Which Indianapolis Restaurants Get the Checkered Flag from Indy 500 Race Car Drivers?

Although it's impossible to predict where Danica Patrick, Helio Castroneves or other Indy 500 drivers could dine on any given night, the odds go up if you pick traditionally favorite locations. Best of all, these Indianapolis restaurants have been in business for years - and are likely to be there, year after year, race after race.

The most popular race car drivers may change through the years but you're likely to find the newest crop of racers checking out these favorite Indianapolis restaurants and eateries, for good reason:

If you can afford it, start by dropping by St. Elmo's Steak House, an Indianapolis restaurant staple since 1902. It is definitely not inexpensive but you won't leave the restaurant disappointed - even if you don't run into any Indy race car drivers. Be prepared to spend between $35 - $48 for steaks that have a well-deserved reputation for being among the most tender in town. St. Elmo's also has a wide selection of chicken and seafood. The St. Elmo's website can be found here .

Another popular place where we've seen some Indianapolis 500 racers? Moe & Johnny's , located in bustling Broad Ripple. Originally built in 1922, it has been in the same location ever since, drawing Indianapolis 500 drivers who like to steep themselves in nostalgia and memories of an old-fashioned Indianapolis. Pieces of Indianapolis dining history also abound here, including booths and stained glass windows from two famous Indianapolis eateries, the King Coal Restaurant and Laughner's Cafeteria. The menu features everything from pasta to chicken, with entrees averaging between $8.99- $12.99. Find Moe & Johnny's website here .

One Look at the Mug & Bun website provides clues why Indy 500 race car drivers might drop in here. The black and white checked background reflects the traditional colors associated with the race. It doesn't hurt that this is a drive-in, a perfect place for Indy 500 racers to make pit stops when they get hungry - and simply drive away when done eating. Seems appropriate, doesn't it?

Conveniently located near the Speedway, on the west side of Indianapolis, it has been a landmark for 50 years - and doesn't show any signs of disappearing soon. It has a reputation for the best root beer around. If you're up to it, you can also take the Monster Challenge. All you have to do is manage to eat a deluxe triple tenderloin, family size french fries and 32 ounce drink in 30 minutes.

If you can handle that whopper of a meal, you'll get it for free, along with a t-shirt and your name in the Mug N' Bun Monster Hall of Fame. Otherwise you pay the regular price of $15.00. The Mug n Bun website is located here . You have to wonder how many Indianapolis 500 race car drivers have taken this particular challenge - but hopefully, only after the race. It could take a good day to digest the Monster meal!

Another dining establishment with a family friendly atmosphere, Steak n' Shake boasts the familiar Indy 500 black and white checkered theme and is a classic for Indianapolis diners. You can find information here , but take my word for it - the steakburger and homemade milkshakes can't be beat.

Finally, if you happen to stop by a 7-11 located anywhere near the Indianapolis Speedway, don't be surprised if you see a racer gulping a Slurpee. You can find an Indianapolis location for 7-11 by going here .

Mug N Bun website here
St. Elmo's Steak House here http://www.stelmos.com/
Moe & Johnnys website: here
Steak n Shake, here
7-11, here