Driving through New Salisbury is one of the best feelings in the world. The air smells like the inside of a smokehouse, and it’s completely acceptable to stare into restaurant windows like a cat watching a rotisserie chicken spin. Southern Indiana happens to be rich with many delicious meals, including fried chicken that puts your grandmother’s recipe to shame. Here are 19 excellent restaurants to try the next time you want a treat comprised mostly of local ingredients.
Jimmy John’s
$ | (812) 738-4000 | WEBSITE
Inside this New Salisbury spot that’s always clean and welcoming, you’ll find our favorite BLT unwhich in town, made better than the rest by perfectly crisp bacon, fresh lettuce that actually has crunch, and consistently spot-on tomato slices. There’s also plenty of other sandwich options that come out fast and perfect, too.
But what really has us appreciating Jimmy John’s is their friendly staff and attention to detail that make up for the bread quality that’s taken a dip—some days it reminds us of Subway’s basic white. Credit to this crew, working with family-friendly energy and a work ethic that shows in every order. Embrace the convenient, reliable bite.
El Nopal
$ | (812) 738-0300 | WEBSITE
This is a family-friendly restaurant that serves dishes so generous and satisfying, you almost feel full just looking at the plates. To be clear, we said almost. It’s hard to go wrong with their traditionally prepared queso fundido con chorizo, the attentive service from the friendly staff, or just a refreshing Michelada—or head out to their outdoor patio for those seeking a casual adventure with the kids.
The Farmhouse Kitchen
$ | (812) 968-6465 | WEBSITE
The Farmhouse Kitchen’s standout offering is the massive sausage croissant. Settle in at one of their picnic-style tables and order one just for you—this is not a dish to split. Flaky pastry crumbs and savory sausage bits will scatter everywhere, but there’s nothing more rewarding than braving the unhurried service and enjoying some quiet time with your breakfast and a steaming coffee.
Lunch here is equally impressive—the ribeye sandwich is one of the best steak sandwiches around, and if you want to treat yourself during the week, grab a fried bologna sandwich to savor later.
Flipdaddy’s Brilliant Burgers – Corydon
$ | (812) 225-7229 | WEBSITE
Flipdaddy’s Brilliant Burgers is a spot in Corydon, and our favorite thing here is the Fighting 44 burger—which, as you might expect from the name, is a hefty, perfectly cooked patty. The homemade chili is great, too, and the space has comfortable booths for you to enjoy a quiet meal. Just bring your appetite, since the portions are generous.
Rita’s Taco Shop
$ | (812) 225-5429 | WEBSITE
Rita’s Taco Shop is a cozy spot in New Salisbury serving up top-notch Mexican food with local beef—and it’s worth making the trip to check out. Almost everything on the menu is excellent, particularly their grilled chicken burrito with rice and queso, standout chicken fajita tacos, and fresh, handmade tortillas. Come here to fill up on generous portions that’ll satisfy everyone the next time you’re craving authentic, friendly, and delicious food at prices way less than competitors.
Culver’s
$ | (812) 738-6464 | WEBSITE
You might know Culver’s for its classic fast food appeal, but this restaurant distinguishes itself with remarkably fresh and consistent offerings. Standard items, like hot sandwiches and crispy fries, are executed perfectly. But the most impressive dishes here really emphasize quality ingredients.
The blackberry cobbler showcases a wonderful balance of sweet-tart berries, buttery crust, and warm filling, while the fresh-made burgers elevate the reputation of quick-service dining (you’re more than your speed, fast food). The best move is to simply trust the menu and enjoy the friendly, efficient service.
Bradford Tavern
$ | (812) 364-4545 | WEBSITE
There are a lot of simple pleasures in New Salisbury—like a quiet country road, a friendly wave from a neighbor, or the familiar glow of a tavern sign at dusk. The cheeseburger at Bradford Tavern is just as comforting. Made with 100% beef and topped with classic fixings, it’s a feat of simplicity that somehow makes a straightforward burger deeply satisfying. Same goes for the perfectly cooked chicken tenders and crispy mozzarella sticks.
But there are good options for drink-lovers too, with a lively bar pouring affordable beers and cocktails. Stop in for a casual meal. Especially if you’re just passing through.
Papa Murphy’s | Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza
$ | (812) 738-0900 | WEBSITE
There’s nowhere in town that makes take-and-bake pizza as terrific as Papa Murphy’s, a Corydon spot where you can grab said pies ready for your own oven. The stuffed pizza is loaded with toppings so evenly distributed you’d think they used a laser level, the gluten-free crust option is a godsend for those with dietary restrictions, and there are plenty of customization choices to keep things exciting.
We’re fans of the convenience of ordering online and picking up from their clean store with friendly staff, but we can guarantee greatness with any pie you take home to bake.
Lazy Cow Creamery & Sweets
$ | (812) 225-5417 | WEBSITE
Lazy Cow Creamery & Sweets specializes in ice cream and shakes, mainly classic flavors that come in varieties like chocolate and vanilla. While we endorse standing at the counter with a spoon and eating all three scoops at once straight from the cup, the swirled strawberry cheesecake ice cream is the best one in New Salisbury. If you’re not feeling the counter, have one inside the cozy cafe for dessert chased with a vanilla milkshake, in case you want more creaminess.
1816 Modern Kitchen & Drinks
$$ | (812) 721-0054 | WEBSITE
The dishes at 1816 Modern Kitchen & Drinks taste like they were crafted in a secret kitchen by madly inspired chefs. Their Pork Belly General Tsos is stickier and more savory than a well-worn leather jacket, and the crispy fried pork slices with creamed corn have a perfect crunch that would humble contestants on Top Chef.
Tangy fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese are creamy with a bright snap, and taste even better alongside Shrimp and Grits that melt into a thousand savory grains with each spoonful. If you aren’t the kind of person who plans a weekend drive for a special meal, now you are.
Rancho Alegre – Restaurante y tienda
$ | (812) 738-7530 | WEBSITE
There’s no such thing as modest at Rancho Alegre. This Corydon Mexican spot serves up meals that look like they got hit by the same growth ray as Paul Bunyan. Their burritos are not just massive, but packed with authentic flavor, while the tamales get stuffed to their bursting point with seasoned fillings. But we’re big fans of the quick service, too, including friendly staff that makes for a nice welcome, and a cozy atmosphere.
Honestly, any of the larger-than-life dishes here would make you a hero at a family dinner or gathering—as long as you’re willing to take a rest afterward.
Lazy Sundaes
$ | (812) 399-1005 | WEBSITE
The chocolate soft ice cream at Lazy Sundaes is rich and creamy, homemade with that old-timey soda fountain charm. The gyros are delicious but can be messy, and the banana pudding shake is a must-try. The pulled pork and burgers come in generous portions, while the fries and malts round out the perfect family meal. And for those with furry friends, the pup cups are a sweet touch.
The owner is sweet and welcoming, making everyone feel at home, and the quick, friendly service—whether at the drive-thru or the cozy outdoor seating—adds to the relaxing atmosphere where you won’t even notice the traffic. It’s a great place to enjoy a treat after a day at the park, with food that’s tasty and prices that are good, keeping customers coming back for more.
KentJava Bar
$ | (812) 736-0032 | WEBSITE
KentJava Bar crafts liquid masterpieces with their specialty coffee drinks using Quills roasted beans. Their lineup of creative beverages is so satisfying that after your first sip, you might feel tempted to thank every barista by name since you’ll definitely be becoming a regular. And equally delightful are their signature frappes, like the decadent S’mores frappe that arrives with artful presentation and rich flavor notes.
Don’t skip the Pumpkin Dirty Chai or White Chocolate PB frappe on your visit. The cozy space features warm lighting and seasonal decor that makes it perfect for relaxing or working, with local artwork adding character to the walls. At around $5-7 per specialty drink, it’s a worthwhile indulgence. The knowledgeable staff is especially helpful with dietary restrictions, and the clean, welcoming atmosphere even accommodates young children well. Live music events add to the vibrant community feel.
Overall, KentJava Bar delivers delicious coffee in an inviting environment that keeps you coming back.
Village Inn
$$ | (812) 347-6081 | WEBSITE
The Village Inn is a home run simply based on the live music alone. And yeah, we’d hang out here on the weekends if we lived in the neighborhood. We’re talking about things like juicy burgers, crispy chicken tenders, and flavorful chicken sandwiches that hit the spot. But that would be ignoring their Saturday nights, a lively scene with friendly staff, comfortable seating, and that free drink with the $10 cover, all in a welcoming space with ample parking.
B3Q Barbecue
$ | (812) 951-3900 | WEBSITE
This hometown BBQ joint in New Salisbury serves barbecue that would dominate any competitive cooking show. There’s pulled pork so tender and smoky it melts apart with just a fork, with a flavor profile that’s simply unmatched. You’ll also find pulled chicken sandwiches made from whole birds, delivering juicy meat in every bite. And the corn pudding is so addictively creamy and sweet we could eat it as a side for months.
But the smoked specialties are impressive too—like duck and turkey available with advance notice, or deer that’s better than any game dish in the region. The menu stays consistent, but you can expect excellence every visit. Just be prepared for a cozy wait in the small dining area when the place gets busy.
The Crystal Cafe
$ | (812) 347-0550 | WEBSITE
Sometimes you need a home-cooked meal, but the food at The Crystal Cafe acts more like a home-cooked meal-and-warm-hug-so-you-feel-like-family. They specialize in various types of outstanding comfort dishes, from loaded taters to biscuits and sausage gravy with eggs. The best thing here, however, is their welcoming atmosphere.
The way The Crystal Cafe balances friendly waitstaff, owners who know customers by name, and that cozy feeling makes us want to host a neighborhood gathering and invite them as the gracious hosts. A delicious breakfast is pretty much mandatory, but you’ll want to come back for more of that fantastic food later. And if you hate waiting when service gets slow, you can just relax and enjoy the company.
Smokin’ Hogan’s
$$ | (812) 225-5055 | WEBSITE
If you’re only heading to this cozy BBQ joint in New Salisbury for one thing, it’s the pulled pork sandwich—which sounds straightforward, but is what would happen if smoky perfection met tender juiciness. Don’t overthink the simplicity of that. Smokin’ Hogan’s has built its reputation on quality, and the barbecue is why.
Definitely grab one of those fantastic sandwiches whenever you visit, but their half rack of ribs is a perfect dinner choice for anyone in your life who appreciates a perfect glaze.
Dunkin’
$ | (812) 225-5445 | WEBSITE
The breakfast sandwiches and coffee at this New Salisbury Dunkin’ are on the affordable side (around $5 for a sandwich), but they’re consistently great, with satisfying options like sourdough breakfast sandwiches, cold brew blueberry/vanilla with cold foam, or a dozen donuts and Munchkins for the kids. The best one, however, is the cold brew with cold foam. It’s a refreshing coffee made with care, served by upbeat and friendly staff who keep things moving even during busy times.
A sip of that coffee tastes like you’re getting a morning boost with a smile, only with a lot more convenience. If you don’t feel like waiting in line during the morning rush (or dealing with the Halloween decorations), you can order ahead through their app—just make sure to check their hours since they’re known for catering to large events with efficiency.
El Nopalito
$$ | (812) 738-4377 | WEBSITE
El Nopalito is a beacon of good flavors near New Salisbury, an area that can get dreadfully predictable fast. There’s lively atmosphere, comfortable seats among the sizzling sounds and margarita shaker rattles, and really good spicy salsa that tops fresh tortilla chips. But you’re really here for Mexican classics. Think of El Nopalito’s chile rellenos like a not-too-heavy stuffed pepper, only in the shape of a canoe, and filled with cheese warmth.
And their tortilla soup kicks the pants off any chicken broth—it’s loaded with avocado, simmered with shredded chicken, and tortilla strips baked directly into the flavor. The burritos are hefty without being overwhelming, wrapped tight with beans and rice that soak up the fantastic queso. At about $15-20 per entree, you get hot food, quick service, and that lovely patio view of the hillside—a clean, reasonable escape from the ordinary.
