Dinner, Early or Late!
Here are some of the best restaurants Bloomington has to offer. From classics to food from all over the world. It is a true college town. The vast majority of these restaurants are independent and locally owned. Although some reservations can be booked online, many are just a phone call away, adding to the old school charm of Bloomington.
Restaurants
Anyetsang’s Little Tibet – Located on 4th street in a quaint old house, offering specialties from the Himalayan homeland as well as Indian and Thai dishes. My daughter and I tried the Tibetan dumplings and they were delicious.
Bear’s Place – Located on 3rd Street, a great destination for dive bar dining, drinks, and entertainment. Karaoke every Thursday night.
Bloomington Sandwich Company – Located on Kirkwood Avenue, simply stated, this shop has good sandwiches and good service.
Cardinal Spirits – A craft distillery located on South Morton Street with award-winning craft cocktails and a seasonal menu of snacks as well as a full dinner menu. Age restrictions apply. Don’t forget to book your distillery tour, offering samples of the full product line. In the summer months, the patio offers great seating for all, dogs included.
Darn Good Soup – This simple eatery located on North College Avenue seems to be a student favorite. Offering up 8-10 fresh soups daily including vegan and vegetarian options. Open 11-7:30 daily.
Farm Bloomington – The eclectic farmhouse decor was what drew my daughter and me into this creative farm to table restaurant located on Kirkwood. It seems the menu is always changing with seasonal specialties and local ingredients. Don’t forget to check out The Root Cellar, a cool speakeasy-style bar below the restaurant.
Gaza Modern Japanese Cuisine – Modern Japanese Cuisine located on College Mall Road, my daughter and I enjoyed a seat at the sushi bar. A little bit farther away from campus but worth it.
Janko’s Little Zagreb – Janko’s (pronounced yawn-koes) is located at 6th and Morton, this is a well-loved locally owned steakhouse, drawing people from all over the Midwest to their family-friendly restaurant for over 40 years.
Japonee – Authentic Japanese food located on Walnut Street. Sushi and Saki bar available.
Little Italy Market – Located on East 3rd Street, this little market offers authentic Italian and Mediterranean entrees. Good sandwiches, large portions, and plenty of samples.
Malibu Grill – This popular local establishment on N. Walnut street is casual yet classy, offering American fare, seafood, and steaks, call ahead for reservations.
Mother Bear’s Pizza – A Bloomington institution, located at 1428 E 3rd Street, is my daughter’s favorite. Bloomington’s best version of deep-dish pizza.
Nick’s English Hut – This popular local favorite is located on Kirkwood Avenue and offers an American Sports Bar and Pub that serves up local meats and beers.
Rockit’s Famous Pizza – This pizza shop has really stood the test of time. Located on Walnut street it offers late-night takeout or delivery.
Samira Afghani Cuisine – This small and compact eatery on West 6th Street offers Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Afghani, Vegetarian, and Vegan options. The lamb kebab and eggplant appetizer were delicious.
Southern Stone – While this restaurant is located a bit off campus on Patterson Drive it will satisfy your southern food cravings. Fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits are noted favorites. My daughter loves the weekend brunch for a special celebration or just because.
Taste of India – Located on East 4th Street, this family-owned and operated Indian restaurant is within walking distance to campus and offers a lunch buffet and student discounts.
The Irish Lion Restaurant and Pub – Although this place looks like an Irish Pub it has some of the best seafood, steak, and pub grub in town. Located on W Kirkwood Avenue.
Upland Brewing Company – One of the original independent breweries in Bloomington this eatery and brewing company is located on West 11th Street and offers some of the best food in town.
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