Sirloin and Stars: Indy's Top Five Steakhouses

The Steakhouses of Indianapolis: A Culinary and Cultural Landmark

Indianapolis has long been known for its vibrant dining scene, and nowhere is this more evident than in the city's abundance of steakhouses. From high-end establishments to family-owned favorites, these restaurants have become an integral part of the local culture, often tied to the city’s sporting events and social gatherings. Here are five standout steakhouses that have made their mark on the Indianapolis dining landscape.

Commission Row: A Hub for Sports and Fine Dining

Commission Row is a unique addition to the Indianapolis steakhouse scene, as it is directly connected to the Pacers Sports and Entertainment organization. Located just across from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, this three-story venue offers a variety of spaces, including a street-level steakhouse, an upstairs private event space called Above, and a speakeasy named Mel's in honor of longtime Pacers owner Mel Simon.

The restaurant features a menu filled with classic steakhouse fare, including large portions of filets, tomahawks, and seafood towers. One of the most expensive items is a $199 seafood tower, which includes six oysters, seven shrimp, a half-pound of king crab, six crab claws, and a whole lobster tail. For those looking for a more modest option, the A-5 Japanese Wagyu is available in a 4-ounce portion for $115.

Harry and Izzy's: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition

Harry and Izzy's is more than just a steakhouse; it's a tribute to the iconic St. Elmo, one of Indianapolis’ most beloved restaurants. Founded by Harry Roth and Isadore "Izzy" Rosen, the original St. Elmo opened in 1946 and became a staple of the city's dining scene. After the restaurant was sold to Stephen Huse, his group opened Harry and Izzy's in 2007 as a nod to its founders.

The downtown location offers a more affordable menu compared to other steakhouses, with its most expensive cut being a $73 bone-in cowboy ribeye. During the NFL season, the restaurant opens early and offers a "tailgate" menu featuring prime rib chili and filet sliders. The lunch menu also includes thin-crust pizza, sandwiches under $20, and "lunch steaks" ranging from $38 to $43.

Lone Pine: A Taste of Montana in Carmel

Lone Pine, located in Carmel, is a relatively new addition to the Indianapolis dining scene. Created by Josh Mazanowski, a former sommelier, and chef Aaron Hanson, the restaurant draws inspiration from a small town in Montana where Mazanowski's family raises cattle. The menu at Lone Pine features a variety of cuts, including Australian beef, and offers a range of accessible options with most entrées priced under $70.

One of the highlights of the menu is the rotating chef's cut, which allows diners to experience a unique dish each time they visit. The restaurant also offers surf and turf dishes around $40, making it a great choice for those looking for a more casual yet refined dining experience.

Prime 47: A Favorite Among Athletes and Fans

Prime 47 has a rich history, having once been part of the Mo's A Place for Steaks chain. In 2013, the downtown and Carmel locations were rebranded as J Hamman Prime before eventually becoming Prime 47. The restaurant is located just over a block away from Gainbridge Fieldhouse and has long been a favorite among Pacers fans.

However, Prime 47 gained national attention due to its association with the NFL Combine, which has been held in Indianapolis for nearly 40 years. In 2018, a writer for Deadspin dubbed the restaurant the "main hub of combine nightlife" because of the number of NFL officials who frequented it.

The menu at Prime 47 focuses on prime cuts, with options such as a $147 24-ounce tomahawk ribeye and a $232 8-ounce piece of Japanese A-5 Wagyu. These high-end offerings make it a popular choice for special occasions and business dinners.

St. Elmo: A Timeless Icon

St. Elmo is perhaps the most famous steakhouse in Indianapolis, with a history that dates back to 1902. Originally named Stahr's Tavern, the restaurant was later renamed St. Elmo after the patron saint of sailors. Over the years, it has become a go-to spot for sports figures, including Peyton Manning and Jim Nantz.

The menu features a wide range of USDA Prime steaks, from the more affordable $45 12-ounce flat iron to the luxurious $155 32-ounce dry-aged tomahawk ribeye. One of the restaurant's signature dishes is the shrimp cocktail, which has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1902 for just 10 cents.

St. Elmo has also become a cultural icon, with its cocktail sauce appearing on television during Indiana sporting events. Despite its long history, the restaurant continues to attract both locals and visitors, solidifying its place as one of the city's most celebrated dining destinations.