Indianapolis is home to a myriad of dining experiences, but few places capture the vibrant culinary spirit quite like Lava Indianapolis. Known for its innovative flavors and carefully curated dishes, Lava offers an exciting menu that caters to a diverse range of palates.
Whether you’re a local seeking a fresh taste or a visitor eager to explore the city’s food scene, Lava’s menu promises a delightful journey through bold ingredients and artful preparation. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity shines through every dish, creating an inviting atmosphere where food lovers can indulge in both familiar favorites and daring new flavors.
At Lava Indianapolis, the menu is thoughtfully divided into sections that highlight everything from starters to desserts, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each offering is designed to complement the next, ensuring a harmonious dining experience.
The chefs’ attention to detail and passion for flavor development make every bite memorable. This blog explores the various facets of Lava Indianapolis’ menu, revealing what makes it a standout destination for food enthusiasts.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Lava Indianapolis is a gateway to the culinary delights that await. Designed to stimulate the palate and encourage sharing, these small plates are perfect for starting your meal or enjoying a light bite.
They offer a dynamic range of flavors, textures, and ingredients that showcase the kitchen’s creativity.
From crispy fried calamari to fresh, vibrant salads, the appetizers provide a balance between indulgence and freshness. Each dish is crafted with an eye toward presentation and flavor harmony, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Many appetizers feature ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors, emphasizing the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability and supporting the community. This approach not only enhances the taste but also creates a connection between diners and the region’s bounty.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly breaded calamari served with a zesty aioli dipping sauce.
- Roasted Beet Salad: Fresh beets paired with goat cheese, candied pecans, and a citrus vinaigrette.
- Spicy Tuna Tartare: Diced tuna mixed with avocado, sesame seeds, and a hint of wasabi.
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of artisanal meats and cheeses with house-made pickles and breads.
“Our appetizers are meant to set the tone for the meal – exciting, fresh, and full of personality,” says Lava’s Executive Chef.
Signature Entrees
The entrees at Lava Indianapolis are the centerpiece of the menu, offering a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary dishes. Each entree is designed to deliver a satisfying and memorable dining experience through bold flavors and expert techniques.
From expertly grilled steaks to delicate seafood options, the entree section caters to a variety of tastes. The kitchen emphasizes seasonal produce and premium proteins, ensuring every dish is fresh and thoughtfully composed.
Many entrees come with complementary sides that enhance the overall flavor profile, allowing diners to enjoy a well-rounded plate that excites the senses.
Steak and Seafood Highlights
The steak options at Lava are sourced from reputable suppliers who prioritize quality and ethical practices. Grilled to perfection, the steaks are often accompanied by house-made sauces or compound butters that elevate their natural flavors.
Seafood dishes showcase the freshest catches, often prepared with subtle spices and garnishes that respect the integrity of the ingredients.
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Filet Mignon | 8 oz center-cut filet with garlic herb butter and seasonal vegetables. | $38 |
| Pan-Seared Salmon | Salmon fillet with lemon caper sauce and roasted fingerling potatoes. | $32 |
| Ribeye Steak | 12 oz ribeye grilled with black pepper crust and served with truffle fries. | $42 |
| Shrimp Scampi | Sautéed shrimp in garlic butter sauce over linguine pasta. | $28 |
Pairing suggestions are available to complement these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Lava Indianapolis recognizes the importance of catering to vegetarian and vegan diners, offering an array of flavorful, plant-based dishes. This section of the menu is crafted with the same attention to detail and culinary innovation as the rest of the menu.
These dishes prioritize fresh, seasonal vegetables, legumes, and grains, prepared in ways that highlight their natural textures and flavors. Diners can expect vibrant, nutrient-rich meals that don’t compromise on taste or presentation.
The kitchen also makes accommodations for dietary restrictions, ensuring that each guest can enjoy a customized dining experience without feeling limited.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal vegetables marinated and grilled, served with a tangy chimichurri sauce.
- Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad with fresh herbs, avocado, and lime dressing.
- Vegan Mushroom Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice cooked with wild mushrooms and vegetable broth.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with a savory mix of rice, lentils, and spices.
“Our plant-based offerings are designed to be as indulgent and satisfying as any meat dish,” notes the restaurant’s head chef.
Craft Cocktails and Beverage Pairings
The beverage menu at Lava Indianapolis is tailored to complement the rich and diverse flavors found throughout the food menu. Featuring a curated selection of craft cocktails, local beers, and fine wines, the drink offerings enhance the overall dining experience.
Craft cocktails are a particular highlight, showcasing inventive combinations and artisanal ingredients. Bartenders often create seasonal specials that align with the menu’s evolving flavors.
For those seeking to pair drinks with their food, expert recommendations help guests discover combinations that elevate both the dish and the beverage.
Popular Cocktails
- Smoky Maple Old Fashioned: Bourbon, maple syrup, smoked bitters, garnished with an orange twist.
- Cucumber Basil Gimlet: Gin, fresh lime juice, muddled cucumber, and basil leaves.
- Spiced Pineapple Margarita: Tequila, pineapple juice, jalapeño, and fresh lime.
- Lavender Lemon Drop: Vodka, lavender syrup, lemon juice, served with a sugared rim.
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Suggested Pairing |
| Pinot Noir | Light, fruity, with subtle spice notes. | Filet Mignon |
| IPA (Local Craft) | Bitter, hoppy, citrusy. | Spicy Tuna Tartare |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Bright, crisp, with grassy undertones. | Grilled Vegetable Platter |
| Old Fashioned | Sweet, smoky, robust. | Ribeye Steak |
Desserts
Ending the meal on a sweet note, Lava Indianapolis offers a dessert menu that balances classic indulgences with contemporary twists. The desserts are crafted to satisfy a range of sweet cravings while maintaining a refined, elegant presentation.
Each dessert is made in-house using high-quality ingredients, with options that appeal to both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts. The menu often features seasonal specials, incorporating fresh fruits and spices that reflect the time of year.
Whether you prefer a rich, decadent treat or a lighter, refreshing finish, the dessert offerings provide a perfect conclusion to a memorable meal.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, molten chocolate cake served with vanilla bean ice cream.
- Lemon Panna Cotta: Silky custard infused with fresh lemon zest and topped with berry compote.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Crisp pastry filled with custard and topped with fresh, local fruits.
- Espresso Affogato: Vanilla gelato drowned in rich espresso with a hint of dark chocolate shavings.
“Our desserts are the perfect harmony between tradition and innovation, crafted to delight every sense,” shares the pastry chef.
Lunch Menu Highlights
Lava Indianapolis offers a distinct lunch menu that caters to the midday crowd looking for something both satisfying and efficient. The lunch offerings are lighter than dinner but maintain the same commitment to quality and flavor.
Designed for quick service without sacrificing taste, the lunch menu includes sandwiches, salads, and select entrees that are perfect for a business lunch or casual outing. These dishes are crafted to provide energy and enjoyment, fueling the rest of your day.
Many lunch items are customizable, allowing diners to adjust ingredients to meet their preferences or dietary needs.
Popular Lunch Choices
- Turkey Avocado Club: Roasted turkey, avocado, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and aioli on whole grain bread.
- Harvest Grain Bowl: Quinoa, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and tahini dressing.
- Chicken Caesar Wrap: Grilled chicken, romaine, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing wrapped in a spinach tortilla.
- Soup of the Day: Seasonal soups made fresh daily, often vegetarian or vegan.
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Price |
| Turkey Avocado Club | Turkey, avocado, bacon, lettuce, tomato | $14 |
| Harvest Grain Bowl | Quinoa, roasted veggies, chickpeas, tahini | $12 |
| Chicken Caesar Wrap | Grilled chicken, romaine, Parmesan, Caesar dressing | $13 |
Kids and Family-Friendly Options
Lava Indianapolis understands the importance of accommodating families, offering a kids menu that appeals to younger diners without compromising on nutrition or taste. The options are designed to be approachable while maintaining the restaurant’s high standards.
The family-friendly dishes focus on familiar favorites, prepared with wholesome ingredients and presented in fun, inviting ways. This approach ensures that children enjoy their meals while parents feel confident about the quality and care put into each dish.
Portion sizes are appropriate for children, and staff are attentive to special requests, making dining with family a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- Mini Cheeseburgers: Two small beef patties with cheddar cheese, served with fries or fruit.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy pasta with a blend of cheeses, baked to golden perfection.
- Grilled Chicken Strips: Tender chicken served with a side of steamed vegetables or fries.
- Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Fresh carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers with house-made hummus.
“Making dining accessible and enjoyable for families is a key part of our hospitality philosophy,” explains the general manager.
Conclusion
Lava Indianapolis offers a menu that is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Each section of the menu reflects a dedication to quality, creativity, and community, ensuring that every diner finds something to love.
From the carefully crafted appetizers that awaken the senses to the indulgent desserts that provide a memorable finish, Lava’s offerings are thoughtfully prepared to provide a complete and satisfying dining experience.
The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and innovative techniques sets this restaurant apart, creating dishes that are both approachable and exciting. The inclusion of vegetarian, vegan, and family-friendly options highlights the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.
Additionally, the beverage menu’s craft cocktails and curated pairings enhance the overall experience, making every meal at Lava Indianapolis a celebration of flavor and hospitality.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a family outing, Lava Indianapolis’ menu delivers consistently exceptional food that invites guests to savor each moment. The balance of tradition and innovation ensures that diners leave with not only full plates but also memorable experiences that will bring them back again and again.
