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Top 5 Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

If you’re looking for a great lunch spot in Indianapolis, you can be sure to find something to suit your taste at any of these top five deli restaurants in Indianapolis. Stop in to one of these deli restaurants and explore all the deliciousness the city has to offer!

Indianapolis is home to some of the best delis in the world. From traditional deli favorites like pastrami and corned beef to creative new menu items, each of the five delis on our list offers something unique and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a classic deli sandwich or a unique twist, these five restaurants in Indianapolis can help you get your deli fix.

1. Shapiro’s Delicatessen – This is one of the most popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, with a long history dating back to 1905. Shapiro’s is famous for its New York-style sandwiches, soups, and bakery items. The restaurant also has a friendly atmosphere, and their portions are generous, making it a go-to spot for many locals and visitors.

2. Fat Dan’s Deli – This is another one of the popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis that has won several awards for its sandwiches. The restaurant is known for its smoked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. They also have vegetarian options and a vast selection of craft beers, making it an excellent place for foodies and beer lovers.

3. Goose The Market – This is one of the top popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, located in the historic neighborhood of Fall Creek Place. Goose the Market is known for its artisanal meats, cheeses, and sandwiches. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and customers can also purchase gourmet food items to take home.

4. Harold’s Chicken Shack – This is among the top popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis that has been serving the city for over 70 years. Harold’s is famous for its fried chicken, which is seasoned with a secret blend of spices. They also have a range of sides, including fries, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. The restaurant has a fast-food vibe, and customers can choose to eat in or take their food to go.

5. Kincaid’s Meat Market – This is one of the top popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis that specializes in fresh meats, sausages, and smoked items. Kincaid’s is known for its artisanal approach to food, and they use only the best ingredients in their dishes. The restaurant has a friendly atmosphere, and customers can also purchase meat to take home and cook themselves.

Top 5 Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

1. Shapiro's Delicatessen - Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

Shapiro’s Delicatessen

Address: 808 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, United States
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8 am-8 pm, Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Phone Number: (317) 631-4041

Shapiro’s Delicatessen, one of the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, is a classic Jewish delicatessen. The restaurant has a cozy and charming interior with checkered floors and classic deli-style tables and chairs. The walls are adorned with black and white photographs of celebrities who have dined at the restaurant over the years. The restaurant’s signature food is the hot pastrami sandwich, which is piled high with tender, juicy pastrami, served on rye bread, and topped with mustard. The restaurant is also known for their corned beef and roast beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and homemade cheesecake.

One of the unique aspects of Shapiro’s Delicatessen is that they make all their meats in-house, using old-world recipes that have been passed down for generations. They also offer catering services for special events and corporate meetings.

Five Main Menu Items

Hot Pastrami Sandwich: Tender, juicy pastrami served on rye bread, topped with mustard.

Corned Beef Sandwich: Tender, slow-cooked corned beef served on rye bread, topped with mustard.

Matzo Ball Soup: Traditional Jewish soup made with chicken broth, matzo balls, and vegetables.

Reuben Sandwich: Grilled corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing served on rye bread.

Homemade Cheesecake: A rich and creamy cheesecake made from scratch, served with a graham cracker crust.

The restaurant’s service is friendly and efficient. Customers can either order at the counter or sit down and be served by a waiter or waitress. The restaurant is busy during peak hours, but the staff is always working hard to ensure that customers are served quickly and efficiently.

Customer Reviews

“I had the hot pastrami sandwich and it was amazing! The meat was tender and juicy, and the bread was perfectly toasted. The service was fast and friendly too.”

“The matzo ball soup was just like my grandma used to make. It was delicious and comforting on a cold day.”

“I had the Reuben sandwich and it was fantastic! The corned beef was perfectly cooked and the sauerkraut added a nice tangy flavor. The service was excellent too.”

Overall, Shapiro’s Delicatessen is a must-visit for anyone looking for a classic Jewish deli experience in Indianapolis. The restaurant’s homemade meats and traditional recipes are sure to please any customer. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make for a delightful dining experience. Shapiro’s Delicatessen ranks amid the top 5 Deli restaurants in Indianapolis for good reasons.


2. Fat Dan's Deli - Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

Fat Dan’s Deli

Address: 410 E Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Phone Number: (317) 600-3333

Fat Dan’s Deli, one of the most popular Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, is a casual, counter-service restaurant located in downtown Indianapolis. The restaurant specializes in classic deli sandwiches, as well as barbecue dishes. The interior of the restaurant is decorated with vintage signs and posters, giving it a laid-back, retro feel. The restaurant’s signature food is the “Fat Dan” sandwich, which is a heaping combination of corned beef, pastrami, turkey, and Swiss cheese, served on rye bread.

One of the unique aspects of Fat Dan’s Deli is their focus on barbecue, in addition to traditional deli fare. They offer a variety of smoked meats, such as brisket and pulled pork, as well as barbecue sauce made in-house.

Five Main Menu Items

“Fat Dan” Sandwich: A combination of corned beef, pastrami, turkey, and Swiss cheese, served on rye bread.

BBQ Brisket Sandwich: Slow-smoked brisket, topped with barbecue sauce and served on a brioche bun.

Reuben Sandwich: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing served on rye bread.

Smoked Chicken Wings: Juicy chicken wings, smoked in-house and served with a variety of sauces.

BBQ Pork Plate: Tender pulled pork, smoked in-house and served with sides such as mac and cheese and coleslaw.

The restaurant’s service is friendly and efficient. Customers can either order at the counter or online for pickup or delivery. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations for first-time visitors.

Customer Reviews

“I had the Fat Dan sandwich and it was huge! Definitely enough for two meals. The meats were all delicious and the rye bread was fresh.”

“The BBQ brisket sandwich was incredible. The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender and the barbecue sauce had just the right amount of tanginess.”

“I ordered the smoked chicken wings for takeout and they were still hot and juicy when I got home. The buffalo sauce was spicy and flavorful.”

Overall, Fat Dan’s Deli is a great spot for anyone looking for a hearty, filling meal in downtown Indianapolis. The combination of classic deli sandwiches and barbecue dishes makes for a unique menu, and the friendly service and laid-back atmosphere make for a comfortable dining experience. Fat Dan’s Deli stands out among the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis.


3. Goose The Market - Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

Goose The Market

Address: 2503 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46205, United States
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Phone Number: (317) 924-4944

Goose The Market, among the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, is a specialty grocery store and deli located in the historic Fall Creek Place neighborhood of Indianapolis. The restaurant features a cozy interior with a wood-burning fireplace and a communal table for diners. The restaurant specializes in charcuterie and offers a variety of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and other gourmet foods. Their signature dish is the “Oink” sandwich, which is made with prosciutto, capicola, salami, and aged provolone cheese.

One of the unique aspects of Goose The Market is their commitment to using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. They work with local farmers and producers to source the highest quality ingredients for their dishes and sell a variety of locally made products in their store.

Five Main Menu Items

The Oink Sandwich: Prosciutto, capicola, salami, and aged provolone cheese served on a crusty baguette.

Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and accoutrements such as olives and pickles.

Italian Grinder Sandwich: Mortadella, Genoa salami, and provolone cheese served on a hoagie roll with lettuce, tomato, and Italian dressing.

Meatball Sub: House-made meatballs, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese served on a toasted roll.

Cheese and Charcuterie Plate: A selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and accoutrements such as crackers and nuts.

The restaurant’s service is friendly and attentive. Customers can either order at the counter or sit down and be served by a waiter or waitress. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations for first-time visitors.

Customer Reviews

“I had the Oink sandwich and it was fantastic! The meats were all high quality and the bread was fresh. The charcuterie selection was impressive too.”

“The cheese and charcuterie plate was amazing. Each item was carefully selected and paired perfectly with the others. I also appreciated the locally sourced ingredients.”

“I ordered the meatball sub to go and it was still warm and delicious when I got home. The meatballs were juicy and flavorful and the marinara sauce was tangy and rich.”

Overall, Goose The Market is a unique and charming spot for anyone looking for high-quality charcuterie and gourmet ingredients in Indianapolis. The locally sourced ingredients and commitment to sustainability make for a socially responsible dining experience, and the cozy interior and friendly service make for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Goose The Market deserves to be ranked among the top 5 Deli restaurants in Indianapolis.


4. Harold's Chicken Shack - Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

Harold’s Chicken Shack

Address: 4550 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-11 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-2 am, Sunday 11 am-10 pm
Phone Number: (317) 983-7609

Harold’s Chicken Shack, another of the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, is a casual, counter-service restaurant. The restaurant specializes in Chicago-style fried chicken and seafood. The interior of the restaurant is simple and no-frills, with a few tables and chairs for diners. The restaurant’s signature food is the fried chicken, which is marinated in a secret blend of herbs and spices before being deep-fried to golden perfection.

One of the unique aspects of Harold’s Chicken Shack is its Chicago roots. The restaurant was founded in Chicago in 1950 and has since expanded to locations across the country. The Indianapolis location stays true to the original recipe and cooking methods, ensuring that customers get an authentic Chicago-style fried chicken experience.

Five Main Menu Items

Fried Chicken Dinner: A plate of crispy, golden fried chicken served with fries and coleslaw.

Catfish Dinner: Deep-fried catfish served with fries and hushpuppies.

Chicken Gizzards: Fried chicken gizzards, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Wings and Fries: Crispy chicken wings served with fries and a choice of sauce.

Chicken Tenders: Juicy chicken tenders, breaded and fried to perfection.

The restaurant’s service is efficient and friendly. Customers can either order at the counter or online for pickup or delivery. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations for first-time visitors.

Customer Reviews

“The fried chicken is some of the best I’ve ever had. The batter is crispy and flavorful and the chicken is juicy and tender.”

“I ordered the catfish dinner and it was delicious! The catfish was perfectly cooked and the hushpuppies were a nice touch.”

“The chicken tenders were amazing. They were huge and juicy and the breading had just the right amount of crunch.”

Overall, Harold’s Chicken Shack is a great spot for anyone looking for classic Chicago-style fried chicken in Indianapolis. The simple interior and counter-service setup make for a no-frills dining experience, but the friendly service and delicious food make up for it. The signature fried chicken is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant. Harold’s Chicken Shack has earned the rank of the top 5 Deli restaurants in Indianapolis.


5. Kincaid's Meat Market - Deli Restaurants in Indianapolis

Kincaid’s Meat Market

Address: 5605 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm, closed on Sundays
Phone Number: (317) 251-6328

Kincaid’s Meat Market, amid the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis, is a family-owned and operated butcher shop and deli. The market specializes in locally sourced meats and homemade deli items. The interior of the market is simple and rustic, with a counter and a few tables and chairs for diners. The market’s signature food is the “Kincaid’s Burger,” which is made with a freshly ground blend of beef, pork, and bacon and served on a brioche bun.

One of the unique aspects of Kincaid’s Meat Market is their commitment to sourcing high-quality, locally raised meats. They work with a network of local farmers to ensure that their meats are ethically and sustainably raised. They also offer a variety of homemade deli items, such as salads, sandwiches, and sides, made with fresh, local ingredients.

Five Main Menu Items

Kincaid’s Burger: A freshly ground blend of beef, pork, and bacon, served on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and onion.

Reuben Sandwich: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing served on rye bread.

Turkey and Brie Sandwich: Roasted turkey, brie cheese, lettuce, and cranberry mayo served on a croissant.

Smoked Brisket Plate: Tender, smoked brisket served with a choice of sides, such as mac and cheese or baked beans.

Chicken Salad: Homemade chicken salad made with all-natural chicken and served on a bed of lettuce.

The market’s service is friendly and attentive. Customers can either order at the counter or sit down and be served by a waiter or waitress. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations for first-time visitors.

Customer Reviews

“The Kincaid’s Burger was incredible. The blend of meats gave it a unique flavor and the brioche bun was the perfect touch.”

“I ordered the smoked brisket plate and it was amazing. The brisket was so tender and flavorful, and the mac and cheese was a great side.”

“The chicken salad was delicious. You could tell the chicken was high quality and the seasoning was perfect.”

Overall, Kincaid’s Meat Market is a great spot for anyone looking for high-quality meats and homemade deli items in Indianapolis. The commitment to locally sourced ingredients and ethical farming practices makes for a socially responsible dining experience, and the friendly service and cozy atmosphere make for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The Kincaid’s Burger is a must-try for anyone visiting the market. Kincaid’s Meat Market can be counted among the top Deli restaurants in Indianapolis.


The top 5 deli restaurants in Indianapolis offer something for everyone. From authentic Italian-style delis with classic sandwiches like subs and hoagies to unique takes on deli cuisine, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a unique dining experience, you won’t be disappointed by the wide range of options available in Indianapolis.
As a foodie paradise, Indianapolis has something for every budget, every palate, and every occasion. So, come and explore the culinary delights of Indianapolis’ deli scene and let your tastes run wild! Leave your expectations at the door and get ready to experience something extraordinary. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the best deli restaurants Indianapolis has to offer.



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