Hank's Smoked Briskets ★ 4.4
Why locals love it: A small barbecue counter on Martin Luther King Drive, Indianapolis. The brisket is the city's quiet best, run from a strip-mall storefront.
Tip: Run out by mid-afternoon. Go by noon for a full plate.
CuisineItalian American
Price$$
Neighborhooddowntown
Why locals love it: Same South College corner since 1933 but blocks off the Mass Ave tourist track. Red sauce, the Italian Indianapolis the chains have missed.
Tip: Tuesday to Saturday dinner only. The bar takes walk-ins.
Location
Address: 317 S College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
More hidden gems in Indianapolis
Goose the Market ★ 4.6
Why locals love it: A full-service butcher and specialty grocer on North Delaware in Indianapolis with a hidden cellar bar pouring wine, beer and pulled-pork sandwiches.
Tip: The cellar bar opens Thursday to Saturday evenings. Reserved bench seats only.
Workingman's Friend ★ 4.5
Why locals love it: A 1918 Macedonian-immigrant lunch counter in Haughville, off the West Side tourist map but still grinding out the city's defining smash burger.
Tip: Cash only. Don't ask for ketchup, ask for mustard. Closed Sundays.