1. The Vogue
6259 N. College Ave., Indianapolis 46220, phone 317-259-7029
The Vogue in Broad Ripple Village opened as a movie theater in 1938 and turned into one of Indy's hottest nightclubs on New Year's Eve, 1977. Featuring both recorded music and live concerts, The Vogue spins everything from retro to top 40, hip hop, techno, and rock. Dance parties are held every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night. You must be 21 to enter, and two forms of ID are required.
2. Nicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge
20 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis 46204, phone 317-638-5588
Think red. Think sophisticated. Think martinis, fine scotch, cigars, and exotic liqueurs. Mingle at the bar or settle into a soft leather couch. Engage in intimate conversation or listen to the mellow sound of jazz. Nicky Blaine's is a nightclub and lounge perfect for after-work relaxation or a weekend date destination.
3. The Slippery Noodle Inn
372 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis 46225, phone 317-631-6903
Established in 1850 and billed as Indiana's oldest bar, the Slippery Noodle features live blues and jazz, with two bands on two stages Friday and Saturday nights. Features nightly drink specials and a full-service menu. Located in a two-story brick building with a handful of outdoor tables covered by colorfully striped umbrellas.
4. Claddagh Irish Pub
234 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis 46225, phone 317-822-6274
Bringing a bit o' the Irish stateside, Claddagh's is a great place to gather with friends to eat, drink, and be merry (or drown your sorrows, depending on the occasion). Food service features Irish classics like fish 'n' chips and corned beef and cabbage rolls.
5. The Rathskellar
401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis 46204, phone 317-630-4652
Reminiscent of a lively beer hall in Munich, the Rathskeller's Kellerbar features 12 imported draft beers and over 50 imported bottled beers, and hosts some of Indy's best bands. The outdoor Biergarten, with a walk-up, full-service bar and gourmet pub-style food, is one of Indy's hottest spots to be during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
6. Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery
10 W. Washington St., Indianapolis 46204, phone 317-681-8180
The beer served here is brewed right on the premises, and you can watch the process in action. A basement level features big-screen TVs, pool tables, Nintendo Wii, and more to keep patrons happily entertained. American fare satisfies the munchies.
7. Working Man's Friend Tavern
234 N. Belmont Ave., Indianapolis 46222, phone 317-636-2067
You won't find Happy Meals (or kids) here. This unassuming downtown establishment is known for serving mean double cheeseburgers, onion rings, and frothy beer to a weary workforce.
8. The Ale Emporium
8617 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis 46250 phone 317-842-1333
Located behind Castleton Square in the strip mall at the corner of 86th Street and Allisonville Road, the Ale Emporium offers over 100 domestic and imported beers, plus billiards, live entertainment, and an arcade.
9. Jillian's
141 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis 46225, phone 317-822-9300
Offers food and drink, games and bowling, sports viewing, and live music on weekends. Family-friendly except after 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, when guests must be 21 or over.
10. The Spot
6155 E. 86th St., Indianapolis 46250, phone 317-842-0252
A casual sports and billiards venue with 96-inch projection screens, oversized plasma screens, and outdoor seating.
11. Blue Crew Sports Grill
7035 E. 96th St., Indianapolis 46250, phone 317-536-8282
The place for Indianapolis Colts fans, the parking lot features a 1970 Mack Fire Truck painted in blue and white and the interior is brimming with Colts memorabilia, not to mention that games are featured on three huge screens. Daily drink specials; food; family-friendly.
