Merrillville
United-states
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Merrillville, United-states. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
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Restaurants in Merrillville
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsCheese Popcorn
ChicagoLand Popcorn / Merrillville (United States)
View Cheese PopcornSavory popcorn coated in cheese flavoring.
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Caramel Popcorn
ChicagoLand Popcorn / Merrillville (United States)
View Caramel PopcornSweet and crunchy caramel-coated popcorn.
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Chicago Mix Popcorn
ChicagoLand Popcorn / Merrillville (United States)
View Chicago Mix PopcornA blend of caramel and cheese popcorn, a classic Chicago combination.
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Pretzel Nuggets
Auntie Anne's / Merrillville (United States)
View Pretzel NuggetsBite-sized versions of their popular pretzels, available in various flavors like Original, Cinnamon Sugar, or Almond.
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Pepperoni Pretzel
Auntie Anne's / Merrillville (United States)
View Pepperoni PretzelFreshly baked pretzel with pepperoni and marinara.
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Almond Pretzel
Auntie Anne's / Merrillville (United States)
View Almond PretzelA freshly baked pretzel covered in sweet roasted almonds.
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Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel
Auntie Anne's / Merrillville (United States)
View Cinnamon Sugar PretzelA freshly baked pretzel coated in sweet cinnamon sugar.
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Original Pretzel
Auntie Anne's / Merrillville (United States)
View Original PretzelA freshly baked, golden-brown pretzel, lightly salted. A classic Auntie Anne's treat.
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Corn or flour tortillas filled with various meats, toppings, and salsas.
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Large flour tortilla filled with various ingredients such as meat, beans, rice, cheese, and salsa.
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Grilled meat (chicken, steak, or shrimp) with sautéed bell peppers and onions, served with tortillas, rice, beans, and s…
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Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar Brisket
Firehouse Subs / Merrillville (United States)
View Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar BrisketUSDA choice beef brisket smoked for up to 16 hours, cheddar cheese, mayo, and Sweet Baby Ray’s® BBQ Sauce.
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Signature Dishes
Merrillville's food scene is a reflection of its proximity to Chicago and its diverse population. Expect hearty Midwestern fare, Polish comfort food, and plenty of Chicago-style pizza and Italian beef.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick-crusted pizza baked in a deep dish, featuring layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce on top. A true Chicago classic found in many Merrillville pizzerias.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef simmered in au jus and served on a long roll, often topped with giardiniera (pickled vegetables) or sweet peppers. Another Chicago staple popular in Merrillville.
Polish Sausage
A staple reflecting the Polish heritage of the area. Typically grilled or boiled, served on a bun with mustard and onions. Often available at local festivals and restaurants.
Pierogi
Polish dumplings filled with savory or sweet fillings, such as potato and cheese, sauerkraut, or fruit. A popular comfort food often homemade or found at Polish delis.
Midwestern Pot Roast
A classic slow-cooked beef roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions. A hearty and comforting dish, especially popular during colder months.
Local Tips
To truly experience the flavors of Merrillville, consider these tips:
Seek out Local Pizzerias
Don't settle for chain pizza. Explore local pizzerias to find the best Chicago-style deep-dish or thin-crust options.
Visit Polish Delis
Explore local Polish delis for authentic pierogi, kielbasa, and other traditional Polish foods. Often you can find homemade versions.
Ask for Recommendations
Don't hesitate to ask locals for their favorite restaurants and dishes. They can provide insider knowledge and point you to hidden gems.
About Merrillville
IN
Food History
Merrillville, Indiana, being relatively young in terms of culinary history, doesn't have ancient, deeply rooted food traditions. Its food scene is primarily shaped by its location near Chicago, its industrial past, and the diverse immigrant communities that settled in the area throughout the 20th century. Expect a blend of Midwestern staples, Polish influences, and Chicago-style favorites.
Food Culture
Food in Merrillville is often tied to family gatherings, community events, and celebrating local heritage. The influence of Chicago is strong, and regional pride is evident in the enthusiasm for local favorites.
Polish Heritage Festivals
Events celebrating Polish culture often feature traditional foods like pierogi, kielbasa, and golabki (cabbage rolls), providing a taste of the region's immigrant heritage.
Chicago Sports & Food
Watching Chicago sports teams often involves enjoying Chicago-style food like pizza and Italian beef, creating a strong association between food and local sports culture.
Family Gatherings
Large family gatherings often center around shared meals featuring hearty Midwestern dishes and traditional Polish recipes, passed down through generations.