Photography by Anna Powell Denton, courtesy of Upland Brewing Company
Upland Brewing Company
With multiple locations across Indiana, Upland Brewery serves up mouthwatering fare alongside an ever-evolving list of sours, wine, and beer. Year-round favorites include the Champagne Velvet pilsner, Dragonfly IPA, and Bad Elmer’s Porter. With food crafted just as intentionally as the beer, the menu changes seasonally. Favorites include meat-centric sandwiches and faux-meat companions, such as the Hoosier Classic Tenderloin, Seitan-derloin, Three Little Pigs (with tenderloin, pulled pork, and applewood-peppered bacon), and Three Little Twigs (with seitan tenderloin, Southwest tofu, and ground Impossible chorizo). 350 W. 11th.
If you find yourself at Indiana University or near Whitehall Crossing Boulevard, Mother Bear’s is a reliable favorite for Indiana-style pizza. The pie's characterized by its crustiness, topped with fresh ingredients. Options range from pepperoni to anchovies and gourmet sausages. Fresh wings, loaded salads, hot subs, pastas, shareables, and a solid drink list fill out the menu. Consider going from 4–6 p.m. for the Early Bird Daily Special. Also, ask about Munchie Madness for carryout and delivery, as well as Mom’s Favorite Daily Special. 1428 E. 3rd, 2980 W. Whitehall Crossing.
Serving Tibetan cuisine with Thai and Indian influences since 1998, Anyetsang’s Little Tibet features separate menu sections for Tibetan dumplings, Tibetan specialities, Indian specialities, and Thai specialities, with additional appetizers and beverages from all three. Anyetsang’s Little Tibet has a dish for everyone, whether in the steamed momo dumplings, Saag Sabjii vegetable curry, or Tom Yum spicy broth soup. The restaurant provides ample options for those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Start with samosas for the table, and end with dre-si, a sweet Tibetan rice dish. 415 E. 4th.
Located on 4th Street’s Restaurant Row, Taste of India serves Northern and Southern Indian cuisine, including dishes and curries centered around chicken, lamb, goat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Tandoori meat specialities marinate in mixtures of fresh yogurt or freshly ground herbs before cooking in a clay oven. Southern Indian dosas are crepes made from lentils and rice, stuffed with potatoes and variations of meats, vegetables, or cheeses 316 E. 4th.
A fixture in downtown Bloomington, the Midwest steakhouse without the stuffiness opened in 1973. Janko’s operates in a family-friendly environment that's ideal for intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. Quality steaks are hand-cut daily in house and served with a baked potato, salad, and buttered rolls. Although steak is the main draw, seafood options include grilled salmon, tuna filet, shrimp, and king crab legs. Vegetarians might try a black bean burger or hearty salad. And be sure to ask about the wine specials. 223 W. 6th.
