Social clubs are making a big comeback. In a world that seems to reject the ways of yesteryear, it is odd to imagine people craving the social habits of their parents or grandparents. Or does it? With a generation of young adults who have been electronically socialized, bona fide social interactions are nearing rock bottom. Folks want a place where everyone knows their names; they want to see old friends while meeting new ones, and they still want to have a place to get a hearty meal. And...and, dammit, adults want to drink alcohol and smoke while doing it. In Indianapolis, that place exists, and it is thriving. Welcome to the Antelope Club.
The Antelope Club has a long history in the city, with its first origins dating back to 1947. Being officially incorporated in 1956, the club moved into its current home in 1964. Managed and operated by Brad Klopfenstein, the club continues to make improvements in both facilities and offerings. When I asked Brad what he thought the public should know the Antelope Club, he gave me the "Oh, hell, where do I begin?" look. He quickly touted the friendly and welcoming nature of the club and its members (affectionately knows as "Lopers"), the wide variety of beers served, the "deep" whiskey selection, great food, and the cigar lounge. I agreed with him - all of those things are reasons why I am a member.
It is not difficult to become a member of the Antelope Club. All you need is to have the signatures of two members-in-good-standing, been born at least 21 years ago, and pay a measly $150. Once you've met those requirements, and the board approves your application, congratulations, you're a Loper. We're not a group of elitists; we don't care about your gender, what color you are, what religion you practice (or don't), with whom you go to bed, or your political persuasion. Just be yourself - unless you're a jerk...then you might see the door.
The Antelope Club is packed with amenities and activities. As aforementioned, the club has a great selection of everything alcoholic...and non-alcoholic. The food is fantastic, and Chef Vee prepares everything to absolute perfection. I think that his burgers, famous throughout the city, are second-to-none. He even prepares a special, foodie-approved dinner on Saturday nights. The prices on everything are unbelievably reasonable. The cigar lounge is my favorite aspect of the club. With a humidor packed with fine tobaccos, you'll never have to stock up. Plus, members are welcome to bring their own cigars (and pipes, in my case) to enjoy in the lounge, bar, or on the balcony. The club discourages smoking in the dining room and forbids it in the upstairs portion of the club. Accompanied minors are also allowed on the upper level.
The club holds a charity gaming license, and it offers several weekly cash drawings, Yahtzee, and pull tabs. Excluding the latter, gaming is for members only. Even if you lose, your money still goes to a good cause!
The Antelope Club is open to the public on weekdays from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM for lunch. This gives the prospective member a perfect chance to get to know the place.
Take a break from your electronic social life and head over to the Antelope Club. Once you're a Loper, you'll thank me. Pronk on! read more