The Times 2026 Best of the Region: Food & Dining

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

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

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Bar, Best Casino, Best  Casino Dining, Best Fine Dining, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Place for Dinner, Best Place for Lunch, Best Steakhouse and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

Umi Sushi & Lounge

109 W. Joliet St.

Crown Point

219-262-765

umisushiandlounge.com

THIRD PLACE

Kyoto Ramen

1642 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-463-1112

kyotoramen41.com

Kouts

219-299-5824

dessertsbyjuliette.com

Desserts by Juliette started as a food blog in 2013, leading to a brick-and-mortar store in 2018. Owner Susan Keller credits their success to having a great bakery team who make their customers the top priority.

“Love is the main ingredient is our tag line, and it's also what our customers feel when they visit us and place their orders,” says Keller. “They comment that they feel more like family than a customer.”

Best-selling items include cakes and cupcakes for large and small events. A favorite frosting flavor is their Italian buttercream. Keller says cake flavors such as lemon blueberry, Shamrock pistachio and Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter keep their customers coming back.

SECOND PLACE

Rise 'n Roll Bakery

Multiple locations

risenroll.com

THIRD PLACE

Say It with a Cookie

805 N. Main St.

Crown Point

855-426-6543

sayitwithacookie.com

Schererville

219-322-3011

villacesare.com

Established as a fraternal organization to provide social support and preserve Italian traditions, Villa Cesare Banquets & Events has for decades offered in-house catering with customizable menus, full bar service and elegant indoor and outdoor spaces including a stone gazebo and scenic patio.

Jon Biancardi, a board member of the nonprofit that runs Villa Cesare, credits its success to ensuring that customer service is central to everything they do.

“From the first tour to the last goodbye, our team focuses on clear communication, personal attention and genuine hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, supported and celebrated throughout their event.” he said. 

“We recently partnered with a new culinary team led by Executive Chef Saul Ramos of Chicago, known for his award-winning work at Sapori Trattoria, Butcher and The Bear and Ithaki Estiatorio, bringing an elevated, chef-driven dining experience to every event,” said Biancardi. “With our refreshed culinary vision under Ramos and a continued commitment to hospitality, we’re excited to raise the bar even higher for our guests and our community.”

SECOND PLACE

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana

THIRD PLACE

The Lighthouse 

7501 Constitution Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/bars-and-lounges/council-oak-bar

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana was also voted Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Asian Food, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Fine Dining, Best Place for Dinner, Place for Lunch, Best Steakhouse and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

Three Monkey's Pub

21 W. 112th Ave.

Crown Point

219-662-7000

threemonkeyspub.com

THIRD PLACE

Tavern on Main

136 S. Main St.

Crown Point

219-779-9377

tavernonmaincp.com

Cedar Lake

219-552-1275

franksbackyardbbq.com

In business for 14 years, Frank’s Backyard BBQ started with roadside vending at Reichert's Tavern in Brunswick. They opened a brick and mortar location Cedar Lake in 2017. “We outgrew that location and moved to our current building in December of 2019,” said Patricia Schrum, who owns the business with husband, Rob.

“We got started doing roadside because of Rob’s love of cooking smoked meats for family and friends,” said Schrum. “We did this while he was still at his full-time job in the printing industry and with a two-hour commute and 12-hour days, we decided to take a leap of faith and do barbeque full time.”

Brisket burgers are the signature item, made with in-house ground brisket. The brisket and turkey paninis are also popular.

“What sets us apart from other eateries in the Region is our dedication to consistency, quality and customer service," Schrum said, noting that Frank's is all wood fired. “We don't have any ovens, fryers or microwaves, and 95% of our menu is cooked on our four outdoor smokers.”

SECOND PLACE

Strack & Van Til

Multiple locations

219-924-7588

strackandvantil.com

THIRD PLACE

Bomber's BBQ

435 Ridge Road, Suite F

Munster

219-836-2662

35 W. 112th Ave.

Crown Point

219-613-4444

bombersbbq.com

219-924-7588

strackandvantil.com/catering

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

SECOND PLACE

Ace Catering

1967 E. 37th Ave.

Hobart

219-588-1800

aceace.org

THIRD PLACE

Pepino’s Italian Restaurant

2410 Ontario St.

Schererville

219-365-9680

pepinosindiana.com

langelspizza.com

Langel’s Pizza was also voted Best Pizza.

SECOND PLACE

The Dam Bar & Grill

4665 W. Main St.

Lowell

219-696-0700

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

THIRD PLACE

Smokey Bellz BBQ and Sugar Bellz Treatz

108 W. Commercial Ave.

Lowell

219-209-2640

smokeybellzbbqandtreatz.com

SECOND PLACE

Elements Cigar Lounge

8349 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-513-9555

elementscigarlounge.net

THIRD PLACE

Karma Cigar Bar & Lounge

850 81st Ave.

Merrillville

219-756-0698

karmacigar.com

Lowell

219-690-3065

olddogcoffeehouse.com

Cheri Ford wanted to create a special community place where everyone feels welcome. She realized that dream when Old Dog Coffee House opened in 2019.

“Our family enjoys exploring small towns and supporting local businesses. During a visit to Frankenmuth, Mich., we entered an inviting coffee shop and recognized the need for a similar gathering space in Lowell where people could connect and relax,” said Ford.

Old Dog updates its special drink menu every month, featuring seasonal themes and popular flavors. “Our signature menu item is the cold brew, which we prepare in-house using beans sourced from Smugglers Coffee roasters, a local business based in Northwest Indiana,” said Ford.

“Our inviting atmosphere attracts customers. In summer, the patio brims with tables, chairs, flowers and plants for everyone to enjoy. During winter, guests can relax in outdoor greenhouses on sunny days,” she continued. “We also take pride in the consistency of our products. Old Dog employees are trained so that every drink served matches your expectations each time you visit.”

The business is also dedicated to supporting community causes, youth sports and schools.

Old Dog Coffee also was voted Best Coffee House.

SECOND PLACE

Fluid Coffee Roasters

Multiple locations

www.fluidcoffeelove.com

THIRD PLACE

Dunkin’

Multiple locations

Dunkindonuts.com

Lowell

219-690-3065

olddogcoffeehouse.com

Old Dog Coffee House also was voted Best Coffee.

SECOND PLACE

Sip Coffee House

Multiple locations

sipcoffeehousecafe.com

THIRD PLACE

The Region Cat Cafe

281 W. 80th Place

Merrillville

theregioncatcafe.com

Schererville

219-769-0000

tjs.cafe

Toast & Jam has been a standout in the breakfast and lunch space since opening 11 years ago. “The business started with a commitment to creating a space that feels like home, where people can gather, relax and enjoy great food in a fun and welcoming atmosphere,” said owner Sam Cappas.

Popular items include classic dishes with twists on breakfast and lunch, including the Strawberries and Cream French Toast, Poblano Casserole and mimosa. “Our guests also look forward to our monthly specials where we feature a new jam of the month, a mimosa and espresso martini special and different breakfast and lunch options that aren't regularly on our menu,” said Cappas.

Signature items include the Toast & Jam appetizer, Banana Crumble French Toast and homemade jams. “What truly sets Toast & Jam apart is the heart behind everything we do, creating a space that feels like home,” said Cappas.

“We focus on preparing fresh ingredients daily and providing dedicated service in an upbeat environment. Toast & Jam is about more than just brunch. At the heart of it all is connection. We hope every guest leaves with a happy memory and a feeling that they belong here.”

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

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

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

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Asian Food, Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Bar, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Place for Lunch, Best Place for Dinner, Best Steakhouse and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

The Lighthouse 

7501 Constitution Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

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 Flower Shop, Best Grocery Store, Best Deli, Best Place to Buy Meat and Poultry, Best Place to Buy Seafood and Best Grocery/Food Delivery.

SECOND PLACE

Great Oaks Banquets & Events

13109 Wicker Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-8000

greatoaksevents.com

THIRD PLACE

Teibel’s Family Restaurant

1775 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-865-2000

teibels.com

Crown Point

219-663-0303

one13north.com

When you’re craving great food paired with a cold beer or a well-crafted cocktail, a gastropub hits the spot. One13North Kitchen & Bar delivers on the food and drink fronts.

“We opened in the spring of 2019 with a vision for a relaxed, good-vibes-only gastropub where excellent food and drinks come together in a welcoming space,” said owner Manolie Pappas. “We’re constantly creating new dishes and fresh, handmade cocktails that keep us excited to come to work every day. Whether it’s enjoying a smoky old-fashioned inside on a cold winter night or an ice-cold frose on our large patio on a hot summer day, we want every visit to feel special.”

The pet-friendly patio provides plenty of room for small and large groups and welcomes people of all ages, including four-legged friends. “As a family-friendly gastropub, we’re proud to create a warm and inclusive space for everyone,” said Pappas.

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

Multiple locations

schoophamburgers.com

As a family-operated restaurant since 1948, Schoop’s is deeply rooted in the community. “We care about our employees, our neighbors and serving the freshest, most delicious food possible,” said Lynette Newell, co-owner. “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 fundraisers to benefit our community.

"It’s not just a burger — it’s a place where people feel at home. We have 12 family owned and operated locations throughout the Region.”

The classic cheeseburger is the star of the menu, crafted with fresh ground beef that is hand-formed and seared on the grill.

“All burgers have our signature crispy edge that one customer said should be called the halo, because it’s the closest thing to heaven he’s ever had,” said Newell. “Customers love pairing these with our crispy fries, a Green River or a thick milkshake, which many say completes the classic Schoop’s experience.

“We cannot forget our delicious homemade soups and chili, made fresh daily,” added Newell. Ask for a free soup sample on your next visit.

SECOND PLACE

Miner Dunn

8940 Indianapolis Ave.

Highland

219-923-3311

minerdunnhamburgers.com

THIRD PLACE

Hard Rock Cafe Northern Indiana

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/hard-rock-cafe

Schererville

219-463-1115

1205 Sheffield Ave.

Dyer

219-322-6564

eatbozhotdogs.com

Boz Hot Dogs serves its own version of a Chicago-style dog — a beef-and-pork hot dog on an unseeded, steamed bun, topped with mustard, sweet relish, diced onions, tomato wedges, cucumber slices, hot or mild peppers and celery salt.

Its freshly cut produce and attention to detail make the experience a step above others. Also on the menu are all-beef jumbo dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, Polish sausages, nachos and homemade sloppy joes, served on a steamed hot dog bun.

After years of owning restaurants in Lansing and Dyer, Bob and Carol Bollacker poured their hearts into making their long-term dream a reality by opening a third location in Schererville in April 2024.

Unfortunately, Bob Bollacker was diagnosed with brain cancer a year later and died last March. “Bob’s legacy will live on through our continued commitment to excellence,” said Carol Bollacker.

SECOND PLACE

Corky’s Dogg House

12421 Wicker Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9332

facebook.com/CorkysDoggHouses

THIRD PLACE

Portillo’s

1403 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-276-8150

555 E. 81st Ave.

Merrillville

219-769-8300

portillos.com

realdairybelle.us

Iconic Dairy Belle has stood the test of time. It opened in Hammond in 1950, serving seasonal doses of frosty sweetness.

Tradition, quality and premium products are the secret to the success of this family business. The premium vanilla ice cream and chocolate custard remain of the same high quality as they've been for decades.

All novelty items are made in-house, right down to the chocolate chip cookies baked on-site for the ice cream sandwiches. Superior service, personalized attention and high quality are what made Dairy Belle a neighborhood favorite.

Frozen treats include creamy, soft service ice cream, novelties such as sundaes, malts, flurries and floats and banana splits.

Every item is customizable, including ice cream cakes, so you can always get your treat the way you like it.

SECOND PLACE

Azucar Ice Cream

103 N. Main St.

Crown Point

13212 Wicker Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-308-0506

www.facebook.com/people/Azucar/100092987593749

THIRD PLACE

Sundae Funday Ice Cream Parlor

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

Crown Point

219-661-5829 

Lucrezia Cafe

428 S. Calumet Road

Chesterton

219-926-5829 

lucreziacafe.com

Lucrezia Cafe and Ristorante have been delighting customers with their Northern Italian specialties since 1988.

“The vision was simple: Bring a truly elevated dining experience to the Region, where refined Italian meets genuine warmth and hospitality,” said Stacey Mikler, director of operations.

Favorites include the lamb shank, signature lasagna and rotating chef features. The pasta flight experience is a best seller, allowing guests to enjoy three pastas in one sitting. Four new chef-driven features are offered each week. 

“Our menu is built on elevated Italian classics, executed with precision and bold, refined flavor,” said Mikler. “From our signature lasagna to carefully crafted entrées, pasta flight experience and weekly features, every dish reflects consistency, care and attention to detail.”

The talent, consistency and pride in execution from their dedicated staff are what Mikler believes sets them apart. “Above all, we owe a sincere thank you to our guests. Your continued support, loyalty and trust are the foundation of everything we do,” said Mikler.

Lucrezia was also voted Best Wait Staff.

SECOND PLACE

Little Italy

1155 Joliet St.

Dyer

219-865-3040

dyerlittleitaly.com

THIRD PLACE

Albano’s

22 Washington St.

Valparaiso

219-242-9160

facebook.com/EatAlbanos

Highland

219-934-0400

facebook.com/asadagrillandcantina

A balance of authenticity and quality are the best ingredients for a perfect Mexican food experience that includes a refreshing margarita, according to Oscar Gutierrez, co-owner of Asada Grill & Cantina.

“Asada Grill & Cantina was built from a passion for authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by traditional recipes from all over Mexico, and we combined them with a modern twist,” he said, referring tof co-owners Rigo Gutierrez and Miguel Padilla.

“Our goal is simple — to create a welcoming, family environment where people can enjoy high-quality food, great drinks and feel at home in a relaxed atmosphere,” said Gutierrez.

“We offer a wide variety of margaritas — from classic lime to more elevated options like jalapeño margaritas, fruity flavors and premium tequila-based creations. We also feature specialty margaritas using top-shelf tequilas for a more refined experience.”

The classic house margarita is a top seller—especially on Mondays and Wednesdays when it’s half off. The jalapeño margarita is also a favorite for guests who like a little heat.

“One of our standout signatures is the Black Dahlia margarita, along with our Rey Agave Premium Margarita. They’re unique to us and really represent our modern twist and identity,” said Gutierrez.

SECOND PLACE

El Salto Mexican Restaurant

Multiple locations

elsaltorestaurant.com

THIRD PLACE

La Carreta Restaurant & Bar

Multiple locations

lacarreta-restaurant.com

Merrillville

219-750-9249

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

Las Jacarandas is fairly new to the Northwest Indiana food scene, having opened three years ago, but its quality and care been noticed.

“Our family has been in the restaurant industry for quite some time,” said Vanessa Yanez, manager.

“All of our recipes are based from our hometown in Jiquilpan Michoacán. We make everything from scratch daily to give that true home style cooking that our guests enjoy,” said Yanez. “We appreciate all the customers that come in and try out the food and help spread the word.”

That authenticity keeps customers returning. “Our homemade, freshly-prepared dishes are a genuine taste of the heart of Mexico. It’s a difference you can taste,” she said. With Las Jacarandas recently receiving a liquor license, customers can now enjoy cocktails.

”Las Jacarandas has a warm, cozy and authentic family-style ambiance that feels like a neighborhood hidden gem,” said Yanez. The space is intimate and lively, creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel right at home.”

House specials include chicken mole, Carne en Su Jugo and steak alambre. Customer favorites are the tacos - with about a dozen different meat options to choose from. The restaurant also offers a variety of soups, from Caldo de Rez to pozole verde or rojo.

SECOND PLACE

Asada Grill & Cantina

2907 45th St.

Highland

219-934-0400

facebook.com/asadagrillandcantina

THIRD PLACE

El Taco Real

935 E. Hoffman St.

Hammond

219-932-8333

eltacorealrestaurant.com

Highland

219-513-9588

fuzzylinebrewing.com

Fuzzyline Brewing’s beer and food “are best described as locally sourced and globally inspired,” according to owner Al Robertson. With 12 beers on tap at any given 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 five 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 sourdough 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. It's also known for sour beers, which continue to be top sellers and provide a creative outlet for using ingredients from local farms and the community garden in downtown Highland.

SECOND PLACE

Off Square Brewing

11000 Delaware Pkwy.

Crown Point

219-310-8898

offsquarebrewing.com

THIRD PLACE

18th Street Brewery

474 Fayette St.

Hammond

312-273-2148

18thstreetbrewery.com

langelspizza.com

Forty-seven years ago, Langel’s Pizza opened in a small storefront in St. John and soon after moved to Schererville and Highland.

“We are proud to say we are still family-owned and operated,” said Nicholette Langel-Skocz, general manager. “One of the keys to our success is our dedicated employees — and the loyal customers in the entire Region. Our longtime friend Brian Radzinski (who has been part of Langel's Pizza from the beginning) will soon be opening Langel's Pizza Winfield.”

Langel’s serves a traditional hand-tossed thin crust in addition to deep dish and create-your-own calzones. Langel’s stands out with its crumbled sausage that differs from the chunk style on many other pizzerias in the area. Specialty pizzas include Buffalo chicken, veggie and “Lots of Meat” pizza.

In addition to pizza, other popular menu items include jumbo wings, Italian beef and ham and cheese hoagies. “We use homemade recipes, fresh vegetables and quality ingredients,” said Langel-Skocz.

Langel's Pizza also was voted Best Chicken Wings.

SECOND PLACE

Rosati’s Pizza

Multiple locations

rosatispizza.com

THIRD PLACE

Aurelio’s Pizza

Multiple locations

aureliospizza.com

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

Avgo continues to please guests at this modern, upscale, colorful eatery in St. John. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels welcome and guests of any age will find just what they crave.

“We have a unique menu and a lot of variety. It can be sweet. It can be savory. It has something for everyone’s palate,” said General Manager Paul Cassiani.

The popular Theo’s Skillet features Theo's Steaks & Seafood's signature filet with hash browns, peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes and cheddar Jack. Another customer favorite is The Wheel,  a variety of breakfast items on a Ferris wheel. Kids also love the French toast and Mickey Mouse pancakes.

Opened in 2019, Avgo stands out for its scratch kitchen where everything is made in-house using fresh, quality ingredients. Cassani attributes the restaurant’s success to not just the food, but the employees that provide a good experience for each customer.

Avgo was also voted Best Place for Brunch.

SECOND PLACE

Toast & Jam Breakfast and Lunch Cafe

7311 Mallard Lane

Schererville

219-769-0000

tjs.cafe

THIRD PLACE

Butter Maple Pancake House

805 Ridge Road

Munster

219-513-8119

facebook.com/ButtermilkPancakeHouse

St. John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

Avgo was also voted Best Place for Breakfast.

SECOND 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

THIRD PLACE

Toast & Jam Breakfast and Lunch Cafe

7311 Mallard Lane

Schererville

219-769-0000

tjs.cafe

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

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

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Asian Food, Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Bar, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Fine Dining, Best Place for Lunch, Best Steakhouse and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

Pivot Lounge

11217 Whitcomb St.

Crown Point

219-226-4325

www.facebook.com/pivotlounge

THIRD PLACE

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining/hard-rock-cafe

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana was also voted Best Asian Food, Best Bar, Best Casino, Best Place for Casino Dining, Best Fine Dining, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Place for Dinner, Best Steakhouse and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program

SECOND PLACE

Theo's Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

THIRD PLACE

Avgo

9321 Wicker Ave.

St John

219-558-0169

avgostjohn.com

Highland

219-513-8740

danspierogies.com

Dan’s Pierogies got it’s start in a small booth at Whiting’s annual Pierogi Fest, later opening a restaurant and landing in Highland.

“We are a family owned and proudly run business,” said co-owner Lisa Keith-Barber. “We’ve always had Eastern European cuisine in our family for generations.”

You’ll find a variety of pierogi on the menu.

“One of our best sellers is our loaded pierogi. It is potato pierogi topped with sour cream, bacon bits, cheddar cheese and chives,” said Keith-Barber. “Our new smokey loaded is a hit, too.” Other Polish favorites that are available are stuffed cabbage, sauerkraut and sausage, cabbage and noodles and their popular potato cakes. They also offer homemade salads and seasonal soups.

“We truly enjoy what we do,” said Keith-Barber. “We make everything with love and we enjoy small talk with our customers.”

SECOND PLACE

Carpathia Polish Cuisine Delicatessen

1642 U.S. Hwy. 41

Schererville

219-335-3354

facebook.com/p/Carpathia-Polish-Cuisine-

Delicatessen-61551890552107

THIRD PLACE

Big Frank’s Sausage

918 Carroll St.

East Chicago

219-378-9556

bigfrankssausage.com

Griffith

219-743-7858

ladysgourmetpopcorn.com

Originally a booth at the Griffith Central Market in 2013, Lady’s Gourmet Popcorn has seen steady growth that necessitated a move to a storefront and most recently a relocation to a larger space.

“We recently moved into the iconic G & G Hobby Shop, which has given us so much more space and a parking lot for our amazing customers,” said Patty Haugh, who owns the business with Amanda Sanow and Carly Haugh. “We are a small family-owned and woman-owned small business.”

You’ll find common flavors, including their top-seller, the “Central Park” mix of cheddar and caramel. There are also a number of unusual flavors. “When you have chefs creating crazy popcorn flavors you get things like Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup, Greek Fries, French Toast and Brisket Mac & Cheese. We are always creating new fun flavors to try,” said Haugh.

The signature flavor is Butter Caramel, developed as a nod to an early flavor called Screaming Yellow Zonkers, an extra buttery blond caramel.

They also make an assortment of hand-crafted sweets including oatmeal cream pies, krispy treats, cake pops and giant butter cookies.

SECOND PLACE

Do Goodies

Opportunity Enterprises

2801 Evans Ave.

Valparaiso

219-464-2670

dogoodies.org

THIRD PLACE

Kelly’s Kernels

13326 Lincoln Plaza Way

Cedar Lake

219-401-8163

facebook.com/kellyskernels

Crown Point

219-226-9972

lincolncarryoutscp.com

1002 Lincoln St.

Hobart

219-942-2113

lincolncarryouts.com

Lincoln Carry Outs has a long history in the Region, opening decades ago in Gary. The Hobart restaurant opened in 1982 and Crown Point in 2004.

Hearty sandwiches like the Steelworker have kept Region residents coming in for the roast beef with American cheese, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato and onion on toasted rye bread. Other favorites are the Bunny Girl (ham and Swiss cheese on toasted Vienna bread with mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato) and the regular Italian sub (salami and ham with pepper Jack cheese, oil dressing, onion, tomato and lettuce).

Fresh ingredients and consistency have kept customers coming back to order  off distinctive menu boards. Also, a visit to Lincoln isn’t complete without a slice of their pie.

SECOND PLACE

Lake Dale Ale

5512 W. Main St.

Lowell

219-696-1256

facebook.com/5StarDiveBarLakeDaleAle

THIRD PLACE

Pepino’s Italian Restaurant

2410 Ontario St.

Schererville

219-365-9680

pepinosindiana.com

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

Lighthouse Restaurant was also voted Best Wedding Venue.

SECOND PLACE

Theo’s Steaks & Seafood

9144 Indianapolis Blvd.

Highland

219-838-8000

theoshighland.com

THIRD PLACE

The Dam Bar & Grill

4665 W. Main St.

Lowell

219-696-0700

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

5400 W. 29th Ave.

Gary

219-228-2383

casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana/dining

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Bar, Best Casino, Best Casino Dining, Best Asian Food, Best Live Entertainment Venue, Best Fine Dining, Best Place for Dinner, Best Place for Lunch and Best Rewards/Loyalty Program.

SECOND PLACE

The Lighthouse 

7501 Constitution Ave.

Cedar Lake

219-374-9283

cedarlakelighthouse.com

THIRD PLACE

Freddy's Steakhouse

6442 Kennedy Ave.

Hammond

219-844-1500

freddyssteakhouse.net