Where to Eat in Shipshewana, Indiana: 5 Tasty Places

Undoubtedly the most popular place to dine in, Shipshewana, the Blue Gate Restaurant is the place to go, compliments of its massive buffet. You’ll find several stations, including a salad and pie bars, but the main courses deserve an ovation. Including homemade noodles, chicken stuffing, gravy, potatoes, and the tastiest fried chicken I’ve ever tried, make sure to save your appetite before you go. 

If you want to step up your Shipshewana Amish cuisine game, having an actual thrasher meal at an Amish home is the way to do it. The Carriage House in Topeka (just outside of Shipshewana) offers multi-course, home-cooked meals for tour bus groups, but if you are in town, make sure to call them. If there’s a group coming in, they’re happy to add you to the family-style meals and tables.

Located in the Davis Mercantile, Millie’s is the place to visit for lunch. During my time there, the relaxed atmosphere and the beautiful view of the mercantile’s antique carousel made for a lovely visit. The menu has a little bit of everything, including sandwiches, soup (my daughter loved the White Chicken Chili), and desserts, and each is affordably priced. 

If you’re looking for a little something lighter, head to JoJo’s Pretzels. Also located in the Davis Mercantile, it’s a super popular spot for good reason. Each pretzel is handmade and large enough to share. There’s plenty of indoor seating, but again, it’s the place to go for a snack, so you may have to wait a minute or two for a table or take yours to go. 

If you want something different from Amish meals, LaGrange is the place to go for Fireside Burgers and Brew. Its theme is laidback and fun, and its menu is not so extensive that it’s impossible to choose. My picks are the homemade mac and cheese and tasty soups. Oh, and don’t forget to order a giant corn muffin to accompany your meal - it’s the gold star on the Fireside chart.