In this town, brunchin’ ain’t easy but it’s necessary. Whether you’re on the hunt for fluffy eggs, fried chicken and waffles, or mind-blowing bloody marys, the options can get as overwhelming as the lines at times.
Luckily, you have us to scout things out. We’ve got a whole bunch of brunch options for you, along with menu recs and pro tips. Plan your weekend and pour those mimosas.
Quick and easy
Cafe Patachou | Times vary by location | This local legend prides itself on serving dishes made from scratch with local premium ingredients — we highly recommend ordering the cinnamon toast with your meal.
Easy Rider Diner | Wed.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. 8 a.m.-12 a.m., Sat. 9 a.m.- 12 a.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | This Fountain Square diner serves up mouthwatering chicken + waffles, as well as other traditional American and Southwestern brunch items. Pro tip: It also has a grab and go menu if you don’t have the time for a sit-down meal.
Love Handle | 8 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Tues. + Wed. | The adventurous menu at this retro casual spot changes daily, but one thing is always certain: Your meal will be made with artisanal local ingredients.
The Garden Table | Times vary by location | Menus at the Broad Ripple + Mass Ave. locations differ slightly, but no matter which restaurant you visit, make sure to order a fresh pressed juice flight.
For a special occasion
Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar | Sun.-Tues. 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Wed.-Sat. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. | This tightly packed + aesthetically pleasing patio serving up classic bistro fare has been recognized as one of Travel & Leisure’s Top French Restaurants in the US.
Milktooth | Fri.-Mon. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | You’ll find a unique and globally-inspired menu + an atmosphere perfect for brunch.
Gather 22 | Tues.-Thurs. 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. | This brunch spot serves classic brunch food like eggs benedict alongside specialty lattes named after Indy neighborhoods.
Rize | Hours vary by location | Rize offers a selection of farm-to-table breakfast + lunch options that feature fresh ingredients from Indiana farms.
Canal Bistro | Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | This family-owned and operated restaurant serves fresh + authentic Mediterranean food you can get without a passport.
Root & Bone | Sun. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Mon.-Fri. 4-10 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. | This trendy restaurant with an industrial vibe plates thoughtfully sourced, farm-fresh mains + sides.
The Oakmont | Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-1 a.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. | Impress your friends by taking them to this trendy spot with retro-style decor, elevated versions of comfort classics, and a live DJ on the weekends.
Eggshell Bistro | Wed.-Fri. 7 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. | Located in Carmel City Center, this spot is all about fine brunching, with nationally-recognized chef Larry Hanes at the helm.
We recommend making a reservation for brunch at Gather 22 — they fill up quick.
Photo by @gatherindy
Pastry paradises
Amelia’s | Every day 8 a.m.-8 p.m. | For a quick grab-and-go option, stop by Amelia’s for coffee + a pastry. Or if you feel like having dessert for breakfast, try the gelato.
Leviathan Bakehouse | Tues.-Sun. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. | This bakery has the best bread in the state of Indiana according to Food & Wine.
For the family
Good Morning Mama’s Cafe | Tues.-Sun. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Take a seat on the back patio at this kitschy SoBro brunch spot serving up homemade breakfast and lunch. City Editor Shea recommends the Hoosier Loco Moco.
Lincoln Square Pancake House | Every day 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | This classic first-generation family business (established in 1989) has 15 locations across central Indiana.
Mornings Breakfast & Brunch | Every day 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | It’s not a trip to Mornings without its Instagram-worthy mimosa flight.
Rock-Cola 50’s Cafe | Tues.-Sat. 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | This classic retro diner serves up brunch options like steak and eggs, pancakes, waffles, and french toast — in addition to the burgers and shakes that you would expect.
Ruth’s Cafe | Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. | This casual cafe has all kinds of egg-citing menu options.
DIY brunch
Prefer to stay in? Host your own brunch with crowd-pleasing spreads + supplies good enough for a chef.
- Arch charcuterie board | A decorative wood tray that doubles as a charcuterie board? Yes, please.
- Simple Times Mixers carafe bundle | Whip up your favorite cocktails or mocktails with these clean ingredient mixers.
- Adams Apple Co. apple pie jam | Spread on a biscuit or heat up with a scoop of ice cream for a sweet treat — this delectable jam is versatile.
- Yellow French press | Bring some cheer to brunch + make coffee for a group with a sunny 34 fl oz. French press.
- 3-tier wood serving tray | Arrange pastries, sandwiches, or treats on a stunning three-tier display that will be the centerpiece of your table.
- Fancy espresso cups | Upgrade your mugs with some orange glazed ceramic cups.
- Fried egg spoon rest | A cute kitchen addition that screams “brunch.”
- 24-piece black silverware set | A highly-rated silverware set in a sleek, stylish black finish.
- Elite Gourmet four-slice toaster | Make toast for a crowd with this best-selling toaster.
- Clear drinking glasses with bamboo lids | Iced coffee can now be served at your brunch, thanks to cute and convenient drinking glasses.
