My wife has celiac disease, so she can’t have gluten! This place is fantastic!! The service is amazing from Ron are bartender/waiter, and the chef, the food is amazing. She had the smash burger, I had the chicken and waffles. I would have never known the chicken or waffles were gluten free. SO GOOD. Drinks are awesome also. Must try by anyone! And especially gluten intolerant ones! We will definitely be back.
Overview
The Bait Shop is a gem located at 5308 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso, IN 46383, United States. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone in the area. Whether you're stopping by for a casual meal with friends or celebrating a special occasion, this diner has something for everyone.
Walking into The Bait Shop, you’re immediately struck by its cozy, welcoming vibe. It’s one of those places that feels familiar and comfortable the moment you step through the door. The decor is rustic yet modern, with wood paneling and fishing-themed touches that remind you you're about to enjoy some of the freshest catches around.
The menu at The Bait Shop is what truly sets it apart. While you’ll find plenty of seafood options, the offerings go beyond just the typical fish dishes you might expect. The chefs here take great pride in delivering a variety of fresh fish, perfectly prepared to suit any palate. From classic fish and chips to more unique options like grilled mahi-mahi tacos or a seafood platter, there's no shortage of options to tempt your taste buds.
One of the standout dishes at The Bait Shop is their shrimp po' boy. Served on a freshly baked roll with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy remoulade sauce, it's a fan favorite. The shrimp are always cooked to perfection, tender on the inside with just the right amount of crisp on the outside. You can taste the freshness with every bite, making it clear that this isn't your average diner fare.
But it’s not just seafood lovers who will feel at home here. The Bait Shop also offers a variety of non-seafood options for those who prefer something different. The burger selection, for instance, includes hearty, flavorful patties made from locally sourced beef, grilled to perfection. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or something a little more adventurous, you won’t be disappointed.
In terms of beverages, The Bait Shop has a great selection of drinks to complement your meal. Whether you're a fan of craft beers, signature cocktails, or simply a cold soda to wash down your food, there's plenty to choose from. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to suggest a drink that pairs perfectly with whatever you’re having.
When it comes to service, The Bait Shop doesn’t disappoint. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that your experience is enjoyable from start to finish. It’s clear that the team here takes pride in providing excellent service, which adds to the overall experience of dining at this beloved local spot.
If you’re planning to visit, be sure to check out The Bait Shop’s specials board, as they often feature limited-time dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and new ideas from the kitchen. These specials are a great way to try something new and experience the creativity that the chefs put into their dishes.
Reviews of The Bait Shop consistently highlight the quality of both the food and the service. Many visitors return time and again to enjoy the comfort of the menu and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place that feels like home, where regulars and newcomers alike can come together for a good meal in a great environment. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, The Bait Shop provides a wonderful dining experience.
The location at 5308 Calumet Ave is also incredibly convenient, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists in the Valparaiso area. It’s a short drive from downtown, making it easy to swing by for a meal after a day of exploring the city. Plus, with ample parking, you won’t have to worry about finding a spot.
In short, The Bait Shop offers a delightful dining experience with its diverse menu, excellent service, and warm ambiance. If you're in the area and craving some fresh seafood or a hearty meal, this is the place to be.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great cocktails ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cardsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 184 reviews
The food was so good, had generous portions, and was well worth the price. Between all of us we got everything on the menu. It was outshone however, by the service. 11/10. We were celebrating and it made it that much more special. Our servers were fun, knowledgeable and attentive. We all agreed we would be back. Thank you!
This place is a hidden gem in Valparaiso. A must. The food is some of the best in town. The chef doesn’t incredible job of offering a very limited but high-end menu. The beef Wagyu is to die for. All of the sides are delectable. You can see that on this particular evening we had sticky rice that was amazing. The salmon and the potatoes were also phenomenal. Honestly, there’s nothing on the menu that you can go wrong ordering.
I love a place that spins good albums at a company their rockstar Cuisine. They also silently play a chosen classic movie. The artwork is edgy and the lighting is perfectly dim. Best of all this joint is a family owned place owned and operated by a beautiful couple who are enthusiastic about food and atmosphere.
A remarkable dining experience in a small hidden gem of a restaurant. The menu changes nearly daily and includes fresh choices of meat, seafood and more. The service was outstanding. Mariah makes an excellent Old Fashioned among other craft cocktails. The dinners were delicious. It is difficult to recommend anything specific since everything was good. Save room for dessert!
Don't think I've ever had any better servers than the duo last night, they were incredible. The salad was a great starting dish and plentiful for 4. The mains were OK, the portions of the chicken and waffles were huge, yet the chicken was kind of on the bland side. I highly recommend the Porchetta version if it's available, that was fantastic. The filet dish was a little of a let down especially with the cost.
We were greeted promptly and seated, very friendly. Our table was clean and the whole dinning area as well. They change the menu often so you can take a chance on what being offered or call ahead. I had the Boneless Short Ribs, it was wonderful and the presentation was pleasing to the eye. They offer a short menu of specialty drinks to choose from and also craft beers too. The wait staff was attentive but not pushy. The prices are $$$ but worth the money. I’ll be going back for sure. The bathroom was clean Please hit “Like” if this was helpful. Thanks.
Top Shelf service and Food. What else would you want. Steak was great Hush Puppies amazing Carraot Cake was amazing. Owner was very informative. The waitress was quick and friendly. I've said this 100 times. Best restaurant in the area. Bistro Salad Fire Cheese plate Fire Frog Legs with salmon and Tuna fire Chicken and Waffles Fire Octopus and rice Fire Banana Fosters and ice cream .Fire