10 Indiana Restaurants Where You Can Still Eat for Under $15

Finding a satisfying meal that doesn’t empty your wallet feels like striking gold these days.

I’ve been exploring Indiana’s food scene for years, and I’m always amazed at how many incredible spots still serve delicious, filling meals for under fifteen bucks.

From classic diners serving breakfast all day to family-owned gems dishing out authentic international flavors, the Hoosier State proves you don’t need to spend big to eat well.

Whether you’re a local looking for your next budget-friendly favorite or just passing through, these ten restaurants show that great food and great value can absolutely go hand in hand.

1. Indy’s Historic Steer-In

Pulling into the parking lot at 5130 E 10th St in Indianapolis feels like stepping back to 1960 when this beloved spot first opened its doors. The neon signs glow with that nostalgic charm that reminds you of simpler times when a burger and fries could make your whole day better.

Families have been coming here for generations, and the walls are covered with photos and memorabilia that tell the story of decades serving the community.

The menu reads like a greatest hits album of American comfort food. You can grab a juicy Steakburger with all the fixings for well under ten dollars, leaving plenty of room in your budget for their famous onion rings or a thick milkshake.

The portions are generous without being wasteful, and everything tastes like it was made with care rather than speed.

What really sets this place apart is the atmosphere. You can still experience old-school carhop service during warmer months, or settle into one of the cozy booths inside where the jukebox plays classic tunes.

The staff treats regulars and first-timers with equal warmth, and you’ll often see servers who’ve worked here for years chatting with customers they know by name.

It’s the kind of place where you leave feeling satisfied in your stomach and your soul, all without spending more than fifteen dollars.

2. The Tamale Place

Walking into The Tamale Place at 5226 Rockville Rd immediately transports you south of the border with the aroma of corn masa and slow-cooked meats filling the air. This family-run spot has built a loyal following by doing one thing exceptionally well and then expanding from there.

The name tells you their specialty, but the menu offers so much more for anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors without the fancy restaurant markup.

Their tamales come in varieties that change based on what’s fresh and traditional, from classic pork in red sauce to chicken with green salsa. Each one is wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, with the masa staying moist and flavorful while the filling delivers authentic taste.

You can get a full meal with rice and beans on the side for around twelve dollars, and you’ll leave feeling completely satisfied.

The casual atmosphere encourages you to relax and enjoy your food without any pretense. Colorful decorations brighten the walls, and Spanish music plays softly in the background while families gather around tables sharing plates and conversation.

The owners take pride in using recipes passed down through generations, and you can taste that heritage in every bite.

It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that makes you feel welcome whether you’re fluent in Spanish or just learning to say “por favor.”

3. Yats

Cajun and Creole food might seem like an unexpected find in Indiana, but Yats at 5363 N College Ave proves that Louisiana flavors thrive in the Midwest. The bright red exterior catches your eye from blocks away, and once you step inside, the spicy aroma of simmering gumbo and jambalaya makes your mouth water instantly.

This local chain started in Indianapolis and has stayed true to its mission of serving authentic New Orleans-style food at prices that won’t make you wince.

The setup is refreshingly simple. You order at the counter, choose from several daily specials written on chalkboards, and watch as generous portions get ladled into bowls or piled onto plates.

The red beans and rice taste like they’ve been cooking low and slow all day, with smoky sausage adding depth to every spoonful. Their etouffee comes rich and thick, clinging to rice in the way that tells you the roux was made right.

Most meals clock in around ten to twelve dollars, and the portions are substantial enough that you might have leftovers.

The vibe stays casual and friendly, with local artwork covering the walls and a staff that genuinely enjoys talking about the food they’re serving. You’ll find college students, families, and business people all mixing together at communal tables, united by their appreciation for bold flavors at reasonable prices.

4. Mason’s Root Beer Drive In

Some places become landmarks not just because they serve good food, but because they represent something timeless about American dining culture. Mason’s Root Beer Drive In at 1201 E National Hwy in Washington has been that kind of place since opening decades ago.

The building itself looks like it could have been plucked from a 1950s postcard, complete with the kind of signage that makes you want to pull over even if you weren’t planning to stop.

Their homemade root beer flows cold and frothy from the tap, served in frosted mugs that make even a hot summer day feel refreshing. The food menu covers all the drive-in classics with burgers that actually taste like beef, hand-cut fries that come out crispy and golden, and tenderloin sandwiches that hang over the edge of the bun in proper Indiana fashion.

You can get a full meal with a drink for well under fifteen dollars, and the quality rivals places charging twice as much.

During nice weather, families park their cars and eat outside, creating a scene that feels wonderfully retro without trying too hard. The staff moves efficiently but never rushes you, understanding that part of the experience is taking time to enjoy simple pleasures.

Kids love the novelty of eating in the car, while their parents appreciate the nostalgia and the fact that feeding the whole family here won’t require taking out a loan.

5. Liberty Diner

Fort Wayne’s Liberty Diner at 2929 Goshen Rd operates on a philosophy that seems increasingly rare: serve honest food at honest prices to honest people. The chrome-accented exterior gleams under the streetlights, beckoning late-night diners and early-morning breakfast seekers with equal enthusiasm.

Inside, red vinyl booths line the walls, and the counter seats offer front-row views of short-order cooks working their magic on the griddle.

Breakfast runs all day here, which means you can order fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon at three in the afternoon if that’s what sounds good. Their omelets come stuffed with fresh ingredients and arrive at your table still steaming, paired with golden hash browns that have that perfect crispy exterior and soft interior.

The lunch and dinner menus don’t disappoint either, with meatloaf, pot roast, and other comfort classics that taste like someone’s grandmother made them. Most plates cost between eight and thirteen dollars, leaving room for pie if you’re still hungry.

The atmosphere strikes that perfect diner balance between efficiency and warmth. Your coffee cup never stays empty for long, and servers remember your order if you become a regular.

Local firefighters and police officers stop by during shifts, high school kids gather after games, and retirees claim their favorite stools at the counter.

It’s the kind of place that reminds you why diners became an American institution in the first place.

6. Bululu Tropical

Caribbean flavors burst onto the Mishawaka dining scene when Bululu Tropical opened at 2522 Miracle Lane, bringing sunshine and spice to northern Indiana. The restaurant’s bright colors and tropical decorations create an island atmosphere that feels worlds away from the Midwest, especially during long winter months when you need a mental vacation.

Reggae music drifts through the dining room while the kitchen produces dishes that stay true to authentic Caribbean cooking traditions.

Their jerk chicken comes marinated in a blend of spices that builds heat slowly without overwhelming your taste buds, served alongside rice and beans cooked with coconut milk for subtle sweetness. The curry goat falls off the bone tender, and the oxtail stew simmers until the meat practically melts.

Fried plantains arrive golden and caramelized, offering that perfect combination of sweet and savory that makes them dangerously addictive. You can get a full plate piled high with protein, sides, and often a small salad for around twelve to fourteen dollars.

The family running Bululu takes obvious pride in sharing their culture through food. They’re happy to explain dishes to newcomers and make recommendations based on your spice tolerance and preferences.

The casual setting encourages lingering over your meal, and you’ll often see groups sharing different plates so everyone can try multiple flavors.

It’s refreshing to find authentic international cuisine at prices that make it accessible for regular visits rather than special occasions only.

7. Linder’s Tavern On Main

LaGrange’s downtown heart beats strong at 211 S Detroit St, where Linder’s Tavern On Main has been feeding locals and travelers for years. The building itself tells stories of Indiana’s past, with original woodwork and details that modern construction just can’t replicate.

Walking through the door feels like visiting a friend’s place where everyone knows your name, or at least treats you like they do.

The menu focuses on elevated tavern fare that doesn’t try to be fancy but succeeds at being delicious. Their burgers get cooked to order with quality beef that tastes like actual meat rather than filler and seasoning.

The fish fry on Fridays draws crowds from surrounding towns, with flaky cod coated in light batter and fried until golden. Sandwiches come on fresh bread with generous portions of meat and toppings, and the homemade soups change daily based on what’s in season.

Most meals fall comfortably under fifteen dollars, and the value feels exceptional for the quality you’re getting.

Small-town hospitality shines through in every interaction here. The staff knows most customers by name and remembers their usual orders, but newcomers receive the same warm treatment.

Local sports teams celebrate victories here, families gather for weekend dinners, and friends meet up to catch up over good food.

The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, proving that you don’t need big-city prices to enjoy a great meal in good company.

8. The Granola Jar East

Healthy eating on a budget often feels like an impossible goal, but The Granola Jar East at 5600 E Virginia St in Evansville proves otherwise. This cheerful spot specializes in fresh, wholesome food that actually tastes good rather than like punishment for wanting to eat better.

The interior stays bright and clean with plenty of natural light, and the menu board lists options that sound appealing even to people who normally avoid health food restaurants.

Their grain bowls combine quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables, proteins like grilled chicken or falafel, and flavorful dressings that tie everything together. Fresh salads come loaded with ingredients beyond the standard lettuce and tomato, featuring seasonal produce and creative combinations that keep things interesting.

The smoothies blend real fruit with add-ins like chia seeds or protein powder, creating drinks that fuel your body without tasting chalky or artificial. Breakfast options include overnight oats and avocado toast that don’t cost a fortune like they do at trendy brunch spots.

Most items stay under twelve dollars, making healthy eating accessible rather than a luxury.

The staff approaches food with genuine enthusiasm rather than preachy attitudes about nutrition. They’ll happily explain ingredients and make modifications for dietary restrictions or preferences.

The casual counter-service setup keeps costs down while maintaining quality, and the seating area provides a pleasant space to enjoy your meal.

It’s refreshing to find a place where eating well and staying within budget aren’t mutually exclusive goals.

9. Mizo Choka Asian Restaurant

Asian cuisine encompasses countless regional styles and flavors, and Mizo Choka at 7021 Madison Ave in Indianapolis brings authentic tastes from Myanmar and surrounding regions to Indiana diners. The restaurant occupies a modest storefront that might be easy to miss if you’re not looking, but those who find it discover a menu full of dishes rarely seen elsewhere in the state.

The family running the kitchen cooks food that reflects their heritage rather than Americanized versions designed to play it safe.

Their noodle soups arrive in generous bowls with complex broths built from hours of simmering bones and aromatics. Rice dishes come topped with curries that balance heat, sweetness, and savory depth in ways that keep your palate interested from first bite to last.

Stir-fried vegetables stay crisp and vibrant, coated in sauces that enhance rather than drown their natural flavors. Tea leaf salad offers a unique experience for adventurous eaters, combining fermented tea leaves with crunchy additions and tangy dressing.

Most entrees cost between ten and fourteen dollars, and the portions easily satisfy or even provide leftovers for later.

The atmosphere stays unpretentious and focused on the food rather than elaborate decor. This approach keeps prices reasonable while allowing the kitchen to focus resources on quality ingredients and careful preparation.

Don’t expect fancy presentations or trendy plating, just honest cooking that transports you to another part of the world without requiring a plane ticket or passport.

10. Jade Garden

Chinese restaurants have become fixtures in American towns large and small, but Jade Garden at 6222 Central Ave in Portage stands out by consistently delivering quality food at prices that seem frozen in time. The dining room features classic Chinese restaurant decor with red accents and lanterns, creating an atmosphere that feels familiar and comfortable.

The extensive menu offers both popular American-Chinese favorites and more traditional dishes for those wanting to explore beyond the usual options.

Their lo mein comes loaded with vegetables and your choice of protein, with noodles that have the right texture and aren’t swimming in grease. Fried rice arrives fluffy and flavorful, studded with egg, peas, and carrots that add color and taste.

The kung pao chicken delivers the proper balance of heat and savory notes, while sweeter options like orange chicken satisfy those craving that sticky glaze. Lunch specials provide exceptional value, often including an entree, fried rice, and an egg roll for under nine dollars.

Even dinner combinations rarely exceed fifteen dollars, and portions consistently provide enough food for two meals.

Service stays efficient and friendly, with staff who seem to genuinely appreciate customers choosing their restaurant. The kitchen works quickly without sacrificing quality, making this a great option when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait forever.

Takeout orders get packed carefully with everything you need, and the food travels well for those nights when eating at home sounds better than dining out.

It’s the kind of reliable neighborhood spot that becomes part of your regular rotation.