One of my favorite things about living in Indianapolis is how much the city comes alive when the weather warms up. Whether it’s brunch on the canal, dinner under string lights in Broad Ripple, or a sunset cocktail with skyline views, our outdoor dining scene is one of the best in the Midwest. If you’re looking for new patios and rooftops to explore, here are some of the top outdoor dining destinations that locals and visitors alike love right now.
Key Takeaways
- Explore Indianapolis’s best restaurants with patios and rooftop views.
- Find options for every mood — from upscale to casual hangouts.
- Learn which neighborhoods are known for their outdoor dining.
- Discover new favorites that make Indy’s food scene truly special.
Downtown Indianapolis: City Views and Flavorful Bites
Downtown is home to some of the most recognizable restaurants in Indianapolis — and many of them feature fantastic outdoor seating. From rooftop bars to bustling patios along Mass Ave, these spots capture the city’s energy and skyline charm.
Why Downtown Patios Stand Out
- The Eagle – Famous for fried chicken and craft cocktails, this Mass Ave favorite offers open-air seating and a lively atmosphere.
- Livery – A Latin-inspired restaurant housed in a historic building, with two levels of outdoor dining and a rooftop that’s perfect for summer evenings.
- Tavern on South – Classic American cuisine and skyline views from its elevated terrace near Lucas Oil Stadium.
- The Tap – A downtown go-to for craft beer lovers, with patio tables ideal for a casual night out.
- Astrea – Located at the InterContinental Hotel on Market Street, this new rooftop restaurant offers modern plates and sleek city views.
- Cannon Ball Lounge – Perched atop Hotel Indy, this chic indoor-outdoor rooftop bar combines stylish design with signature cocktails.
Downtown patios pair the best of Indy’s food culture with the pulse of city life — ideal for anyone who loves a little buzz with their meal.
Broad Ripple: Riverside Dining and Neighborhood Charm
Broad Ripple remains one of Indianapolis’s most iconic neighborhoods for food, music, and nightlife. Its relaxed canal-side setting and creative restaurants make it a favorite for locals who love casual, scenic dining.
Top Broad Ripple Patios to Visit
- Canal Bistro – A longtime neighborhood staple serving Mediterranean dishes beside the Broad Ripple Canal.
- Flatwater Restaurant – Known for seafood, burgers, and one of the best decks in the city, right on the canal.
- Half Liter BBQ – A beer garden–style space just off the Monon Trail offering smoked meats, live music, and picnic tables under the trees.
These laid-back restaurants reflect what Broad Ripple is all about — great food, local flavor, and an easygoing vibe that keeps people coming back.
Fountain Square and Fletcher Place: Creative Eats with a View
Artistic, eclectic, and full of energy, Fountain Square is one of Indy’s most dynamic dining neighborhoods. Many of its restaurants combine creative menus with open-air spaces that make every meal an experience.
Where to Eat Outdoors in Fountain Square and Fletcher Place
- Rooftop Garden at Fountain Square Theatre – A vintage-style rooftop bar with stunning views of the historic square.
- La Margarita (501 Virginia Ave) – A local favorite offering authentic Mexican cuisine and margaritas on a colorful patio in Fletcher Place.
- Bluebeard – A James Beard–nominated restaurant with a rustic courtyard surrounded by greenery.
- The Inferno Room – A tiki bar with outdoor seating that feels like a mini tropical escape.
- Upland Brewing Co. (Fountain Square) – A lively spot with a spacious patio, craft beer, and elevated pub fare.
These venues combine the creativity of the neighborhood with the best parts of Indy’s outdoor dining culture — relaxed, unique, and full of flavor.
Northside Neighborhoods: Relaxed and Refined Dining
If you head north toward SoBro, Meridian-Kessler, and Nora, you’ll find local favorites perfect for brunch, family dinners, or quiet evenings with friends.
Must-Try Northside Patios
- Cafe Patachou – Beloved for its breakfast and lunch menus, with several locations featuring sun-soaked patios.
- Meridian Restaurant & Bar – A refined restaurant surrounded by trees on North Meridian Street, offering elegant outdoor dining.
- Field Brewing (Westfield) – A modern brewery with an expansive outdoor beer garden and family-friendly environment.
- Rick’s Café Boatyard (Eagle Creek Reservoir) – A westside landmark offering seafood and lake views from its waterfront patio.
Each of these spots shows off Indy’s everyday charm — comfortable, friendly, and full of personality.
Beyond the City: Elegant Escapes Near Indianapolis
For a quieter, more romantic dining experience, explore destinations just outside the city that combine exceptional food with beautiful settings.
Outdoor Dining Worth the Drive
- Auberge Restaurant & Bar (Zionsville) – French-inspired fine dining on a serene garden patio at the Brick Street Inn.
- Field Brewing (Westfield) – Worth a second mention for its inviting outdoor space and locally brewed beer.
- Rick’s Café Boatyard (Eagle Creek) – Ideal for waterfront dining just a short drive from downtown Indianapolis.
These destinations are perfect for special occasions, Sunday brunches, or evenings when you just want to unwind and savor a great meal in the open air.
FAQs
Which Indianapolis neighborhoods have the best outdoor dining?
Downtown, Broad Ripple, and Fountain Square offer the best variety, from casual canal-side patios to high-end rooftop restaurants.
Are these restaurants open year-round?
Most operate seasonally, typically from spring through early fall, but many now offer heaters and covered patios to extend outdoor dining into cooler months.
Do luxury restaurants in Indianapolis have outdoor seating?
Yes, several upscale venues — including Meridian Restaurant, Livery, and Auberge Restaurant — provide elegant open-air dining options.
Contact Me Today
One of the best parts of living in Indianapolis is how easily you can pair good food with great company outdoors. Whether you prefer riverside views, rooftop dining, or hidden garden patios, our city offers endless ways to enjoy a meal al fresco.
Reach out to me at Corner Lot Real Estate, and let’s find a home that puts you near your favorite restaurants and entertainment spots. From lively downtown living to peaceful neighborhoods close to local favorites, I’ll help you find the perfect place to call home in Indianapolis.
*Header photo by Niki Sheck at Corner Lot Real Estate
Reach out to me at Corner Lot Real Estate, and let’s find a home that puts you near your favorite restaurants and entertainment spots. From lively downtown living to peaceful neighborhoods close to local favorites, I’ll help you find the perfect place to call home in Indianapolis.
*Header photo by Niki Sheck at Corner Lot Real Estate
