I heard of Dorman's through a group of friends and I wanted to go check it out. I love a dive bar so this is right up my alley. Super casual and lowkey spot where music is playing and sports are on the tv. Plenty of seating whether it's at the bar or at a table. I honestly appreciate the prices too because in this day and age, getting a simple drink at some spots is starting to cost way too much. The service was great, spot was a little dead but it was early in the day and the Bartender was nice and attentive. Overall, would love to come here again with a friend group for a chill day drinking moment. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Carded at the door - this dive bar delivers! It's got a true neighborhood vibe and a surprisingly large selection of drinks. Servers were all great. We had hoped to play darts but our timing was poor and the line was long. We're coming back. read more

Spent an afternoon at Dorman Street Saloon, which feels like a dive bar tucked into a converted old house in the best possible way. It has that lived-in charm that does not try too hard, and it works. They have a coin-operated pool table that only costs a quarter, which feels like a small miracle. We got there early in the evening and managed to play a few rounds before anyone else showed up. Eventually, a stranger joined us. He turned out to be a super friendly guy, a teacher, who rotated in and played a few games with us. One of those easy and low key interactions that makes a place feel like a neighborhood bar. Drinks were inexpensive, the atmosphere was exactly what you want from a dive bar, and the whole experience felt unpretentious and welcoming. Definitely a spot I would return to. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Quarter table - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I'm so delighted that a date with an alluring local brought me here. This is a dive bar person's dive bar...with the addition of drinks and taps that are WAY better than most dive bars! They have pool, they have a juke box, they have people sloppily making out, they have humble ambiance. So glad I got to come here, I will be back next time I'm in Indy! read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Pool table - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This place is a great throwback with an excellent selection of beers and spirits. Haley was an exceptional bartender with an extensive knowledge of the available beers. Her service and the atmosphere made my visit most enjoyable. Pool is cheap, and the vibe is welcoming. I will go back for another round. read more

Some things just get better with age, and Dorman Street is no exception. When I first wrote a review eight years ago, my one complaint was about food, and looking back on it, I have no idea what I was talking about. I DREAM about that mac 'n cheese. When dive bars across the city have been collapsing to be replaced by gastropubs, Dorman Street has held strong, and I'm so grateful for it. This spot has had a watering hole pretty consistently for over a century, and Dorman Street honors that legacy with the best mix of retro and contemporary. The staff seems to know everyone that walks in the door even if they haven't met them before, and I bet they could guess their drink of choice on scent. Every neighborhood deserves a bar like Dorman Street, but they don't all have one. read more

Fun environment, great menu of snacks that pair well with cheap beer. Bartenders are generally pretty quick and friendly. Had one okay experience with a somewhat rude bartender but I haven't see her working there in at least a year so it seems her rudeness was possibly recognized by management. read more

Dorman is great. It's one of the most comfortable, chill, competent bars in the city. The bar program now is cooler than ever, thanks to a bevy of Malort-focused cocktails. The booze selection is deep and cool, the jukebox is epic, and both the indoor and the outdoor spaces are great. Had a bad experience once lately, but I can chalk that up to a bad night. The staff in general are super kind and knowledgeable. Just don't turn my Moz dow read more

I have no idea why it took me so long to visit this place! I knew where it was, heard all the good things about it, and it took my friends suggesting it after work for me to go! I'm always visiting businesses in the CCIC nearby, and I've walked the neighborhood so there really was no excuse. However, I'm so glad that we went when we did. Obviously, it's cold and snowy outside right now, but the interior is clean and inviting. I love all the throwback stuff inside - vintage movie posters, a real jukebox, and a cigarette machine. Our bartender was super friendly, and I wish I could remember her name! Definitely do not miss the "combo meals" aka cocktails. I had the most delightful combo of hard orange soda, tequila, triple sec, and something else (I forget)! It was a large drink, and my friends had to try it and immediately loved it! (And they're normally just beer drinkers!) I can't wait to visit in the warmer months so I can chill on the patio. This place is really the best combo of a dive bar and high-end cocktail bar. I'm told the crowd can range from older patrons to young hipster types. I think I fall somewhere in the middle, but this is a great spot that replaces some bygone dives that we used to visit. It's so chill, and I feel right at home. One of the TVs was tuned to an old episode of the Simpsons (when it was still good), and that just made the vibe even more fun! read more

Sad to report the stereotypes of how they treat heterosexual men are true. Kinda shocking as I have not experienced that at a bar in a long time. I met friends up here a handful of times and it was all right, but one time I dropped in solo and felt like I was being stared down and eavesdropped on from the very start. I was playing pool and having a generally good time, but then they had someone come over and question me all about where I came from and who I was with. It was absurdly uncomfortable, but it fit too many stories I had heard of this place from other straight guys. It's just the kind of judgy environment that doesn't justify a dingy place with an overpriced and average draft list, an absurdly dirty outdoor patio space that should have lots of potential and a "food menu" that is literally frozen pizzas bought from the grocery store and a pretzel. I initially loved the idea of a neighborhood bar like this, but I can't see wanting to go back. read more

This place is super cute! There are pool tables and jukebox. There's a outdoor seating but I didn't get to see it but was told by a regular. They have a great variety of drinks but their food options are not great. The pizzas are like frozen Jacks pizzas. Bags of chips you would see in kids lunches, microwaved pretzels. They have a good spinach dip served with regular tortilla chips. The bartender was really nice and attentive. I'd put 3.5 but not able to. If food was better definitely would be 4 stars. The atmosphere is cozy and I loved the womens bathroom being in Dr. Who's blue phone booth read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Jack and Coke - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Super fun dive bar. Good atmosphere, friendly staff, and a great place to play cards and grab a drink. Had the spinach artichoke dip too - typical bar food but it hit the spot. Also, saw a local celebrity so it's obviously the spot to be! Can't wait to come back. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - My high noon and the Tardis which is actually the ladies bathroom. So cute! - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

When you walk up the sidewalk to the bright Yellow "homey" establishment, anything from the Beatles to Nina Simone might float out to greet you. Inside, there is a sense of finding a "Cheers" of your own (but way more cool). You can play both of these artists, and more of your choosing, on the classic jukebox (see my photos, awesome factor!) while playing pool for a quarter. Darts are in the back too, if your game. .....whuuut? Ok, I'll black up, just a quarter. I loved this simple thing. So my "feels" Can you say "cozy" about a bar and have it still be a cool place to want to go? Well, I am, and it's cool. Because Dorman's just is. It's whatever you need right when you need it, especially those times you didn't know you needed it...lol... but just showed up here only to realize that you needed it bad. Yes, Dorman's feels like your favorite pair jeans. And you don't even have to wear these jeans in, because right from the moment the coaster is tossed, you are a regular. "You are here". It's cozy and comfortable day or night... But not dull, and definitely the place to go for drinks. Food? Well, it does have a small page of food choices with items like Walking Taco, and Mexican Chili, but do not expect a full dining array. However, from what I saw and heard, aside from the many beer options, the folks behind the bar really know their cocktails and are always on the ready to shake things up for you to try. If you know what you think tastes good, they can create a concoction to please! If you still aren't sure, check out these Elite Yelpers Brittany S., Adam B., and Jeremiah C.. and their reviews. Be fun! Be smart. Be generous. Be kind. read more

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Save your money. Go to a number of choices in the Fletcher Place area instead. ( nearby )This place here is a dump and the bartender is rude, for sure. If you were to tell me the beer and drinks were just a couple bucks, then, ok, I'd deal with it. But no, not the case. The owner needs to get a new bartender. We would have spent more money there if not for her. The outside space has potential to be charming and inviting, but, no- it's not. Cigarette butts everywhere and huge bushes and landscape WAY overgrown. Could be a cute area, but, owner missing the opportunity here. Dirty, nasty and rude. read more

The Dorman Street Saloon is great! I'm absolutely in love with the back patio! It can get pretty packed at night but during the day it's mostly a peaceful place to relax. That is, unless the Loud Lady is there. She is a customer who is so obnoxiously loud that she may break the eardrums of weaker people. She makes the entire place loud in either competition or sheer attempts to try and communicate. If she's there, turn around and leave - you'll know her when you hear her. Oh, and the bartenders are great! read more

Fantastic neighborhood bar. Stumbled upon this and wow! I'm such a fan. It's tucked away in a neighborhood and if you are driving too fast you might miss it. It's not the most fancy or luxurious place, but, it's cool the bartenders are amazing and the vibe is great! They have decent liquor and a pool table and a jukebox. There's plenty of parking along the street that you don't have to pay for which is a bonus! Again, the servers and bartenders are amazing such a great attitude which sometime seems to be hard to find. There were people there that were working, people playing pool, and people who appeared to be on dates. Many people also rode their bikes and just stopped in for a quick drink. I love the come as you are vibe that it has. Everyone appears to be welcomed which I love! This will definitely be a place I add to the rotation when in the mood for something simple and not spent a ton of money for drinks. read more

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It's quite possible that my experience would have hit 5 five stars had I been able to put my boots up on the counter and smoke uh big cigar. Nonetheless, the travel channel on the tube, surprisingly delicious cocktails and charming Cottage Home neighborhood surroundings made up for the difference. Walking in to Dorman, you'd think Coors Light and the local VFW all rolled into one - with a tinge of leftover smoke in the air from it's time as a smoke-friendly establishment. Leave your assumptions at the door, because you're going to find anything but Coors in this cozy local beer haven. Highlights of my visit: jukebox, travel channel, laid back, clever cocktails like basil and strawberry and pineapple with pepper simple syrup. Most of all, I think Dorman's location on Cottage Home tugs at my heart with that neighborly Icanwearmypajamasinhere feel. read more

Five Star Dive Bar! If you live in Indy or say you are from Indy and don't know about this place, then I don't know about you! Perfect place for a shot and a beer. They have an eclectic bar, tables for gathering, and pool tables. Great staff! read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Pabst and Fireball - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This is one of my favorite neighborhood spots. The mixed drinks are great and the pints of the day are always a tremendous value. I always find a beer I like there and they usually have some oddities. The pool table and darts are cheap, and the clientele is local. During basketball season there is always Pacers game on, any other time there is a cheesy movie that you just can't stop watching. I kind of resent this place being called a "dive bar": it's not, it's just an old school neighborhood place that serves up great cocktails. The kind of place where you can order a PBR or an Aperol spritz (I recommend the latter). It's not pretentious or trendy. It's just a friendly relaxed place that is great for spending a Sunday afternoon or a cold winter night. I appreciate that they always have plenty of bicycle parking, too. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Dorman Street is such a solid spot to spend your time after work for a beer or on the weekend. The back patio is nice and there are several tables. My favorite part is the pool table. It is 25 cents. I love how much it blends in with the neighborhood. The bartenders are nice and very knowledgeable. John is a great bartender and always takes care of his patrons. read more

It is safe to say that I will never ever come back to Dorman Street saloon again in my lifetime. My friends and I came here for a beer to hang out and shoot the breeze. We were waiting for a couple of friends, and when they finally arrived, we learned they were assaulted in the parking lot by a couple strangers for no reason. Later on, these strangers came in and tried to start a fight with my friends in the bar. Luckily, one of the staff stepped in right away and told them to leave right away. It was a few minutes before they calmed down and things went back to normal, but all of us settled our tab right away and left the establishment, since we did not want to stick around any longer. I will say Dorman Street Saloon is not exactly in the safest part of downtown, so that is a negative effect in itself. The staff does seem professional and the craft beer list is OK, but not great. They do have a food menu, but from what I have heard, it is not worth writing home about. I was here several years ago with friends, and I was not impressed with the saloon. I wish I had positive feedback for this saloon, but after my experience, I will tell my friends to stay far away from Dorman Street Saloon, because you could get assaulted by someone when you least expect it. It is not worth your money or your time to visit this establishment. read more

Dorman Street is one of my favorite bars anywhere. The atmosphere is a bit grungy and dark, but welcoming and fun at the same time. There is a wide variety of craft beer and cocktails, as well as a wide variety of patrons that frequent this establishment. Seriously, you will see all walks of life at this little dive bar, but that's part of the fun. The bartenders are experienced and friendly, and there's always some fun kitschy movie playing. Inside, there is a pool table (games are only a quarter!) and a dart board. Outside, there is a large deck with patio tables under trees - great environment on a warm night! Do yourself a favor and pop in to check this place out if you've never been. read more

Dorman Street is -the- definition of a dive bar to me. It's on the corner in a neighborhood, the interior is quite interesting. Most recently, a friend and I stopped in to grab a drink after dinner. I ordered my go-to, an old fashioned. Honestly, it was the worst old fashioned I've ever had. Luckily, the service was very attentive and friendly to make up for the drink. I never have issues with parking as it's surrounded by neighborhood streets. There's an outdoor patio but I've learned it's usually crowded with smokers. Definitely worth a shot if you've never been, but maybe pass on those old fashioneds... read more

Looks like a neighborhood dive bar, but is really just a an old building. Nice selection of beers. Had the spinach artichoke dip, it was good. Portion size enough for two. Will definitely visit again. read more

The tall, white, bald(ing) bartender is what I would consider racist. I came with a group of about 8. I was overlooked multiple times while clearly waiting for service at the bar (read: look and walk left to right, seeking patrons to serve, multiple times) until a white friend of mine, who was standing behind me, was asked what he wanted to drink. Only then, because he told the sh*thead of a bartender that I was there first, was I served. Here's a gauge: there were three white patrons sitting at the end of the bar, chatting amongst themselves, and the bartender walked past me, again, and asked if they were doing alright. They were. My black friend (we were the only two in the bar) had the SAME experience; I watched from our table. She was served only when another white friend of ours walked up next to her at the bar. I would give 2 stars because of the cider selection, but at the bar took that last one away. I will continue to share my experience with this bar, because it needs to be heard. Or maybe the service toward folks with pigment is how they keep their bar exactly how they want it. Won't get a dime more of my money. read more

Reasons Why You Should Visit Dorman Street Saloon: 1) You can go to the bathroom through the Tardis; 2) Super cheap craft cocktails, especially for how close this place is to downtown/Mass Ave; I'm talking $8-$9 for drinks contain peppered gin, plum vodka, jalapeno-ginger syrup, celery bitters, and the like; 3) History appreciation; Dorman Street has been around since the Prohibition, under different names; 4) Small, but great craft beer tap list. There's a fairly large selection of bottled beers for the size of the location; 5) The clientele is friendly and ranges from blue-to-white collar, growing a little more hipster the later it gets...hipster in an awesome way; 6) The atmosphere is laid back, comfortable, a tad divey, and unpretentious. The jukebox is diverse; I've heard everything from Johnny Cash to Beach House. Street parking is abundant and I've felt safe walking back & forth from car; The only major flaw I've found is that Dorman reeks of Febreze or similar air freshener at times, perhaps to camouflage its prior allowances for smokers. I can't wait to try out the patio once the weather warms up. read more

Dorman is an Indianapolis staple among my friends and me. One would call this a dive bar because there's no flash, a little grit, and the bathrooms are slightly scary (but like we don't care bc it's almost to be expected??). Drinks range from dirt cheap beer specials to festive mixed drinks. There are TVs, darts, pool, and a jukebox for entertainment in addition to the Indianapolis locals that dwell there, which will undoubtedly provide entertainment on their own. I enjoy Dorman! Both indoor and outdoor seating is nice, and the service is pretty good. Parking is always a breeze too! read more

Bartender: A+ (friendly and fast and works like a wizard behind the bar) Cocktails: A+ (high-quality booze, fresh-squeezed juices, great combinations) Beer: A+ (large, balanced selection of craft beers in cans, bottles, and on draft) Decor: A (quirky, genuine, fun, acceptable lighting) Jukebox: A (nothing totally crappy, that your drunk self mistakenly thinks is great) Space: A (pool table, big and small tables, L-shaped bar) Clientele: B+ (no one looking for trouble, most people are cool, but every time I've been there's some train wreck of a human being who's feeling important [LOUD] and their diarrhea of the mouth is equal parts entertaining and utterly annoying) Food: I (for incomplete) So far, the soft pretzels with cheese were perfectly baked and very tasty, and the pizza smells and looks fantastic. There's hummus too. I have yet to try enough food to dispense a grade. Why do people still call this a dive bar? Have you never actually BEEN to a dive bar? Dive bars do not squeeze fresh juice. Dive bars only have cans because bottles are weapons and kegs get stolen. Dive bars do not serve innovative cocktails and craft beers from around Indiana and the nation. Dorman Street Saloon is NOT a dive. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Wild boar party tymz! - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Hanging Tuff. I care about the structural integrity about the saloon of our stomping grounds. I take the owners by their word... if they felt the roof might just cave at any moment because the floors are so damn rickety; then, well, new floors it is. And new walls oh my. And wait a second, a new pool table felt? And, it's purple? And, it's still a quarter to play? This is change I can believe in. And, a redux on their fridge, and tapped kegs of Sun King are on the way. Heck to the Yes! It's the little things... like how they serve their Sun King in giant mugs that make me feel timeless and awesome and, well, like I'm in a painting. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I just found my new favorite dive bar! I went on a double date here recently and had a blast. For starters, the women's bathroom was painted like the tartis from Dr. Who. There was an old school cigarette machine. Plus darts and pool. What more do you need in a dive?? There is inside and outside patio seating. There were tv's inside playing The Office (a personal favorite of mine) and the bartender was very friendly and helpful with recommendations. They had a good alcohol selection. They had a board with signature cocktails. I tried the #3 and #4. They reminded me very much of summertime and were both amazing. They came in huge glass cups. I was shocked by how big they were. They were $10 each. Definitely will be back to try the rest of the signature cocktails! read more

Everyone loves Dorman. If you've been there, you love it. And, if you've been there, you knew what you were walking into before you got there. Dorman is a purpose driven establishment. And, its purpose is being void of any stupid theme or over-stimulating business model. Dorman is what you want your regular bar to be: great beer on tap, decent prices, good mixed drinks, good juke box, and friendly people everywhere. It is a true potpourri of people from all walks of life. Inside the music is loud enough to enjoy. There is lots of open floor space to mingle and talk, but enough tables to always find an open seat. There are pool tables if you feel the need to keep your hands busy. Outside is the true Dorman experience. A great patio for night sipping. It is exactly what you want it to be. No themes, loud noises, over-ambitious table service. It feels more like you just grabbed a beer and are sitting on your own porch. It is a great place to unwind. Rarely do you go to a bar and get exactly what you want out of it. But, with Dorman, I always do. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Worst service of my life. If you want someone to act like they're giving you service and then get ignored this is the place for you. Zero stars. This bar went into the toilet, used to be a cool place. read more

This is a hidden hangout for locals around the area. Even when you are walking by if you don't know about it because it is located in an old house it's easy to miss. The inside is a typical dive bar atmosphere but I like that they have an outdoor patio area (since it is very dark inside) and they offer more than just your typical domestic beers. As someone who likes craft and even ciders more than beers I have never had an issue finding something to drink and their prices are decent. There is street parking available which is a great plus as well. I have only come for the beers but I heard they serve food including frozen Tostitos pizzas which though is not my cup of tea a lot of people that frequent say it's the best drunk food! read more

I always seem to end up here after a fun night out, but the thing I love about Dorman Street is that it doesn't matter what group of people I've been hanging with! A little hipster, a little dive, a dash of nerd and even some cool kids. Everyone truly seems welcome. Perks: great beer selection - lots of local choices - I've yet to be disappointed! The jukebox! The real deal, none of this pick from your phone crap. The pool tables - though get there early if you want to call dibs! The Tardis bathroom (need I say more??) There's a decent sized parking lot across the street and street parking available pretty generously nearby. read more

Dorman Street is the quintessential awesome neighborhood bar. I know a few people who live within a few blocks and walk to/from regularly. I live relatively close so I can either walk or take a 3min Lyft/Uber there. I wouldn't necessarily call it a dive bar because it definitely doesn't give that vibe. The clientele are mostly yuppie hipsters and the drink menu doesn't reflect just standard Bud/Coors/Miller/etc etc. It's always a great time at Dorman because you never know who you're going to see, the service is amazing, and their prices are never outlandish. It may appear dilapidated, but everything else about Dorman is fresh. read more

Soooo, I came to this joint (slang for place) to meet a friend one night and almost missed it because it is legitimately a hole in the wall! This place was adorbs! I liked it because it was a super chill environment and I loved the pool tables and the telephone booth bathrooms (so creative)! I ordered the pineapple cider which hands down has been my favorite cider ever!!! So good! I also got the soft pretzels and cheese which was a great price for how big the pretzels were! We sat and talked for about 2 hours and it was worth it. Not too busy (Wednesday night from 8:30-10:30pm) but picked up around 10pm. The bar tender was coo and attentive. I would definitely go back. It's like one of those bars you see on TV! read more

An Indianapolis institution. Don't let looks deceive you. This is a great space to go. If you're looking for an Indianapolis neighborhood bar that has it all this is the spot to go. There is a wide selection of both mixed drinks and beers. The have a large selection of craft beers. Great spot if you're looking for a low key spot to grab a drink. read more

We just discovered this place recently via a friend. Being set back from the main streets like it is, I'm not sure we'd have ever found it on our own. It's really a hidden little gem east of the heart of downtown. Walking in, it seems like just your average neighborhood bar. However, pop open a bar menu and you'll find it's anything but. They have an extensive list of signature cocktails that fit just about any craving. I had the J Cutler the first time which is a gin drink. Just sweet enough, but not too sweet and made with their homemade pepper-infused simple syrup. Next, I had the Judas which is made with plum vodka and features the same syrup. The nice thing, as far as signature cocktails go, is that they are very consistent. The drinks taste the same regardless of which bartender you order them from. While we have not tried the food here, a friend with us did order the pretzels and they looked delicious. He gave them a thumbs up. The atmosphere is a pretty standard bar. They have stools for the bar top, a few tables, and of course a pool table. They have a very nice fenced patio out back with a few tables as well. Perfect for a summer afternoon. The people are very nice and efficient, although it can take a little while to get a drink when they're busy, as the signature cocktails take a bit longer to make. Overall, I'd highly recommend this place. read more

Dorman Street Saloon - The J Carpenter signature cocktail. Highly recommended. - Dive Bars Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Anyone who only opens in afternoon and on is OK in our book. Late nite owls we are! Excited to go try it!!!!!

Herbal cocktails , craft beers , dark seating area and fun little patio. Love the neighborhood and the graphics on the exterior of the building . Colorful crowd and good bartenders. read more