The best bars & nightlife in Indianapolis

“Enduring hangout for American fare & a massive beer selection in a space accented with antiques.”

“Chic, artful lounge in The Alexander with artisanal cocktails, small plates & wine.”

“Casual brewery featuring an extensive selection of beers, from IPAs to stouts and sours, as well as bar grub and pizza.”

“Arty cocktails & small plates served amid pendant bulbs, a copper bar & a speakeasy vibe.”

“Hip drink destination known for specialty coffee during the day and craft cocktails at night.”

“Nightclub offering cocktails, small plates & cigars to a jazzy beat against a vintage backdrop.”

“A range of seasonal brews are poured at this funky craft beer & bookstore venue.”

“Casual, late-night bar with signature cocktails, beer, and wine, plus limited food options.”

“Trendy spot for American eats (including vegan fare), coffee, cocktails and live acts.”

“Cozy spot for casual dining featuring international-influenced American fare and wine from their own winery.”

“Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.”

“Down-to-earth sports bar offering homestyle cooking like chicken wings, pizzas & burgers.”

“Ralston's Drafthouse is winning brunch this week with a scratch-made lineup that swings from Angel Biscuits and Gravy to decadent Elvis French Toast, and if you’re plotting a get-together soon, their room rental setup makes hosting friends or coworkers a whole lot easier.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Gather 22 hits that sweet spot between kid-friendly and treat-yourself, pouring legit espresso in the morning and shaking crafty cocktails at night. Slide in for chef-driven brunch with breakfast pizza, then come back for grilled pizzas at lunch and dinner, because weeknight cravings are real.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Solely Wine champions small producers with a curated lineup of low-intervention bottles and by-the-glass pours that actually taste like where they’re from. Drop in for tastings, casual classes, and weekly happenings, then snag a bottle for the couch later...”

“Mass Ave Wine nails the sweet spot of curated, affordable bottles you can sip by the glass or share by the bottle, alongside charcuterie, artisan pizzas, and small plates. Friendly guidance, local art, and non-alcoholic options make it an easy weeknight hang on Mass Ave.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Famous TV comics draw laughs at this stand-up comedy club with a variety of American eats.”

“House-brewed cider & light eats in a historic building with high ceilings & rustic charm.”

“Teams of improvisers compete during this show for all ages, which also offers classes.”

“Relaxed speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a wide selection of bourbon and handcrafted drinks.”

“Casual bar and restaurant featuring burgers, chicken wings and pizza, plus an outdoor patio.”

“Speakeasy-style bar serving classic cocktails and local fare in a space that's hard to find.”

“Touring bands, comedy acts & an in-house burlesque troupe entertain nightly at this revered venue.”

“Upscale chain serving New American fare paired with house-label wines in a contemporary setting.”

“New American outpost with a patio serving wines, brews & seasonal fare in a warm, upbeat setting.”

“Pizza and other New York-style eats along with beer and cocktails, served in a comfy, speakeasy-style space.”

“Craft brews join a menu of pizza, burgers & other bar fare, including vegetarian & vegan items.”