Introduction
Indianapolis, a city celebrated for its racing heritage, burgeoning arts scene, and friendly Midwest charm, is also home to a surprisingly vibrant and diverse bar scene. Beyond the craft breweries, spirited cocktail lounges, and beloved dive bars, a culinary revolution is quietly taking place. No longer just a place for a quick beer and a bag of chips, Indianapolis bars are upping their game, serving up seriously delicious and innovative food that rivals many restaurants. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or elevated eats, the Indianapolis bar food scene has something to satisfy every palate. This guide will navigate you through the city’s best bar food offerings, highlighting both well-established favorites and hidden gems that are pushing the boundaries of pub grub. Forget your preconceived notions – Indianapolis bar food is an experience worth savoring.
What makes bar food truly “the best”? It’s a combination of factors. Quality ingredients are paramount, whether it’s locally sourced produce or premium cuts of meat. Creativity and execution are key, transforming familiar dishes into exciting culinary adventures. Value for money plays a role, ensuring you get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. And, of course, the food must complement the drinks and atmosphere, enhancing the overall bar experience. With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the top spots for the best bar food in Indianapolis.
Sports Bars: Where Game Day Meets Gourmet
Sports bars are a staple of the Indianapolis social scene, and many are elevating their food offerings beyond basic burgers and wings.
The Sinking Ship
Located on the near northside, The Sinking Ship isn’t your typical sports bar; it’s more of a rock and roll haven with an incredible kitchen. While the atmosphere is laid-back and the music is often loud, the food is anything but an afterthought. The Sinking Ship truly excels with their sandwiches. Their most famous is arguably the “Thanksgiving Sandwich”, piled high with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mayonnaise on toasted multigrain. It’s a year-round celebration of the holiday and a true crowd-pleaser. The menu features numerous vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t overlook their creative appetizers either. Try the house-made chips with blue cheese dressing, a perfect pairing for a craft beer while catching a game or enjoying the local music. The prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal and drinks with friends. The dedication to quality and originality makes The Sinking Ship a standout among Indianapolis sports bars.
Ale Emporium
Ale Emporium is legendary in Indianapolis, particularly for its “Hermanaki” wings. These aren’t your average buffalo wings. They are cooked to crispy perfection and tossed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce that’s utterly addictive. The aroma alone is enough to draw you in. While Ale Emporium has expanded to multiple locations, the original still has a special charm. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially during Colts games. While the wings are the main attraction, their pizza and other bar classics are also solid choices. Be prepared for a wait, especially on game days, but the Hermanaki wings are worth it. The sheer popularity of this place and the consistent quality of their wings make Ale Emporium a must-visit for any Indianapolis bar food enthusiast.
Gastropubs: Elevated Bites and Craft Brews
Gastropubs combine the relaxed atmosphere of a pub with the culinary sophistication of a restaurant. Indianapolis boasts several exceptional gastropubs pushing the boundaries of bar food.
Union 50
Situated on Massachusetts Avenue, Union 50 is known for its upscale atmosphere, live music, and an exceptional menu that goes far beyond typical bar fare. While the drinks are expertly crafted, the food is the real star. They feature dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. You might find items like crispy pork belly with pickled watermelon or seared scallops with cauliflower puree. The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to discover. Union 50 is the perfect place to impress a date or enjoy a sophisticated night out. While the prices are higher than your average bar, the quality and creativity of the food justify the cost. Union 50 proves that bar food can be an art form.
Recess
Tucked away in the Bottleworks District, Recess brings culinary innovation to the forefront of the Indianapolis dining scene. While technically a restaurant, their bar area offers a fantastic selection of cocktails and a curated menu of small plates that are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is stylish and modern, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs at work. Dishes like the spicy tuna crispy rice or the Wagyu beef sliders are bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. Recess is the ideal spot for a pre-dinner snack or a late-night bite. The combination of delicious food, expertly crafted drinks, and a chic atmosphere makes Recess a standout in the Indianapolis bar food scene.
Dive Bars: Unpretentious Comfort and Local Flavors
Dive bars are the heart and soul of many neighborhoods, offering a laid-back atmosphere, cheap drinks, and often, surprisingly good food. Indianapolis has its fair share of dive bar gems.
The Mug
Located in the Irvington neighborhood, The Mug is a classic dive bar with a loyal following. While the decor is simple and the drinks are affordable, the food is anything but ordinary. Their menu boasts an impressive selection of burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Locals rave about their “Mug Burger,” a juicy patty topped with all the classics. This simple burger tastes like a hug. But don’t overlook their daily specials, which often feature creative takes on comfort food classics. The Mug is the perfect place to unwind after a long day and enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The friendly service and unpretentious atmosphere make it a true neighborhood gem.
Broad Ripple Tavern
Known as BRT by the locals, Broad Ripple Tavern serves up comfort food with a focus on quality and flavor. The menu features an array of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, all designed to be enjoyed with a cold beer. The prices are reasonable. The dive bar atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Spotlight on Specific Dishes: The Best of the Best
Sometimes, it’s not about the type of bar, but rather the specific dish that makes a place stand out. Here are some of the best bar food items in Indianapolis, regardless of the bar’s overall vibe.
Best Burgers: Workingman’s Friend
No discussion of Indianapolis burgers is complete without mentioning Workingman’s Friend. This no-frills establishment has been serving up classic diner-style burgers for decades. The burgers are simple yet perfect: thin, juicy patties cooked on a flat-top grill and served on a soft bun with your choice of toppings. The atmosphere is old-school and authentic, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Expect a wait, especially during lunchtime, but the burger is worth it. Workingman’s Friend is a true Indianapolis institution and a must-try for any burger lover.
Best Wings: Ale Emporium (Hermanaki)
As mentioned earlier, Ale Emporium’s Hermanaki wings are legendary for a reason. The sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce is unlike anything else, and the wings are cooked to crispy perfection. They are truly addictive.
Best Loaded Fries: Bru Burger Bar
While Bru Burger Bar is primarily known for its burgers, their loaded fries are a worthy contender. They offer a variety of loaded fry options, each piled high with toppings like cheese, bacon, chili, and more. The fries themselves are crispy and perfectly seasoned, and the toppings are generous and flavorful. It’s a meal in itself!
Best Pizza: Bazbeaux Pizza
Bazbeaux Pizza has multiple locations around Indianapolis, and they’re consistently praised for their high-quality ingredients and creative toppings. Their crust is thin and crispy, and the sauces are flavorful and well-balanced. They offer a wide variety of specialty pizzas, as well as the option to create your own. Bazbeaux is a great choice for a casual meal with friends or a family dinner.
Hidden Gems and Honorable Mentions
Indianapolis’ bar food scene is constantly evolving, and there are always new places to discover. Here are a few hidden gems and honorable mentions that deserve recognition:
- The Inferno Room: This tiki bar on Shelby street is known for its exotic cocktails and delicious Polynesian-inspired food. Try the pork belly bao buns or the crispy noodles.
- Wiseguy Lounge: This underground speakeasy in Fountain Square offers a unique atmosphere and a menu of creative cocktails and small plates. The tuna tartare is a standout.
Beyond the Food: Ambiance and Drinks
While the food is the focus of this article, it’s important to remember that the overall bar experience is just as important. The ambiance, the drink selection, and the service all contribute to a memorable night out. Indianapolis bars offer a wide variety of atmospheres, from the lively and energetic sports bars to the cozy and intimate dive bars. Many bars also offer an impressive selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and fine wines. Be sure to explore the drink menu and find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Conclusion
The Indianapolis bar food scene is a hidden culinary gem, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy every craving. From classic comfort food to elevated eats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you’re looking for a bite with your brew, don’t settle for the ordinary. Explore the delicious world of Indianapolis bar food and discover your new favorite spot. Whether you’re catching a game, celebrating a special occasion, or simply unwinding after a long day, the bars of Indianapolis are waiting to surprise and delight you with their culinary creations. It’s time to raise a glass (and a fork!) to the best bar food in Indianapolis. You might just be surprised by what you discover.
