Tastes are quickly changing and the business is booming. Indianapolis, IN now ranks as the 15th top city in America for Breweries, clocking in with 55 breweries in the metro area.
If you’re planning a visit to Indianapolis, here are some options on each side of town to awaken your beer taste buds to some new craft beer! This is by no means a complete list but gives you plenty of choices for every palate.
Downtown:
Sun King Brewing Company – Sun King the second-largest beer brewer in the state of Indiana. They have grown enough to have both downtown and northside locations and are opening a third in Carmel this year.
Flat 12 Bierworks – Known for having a homey tasting room and great outdoor seating, the beer made here is also pretty great. They usually have 10-12 of their beers on tap at all times – including seasonal options and their classic offerings.
Fountain Square Brewery – Aside from brewing beer, there’s plenty of opportunities for local performers to take part in a local music showcase that happens every week. The brewery usually has 5-6 beers on tap at a time, plus $6 Sunday growler refills!
Two Deep Brewing – Specializing in malt-forward beers, this brewery & taproom is located just north of the Cultural Trail on the west side of Downtown near IUPUI. Known for their comfortable lounge-style taproom, they also serve local spirits – not just beer.
Chilly Water Brewing Company – This brewpub is a quiet favorite between the Mile Square and Fountain Square. Serving a menu of sandwiches, soups, wraps, hummus, and dips, you’ll also find live music on several occasions.
Cannon Ball Brewing Company – This place used to be a butcher shop, but it’s been restored to a brewery with a complete food menu to boot! In this off the beaten path location, you’ll find a small assortment of beers on tap with some unique flavors – Thai Basil Ginger or Mango Habanero, anyone?
North:
Deviate Brewing – Just outside of the 465 loop on the northwest side, you’ll find this little gem in a storefront. Deviate Brewery always has several types of beer with great names and interesting ingredients to try. The food’s not too shabby either!
Four Day Ray Brewing – Located downtown in the suburb of Fishers (just northeast of Indy), this brewery & restaurant is quickly making a name for itself. Yelp reviews say it is frequently busy (that’s good for business), so play accordingly if you’re making the trek to FDR.
East:
Black Acre Brewing – Just east of downtown in Irvington, Black Acre Brewing is a small batch brewery. The daily beer list is extensive and varied – usually including a few local guest taps. Their food menu is simple, mostly sandwiches and small appetizer plates.
Triton Brewing Company – On the northeast side of town, at Fort Benjamin Harrison, you’ll find this kid & pet-friendly brewery. With over 20 different brews on tap (Triton brews and guest brews) there’s one for every type of beer drinker. Food trucks are often on hand for fast snacks during your visit. Also check out their midtown location in Broad Ripple.
West:
Daredevil Brewing Company – Not far from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, you’ll find this taproom serving up “aggressively fun craft beers.” Their large beer selection is complemented with a simple food menu that sources from other local food companies.
Wabash Brewing – This nano-brewery is located on the Northwest side of town in an industrial office park. Fusing science and the art of brewing craft beer, this little gem keeps approximately 9 beers on tap. There are a few stools and places to put your beer, so the atmosphere is very relaxed. Most intriguing though, Wabash Brewing offers custom brews for events. Thinking about making a custom brew for a wedding or graduation? Wabash Brewing has you covered.
South:
Oaken Barrel Brewing Company – South of Indianapolis, in the suburb of Greenwood, is this must-visit brewpub. Their facility includes two bars, a banquet area, outside dining, plus a family section. While their beer selection is small (six standard options), the food menu complements the large food menu nicely.
Taxman Brewery – Taxman is a good drive south of Indianapolis in Bargersville, but it is well worth the journey. Their gastropub offers 24 beer taps and farm-to-table cuisine. Most beers are Belgian inspired, but there are options for every beer drinker.
Indianapolis’ food and brewery scene continues to grow. There are enough breweries in Indianapolis that even the most seasoned beer drinkers will never be bored. Next time you’re in the area, give one of these a try!
