5 of the Best Indianapolis Bourbon Bars

Maybe you’re visiting Indianapolis from out of town, or maybe you’re a townie who just wants to explore some of the best bourbon bars. Well, either way, there are plenty of options in Indianapolis! We’ve narrowed the endless opportunities for some good bourbon down to five. Here are the Indianapolis bourbon bars you have to try.

Nicky Blaine’s

20 N. Meridian Street

Dubbed Indy’s “original retro bar,” Nicky Blaine’s offers both classic and creative cocktails. They also have wine, beer, and food in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. They even have a “cigar sommelier” to help you as you browse their humidors! It was voted one of America’s best bars by Esquire magazine. Contributor Tom Chiarella had this to say about his experience at Nicky Blaine’s: “I don’t know if it’s the wall sconces or the table lamps or the bar uplights or the candles here and there, but I am always struck by the fact that people there look the way they do in great paintings — elegant, a little sad sometimes, centered in the middle of the small gestures that make us human.”

There are a few bourbon cocktails on the menu. But we recommend Abe’s American Cousin, which features Basil Hayden, Tuaca, and a hint of lemon. It’s a deliciously citrusy bourbon drink. Order one and you’ll be transported to that magical place so elegantly described by Chiarella.

Nicky Blaine's

1933 Lounge

127 S. Illinois Street

Speakeasies and bourbon are a classic American pairing! Located above the St. Elmo steakhouse on S Illinois Street, the 1933 Lounge has an old-school ambiance reminiscent of Gilded Age swank. The lounge is filled with leather furniture and wood accents. It’s a sexy atmosphere for enjoying their world-famous shrimp cocktail and a drink.

Try the signature Elmo Cola, a cocktail crafted with their own St. Elmo whiskey. Traditionally-distilled bourbon is infused with natural dark cherry and bourbon vanilla beans. Then, it’s served with Coke and house-made Drunken Cherries. You won’t want to miss this one!

1933 Lounge

Hotel Tango Distillery

670 Virginia Avenue

If you’re looking to enjoy some bourbon in Indianapolis, why not hit up a distillery? This industrial-style distillery is filled with comfortable seating and friendly servers. It was founded by military veteran Travis Barnes and his wife Hilary. They named the distillery after themselves using the NATO phonetic alphabet.

Their exceptionally-crafted spirits are somehow unique and classic at once. They’re a perfect blend of discipline and innovation. Try the Red, White, and Bourbon, whose proceeds support the American Legion. For something you won’t find anywhere else, sample the ‘Shallow, a toasted marshmallow bourbon with notes of caramel and smoke.

Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery

Whiskey Business

11915 Pendleton Pike (Lawrence location)

5220 E. Southport Road (Southport location)

With two convenient locations, there’s no reason not to hit up Whiskey Business! Touting burgers, bourbon, and brews, it’s a laid-back place. Share a plate of nachos, chow down on an inventive burger, and sip some bourbon.

With fun and unique-themed nights like Taco Tuesday or open mic karaoke, Whiskey Business is a great place to have some fun and drink great bourbon. Don’t forget about live music on the weekends!

Whiskey Business

Exchange Whiskey Bar

301 Massachusetts Avenue

Lush and moody, the Exchange Whiskey Bar is a great choice for a first date or a night out with the girls. The Exchange takes its inspiration from Prohibition-era speakeasies. Choose from over 250 whiskies and a delicious small-bites menu.

With a seasonal emphasis on the cocktail menu, there’s no telling what creative and delicious drinks will be available when you visit. However, it’s guaranteed they’ll be well-crafted and served in dainty, unique glassware with a flourish.

Exchange Whiskey Bar

Which of these bars will you venture to first? Let us know on social media!