Oakleys Bistro is a chef-owned restaurant on the northwest side of Indianapolis known for inventive American cuisine, seasonal ingredients and creative interpretations of familiar dishes.

Inside, the dining room has a polished but approachable atmosphere, with warm lighting and a relatively intimate setting. Chef-owner Steven Oakley opened the restaurant in 2002, establishing a neighborhood dining destination that combines fine-dining techniques with a relatively casual atmosphere.

Oakley is a four-time James Beard Award semifinalist, receiving recognition in 2008, 2011, 2018 and 2019. He also competed on Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay in 2017 and won with his signature shrimp corn dog, which remains one of the restaurant's most recognizable dishes. It's a playful, upscale interpretation of a classic fairground corn dog, replacing the traditional hot dog with shrimp. The shrimp is served in a petite, golden-fried corn dog with a crisp exterior and tender seafood center. It comes with the restaurant's bistro honey mustard, which adds sweetness and tanginess to complement the savory shrimp and cornmeal coating. Unlike a full-sized carnival corn dog, it's a small bite sold individually. Oakleys Bistro's Wild Boar Sloppy Joe puts an upscale twist on the classic sandwich with rich, savory wild boar, creamy Brie, sweet caramelized onions and crunchy sesame red cabbage slaw. Served with house-made potato chips, it balances sweet, tangy and savory flavors with an Asian-inspired touch. Grade: A