16 Best Restaurants in Anderson, IN
If you're visiting or just looking to try something new in this city, keep reading to discover some of the best restaurants in Anderson, Indiana.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Anderson that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Bonge's Tavern
One of my favorite places to enjoy a good meal with friends is Bonge's Tavern.
It's amazing how people gather to tailgate in the parking lot before they even step inside this iconic grill.
The rural vibe and delicious American fare never disappoint.
I remember the first time I went there with my partner.
We indulged in a mouth-watering shrimp cocktail appetizer, followed by some of the best wedge salads I've ever had, topped with raspberry vinaigrette.
Our main course consisted of two petite filets with shrimp, prime rib, and some fantastic sides, including potato, asparagus, and cornbread.
The hard cider they had on the menu complemented the meal perfectly.
The menu at Bonge's Tavern may be small, but the selection is definitely mighty.
I can't wait to go back and try their other dishes.
The service and atmosphere have always been top-notch, making every visit a memorable experience.
And don't forget to try their crab cakes!
Creatures of Habit Brewing Co
Whenever I need a night out with friends or family, the first place that comes to mind is Creatures of Habit Brewing Co.
I can't get enough of their food, and the atmosphere is just perfect for unwinding after a long week.
Even though it's a bit of a drive for me, the experience never disappoints, and it's always worth the trip.
Their beer selection is simply amazing, with a wide variety of choices for all types of beer lovers.
I'm a huge fan of sours, and Creatures of Habit never fails me.
During our visits, we often try different dishes, and we have yet to be disappointed.
The nachos, pulled pork, and grilled cheese are always a hit with our eclectic group.
And the friendly and wholesome atmosphere makes it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Nerdy BBQ
Let me tell you about my recent experience at Nerdy BBQ, which has quickly become one of my favorite spots in the area.
As soon as you walk in, you can't help but feel excited about the unique decor and atmosphere that caters to a wide variety of mainstream and obscure fandoms.
The guys running the place are so personable and kind, making you feel right at home.
Now, let's talk about the food.
I've had BBQ all across the country, and I can confidently say that Nerdy BBQ serves some of the best I've ever had.
Their melt-in-your-mouth meats and perfectly balanced sauces can hold their own against famous BBQ hubs like Kansas City and Texas.
I highly recommend the pulled chicken with the mild sauce – it's absolutely delicious!
While the main course is incredible, the real star of the show is their dessert.
The smoked banana pudding is unlike anything I've ever had – they've managed to take a classic dessert and elevate it to a whole new level.
I won't spoil the surprise, but trust me when I say it's a must-try!
Fiesta Bar & Mexican Cuisine
One of my favorite go-to spots in Anderson is Fiesta Bar & Mexican Cuisine.
Every time I visit, I am always impressed with the excellent food, generous portions, and great prices.
The bar area is quite nice, and the atmosphere is festive, making for a perfect night out with friends or family.
I remember one time I went with a slightly larger party, and they were very accommodating, making sure everyone had a great time.
The food never disappoints, and I often find myself craving their delicious Mexican cuisine.
In addition to the amazing food, the decor at Fiesta Bar & Mexican Cuisine is something to admire.
I have noticed that they keep improving the place, making it even more inviting for guests.
The Lemon Drop
One of my favorite places to grab a bite in the area is The Lemon Drop.
This long-running, counter-serve nook offers burgers, fries, and other basic eats in a retro setting that instantly transports you back in time.
I absolutely love the onion burger they serve here.
The onion is cooked into the burger and then steamed, making it part of the patty itself.
It's a unique and delicious twist on the classic burger, and I can't get enough of it.
The tenderloin is another favorite of mine, fried to perfection with a nice crunch.
And don't even get me started on the onion rings – they have the perfect amount of breading and crunch on the outside while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside.
One of the things that really sets The Lemon Drop apart is the fun atmosphere.
The train going on the track near the ceiling is a quirky touch that never fails to entertain, especially when dining with kids.
The prices at The Lemon Drop are also very reasonable, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
Art's Pizza
Finding good pizza is always a challenge.
But when I discovered Art's Pizza in Anderson, my search came to an end.
I still remember the first time I tried their roast beef pizza, and it was love at first bite.
My daughter and I occasionally take a day ride just to grab some of their scrumptious pizzas.
The appetizer trio is a must-have, featuring mozzarella cheese, fried ravioli, and onion rings.
For the main course, we usually order half barbecue chicken and half roast beef pizza.
The barbecue side is saucy and perfect, while the beef side leaves nothing to be desired.
The garlic cheese bread is also loaded with mozzarella and is incredibly tasty.
Although I would love to enjoy the pizza fresh at the restaurant, I usually have to bring it back home to share with the family.
But even then, the flavors remain amazing and satisfy our cravings.
1925 PubHouse Grandview
1925 PubHouse Grandview is one of my go-to spots for a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience.
The customer service is always top-notch, and the view of the golf course from the outdoor seating area is just lovely.
It's fun to watch the golfers playing while enjoying my meal.
The tables inside the dining room are well-spaced, so you can have a comfortable and private family dining experience.
Their menu offers a wide range of delicious options at reasonable prices.
Among my favorites are the fish tacos, which are big and very filling.
I can't forget to mention the pretzel bites – they're a must-try!
The side salads are always fresh and even include an unexpected touch of hard-boiled egg, which I don't see very often in other restaurants.
Aside from the food, the atmosphere is just perfect for a relaxing night out in Madison County.
Whether it's enjoying the sunset on the deck while dining or heading to the bar area when the weather isn't so great, there's always a lovely and friendly vibe.
The Toast Cafe
Every time I visit The Toast Cafe, I know I'm in for a treat.
This old-fashioned diner has been a staple in our community for over 60 years, offering delicious all-day breakfasts and American comfort classics.
The food is always delicious and reasonably priced.
I particularly love their biscuits and gravy, though the French toast is a close second.
They always make you feel welcome, even during their busiest hours.
The Edge
I recently paid a visit to The Edge with a few friends, hoping for a great night out.
Unexpectedly, our main courses arrived before our appetizers, which was a bit confusing.
I ordered the ribeye, but it looked and tasted more like a sirloin.
My friend's salad wedge also left something to be desired in terms of presentation.
We shared the stuffed mushrooms appetizer, and unfortunately, it didn't live up to our expectations.
On the bright side, I've heard great things about The Edge's tenderloin, so maybe I'll give that a try next time.
The bar and patio area were inviting, and the golf club and event center also looked appealing.
Bobber's Cafe at Shadyside Bait & Tackle
I can't help but frequent Bobber's Cafe at Shadyside Bait & Tackle whenever I get a craving for some great food and a relaxing atmosphere.
The cafe is located right on the waterfront (Google Maps), offering stunning views of the lake and a bit of nature.
The last time I was there, I ordered the Philly and fries, and it was just as amazing as usual.
The perfectly toasted bun and the decadent, crispy fries hit the spot every time.
I love sitting on their shaded porch and watching the lake activity; it's a great way to unwind and enjoy a meal.
The cafe has a down-home feel, and the food is always outstanding.
Scampy's Annex
Growing up in this city, I've seen a lot of changes.
But one thing that's stayed consistent is my love for Scampy's Annex.
I remember when it was just a bar, and we kids had to wait in the car while our parents picked up our pizza orders.
I've been a loyal customer since they moved to the new location and opened the dining room in the early 80s.
To this day, I still think their pizza is the best around, even though I do enjoy Art's pizza too.
Their website Scampy's Annex can give you more information about the place, but trust me when I say that it's a great spot for a date or a casual dinner with friends.
I've tried other items on their menu, like their sandwiches, but I always come back to the pizza.
It's just unbeatable, in my opinion.
Meadowbrook Pizza
Just the other day, I decided to give Meadowbrook Pizza a try, and I wasn't disappointed at all!
Their pizza and breadsticks were simply amazing.
I must say, the stuffed breadsticks were something else – they were absolutely fire!
You can find them on Google Maps if you're ever in Anderson.
I couldn't help but agree with some of the reviews I had read online – the food was great, and every person there truly makes you feel like your new best friend.
I can confidently say that I am now Meadowbrook Pizza's newest regular customer.
Riviera Maya Mexican Restaurant
I must say, I've had my fair share of experiences at Riviera Maya Mexican Restaurant, and I can vouch for the quality of their food and the welcoming atmosphere.
The rustic vibe and colorful decor make it a perfect spot for a family dinner or a casual night out with friends.
One of my personal favorites on the menu is their seafood enchiladas.
The freshness and superb taste never disappoint.
If you're a fan of salsa, don't miss their homemade version - it's simply the bomb!
I also love pairing my meal with a large horchata and finishing it off with some churros for dessert.
I must admit, there have been times I've chosen eating at Riviera Maya over working out at the nearby Planet Fitness!
They don't skimp on the alcohol in their drinks, which is a major plus in my book.
Art's Varsity Pizza
Whenever my friends and I want some delicious pizza, we head straight to Art's Varsity Pizza.
Over the years, I've tried many of their pizzas, but my all-time favorite is their pepperoni with extra cheese and green olives.
They're one of the few places around here that offer both black and green olives as toppings, which is fantastic.
But their pizza isn't the only thing that keeps me coming back; it's also their roast beef and Italian sausage sandwiches.
Their roast beef sandwich is massive, filled with juicy, seasoned meat and a big slice of green pepper, making it a full meal on its own.
My partner is obsessed with their Italian sausage sandwich.
Aside from their delicious food, their service is top-notch.
They even go out of their way to bring your pizza out to your car and take payment there if you're elderly or handicapped.
Burro Loco
I recently decided to try out Burro Loco, a local Mexican restaurant in a rustic, cantina-style setting situated in an older building.
I was delighted to find that the inside was quite nice and there was plenty of parking available both in the lot and on the street.
As I entered, I was immediately impressed by their extensive menu of popular Mexican dishes.
I ordered the street tacos, and I must say that the steak was seasoned to perfection.
The margaritas I tried were also quite tasty and had just the right amount of kick to them.
Kettle Top Brewhouse
The other day, I went to Kettle Top Brewhouse with some friends to check out the place that everyone has been raving about.
The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, perfect for a night out with friends.
We were excited to try the food and drinks that had been receiving such good reviews.
When our food finally arrived, it looked delicious, and the taste did not disappoint.
The drinks they made were fantastic as well.
Final Thoughts
Dining in Anderson, Indiana, has always been a delightful experience for me.
From the mouth-watering dishes at Bonge's Tavern to the amazing flavors at Nerdy BBQ, there's truly something to satisfy every craving.
As someone who has lived here for years, I can personally vouch for the quality and variety of these local establishments.
Recent posts
10 Incredible Breakfast Spots in New Orleans You Need to Try
12 Incredible Restaurants in Lancaster PA, You Need to Try
12 Incredible Restaurants in Asheville, NC You Need to Try
22 Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria, VA
25 Best Things to Do in Westport, CT
20 Best Things to Do in Westport, MA
16 Best Things to Do in Woonsocket, RI
26 Best Things to Do in Huntsville, AL
30 Best Things to Do in Altoona, PA
28 Best Things to Do in San Angelo, TX