The best bars & nightlife in Merrillville

“Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.”

“Casual, bi-level tavern offering classic pub fare, a kids' menu & drink specials.”

“This relaxed brewpub features a selection of craft beers, plus events & brewery tours.”

“American bistro in a contemporary, bi-level space with stone accents & TVs over the bar.”

“Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.”

“Locally owned brewpub featuring a variety of craft brews on tap, wood-fired pizzas & other eats.”

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

“Casual, long-standing watering hole for beer and sports, with friendly service and a pool table.”

“Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just humidor-curious, The Golden Leaf Cigar Lounge - Chesterton nails the vibe with luxury seating, classy jazz, and thousands of cigars including rare and exclusive finds. Pair your pick with a handcrafted cocktail, beers on tap, or pizza while you catch the game.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Head to Griffith this week and let New Oberpfalz Brewing handle the evening with their house beers poured in the taproom, a menu of fresh-to-order bites, and even wine, cider, and soft drinks for the non-beer folks. Easy, tasty, zero planning required.”

From the Gary newsletter, August 24, 2026

“When you need a real exhale this week, Karma Cigar Bar brings a massive walk-in humidor with 1,800+ sticks from Padron, Arturo Fuente, Cohiba and more, plus thoughtful cigar and liquor pairings and premium whiskey. Chill in the lounge, catch a sports night, and let their crew steer you to a new favorite.”

From the Gary newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Family-owned and community-focused, Running Vines Winery keeps Porter County well hydrated with award winning wines that play nice with pizza night and porch hangouts. Pop into the tasting room or snag a bottle at local grocers, then toast to supporting local this week.”

“Hunter's Brewing LLC pours the bright, grapefruit-punch Lake Life IPA, easygoing lagers and berry-kissed kettle sours, then pairs them with hand-tossed pizzas, pulled pork nachos, and BBQ plates finished with Lake Life IPA sauce. Grab a tasting flight and settle in like a local.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Casual place offering beer, wine and spirits in a cozy environment with live music.”

“Need a low-key spot for a midweek reset? The Atlas Room is an internationally themed bar with an ever-changing lineup of imported and craft beers, plus thoughtful cocktails and hand-picked wines, served in a warm, inviting room that makes lingering with friends dangerously easy.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Set in a converted train station, this gathering place serves house-brewed craft beer & pub fare.”

“Hammond-born and now Munster-made, 3 Floyds Brewing rolls out Munsterfest again, a smooth festbier with toasted biscuit, caramel and toffee vibes, alongside legends like Gumballhead, Zombie Dust and Alpha King. Consider this your week’s excuse to grab something fiercely local.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 23, 2026

“When the craving hits for real-deal soul food, J's Breakfast Club has you covered with fluffy grits, juicy burgers, and hearty steak plates in a cozy, familiar vibe that feels like catching up with neighbors. Swing by this week for an unhurried breakfast that sticks with you all day.”

“Fuzzyline Brewing Co. keeps Highland interesting with sour-inspired brews alongside IPAs, stouts, and lagers, plus a globally inspired, locally sourced menu that actually hits, from crispy Brussels to smash burgers and sourdough pizzas. Creative cocktails and a curated wine list seal the deal this week.”

“Byway Brewing Company nails the local trifecta this week: finely crafted beer, chef-driven food, and a spacious taproom with an easygoing patio for when the sun actually cooperates. Family-friendly vibes plus private events and even an off-site catering food truck, so your next hangout basically plans itself.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Ameristar Casino East Chicago packs your weekend with table games, a Baccarat Room, The Sportsbook, and enough slots to make your coffee nervous. Grab dinner at Bugatti's Steak and Pasta, Burger Brothers, or Red Lotus Asian Kitchen, then keep the night rolling at Club 38 or The Social Lounge.”

“Exhibits of rock 'n' roll memorabilia in a colorful casino with gaming rooms, bars & live music.”

“L Wine Bar pours delicious wines and handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, boutique space where the playlist nudges you to dance, the lights feel flattering, and conversation somehow gets better with every sip. Make it your pick this week.”

From the Tinley Park newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Semento's is the kind of Valpo tavern where the beer list is cold, the food menu hits that comfort sweet spot, and the beer garden begs for a laid-back hang. If you haven’t popped in lately, this week’s a perfect time to toast a true hometown original.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 3, 2026

“If your week needs a win, The Gould Vault is calling with the Fort Knox Burger, a one-pound stack of three cheeses, bacon, and garlic parmesan sauce with tater tots and half a pickle. Then this week, hang on the patio, hit music bingo, or test your luck on the slots.”

From the Tinley Park newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Casual joint serving up burgers and wings alongside beer and cocktails.”

“Northside Tap keeps it simple, tasty, and very Valpo with no-nonsense burgers, saucy wings, solid sandwiches, cold beer, and a Detroit-style pizza locals can’t stop raving about. Swing by when you want comfort food that actually comforts, plus the easygoing neighborhood energy you wish every place had.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Duffy's Place nails the low-key tavern vibe with famously big, crispy wings, comforting plates like baked chicken mostaccioli and pitas, plus a tap list focused on craft and local. Show up when you want great bands, hearty portions, and zero pretense, just hometown good times.”

From the Gary newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Casual sports bar serving food and cocktails with live entertainment.”

“Malden Oasis is the kind of family-run bar and grill Porter County quietly brags about, with friendly service, cold beer, and the comfort-food lineup you crave after a long week. Slide in, catch up with neighbors, and let that small-town vibe do its thing.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Easygoing gastropub offering a menu of burgers, sandwiches & tacos, as well as over 100 beers.”

“Cork + Oak nails the cozy night out vibe with a curated wine and whiskey list, crafted cocktails, and tapas built for sharing. When brunch or dinner indecision hits, split a few plates, linger over something smooth, and call it self-care.”

“Nextdoor at Birdie's brings a vintage, upscale yet approachable dinner lounge to downtown Valparaiso, reinventing the old Tony's Pizza spot after The Dish Restaurant closed in 2024. Go classic or get a little creative, and call it a midweek win when you want dinner that feels special without leaving town.”

“Chill brewpub turning out Asian fusion fare such as drunken noodles and sushi, plus cocktails.”

“Casual beer hall with a large selection of brews, including gluten-free options, in a cozy setting.”