The best bars & nightlife in Plainfield

“Mom-&-pop steakhouse with a live-music lounge serves hefty mains & a selection of lighter fare.”

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

“Relaxed sports bar serving wings & beer.”

“If your fridge selection feels stale, Shallo's Antique Restaurant & Brewhaus revives the fun with a 500-strong beer lineup, a quirky beer museum and antique gallery, plus over 300 bottles and 40 drafts importing tastes from 21 countries. Make it your midweek treat, explore something rare.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Mel's at Commission Row is a cozy speakeasy where the cocktail is the main event. R. milk punch and snack on truffle parmesan fries, oysters, or Dirty Martini Deviled Eggs, then call it the most civilized weeknight you’ve had in a while.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 22, 2026

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

“Indy’s original craft cocktail bar, Ball & Biscuit mixes classics and inventive sips with always fresh, homemade touches, then pairs them with shareable small plates built from locally sourced ingredients. When you want a stylish, low-key night that still feels special, this Mass Ave standby quietly nails it.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Start your morning with a perfectly brewed espresso and circle back after work for elevated, award-winning cocktails at The Alchemist, the sleek spot near Mass Ave that flips from specialty coffee bar to vibey lounge with ambient lighting and smooth music. Perfect for catching up, unwinding, or low key celebrating.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 19, 2026

“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.”

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

“Family-owned Brandywine Creek Vineyards & Winery pours Indiana-grown, farm-to-table wines in a cozy tasting room, with flights, live music, and nearly-weekly events.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 28, 2026

“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...”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 8, 2026

“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.”

“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.”

“Great Legs Wine + Spirits is the resident wine + cocktail bar at The Garage Food Hall, pouring a curated lineup that swings from familiar favorites to unexpected surprises. Post up between bites, pick a glass that pairs with whatever you're craving, and call it a weeknight win.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 11, 2026

“In the mood to keep it low-key but tasty this week? Easley Winery lines up self-guided tasting flights from crisp dry picks to sweet Reggae favorites, plus wine slushies and even a mocktail flight. Bonus points for their award-winning 2023 Chardonnay that’s worth a dedicated pour.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 20, 2026

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

“When you want a low-key night with serious cocktails, Wiseguy Lounge - Mass Ave delivers seasonal pours, a deep bourbon list, and that tucked-away vibe behind Goodfellas. Pair a New York-style slice with a well-made old fashioned, call it self-care.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, August 23, 2026