Whether it’s the atmosphere, the people, the food or the drinks, there’s a bar in Indy that’s sure to suit your after-work hangouts. Today, we’re diving into some of Indy’s popular holes-in-the-wall.
Dugout Bar, 621 Virginia Ave.
This Fletcher Place bar opened in 1954 and its name comes from the fact that the original owner was an amazing softball pitcher (his teams were regarded as some of Indy’s best during the 50s).
Pro tip: Don’t duck out until you’ve had the pulled pork nachos.
Sam’s Silver Circle, 1102 Fletcher Ave.
You can catch the big game at this Fountain Square spot, which is known as “The Original Dart Bar.”
Pro tip: For the pizza connoisseurs out there, Sam’s is some of the best around (according to City Editor Anna) and it pairs well with a pitcher of Coors Banquet.
Dorman Street, 901 Dorman St.
A Cottage Home neighborhood staple, this bar has a lot of history. From the end of the Prohibition era up until 1982, the bar was better known as The Hog (short for the Mahogany Bar).
Pro tip: It has a diverse selection of top-notch tunes in the jukebox, so bring a couple of ones for the table.
Melody Inn, 3826 N. Illinois St.
With a long-running reputation as a hot spot for punk shows, you can check the calendar to see who’s playing before you go or just show up and enjoy new music. The Melody Inn is yet another dive bar with a long history — just look at these photos from the 30s.
Pawn Shop Pub, 2222 E. 54th St.
This popular Broad Ripple watering hole is conveniently located close to Naptown Thrift, Indy’s Tacos, and Mississippi Belle’s soul food. It’s complete with affordable drink options + outdoor seating.
State Street Pub, 243 N. State Ave.
This dive bar + music venue offers a menu of classic bar fare, as well as special events like its monthly green screen karaoke and skateboarding trivia. As it says on its Facebook page, it was voted “World’s Best Neighborhood Punk, Free Improvised, Electronic, Rap, Spritz, Beer, Burger, Taco Bar.”
