Date Night Drinks: Indy’s Most Romantic Cocktail Bars

When it comes to your next date night, take the pressure off by passing on dinner reservations and meeting up at one of Indianapolis’ most romantic bars.

“Let’s grab a drink” is one of the most common phrases in all of dating. And, for good reason! Meeting up at a bar is low key and quick if it needs to be; but, also a great place to settle in for another round if things are going great. No matter if it’s a first date or a celebratory anniversary, an intimate, chic bar is the perfect spot to get into the mood. 

So, where in Indianapolis can you go that is a sure thing when looking for romance? Don’t worry. We know just the place to take that special someone.

Plat 99

A true delight to your senses, Plat 99 serves up inventive cocktails while guests are surrounded by vibrant glass lanterns and floor to ceiling city views. They also have one of the best bar snacks: Truffle popcorn. Be sure to take a walk around the Alexander Hotel to experience the exciting art on display and within the hotel’s design. And, for a more hands on date, check out their “Pour and Play” cocktail making experiences.

333 South Delaware St., Indianapolis

Sundry and Vice

If dark and moody is your vibe you will love Sundry and Vice, right off the lobby of The Bottleworks Hotel. Keeping with the chic, art deco design of the Bottleworks District, Sundry and Vice offers low lit spaces and velvet couches mixed with worn leather seats perfect for slipping into good conversation while the menu boasts unique seasonal concoctions and classic favorites.

850 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 103 Indianapolis

Sundry and Vice can also be found in Cincinnati.

Cannonball Lounge

Home to not just one of the best views downtown, Cannonball Lounge mixes sophistication and play in its story, decor, and cocktails. Named after a daring motorcyclist, Cannonball Lounge plays with textures and chic color that sparkles off a ginormous, glittering disco ball. The best part? The cocktails and light bites are just as creative.

141 East Washington St., Indianapolis

Mel’s at Commission Row

Like a true speakeasy, nestled right beneath popular steakhouse Commission Row, Mel’s is the place for starting–or capping off– the night. Relax in plush seating or grab a spot at the stunning bar as you imbibe in the wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails with your loved one.

110 S Delaware St., Indianapolis 

1933 Lounge

Warm, dark, Speakeasy style romance is easily achieved at 1933 Lounge thanks to large leather seats and inviting fireplaces. We are partial to the original above downtown’s St. Elmo, but you can get the vintage vibes, extensive bar offerings, and even classic St. Elmo menu items like Shrimp Cocktail at their locations in Fishers and Carmel (opening Spring 2025).

Downtown: 127 S. Illinois St., Indianapolis

Fishers: 9707 District North Drive, Suite 1120 Fishers

Petite Chou 

For supreme romance, head to a place that makes you feel like you’re in the City of Love. Petite Chou is a dimly lit, intimate French bistro-inspired champagne bar in Broad Ripple that offers a full menu, but also a perfect place to get a drink from their classic cocktail menu and extensive champagne selection. Nothing is more sensory than bubbles with a bubbling romance.

823 Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis

Ball and Biscuit

Step back in time with your date at Mass Ave’s Ball and Biscuit. Sip on their prohibition-style cocktails as the exposed brick and flickering candlelight set the mood. The vintage elements are mixed with pieces that are very now on the menu, and the decor makes Ball and Biscuit perfect for celebrating your timeless love.

331 Massachusetts Ave., Indianapolis