This location popped up as a suggestion on my Instagram and it sounded like a fun adventure; I love visiting different speakeasies!
My intention of this review is to be helpful while keeping the mystique intact.
For this experience, you book through OpenTable (https://www.opentable.com/r/the-barrel-bar-indianapolis ). The Barrel Bar is very fast to respond to inquiries through their Instagram account (thebarrelbarindy). Our group has several food allergies and alcohol sensitivities, so before booking, I wanted to confirm they could meet our restrictions (they assured me they could and would).
After booking, OpenTable shows that the address will be given but I didn't receive anything for several days and the OCD side of me began to panic. Within 48 hours of our scheduled time, I received an email asking questions that would help to guide the evening to our liking and included the address and parking instructions/tips.
The location was easy to find once we knew what we were looking for and had the verbiage needed to locate our experience.
Teddy was absolutely, and I cannot stress this enough, PHENOMENAL.
Each booking is for up to 6 people (for two hours) so you might end up meeting some strangers for your speakeasy time. We went with another couple and it was just the four of us.
This is such a fun concept and the time, effort, thought and research that is put into each experience, shines through and adds to a magical night.
Since each event/session is tailored to the group, you won't ever have the same experience twice. The menu changes seasonally and should be changing again in the next couple of weeks.
The drinks were unique and intriguing while also being a learning experience. Teddy works to ensure that each group has a great time and walks away having learned something.
He is well versed in multiple alcohols and could seamlessly blend and mix depending on your preference. He created multiple cocktails for our group, solely based on asking one or two questions and hit the bulls eye every time. Cocktails not your preference? There are a wide variety of different liquors for you to choose from.
Let me tell you about the food; because I mentioned it last, does in no way mean it was least in the experience. The chef who prepared our food was incredibly thoughtful and took our allergies into account and made a delicious board with local cheeses, honey, fruit and vegetables.
I wasn't sure what to expect food wise so we made sure to snack ahead of time, but we were pleasantly surprised to find we were given more than one course (some details need to remain a surprise).
Book your experience and be patient to receive your instructions. They'll be sent to your email account - not through OpenTable.
Enjoy the era and the experience; it truly is a great night out, no matter the reason - girls night, date night, family outing etc. read more