Try out these lesser-known eateries during your time in Bloomington! For a full list of Bloomington restaurants, visit this page.
Sunrise Donuts
Sunrise Donuts
Over-the-top donuts expressly designed for Instagram seem to be all the rage lately, but Sunrise Donuts keeps it real with classic choices like apple fritters and long johns. This no-frills spot is a favorite amongst Bloomington locals, and the weekend crowd contains families, senior citizens, and teenagers jostling for a filling breakfast. Tip: get here early for the best selection. Once the shop sells out of donuts, it will close for the day.
Scoops Ice Cream
Spring in Bloomington means the return of Scoops Ice Cream, which is open seasonally from March-October. This tiny dessert destination is decked out with a pink, 1950s-era design that you will make you feel like you’ve been transported back to the days of sock hops and malt shops. Scoops’ menu isn’t stuck in another decade, though – tasty flavors include blueberry cheesecake, monster cookie dough, and sriracha caramel chocolate.
Hyland Grill
Another Bloomington hidden gem that’s open seasonally is Hyland Grill, located within Hyland Hills Ski Area. When the weather warms up, foodies visit the restaurant to savor a delicious lunch with views of the ski area’s grassy hills. Check out Hyland Grill’s creative twists on sandwiches, including the loaded Italian hoagie, the “Schooner” (battered cod with a sun-dried tomato aioli), and the triple decker club. Pair that sammie with one of Hyland’s local beer offerings for an ideal summer day in Bloomington.
Wally’s Roast Beef
Upon first glance, Wally’s 50s-themed décor seems entirely out of place for the modern Southtown Office Park. But as soon as you take a bite of the Wally’s classic roast beef sandwich, you’ll be so focused on devouring your meal you’ll completely forget you’re in the bottom floor of an office building. The diner’s classic American fare includes specials like the Blue Plate, Red Plate, and Green Plate, all variations on open-faced sandwiches smothered in gravy. Wally’s prices are as retro as its theme – most sandwiches are less than $5.
Gyropolis
Luna di Luna
You can’t get more “hidden gem” than an authentic Italian restaurant that’s housed in a former Taco Bell. Don’t let the exterior fool you – Luna di Luna’s house-made garlic bread and pastas are some of Bloomington’s best. The eatery’s delicious food pairs well with its cozy vibe (think stained glass windows and framed Italian art) and impressive wine selection.
Gyropolis
Tucked away in an unassuming building in central Bloomington is the holy grail of gyros. The family-owned Gyropolis has been serving Greek sandwiches, salads, and desserts to hungry Bloomington locals and visitors since 2005. At Gyropolis’ always-packed counter service restaurant, lamb and beef turns on spits on the back counter while employees put together Greek salads at lightning pace. Tip: take your order to go and enjoy it al fresco at one of Bloomington’s many parks, like nearby Lake Girard.
