We may not have any mountains in Indy, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a ski-lodge-inspired coffee shop + bar.
Chalet — whose parent company owns Provider, Landlocked, Coat Check Coffee + other popular eateries — is opening in the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood early next month. The spot at 5555 N. Illinois St. will offer coffee during the day + transition to a wine bar in the evening, featuring four options of beers + a few spritzes. Small plates and snacks will also be on the menu.
Those who find this spot familiar might remember that it used to be Butler-Tarkington’s old firehouse, which was built in 1932 as Station 16. It closed after merging with Broad Ripple’s fire department in 2016. At the time, many residents living in the north side neighborhood were against the merge, worried that response times would suffer. It sat vacant for many years until now.
Though the purpose of the building will be vastly different, it’ll preserve some of the firehouse’s features, like its original brick, doors + entryway. Plus, it’ll also keep the cozy fireplace — perfect for spending a wintry evening with friends.
Its name was inspired by the building’s distinct sloping roof + a retro stained-glass window has been installed at the main entrance. It’s conveniently located across from Graeter’s Ice Cream (iykyk) and Illinois Street Food Emporium when you start craving some warm food and dessert.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Small Victories has a pretty strong track record for putting together Insta-worthy themed eateries (we’re looking at you, Landlocked) + Chalet will continue the tradition with 1970s après-ski vibes.
