ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

CHECKERED FLAG TAVERN

5725 W Morris St, Indianapolis

Bars League Feature: January 2026

Checkered Flag Tavern — a name built on decades of neighborhood loyalty and old-school tavern pride. Mentioned again and again in the fan poll, it represents the kind of lasting local identity The Bars League was built to celebrate.

Established 1947 • Indy's Five Star Dive Bar 

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

WHISKEY BENT BAR & GRILL

5250 E US Highway 36 , Avon

Bars League Feature: Upcoming July 2026

Whiskey Bent Bar & Grill has very strong support from Bars League fans.
Part neighborhood gathering place, part sports bar, and part live-music destination, Whiskey Bent has built a loyal following and an atmosphere that feels like home. 

Hendricks County Hotspot • Great Food

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

THE SLIPPERY NOODLE INN

372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis

The Slippery Noodle Inn continues to stand as one of Indiana’s most iconic bars, so it came as no surprise when Bars League fans repeatedly posted their support for them. Known for live blues, legendary history, and a downtown atmosphere that has welcomed generations of locals and visitors alike, the Noodle represents more than a night out — it's the cornerstone of Indianapolis bar tradition

Founded 1850 • Historic Indy Landmark

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

THE DUGOUT BAR

621 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis

The Dugout Bar earned repeated mentions from Bars League fans who still appreciate the kind of neighborhood tavern that doesn’t need flash to stay full. Known for cold beer, loyal regulars, and an unmistakably old-school Indianapolis feel, Dugout is the kind of place where generations have gathered to unwind, watch the game, and feel right at home. It remains one of those simple, timeless bars that locals continue to stand behind

Fountain Square Icon • Old-School Indy Favorite

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

THE PAWN SHOP PUB

2222 E 54th St, Indianapolis

The Pawn Shop Pub may not be the flashiest bar in Indianapolis, but that is exactly why so many Bars League fans continue to bring it up. Built on tradition, neighborhood loyalty, and an unmistakable family tavern atmosphere, Pawn Shop has carved out a reputation as being  one of the best pubs in the state - if not, the best. 

Good for what ales you • This Is Indy

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

THE KICKSTAND BAR & GRILL

81 North Washington Street, Danville

The Kickstand Bar & Grill kept showing up in the fan comments for one simple reason — people know it as a place where something is always going on. From cold drinks and great bar food to great live bands and a crowd that brings energy every night of the week, Kickstand has built a reputation as one of areas best good-time bars.

Great Crowd • Great Food • Great Music

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

CLAX SHACK

1795 E. US 40, Clayton

Clax Shack was one of the biggest surprises in the entire Bars League fan posts, stacking mention after mention from locals who clearly take pride in calling it their own. Known for good food, familiar faces, and a laid-back hometown atmosphere, Clax Shack is a great hometown bar —  built on community.

Small Town Bar • Big League Following

ELITE EIGHT SPOTLIGHT

SIDELINES SPORTS PUB

9283 East US Highway 36,  Avon

Sidelines Sports Pub kept surfacing in the Bars League fan poll because it has become one of the most dependable meeting spots for drinks, food, and game day crowds. Built around a loyal westside customer base, Sidelines represents the neighborhood sports bar done right.

Built for Game Days • More Than Sports