This Indiana Gem Serves Reubens That Might Make You Want to Drive There for Lunch

Walking into Shapiro’s Delicatessen feels like stepping back in time to when delis were family treasures and sandwiches were piled high with care. Located at 808 S Meridian St in Indianapolis, this kosher-style deli has been feeding hungry Hoosiers since 1905, making it one of the oldest continuously operating delis in the Midwest.

With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 7,000 reviews, Shapiro’s has built a reputation that stretches far beyond Indiana’s borders. The cafeteria-style setup might seem simple, but the food is anything but ordinary.

From towering Reubens stuffed with tender corned beef to matzo ball soup that tastes like grandma made it, every dish carries decades of tradition. Whether you’re a local looking for comfort food or a visitor searching for authentic deli fare, Shapiro’s delivers flavors worth the drive.

The restaurant opens at 10 AM on weekdays and 9 AM on weekends, staying open until 7:30 PM daily, giving you plenty of time to grab lunch or an early dinner. Prices are moderate, and portions are generous enough to share or save for later.

The Legendary Reuben Sandwich

Shapiro’s Reuben isn’t just a sandwich; it’s the reason people plan road trips to Indianapolis. Stacked high with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing, all pressed between slices of freshly baked rye bread, this creation has earned its place in deli history.

Customers rave about the balance of flavors, with the sauerkraut cutting through the richness of the meat perfectly.

One visitor from Chicago, a city known for its own deli culture, admitted that Shapiro’s Reuben rivaled anything they’d had back home. The New York-style preparation means the meat is sliced thin but piled generously, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Many reviewers mention that even though the sandwich costs over $20, the portion size justifies the price; most people can’t finish it in one sitting.

The cafeteria-style ordering means you can watch your sandwich being built right in front of you. The staff moves quickly, assembling each order with practiced precision.

If you’re worried about the size, Shapiro’s now offers a “Rebecca” version; a smaller sandwich with about half the meat at a lower price point.

Some reviews mention occasional dryness in the meat, but the majority of customers describe their Reuben as juicy and flavorful.

Over a Century of Delicatessen Tradition

Since 1905, Shapiro’s has been serving Indianapolis with the kind of dedication that only a family-run business can offer. Four generations of the Shapiro family have kept the deli running, maintaining recipes and standards that have stood the test of time.

Walking through the doors means joining a tradition that has fed thousands of families, celebrated countless milestones, and become woven into the fabric of Indianapolis culture.

The restaurant’s longevity speaks volumes about its quality and consistency. While many businesses come and go, Shapiro’s has remained a constant presence in the city for nearly 120 years.

This isn’t just about serving food; it’s about preserving a piece of American culinary heritage. The kosher-style preparation methods honor traditional Jewish deli practices, even as the menu has expanded to include options for all dietary preferences.

Customers who visited decades ago return with their children and grandchildren, sharing memories of past meals while creating new ones. One reviewer mentioned coming to Shapiro’s for 11 years, highlighting how the deli becomes a regular part of people’s lives.

The ownership takes pride in maintaining the standards that built their reputation, with Sally Shapiro personally responding to customer reviews and concerns.

The cafeteria-style service model has remained unchanged, giving the dining experience an authentic, old-school feel. There’s something comforting about moving through the line with your tray, watching your food being prepared, and choosing from the array of sides and desserts displayed before you.

This setup also allows for quick service, even during busy lunch rushes.

Cafeteria-Style Dining Experience

Shapiro’s operates on a cafeteria model that might surprise first-time visitors but quickly becomes part of the charm. You grab a tray at the entrance, move through the line, point to what you want, and watch as skilled staff members assemble your meal right before your eyes.

This setup creates an interactive experience that feels both nostalgic and efficient, reminiscent of school cafeterias but with infinitely better food.

The system allows you to see everything available before committing to your choices. Hot entrees steam in their serving trays, sandwiches get built to order at the counter, and desserts tempt from their display cases.

For indecisive diners, this visual menu makes decision-making easier; you can see exactly what you’re getting and how much of it.

During peak hours, especially around 12:30 PM, lines can stretch 40 people deep and sometimes extend out the door. However, reviewers consistently note that the line moves surprisingly fast.

The staff works with practiced efficiency, keeping things flowing smoothly even when the restaurant is packed. Most customers report waiting only about 20 minutes, even during the busiest times.

The cafeteria style also accommodates groups with different preferences beautifully. When dining with friends or family who have varying tastes or dietary needs, everyone can customize their order without slowing down the table.

One person can grab a Reuben while another chooses the fried chicken, and someone else can build a salad; all without the back-and-forth of traditional restaurant ordering.

Pastrami and Corned Beef That Rivals New York Delis

While the Reuben gets most of the attention, Shapiro’s pastrami and corned beef sandwiches deserve their own spotlight. These meats are mentioned in hundreds of customer reviews, with many comparing them favorably to famous New York City delis.

One reviewer boldly claimed they’d choose Shapiro’s pastrami over Katz’s Delicatessen, which is high praise considering Katz’s legendary status.

The pastrami arrives piled impossibly high, with a peppery herb crust that adds depth to every bite. The meat should be tender and flavorful, falling apart easily while still holding its seasoning.

Fresh rye bread from the in-house bakery provides the perfect vehicle, sturdy enough to support the generous portion but soft enough to bite through comfortably.

Corned beef gets similar treatment, with thick stacks of pink, tender meat that’s been brined and cooked to perfection. The traditional preparation methods ensure authentic flavor that deli purists appreciate.

Both meats can be ordered on various bread options, though rye remains the classic choice that most customers recommend.

However, quality can vary based on timing and preparation. Some reviews mention receiving dry or gristly meat, particularly with the pastrami.

When the meat sits too long or isn’t sliced fresh, it can develop a jerky-like texture that disappoints. Temperature matters too; these sandwiches should arrive hot, with the meat’s warmth slightly melting the bread and cheese.

Matzo Ball Soup and Traditional Sides

Beyond the famous sandwiches, Shapiro’s serves traditional Jewish deli sides that complete the authentic experience. The matzo ball soup appears in dozens of glowing reviews, with customers describing it as tasting like it came from a grandmother’s kitchen.

The broth is rich and comforting, while the matzo balls themselves are light and fluffy, not dense or heavy like some versions.

One visitor mentioned having the matzo ball soup every day during their Indianapolis weekend, which speaks to both its quality and addictive nature. The soup works perfectly as a starter before a sandwich or as a lighter meal option on its own.

During cold Indiana winters, this warm, soul-satisfying bowl becomes especially appealing.

Potato pancakes, also called latkes, earn frequent mentions in customer reviews. These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treats come with sour cream or applesauce for dipping.

Some reviewers note they needed extra salt, so don’t hesitate to season to taste. The potato cakes offer a similar experience with a slightly different preparation method.

Deviled eggs have developed their own following, with reviewers praising the creamy filling and perfect seasoning.

The mac and cheese receives mixed reviews; some customers love the creamy, cheesy preparation, while others find it too salty or oddly sweet. Cabbage appears as another traditional side option, served in portions so large that sharing is recommended.

Sweet potatoes get positive mentions for their flavor and preparation.

Incredible Bakery and Dessert Selection

Saving room for dessert at Shapiro’s isn’t optional; it’s essential. The bakery case displays an overwhelming array of cakes, pies, cookies, and pastries that could justify a visit on their own.

Customers consistently describe the desserts as phenomenal, with some calling them the highlight of their meal. The variety ensures something for every sweet tooth, from fruit pies to chocolate decadence.

Key lime pie gets special mention from reviewers who describe it as fantastic, with the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The graham cracker crust provides textural contrast to the smooth, creamy filling.

Strawberry cheesecake appears in positive reviews as well, praised for its rich, indulgent flavor and quality ingredients.

German chocolate cake shows up in the popular topics, indicating it’s a customer favorite worth trying. The crème brûlée bar earned a rave review from someone who was otherwise disappointed with their sandwich; they called it phenomenal and the saving grace of their visit.

That’s powerful testimony to the bakery’s quality.

Cookies come in various flavors and styles, perfect for taking home or enjoying with coffee after your meal. The bakery items are baked fresh, maintaining the same quality standards as the deli meats and prepared foods.

Some customers visit specifically for the desserts, skipping the main meal entirely.

The carry-out bakery operates separately from the main cafeteria line, allowing you to purchase desserts without going through the full meal service. This makes it convenient to grab treats for later or bring something home to family members.

Perfect Location Near Downtown Indianapolis Attractions

Shapiro’s sits at 808 S Meridian St, just blocks from major Indianapolis attractions, making it an ideal stop before or after exploring the city. The location puts you within easy walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.

Several reviewers mention eating at Shapiro’s before football games, appreciating the quick service that gets them fed and to the stadium on time.

The proximity to downtown hotels makes Shapiro’s convenient for visitors staying in the area. One couple staying at the nearby TownePlace Marriott ate at Shapiro’s twice during their weekend visit, drawn by both the convenience and quality.

For tourists, having a legendary restaurant steps from their hotel eliminates transportation hassles and allows more time for sightseeing.

Parking availability is a significant advantage for a downtown restaurant. Shapiro’s has its own parking lot, which reviewers specifically mention as a relief in an area where parking can be challenging.

This makes driving there for lunch feasible, even during busy weekday hours when street parking fills up quickly.

The restaurant opens at 9 AM on weekends and 10 AM on weekdays, staying open until 7:30 PM daily. This schedule accommodates various meal times, from late breakfast to early dinner.

Weekend breakfast service has become popular, with customers praising options like the Uncle Max omelet and lox plates. The breakfast menu expands Shapiro’s appeal beyond lunch and dinner.

For visitors planning Indianapolis itineraries, Shapiro’s can anchor a downtown day. Eat lunch at the deli, then walk to nearby attractions like the Indiana State Museum, White River State Park, or the Canal Walk.