2025 The Times Best of the Region: Food & Dining

Schererville

219-463-1112

kyotoramen41.com

“People come here not only for the food but for our hospitality and service,” says Leo Lin, manager at Kyoto Ramen, which opened a little over a year ago.

Lin describes its cuisine as drawing upon the foods of Japan and China. Among top-selling menu items are Tonkotsu Charsui Ramen with pork belly, fish cake, egg, bamboo shoot, green onion and seaweed in a tonkotsu broth; fried chicken buns; dumplings; and takoyaki, which is filled with fried octopus.

Drinks include brown sugar milk tea, taro milk tea and fruit smoothies as well as bubble teas.

“Our foods are made in-house,” says Lin. “And we use the best ingredients in giving our customers an authentic taste of Japan.”

SECOND PLACE

Youyu Noodle Bar

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/youyu-noodle-bar

THIRD PLACE

Umi Sushi and Lounge

109 W. Joliet St.

Crown Point

219-262-7652

umisushiandlounge.com

risenroll.com

Rise 'n Roll Bakery  has been around for more than 20 years, started by an Amish couple in Middlebury, Ind. Now there are 15 locations throughout north and central Indiana in addition to the main bakery in Middlebury.

“Rise 'n Roll Bakery prides itself on making doughnuts and baked goods with high-quality ingredients without using preservatives,” says Nikki Van Kalker,  who owns Rise 'n Roll bakeries in Cedar Lake, Schererville and Valparaiso. “All of our specialties are still made in Middlebury and delivered fresh to our stores daily.”

Though known for all their baked goods, Van Kalker says it’s the doughnuts  that have won numerous awards.

“But none has won as many as the original Rise ’n Roll Cinnamon Caramel Donut,” she says of the delicacy covered in a light caramel glaze and cinnamon powdered sugar.

“It's highly addictive,” says Van Kalker. “Our stores aim to provide great customer service and a welcoming environment for customers to shop and to enjoy their treats in the store as well. Whether you're looking for something for breakfast, something for dessert or something for a snack, you'll find lots of delicious options at Rise 'n Roll.”

SECOND PLACE

Desserts by Juliette

401 S. Main St.

Kouts

219-299-5824

dessertsbyjuliette.com

THIRD PLACE

Say It with a Cookie

805 N. Main St.

Crown Point

219-426-6543

www.facebook.com/p/Say-It-With-A-Cookie-Inc-61569819604127

Schererville

219-322-3011

villacesare.com

“The story of Villa Cesare begins with the Cesare Battisti Lodge No. 27, a nonprofit founded in 1919 by Italian immigrants in East Chicago,” says Jon Biancardi, a board member of the nonprofit that runs Villa Cesare Banquets & Events.

Established as a fraternal organization to provide social support and preserve Italian traditions, the lodge moved to Schererville, where the Villa Cesare facility was built, recently adding a paver patio and stone gazebo.

Biancardi describes Villa Cesare as a blending of cultural heritage with a commitment to exceptional hospitality as well as a beacon of memorable celebrations for more than 30 years.

“Villa Cesare Banquets & Events has been dedicated to creating personalized experiences that resonate with hosts and guests alike,” he says. “More than just a venue, Villa Cesare builds relationships with clients, meticulously tailoring each event to reflect their unique vision, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable occasion.”

SECOND PLACE

The Lighthouse 

7501 Constitution Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

THIRD PLACE

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

“We do our best to offer something for everyone,” says Ryan Glowacki, who co-owns White Rhino Bar & Grill with his mother, Diane Glowacki, explaining why he believes it's a perennial Best of the Region winner. “Whether you’re here for live music, trivia, sports or to enjoy great food and cocktails, we’ve got it covered. We also host monthly events from painting and crafts to sports and magic. There’s always something fun and new happening. Plus, with our catering and event services, we offer people ease in hosting parties both at their place and ours.“

Like their entertainment and atmosphere including 22 televisions for catching your favorite sporting event, White Rhino focuses on the quality of the food and menu creativity.

“Going in line with White Rhino's goals, our menu also offers something for everyone—from rich pastas like our bowtie surf and turf, to steaks and seafood like filet mignon and mahi mahi, to crowd-pleasing favorites like calamari, burgers. and beef sandwiches,” says Glowacki.

SECOND PLACE

Three Monkeys Pub

21 W. 112th Ave.

Crown Point

219-662-7000

Threemonkeyspub.com

THIRD PLACE

Bridges' Scoreboard 

121 N. Griffith Blvd.

Griffith

219-924-2206

bridgesscoreboard.com

Cedar Lake

219-552-1275

Franksbackyardbbq.com

“I believe it is our core standards of quality, consistency, customer service and camaraderie,” Patty Schrum, who co-owns the business with her husband, Rob, aka Frank, says of what makes the business stand out. “From Day 1, we have strived to keep it simple and keep it good. Smoked fresh daily, we have no shortcuts and pride ourselves on serving up delicious barbecue every time.”

The couple started their business in 2012, doing local events. Encouraged by the great response they received, they opened a restaurant in December 2019. They've maintained menu staples such as brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, baby back ribs and turkey breasts, their best-selling items, accompanied by sides such as Frank's mac and cheese, smokey potatoes, creamy mayo slaw and Southern style green beans. Another bestseller is their brisket burger, added just a few years ago.

Schrum says it's a very family friendly restaurant with a play area for kids, table games including Pac-Man and an outdoor dining area with picnic tables with umbrellas.

SECOND PLACE

Bombers BBQ

435 Ridge Road

Munster

219-836-2662

35 W. 112th Ave.

Crown Point

219-613-4444

bombersbbq.com

THIRD PLACE

Wagner's Ribs

361 Wagner Road

Porter

219-926-7614

wagnerribs.com

219-924-7588

strackandvantil.com/catering

Strack & Van Til was also voted Best Fried Chicken, Best Grocery/Food Delivery, Best Deli, Best Flower Shop, Best Grocery Store, Best Place to Buy Produce, Best Place to Buy Seafood and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

Theo’s Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

THIRD PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

Lowell

219-696-0700

www.facebook.com/p/The-Dam-Bar-and-Grill-100063618516542

“We really appreciate our community and our customers for all their support,” says Amanda Leonard, co-owner of The Dam Bar & Grill, which opened almost a decade ago.

Leonard describes the restaurant, next to Lake Dalecarlia, as a “dive bar,” but the menu goes way beyond burgers. Among their best sellers are oysters, crab legs, perch, shrimp and gator bites. Specials include build your own seafood platters, all you can eat shrimp or grouper and discounted drink nights. As for the wings, the breading is made in-house, and the favorite sauces are Sweet Heat and Dam Daytona.

It’s a lively place with a lot happening—live music, Bingo night, Queen of Hearts Drawing every Tuesday night, and holiday theme celebrations such as a visit from the Easter Bunny on Easter Sunday.

“We host a lot of events and parties as well,” says Leonard, noting that recently they’d had a diaper party, the male equivalent to a baby shower. “I think people feel comfortable here. Our staff is friendly, and we go out of our way to make this a place for family and friends.”

SECOND PLACE

Bridges' Scoreboard 

121 N. Griffith Blvd.

Griffith

219-924-2206

bridgesscoreboard.com

THIRD PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

Merrillville

219-226-3038

karmacigar.com

Karma Cigar Bar & Lounge offers an ultimate smoking experience with its 400-square-foot walk-in humidor, 64-foot humidified wall and floor display cabinets showcasing the 1,200 plus premium cigars to be enjoyed in a 3,200-square-foot smoking lounge.

Patrons can pair such cigars as Romeo, Padron, Fuente, Camacho, Cohiba, Roma Craft and Montecristo with Hennessey VSOP, Booker’s Bourbon, Flor de Caña 18-Year-Old Rum, Glenfiddich 14-Year Barrel Reserve and Riazul Anejo Tequila while enjoying conversation with friends or catching their favorite sports team.

Menu items include pizza, rib tips, chicken kabobs, fried shrimp, French fries, pretzel bites and wings.

SECOND PLACE

Elements Cigar Lounge

8349 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-513-9555

www.facebook.com/elementscigar

THIRD PLACE

Golden Leaf Cigar Lounges

Multiple locations

goldenleafcigars.com

Lowell

219-690-3065

olddogcoffeehouse.com

Old Dog Coffee House also was voted Best Coffee House.

SECOND PLACE

Cup of Joy Café

917 S. Halleck St., Suite A 

DeMotte

219-869-8638

cupofjoynwi.com

THIRD PLACE

Biggby Coffee

8539 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-237-2602

Biggby.com

Lowell

219-690-3065

olddogcoffeehouse.com

Old Dog Coffee House earned its name because owner Cheri Ford and her family love dogs, but it was love of Lowell that motivated them to open a coffee house.

“Our purpose was to serve the community,” she says, noting people have been extremely supportive from the very start. “We wanted to bring a business to the town that our customers and community would be proud of. Old Dog Coffee House is a small business that supports other small businesses. The coffee, tea and retail we have on our shelves and use behind the counter are from other local businesses that we highlight and have a great relationship with.”

Ford says they like to keep it exciting, releasing new drinks at the beginning of the month inspired by the season, holiday or theme that her staff creates.

“Our staff is huge part of us standing out,” says Ford. “We make sure all staff is trained and understands the importance of quality drinks Old Dog serves and excellent customer service.”

Old Dog Coffee House also was voted Best Coffee.

SECOND PLACE

Cup of Joy Café

917 S Halleck St., Suite A

DeMotte

219-869-8638

cupofjoynwi.com

THIRD PLACE

The Region Cat Café

281 W. 80th Place

Merrillville

theregioncatcafe.com

Schererville

219-769-0000

tjs.cafe

“What truly makes us stand out is the heart behind everything we do,” says Sam Cappas, owner of Toast & Jam, which celebrates its tenth anniversary in  May. “From Day 1, we’ve been committed to creating a space that feels like home—where people can gather, relax and enjoy really good food in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.”

Beyond that, the staff at Toast & Jam work hard preparing fresh ingredients daily so that every dish tastes its absolute best.

”From the kitchen to the front of house, we care deeply about our guests and each other, and that shows in the service we provide,” continues Cappas, noting that the upbeat setting creates an environment in which many patrons are now friends.

“There's real joy here — from the great music playing, the aroma of freshly brewed espresso and the laughter of friends and family enjoying a meal together. That energy is what makes Toast & Jam so special.”

SECOND PLACE

Avgo

9321 Wicker Ave.

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

THIRD PLACE

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

“The breathtaking views, plus exceptional food and service I believe sets us apart,” says Dana Hernandez, director of private dining sales at The Lighthouse, on the waterfront in Cedar Lake.

Besides the Instagramable setting and such popular favorites as calamari, Chilean sea bass. macadamia crusted walleye, bone-in ribeye cooked in a cast iron skillet at 500° F and butter pie, Hernandez credits the community for the restaurant's success.

“The town of Cedar Lake has been incredibly supportive. It has allowed us to build loyal guests and great relationships,” she says. “We are incredibly appreciative of the wonderful community we are apart of.”

The spacious first floor dining room can accommodate 250 with the second floor reserved for private events.

"We want readers to know we strive to provide an amazing guest experience featuring a comprehensive menu fit for a family night out or an intimate occasion," said Hernandez.

The Lighthouse Restaurant also was voted Best Seafood, Best Steakhouse and Best Wedding Venue.

SECOND PLACE

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/council-oak-steaks-and-seafood

THIRD PLACE

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

219-924-7588

strackandvantil.com

Strack & Van Til was also voted Best Caterer, Best Grocery/Food Delivery, Best Deli, Best Flower Shop, Best Grocery Store, Best Place to Buy Produce, Best Place to Buy Seafood and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

Great Oaks Banquets & Events

13109 Wicker Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-8000

greatoaksevents.com

THIRD PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

Crown Point

219-663-0303

one13north.com

“One13North is more than just a place to eat — it’s a place to connect, unwind and celebrate,” owner Manolie Pappas says, noting that they aim to be the go-to spot for great food, great vibes and great people.

Pappas, whose family has been serving Crown Point and the surrounding area for more than 50 years, sees One13North as a continuation of that legacy.

“We’re proud to be part of so many people’s stories — from hosting baby showers to retirement parties — and we never take that support for granted,” he says. “It means everything."

Favorites include bao buns with fillings including pork belly, crispy shrimp, tuna poke and bacon jam or BLT burgers along with their chef’s revolving feature menu items.

“They’re always fresh, seasonal, and packed with creativity. Regulars love coming in just to see what new twist we’re serving up next,” says Pappas. “We’re always looking for new ways to bring people together, whether it’s through food, music or special events. We’re proud of our team, our roots and the welcoming atmosphere we’ve created where everyone feels like they belong.”

SECOND PLACE

Tavern on Main

136 S. Main St.

Crown Point

219-779-9377

tavernonmaincp.com

THIRD PLACE

Square Roots

108 N. Main St.

Crown Point

219- 310-8322

squarerootscp.com

schoophamburgers.com

“As a family-operated restaurant, we’re deeply rooted in the community, and that connection shines through in everything we do,” says Lynette Newell of Schoop’s Hamburgers. “We care about our employees, our neighbors and serving the freshest, most delicious food possible. Customers often rave about our welcoming, 1950s-style diner vibe and the personal touch we bring—whether it’s remembering a regular’s order or hosting local events. It’s not just a burger; it’s a place where people feel at home.”

Schoop’s, founded in 1948, takes pride in the quality of their food.

“Our classic cheeseburger is the star, crafted with fresh, never-frozen ground beef, hand-formed and seared to perfection on the grill,” says Newell, adding that their double bacon cheeseburger is another crowd favorite.

Newell describes the classic Schoop’s experience as pairing their signature crispy edged burgers with crispy fries, a Green River or a thick milkshake but says there are other menu items to try such as their homemade soups and chili, made fresh daily.

“Samples are free and customers rave that they taste just like the soups grandma used to make,” she says.

SECOND PLACE

Miner-Dunn

8940 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-923-3311

minerdunnhamburgers.com

THIRD PLACE

Hard Rock Cafe Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

cafe.hardrock.com/northernindiana

Dyer

219-322-6564

1935 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-463-1115

eatbozhotdogs.com

Though voted Best Hot Dog in the Region, Boz Hot Dogs is more than just franks.

Its extensive menu has grown over the years to include burgers, bratwurst, Italian beef, sloppy joes and grilled cheese sandwiches. It's Polish sausage ranks right uo there with its classic hot dogs and all-beef jumbo dogs.

Owner-operators Bob and Carol Bollacker own the Boz Hot Dogs locations in Schererville, Dyer and Lansing.

"We are both working in the restaurants every day, and we never stop trying to do our best,” says Carol Bollacker. “We are proud to have employees who are also committed to providing the best possible experience for our customers, including the food we serve, the service we provide and the environment we create.”

SECOND PLACE

George's Gyros Spot #2

1201 W. 37th Ave.

Hobart

219-947-7919

georgesgyroshobart.com

THIRD PLACE

Portillo's

555 E. 81st Ave.

Merrillville

219-769-8300

1403 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-276-8150

portillos.com

219-931-4550

realdairybelle.us

Honoring the traditions that go back 75 years while creating new menu options is important to those who enjoy the treats at Dairy Belle, says Nicholas Colao, whose family bought the business from the original owners in 1994. “We serve a premium product that is nostalgic, sticking with what we know but also bringing in flavors of the month such as pistachio, banana and an orange Dreamsicle flavor.”

With stores in Hammond, Schererville, Crown Point and Cedar Lake, Colao says they don’t want anyone to be disappointed when they visit.

“We’re known for our toppings, and we don’t change those because there are people who want black raspberry on their ice cream,” he says. “I don’t know if anyone else carries a black raspberry topping but for those who come in expecting it, we don’t want them to be disappointed.”

This type of customer commitment is one reason why multigenerations continue to visit Dairy Belle.

“We see grandfathers bring in their grandchildren,” says Colao. “It’s a great feeling.”

SECOND PLACE

Sundae Funday Crown Point

928 S. Court St.

Crown Point

219-323-3106

www.facebook.com/sundaefundaycp

9281 E 109th Ave.

Crown Point

219-310-8121

www.facebook.com/sundaefundaywinfield

THIRD PLACE

Azucar Ice Cream

103 N. Main St.

Crown Point

219-308-0506

www.facebook.com/p/Azucar-100092987593749

Crown Point

219-661-5829 (LUCY)

Lucrezia Cafe

428 S. Calumet Road

Chesterton

219-926-5829 (LUCY)

lucreziacafe.com

Lucrezia Ristorante and Lucrezia Cafe have been the go-to spots for exquisite Northern Italian cuisine for for more than two decades, and each year the votes pour in to remind Region residents what gems these locations are.

“We are beyond honored to announce that we have been awarded first place in the Best Italian Food category, an extraordinary recognition that stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence by our entire team,” said Director of Operations Stacy Mikler.

“This prestigious accolade is not just a win for us; it’s a shared celebration with you, our cherished guests. Your unwavering support, discerning taste and continued loyalty are the heart of everything we do. From the bottom of our hearts, grazie mille. You inspire us to push boundaries, elevate experiences and turn every meal into a masterpiece.”

The hard-working, award-winning staff make every visit to their restaurants, which includes in third location in Culver, Indiana, a culinary experience.

Lucrezia also was voted Best Wait Staff.

SECOND PLACE

Little Italy

1155 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-865-3040

dyerlittleitaly.com

THIRD PLACE

Ciao Bella Ristorante

1514 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-322-6800

ciaobellaonline.com

Highland

219-934-0400

facebook.com/asadagrillandcantina

Whether it’s Friday at 5 p.m. or lunchtime on a random Tuesday, Asada Grill & Cantina is the place to go for a refreshing margarita. With seven varieties that include a skinny margarita and a sangria margarita, they aim to please.

“We’re proud to have one of the largest selections of tequilas and whiskeys in the area, carefully curated for our guests to enjoy. We go from high-end spirits to the traditional and popular tequilas,” said co-owner, Oscar Gutierrez. “Our margaritas have been becoming popular since we got our own custom tequila from Maestro Dobel Añejo and are mixing it with high-end products with no artificials, like our skinny margarita that is made with fresh lime juice.”

The authentic menu items give you a true taste of Mexico. "Our signature dish is our carne asada, which is a customer favorite. It’s a long and careful process that starts with hand-cutting the steak, then marinating and seasoning it to perfection to bring out its bold, authentic flavor. It’s the heart of our menu and a reflection of the care we put into every meal,” said Gutierrez. “Also at Asada, we believe in more than just great food and good service. We believe in creating a space where everyone feels at home.”

SECOND PLACE

El Salto Mexican Restaurant and Cantina

Multiple locations

elsaltorestaurant.com

THIRD PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

Merrillville

219-750-9249

www.facebook.com/p/Las-Jacarandas-Mexican-Grill-100088383455141

Las Jacarandas opened in January 2022. It’s family-owned by individuals with years of experience in the restaurant industry.

“We offer truly authentic Mexican cuisine, with recipes passed down through generations of our family from Michoacán,” said Vanessa Yanez, manager. “Our homemade, freshly prepared dishes are a genuine taste of the heart of Mexico. It’s a difference you can taste.”

Patrons also can customize the authentic cuisine with 13 meats for filings and elevate them with vibrant salsas. “We’ve created a cheerful and inviting space where you can enjoy truly authentic and incredibly tasty Mexican cuisine,” added Yanez.

Generously sized burritos are popular, along with the signature dish, Caldo de Res. “It is more than just a soup. It's a comforting and deeply flavorful experience,” said Yanez. “Served in a huge bowl, it includes tender chunks of beef chuck mingled with a medley of fresh and hearty vegetables like carrots, cabbage, zucchini, earthy potatoes and sweet corn in a rich and savory broth. Each spoonful is a warm embrace, perfect on a cool day or anytime you crave authentic Mexican comfort food.”

SECOND PLACE

Asada Grill & Cantina

2907 45th St.

Highland

219-934-0400

facebook.com/asadagrillandcantina

THIRD PLACE

El Salto Mexican Restaurant

Multiple locations

elsaltorestaurant.com

Highland

219-513-9588

fuzzylinebrewing.com

Fuzzyline Brewing Co.’s beer and food “are best described as locally sourced and globally inspired,” according to owner Al Robertson. With 12 beers on tap at a time and a food menu that changes often with rotating weekly specials, the place has wide appeal.

“Customers love us so much because our customer service is head and shoulders above the rest. Over the past four years, Fuzzyline has established itself as a community meeting space and incubator for other entrepreneurs from a variety of industries,” said Robertson. “We have collaborated with other breweries, real estate groups, home brewers, political groups, nonprofit organizations, mixologists, coffee shops and chefs.”

On the food side Robertson said: “The sour dough pizzas are a fan favorite, and I have been told that we have the best grilled cheese on the planet.” As for beer, the most popular brew is Josey, a blood orange IPA, which uses hops sourced from Crown Point and malt grown in Indiana and Wisconsin. They’ve also become known for sour beers, which provide a creative outlet for using ingredients from local farms and the community garden in downtown Highland.

“The lines between beer styles are fuzzy but we take a hardline on quality. We refuse to compromise on our craft and flavor. We pride ourselves on being unique and not gimmicky,” said Robertson.

SECOND PLACE

Off Square Brewing

11000 Delaware Pkwy.

Crown Point

219-310-8898

offsquarebrewing.com

THIRD PLACE

Byway Brewing Company

2825 Carlson Drive

Hammond

219-844-5468

bywaybrewing.beer

aureliospizza.com

Long before Aurelio’s became the iconic national pizza chain it is, it started with a small storefront where the Italian beef outsold the thin-crust, square-sliced pizza.

“In 1959, my dad, Joe Aurelio Jr., 26-years-old, opened the first Aurelio's Pizza in Homewood. By 1974, business was booming and customers started asking if they could open an Aurelio's in their town,” said President and CEO Joe Aurelio. “The first two Aurelio's franchises were opened in 1974 in Schererville and Joliet. Today there are 11 Aurelio's locations in Northwest Indiana and another 24 locations in Illinois, Florida, Minnesota and Las Vegas."

While pepperoni is the most popular topping in the country, sausage is king in the Chicago area and Northwest Indiana and it’s the most ordered at Aurelio’s. The “Super Six” pizza with “The Works” (sausage, cheese, ham, pepperoni, mushroom and green pepper) is also a favorite.

“It’s the Sauce!” has become Aurelio's tagline, referring to its sweet pizza sauce. According to Aurelio’s, three things make their pizzerias stand out — the high quality ingredients, the excellent service and the sauce.

SECOND PLACE

Langel’s Pizza

Multiple locations

langelspizza.com

THIRD PLACE

Loven Oven Pizzeria

1000 E. Commercial Ave.

Lowell

219-696-6828

lovenoven.net

Crown Point

219-226-4325

facebook.com/pivotLounge

Pivot Lounge in Crown Point offers comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere with late night hours for a 16-and-older crowd. “It’s today’s version of ‘Cheers’ with comfortable lighting, giving off a hometown feeling,” said Rosa Venegas, manager. “It’s a hidden gem with a great location, friendly and efficient staff, monthly food specials and seasonal drink specials."

Pivot Lounge opened in 2023, but has quickly become a local favorite for it’s homey vibes and expansive food options. On the menu, you’ll find everything from pasta to burgers to steak to fish. The most popular items are the macadamia walleye and lake perch.

SECOND PLACE

Theo’s Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

THIRD PLACE

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood

 Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/council-oak-steaks-and-seafood

9321 Wicker Ave.

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

When you’re hungry for a morning meal, head to Avgo. The breakfast and lunch eatery has all of the classics you love along with some fun, elevated takes on breakfast food and a full bar.

“We have a great variety. We can reach all ages,” said General Manager Paul Cassiani.

Popular signature items include The Loukomado French Toast of fluffy challah bread coated with cornflakes, deep fried with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar, then topped with pecans and Greek honey; the Theo’s Skillet featuring Theo's signature filet with hash browns, peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes and cheddar jack; and the Strawberry Churro French Toast.

Each month, they introduce about a half dozen food items and five new beverages at monthly specials. Thye have included Stuffed Birria Crepes, two crepes stuffed with savory birria filling, a dollop of creamy sour cream, fresh, smashed avocado, cilantro and a side of Spanish rice. 

Cassani attributes the restaurant’s success to the employees who help customers have an exemplary experience. “I have a great staff. Our staff is what creates us,” said Cassiani. “Without them, we’re nothing.”

Avgo also was voted Best Place for Brunch.

SECOND PLACE

Toast & Jam Breakfast & Lunch Café

7311 Mallard Lane

Schererville

219-769-0000

tjs.cafe

THIRD PLACE

Main Street Cafe

111 N. Main St.

Crown Point

219-663-7466

mainsttreetcafecp.com

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

Avgo also was voted Best Breakfast.

SECOND PLACE

Leeds Public House

401 Franklin St'

Michigan City

leedspublichouse.com

THIRD PLACE

Fresh Harvest Buffet

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/fresh-harvest

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

cafe.hardrock.com/northernindiana

Hard Rock also was voted Best Casino and Best Casino Dining.

SECOND PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

THIRD PLACE

Avgo

9321 Wicker Ave.

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

Hammond

219-937-6007

mjpolishdeli.com

“MJ Polish Deli has been a cherished part of the community for the past 28 years. For the last 18 of those years, my husband, Tom Magana, and I have proudly co-owned this small business,” said Mariola Magana. “We specialize in serving traditional Polish food, bringing the comforting flavors of Poland to our neighborhood.”

The deli specializes in take-home meals that are freshly prepared and ready to eat. All you have to do is reheat them. “Whether it's pierogi, stuffed cabbage, kielbasa or homemade soups, our customers love the ease of picking up authentic Polish food without having to cook from scratch.”

Among the customer favorites are homemade pierogi, sausage, custom made sandwiches on Old World rye bread and hearty soups that include chicken noodle soup, stuffed pepper soup, sauerkraut soup and Polish pickle soup.

“We’re also known for our creative pierogi flavors. While we always offer the classics, we like to have fun with new combinations too—like chorizo and potato, prune and sausage with pepper jack cheese, which has become a customer favorite,” said Magana.

Signature items include czarnina, a traditional Polish duck blood soup. “It's a rare dish these days, and we have people who come in specifically for it,” said Magana. “Another specialty is our flaczki, a hearty and flavorful tripe soup that really speaks to our Polish roots.”

SECOND PLACE

Dan’s Pierogies

2945 Jewett Ave.

Highland

219-513-8740

danspierogies.com

THIRD PLACE

Carpathia Polish Cuisine Delicatessen

1642 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-335-3354

carpathiadelicatessen.com

Griffith

219-743-7858

ladysgourmetpopcorn.com

Lady’s Gourmet Popcorn started as a booth at the Griffith Central Market and in 2013, the storefront opened on Broad Street in Griffith. A move is in the works to a new location in the former G & G Hobby Shop at 105 E. Main St.

“We are a woman-owned small business. We make special orders and many of our flavors are created by our on-site chef,” said owner Patty Haugh. “Crazy flavors happen in a kitchen when you have a chef preparing popcorn. We also have vegan flavors and are always happy to make you something special.”

The signature flavor is a cheese and caramel mix called Central Park, which is a best seller along with its special recipe Birthday Cake flavor and anything hot and spicy. “We have a lot of heat seekers, and Wings of Fire and Hot Pickle are fan favorites,” said Haugh.

Among the most unique flavors are Brisket Mac & Cheese, Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, Honey Baked Ham and Slider. “We love our business,”said Haugh. “It’s so much fun and we love supporting our community with fundraisers.”

SECOND PLACE

Kelly’s Kernels

13326 Lincoln Plaza Way

Cedar Lake

219-401-8163

kellyskernels.com

THIRD PLACE

Do Goodies

Opportunity Enterprises

2801 Evans Ave.

Valparaiso

219-464-2670

dogoodies.org

Lowell

219-696-1256

facebook.com/5StarDiveBarLakeDaleAle

If you make your way to Lake Dale Ale, try the Italian beef sandwich known as the Famous Beef, which helped the restaurant/bar earn the Best Sandwich designation.

Lake Dale Ale was established in 2006 by Deb Michiels, who created the sandwich. In 2020, she retired and passed the recipe on to current owner Amanda Weaver, who has kept the sandwich alive and transformed Lake Dale Ale into a comfortable, neighborhood watering hole.

“We are a Region favorite, because, when you walk through our doors, we want you to feel welcome. We want everyone to feel like a regular. Our food is of the highest quality at affordable prices, and our bartenders are always willing to go the extra mile to make sure you enjoy your time with us,” said Weaver.

Other favorites are the Pub Pastrami, the LDA Rueben, the 1/2 pound CBS (ground chuck/brisket/shortrib) Burger, the thin-crust pizza, soups that are homemade daily and fresh pasta and potato salads.

“All of our menu items are prepared stove-top or oven-baked — never fried — and made fresh to order, which set us ahead of the competition,” said Weaver. 

SECOND PLACE

Bridges' Scoreboard 

121 N. Griffith Blvd.

Griffith

219-924-2206

Bridges scoreboard.com

THIRD PLACE

White Rhino Bar & Grill

101 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-864-9200

whiterhinoonline.com

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

The Lighthouse also was voted Best Fine Dining, Best Steakhouse and Best Wedding Venue.

SECOND PLACE

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

THIRD PLACE

Prime Steakhouse

109 W. Joliet St.

Crown Point

219-663-7377

primesteakhousecp.com

7501 Constitution Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

The Lighthouse also was voted Best Fine Dining, Best Seafood and Best Wedding Venue.

SECOND PLACE

Freddy's Steakhouse

6442 Kennedy Ave.

Hammond

219-844-1500

www.freddyssteakhouse.net

THIRD PLACE

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/council-oak-steaks-and-seafood