The Brass Ring Lounge

436 reviews

1245 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203

www.thebrassringlounge.com

+13176357464

About

The Brass Ring Lounge is a Bar located at 1245 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203. It has received 436 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday4PM-3AM
Tuesday4PM-3AM
Wednesday4PM-3AM
Thursday4PM-3AM
Friday4PM-3AM
Saturday4PM-3AM
Sunday4PM-3AM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of The Brass Ring Lounge: 1245 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN 46203

  • The Brass Ring Lounge has 4.3 stars from 436 reviews

  • Bar

  • "I used to hang out here frequently, but stopped going after a weird incident with one of the bartenders"

    "Tried to get a menu for over an hour; went to pay for the one drink I got for my friend who dragged me there"

    "Last night about 40 of our friends went to the Brass Ring Lounge after we left a wedding"

    "I love the Ring! I've been coming for years, but I moved up to Michigan 2 years ago and I haven't been here since"

    "By far one of my favorite places to go in fountain square, and always the most common weekend get together place for my friends and myself"

Reviews

  • John Vardaman

I used to hang out here frequently, but stopped going after a weird incident with one of the bartenders. My girlfriend and I were sitting at the bar, and we both went out to the side of the building so I could smoke. This had never been a problem during any of my numerous past visits, but it was that night. The bartender poked her head out of the door, spotted us, and promptly returned with our checks before we could go back inside. I'd literally been drinking there about once a week for half a year with zero problems, and she told me she didn't want me to run out on my bill. I spoke to her and let her know (very amicably) that I thought what she had done was a little rude, but that just made her angry. We paid our bills, left, and I've only been back once since then. Other than the uncomfortable interaction, I really liked hanging out there. The drinks are affordable and the crowds usually aren't wild. All of the food I tried was yummy. It does get really crowded inside during peak hours, so that's worth keeping in mind if you don't like feeling squished.

  • Geoff Hibbert

Tried to get a menu for over an hour; went to pay for the one drink I got for my friend who dragged me there. While paying, I try to ask for a menu one last time and got told that, "next time, don't be so rude and maybe things will go better." Confused and stone-cold sober I tried to make sense of what was happening. Any questions for clarifications were met with more disrespect. I called their business phone number to try to make sense with a manager or owner and I'm told I can email my complaint and pushed off with a sardonic "take it easy" followed by them hanging up on me. Unsatisfied with their belligerence, I received 5 more calls later that night, from 4 to 5 AM, where they pretended to be women from other local bars who wanted to "hook up" with me, while giggling at their epic pranks. Either they are obsessed or possessed, perhaps both; gave me plenty reason to never come back.

  • Larry Sims

Last night about 40 of our friends went to the Brass Ring Lounge after we left a wedding. The seating and bar were great; however, one server was extremely rude, which really changed the how I felt about the whole experience. The server is petite, has dark brown hair, and wears large-framed black glasses. A previous customer had upset her, but she took it out on me when I was talking to her. She held up her hand in my face and cut me off mid-sentence. I really wanted to leave, but I didn't want to mess with the bride and groom's happy night. Later on, the bride witnessed the same server being rude to her cousin, and the server actually made her cousin cry. Then I felt like I could tell her what had happened to me. I know bartenders have to deal with crappy situations, but they don't have to take it on other customers, especially on such an important night for people.

  • Bushman Music Works

I love the Ring! I've been coming for years, but I moved up to Michigan 2 years ago and I haven't been here since. I came back to Indy tonight for the holiday weekend and went to the legendary Slippery Noodle where I experienced the worst service in my life. A male bartender there with glasses and tattoos was terrible. You can imagine the joy I felt when I walked into the Brass Ring and right away a beautiful bartender named Becca asked me what I'd like to order. Then she asked my name and made me feel like I belong. That's what I love - The Ring always makes you feel like you matter. I ordered the margarita pizza and it was the best I've had anywhere, and it came out in just a few minutes. It's shocking how they can do such a good job - the service and quality here is second to none! Rock on Ring!

  • Sochi

By far one of my favorite places to go in fountain square, and always the most common weekend get together place for my friends and myself. The service is almost always great, even when they're busy. They have a great atmosphere, with nice music playing and inside there is always some sort of silent movie playing which just adds a nice ambiance to the place. Drinks are done well every time and not terribly priced. And they have what I would consider to be some of the best bar food around that part of town. Which if you're looking for something to try there, I always recommend the taco pizza. Thin crust with a nice flavor to it, and it is probably made for 2 people to share, but I'll eat the entire thing by myself no problem.

  • Justin Allen

This weekend I had the pleasure of receiving some of the worst customer service I've ever seen, courtesy of the bartender at Brass Ring. My friends and I have been (or should I say were?) quasi-regulars of the Brass Ring for the past several years. Always had a decent experience and were treated well. After Saturday, I won't be back. Scrolling through these other Google Reviews, it looks like my experience was par for the course for this place. I would give this bar 1 star, but it gets 2 stars for the manager's handling of the situation.

  • Lisa Propes

I have been here a few times. The first couple of times were alright, but the prices are a little high. Tables are small, chairs are uncomfortable, and space is very limited. The last few times I been, the service was terrible, snooty waitresses etc...food wait time was unreal too! The place is usually busy and close knit and a waitress told someone in our party that he walked too close to her, hahaha!!! Lastly, 9 of us ordered food, only one person got something spicy, turned out all of our food was spicy as hell!!!

  • Mark Hatch

Saw the great reviews, and was disappointed. Granted I stopped by around 7:30 on a Friday, not exactly prime time but not a bad time, and it was dead. Ordered an old fashioned, and its was probably a 1.5 or a 2 on a scale of 5 and cost $8. I've had a better old fashioned at chain restaurants. The only way I'd try this place again is if it was later, I was with a group of friends, and already 2 sheets to the wind. Would probably stick to the cheap beers (high life, busch light, etc) which they have in their coolers.

  • Fredrick Miller

Nice atmosphere and prices but some of the staff can be overly “helpful”. While drink the first drink of the night with friends one of the servers stopped and asked if we needed another. We all looked and decided we were fine. No more than 5 minutes later, they were back asking. Another 5 minutes, another visit. The bar wasn’t busy so it wasn’t as if we were occupying a table that others had wanted to use. It felt like we were being rushed to buy more or get out. Not the best feeling for your local watering hole.

  • Kenan Alibegovic

Great people, employees, and vibes, but I was actually disappointed by a lot of the drinks they mixed, like their Moscow Mule I got was more lime juice and vodka. A couple other buddies had issues with their drinks too, but the lemon drop shots we had made up for it. Recommend trying it if you're in the area, but just cautious approach of their mixed drinks.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

  • Jesse Felmy

I've been going to The Ring for a loooong time. Jesse, not me, is a staple for that place and it would not be the same without him. It usually has a lot of interesting people to talk to and has free parking. The vibe is small speakeasy, jazz music, and actually plays old school movies on a TV. Since its such a small place it can get pretty loud and crowded at times. This usually is combated in the warmer months when outside seating opens up.

  • Theodore Madren

Definitely one of my favorite bars in Indiana. All of the staff is attentive, hard-working, and kind. I always feel welcome. Great selection of liquor.
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
There's a nicely sized lot connected to the building and a larger lot directly behind the bar.

  • NuKe Grimm

Love em, give em all your money, you don't really need it and they do. Think about it, money is the root of all evil so you should get rid of yours just as fast as you can and the best way to accomplish that goal is to go to the Brass Ring, order a boatload of alcoholic beverages, and then give all your money to the nice folks here who definitely won't spend it on witchcraft to open a demon dimension

  • Christina Hunt-Schubnell

Too many times I have picked up from this location alone! STILL serving drinks to already over-intoxicated individuals I might add. Not very friendly staff AT ALL. They over-serve individuals who eventually end up over drinking and take no responsibility in over-intoxicating patrons. Many of them who drove there. All this place cares about it making money, not at all about the people they serve.

  • Dale Rardon

The bartender is rude, rude , rude. Maybe if was wearing my little sisters pants and wasn't with a real woman she may have been more pleasant but, I doubt it. I made sure she heard me tell her exactly how I thought of her and the treatment my friends and I before we left. Unless you're a hipster, don't go here. If you like this place, I hate you.

  • George Dante

Still around and kicking after the pandemic. Great drinks. Great staff. Great prices. Good atmosphere that has remained consistent throughout the years. One of the few places in Indy that my queer friends feel completely safe (which I think is positive and reflects well on the staff and clientele). Get the Sidecar. Tip well. Rinse and repeat.

  • Tina Mahurin

I am a local in the area and have never visited this particular venue. No high expectations and we just stopped in for a drink, but would like to have been more impressed however I was not. Everything just looks kind of old and tired. I will add that our server was absolutely amazing but she deserves more than this. Great location however ..

  • Kellsey J

This is one of my favorite bars in Fountain Square but I'm giving 3 stars because the last two times I have been there with friends our server was so rude (different server each time). We are all former servers/bartenders and were taken aback by the attitude we encountered. Hoping the next time we go the experience is better.

  • Trevor Black

Staff was great! Went on a Thursday night so wasn't busy at all. Food is pretty good and drinks even better. All the bartenders here are fun and fast. As for prices, it's your typical cocktail/beer prices. Domestic selections were good as well as craft beers. Highly reccomend for a quick and easy night out with some friends.

  • Johnny M.

Rude staff. Because me and my friends weren't regulars, we were treated rudely. Waitress was prejudiced based on how we were dressed, assuming that one of us in our group drove up in mommy and daddy's BMW, basically saying we were too preppy for this hole in the wall. We will never go back to this bar.

  • Clare Cashen

Cool 60's vibe usually sporting a retro movie on the TV's. Good beer and cool patio, the front opens up in the summer to let in the warm weather. Tasty appetizers for late night snacking. Usually crowded on weekend nights, so be prepared to wait for a table or stand. Serving staff is always very nice.

  • Jama Bradfield

Fantastic Gin and Tonics! The food was great as well. Tried the Korean slider. Nice ambiance. Great for 'off the party strip' people who want drinks and casual feel without the chaos. Onsite parking is limited but found a spot no problem. Staff was helpful and friendly. My go-to in FS.

  • Drew Stewart

Great service, awesome drinks, the food is trash. Get the drinks here, definitely eat somewhere else in fountain square. Luckily, our bartender was great and made the experience a wonderful time.
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 1
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • V Mason

Unwelcoming place. Came in during the early afternoon, place was empty except for a few people sitting at the bar. My friend had ice cream and they told us very rudely we needed to take it off the premises and leave. We were ready to order food and drinks absolutely ridiculous.

  • Kelli Burdine

Great cocktails! I had a ginito? I'm not sure if that is spelled correctly but it is gin in a mojito without the spearmint. Pretty good. I'd never had ginger liqueur before but I definitely like it. Service was great and the bartender was chatty and friendly. Good experience!

  • Autumn Storm

Room temp beer, room temp water, they charge a 2.99% "Customer service" charge if you use a credit/debit card they don't tell you about prior to running your card? So by the time you realize it's too late to change your method of payment. Service is mediocre. Queso was runny.

  • Sarah Molen

My favorite bar. Comfortable. Chill. Lovely staff, strong affordable drinks, and classic movies always playing. I love this place so much.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Warm Spinach & Artichoke

  • stacy perrigo

I love the vibe, the art deco decor, the silent black and white movies playing, the slightly jazzy music and the friendly staff. The menu is now more limited than before but if you are just wanting a couple of drinks in a swanky, quiet place, The Brass Ring fits the bill.

  • Googlicious Bytes

Can't Believe This Was My 1st Time Here...It's A Hidden Gem W/Basic Decor Outside But Kinda Chic Inside. The Staff R Super Attentive & Friendly, Food Is Tasty, Full Bar & Just A'lil Pricey - Not A Gr8 View But W/The Rite Co Or A Good Book U Won't Notice …

  • Waddell Hamer

Damn good cocktails, and great prices! It tries to be an older classic atmosphere, but while falling short on that, it overall makes you feel very comfortable. The patio space is wonderful! And the food is very solid. I always love it there! I need to go more!

  • Chase Harker

Great late night drink spot. I went there on a Sunday night so it wasn’t very busy. Bar tenders are very friendly and made good conversation. The 50s/60s style music playing creates the perfect chill atmosphere. Love this place. Definitely going to come back.

  • Sue Ellen Potter

Great unique bar! New outside sign!! They play Frank Sinatra music and they show old movies on the TVs! The food menu is varied and very good! The drinks are good and affordable!! Great later night crowd!!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Austin Hanebutt

I had a wonderful time at the Brass Ring! I will definitely be coming back. My bartender Meggan was incredibly nice and helpful. I highly encourage anyone in the area considering a drink to stop in and experience the wonderful aura of this bar.

  • Clayman083

I have been here many times and went there after a long night at work and had my drink snatched out of my hand by the DRUNK OWNER who thought his farts smelled like roses. This saddens me because the foor is delicious but I will NEVER go

  • Eric Graul

It was nice. My wife lost her I.D. and credit card and someone was nice enough to turn them in to the bartender instead of steal them so it's got that going on for it. Its a good place to enjoy an old fashioned and watch some TCM, too.

  • Amber Von Arb

Really nice atmosphere but the drinks are very low quality. Ordered a classic daquiri and there was zero trace of lime. My partner ordered a Rob Roy and the whiskey appeared to be Five Star, which is trash. Very disappointed.

  • Chris Osborne

Great whiskey selection. The bartenders are fun, friendly and know their craft. Fun speakeasy vibe. Will be back. I had a Sazerac and it was great!
Price per person
$10–20
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • W.T. S.

Underrated bar in fountain square, really good food and drinks at really good prices, my only gripe is that it can be just a little too dark inside. Nice patio and they open the doors to the building in the summer.

  • Jared Tennant

We went there at like 11:30 at night on a Thursday with a local friend and the ambiance here was awesome! Very art deco 1930's feel. Great lighting and the staff there were very nice! Would love to come back here!

  • Jordan Bowling

Kitchen staff can sling some food no problem. The Vegan Nachos are amazing, and I am not vegan or vegetarian. I heard they refuse to hire a male bartender though. That is the only reason they no make-a five stars.

  • Dr. William Starsiak

Very cool spot. I've seen Andrew Luck hanging out there before and everyone's just chill, people aren't going crazy going up to him. That gives you an idea of the sort of crowd. Great drinks and pretty nice menu

  • Robert Tracy

My friend and I love this little place. Very Subdued and when the weather is nice the front two garage doors can open up to the night air and a view of the street. They do have food. Eat drink and be merry!!

  • Courtney Benjamin

Such a cute little bar. The staff is very very friendly and welcoming!! Came here after being mistreated by Imbibe staff & will definitely be back!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Brittani Stewart

Comfortable place with great music and a cool vibe
Price per person
$10–20
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot

  • Ali Lindgren

Great spot in fountain square! They have been doing the speak easy style for over 15 years and it’s a very fun and relaxing environment. The staff is attentive, enjoyable, and quick! Great bar food!

  • Kerrigan J

The Brass Ring is one of the most popular vintage, bars in Fountain Square. Just off of dtwn, it's one of my favorite places to go. I always get the Love drink, perfect way to start or end a night.

  • Melissa Schaefer

This could possibly be a nice spot for drinks, but we went with the only intention of trying out the food. It was not good at all, definitely tasted like cheap canned food heated up in a microwave.

  • Agathe M

Went here on a Sunday night. It wasn’t crowded (just like I like). Tried a couple of cocktails & even got some foods. I like the ambiance and the vibes. The bartenders were great: they helped me

  • Andrew Malott

Fountain Square staple. Great drinks (cocktails, local beer on tap, and cheap cans). Selection of food is good too. Aphrodite potato skins, chicken cacciatore, and Gabby wrap are some favorites.

  • David Locascio

Pretty great late night food options. Drinks are solid and inexpensive. Pretty sure the waitstaff purposefully puts on a “too good for you” attitude and I guess that’s part of the fun?

  • Danielle Wrightsman

I know it's not the Lounges fault directly, but I was pick-pocketed here :( any place that attracts that kind of crowd is not high on my list. The Garden Pizza however, was delicious!

  • Nathan Burgdorf

Great drinks, service can be a little slow during peak times, but that's to be expected. The food is simple but very tasty! It is one of my "must go" bars when I'm in Fountain Square!

  • Daniel S

Great bar/lounge. Awesome music and atmosphere, fun bartenders, strong drinks, lots of bar food to choose from. Definitely a classic bar that makes for a great hang out with friends.

  • Katie Yang

One of my favorite spots! The staff are great and treat you like family once they see you a time or two. Exceptional bar food with some vegan options and affordable drinks. Love!!!

  • A J

The Brass Ring is the best. One of my favorite bars. Friendly wait staff, excellent drinks, and nice ambiance. Reasonably priced. Great place to go before a show at the HiFi!

  • Jacob Bower-Bir

The cocktails aren't always well-made, but they'll try until they get it right. And anyway, the drinks are cheap. Open daily until 3am. Diverse crowd. Cool people and place.

  • Tony Musgrave

1st visit with a few friends. A couple blocks to walk and you're there. The drinks were legit and the crowd was social. Would make a trip back next time in Fountain Square.

  • Todd Cameron H

Cool interior, decor made for cozy vibe. Good food at affordable prices. Megan was a very friendly and accommodating bar tender, and patrons were good company as well.

  • JP Fisher

Nice bar with pretty good bar food. Prices are fair. They have outside seating which provides a decent are to people watch. This is a T shirt and jeans kind of place.

  • Michael Lutin

The brass is always my go to spot in Fountain Square. It has great food, great drinks, and a super friendly staff. If your visiting town be sure to swing in!

  • Brittany Molen

Affordable drinks. A relaxing atmosphere during weeknights. Great bar food. The weekends can be a bit crowded. My drink: extra dirty martinis with Hendricks

  • Neil Nelson

Great bar, food, drink selection, atmosphere, and waitresses/bartenders. Tip well, treat the staff well, and you'll have am enjoyable experience here.

  • JP Drums

Wonderful spot to grab a drink and chill out for some good conversation. Not too loud or crazy.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Melinda Crusher

My friends and I come here nearly every Thursday. Marlena, especially is an incredible server. Drinks are good, atmosphere is casual and welcoming.

  • Danny Beyrer

One of my favorite bars in the city. Food options for most dietary restrictions, good cheap drink options, and they play big band swing music.

  • Danny Jorgenson

The food is light but really you should go to the ring for cocktails with strong pours. The atmosphere is cool and the staff is always nice

  • Danielle Lockhart

Adore this place! Feels like you are stepping back in time! Good drinks and fabulous meatball sliders! Wish we didn't live 30 min from it!!

  • Anna Dewitt

They charge $9 for a High Noon! If your looking for a good cheap dive bar go to Sams. What a rip off now, ask for prices before you buy.

  • Adrián Orozco

Great bar to enjoy a night with your friends or partner.
Price per person
$10–20
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Bryn Foreman

Great dive bar with the best bartenders ever. The owners can be pretty strange though, so try to come when they’re not around.

  • Phil Pettigrew

Great selection of Liquor and a cool inviting atmosphere. Great place to check out if you want something different.

  • Joe Witkowski

Always love this place. Great drinks and staff. Cozy and non-pretentious atmosphere. Affordable. Can't go wrong.

  • Megan

Delicious drinks and multiple options for vegan food. The atmosphere is warm and their hours are expansive.

  • lucas strang

A little place where you can go back in time and just enjoy your time there drinking beer or mixed drinks

  • Grace Dible

My favorite neighborhood bar! Good drinks. No frills. Great place to hang out and catch up with friends.

  • Kathryn

Lovely neighborhood bar Great atmosphere and friendly bartenders
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Mathew Igleheart

Nice quiet location for a good mixed drink. Great place for a one on one meet up.

  • D. Patrick Gavin

Great atmosphere I need to come here more often. The owners are cooler than cool

  • Kayo Owens

Cool spot to kick back. The staff is outstanding.

  • Rouge Solo

Great atmosphere!! Love the low lighting.

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