The best bars & nightlife in Porter County

“Mexico Lindo Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill is the Porter County standby for legit tacos, burritos, and seafood, with margaritas that go down a little too easy. Family-owned vibe, fair prices, and full catering if you need the same flavors at your next backyard shindig.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 8, 2026

“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

“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.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 28, 2026

“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

“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, September 20, 2026

“From league nights to spontaneous gutter-ball therapy, Inman's Bowling & Recreation Center keeps Valparaiso rolling with 32 fresh AMF lanes, an arcade, billiards, and cornhole. Grab a slice and a pint at Old Prospers Pub and Panhandlers Pizza, then geek out with Specto Bowling on lanes 25 to 30.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 5, 2026

“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

“Whether you're meeting friends for a low-key pour or scoping a scenic spot for your next celebration, Four Corners Winery doubles as a relaxed place to sip and a full wedding venue. Kid and pet friendly, with a wine club and regular winery events that make it feel like a neighborhood hangout.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 15, 2026

“When you want legit American grill fare without fuss, Draft Picks delivers with crispy wings, slow cooked ribs, and a proper grilled steak made with quality ingredients and traditional techniques. A comfortable go-to for Valpo locals when only hearty, well-executed classics will do.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Tommy B's Clubhouse nails the two-sided vibe with a game-on sports bar on one side and a laid-back lounge and patio on the other, so your crew can actually agree on a spot. Expect great service, handmade drinks, great food, and regular live music and events that keep Valpo nights lively.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 2, 2026

“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, September 22, 2026

“Anderson's Winery in Valparaiso is the kind of spot locals keep meaning to tell you about. Nestled on the Valparaiso Moraine, it’s got cozy fireplace vibes in winter, garden seating in summer, easygoing tastings, paninis and flatbreads from the kitchen, plus weekend live music and low-key event hosting.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Franklin House is the kind of easygoing gastropub Porter County folks quietly claim as their own, pouring 100-plus beers alongside sturdy burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. It’s been around since 1857, which probably explains why the vibes are dialed and the conversation flows just as easily.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 3, 2026

“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.”

From the Porter County newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Blockhead Beerworks is the rare spot where you can crush fresh sushi and genuinely tasty drunken noodles with a Stereo Pilsner or a house spirit, all under one roof. Chill vibe, Asian-fusion menu, cocktails that deliver... an easy go-to when Porter County cravings collide.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Washington Street Tap Room keeps at least 12 rotating beers on tap, plus a deep bottle and can list you can drink here or take home. They spotlight a new Indiana brewery each month, focus on independent makers, offer gluten-free options, and happily nerd out about the classics too.”

From the Porter County newsletter, September 18, 2026