Region Eats - Local Favorite Foods in Northwest Indiana

Enjoy some delicious, community favorites that celebrate our love of food and the cultural melting pot that is Northwest Indiana, or as many locals refer to it: “The Region”!
 

Lemon Rice Soup

Theo’s Steaks & Seafood, Highland 
Nothing gets locals through cold days like a warm bowl of Greek-inspired lemon rice soup. It's a savory blend of rice and chicken broth with the tartness of lemon, always served with a roll or bread on the side. Many locally owned restaurants in the region serve it, including Theo’s in Highland, and there’s always a debate on who has the best version. So go try a bowl and if you really like it, take a quart to go!
 

Italian Beef

Miller Pizza Company, Gary
Yet another topic of heated debate - where to find the best Italian beef sandwich in the region, including at Miller Pizza Company in Gary. Seasoned, sliced beef on a thick bun, piled high with mild or hot peppers, topped with cheese or drenched in juice - any way you choose, it makes the best lunch!
 

Pierogi

Pierogi Fest, Whiting or Hard Rock Cafe, Gary
With a region festival actually named for this Eastern European dumpling stuffed with a delicious variety of sweet or savory fillings, enjoying a plate of pierogi is a must for visitors wanting to eat like a local. Whiting’s Pierogi Fest in July is the best place to try these delights while enjoying this wacky event celebrating Polish heritage.

But if you miss the fest, you can also order them at places like Hard Rock Cafe in Gary, which serves the classic potato-and-cheese pierogi, topped with sautéed onions and sour cream.
 

Empanadas

Provecho Latin Provisions, Crown Point
We do like our stuffed dough, which brings us to our next favorite - the empanada! This Latin American and Spanish pastry is like a turnover that’s fried or baked with sweet or savory fillings. Provecho in Crown Point serves three versions - ribeye, shrimp or chicken tinga. They also have classes that will teach you how you can make them, too!
 

Cheese

Farmhouse Restaurant, Fair Oaks
Agriculture is part of our Midwestern roots, and the Farmhouse Restaurant at Fair Oaks Farms makes the most delicious cheese and bacon! Their cheese board has a few of their dairy farm fresh, award-winning cheeses along with crackers, pickles, grapes and figs. Locals also love their bacon sampler with BBQ, black pepper and cajun bacon to try. 
 

Lake Perch

Teibel’s, Schererville 
Lake perch is a very popular choice for dinner in the region, and Teibel’s in Schererville is one of the best places to get it. Teibel's has been a Northwest Indiana staple since it opened here in 1929 as a simple, 12-seat highway diner. Their restaurant can seat quite a few more people now, but they still use the same fried chicken recipe their family brought over from Austria, and visitors still come from miles around for the unmistakable flavor of their famous boned and buttered fried perch.

For more delicious fish options
Try the ginger-glazed salmon at Tavern on Main in Crown Point or the seasonal fish entrees, including fresh walleye at Bon Vie in Hobart.
 

Steak

Freddy's Steak House, Hammond
Savor classic steakhouse favorites with a wide variety of expertly prepared steaks to satisfy every appetite. Recently featured on one of Gordon Ramsay's hit shows, Freddy's continues its tradition of hearty meals and welcoming hospitality.

Jack Binion's at Horseshoe Casino, Hammond
It's hard to look past the award-winning wines and scenic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from Jack Binion’s in Hammond, but if you can, you will find some of the best steaks in the area. With amazing cuts, each hand-selected steak makes this restaurant a must-try for meat lovers, and it's a great spot for date nights!
 

Poutine

Byway Brewing, Hammond
If you're a fan of poutine, you have to try Byway Brewing's version. Their rich dish of cheese curds, pork, fries, gravy, poached egg and fried jalapenos receives rave reviews from locals and travelers alike. Pair it with one of their special brews and you're set for the night.
 

Smashburger

Schoop's, Highland
Bit into the famous, regionally-loved smashburger, featuring a crispy-edged patty topped with perfectly melted cheese for a classic taste sensation. Voted "Best Hamburger" in The Times for more than 25 years. Order the "Mickey" for double the cheese.
 

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Montego Bay Grille, Hobart
If you still want dessert after all this food, it’s time to enjoy some Caribbean-inspired fare. Montego Bay Grille in Hobart offers an amazing pineapple upside-down cake with an island rum sauce. Pair that with one of their tasty cocktails and some live music, and you’re set for the night!
 

Factory-Fresh Gummies

Albanese Confectionery, Merrillville
You can't get any fresher gummies than straight from the Albanese factory store! There's nothing quite like biting into a soft and chewy bear (or worm, or peach ring) knowing it was made right on site. Stop by and try some samples until you find your favorite.