Top 10 Affordable Restaurants in Indianapolis

Indianapolis has a vibrant food scene that doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re a student, a visitor, or just a local looking for budget-friendly bites, the city offers plenty of options to satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet. Here’s a guide to some of the best affordable restaurants in Indianapolis where you can enjoy a great meal on a budget. 

1. Yats 

  • Cuisine: Cajun/Creole 

  • Location: Various locations across Indianapolis 

  • Highlights: Hearty portions, bold flavors, casual atmosphere 

Known for its flavorful Cajun and Creole dishes, Yats is an Indy staple. With a rotating menu featuring items like jambalaya, étouffée, and gumbo, you can enjoy a hearty, filling meal for under $10. Each dish comes with buttery bread, making it the perfect place to get a taste of New Orleans without spending a lot. 

2. The Eagle 

  • Cuisine: Southern Comfort 

  • Location: Mass Ave 

  • Highlights: Affordable fried chicken, comfort food sides, relaxed setting 

Craving Southern comfort food? The Eagle’s fried chicken is famous around town, and you can get a full meal without overspending. Try their mac and cheese, collard greens, or biscuits as sides for a classic, down-home meal. It’s an ideal spot for when you’re in the mood for a big, satisfying meal on a budget. 

3. Bazbeaux Pizza 

  • Cuisine: Pizza 

  • Location: Mass Ave, Broad Ripple 

  • Highlights: Unique toppings, shareable sizes, casual atmosphere 

For delicious, handcrafted pizza that won’t break the bank, Bazbeaux is a local favorite. Known for creative topping combinations like ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes, their pizzas are large enough to share, making it an affordable choice if you’re dining with friends. Slice options are often available for a quick and budget-friendly bite. 

4. Mug-n-Bun Drive-In 

  • Cuisine: Classic American Drive-In 

  • Location: Westside Indianapolis 

  • Highlights: Classic drive-in feel, budget-friendly menu, root beer floats 

This retro drive-in has been serving up affordable eats since the 1960s. Mug-n-Bun is famous for its chili dogs, tenderloins, and homemade root beer floats. Most items are under $10, so you can enjoy a nostalgic meal on a budget. Their crispy onion rings are a must-try! 

5. Bru Burger Bar 

  • Cuisine: Burgers and Sandwiches 

  • Location: Mass Ave 

  • Highlights: Gourmet burgers, shareable sides, affordable options 

If you’re in the mood for a burger that won’t cost a fortune, Bru Burger Bar has you covered. Their menu includes a range of burgers for around $12-$15, including fun options like the Bourbon Burger or the classic Bru Burger. With large portions, you can easily split an order of fries or an appetizer with friends. 

6. Milktooth 

  • Cuisine: Brunch/Breakfast 

  • Location: Fletcher Place 

  • Highlights: Unique brunch items, vibrant atmosphere, shareable plates 

Known for its inventive brunch menu, Milktooth is a bit of a splurge for breakfast but offers great value if you share plates with friends. Try their famous Dutch baby pancakes or the creative toast options. By splitting a couple of dishes, you can experience this trendy spot without overspending. 

7. India Garden 

  • Cuisine: Indian 

  • Location: Broad Ripple 

  • Highlights: All-you-can-eat lunch buffet, vegetarian options, rich flavors 

For a filling and affordable meal, India Garden’s all-you-can-eat lunch buffet is hard to beat. For under $15, you can enjoy a variety of curries, naan, rice, and vegetarian dishes. It’s an ideal spot for trying a little bit of everything, and the flavors are sure to impress. 

8. City Market 

  • Cuisine: Various 

  • Location: Downtown Indianapolis 

  • Highlights: Multiple vendors, affordable bites, local flavors 

City Market is a food hall with numerous vendors offering everything from tacos and BBQ to pastries and salads. This is a great spot if you want to try different foods without committing to a full meal. With so many choices, you can mix and match to keep costs down while sampling a variety of flavors. 

9. Santorini Greek Kitchen 

  • Cuisine: Greek 

  • Location: Fountain Square 

  • Highlights: Affordable Greek dishes, family-owned, cozy atmosphere 

This Greek spot in Fountain Square offers generous portions and great prices. The gyro platter is a popular choice, and it comes packed with tender meat, pita, and plenty of tzatziki sauce. With many menu items under $15, it’s a delicious way to enjoy Greek cuisine without spending much. 

10. Taste of Havana 

  • Cuisine: Cuban 

  • Location: Broad Ripple 

  • Highlights: Cuban sandwiches, vibrant atmosphere, budget-friendly 

For a taste of Cuba in Indy, head to Taste of Havana. Known for their authentic Cuban sandwiches and flavorful sides, this spot offers filling meals for under $10. Try the classic Cubano sandwich with roast pork, ham, pickles, and Swiss cheese for a satisfying and affordable meal. 

Dining out in Indianapolis doesn’t have to be expensive. From hearty comfort food to global flavors, these affordable restaurants make it easy to explore the city’s culinary scene without breaking the bank. Grab a friend, share some plates, and treat yourself to some of the best budget-friendly eats Indianapolis has to offer! 

Alana Hall