Welcome to Massachusetts Avenue, affectionately known as Mass Ave—Indy’s most vibrant corridor for food, fun, and flavor. Stretching from the Artsgarden at New York and Delaware all the way northeast to 10th Street, this historic diagonal is jam-packed with top-tier eateries, quirky cafés, and sweet spots that reflect Indy’s creative spirit. Whether you’re craving gourmet small plates, farm-to-table fare, decadent pastries, or the city’s best slice, Mass Ave promises something for every palate and price point.
Must-Try Restaurants: Flavorful Fare From Local Legends
Let’s start with heavy hitters. The main stretch of Mass Ave (especially from College Avenue to East Street) is home to some of Indy’s most talked-about restaurants.
- Bluebeard (653 Virginia Ave, just off Mass Ave)
*Cuisine & Price Range:* New American, $$$
Why it stands out: This James Beard-nominated spot excels at seasonal, inventive dishes with local ingredients. The menu changes daily, so there’s always a surprise, but the house-made bread and appetizers are legendary. Perfect for adventurous eaters with a taste for the creative.
- The Eagle (310 Massachusetts Ave)
*Cuisine & Price Range:* Southern comfort, $$
Why it stands out: Fried chicken that’s crispy, juicy, and endlessly craveable, plus house-made sides like spoonbread and mac & cheese. Casual, communal seating and a deep bourbon list make this a go-to for groups or quick dinners before a show at the nearby Murat Theatre.
- Bazbeaux Pizza (333 Massachusetts Ave)
*Cuisine & Price Range:* Pizza, $$
Why it stands out: An Indy staple for over 35 years—thin, crispy crusts, creative toppings, and a leafy patio in summer. Try the “Quattro Formaggio” or build your own. Ideal for families, late-night cravings, or a fun date night.
- Bru Burger Bar (410 Massachusetts Ave)
*Cuisine & Price Range:* Burgers, $$
Why it stands out: A burger lover’s heaven with options from classic to outrageously creative (think burgers topped with jalapeno jam or truffle aioli). Gluten-free buns and vegetarian choices cement Bru as a crowd-pleaser.
Café Culture: Indie Vibes and Serious Coffee
Breakfast or a coffee break on Mass Ave is a must—this neighborhood wakes up early and stays buzzing.
- Coat Check Coffee (401 E Michigan St, inside the Athenaeum)
*Why it stands out:* Housed in a gorgeous historic German club, this café pours top-notch espresso, inventive lattes, and flaky pastries in a sunlit, architectural gem. Try the Cardamom Cappuccino!
- Subito (111 S Delaware St, just south of Mass Ave)
*Why it stands out:* A true Italian café offering hand-pulled espresso, house-made gelato, and pressed paninis. Their affogato (espresso over gelato) is pure bliss on a summer day.
- Gallery Pastry Bar (110 S Pennsylvania St, steps off Mass Ave)
*Why it stands out:* Over-the-top French pastries, croissants, and brunch cocktails in a chic setting. Don’t miss the pistachio mille-feuille or the boozy brunch drinks.
Bakeries and Sweet Spots: Where to Indulge
If you have a sweet tooth, Mass Ave’s bakeries are worth the walk.
- The Flying Cupcake (423 Massachusetts Ave)
*What to get:* A rainbow of fun cupcake flavors (try Red Velvet Elvis or Lemon Pucker). Perfect for dessert on-the-go or a quirky celebration.
- The Lemon Bar (inside The Garage Food Hall, 906 Carrollton Ave)
*What to get:* Tart lemon pies, rich gooey bars, and dreamy cakes. Their old-school sweets add a retro charm to this new foodie hub.
The Garage Food Hall: Indy’s Culinary Playground
Anchoring the northeast end near the intersection of Mass Ave and College Ave, The Garage Food Hall is a must-visit for adventurous foodies.
- Dozens of local vendors mean you can sample everything from Brazilian street food (Oi! The Brazilian Grill) to vegan sushi (Tuna Poke & Sushi), spicy fried chicken (Yats), Detroit-style pizza (Clancy’s), fresh seafood (J’s Lobster), arepas, and gourmet ice cream (Lick).
- Pro-tip: Come hungry and hop from stall to stall—everyone in your group can find their own perfect meal!
Food Trucks & Local Traditions
Food trucks often line Mass Ave during First Fridays and summer festivals. Check out the vibrant selection during the Indy Fringe Festival or Mass Ave Criterium—from Korean barbecue to gourmet popsicles, there’s always something special rolling through.
Indy’s local food scene celebrates Midwestern comfort with a twist: look for dishes using Indiana sweet corn, local pork, and summer tomatoes in season. Many Mass Ave spots rotate farm-fresh specials that embrace local ingredients.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Delights
Don’t sleep on these lesser-known stars tucked in side streets around Mass Ave:
- Tlaolli (2830 E Washington St, a short drive, but Mass Ave locals rave about it)
*Cuisine:* Mexican street food
*Why it stands out:* Vegan and gluten-free tamales filled with everything from mole to roasted veggies. Super casual, super delicious.
- Rooster’s Kitchen (888 Massachusetts Ave)
*Cuisine:* Deli, elevated comfort, $$
*Why it stands out:* House-made pastrami and corned beef, served on warm rye, or as part of their “pastrami cheesesteak.” The pickle-brined fried chicken sandwich is a cult favorite.
- MacNiven’s (339 Massachusetts Ave)
*Cuisine:* Scottish Pub, $$
*Why it stands out:* Where else can you snack on Scotch eggs, haggis, and local craft beer in one of Indy’s friendliest pubs? A great late-night hangout, especially after an evening at Theatre on the Square.
Why Foodies Love Mass Ave
Few Indy neighborhoods pack as much culinary punch per block as Mass Ave. It’s the place where creatives gather, where you can stroll from bakery to bar, linger at an outdoor patio, and encounter something new with every visit. Late-night eats, weekend brunch, or a splurge-worthy dinner—Mass Ave delivers.
Whether you’re discovering local legends, tasting tomorrow’s trends at the Garage, or stumbling across a killer taco truck during a street fair, Mass Ave is Indianapolis’ tastiest (and most spirited) destination for food lovers.
So bring your appetite, grab a friend, and make your way down the avenue—Mass Ave always has another delicious surprise around the corner.