Same as the Ram, just a different name: good beer brewed on premises, but the dinners are uninspired, flat, bland, and cost more than they’re worth. Outdoor seating on the wide Washington Street sidewalk, if you’re into people watching
Slippery Noodle Inn
Claim to fame: Indy’s oldest bar. It’s a fun spot for live blues and other kinds of music. They serve dinners, but don’t quit the night job. Other claim to fame: one of the few places I have been utterly, embarrassingly smashed. At least I have a Jägermeister t-shirt to show for it.
Shapiro’s Deli
One of the Indianapolis institutions. Deli sandwiches piled higher than your mouth is able to open. Soup, bread, and whatnot. Count on a noisy, busy experience, but that’s the point
Aesop’s Tables
Bright, cafe-like atmosphere. The food is fairly good, though the staff can seem a bit stand-offish. Outdoor dining is fun in warm weather, especially if you’re on a debatable first date.
Mikado Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Some of the best expensive sushi in the city. Downrated because of extraordinary cost, however
Hard Times Cafe
Chili is acceptable (I’d suggest the Texas-style), but make sure your server understands you when you specify “tenderfoot”.
Hard Rock Cafe
You pay for the name, not the food. Well, you pay for the food, but you pay way too much.
Fountain Diner
Traditional ‘50s-style diner with authentic vintage decor; greasy spoon, yes, but fun nevertheless. Hot the duckpin bowling alleys next door or go swing dancing at the Fountain Square Theater when you’re done with dinner.
Crawford’s Bakery & Deli
How can you go wrong with a bakery situated across the street from both a hospital and a fire station? Some of the happiest brides in Indy have shoved Crawford’s cake into their grooms’ faces…what a waste of excellent cake!
