Restaurant Guide: Goshen, Indiana

There’s a beautiful charm about small towns that captures the attention of everyone. With Indiana celebrating their bicentennial this year, it’s time to skip the urban jungles of this beautiful state and tap into what is one of the most “sweetest” cities in northern Indiana. Nicknamed “The Maple City” and known for its Amish country, Goshen, Indiana is rich in history, while booming with a vibrant arts and culture scene.

As one of my favorite cities and a spot I’ve been frequenting often, this central stop along the beautiful Heritage Trail is a magnet for creative minds who want a bit of wholesome Americana with a twist. From specialty boutiques to cozy cafés, Goshen is alive with a delicious restaurant scene that is not only one of a kind, but perfect for a night out on the town.

Pizza Venturi

Address: 123 E. Lincoln Ave., Goshen, IN

In need of some artisan pizza? Pizza Venturi is the hot spot to indulge in life changing pizza when in northern Indiana. With acclaim from Esquire magazine and Yelp, this pizza joint is not your average pie place. From delicious desserts to craft cocktails, Venturi serves Neopolitan pizza made with handmade mozzarella in a welcoming atmosphere. Cozy and modern, this Italian restaurant promises to make your pizza experience a memorable one. In addition, try their  Nutella pizza for dessert—you won’t regret it!

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Kelly Jae’s Café

Address: 133 S Main St., Goshen, IN 

I first learned about Kelly Jae’s Café when visiting one of my good friends in the Terrace Park neighborhood this past spring, and it’s since become one of my favorites in the city! Like most businesses in Goshen’s downtown, Kelly Jae’s is a beautiful, remodeled restaurant close to Shanklin Park boasting elegant decor and delectable eats! Offering patrons an eclectic menu complemented by a full bar, the charming and unique restaurant dives into the tapas style of dining but fuses its simple Spanish concept of sharing plates with an Asian flair. With such a diverse menu to choose from, you will find yourself coming back for more—like the Blackened Steak Wrap.

South Side Soda Shop

Address: 1122 S Main St, Goshen, IN 46526

This might be the famous of them all. Featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” the South Side Soda Shop is a Goshen staple. Featuring homemade sandwiches, salads and delicious desserts, the restaurant which was first built as a grocery store in 1910 serves more than 50 varieties of pies to patrons. Moreover, the Bastian Blessings soda fountain which was installed in the 1940s still stands in the shop today serving sodas, shakes, malts and floats. With old standards and an innovative menu that will surely tantalize your taste buds, it’s the perfect place for that first date or catching up with friends.

Los Primos Restaurant

Address: 122 E. Clinton St., Goshen, IN

If you’re looking for the best Mexican in downtown Goshen, look no further than to Los Primos Restaurant. With a menu featuring authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine under $10, this restaurant has a lot of items that you might rarely see in the Midwest or Mexican restaurant for that matter. Their Cuban Steak with grilled onions is to die for, as is their Steak Chicano with rice and beans. The best part is they have amazing customer service with a staff that is incredibly friendly and tends to every need of yours.

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Lux Café

Address: 2012 Lincolnway East, Goshen, IN 

If you’re anything like me, you love the appeal of that old-fashioned roadside restaurant, bustling with all-day breakfasts and classic American diner food. Lux Café has been a favorite for years by inhabitants, tourists and critics. TripAdvisor awarded this pancake house and restaurant with a “Certificate of Excellence,” with many boasting about its prompt service, fresh eats, and congenial atmosphere. With delicious skillets and entrees, Lux has a full menu of steaks, skillets, pancakes, salads and sandwiches to satiate your every hunger pang.

Goshen Brewing Co.

Address: 315 W Washington St., Goshen, IN

Located just two blocks off Main Street, this family friendly brewpub features a modern menu of Southern-style smoked food fused with an Asian influence. Close to downtown with easy access to the Millrace bike path, the Goshen Brewing Co. serves 12 great beers that you really won’t find anywhere else—trust me. The menu is fresh and clean from smoked chicken wraps to beef brisket sandwiches, the crew work with local farmers to provide patrons with farm-to-table of the best and freshest tasting food. Did we mention how delicious their macaroni and cheese of Gouda and Brie cheeses is? If you’re a cheese fiend like myself, you need to try it.

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Do you live in Goshen or visit often? What are some of your favorite resturants in and around the city? Let us know in the comments below.

Featured image: Chad Wales/Instagram