8 Indiana Oriental Restaurants That Are a Full Hit With Hoosiers in 2026

I have watched Indiana’s food scene grow into something truly special over the past few years, and 2026 has been remarkable for anyone who loves Asian cuisine. The Hoosier state now boasts incredible restaurants serving everything from Korean comfort food to elegant Japanese dining, and locals cannot get enough.

What makes these spots stand out is not just authentic flavors but also the warm hospitality that makes you feel right at home. From Indianapolis to Evansville, these eight restaurants have captured the hearts and appetites of Indiana residents, offering meals that transport you across the Pacific without leaving the Midwest.

Whether you crave steaming bowls of ramen, perfectly seasoned Thai curries, or sizzling Korean barbecue, these establishments deliver consistently excellent experiences that keep people coming back week after week.

I have personally witnessed how these restaurants have become gathering places for families, friends, and food lovers who appreciate quality and authenticity in every bite.

Modita

Modita brings a fresh, inventive take on Asian fusion to downtown Indianapolis, offering a dining experience that feels both refined and approachable. Located at 850 Massachusetts Ave Suite 110, the restaurant sits in the heart of the vibrant Mass Ave cultural district, surrounded by theaters, galleries, and boutiques that give the neighborhood its lively, creative energy.

The menu blends traditional Asian techniques with imaginative modern twists that surprise and delight. Each dish arrives beautifully plated, reflecting the kitchen’s attention to detail and artistic vision.

Flavors are carefully balanced, whether you’re savoring one of their signature noodle dishes or sampling a variety of innovative small plates designed to share.

Service at Modita consistently impresses, with staff who know the menu thoroughly and genuinely care about creating a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between special occasion elegance and approachable comfort, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and celebratory meals.

Nearby cultural landmarks, including the Indiana Repertory Theatre and the Athenaeum, make it easy to pair a Modita meal with an evening of entertainment.

What sets Modita apart is its ability to honor Asian culinary traditions while putting a unique, creative spin on every dish. The space itself is modern and inviting, with thoughtful design touches that enhance the experience without ever feeling stuffy.

BODHI

BODHI has become a Mass Ave institution at 922 Massachusetts Ave, drawing crowds who crave bold Asian flavors in a hip, energetic setting. The restaurant’s industrial-chic design, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and an open kitchen, allows diners to watch chefs in action, adding an engaging visual element to the meal.

The menu highlights Southeast Asian cuisine, with particular strength in Vietnamese and Thai dishes. The pho arrives with a fragrant, deeply savory broth that tastes like it has simmered for hours, while the pad thai delivers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.

Every dish showcases fresh ingredients, from crisp vegetables to perfectly cooked proteins, reflecting the kitchen’s dedication to flavor and quality.

Situated within walking distance of the Bottleworks District, BODHI offers an ideal stop before or after exploring downtown Indianapolis, whether you’re browsing shops or catching a movie at the boutique cinema. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, attracting a younger crowd that appreciates high-quality food without pretension.

Portions are generous, and prices remain reasonable despite the prime location and top-notch ingredients. Even during busy times, the staff moves efficiently while maintaining friendly, attentive service that makes each guest feel valued.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, BODHI consistently delivers flavorful, satisfying dishes, explaining why it remains a go-to destination on Mass Ave.

Siam Star Asian Express

Carmel residents have embraced Siam Star Asian Express at 890 E 116th St Suite 155 as their go-to spot for quick, flavorful Thai food that never compromises on quality. This fast-casual concept proves you don’t need white tablecloths to enjoy authentic Asian cuisine made with care and expertise, offering meals that satisfy both cravings and schedules.

The menu covers all the Thai classics, from rich, aromatic curries to savory stir-fries, each prepared fresh to order while you wait. Curry dishes pack impressive heat levels that can be customized to your preference, and the basil fried rice has earned a loyal following among regulars for its perfect balance of spice and flavor.

Every dish arrives hot, fragrant, and ready to enjoy immediately or take home for later.

Located in a busy Carmel shopping area near the Monon Trail, Siam Star is an ideal stop after a bike ride or before running errands. The casual setup means ordering at the counter, but the food quality rivals that of sit-down restaurants charging twice as much.

Families especially appreciate the kid-friendly options, generous portions, and quick turnaround times, making it a practical choice for lunch or dinner on the go.

What truly sets Siam Star apart is the consistency; each visit delivers the same satisfying flavors and high-quality ingredients. Traditional preparation methods shine through in every dish, from the perfectly balanced sauces to the fresh vegetables and proteins.

2nd Language

Evansville’s culinary scene took a notable leap forward when 2nd Language opened at 401 NW 2nd St Suite A, introducing innovative Asian fusion to southern Indiana with both style and substance. This intimate restaurant feels like discovering a hidden gem, with a small dining room that immediately creates a sense of warmth and connection, making every visit feel personal.

The chef clearly delights in experimenting with flavors, blending Asian techniques with local ingredients and seasonal inspiration to craft dishes that are at once familiar and surprising. The menu changes regularly, keeping the experience fresh and giving diners plenty of reasons to return.

Each plate arrives as a small work of art, with thoughtful presentation that matches the depth of flavor in every bite, showing the kitchen’s dedication to both aesthetics and taste.

Situated downtown near the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science, 2nd Language offers the perfect opportunity to combine culture and cuisine in a single outing. Despite being in a smaller Indiana city, the restaurant rivals offerings from larger metropolitan areas, proving that high-level culinary creativity can thrive anywhere.

The intimate space means reservations are essential, especially on weekends, ensuring you can secure a spot in this sought-after dining destination.

Service here feels personal and attentive, with staff who take genuine pride in their work and in guiding diners through the menu.

Thai Spice

Thai Spice at 2220 County Line Rd has earned its reputation through years of serving honest, flavorful Thai food that keeps Indianapolis southside residents coming back again and again. This family-run establishment focuses on getting the fundamentals right rather than chasing trends, and that dedication has cultivated a loyal following that spans generations.

The menu covers all the Thai classics you crave, from fragrant green curry to savory drunken noodles, each prepared with authentic spices and traditional techniques. The kitchen doesn’t shy away from heat when you request it, delivering genuine Thai spice levels that fans of fiery dishes truly appreciate.

Vegetarian options are plentiful and just as satisfying as the meat dishes, showing the kitchen’s commitment to flavor and inclusivity.

The restaurant occupies a modest storefront that prioritizes food over fancy decor, yet the space is clean, comfortable, and welcoming. Located near Beech Grove, Thai Spice draws diners from across the southside, attracting those who know good Thai food when they taste it.

Prices remain reasonable, making it easy to enjoy a meal here frequently without worrying about the budget.

What sets Thai Spice apart is the consistency, care, and attention evident in every dish. The owners clearly take pride in their work, treating customers like extended family rather than just patrons.

Every meal feels thoughtfully prepared, with flavors that hit just right, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.

Oppa Beef Bone Soup

Korean comfort food reaches new heights at Oppa Beef Bone Soup, located at 6368 East 82nd St in Indianapolis. This restaurant specializes in seolleongtang, the milky beef bone soup that Koreans have cherished for generations as the ultimate comfort meal.

The signature soup arrives in a stone pot, still bubbling and releasing aromatic steam that fills the senses before the very first spoonful. The broth has simmered for hours, extracting every bit of flavor and nutrients from the bones to create a deeply satisfying, soul-warming dish.

Diners season it themselves with salt and pepper, tailoring each bowl to their exact taste.

Beyond the famous soup, the menu explores a variety of Korean favorites, including bibimbap, hearty stews, and other traditional dishes that comfort from the inside out. Every meal comes with banchan; small, flavorful side dishes; that showcase the kitchen’s dedication to authentic Korean dining customs.

Located in the Castleton area, close to shopping and entertainment, Oppa makes for a perfect meal destination whether you’re grabbing lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner.

The atmosphere is authentic and unpretentious, with Korean patrons making up a significant portion of the crowd; a sure sign of genuine cuisine. Prices are reasonable considering the generous portions and quality ingredients.

Whether you’re curious about Korean food or a longtime fan, Oppa Beef Bone Soup offers a dining experience that nourishes both body and soul, leaving you feeling comforted and satisfied long after the last spoonful.

Yokohama

Greenwood residents have warmly embraced Yokohama at 67 N Madison Ave as their go-to neighborhood Japanese restaurant, offering both sushi and hibachi with equal skill. This establishment has become a community favorite for celebrations, date nights, and family dinners that need a little extra excitement, making each visit feel like a special occasion.

The sushi bar features fresh fish prepared by experienced chefs who take pride in their craft. Offerings range from classic nigiri to inventive specialty rolls, appealing to both traditional palates and adventurous eaters looking to try something new.

On the hibachi side, diners are treated to lively tableside cooking, where skilled chefs flip shrimp, craft onion volcanos, and put on a theatrical show while preparing meals that are as delicious as they are entertaining.

Located in downtown Greenwood near the Old City Hall and a variety of local shops, Yokohama has become a cornerstone of the dining scene in this growing Johnson County community. The restaurant accommodates groups well, with hibachi tables that seat multiple parties together, fostering a communal and festive dining experience.

Even during busy weekend rushes, service remains friendly, attentive, and efficient.

What sets Yokohama apart is its ability to balance entertainment with food that stands on its own merits. Ingredients are fresh, preparation shows skill, and portions are satisfying without being overwhelming.

Legacy Tokyo

Legacy Tokyo brings elevated Japanese dining to 1011 Massachusetts Ave, Suite 105, combining traditional techniques with modern presentation in the heart of Indianapolis. This restaurant represents the new wave of Japanese cuisine in Indiana, where quality ingredients and skilled preparation create truly memorable experiences.

Every element of the menu reflects a dedication to authenticity, from the sourcing of premium seafood to the precision of the knife work.

The sushi here is the star, featuring premium fish flown in regularly, with cuts that practically melt on your tongue and flavors that transport you straight to Tokyo. Beyond sushi, the menu explores a variety of Japanese preparations, including perfectly grilled items, delicate appetizers, and seasonal specials that demonstrate the kitchen’s versatility and creativity.

Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, with plating that is both elegant and inviting, highlighting the balance of flavor and presentation.

The sleek, contemporary space feels sophisticated without being stuffy, creating an atmosphere that welcomes both longtime fans of Japanese cuisine and newcomers seeking a refined experience. Its location, just steps from the Bottleworks District and other Mass Ave attractions, makes Legacy Tokyo an ideal stop for a night out downtown.

The sushi bar provides front-row seats to watch chefs at work, adding an interactive element that enhances the dining experience.

Prices reflect the premium quality, but the experience makes every bite worth it; perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or simply treating yourself.