Slippery Noodle Inn
Indiana's oldest bar since 1850, offering live blues music nightly, a historic atmosphere, and a diverse American menu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music nightly!
Slippery Noodle Inn
Best Time
Live music nightly!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Indiana's oldest bar since 1850, offering live blues music nightly, a historic atmosphere, and a diverse American menu.
"A true piece of American history packed with legendary blues music and character."
🎯 All Ages Welcome!
Don't let the 'bar' name fool you; it's family-friendly and great for all ages .
🎶 Check Music Schedule
Live blues every night! See who's playing before you go .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Blues Music
Experience the soulful sounds of live blues bands every night, a staple of this historic venue.
Historic Atmosphere
Step back in time in Indiana's oldest bar, filled with vintage charm and a rich history.
Famous Tenderloin Sandwich
Savor a Midwest classic at the Slippery Noodle Inn, a must-try for any visitor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Live Music & All-Ages Welcome
Menu Varies with Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 All Ages Welcome!
Don't let the 'bar' name fool you; it's family-friendly and great for all ages.
🎶 Check Music Schedule
Live blues every night! See who's playing before you go.
🍽️ Limited Menu Alert
On event nights, the menu might be limited to appetizers. Inquire beforehand [^Review].
💰 Cover Charge Possible
Some nights, especially with popular bands, there might be a cover charge [^Review].
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 All Ages Welcome!
Don't let the 'bar' name fool you; it's family-friendly and great for all ages.
🎶 Check Music Schedule
Live blues every night! See who's playing before you go.
🍽️ Limited Menu Alert
On event nights, the menu might be limited to appetizers. Inquire beforehand [^Review].
💰 Cover Charge Possible
Some nights, especially with popular bands, there might be a cover charge [^Review].
🚗 Parking Near Venue
Street parking can be tight; consider nearby garages for convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Slippery Noodle Inn for its historic atmosphere, nightly live blues music, and friendly, all-ages environment. The food, particularly the famous tenderloin sandwich and appetizers, is generally well-received, offering good value. However, some patrons have been disappointed by limited menus during special events without prior notification.
"Finally went here for a beer and a meal. Tried to visit this place during a Colts Home Game but didn’t get there early enough to truly experience the place.
Last night we stopped by for dinner. They have live music every night. I had their Chef Salad and a side of Onion Rings that we shared. My son ordered their wings with Spicy BBQ Sauce and some with Lemon Pepper. I tried the BBQ wings - very nicely done. The Onion Rings and Chef Salad were great.
Very nice food well made."
Hugh McLaughlin
"I've heard good things about this place, but my first (and last) time here was a disappointment. They often play live music, but my wife and I really just came for the food. We came on a Friday night, and they were charging a $5 cover per person, which was no big deal to us, as I know they probably pay the musicians. The part that annoyed me was that they didn't tell us at the door that they were only serving a limited menu that night, due to an event that was going on at Lucas Oil. We would have gone elsewhere for dinner before paying $10 to get in, had they told us that at the door. Felt like a bait and switch move, and I absolutely hate that feeling. The food we did get was ok, but nothing spectacular. Maybe their regular menu has better food, but we didn't get to see or try it. The menu they did offer was basically just appetizers."
Philip Sluka
"We stumbled upon this place while we were doing an overnight. What a gem 💎. Tje atmosphere was like going to an old friend's house. It was inviting and comfortable . The food was excellent. We had the spicy chicken sandwich, which was fantastic. The staff was welcoming and pleasant. It was an all-around enjoyable evening. It's definitely a must go place, you will be glad you went."
Claire Cantwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Slippery Noodle Inn is located in downtown Indianapolis. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking often available, though it can be competitive, especially on busy nights. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
While some street parking is available directly in front of the Slippery Noodle Inn, it fills up quickly. Several parking garages are located within a short walking distance, offering more reliable options, particularly during peak hours or events.
If you're staying in downtown Indianapolis, the Slippery Noodle Inn is often within walking distance of many hotels and attractions. It's a great way to experience the city's atmosphere before or after your visit.
Information regarding specific accessibility features can vary. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to inquire about ramps, accessible restrooms, and seating arrangements if needed.
For Colts games, arriving early is key due to high demand. Consider ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles, as the area around Lucas Oil Stadium and the Slippery Noodle Inn gets very crowded [^Review].
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you don't need tickets to enter the Slippery Noodle Inn. However, on nights with popular live music acts or special events, there might be a cover charge, which is typically paid at the door [^Review].
The Slippery Noodle Inn is typically open in the evenings, with live music often starting around 7 PM or later. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays or during special events.
Yes, there can be a cover charge on certain nights, particularly when there's live music. The amount can vary, so it's advisable to check their schedule or call ahead if you want to know the specific charge for the night you plan to visit [^Review].
Absolutely! The Slippery Noodle Inn is known for being an all-ages venue, making it a great spot for families. You can bring children to enjoy the atmosphere and music.
You can find information about upcoming events, including the live music schedule, on the Slippery Noodle Inn's official website and their social media pages. They often post updates on Facebook and Instagram.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Slippery Noodle Inn offers a diverse American menu. Popular items include their famous Tenderloin Sandwich, various appetizers like onion rings and wings, salads, and sandwiches. They also have specials that change regularly [^Review].
Many visitors rave about the Tenderloin Sandwich, a Midwest classic. Other popular choices include the BBQ wings, onion rings, and nachos [^Review]. The spicy chicken sandwich has also received high praise [^Review].
While the menu is primarily American fare, they do offer some options that can be adapted. Salads and appetizers like onion rings are typically available. It's best to inquire with your server about specific vegetarian or vegan choices [^Review].
Reservations are generally not required or accepted at the Slippery Noodle Inn, especially for casual dining. For larger groups or during peak times, it's advisable to arrive early or be prepared for a potential wait [^Review].
As Indiana's oldest bar, the Slippery Noodle Inn has a full bar with a selection of beers, wines, and spirits. They also offer specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages.
🎫 👻 Haunted History
Yes, the Slippery Noodle Inn is known for its paranormal activity and haunted history. It's been featured on paranormal shows, with reports of shadowy figures and unexplained sounds.
The Slippery Noodle Inn has a long and varied past, serving as a Civil War infirmary and a mob hangout. This rich history contributes to its reputation for eerie occurrences and ghost stories.
While not always advertised, behind-the-scenes tours have been offered, giving glimpses into the historic and potentially haunted areas of the inn.
Visitors and staff have reported various phenomena, including sightings of shadowy figures, unexplained noises, and a general sense of unease in certain areas of the building.
For some visitors, the haunted history is a significant draw, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their experience. It's a unique aspect that sets the Slippery Noodle Inn apart from other bars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with kids, consider arriving earlier in the evening before the crowds get too dense. While the menu offers classic American fare like sandwiches and appetizers that kids usually enjoy, it's always a good idea to check if any special events might limit the menu on the night of your visit [^Review]. The lively music and historic setting can be an engaging experience for younger visitors.
🎶 Music Lovers
The intimate setting allows for a close connection with the musicians, creating a truly immersive experience.Check their schedule in advance to see which bands are playing during your visit. Whether you're a seasoned blues aficionado or just looking for some great live entertainment, the Slippery Noodle Inn delivers a memorable night of music in a historic and atmospheric setting.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
This adds an intriguing layer to the visit, making it more than just a bar or restaurant.While official ghost tours aren't always available, the inherent atmosphere of the inn, combined with its history, provides plenty of spooky ambiance. Some visitors have even had the chance for behind-the-scenes glimpses into the inn's more mysterious areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1 This deep history is palpable as you walk through its doors, offering a unique connection to Indianapolis's past.Beyond its historical significance, the Slippery Noodle Inn has evolved into a beloved live music venue, particularly for blues music. The venue hosts bands almost every night, creating a vibrant and energetic environment. This blend of historical charm and contemporary entertainment makes it a dynamic destination for locals and tourists alike.
Recent explorations have even uncovered hidden rooms and passageways within the inn, hinting at further secrets from its long history.
These discoveries add to the allure, making a visit to the Slippery Noodle Inn not just a stop for a drink or a meal, but an immersion into a piece of American heritage.The Culinary Delights
Beyond the famous tenderloin, the menu features a variety of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. Popular choices include crispy onion rings, flavorful BBQ wings, and generous nachos [^Review]. For those seeking lighter options, the buffalo chicken salad is also a well-regarded choice, though some find the bleu cheese dressing a bit strong [^Review].
It's important to note that during special events or busy game days, the Slippery Noodle Inn may offer a limited menu, often focusing on appetizers [^Review]. While this can be a slight disappointment if you're set on a specific dish, it's a common practice for venues managing high crowds. Always a good idea to confirm the menu availability if you have specific dining plans.
The Paranormal Pulse
Its long and varied past, including stints as a Civil War infirmary and a mob hangout, has fueled numerous ghost stories and unexplained occurrences. This spectral reputation adds a unique thrill for those interested in the supernatural.Reports from visitors and staff include sightings of shadowy figures, unexplained noises, and a general sense of unease in certain parts of the building.
These accounts have even led to the venue being featured in paranormal investigations and media.While the paranormal aspect might not be the primary reason for everyone's visit, it certainly adds to the mystique of the Slippery Noodle Inn. For those who enjoy a good ghost story or a touch of the unexplained, the inn offers an intriguing experience beyond its culinary and musical offerings.
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