Where to Drink in Indy | A Visitors Guide for Indy 500 fans

Do you know folks from out-of-town who are coming in this weekend for the Indy 500? Are they looking for places to drink better beer? If you answered "yes" to both questions, we invite you to steer them to our Where to Drink in Indy guide.

We hope everyone has a great holiday weekend!

Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Good Beer for Super Bowl XLVI Visitors

Over the past weekend, visitors coming to Indianapolis for Super Bowl XLVI began hitting the city. Fans from New York, New England, and elsewhere will continue to arrive in Indy this week to cheer on their team on Sunday. But rather than instill rivalry and conflict between Giants and Pats fans, it's our mission at Hoosier Beer Geek to spread the love of craft beer, especially among those visiting Indiana. We know how hard it can be finding good beer in an unfamiliar state.

Where to Drink Craft Beer in Indianapolis

We've covered this one before. Rather than repeat it all, check out our "Where to Drink" guides. In these guides, we cover many local bars, breweries, and brewpubs. We also provide some tips on effectively using public transportation to get to your desired craft beer destinations. All in all, it's going to be busy this week, so a lengthy list of watering holes will be a good thing to have. Hey, we actually have a lot of beer in Indianapolis.

Many of the establishments we list in our Where to Drink guides are holding special events and will be open for extended hours this week. If you're interested in visiting an establishment after perusing our Where to Drink guides, check that establishment's website for more details on specials (we link to their websites in the Where to Drink guides). You should also check this blog on Friday morning for our weekly feature, the Random Beer Roundup, which will have the latest news on any Super Bowl-related events featuring craft beer. Our HBG calendar in the sidebar of the blog is also a handy tool.

What to Drink

We cannot emphasize this enough: Indiana breweries are making amazing beer. If you know anything at all about Indiana breweries, you're undoubtedly familiar with Indiana's most acclaimed brewery among beer geeks, Three Floyds. Rest assured that if you're looking for Three Floyds beers in Indianapolis, you'll find them at just about every establishment that serves craft beer in this town. But don't fixate on only Three Floyds. While we love their beer, you won't be disappointed with other Indiana-brewed beers. The Indianapolis area alone boasts 16 breweries, with several more opening soon. In short, we have a burgeoning craft beer scene in Indianapolis. We cover most of the breweries in our Where to Drink guides. If you'd just like a simple list of Indianapolis breweries, head over to Indiana Beer.

And now for Indiana's silly liquor laws

One last warning: At some establishments, you cannot purchase beer/wine/liquor for carry-out on Sunday. This law primarily includes liquor stores and grocery stores. Do NOT forget this or you may end up very upset if you want to have your own stash of beer for your hotel room or tailgate party. Plan ahead and buy before Sunday. Yes it's stupid, but we all have our dumb liquor laws we have to work with.

All is not lost, however. Keep in mind that you can still drink at bars, restaurants, and breweries on Sunday. In addition, Indiana breweries and wineries *are* permitted to offer carry-out sales on Sundays, though not all breweries take advantage of this.

In closing, we hope you like your stay in Indianapolis. It might be called Naptown, but don't expect to have time for a nap while you're here; there are plenty of things to do in our fair city. Have fun, and enjoy the big game!

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Downtown

You can forget all your troubles and forget all your cares and drink downtown.

Indianapolis has some great drinking neighborhoods. Broad Ripple, Fountain Square, Massachusetts Avenue--they all have great establishments for craft beer. But if you live, work, or visit downtown, there is no need for expensive cab fares or a potential DUI. There are a variety of places within stumbling distance. Here are a few of our favorites in the Mile Square.

Adobo Grill
This Mexican grill has a small craft beer selection, but they make your guacamole tableside (highly recommended), have fantastic tacos, and a fine selection of tequila, if that’s your thing. You might also try a michelada, which is a spicy beer cocktail similar to a Bloody Mary.
110 E. Washington St.
317.822.9990
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #74 - Tacos and Chelada at Adobo Grill

Dick’s Bodacious Bar-B-Q
This counter-service, Texas-style BBQ joint keeps a great craft beer list on tap and in bottles. A nice choice for a quick bite and a drink. I highly recommend the Hoss nachos.
50 N. Pennsylvania St.
317.916.9600
Website

Hoosier Park’s Winner's Circle
If you want to place a bet on most sporting events, you can’t do it in Indy. At least not legally. But if you want to bet on the ponies, Indy can help you. The Winner's Circle is a bar, restaurant, and off-track betting facility. What's more, you’ll find craft beer to help lubricate your wallet.
20 N. Pennsylvania St.
317.656.7223
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #144 - Of Tridents and Horses

The Libertine Liquor Bar
Chef Neal Brown owned and operated the highly-regarded L’explorateur before opening The Libertine, which specializes in craft cocktails and small plates. The Libertine is better known for their cocktails than their craft beer, but we are making a convert out of Neal.
38 E. Washington Street
31.631.3333
Website

Pearl Street Pizzeria and Pub
A little off the beaten path but close to everything, Pearl Street serves up pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and craft beer. It's a great pick for a meal and a pint if Bankers Life Fieldhouse is your destination for a Pacers game or other event.
65 E. Pearl St.
317.638/3110
Website

The RAM Restaurant & Brewery
The two breweries downtown are chains, but they have good food and locally-crafted beers from fantastic brewmasters. The first chain brewery on our list is RAM. We recommend that you grab a pint of RAM’s special or seasonal brews, especially if any barrel-aged brews are on draft.
140 S. Illinois Street
317.955.9900
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #128 - Knights of the Beer Ramtable

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
The second of Indy's downtown chain breweries has been a longtime fixture on Washington Street. Brewer Jerry Sutherlin brews up some fantastic hoppy beers (the Hopbomb is a personal favorite) and the food is good too. I recommend the nachos (I like nachos!)
10 W. Washington Street
317.681.8180
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #59 - A Likely Story
KOTBR #33 - Rock Bottom Pumpkin Ale

Scotty’s Brewhouse
Scotty’s Brewhouse has locations in Indy, Muncie, Lafayette, and Bloomington with a brewery (Thr3e Wise Men) in Broad Ripple. The food menu is extensive and the craft beer tap list is the largest downtown. The patio is a great place to hang and there are plenty of TV’s inside. It is a block from the front door of Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
1 Virginia Ave. #100
317.571.0808
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #77 - The Socratic Beer Method

Tavern on South
Tavern on South has one of my favorite non-nachos appetizers: Shagbark Teriyaki Duck Wings. The mushroom cappachino soup is wonderful on a cold day. The entire menu is fantastic. It is close to Lucas Oil Stadium. And it has a great tap list. You’ll find me there after work during half priced appetizers (4p-6p Monday through Thursday).
423 W. South St.
317.602.3115
Website
HBG Visits
KOTBR #133 - You're Going to Hate This

Tomlinson Tap Room
If you are looking for a variety of local food bites, you’ll find it at the City Market. Papa Roux and Three Days in Paris (crepes) are among my favorites. But the icing on the cake: the Tomlinson Tap Room.  Located on the second floor of the main hall, the TTP serves nothing but Indiana craft beer. And you can get growlers to go (except on Sundays).
222 E. Market Street
317.423.2337
Website
HBG Visits
Sneak Preview: Tomlinson Tap Room at City Market
Scenes from American Craft Beer Week | Sun King/Three Floyds Three Kings Tapping @ the Tomlinson Tap Room
Beer Diary #25 - Mike - FSB and F8 at Tomlinson Tap Room

Previously in our "Where to Drink in Indy" series:

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Broad Ripple, the North Side, and the Northeast Side
Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Mass Ave, the Near East Side, and the Near North Side
Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Fountain Square

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Broad Ripple, the North Side, and the East Side

In our third post of our "Where to Drink in Indianapolis" series, we focus on one of Indy's prime entertainment and cultural districts: Broad Ripple Village. We also highlight some drinking destinations on the city's north side and east side. Here's our list, sorted according to area.


South Broad Ripple/Meridian Kessler

Recess/Room Four
If you're looking for an amazing culinary experience to match your search for excellent beer, you should dine at Recess or its companion restaurant, Room Four. Chef/owner Greg Hardesty is a gastronomic superstar in Indianapolis, and the restaurants' contemporary American dishes are unparalleled in the city. The menus change daily. And the beer selections, though offered solely in bottles, are perfect for pairing with Hardesty's cuisine. Reservations are a must for Recess; if you want to walk in, try Room Four.
4907 N. College Ave.
317.925.7529
Website
HBG Visits:
Scenes From a Beer Dinner: Nøgne Ø at Recess

The Sinking Ship
Along with Recess/Room Four and the Upland Tasting Room, the Sinking Ship brought a welcome revitalization to the long-neglected intersection of 49th Street and College Avenue. The Ship has a punk vibe and a menu of hearty sandwiches and draft beers from regional and local brewers (though be prepared to have your beer served in a Mason jar). The Ship is a great place for hockey fans because NHL games are always on during the season. 21+ only.
4923 N. College Ave.
317.920.7999
Website

Twenty Tap/Underground
The sign outside Twenty Tap says "Craft. Beer. Bar." What more need we say? Well, this: Twenty Tap, owned by former Broad Ripple Brewpub brewmaster Kevin Matalucci, is one of your best bets for getting a taste of the best beer Indiana has to offer, especially considering that the pub boasts 38 taps. It's also worth noting that Twenty Tap offers half-pours of any of their beer selections, allowing patrons to moderate their sampling. Chef Rob Coates keeps a menu of expected bar food favorites interesting and upsale yet remarkably affordable. The vegan (yes, vegan) bahn mi sandwich is a Hoosier Beer Geek favorite. And to top everything off, Twenty Tap now offers their own house brews under the Underground label.
5408 N. College Ave.
317.602.8840
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #139 - 31 Flavors
KOTBR #134 - Zombies on Twenty Taps

Upland Tasting Room
Bloomington-based Upland Brewing Company opened up their Indianapolis outpost, the Tasting Room, in 2009. The brewery's concept for the space is pretty simple. They serve beer, but they're not a bar. They serve food, but they're not a restaurant. The best way to describe the Tasting Room is that it's like a coffee shop, but with the emphasis on beer instead of coffee. Stop in and you'll be able to grab a beer and relax in a funky chair, or just walk in with a growler and head home to enjoy some fresh Upland beer there. We recommend the Teddy Bear Kisses Imperial Stout or a bottle of one of Upland's acclaimed lambics (if available).
4842 N. College Ave.
317.602.3931
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #124 - In Tribute
Upland Tasting Room Now Open!
Upland Coming Soon to Indianapolis

Broad Ripple

Binkley's Kitchen & Bar
Binkley's is a neighborhood favorite with Broad Ripple and Meridian Kessler residents. The restaurant offers classic American fare and has a great line-up of local and regional beers on tap, including unique offerings from a nitro line.
5902 N. College Ave.
317.722.8888
Website
HBG Visits:
Sierra Nevada Brewmaster Meet and Greet - Binkley's

Broad Ripple Brewpub
English expatriate John Hill opened the Broad Ripple Brewpub in 1990 in an effort to bring an authentic English pub experience to Indianapolis. He did more than that, kick-starting Indiana's craft beer revolution and creating an Indiana craft beer monument. English-style ales and an extensive menu help complete the effort. Order whatever is on the hand-pull. We especially like the Monon Porter.
842 E. 65th St.
317.ALE.BREW (253.2739)
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #94 | 2001: A Stout Odyssey
The 2009 Knights of the Beer Roundtable Beer of the Year - Broad Ripple Brewpub's Monon Porter
KOTBR #64 - Forgotten Landmarks
Indiana Beer Week Bar Hop - Day One - Operation Chaos
KOTBR #11 - Broad Ripple Brewpub's Wee Alec Heavy

Brugge Brasserie
Look below and you'll see a long list of posts we've written about Brugge Brasserie. There's a good reason for this: Brugge is an Indianapolis treasure. Nestled next to the Monon Trail, Brugge is unique among Indiana's brewpubs because it's the only brewery in the state to focus on Belgian-style beers and food. Ask your server if there are any sour beers on tap, such as Brugge's famous Pooka and Harvey sour ales, and be sure to order the frites (fries), which are among Indianapolis' best. You also can't go wrong with a glass of Brugge's famous Tripel de Ripple, but be advised: there's a two-beer limit due to the potency of this beer.
1011 E. Westfield Blvd.
317.255.0978
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #147 - At the End of the World, A Beer Named after a Cat Named "Good Dog"
KOTBR #124 - In Tribute
KOTBR #120 - Two Places, One Beer - Dogfish Head/Three Floyds Poppaskull
Beer Diary #17 - Jim | The Power of Names
KOTBR #104: Brugge Spider
Beer Diary #18 - Lose Ends Edition
KOTBR #90: Medal Winners
Beer Diary #15 - Mike - Vacations
The First Annual Hoosier Beer Geek Craft Beer Breakfast
Beer Diary #10 - Mike
KOTBR #51: The Hoosier Beer Geek Second Anniversary Party
Indiana Beer Week Bar Hop - Day One - Operation Chaos
KOTBR #48 - Dude, Where's Chris's Car?
Six Pack Interview with Brugge's Charlie Midgley
The Complete Works (so far) of Ted Miller (abridged)
KOTBR #34 - Two at Brugge Brasserie - Thunder Monkey and Impérial
Beer Diary - Mike
The Hoosier Beer Geek 6 Pack - Ted Miller, Brewer/Owner of Brugge Brasserie and Brugge Beer
Beer Diary - Jim | South Florida Edition
KOTBR #14 - Brugge Quadripple
KOTBR #5 - Brugge's The Black

Chumley's Pub
Chumley's is more or less a college bar, attracting much of its clientele from nearby Butler University (home to Indy's beloved Butler Bulldogs). But unlike many college bars with their sole focus on macrobrews, Chumley's has an extensive tap list that always has something to suit any beer geek's tastes. The bar also sells beer by the pitcher and has several nitro lines that pour more than the usual nitro offerings. 21+ only.
838 Broad Ripple Ave.
317.466.1555
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #55 - Beer and Progress with the Urbanophile

Corner Wine Bar
If you're looking for a restaurant that is perfect for date night and that has a well-curated wine and beer list, visit the Corner Wine Bar. Along with a menu of Continental-inspired dishes, the CWB has a cozy English-style pub with a small but nice selection of draft beers. Stop by on Wednesdays, when pints are $3.00.
6331 Guilford Ave.
317.255.5159
Website
HBG Visits:
Beer Diary #8 - Jim | Then and Now

Monon Food Company
Offering a selection of 60 beers (mostly bottled), the Monon Food Company is a great place to dine in a family-friendly and casual atmosphere. During the summer, the restaurant's deck is a great place for people watching due to the restaurant's close proximity to the Monon Trail. When it comes to the food, we recommend the Ultimate Mac and Cheese.
6420 Cornell Ave.
317.722.0176
Website

Northside Social
Managing to be upscale and casual at the same time, Northside Social carries a sophisticated air with its contemporary furnishings, well-dressed patrons, and attentive servers. Sink into a cushy chair in the lounge area, grab a table, or snag a spot at the bar and you'll have a good draft list at your disposal.
6525 N. College Ave.
(317) 253-0111
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #112 - Flashback at the Northside Social

Sahm's Place
For a few years now, Sahm's Place at 65th and Keystone has carried an excellent range of craft beers on tap and in bottles, including beers from locals Bier, Sun King, Fountain Square, Daredevil, Triton, and Flat12. Sahm's also has beers dinners twice a month and hosts a Tuesday night trivia event weekly that features a craft beer sponsor.
2411 E. 65th St.
317.202.1577
Website

Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Company
Scott Wise's Scotty's Brewhouse restaurants are well-known in central Indiana, especially in the area's college towns. To refer to Wise as possessing a restaurant empire would be no exaggeration. But Wise is an emperor of the best kind: a benevolent one who always wants to ensure a fun, good-quality dining experience. In 2011, Wise added a brewpub to his stable of restaurants with Thr3e Wise Men. With its blond wood paneling and airy space, the restaurant kind of looks like a ski lodge inside. But pizza and beer are the house specialties. Hop-heads should go for a Golden Zoe IPA, which is lovingly crafted by head brewer Omar Castrellon.
1021 Broad Ripple Ave.
317.255.5151
Website
HBG Visits:
3WM HBG Double Brown Tapping
KOTBR #132 - Thr3e Wise Men Golden Zoe IPA, Neil Patrick Harris Style
Opening Today: Thr3e Wise Men

Triton Tap
Triton Tap is the Broad Ripple outpost of east side brewery Triton Brewing Company. The Tap offers all of Triton's house and seasonal brews. Grab a pint, a six-pack, or a growler to go. For more information on Triton Brewing, check out our guide for the east side of the city below.
915 Broad Ripple Avenue
317.500.5074
Website

Union Jack Pub
There was a time when hardcore soccer fans in this town had no place to go if they wanted to watch a match from across the pond. Around the time of the 2006 World Cup, Indy's barkeepers began to catch on to the fact that yes, rabid fans of the Beautiful Game make Indianapolis their home. The Union Jack Pub is one of Indianapolis' soccer-centric bars, offering Saturday and Sunday breakfasts to accompany the English Premier League matches they show. The pub has a pretty extensive draft and bottle list with some British, regional, and local offerings.
924 Broad Ripple Ave.
317.257.4343
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #75 - Secret Meeting of the (Expanded) Knights of the Beer Roundtable

North Side

Ale Emporium
Billing itself as "The Home of Honest Pizza," Ale Emporium has a respectable selection of craft taps and bottles from local, national, and foreign breweries. You won't find many off-the-beaten-path beers here, but you'll definitely find something to suit your palate. If you find yourself on the north side of town, Ale Emporium is worth checking out.
8617 Allisonville Rd.
317.842.1333
Website

Barley Island Brewing Company
Noblesville's Barley Island has been putting out award-winning beers for over a decade. Their brown ale, dubbed Dirty Helen, is particularly delicious, as are their barrel-aged offerings such as Beastie Barrel Porter and Beastie Barrel Stout. We also think that the brewery's Barfly IPA is one of the most under-appreciated beers coming out of Indiana.
639 Conner St.
Noblesville, Indiana 46060
317.770.5280
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #90 - Medal Winners
KOTBR #16 - Barley Island's Bourbon Barrel Beers

Chatham Tap Fishers
Like soccer? We do. Chatham Tap is the default choice for fans wishing to catch English Premier League action. The pub's tap list follows suit, with the standard English selections as well as local taps and a nice bottle list. And if you happen to follow the U.S. National Team, the Chatham Tap is where you want to be on match day because the local American Outlaws chapter takes over the bar with their bawdy chants and infectious enthusiasm.
8211 E. 116th St.
Fishers, Indiana 46038
317.845.1090
Website

The Pint Room
140 taps. Tasty gastropub fare. Carmel's Pint Room opened in 2014 and has impressed patrons with its nearly endless selection of beers, which always includes plenty of Indiana-brewed beers. The staff does a fantastic job of rotating selections and providing an excellent lineup of out-of-state craft brews as well. So grab a flight of samplers and taste away.
110 W. Main St.
Carmel, Indiana 46032
317.571.8400
Website

Ram Restaurant & Brewery Fishers
Ram is part of a chain, but don't count that against them. They have good food and locally-crafted beers with fantastic brewers. We recommend that you grab a pint of Ram brewmaster Andrew Castner’s special or seasonal brews, especially if any of his barrel-aged brews are on draft.
12750 Parkside Drive
Fishers, Indiana 46038
317.596.0079
Website

Rock Bottom College Park
Unfortunately, chain brewpubs sometimes get a bad rap. People automatically assume that if it's corporate, it's not worth having. Definitely not so with Rock Bottom. While some of Rock Bottom's beers are the same no matter which Rock Bottom you visit, each pub's brewer is given the freedom to brew several other beers according to the brewer's own recipes. Rock Bottom's north side location offers several gems from brewer extraordinaire Liz Laughlin. We recommend ordering whatever's on cask.
2801 Lake Circle Dr.
317.471.8840
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #107 - Re-dedication at Rock Bottom College Park

Union Brewing Company
This small brewery in an inconspicuous Carmel strip mall might not look like much from the outside. But once you venture inside past the brewhouse and into the rustic bar area, you know you've arrived at one of the north side's havens for craft beer drinkers. Specializing in cask ales, Union usually has at least three of their house beers on along with several cask offerings from other brewers. If it's on tap, we recommend a pour of Union's Miami Weisse Berliner Weisse.
622 S. Rangeline Rd., Ste. Q
Carmel, Indiana 46032
317.546.4466
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #149 - North of the Rodney Zone at Union Brewing Company

Upland Carmel Tap House
In 2013, Upland opened its Carmel Tap House, where it offers its flagship and seasonal brews and an extensive menu of delicious pub-style dishes.
820 E. 116th St.
Carmel, Indiana 46032
317.564.3400
Website

East Side

Bier Brewery and Taproom
Bier Brewery and Taproom's Darren Connor began his brewing career at homebrewing supply store Great Fermentations, perfecting the homebrewing craft that he learned in college. In late 2010, he opened Bier just a few doors down from Great Fermentations. Because Bier's batches are small, the brewery rotates styles quite frequently and offers only growlers for sale. But that's not a bad thing; variety, as they say, is the spice of life. We're quite fond of Bier's DFG IPA, so grab a growler if it's on. 21+ only.
5133 E. 65th St.
317.253.BIER (2437)
Website

Black Acre Brewing Company
What happens when a group of law students decides to forgo law practice and start a brewery? Black Acre Brewing Company happens. The brewery, which takes its name from the hypothetical tract of land discussed in property law classrooms throughout the country, brews small batches on a three barrel electric system. As you might expect from a group of lawyers, Black Acre is attentive to detail, producing high-quality, innovative beers. Among them are the brewery's house IPA, Saucy Intruder Rye IPA, and the Green Tea Pale Ale. Black Acre sits in an impressive space on Washington Street in Indy's charming Irvington neighborhood and offers a small menu of artisanal sandwiches and sides along with their beers. Sunday brunch is also offered. 21+ only.
5632 E. Washington St.
317.207.6266
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #151 - Comedy Night at Black Acre Brewing Company
KOTBR #150 - Celebrating a Century-and-a-Half of Roundtables at Black Acre Brewing, Irvington
KOTBR #141 - Knights in Irvington

Triton Brewing Company
Triton Brewing Company opened in 2011 out at Fort Benjamin Harrison in a marvelously refurbished building that was long-used as a horse barn. At Triton's helm are Jon Lang, former head brewer at Barley Island Brewing Company; Mike DeWeese, a longtime veteran of Indianapolis' craft beer scene; and David Waldman. Triton's name--borrowed from the name of  Greek sea god Poseidon's son--stems from the brewery's emphasis on water quality. Indeed, Triton uses a reverse osmosis filtration system to ensure the highest quality water for its beers. Pints and growlers are available at the brewery, along with local and regional beers from the brewery's guest taps. Drinkers won't be disappointed by Triton's Rail Splitter IPA or Deadeye Stout.
Fort Benjamin Harrison
5764 Wheeler Rd.
317.735.2706
Website

Previously in our "Where to Drink in Indy" series:

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Mass Ave, the Near East Side, and the Near North Side
Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Fountain Square

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Mass Ave, the Near East Side, and the Near North Side

When I moved to Indianapolis in 1993, Mass Ave was a neighborhood in the infancy of a renaissance. New businesses that are now institutions were starting to sprout up along the avenue, but Mass Ave wasn't a place where many went to do anything after dark. Nearly 20 years later, the neighborhood has blossomed into a key place where locals go to drink, dine, shop, and enjoy art.

If you're looking to explore Mass Ave and some of the nearby neighborhoods, here's our list of establishments to check out, especially if you want to enjoy a good pint or two (or three, etc.).

Mass Ave

The Ball and Biscuit
Perhaps the most polished of all the Mass Ave bars is The Ball and Biscuit, a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge with a menu of excellent small plates and a solid craft beer lineup. The cozy space is made even more comfortable by the lack of televisions. This is a bar built for conversation. 21+ only.
331 Massachusetts Ave.
317.636.0539
Website
HBG Visits:
Notes from the Beer and Chocolate Benefit
KOTBR #109 - The Mass Ave Craft Beer Pride Parade 
KOTBR #108 - A Great Divide at the Ball & Biscuit

Bazbeaux
Opened in 1989, this widely loved pizza parlor has become an Indianapolis institution. Offering a wide array of gourmet pies, Bazbeaux also carries a full selection of craft bottles to keep you on an even keel. The pizzeria added taps last year, and most of them are craft.
333 Massachusetts Ave.
317.636.7662
Website

Black Market
This acclaimed gastropub lies at the east end of Mass Ave in a cul-de-sac that juts off the street. Black Market's menu focuses on locally-sourced selections that put a modern spin on traditional Hoosier comfort food. The restaurant also has eight craft taps flowing mostly with locally-brewed beers. 21+ only.
922 Massachusetts Ave.
317.822.6757
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #129 - A Local Brew in a Kick Ass Neighborhood Bar

Bru Burger Bar
This restaurant specializes in gourmet hamburgers and has what appears to be an impressive tap and bottle list. We haven't visited yet, but Bru is on our list of roundtable targets. Early reviews are good.
410 Massachusetts Ave.
317.635.4BRU (4278)
Website

Chatham Tap
Like soccer? We do. Chatham Tap is the default choice for fans wishing to catch English Premier League action. The pub's tap list follows suit, with the standard English selections as well as local taps and a nice bottle list. And if you happen to follow the U.S. National Team, the Chatham Tap is where you want to be on match day because the local American Outlaws chapter takes over the bar with their bawdy chants and infectious enthusiasm. 21+ only.
719 Massachusetts Ave.
317.917.8425
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #93 | Jingle Bells
So what's on the telly? Football, you say?
Beer Diary #3 - Jason
KOTBR #31 in Review | Wychwood Hobgoblin Ale @ the Chatham Tap

The Chatterbox Jazz Club
The Chatterbox Jazz Club--a Mass Ave original--is the divey-est of dive bars, with a legendarily dusty interior, the most interesting stage carpet that ever existed, the biggest ball of aluminum foil in Marion County, and bathrooms that are either scary or entertaining, depending on your outlook. Your best drink option is probably Sun King in a can, but what an atmosphere! 21+ only.
435 Massachusetts Ave.
317.636.0584
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #109 - The Mass Ave Craft Beer Pride Parade

MacNiven's
You might be thinking that a place named MacNiven's is an Irish pub. You'd be wrong. MacNiven's is a Scottish/American Pub. It also features one of Indianapolis' most extensive beer lists and regular tappings from the likes of Sun King, Bell's, and Three Floyds. And we haven't even mentioned the awesome haggis (yes, you read that correctly--the words "awesome" and "haggis" in the same sentence), which comes in both regular and vegetarian versions. With the bar's addition of a hand-pull, MacNiven's has become one of the city's premier craft beer destinations. 21+ only.
339 Massachusetts Ave.
317.632.7268
Website
HBG Visits:
American Craft Beer Week, Annoying Photo Angles Edition | Sun King/Three Floyds Takeover @ MacNiven's
Scenes from a Tapping: Bell's Hopslam Firkin at MacNiven's
KOTBR #91 - A Second Helping of BCS
KOTBR #54 - MacNiven's Broken Promise
KOTBR #3 - Three Floyds Robert The Bruce

Mass Ave Pub
Located across the avenue from the Indianapolis Firefighters Museum, the Mass Ave Pub is where IFD's finest like to have an after-shift drink. On top of that, proprietor Tracy Robertson (whose husband Stuart is the man behind MacNiven's) always has the pub well-stocked with a deep selection of craft beers in the bottle and on draft. 21+ only.
745 Massachusetts Ave.
317.974.0745
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #109 - The Mass Ave Craft Beer Pride Parade

Mesh on Mass Avenue
If you're seeking contemporary American cuisine and a place that's ideal for date night, you'll want to check out Mesh on Mass Avenue. A craft-beer-focused group of eight taps and a well-rounded bottle selection will please beer drinkers as well.
725 Massachusetts Ave.
317.955.9600
Website

Old Point Tavern
Something about Old Point Tavern is just plain cool. Maybe it's the flatiron building's wedge shape, or the girl dancing on the sidewalk outside, or perhaps even the extensive beer menu. In any case, the cozy confines provide plenty of entertainment. 21+ only.
401 Massachusetts Ave.
317.634.8943
Website

The Rathskeller
If you're the German beer-hall type, the Rathskeller is your Indianapolis answer. Located in the historic Athenaeum building (designed by writer Kurt Vonnegut's grandfather Bernard), the Rathskeller offers a full selection of German-brewed beers as well as a sausage-heavy menu that fits the atmosphere. In the warm-weather months, the Rathskeller's outdoor biergarten offers an unparalleled Mass Ave experience; the biergarten band shell hosts an eclectic group of bands. Grab a stein of Spaten Optimator and get ready to polka!
401 East Michigan St.
317.636.0396
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #119 | A Toast to the Original - The KOTBR & Paulaner Salvator
KOTBR #81 - The All-Request Line
KOTBR #28: Roll Out The Barrels
KOTBR #2: Spaten Optimator

Ralston's DraftHouse
Opened in 2012 by the Chatham Tap's proprietors, Ralston's DraftHouse is named for Alexander Ralston, the engineer who designed the city's layout. While we don't know whether Mr. Ralston liked to imbibe after a long day of platting the Mile Square and the surrounding area, we do know that Ralston's DraftHouse sports 24 taps of foreign and domestic beers. It's also a great place to crank up a game of darts or table-top shuffleboard. 21+ only.
635 Massachusetts Ave.
317.493.1143
Website

The Near East Side

Dorman Street Saloon
Also known as The Hog, this beloved dive bar is nestled among the Victorian-era shotgun houses in the Cottage Home neighborhood, which is a hop, skip and jump from Mass Ave. Dorman Street's bottle and tap list is quite nice, and legend has it that John Dillinger liked to drink there. 21+ only.
901 Dorman St.
317.237.9008
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #67 - Reader Submitted Locations - Ralph's Great Divide and Dorman Street Saloon

Flat12 Bierwerks
Flat12 Bierwerks is located in Indianapolis' historic Holy Cross Neighborhood, which has gone through a revitalization with the recent additions of Flat12 and Goose the Market's Smoking Goose Meatery. Since opening in 2010, Flat12 has gained a dedicated local following for their "tradition with a twist" approach, leading to a myriad of variations of their house lineup, as well as an adventurous attitude toward their specialty beers. 21+ only.
414 North Dorman St.
317.635.BEER (2337)
Website
HBG Visits:
Flat12 Bierwerks
Flat12: Start Your Engines

Indiana City Brewing Company
Located in the former bottling works building of the long defunct Home Brewing Company, Indiana City Brewing Company is Indianapolis's newest production brewery. With the brewery's beautiful historic location comes a nice lineup of house beers, including Yacht Rock Wheat Ale, Shadow Boxer Oatmeal Stout, and Beyond the Pale APA. The brewery also features art by local artists and a rotating lineup of DJs spinning on the weekends. 21+ only.
24 Shelby St.
317.643.1103
Website
HBG Visits:
First Impressions | Indiana City Brewing Company

Sun King Brewing Company
Since opening in the Cole Noble District in July 2009, Sun King has skyrocketed to brewing success. Aside from being the first production brewery to brew in Indianapolis since Indianapolis Brewing Company closed in 1997, Sun King made big waves in the craft beer community in 2011 when it captured eight medals at the Great American Beer Festival. In doing that, Sun King showed the rest of the country what Hoosiers already knew: Indiana makes great beer. 21+ only.
135 N. College Ave
317.602.3702‎
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #130 | The Super-Secret Sneak Preview Review of Sun King's Johan the Barleywine
KOTBR #125 - Three Kings vs. Eight Knights
KOTBR #111 - Polka, Wieners, and Beer
KOTBR #102: The Island of Misfit Beers
The Hoosier Beer Geek 2009 End of Year Readers Survey: RESULTS! (Part 3) - The Rise of Sun King
The Sun King Rises Over Indy, Part 2
The Sun King Rises Over Indy

The Near North Side

Goose the Market
Opened in 2007 in the Fall Creek Place neighborhood, Chris and Molly Eley's Goose the Market quickly became a hub in Indianapolis' growing gourmet and local food movement. In June 2010, they opened up their basement space to create The Enoteca, "a casual place to drink wine" (and beer), featuring six ready-to-drink beer choices as well as anything from the well-selected varieties on their store shelves. While the beer selection is nothing to blink at, it's the Enoteca's food that's the star. With selections such as duck rillette, terrine, charcuterie, or one of their highly-regarded sandwiches, there's something adventurous and tasty waiting for you.
2503 North Delaware St.
317.924.4944
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #122 - Nøgne Ø Dark Horizon 3.edition
KOTBR #115 - Hanging Out with Bears in the Basement
Notes from the Beer and Cheese Benefit
Beer Diary #20 - Mike - Goose the Market's Enoteca
A Lesson on Beer and Cheese

Previously in our "Where to Drink in Indy" series:

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Fountain Square

A Beer Weekend In Indianapolis

2012 will be a big year for events in the city of Indianapolis, and with that in mind we've put together the following guide for those visitors who might want to spend their time in the circle city the way we would - with a beer in their hand. Welcome to a Beer Weekend in Indianapolis.


Friday
5 p.m.
Begin in the Basement

Opened in 2007, Chris and Molly Eley's Goose the Market (2503 North Delaware, (317) 924-4944) quickly became a hub in Indianapolis' growing gourmet and local food movement. In June of 2010 they opened up their basement space to create the Enoteca, "a casual place to drink wine" (and beer), featuring six ready-to-drink beer choices, as well as anything from the well-selected varieties on their store shelves. While the beer selection is nothing to blink at, it's the Enoteca's food that's the star. With selections such as duck rillette, terrine, charcuterie, or one of their highly-regarded sandwiches, there's something adventurous and tasty waiting for you.

6:30 p.m.
Welcome to Broad Ripple Meridian-Kessler

With a focus on local and regional beer selections - "(beer from) the people that I know" - Broad Ripple Brewpub brewer Kevin Matalucci's Twenty Tap (5408 North College Avenue, (317) 602-8840) is one of your best bets for getting a taste of beer from all over the state. It's worth noting that Twenty Tap offers half-pours of any of their beer selections, allowing patrons to moderate their sampling. Chef Rob Coates keeps a menu of expected bar food favorites interesting and upsale, yet remarkably affordable. The vegan bahn mi sandwich is a Hoosier Beer Geek favorite.

8:00 p.m.
But if you want to try Kevin Matalucci's beer...

Despite owning Twenty Tap, Kevin Matalucci still holds down a regular job as a brewer at the Broad Ripple Brewpub (842 East 65th Street, (317) 253-2739). English expatriate John Hill opened the brewpub in 1990, in an effort to bring an authentic English pub experience to Indianapolis. He did more than that, launching the careers of more than one Indiana brewer, and creating an Indiana craft beer monument. Matalucci's English-style ales and an extensive menu help complete the effort. Order whatever is on the hand-pull.

9:30 p.m.
Belgium by way of Broad Ripple

As further proof of the influence of John Hill and the Broad Ripple Brewpub, stop in at Ted Miller (and his wife Shannon Stone's) Brugge Brasserie (1011a East Westfield Boulevard, (317) 255-0978). Miller began his brewing career at the Brewpub before traveling the world, and ultimately returned home to open this Belgian-style Gastropub. Ask your server if there are any sours on tap, and be sure to order the frites (fries), which are among Indianapolis' best.

11:00 p.m.
Topping off

When restaurateur Scott Wise finally got around to opening a brewery to support his local chain of Scotty's Brewhouse restaurants, he wasn't quite prepared for the success of his beer sales directly from his brewpub. Thr3e Wise Men (1021 Broad Ripple Avenue, (317) 255-5151) is that brewpub, and remains the only Wise-owned restaurant to carry his beer. Brewer Omar Castrellon puts his 20+ years of brewing experience to practice brewing styles that live up to Wise's vision. The pizza will come in handy after a full day of drinking.

Saturday
10 a.m.
Wake Up!

Still with us? After yesterday's effort you'll probably want to wait until noon before you start drinking again. Start your day at Good Morning Mama's Cafe (1001 East 54th Street, (317) 255-3800) a former filling station turned breakfast stop. There's a menu full of the breakfast classics, as well as the Hoosier Loco Moco, a sort of KFC Famous Bowl of breakfast foods, featuring rice, cheesy grits or potatoes, an egg, a beef, sausage, or spam patty, with a biscuit top, all covered in gravy, all for just $7.99. I don't order that, but it's an option.

11:30 a.m.
Say Hi to a Farmer, and Get Drinking

Indianapolis' City Market (222 East Market Street) has gone through many changes over its recent history, but finally seems to have hit its stride with the additions of a Saturday farmer's market and the Tomlinson Tap Room (upstairs in the main hall, west wall). The former can provide produce or baked goods for snacking along the route today, while the latter can get you started on drinking by providing a full list of beer from Indiana's breweries. Partially owned by the Brewers of Indiana Guild, Tom Tap often features Indiana's harder-to-find craft beer selections. Keep an eye out for something from Three Floyds. If you're hungry, check out Papa Roux on the lower level for a po' boy.

1:00 p.m.
A Rainbow of Beer Flavors

Now that you're back to drinking, your first brewery stop today should be at Flat12 Bierworks (414 North Dorman Street, (317) 635-2337). Since opening in 2010, Flat12 has gained a dedicated local following for their "tradition with a twist" approach, leading to a myriad of variations of their house lineup, as well as an adventurous attitude towards their specialty beers.

2:00
Heavy Medals

A short trek southwest brings you to Sun King Brewing Company (135 North College Avenue, (317) 602-3702) where - if you get there in time - you can catch a 2 p.m. brewery tour. Sun King recently made big waves in craft beer community, capturing eight medals at the Great American Beer Festival, and showing the country what Hoosiers already knew: Indiana makes great beer.

3:30
Hidden in Plain Sight

After your tour, head north on College and then north east on Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave to locals), where you'll be spending the rest of your day. Just before the road turns north, you'll run into Black Market 922 Massachusetts Avenue (317) 822-6757) - but only if you know where to look. Cross the sidewalk, find a parking spot, and step into one of Indy's best restaurant spaces. The food lives up to the space, with locally-sourced selections that put a modern spin on traditional Hoosier favorites.

5:00
Drink your way down Mass Ave

The following list of Mass Ave establishments provides a little something for everyone, so you can pick and choose who suits you best as you work your way back towards downtown from Black Market.

Best Chocolate in Town (880 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 636-2800): Yes, this is a chocolate shop. But this chocolate shop offers truffles made with Sun King's Wee Mac. Definitely worth a visit.

Mass Ave Pub (745 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 974-0745):  A surprisingly deep selection of craft beer rounds out the experience at this locally-owned neighborhood pub.

Chatham Tap (719 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 917-8425): Like soccer? We do. Chatham Tap is the default choice for fans wishing to catch a bit of English Premier League action. That tap list follows format, with the standard English selections, as well as local taps and a nice bottle list.

The Flying Cupcake (715 East Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 536-0817): No beer here, just a cooler full of cupcakes to satisfy your beer-drinking sweet tooth.

Yats (659 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 686-6380): An Indianapolis cheap food institution, Yats provides diners with a plate of something saucy and cajun in a pile of rice. Chili cheese etouffee, anyone?

The Rathskeller (401 East Michigan Street, (317) 636-0396): If you're the German beer-hall type, Rathskeller is your Indianapolis answer. A full selection of German-made styles await you, as well as a sausage-heavy menu that fits the atmosphere.

Chatterbox Jazz Club (435 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 636-0584): The Chatterbox Jazz Club - a Mass Ave original - is the divey-est of dive bars, with a legendarily dusty interior, the most interesting stage carpet that ever existed, and bathrooms that are either scary or entertaining, depending on your outlook. Your best drink option is probably Sun King in a can. But what an atmosphere!

Old Point Tavern (401 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 634-8943): Something about Old Point is just plain cool. Maybe it's the wedge shaped building, or the girl dancing on the sidewalk outside, or perhaps even the extensive beer menu. In any case, the cozy confines provide plenty of entertainment.

MacNiven's (339 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 632-7268): You might be thinking that a place named MacNiven's is an Irish pub. You'd be wrong: MacNiven's is a Scottish/American Pub. It also features one of Indianapolis' most extensive beer lists, regular and rare tappings from the likes of Sun King, Bell's, and Three Floyds. And I haven't even mentioned the giant folded cheeseburger and the awesome haggis!

Ball & Biscuit (331 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 636-0539): Perhaps the most polished of all the Mass Ave bars is Ball & Biscuit, a cocktail lounge with a very solid beer lineup. The cozy spaces are made even more comfortable by the lack of televisions. This is a bar built for conversation.

Bazbeaux (333 Massachusetts Avenue, (317) 636-7662): Once again we end the night with pizza - this time from an Indianapolis institution that provides a full selection of craft bottles to keep you on even keel. They have taps now; some are craft. Opened since 1989.

Sunday
10:00 a.m.

Act like a tourist, finally.

If you've survived two straight days of drinking, today's the day to catch a few easy local tourist areas. At the center of Indianapolis lies the Soldiers and Sailors Monument (1 Monument Circle), perhaps best known as the only part of Indianapolis they show during national football telecasts. If you manage to make it up to the viewing deck, keep in mind that Hoosier Beer Geek's own Jason Larrison is the architect responsible for those vertical windows you're looking out of.

A bit north of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument lies the Indiana War Memorial (431 East Meridian Street) perhaps best known for this), the American Legion Mall, and the Central Library (40 East St. Clair Street). While I wouldn't normally recommend a library for tourists, ours features one of the best views of the city, as well as a pretty impressive interior.

Lastly, a visit to Indianapolis wouldn't be complete without a stop to Maxine's Chicken and Waffles (132 North East Street, (317) 423-3300) for a stomach full of fried chicken goodness for the drive home. A word of warning, though - show up early and beat the church crowd.

* * * * *

Indianapolis cab companies: All this drinking calls for either a designated driver or the services of a cab driver. To be honest, Indianapolis' cab companies don't have the best reputation, but they are still, in many cases, your best option.

Yellow Cab: (317) 487-7777
Blue Line Cab: (317) 444-1444
Prompt Cab: (317) 927-7070
Freedom Cab: (317) 244-4448

* * * * *

Of course this isn't all Indianapolis has to offer - you might also want to check out our Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Fountain Square.

Flat 12 Bierwerks

We have been very keen to let a place get up and running before rendering judgment about a new bar, brewery, or restaurant around town.  Flat 12 will be approaching its one year anniversary this month, and I think they have come into their own in that time frame. Flat 12 makes six house beers and what seems to be an unlimited amount of variations on those beers.  They also brew a huge handful of seasonal beers to go along with those house beers and house variations. Brewers Rob and Josh seem to be able to come up with something new and interesting for any occasion.  This was just showcased with their 12 Beers of Christmas, which showcased twelve different holiday-themed beers with holiday ingredients.  

Flat 12 up to this point has been on-premises sales only.  Their tap room is available for pints, growlers, and kegs.  They have their beer all over Indiana as well.  If you follow them on twitter (@flat12bierwerks), there has been some chatter about a bottling line coming in soon as well. 

What you need to know: 

Address: 414 N Dorman St Indianapolis, IN 46202 (click for map)

Hours:  
THURS 4 pm – 7 pm
FRI Noon – 8 pm
SAT Noon – 6 pm
SUN Noon – 4 pm

Money: Cash and debit card accepted 
Food: Bynres Grilled Pizza available outside in the beer garden
Web: www.flat12.me


Front Room Growler Fill and Pint Station

2nd larger growler/pint room

Beers for the Day


Cheers!
Matt

Where to Drink in Indy - Hoosier Beer Geek's Guide to Fountain Square

When it comes to Indianapolis neighborhoods, Fountain Square is one of our favorite drinking destinations. Not only did the neighborhood initially serve as our home base, it also has much to offer visitors. If you're looking for good food, great local shopping, thought-provoking art, or cutting edge live music, Fountain Square has all of these things. And with the Fountain Square branch of the Cultural Trail finally complete, the neighborhood is poised to leap to the top of the list of must-visit Indianapolis destinations.

Whether you're unfamiliar with Fountain Square or looking to explore the neighborhood's newest watering holes, here's our list of Fountain Square establishments to check out, especially if you want to enjoy a good pint or two (or three, etc.).

B's Po Boy
Maybe you're a native of the Big Easy yearning for a taste of your hometown or someone who simply appreciates great New Orleans cuisine. Regardless, B's Po Boy should be on your list of dining establishments to visit regularly. Aside from the namesake sandwiches, B's also serves up gumbo, beignets, and a rotating list of craft beer. And if you're itching to take on other bocce enthusiasts, you'll want to visit B's, which sports two bocce courts.
1261 S. Shelby St.
317.916.5555
Website

Bluebeard
Since Bluebeard appeared on the Indy dining scene in the summer of 2012 with its Italian-influenced cuisine and artisanal breads, patrons have been clamoring to get a table at the restaurant. So yes, the food is fantastic. Fortunately, Bluebeard's proprietors also understand that a great dining experience is supplemented by a well-curated craft beer selection. Bluebeard's tap list is usually dominated by beers brewed right here in the Hoosier State.
653 Virginia Ave.
317.686.1580
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #143 - If This Isn't Nice, I Don't Know What Is

The Brass Ring Lounge
This swing-era bar offers small plates, classic cocktails, and several craft beer selections on tap. The Brass Ring is favorite hangout with the neighborhood locals. The retractable front walls and the open air patio make the Brass Ring a great place to drink at in the summer. 21+ only.
1245 Shelby St.
317.635.RING (7464)‎
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #76 - Do This In Memory of Jim

The End of the Line Public House
Located in the Fountain Square Theatre Building, The End of the Line Public House has 10 taps, mostly local, along with a diverse selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. The menu also has a good selection of vegetarian dishes. Open for breakfast on Saturdays and brunch on Sundays. Named for the Fountain Square terminus of Indy's long-defunct streetcar line.
1105 Shelby Street
317.687.4857
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #138 | Fountain Square Times Two
End of the Line - Now Open in Fountain Square

Fountain Square Brewing Company
One of Indianapolis' newer breweries, Fountain Square Brewing Company has a strong stable of flagship beers, including a pale, an amber, a porter, and one of the best Pilsners in Indiana. The tap room offers pint sales in addition to growler sales. 21+ only.
1301 Barth Avenue
317.493.1410
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #145: Fountain Square

Imbibe Lobby Bar
Five taps, a nice bottle selection, and a friendly, whip-smart bartender who makes outstanding vintage cocktails--what more could you ask for? Imbibe has a chill atmosphere and is the perfect place to kick off the night or to visit for a nightcap. Bartender Brian Jones will set you up nicely. 21+ only.
1105 Shelby Street
317.685.1959
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #99 - Stone Arrogant Bastard at Imbibe
KOTBR #135 - And Now For Something Completely Different

La Margarita
In addition to offering hearty Mexican fare, La Margarita has six craft taps and an exceptional bottle selection. Indeed, proprietor Jon Carlos Rangel likes to stock off-the-beaten-path craft beers. La Margarita also has a well-rounded selection of premium tequilas.
1043 Virginia Avenue
Murphy Arts Center
317.848.1457
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #142 | Two at La Margarita Fountain Square
KOTBR #138 | Fountain Square Times Two

New Day Meadery
Looking for something other than beer? Head to New Day's beautiful tasting room at the corner of Shelby and Prospect to try their mead (honey wine), cider, or both. The meads range from dry to sweet, so there's something at New Day to suit most palates. Try a Hoosier Beer Geek favorite:  Breakfast Magpie, a delicious mead made with a hefty dose of raspberries and coffee.
1102 Prospect Street
888.MEADERY (888.632.3378)
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #146 - NKOTB and the Bee's Knees
It's a New Day in Fountain Square

Radio Radio
Radio Radio has become an institution in Indianapolis' local music scene. Run by Tufty Clough, bassist for local punk legends Zero Boys, Radio Radio hosts both local and national acts. And the club is no dive either, being one of the nicer places in the city to see live music among an eclectic crowd. The club normally has at least two craft selections on tap, usually local. 21+ only.
1119 Prospect Street
317.955.0995
Website

Red Lion Grog House
The Red Lion is Fountain Square's very own taste of the British Isles. Footy on the telly, fish and chips on the menu, and at least half of their 10 taps carrying craft beer, Red Lion is always a popular neighborhood destination. Check out trivia night on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
1043 Virginia Avenue, #6
Murphy Arts Center
317.822.4764
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #105 - The Zoo That Is Fountain Square

Revolucion Café & Bar
The interior of this popular cantina looks like it was decorated by a group of nuns and luchadores after they'd ingested peyote. Out back of the establishment, a Polynesian atmosphere rules the day as the outdoor patio serves as the neighborhood's tiki bar. Revolucion's menu focuses on tacos, with a few other familiar Tex-Mex items (such as nachos) sprinkled in. The cafe has 10 taps, mostly craft, plus a selection of standard Mexican beers in the bottle or can and the house lager (which is Coors) on draft. And yes, margaritas too. 21+ only.
1132 Prospect Street
317.423.9490
Facebook page (no website)
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #131 - Flat12 Milk Stout at La Revolucion Cafe & Bar

Santorini Greek Kitchen
We have to confess--Santorini Greek Kitchen isn't a craft beer mecca. The restaurant carries only Sun King Brewing Company's flagship beers--Osiris Pale Ale, Wee Mac Scottish Ale, and Sunlight Cream Ale--and of those, only Sunlight Cream Ale is on tap. But even if the craft beer selection is limited, Santorini is worth visiting because it's one of the best Greek restaurants in the city. Order a combination plate and you'll be greeted with a massive platter of delicious Greek favorites that at least two people can share. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
1417 Prospect Street
317.917.1117
Website

Siam Square
Lovers of Thai food won't be disappointed by Siam Square. The glowing orange and yellow hues adorning the restaurant's interior will make you feel like you're being greeted by a warm Siamese sunrise. To accompany your dish of delicious pad thai, order a local beer on draft.
936 Virginia Avenue
317.636.THAI (8424)
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #76 - Do This in Memory of Jim

White Rabbit Cabaret
Clowns who run a bingo game? Yeah, we thought it sounded lame too. But then we went and played and were hooked. That's because these aren't your run-of-the-mill creepy circus clowns. They're the Muncie Brothers, Dorgan and Milroy, and they run a bimonthly bingo game at the White Rabbit Cabaret called "The Burlesque Bingo Bango Show." They drink. Milroy mimes. Dorgan curses. If you win, they offer awesome prizes like a three wolves statue. And they are assisted by the lovely burlesque dancer Alabaster Betty. A killer beer list and frequent local music shows don't hurt the White Rabbit's allure either. Changed your mind yet? 21+ only.
1116 Prospect Street
317.686.9550
Website
HBG Visits:
KOTBR #105 - The Zoo That Is Fountain Square

Metromix 2010 Local Brewing Guide: Other Breweries in the Greater Indy Area

Hoosier Beer Geek worked with Metromix to create their 2010 Local Brewing Guide. It was published in the November 18th issue and we are republishing the articles we wrote. Enjoy!

Big Woods Brewing Company
60 Molly Lane, Nashville
Website: www.BigWoodsBeer.com
Ph: 812-988-6000

Jeff McCabe, Ed Ryan, and brewer Tim O’Bryan opened their Brown County brewpub in 2009. Their brewery has already expanded once, indicating that their beers are being well received.


Bloomington Brewing Company
1795 E 10th St, Bloomington, IN
Website: www.BBCBloomington.com
Ph: 812-323-2112

Jeff Mease and Lennie Busch opend Bloomington Brewing Company inside Lennie’s Pizza. Brewer Floyd Rosenbaum’s work has been available in Indianapolis in very limited quantities but should be more readily available soon as a new brewing facility is being constructed.


Half Moon Restaurant and Brewery
4051 S. Lafountain, Kokomo
Website: www.HalfMoonBrewery.com
Ph: 765-455-2739

If you want to drink head brewer John Templet’s beers, you’ll have to travel to the Kokomo restaurant to get it.


Lafayette Brewing Company
622 Main Street, Lafayette
Website: www.LafayetteBrewingCo.com
Ph: 765-742-2591

Owner and brewmaster Greg Emig spent time at Broad Ripple Brewpub before opening his own brewpub in 1993. His beers are bottled and can be found in limited supply in the Indianapolis area.


People’s Brewing Company
2006 N. 9th Street Rd., Lafayette
Website: www.PeoplesBrew.com
Ph: 765-714-2777

Owner and brewmaster Chris Johnson opened his production brewery and taproom in 2009 after working at Lafayette Brewing Company. His beers can be found on tap at several locations around Indianapolis.


Power House Brewing Company
322 Fourth Street, Columbus
Website: www.PowerHouseBrewingCo.com
Ph: 812-375-8800

Owner and head brewer Jon Meyers opened Power House in 2007. It is located inside of the historic Columbus Bar, which opened in 1939. His beers are only available in this downtown Columbus landmark.


Upland Brewing Company
350 W. 11th Street, Bloomington
Website: www.UplandBeer.com
Ph: 812-336-2337

Upland opened in 1998 and has grown its brand across Indiana and parts of the Midwest. Head brewer Caleb Staton’s beers can be found on tap and in bottles at several locations around Indianapolis (including Lucas Oil Stadium and Victory Field) as well as at their Indianapolis tap room.

Metromix 2010 Local Brewing Guide: New and Proposed Breweries in the Indy area

Hoosier Beer Geek worked with Metromix to create their 2010 Local Brewing Guide. It was published in the November 18th issue and we are republishing the articles we wrote. Enjoy!

NOW OPEN:
Bier Brewery & Taproom
5133 East 65th St., Indianapolis
Website: www.BierBrewery.com

Bier Brewery owner and brewer Darren Connor was most recently working at Great Fermentations, a homebrewing supply store. His new brewery will produce small batches and sell them in-house only. They hope to have six to eight beers available at a time with a focus on seasonal beers. According to their website, they hope to open by Thanksgiving.


Flat 12 Bierwerks
414 N. Dorman St., Indianapolis
Website: www.Flat12.me
Ph: 317-635-2337

Another production brewery is opening up in downtown Indianapolis, this time in the Cottage Home neighborhood. Rob Caputo, director of brewing, is teaming up with Steve Hershberger and Sean O’Conner. They have already been spreading the word about their operations through social media and their “Hopstar” fan program. Their goal is to have beer available yet this year.


Scotty’s Thr3e Wise Men Brewing Company
1021 Broad Ripple Ave., Indianapolis
Website: www.Thr3eWiseMen.com

Owner Scotty Wise (of the local Scotty’s Brewhouse chain) has hired Omar Castrellon (formerly of Alcatraz Brewing Company) as head brewer. The brewery is currently under construction in Broad Ripple and will have a tasting room as part of their operations. The Scotty’s Brewhouse and Lakehouse restaurants will have the beers on tap as well. They are hoping for a January opening.


Triton Brewing Company
Fort Benjamin Harrison, Lawerence
Website: www.TritonBrewing.com

Head brewer Jon Lang was most recently at Barley Island Brewing Company but has partnered with Michael DeWeese and David Waldman on this new production brewery. They hope to have their beers available in kegs and bottles in January with their tasting room opening soon after.

Black Swan Brewpub
2067 E. Hadley Rd., Plainfield
Website: www.BlackSwanBrewpub.com

The Black Swan Brewpub is open as a restaurant and bar, serving 15 different beers on draft from Indiana breweries. Owner and brewer D.J. McCallister has worked previously at Oaken Barrel and Lafayette Brewing Company. They hope to open their brewery in 2011.


Three Pints Brewpub
5020 Cambridge Way, Plainfield
Website: www.ThreePintsBrewpub.com
ph: 317-839-1000

Tom Hynes has been homebrewing for twenty years and hopes to make his professional brewing debut in January. The restaurant is now open and will start off serving Indiana craft beer until their brewing operations are on line.


Brownfield Brewing Company
Fountain Square neighborhood, Indianapolis
Website: www.BrownfieldBrewing.com

Kenny Allen, formerly from Delaware’s Old Dominion Brewing Company, is working with Ken Warren and Arifah Aronson to open a brewery that is sustainable and organic. A location and opening date have not been announced.


Blue Republic Brewing Company
Shelby County
Website: www.Facebook.com/BlueRepublic

Award-winning homebrewer Bill Ballinger is looking to go pro with a new production brewery. A location and opening date have not been announced.

Metromix 2010 Local Brewing Guide: Breweries with Indy outposts

Hoosier Beer Geek worked with Metromix to create their 2010 Local Brewing Guide. It was published in the November 18th issue and we are republishing the articles we wrote. Enjoy!

Upland Tasting Room, est. 2009
4842 N. College Ave., Indianapolis
Website: www.UplandBeer.com
Ph: 317-602-3931

The Bloomington brewery has six beers on draft. They are available for sampling and growler fills (a growler is a container, usually glass, that is filled off of draft lines for at-home consumption; they generally come in 64 ounce containers, but some places have 32 ounce as well). Kegs are also available for sale. Pints of their beer are sold only on Sundays and Mondays.


Granite City Food & Brewery, est. 2008
150 West 96th Street, Indianapolis
Website: www.GCFB.net
Ph: 317-218-7185

The Minnesota based chain uses a process called “Fermentus Interruptus”, where the brewing is conducted at a central facility. The wort is then shipped to their individual locations (including the three Indiana locations), where the beer is fermented. The restaurant sells their beer as samples, pints, and growlers.


BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
1251 U.S. 31 North, Greenwood
Website: www.BJsBrewhouse.com
Ph: 317-881-3500

The California based chain does not brew their beer on site, but they offer beers that are proprietary to their chain and brewed at one of their larger facilities. The restaurant’s beers are available for on-site consumption, but because the beer isn’t brewed in Indiana, it is not available for sale in growlers.