This is a great place for early morning breakfast. I have had lunch here too and it was great. The service is outstanding. It is a neatly decorated restaurant with an equestrian and 70's feel to it. The restaurant is kept very clean. Your food will come out quickly and as it was ordered. The location is easy to find using Google Maps and there is plenty of free parking all around the building.
Overview
If you're looking for a dining experience that combines comfort food, friendly service, and a classic atmosphere, look no further than the Merry Go Round Restaurant. Nestled at 2101 N Fares Ave, Evansville, IN 47711, this local gem has been serving up hearty meals to residents and visitors alike for years. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal with the family, the Merry Go Round is a place that feels like home.
Walking into the restaurant, you're immediately greeted by a cozy, warm atmosphere that invites you to relax. The decor is reminiscent of an old-fashioned diner, with a modern twist. The booths and tables are spacious, and the staff makes sure to create a welcoming environment that lets you settle in comfortably. It's the perfect spot for both solo diners and large groups.
The menu at Merry Go Round Restaurant is one of its standout features. Offering a variety of dishes from breakfast classics to comforting lunch and dinner options, there's something for everyone. If you're a breakfast lover, the restaurant has an impressive selection of options, from fluffy pancakes to sizzling bacon and eggs. For lunch and dinner, you'll find everything from fresh salads to juicy burgers, and their homemade soups are a must-try. The variety on the menu ensures that you'll always find something satisfying, no matter your craving.
One dish that stands out is their famous meatloaf. It's a long-time favorite for regulars and newcomers alike, with its perfectly seasoned ground beef, served with mashed potatoes and a rich gravy. The portion sizes are generous, making it an excellent choice if you're looking for a filling meal. Pair it with one of their signature sides, like crispy fries or sautéed green beans, and you've got a meal that hits the spot every time.
In addition to their classic diner offerings, Merry Go Round Restaurant also shines when it comes to customer service. The staff is always friendly, attentive, and ready to make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, you’ll feel like part of the family by the time you leave. The restaurant's consistency in service is one of the reasons why it's a local favorite, with many patrons coming back time and again.
The location is another big plus. Situated in the heart of Evansville, the Merry Go Round Restaurant is easily accessible for both locals and those passing through. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for lunch during a busy workday or a casual dinner with friends and family. There’s ample parking available, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot when you arrive.
If you're looking for a place to unwind and enjoy some classic comfort food, the Merry Go Round Restaurant offers a dependable and enjoyable experience. With its diverse menu, great atmosphere, and excellent service, it's easy to see why it has become such a beloved institution in Evansville. So, next time you're in the area, make sure to stop by and experience the magic for yourself. Whether you're craving a simple breakfast or a hearty dinner, the Merry Go Round Restaurant promises to satisfy your appetite with every visit.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Historic ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1247 reviews
Some of my earliest childhood memories are of going to Merry Go Round with my grandparents, where we were always treated with the kind of warmth and hospitality you never forget. I can still remember getting lost in the charm of it all — the diner feel that nodded back to its early days, the carousel horses proudly displayed at every angle, and of course, the unforgettable cooking — especially the spaghetti. Over the years, we made so many memories there. When my grandma passed away three years ago, I found myself thinking of that place often — how special it was to us both. I couldn’t bring myself to go back, not without her. Merry Go Round wasn’t just a restaurant to her — it was a part of her story. She used to tell me how her own mother once worked there. Her loyalty to that little diner kept our family coming back for generations. Today, I finally gathered the courage to see if the doors were still open — and to my joy, they were. With my children in hand, off we went. Walking through those doors felt like stepping back home. The familiar warmth met us immediately — smiling faces, genuine hospitality, and that same sense of belonging that I remembered so well. The carousel horse still stood proudly in the center of the diner, just as it had years ago. We sat down, and our sweet server brought the boys applesauce and crackers. It made me smile remembering eating the same as a child. I showed the boys how to dip their crackers in the applesauce, explaining how it was the perfect little palate cleanser before the spaghetti. And when the spaghetti arrived, it looked exactly as I remembered. But the taste — the taste brought me right back to sitting beside my grandparents laughing around the table. After all these years, they’ve stayed true to who they are — honoring their history. It’s rare to find that kind of authenticity anymore with great food to back it up. To our wonderful server with mother-like hospitality, and to the kind man who greeted us with a smile and great conversation and a clear love for the restaurant — thank you. My heart is full again. Today, I felt my grandma with me — and through that meal, I got to have a little piece of her once more. I will make sure to not be a stranger again. THANK YOU.
The food was fantastic. Kid-friendly menu as well as picky-eater-friendly. My catfish was delicious and portions were big for the price. Our three-year-old was obsessed with the green beans. Our server was one of the best we’ve seen: friendly, attentive, and had drinks refilled before we were even empty. She even brought the kids’ jello out before the meal so they would be busy with that versus picking on each other. A pro who knows! Definitely worth the stop!
A great place with great food and great prices; no less importantly, the best service-oriented and friendly staff.
Stopped on our road trip from St Louis to Bowling Green. We had the BLT club and the macaroni with beef casserole. Fries, onion rings, and coleslaw for sides. Food was delicious! Excellent value for the price. Service was fast and friendly. Definitely worth the stop! Highly recommend.
The food here was super delicious. Only part i didn’t like was the bottom bun was a bit soggy. Other than that, it was great. The fries had the perfect amount of crunchy to them. Staff is nice and respectful. Will definitely return here again. Update: the slaw here is amazing! I don’t eat slaw anywhere else.
This little place was fabulous!!! The food was nothing short of great served in a hometown atmosphere. The wonderful waitress that took care of us was amazing. Wish I remembered her name so I could think her personally. She was there everytime you needed her and was a big part of the experience. Please stop in and eat if you are close and hungry.