Agave & Rye in Indianapolis: 30 Unique Tacos, Craft Cocktails, and Urban Vibes

Nestled in the vibrant downtown Indianapolis, Agave & Rye offers a dining experience that’s anything but typical. It’s a place where Mexican classics mingle with creative, cross-cultural dishes, resulting in a foodie experience that is not short on fun. 

Tequila and Bourbon Hall with Urban Vibes

“We want to create an escape for people,” shared Aaser Elsharkawy, General Manager for the Indianapolis location. 

“It’s an opportunity for them to take a break from their day, make positive memories, and share a meal with loved ones,” added Elsharkawy. 

It’s this approach that sets Agave & Rye apart. Though part of a growing chain, each location is designed to feel like a local gem, personalized and steeped in community. All of the artwork is authentic and you’ll notice the attention to detail immediately. Each of the artists came into the restaurants themselves to paint or install their artwork. 

Craft Cocktails Featuring Fresh-Squeezed Juices

Agave and Rye also boasts an impressive cocktail menu, with each drink crafted from fresh-squeezed juices. The OG Margarita is a crowd favorite, the perfect balance of tart and sweet, while the spicy pineapple margarita kicks things up a notch (the fresh pineapple takes it next- level.)

For those looking for a sweeter option, the Strawberry Bombshell is a must-try. Or go for the Bourbon Peach Punch, bourbon, peach juice, fresh ginger, ginger beer and fresh lime. Did we say fresh? 

Over 30 Tacos, Including Kangaroo Tacos

Agave & Rye’s menu changes twice a year, and the restaurant is always pushing boundaries with new flavors and innovative dishes. From the famous Birria Tacos, slow-cooked for eight hours, to the imaginative Birria Pizza and Mini Taco Flight (allowing guests to mix and match three mini tacos of their choice), Agave & Rye offers something for the adventurous palate. (Try The Big Thumper, peppercorn Kangaroo, mac n cheese beignets, roasted corn, sweet & spicy bacon crumble, green onion, habanero maple syrup, and queso.)

Even with 30 different taco combinations on the menu,it’s not just the food that keeps customers coming back—it’s the story behind each bite. 

“People love to know the story behind the food now. It’s more than just eating; it’s about the experience and the vibe,” Elsharkawy said.

Popular Dishes to Try

• Birria Tacos: Eight hour, slow-braised beef with guajillo chilies, oaxaca cheese, cilantro, onion, dipping consommé 
• The Alderman Taco: carne asada with corn salsa and cotija cheese. Classic.
• Elote: Cut from the cob corn (a stunning presentation including the cob) with cotija cheese, serrano aioli, tajin, cilantro, lime (cut from cob).
• Mac-n- Cheese Beignets: sweet & spicy bacon (it’s addictive), with habanero maple syrup.

“We want to bring something to the table that wasn’t easy,” says Elsharkawy.  “If it were easy, it wouldn’t be epic.”

*Photos Provided by Agave and Rye