Here at the University of Indianapolis, the off-campus eating options are seemingly endless. There are some days (every day) when the dining hall seems like the most repulsive place to dine in the entire world. While Streets can occasionally be a better alternative, it's still extremely hit or miss. This past year at UIndy, I took full advantage of all of the absolute dives that are located closest to campus, and they remain my favorite restaurants in existence.
Whether you are going out to eat with friends, your significant other, or even by yourself (so guilty) -- here are some of the best places around UIndy to bring your business.
1. EggRoll King
My boyfriend and I are unconventional in every sense of the term, and we pride ourselves on it. I can't count on my fingers and toes how many times people have referred to us as "weird." So, naturally, I suggested that we go to EggRoll King for our first real date. It is the best Chinese food in all the land located in the middle of the ghetto. The neon sign hardly ever works, and the cuisine is served on paper plates with plastic utensils. Nevertheless, they have out of this General Tso's chicken, crazy large portions, all for an abnormally cheap cost. Such a score.
2. Joe's Shelby Street Diner
I. Love. The. Diner.
From the exterior, it doesn't look like much. But it is literally everything. If you're having a hankering for any kind of juicy, fried, American food--this is your place. Each time I have visited, I have made an effort to order something different, and everything that I have put in my mouth has been purely magnificent. This is not to mention the incredible employees! One morning when I was really craving some biscuits and gravy that were not made from dining hall mystery meat, I went to Shelby Street by myself... and the waitress bought my breakfast. How's that for hospitality!
3. Enzo's Pizza
Enzo's, I discovered, is actually a chain restaurant. When I went for my first Enzo's experience, my friend said to expect "mall pizza." I had zero idea what he meant by that, but I went with it. I order a number two at the counter, a slice of pizza and two breadsticks - and I didn't anticipate much. I was very, very wrong. If you're ever looking for pizza on campus, go to Enzo's immediately. You will be amazed, and you can thank me later.
Long story short, if you pull up to a restaurant near UIndy and question your sanity -- know that is is going to be so worth it. Just call me Guy Fieri.
