6 quintessential tastes to enjoy in Indiana

Pounded thin enough to overhang the bun, the breaded Indiana pork tenderloin might just be our best-known dish. While you’ll find respectable versions all over the state, rumor has it the sandwich originated at Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington back in the early 1900s. The story goes that owner Nick Freienstein was inspired by the wiener schnitzels his parents loved back in their European homeland, and he created the tenderloin many Americans know and love today.

A long-time regional dining rite of passage, the world-famous horseradish-heavy shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House is required eating for foodies in the Indianapolis area. The beloved starter has been a menu mainstay since the legendary restaurant opened in 1902, and guests in the know enjoy watching the uninitiated take their very first bite.   

The humble sugar cream pie is Indiana’s “official” variety, with a simple custard-based filling and a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. Order it up by the slice (or grab a whole pie to take home) at Mrs. Wick’s Bakery and Cafe in Winchester.

Another popular sweet treat—gummy candies in a rainbow of colors, shapes, and flavors—make Albanese Confectionery Factory Store in Merrillville a must-stop for road trip snacks.

Just a little further down I-65 in West Lafayette, Triple XXX Family Dining still makes its signature root beer from a recipe that dates all the way back to 1895.

And although the finicky little orange fruit ripens for only a few weeks in early fall, persimmon pudding stays on the menu at Spring Mill State Park dining room in Mitchell year round.