4. Restaurants

Yats

5363 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN, 46220
  • (317) 253-8817
  • Store is closed

Yats Menu

  • Main

Healthy Meal suggestions for Yats

  • Main

  • Allison F.

    Oh, you just can't go wrong with the B&B with that bread...THAT BREAD!

    (5)

  • Travis L.

    Service was great. Food was even better! I ordered the Chicken Chorizo Etouffee and enjoyed every bite. Once you walk inside it goes from Broadripple, Indiana to New Orleans, Louisiana. Not my first time here and, definitely, will not be my last. P.S. Make sure you get the extra bread!

    (5)

  • Brady R.

    What's not to love about YATS? I always try to introduce people from out of town to YATS! Affordable, veggie-friendly options, and always delicious.

    (5)

  • Stephanie P.

    I've come here many a time for affordable, quick, and casual meals with friends. A half-portion is the perfect size for a smaller appetite/stomach, my favorite being the B&B. Yats is in a neat little area of N. College Avenue, making it a fun area to shop around, eat in, and introduce to friends. (The World's Greatest Toffee Cookies really are the greatest. They make great birthday gifts!)

    (5)

  • Alexander L.

    Great Food and affordable. I've been going there since I was a poor law student.

    (5)

  • Meaghan B.

    Easily one of my favorite places to grab a quick and extremely delicious meal in Indy- without breaking the bank. The service is always just as amazing as the food. The owner, Joe, is one of the most kind people I have ever met!

    (5)

  • Iris F.

    I'm so glad that since we moved its a Yats not even five minutes away. Their food is so authentic it makes you feel like you you're in Louisiana. The service is so fast that your food comes hot straight out the kitchen.i can't even say what my favorite thing to get here is because they change menu items daily but you can't loose here! Trust me!

    (4)

  • Ntianu S.

    I just can't quit the chili cheese étouffée. I know Yats has other amazing menu items, but I just CAN'T get enough. I don't visit this location often mostly became it's a cash only establishment, and I'm a debit card totin' gal. Some friends and I decided to stop by for a quick dinner before heading next door to the Jazz Kitchen for an event one Saturday night. This is my new favorite Yats location. The customer service was exceptional, and so was the food. Of course I ordered the chili cheese étouffée, but I did decide to try something new: the peanut butter pie. It was FIYAH!!! Fresh, light, peanut buttery taste. The presentation was a pleasant surprise. What a great night! Yats is truly something special!

    (5)

  • Emily H.

    Sweet, soulful jazz music, chili cheese étouffée, green, purple, and gold, lively people with some of the most laid back personalities...are we in NOLA? I don't go to Yats for only the phenomenal Cajun food but for its awesome customer service. Only have a five dollar bill? They'll make it work. Don't have cash? They'll give you an IOU. These people are the cats pajamas, the bees knees. I walked in and was approached by one of the workers and was asked if I was meeting people. I replied yes and was given a cup for a drink with the response, "Grab a drink and make yourself comfortable." Quality service here people, quality service. Keep doing you Yats, keep doing you.

    (5)

  • Cashmere L.

    No matter which location or day I'm never disappointed. This was my first time at the college location but they made me love YATS in general even more. Me and my girlfriend stopped in for lunch before she went to work but was unaware they didn't take cards which was a shock since we've been to other locations and they do. So we were slightly disappointed when we heard that thinking we'll have to come back next time to only be told no problem just bring it back here's an I.O.U. Me and my girlfriend looked at each other like is he serious he said yea here just bring it back now or the next time you come in. And for that YATS you are the real MVP.

    (5)

  • Julius S.

    Brilliant venue. Food is amazing and you get the proper amount for what you pay for. Honestly out of all the YATS locations, this one is still my favorite. Not only is it the original, but you get more food for your money since this place uses actual plates. Whereas the other YATS uses Styrofoam plates which hold (so it seems) substantially less. Check it out for yourself! Chili cheese ètouffèe and the Maque Choux Chicken are my personal GO TO dishes. Ask for extra bread. You won't regret it.

    (5)

  • Mark W.

    My son and I love Yats. Food is quick, hor, and always tasty. They have a great hot sauce collection to spice it up, if it's not hot enough already.

    (5)

  • Anthony T.

    If you're craving something fast, cheap, and AMAZING then this is the place to go! Parking is a little hectic depending on the time. This is a no frills, simple kind of place. You walk up to the counter to order and you can sample anything you want to try. The staff was very friendly, and your food beats you to your table. The guy working the counter let us eat before paying because they do not accept cards and we didn't have cash on us. After we were done we ran across the street to grab cash from the ATM. I would have rated it 5 stars, but even with great food, great prices, and great service... It's 2014 and not accepting cards is in unacceptable in my opinion. If they raised the prices a little to absorb the cost of taking cards I'm sure nobody would complain. I never carry cash and paying an ATM fee and having to take a separate trip really kills the experience.

    (4)

  • Emily Elizabeth K.

    Some of the best food I have had in Indianapolis. Great prices, a decent helping of food. The atmosphere at this location is superb, very New Orleans French Quarter.

    (5)

  • Luke V.

    The food is delicious, staff is attentive and the owner is kind and approachable. Great place for quick, super delicious food!

    (5)

  • Brandace C.

    Amazing food! Great service! They let us taste everything before we made our purchase.

    (5)

  • Gina Z.

    Never disappoints. They have a rotating menu/options that change a lot but they always have the classics. I switch it up every time I go because all of it is good. I always ask for extra bread and if I take it to go I toast it a little longer because it can get soggy.

    (5)

  • Maddy M.

    Yum! Was in town visiting a friend yesterday and we stopped in for lunch because I had heard great things. It certainly lived up to the hype. Huge portions, and incredibly flavorful. I had the half and half meal so I could try more than one dish, and opted for the chili cheese étouffée and the drunk chicken. The étouffée was very rich and cheesy, a little one dimensional for my taste but still a solid choice. The drunk chicken was fantastic, aromatic and intensely flavorful with a little heat. I loved that the bread comes with the meal and all the hot sauces sitting on the counter. I really enjoyed Yats and wish they would open one at Purdue University!

    (4)

  • Rob D.

    I'm already a big Yats fan, so I was pretty excited that there was a location opening up very near where I was about to move. I went to get some Yats carry out, but found that this location takes cash only. I am not sure if there are plans to change that, but it was a bit of a hassle because I don't keep cash on me. HOWEVER, the cashier kindly offered me an "I owe you" deal. I was hesitant, but they were so nice about it, so I went for it. I imagine more people would pay it back than wouldn't, and it certainly made me feel comfortable with the location. I did not stay long, but the environment was definitely nice and different from the other locations I had been. The decorations are nice, for sure. To see more, check out some of the photos on the page. And of course, the food. My two favorites are the Chili Cheese Etoufee w/ Crawfish, and the Spinach and Mushroom Etoufee. No different in the quality at this location, which is good, because it was delicious! I have not gone back to this location since, but I will, and I'll be paying them back for my tasty meal!

    (5)

  • Julie B.

    WOW! The food here is anything but boring. So tasty, I had to take to-go containers with me to Chicago for my boyfriend. Try the combination plate with two options of meat.

    (5)

  • Clare L.

    A taste of New Orleans right in Indy. This place has an amazing variety of authentic Cajun dishes. My personal favorite is the B&B - get it with cheese, onions and sour cream. And ORDER EXTRA BREAD. Trust me. The butter they put on it is unreal. One thing to note that's kind of annoying, they don't accept cards. They've let me do an IOU before, shocking in this day and age. It's a nice touch and obviously I went back later that day to pay with cash but I wish they'd get with the times and accept cards.

    (5)

  • Anastasia A.

    Nice place--good, simple food. I was not sure I would like the cheese incorporated into my Crawfish Etouffee but I took a chance and it was to-die-for. Good comfort food. My only sad moment was to discover no booze served here...prefer a cold one to wash down the yummy hot sauce but oh well, the food is worth the trip. Cute decor, lively hipster crowd. I will be back!

    (4)

  • Peter P.

    I love this place Food is amazing, extremely affordable and the workers actually show personality. There are 5,6 items on the menu I thoroughly enjoy. Jambalaya is the best but you cannot go wrong with the drunken chicken, red beans and sausage, spinach and mushroom ettoufee, b&B or many others You often see the owner walking around chatting up customers. Yats employees/owners give the impression that they actually enjoy what they are doing and take great pride.

    (5)

  • Irene C.

    ABSOLUTELY delicious. The price to me was inexpensive for sure. Not too many menu items, but that is what I like! That means the food they serve has been tested and perfected! :) Some of the menu items change day to day and is written on a chalkboard. We got gumbo, chicken creole and red beans and smoked sausage. We shared a few family style and got another batch since it was so yummy! Too bad I do not visit Indiana much... :(

    (5)

  • Vicky F.

    First time for us here. We were visiting from Ft. Wayne and asked a Friend where a good local place to eat was. We were using our navigation and knew we were close, so I called. Told him where we were and he so nicely directed it's. We were in the Fresh Market parking lot and he said they weren't too fond of people doing that, and directed us to street parking. Adjectives I would use to describe Yats are: friendly, warm, funky, fun, with a Mardi Gras/NOLA atmosphere. You walk up to the bar to order. We were given a taste of everything before ordering. You get your own napkins, plastic ware, and drinks. Food is brought out to you on a real plate, and the waiters call your name to find you. I had the cheese crawfish etufee with the Veggie B&B; my husband had the red beans & sausage and the veggie B&B, plus two refillable drinks for 18.00. Everything is on the same plate, over rice. Hot and delicious, it's Cajun comfort food here! Only dislikes were the plastic ware & Styrofoam cups, and the bathroom was pretty bare bones. While you are there, you can look at the hot water heater that is sharing space with you. That being said, the water was hot, with plenty of soap and paper towels. Service is fast. When you're done, you clean up your own space. We had a wonderful time and will be back!

    (5)

  • Allie A.

    Everything about this place is 5 stars. Fantastic industry folks, food is the best Creole I've had, and the prices are a steal.

    (5)

  • Rebecca P.

    What can I say, Yats is one of our favorite local joints to walk to and enjoy quick, fair priced, delicious food. B&B, spinach and mushroom étouffée, and crawfish étouffée are my personal favorites. One time they were serving black chili which was INCREDIBLE, but I have only seen it on the menu one time. This location only takes check or cash but they also don't charge for onions, cheese, and sour cream like some of the other locations. The guys that work here are super awesome, too! Great service, great food. I'm never disappointed.

    (5)

  • Nic J.

    What's not to love? For a mere 7 bucks or so, I got a half and half of chili cheese étouffée with crawfish and chicken and chorizo étouffée. I found the chicken and chorizo to be very tasty, and nicely spiced. It wasn't the best-looking thing I've ever eaten, but that's not whats important here. Also, the chorizo made it pretty greasy, although that's to be expected anytime chorizo is in the game. The chili cheese was wonderful. That's all I can really say. The bread is some of the best side bread I've ever gotten at a restaurant, and the garlic power sauce is freaking awesome. Add in a cool New Orleans atmosphere and you've got a winner.

    (4)

  • Ron R.

    Yats....several locations around town but this is the only one that only accepts cash....While I think this started out as something the owner did to reduce costs of credit card charges...I think since then, this concept stayed only because of the novelty of the IOUs. If you come in there without cash because it is your first time and you did not know (Which is near impossible at this point). They will give you the food and write up an IOU that you would bring next time and pay. Very nice novelty that got them a lot of recognition. Other than that, it is the same ol fantastic creole/cajun food that you get at the other Yats but with the broadripple feel. Spinach Cheese Etouffee, mmmmmmm

    (5)

  • Moira R.

    Yum Yum there is no need to go without gumbo and red beans while you're in Yats. I find that the dishes are a little salty, but it is from the sausages, and how can I complain, it is a little bit too salty, just like my yummy New Orleans food. The prices are good and the food reminds me of being home in New Orleans.

    (4)

  • Alicia F.

    I like Yats. I go there at least once a month. Is it a destination restaurant? No. Is it tasty, quick, and affordable? Yes! They're a local chain with locations all over indy (and some locations in other cities/states). I haven't experienced a ton of variability between stores -- the food tastes basically the same, although the decor may change a bit. I would characterize most of their food as stews over rice -- some kind of saucy entree poured over a plate of rice, served with tasty garlic bread. I love the bourbon chicken, but I'm not a fan of most of their other offerings -- the veggies taste canned, and I don't really like crawfish. I think they're using minute rice, or some other parboiled short grain rice -- I understand that it makes cooking it quicker and easier, but rice cookers are everywhere and not that expensive! I am a bit of a rice snob, so I really would appreciate the rice quality going up a bit -- but I don't think most folks would notice or care. I'd recommend it for a quick lunch or dinner, and I am thrilled to see a local chain thriving. I wouldn't really go out of my way to eat there, but I think their food is tasty and convenient.

    (3)

  • Stacy V.

    Soooo good. I took my parents and grandma who wanted to try something different that they couldn't get in their small town. Yats delivered. I loved how they gave samples to try before ordering. Very helpful. I know I made the right choice. All dishes we had were amazing!

    (5)

  • Matthew A.

    I love this place. I have tried to limit myself to one visit a week. I usually grab it to go, and its fast. Staff are super cool - I found out the hard way they dont take credit cards, but was able to settle up on my next visit. Always pick two options, chili cheese etouffe and something else. Parking can be a struggle, but you can usually find a place on College Avenue. Great food all around, cheap, and fast.

    (5)

  • Megan S.

    I personally really enjoy this restaurant. I have recently moved to the Indy area and have found this a nice place to go and eat with coworkers. It is very fast and the food is consistently good. It is actually an office favorite and where were go about once a week. The menu has everything on it from vegetarian to gluten free options. I have never had real Cajun so I can't relate it to anything authentic before but if this is anything compared to real Cajun count me in. The average meal is around $8 without a drink and with a drink around $10. For as fast food and good quality food this is a perfect place to get both. It is also a perfect place to go with people with children who don't want to wait 30 minutes for a meal or for people who need fast food which is something different than Wendy's or Burger King.

    (4)

  • Kristen W.

    This place is SO DELICIOUS! Vegetarian and vegan friendly and so much variety. I will be coming back again for more!

    (5)

  • Robert G.

    On the way home from Indianapolis... Stop into a hole in the wall. Cash only. I am strapped.. So they give me s free meal before I know what to order... And they have diet dew! To top it all off, it's the best Cajun I've had and I've been to NOLA. I wish I could have given more than the Taco Bell gift card I had on me and five stars... This establishment deserves a sixth star!

    (5)

  • Emily B.

    The food is cheap and delicious, the ambiance is great and so is the service. I keep coming back again and again. I like the chili cheese etoufee best and the garlic bread is buttery and delicious.

    (5)

  • Tiffany S.

    Everything about this place is 5 star ! I had the best experience from the food to the customer service . E X C E L L E N T !

    (5)

  • Mollie M.

    This is my favorite of all the Yats locations(Of course, they're all great!) But this one has so much character and charm. The interior is warm and festive at the same time, and the employees are so laid back and friendly. The first time I went I didn't realize it was cash only, but they gave me food anyways and told me to just pay them back. Of course, I did promptly and tipped generously. The chili cheese etoufee is my favorite, although everything on the menu is delicious and worth trying at least once! I believe this Yats location gives the most generous serving sizes. ask for extra bread... yum!!

    (5)

  • Kinsey C.

    What is there to say that hasn't already been said? COME. HERE. TODAY. Honestly, this place is great. Make sure to bring your cash, because this place is cash only. No cash? They have an IOU policy, but seriously just bring cash. Their jambalaya is amazing, as is everything else on the menu. Always always always ask for extra bread. It's almost better than the food! You can walk in and leave with a full belly and a smile on your face for less than $10. Where else can you get local goodness for that price?

    (5)

  • Brittany S.

    Yats in a nutshell: -opt for the half & half: $6.75 (best way to try 2 dishes in one sitting) -cash only -Frittle now sells their pecan pralines here -peanut butter pie -favorites: red beans & sausage and B&B (sweet mixture of corn and black beans - veggie friendly) -all served on white rice with a side of buttered (mystery, sinful butter) on French bread -tremendous amount of New Orleans-like decor hanging from the walls, ceiling, etc. -friendly, laid back atmosphere (no frills - served on biodegradable plates)

    (5)

  • Sara C.

    My one check-in isn't really accurate - I've been here more times than I can count since I live nearby. Yats is my favorite place to go to for: cheap eats, quick eats and spicy eats. Yats' menu is consistent, so I know that when I order B&B, it's going to be the same each time. My usuals are white chicken chili, drunken chicken and red beans and sausage. Always topped over a pile of rice to soak up the savory sauce, each dish is unique in that they all look and taste differently. My tip on Foursquare (before Yelp swept me up) was "Always get more bread." It's 50 cents and come on, if you are eating Yats you are not counting carbs and calories, so go all out and use that bread as a spoon!

    (5)

  • Vam K.

    I know people love this place, I just can't seem to understand why. The service is always friendly and prompt, and they do have a good selection of hot sauces. Oh, and typically a vegan/vegetarian dish. Those are all perks that I regard very highly. In fact just one of those could make or break an experience at any establishment. That being said, the food, for me, has always left quite a bit to be desired. And every time I have eaten here, the dishes have been served at lukewarm temperatures at best. I will admit that it is possible that the non-veg dishes are better, I wouldn't know personally, but my meat-eating bf enjoys his meal every time we've been here. A few tips to leave you with. They will let you sample a dish before committing to it (wouldn't it be great if all places did that?), and there is a certain level of customization here as well-you can add diced red onions to your entree and you can ask for them to hold the heaping pile of white rice served with every dish.

    (3)

  • Marjorie K.

    My experience didn't live up to the hype. It was okay. Food was good, service was good. There is a good possibility that I will return. I had half drunken chicken and half B&B. I thought the two were a perfect combination of spicy and sweet. I was really surprised a the portion size. WAY to much food for me. Next time I'll split the meal with someone or order a half portion.

    (3)

  • Jeff C.

    Joe the owner is so cool. What an original restaurant. they never let you leave hungry and samples are always cool to ask for. This is my out of town friends favorite place to go to when in the neighborhood. I love the crawfish etouffe...but you cant go wrong with yats.

    (5)

  • Chris P.

    Best South LA food in the city. I love going to Yats and will continue in the future.

    (4)

  • Robert A.

    If you don't have the money to hit Nola for mardi gras, just get a couple dishes here and have your wife or girlfriend (or both if you got it like that playboy) put their boobs in your face. It'll cost you way less and be as or more satisfying. I am one of the rare few that can call myself a yatz regular... at their now closed Chicago location. Chicago doesn't know how much it's missing out and on behalf of Chicago please come back. You had a tough location but I will personally tour you to better spots with cheaper rents. I'll even find investors if you wanna sell me a franchise and make sure it gets on Check Please this time. This is no joke! Yatz has a selection of home made Louisiana dishes prepared fresh daily. I've never had a bad dish. Ever. There is nothing comparable in Indy and a handful of wannabes in and around Chicago that don't compare. The one place in Chicago with food as good (Heaven on 7) is about three times more expensive with drinks. Did I mention the Chicago spot was byob eligible? The College Ave spot is great too but because there is no byob I really hope they consider a bar. I envision drinks and music nightly tripling the take if you are willing to stomach the headaches. Maybe not in Broadripple with the bar competition, but you'd be the coolest bar in Castleton and a student fave in West Lafeyette. Or come back to Chicago with a new byob location because I miss you as much as I miss my dead uncle Andy. Why? Because nobody gives it to us like you playboys did! Boobies in my face just aren't the same without you...

    (5)

  • Heather T.

    Cheap, delicious. You can tell their food is made with love. The red beans and sausage is one of my favorites. Tried the maque choux with chorizo the other day and loved it even more. Sweet and perfectly rich. Extra bread for $0.50 is a must. Cash only though!

    (5)

  • Stephana B.

    Casual, cool, relaxed environment. Good food that is a nice change from the usual. Employees are always nice too. Love the bread on the side! Love the vegetarian options! They also give free samples so you can determine what you want.

    (4)

  • Krista A.

    Yats is delicious and cheap. There aren't any really healthy options, considering they all come with white rice and white bread. There are veggie options, but those are also oily and wouldn't be considered "health-conscious." I was a much bigger fan of Yats before they started taking their production to Kentucky. That's a huge bummer and has kept me from eating there nearly as much as I normally would.

    (3)

  • Kent C.

    The Vegan white chili is very good, however finding it is a headache. Yats is very bad at making sure they have a vegan option, we always find ourselves having to look online at all their store's menus to find a place that has a vegan option that day. I would probably rate it higher if they would actually stock a vegan choice so going there would not be such a hassle. In the end we just go somewhere else because other places actually keep vegan on the menu daily.

    (3)

  • Ryne V.

    I managed a froyo shop in Broad Ripple for about 7 months and this was by far the most recommended place to grab a cheap bite to eat by my customers. Now, in saying that, I'm not sure why it's the most recommended, but it's still extremely good. I stopped by on the way to work and, like most places in Broad Ripple, there was no free parking at all, so I found a place to park and went in. The place is sort of cluttered, but I like that part of some of the cool Broad Ripple restaurants. There seemed to be plenty of seating and menu items were chalked up on a chalkboard behind the register. I let them know I was new to the whole concept and they generously offered a couple of samples of their jambalaya and their chili cheese etouffee with craw fish (both were great). All orders come in half or full orders with a garlic bread. After ordering the jambalaya, I handed them my card to find out it was cash only. Again, this location is CASH ONLY. Unfortunately, I didn't have any cash on me, so I apologized and said I would be on my way, but the awesome guy working handed me a paper that he wrote "IOU" on and said I was free to go. The food was good - nothing too special, but it definitely hit the spot. The best part was the portions - I ordered a half order and it filled the main section of a standard three-section to-go box that you get at most places. I returned the next day, ordered a half order of the etouffee, and payed back my IOU generously. EDIT: I forgot to mention that a half order with bread was less than $5. Great deal for the portions. I definitely recommend for a cheap and casual meal.

    (4)

  • Payton R.

    I don't know why I'm just now writing a review for Yats as this has to be my 100th eating here or one of their other locations. Yats is an indianapolis staple and deservedly so. There's nothing about this place I don't absolutely love. The chorizo étouffée and maque choux are my personal favorites. Yats uses quality ingredients and always has a nice variety of dishes on there menu which changes daily. The staff is always extremely friendly. The overall ambience is fun and eclectic. It's an amazing value as well. A full belly for under 8 bucks is hard to beat. I could rant and rave about this place all day, but if you're in the indianapolis area and haven't tried Yats before then you need to try it as soon as humanly possible!

    (5)

  • Rebecca H.

    Oh c'mon! I don't feel like I even need to say anything because Yats speaks for itself. This is one of the first places I came when I moved to Indy and it still remains one of my favorites. I always check the menus online before I go to see if any location is serving my favorite, chicken curry and mushroom étouffée!

    (5)

  • Sidney F.

    I decided to follow the yelp for lunch while visiting Indianapolis. And boy it was great. I had Jambalaya and it was very flavorful. The staffs were super friendly. I didn't have cash and they offered to feed me first before going to ATM across the street. I'll bring some friends later, with cash, of course.

    (5)

  • Justin V.

    What a place!!! Outside of New Orleans, this is the best Cajun food I have anywhere in the U.S. We sampled the chile cheese étouffée with crawfish, jambalaya, chicken creole, and red beans with sausage. Everything, and I do mean everything was amazing! If I had to choose my favorite, it would be the chili cheese étouffée... Great flavors, textures and the portions were huge (goodbye diet!) Lunch for two, including drinks for $19 is a steal so grab a friend and get down here. The atmosphere is cool and unpretentious; the staff amazing! We will definitely be back!!!

    (5)

  • Luisanna R.

    Delicious food phenomenal prices. What more do you want? Oh yeah a beer? Well they just opened a location on northern Mass Ave that has the coolest beer tapping machine you have ever seen. It will blow your mind. I will not ruin the magic. Also quick tip try whatever you want before ordering. The staff is always really cool and they don't advertise it but you CAN and are encouraged to try any entree before ordering. It is very different from the traditional midwest food but it is worth a shot at under $8.00 for an entree who can beat that?

    (5)

  • Nolando T.

    Ok, first off...if you're looking for something to chew on like meat or something don't come here. Practically all their dishes are some sort of stew or sauce on top of rice. Not that the food is bad, but if you want to tear into something solid this isn't the place for you. That being said, the food here is delicious. I am not overly familiar with Cajun food aside from shrimp/crawfish boils but I was very pleased with what I had here. I was surprised they were so empty when I went in especially given the reviews. But maybe I just came on an off day. I do expect to return here for sure.

    (4)

  • Courtney B.

    I would usually give this 5 out of 5 stars, but I probably, only, ALWAYS get the Chili Cheese Etouffee....I have also been known to sigh disappointingly, and then walk out when I hear that they are out of my favorite dish.... If I had actually tasted anything else, I know I would no doubt give it 5 out of 5! Always full of funny, friendly and fresh workers, and bright, warm colors, Yat's is a great place to hang out on your lunch hour...or dinner hour...or just free hour. Now that it has moved, it is also in a great location to get some Gelato from across the street... I highly recommend this restaurant!

    (4)

  • Pete F.

    It is about the best fast food Cajun you can get in Indianapolis. If you are looking for great Cajun food you should probably try another place.

    (3)

  • Mady A.

    Yummy goodness! My favorite are the white chili chicken, drunken chicken and gumbo. Even when packed, service is super fast. I live in NYC and I have to stop at Yats every time I'm in Indy. Delicious, flavorful and oh so good!

    (5)

  • Madeline R.

    Amazing atmosphere and staff. You have to try the Chili Cheese Etouffee! It is absolutely fantastic

    (5)

  • Divya V.

    Tried Yats for the first time last week... yes, I am kind of embarrassed to say that it took so long. I got the mushroom and spinach etouffee and the hubby got the B&B, both with extra bread. I paid by check, yes, I own a checkbook and had it on me. I felt like I had walked into my mom's kitchen and asked "what's for dinner?" No fuss, no fancy presentation with a mint leaf or ransom garnish. The food was delicious and comforting, they have different kinds of hot sauce. The B&B has a little sweetness to it with Sriracha it was awesome. In love with the spicy bread extra bread is so worth the extra calories!

    (5)

  • phoebe c.

    From PA on business for 6 days... Yats got such good reviews and was close by, had to try it. 1) when you walk in it is self seating... We looked liked newbies hanging out at our table.. No one said anything ... GO to the counter and place your order! 2) the menu is short and sweet HOORAY! If you are curious about a fish they will give you an itty bitty bite to try. 3) if you're stuck get a halfies plate All kinda of hot sauces and condiments. Fun decor (kinda dusty bric-à-brac...did not check out the bathrooms) I had the vegetarian options dan had shrimp. LOVED! Prices great too. Don't think you can go wrong here.

    (5)

  • Katie D.

    Holy moly this is one of the best places to eat in Indy! So cheap and soooo good! I always get the Maque Choux which is made with corn and chicken. It's not spicy at all and pretty sweet. It's the perfect lunch or dinner. Oh, did I mention the garlic bread is the shiz??

    (5)

  • Steffany R.

    Got the drunken chicken and the beans and rice with rice. Both were very good. If you like spicy and Cajun you will love it. The bread is WONDERFUL. When we went we told them we had never been there and he gave us sample after sample. Which was awesome so we knew what we were getting. Everyone needs go there at least once in there life.

    (4)

  • Trena T.

    When the husband and I lived in Castleton, this was the place that started out dedication to supporting local businesses. Turkey pozole is my favorite, but the B&B, jambalaya, etouffe...it's all delicious. The bread they serve on the side? Whoa. I don't know what's on it, I don't care what's on it. Just give me all of the bread. We've made jambalaya at home and made a special trip to YATS, JUST so we could have their bread to go with it. The menu is pretty concise, and changes from day to day at some locations. Check the website or call for options. (You can check the specific location's Facebook page, too, but they're not always up to date.) If you're having trouble choosing just one delicious option, get the 1/2 and 1/2 plate---try two! They have a variety of hot sauces hanging around to up the spice level, if that's your thing, too.

    (4)

  • Alex M.

    Yats has become one of those places or things that I develop genuine cravings for that linger in my gut until I can satiate it. I never thought I'd be saying that about Midwestern Creole.

    (5)

  • Veronica B.

    One of my favorite places to eat on a budget. My favorite dish is Chipotle Alexio, but the College Ave location doesn't have it very often. The portions are generous and the food is great. Love the garlic bread that is served with the dishes and the fresh brewed tea. Easily accessible by bike if you don't want to deal with street parking.

    (5)

  • Bob S.

    I'm not sure why I waited so many years to try Yats. As it was my first time, they let me sample several of their dishes before making a decision. They were all really, really good and I ended up picking out a dish that I never would have chosen if I hadn't tried it out first. I think you get a lot of food for the money, and it was all very flavorful. As one side note - I wasn't too fond of the Che Guevara hat being worn by the guy that helped me. When I have a hankering for cajun food, I really don't care to see the idolization of a communist mass murderer. Also, CASH ONLY.

    (4)

  • Sarah D.

    I can always count on Yats for a fast cheap meal (under $10 w/a drink & a nice lil tip for the staff) that will fill me up! But beyond that I can honestly say that the flavor and preparation is on point! The rice is always cooked to perfection, the bread perfectly toasted and appropriately buttered up and seasoned, and the spinach-mushroom etoufee never ever disappoints. A meal at Yats is consistently good! I usually have at least 1/4 of my meal left over . . . but since I'm currently "eating for 2" (a phrase & mindset my doctor has warned against!) I polished off my whole meal this time. If you're a Yats first-timer don't be afraid to ask for a sample at the counter! I often sample new menu items that I haven't tried in the past -- but keep coming back to my old faithful (spinach mushroom etoufee)! I have no interest in reading nutrition information for any of the dishes at Yats...all that bread, white rice, and gooey gooey goodness on top. Its a once-in-a-while treat and I sure do enjoy it!

    (5)

  • Jennifer H.

    It's delicious. The Spinach/Mushroom dish was fantastic.

    (5)

  • Kevin B.

    I was sitting on the patio of Broad Ripple Brew Pub the other day with two friends. They have great tacos for only $2, by the way. This was on whatever day it was we were there - maybe a Tuesday or a Wednesday, or Thursday. And, I should note, the tacos are only $2 for just a few hours on that day - either for lunch or dinner, I can't remember. We were there at 3:00pm, and I can't remember if it was just starting or just ending. We had to ask if we were able to get them at that time, at 3:00pm. It was either too early or too late. I can't remember. But the server was very accommodating, either way. I was happy with the service and food. And so we were sitting there, having a reasonable decent civilized conversation. And behind us, I hear this woman talking. Loud. She was obviously complaining about something. And then I heard it. "I mean what is that stuff they slop alllll over the bread, anyways? It's gross, and it's greasy, and it's not worth 5 cents." Her tone was vitriolic.This surprised me, given that her dress and demeanor were professional. Stylish, even. Judging by her appearance, I would bet this woman has eaten at places such as Cerulean, Late Harvest Kitchen, R Bistro, Oakley's Bistro, etc. (All of which, by the way, I would happily recommend. I haven't eaten at any, but they have excellent Yelp reviews across the board, which is hard for places in the $$-$$$ range to achieve as so many customers leave negative reviews simply for being surprised at the expensive bill.) Also, if her idiot hick extended family suggested they eat at Chili's or Olive Garden, I would guess that she would most likely find some excuse to not go. She had such a professional and restrained air, and yet there she was talking trash about Yats. The bread is not all they serve. Yats also offers rice. It's usually lying just underneath the bread. And at Yats, at least half of the rice is covered in Chili Cheese Étouffée. (That's what I order! I recommend a half order with extra bread.) Clearly, this woman had never eaten Yats, and if she did, she let her judgment be clouded by one accidental feature of the dish. Did she not notice that the rest of her plate was covered in food other than bread? Who goes to Yats for the bread anyways? Yats will be a fine fast food chain one day. As Yats expands, I hope the opinions of that woman at Broad Ripple Brew Pub last week contract. There is a tip jar, but no table service.

    (4)

  • Christopher M.

    Not as good as Papa Roux, but, pretty good! They never have the garlic power sauce I love though, which always makes me sad :(

    (4)

  • Matthew B.

    I truthfully don't understand the trend at all. It is cool and unique that it has the locals vibe, is affordable, and takes cash only. On the other hand, I don't think the food is worth the seemingly endless praise it gets from visitors. I do like cajun food, but this place always makes me feel sick after anything I try.

    (2)

  • Abby T.

    Great food and cheap! Cash only, though, in Broad Ripple.

    (4)

  • Kyle K.

    I attended this little restaurant with the intent that I was not going to like the food selection. Never thought I would be a Cajun fan or like the flavors involved with it but, it was SO good. When you first walk in you are welcomed with a Mardi Gras themed areas with beads hanging on the lights and pictures on the walls. I really like when I see this in a restaurant because they actually are trying to bring the traditions to other parts of the world. Both workers there were friendly as ever and just seemed to enjoy the job by the way they treated the customers. I ordered the "Chipotle Chicken Cajun" on a full dish. You can also have 1/2 dishes if you aren't wanting as much food. Every meal came with a piece of french bread with some sort of delicious spread place on top of it, very good. They gave me a very healthy serving of chicken and white rice which made me get a to go box and have another meal! The food came out much faster than we expected and was not cold at all and was just full of flavor. The price did not hurt my back pocket either with a full plate and a drink it was around $8. If you see something on that chalk board menu you are not sure you will like, get it anyways because it will be great!

    (4)

  • KC K.

    Huge fan of this place. $8 gets you full plate of drunken chicken over rice and bread. Great flavor and no extra hot sauce needed, however, if you to choose to, they have the Louisiana Lightning! Guys that work here are very friendly and helpful as well. My fav lunch spot in Indi!

    (4)

  • Jason T.

    First time here, and I loved it. I had the redbeans and rice. Great environment, it does take cash only. What's really cool if you don't have cash they say you can pay later.

    (4)

  • Holly G.

    Yats is the perfect place for inexpensive comfort food. I love their etouffees, especially the chili cheese and spinach and mushroom! Their menu varies from day to day, so make sure you check out the menu boards online for your favorites.

    (4)

  • Andrew G.

    Yats has an awesome atmosphere. The food is made with love, and the price is right. My favorites are Chipotle Chicken Alexio, Drunken Chicken and the Chili Cheese with Crawfish. Get some extra bread and enjoy your étouffée!

    (5)

  • Lin H.

    linharper13@y

    (5)

  • Charles M.

    Great food, great price, nice atmosphere. The staff takes delight in getting to know their regular customers. Nice to go somewhere that is not fast food and have dinner for two well under $20.

    (4)

  • Yvonne M.

    Having been to the Yats at Mass Ave and this branch, it has become one of my regular go to places for meals! This branch has quite a few more choices than the one on Mass Ave, but they are just as great! This is my 2nd time having Yats in a week and even though my bf dislikes cajun/creole food, he loves this one:) This one only takes cash. They'll offer small samples for you to taste before ordering. They will bring your food to you. You can split your plate and have two choices of dish in one. (Not for the Gumbo) I'm addicted to Yatsssss!

    (4)

  • Michael M.

    Well...what can I say that really hasn't been said? My wife and I have been coming to Yats in Broad Ripple for at least four years now, so I like to think that maybe I got the knowledge to give it a fair and honest review. I've recently taken my son there, along with my daughter, my daughter in law, friends, etc. I like sharing good food places with friends, and the more people I bring in, the more I like it. I'll bring up the "Cons" first before I get into the "Pros". 1: The Broad Ripple establishment: Parking can sometimes be a chore on that busy street. This is not Yats fault, and there is really nothing they can do about it, when you have Jazz Kitchen, Fresh Market, Sams Gyros, (expanded into the old Army surplus store), all on the same block. You just find a place and park. Be ready to walk a block or two. And WATCH while crossing that intersection. 2: The Place itself can get VERY crowded. If I have ONE main issue with the place, it's not the food, or the staff, but the customers. Some of them seem not to understand (or they simply don't care), that the seating is limited, (the place is small), and thus they like to just "hang out" at the tables for a while after they eat, while other people are standing around looking for a place to sit. I've actually had to ask people if they would be so kind as to let other folks have their table since they could carry their conversations on outside. Too many youthful hipsters with their egos.... 3: I would say the biggest "Con" in the food is sometimes the run out. There's been times I've been craving the chili cheese etouffe and come in only to have them say "Sorry we ran out 10 minutes ago"... And now the "Pros".... 1: Food: The chili cheese etouffe and the mang choux chicken are my favorites. There's been times that I have gone back and ordered seconds. Not because the portions are so small, but simply because it was so good. My son says that the Peanut Butter Pie is probably the best pie he has ever tasted. 2: Service: The service is excellent with a good staff. Joe is an amazing man and very wonderful and friendly. 3: Atmosphere: A nice funky mix of New Orleans-esque kitsch and Broad Ripple weirdness seem to mesh quite well together. I've wanted the picture of the red cat for years. Sigh.... 4: A nice and varied collection of peppers, salts, and spices for your food. 5: Speaking of the food once again. The food has enough spice for those of us with "Anglo" tastes, and there is enough variation of spices to allow people to push it up to "nuclear" in hotness. Overall, this has become one of my most favorite places to eat. We did try the old Mass. Ave, location twice and while the food was good, the staffs attitude was a bit of a letdown. They are moving to a new location so hopefully there, they will do better things. If I was to recommend this I would say "Yes!".... Thanks for reading....

    (5)

  • Andy F.

    I have been going to Yats since the week it opened. It has always been amazing. The food quality has never wavered. Even though I am exiled to the east coast now I still pine for Yats. It is usually my first restaurant to hit up upon getting back to Indy. My usual experience is getting picked up at the airport by my brother or sisters and if it is anywhere near lunch time heading to Yats. So damn good.

    (5)

  • Stacy J.

    "Back here again!' Which will be a reoccurring theme for Yats!! LOVE IT! Had friends come to town and gave them a few options and was glad these chose Yats as a new place to try!! They were a little leery at first but upon waiting in line for a short bit they came to loved the service!! They were instantly given a few small samples and were able to narrow down their choice... (Sorry to those in line behind us, they were first timers! :)) They later talked on and on to me about how fun this place is and how friendly the staff are and how darn quick their food was delivered to the table (hadn't even filled their drinks!) But OVERALL between the two of them, they nearly licked the platter clean! And of course I did too!!! Never had a dish I didn't like here and never left unhappy!!! And love seeing the camaraderie between staff members and also between staff and customer. I usually see someone who comes in and doesn't even have to say a thing, the guy at the register knows what he/she is going to order and have it ordered up upon their entrance ~generally under some silly name, too! Always a fan of Yats!!

    (5)

  • S B.

    Yes! Amazin vegan chili and super-friendly service.

    (4)

  • Bree J.

    By far the best quick food in Indy. I live in Chicago now, but I crave this stuff! I've gone to this place for years, the staff has always been amazing. They know your name and what you want when you walk in the door. And Joe, the owner, is the best- always has a huge smile on his face. For the amount of food you get for under $10, it can't be beat. The decor is kitschy, festive and random. The chili cheese étouffée is probably the most popular (and it's great), but my favorite is the pozole stew. But really, I've never had a bad dish! A must spot where the locals go.

    (5)

  • Brian M.

    So, I am in town for the night on business and decided to check Yelp (Like I Always Do) for a good dinner spot. After reading some of the reviews I decided this was the place. Also, I love me some Cajun Food!!! As others point out it is a Cash only business and I would also agree that it came off as a potential hipster hang out. I looked at their online menu and saw that they had "Chicken & Chorizo Etouffee " and man oh man did that sound good!! Of course they were sold out of it but I did get there after 8pm so it was very understandable. I opted for a combo plate and had "Chili Cheese Etouffee with Crawfish" I asked the guy taking my order to pick the other half and he said "You can't go wrong with the red beans and rice with sausage" Hell yea!!! He was right. I ended up with a very healthy portion of food and a pop with free refills for 8 bucks. The food tasted fresh and was excellent! Service was great! Place had character and plenty of things on the walls and such to look at! Food was absolutely delicious! Price was super cheap for what you get!

    (5)

  • Ryan T.

    One of the best places in Indy. So the food may not be 100% up to the expectations of what the Louisiana yuppies would call authentic Cajun... but it's good. Damn good. I have dreams about the Chili Cheese étouffée. The staff is always helpful and they will let you try anything. They are FAST and friendly and have a cool, mellow, hip vibe. Love.......this......... place!

    (5)

  • Sarah F.

    This place is great! As others have said, they let you sample what they have before you order. My staples include the chili cheese etouffee and the white chili chicken. I also liked the B&B (it tastes like Thanksgiving dinner in one dish) and the spicy chipotle chicken. Such a good way to fill your belly and there are always leftovers!

    (5)

  • Aaron H.

    Yats is well known as a good place to get quick, cheap, tasty cajun food, and it is all those things. My go-to is the chili cheese etouffee (add hot sauce) and recently had the drunken chicken, which is an interesting change of pace. It's nothing fancy (the food is served on styrofoam with plastic forks), but that kind of adds to the vibe. Hard to beat, if you're looking for something simple on Mass Ave / Broad Ripple / etc.

    (4)

  • Nikhil N.

    Hands down the best customer service. I went here for a date and I dint knew that they only pay cash. The cashier was so cool that he asked me to pay tomorrow and just order whatever we wanted. I insisted him on giving my phone number so that I can prove to him that I will definitely pay him back but he was like, that's ok buddy I trust you. I went back 2 days later and paid em the amount with an extra tip and they offered me a free drink. So I would say that these guys have the best customer service. I ordered a drunken chicken and spinach etouffee and it was awesome !!

    (5)

  • Nikki H.

    Not only was the food amazing, not only was I kindly reminded that I can get two types of étouffée when I couldn't select just one, and not only was the atmosphere comforting and perfect, but when I forgot that they only accepted cash, the server quickly gave us an IOU that we will be paying off tomorrow. Amazing food and customer service!

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    Chili Cheese Crawfish Etoufee-YUM!! I pretty much stick with that every time I go, always delicious. The workers here are super friendly and make you feel right at home. One of the guys even offered for us to pay him back another time because we did bring cash with us, wow. Thats impressive, I dont know any other businesses that would even think of that. Cheap food, good atmosphere, and great people.

    (5)

  • Maurini S.

    From the minute I walked in the staff were warm and engaging. I was visiting for a conference and came here at the recommendation of an Indy Hostel staff member. I had the crawfish étouffée and the B&B (black beans and blackened corn). OMG! I died and went to heaven. Super prompt service - no sooner had I made my order it was out. The guy who brought it out was super friendly and asked how I'd heard about them and where I was from. Desperately wanted to return before I left but couldn't swing it. Amazing experience - food-wise and service-wise! Go there now!

    (5)

  • Cindy S.

    Yats is the NUMBER ONE PLACE i miss the MOST of ANYTHING in Indy. damn....how can i have moved to the south and not find decent creole?!!? spinach mushroom etoufee. NUMBER ONE. nomnomnom. i don't know what the orange butter they put on the bread is but OMG. so tasty (and probably bad for me). however, Joe (the owner) is AMAZING. super nice, polite, accommodating back in 2003, i went in with my sister and my brother, who is disabled (wheel chair disabled). it was March and pretty cold outside. there weren't any seats inside so we sat outside. Joe saw us and was really upset that there weren't any seats available for a wheelchair. so he comped our next meal (which delighted my brother to NO END). Joe knows the important people. Us who order extra bread with extra orange butter. He's a bit crazy, a bit eccentric but AMAZING. above and beyond what you expect out of a local place. (he also goes across the street to Moe and Johnny's to "steal" what he needs. which is an amazing length to go to to make sure your customers are happy!!!).

    (5)

  • Tyler P.

    Amazing, They were open on Sunday and I had two dishes. After my girlfriend and I ate both of those, we had to try a third. This was totally doable because the service was crazy fast, the prices very affordable, and the food so delicious. I would recommend to anyone.

    (5)

  • Vanessa G.

    Thx Yelp for another great find! I give 3.5 stars for food & 0.5 star for funky / eclectic atmosphere. CASh only & limited menu (like 5-6 items). Couple veggie options though I went for the chili cheese étouffée with crawfish equals 1 yummy meal . Outdoor patio & inside dining option . Great meal under $10

    (4)

  • Michelle L.

    Decent stuff. They don't serve their food hot, you have to spice it up yourself with hot sauce, etc. Sticks to the ribs yummy. Black chili was good, as is there chicken dish. Charge you for extra bread though.

    (3)

  • Lukas T.

    Awesome. Fast, real friendly, delicious, and you can sample everything. Bring cash!

    (5)

  • Stephanie B.

    Food: delicious, but think "comfort" not "super healthy" $: very affordable Service: charming Atmosphere: hole in the wall

    (4)

  • Morgan J.

    Jambalaya, gumbo, étouffées-- oh my! Yats is home-cooked, stick-to-your-ribs, cajun/creole deliciousness. The staff is always helpful and quick, the prices/portions are good, and the food is GREAT. The menu changes daily, but everything on it is good! It's cash-only, and parking can be tricky at times. One of the best spots in town!

    (5)

  • Mike F.

    I love Yats. It opened 10 years ago and keeps getting better and better. The food is tasty; the portions are bountiful; the price is little. The attitude of the staff (and especially the owner, Joe) is excellent. I think the sign that hangs above the soda fountain, which reads, "Refills are free (and quite necessary)" sums up this attitude.

    (5)

  • Anthony F.

    This place has fantastic food! The chili cheese etouffee is my go to but it is all really tasty. Lighting quick service and super affordable for the value. I go often and recommend to anyone.

    (5)

  • Christina C.

    Yats is a staple in Indianapolis. Cheap prices, filling and comforting food, and the staff members are super fun and cool. The owner himself can regularly be seen working in the kitchen, or personally talking to guests and bussing tables. This guy is what all business owners SHOULD be. I love many of the dishes, and there's always a good selection. The Chipotle Alexio, White Chili, Drunk Chicken, Jerk Chicken, and Chicken Creole are my favorites. In short, this is the food I crave when I'm having a bad day, or if I just don't feel like going to the grocery store. I tend to be sort of a snobby food person, as I have eaten at some of the best restaurants in the country. But Yats is always a favorite- it's simple, classic comfort food, done right.

    (5)

  • Kate B.

    Yats is an acquired love of mine (hence only 3-stars) The College location is my favorite- has the most seating and best decor. It is spicy yummy goodness. I am not a huge fan of spice, so I normally get a 1/2 order of the chicken creole and an extra order of garlic bread. Make sure to get a soda! They will let you try whatever you like before you order- they make up the food before in like a giant vat (not the worlds most classy place, but good food that my friends always want when they come into town). I think that they DO have beer at the College location. However, they don't take credit cards.

    (3)

  • Kate G.

    I did drive the distance. And it was worth the gas prices. Brought a vat of chili-cheese home with me and enjoyed Yats glory for two more dinners (I shared it, because I'm nice). It's still the best thing to ever happen to rice.

    (5)

  • Andrew S.

    I used to live in Indy, but now live in Chicago. Chicago is great and all, but they are missing one important thing: YATS! I miss Yats so much, and anytime I get the chance to come back to Indy I always have to make my way to Yats. I tried going to the one on Mass Ave but remembered that Indianapolis goes to bed at 9:00 PM, so I had to race up to this one because it closes at 10:00. And in reality that's the only thing holding Yats back. It should be open until like 1:00 AM. But maybe it's a good thing they don't because Yelp would have to change their rating system because Yats would get six stars in my book.

    (5)

  • Lorand M.

    Definitely in the minority here....yes...excellent value...however...I find the food to be banal at best. No question the owner and staff are among the hippest in the city...with a legitimate bohemian edge and jive. Yats would be ideal for catering the intelligentsia occupying Wall Street. Just doesn't really do it for me...however...I put ketchup on my breakfast cereal...so perhaps my opinion is of similar value to my stock portfolio. Too much fat and lard...heh...even in NOLA they are slimming down the traditional dishes at many restaurants... A great fun place...everyone loves it....just am not bowled over by the offerings !

    (3)

  • Mike D.

    An Indianapolis "staple". Never a complaint. Generous portions, wide selection (including vegetarian).

    (5)

  • Samantha H.

    I have had consistently good service here and the food is crazy cheap. I don't like the food though. I feel like I am going to be stoned to death for saying this in Indy. I've been here three times. Never liked it. Personal taste apparently since everyone else seems to. The bread with the spiced butter is good.

    (2)

  • Andrew M.

    I only spent two weeks in Indianapolis, so I feel very fortunate to have been living just blocks from Yats. If Yats isn't the best thing going in Indy, I may have to move to this city. I'd eat at Yats four times a week if Yats was in my city - it's a pretty rare day when I'm NOT looking for a place that serves cheap, delicious stews with vegetarian options. I don't think I ever fully understood the meaning of the term "comfort food" until I ate here for the first time.

    (5)

  • Becca P.

    Yats it's just amazing. Every time I go in I'm always instantly put in a good mood because all of the hipster employees are so nice! They always remember my name and give me unnecessary compliments! The only problem with Yats is that I go there too much. I have B and B about 3-4 times a week! LOVE IT. If you haven't been there get in your car and drive there now!

    (5)

  • Peter P.

    Yat's is awesome. $6 for dinner. Chili cheese etoufee...mmm.... The only thing that would make it better is if they served alcohol and were open on Sunday.

    (5)

  • Will B.

    The atmosphere and attitude of this restaurant alone could win me over. Where else can you pay in I owe You's and read flyers about the newest underground bands visiting Indy? Nevertheless, the food at Yat's is something special. The first taste of chili cheese étouffée created a long relationship with the restaurant that keeps me coming back for more. Since my first encounter with the great dish, I have tried many others and while the étouffée may be my personal favorite, the others are just as fabulous. If you're new to the area, passing by, or a long time resident, you must eat at Yat's!

    (5)

  • CK A.

    Delicious gumbo. Little confusing for a first timer, but we figured out the ordering process.

    (4)

  • Rebecca O.

    The food is delicious and the helpings are large. I'm a big fan of the Chili Cheese Etouffee with Crawfish. Super tasty! I've also had the spinach and mushroom etouffee, which was very good, too. The etouffee dishes come over a large plate of rice with good bread on the side. The flavor is mild but decadent just the same. There is also a selection of hot sauces available for people who want some kick to there meal. The prices are incredibly good for the quality and amount of food. The atmosphere is nice, good space, but the popularity can fill up the cafe area. It has the feel of a coffee shop with the menu written on a black board. There is also an interesting collection of random items in a display case. Good, very quick service. Great spot to have a thoroughly enjoyable meal!

    (5)

  • Kevin C.

    I wish we had a place like this in Toronto. I really miss it. It was so good and so quick. When I first saw that they had a vegan option, I was pretty impressed. But when they handed it to me within a minute after ordering it, I was in love. I forget if it was considered a gumbo or a chili, but it was just essentially a mix of beans and veggies slow cooked with a kick of spice on rice and it tasted amazing. They just put everything into giant slow cookers, wait for you to place your order and BOOM! there's your food. Why hasn't this caught on everywhere? I could sell this food on a street corner easier then cooking hot dogs. When we told them we were a out-of-town band playing a show down the street, they gave us our entire meal for free. I'm not saying to use that to get yourself free grub, I'm saying it because they have some super nice people working there and you should throw all your money at them. Seriously, we need at least one of these places in every city in North America. So please, give them all of your money.

    (5)

  • Bill B.

    I've always been annoyed with people saying how the food in New Orleans is so much better. You can't find anything like it in Indianapolis, etc. What do they know there that people up here couldn't figure out after all? Having recently visited New Orleans for the first time those people are RIGHT! Yats is absolutely NOTHING like the real thing and should be ashamed for calling itself Cajun food. There's not even a kitchen in Yats. Seems like all of the food is mass produced and brought in daily and slopped on your plate.

    (2)

  • Brandon A.

    I love this place it is exactly what you want out of a southern creole/cajun shop. The music is primed and perfect, the atmosphere is nothing shiny and special just good taste, good eats, and great people located in a great area for food period. Yats has expanded since I first ate there 6 years ago. I have eaten at all the different locations. Maybe it is a nostalgic thing but this one in Broad Ripple still is by far the best. The service is great sample anything you would like and their ever changing menu keeps you on your feet. And you can't forget the garlic bread that comes with it is just perfect for creole. I have shown many people this spot and though skeptical I have never had many complaints. If you are looking to try something a little different definitely hit it up.

    (5)

  • Byron J.

    Yat's Cajun, Creole, Crazy? More like Yat's Cajun, Creole, Crazy Good! This place is on my list of Indianapolis institutions, much like the Colts, The IMA and the Indianapolis Fever. It's the coolest, funkiest, and best food you can buy for under $5. The ever changing menu is without a doubt one of the best things. Going in each time offers some old favorites as well as giving patrons a chance to try something new. If you tend to shy away from anything labeled vegetarian I must protest, while no one enjoys a good chunk of med. rare beef like I do, some of the best food in town is vegetarian, and at Yat's that is as true as anywhere else. The Spinach and Mushroom etouffe is one of the best plates of unappetizing looking food you'll ever eat. It's delicious on many levels, I order it anytime it's on the menu, though anything with craw fish on it is usually awesome too. Say hello to the funky looking dudes behind the bar and ask for a sample if you just aren't sure, but don't pass up a chance to check out one of Indy's best holes in the wall. Though they may be expanding into Chicago, they are still in my mind, Indy's best creation.

    (5)

  • Debra T.

    What can I and that hasn't been written? The food is consistently wonderful as is the service. I've eaten at several Yats locations and had them cater a party. Always excellent food!

    (5)

  • Brandon P.

    Damn good food that will fill you up for about $6, plus the staff is almost always playing good music.

    (5)

  • Mark H.

    Had the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish. It was great! Others in my party had the spinach n mushroom as well as the drunken chicken. All had rave reviews:) Half portion is quite a lot and the bread is so good! Cash only tho.

    (4)

  • Brian F.

    Delicious food, fast and very friendly service. Just good people. One of my favorites in town.

    (5)

  • Jesse C.

    This place is awesome! The food is really good. I'm a huge fan of the white chicken chili, the buttered bread, and the fudge. The costumer service is always fabulous and if it isn't let the owners know! They will really make it up to you!

    (5)

  • David F.

    Want a great meal in a great neighborhood for like 6 buck, go to Yats. It's all good but the spinach-mushroom étouffée is incredible. There are always fantastic veg options. If that's not enough, the staff is always your new best friend. It's like the Cheers of creole food in Indy. Love it.

    (5)

  • Torrey R.

    This is a place I frequent when I have out of town guests both for the quality of food as well as the completely cool decor...the cheap prices if I happen to be paying aren't too shabby either. I love how basic they keep everything with the plastic forks and the styrofoam plates yet the quality of their food is incredible. This is a great unique Indy restaurant and their food is top notch!

    (5)

  • Chris H.

    How many times have I driven by and wondered what this place was like, well I can tell you, it was way to many. Went here on a Saturday night and there was a line out the door, don't worry it moved very quickly. Took about 20 minutes from arrival to sitting at a table eating some delicious jambalaya! I took my step son who is 11 and more of a food critic than myself, he absolutly loved it, ate his food and half of mine he chose the chili cheese crawfish étouffée, and at the suggestion of other yelpers we ordered extra bread. This place is quick, very reasonable, and very good! I am happy anytime I can fill the 11 yr old bottomless pit for 6 bucks! (think hollow leg, he eats like a man vs. Food trainee). This may be my fav place to grab a quick bite, but not drive thru. If you haven't tried it, go for it you won't be dissapionted.

    (5)

  • Yuhao L.

    Over the years of living in Indy, I've been to Yats several times. I've never been too impressed with the food. That opinion still holds, but on my most recent visit, I came to understand why people love it. It's the atmosphere and the friendly staff. The place is just full of positive energy. I didn't have enough cash, not knowing the Broad Ripple location doesn't take credit card. The cashier was totally cool about it and said I can pay next time. He even said it's fine if I paid at another Yats location. This kind of warmth is likely what keeps people coming back. And now I'm a fan.

    (5)

  • Katherine T.

    Yum!!! I loved this place so much it would be a regular for me if I lived anywhere near it. This is not a fancy place but the food was fabulous and so quick we didn't even have time to get our drinks and get to the table before it arrived.

    (5)

  • Mike W.

    I love this place and have been a customer for years. I go there when I'm tired of burgers, subs, Mexican, Chinese, etc. Their food is always great and their prices are very affordable. I don't think I've ever waited more than 10 minutes to get my food. I love the Shrimp Parmesan, even though they almost never serve it. Other favorites include Drunken Chicken and Gumbo.

    (5)

  • Meg M.

    Very affordable and very very very good! Extra bread is only 50 cents and they let you do a half and half order if you want to try two things. My only complaint is that they use almost all disposable stuff to serve their food. I LOVE the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish served over rice. When people think of cajun food, they often think it's spicy, but this dish has just the right amount of spice.

    (5)

  • Lori H.

    I emailed this restaurant to ask which location was closest to the hotel I am staying at in Indy on vacation this weekend. Someone wrote me back, I think perhaps the owner, verey rudely telling me that, based on the hotel I am staying at, he "did not think the restaurant would be for me". He then went on to say that do not serve alcohol (I guess he assumes that I am a drunk, and ironically, I rarely drink), and it is a quick service place. really, that is what I was looking for, but the owner apparently does not want us there. The email was rude and judgmental, and I could not believe a business owner would not welcome ANYONE into their place based on where they stay for the night. I will now NOT be trying this restaurant based on the owner's rude personality.

    (1)

  • Todd R.

    How special is Yats to Indianapolis? I just got this message on another social networking site in which I am a fan of Yats: Message from Joe everybody "I cant tell you how close I was to my mother. I still think about her all the time. So I want my Yats people who work on our team to be able to do something with their mothers. So we're going to be closed tomorrow. I hope all of you have a wonderful time with your mothers. Hug her. Love her. She's given you everything my friend!"

    (5)

  • John H.

    This place has some of the best cajun food I've ever had. Every time I fly into Indianapolis (about once a year) I head straight for this place. It's also cheap as hell to boot! Minus two stars for using plastic tableware, styrofoam cups, and styrofoam take-out boxes. They charge $5 for a plate of amazing food, they couldn't charge $5.10 and get paper? Really? Thanks for the landfill mess.

    (3)

  • Michael W.

    Newcomer to Creole, but daggum the veggie B&B Music Factory and Spinach Mushroom half and half stands on its own two feet. Total score.

    (5)

  • Jimmy W.

    Yats has done it again! the B&B is by far, my favorite dish to get. I am constantly surprised by how delicious they can possibly make rice, beans, and corn. I mean... come on. 3 ingredients (plus a few embellishments, of course) and we have one awesomely tasty dish! That, plus the always fantastic tasting cajun-butter-decorated bread, and you have a winner for lunch or dinner. (Oh boy! I'm a poet, and I never even knew I was!)

    (5)

  • Lin-z C.

    Sits like a hip-ass coffee house, eats like a hip-ass Creole joint! The mere smell of the Chili-cheese Crawfish Etouffee made me want it, and WHAT A GOOD CHOICE! I wolfed it down and was plenty satisfied. Other than the good food, the place was lively, THEY HAD PIBB EXTRA, and the staff was, I dare say, attractive! :)

    (5)

  • Jon T.

    Great cheap food, great music. They are generally pretty quick, but if you are trying to plan anything there I wouldn't count on them getting back to you unless you happen to show up on a day when the owner is there. But for a casual quick easy and delicious dinner. Go for it. Occasionally their take out food can sill out or seep through the boxes and bags they give you too. So eat there instead, Its more fun.

    (4)

  • Bonnie B.

    Inexpensive, friendly service every time I go there, great food (B&B is my favorite) and an awesome atmosphere. What else can be said?! It's GREAT.

    (5)

  • Kevin R.

    It's pretty simple - AMAZING FOOD, Great environment, Fast Service, Easy on the wallet I used to frequent this location multiple times a week. The atmosphere is a mashup of Mardi Gras, and local music faces. You will often see the owner running around, greeting you, helping clear tables and trash! He doesn't forget a face! The menu is usually something different everyday, but they do have their staples... I love the Chili Cheese Etouffee (With Crawfish), and their Spinach Mushroom Etouffee and will usually do a half & half plate of both and an extra order of their AMAZING bread. Including the drink its only about $7. If you have a big appetite you'll be pleased, and if you have a little one - you'll be even happier cuz you'll have some to take home with you!

    (5)

  • Heather H.

    Super yummy, super cheap! Get the extra bread, well worth the $.50 :o) The white chili is bomb, pure delight in the mouth. They make everything the morning and it simmers allllll day. :o) Only pitfall: when they're out, they're out. Luckily, they do well as guesstimating how much to make.

    (5)

  • R T.

    Hats off to Yats! They consistently deliver excellent food at great prices. In addition to delivering on their gastronomic and economic promise, they play a highly admirable role within their communities in Indianapolis and Bloomington. However, to see them rated as Indy's #1 restaurant would be misleading. If you're looking for a quick, inexpensive Cajun food meal - this is your place. If you're looking for the top dining experience in Indy, I'm going to guess that even Yats! owners would say that is NOT their niche

    (4)

  • Adam A.

    A friend and I stopped while on our way to a different restaurant after we caught the delicious aroma wafting from the restaurant. We were literally led by our noses. When we got to the counter we were disappointed to learn it was cash only - we only had plastic. No problem! The gentleman behind the counter told us to just pay next time. We explained that we were just in town for the weekend so we'd just go and find some cash real quick. He told us not to worry about and to enjoy our stay in Indy. Hot damn, now that's hospitality. The food? It's awesome. I love that you can split entree orders, allowing for sampling twice the deliciousness. In fact it was so good we brought a few more friends before we left, and payed for our last meal. Any time I'm in Indy I'll be stopping by!

    (5)

  • Patrick K.

    Overall experience is a five or I prolly wouldn't be reporting on it. Went with a group of six and nobody knew anything about cajun food but they'll take care of you. Phillip set us up and made everyone happy. We were idiots going in and he ordered for us. We're still idiots though. Fast. Inexpensive.

    (5)

  • Deron O.

    Delicious, yo, and cheap. One of the best lunch spots on the Northside.

    (5)

  • Lori K.

    This is a great lunch spot. Walk in, read the chalkboard, put in your order, grab a seat inside or outside and your food is brought out to you. I had half a chili cheese chicken ettoufe and half red, beans, rice and sausage. The flavors are spot on, the prices low and the portions just right. Since what you're eating is mainly rice and bread it sure is filling. The atmosphere is very casual and inviting.

    (4)

  • Stephen S.

    Love this place. Simple food, really fast service. I just hope they open one up in Carmel so I don't have to drive so far!

    (5)

  • Kasey N.

    Yats is as delish as the reviews make it out to be! My order, chili cheese etoufee with crawfish, was mouthwatering good. The prices at Yats are very reasonable & the food arrives quickly at your table. The staff is both friendly and funny (The guy who took our order quoted Young Frankenstein!) My only regret is that I live across the country and am now going to have severe Yats cravings/withdrawal!

    (4)

  • Colin G.

    I was introduced to Yats down in Bloomington,IN while I was an undergrad at IU and I was psyched to see they had locations in Indianapolis once I moved up here. They serve traditional creole/cajun food over rice with the most delicious buttery bread. Some of my favorite options they have on a regular basis are the chili-cheese crawfish etouffe, white bean chicken chili, the jumbalaya, and the red beans with sausage and rice. Make sure you order extra bread as it is absolutely to die for. One of the quirky aspects to this place is that they are a cash only business, and there is no ATM within walking site, making it kind of difficult for first timers who dont know the routine. The best part about the whole thing is that they take IOU's!!! No joke, like dumb & dumber style, written on a piece of paper, IOU's. Its hillarious when they offer it to you for the first time, i didnt believe them at first but sure enough they write your name down and just ask you to pay next time. Its great for those times you dont have any cash in your pocket as a college student but you know you can hit them up next time.

    (4)

  • Zlatko U.

    While on a road trip my girlfriend and I stopped by Yats because of all of the fantastic reviews it has gotten. The place was almost packed and we had to wait a little bit in line. However, our food beat us to the table and it was delicious. The pricing was fair and the portions were very favorable. I would recommend doing half and half plate if you are really hungry. If you are with a date, sharing is very encouraged. The only thing that I did not like is that we had to pay by cash and that there was not any real silverware. Anyway, if you are a traveling vegan, this place is for you.

    (4)

  • Rachael E.

    While I was still in Indianapolis the last few meals I ate were at Yats. I went because it basically had the most and best reviews on Yelp. I LOVED it! I mistakingly got the vegetarian spinach curry. It the best vegetarian dish I've ever had (and I'm not a vegatarian)! I went back the next day and the cashier recognized me and gave me a free cheesecake (also really good) The prices are great, the food is great, and the service it wonderful!

    (5)

  • Lindsay R.

    Amazing, quick, delicious Cajun food! Super-affordable (cash-only!) and great take-out for a chill, winter Sunday at home in Broadripple. Awesome!

    (5)

  • Mary Beth A.

    the ORIGINAL yats. i discovered this place as a poor Butler student. best meal you can find in town for the price - even if you choose to order extra bread for an additional 50 cents (which, in my opinion, is completely worth the extra cash. best way to eat your Yats = dipping the deliciously seasoned and buttered bread into your meal). personal favorites - white chili with chicken, drunken chicken, and chili cheese etouffee. if you haven't been before, know that you can add sour cream, cheese, and/or onions as toppings to your meal for no extra charge. the deliciousness these toppings add to each meal is worth the calories. you may even be lucky enough to run into Joe, the local celebrity who is the mastermind behind yats. the workers are always friendly, the food always comes out quickly, and i have never been disappointed. i have also discovered that this yats has the biggest portion sizes. at the mass ave location, meals are served on oval-shaped styrofoam plates. at this location, each "for here" meal is served on a massive circle-shaped dinner plate. delicious!

    (5)

  • Wally P.

    I haven't eaten at Yats in over a year, but I miss it so much I had to share it with the internet. I'm no expert on Cajun food, but the spinach mushroom etouffee at Yats was one of the best meals I've ever had. Creamy, fresh, flavorful, bold (yet somehow mild), nothing short of delicious. The staff was a bunch of fun, cool people, and for the quality of food you get, I'd honestly be OK with paying twice the amount I did. Reading through these other reviews makes me want to jump in my car and drive to Indy to try out the Chili Cheese Etouffee too, that sounds delicious.

    (5)

  • Chris S.

    Tasty & unique place for lunch & dinner in Broad Ripple. Cajun dishes fill the chalkboard menu. There are some mainstays, like the chili cheese etouffee w/ crawfish and red beans & rice, but also has changing items like white chicken chili and hunter's stew. You can go for a full plate, half plate or do half & half (choose 2). Most entrees cover a bed of white rice and bread. There are dessert options as well, local made cookies & pies. My personal favorite menu item is the ropa vieja and if I'm really hungry, I'll have a slice of peanut butter pie. There is usually a short line at the bar, but it's swift moving. The staff is always chill & happy to help you find your favorite dish option. They take cash only, and the price is usually $5-$10 depending on drink & tip. I try to go at least once a month.

    (4)

  • Matthew T.

    This place is all about the experience. You need to go if you have never been. They have great food with great service. If you are in Broad Ripple this is a place you have to check out!

    (5)

  • Angela L.

    Super delicious, great value and great staff. I always get a combo between the chili cheese étouffée with crawfish, red beans with smoked sausage or sweet corn and black beans. Broad Ripple is cash only. 96th accepts cards and cash. Either way, they are both fantastic.

    (5)

  • Cara R.

    Yat's has good grub to fill your belly for such a small bit of your wallet. The menu rotates based on available ingredients (so, I've gathered), but you'll almost always find something you'll like. I always partook in the gumbo, but if they were out then I'd do the crawfish etoufee or the sufferin' succotash. Along with the great food is a great atmosphere. It's a small place. Wait in line to order, give the cashier your name and money (hopefully, it's the one that experiments with shaving various mohawks or the one eyebrow look), get your drink at the fountain and sit down at the next open table. In no time, the kitchen will call out your name and walk your food to your table. They do carry-out, too. On at least two occasions, when the credit card machine was down, or after they decided to get rid of it, the Owner payed my tab or the cashier gave me an IOU. Who does that? Yats does.

    (5)

  • Will H.

    Great value, outstanding food, large portions. The Jambalaya was absolutely outstanding as well as many of the etouffee offerings. The overall atmosphere was unique and quaint; the staff was extremely friendly and the service was quick with quality. We both ate and were very full eating half meals and we walked out for $11. The only down side is that they are cash only, but it did not detract at all from our experience.

    (5)

  • Brenton A.

    Delicious cajun food, fun trendy atmosphere, large filling portions, and it's cheaper than Wendy's. Seriously, why would you go anywhere else?

    (5)

  • Cristina G.

    Every time we are in Indy we go to Yats. My entire family loves it and my husband would be there every day if there was one in Denver. I love the spinach and mushroom with their delicious bread! The people who work there are very very nice! We were there this past saturday and it was packed! There were a lot of us.. I think maybe 10 and they hooked us up with free cookies. I just love this place!

    (4)

  • Leslie L.

    Yum Yum Yum! Awesome! Amazing! Quick lunch! Makes me want to visit Indy more often!

    (4)

  • Dustin B.

    Loved this place! Five bucks for whatever they have on menu including a bottle of water and a big chunk of bread. :)

    (5)

  • Nichole H.

    We were in Yats a few weeks ago and were disturbed to find that they had stopped taking credit cards. Not to worry, they gave us our lunch on I.O.U. Now, what kind of place does that? There was probably 4 other folks while we were there who got an IOU. Everyone came back within a few minutes of finishing their meal and paid the bill.

    (4)

  • Fred J.

    The chili cheese etoufee with crawfish is super good, the bread they serve with the dishes is AMAZING. Everything is extremely reasonably priced, dare I say cheap, and is certainly a sufficient amount of food. Everything is served over rice and is more or less ready to serve, so service is quick. If you want to try any or all of the dishes that day, they will give you a little sample. The staff have always been really friendly each time I have been there.

    (4)

  • nicole b.

    There aren't too many restaurants in my hometown that I think about now that I live in New York but Yats is in a class by itself. Brunch wasn't really in my vocabulary when I was living in Indy but hangover lunch definitely was and Yats really really works to cure a hangover. Just go easy on the hot sauce. My favorite dish here is the carmelized black beans and corn which NEVER seemed to be on the charming little chalkboard menu. But don't worry, I'm not mad at you Yats because everything else is nearly as great. I still have dreams about it. I wish they delivered to Brooklyn. The prices, the delicious bread, the huge selection of hot sauces, the diet mountain dew, this place can do no wrong. If this recession forces me to move back in with my parents I know that I won't have to kill myself because I can eat my feelings at Yats.

    (5)

  • Billy A.

    this place never ever lets me down. it's a great cheap go to that lets you step outside the box. white chicken chili is where it's at.

    (5)

  • Lauren M.

    I love love love looooove Yats! I recently moved to Austin, TX and if I miss any food from Indianapolis, it's Yats. Interestingly enough, though I am much closer to New Orleans now, I haven't found a Cajun/Creole restaurant I enjoy here as much as I enjoy Yats. There is not a dish there that I have not liked...though, I am partial to the chili cheese etoufee with crawfish, and the B&B. And the bread is awesome, I love my carbs, so I always ask for extra. Can't wait to make it home again and have some more Yats...my mouth is watering as I write this...

    (5)

  • Nikki A.

    I'm in love with everything on their menu and the staff is beyond fantastic

    (5)

  • Matt G.

    You get a delicious plate of food + bread for like 5 or 6 bucks. If that sounds like something you'd enjoy, you should come to Yat's. The menu is rotating but there are a few things that are always there. My favorites are drunken chicken, chili cheese etouffee, and red beans and rice. The chorizo etouffee is fantastic but I've only seen it on the menu a few times. The only negative about this place is that it's cash only, but I have seen them on multiple occasions let people pay with IOUs if they forgot cash. In my opinion that's pretty awesome. Yat's is a staple for me on those "too tired to cook" nights. I highly recommend it.

    (5)

  • Allison B.

    Great food and atmosphere! They were so kind as to give me the option to pay them later as I did not have cash on me.

    (5)

  • Marggy G.

    The chili cheese etouffeé is one of my favorite things at any restaurant ever. I miss it so much since I've moved out of state. Every time I go back home, I make sure I stop by at least once. The atmosphere is very casual. They have half orders, if you don't want a whole order of something. And sometimes, they'll spot you a quarter if you're a little short. I love it! And the bread is one of the best parts about the meal!

    (5)

  • Eric M.

    This place did not appeal to me, but the food was good for the style they are looking for. The others in my group really enjoyed the taste, but i more like the atmosphere. If you are interested, I suggest trying it, just do not invite me.

    (3)

  • Andrea Y.

    Holy mother of spicy! I'm a tried and true crawfsih etouffee girl, but last night on a whim, I asked for a taste of Drunken Chicken. Ah- sweet, tangy delight! Did I mention I asked for a taste? Anytime I'm there and something new is on the menu, they are always happy to oblidge my request. Nothing beats Yats- taste, price and witty chit-chat!

    (5)

  • Judy C.

    The food here is fantastic! Did not know they only take cash, though, freaked me out at first that I might no have enough cash. Turned out to be ok, since the meals are so reasonable. I had the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish and it was DELICIOUS! My friends had the chipotle alexia and drunken chicken. Everybody was thrilled with their choices and we definitely will be going back.

    (5)

  • Robert A.

    Our favorite place to eat cheaply and quickly in Indy. I cannot recommend this place enough.

    (5)

  • Bryan B.

    Not much to add to what everyone else has said, but I loved it. We were in town for a convention and wanted to get outside the downtown chain restaurants full of conventioneers, and this place was perfect. Super cheap, super fast, good food, reasonable price, friendly staff, laid-back diners, good music on shuffle (indie rock and new wave mostly). It's small with pretty limited seating, so I'd say avoid bringing a lot of friends, and try to hit it when it's not terribly busy, I could see it being a little uncomfortable when it's super-crowded. The food wasn't fancy, basically their thing is to serve a variety of stew/chili-like dishes over rice without frills, so presentation is not a priority, but portions were good and decent cajun is still better than most other food, ha. I'm not from the bayou, so I have no idea, but I'd bet it's closer to the down-home hole-in-the-wall places down there, not some trendy gourmet re-interpretation or anything. Which is totally cool with me.

    (4)

  • Jon A.

    Yats induces short reviews because of their amazingly quick service. They induce f*ing expletives in the most positive of fashions, like: hell yeah, food! Or, f*ck yeah! The kitchen is watching Point Break! Right there.. Point Break!. F*ck yeah, curry etoufee. Ask me this: can you find curry etoufee anywhere else in Indy? Well. You can't. Maybe the other Yats locations I guess. Under $10, under 5 minutes take out, there's only 1, and it's Yats.

    (5)

  • Liz C.

    I have been going to Yats for a long time, and the food is always really good. But what has always amazed me is how good the customer service is. They give out free samples, allow for "I owe you" if you forgot your money, and they are really fast and friendly.

    (5)

  • Chad B.

    I love YATS!!! This was one of my favorite things about living right by Broad Ripple when I was in college. The food is excellent and freaking cheap. You may not love everything you can get here, but you will find SOMETHING you love. I still go here anytime I am in the Indianapolis area. UPDATE: They recently stopped allowing credit cards again. It's a cash-only joint.

    (5)

  • Brent D.

    Food Good. No Service its a you do it yourself kind of place. I mean they cook take your money and you eat. Soup or gumbo type dishes all they have. They do this one thing good. its not hip or flashy its soup. good marketing... but you will like it..

    (3)

  • Arnold P.

    The first thing i fell in love with when i moved to Indy.. Great people, great food and I love that OG DRUNKEN CHIX

    (5)

  • Jessica S.

    I don't often get down to Broad Ripple, so when I found myself down there today with time to kill, I'm lucky I drove past Yats and remembered the glowing Yelp reviews. Great Drunken Chicken, great people, cool place.

    (5)

  • David S.

    My first time having Cajun food and I have to say it was fantastic! I had the Chili Cheese Crawfish Etouffe with extra garlic bread. Might have been one of the best things I've ever eaten. It was just perfect and very inexpensive. The food hit on all cylinders, spicy (with added cholula hot sauce of course), salty, sweet, rich and filling. The service was great too, very nice staff. I'd eat here twice a week if I lived in the area. Highly recommended!

    (5)

  • Sammy T.

    It's consistently good at both locations. And they made some cheesy rice for my toddler son, because everything else would have been too spicy.

    (5)

  • Mark W.

    I have been away from Indianapolis for 18 months and the only place I wanted to have dinner on my first night was Yat's on College! Ya Yat's, Ya Joe,

    (4)

  • Rye D.

    Who lives in Indianapolis and doesn't love YATS! The service is fast, they remember my name every time i come in and grab a bite to eat :) As far as i know the only vegan thing on the menu is the Succotash and bread ask for it dry and they'll give you some olive oil and spices. Sometimes they have a white bean chili w tofu that is vegan. The b&b and spinach etouffete are great vegetarian options. Broadripple yats is always busy don't let the crowd get to you the service is always great and the food is worth short wait in line. ps it's cheap 2people can eat here for about $14.50 and the bripple yats only takes cash.

    (5)

  • Leigh S.

    I just tried Yats for the first time yesterday. I didn't know what to expect, never had creole before, and was having trouble deciding. The guy at the counter was super nice and actually spent time explaining to my friends and I what the dishes were and about some of his favs. It was great. Then we got our food, which was scrumptious. The serving sizes are large and I had enough for a leftover lunch today. Awesome! At $6.25 for two meals, this place can't be beat!

    (4)

  • Virginia L.

    yats serves delicious food it's kinda like what I make when i don't know what to make, but better. fairly cheap easy good. always get extra bread and yes, there are vegi options. yay! i do wish they had real silverware and plates. it'd be cool if they had beer too.

    (4)

  • Sarah C.

    So after hearing how much my friend loved this place, I went with him. Immediately I noticed how cool and relaxed the atmosphere was. The staff were very nice and offered me samples after noticing that I didn't know what to order. I decided on a half and half order of red beans and rice with sausage and the drunken chicken. The drunken chicken was excellent and I loved the bread that was included and with a drink, all for less than $8. I don't know why I waited so long to discover this place.. 5 stars for the excellent staff, inviting atmosphere, price, portions and great food.

    (5)

  • TD L.

    I'll keep this short. I hate shrimp. This place made me crave crawdads. It must be Cajun magic.

    (4)

  • Joshua H.

    Yats made me switch my favorite cuisine to cajun/creole! Half and half of Chili Cheese Etouffee, B&B, and two portions of bread is my all time favorite! Still working my way through everything they have to offer but its all soooo good. The menu isnt the same every time you go but that means you'll just find another thing on their menu to fall in love with. Its kinda busy here but you know that when they have a line out the door the foods gotta be good. They also have 3 other locations in the Indy area so don't everyone flock to this place; find the one closest to you if youre having withdrawals. Their website shows the menu's of the day for all 4 locations if you want to check and see which one has that special entree that you love.

    (5)

  • Karhma D.

    Don't think I'm saying anything that hasn't been said before. Broad Ripple only takes cash, which annoys me. I never have time to stop at the bank & generally hate using ATMs. The spinach etouffee was creamy & went down easy, but it was really mild & fairly bland. The black bean dish they have is pretty tasty though.

    (3)

  • Brian M.

    I love how on both this one but most notably on the Downtown one, a ton of reviews are from people who have moved away from Indy but still miss Yat's. This is one of them. First, Joe is amazing. He's a fun authentic dude that just loves to have fun making the kind of food he likes. You can't ask for much more out of a restaurant owner. Secondly, it's a lot easier to be a vegetarian (or vegan) in southern California than it is in central Indiana. But Yat's always makes sure there's a veggie/vegan item on the menu. And carnivores are never afraid of them. Anyway, the staff is always amazing. The bread is to die for. The food is plentiful and spectacular and cheap. And it's in a great spot. (Both of 'em actually.) Dammit. I'm hungry now. Miss you Yat's!

    (5)

  • Drew L.

    Super nice folks and best gumbo I've ever had! Seriously!

    (5)

  • Devin S.

    Why this place is so awesome I have no idea. Chili cheese etoufee with extra bread is the way to do it. Wanna mix it up? Get a half a half with chili cheese etoufee and something else. No idea why the one in Bloomington is called Dats now.

    (5)

  • Matthew F.

    I love this place! Great food, fast and cheap. Gotta love the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish, the jambalaya, chicken curry and thai chicken. This place has a cult following in Indianapolis.

    (4)

  • N M.

    Fantastic Cajun, with an ever changing selection (on a chalk board). Really great and unbelievably cheap. I would buy this stuff for 4 times what he charges for it.

    (4)

  • cindi h.

    OMG I love Yats. I lived in Indianapolis for a year, and Yats is one of the things I miss most about it. I was particularly fond of the Mass Ave location, since I lived and worked downtown. My favorite thing was that after five or six in the afternoon, they discounted the food to $5 a plate. Whaaaaa....? Oh, how I loved Yats. It was always a wonder, would they have my favorite, or would they be out? (They write the day's menu items on the chalkboard, and erase them as they run out.) Never mattered, every single thing on the menu was delightful. Found some of my new favorites when my ABSOLUTE favorite, the chili cheese ettouffe, was out. Add the garlic hot sauce to just about anything, it's divine. And the bread? Wow. Get the extra slice for 50 cents, it's worth it. A plate and two servings of bread is enough for any two regularly hungry folks to share. You won't want to stop eating, but really, you probably should. Portions are huge. Can't think of a better, cheaper, easier comfort meal than Yatz. Think it didn't do a thing for my waistline, which decidedly grew during my tenure in Indy, but that was much more likely due to the pork loin sandwiches and over-indulgence in beer than my addiction to Yatz. Tip: park at the end of Mass Ave near the Indy Star building, walk the lovely avenue and window shop there and back, and you should work off any extra calories you might rack up.

    (5)

  • Demitri S.

    affordable and so delicious. The staff is incredible and the owner recognized me when I recently visited the College Ave spot after being gone from Indy for 2 years. Mushroom etoufee is so delicious!

    (5)

  • Amber H.

    i'm sensitive to spices but the food is to good to pass up. amazing dishes and you always feel cozy and very welcomed.

    (4)

  • Josh M.

    Yats is nice, I've never really had a craving for spicey food before, but when I hit Yats all of that changed. I believe this is one of the many trreasures of the Indy Resturaunt scene. However, They are cramped for space and only take Cash at the Massachusettes Ave one now. Which is sad.

    (5)

  • Bobby H.

    Having lived in New Orleans, I am usually disappointed with so-called cajun restaurants - even if their food is tasty. Yats is an exceptional except. Granted, I didn't sample every entree, but their jambalaya is very good -- even better than mine!

    (5)

  • Tom K.

    I do not hand out 5 stars... yet here we go. Reason, u ask? We walk in to 40's music playing and then head to the counter with the menu on a chalkboard. Why a chalkboard? Cause they just kinda make/ change the menu throughout the day. Then the guy hands us 5 samples... all amazing. They mostly serve étouffée's which is basically delicious creole slop over rice. I had a split order of Chili Cheese & Chorizoe Chicken étouffée's. The bread served w it was a Italian bread garlic style with a chili butter sauce. Wow! 2 monsterous meals and 2 Coke's... $16.

    (5)

  • Tyler H.

    Unbelievable. I moved away to the east coast a few years ago and I always make a point to eat here every day that I am back. Simply the best.

    (5)

  • Gian B.

    Yats is delicious and cheap! I stopped eating meat when I lived in Indianapolis about five years ago, and this was one of the few places I could eat out at and have more than an appetizer as an option. I wish Seattle had a Yats!! The staff can be a bit of a curmudgeon, but I look past it for the food. :) My one true complaint is the styrofoam plates. Really?!

    (4)

  • Susan F.

    so cheap, any etouffee or shrimp meal is great. very filling and huge portion!

    (5)

  • L H.

    Authentic, cheap cajun food. I come here every time I visit my dad. I am never disappointed. Try the chili cheese etouffee. Amazing!

    (4)

  • Michael B.

    Amazing food!!! Smells kinda weird inside, but it's great for an early dinner!

    (4)

  • Julie J.

    Just good, basic food. No frills, just stick-to-your-ribs home-cookin! I love that they haven't changed much through the years...still order off of a chalkboard menu up at the counter. Also good for a tight budget--you can get a full belly of deliciousness for just a few bucks.

    (5)

  • Lauren W.

    Even if you have never cared for this type of cuisine, I strongly urge you to give Yats a shot. If you like creamy, rich, bubbly, savory dishes over rice and sides of garlic bread then this is the place for you! My personal favorite is the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish.

    (5)

  • Tiffany L.

    3.5 stars. Everyone gave this place rave reviews so I had to give it a try. Remember to bring cash because no credit cards accepted! I had the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish. It came out fast, I though it was tasty, really cheesy and heavy, with really soft garlic bread. I'm usually not a big fan of heavy food but this place was pretty good. I would have to come back and try the other items again.

    (3)

  • Kelly M.

    Yats is the best place in the world. The food is great, and you certainly won't find another meal this good for this price. The employees at every location have always been hospitable, pleasant, and funny. The customer service is great. The menu changes daily and you can try any of the entrees before you order. Yats gets my highest recommendations.

    (5)

  • Roxanna S.

    Best. Food. In Indy. 'Nuff said.

    (5)

  • Nikono K.

    Amazing, cheap, and generous portions of Cajun grub! Everyday the menu offers vegetarian dishes. I recommend the spinach mushroom ettofee! Seriously one of indy's best places to get a quick bite to eat at a very good price.

    (4)

  • Nate D.

    This place is worth many visits! The prices are very reasonable and the staff is friendly. My fiance and I went with my parents and our dog. They let us sit outside and promptly brought our dog some water as well. The food was really good! They even let you do half of an order and half of another so you can try a couple of different items. I just wish we had a place like this back home in the Suburbs of Chicago.

    (4)

  • Jayd M.

    Lucky find while on a work trip in Indianapolis. Had my standard - Red Beans & Sausage and was very satisfied. Wish I could go back soon.

    (4)

  • Michael M.

    Pretty much everyone has already said it. Amazing food, excellent service, great prices. My family is from Louisiana so I know Cajun food and this is some of the best that I have had outside of Baton Rouge. You have to try the chili cheese etouffee. It is amazing.

    (5)

  • Jennifer L.

    Some of the best food you can get for your money in Indy. This is the Cajun-Creole baby of Joe Vuskovich, a real-life Nawlins native. If you see the man with black rimmed glasses and crazy salt and pepper hair, that's him. Say hi. He'll say hi back. He's very nice.The best measure of a restaurateur's niceness? He doesn't price-gouge. How's this for cheap: $4.50 for a half order, $5.50 for a regular, $6.50 for a combo plate. And this isn't fast food. It's silky, slow-prepared spinach and mushroom etouffee; or creamy-sweet, vegetarian-friendly black beans and caramelized corn; or top-selling chili cheese and etouffee with crawfish; or a million other saucy combinations. Did I mention the butter-slathered French bread? There, I just did. One caveat: I'm pretty sure most locations are closed on Monday.

    (5)

  • Kate S.

    The food is delicious, the service is friendly, the people watching is always fun. How can you go wrong with a meal at Yats? Usually we end up with enough for a lunch of leftovers the next day!

    (5)

  • Lori C.

    This place has the best Creole food in town! Always consistent and cheap! Atmosphere hasn't changed in years, adds to the coolness. Large portions. We have taken many out of town family members and friends here and they all agree. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Shawn B.

    This is one of my favorite places to go when I'm in Indianapolis. I love the food, the prices, and the overall vibe of this place.

    (5)

  • Vinit R.

    Stopped here for the second time.. and this sets a trend of the law of induction ! .. what an amazing Cajun place... !

    (5)

  • Chris O.

    This place lived up to the hype. The chili cheese étouffée with crawfish was the highlight of my day. It was reminiscent of a spicy lobster bisque. Service was friendly and fast. They let me have a few samples to decide what I liked as I told them it was my first visit.

    (5)

  • Adam L.

    What to say about Yats? It's ridiculously awesome Cajun food. I recommend the Chili Cheese Crawfish Etouffee. Full plate, please! And their bread is excellent. Word of warning: they're cash only, so make sure you're packing.

    (5)

  • Bill S.

    One of my favorite places with ugly food. The service is great, and the food really hits the spot. You can't get a better value for your money in Indy. Highly recommended!

    (5)

  • Paul H.

    They had so much promise. Great food, cheap, ect. But the employees. They look down on everyone. It's really horrible. seems like the classic example of a great restaurant idea that suffered from lack of attention to detail. Wish the owner would get on this employee attitude problem, 2 years ago i went there all the time; then the "troubles," I haven't been there in a year.

    (3)

  • Kelly J.

    I used to go here ALL the time when I was in school. I moved to California a couple years ago and seriously thought about having Yats packed in dry ice and shipped to me. Is it wrong to love a food that much? Seriously, the price, the taste, what's not to love? I'm soooo glad I'm back in Indiana-- moved back just for the food. :)

    (5)

  • Sam R.

    I'm from Indy but live on the east coast. Yats is the only place I visit every time I come home. Whenever I come in it's a new experience, and yet always great. I have no idea what I get, but after a couple of questions about what I do and don't like, I'm charged a reasonable price and something delicious and amazing is brought to the table. I have no idea what I'm getting, but they hit a home run every time. It's a terrific value and a great atmosphere. I couldn't recommend it more!!!!

    (5)

  • Ashe L.

    ugliest and most tastiest food ever!

    (5)

  • allison s.

    POSSIBLY MY ALL TIME FAVORITE PLACE... the only improvement would be the addition of a bar. Everything and I mean every delicious morsel of food that comes out of that place is fabulous. And you can't beat the price. All time fav is the chili-cheese ettouffee but the new winner has been their chicken and mushroom curry ettouffee dish... The bread for some reason is really good to, but it is nothing fancy just french bread smeared w/ some kind of oil and seasoning. We always get extra. You can not go wrong w/ Yats! The downtown locale is a little smaller, but the Broadripple one is more accommodating for groups and parties. Happy Dining!

    (5)

  • Chad S.

    Tasty food with huge helpings. Easy on the wallet. Consistently good with ever-changing menu. One of the best local restaurants in Indy!

    (5)

  • Ryan G.

    I swear this place can really do no wrong. I usually end up choosing the chili cheese etouffee, but I've had just about everything on the menu. The food is authentic and the service has always been quick. The pricing is unbeatable also. Don't forget to get double bread for an extra 50 cents to dip into your entree. Also, remember to bring cash because they do not take credit cards.

    (5)

  • Lora C.

    Love, love, love Yats! I was one of those weird people who did not want to try Yats for whatever reason. I never thought the food looked appetizing. Finally, after my husband asked for the hundredth time if we could go there I said yes. Oh.my .word. What took me so long?! My favorites are the B & B and spinach and mushroom etouffee. I've also tried the Thai peanut etoufee which is excellent and I hope they'll serve it more often (hint hint!). The first time we went we didn't have cash but we did have our checkbook so we were able to write a check...It made me feel like the little old lady at the grocery store who holds up the line by writing her check. Everyone is always so friendly and Joe (the owner) is often the one who buses the tables. You really can't go wrong with Yats. Do yourself a favor and check it out!

    (5)

  • Tristan S.

    Cheap. Tasty. Unique. Vegetarian choices. Kind staff. Local. YUM!

    (5)

  • Sam S.

    The food is made somewhere else and brought in. They use foam plates and cups and plastic forks which is bad for the enviroment. I thought the food was really bland and a waste of time. It relly looks like it's already been chewed up when you get it. I won't visit again.

    (1)

  • Dean F.

    Good food. Good value. There's all kinds of tasty Creole Cajun dishes in that kitchen and samples are graciously offered. The College Avenue location has more panache than its Fishers twin. It's my kind of place. When you go, take enough cash for you and yours; Yats takes no plastic.

    (4)

  • Rob H.

    Simply awesome cajun/creole fare. You can do a full order, a half order or 2 different half orders on the plate. The food is ridiculously good and an exceptional value. 2 people can have a complete meal for under $14. they could raise their prices by half and it would still be a great value. My favorites are the chili cheese etoufe and petroze.

    (5)

  • Brandon S.

    Most authentic cajun in Indy. Amazing food at an excellent price.

    (5)

  • Lisa K.

    I was brought to Yats when I was visited Indianapolis last week. I got the impression that this is an institution around these parts so I knew I was in for something good. I had the Chili cheese etouffée and Hunter's Stew, both served on one plate on top of rice. Both were flavorfully delish and hit the spot. That bread topped with oil is something you'd rarely see in LA, where I'm from, and absolutely yummy and goes perfectly with the stews. The Chili cheese etouffée was almost like a guilty pleasure as anything this cheesy has to be. I'm still dreaming about the it. Don't tell my boyf but I'm going back to Indianapolis in a few days to eat here again.

    (4)

  • Claire K.

    It's really good and fairly cheap. Some of the most flavorful food that you're going to get in town. Just writing about it makes we determined to go back the next time I'm visiting. I've tried several things there and have never been disappointed. And if my memories serves me they let you try anything you want before you buy it and you can order 1/2 and 1/2. Awesome. Also, it attracts a cool assortment of people. I'm a fan.

    (5)

  • Tom S.

    Yats is just plain great! Cheap, tasty food, menu on a chalkboard, cool atmosphere. What more could you want? Try the drunk chicken, it is a highly spiced chicken in sauce dish that is my favorite!

    (5)

  • Jared B.

    Yats. The original. Come for the food, stay for entertainment. I was coming here when it first open and it kept me fed throughout college. My brother and I try to come here whenever I'm back in town, and a parade of my friends ate their often enough that they were eventually employed to work there. The staff is friendly and eclectic - the types of people Indianapolis needs more of. The B&B and the succotash are my favorite dishes. Everything is heavy though so don't over indulge or your stomach will regret it later.

    (5)

  • Ryan M.

    I was new to the cajun creole cuisine and the staff was extremely helpful in suggesting popular dishes and then providing samples!! After the samples it was hard to choose which two I wanted...there was no way I would be able to choose one. I sampled the jambalaya, B&B (vegetarian), and chili cheese crawfish. I settled on the chili cheese and jambalaya. Everything was excellent even though I am not normally a hugh seafood lover...the chili cheese dish with crawfish was AMAZING. I would come back again and try the B&B even though I am not vegetarian...it was just plain good...sweet and some spice at the same time. The only thing that limited five stars was that the atmosphere wasn't the best but I'm there for the food!! Highly recommend. .

    (4)

  • AJ A.

    Yats rocks. You walk in and they've got 4-6 cauldrons full of your choices...which are written in sidewalk chalk on a blackboard. There's always something vegetarian, and a plate full of any of it costs five fitty. Add a buck and you can get a split plate of 2 delectable cajun creations with rice. But the best part is the ridiculously awesome garlic bread...which you can get a bowl of for like a buck. Not only is the food awesome, but the owner (Joe Vuskovich) is a local celebrity. He's a famed restaurateur from New Orleans that sells his secret spice to restaurants everywhere. Everybody in town knows him (despite the fact that there are two other locations) and he's highly supportive of local bands and kids that most older people stay away from.

    (5)

  • Marc K.

    On one of my first visits to Yat's I read one of the awards that they had posted up on the wall from Indianapolis Monthly, which proclaimed it the "best ugly lunch" place in town. The decor at Yat's is so tacky that it's charming. On the other hand, I don't think that it really matters one bit because the food is just that good. It's the best $7 you'll ever spend, and the best food that I've ever had served on styrofoam. Tip: Ask for Extra bread, you won't be disappointed. The only bad thing about Yat's is that they don't have their Peanut Butter pie often enough. Everytime that they do have it, I get two pieces. One to eat there and one to go for later!

    (5)

  • Clayton S.

    My favorite place in Indy! You won't be disappointed. Low prices and great food!

    (5)

  • David S.

    Just went to yats today... I used to live in baton rouge so I know Cajun, and this food was a far cry from good Cajun cuisine, which is really disappointing because I really wanted to believe all the reviews I read on here. I blame the lack of cultured people in Indiana for these rave reviews. They couldn't even make rice correctly. If any of you have a true discerning palette, stay away from this place as they only serve gruel which has somehow appealed to the simple tastes of Hoosiers.

    (1)

  • Happy Mama M.

    Used to love this place. Very unique in indy. Totally recommended, especially in a city full of chain restaurants.

    (4)

  • Areeba F.

    Yats never disappoints. Best Cajun in Indy, always at a reasonable price and always Delicious. Chili Cheese Crawfish Etouffee is a staple there, you must try it if you're anywhere in the vicinity.. I find myself craving it randomly all the time. One of my favorite restaurants in Indianapolis and probably the only thing that keeps me here ;)

    (5)

  • Fred M.

    We love all the Yat's restaurants. Each one seems to have a different personality. Very tasty inexpensive food. Always walk out with a big smile.

    (5)

  • Bradley M.

    Really? Best restaurant in Indy? Frankly I can't get past the fake butter on the rolls or in the dishes they serve it is nauseating to me. Coupled with the plastic plates and silverware... Not very good stewards of our planet. This was a 1-time deal for me. Never again. To each his own I guess.

    (2)

  • James C.

    I had higher expectations for Yats. There was so much hype from my family about Yats I was expecting something more. The inside is ecletic and interesting and the outdoor seating is great on a sunny day. I had the succotash, which was good, but I found it a bit bland. I was expecting a more flavorful and spicy dish. On the up side, the food is cheap and the portions are big.

    (3)

  • John E.

    The chili cheese etouffee is the way to go.

    (5)

  • Swt P.

    I've been looking forward to eating at this place based on many good reviews. The menu is simple (and limited), the price is reasonable - not really cheap for the quality of the food, the portion size is big. It is $7 for a complete meal (food and soda), the service is friendly and efficient. I still think the taste is a little bland - needs more spices. It's a good place if you want to have a quick lunch/dinner (i can't stand the seating arrangement)...NO food for younger kids, except bread. Their Jambalaya tasted OK, but not spectacular. I think I can make this version of Jambalaya out of the Zatarain box. This place appears to be fine for the Indy crowds, but there are definitely better Cajun restaurants out there. For those who have rated this place 5 STARS for the BEST cajun place - PLEASE try some other Cajun Restaurants OUTSIDE Indianapolis, you might change your mind!!! For example, try "Heaven on Seven" and Dixie Kitchen in Chicago and Evanston, Illinois!!!. Or you may as well go to Louisiana to try the real one.

    (2)

  • Stephanie K.

    Save yourself the plane ticket and hassle of visiting Lousiana--because authentic cajun food resides in Indianapolis and Bloomington. Not only is the food amazing, you get an entire plate of food for less than $6! I recommend the Chili Cheese Etoufee, the Spinach and Mushroom Etoufee, the B & B, and the Chicken Gumbo--although I've never ever been disappointed here. Before the Yats in Bloomington opened, we used to drive up to the Broad Ripple location just for dinner--and it was worth every mile.

    (5)

  • Andy W.

    In a city where local establishments are hard to come by, Yats has become one of the most well known and well liked. Inexpensive ($5-6 for all entrees), large portions and an ever-changing menu make it a good choice for just about anyone who likes New Orleans-style cuisine. A very laid-back and friendly atmosphere in both locations. Because all of the food is made at the Broadripple location, they often run out of menu items at the Massachusetts Avenue restaurant. If you have a choice between locations, you'll probably find more in Broadripple (52nd and College Ave.). A warning: if you don't like Etouffe, Jambalaya or similar dishes, this isn't for you.

    (5)

  • Matthew E.

    This stuff is perfect for winter nights. This is a good, honest business. Once, I didn't realize they only take cash and had none. They told me to pay the next time I came in. I did, but their kindness earned them a lifetime customer. It doesn't hurt that their food is among the best also.

    (4)

  • Stacey K.

    Yats is amazing! Price is right. Service is awesome! You walk in and the menu is on a blackboard in back of the counter, they do this so they can constantly change it as the day goes on. When we walked up the person behind the counter gave us 5 samples to try the different étouffée's and Creoles. When you order know that you can split your order in half and get two different items. I got the jerk étouffée and the chorizo chicken étouffée, and both were delicious! For two meals, it cost us $16. The food was brought out to us within 5 minutes of us sitting down. For those with smaller appetites, a half an order will do! I didn't try anything I didn't like. Highly recommend! Since I wrote this we went back a second time and had an equally wonderful experience. I actually got the spinach and mushroom étouffée and chicken creole and it was delicious and very filling. Your stomach will be hurting after eating here, because the food is so filling!

    (5)

  • Briana J.

    Awesome. Everything is tasty. They have some awesome bread that accompanies every meal but be wear. They put some sort of addictive chemical on the bread--- it is so good. The red beans and rice dish is tasty, cheap and really sticks to the bones. The highlight of this place is that diet Mt. Dew is an option and the refills are free.

    (5)

  • Caramel D.

    Fantastic. Scrumptious. Delicious. Delectable. Yummy. Where's my Thesaurus? I need more words to do this place justice.

    (5)

  • Josh S.

    After two years in California I still dream of Yats. Every time I come into town, this is one of my must-stop restaurants. If you like cajun / creole served up in big portions for not a lot of money, Yats is where it's at.

    (5)

  • Ganesh M.

    Great food, laid back setting, and value for the money. White chilli was very good. Super fast service.

    (4)

  • Emma B.

    i wish i could put into words just how much i love and miss yats. sigh.

    (5)

  • Carolynn N.

    I absolutely love this place. While I enjoy the downtown location on Mass Ave., I do prefer the College Ave. location for its elbow room. There is no such thing as an "item to avoid" on the Yats menu...it's ALL good. My favorite, chili-cheese craw-fish etouffee, is always there. The vegetarian items are absolutely delicious (this from a confirmed anything-a-tarian). Owner Joe is a hoot and always makes the rounds while working in the kitchen AND managing staff. The servings are giant for the money, and if you're lucky, Joe just might give you a freebie to try. I'm a spice wimp, but I love that they have any and all hot sauces, from Indonesian Sambal Oelek to to Cholula's and anything in between. Wimps like me can have the food as presented; if you're adventurous or knowledgeable in hot sauce-ology, you can really go for it. I just wish they had later hours (for personal use) & a delivery-only kitchen for downtown (businesses would LOVE it)! I've nudged Joe...maybe you too can take up the cause?

    (5)

  • Jason W.

    How could anyone give Yats less than a 5 star rating? Well some individuals will take a star away because it's cash only. I think it adds to the experience. Any time I go with a group of friends we have to stop by Fresh Market and buy some treat right by the cash registers in order to get cash back. I know it's one extra step, but it feels like tradition now. I went on Fat Tuesday this year and it was awesome. We had to wait in line and it was packed, but everyone understood that Yats was the place to be. Don't forget the free King Cake. I highly recommend getting the half & half and for the thrill seekers out there grab some extra bed. Delicious food, great prices, fun environment.

    (5)

  • Heather E.

    I'm not a fan. Everything's tastes like it comes out of a plastic bag and is microwaved. The étouffée isn't anything more than nacho cheese. I met the owner before he opened the first store in bloomington. He was a bit of a douchebag. Not sure if he still owns or is involved in the business. I can't believe how highly rated this place is. It's like the McDonald's of Cajun food. I can only chalk it up to the assumption that most of these people have probably never had real cajun food. If you want better Cajun try j. Gumbos. It's fresher with better vegetable options... And no nacho cheese trying to pass as étouffée

    (2)

  • Janet S.

    What's not to like? Inexpensive delicious unique food. Chili Cheese Etouffee is my favorite but I have never had anything bad there. All good. Still my favorite location for Yats even though they all have the same yummy food. If you haven't tried Yats what are you waiting for? Go!

    (5)

  • Whitnie E.

    I am a huge fan of Yats! My favorite thing to get here is definitely the Chili Cheese Etoufee with crawfish. It is unlike anything I have ever tasted before, and it keeps me coming back! The jambalaya is also very tasty, as is the drunken chicken. Usually when I head in here, I get too distracted to just order 1 dish, and pay the extra $1 to get to smaller portions on 1 plate. Definitely a great way to have a staple favorite and branch out a bit. The bread is also so good. I will definitely be back here, again and again and again..

    (5)

  • Andrew V.

    I hesitate to give five stars for a place that's a good budget value. But the food here is magnificent, and when I went for my first time, I actually got a chance to chat with the owner. The flavors are authentic Louisiana, but with a hint of other stuff: Mexican, Creole, Caribbean, Indian... It makes for a refreshing change of pace. And with everything being stewed that day, you know it's fresh. It's hipster, yes, but it's "SoBro" -- that's what they do. All I know is that for $10-$15, you're eating like le roi.

    (5)

  • Sarah C.

    Great experience here every time. I live close to another Yats location but will drive to here because it's that great. Seriously one of my fav places in Indy! Can't go wrong with drunken chicken although I would eat anything they have on the menu. I've tried it all. It's that good!

    (5)

  • Matheau S.

    My girlfriend lives in Indianapolis and every time I go visit her I make eating at Yats my top priority. The food is soooo good. My favorites are the etoufee and the white chili. The price is pretty great too! One thing to be aware of is that it is cash only so make sure you have cash on you (not sure if this is a front for some kind of shady operation but the food is fantastic). Also they have sweet decorations in the restaurant. Eat here.

    (5)

  • Abby P.

    I love Yats! The chili cheese étouffée is incredible! I haven't met anyone who doesn't like Yats. Beware, cash only! So come prepared. Definitely worth it. Such a gem of Indy!

    (5)

  • Patricia N.

    Great staff. Nothing is ever disappointing - chili cheese etoufee is the BOMB. It's a 4 instead of 5 stars because it's CASH ONLY. But I love that you can also sit outside on nice evening. Don't forget the garlic sauce!

    (4)

  • Carly W.

    Never been disappointed. Always a delicious mix of flavors. Friendly staff and quick service. Perfect cajun comfort food!

    (5)

  • Amanda F.

    Yats, I love you and everything that you are. I've been eating Yats for years and have craved it during my occasional moments of moving away and back again. Nothing can compare to the spinach and mushroom etouffee. And whatever blend of butter or oil and spices that is put on that bread, heavenly. I was introduced to Yats by a friend and have since introduced several other newbies to the styrofoam containers filled with heaping amounts of tastiness. Order extra bread, you'll be glad that you did.

    (5)

  • Kristy T.

    Can't say enough wonderful things.

    (5)

  • Yina W.

    Really good food! Hits the spot when you want some comfort food. Don't forget to add the onions and cheese to whatever you order.

    (5)

  • Mike P.

    Yats is delicious. Enough said. Amazing food, amazing speed, and a great atmosphere. I have a yearly tradition of going on Fat Tuesday, and they always hook me up with King Cake and Mardi Gras beads! Everything I have tried is awesome, but Chili Cheese Etouffee and the Red Beans and Sausage are my go to dishes (with extra bread of course!!).

    (5)

  • Paul M.

    Yats is delicious. Enough said. Amazing food, amazing speed, and a great atmosphere. I have a yearly tradition of going on Fat Tuesday, and they always hook me up with King Cake and Mardi Gras beads! Everything I have tried is awesome, but Chili Cheese Etouffee and the Red Beans and Sausage are my go to dishes (with extra bread of course!!). Geaux get you some Yats!

    (5)

  • Kim K.

    A definite must-go to all those in the Indy area. Always one of my favorites to take those from out of town. Remember to bring cash if you are going to the College Ave. location! Great to see them expanding. Crawfish etoufee and B&B are a couple favorites.

    (5)

  • Lisa G.

    There aren't enough great things I can say about Yats. If there's anything bad I have to say it would be that I wish they had locations in Northern Illinois. Eating at Yats is a must whenever I visit Indy. I usually go to the Mass Ave location but was in Broadripple so I ate there. I've had just about everything on the menu but my favorite is the B&B. I love the ambience and the decor of the restaurant. It's very casual and local. And, you can't beat the price. A healthy serving of B&B and a drink for less than $10. The owner (very sweet man) came out to clear the tables and stopped by our table to make sure we were happy. As often as I go out to eat, rarely do I see restaurant owners in the front of the house clearing tables and mingling with the customers. I encourage everyone to stop by Yats whenever you're in Indy - esp if you believe in supporting local. You won't be disappointed.

    (5)

  • Stephen V.

    Amazing. Voted my favorite for cheap eats in NUVO. Anything Creole gets 5 stars in my book!

    (5)

  • Lisa S.

    delicious - always consistently great. I love that they give you free samples to try before you buy. Love the split plate option for only a $1 more or so. The garlic bread is delicious and sinful. I only wish they would go to more environmentally friendly containers as they discussed a while back, but otherwise one of our favorite frequents. Vegetarian friendly options.

    (5)

  • Rachael L.

    You know its good comfort food when you cant stop stuffing your face, even when you notice how dirty the place is. I brought a cousin here for the first time since he just returned from New Orleans. I figured if he liked it, it must be good Cajan creole food. He took one bite and said, "oh man, this is good...and cheap too!" I think he will be a regular now. We ate our food an admired the odd decor. It is a casual dining experience which is great for catching up with a relative that had been gone for months. The guy at the register fully explained the menu so we all knew what was available and how to order. We felt right at home even though it was comfort creole food found right in the mix of Indianapolis.

    (5)

  • Megan O.

    I'm now converted to Yats. This place is fun, quick, and bang for your buck. The first thing you notice when you walk in is the artsy interior and posters for local events. The second thing you notice is that the food is so cheap! Third thing is that this seems like an ideal place to hang out on the patio on a summer night, mooching off the jazz bands from Jazz Kitchen next door. You can't go wrong with the crawfish ettouffe, and I always order an extra piece of bread for 50 cents. I am not convinced that the ettouffe is authentic, but hey, it's tasty. I tried a couple of Yats' other dishes, but I just can't get that creamy, cheesy ettouffe off my mind. The only thing I didn't like was that Yats uses plastic forks and styrofoam cups - it would be great if the restaurant was more green and that I didn't have to feel environmentally guilty for eating there!

    (4)

  • William W.

    Always good on a cold day. Bread is great.

    (4)

  • Erin D.

    Not a fan of this place!

    (1)

  • Tony D.

    Yats was a really nice stop during our short stay in Indianapolis; I have to say it is the best soul food I've had out of my small sample size that doesn't include anything south of Kentucky. I also really appreciated how they offered combination meals which were basically half and halfs of the items offered, allowing us to try more than one per person. As a result, we ordered the drunken chicken, jambalaya, and the smoked sausage and beans. Service was fast and food came out warm. I liked everything, and the smoky flavor was definitely a plus on their part. The bread was perfectly flavored and went well with everything as well. Plus it's all inexpensive and the decor adds a nice feel to the whole place.

    (4)

  • Casey B.

    Yum! Nothing is better than a hearty meal at a Cajun restaurant. Cheap, quality food. A little ramshackle but it's mostly part of the atmosphere. Friendly staff and great local beer selection. Spinach and mushroom étouffée is my personal favorite, but there are plenty of good choices. Most of the food has some spice so sensitive stomachs beware. Quick, cheap, delicious, and unique, definitely one of my favs!

    (4)

  • Brian M.

    Okay, Yats has been around forever and I'm sure it's been covered once or twice, so I'll make this quick. Quick, quirky, Cajun joints around Indy, decorated like a Mardi Gras explosion & serving Cajun / Creole fare for $6.25, or a combo for $7.25. Sometimes they've taken credit cards, but I pretty sure it's cash only, at least in Broad Ripple, right now. Dine in or carry out. No booze. You can check the menu in advance at yatscajuncreole.com/menu . Ask for a sample of anything you'd like at the counter. The menu changes daily, and they sometimes run out of the good stuff after a big lunch or dinner rush. My favorites are the Chilli Cheese Etouffee w/ Crawfish (a regular staple on the menu) and the dish I tried and fell in love with last night: Chipotle Alexio. You get the gumbo on rice w/ a piece of bread. Serious comfort food. They've got a huge variety of hot sauces for you firebugs to play with, and you can add sour cream for $0.50 if you need to turn the heat down a notch like I tend to do. So good. Hit the ATM and go today.

    (5)

  • Lee M.

    By far my favorite spot in B ripp. Nicest people ever and the best food. Every dish is amazing. Love this place!

    (5)

  • Nicole S.

    It's basically impossible not to give Yats 5 stars. They are a true Indy staple. I went there for Fat Tuesday this year and had a total blast. Free king cake a lots of White Chicken Chilli. What makes Yats great, besides the food and location, is the people that work there. They genuinely like working together and are always down for a good time. I have never had bad service here, nor do I think I ever will. Here a few tips to remember: If you push the water lever straight down, the slow stream will fill up your cup in roughly six to seven hours. If you push it slightly to the left, it will come out full force. DON'T EVER park at Fresh Market and walk over to Yats. Unless you want yelled at by the Nazi parking attendant there. Fresh Market is a good place to get cash though, which leads to my next tip. Yats is cash only. But one time I did go there without cash and they gave me my food for free. (I think that was the moment they won my heart.)

    (5)

  • Kevin K.

    Not my cup of tea. Plate o' slop.

    (1)

  • Don K.

    Great casual food when ever and which ever restaurant you stop in at. Love their choices and quick, quirky service. I've never had a bad dish, or a bad time here. Not a great formal diner, but they know what and who they are and do a great job of it. Keep it up.

    (4)

  • Chris K.

    Food is good. love the fact that they only make a certain amount of some good stuff so its like you are winning the lottery if you get there in time...

    (4)

  • M C.

    I've tried just about everything on the menu at Yats, and I can honestly say it's all delicious! My personal favorites are the chicken creole and chili cheese étouffée. The entrees and bread are fantastic (and very affordable), the service is friendly, and the restaurant is clean, cozy, and well decorated.

    (5)

  • Lori L.

    The food was excellent as was the service. I definitely recommend.

    (5)

  • Julia C.

    Okay, can someone explain to me why I've never been to Yats before?? I've lived in indy for 2 years and my house is a hop, skip and jump away from Yats. I'm so confused! Normally if I'm going to go check out a new place I will look it up and check the reviews. But my fiance and I were already out running errands, and I was hungry so this was a last minute decision to grab a bite to eat. We had no idea it was cash only, which I think is really weird because who carries cash anymore? Any way, we ordered our food and since we didn't have any cash we were given an IOU.......I think I stared a the guy and back at the IOU for at least 5 minutes. SO CONFUSED! I think the last time I had an IOU was when I was like 8 and it was for borrowing a quarter for a gumball machine. Food was AMAZING. Seriously, oh so yummy! We were able to try a little sample of each dish and decided on the crawfish curry etouffee. Absolute heaven on rice. Each plate also comes with 2 slices of french bread smothered in seasoned butter. 2 plates and 2 drinks came out to $14. DEAL! I really like that it's a rotating menu, I will definitely be back to try the other dishes. Yats is my new favorite restaurant in Indianapolis. We stopped in the next day to pay our IOU and if we didn't have plans to eat at another joint we would have totally ate there again. So don't be a dummy like me and wait 2 years to check out Yats. :P

    (5)

  • Becky H.

    Great food, wish I wasn't allergic to so many things. :{

    (4)

  • Ashely M.

    OMG!!! That's all I can say about Yats. My mother is from Louisiana, so I've been exposed to the real deal. Let me tell you, short of hopping a plane to New Orleans, this is the closest you can get to authentic down home food. I usually go for the chili cheese crawfish etouffee or the jambalaya. You can't go wrong. All I say is this brings out my happy

    (4)

  • Brittany N.

    This is within walking distance, which is dangerous! I've now visited several Cajan Creole restaurants and can say with confidence Yats is the best! My favorite for the past six years has been Spinach Mushroom Étouffée, but now that they've added Drunk Chicken to the menu, I'm torn! Also, how do they make that AMAZING buttered bread?!??

    (5)

  • Amber P.

    I've been frequenting Yats since... probably 2003 when their original place on Mass Ave was open. From the first bite of the first dish - I was hooked. I might or might not have moved where I live now because Yats is less than 5 minutes away. All kidding aside - they have something for everyone. Veggies - Vegans - even gluten free recipes! What the heck are you waiting for??

    (5)

  • Jeff K.

    I love the food and service. Very simple, but oh so good! Very low cost too!

    (5)

  • Sal W.

    Cheap, fast, delicious!! Love this place- never disappointed. You can sample before you order, which is great if you're new to Yats. My favorite is the chili cheese dish (sweeter than it sounds) but I've never had a bad meal. Something amazing about the seasoned toast that comes with your entree!

    (5)

  • Kavitha D.

    Amazing! I don't actually know what 'real' creole food is supposed to taste like, so I can't judge on that. However, whatever Yats makes is amazing! It's so delicous! I go every time my boyfriend is in town. The location in Broad Ripple only accepts cash but does "IOU's" which I was extremely shocked to see! I'd recommend to anyone !! It's also nice that you can try anything on the menu before you commit to your half or full order. Remember to ask for extra bread!!

    (5)

  • Isaac C.

    Chili Cheese etouffe is amazing!

    (4)

  • Alex M.

    Yats is a non-pretentious good cajun meal. For around $7 you get bread, rice, and a topping. The spinach mushroom etoufee is really great.

    (3)

  • Daniel M.

    Inexpensive great food. The staff is really friendly and polite and the food is always hot and tasty.

    (5)

  • Shyla R.

    I was originally iffy about eating there due to the outdated appearance, but with the 4.5 star rating, I decided to give it a try! I ordered the gumbo! It was absolutely amazing! My boyfriend had the jambalaya with sour cream, cheese, and red onions atop! We topped them of with the garlic powder! Both meals were amaze-balls!! We finished with a peanut butter pie and toffee cookie which were tasty as well! A must try!

    (4)

  • Ian B.

    I have been eating at Yats since they opened. I dont know what im going to say that is different than everyone elses reviews. First off the menu is whatever is in the pots that day. You can usually get the jambalaya, cheese étouffée, or my favorite red beans and rice. You can order full orders, half orders or half and half (some equations don't work if one is super soupy and the other not). The portions are out of this world and it is so inexpressive. There is the worlds larges assortment of hot sauces for your picking to add to your creole delight. Unless something has changed they are still a BYOB establishment which is awesome if you have specific beer requirements. Joe (the owner) is one of the coolest guys you'll ever meet. If you spend much time in SoBro you'll see him stopping in or hanging out at nearly every establishment. He loves this community and gives back whenever possible. The staff at Yats is also great. A majority of them have been working there forever and are as awesome and friendly as Joe and also live in this area. The restaurant is not fancy, simple and minus them bringing out your meal is a get it yourself place. Grab your own sauces, drink and silverware but that is just fine. There are other Yats around town but this is the home of this staple of Indy. If you like simple, home cooked (yet absolutely amazing) creole food this is your place.

    (5)

  • Lisa H.

    Always good, friendly service and great bread. Was at the west 86th street location.

    (4)

  • Tracey R.

    Can't go wrong with Yats! Love them!

    (5)

  • Jason R.

    What is there not to love about Yats? The fact that it's cash only? I guess that's a minor drawback if you're paying for you're entire family ... but if you're grabbing a quick bite solo, bring 5 bucks and you're pretty much set. The food is absolutely spot on. Great tastes, portion sizes, and like I mentioned before ... an exceptional price. Just the right amount of spice in every dish. The Drunken Chicken is just about perfect, but so are a lot of the choices here. Have yet to eat anything at Yats that I didn't like. The indoor seating is pretty standard for a small restaurant or diner settings. The outdoor seating is right out on college avenue. I'm always a fan of enjoying a beautiful day and eating outside, so the option is nice and just another plus for Yats. If they start accepting credit/debit cards they'll be a 5 out of 5 star rating. Definitely swing by and grab a cheap lunch or dinner.

    (4)

  • Simon K.

    Stop reading and GO! My favs are the Drunken chicken and Chili Cheese Étouffée. Make sure to get extra bread though!!

    (5)

  • Rolling R.

    Wonderfully yummy vegetarian dishes! Yats is a common craving! Love this place!

    (5)

  • Justin S.

    Gotta say, the man who brought Yat's to Indianapolis and Chicago is a great guy. He brought more than just, "chili" over white rice as one person stated. With him came an understanding of cajun stews. The main ingredient, roux. Cook it right and you have a base for all things cajun. Joe got it right, the roux, even the jambalaya. Visited all the locations. The atmosphere on College Ave is great. Food fantastic. All the creole creations hit the spot. I would recommend this to anyone. I would recommend to a southerner visiting our wonderful city. Keep up the good work Joe... If you ever need to pass the torch to someone...

    (5)

  • Robyn M.

    I loved my vegetarian dish! And I had two meals for $6.25. (Bring cash though!)

    (4)

  • Erin J.

    Joe and his staff exude the absolute epitome of hospitality and customer service. There are no words to describe how much I adore them! Years ago (like 9), I showed up at the College Ave location just before closing, craving my favorite B&B. Alas, they were out. Joe told me to pick anything else I wanted and gave it to me for free. That is but one example of the kindness and warmth that he and his staff have extended to us over the years.

    (5)

  • Lauren H.

    Love Yats! No matter which location I go to the food is always good and the staff is always helpful! Want to try before you buy? They are more than happy to hand out samples. The owner is always walking around the College Location to make sure you're happy with your meal and you even see him working to make sure the place stays clean and up to standards. Great food and amazing atmosphere!

    (5)

  • Tim S.

    Great selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Most of the dishes are rice and bean based. It's a great price for some good, "down-home" cooking and good portions of food. I got the small portion for lunch, and with the two pieces of garlic bread, it was more than enough. I will definitely be back here when I'm in the mood for a tasty, cheap, quick meal. Delicious!

    (5)

  • Nana M.

    Visited Yats on my most recent trip to Indy. Really cool concept... A bunch of different gumbo-style stews (mushroom étouffée, white chicken chili, macque choix). There are a variety of sizes and all come on rice. The good: Everyone at the SoBro location was super friendly. They'll let you try any of the different stews and everything I tasted was very tasty. The good and bad: The serving sizes were really big... I guess that is a good thing? My friend ordered a half order, which I think is the smallest size, and honestly no one needs more rice, and gumbo than the half order. I guess it's a good value, but I'm tired of these ridiculous portion sizes... and obesity. The bad: the gumbo's/chili I tasted were REALLY heavy.... Like the roux was super thick. I'm sure lots of people like that, but it's just not my style. I love a gumbo/chili, but it really doesn't have to be swimming in butter and flour. I'm honestly not sure I could eat an entire serving. Also... the meal came on white rice with a side of white bread covered in butter.... No vegetables in sight... It would have been AWESOME if meals were served with a side of sauteed garlic spinach or something... Indianapolis meals tend to be sorely lacking in vegetables. The meal was cheap and tasted good, but it's way too heavy for its own good and they really need SOME sort of vegetable. For that it gets 3 stars from me.

    (3)

  • Stephanie D.

    yum....what's not to love here?! Options galore every day at a great price.. I had the Alexio which was a chicken 'n chipotle dish...delicioso!!! I love the jumbalaya, the etouffe (yum!!) and pretty much every dish they serve...especially that sexy piece of bread on the side. mmmm...... Anywho, the service was great. Food was awesome. Friends were fantastic and everyone was super cool we had a slightly crabby babes with us!! Thanks Yats!! I'll keep coming back for more :)

    (5)

  • Scot E.

    I absolutely love Yats! My biggest regret is that it took so long for me to try it. My wife and I had walked into Yats 3 years ago but didn't have cash, so we left. It took me another 18 months to make it back in when I tagged along with a co-worker for lunch. White Chili Chicken, Drunken Chicken, and Maque Choux are my favorites, always loaded up with sour cream and cheese.

    (5)

  • Tara F.

    ONE OF MY FAVES!!! Delightful food, atmosphere, and a great place to try when you want something out of the norm yet comforting. :)

    (5)

  • Nakela Y.

    I never get enough meat. I feel that I can buy a can of Campbell's Soup and pour it over white rice and have more for less money. The sauce is quite flavorful which is why I gave it the two stars I'm giving it.

    (2)

  • Min C.

    Too much hype. This is toned down Cajun, and I would rather have cajun rice at Popeye's. Was not impressed the first time but gave it another chance due to others saying how great it was. It was not. Yat's fits the pallet for the Mid-Western culture and every item seems like it was frozen and microwaved. The bread is the best thing here... even the 5 star reviews mention that. This doesn't say much for the food.

    (2)

  • Erin D.

    Amazing food at extremely reasonable prices. And for God's sake, get the extra bread!

    (5)

  • Patrick E.

    Awesome red beans and rice with smoked sausage! Add sour cream and cheese for the win! Thanks to the yelpsters for ranking this so high: this is my new go-to place during Chicago -- Cincy road trips!

    (5)

  • Chad D.

    Rice problem was fixed a while back. Go eat Yats now; I don't care what time it is.

    (4)

  • Cliff H.

    It really makes me sad that Yats is top rated in Indy. I've eaten at Yats twice and I just think it's gross. The menu is limited, the food is edible but nothing to write home about. It's not cooked on site. When you get your food it's just a sloppy mess on the plate. I can really only see this place appealing to drunk people looking to fill up on something before passing out for the night.

    (1)

  • Allison C.

    I had never had Cajun food, until I went to Yats. I was surprised by how delicious it was. It was also very affordable.

    (5)

  • Lindsay R.

    Get the Drunken Chicken.. It's spicy and hearty. The bread is good, get extra. Make sure to grab a praline because they're amazing! The College Ave location is cash only.

    (4)

  • Lucy F.

    I just love the fact that they allow you to sample what they have on the menu before ordering!!! I never had a bad meal here. They also serve large portions here so we always just bring home our leftovers. Their pricing is unbeatable - very affordable! Their food is delicious and the staff is friendly and professional. Everyone here is so nice and welcoming! Note that this place is cash only so come prepared! They are always busy too so make sure to bring your patience or just come at a less busy hour to avoid long wait lines. I am a fan! Yats is a MUST visit if you are ever in the area.

    (5)

  • A B.

    Can't go wrong with Yats.

    (4)

  • James S.

    Not being a Yats fan I suggested Moe and Johnny's across the street, but my buddy insisted I try it again. He's been a regular, but the party's over. Apparently they now freeze everything out of state and truck it in. It never worked for Montgomery Inn's ribs and it sure doesn't work for rethermalized faux real cajun.

    (1)

  • Billy J.

    Fantastic! an Indy standard. amazingly well done creole and prices cheaper than fast food.

    (5)

  • Annie S.

    everything is good here.

    (5)

  • Scot C.

    Never been to Yats? Well what are you waiting for?! This place is my favorite restaurant in Indianapolis by far. The food, the ambiance, the fast service, and chill staff; the whole deal is wonderfully enjoyable. The SoBro location is where I frequent to the most- it' s cash only, but if you forget your bill fold no worries: the IOU system is one you can't help but honor (I've taken advantage a couple times). The half&half Chili Cheese Etouffee w/chicken and B&B is my go-to (with extra bread to boot!). I have heritage in creole cooking, so to have this great establishment in my neighborhood is a real treat. Where'Yat? Let's go to Yats!

    (5)

  • Christie B.

    The positives about Yats: the dishes are tasty, the rice and beans are delicious, and the bread is good. The menu prices are reasonable, and the service is fast and friendly. However, after repeated dinings at Yats, I've finally come to realize what's missing. I guess I'm slow because I never really noticed this before, but (for you meat eaters) there just isn't a lot of meat in their meat dishes. For the sausage gumbo, you might be lucky to get a few pieces. And crawfish or shrimp or whatever they list on their seafood dishes is practically nonexistent. I feel satisfied because of the savory, rich nature of their food, but end up feeling kind of empty a few hours later.

    (3)

  • Lisa S.

    I love Yats! I love everything about it. The earthy employees who are friendly as can be. The quirky atmosphere. The music played through one of the employee's iPod. Food is so good and inexpensive. The peanut butter pie is superb. Highly recommended. I only wish they hadn't switched from Coke to Pepsi. Not enough to keep me away but definitely a point of contention in an otherwise seamless dining experience.

    (5)

  • Jared T.

    Yat's is an incredible restaurant, filled with a cool, kinda weird New Orleans vibe, jazz music, pictures, and cajun memorabilia. The food is great, too. I love the Chill-Cheese Etouffee the best, as well as the Maque Choux. It's all good though! The owner is a great guy, who loves his restaurant and loves his patrons.

    (5)

  • Christoper M.

    Anytime I have a friend visit from out of town, I try to introduce them to Yats. It has Never disappointed anyone!

    (5)

  • Janet R.

    Loved Yats! The totally tatted-up, hipster-type guy working the counter couldn't have been more patient with my mom and me as we hemmed and hawed over what fabulous dishes to get for our to-go order. We ended up getting the Drunken Chicken, Chili étouffée with Crawfish, Spinach and Mushroom Étouffée, and Creole Chicken. (Clearly she, my dad and I were planning on eating nothing but Yats for the entirety of my parents' visit). Everything was phenomenal. I really couldn't pick a favorite... Except maybe the chili étouffée. Or the Drunken Chicken. Or everything else, really. All that deliciousness, together with the approximately eight loaves of bread the nice Yats man gave to us (because he probably thought we we were catering a wedding or retirement party), made for a couple of awesome meals while my folks were in town... Plus they freeze beautifully, so I've been able to continue laissez-ing les bons temps rouler during the work week with just a few zaps of the microwave. The only negative us that all the leftovers mean that it'll be a while before my next trip to Yats!!

    (5)

  • Sam P.

    Yats is the only place i refuse to dock a star for not accepting credit card. It's the only reason cash still exists in my world, to eat Yats. Last trip to Indy, had time for one lunch meal, chose Yats. It was an excellent decision. i am very wise. Seems like it would be so easy to create a plate of slop and bread, yet i have not found any place comparable. Tried the Drunken something and it took a few bites for me to realize i enjoyed it, but turned out to be good stuff. Plenty of delicious food at a small cost makes it a fantastic deal. Yats, i will run your NC operation when you are ready.

    (5)

  • Robert A.

    One of my favorite places to eat in Indy. Food is excellent -- best jambalaya in town, for sure -- and the staff's always friendly and eager to please. I always take friends from out of town when they visit. My only complaint would be about the Styrofoam plates and plastic ware used in many of their locations. Real plates and silverware would be great, especially for the environment.

    (4)

  • Shawn C.

    I'll be back. A lot. I loved being greeted with a friendly, "Have you been here before?" And when we said 'no,' we were graciously offered samples of the various options. I realize this isn't special treatment at Yats, but to be offered it so warmly when this is routine. That makes a body feel at home. And the samples were all crazy good. I couldn't decide and then I saw a half and half was $7? Sold! The Spinach and Mushroom Etouffee (sp?) and the Chili Cheese Etoufee were excellent. Great food. Great price. Great service. Yats, you had me at 'try this.'

    (5)

  • Diane E.

    It has been over a year so it is time to update my review of Yats. I'm very pleased to unequivocally give them 5 stars...still! We ordered dinner here the other night for two of my daughters, their husbands, one baby, me and a California friend who is visiting. 6 entrees for under $35!! My California friend was impressed with the food and since he went with me to pick up the food, proclaimed it to be "Berkeley-esque" which is a compliment :-) The Chili Cheese Etoufee with Crawfish is a favorite in my family, so we got four orders of that, one order of the Red Beans and Rice with Sausage, and one order of another entree that I can't remember the name of but it was a chicken dish. All entrees came with rice and bread. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Troy F.

    Great alternative to the same old same old. I haven't found a dish that I didn't like.

    (4)

  • C. S.

    Had a nice dinner. It was out and to our table quickly. The food was hot and taste pretty good. Would have gotten a 4 1/2 if decor of place was a bit nicer. They don't except debt but I suppose that is how they keep cost low. I told me husband we will be doing take out there on our busy week nights when I cant cook. Bottom line try it....it is good

    (4)

  • Annie M.

    I wish I could say that everything on the menu here is awesome, but I've never made it past the chili cheese crawfish etouffe. Although the cash only policy kind of sucks, the prices are really reasonable, especially for the huge servings. I'd recommend this place to anyone and everyone I know going to Indianapolis.

    (5)

  • Corrine P.

    I live next door and have gone frequently over the years. The food is always good and not too expensive! Remember to bring cash though!

    (5)

  • Liz S.

    Holy hell this place is delicious. A friend recommended this place for lunch the last time I was in town. I'm not normally huge on Cajun/Creole food. I like it, but its one of those types of food I have to be in the mood for. However the food here is incredible. We walked in and I told the person at the register that I like spicy and I'm not big on seafood. He suggested the jambalya. They will even offer you a sample. And it was without a doubt the best jambalya I've ever tasted. I'm actually pondering a trip back to Indy just so I can taste it again. The bread they serve it with is good too but I didn't eat much of it because I was so focused on my entree. The place is very reasonable and the portions are huge! I had enough leftover for another meal. I highly recommend this place and can't wait to go back and eat there again.

    (5)

  • Brandi L.

    This is an Indy institution! The food is cheap and the servings are huge. You can even order extra french bread that is coved in amazing oil and spices. I love the half and half with B&B which is a delicious corn and black bean dish and chili cheese crawfish etoufee. This is comfort food that I crave. It is especially good doused in srarcha hot sauce! This location is the original. I highly recommended Yats to all Indy visitors and its one of the places that makes me never want to leave this town!

    (5)

  • John M.

    Made in store or not, Yats food always satisfies. I can get in and out in about 5 minutes with enough food to stuff myself and it is all reasonably priced. Vegetarian options are available and even though I am not a vegetarian I still order these offering on occasion since they are that tasty. Samples available on request, so just ask if you wanna try something. I will leave you with my suggestion to order extra bread as I do every time.

    (5)

  • Joy H.

    On my recent trip to Indy, I was taken on a tour of my hubby's most favorite places when he lived here. Tops on his list was Yats - it's a very cute, comfortable, and casual (yes, I'm alliliterating) lil' gem. We were waiting on a friend and just standing around chatting, so the guy taking orders offered us cups to help ourselves to the fountain drinks . . . FOR FREE! Talk about Midwest hospitality! Awesome! When I was finally ready to order, I was debating between two options and asked if I could sample a little to help me decide. Not only did he give me my sample, he included a couple others that I hadn't even considered! I finally decided and got half the chili cheese crawfish etoufee (super yummy but rich so I'm glad I only got half) and the cajun chicken (mmmmm) - the portion sizes are huge and the food is very comforting and only $5.75! I had to split it since I couldn't finish it all! Loved everything about Yats, the food, the ambiance, the hospitality . . . is all of the Midwest like this?!

    (5)

  • Chris S.

    Every dish I have tried at Yats! is authentic and delicious. Generous portions for the price but don't be afraid to order extra bread (you will want it). My only warning is that this particular location only accepts CASH! Hit the ATM first if you want to enjoy this Broad Ripple favorite.

    (4)

  • Joe H.

    Went to the new Mass Ave location. Plenty of seating but no bike paring. Had the chili cheese etouffee with crawfish served over rice, really good

    (3)

  • Grace N.

    This is one of my favorite weekly stops! The menu is always different and there are samples for anything you want to try. The staff get an A for effort as they always make me feel warm and welcome. Last time I went in they gave me a free take home box of an item that had just been erased from the menu! If you like spicy or food that has definite flavor for a decent price this is a must try! Can't decide where to start on the menu? I recommend the White Chile Chicken! Take note this location is a cash only place, but they will still serve you if you forget, they just write up an IOU , I have done this once and I paid them back the next time.. How nice to take care of the members who love you!!

    (5)

  • Kimmi M.

    Yats is my favorite restaurant in Indianapolis. I've been known to eat there multiple times a day. Yes, it's that good. I'm not sure if it was when I was a little kid, when my parents were progressive enough to give us a dab of hot sauce when we said a bad word when the craving for spicy dishes began. It could have been eating ridiculous amounts of wings weekly in high school, or dating someone whose father grows sick nasty chiles where this inner beast of spicy came from. Yats completes me. My all time favorite dishes at Yats are the Spinach-Mushroom Étouffée and the Chicken Creole. I try to try everything, because with a rotating menu, there are special dishes that are prepared only once in a blue moon, such as the Thai Curry Chicken Étouffée or Chili Cheese Étouffée with Chicken instead of the staple crawfish. Every meal at Yats comes complete with two slice of French bread with a super special butter. There are many choices in hot sauces, so pick your poison wisely. I like the Louisiana Lightning Strike and Cajun Power sauce (in the squirt bottle) to drench my Yats in the almighty power of spice. I recommend using a heaping sprinkle on your French bread, and then putting a spoonful of your entree on top. HEAVEN! A word to the wise, the College Ave location is cash only. The staff is very helpful to get around this problem. They'll give you an IOU, but they never forget. Make sure to remember this is cash only so you don't look dumb when you come back. Joe, the owner, is always at the College Ave location. Say hi to him, and thank him for bringing these flavors and such exciting food to a city that is known for being inside a circle and having cars drive 500 miles in a circle. (Indy loves Circles, I guess) I'll see you at Yats.

    (5)

  • Mike D.

    Food is great and employees are down to earth! Must try Chili Cheese Etouffee, Chicken Creole & White Chili Chicken.

    (5)

  • Robbie R.

    What can I say that hasn't already been said? This place is awesome and all of the employees really care about the customers. Joe the owner is one of the nicest people you would ever want to mee.

    (5)

  • Kimberly V.

    Simple menu, delicious food. I have not met an employee that wasn't kind, easy-going, and pleasant to be around. They seem like they're always in a good mood. I love the simplicity of the business model/menu. They make great food and don't have to dress it up with anything else. Definitely an Indy treasure.

    (5)

  • James M.

    Solid food and large portions for a modest amount of cash.

    (4)

  • Josh R.

    Yats is always a consistently wonderful experience. Whether i'm getting one of their delicious and inexpensive meals to go or to dine. The food is always very good and always cheap. The chili cheese etoufee is a staple on the menu and it's a very good place to start if you are new to this great restaurant. The atmosphere is NOLA inspired and fun. The staff is always very friendly and accommodating. If there is a drawback it is that you are limited only to what they have prepared. It's stews gumbos, jambalayas, etc, in other words all prepared in advance and therefore not able to be altered much if at all. There are usually several vegetarian options as well. You might find a few local baked goods out on the counter for sale too. The only other drawback is the lack of parking. It's all street parking. I highly recommend YATS.

    (5)

  • Richard H.

    I am not the biggest fan of Yats, because their food looks like slop spooned into a styrofoam container. It can be tasty if you're in the right mood, and last Saturday was rainy and chilly -- the perfect weather for chili cheese etouffee. The meals come with a piece of bread with some weird bright orange spread on them, but the food was tasty, and I give this Yats a star above the rest because the atmosphere is just perfect. Best of all: they bring the dishes to your table, and their served on real plates!

    (4)

  • E.C. W.

    Love love love. I could eat the crawfish ettouffee everyday!

    (5)

  • Daniel S.

    You only have to spend like six or seven bucks for a solid meal that is REAL food. I don't always like ordering pizza or a sub if I don't feel like cooking. Delicious, hearty stuff. Great jazz music too! Quick service, laid back environment. My favorite is the chilly cheese etoufee. Staff is friendly always. Perfect on a cold day.

    (4)

  • Ashleigh A.

    Love love LOVE this place. The dude at the register always calls everyone "baby" and somehow it feels nice. Don't forget cash! It's inexpensive, DELICIOUS and it's a cozy place. I like pretty much everything, but i always go back to the chili cheese étouffée! The bread is freaking fantastic. Don't go here on a diet though. Peanut butter pie is pretty awesome, too.

    (5)

  • Todd L.

    I hit Yats every time I'm back in the Circle City. Every time. Although the price has been slowly creeping up over the years, it's still wonderful and inexpensive for all it gives. I don't fault the owner; he doesn't strike me as cheap. It's cash only and on one of of my trips I was short $5. Before I could reduce my order he waived it off saying, "Just pay the next time you're in." I told him I was from Canada and only came in a few times a year. He was insistent, and no IOU required. I thanked him, and made a point to pay what I owed the next time I came in (though sadly, he wasn't there that day). Great, great food. They've made me an addict. I love the B&B -- black beans and corn -- so simple and yet so amazing.

    (5)

  • Emily G.

    We absolutely LOVE Yatz! So great for a quick dinner. Carry out orders are ready in no time. And the food is fantastic. Chili cheese etouffee will always get me, but I've tried a handful of the other options and they are fabulous as well. Only thing to remember about the College location, BRING CASH!

    (5)

  • Deborah B.

    Maybe in an institutional setting (e.g. a prison or high school cafeteria lunchroom) would this slop be considered Cajun. This food is incredibly bland and I am not sure what Kool-Aid everyone is drinking that thinks this place is good. They probably don't even know what Roux is.Sorry for such a harsh review, but no no no!! I might add that a little place called Zydeco's in Mooresville, IN has far better Cajun style food than this.

    (1)

  • Mork M.

    I'd never been here and was only stopping through on a road trip when my girlfriend recommended this place. My socks were appropriately blown off, I am not familiar with Indianapolis and didn't know there was some louisiana cookin to be found in the city. Knocked it out of the park.

    (5)

  • Brandon G.

    Im from Philly with family in Indy. This is ALWAYS, my first stop. Delicious comfort food for sure so if your on a diet...stick to the water. The music is just as good. I arrived in town with only my credit cards. Forgetting Yats is cash only, The guy handed me and IOU and said "Pay us back when you can" with a smile.

    (5)

  • Nick J.

    Yats is reasonably priced for decent New Orleans-ish food. The portion sizes are generous and the menu selection is pretty awesome as well. The name of the place always brings a smile to my face as "Yat" is the name of the dialect my dad speaks. That's right folks, I am originally from the Big Easy, hence my three instead of five star review. Yats does a decent job with introducing Louisiana cuisine to the Hoosier palate, but it still leaves a lot to be desired. The bread is fantastic and the chili cheese étouffée, while not something I have ever encountered down South, is a guilty pleasure. The downtown location has a good selection of Louisiana hot sauces, this is also essential for any place specializing in Cajun/Creole food. Their combo plates are also a great deal. However, many of their entrees are frozen and simply reheated during the day. I have seen the cooks placing frozen bags of étouffée into a pot in order to thaw it out. The frozen instead of freshness is painfully obvious with any dish containing seafood. The food is good, but it is not the "real deal" New Orleans style that many think it is. As someone who grew up with this food, I cannot delude myself into thinking that this is anything close to the étouffée, jambalaya, gumbo, or chicken creole Maw Maw or Papa made. It is not a bad place and I won't avoid it, but I like it for what it is rather than what it could be.

    (3)

  • Reid J.

    Love it! Best $7 even I spend twice weekly

    (5)

  • Cheshire S.

    I live in New York City and every time I come home to visit my folks, I go here!! The food at Yats is crazy flavorful and the service is always with a smile. I love that their spicy food is actually spicy, something you don't often find in Indy. The restaurant itself is small, but has fun decoration so can be a nice place to sit and eat for a minute or two, but wouldn't be a place to sit for a long time. But who cares about the decor, when the food is so damn good!!

    (5)

  • Karl H.

    I've been a lover of Yats for a decade, ever since my Indy-living aunts took me there way back when. When I visited I always was sure to stop in, and now that I call Indy home, its a fav. Excellent food. Great people. And they have IOU's in case you forget cash. A winner. Try whatever looks good before ordering and then enjoy it with extra bread. I will say their ice machine is often out of ice, but that can't possibly hurt the rating more than 0.00001%.

    (5)

  • Michayla S.

    The food here is great. It's cheap, but the amount and quality seems like it should be more expensive. I really like the white chili. You can order half and half of two things on one plate. One great thing about this place is that you can get samples of each menu item before ordering, so you're not going in blind. The atmosphere is really casual and the staff is friendly.

    (5)

  • Patrick G.

    Yats is probably one of my favorite restaurants in the world. You get simple, hearty food that is delicious every-time. My standard order at Yats is usually a half and half with Red Beans with Sausage and the other half I usually let the staff suggest something that is good on the menu that particular day. Also, if you are dining here you have to get extra bread as the bread here is out of this word good. The counter up front has a nice selection of hot sauces for you to try out. On my last trip through Indy I stopped at Yats and we didn't remember that they did not take credit cards and the staff said that we could just mail them a check to pay for our meal! If that isn't outstanding customer service I do not know what is. We ended up going to an ATM across the street after we ate to get some cash and pay. The owner came out and made sure we were enjoying our meal and thanked us for our business. Yats is a business that clearly values its customers and succeeds a providing top quality product and a top quality experience.

    (5)

  • Maisha L.

    Reasonably priced, super-friendly, super-fast service. I pretty much love everything on the menu and I love the fact that it changes everyday. Chili-cheese etoufee was the frist thing I tried and is my all-time favorite. They'll let you sample before you buy!

    (5)

  • Ronald R.

    Yats is the one place I will be sure to go every time I return to Indianapolis. The atmosphere, the service and the food are all outstanding. I wish I could bring Yats with me, but I will look forward to it whenever I return.

    (5)

  • David L.

    We're in town for the Super Bowl and saw a lot of good reviews for this place. Heck, how can we say no to Cajun/Creole food? This place remind me of the restaurants in Adams Morgan, DC. You basically go to the "bar" area and order your food. I ordered the Chili Cheese Etoufee w/ Crawfish and my wife ordered Chicken Creole. We wanted to try the Drunken Chicken but it wasn't available. The menu is very limited and it's written on the board behind the register. Once you ordered and paid, you find a table and they will bring the food out to you. The price is very reasonable and the service is good. Not a bad place at all for get some Creole/Cajun food. I wish they have more on the menu but this will do until next year when we go to New Orleans for the Super Bowl.

    (4)

  • Carrie A.

    Great service for a quick lunch, sample any new offerings. Don't get too attached to a favorite, since it might not be offered again soon. I love what they've done with branching out on other flavors that aren't necessarily Creole but crazy delicious.

    (5)

  • Anthony B.

    Hooked

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : No
    Good For : Lunch, Dinner
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : Yes

Yats

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