Indianapolis is home to a rich and diverse culinary scene that spans the globe, offering residents and visitors a wide variety of international flavors. From authentic Mexican street food to savory Ethiopian stews, Indy’s dining options bring the world to your plate. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort dishes from Italy or want to try something new like Korean BBQ, here’s a culinary tour of some of the best global flavors Indy has to offer.

1. Livery – Latin American Cuisine

For those seeking vibrant and bold flavors, Livery on Mass Ave serves up a modern take on Latin American cuisine in a stylish, inviting atmosphere. The menu is a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes with a focus on small plates perfect for sharing. Highlights include their famous empanadas, flavorful ceviche, and mouthwatering chimichurri steak. Pair your meal with a classic margarita or house sangria, and you’ve got a taste of Latin America in the heart of Indy.

Location: 720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Latin American

2. Bluebeard – Italian-Inspired Cuisine

Located in the historic Fletcher Place neighborhood, Bluebeard offers an inventive menu inspired by Italian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. While it’s not strictly Italian, Bluebeard draws heavily on Italian techniques and flavors, offering dishes like fresh handmade pasta, charcuterie, and wood-fired bread. With an ever-changing menu, there’s always something new and exciting to try, from decadent pasta dishes to seafood with Mediterranean flair. The restaurant’s cozy, rustic ambiance adds to the experience, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely dinner.

Location: 653 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

3. Abyssinia – Ethiopian Cuisine

If you’re looking for a unique and immersive dining experience, Abyssinia offers some of the best Ethiopian food in Indianapolis. Ethiopian cuisine is known for its rich, flavorful stews (called wot) and the use of injera, a spongy flatbread used to scoop up the food. At Abyssinia, you can enjoy traditional dishes like doro wot (spicy chicken stew) and kitfo (minced, spiced beef), as well as a variety of vegetarian options such as lentil sambusas and gomen (collard greens). The communal style of eating makes it a fun, hands-on experience that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Location: 5352 W 38th St, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Ethiopian

4. Taqueria El Taco Torro – Authentic Mexican Street Food

For an authentic Mexican street food experience, head to Taqueria El Taco Torro. This unassuming taco joint delivers big on flavor, serving up some of the best tacos, burritos, and tamales in the city. Their tacos are made with fresh, handmade tortillas and filled with a variety of traditional meats like al pastor (marinated pork), barbacoa (slow-cooked beef), and carnitas (braised pork). The salsa bar lets you customize your meal with a range of house-made salsas. The casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal.

Location: 5860 E 71st St, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Mexican

5. Rook – Southeast Asian Fusion

For a modern take on Southeast Asian flavors, Rook offers an innovative fusion menu that combines elements of Vietnamese, Thai, and Filipino cuisine with a creative twist. From their famous pork belly steamed buns to savory bowls of ramen and inventive small plates like bao and fried chicken wings, Rook’s dishes are packed with flavor and flair. The restaurant’s trendy yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular spot for adventurous foodies looking to explore new and exciting Asian-inspired flavors.

Location: 501 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Southeast Asian Fusion

6. India Palace – Authentic Indian Cuisine

If you’re craving the bold, aromatic flavors of India, India Palace is one of Indy’s top spots for traditional Indian cuisine. The menu features a wide range of classic dishes, from flavorful curries like chicken tikka masala and lamb vindaloo to tandoori specialties and a variety of vegetarian options like saag paneer and chana masala. Their lunch buffet is particularly popular for those who want to sample a little bit of everything. With its welcoming atmosphere and authentic flavors, India Palace is a must-visit for fans of Indian food.

Location: 4213 Lafayette Rd, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Indian

7. Kimu Sushi – Japanese Cuisine

For lovers of sushi and Japanese cuisine, Kimu Sushi in Broad Ripple offers fresh, high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting. The menu includes a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, as well as classic Japanese dishes like tempura, ramen, and udon. Their beautifully presented sushi rolls, like the volcano roll and dragon roll, are crowd favorites, but the restaurant also excels in traditional Japanese fare. Kimu Sushi’s intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for date nights or small gatherings.

Location: 2201 E 62nd St, Indianapolis, IN
Cuisine: Japanese

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From the rich stews of Ethiopia to the delicate flavors of Japanese sushi, Indianapolis offers a wide array of global cuisines that allow you to travel the world without leaving the city. These restaurants not only offer authentic dishes but also showcase the diverse cultural tapestry that makes Indy’s dining scene so special. Whether you’re a foodie looking to expand your palate or simply in the mood for something new, these international eateries will take you on a culinary tour around the globe.