Bloomington is known to be a popular college town with lots of diversity and lively night life. There is always something to do in Bloomington. If you're 21 and over Kilroy's and Dunnkirk are the best place to be. If you love Indiana University, there are tons of Indiana shops to represent the school and the sports team. If you love to shop, local boutiques and even national chain stores are everywhere to be found in Bloomington. And if you love to eat you will never run out of places to try and you'll never be hitting up the same place more than once. Actually, that's a lie because the places are so good once is never enough.
1. Mother Bears
This is number one, because what is not to love about pizza and bread sticks? What's also cool is that you can write all over the booths and walls to decorate and prove you were there. And it's recognizable by its log cabin look. Mother Bear's is truly a tradition at IU.
2. Nick's English Hut
If you love bar food with a heavy dose of IU spirit, then Nick's is the best place to be. My favorite thing is that the drinks come in mason jars and their menu is not pricey at all.
3. BuffaLouie's
They are known for great wings with a huge focus on Indiana University and all the Hoosier pride that comes with it. The wings are the best thing in on the menu and their totally affordable.
4. Red Chopsticks
A Japanese restaurant that serves great sushi and an atmosphere that feels a lot like Japan. Their Crazy Dragon Roll is pretty good and you get a lot for only $15.
5. Runcible Spoon
A cafe that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all day and is uniquely decorated with a homey vibe. Their breakfast is served all day and you should definitely get their pancakes. They aren't terrible in price, it just depends what you get.
6. B-Town Diner
A locally owned place with fresh food, nice prices and friendly customer service and open 24 HOURS! I love their fruit bowl. You get so much fresh fruit less than $3 dollars! Everything is reasonable.
7. Yogi's Grill and Bar
They pride themselves in being a place that has 50+ beers on tap. If you're twenty-fun then this is a great place for you to enjoy some diverse beer but also offers fun trivia nights and TVs to catch all the coverage of the local sporting events. It is not the cheapest place to eat in Bloomington but definitely worth it.
8. Dats
A fresh take on Cajun food in a nice environment where lots of college kids love to grab a quick bite to eat. The bourbon chicken stew is a widely popular dish and you get a lot for your money.
9. The Laughing Planet
A new take on Mexican burritos, salads and bowls that is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to eat healthy and a stay on a budget. They are known for their awesome, healthy burritos, however it won't be a big money saver.
10. Hartzell's Ice Cream
This isn't really a restaurant but I feel like you can't go to Bloomington without some awesome ice cream with a variety of flavors! My personal favorite is their s'more milkshake and don't worry about the price because you get A LOT and it's totally worth it.
11. Darn Good Soup
If you're a vegetarian you might like this place in particular and it is great for anyone on a budget. The tortilla soup is a popular one and the prices are totally affordable.
12. Chocolate Moose
Once again not quite a restaurant but it's totally acceptable to have ice cream for dinner. A classic vanilla ice cream cone is delicious and you're giving money to a local business--what could be better?
13. Baked of Bloomington
You might not sit down and order a burger off the menu but this is a hot spot and tradition of B-town that will be worth every warm and tasty bite. You might have to wait two hours for a delivery but I seriously recommend trying a sugar cookie with Oreos baked in and chocolate frosting--my friend suggested it and I am so happy he did. It's all I get now!
Next time you need something to eat and can't think of where, just think of these few places and hopefully you'll have a stomach full of food in no time.