Meet Brittany Baxter: The Plant-Based Pioneer behind Eat Surreal Dips

Discover how Brittany Baxter, a small-town dreamer and plant-based pioneer, has revolutionized the Indianapolis food scene with her thriving business, Eat Surreal. 

Brittany Baxter, a small-town girl with big city dreams, has turned her passion for food into a thriving local business. Hailing from Sweetser, Indiana, a quaint town outside Marion County, Baxter’s culinary journey began with a love for exploring new flavors and cultures when she moved from Sweetser to Indianapolis in 2003.

The idea for Eat Surreal was born during the pandemic, when her canceled vegan pop-up event had a dish that turned into an opportunity for a pre-packed vegan cheese product, a pimento “cheese” spread.

“We had a pimento spread on the pop-up menu, and the chef told me there used to be a local dairy-free pimento producer that was no longer in business so he thought there might be a market for it in Indy,” explained Baxter.

A Plant-Based Pioneer

Founded just four years ago, Eat Surreal quickly gained traction with its initial product line of vegan spreads. A pivotal moment arrived when Baxter sold out her entire stock of pimento spread at a local festival. This early success fueled her to pursue her dream of owning a food business. She secured a coveted spot at the Broad Ripple Farmers Market, where she introduced her initial product line: Pimento Spread, Spicy Pimento Spread, and Bam! Salad.

As Baxter’s business continued to boom, a defining moment came with the creation of the original “Amazeball” vegan cheese ball. The product quickly became a fan favorite, leading to the development of various flavor profiles including a pizza, sweet and savory flavors as well as new flavors inspired by collaborations with local Indy restaurants. 

A Local Indy Favorite

Today, Eat Surreal products are available in over 40 locations, including popular grocery stores like Needler’s and Niemann’s Harvest Market. Baxter’s commitment to the local community is evident in her partnerships with restaurants like Cholita Tacos, One Trick Pony Burger, and Side Door Bagel, which incorporate Eat Surreal products into their menus.

As Eat Surreal continues to expand, Baxter has her sights set on reaching a wider audience. With a growing demand for plant-based options, she envisions Eat Surreal products on shelves nationwide. Her journey from a small-town kitchen to a thriving food business is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. Her dedication to crafting delicious, plant-based options has resonated with consumers and solidified Eat Surreal’s position in the Indianapolis food scene. 

A Foodie’s Paradise: Brittney’s Indy Favorites

Brittney has fully embraced the vibrant energy of Midtown living. Beyond her stylish apartment and the city’s endless allure, she’s a true foodie at heart. Indianapolis’ diverse culinary landscape offers her a playground of flavors to explore.

Tinker Street and Fernando’s in Broad Ripple are a staple in her culinary repertoire. And  if you’re seeking a more unique experience, “Asaka is an absolute must,” said Baxter.  “Nina is the sushi chef there and she’s amazing.”

For ramen lovers, Strange Bird in Irvington is a local favorite. “Kyle has been making the noodles there for years, and it’s probably one of the best bowls of Ramen you’ll have,” said Baxter. 

And if you’re lucky enough to get on the list for one of Indy’s secret pop-up dinners, consider yourself fortunate. These exclusive events showcase the city’s top chefs and offer unforgettable dining experiences. (Baxter swore us to secrecy, so if you want to get on “the list,” you’re on your own.)

With Eat Surreal thriving and her personal culinary adventures continuing, Brittney Baxter’s impact on the Indianapolis food scene is undeniable. As she looks ahead, she’s excited to share Eat Surreal’s plant-based delights with even more people, solidifying her place as a culinary trailblazer in Indiana and beyond.