2024 The Times Best of the Region: Food and Dining
Share this
Best Asian Food
Kyoto Ramen
1642 U.S. Hwy. 41
Schererville
219-463-1112
Kyoto Ramen has been open since January, and many have visited the restaurant to try the wide variety of items on the menu.
“Some of the most popular ramen we have on the menu include tonkotsu char siu ramen, spicy beef ramen and crispy chicken ramen,” Assistant Manager Leo Lin says.
He added that the brown sugar milk tea, taro milk tea and the first love drink (taro milk tea with strawberry milk on top) are among the favorite drinks.
Popular appetizers include the pan fried gyozas (dumplings), fried chicken bun and char siu pork bun.
“We have at least something for our customers if they have any dietary restrictions,” Lin says.
“"We also have something for our honest and caring community, we can provide the best quality of service as well as a good tasting menu,” Lin says.
SECOND PLACE
Umi Sushi & Lounge
109 W. Joliet St.
Crown Point
219-262-7652
THIRD 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
Best Bakery
Desserts by Juliette
401 S. Main St.
Kouts
219-299-5824
Desserts by Juliette began as a food blog in a kitchen and grew into a full-service bakery.
Co-owner Susan Keller shares how she and her daughter Juliette were taking care of Susan’s ill mother and passing the time by baking. After their Chocolate Italian buttercream hit No. 1 on Google, the future looked sweet.
Since 2018, Desserts by Juliette i has been offering made-from-scratch baked goods such as cupcakes, doughnuts and decorated cakes. They bake for any occasion from birthdays to weddings.
“Our strawberry shortcake is popular for weddings and events,” Keller notes. Specialty cakes such as the Fat Elvis and Harry Potter-inspired Butter Beer show their creative, fun nature. Monthly dessert specials and a cake of the month subscription guarantee buyers a treat.
Specialty cake orders and large company events are a big part of their success: They serve cookies and other desserts for Purdue University Northwest, sell cakes at Fat Burrito in Chesterton and supply the cake of the week at Hanger Grill in LaCrosse.
Much of the credit goes to the “amazing group working with us” that makes all of the decorations and flavors stand out, says Keller.
“We are honored to be chosen as Best Bakery,” Keller says. “We are in the bakery business, but we are more in a people business. We are here for that. It’s our loyal customers, our passing-by customers. We are thankful for everyone.”
SECOND PLACE
The Bohemian Baker
8126 Wicker Ave.
St. John
m.facebook.com/groups/200867237315997
THIRD PLACE
Twisted Sugar
10470 Broadway
Crown Point
219-310-8125
60 University Drive
Valparaiso
219-299-2290
Best Banquet Facility
Villa Cesare Banquets & Events
900 Eagle Ridge Drive
Schererville
219-322-3011
Open since 1989, Villa Cesare Banquets & Events knows what it takes to host your special occasion.
“We've developed the perfect formula for an unforgettable celebration: A warm welcome, a meal made with love and your favorite people gathered together,” says Jon Biancardi, a board member of the nonprofit that runs the facility. “We've also learned that there are endless ways we can make your celebration personal and one-of-a-kind.”
He says the support received from the Region is the cornerstone of Villa Cesare’s success.
“It means trust, loyalty and validation of our commitment to excellence,” Biancardi says. “It motivates us to continually raise the bar and give back to the community that has embraced us.”
SECOND PLACE
The Lighthouse
7501 Constitution Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-9283
THIRD PLACE
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
Best Bar
White Rhino Bar & Grill
101 Joliet St.
Dyer
219-864-9200
A perennial champion in Best of the Region, White Rhino Bar & Grill offers something for everyone, owner Ryan Glowacki says.
White Rhino’s food, entertainment, events, rewards program, waitstaff, catering and beverage selection all stand out, he says.
Glowacki says the jumbo wings at White Rhino are a favorite on the menu.The wings are crisp fried and tossed in tangy and spicy buffalo sauce.
“Like the rest of the food at White Rhino, our wings stand out because of quality,” Glowacki says. “We are very picky with what we serve and are always making sure we put in the best ingredients so that we can put out the best food.”
“We are fortunate to have so many repeat guests who visit for tasting events, painting or craft events, road trips for comedy or sports, and, of course, the food,” Glowacki says. “We are very thankful that so many people voted for us, and that White Rhino is able to be called Best of the Region.”
White Rhino also was voted Best Wait Staff and Best Chicken Wings.
SECOND PLACE
Back Court Bar & Grill
932 S. Court St.
Crown Point
219-310-8416
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063454306618
THIRD PLACE
Bridges' Scoreboard Restaurant & Sports Bar
121 N. Griffith Blvd.
Griffith
219-924-2206
Best Barbecue
Frank's Backyard BBQ
13106 Wicker Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-552-1275
From humble beginnings to its current brick and mortar location in Cedar Lake, Frank’s Backyard BBQ has been dishing out mouthwatering meals for the community since 2012.
The brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, smoked turkey breast and brisket burgers are among the most popular items on the menu.
“I believe what makes us stand out is that we strive every day for three important things: Quality, consistency and customer service,” says Patty Schrum, an owner of the business. “We are just a small mom-and-pop operation trying to serve our town some delicious food. Our restaurant is very family friendly.”
She says Frank’s Backyard BBQ adds new patrons to its loyal customer base each day.
“It means everything to us to have their support, (and) our customers are the sole reason why we do this, and they are why we are still in business today despite COVID, our rural location and the economy,” Schrum says. “When people tell us how much they enjoyed their meals or caterings, that is job satisfaction right there.”
SECOND PLACE
Doc's Smokehouse
1420 Calumet Ave.
Dyer
219-262-3627
THIRD PLACE
Bomber's BBQ
435 Ridge Road
Munster
219-836-2662
35 W. 112th Ave.
Crown Point
219-613-4444
Best Caterer
Strack & Van Til
Multiple locations
219-924-7588
Strack & Van Til also was voted Best Deli, Best Flower Shop, Best Grocery/Food Delivery, Best Fried Chicken, Best Grocery Store, Best Loyalty Program, Best Place to Buy Produce and Best Place to Buy Seafood.
SECOND PLACE
Theo’s Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
THIRD PLACE
White Rhino Bar & Grill
101 Joliet St.
Dyer
219-864-9200
Best Chicken Wings
White Rhino Bar & Grill
101 Joliet St.
Dyer
219-864-9200
White Rhino Bar & Grill also was voted Best Bar and Best Wait Staff.
SECOND PLACE
Bridges' Scoreboard Restaurant & Sports Bar
121 N. Griffith Blvd.
Griffith
219-924-2206
THIRD PLACE
The Sandbar Grill
13118 Lake Shore Drive
Cedar Lake
219-374-5777
Best Cigar Lounge
Karma Cigar Bar & Lounge
850 W. 81st Ave.
Merrillville
219-756-0698
If you’re looking for a spot to relax with a premium cigar and drink, Karma Cigar Bar & Lounge is ideal.
More than 1,800 facings are on display in Karma’s 100-square-foot walk-in humidor, giving it the largest selection in the state.
Karma also offers a wide array of high-quality accessories, including lighters, humidors and cigar cutters.
To help enhance your cigar smoking experience, Karma has a bar and food offerings for customers.
Customer satisfaction is a priority at Karma, and you can expect to top-notch service when you visit the lounge.
SECOND PLACE
Golden Leaf Cigar Lounges
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Elements Cigar Lounge
8349 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-513-9555
Best Coffee
Steamwhistle Coffee Roasters
924 S. Court St.
Crown Point
219-323-3530
Steamwhistle Coffee Roasters started small at local farmers markets, but after building a following, the business opened its Crown Point location in November 2017.
“Our goal was to create an atmosphere where everyone from all walks of life can enjoy amazing coffee,” says Tracee Jury.
There’s much to like about coffee at her shop.
“All of our coffees are organic and fair trade,” Jury says. “We roast all of our coffee in small batches, so you always get the freshest available coffee.”
When it comes to choosing a type of coffee, customers have many options.
“Our cold brew is very popular,” Jury says. “People also love our fresh roasted coffees and lattes.”
SECOND PLACE
Old Dog Coffee House
220 E. Commercial Ave.
Lowell
219-690-3065
THIRD PLACE
Cup of Joy Cafe
917 S. Halleck St.
DeMotte
219-869-8638
Best Coffee House
Cup of Joy Cafe
917 S. Halleck St.
DeMotte
219-869-8638
When it comes to brewing coffee and making other drinks, the team at Cup of Joy Cafe is ready.
“We are here to serve,” owner Crystal VanNieulande says.
It’s not just about serving delicious drinks. Just as the name says, the coffee house sets out to share joy.
“We love our community and the people we serve,” VanNieulande says. “It isn't about business here. It’s about gathering people and giving them a great experience while they are here.”
She says Cup of Joy uses the finest beans that are fresh, organic and fair-trade certified.
“Our roaster has worked with coffee most of her life, and it is roasted in small batches and prayed over as she brews,” VanNieulande says.
Cup of Joy also has tasty food available at the coffee house.
“Our baked goods are baked right here, and we are always trying new things,” VanNieulande says. “And I know I may be biased, but we have amazing avocado toast.”
SECOND PLACE
Steamwhistle Coffee Roasters
924 S. Court St.
Crown Point
219-323-3530
THIRD PLACE
Old Dog Coffee House
220 E. Commercial Ave.
Lowell
219-690-3065
Best Family Restaurant
Toast & Jam Breakfast & Lunch Café
7311 Mallard Lane
Schererville
219-769-0000
tjs.cafe
Providing a blend of unique cuisine, artisanal coffee, lively music and vibrant ambiance, Toast & Jam Breakfast & Lunch Café has been open since 2015.
“Our menu features a variety of dishes that have become favorites among our customers over the years,” says Helen Cappas of Toast & Jam.
If you’re looking for something sweet or savory, Toast & Jam has you covered.
“Our banana crumble French toast is a beloved favorite as well as our homemade biscuits and gravy,” Cappas said. “For a savory option, our customers also love our hog heaven omelet and Cajun chicken mac & cheese.”
Toast & Jam offers an espresso bar that features a variety of popular items such as turtle iced coffee, white mocha latte and TJ’s cappuccino.
Cappas said Toast & Jam sets out to provide a welcoming atmosphere so customers feel as if they are at home while they are sharing a delicious meal together.
“We take pride in our friendly and attentive service that always goes above and beyond, and we work hard behind the scenes creating homemade dishes using only the freshest ingredients,” Cappas says. “We aim to leave a lasting impression on every guest who walks through our doors.”
Toast & Jam has a loyal customer base, and the restaurant is thankful for the opportunity to serve them.
“Our customers have become like family to us, and we cherish the relationships we’ve built with them over the years,” Cappas said. “The support from our community continuously inspires us to strive for excellence in everything we do.”
SECOND PLACE
Avgo
9321 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0169
THIRD PLACE
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
Best Fine Dining
The Lighthouse
7501 Constitution Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-9283
With its beautiful lake views, amazing food and friendly and professional service, it’s easy to see what makes The Lighthouse unique.
The main floor of the facility features a restaurant that can seat up to 250 people and a bar.
“Some of our most popular dishes would be the macadamia encrusted walleye, Chilean sea bass and our cowboy ribeye,” says Dana Hernandez, director of private dining sales at The Lighthouse.
On the second floor is a private dining area, which is perfect for weddings, showers, birthdays, corporate events and other special occasions.
“We want the community to know that this is the best place to celebrate their special occasions,” Hernandez says. “We strive to make guests happy and feel like they are a part of our family here at The Lighthouse."
The Lighthouse is thankful for all of the support it has received.
“It is incredibly important for us to have a strong community support to drive business and have a great relationship with all of our guests,” Hernandez says.
The Lighthouse also was voted Best Wedding Venue.
SECOND PLACE
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
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
Best Fried Chicken
Strack & Van Til
Multiple locations
219-924-7588
Strack and Van Til also was voted Best Caterer, Best Deli, Best Flower Shop, Best Grocery/Food Delivery, Best Grocery Store, Best Place to Buy Produce, Best Place to Buy Seafood and Best Loyalty Program.
SECOND PLACE
Yesteryear's Market
116 8th St.
DeMotte
219-987-6644
THIRD PLACE
Great Oaks Banquets & Events
13109 Wicker Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-8000
Best Gastro Pub
One13North Kitchen & Bar
113 N. Main St.
Crown Point
219-663-0303
Looking to bring a fresh culinary experience to the community, One13North Kitchen & Bar opened in 2019.
Owner Manolie Pappas says customer service is a top priority.
“Our dedication goes beyond simply serving great food. We're committed to creating unforgettable experiences with our service and atmosphere,” Pappas says. “Whether you're soaking up the sun on our patio, enjoying a peaceful mid-day lunch or joining the party at one of our lively DJ events, there's something special waiting for you at One13North.
“By popular demand, our bao buns and signature burgers have become clear fan favorites, although our regulars love exploring new items on our chef's ever-changing feature menu,” Pappas says.
“We're also deeply grateful for the opportunity to play a part in our community members' most cherished moments, whether it's hosting private parties within our restaurant or providing catering for events outside our doors,” Pappas says. “Our unwavering commitment to our community remains steadfast, and we're thankful for the continued support of our neighbors and friends.”
SECOND PLACE
Tavern on Main
136 S. Main St.
Crown Point
219-779-9377
THIRD PLACE
Square Roots
108 N. Main St.
Crown Point
219-310-8322
Best Hamburger
Schoop’s
Multiple locations
Schoop’s Hamburgers is well-known for its delicious burgers, but the restaurant chain credits its customers for helping build the tradition in Northwest Indiana.
“Our community is the very reason we are still here after 76 years,” says Rick Newell, of Schoop’s. “They supported us in the beginning and with each location that has opened through the years. The community refers to Schoop's Hamburgers as one of the Region's landmarks, and we are most proud of that acclaim.
“Our burgers stand out due to the crispy edges and unique skin that is formed during the distinctive cooking process we use when crafting our menu items,” he says.
It’s not only burgers that bring in customers to Schoop’s.
“Though people are motivated to patronize us because of our famous burgers, once here, they soon discover our incredible handmade shakes, all-beef hot dogs, delectable French fries and the very popular Irish Nachos,” Newell says.
SECOND PLACE
Miner-Dunn
8940 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-923-3311
THIRD PLACE
Hard Rock Cafe Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
Best Hot Dog
Boz Hot Dogs
Multiple locations
There’s much to love at Boz Hot Dogs.
In addition to its famous hot dogs and all-beef jumbo dogs, the restaurant serves up Italian beef sandwiches, sloppy joes, burgers, tamales, nachos and more.
"Our locations are proud to have a long-standing reputation for excellence,” Carol Bollacker says. “We strive to consistently serve exceptional food with excellent customer service.”
Carol and Bob Bollacker own the Boz Hot Dog locations in Schererville, Dyer and Lansing.
Whether you’re choosing a classic hot dog or jumbo dog, you’ll get it served on a steamed bun. You also have a large variety of condiments to choose from — mustard, sweet relish, diced onions, tomato wedges, cucumber slices, hot or mild peppers and celery salt.
“For many in the Northwest Indiana region, it is a taste of their childhood,” Carol Bollacker says.
SECOND PLACE
Portillo’s
555 E. 81st Ave.
Merrillville
219-769-8300
1403 U.S. Hwy. 41
Schererville
219-276-8150
THIRD PLACE
Corky’s Dogg House
12421 Wicker Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-9332
Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
Dairy Belle
Multiple locations
219-931-4550
It’s all about tradition at Dairy Belle.
Since the 1950s, Dairy Belle has been serving up the same ice cream recipe that’s creamy and thick with a rich flavor.
You can find the soft-serve in classic chocolate, vanilla and twist versions. A variety of other frozen treats to satisfy include ice cream cakes, specialty sundaes, malts, flurries, floats, banana splits, strawberry shortcake and hot fudge Brownie Delight.
Every item is customizable, and all frozen novelties are hand-made in-shop.
In addition to the tasty, sweet treats, Dairy Belle is a great place to make memories because its locations have a family friendly environment.
SECOND PLACE
Valpo Velvet
57 Monroe St.
Valparaiso
219-464-4141
THIRD PLACE
Cold Stone Creamery
Multiple locations
Best Italian Food
Lucrezia Ristorante
302 S. Main St.
Crown Point
219-661-5829 (LUCY)
Lucrezia Cafe
428 S. Calumet Road
Chesterton
219-926-5829 (LUCY)
Lucrezia Cafe and Ristorante have become the go-to eateries for Northern Italian cuisine in Northwest Indiana. Their success comes partly from their carefully crafted dishes and relaxing ambiance. However, much credit goes to their dedicated staff, according to Nada Karas, who owns the restaurants with her husband, Michael Karas.
Customer favorites include the three-meat lasagna, lamb shank, crab cakes and four-cheese pizza. This month they introduced a new pasta flight of asiago penne, a half-slice of lasagna and a pistachio cream cheese tortellini.
“Our patios for al fresco dining are loved by many of our guests,” says Director of Operations Stacey Mikler, “We have an outstanding wine list voted by a panel of seven managers and our craft signature co*cktails are unmatched. Our new smoked maple bacon bourbon is a huge hit.”
A third eatery, Lucrezia Trattoria, is in Culver . “We use simply the finest quality ingredients, combined with exceptional service,” said Mikler.
SECOND PLACE
Little Italy
1155 Joliet St.
Dyer
219-865-3040
THIRD PLACE
Ciao Bella Ristorante
1514 U.S. Hwy. 41
Schererville
219-322-6800
Best Margarita
Jalapenos
200 U.S. Hwy. 41
Schererville
219-864-8862
Facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065334037100
The place boasts of hot and spicy food.
It brings in musical acts such as Beaver Lopez and Aaron Harris.
Oh, and it makes tasty margaritas.
Jalapeno’s likes to get creative with its concoctions. On St. Patrick’s Day, it broke out the green margaritas for patrons to sip with their corned beef and cabbage.
Aside from the House Margarita, there is also the Very Berry, Cherry Pop, Coco Loco, Laguna, Green Iguana plus peach, mango, passion fruit, raspberry, pina colada, strawberry and watermelon.
Size of the drinks range from 16 ounces to the Grande Gallon.
SECOND PLACE
Asada Grill & Cantina
2907 W. 45th St.
Highland
219-934-0400
www.facebook.com/asadagrillandcantina
THIRD PLACE
El Taco Real
935 Hoffman St.
Hammond
219-932-8333
Best Mexican Food
Asada Grill & Cantina
2907 45th St.
Highland
219-934-0400
www.faceboook.com/asadagrillandcantina
The mission of Asada Grill & Cantina’s trio of owners — Miguel Padilla, Rigo Gutierrez and Oscar Gutierrez — is to ensure that every guest feels at home. Their motto is simple: Great food, excellent service and gratitude to our wonderful customers.
“At Asada Grill & Cantina, we're not just a restaurant. We're a big family dedicated to sharing the flavors and warmth of Mexico,” Oscar Gutierrez says of the business that has served traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern aesthetic since 2015. “We take pride in our authentic recipes and extensive selection of high-quality liquors, ranging from top-tier tequilas to exotic blends.”
Customers are enthusiastic about Asada’s traditional offerings, and its new menu introduces even more Mexican taste traditions to Northwest Indiana. It includes Molcajete Meat Lovers and Chicken Tamales, along with Asada's signature Guajolota, a traditional tamale torta.
“We're thrilled and excited about winning first place as the best Mexican restaurant in northwest Indiana!” says Gutierrez.
SECOND PLACE
Las Jacarandas Mexican Grill
2486 W. Lincoln Hwy.
Merrillville
219-750-9249
www.facebook.com/people/Las-Jacarandas-Mexican-Grill/100088383455141
THIRD PLACE
El Taco Real
935 Hoffman St.
Hammond
219-932-8333
Best Microbrewery
Fuzzyline Brewpub
2712 Condit St.
Highland
219-513-9588
In May, Fuzzyline Brewpub’s co-owners Alex Robertson and Bob McLellan will celebrate their third year in business. They have been voted Best Microbrewery two years running.
“Both Alex and I are first-time business owners, so this year is a big accomplishment,” says McLellan, Fuzzyline’s chef.
“Alex and I are from Northwest Indiana, so it means the world to us to be able to welcome our neighbors to our brewery,” says McLellan.
Fuzzyline’s handcrafted beer and food bring an exciting, fresh experience to the Region. “I do not believe there is any better way to connect and truly spend quality of time with anyone than over a meal and good drink,” he adds.
Fuzzyline’s goal is to provide genuine hospitality to all guests by treating them like friends so they can relax, feel at home and enjoy a meal.
“Alex and I are extremely proud of the team we have assembled and the amazing culture we have here,” says McLellan. “Cheers to everyone in the Region who has ever dined with us. The memories we have made and will make together are absolutely priceless."
SECOND PLACE
Off Square Brewing
11000 Delaware Pkwy.
Crown Point
219-310-8898
THIRD PLACE
18th Street Brewery
5417 Oakley Ave.
Hammond
219-803-0820
Best Pizza
Aurelio's Pizza
Multiple locations
For more than 40 years, residents throughout Northwest Indiana have been enjoying Aurelio's Chicago-style thin-crust pizza, made from a family recipe.
Aurelio's Pizza was founded in 1959 by Joseph A. Aurelio Jr. in a four-table storefront in Homewood.
“We are Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana's oldest pizza chain,” says Joe Aurelio, Joe's son who took over in 2001 when his dad died. “We opened in 1959, and now we have 11 locations throughout Indiana.”
This year marks the pizza chain’s 65th anniversary. “It’s a big deal, and we’re running promotions all year,” says Aurelio. “We will be celebrating by giving away memorabilia, tickets to sporting events and concerts and offering specials throughout our chain for the entire year.
“We’re really excited to be named Northwest Indiana’s No. 1 pizza. We want to thank all of our loyal customers for voting us No.1 and 65 years of business."
SECOND PLACE
Langel's Pizza
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Loven Oven Pizzeria
1000 E. Commercial Ave.
Lowell
219-696-6828
Best Place for Breakfast
Buttermilk Pancake House & Restaurant
805 Ridge Road
Munster
219-513-8119
www.facebook.com/ButtermilkPancakeHouse
Manager Matt Wittkamp has three words for why this restaurant is popular with Region readers.
“Quality, quantity, consistency,” he says.
The business celebrated its fifth anniversary in April, and Wittkamp says that that the traditional eggs and meats are popular as well as the unique pineapple pancakes.
“That is something others don’t necessarily have,” Wittkamp says of the pancakes. “And we do it very well. It was created by the owner (Sam Yfantis).”
While the business won for breakfast, lunch isn’t too bad, either.
“We have an absolutely incredible burger,” Wittkamp says. “It is phenomenal for a pancake house. We’ll put our burger up against any other.”
SECOND PLACE
Avgo
9321 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0169
THIRD PLACE
Toast & Jam Breakfast & Lunch Café
7311 Mallard Lane
Schererville
219-769-0000
Tjs.cafe
Best Place for Brunch
Avgo
9321 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0169
Brunch is defined as a late morning meal that combines breakfast and lunch. Avgo has all your bases covered with a full breakfast and lunch menu of all your favorites —and some you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Signature items include The Loukomado French Toast of fluffy challah bread coated in cornflakes, deep fried with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar, then topped with pecans and Greek honey or Theo’s Skillet featuring Theo's signature filet with hash browns, peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and cheddar jack.
“We have a great variety. We can reach all ages,” says General Manager Paul Cassiani. “We’re more of a unique restaurant. We try and bring that home cooking in an upscale type of environment.” He also noted that the dedicated staff takes great pride in their work and in working together, an approach that is evident to diners.
Customers love the monthly specials, particularly “The Wheel,” which has a Ferris wheel presentation with baskets of food instead of cars that lights up. “Kids love it and parents love it because it’s a lot of food,” says Cassiani.
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
Main Street Cafe
111 N. Main St.
Crown Point
219-663-7466
Best Place for Dinner
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
An ideal place to have a memorable dinner must check all the boxes. And Theo’s does. “What makes Theo's Steaks & Seafood stand out as the ideal place for dinner are our highest quality prime cuts of meat and seafood, expert craftsmanship, impeccable service, ambiance, wine and spirits and that it’s been family-owned and operated for over 30 years,” says General Manager Chris Anezeris.
“When you step inside you'll be engulfed in an atmosphere of elegance and warmth. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, our inviting ambiance sets the stage for a memorable dining experience,” says Anezeris. “Low dimmed lighting creates the perfect ambience with nice relaxing music to pair with a refreshing dining experience. Also you don't want to miss out on our spacious patio seating during the summer.”
Menu highlights include a 30-oounce bone-in ribeye, pre-split Alaskan King Crab Legs, the Theo’s Special 10-ounce filet mignon topped with lumps of blue point crab and its signature béarnaise sauce and bronzini that is flown in weekly and can be prepared whole or filleted.
And although an elegant eatery, children are welcome. The kids menu has child favorites like chicken tenders and cheeseburgers, but also fettuccini Alfredo with chicken or shrimp and a petite filet mignon.
Theo's Steak & Seafood also was voted Best Seafood
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
Prime Steakhouse
109 W. Joliet St.
Crown Point
219-663-7377
Best Place for Lunch
Hard Rock Cafe
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
Hard Rock Cafe Northern Indiana also was voted Best Casino and Best Casino Dining.
SECOND PLACE
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
THIRD PLACE
Avgo
9321 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0169
Best Polish Food
Dan’s Pierogies
2945 Jewett Ave.
Highland
219-513-8740
With another Best of selection under its belt, Dan's Pierogies co-owner Lisa Keith appreciates the loyalty of her customers.
“I treat everyone who walks in the door like family,” she says. “We love small talk. We love loyal customers. I treat everyone as if they were a distant cousin when they come in my doors.
“You don’t get that anymore. Everything is just go, go, go.”
There is wide variety of choices on the menu —including some non-Polish food — but two favorites are stuffed cabbage and potato and cheddar perogi.
“Earlier this year, we put in a new salad display case,” she says. “There are seven salads and they are all homemade.”
SECOND PLACE
MJ's Polish Deli
7112 Calumet Ave.
Hammond
219-937-6007
THIRD PLACE
Cavalier Inn
735 Gostlin St.
Hammond
219-933-9314
Best Popcorn
Lady’s Gourmet Popcorn
118 N. Broad St.
Griffith
219-743-7858
Co-owner Patti Haugh enjoys the freedom of being a, pardon the pun, mom-and-popcorn type of store. Being under a corporate umbrella is not for her.
“We don’t have a corporate office offering recipes and saying ‘here’s what we want you to make,' " she says. “So we create our own recipes and make our popcorn every day. It’s fresh.”
This is the fifth straight Best of win for the business, which offers a core lineup of 12 flavors and a rotating group of eight others. She said the Central Park carmel/cheddar cheese mix is a consistent best seller.
“Different times of the year, different flavors are more popular,” she says. “Sweet favors are more popular around Mother’s Day and Valentines Day but round Halloween and the Super Bowl, it’s the hot and spicy flavors.”
Haugh and her daughter, Amanda Sanow, are the owners and her other daughter, Carly Haugh, is involved in keeping things running.
SECOND PLACE
Kelly’s Kernels
13326 Lincoln Plaza Way
Cedar Lake
219-401-8163
THIRD PLACE
Salisbury Sweets
405 E. Commercial Ave.
Lowell
219-300-2160
Best Sandwich
Lake Dale Ale
5512 W. Main St.
Lowell
219-696-1256
facebook.com/5StarDiveBarLakeDaleAle
Customers are appreciating the changes at Lake Dale Ale, says Amanda Weaver, who bought the business three years ago. She fixed up the bar to be full service and, “Business really picked up when we went non-smoking,” Weaver says.
But the signature Italian beef sandwich is the same, a recipe the previous owner gave Weaver. The pastrami sandwich is very popular, too, and lately the pulled pork and Philly cheese steak have been in demand, says Weaver. Sides include sauteed vegetables, coleslaw and homemade pasta salad.There's live music Fridays and karaoke Saturdays.
“The food is amazing, It keeps people coming back,” says Weaver, who adds that business has almost tripled since she bought it. “We’re a friendly bar and people enjoy coming out here. It’s right by Lake Dalecarlia, and it’s nice and quiet.”
SECOND PLACE
Lincoln Carryouts
1002 Lincoln St.
Hobart
219-942-2113
THIRD PLACE
Ammirato's Meatball Cafe
126 N. Griffith Blvd.
Griffith
219-301-7834
Best Seafood
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
Theo's Steaks & Seafood also was voted Best Place for Dinner.
SECOND PLACE
The Lighthouse
7501 Constitution Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-9283
THIRD PLACE
Prime Steakhouse
109 W. Joliet St.
Crown Point
219-663-7377
Best Steakhouse
Freddy's Steakhouse
6442 Kennedy Ave.
Hammond
219-844-1500
Jim Kamradt has owned Freddy’s steakhouse for 62 years and his staff is still serving his loyal customers. He says part of the appeal is the décor. “It has a cozy, old-time supper club feel. It’s a great place for a date, a business meeting or just a great steak.”
The steaks are all USDA Angus or prime. Freddy’s signature steak is a bone-in, 24-ounce ribeye served with grilled vegetables in a “classy presentation,” says Kamradt. Other popular choices are filet mignon, prime rib, the Poor Boy steak sandwich and more. The steaks are hand cut daily and available for lunch and dinner. There is also a full bar and live music on Saturdays.
Reservations are available for groups and parties as well as walk-in seating. For catering for large groups, the full menu selection is available.
SECOND PLACE
Theo's Steaks & Seafood
9144 Indianapolis Blvd.
Highland
219-838-8000
THIRD PLACE
Council Oak Steaks & Seafood
Hard Rock Casino
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
'); var s = document.createElement('script'); s.setAttribute('src', 'https://assets.revcontent.com/master/delivery.js'); document.body.appendChild(s); window.removeEventListener('scroll', throttledRevContent); __tnt.log('Load Rev Content'); } } }, 100); window.addEventListener('scroll', throttledRevContent); }
Related to this collection
2024 The Times Best of the Region
Welcome to The Times Media Company’s Best of the Region for 2024.
