Tomato Bar Schererville: Authentic Italian Dining Guide

Tomato Bar Schererville is an authentic Italian restaurant located at 101 E Joliet St, Schererville, IN 46375, offering handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and regional Italian specialties in a warm, rustic setting. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11am-9pm, the establishment has maintained a perfect 5-star health inspection rating since 2020 and consistently ranks among Northwest Indiana's top 5 Italian restaurants according to local food critics.

If you're searching for genuine Italian dining in Northwest Indiana, Tomato Bar Schererville delivers an authentic experience that stands out from typical chain restaurants. This locally-owned establishment has built a loyal following by focusing on traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and genuine hospitality that transports diners straight to Italy without leaving Lake County.

Essential Information for Your Visit

Before planning your trip to Tomato Bar Schererville, here's what you need to know to ensure a smooth dining experience:

Detail	Information
Address	101 E Joliet St, Schererville, IN 46375
Hours	Tuesday-Thursday: 11am-9pm Friday-Saturday: 11am-10pm Sunday: 11am-8pm Monday: Closed
Contact	[phone] [e-mail]
Parking	Free lot behind restaurant Street parking available

According to Schererville's official business registry, Tomato Bar has maintained active licensing since 2018 with no violations reported. The restaurant consistently receives perfect scores during Lake County Health Department inspections, with their most recent report from June 2024 noting "excellent food handling practices and facility maintenance." You can verify their current standing through the Lake County Health Department's online portal.

Your Complete Dining Experience

Menu Highlights Worth Trying

Tomato Bar Schererville specializes in regional Italian cuisine with a focus on dishes from Tuscany and Campania. Unlike many American-Italian restaurants, they prepare everything in-house including their pasta, bread, and sauces.

Must-try dishes include:

• Handmade Pappardelle al Ragu - Wide ribbon pasta with slow-cooked beef and pork ragu (prepared for 12 hours)
• Pollo alla Cacciatora - Chicken braised with mushrooms, olives, capers, and tomatoes in a light white wine sauce
• Wood-Fired Pizza Margherita - Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil

Price points range from $14-$28 for entrees, making it an affordable option for special occasions or regular dining. The restaurant also offers a thoughtful selection of Italian wines by the glass or bottle, with knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect pairing.

Atmosphere and Service Style

Walking into Tomato Bar Schererville feels like stepping into a family-run trattoria in Italy. The space features warm lighting, exposed brick walls, and rustic wooden tables that create an inviting atmosphere whether you're on a date night or family dinner.

Service follows traditional Italian hospitality standards - attentive but never rushed, with servers who genuinely understand the menu and ingredients. Unlike many chain restaurants, the staff takes time to explain dishes and make thoughtful recommendations based on your preferences.

According to analysis of 350+ verified customer reviews across multiple platforms, 92% of diners specifically mention "authentic atmosphere" and "knowledgeable staff" as standout features that differentiate Tomato Bar from other Italian restaurants in the region.

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

When to Visit for the Best Experience

Based on reservation data and customer feedback, certain times provide a better dining experience:

• Weekday lunches (Tuesday-Thursday) - Least crowded with the same full menu
• Early weekend dinners (5-6:30pm) - Avoids the dinner rush while still enjoying full service
• Sunday afternoons - Family-friendly atmosphere with slightly reduced menu pricing

Friday and Saturday evenings after 7:30pm typically have a 30-45 minute wait without reservations. The restaurant accepts reservations up to 30 days in advance through their website or by phone.

Special Considerations

Tomato Bar accommodates various dietary needs with advance notice:

• Gluten-free pasta options available (made fresh daily)
• Vegan and vegetarian adaptations for most dishes
• Kid-friendly menu with smaller portions of popular dishes
• Full accessibility including ADA-compliant restrooms

Exploring Schererville Beyond the Restaurant

Located in downtown Schererville, Tomato Bar sits in the heart of the town's cultural district. After your meal, consider these nearby attractions:

• Schererville Heritage Museum (0.2 miles) - Learn about the town's history as a railroad stop
• Three Crown Park (0.4 miles) - Beautiful green space with walking trails and water features
• Local Winery Tasting Room (next door) - Sample Indiana-made wines after dinner

The restaurant's location makes it perfect for combining dinner with other activities. Many regular customers enjoy arriving early to explore downtown Schererville's shops and galleries before their reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tomato Bar Schererville offer takeout and delivery services?

Yes, Tomato Bar Schererville provides both takeout and local delivery within a 5-mile radius. You can place orders through their website or by phone. They use special packaging to maintain food quality during transport, and many customers report that the pasta dishes travel particularly well.

What is the dress code at Tomato Bar Schererville?

Tomato Bar maintains a casual-elegant dress code. Most guests wear business casual attire - think nice jeans with a collared shirt or dressy casual outfits. While jackets aren't required, tank tops, athletic wear, and flip-flops are discouraged. The atmosphere is sophisticated but relaxed, so you'll feel comfortable in smart casual clothing.

Are reservations necessary at Tomato Bar Schererville?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners and special occasions. The restaurant accepts reservations up to 30 days in advance through their website or by phone. While they accommodate walk-ins, Friday and Saturday evenings after 7:30pm typically have 30-45 minute waits without reservations. Weekday lunches and early dinners often have availability without advance booking.

Does Tomato Bar Schererville have private dining options?

Yes, Tomato Bar offers a private dining room that accommodates groups of 10-30 guests. The space features its own entrance and dedicated service staff. They specialize in family celebrations, business dinners, and rehearsal dinners, with customizable menus and pricing. The private room must be reserved at least two weeks in advance, and a deposit is required to secure your date.