Introduction
Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen every night? Do visions of perfectly prepared meals dance in your head, but the thought of actually cooking them sends shivers down your spine? You’re not alone! Fortunately, Indianapolis boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and the best part is, a significant portion of it is available for takeout. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food, adventurous international flavors, or something quick and easy, Indianapolis takeout options are ready to deliver (often literally!) a delicious and satisfying meal right to your doorstep.
This guide is your key to unlocking the delicious possibilities of Indianapolis takeout. We’ll explore some of the city’s top spots for enjoying restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your own home. From pizza to tacos, Asian delights to hearty Italian fare, we’ll uncover the best takeout experiences Indianapolis has to offer, considering taste, quality ingredients, seamless ordering processes, and overall satisfaction. Get ready to ditch the dishes and discover your new favorite Indianapolis takeout destinations!
Why These Restaurants? Our Selection Criteria
Before we dive into the culinary gems, let’s clarify what sets these establishments apart. What qualities earn a restaurant a spot on our “best takeout” list? It’s more than just good food; it’s about the entire experience.
First and foremost, food quality is paramount. We’re looking for restaurants that use fresh, high-quality ingredients and prepare their dishes with care and attention to detail. The flavors must be exceptional, and the presentation, even in a takeout container, should be appealing.
Service and ordering ease are also crucial. A pleasant and efficient ordering process, whether online or by phone, can make all the difference. Prompt and courteous service during pickup is equally important. We’re seeking places that value their customers and make the takeout experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Reliability and consistency are key. We want restaurants that consistently deliver delicious food and reliable service. No one wants to be disappointed by a takeout order that doesn’t live up to expectations. We’ve considered restaurants with a proven track record of quality and consistency.
Finally, price point plays a role. While we appreciate exceptional food, we also want to provide options that are accessible to a range of budgets. We’ve included a variety of restaurants with different price points to cater to various needs and preferences. For this article, “takeout” refers to restaurants that offer pickup service. While many on this list also offer delivery through third party apps, the focus will be on restaurants you can order from directly and pickup yourself.
The Best Takeout Restaurants in Indianapolis: A Culinary Journey
Let’s explore some of the best spots in Indianapolis for incredible takeout, organized by cuisine to help you satisfy your specific cravings.
Pizza Perfection
Indianapolis boasts a fantastic pizza scene, and several establishments excel at takeout.
Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza: This Indianapolis favorite is known for its creative and delicious pizza toppings. Their pizzas are consistently voted among the best in the city, and their takeout service is excellent. A must try is the Slaughterhouse Five, a meat lovers dream. They have multiple locations around the city making it convenient to grab your favorite pie. Ordering can be done online or by phone.
Bazbeaux Pizza: A Broad Ripple institution, Bazbeaux has been serving up incredible pizzas for decades. Known for its thin crust, delicious sauce, and an array of toppings, this is a pizza that is great for enjoying at home. The Mediterranean is a customer favorite, with artichoke hearts and feta cheese adding a unique flavor. Ordering online is easy and pickup is always a breeze.
Mexican Fiesta
When you’re craving south-of-the-border flavors, these Indianapolis restaurants deliver exceptional takeout options.
Nada: If you are looking for an upscale taco experience that is available for takeout look no further than Nada. Located downtown, Nada brings unique and flavorful tacos to Indy. Their unique selection includes cauliflower tacos and pork belly tacos in addition to the classics. Their margaritas are also available for pickup to complete the experience.
Tlaolli: For authentic Mexican street food, Tlaolli is a must-try. They offer a wide variety of tacos, tamales, and other traditional dishes that are bursting with flavor. Their Al Pastor is a fan favorite. This restaurant uses traditional family recipes and ingredients to bring a true taste of Mexico to Indianapolis. Ordering is available by phone.
Asian Delights
From savory noodles to fragrant curries, Indianapolis’s Asian takeout scene has something for everyone.
Thai Paradise: This local gem offers an extensive menu of authentic Thai dishes, perfect for a flavorful takeout meal. Their Pad Thai and Green Curry are consistently praised for their rich flavors and generous portions. Online ordering is available for quick and convenient pickup. The service here is also excellent.
Shalom Japan: While not strictly in Indianapolis, this restaurant on the border of Indianapolis is worth a mention. Shalom Japan serves innovative Japanese and Jewish cuisine. They have a wide variety of sushi and Japanese inspired dishes. One popular pick up order is their Sake Kasu Challah.
Italian Indulgence
Satisfy your cravings for pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics with these fantastic Indianapolis takeout options.
Mama Carolla’s Old Italian Restaurant: Known for its romantic ambiance, Mama Carolla’s also offers excellent takeout. Their pasta dishes, such as the lasagna and spaghetti carbonara, are rich and flavorful, and their pizzas are cooked to perfection. Ordering by phone or online is easy. Be sure to check out their rotating specials to try something new.
Iozzo’s Garden of Italy: This upscale Italian restaurant offers a delightful takeout experience, allowing you to enjoy their refined cuisine in the comfort of your home. The ravioli and other pasta options are top of the line. Conveniently located downtown, it is easy to pick up your order.
Broad Ripple Bites: Neighborhood Takeout Treasures
If you’re looking for takeout options in the Broad Ripple area, here are a couple of local favorites.
BRICS Broad Ripple Ice Cream Station: While not a full meal, no takeout list is complete without a dessert option. This Indianapolis ice cream shop makes it easy to pick up your favorite flavors of ice cream. From classic chocolate to exotic creations, they have it all. Grab a pint to enjoy after your takeout meal, or take home a quart and make your own milkshakes!
3 Carrots: If you are looking for a healthy and vegan takeout option in Indianapolis, 3 Carrots in Broad Ripple is a solid choice. With sandwiches, salads, bowls and burritos, 3 Carrots has something for everyone. One highlight on the menu is the BBQ Jackfruit sandwich.
Tips for a Seamless Takeout Experience
To ensure a successful and enjoyable takeout experience, keep these tips in mind:
Check Hours and Availability: Before you place your order, confirm the restaurant’s hours of operation and takeout availability. Some restaurants may have limited takeout hours or specific days when takeout is not available.
Consider Distance: Factor in the distance between your home and the restaurant. The longer the distance, the more likely your food is to cool down or become soggy. Choose restaurants that are relatively close to your location for optimal freshness.
Read Reviews: Take a few minutes to read online reviews of the restaurant’s takeout service. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of the food, the efficiency of the ordering process, and the overall customer experience.
Be Mindful of Packaging: Consider the type of food you’re ordering and its packaging. Some foods, such as fried items, may not travel well in closed containers. Ask the restaurant if they have any recommendations for packaging or if they can provide separate containers for different components of your meal.
Confirm Your Order: Before leaving the restaurant, carefully review your order to ensure that everything is correct. Check for any missing items, sauces, or condiments. It’s always better to catch a mistake before you get home.
Ask About Specials: Don’t forget to ask about any daily or weekly specials that may be available. You might discover a new favorite dish or save some money on your order.
Beyond the Restaurant: Expanding Your Takeout Horizons
While individual restaurants offer a wealth of takeout options, remember that other avenues exist for enjoying delicious meals at home.
Food delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub have become increasingly popular in Indianapolis. These platforms partner with numerous restaurants to offer delivery services, allowing you to order from a wide range of cuisines with just a few clicks.
Also consider meal prep services. These services prepare and deliver pre-portioned meals to your doorstep, offering a convenient and healthy alternative to cooking. They’re a great option for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy nutritious meals without the hassle of meal planning and preparation.
Grocery stores with prepared food sections provide another convenient takeout option. Many grocery stores offer a variety of prepared meals, salads, and sides that are ready to eat. This is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a grab-and-go lunch.
Indianapolis Takeout: A Delicious Conclusion
Indianapolis’s takeout scene is a culinary playground waiting to be explored. From the comforting flavors of pizza and pasta to the exotic spices of Thai and Mexican cuisine, there’s a takeout option to satisfy every craving. With a little planning and some careful selection, you can enjoy restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home, without the stress of cooking or cleaning up.
So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cooking dinner, remember this guide and explore the delicious takeout options in Indianapolis. Try one of the restaurants mentioned above or venture out and discover a new favorite in your own neighborhood. Your next crave-worthy meal is just a phone call or a few clicks away. So, what are you waiting for? Ditch the dishes and indulge in the best takeout Indianapolis has to offer! Enjoy the delicious adventure!
