When locals in Indianapolis speak about their favorite neighborhood diner, Jimmy’s Diner consistently earns raves for its authentic comfort food and down-home hospitality.
This unpretentious spot on Shelby Street attracts everyone from college students to business professionals, all drawn by the same promise of consistently excellent meals served in a welcoming atmosphere. 
The modest brick exterior doesn’t try to impress with flashy design elements, instead focusing all its energy on delivering exceptional food that keeps customers coming back day after day. 🍳
How Jimmy’s won local’s hearts
Jimmy’s Diner captured the affection of Indianapolis residents through the dedication and teamwork of husband-and-wife owners Jimmy Bau and Jessica Montgomery Bau, who established the restaurant in 2016.
The location had previously operated as Ma and Pa’s Diner, but the new owners brought their own vision of hospitality and authentic diner cuisine to the space.
Jimmy, who brings years of restaurant experience from working at establishments including Joe’s Diner and Uno’s Pizzeria, handles the grill with precision while greeting regular customers by name.
His wife Jessica, a lifetime Southsider and Perry Meridian graduate, manages the kitchen’s daily specials and provides warm, attentive service that makes every guest feel welcome.
Their success stems from a simple philosophy: serve fresh, homemade food at reasonable prices while treating every customer like family.
The couple weathered the COVID-19 pandemic by maintaining takeout service at their front door, demonstrating their commitment to the community. Their charitable spirit shines through unique menu items like the “boobie-burger,” with one dollar from each purchase donated to women battling breast cancer.
This combination of excellent food, genuine hospitality, and community involvement has transformed Jimmy’s from a neighborhood spot into a beloved Indianapolis institution. 💕
Food Highlights 🍽️
- Hobo Stew: A hearty, stick-to-your-ribs dish that’s become a customer favorite, perfect for those seeking ultimate comfort food satisfaction
- Country Fried Steak: Celebrated as potentially the state’s most celebrated country fried steak, this dish features perfectly executed breading and seasoning that keeps diners coming back for more
- Bacon Cheeseburger: A classic done right with quality ingredients and proper preparation that showcases the diner’s commitment to getting the fundamentals perfect
- French Toast: Made fresh to order and consistently praised by customers for its perfect texture and flavor
- Breaded Pork Tenderloin: A true Indiana specialty prepared with care and attention to traditional preparation methods
- Sloppy Joes: Highly praised by visitors who describe them as “one of the best sloppy joes I have had” with incredibly flavorful meat that requires a knife and fork to properly enjoy
Atmosphere 🏠
Jimmy’s Diner creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with corrugated metal accents, exposed wooden beams, and walls adorned with framed photographs and memorabilia telling the stories of Indianapolis through the years.
The open kitchen concept allows guests to watch skilled cooks work their magic, while simple wooden tables and black chairs maintain focus on the food.
The relaxing, quiet environment features an American flag waving outside and vintage Indianapolis photographs inside that transport visitors to a different era when breakfast was taken seriously and comfort food reigned supreme.
The no-frills approach means energy goes directly into food preparation rather than trendy design elements.
Bottom Line 🌟
Jimmy’s Diner offers exceptional value and genuine hospitality that’s increasingly rare in today’s dining landscape.
The combination of skilled cooking, reasonable prices, and authentic community connection makes this a must-visit destination for anyone seeking real diner food prepared with care.
Address: 3301 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46227
📞 (317) 784-3752
🕕 Open Mon-Fri, 6 AM–3 PM (closed weekends)