Welcome to Hills and Dales, Lafayette’s leafy, residential neighborhood that’s quietly making a name for itself as a destination for food lovers. While it may not be as bustling as downtown or as trendy as the college corridor, Hills and Dales offers a unique dining scene that charms locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re hunting for brunch, craving global flavors, or searching for the perfect cup of coffee, this guide will introduce you to the best eateries and culinary experiences along the tree-lined avenues of Hills and Dales.
Where Classic Comfort Meets Creative Cuisine
Hills and Dales combines comfort food with creative twists, hosting both long-standing favorites and up-and-coming gems. Tucked between Northwestern Avenue and Salisbury Street—just a bike ride from Purdue—several cornerstones define the local food experience.
- Triple XXX Family Restaurant (2 N Salisbury St.)
- Price Range: $
- The claim to fame here is straightforward: burgers and breakfast served retro diner-style. Known across Indiana as the state’s oldest drive-in, Triple XXX is all about thick milkshakes, homemade root beer, and the legendary Duane Purvis All-American, a burger topped with creamy peanut butter. Step inside for a time capsule experience, or grab a seat at the counter and watch the line cooks in action.
- Bruno’s Pizza (212 Brown St.)
- Price Range: $$
- Open since 1955 and just a short walk from the heart of Hills and Dales, Bruno’s is beloved for its gooey pies with golden crusts, hearty Italian pastas, and family-friendly booths. The Hot Sicilian pizza and Bruno Dough (fried breadsticks served with marinara) are legendary among locals. Bruno’s offers an authentic slice of Lafayette’s history, ideal for family dinners or post-game celebrations.
Cafés, Bakeries, and Sweet Stops
Hills and Dales offers plenty of cozy corners to sip, snack, and savor homemade pastries or carefully crafted coffee drinks.
- Greyhouse Coffee & Supply Co. (100 Northwestern Ave.)
- Price Range: $$
- Adjacent to the neighborhood and always abuzz with students and locals, Greyhouse is more than a coffee shop—it’s a community hub. Baristas whip up everything from classic lattes to signature cold brews, while the pastry case brims with sweet and savory delights (don’t miss the homemade waffles or lemon lavender scones). The cozy couches and modern décor make it a favorite spot for study sessions or relaxed catchups.
- La Scala Italian Restaurant & Bakery (312 Main St.—a short drive off the neighborhood’s southeast edge)
- Price Range: $$
- While technically just outside the statistical boundary, La Scala is a destination for fresh Italian breads, decadent cakes, and artisan fare. For a mid-morning treat, their almond croissants and tiramisu are worth the short detour. The bakery merges Old World recipes with local ingredients, making each visit a taste of Italy with laid-back Lafayette flair.
Neighborhood Favorites & Global Flavors
Hills and Dales isn’t just about retro Americana—it’s a melting pot, with global flavors around every corner. A walk down Northwestern Avenue or a drive along State Street reveals an eclectic lineup of unforgettable bites.
- Maru Sushi (300 Brown St.)
- Price Range: $$$
- For elegant sushi rolls, Japanese starters, and crisp tempura, Maru Sushi is the go-to spot just a short stroll from Hills and Dales’ main arteries. Their creative rolls—like the Lafayette Fantasy (spicy tuna, avocado, crunchy topping)—and the warm, minimalist interiors make it ideal for date nights or celebrations.
- Cafe Literato (1920 Northwestern Ave.)
- Price Range: $$
- This underrated gem attracts neighbors with wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean-inspired salads. The contemporary café is known for its cozy reading nooks, student-friendly vibe, and menu packed with flavor. Try the Greek Salad or any pizza featuring their signature house-made mozzarella.
- Copper Moon Coffee (225 S University St.)
- Price Range: $
- Known for its artisan roasts and ample seating, Copper Moon is a perfect stop for an afternoon pick-me-up. Their breakfast sandwiches, local pastries, and flavorful drip coffee put it high on the list for Hills and Dales residents on busy mornings.
Can’t-Miss Food Trucks & Pop-Ups
Some of Lafayette’s most exciting food comes from trucks or seasonal pop-ups that park near Hills and Dales, especially on weekends or during Purdue events. Keep your eyes peeled for these local legends:
- Guac Box
- Price Range: $
- Famous for their freshly made guacamole, piled-high nachos, and zesty tacos, Guac Box hits the neighborhood during summer festivals and Purdue’s big weekends. Their consistent lineups attest to the addictiveness of their avocado-laden fare.
- EMT Food Truck
- Price Range: $
- EMT (Eat More Tacos) doles out flavorful, street-style tacos with both classic (carne asada, al pastor) and creative (BBQ pulled pork) twists. Follow their social media for updates on where they’ll be parked next—often right near Salisbury and Northwestern.
Hidden Gems & Local Traditions
For those willing to venture just a bit off the main drag, a few under-the-radar finds reward the curious foodie.
- Town & Gown Bistro (119 N River Rd.)
- Price Range: $$
- A favorite among Purdue faculty and locals, this bistro offers globally inspired brunches, sophisticated sandwiches, and a rotating menu of chef’s specials. Their Sunday brunch—complete with the area’s best eggs Benedict—is a time-honored weekend tradition.
- Mary Lou Donuts (1830 S 4th St.)
- Price Range: $
- Iconic in Lafayette and well worth the drive, Mary Lou Donuts has been serving up pillowy, glazed creations since 1961. Grab a pink box on your way back to Hills and Dales and prepare for smiles all around.
A Food Lover’s Neighborhood
From corner diners and artisan bakeries to sushi spots and taco trucks, the Hills and Dales neighborhood in Lafayette proves that sometimes the best culinary adventures are tucked just outside the center of it all. The area’s balance of historic favorites, international cuisine, and friendly ambiance makes it a must-explore for any local or out-of-town foodie. So next time you’re hungry—and craving something delicious—start your journey in the heart of Hills and Dales.