Tavern at the Point, at 401 Massachusetts Ave in downtown Indianapolis’ Mass Ave Cultural District, is a casual American gastropub built around a particularly historic corner: the address traces its tavern history to the late 19th century and is associated with one of Indianapolis’ oldest bar traditions. Today, the draw is less about polished fine dining and more about hearty pub food, cocktails, local beer, a lively bar atmosphere, and a patio positioned well for people-watching along Mass Ave.
The atmosphere lands somewhere between neighborhood tavern and modern downtown hangout. Indoor seating has a cozy, energetic bar feel, while the outdoor patio is especially appealing in good weather and before events in the surrounding downtown area. Casual dress is appropriate, and amenities include a full bar, patio dining, reservations, takeout, and online ordering. Current official hours are 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–11 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday. Weekend brunch runs Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Food prices are moderate rather than bargain-bar cheap, with many main dishes currently around the mid-teens to high teens and the restaurant generally falling into the under-$30-per-person category before drinks and extras. First-time visitors looking for the restaurant’s personality should start with the Brisket Nachos, topped with beer cheese, jalapeño, pico, roasted tomatillo salsa, sour cream, and other garnishes. The Big Fontana Burger is another signature-style choice, combining American cheese, bacon, pickles, onion, lettuce, and Fontana sauce. Wings, beer-battered cheese curds, brisket tacos, a crispy chicken sandwich, salads, and vegetarian choices such as the Mediterranean wrap broaden the menu beyond burgers.
Guest feedback is strongest around the friendly tavern atmosphere, patio, sizeable portions, drinks, and convenient setting for a meal before a nearby show. Review summaries also repeatedly describe attentive, personable service and generous servings. Experiences are not completely consistent, however. Some diners find the food merely satisfactory rather than memorable, and complaints occasionally focus on waiting longer than expected; one published customer account specifically describes a long wait and unattended empty tables. Peak periods can also feel lively enough that diners seeking a quiet, intimate dinner may prefer an earlier or midweek visit.
Tavern at the Point fits friends meeting for drinks, casual dates, weekend brunch, patio meals, and pre-show dinners better than formal celebrations or quiet conversation-focused evenings. For a first visit, sharing the brisket nachos followed by the Big Fontana Burger gives the clearest introduction to its gastropub style. Come primarily for approachable comfort food, drinks, Mass Ave energy, and a relaxed downtown gathering spot rather than an elaborate culinary experience.
graham cracker crust . strawberry . whipped cream
Monday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
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