10 Indiana Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches Too Big For The Bun
Indiana takes serious pride in its pork tenderloin sandwiches, and many restaurants across the state have turned this classic into a legendary feast. You’ll find massive, hand-breaded cutlets that spill way over the edges of regular hamburger buns, creating a delicious challenge for hungry diners.
I’m excited to share some of the most famous spots where bigger really is better when it comes to this Hoosier favorite.
1. Shapiro’s Delicatessen in Indianapolis
This downtown deli has been a local institution since 1905, serving up Jewish deli classics alongside Hoosier favorites. You wouldn’t expect a delicatessen to nail the tenderloin, but Shapiro’s absolutely delivers on size and flavor.
The pork here is hand-breaded and fried to a beautiful golden-brown perfection. Your bun practically disappears under the massive cutlet that seems to grow with each order.
2. Gnaw Bone Food and Fuel
Located in a tiny town with an unforgettable name, this combo gas station and restaurant surprises everyone who stops by. Don’t judge this place by its humble exterior because what comes out of the kitchen is absolutely mind-blowing.
Their tenderloin measures nearly a foot across and hangs dramatically over the edges of your plate. The breading stays incredibly crispy while the pork inside remains juicy and tender.
3. Joensy’s in Fishers
Fishers residents know exactly where to go when they’re craving a tenderloin that requires serious commitment. Joensy’s has built a loyal following by refusing to skimp on portion sizes or quality ingredients.
Each cutlet gets pounded out to impressive dimensions before being coated in their special breading blend. You’ll find yourself strategically planning each bite to get some bun, meat, and toppings all together in perfect harmony.
4. Lute’s Sandwich Shop in Nappanee
Tucked away in Amish country, this unassuming sandwich shop has earned a reputation that brings visitors from across the state. The charm of this small-town spot matches the impressive size of their signature dish.
Lute’s serves a tenderloin that could easily feed two people if you’re not super hungry. The crispy coating locks in all the natural juices, creating a satisfying contrast with every single bite you take.
5. Mug’n Bun Drive-In in Indianapolis
Root beer floats and car-side service make this 1960s-style drive-in a total blast from the past. The atmosphere alone makes you feel like you’re in a classic movie about American diners.
Their tenderloin is pounded thin and wide, creating a crispy edge that crunches with every bite. I love how the meat-to-bun ratio is completely ridiculous here, giving you plenty of that perfectly seasoned, breaded pork in every forkful.
6. Maxine’s Chicken and Waffles in Indianapolis
While chicken and waffles get top billing here, their tenderloin deserves just as much attention and praise. Maxine’s brings a soulful twist to this Indiana classic that you won’t find anywhere else in the state.
The seasoning blend adds extra flavor depth that makes each bite more interesting than your typical version. Your bun serves more as a handle than actual sandwich coverage for this generous cutlet.
7. Arni’s Restaurant in Lafayette
Known primarily for pizza, Arni’s surprises first-time visitors with a tenderloin that rivals any specialty sandwich shop. This family-friendly chain understands that Hoosiers expect generous portions with every meal they order.
The pork here gets butterflied and flattened until it reaches almost comical proportions on your plate. I appreciate how they nail the crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful throughout.
8. Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington
Walking into this legendary diner feels like stepping back in time to when portion sizes meant something special. Nick’s has been serving their famous tenderloin since 1908, making it one of the oldest spots for this Indiana treasure.
The cutlet here stretches about eight inches across while the bun barely covers three inches in the center. You’ll need both hands and maybe a fork to tackle this crispy, golden masterpiece that locals have loved for generations.
9. Dukes Bar and Grill in Bloomington
College students and locals alike flock to Dukes for their famous oversized tenderloin that’s become a Bloomington institution. The lively atmosphere and cold drinks make this spot perfect for celebrating game days or just hanging out with friends.
Their version comes pounded thin and fried until the edges curl up in crispy waves. You’ll definitely want to share this monster, though most people take on the challenge solo anyway.
10. Iozzo’s Garden of Italy in Indianapolis
An Italian restaurant might seem like an odd choice for tenderloin, but Iozzo’s proves that great cooking transcends any single cuisine. They bring the same attention to detail here that they apply to their pasta and traditional Italian dishes.
The breading technique shows real craftsmanship, creating a light yet crunchy coating that doesn’t overpower the pork. Your tiny bun looks almost decorative next to this impressive cutlet.
