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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown, Indianapolis' best

Unique and cool spots

You are tired of the same predictable spots and want somewhere that actually stands out.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
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Updated May 2026
01
Amberson Coffee & Grocer image 1
Amberson Coffee & Grocer image 2
Amberson Coffee & Grocer image 3
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Small coffee shop inside a repurposed old gas station offers a minimalist design with rustic architecture and vintage signage. Atmosphere feels cozy and cool, with a calm, friendly vibe and dog-friendly patio. Specialty coffee and espresso draw enthusiasts, served with attention to detail like reusable glass jars.

Seasonal drink menus feature unique offerings not found elsewhere. Coffee comes from multiple roasters, providing frequently changing options and distinct espresso presentations.

Rustic architecture and vintage signage create a cozy and cool ambiance. The shop has a hipster vibe with a chill atmosphere and friendly staff.

People are saying

"The espresso here is always dialed in and delicious."

"It's a cool little coffee shop with a great vibe."

"I loved the unique seasonal drinks that never masked the coffee flavor."

Good to know

1

Amberson Coffee & Grocer uses reusable jars for to-go coffee instead of paper cups.

2

The cafe has limited seating, so plan to visit during off-peak hours.

3

They charge $17 for two lattes, so budget accordingly.

02
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.

A wide variety of unique food choices stands out here, mixing typical food court vendors with some distinctive restaurants. The atmosphere adds to the cool and fun experience.

Offers a cool atmosphere with an interesting concept and several unique restaurants. Provides a great vibe with lots of good drink and dessert options.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has so many varieties of food to choose from."

"It's a unique place with an incredible variety of food options."

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.

03
Nowhere Special image 1

Basement speakeasy with nostalgic dรฉcor and cozy seating creates a quiet, inviting atmosphere. The vibe stays cool and easy, suitable for intimate gatherings or casual nights out. Strong bourbon and creative cocktails add to the immersive experience.

Mixologists as artists craft a wide variety of unique cocktails with meticulous care. The food matches the drinks with a fun and unique twist.

A hidden away speakeasy with a cool and easy vibe. Staff provide attentive care from the moment you arrive.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and really well-crafted."

"It's a cool hidden speakeasy with a welcoming vibe."

"I found their unique cocktails to be inventive and unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Prices for handcrafted cocktails start at $4, making them affordable.

2

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 8pm on Sundays through Thursdays.

3

They have gender-neutral restrooms available for all guests.

04
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.

A brewery set inside a beautifully repurposed Catholic church creates a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The exterior holds a unique charm that stands out among typical brewpubs.

Sitting in an old church sanctuary with beer vats along the back wall creates a really cool atmosphere filled with awesome people.

People are saying

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

"I thought the atmosphere and vibe here were really cool."

"It's a unique experience inside a beautifully repurposed church."

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.

05
Parlor Public House image 1

Coffee shop combines live jazz music with beautiful indoor and outdoor seating, including private quiet rooms for meetings. Atmosphere feels cool and inviting, perfect for both groups and individuals. Space stands out with unique decor and a vibe that supports relaxed conversation and socializing.

Unique cocktails and complex coffee stand out here. The space feels light and lively with lots of plants and a fun vibe.

An oasis of plants creates a cool and comfy atmosphere with plenty of seating. The vibe feels relaxed and fun, filled with cool people.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a really fun and cozy atmosphere."

"The vibe here is cool and welcoming."

"I loved their unique coffee and cocktails; they were complex and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parlor Public House has live music on Thursdays and Fridays.

2

They have a half-priced wine night on Wednesdays.

3

No laptops allowed after 7 PM on Wednesdays.

06
Cookie Plug image 1

Cute space with a retro-friendly vibe and clever, cool atmosphere. The setup showcases a great choice of cookie flavors with options for tasting and larger sizes. Friendly energy makes it an inviting spot for those seeking a unique cookie experience.

Cookies stand out with their unique flavors, especially the pink cookie. The space feels unique but overstimulating, adding to the overall vibe.

Clever atmosphere sets a unique tone here. The overall vibes feel very cool and distinct.

People are saying

"I thought the cookies here were the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the cookies unique, tasty, and buttery."

"The cookies here are delicious and an amazing size."

Good to know

1

Prices for cookies start at $5 each.

2

Cookies are packaged in resealable bags for easy transport.

3

Expect a variety of unique flavors that change regularly.

07
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.

Offers a unique way to see downtown with friends or family over 18. Experiences can vary, like being placed on a different tour due to seating, adding to its distinctiveness.

A lively atmosphere with entertaining activities and a cool ambiance makes this spot stand out. Playing games and listening to your own music over speakers adds to the fun vibe.

People are saying

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

"The drivers here are unique, bringing great energy and making it fun."

"The staff here is so friendly and fun."

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.

08
Milktooth image 1
Restaurant

Open-air seating with close tables creates a lively, very loud atmosphere often compared to a nightclub. Decor blends funky, eclectic styles with a Dutch influence, attracting a cheerful crowd. Outdoor patio welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, energetic vibe.

An upscale diner with a unique twist on breakfast and brunch offers cola glazed bacon and other fresh, tasty dishes. Drinks and atmosphere stand out with their distinct and beautiful style.

An open air seating area sets a cool vibe alongside an eclectic brunch menu. A DJ adds to the hipster atmosphere while the service matches the overall cool environment.

People are saying

"You have to try their Dutch baby pancakes for brunch; they're amazing."

"The coffee here is some of the best in the city."

"The vibe here is so cool, especially with the open air seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Expect a standard wait time of at least 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The menu changes every two weeks, offering seasonal dishes.

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