Best Brunch Spots in Indy

You had me at “brunch”… 

Very few things in life are better than pillowy pancakes and bottomless mimosas. Luckily, Indianapolis’ brunch scene has all that and so much more. So, grab a few of your besties and check out one of these brunch spots we’ve picked out for you. Whether you’re popping in at 8 a.m. or dragging your feet at 2 p.m., these locations make it clear that brunch is not just a meal—it’s an event. 

Due to the current state of our world, make sure you check the policies and operations of each restaurant before heading over! Personally, we absolutely approve of getting your brunch fix through delivery/carryout and enjoying your eggs benny in your pajamas on your couch. Be sure to tip your local restaurant staff and delivery people! 

Here is Indyfluence’s list of the best brunch spots in the Indy area. Happy brunching! 

#1. Milktooth

Starting off on a high note, Milktooth is a fine diner that was named one of Bon Appétit’s top 10 best new restaurants in the U.S. Owner Jonathan Brooks’ mission is to utilize Indiana’s amazing agriculture and fresh produce in his globally inspired cuisine. The building—which used to be an auto repair garage—is filled with hip decor, always-packed tables, and smiling staff. And on top of the inviting interior, the menu dishes out a vast spread of unique brunch inventions. The meals are so deliciously crafted, you won’t even realize you’re eating chicken liver or cuttlefish. (Yes, you heard us right.) Milktooth takes risks that undoubtedly pay off in a beautiful way, and Indy brunch-goers have figured that out. If you’re stopping by, expect a line, and don’t be surprised if you’re turned away when the food runs out. We promise the food is worth the wait and the seemingly intimidating menu.

Must order: Dutch Baby Pancake

https://www.milktoothindy.com/

#2. Mesh

Many Indianapolis locals are familiar with this Mass Ave restaurant’s dinner menu, but their brunch offers a whole new slate of contemporary, locally-sourced dishes. There, you’ll find classic breakfast options made with high-quality ingredients and a unique, modern twist that sets Mesh apart from your average diner. The brunch menu includes lots of creative starters to get you ready for the most important meal of the day. Can you say crab hash browns? They also have weekend brunch cocktail deals because it’s never too early for a mimosa. 

Must order: Housemade Biscuit Platter

https://www.meshrestaurants.com/

#3. The Loft at Traders Point Creamery

If you’re looking for locally-sourced food, it doesn’t get much closer to the source than The Loft. This restaurant sits on the second floor of a historic 1860s barn, overlooking the 150-acre dairy farm that provides all the fresh food for your plate.  Located right outside Indianapolis in Zionsville, this farm-to-table restaurant has a rotating menu that reflects the best of their fresh ingredients. Some of their staples include french toast, shrimp and grits, and house-ground pork sausage. Feel free to pair those dishes with their unique, refreshing drinks like the farmstead lavender mimosa. Pro tip: always save room for a post-brunch milkshake. It’s a creamery for a reason. 

Must order: Breakfast Mac and Cheese  

https://www.traderspointcreamery.com/restaurant/

#4. Cafe Patachou

Martha Hoover has created a bit of a culinary empire throughout Indianapolis with her many restaurants, but the original Café Patachou still remains the best place to get a quality brunch. Opened in 1989, this spot has a delicious lineup of sweet, savory, and healthy dishes. The menu also includes lots of gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options, offering both substitutions and customizations to accommodate your dietary restrictions. From the jam-packed omelets to the sourdough toast, everything here tastes fresh and homemade. And if you like to end your brunch with a dessert, their cinnamon toast is a classic and absolutely to die for. Patachou has been an Indy brunch staple for years, and it’s not going anywhere. 

Must order: The Broken Yolk Sandwich

https://cafepatachou.com/

#5. The Garden Table

Calling all healthy eaters! We have the perfect local spot for you to get your daily dose of healthy, mouthwatering brunch. The Garden Table is an eatery and juicery with a seasonal menu that serves only the best locally-sourced foods. Acai bowls, avocado toast, and smoked salmon… oh my! Even the cocktails are made from clean, cold-pressed juice! If you’re looking for non-alcoholic beverages, we recommend any of their juice blends. Who doesn’t want to start their day with an Emerald Elixir or Cashew Concoction? All of their juices are a mixture of fruits, veggies, herbs, and superfoods. With one location in Mass Ave and one in Broadripple, there’s no excuse not to get your fix of fresh, delicious brunch. 

Must order: Garden Benedict Plate

https://thegardentable.com/

#6. Good Morning Mama’s

Good Morning Mama’s Café takes you straight to the 1950s with their retro diner feel. When you step inside this former gas station, you’ll find neon lights, a working jukebox, and vintage memorabilia. As for the food, think traditional American breakfast food with Italian inspiration from owners Mama and Papa Carolla. Nobody is stopping you from getting your eggs with a side of deep-fried Italian biscuits and a meatball sub. At Good Morning Mama’s, the serving sizes are big, the coffee is bottomless, and the atmosphere is as classic as it gets. Because the South Broad Ripple establishment is fairly compact, expect longer wait times over the weekend. We promise the piping hot plates of food made with love make it worth it. 

Must order: Eggs in Purgatory

 http://www.goodmorningmamas.com/home.html

#7. Eggshell Bistro

This quaint restaurant may be located on the north side of Carmel, but the dining experience here feels like a trip around the globe. Eggshell’s owner Chef Hanes calls his dishes “twistorical,” meaning he puts a creative spin on historical, global recipes. The food and the coffee here have been ranked both regionally and nationally by the likes of Livingly Magazine and Indianapolis Monthly. The menu showcases Middle Eastern, North African, Anglo-Indian, and French-inspired dishes that often rotate and change with the seasons. Some of their most popular dishes are Labneh Za’atar and the Truffled Egg Brioche. Thanks to Chef Hanes’ relentless travel and innovation, you’re sure to see something new every time you sit down here. 

Must order: Shakshuka 

http://www.eggshellbistro.com/

#8. Nada

Nada is a casual Mexican fare and cocktail joint located in the Circle Center Mall. They’re known for their tacos, but if you’re an adult, you know that tacos are not just for dinner. The bright, hip space serves up breakfast foods for when you’re craving something different from your typical pancake brunch. Take your pick from Huevos Rancheros, Eggs Benedicto, or any of the other delicious options. They also offer some of their traditional tacos and quesadillas on their brunch menu because is it ever the wrong time to have a quesadilla? Top it off with a Drunken Coffee, and you’re officially ready to start your Saturday. 

Must order: Breakfast Chorizo Enchiladas

https://www.eatdrinknada.com/