You probably think you’ve seen it all, don’t you? I did too. Bloomington is the perfect little college town plopped down right in the middle of this rural, Midwestern state. There isn’t much to explore beyond Bloomington; once you leave the perimeters, you pretty much aren’t finding anything besides corn fields until Indy.
If you are anything like me, you probably think you know your way around Bloomington’s food scene, and have already established what are all the best places to eat. Just when you are starting to think you’ve seen everything this place has to offer, think again.
Through a few years of strategic exploring, I have found that there are some hidden gems in this town that the vast majority of students have probably never even known to exist:
Feast Catering
Photo by Carly Meskin
First and foremost, from past experience I can say that any restaurant with the word “catering” in it is sure to please. Feast is a tiny little restaurant, bakery and café all in one. They make killer gourmet burgers, amazingly complex baked goods and they offer a delectable Sunday brunch.
But don’t leave Feast without trying one of their tamales. They have a daily tamale menu with different variations for each day. This place is as good as it gets, the quality is top notch and the food speaks for itself. One time here, and Feast will be your new favorite place to eat in Bloomington.
Sweet Grass
Photo by Carly Meskin
Located in an area that I deem relatively untouched by most of IU’s student population, this place is worth the slightly confusing journey to get there. Once you find your way here, you won’t be sorry. Sweet Grass has a great vibe: quaint, upbeat and full of happy customers. Their beer selection is ample and their daily drink specials are the best bargain in town.
Don’t worry, the food is the main attraction. Sweet Grass has a diverse menu with a Southern twist, and there is something for everyone. Their fish tacos and Fried Green Tomato BLT never disappoint, and the Pimento Mac and cheese will leave you wanting more. Once you visit Sweet Grass, you are going to wish you knew about it sooner.
Quaff On
Photo by Carly Meskin
I know you have been on Kirkwood, but have you ever ventured onto the streets off of it? A few blocks up from the Sample Gates and then a right onto Grant Street and you will find yourself at this newly craft beer tap house and eatery.
This place boasts 24 options of beers on tap, some of which are made at the pub’s own brewery in Nashville, IN. There is also a diverse menu offering everything from tacos and burgers to pizzas and soups. I must warn you, however, that it is incredibly difficult to choose what to order from this exciting menu.
You will also be happy to know that the restaurant’s name is explained inside, painted on the wall above the bar. So, you can put that debate with your friends to rest.
Wee Willie’s
Photo by Carly Meskin
This place is a dive, simply put. Only open daily until 3pm, this is the ultimate, greasy, breakfast mecca of an establishment. Wee Willie’s will be your new fool-proof hangover cure after a night of drinking. You just can’t go wrong with a plate of bacon, eggs, pancakes and hash browns.
Next time you are in need of that quintessential diner-style breakfast, whether it is to bring you back to sobriety or simply fulfill a craving, Wee Willie’s in Bloomington is the best.
Looking for more great Bloomington restaurants? Check out Bloomington’s best below: