Explore the Southern Indiana Food Scene With These 5 Itineraries 

Justin Sicking

There are many perks to living in Southern Indiana. It’s home to great jobs, affordable housing, growing arts scenes and outdoor recreation options. But what visitors might find most surprising is that the flourishing Southern Indiana food scene can easily stand up to those in communities much larger in size. 

“My wife has been in this area for more than 20 years, and I’ve been here for 12,” says Jeremy Frankforther, who works for Fifth Third Bank. “We’re still discovering new places to eat and drink.” 

Curious to see (and taste) what the fuss is all about? Here are five itineraries designed to help you discover some of the best that Southern Indiana’s food scene has to offer. 

1. Tacos & Cocktails 

If you have a hankering for tasty tacos and refreshing beverages, look no further than Agave & Rye. Nestled near the Ohio River in New Albany, this restaurant serves epic tacos, snacks and cocktails of the tequila and bourbon varieties. While you are sure to find a favorite drink here, extend your evening with a trip to High Street Apothecary. Housed in the historic Stoy-Shrader House, this craft cocktail and bourbon bar offers a menu filled with classic cocktails, tiki-inspired concoctions, fizzy sips and wine. 

Justin Sicking

2. Comfort Classics 

Red Yeti in Jeffersonville is a local favorite. Its menu features Appalachian-inspired fare, including prime rib, shrimp and grits, and what Frankforther calls “the best fried chicken in Southern Indiana.” 

(Local tip: Don’t miss the weekend brunch. Order a mimosa or bloody mary and pair it with menu items like carved prime rib and au jus, Southern fried chicken, and roasted heirloom carrots and cauliflower – to name a few local favorites.) 

Down the street, you’ll find late-night fun at The Alcove. Let go and relax with a good cocktail or dance to the live music. 

Matthew Davis

3. A Little Bit of Everything 

Another local favorite is family-owned Aladdin’s in New Albany. It’s been serving authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine since 2013. Grab a table on the patio and dig into some fresh hummus or tabbouleh salad, followed by shawarma, a gyro or crispy falafel. 

Cap off your evening in New Albany at The Earl, a self-proclaimed “upscale dive bar.” Pair warm pretzels and beer cheese or a grilled cheese with fig jam and honey with one of the establishment’s specialty cocktails (consider the kiwi margarita or summer mule). 

iStock/Nishihama

4. Fancy & Flavorful 

Plan a special night out at The Exchange in New Albany. Housed in a historic building, The Exchange is ideal for a date night or a fun night out with friends. The menu features rotating seasonal options and a full bar. Make sure to try their short ribs paired with The Exchange Old Fashioned cocktail. 

(Local tip: Make a reservation. The Exchange is one of the most popular dining establishments in the region.) 

After dinner, stop by Pints & Union, an English-style pub with an eclectic menu. As Frankforther puts it: It’s a place where “you can walk in and forget about life’s problems.” 

(Local tip: It’s a great spot for after-work happy hours.) 

Huber Winery

5. Off the Vine 

Wine connoisseurs will love Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden. The venue has years of experience crafting delicious dry, sweet, sparkling and dessert wines, as it is one of the oldest and largest estate-grown vineyards in Indiana. While there, take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about Huber’s history from its insightful, friendly staff. 

Orchard tours and special events, like fall harvest weekends and live music on the patio, are held throughout the year. Budget time for lunch at the on-site Starlight Café and save room for ice cream and fresh doughnuts. Or head to Cast Iron Steakhouse in Jeffersonville for a delicious, hearty meal. Try the juicy cast iron filet, country fried chicken or bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin.