Indiana is a land of proud food traditions — we’re home to legendary steakhouses, amazing breweries, classic diners, and much, much more.
But here at the Holcomb Crew, there’s one Hoosier food tradition that stands above the rest.
The Indiana pork tenderloin.
You know, the delicious, fried sandwich that’s frequently the size of your head (with a normal sized bun, of course).
In fact, there’s probably no Hoosier who loves a good breaded pork tenderloin more than Governor Holcomb. He’s got this list of his favorite places to enjoy this classic Hoosier meal — and as we’re getting back out safely to our favorite restaurants again, he wanted us to share it with you.
It’s a long list (like we said, he really loves pork tenderloins), so get ready for this mouth-watering tour across our state.
- Edwards Drive In, Indianapolis – Originally opened as a Dog’n Suds drive-in, Edwards has been serving their famous tenderloin since August 10, 1957. It’s a true Hoosier tradition and an absolute must-try — don’t forget to order a side of their hand-dipped onion rings!
- Mr. Dave’s, North Manchester – Mr. Dave’s has been a North Manchester institution since 1962. From a tenderloin to broasted chicken, you won’t leave hungry.
- Nick’s English Hut, Bloomington – What a great American story. Founded by Nick Hrisomalos, a Greek immigrant and entrepreneur with only a third-grade education, IU students have been stopping by to get their tenderloin since 1927!
- Nick’s Kitchen, Huntington – This classic joint has been around since 1908, with a claim to fame as the home of the original pork tenderloin. But they’ve also got some fantastic homemade pies and hand-dipped shakes.
- Ray’s Drive In, Kokomo – They claim to be home to Indiana’s largest tenderloin!
- The Friendly Tavern, Zionsville – It’s all in the name — their tagline is “You are a stranger here but once.” They serve up world-class hospitality alongside their world-class Hoosier tenderloins.
- The Aristocrat, Broad Ripple – The first restaurant to ever offer patio seating in Indy, you can wash down one of their amazing tenderloins with one of the 60 delicious draft beers they have on tap!
- The Overlook Restaurant, Leavenworth – The only thing better than the view at the Overlook? The food, of course. Enjoy a tenderloin when overlooking the gorgeous Ohio River.
- Triple XXX Family Restaurant, West Lafayette – Famous for their root beer — the perfect drink to wash down your tenderloin!
- Slippery Noodle Inn, Indianapolis – The Yeagy family has been serving up delicious food and drinks for 50 years at Indiana’s oldest bar (it was originally founded in 1850!). Stop by for some live music (socially distanced, of course), and try out their jumbo tenderloin.
- Loughmillers, Indianapolis – Come for the great historic theme and location (just across the street from the Statehouse!), stay for the great food.
- Mug N’ Bun Drive In, Indianapolis – The Mug N’ Bun had social distancing down before it was cool. This Indy West Side drive-in is a great place to grab some root beer and enjoy a tenderloin from your car!
- Workingman’s Friend, Indianapolis – Another great Indy joint, there’s no better place to chow down after a hard day’s work.
- Storie’s, Greensburg – Serving homemade Indiana delicacies since 1977, Storie’s is a small-town gem.
- Crossroads Family Restaurant, Versailles – They really do treat every customer like they are a part of their family. Come on down to Versailles and get a classic hand-tenderized pork tenderloin.
That’s our list for this week. Thank you for reading.
-Your Holcomb Crew