Indy's Local Little Italy

An Indianapolis family-owned restaurant not only prides themselves in their classic Italian cuisine, but more importantly, their heritage.

Originally established in the 1930’s by Santora “Fred” Iozzo and other Italian immigrants, Iozzo’s Garden of Italy sat at the corner of Illinois and Washington Streets. The bustling hot spot destination was the largest restaurant in the Midwest, featuring three bars, a banquet room, two kitchens, and a bandstand, seating over 800 people.

What society called an “unfortunate incident,” occurred in October of 1940, changing the fate of Iozzo’s for decades. On that night in 1940, a group of sailors came into Iozzo’s and were flirting with Fred’s daughter. Deciding the flirting had gone too far, Fred’s son asked the sailors to leave, which resulted in a brawl. Fred, who heard the fight from the kitchen, ran into the bar and fatally shot the sailor who was choking his son.

Fred Iozzo was charged and convicted for involuntary manslaughter, and later died in 1945.

Decades later, Fred’s great-granddaughter, Katie (Cummings) Harris reopened the restaurant in 2009 at 946 S Meridian St. The origin and heritage of the restaurant is still evident, as the dishes are made from Iozzo family recipes.

Referred to as “The Newest Oldest Italian Restaurant in Indianapolis,” the restaurant’s roots and history are what makes it unique. Iozzo’s has received numerous awards and recognitions, including “Best Italian Restaurant in Indianapolis.” Unlike any other destination in the city, Iozzo’s Garden of Italy exhibits its uniqueness in all aspects, making it a ‘local Little Italy.’