Indianapolis, Indiana, a bustling Midwest hub known for its iconic Motor Speedway, thriving arts scene, and friendly Hoosier hospitality, also offers a surprisingly rich and diverse culinary landscape. Beyond the large chains and downtown attractions, Indy is teeming with unique local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that truly capture the heart and soul of the Hoosier State. We've explored cherished institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, delicious flavors of Indianapolis.
1. Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich from Mug-n-Bun
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Restaurant: Mug-n-Bun
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Description: A classic Indiana oversized, breaded pork tenderloin, fried golden brown, extending far beyond the bun, served with your choice of toppings.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Mug-n-Bun, located near the legendary Speedway, is Indiana's oldest drive-in and a true local institution famous for its root beer and, of course, the iconic Breaded Pork Tenderloin sandwich. Yelp reviewers consistently hail it as a "Classic Indiana tenderloin" and praise its "huge and delicious" size. It's a quintessential, affordable, and incredibly satisfying taste of Hoosier comfort food history.
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Price: ~$7-$9
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Location: 5211 W 10th St, Speedway, IN 46224
2. Gourmet Hot Dog from King David Dogs
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Restaurant: King David Dogs
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Description: A premium, all-beef hot dog, featuring a natural casing, served on a steamed bun with creative and gourmet toppings (e.g., chili, cheese, specialty relishes).
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Why It’s a Must-Try: King David Dogs is a popular local gourmet hot dog stand in Indianapolis, celebrated for its high-quality dogs and inventive topping combinations. Yelp reviewers consistently praise its "creative toppings" and declare them "amazing hot dogs." Many call it a "must-try in Indy" for a fun and flavorful take on a classic comfort food, offering excellent value for a specialty hot dog.
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Price: ~$6-$9 (for a specialty dog)
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Location: 135 N Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
3. Taco (Carnitas or Al Pastor) from La Parada
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Restaurant: La Parada
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Description: An authentic street-style taco with tender carnitas (slow-cooked pork) or flavorful al pastor, served simply with onions and cilantro on a warm corn tortilla.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: La Parada is a highly-rated, no-frills local Mexican taqueria in Indianapolis, lauded for its authentic flavors and incredible value. Yelp reviewers consistently rave that they have the "Best tacos in Indy!" and praise their "authentic and flavorful" meats. It's a go-to spot for delicious, straightforward street tacos that transport you south of the border for a fantastic price.
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Price: ~$2.50-$3.50 per taco
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Location: 1642 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240
4. Slice of Pizza from Bazbeaux Pizza
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Restaurant: Bazbeaux Pizza
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Description: A large slice of their gourmet pizza, featuring creative toppings and a delicious, hand-tossed crust.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Bazbeaux Pizza is an iconic Indianapolis pizza place, celebrated for its unique topping combinations and high-quality ingredients. While full pies can be pricier, a single slice (often available at lunch) offers a perfect and affordable taste of this Indy classic. Yelp reviewers praise it as an "Indy classic" with a "great crust" and call it the "perfect slice for lunch." It's an essential stop for pizza lovers.
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Price: ~$4-$5 per slice
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Location: Multiple locations in Indianapolis (e.g., 329 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204)
5. Doughnut from Long's Bakery
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Restaurant: Long's Bakery
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Description: A freshly baked yeast-raised or cake donut, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple, perfect glaze.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Long's Bakery is an Indianapolis legend, a cash-only institution that has been serving up some of the city's most beloved donuts for decades. Yelp reviewers consistently crown it an "Indianapolis institution" with the "best donuts," particularly raving about their "melt-in-your-mouth yeast donuts." It's an essential, affordable treat that captures the comforting essence of a classic neighborhood bakery.
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Price: ~$1-$2 per donut
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Location: 1453 N Tremont St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
6. Drip Coffee from Tinker Coffee Co.
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Restaurant: Tinker Coffee Co.
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Description: A meticulously brewed cup of high-quality, locally roasted drip coffee, prepared with precision and care in a bright, modern cafe.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Tinker Coffee Co. is a highly respected local coffee roaster and cafe in Indianapolis, celebrated for its commitment to exceptional beans and expertly crafted beverages. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "excellent coffee" and "great atmosphere," often calling them the "best roaster in Indy." It's the perfect spot for an affordable and top-notch caffeine fix that showcases Indianapolis's thriving specialty coffee scene.
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Price: ~$3.50-$4.50 (for a regular drip coffee)
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Location: 1125 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46202
7. Falafel Sandwich from The Mediterranean Grill
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Restaurant: The Mediterranean Grill
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Description: Crispy, fried chickpea patties, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini sauce, all tucked into warm pita bread.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: The Mediterranean Grill is a popular and well-regarded local Mediterranean spot in Indianapolis, known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes. Yelp reviewers consistently highlight the "crispy falafel" and "fresh ingredients," praising their "great sauces" that elevate the sandwich. It's a reliable, satisfying, and incredibly affordable choice for a delicious and healthy-ish meal.
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Price: ~$8-$9
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Location: 3925 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
8. Pho (Small Bowl) from Pho 36
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Restaurant: Pho 36
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Description: A comforting small bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho, featuring rich, aromatic broth, tender rice noodles, and your choice of thinly sliced beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs on the side.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Pho 36 is a highly-rated local Vietnamese restaurant in Indianapolis, celebrated for its authentic and deeply flavorful pho. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "rich broth" and "generous portions" (even for the smaller size), calling it "comforting and authentic pho." A small bowl often fits comfortably under $10, offering a deeply satisfying and aromatic meal perfect for any weather.
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Price: ~$9-$10 (for a small bowl)
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Location: 3617 Commercial Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46222
9. Breakfast Burrito from Lincoln Square Pancake House
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Restaurant: Lincoln Square Pancake House
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Description: A hearty breakfast burrito, typically filled with scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of breakfast meat, all wrapped in a large flour tortilla.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Lincoln Square Pancake House is a popular local diner chain in Indianapolis, known for its extensive breakfast menu and generous portions. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "huge and delicious breakfast burritos" and highlight them as a "reliable diner food" choice. It's a filling, flavorful, and incredibly affordable way to start your day with classic American comfort.
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Price: ~$7-$9
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Location: Multiple locations in Indianapolis (e.g., 2330 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208)
10. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Nicey Treat
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Restaurant: Nicey Treat
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Description: A single scoop of their handcrafted, artisanal ice cream, or one of their famous gourmet popsicles, made with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
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Why It’s a Must-Try: Nicey Treat is a beloved local artisanal ice cream and gourmet popsicle shop in Indianapolis, celebrated for its creative flavors and refreshing treats. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "creative flavors" and "refreshing pops," calling it a "great spot for a sweet treat." It's the perfect, unique, and affordable way to cool down on a warm day, providing a comforting taste of local craftsmanship.
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Price: ~$5-$6
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Location: 916 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Indianapolis's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic Breaded Pork Tenderloin sandwiches and gourmet hot dogs to authentic tacos and beloved homemade donuts, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Indianapolis's unique charm!
Price Comparison Table
Dish | Restaurant | Price (Approx.) | Location |
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Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Mug-n-Bun | $7-$9 | 5211 W 10th St, Speedway, IN 46224 |
Gourmet Hot Dog | King David Dogs | $6-$9 | 135 N Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 |
Taco (Carnitas or Al Pastor) | La Parada | $2.50-$3.50 per | 1642 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240 |
Slice of Pizza | Bazbeaux Pizza | $4-$5 per | Multiple locations in Indianapolis |
Doughnut | Long's Bakery | $1-$2 per | 1453 N Tremont St, Indianapolis, IN 46222 |
Drip Coffee | Tinker Coffee Co. | $3.50-$4.50 | 1125 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46202 |
Falafel Sandwich | The Mediterranean Grill | $8-$9 | 3925 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208 |
Pho (Small Bowl) | Pho 36 | $9-$10 | 3617 Commercial Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46222 |
Breakfast Burrito | Lincoln Square Pancake House | $7-$9 | Multiple locations in Indianapolis |
Single Scoop Ice Cream | Nicey Treat | $5-$6 | 916 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220 |