced by arcade games and TVs at tables. Space invites relaxed dining with a touch of playful charm.

Hot, plain breadsticks stand out with baked nicely texture. They come with good marinara and garlic butter dipping sauces.

Trains that deliver beverages create a unique and cozy atmosphere. The Halloween-themed train adds an extra layer of cool charm to the local shop.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with the drinks delivered by train!"

"The Italian Food here is fun because the drinks arrive by train!"

"The little train that brings drinks is super cool."

Good to know

1

Pizza King Station offers a 10-inch deluxe pizza, a house salad, and two drinks for $42.

2

The restaurant has a train theme that kids love, making it family-friendly.

3

Both bathrooms have changing tables, which is a plus for families.

11
Georgia Street Rhythm and Blues image 1

Lounge offers live band music and a modern, sexy decor with VIP sections and a small, crowded space. Atmosphere feels fun and energetic, attracting a younger crowd. Seating varies from comfortable to broken, with some areas feeling cramped.

Steak Cajun pasta stands out with options like 20oz Ribeye or 10oz portions, often paired with shrimp and broccoli. The Cajun seasoning adds a distinct spicy flavor to the pasta dishes.

Excellent food and delicious drinks create a cool vibe here. The atmosphere stays clean and has a great little vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is so good, perfectly seasoned and juicy."

"The Italian food here is delicious and satisfying."

"I thought the place had a cool vibe and great drinks."

Good to know

1

There is a $20 cover charge on Saturday nights when a band performs.

2

They only accept cash or Apple Pay for payments.

3

Poetry night happens every Wednesday.

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