BEST COCKTAIL BARS INDIANAPOLIS

BODHI is a locally owned craft cocktail bar and Thai bistro located at 922 Massachusetts Avenue in Indianapolis's cultural district, operated by three generations of Thai women dedicated to authentic cuisine and exceptional spirits. The bar features a talented team of mixologists creating seasonal cocktails infused with Thai ingredients and inventive twists, supported by curated wine and craft beer selections. The industrial-chic interior is complemented by an enchanting urban patio oasis, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for date nights and social gatherings. As a 21+ establishment recognized as a Best Restaurant by Indianapolis Monthly, BODHI seamlessly blends craft cocktail innovation with vibrant Thai culinary traditions in one of the city's most beloved hospitality destinations.

Parlor Public House is a locally-owned hybrid establishment combining a coffee shop and cocktail bar in downtown Indianapolis's Lockerbie and Cole Noble neighborhood at 600 E Ohio Street. Housed in a loft-style space designed to accommodate work, socializing, and private events, the venue features appealing decor and curated music that create an inviting environment. The establishment offers both coffee and cocktail menus alongside merchandise and a loyalty program. The 21+ age requirement applies after 5pm, and while laptops are welcomed during daytime hours, they are restricted after 7pm Wednesday through Saturday to preserve the social atmosphere.

Strange Bird, located in Indianapolis's historic Irvington neighborhood since 2019, operates as equal parts neighborhood watering hole and tropical escape. The restaurant features bamboo and teak decor creating an immersive tropical ambiance, alongside founder Neal Warner's focused expertise in rum and ornate tropical cocktails. The kitchen specializes in platters of fresh oysters and authentic Japanese ramen created by Chef Kyle Humphreys, with in-house noodles and bone broths simmered for hours alongside hand-pleated dumplings and crispy Katsu. The venue also hosts oyster and rum educational classes and offers membership in an Indy City Oyster Club providing exclusive benefits.

The Cannon Ball Lounge is downtown Indianapolis's premier indoor-outdoor rooftop bar located at 141 East Washington Street, inspired by daredevil free spirit Erwin "Cannonball" Baker. The venue features mid-century allure and stunning views of downtown, offering locally inspired cocktails, Indy-area craft brews, and light bites. Guests can participate in Cannon Ball Classroom sessions with premier mixologists, enjoy DJ dancing, or unwind rooftop style. Signature drinks include the Daredevil Daiquiri, and the venue operates with extended hours, particularly on weekends, making it a dynamic gathering space in the heart of the city.

The Exchange Mass Ave is a whiskey and craft cocktail bar opened in 2020 in Indianapolis's historic Mass Avenue district, representing the second location of The Exchange, which originated in South Bend in 2012. The bar features an extensive spirits collection of over 220 whiskeys and spirits displayed as the room's centerpiece, complemented by a diverse cocktail menu ranging from timeless classics to inventive creations. The venue emphasizes an upscale yet approachable environment without dress codes, offering curated small plates for sharing and monthly tastings with premium distillery partners. Housed in a historic building, the bar celebrates the area's architectural heritage.

Union 50 is a chef-driven restaurant and bar situated in downtown Indianapolis's Mass Ave neighborhood at 620 North East Street, one block north of the main district. The establishment emphasizes innovative cuisine with seasonal menu rotations using a variety of locally sourced ingredients. The venue operates daily for dining with evening hours from 5pm, extending to 10pm weekdays and 11pm Friday-Saturday, and provides private dining options for events and business functions. The comfortable, lively environment staffed by well-trained and attentive service professionals creates an inviting destination for both dining and cocktails.

Howl at the Moon Indianapolis is a high-energy cocktail bar and live music venue located at 20 E. Georgia Street, blending specialty cocktails with interactive entertainment and an extensive drink menu. The venue is renowned for its signature 86-ounce buckets of booze featuring six different cocktail varieties topped with fresh fruit, alongside energetic live music performances that create a non-stop party atmosphere. Hosting private events ranging from cocktail parties to corporate gatherings and team-building activities, the venue operates six evenings weekly and maintains strict 21-and-over entry with valid ID required at all times.