Greenwood’s Kensington Grove isn’t just one of the most desirable places to live—it’s a rising star in Indy’s suburban food scene. Nestled just off Morgantown Road and close to the intersection of State Road 135 and Stones Crossing, this neighborhood is home to an eclectic blend of elevated dining, casual comfort food, and irresistible treats you’ll want to savor again and again. Whether you’re craving perfectly seared steak, scratch-made pastries, or global flavors from a quirky food truck, Kensington Grove offers options every palate and price point will love. I’m excited to share my favorite haunts—both buzz-worthy and under-the-radar—that make eating out here a real adventure.
Upscale Eats & Date-Night Destinations
You don’t have to leave the southeast side to enjoy a memorable, chef-driven meal. Kensington Grove is close to some of Greenwood’s finest full-service restaurants, perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
- Revery (299 W Main St, Greenwood)
- Just a five-minute drive north of Kensington Grove, Revery’s modern American menu features local ingredients, inventive cocktails, and a cozy yet stylish dining room. Think house-aged steaks, crispy duck breast, and gourmet small plates. Dinner here feels decadent but not stuffy; plan for $20-$50 per entrée.
- La Trattoria Italian Restaurant (201 N Madison Ave)
- A cozy Italian staple since the ‘70s, locals flock to La Trattoria for their aromatic garlic rolls, homemade pastas, and classic veal and seafood dishes. It’s just north off Smith Valley Road—a longtime favorite for family gatherings or a romantic dinner for two. Expect $14-$30 entrées and a welcoming, old-school vibe.
Neighborhood Cafés & Breakfast Nooks
No great neighborhood is complete without a stellar spot for your morning coffee or a laid-back brunch. Kensington Grove has you covered, with a couple fan-favorites just around the corner.
- Coffeehouse Five (323 Market Plaza)
- Beloved for its community-focused approach, Coffeehouse Five roasts its own beans and serves up delectable pastries, hearty breakfast burritos, and specialty lattes. The café is a go-to for both morning meet-ups and a relaxing workspace. Try their cinnamon rolls or the savory breakfast sandwich—the perfect start before a Stone Creek bike trail walk.
- Egg Roll Number 1 Express (1259 N State Road 135)
- Don’t be fooled by the name: this local gem offers not just stellar Asian takeout (try their spicy curry or pho), but also some of the best American-style breakfast dishes in the area. It’s a budget-friendly, cluck-to-noon hotspot where regulars swear by the omelets and hashbrowns.
Bakeries & Sweet Treats
After dinner or just for fun, there’s no shortage of sugary satisfaction. Kensington Grove’s proximity to Greenwood’s best bakeries means cupcakes, cookies, and creative sweets are always within reach.
- Le Dolce Vita Patisserie (5898 Bluff Rd)
- This boutique bakery south of Smith Valley offers French pastry perfection—artisan croissants, delicate macarons, and luxurious cakes. Seasonal specialties like strawberry eclairs or pumpkin cruffins sell out fast, so go early or pre-order for a weekend treat.
- Pink Box Bakery (6845 Bluff Rd)
- A hidden gem beloved by locals, Pink Box bakes up everything from photo-worthy cakes to melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts. They’re famous for custom birthday treats and Instagram-worthy cupcakes, making it a must for any neighborhood celebration.
Food Trucks & Casual Finds
The street food scene in Kensington Grove is on the rise, thanks to a steady rotation of trucks and pop-ups parked at local events, parks, and brewery lots.
- Johnson’s BBQ Shack (Food Truck & Brick-and-Mortar at 82 S Baldwin St)
- What started as a smokin’ red food truck now has a brick-and-mortar counterpart, but you can still find the real-deal ribs, pulled pork, and brisket at various neighborhood events (watch for them near Kensington Commons Park). Prices are $4-$16, and their tangy BBQ sauce is legendary.
- Las Tortugas Mexican Grill (4899 W Smith Valley Rd)
- Steps from the neighborhood’s main entrance, this family-owned spot dishes out mouthwatering street-style tacos, tamales, and giant burritos. The carne asada is a standout, and carnitas here melts in your mouth. It’s fast, affordable (most plates under $10), and every bite transports you south of the border.
International Flavors & Hidden Gems
Kensington Grove’s evolving dining scene is punctuated by adventurous, independently run restaurants featuring international cuisine—from Thai to Mediterranean.
- Thai Spice (2220 N State Road 135)
- Just north of the main Kensington Grove crossroads, Thai Spice is a staple for rich curries, zesty pad thai, and perfectly spiced soups. With vibrant, aromatic dishes at $10-$18, it’s a beloved lunch and dinner spot for dine-in and takeout.
- Brozinni Pizzeria (867 Greenwood Springs Dr)
- Tucked near Smith Valley and 135, Brozinni serves up bubbling New York-style pies, garlic “knots,” and subs piled high with Italian meats. The pizza (huge, foldable slices) is a favorite for takeout or sports-night gatherings with friends.
- Bargain Eats: Panda House (715 Fry Rd)
- This unassuming counter-service Chinese eatery makes the cut for affordable, satisfying lunches and huge dinner portions. Locals recommend the General Tso’s and egg drop soup; nothing fancy, just great food under $10.
Local Food Traditions & Community Flavor
What really sets the Kensington Grove food scene apart is its sense of neighborhood spirit. Summer means food truck rallies by the park, farmer’s market pop-ups on Saturday mornings, and apple cider donuts from area orchards in the fall.
Don’t miss:
- Annual “Taste of Greenwood” street festival along State Road 135—where local eateries serve up sampler plates, live music fills the air, and food trucks line the streets.
- Seasonal events like chili cook-offs and dessert contests at neighboring subdivisions’ clubhouses—often featuring home bakers whose cookies and cakes are legendary in their own right.
Eat Your Way Through Kensington Grove
There’s never been a more delicious time to explore Kensington Grove and its growing food scene. With its blend of upscale hotspots, hidden gems, and international flair—all within a few minutes' drive or a scenic stroll—you’ll find plenty of new favorites to savor with family and friends. Whether you’re a longtime resident hunting for a new go-to, or a curious visitor with an appetite for adventure, Kensington Grove makes every meal an experience worth celebrating.