This Indiana Spot Is Obsessed With Latin Small Plates, and Locals Love It

Indianapolis has become a hotspot for adventurous eaters seeking bold flavors and creative dishes. One restaurant stands out among the crowd with its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering menu.

Livery at 720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202 has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its modern take on Latin American cuisine. This stylish bi-level spot features an all-season rooftop patio and a menu packed with shareable small plates that keep people coming back for more.

From perfectly seasoned skirt steak to inventive cauliflower dishes, every bite tells a story of culinary passion and attention to detail. The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service has earned it an impressive 4.7-star rating from thousands of happy diners.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something delicious, Livery delivers an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the best of Latin-inspired cooking in the heart of Indiana’s capital city.

The Legendary Skirt Steak That Has Everyone Talking

Walk into Livery and ask any regular what to order, and you’ll hear the same answer over and over: the skirt steak. This signature dish has earned a cult following among Indianapolis diners who can’t stop raving about its tender texture and bold flavors.

Cooked to perfection at medium-rare, the steak arrives at your table beautifully plated with complementary sides that elevate the entire experience. The seasoning strikes that perfect balance between bold and nuanced, allowing the quality of the meat to shine through while adding layers of Latin-inspired spice.

What makes this dish truly special is the attention to detail in every component. The manchego-polenta fry adds a creamy, crispy element that contrasts beautifully with the meat’s rich texture.

Fresh broccolini provides a slight bitterness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious plate that feels both indulgent and balanced.

Diners consistently describe the steak as melting in their mouths, with one reviewer calling it one of the best steaks they’ve ever tasted. The chef’s ability to combine traditional Latin flavors with modern cooking techniques results in something memorable.

Even people who claim they’re not particularly impressed by steaks find themselves won over by Livery’s version. The generous portion size means you’re getting real value for your money, and the presentation makes it feel like a special occasion every time.

Whether you’re visiting after a Colts game or celebrating a milestone birthday, this skirt steak delivers satisfaction on every level. It’s the kind of dish that inspires people to drive 30 minutes just to taste it again, and it rarely disappoints even the most discerning food lovers.

Empanadas That Showcase Creative Flavor Combinations

Empanadas at Livery aren’t just appetizers; they’re miniature flavor explosions that demonstrate the kitchen’s creative approach to Latin classics. The restaurant offers an impressive variety, from traditional beef and chorizo to unexpected options like lamb and corn.

Each empanada arrives perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, with fillings that have been carefully seasoned to create memorable taste experiences. The lamb empanada has earned particular praise from regulars who call it the GOAT (greatest of all time), featuring tender meat with deep, savory flavors that linger pleasantly on your palate.

For those who prefer something different, the corn empanada offers a lightly sweet and creamy filling that surprises first-time visitors. The queso version delivers rich, melty comfort food perfection, while the chorizo brings bold, smoky notes with just the right amount of kick.

The giant empanada platter has become a popular choice for groups who want to sample multiple varieties in one sitting. Diners love sharing these handheld treasures, debating which flavor reigns supreme while discovering new favorites with each bite.

What sets Livery’s empanadas apart is the consistency in execution. They arrive piping hot with perfectly balanced seasoning and texture, showing the kitchen’s commitment to quality.

The accompanying sauces and dips have been thoughtfully paired to complement each variety without overpowering the main flavors.

First-timers often express surprise at how much they enjoy these seemingly simple items. The careful attention to ingredient quality and cooking technique transforms a common Latin dish into something that keeps people ordering them visit after visit.

The Stunning Rooftop Patio Experience

Climbing the stairs to Livery’s rooftop patio feels like discovering a hidden urban oasis in the middle of Indianapolis. This all-season outdoor space has become one of the restaurant’s most beloved features, offering diners a chance to enjoy their meals under the open sky.

The patio’s design strikes a perfect balance between stylish and comfortable, with thoughtful spacing between tables that allows for intimate conversations without feeling cramped. Whether you’re visiting during warm summer evenings or crisp fall afternoons, the space adapts beautifully to create an inviting atmosphere.

Natural light floods the area during daytime visits, making it an ideal spot for weekend brunches or late lunches. As evening approaches, the ambiance transforms with carefully placed lighting that creates a romantic, vibrant mood perfect for date nights or celebrations with friends.

The all-season designation means you can enjoy this space more often than typical outdoor dining areas. Heating elements and strategic design choices extend the usability well beyond traditional patio season, giving Indianapolis diners more opportunities to experience meals al fresco.

Guests consistently mention the rooftop as a highlight of their visit, appreciating how it elevates the entire dining experience. The combination of fresh air, city views, and excellent food creates memorable moments that standard restaurant seating simply can’t match.

For special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, requesting rooftop seating adds an extra layer of celebration to your meal. The space manages to feel both energetic and relaxed simultaneously, accommodating various dining moods and group sizes with equal grace.

Inventive Cauliflower That Converts Vegetable Skeptics

Among all the menu items at Livery, the cauliflower appetizer stands out as something truly special. This isn’t your average roasted vegetable dish; it’s a creative masterpiece that combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements into one unforgettable plate.

The preparation showcases the kitchen’s innovative approach to plant-based dishes. Cauliflower florets receive careful attention, resulting in caramelized edges and tender centers that provide multiple textural experiences in every bite.

Crunchy pepita seeds scattered throughout add another dimension, creating satisfying contrasts.

Even dedicated meat-eaters find themselves impressed by this vegetarian option. The complex flavor profile keeps your taste buds engaged, moving between different sensations as you work through the dish.

It’s the kind of preparation that makes you reconsider what vegetables can be when given proper attention and creativity.

Diners who order the complete vegetarian menu often cite the cauliflower as their favorite, praising how each component works together harmoniously. The dish demonstrates that Latin-inspired cuisine can shine without relying solely on meat-based proteins.

Some guests have noted that smaller cuts might improve the dish further, allowing seasonings to penetrate more evenly throughout. However, this minor observation doesn’t diminish the overall impact of what arrives at your table.

The presentation alone makes it Instagram-worthy, with colors and textures arranged artfully on the plate.

For groups dining together, ordering this as a shared appetizer often leads to friendly competition over the last few bites. It’s become such a signature item that many regulars automatically include it in their orders, treating it as a non-negotiable part of the Livery experience.

Exceptional Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Outstanding food can only take a restaurant so far; exceptional service transforms a good meal into a memorable experience. Livery’s staff has earned countless mentions in reviews, with servers like Josh, Chuck, Hannah, and Erika receiving specific praise for their professionalism and warmth.

From the moment you’re greeted by friendly hostesses, you sense that this establishment values hospitality as much as culinary excellence. The team’s knowledge of the menu impresses even seasoned diners, with staff members confidently explaining dishes and offering personalized recommendations based on your preferences.

Servers demonstrate genuine attentiveness without being intrusive, striking that difficult balance between being available when needed and allowing diners space to enjoy their meals. They notice when glasses need refilling, when you’re ready for the next course, and when you simply want to savor the moment.

What truly sets the service apart is the personal touch staff members bring to interactions. They remember dietary restrictions, engage in pleasant conversation, and make each table feel like their top priority.

Manager Charbel has been specifically mentioned for creating warm, welcoming experiences that extend beyond basic service expectations.

The complimentary chicharrones (including vegan options) offered at the start of meals exemplify the restaurant’s generous spirit. These small gestures show appreciation for guests and set a positive tone for the entire dining experience.

Even during busy periods when the restaurant is packed, the team maintains high standards. Efficient coordination between front-of-house and kitchen staff ensures smooth service flow, minimizing wait times while maintaining food quality.

This level of professionalism explains why so many reviewers specifically request their favorite servers on return visits.

Paella That Brings Traditional Flavors to Indianapolis

Authentic paella can be challenging to find in the Midwest, making Livery’s version a noteworthy addition to Indianapolis’s dining scene. This classic Spanish dish receives careful preparation that honors traditional methods while incorporating the restaurant’s signature flair.

The seafood paella arrives in a generous portion, loaded with fresh ingredients that showcase the kitchen’s commitment to quality. Perfectly cooked scallops often steal the show, with their tender texture and sweet flavor complementing the saffron-infused rice beautifully.

Each component of the dish receives individual attention before coming together in the final presentation. The rice achieves that ideal texture, neither too dry nor too wet, with the coveted socarrat (crispy bottom layer) that paella enthusiasts seek.

Seafood elements are timed precisely to avoid overcooking, ensuring everything arrives at your table in peak condition.

While some diners note the dish leans toward the spicier side, this reflects Livery’s bold approach to Latin flavors. Those who prefer milder preparations can request adjustments, and the kitchen accommodates these preferences willingly.

The paella works wonderfully as a shared entree for couples or small groups, encouraging communal dining that fits perfectly with the restaurant’s small plates philosophy. Portions are substantial enough to satisfy without leaving you uncomfortably full, leaving room to explore other menu offerings or desserts.

For guests seeking something beyond the frequently ordered skirt steak, the paella offers an equally impressive alternative. It demonstrates the kitchen’s versatility and ability to execute complex dishes that require precise timing and technique to achieve restaurant-quality results.

Indianapolis has become a hotspot for adventurous eaters seeking bold flavors and creative dishes. One restaurant stands out among the crowd with its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering menu.

Livery at 720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202 has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its modern take on Latin American cuisine. This stylish bi-level spot features an all-season rooftop patio and a menu packed with shareable small plates that keep people coming back for more.

From perfectly seasoned skirt steak to inventive cauliflower dishes, every bite tells a story of culinary passion and attention to detail. The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service has earned it an impressive 4.7-star rating from thousands of happy diners.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something delicious, Livery delivers an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the best of Latin-inspired cooking in the heart of Indiana’s capital city.

The Legendary Skirt Steak That Has Everyone Talking

Walk into Livery and ask any regular what to order, and you’ll hear the same answer over and over: the skirt steak. This signature dish has earned a cult following among Indianapolis diners who can’t stop raving about its tender texture and bold flavors.

Cooked to perfection at medium-rare, the steak arrives at your table beautifully plated with complementary sides that elevate the entire experience. The seasoning strikes that perfect balance between bold and nuanced, allowing the quality of the meat to shine through while adding layers of Latin-inspired spice.

What makes this dish truly special is the attention to detail in every component. The manchego-polenta fry adds a creamy, crispy element that contrasts beautifully with the meat’s rich texture.

Fresh broccolini provides a slight bitterness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious plate that feels both indulgent and balanced.

Diners consistently describe the steak as melting in their mouths, with one reviewer calling it one of the best steaks they’ve ever tasted. The chef’s ability to combine traditional Latin flavors with modern cooking techniques results in something memorable.

Even people who claim they’re not particularly impressed by steaks find themselves won over by Livery’s version. The generous portion size means you’re getting real value for your money, and the presentation makes it feel like a special occasion every time.

Whether you’re visiting after a Colts game or celebrating a milestone birthday, this skirt steak delivers satisfaction on every level. It’s the kind of dish that inspires people to drive 30 minutes just to taste it again, and it rarely disappoints even the most discerning food lovers.

Empanadas That Showcase Creative Flavor Combinations

Empanadas at Livery aren’t just appetizers; they’re miniature flavor explosions that demonstrate the kitchen’s creative approach to Latin classics. The restaurant offers an impressive variety, from traditional beef and chorizo to unexpected options like lamb and corn.

Each empanada arrives perfectly golden and crispy on the outside, with fillings that have been carefully seasoned to create memorable taste experiences. The lamb empanada has earned particular praise from regulars who call it the GOAT (greatest of all time), featuring tender meat with deep, savory flavors that linger pleasantly on your palate.

For those who prefer something different, the corn empanada offers a lightly sweet and creamy filling that surprises first-time visitors. The queso version delivers rich, melty comfort food perfection, while the chorizo brings bold, smoky notes with just the right amount of kick.

The giant empanada platter has become a popular choice for groups who want to sample multiple varieties in one sitting. Diners love sharing these handheld treasures, debating which flavor reigns supreme while discovering new favorites with each bite.

What sets Livery’s empanadas apart is the consistency in execution. They arrive piping hot with perfectly balanced seasoning and texture, showing the kitchen’s commitment to quality.

The accompanying sauces and dips have been thoughtfully paired to complement each variety without overpowering the main flavors.

First-timers often express surprise at how much they enjoy these seemingly simple items. The careful attention to ingredient quality and cooking technique transforms a common Latin dish into something that keeps people ordering them visit after visit.

The Stunning Rooftop Patio Experience

Climbing the stairs to Livery’s rooftop patio feels like discovering a hidden urban oasis in the middle of Indianapolis. This all-season outdoor space has become one of the restaurant’s most beloved features, offering diners a chance to enjoy their meals under the open sky.

The patio’s design strikes a perfect balance between stylish and comfortable, with thoughtful spacing between tables that allows for intimate conversations without feeling cramped. Whether you’re visiting during warm summer evenings or crisp fall afternoons, the space adapts beautifully to create an inviting atmosphere.

Natural light floods the area during daytime visits, making it an ideal spot for weekend brunches or late lunches. As evening approaches, the ambiance transforms with carefully placed lighting that creates a romantic, vibrant mood perfect for date nights or celebrations with friends.

The all-season designation means you can enjoy this space more often than typical outdoor dining areas. Heating elements and strategic design choices extend the usability well beyond traditional patio season, giving Indianapolis diners more opportunities to experience meals al fresco.

Guests consistently mention the rooftop as a highlight of their visit, appreciating how it elevates the entire dining experience. The combination of fresh air, city views, and excellent food creates memorable moments that standard restaurant seating simply can’t match.

For special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, requesting rooftop seating adds an extra layer of celebration to your meal. The space manages to feel both energetic and relaxed simultaneously, accommodating various dining moods and group sizes with equal grace.

Inventive Cauliflower That Converts Vegetable Skeptics

Among all the menu items at Livery, the cauliflower appetizer stands out as something truly special. This isn’t your average roasted vegetable dish; it’s a creative masterpiece that combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements into one unforgettable plate.

The preparation showcases the kitchen’s innovative approach to plant-based dishes. Cauliflower florets receive careful attention, resulting in caramelized edges and tender centers that provide multiple textural experiences in every bite.

Crunchy pepita seeds scattered throughout add another dimension, creating satisfying contrasts.

Even dedicated meat-eaters find themselves impressed by this vegetarian option. The complex flavor profile keeps your taste buds engaged, moving between different sensations as you work through the dish.

It’s the kind of preparation that makes you reconsider what vegetables can be when given proper attention and creativity.

Diners who order the complete vegetarian menu often cite the cauliflower as their favorite, praising how each component works together harmoniously. The dish demonstrates that Latin-inspired cuisine can shine without relying solely on meat-based proteins.

Some guests have noted that smaller cuts might improve the dish further, allowing seasonings to penetrate more evenly throughout. However, this minor observation doesn’t diminish the overall impact of what arrives at your table.

The presentation alone makes it Instagram-worthy, with colors and textures arranged artfully on the plate.

For groups dining together, ordering this as a shared appetizer often leads to friendly competition over the last few bites. It’s become such a signature item that many regulars automatically include it in their orders, treating it as a non-negotiable part of the Livery experience.

Exceptional Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Outstanding food can only take a restaurant so far; exceptional service transforms a good meal into a memorable experience. Livery’s staff has earned countless mentions in reviews, with servers like Josh, Chuck, Hannah, and Erika receiving specific praise for their professionalism and warmth.

From the moment you’re greeted by friendly hostesses, you sense that this establishment values hospitality as much as culinary excellence. The team’s knowledge of the menu impresses even seasoned diners, with staff members confidently explaining dishes and offering personalized recommendations based on your preferences.

Servers demonstrate genuine attentiveness without being intrusive, striking that difficult balance between being available when needed and allowing diners space to enjoy their meals. They notice when glasses need refilling, when you’re ready for the next course, and when you simply want to savor the moment.

What truly sets the service apart is the personal touch staff members bring to interactions. They remember dietary restrictions, engage in pleasant conversation, and make each table feel like their top priority.

Manager Charbel has been specifically mentioned for creating warm, welcoming experiences that extend beyond basic service expectations.

The complimentary chicharrones (including vegan options) offered at the start of meals exemplify the restaurant’s generous spirit. These small gestures show appreciation for guests and set a positive tone for the entire dining experience.

Even during busy periods when the restaurant is packed, the team maintains high standards. Efficient coordination between front-of-house and kitchen staff ensures smooth service flow, minimizing wait times while maintaining food quality.

This level of professionalism explains why so many reviewers specifically request their favorite servers on return visits.

Paella That Brings Traditional Flavors to Indianapolis

Authentic paella can be challenging to find in the Midwest, making Livery’s version a noteworthy addition to Indianapolis’s dining scene. This classic Spanish dish receives careful preparation that honors traditional methods while incorporating the restaurant’s signature flair.

The seafood paella arrives in a generous portion, loaded with fresh ingredients that showcase the kitchen’s commitment to quality. Perfectly cooked scallops often steal the show, with their tender texture and sweet flavor complementing the saffron-infused rice beautifully.

Each component of the dish receives individual attention before coming together in the final presentation. The rice achieves that ideal texture, neither too dry nor too wet, with the coveted socarrat (crispy bottom layer) that paella enthusiasts seek.

Seafood elements are timed precisely to avoid overcooking, ensuring everything arrives at your table in peak condition.

While some diners note the dish leans toward the spicier side, this reflects Livery’s bold approach to Latin flavors. Those who prefer milder preparations can request adjustments, and the kitchen accommodates these preferences willingly.

The paella works wonderfully as a shared entree for couples or small groups, encouraging communal dining that fits perfectly with the restaurant’s small plates philosophy. Portions are substantial enough to satisfy without leaving you uncomfortably full, leaving room to explore other menu offerings or desserts.

For guests seeking something beyond the frequently ordered skirt steak, the paella offers an equally impressive alternative. It demonstrates the kitchen’s versatility and ability to execute complex dishes that require precise timing and technique to achieve restaurant-quality results.