The energy around the Indianapolis 500 is impossible to ignore. From the roar of engines to the traditions that make race month special, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway delivers an experience unlike anywhere else. But this year, we got a reminder that Indy 500 weekend is not only about what happens on the track—it is also about what is happening on the plate.
We were invited to the 2026 IMS Media Food Tasting, where Speedway chefs and culinary teams offered a preview of the food and beverage lineup that fans will find throughout race weekend.
And honestly? Everything we tried felt thoughtfully designed for the Indy 500 crowd. Whether you are craving classic comfort food, premium dining, or something completely unexpected, there are plenty of options waiting around the Speedway.
IMS continues to elevate traditional race day food while still keeping the comfort and fun people expect.
One of the standout bites of the tasting was the Tater Kegs. Think of an oversized tater tot taken to the next level, stuffed with smoky bacon and melted cheddar cheese. Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, these were easy crowd favorites.
The Mozzarella Chicken Sandwich also impressed us. Crispy chicken topped with a fried mozzarella stick and marinara sauce brought serious comfort-food energy and felt like something between a sandwich and an Italian-inspired guilty pleasure.
For fans looking for bold flavors, the Carnitas Street Corn Bowl delivered. Slow-roasted carnitas served over seasoned rice with pico and creamy chipotle mayo created a filling bowl packed with texture and spice.
Another surprise? The Cheesesteak Irish Nacho. Instead of tortilla chips, crispy potato chips served as the base for shaved beef, sautéed peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese sauce. Familiar flavors, but with a fun Speedway twist.
And because this is Indiana, the Hot Pork Tenderloin Sliders had to make the lineup. Breaded pork tenderloin paired with giardiniera and pickle ranch gave this hometown classic an upgraded flavor profile while still feeling authentically local.
The Cuban Sandwich brought together slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on a fresh roll, creating one of the more balanced and savory offerings of the tasting.
Finally, there was the “Slaw Dog,” the winning creation from the Wienie 500 competition featuring an Oscar Mayer all-beef hot dog topped with chili and vinegar-based coleslaw. Messy, flavorful, and undeniably race-day ready.
While concession food brings excitement to the grandstands, the premium dining selections showcased another side of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway experience.
The showstopper was easily the IMS Logo Tomahawk Steak.
Served with Tuscan glazed carrots, balsamic glaze, preserved lemon, roasted garlic, and smoked gouda mac and cheese, this dish delivered steakhouse-level presentation and flavor. The smoked gouda mac and cheese alone felt worthy of its own spotlight.
For something lighter, the Heirloom Tomato Salad offered a refreshing contrast. Fresh mozzarella, cucumber, basil, pesto oil, and sea salt combined into a bright and elegant dish that felt perfect for suite dining.
The Korean BBQ Meatballs added an unexpected global touch with diced pineapple salsa and gochujang mayo bringing sweetness and heat together in every bite.
And for dessert lovers, the Dessert Charcuterie may end up becoming a fan favorite. Cheesecake shooters, mini cookies, macarons, chocolate pretzels, and chocolate-dipped Oreos created a playful and shareable finish.
IMS also previewed two featured beverages served in their signature Oil Can Sipper Cups, and both brought refreshing summer flavors to race weekend.
The Vodka Cucumber Coolant Mule mixed Big Machine Vodka with ginger beer, cucumber, lime, and mint for a crisp and cooling cocktail that felt ideal for warm Speedway afternoons.
Meanwhile, the Boosted Blueberry Lemonade combined vodka, blueberry syrup, and lemonade into a bright, refreshing drink with a little extra race-day energy.
One thing became clear during the tasting: Indianapolis Motor Speedway is continuing to invest in the full fan experience.
The 2026 food lineup brings together local favorites, creative twists, elevated dining, and something for nearly every taste.
Whether you are spending race weekend in the grandstands, walking the midway, or enjoying a premium suite, expect more than just racing.
Expect an experience.
And based on what we tasted… come hungry.
Photos by We Like Indy Team.
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