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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Beer bars in Downtown

A taproom that focuses on the quality of the pour rather than the volume of the crowd.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dean's Steak & Seafood Indianapolis image 1
Dean's Steak & Seafood Indianapolis image 2
Dean's Steak & Seafood Indianapolis image 3
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Elegant dining space combines warm decor with luxurious atmosphere and live DJ music, creating a vibrant yet intimate setting. Guests enjoy top-tier steaks and seafood alongside expertly crafted cocktails, making it a standout for high-end dining experiences.

Bar staff provide knowledgeable service and share the history of drinks. They offer great recommendations and help with meal and wine pairings. The bar menu features delicious options that invite repeat visits.

Cold beer serves as a solid base here. The IPA craft beer stands out with a strong, rounded flavor that completes the experience.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"The bar staff are super helpful and efficient."

"The beer here is fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The private dining room is available for hosting events.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during conventions.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

02
Hard Truth at The Garage Food Hall image 1

Bar sits centrally within a food hall, creating a social hub with a vibrant atmosphere. Cocktails show an inventive approach, featuring well-crafted drinks like old fashioneds and peach highballs. The setting encourages casual gatherings without lines, fostering a relaxed pace.

Carefully curated menu highlights unique drinks inspired by regional flavors. The peach highball shows inventive cocktail crafting. It serves as a central gathering spot with an innovative, diverse selection.

Selection includes Quaff On beers and Pumpkin Ale. The beer options lean toward big beers with strong flavors.

People are saying

"Jon Iosue is the best bartender I've ever seen."

"The peach highball was a sweet, tasty, and refreshing cocktail."

"Alexis was attentive and entertaining while serving beer."

Good to know

1

Hard Truth Bar is located centrally within The Garage Food Hall.

2

Discussing politics or religion is not allowed at the bar.

3

The bar offers an innovative and diverse menu to satisfy cravings.

03
Mass Avenue Pub image 1

Small pub with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and lively energy fills with cold beer and great music. Warm, laid-back atmosphere invites chill people to laugh and mingle. Neighborhood charm shapes a welcoming, fun spot for casual drinks and conversation.

A lively energy fills the bar with fun vibe and amazing service from the staff. Food and drinks come quickly, making it a solid spot for a pre-game beer or a casual night out.

Local craft beers and classic selections fill the menu alongside non-alcoholic beers and sours for sober options. Quick service supports grabbing a pre-game beer with bar food.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and full of variety."

"The pub staff here is so friendly and attentive, making you feel like a regular."

"The bar staff is so friendly and attentive, making you feel like a regular."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke takes place on Mondays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Sundays feature a lively DJ night with hip-hop music.

04
Empire Street Bar and Grill Downtown INDY image 1

Sports bar offers a fun, chill atmosphere with loud 80s/90s rock music and games like darts, pool, and beer pong. Outdoor seating adds space when weather permits. The vibe suits casual hangouts, especially before local games, with a clean, pub-style setting.

Clean and feels like a hidden gem with a friendly owner behind the bar. Offers a great atmosphere for after-work drinks, darts, pool, and corn hole with a solid pub vibe.

Cold beer flows consistently and stays well chilled. The atmosphere supports relaxing with a drink while enjoying darts, pool, and corn hole games.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and amazing."

"The bartenders here are amazing, especially Madison."

"The beer here is always cold."

Good to know

1

Karaoke runs Thursday to Saturday, which can get loud.

2

Trivia night is a popular event, attracting many visitors.

3

The bar is family-friendly during lunch hours.

05
Brew Link Brewing Downtown image 1

Large brewpub with indoor and outdoor seating offers a family-friendly atmosphere that balances lively energy with a zen feel. Spacious layout includes a fireplace and a projector screen, creating a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Music and good conversation fill the space, making it suitable for groups and casual meetups.

A full bar offers more than just beer with plenty of food and drink options. The spot has a classic brew pub feel and a relaxed, welcoming vibe with friendly bartenders behind the bar.

House-made beers stand out with interesting selections including cider, stout, and porter. Several beers strike as excellent and pair well with food.

People are saying

"I loved their house-made beers and the great variety."

"I thought the burgers were good and juicy."

"I loved exploring their great beer selection and the IPAs were very good."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available, but it fills up quickly.

2

The food and drinks are priced affordably for downtown.

3

Brunch is served all day on Sundays.

06
Tappers Arcade Bar image 1

Vintage arcade games and well-maintained pinball machines surround a spacious bar area with custom wooden tables. The atmosphere blends 90s arcade nostalgia with a low-key, friendly vibe suitable for groups or dates. Games are mostly free to play, creating a casual and engaging environment.

An arcade bar with a nostalgic atmosphere and vintage arcade games like Galaga and Frogger. The space feels open and clean, making it easy to enjoy the games without feeling crowded.

A great selection of local craft beers and an imperial stout stand out here. Beers stay fresh and pair well with the arcade games and pinball.

People are saying

"The arcades here are packed with well-loved, retro games."

"You'll have a fun nostalgic time playing vintage arcade games here."

"The arcade games at this bar are a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Pinball machines are half priced on Mondays.

2

Pinball games cost $1 each.

3

Tappers Arcade Bar is 21+ and does not allow kids.

07
Turner's Bar image 1

Bar offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a chill neighborhood vibe and stylish, clean feel. Games like billiards and a Polaroid photo activity add to the relaxed energy. A taco window connects to a neighboring spot, blending food and drink seamlessly.

Dive bar with a chill, neighborhood vibe and friendly staff. Cocktails stand out, and a side window lets you order tacos without leaving the bar.

Cheap beers and cocktails appear on the menu alongside a monthly rotating drink selection. The beer list includes an IPA called Big Lug and a shot/beer combo option.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really well made and reasonably priced."

"This bar has a chill, inviting neighborhood vibe."

"It's a great neighborhood bar with a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Turner's Bar closes at midnight, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is no bathroom inside the bar; plan ahead for restroom needs.

3

You can order tacos from Julieta's through a convenient window at Turner's.

08
St. Joseph Brewery image 1

Brewpub inside a converted Catholic church features high ceilings and beautiful architecture that create a unique atmosphere. The space feels open and lively, with music mixing decades of hip-hop and R&B. Outdoor seating includes a pet-friendly patio with games like cornhole.

Seats at the bar come quickly since it is not too crowded. The pub burger with beer cheese and battered fries pairs well with the drinks here.

Several beers offer rich flavor and consistent quality. The Mexican Lager stands out for its depth. Service complements the delicious beer well.

People are saying

"The food here is 10/10, cooked to perfection."

"The beer here is delicious and I highly recommend trying a flight."

"The pub burger with beer cheese and fries was delicious."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Sunday brunch is a popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

09
Sun King Brewery image 1

Spacious brewery with an industrial look and colorful art near the entrance offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a patio. Games like pinball and board games create a lively, fun atmosphere with splendid music. Food options include a small vendor with notable nachos and tacos.

A huge bar with lots of seating creates a spacious atmosphere. Staff like Max, Rachel, and Savannah serve drinks quickly and remember regular orders.

Numerous beers on tap offer a wide range of choices. The brewery stands out as a pioneer in the craft beer scene with consistently great beer poured by knowledgeable staff.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is huge and delicious."

"The guides here make the tours so fun and engaging!"

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

The brewery offers a growler discount on Fridays for take-home beers.

3

Family-friendly atmosphere allows kids and babies inside the brewery.

10
Chilly Water Brewing Company image 1

Brewery with an outdoor patio and live music creates a laid back atmosphere where locals gather. Walls feature music-themed murals and records, adding character without overwhelming decor. The vibe stays chill and welcoming, blending good beer with a casual neighborhood feel.

Comfortable seating with bar stools lines the space. Bartender focuses on regulars while others wait, creating a laid-back vibe on a Friday night.

Offers a wide range of beer options including standout IPAs and unique brews like Dr. Feel Good. The brewery pairs its great beer selection with a solid food menu suitable for lunch or snacks.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is amazing, with brews made in-house."

"The American food, especially the loaded fries and nachos, is super tasty."

"The bar staff seemed friendly, but Steve wasn't helpful with my allergy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early during peak hours.

2

The kitchen closes shortly after the bar opens, so plan your food order accordingly.

3

The brewery offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan menu options.

11
Pins Mechanical Co. image 1

Spacious bar with multiple floors and three bars offers a lively atmosphere filled with pinball machines and duck pin bowling. Outdoor areas feature fire pits and string lighting, creating a cozy mood despite the loud and crowded environment. The venue attracts a mix of guests, including families during the day and adults after 9 PM.

Lounge spaces accommodate groups with helpful staff guiding bar minimums and options. Bars serve good drinks with excellent service, plus games add a fun twist to the experience.

Great diversity of beers and an extensive craft beer list fill the taps. Beers come fresh and cold, poured expertly by bartenders who handle spills and cleanup quickly.

People are saying

"It's a super fun place with tons of games like bowling and pinball."

"The staff made our party a success and was a pleasure to work with."

"This bar has tons of fun games like pinball and duckpin bowling."

Good to know

1

Bowling is free after 8pm on Mondays.

2

Reservations for private events require a $400 minimum and can start at 7:30 pm.

3

Minors are not allowed after 9 PM.

12
The Hangar image 1

Industrial space with roomy, clean facilities hosts lively crowds drawn to live music and DJ sets. Energy stays high with interactive games like golf simulators and a pedal bar that encourages group fun. Cocktails and wood-fired pizzas add to the upbeat, social vibe.

Pedal bar rides include two bar stops and offer a lively group experience. Staff greet guests, explain the layout, and highlight food, games, and restrooms for convenience.

Great beer selection includes options like Hoppoppotamus. Beers refill quickly and pour from the bottom of the glass. Bar sells beer and cider if you forget yours.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities feel so welcoming and attentive."

"This mobile bar is a blast for day drinking and creating good vibes."

"The beer and the driver made it a fun experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating availability.

2

Parking can be expensive and limited, so consider ridesharing options.

3

The HandleBar tour includes two drink tickets and unlimited buffet food.

13
Metazoa Brewing Company image 1

Brewery combines industrial style with pet-friendly features, including an enclosed dog park and outdoor patio seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, often filled with dogs and live music. Beer selection is generally well-regarded, complementing the casual, animal-themed environment.

A line of people with their dogs forms near the bar, creating a busy atmosphere. The bar itself is often unclean.

A broad and impressive selection of beers stands out here. Staff are knowledgeable and often remember regulars, enhancing the experience with truly impressive expressions of beer.

People are saying

"This beer spot is so dog-friendly, our Stella was welcomed."

"It's an awesome place to socialize your dog at the dog park."

"You won't believe how many dogs are at the bar here."

Good to know

1

Metazoa Brewing Company is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in both indoor and outdoor areas.

2

The brewery is 21+ only; no children or babies allowed.

3

Visitors should bring their own food or snacks as the brewery does not serve food.

14
The Garage Food Hall image 1

Old warehouse space transformed into a historic food hall with a museum feel and revitalized industrial design. Atmosphere is lively and chaotic, filled with live music, pinball machines, and multiple bars offering tastings and mixed drinks. Crowds gather for a family-friendly vibe and diverse activities like sim racing, creating a bustling social hub.

Multiple bars operate in a large hall, including a distillery bar with Indiana-made bourbon tastings. Options include a beer bar, a wine bar, and a mixed drink bar alongside a gaming center bar.

A wide variety of craft beers fills the menu, especially at the island bar in the food hall. Plenty of options suit both beer lovers and those who enjoy cocktails.

People are saying

"It's a cool spot with great vibes."

"I found so many food options, including bars."

"I found so many food options, including beer."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Garage Food Hall is difficult, especially on weekends.

2

The Garage Food Hall closes at 10 pm.

3

It is best to grab a table first before ordering food.

15
Living Room Theaters image 1

Small, intimate movie theater with comfortable reclining seats and great surround sound delivers a fun and sophisticated atmosphere. Food and drinks, including a bar inside, enhance the experience with table service available during movies.

A wonderful bar offers a big glass window with a view and serves a variety of food and alcoholic beverages. Drinks from the bar can be brought inside the theater, and the staff is very helpful.

Cold, tap beers are available to enjoy before and during the movie. Bringing a nice beer into the cinema is allowed, making it easy to grab a drink with family.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, tasty, and fulfilling."

"The seats here are comfortable recliners."

"The beer here is great, with tables in front of each seat."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated if you park in the lot across the street.

2

All movies are 45% off on Tuesdays and Mondays.

3

On Mondays and Tuesdays, tickets are half price at $7.50.

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Downtown, Indianapolis

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