A northside secret. But how long until the word is out? I've been coming here since they opened. Service has always been great, & the food has gone from above average to amazing. The majority of the time, I ask somebody straight up what I should order, and they know whether I'll like the specials or not. I've had their catering at a few formal events, and you wouldn't believe what they're capable of in that tiny kitchen of theirs! Shelley & Brian are some of the most genuine people I've ever met, and they truly do care about their staff & customers. I can't believe Guy Fieri or one of those other shows hasn't been here yet!
(5)
Katie H.
We loved the Blue Moon Cafe. We are from out of town and wanted something original. I had a pancetta and Brie panini. It was wonderful. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable.
(5)
Shane M.
If you are in the area, go eat here. The atmosphere was easy, help friendly, food awesome, and easy parking. The spicy tomato soup and Ham Panini was awesome. They have homemade baked goods and great coffee. Enjoy.
(5)
Laura N.
Sitting outside in the sunshine! I love all the walking options in Carmel!
(5)
Kelly T.
Consistently delicious, always fresh, friendly staff. Like on Facebook for interesting and unique specials.
(5)
Kevin B.
OMG this place rocks. Awesome wraps and sandwiches and several good salads. Cool atmospeher also!
(5)
Tim F.
A must try in an area that is getting off the ground!! I work nearby and drive by this place numerous times a day. My lovely bride and I meet for a lunch date sans kids and couldn't have been more pleased. We were slightly lame and both of us got the same thing, BLT panini with avocado and the spicy tomato soup. The sandwich was delicious in all ways. The soup was very good as well on a cool autumn day, had a good spicy kick to it. We will surely be visiting this establishment again very soon.
(5)
Sarah L.
I've tried their tuna melt and and roast beef with horseradish sandwich and both were spectacular. My favorite side was the curried chicken salad. YUM!!! The atmosphere is very friendly and busy. The prices are higher than I expected but understandable since the ingredients are very fresh.
(4)
Ryan K.
The Blue Moon Cafe is a nice place to eat in Carmel's Art and Design district. Baked goods, coffee, sandwiches, and breakfast are all on the menu. My daughter had a nice yogurt parfait and I had Blu's Eggs, which was two eggs over meat, hash browns, and some vegetables. It was delicious. My wife had the French toast bread pudding which was made out of a bread similar in flavor to banana nut bread. It was thick and dense with fruit, granola, and whipped cream on top. She really liked it.
(5)
Mara M.
Have been twice now. They do nice sandwiches and paninis. The Californian is good. My vegan friend enjoyed the veggie wrap. My husband liked the tandoori pita. Good food. One drawback is that for $11 or $12 a sandwich it would be nice to have a free side - fruit, chips, pasta salad, something to make you feel like you've had value for money. Plenty of free parking is a plus, especially in the arts district.
(4)
James B.
Tuna salad panini was perfect. Vegetable pasta salad had a cracked pepper flavor I would wait in a day long line for. Overall my favorite lunch spot with brunch going to patachou.
(5)
Sqirrl B.
Awful and unhelpful on food allergy issues. The food I could eat was good. I used to eat here nearly every day back when they were in Noblesville. Never had a problem with them, and the owner was really nice. I had not eaten here in a long time since they moved to Carmel. I had to be nearby for business, and thought stopping here would be nice. Most of the food involved sandwiches, unless you get the deli selections. When you cannot do either bread or lettuce, sandwiches become problematic. I asked about the wraps, and if they contained sunflower oil. The lady who appeared to be managing was very short with me, even though I allowed many other customers to order while I looked over the menu. I only asked a few questions, but I was thoroughly rebuffed. Not sure why I did not just leave... I got the curry chicken, edamame salad and fruit. They were all very good.
(2)
Michael L.
Trendy atmosphere, awful food. Tried traditional breakfast. Eggs and become dirty with grill tailings. Looks like they were dropped in dirt.
(1)
Abbey S.
We loved Blu Moon! We went for Valentine's Day breakfast and it was excellent! The service was outstanding. Everyone was eager to help answer any questions we had about the menu. The coffee was fresh and hot and the food the same. I liked how fast the service was, like a city deli, but the atmosphere was laid back and comfortable like a small town cafe! I can't wait to go back for lunch soon!
(5)
Brooke K.
This is probably my top lunch spot in Carmel. Any place that greets you with a dessert case full of homemade Ding Dongs and an 18 layer Maple Cake served with a side of bacon has my heart. Well guess what, the love doesn't stop there. After you stop drooling over desserts you can drool over their freshly prepared deli salads. Personally, I am thankful for that panel of glass. I am sure I am not the only one hoovering over that case. Any eatery that uses local farms (meats & produce) get's an A+ from me. Some of my favorite menu items share the local love including the Beer Mac N Cheese with Goose Jowl Bacon. Their salads are huge requiring tongs. I love the Thai Noodle Salad plenty for two. I also recommend the Spicy Tomato Soup made with chipotle peppers. Everything is very fresh and super affordable. I have not stopped in for breakfast but I have made it my personal mission to devour their Pork Shoulder Breakfast Tostada, Goose Sausage & Sweet Potato Hash, and their build your own Egg Panini. Other notes: This cafe is located in the Carmel Design Center with an easily accessible parking lot right next to it. I love the use of local artwork decorating the space. Cute details on the backs of chairs. Lots of natural light. Fun crystal chandeliers. Service is exceptional. My one wish is they were open on Sundays.
(5)
Brittany S.
On my mission to better familiarize myself with Carmel and the northern side of our fair city, I visited Blue Moon Cafe for lunch this past week. Many thanks to Brooke K's review and spiffy photo of the Thai Chicken noodle salad. How could I resist rice noodles piled high on pickled red onions, lettuce, sesame seeds, peanut vinaigrette, roasted red peppers and chicken? It was just as tasty as it looked and for $10 I was able to stretch it into two meals - easily. And I'm not one of those cute light eating ladies. As for the space and other offerings, you'll find a bounty of baked goods like almond cookies (thanks for the recommendation, Dawn V, you were right - very, very tasty), brownies and more. Blue Moon has tall ceilings, an abundance of windows and natural light and free wifi. Great spot to grab a mocha or tea and work at the high top counters. Last but not least, I found the service to be the perfect amount of friendly without being over-the-top. 5 stars!
(5)
Leslie H.
This place is adorable. It has eclectic interior decor which is quite appropriate thanks to the location where it's housed in. The food is delish. The paninis are something else. Their pancetta and brie panini has caramelized pears which you can usually find in really high end and trendy breakfast joints in LA. Price wise, super affordable. They even have lunch specials and offers catering. Don't skip on their dessert. Made from scratch mile high red velvet cake? Sign me up.
(5)
Heather T.
Stopped by here for a quick lunch today. Everything looked so fresh and delicious! I had a hard time choosing. Ended up settling on the grinder panini. Ham and salami with garlic mayo, tomato, onion and spicy giardenera on sourdough! Serves with what I can assume are house made pickles. Had a bag of chips as a side. The sandwich was fantastic and they have a cute little patio so I sat outside on this beautiful day. Friendly service and delicious food, what more could you ask for!
I work just down the street and I was pleasantly surprised by the fresh selection of salads and the friendly staffers. The decor is modern and sweet, with pretty lighting and plenty of outdoor eating space, but the artistry is the array of salads in so many different flavors, colors, and textures. Chicken salad, tuna salad, mashed potato salad, veggie pasta salad, even a beet salad etc etc etc. Sandwiches and Paninis have fresh bread and gourmet potatoe chips are available for a tad more. For soda drinkers, you will understand when I say that their fountain drinks have 1. good soda to syrup ratio and 2. nice substantial cups for "to-go" orders. (That sounds crazy, but fountain pops are a serious business.)
(4)
Bethany S.
I had lunch with my mom here. The service is very friendly, but was a bit slow when we went, especially considering the simplicity of our order. I got the spring salad, and it was just... a salad. It was fine, but on the small side and just not worth the $8 I paid for it. I have no major complaints, I just wasn't blown away and nothing seems particularly unique or interesting to me about Blu Moon. It's near to where I live, but their veg options are so limited, and I felt a bit cheated expense wise, so I probably won't be back. If you don't mind overpaying for normal food (my mom seemed to like it fine) you may enjoy it, though.
(3)
Sarah C.
I usually go with a delicious half blt sandwich and a fresh fruit cup, with a drink for around $9. Honestly, everything always looks so fresh and delicious here. They offer large portions. You are greeted by friendly staff in a cute dining area with paintings (all for sale) on the walls. Your food is brought to your table when it's ready. Their homemade lemonade is delicious! They have a nice covered patio on the side of the building. This is one of my go-to places for lunch. They have limited hours, so check ahead.
(5)
Barb F.
I really tried to like Blue Moon Cafe, it simply failed to meet expectations. First time I had the Veggie Wrap.... it was mostly tortilla and greens. Today I tried the 1/2 sandwich special, the Ultimate Grilled Cheese and cucumber salad. Ultimate Grilled Cheese sandwich was a HUGE disappointment, 1/2 a piece of cheese that was not even melted. After the sandwich was grilled, it was served sitting in the pickle juice. I love pickles but these were just odd tasting, making the bottom of my sandwich inedible. The salad consisted of rubbery cucumbers and tomatoes, as if the salad had been sitting for a while and had mint in it. The response I received when a staff member asked me how I was enjoying my meal was "Well that's the way we make it here." It is sad that the best part of my meal was the lemonade. I will not return and will not recommend it
(1)
Anna O.
Blu Moon fits well in Carmel's Arts and Crafts district atmosphere - art from adjacent galleries on walls, clean white furniture lines. Never mind the furniture, it is the food that excites with a question: what eclectic ingredients and spices have they thrown together in a salad today? You can buy a three salad combo as a meal or stick with paninis and soups. Smoked salmon on my panini was just right - not overly salty. Beer Mac and Cheese sported stout flavor and creative presentation (which turned out a bit too adult for a 7-year old). Black bean soup - spicy! In an impulsive buy, we split a home-made Ding Dong. Ganache and heavy whipped cream... I am still cherishing the memory...just not of the fight over each little bit, including crumbs.
(4)
Jennifer H.
I am so glad I found this place! I came here for lunch with my boyfriend and was very impressed. First of all, the service deserves five stars. Everyone was friendly and helpful. We were greeted as soon as we walked in. The cashier who took our order was a total sweetheart and made great recommendations. I had the 1/2 sandwich special with a turkey blt and the spicy tomato soup. Excellent choice! My boyfriend had the chicken bacon ranch wrap, which was also delicious. Excellent food, terrific service, and great atmosphere. I am definitely coming back!
(5)
Jen M.
Excellent food. Daily special was a Reuben sandwich that was served with the most incredible pickled slaw. Greek salad was good...nice twist with ham and salami, and the dressing was delicious. Coffee was really good, too. Indoor and outdoor seating and a cool place to hit up after shopping at the design center. I drooled overthe house-made Ding Dons and chocolate cake. Park for 3 hours outside...for free.
(5)
Ber L.
This is my favorite place to eat in Carmel! They use local ingredients and make their cookie dough, salads, and cakes in house. Their spicy tomato soup is offered daily and always delicious. The service is amazing. Someone always stops by to check on us and make sure our order is correct/delicious. There's also patio seating in warmer months, which is a bonus I've enjoyed time and time again. I love this place! Here is a list of my "must haves": The Grinder Breakfast panini (I just order the grinder with a fried egg) The Brownies The tomato soup Any mile-high cake The BBT and Potato salads There are also breakfast specials on Saturday that are super delicious. When the Farmer's Market is on the Monon it is the perfect way to fuel up!
(5)
Andrew J.
This is my favorite place to go for soup and a sandwich. Now its a little pricey compared to a Panera or a Paradise Bakery, but the food is much more impressive. I've had some really great soups here. The ingredients always taste very fresh. The sandwiches are made on great breads with some very unique combinations of ingredients. When you go, you have to get the blue cheese, bacon and tomato pasta salad. Its awesome. They use tiny little grape tomatoes that provide a nice sweet and acidic baser to the thick and creamy blue cheese, and we all know bacon makes everything better. Great food, great deserts. I wish they had some unique coffee options, but not a big deal.
(4)
Kate G.
This is a nice place to grab a specialty drink and have a relaxing dining experience. Try the macaroni and cheese, it's the best you'll ever have.
(4)
Shelby J.
Yum! My husband and I happened upon this place while wandering through Carmel. Their sandwiches were so tasty! I had the ham panini, and I was not disappointed. Though, I do love ham, cheese and dijon mustard. I also had a tasty, foamy latte. This place is super cute and airy inside, and has a patio that I think would be nice in the summer. I will be back!
(4)
Laura L.
The food is ok. The value is terrible. I gave it two visits before I decided we won't be back. The two stars are for a pleasant staff and decent enough tasting food. The tuna melt I had this visit was less tasty and less gourmet than I could've made at home, and did not include a side of any kind (not even a few chips) for $8.50. It wasn't unusually large, either. The turkey on my son's sandwich was dry, and the weird balsamic-soaked tomatoes on my husband's sandwich distracted from what the main flavor of the sandwich should have been (Roast Beef and Horseradish, also with no side at all for $9.25) Our family of 4 ate lunch here for $40, including a tip (but no drinks... Just tap water), and left feeling unsatisfied and still hungry. I would only suggest this place if you have more money than sense.
(2)
Leslie L.
My biggest problem with this cafe is that it is not open on Sundays! Great place to grab a quick lunch or to have a one-on-one work meeting. Everything I have tried on the menu has been terrific... paninis, BLT, and the Californian (which reminds me a little of home). I have not had their desserts yet but they look to have a fabulous selection. Can't wait to try more food from this place!
(3)
Channa P.
This is a neat little nook with a diverse menu and lots of fresh ingredients. I ordered a salad topped with bbq shrimp, and it was really great. It was the perfect portion, and seasoned well. This place is surrounded by several design shops for furniture, electronics, designer kitchens, etc... I would suggest eating at this place if you are in the area, and then walking around t the many surrounding shops.
(4)
Benjamin R.
A really nice walk-up-counter lunch place in downtown Carmel. We tried lots of good stuff, but the best by far to me was the Mac N Cheese, served in a ... goblet bowl, with lots of cheese, bread crumbs, and porky stuff in it. Delicious and nutritious.
I absolutely love this place. I can't keep myself from going back. Everything is so fresh and delicious. I just ate the crap out of a house salad...straight killed it! Their BBT Salad is addictive, the sandwiches are awesome, and there is always some creative special to try as well. I've yet to get to breakfast, but I'm sure it's just as fresh and amazing as everything else I've had so far, which is a lot!
(5)
Matt A.
These guys are rocking it. The first time I went, I got a big salad and the bacon split pea soup. How good is the idea to give us diners thongs to mix in our dressing? Smart. The second time I went, I got the rattatolle sandwich. I must admit it sounded better than it actually was. Still pretty good though. I'll be back.
(4)
Todd R.
Boy have I had my head in the "clay" when it comes to discovering Carmel! I'm so glad I have a smarter-than-me-phone with a Yelp mobile app. I never would have discovered anything, much less fellow Yelper Raquel R.'s review on this place. Thanks to her, I trusted to go and get some vittles from Blue Moon, and I'm so glad I let Yelp make the decision for me once again. The scrambles are EPIC. Huge! Humongous!! And my egg white scramble with all the veggies I could stand kept me satiated for the rest of the day. Not a coffee drinker, but I noticed that they had their own brand at a full coffee bar, and no "Evil Starbux" (as Ethan calls it) in sight. All the first time drinkers people seemed to love it! The place was only a quarter full, yet not quiet. The layout ensures that you hear all conversations, so the people watching was great. The decor is eclectic, but what else would it be inside a building called the Indiana Design Center? A sure winner for breakfast. Highly recommended!
(5)
Arunima R.
Food at lunch or breakfast is very good ! My all time favorites is the grinder sandwich which is spicy and has a lot of meat. Their specials tend to be good too. The only issue I have with this place is few of the regular staff are not at all friendly. Infact couple of them appear snobbish which is kind of off-putting. Nonetheless I go there for the food and I will continue doing so .
(4)
Raquel R.
I'm here practically every day... so I love it. There's so much to love: great granola with coffee in the morning, awesome daily soups and if none of that grabs you the curry chicken salad is the BEST in the Indianapolis area. Pair that on their trio salad and some sweet potato chips and I can eat it every day. Don't come here if you're in a hurry. You won't be able to enjoy all it has to offer. Good food takes time to actually make...
(5)
Tamre M.
Blu Moon is a great spot for lunch on the northside. They offer quality sandwiches and panini's with specials. Last time I visited, they were serving their grilled cheese sandwich as a lunch special. It was perfectly crisp on the outside with nicely melted cheese and came with avocados. My only complaint is that a side is separate and the price is on the high side for just a sandwich.
(4)
Julia C.
I came here to kill some time before meeting my Dad and brother for lunch at a nearby restaurant. So I came here not knowing anything about the cafe....My Sister N Law thought it was a good location in case I wanted to go exploring before I met up with family. So, I ordered the House Blend which is especially roasted for this cafe. it was bold, sturdy and smooth. I also ordered a snack - cinnamon rolls. This cafe has an outdoor patio and free wifi. They were very nice and looks like they have some nice wraps, sandwiches and salads. I would like to come back when I visit family again, definitely prefer an indie place over starbucks.
(5)
Theresa K.
What a neat little place. Located in the Indiana Design Center right in Carmel, I was first able to locate the place by the awnings. The decor is very contemporary baroque. Hardwood floors, a lot of angles, modern wooden chairs with French-styled chair silhouettes painted on them. As cool as the inside seemed, I didn't get to pay too much attention because I ordered carry-out. I placed my order via phone (after viewing the website). They said it'd be ready in 10-15, and it was. I had the tuna panini- It was pretty damn good. And the spicy tomato soup WAS indeed spicy. I was expecting a creamy-type tomato soup and really happy to find that it was not, and it was still really thick. They even give you little bread & butter pickles, which I'm guessing are homemade.
(4)
Christine B.
I expected to be wow-ed judging by some of the reviews, but it was just ok. Nothing really to write home about. I had their special cuban panin and my husband had the mexican torta. For what we paid, we thought it would have tasted better or had more flavor. It was $26 for just the two of us for lunch. 2 sandwhiches, one small cup of tater salad, and a small dessert. We both had ice water. Yikes on the prices. I wonder if their salads fare better. I highly doubt we'll be back. To me, Creation cafe still has the best cuban sandwhich in town.
(3)
John K.
My new favorite breakfast place. Blu's eggs are amazing and the coffee is very good.
(4)
Caleb F.
This place is AMAZING! Very trendy atmosphere and extremely friendly staff. I got the BLT and it is the best BLT I have ever had. Thick strips of peppered bacon, havarti cheese, lettuce, basil/pesto mayonnaise, avocado, and tomato on grilled sourdough....DELICIOUS. Definitely check this place out.
(5)
Brian J.
Love this place! I've had lunch here on several occasions and the food is excellent! The spicy tomato soup is awesome. I've had a couple different sandwiches and all are superb. The half sandwich / half soup is the way to go. The staff are very friendly too! I'll be back here often.
(5)
Christy B.
Good lunch spot. The paninis are good. The frittatas are excellent. Recently tried a bbq flatbread pizza special that was very good. The desserts are great and creative. Their lemonade is delicious. I know it's just lemonade, but it's good! I really like the frittatas, but those aren't big enough for a lunch and there isn't an option for a small salad to go with it... I tried the Thai salad and was hopeful because of all of the great things in it, but it was possibly the blandest salad I've ever eaten. Thai... seriously. I do omit the jalapenos on everything (they are jalapeno happy here), but I there should still be some flavor to the salad... right? I keep going here because I like different/fresh food, but I still haven't found my "thing." But, I'll keep trying.
(4)
T-Rock T.
This place is wonderful. I enjoy tasting all the new specials they have. Everything is so unique and wonderful. The staff is great and the food is great .
(5)
Dawn T.
Almond sugar cookies were off the scale, over a 5. YUMMY!!! The sandwich I had was also really, really good with plenty of veggie toppings, including avocado (I think I had the California Turkey.) The service was friendly and quick. The only thing keeping me from rating a 4 instead of a 5 is the coffee. The coffee is bitter and not good. I have had the coffee more than once, and it has been disappointing every time. Go for the food and get something else to drink.
(4)
J T.
A solid score for a new restaurant! Its a sandwich place / deli. My panini was outstanding. They have a good selection of salads. Really cool is the fact that they have a small but well done selection of pastries made in-house. Outdoor seating in stylish Carmel. The biggest opportunity for improvement as far as I can tell is noise abatement inside the restaurant. I'm sure they'll get this tuned in though. Great value. I'll return.
(4)
Valerie S.
The other morning, I was up exceedingly early on a typically off day, and up in the Carmel area. I decided to reward myself with breakfast at somewhere I could find, and luckily I was able to swing into Blu Moon on my way between errands. It was quiet but not empty, and breakfast was a great way to start the day. I chose to go European, choosing a chocolate scone and fruit. I had the scone warmed and it was deadly good, and the fruit was fresh, colorful and flavorful. It was also a unique fruit medley, featuring the staples such as grapes and melons, but also featuring black and raspberries. My food was quickly served, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I'd love to have a full meal and sit down for longer than a few minutes, maybe spend the morning chatting away and enjoying the food. The price for my food was a little bit higher than I would have hoped, but not unreasonable if it were compared to a contemporary in somewhere like Chicago. And I guess, given that Carmel has a higher cost of living than Indy, it was fair. All in all, I was duly impressed, and would like to head back for another meal... in particular, my biscuit and gravy radar was piqued by that item on the menu and I'd love to give it a try.
(4)
Michael G.
I had been wanting to visit Blu Moon Cafe for a while, and was excited to finally try Carmel's new (and highly talked about) deli. We visited for lunch on a Saturday and enjoyed Californian and Tuna Melt sandwiches with a small side dish of Black Bean Chorizo salad. The food was great, the ingredients tasted fresh and perfectly balanced. No complaints there. I will say that things can get a bit pricey, but remember that you're paying for things that make this place great: the freshly baked bread that was sliced to make your sandwich, the home-made, spicy dill pickles that come as a little garnish, and the colorful blend of local produce (as local as it can be for winter in Indiana). As far as atmosphere is concerned, the cafe is located in the newly built Indiana Design Center. It's clean and somehow doesn't feel like it's trying too hard. Inside there's definitely a trendy, modern feel that somehow reminds you of a small countryside restaurant. The tall, exposed ceilings and bits of local artwork hung on the walls bring everything into focus... Blu Moon Cafe works hard for it's image. But in the end, you'll leave with a love for the place that can't quite be explained. One last warning (and my biggest complaint): The place closes at 5 pm every day, so if you're looking for dinner you'd better go early!
(4)
Lynne I.
I called the cafe from California and asked them to create a food and dessert assortment for my mother's birthday and they got it to her home in Indy right on the dot. The cakes and sandwiches were amazing. Highly recommend and it is a pleasure to work with such friendly people!
(5)
Chris C.
Like a boat ride on a perfect day...warm, smooth and leaving you with a pleasant buzz the rest of the afternoon. The highs: excellent. Grinder (a panini) had lots of meat (a good thing). Veggies were fresh and crisp. Veggie wrap, huge. Filled with veggies, not just lettuce. The lows: dessert, average to good. Homemade Ding Dong. Not quite as moist as you might like. Atmosphere: pleasant and plain.
(4)
Amy H.
Another fine lunch at the Blu Moon in Carmel yesterday. Went around 1:15 to miss the lunch rush and still found a fair number of folks inside wrapping up their mid-day break. This is obviously a hot spot in Carmel, hence I find it curious it hasn't been reviewed more often. The local business crowd from the surrounding area is flocking here, with well dressed ladies lunching on salads, soups, wraps and paninis. Thumbs up for the simple but effective signage when you first come in that tells you how the cafe works. Steps 1-5 give you the lay of the land and keeps confusion to a minimum for new patrons who wonder about samples (yes you can!), ordering and then getting food to the tables (they bring it to you). BLT (sans T) panini is a star. The bread, while not thick, has some real body to it and is pressed to crispy (but not flaky) goodness. The bacon was plentiful for the sandwhich and the havarti cheese was an awesome compliment. A really nice flavor that pulled this simple staple together. A side of salt and vinegar chips and a sampling of the spicy tomato soup (WOW, ITS HOT!) and you're set on a cold day. While I'm not letting this affect my scoring because the food and service has been consistently great, the noise level in the cafe can be a pretty significant. While aesthetically pleasing, the open ceiling concept with exposed ductwork means no sound absorption and the small drop ceiling just over the counter area does nothing to combat the crazy loudness of the expresso machine when it pushes into overdrive. Couple that with a busy crowd and you've got a challenging lunch conversation on your hands. Seating isn't exactly ample inside, although they have enclosed their patio space for the winter, so I'd suggest going a little early or late to ensure you don't have to wait for a table or shout at your lunch companion.
(4)
Tom Z.
I've just visited this establishment for lunch at about 1:30pm. This was my initial visit. Comments: 1. It wasn't loud during our visit and I understand some of the logistics that make the place susceptible to loud noise as pointed out by other yelpers. However, something overlooked is the physical distance between tables - which is quite large. Compare to Cafe Patachou in Indy where there isn't even sufficient room to pull your chair back without slamming a table behind you. My fear is that as the popularity grows, so will the inside seating. 2. Ordered a bottle of Bell's Winter Ale. As so many restaurants do, they don't advertise the cost of their beverages. Many of the profits in the restaurant industry come from this source. The impetus is a dare for you to ask the cost prior to ordering. Most customer's won't for not wanting to appear "cheap". I didn't ask but should have known better. (I find it a panic at many typical restaurants when the waitress acts like she has 'no idea' how much drinks cost - she's hoping you won't want to wait for her to go back to the barkeep to check and will just order one). Try $5 for a 12oz bottle of beer. Unreal. Steer clear of the beer. 3. I ordered their Pancetta (tiny crumbles) and Brie (plenty w/rind) Paninni with (a few) Roasted Pear (small pieces) and some fresh spinach. A great value at $6.50 but larger Pancetta pieces and much more roasted pear would really enhance the sandwich, even at a higher price. 4. My wife ordered the Tuna Melt Paninni but it did not match Einstein Brother's open-faced Tuna Melt on their good grains bagel (with toasted sesame seeds!). 5. My wife also ordered the soup ($2.99/not sure if large or small since once again the pricing is a secret). The corn chowder with sweet potato was too peppery. 6. To their credit they had 3 samples of various baked goods available in small pieces for customers to try. The problem is that they were in sealed plastic containers that required folks to get their hands all over the containers in order to open them and then required reaching bare fingers in to remove a sample touching many pieces in the process. My sandwich would have qualified this place as a 5 if that was the only yardstick. Will update my Yelp upon conclusion of next visit.
(3)
Cathy N.
This is a great place for sandwiches and salads. I love their vegtable wrap, and salads. Wish they were open on Sundays, and a little later in the evening. Sometimes their desserts are great, but it is inconsistent.
(4)
Sarah L.
The veggie wrap (sans avocado & cheese for me) is really tasty. The staff is very friendly. This is definitely on the list for whenever I'm in the area.
(4)
Melissa A.
Blu Moon Cafe is my favorite cafe in Hamilton county. It has such a great atmosphere and has the most amazing fresh food. I have tried many different selections, such as the veggie wrap and chicken cobb salad, and with each new entry comes a new favorite. They also serve great coffee and have an amazing selection of desserts. If that isn't enough to get you in there, the staff is super friendly and helpful. LOVE this place!
(5)
Kim H.
This is a good place to go for lunch. The half sandwich and half salad is a great deal. It also comes with a drink. The BLT panini was delicious and had tons of bacon on it. The toppings were fresh and the bread was toasty. I will definitely be going back.
(4)
Megan C.
Update - I went back again yesterday and the people behind the counter were EXTREMELY friendly. And again, the food was wonderful. Love going here!
(5)
Julie M.
I recently ate at blu moon with a friend for lunch, after having passed it several times. I have to say that I will go back! I too was somewhat confused on the ordering, paying, cleanup process but basically its cafe style where you order at the counter and have a seat. They bring the food to the table and speaking of the food! I am taking on some healthier patterns of eating and am having a bit of a hard time eating out. but they were happy to help when I presented my (list of) needs. I ended up with a very nice portion of spinach and lentil salad and a lovely bowl of spicy vegan tomato soup! the price was right: $6 bucks give or take. the soup alone will take me back! its hard to find a vegan tomato soup and this was full of spice! I will say that they have a flyer for vegan gluten free yummy sounding sweets and nothing to show! these items were not available the day I dined and my mouth was kind of watering at the thought! oh well , maybe next time ;)
(4)
Anne B.
I had a late lunch on Saturday after driving down from Chicago to visit my family in Carmel. I really enjoyed my turkey sandwich and I had a cup of gazpacho to go with it that was fantastic. The menu was very unique and interesting. My entire party enjoyed their lunch and we will definitely be going back. The only thing I would ask that they do differently is turn down the music a bit. It has a bad echo if you sit in the back of the restaurant.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Garage, Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes Good for Working : Yes
Tony L.
A northside secret. But how long until the word is out? I've been coming here since they opened. Service has always been great, & the food has gone from above average to amazing. The majority of the time, I ask somebody straight up what I should order, and they know whether I'll like the specials or not. I've had their catering at a few formal events, and you wouldn't believe what they're capable of in that tiny kitchen of theirs! Shelley & Brian are some of the most genuine people I've ever met, and they truly do care about their staff & customers. I can't believe Guy Fieri or one of those other shows hasn't been here yet!
(5)Katie H.
We loved the Blue Moon Cafe. We are from out of town and wanted something original. I had a pancetta and Brie panini. It was wonderful. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable.
(5)Shane M.
If you are in the area, go eat here. The atmosphere was easy, help friendly, food awesome, and easy parking. The spicy tomato soup and Ham Panini was awesome. They have homemade baked goods and great coffee. Enjoy.
(5)Laura N.
Sitting outside in the sunshine! I love all the walking options in Carmel!
(5)Kelly T.
Consistently delicious, always fresh, friendly staff. Like on Facebook for interesting and unique specials.
(5)Kevin B.
OMG this place rocks. Awesome wraps and sandwiches and several good salads. Cool atmospeher also!
(5)Tim F.
A must try in an area that is getting off the ground!! I work nearby and drive by this place numerous times a day. My lovely bride and I meet for a lunch date sans kids and couldn't have been more pleased. We were slightly lame and both of us got the same thing, BLT panini with avocado and the spicy tomato soup. The sandwich was delicious in all ways. The soup was very good as well on a cool autumn day, had a good spicy kick to it. We will surely be visiting this establishment again very soon.
(5)Sarah L.
I've tried their tuna melt and and roast beef with horseradish sandwich and both were spectacular. My favorite side was the curried chicken salad. YUM!!! The atmosphere is very friendly and busy. The prices are higher than I expected but understandable since the ingredients are very fresh.
(4)Ryan K.
The Blue Moon Cafe is a nice place to eat in Carmel's Art and Design district. Baked goods, coffee, sandwiches, and breakfast are all on the menu. My daughter had a nice yogurt parfait and I had Blu's Eggs, which was two eggs over meat, hash browns, and some vegetables. It was delicious. My wife had the French toast bread pudding which was made out of a bread similar in flavor to banana nut bread. It was thick and dense with fruit, granola, and whipped cream on top. She really liked it.
(5)Mara M.
Have been twice now. They do nice sandwiches and paninis. The Californian is good. My vegan friend enjoyed the veggie wrap. My husband liked the tandoori pita. Good food. One drawback is that for $11 or $12 a sandwich it would be nice to have a free side - fruit, chips, pasta salad, something to make you feel like you've had value for money. Plenty of free parking is a plus, especially in the arts district.
(4)James B.
Tuna salad panini was perfect. Vegetable pasta salad had a cracked pepper flavor I would wait in a day long line for. Overall my favorite lunch spot with brunch going to patachou.
(5)Sqirrl B.
Awful and unhelpful on food allergy issues. The food I could eat was good. I used to eat here nearly every day back when they were in Noblesville. Never had a problem with them, and the owner was really nice. I had not eaten here in a long time since they moved to Carmel. I had to be nearby for business, and thought stopping here would be nice. Most of the food involved sandwiches, unless you get the deli selections. When you cannot do either bread or lettuce, sandwiches become problematic. I asked about the wraps, and if they contained sunflower oil. The lady who appeared to be managing was very short with me, even though I allowed many other customers to order while I looked over the menu. I only asked a few questions, but I was thoroughly rebuffed. Not sure why I did not just leave... I got the curry chicken, edamame salad and fruit. They were all very good.
(2)Michael L.
Trendy atmosphere, awful food. Tried traditional breakfast. Eggs and become dirty with grill tailings. Looks like they were dropped in dirt.
(1)Abbey S.
We loved Blu Moon! We went for Valentine's Day breakfast and it was excellent! The service was outstanding. Everyone was eager to help answer any questions we had about the menu. The coffee was fresh and hot and the food the same. I liked how fast the service was, like a city deli, but the atmosphere was laid back and comfortable like a small town cafe! I can't wait to go back for lunch soon!
(5)Brooke K.
This is probably my top lunch spot in Carmel. Any place that greets you with a dessert case full of homemade Ding Dongs and an 18 layer Maple Cake served with a side of bacon has my heart. Well guess what, the love doesn't stop there. After you stop drooling over desserts you can drool over their freshly prepared deli salads. Personally, I am thankful for that panel of glass. I am sure I am not the only one hoovering over that case. Any eatery that uses local farms (meats & produce) get's an A+ from me. Some of my favorite menu items share the local love including the Beer Mac N Cheese with Goose Jowl Bacon. Their salads are huge requiring tongs. I love the Thai Noodle Salad plenty for two. I also recommend the Spicy Tomato Soup made with chipotle peppers. Everything is very fresh and super affordable. I have not stopped in for breakfast but I have made it my personal mission to devour their Pork Shoulder Breakfast Tostada, Goose Sausage & Sweet Potato Hash, and their build your own Egg Panini. Other notes: This cafe is located in the Carmel Design Center with an easily accessible parking lot right next to it. I love the use of local artwork decorating the space. Cute details on the backs of chairs. Lots of natural light. Fun crystal chandeliers. Service is exceptional. My one wish is they were open on Sundays.
(5)Brittany S.
On my mission to better familiarize myself with Carmel and the northern side of our fair city, I visited Blue Moon Cafe for lunch this past week. Many thanks to Brooke K's review and spiffy photo of the Thai Chicken noodle salad. How could I resist rice noodles piled high on pickled red onions, lettuce, sesame seeds, peanut vinaigrette, roasted red peppers and chicken? It was just as tasty as it looked and for $10 I was able to stretch it into two meals - easily. And I'm not one of those cute light eating ladies. As for the space and other offerings, you'll find a bounty of baked goods like almond cookies (thanks for the recommendation, Dawn V, you were right - very, very tasty), brownies and more. Blue Moon has tall ceilings, an abundance of windows and natural light and free wifi. Great spot to grab a mocha or tea and work at the high top counters. Last but not least, I found the service to be the perfect amount of friendly without being over-the-top. 5 stars!
(5)Leslie H.
This place is adorable. It has eclectic interior decor which is quite appropriate thanks to the location where it's housed in. The food is delish. The paninis are something else. Their pancetta and brie panini has caramelized pears which you can usually find in really high end and trendy breakfast joints in LA. Price wise, super affordable. They even have lunch specials and offers catering. Don't skip on their dessert. Made from scratch mile high red velvet cake? Sign me up.
(5)Heather T.
Stopped by here for a quick lunch today. Everything looked so fresh and delicious! I had a hard time choosing. Ended up settling on the grinder panini. Ham and salami with garlic mayo, tomato, onion and spicy giardenera on sourdough! Serves with what I can assume are house made pickles. Had a bag of chips as a side. The sandwich was fantastic and they have a cute little patio so I sat outside on this beautiful day. Friendly service and delicious food, what more could you ask for!
(5)Tara Q.
Now, I just came here and had coffee with a potential business contact, so I'm reviewing the atmosphere, staff, and coffee. Although they had an impressive menu selection which I plan on trying the next time I go. The guy behind the counter was courteous and helpful. The coffee tasted great and the whole atmosphere is relaxing. Something tells me that this place is still somewhat of a hidden gem as it wasn't that busy when I was there around 9-10am on a weekday. The café is attached to the Indiana Design Center so the only downside is that there is no restroom in the café - or at least that I could see. You have to go out into the Design Center and find the bathroom down a hallway. The upside is you can take your coffee to go and check out all the shops in the Design Center. Pretty neat place!
(4)Scott N.
There aren't many cafés in downtown Carmel, so Blu Moon is fairly unique in that regard. It is one of the only places to get a cup coffee or espresso drink when walking around the Arts and Design District. The atmosphere is very comfortable and it is everything you would want in a little sandwich shop and café. My favorite part... They will let you have your dog with you on the outside patio. Perfect place to take a break during a long weekend walk with the pooch.
(4)Tera N.
I work just down the street and I was pleasantly surprised by the fresh selection of salads and the friendly staffers. The decor is modern and sweet, with pretty lighting and plenty of outdoor eating space, but the artistry is the array of salads in so many different flavors, colors, and textures. Chicken salad, tuna salad, mashed potato salad, veggie pasta salad, even a beet salad etc etc etc. Sandwiches and Paninis have fresh bread and gourmet potatoe chips are available for a tad more. For soda drinkers, you will understand when I say that their fountain drinks have 1. good soda to syrup ratio and 2. nice substantial cups for "to-go" orders. (That sounds crazy, but fountain pops are a serious business.)
(4)Bethany S.
I had lunch with my mom here. The service is very friendly, but was a bit slow when we went, especially considering the simplicity of our order. I got the spring salad, and it was just... a salad. It was fine, but on the small side and just not worth the $8 I paid for it. I have no major complaints, I just wasn't blown away and nothing seems particularly unique or interesting to me about Blu Moon. It's near to where I live, but their veg options are so limited, and I felt a bit cheated expense wise, so I probably won't be back. If you don't mind overpaying for normal food (my mom seemed to like it fine) you may enjoy it, though.
(3)Sarah C.
I usually go with a delicious half blt sandwich and a fresh fruit cup, with a drink for around $9. Honestly, everything always looks so fresh and delicious here. They offer large portions. You are greeted by friendly staff in a cute dining area with paintings (all for sale) on the walls. Your food is brought to your table when it's ready. Their homemade lemonade is delicious! They have a nice covered patio on the side of the building. This is one of my go-to places for lunch. They have limited hours, so check ahead.
(5)Barb F.
I really tried to like Blue Moon Cafe, it simply failed to meet expectations. First time I had the Veggie Wrap.... it was mostly tortilla and greens. Today I tried the 1/2 sandwich special, the Ultimate Grilled Cheese and cucumber salad. Ultimate Grilled Cheese sandwich was a HUGE disappointment, 1/2 a piece of cheese that was not even melted. After the sandwich was grilled, it was served sitting in the pickle juice. I love pickles but these were just odd tasting, making the bottom of my sandwich inedible. The salad consisted of rubbery cucumbers and tomatoes, as if the salad had been sitting for a while and had mint in it. The response I received when a staff member asked me how I was enjoying my meal was "Well that's the way we make it here." It is sad that the best part of my meal was the lemonade. I will not return and will not recommend it
(1)Anna O.
Blu Moon fits well in Carmel's Arts and Crafts district atmosphere - art from adjacent galleries on walls, clean white furniture lines. Never mind the furniture, it is the food that excites with a question: what eclectic ingredients and spices have they thrown together in a salad today? You can buy a three salad combo as a meal or stick with paninis and soups. Smoked salmon on my panini was just right - not overly salty. Beer Mac and Cheese sported stout flavor and creative presentation (which turned out a bit too adult for a 7-year old). Black bean soup - spicy! In an impulsive buy, we split a home-made Ding Dong. Ganache and heavy whipped cream... I am still cherishing the memory...just not of the fight over each little bit, including crumbs.
(4)Jennifer H.
I am so glad I found this place! I came here for lunch with my boyfriend and was very impressed. First of all, the service deserves five stars. Everyone was friendly and helpful. We were greeted as soon as we walked in. The cashier who took our order was a total sweetheart and made great recommendations. I had the 1/2 sandwich special with a turkey blt and the spicy tomato soup. Excellent choice! My boyfriend had the chicken bacon ranch wrap, which was also delicious. Excellent food, terrific service, and great atmosphere. I am definitely coming back!
(5)Jen M.
Excellent food. Daily special was a Reuben sandwich that was served with the most incredible pickled slaw. Greek salad was good...nice twist with ham and salami, and the dressing was delicious. Coffee was really good, too. Indoor and outdoor seating and a cool place to hit up after shopping at the design center. I drooled overthe house-made Ding Dons and chocolate cake. Park for 3 hours outside...for free.
(5)Ber L.
This is my favorite place to eat in Carmel! They use local ingredients and make their cookie dough, salads, and cakes in house. Their spicy tomato soup is offered daily and always delicious. The service is amazing. Someone always stops by to check on us and make sure our order is correct/delicious. There's also patio seating in warmer months, which is a bonus I've enjoyed time and time again. I love this place! Here is a list of my "must haves": The Grinder Breakfast panini (I just order the grinder with a fried egg) The Brownies The tomato soup Any mile-high cake The BBT and Potato salads There are also breakfast specials on Saturday that are super delicious. When the Farmer's Market is on the Monon it is the perfect way to fuel up!
(5)Andrew J.
This is my favorite place to go for soup and a sandwich. Now its a little pricey compared to a Panera or a Paradise Bakery, but the food is much more impressive. I've had some really great soups here. The ingredients always taste very fresh. The sandwiches are made on great breads with some very unique combinations of ingredients. When you go, you have to get the blue cheese, bacon and tomato pasta salad. Its awesome. They use tiny little grape tomatoes that provide a nice sweet and acidic baser to the thick and creamy blue cheese, and we all know bacon makes everything better. Great food, great deserts. I wish they had some unique coffee options, but not a big deal.
(4)Kate G.
This is a nice place to grab a specialty drink and have a relaxing dining experience. Try the macaroni and cheese, it's the best you'll ever have.
(4)Shelby J.
Yum! My husband and I happened upon this place while wandering through Carmel. Their sandwiches were so tasty! I had the ham panini, and I was not disappointed. Though, I do love ham, cheese and dijon mustard. I also had a tasty, foamy latte. This place is super cute and airy inside, and has a patio that I think would be nice in the summer. I will be back!
(4)Laura L.
The food is ok. The value is terrible. I gave it two visits before I decided we won't be back. The two stars are for a pleasant staff and decent enough tasting food. The tuna melt I had this visit was less tasty and less gourmet than I could've made at home, and did not include a side of any kind (not even a few chips) for $8.50. It wasn't unusually large, either. The turkey on my son's sandwich was dry, and the weird balsamic-soaked tomatoes on my husband's sandwich distracted from what the main flavor of the sandwich should have been (Roast Beef and Horseradish, also with no side at all for $9.25) Our family of 4 ate lunch here for $40, including a tip (but no drinks... Just tap water), and left feeling unsatisfied and still hungry. I would only suggest this place if you have more money than sense.
(2)Leslie L.
My biggest problem with this cafe is that it is not open on Sundays! Great place to grab a quick lunch or to have a one-on-one work meeting. Everything I have tried on the menu has been terrific... paninis, BLT, and the Californian (which reminds me a little of home). I have not had their desserts yet but they look to have a fabulous selection. Can't wait to try more food from this place!
(3)Channa P.
This is a neat little nook with a diverse menu and lots of fresh ingredients. I ordered a salad topped with bbq shrimp, and it was really great. It was the perfect portion, and seasoned well. This place is surrounded by several design shops for furniture, electronics, designer kitchens, etc... I would suggest eating at this place if you are in the area, and then walking around t the many surrounding shops.
(4)Benjamin R.
A really nice walk-up-counter lunch place in downtown Carmel. We tried lots of good stuff, but the best by far to me was the Mac N Cheese, served in a ... goblet bowl, with lots of cheese, bread crumbs, and porky stuff in it. Delicious and nutritious.
(4)Morgan T.
My family and I absolutely love this little café. My dad comes here every Friday and we all go most Saturdays! The food is absolutely amazing and they have wonderful service. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone. The food is worth every last penny. My favorite is the grinder panini. It's spicy but absolutely delicious!! Definitely check this place out!
(5)Shannon A.
I absolutely love this place. I can't keep myself from going back. Everything is so fresh and delicious. I just ate the crap out of a house salad...straight killed it! Their BBT Salad is addictive, the sandwiches are awesome, and there is always some creative special to try as well. I've yet to get to breakfast, but I'm sure it's just as fresh and amazing as everything else I've had so far, which is a lot!
(5)Matt A.
These guys are rocking it. The first time I went, I got a big salad and the bacon split pea soup. How good is the idea to give us diners thongs to mix in our dressing? Smart. The second time I went, I got the rattatolle sandwich. I must admit it sounded better than it actually was. Still pretty good though. I'll be back.
(4)Todd R.
Boy have I had my head in the "clay" when it comes to discovering Carmel! I'm so glad I have a smarter-than-me-phone with a Yelp mobile app. I never would have discovered anything, much less fellow Yelper Raquel R.'s review on this place. Thanks to her, I trusted to go and get some vittles from Blue Moon, and I'm so glad I let Yelp make the decision for me once again. The scrambles are EPIC. Huge! Humongous!! And my egg white scramble with all the veggies I could stand kept me satiated for the rest of the day. Not a coffee drinker, but I noticed that they had their own brand at a full coffee bar, and no "Evil Starbux" (as Ethan calls it) in sight. All the first time drinkers people seemed to love it! The place was only a quarter full, yet not quiet. The layout ensures that you hear all conversations, so the people watching was great. The decor is eclectic, but what else would it be inside a building called the Indiana Design Center? A sure winner for breakfast. Highly recommended!
(5)Arunima R.
Food at lunch or breakfast is very good ! My all time favorites is the grinder sandwich which is spicy and has a lot of meat. Their specials tend to be good too. The only issue I have with this place is few of the regular staff are not at all friendly. Infact couple of them appear snobbish which is kind of off-putting. Nonetheless I go there for the food and I will continue doing so .
(4)Raquel R.
I'm here practically every day... so I love it. There's so much to love: great granola with coffee in the morning, awesome daily soups and if none of that grabs you the curry chicken salad is the BEST in the Indianapolis area. Pair that on their trio salad and some sweet potato chips and I can eat it every day. Don't come here if you're in a hurry. You won't be able to enjoy all it has to offer. Good food takes time to actually make...
(5)Tamre M.
Blu Moon is a great spot for lunch on the northside. They offer quality sandwiches and panini's with specials. Last time I visited, they were serving their grilled cheese sandwich as a lunch special. It was perfectly crisp on the outside with nicely melted cheese and came with avocados. My only complaint is that a side is separate and the price is on the high side for just a sandwich.
(4)Julia C.
I came here to kill some time before meeting my Dad and brother for lunch at a nearby restaurant. So I came here not knowing anything about the cafe....My Sister N Law thought it was a good location in case I wanted to go exploring before I met up with family. So, I ordered the House Blend which is especially roasted for this cafe. it was bold, sturdy and smooth. I also ordered a snack - cinnamon rolls. This cafe has an outdoor patio and free wifi. They were very nice and looks like they have some nice wraps, sandwiches and salads. I would like to come back when I visit family again, definitely prefer an indie place over starbucks.
(5)Theresa K.
What a neat little place. Located in the Indiana Design Center right in Carmel, I was first able to locate the place by the awnings. The decor is very contemporary baroque. Hardwood floors, a lot of angles, modern wooden chairs with French-styled chair silhouettes painted on them. As cool as the inside seemed, I didn't get to pay too much attention because I ordered carry-out. I placed my order via phone (after viewing the website). They said it'd be ready in 10-15, and it was. I had the tuna panini- It was pretty damn good. And the spicy tomato soup WAS indeed spicy. I was expecting a creamy-type tomato soup and really happy to find that it was not, and it was still really thick. They even give you little bread & butter pickles, which I'm guessing are homemade.
(4)Christine B.
I expected to be wow-ed judging by some of the reviews, but it was just ok. Nothing really to write home about. I had their special cuban panin and my husband had the mexican torta. For what we paid, we thought it would have tasted better or had more flavor. It was $26 for just the two of us for lunch. 2 sandwhiches, one small cup of tater salad, and a small dessert. We both had ice water. Yikes on the prices. I wonder if their salads fare better. I highly doubt we'll be back. To me, Creation cafe still has the best cuban sandwhich in town.
(3)John K.
My new favorite breakfast place. Blu's eggs are amazing and the coffee is very good.
(4)Caleb F.
This place is AMAZING! Very trendy atmosphere and extremely friendly staff. I got the BLT and it is the best BLT I have ever had. Thick strips of peppered bacon, havarti cheese, lettuce, basil/pesto mayonnaise, avocado, and tomato on grilled sourdough....DELICIOUS. Definitely check this place out.
(5)Brian J.
Love this place! I've had lunch here on several occasions and the food is excellent! The spicy tomato soup is awesome. I've had a couple different sandwiches and all are superb. The half sandwich / half soup is the way to go. The staff are very friendly too! I'll be back here often.
(5)Christy B.
Good lunch spot. The paninis are good. The frittatas are excellent. Recently tried a bbq flatbread pizza special that was very good. The desserts are great and creative. Their lemonade is delicious. I know it's just lemonade, but it's good! I really like the frittatas, but those aren't big enough for a lunch and there isn't an option for a small salad to go with it... I tried the Thai salad and was hopeful because of all of the great things in it, but it was possibly the blandest salad I've ever eaten. Thai... seriously. I do omit the jalapenos on everything (they are jalapeno happy here), but I there should still be some flavor to the salad... right? I keep going here because I like different/fresh food, but I still haven't found my "thing." But, I'll keep trying.
(4)T-Rock T.
This place is wonderful. I enjoy tasting all the new specials they have. Everything is so unique and wonderful. The staff is great and the food is great .
(5)Dawn T.
Almond sugar cookies were off the scale, over a 5. YUMMY!!! The sandwich I had was also really, really good with plenty of veggie toppings, including avocado (I think I had the California Turkey.) The service was friendly and quick. The only thing keeping me from rating a 4 instead of a 5 is the coffee. The coffee is bitter and not good. I have had the coffee more than once, and it has been disappointing every time. Go for the food and get something else to drink.
(4)J T.
A solid score for a new restaurant! Its a sandwich place / deli. My panini was outstanding. They have a good selection of salads. Really cool is the fact that they have a small but well done selection of pastries made in-house. Outdoor seating in stylish Carmel. The biggest opportunity for improvement as far as I can tell is noise abatement inside the restaurant. I'm sure they'll get this tuned in though. Great value. I'll return.
(4)Valerie S.
The other morning, I was up exceedingly early on a typically off day, and up in the Carmel area. I decided to reward myself with breakfast at somewhere I could find, and luckily I was able to swing into Blu Moon on my way between errands. It was quiet but not empty, and breakfast was a great way to start the day. I chose to go European, choosing a chocolate scone and fruit. I had the scone warmed and it was deadly good, and the fruit was fresh, colorful and flavorful. It was also a unique fruit medley, featuring the staples such as grapes and melons, but also featuring black and raspberries. My food was quickly served, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I'd love to have a full meal and sit down for longer than a few minutes, maybe spend the morning chatting away and enjoying the food. The price for my food was a little bit higher than I would have hoped, but not unreasonable if it were compared to a contemporary in somewhere like Chicago. And I guess, given that Carmel has a higher cost of living than Indy, it was fair. All in all, I was duly impressed, and would like to head back for another meal... in particular, my biscuit and gravy radar was piqued by that item on the menu and I'd love to give it a try.
(4)Michael G.
I had been wanting to visit Blu Moon Cafe for a while, and was excited to finally try Carmel's new (and highly talked about) deli. We visited for lunch on a Saturday and enjoyed Californian and Tuna Melt sandwiches with a small side dish of Black Bean Chorizo salad. The food was great, the ingredients tasted fresh and perfectly balanced. No complaints there. I will say that things can get a bit pricey, but remember that you're paying for things that make this place great: the freshly baked bread that was sliced to make your sandwich, the home-made, spicy dill pickles that come as a little garnish, and the colorful blend of local produce (as local as it can be for winter in Indiana). As far as atmosphere is concerned, the cafe is located in the newly built Indiana Design Center. It's clean and somehow doesn't feel like it's trying too hard. Inside there's definitely a trendy, modern feel that somehow reminds you of a small countryside restaurant. The tall, exposed ceilings and bits of local artwork hung on the walls bring everything into focus... Blu Moon Cafe works hard for it's image. But in the end, you'll leave with a love for the place that can't quite be explained. One last warning (and my biggest complaint): The place closes at 5 pm every day, so if you're looking for dinner you'd better go early!
(4)Lynne I.
I called the cafe from California and asked them to create a food and dessert assortment for my mother's birthday and they got it to her home in Indy right on the dot. The cakes and sandwiches were amazing. Highly recommend and it is a pleasure to work with such friendly people!
(5)Chris C.
Like a boat ride on a perfect day...warm, smooth and leaving you with a pleasant buzz the rest of the afternoon. The highs: excellent. Grinder (a panini) had lots of meat (a good thing). Veggies were fresh and crisp. Veggie wrap, huge. Filled with veggies, not just lettuce. The lows: dessert, average to good. Homemade Ding Dong. Not quite as moist as you might like. Atmosphere: pleasant and plain.
(4)Amy H.
Another fine lunch at the Blu Moon in Carmel yesterday. Went around 1:15 to miss the lunch rush and still found a fair number of folks inside wrapping up their mid-day break. This is obviously a hot spot in Carmel, hence I find it curious it hasn't been reviewed more often. The local business crowd from the surrounding area is flocking here, with well dressed ladies lunching on salads, soups, wraps and paninis. Thumbs up for the simple but effective signage when you first come in that tells you how the cafe works. Steps 1-5 give you the lay of the land and keeps confusion to a minimum for new patrons who wonder about samples (yes you can!), ordering and then getting food to the tables (they bring it to you). BLT (sans T) panini is a star. The bread, while not thick, has some real body to it and is pressed to crispy (but not flaky) goodness. The bacon was plentiful for the sandwhich and the havarti cheese was an awesome compliment. A really nice flavor that pulled this simple staple together. A side of salt and vinegar chips and a sampling of the spicy tomato soup (WOW, ITS HOT!) and you're set on a cold day. While I'm not letting this affect my scoring because the food and service has been consistently great, the noise level in the cafe can be a pretty significant. While aesthetically pleasing, the open ceiling concept with exposed ductwork means no sound absorption and the small drop ceiling just over the counter area does nothing to combat the crazy loudness of the expresso machine when it pushes into overdrive. Couple that with a busy crowd and you've got a challenging lunch conversation on your hands. Seating isn't exactly ample inside, although they have enclosed their patio space for the winter, so I'd suggest going a little early or late to ensure you don't have to wait for a table or shout at your lunch companion.
(4)Tom Z.
I've just visited this establishment for lunch at about 1:30pm. This was my initial visit. Comments: 1. It wasn't loud during our visit and I understand some of the logistics that make the place susceptible to loud noise as pointed out by other yelpers. However, something overlooked is the physical distance between tables - which is quite large. Compare to Cafe Patachou in Indy where there isn't even sufficient room to pull your chair back without slamming a table behind you. My fear is that as the popularity grows, so will the inside seating. 2. Ordered a bottle of Bell's Winter Ale. As so many restaurants do, they don't advertise the cost of their beverages. Many of the profits in the restaurant industry come from this source. The impetus is a dare for you to ask the cost prior to ordering. Most customer's won't for not wanting to appear "cheap". I didn't ask but should have known better. (I find it a panic at many typical restaurants when the waitress acts like she has 'no idea' how much drinks cost - she's hoping you won't want to wait for her to go back to the barkeep to check and will just order one). Try $5 for a 12oz bottle of beer. Unreal. Steer clear of the beer. 3. I ordered their Pancetta (tiny crumbles) and Brie (plenty w/rind) Paninni with (a few) Roasted Pear (small pieces) and some fresh spinach. A great value at $6.50 but larger Pancetta pieces and much more roasted pear would really enhance the sandwich, even at a higher price. 4. My wife ordered the Tuna Melt Paninni but it did not match Einstein Brother's open-faced Tuna Melt on their good grains bagel (with toasted sesame seeds!). 5. My wife also ordered the soup ($2.99/not sure if large or small since once again the pricing is a secret). The corn chowder with sweet potato was too peppery. 6. To their credit they had 3 samples of various baked goods available in small pieces for customers to try. The problem is that they were in sealed plastic containers that required folks to get their hands all over the containers in order to open them and then required reaching bare fingers in to remove a sample touching many pieces in the process. My sandwich would have qualified this place as a 5 if that was the only yardstick. Will update my Yelp upon conclusion of next visit.
(3)Cathy N.
This is a great place for sandwiches and salads. I love their vegtable wrap, and salads. Wish they were open on Sundays, and a little later in the evening. Sometimes their desserts are great, but it is inconsistent.
(4)Sarah L.
The veggie wrap (sans avocado & cheese for me) is really tasty. The staff is very friendly. This is definitely on the list for whenever I'm in the area.
(4)Melissa A.
Blu Moon Cafe is my favorite cafe in Hamilton county. It has such a great atmosphere and has the most amazing fresh food. I have tried many different selections, such as the veggie wrap and chicken cobb salad, and with each new entry comes a new favorite. They also serve great coffee and have an amazing selection of desserts. If that isn't enough to get you in there, the staff is super friendly and helpful. LOVE this place!
(5)Kim H.
This is a good place to go for lunch. The half sandwich and half salad is a great deal. It also comes with a drink. The BLT panini was delicious and had tons of bacon on it. The toppings were fresh and the bread was toasty. I will definitely be going back.
(4)Megan C.
Update - I went back again yesterday and the people behind the counter were EXTREMELY friendly. And again, the food was wonderful. Love going here!
(5)Julie M.
I recently ate at blu moon with a friend for lunch, after having passed it several times. I have to say that I will go back! I too was somewhat confused on the ordering, paying, cleanup process but basically its cafe style where you order at the counter and have a seat. They bring the food to the table and speaking of the food! I am taking on some healthier patterns of eating and am having a bit of a hard time eating out. but they were happy to help when I presented my (list of) needs. I ended up with a very nice portion of spinach and lentil salad and a lovely bowl of spicy vegan tomato soup! the price was right: $6 bucks give or take. the soup alone will take me back! its hard to find a vegan tomato soup and this was full of spice! I will say that they have a flyer for vegan gluten free yummy sounding sweets and nothing to show! these items were not available the day I dined and my mouth was kind of watering at the thought! oh well , maybe next time ;)
(4)Anne B.
I had a late lunch on Saturday after driving down from Chicago to visit my family in Carmel. I really enjoyed my turkey sandwich and I had a cup of gazpacho to go with it that was fantastic. The menu was very unique and interesting. My entire party enjoyed their lunch and we will definitely be going back. The only thing I would ask that they do differently is turn down the music a bit. It has a bad echo if you sit in the back of the restaurant.
(4)