Bloomington’s Culinary Scene: A Delicious Exploration
Bloomington, Indiana, isn’t just a college town buzzing with students and academic energy; it’s a vibrant tapestry of cultures woven together, creating a culinary scene as diverse and exciting as the student body itself. Nestled in the heart of the state, Bloomington is home to Indiana University, and the presence of students from all over the world has transformed this town into a food lover’s paradise. If you are seeking the best food in Bloomington, you’ve come to the right place. From late-night pizza cravings to exotic international flavors, from comforting American classics to delightful brunch spots, Bloomington’s restaurants offer something to tantalize every taste bud.
This guide is your passport to experiencing the very best of Bloomington’s culinary landscape. We’ll take you on a delicious journey through the city, highlighting must-try establishments and iconic dishes that define the Bloomington food experience. So, loosen your belt, grab your fork, and prepare to discover your new favorite dining destinations in Bloomington!
Bloomington’s Pizza Scene: A Slice of Heaven
No exploration of Bloomington restaurants is complete without acknowledging the city’s love affair with pizza. As a college town, pizza is practically a food group, and Bloomington boasts a range of pizzerias that cater to every preference, from classic New York-style slices to innovative gourmet creations. Finding the best food in Bloomington often starts with finding the best pizza joint, and these establishments are sure to deliver.
Mother Bear’s Pizza
First stop: Mother Bear’s Pizza. A Bloomington institution, Mother Bear’s is known for its quirky atmosphere, walls covered in student signatures, and, most importantly, its generously topped pizzas. This place is a local legend, and for good reason. Sink your teeth into their signature “Mother Bear” pizza, a culinary masterpiece loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. The crust is perfectly chewy, the sauce is tangy, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. It’s the kind of pizza that instantly transports you back to your college days, regardless of whether you ever attended IU. You can expect to spend between ten and twenty dollars for a satisfying pie. Mother Bear’s is located on East Third Street and is always bustling, so be prepared for a possible wait, especially on weekends.
Bucceto’s Smiling Teeth
Next, we venture to another Bloomington staple, Bucceto’s Smiling Teeth. Bucceto’s is a different kind of pizza experience altogether. They’re famous for their thin-crust pizzas, which are incredibly crispy and light. Their pizzas are delicious and very customizable to your dietary needs. While they have many unique creations, the star of the show is arguably the “Ultimate Warrior,” a pizza that will satisfy even the largest of appetites, featuring a symphony of Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, ground beef, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. Bucceto’s is also a great place if you have dietary restrictions since they provide gluten-free crust, vegan cheese, and many vegetarian options. Prices for a pizza range from twelve to twenty-five dollars. Find them on Kirkwood Avenue.
Pizza X
Rounding out our pizza trio is Pizza X. Pizza X is your late-night savior. Open until the wee hours of the morning, Pizza X serves up affordable and satisfying slices to hungry students and night owls. It’s a no-frills kind of place, but their pizza is undeniably tasty, especially after a long night of studying or socializing. Their “Breadsticks X” is their most popular item, known for the generous amount of breadsticks they provide at a reasonable price. If you are not into breadsticks, go for a classic pepperoni or cheese pizza. Prices are very budget-friendly, typically under fifteen dollars for a large pizza. Pizza X has multiple locations throughout Bloomington, so you’re never far from a slice of pizza heaven.
International Flavors: A Global Culinary Adventure
Bloomington’s international student population has enriched the city’s food scene with a vibrant array of global flavors. From authentic Thai curries to flavorful Korean barbecue, the best food in Bloomington often comes from the diverse culinary traditions represented in the community.
Siam House
Let’s begin with Siam House, a long-standing Bloomington favorite that has been serving up authentic Thai cuisine for years. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the menu is extensive, featuring all the classic Thai dishes you know and love, as well as some more unique regional specialties. The must-try dish is their Pad See Ew, a stir-fried noodle dish with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein. The noodles are perfectly chewy, the sauce is savory and slightly sweet, and the overall flavor is simply irresistible. Prices for entrees generally range from twelve to twenty dollars. You can find Siam House on East Kirkwood Avenue.
Korea Restaurant
Next up is Korea Restaurant, a hidden gem tucked away on a quiet side street. This family-owned restaurant serves up some of the most authentic Korean food in Bloomington. Start with their kimchi pancakes. Then proceed with their bulgogi, thin slices of marinated beef that are grilled to perfection. The beef is tender and flavorful, and the accompanying side dishes (banchan) are a delightful mix of spicy, sour, and savory flavors. This is an experience you won’t want to miss. Entrees are priced between fifteen and twenty-five dollars. Korea Restaurant is located on North Dunn Street.
Taste of India
Finally, let’s head to Taste of India, a popular spot for flavorful and aromatic Indian cuisine. The menu features a wide variety of curries, tandoori dishes, and vegetarian options. The must-try dish is their butter chicken, a creamy and decadent curry with tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Don’t forget to order a side of naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. The fragrant spices and rich flavors will transport you to the heart of India. Dishes are priced between eleven and twenty dollars. Taste of India is on East Third Street.
Burgers and American Comfort Food: Classics Done Right
Sometimes, all you crave is a juicy burger or a plate of classic American comfort food. Thankfully, Bloomington has plenty of options to satisfy those cravings. When seeking the best food in Bloomington, remember that simple, well-prepared comfort can often be the most satisfying.
Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream
First on our list is Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream, a Bloomington institution known for its massive burgers and homemade ice cream. Bub’s provides a great burger experience with an atmosphere that is fun for the entire family. Challenge yourself to their “Big Ugly” burger, a one-pound behemoth that will test your appetite. For a more manageable option, try their “Elk Burger,” a lean and flavorful burger made with locally sourced elk meat. Don’t forget to save room for their homemade ice cream, which comes in a variety of creative and delicious flavors. Bub’s makes their burgers to order, so come here if you want a fresh burger. Burger prices range from eight to fifteen dollars. Bub’s is located on North Morton Street.
Upland Brewing Company
Next up is Upland Brewing Company, which offers a great dining experience. While primarily known for its craft beers, Upland also has a fantastic food menu that features elevated pub fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in their mac and cheese, a creamy and decadent dish made with a blend of cheeses and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. Pair it with one of their award-winning beers for the ultimate comfort food experience. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make Upland a great place to unwind and enjoy a good meal. You can expect to pay between fifteen and twenty-five dollars for an entree. You can find Upland Brewing Company at West Eleventh Street.
Brunch and Breakfast Spots: Starting Your Day Right
What better way to begin your day than with a delicious brunch or breakfast? Bloomington has several amazing spots that will set you up for a great day. Starting your journey to find the best food in Bloomington with a fantastic breakfast sets the tone for a great day of exploration!
The Runcible Spoon
Start with The Runcible Spoon, a Bloomington staple famous for its eclectic atmosphere and creative brunch menu. The vintage decor and quirky artwork create a unique and inviting space. The must-try dish is their gingerbread pancakes, fluffy and flavorful pancakes with a hint of spice, topped with whipped cream and maple syrup. They also offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Their menu is subject to change, so come here for surprises. Brunch here will set you back between ten and twenty dollars. You can find them on East Sixth Street.
Sweet Treats and Desserts: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Bloomington has a variety of ice cream parlors, bakeries, and dessert shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. In your quest to find the best food in Bloomington, make sure not to neglect the delightful world of desserts!
Chocolate Moose
First, let’s head to Chocolate Moose, a Bloomington institution that has been serving up homemade ice cream since the 1930s. This classic ice cream parlor is known for its rich and creamy ice cream, made with high-quality ingredients. Try their signature “Moose Tracks” flavor, a decadent combination of vanilla ice cream, peanut butter cups, and fudge swirls. With a long history and high-quality ingredients, you’ll be sure to come back for more! You can find ice cream flavors that range from very creative and unique to some simple classics. Prices range from five to ten dollars for a cup or cone. You’ll find Chocolate Moose on South Washington Street.
Final Thoughts: Your Bloomington Food Adventure Awaits
From the gooey goodness of Mother Bear’s pizza to the exotic flavors of Siam House, from the juicy burgers at Bub’s to the sweet treats at Chocolate Moose, Bloomington’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of the familiar and the unexpected. This guide has only scratched the surface of what Bloomington has to offer.
So, whether you’re a student, a resident, or just passing through, don’t be afraid to explore the city’s diverse restaurants and discover your own favorite Bloomington food experiences. The best food in Bloomington is waiting to be discovered. Get out there and create your own delicious memories!
