The Ball & Biscuit Menu

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  • Jimmy W.

    The Ball and Biscuit is what Indianapolis needs more of! An easy going, upscale feeling, dark and beautiful, old-style feeling loungy bar! The beers were cold and tasty, and had I not just eaten a fabulous dinner, I would have loved to delve into the cheese menu! Who would have thought that seeing a huge cheese selection in their menu would probably be one of the points that brings me back time after time? At any rate, the chairs were comfortable, everybody in the place was dressed sharply, the music was hip, and I felt just a little bit fancy (which doesn't happen a whole lot). The wait staff was amazing, too! I never had to do more than have a quick glance at the woman who was taking care of us and she hustled over to take care of us. Perfect!

    (5)
  • Julie N.

    I love just about everything about the B&B (cocktails, location, ambience, people, oysters on Thursday, cheese and charcuterie plate), except for the table service. I have had to walk out thirsty twice because its taken over 30 minutes to get served. I'd advise avoiding a table all together and sitting at the bar if there are seats available and if you're not with a group.

    (3)
  • Elizabeth F.

    This is my home away from the home. The ambience here simply can't be beat. The music (generally of the indie kind) isn't loud enough to drown out conversation but still sets the mood for a great evening. There are no TVs to distract. It's not overrun with college kids looking to binge drink. It's the perfect place to have a meeting after work (grab a table to the left and order some small plates -- my fav is the artichoke dip and roquefort cheese), go on a cozy date (head to the right to snag a seat in the dim, romantic lighting) or celebrate with a large group (the two large sofa-ish areas are great for this!). Careful with the cocktails though -- Zach delivers quite a kick! Ball and Biscuit knows how to deliver an upscale, sophisticated environment without being the least bit snobby or pretentious. Be sure to check out their special nights when they host a DJ and make room for a little dancing, if you feel so inclined.

    (5)
  • James H.

    Absolutely love this place. Great place to take a date out. Service sometimes is a little slow, especially during the weekend. My girlfriend, who's French, and I have been here several times after dinner to grab a drink. She loves the fact that they serve Chartreuse here, it is a French liquor from her home town. The cheese selection is small but great, adds a nice touch to the bar/lounge. You'll find mainly younger crowd here in their 20s and early 30s. Atmosphere has a '50s feel to it, dimly lit, and a little dressy.

    (5)
  • Janet S.

    2 of my lady friends and I stopped in here during a night out on the town, one of them had heard good things about it and wanted to check it out. I am so glad we did! Just walking in the door, the place feels different than most any other establishment I've been to in Indianapolis. It just oozes sophistication. 2 of us had sidecars - delicious and boozy, without being _too_strong; my other friend had a caipirinha, which she said she thoroughly enjoyed. I really liked this place, and I am looking forward to going back. I love the layout of the bar, the light fixtures, the speakeasy dim ambience, the easy luxury. This would be a great place to cuddle in a corner with a cutie, or a ladies night out like I had. It is fun, without being loud and obnoxious. It is a bar for adults, not frat boys. I approve!

    (4)
  • J A.

    Not bad food, good drinks, this place has an interesting vibe.

    (2)
  • joey d.

    Big Zack..that's all I need to say..

    (5)
  • Jon R.

    I just can't stop going. I will continue to go, and hopefully, continue to enjoy it more, each and every time.

    (4)
  • David C.

    Great cocktails, great atmosphere and good service make this new speakeasy a welcome addition to Mass Ave. Try the Deaths Door Gin or sample a few of the cheeses.

    (5)
  • Richard H.

    It's a lot of fun. We have intentionally gone when they were not too busy, sat right at the bar and had excellent service. OK, the last time the bartender sure was pokey getting to us for the first drink. But the menu of small plates is fairly diverse and intriguing, and everything we have had there has been tasty. The drinks are well prepared as well, and the atmosphere is quite nice. Good times!

    (4)
  • Kimberly W.

    Great ambiance and drinks, so so service

    (4)
  • David K.

    Didn't get it, I"m afraid. Beer was OK, but there wasn't anything decently hoppy; food was OK, but nothing special; seemed a bit cliquey to me as well.

    (2)
  • Serena S.

    I visited from out of town because I read about it online & it sounded awesome. It was a good experience & I will come back some day. I ordered 2 drinks don't ask me the names & a hotdog covered with Mac n chz. Also the meat & cheese variety plate. That plate had some very delicious tastes that were new to my taste palate. The drinks were worth the money in my opinion. Service was nothing special but we were served in a timely manner and that's all that matters to me really. As long as staff isn't rude. Some reviews say they are but maybe those reviewers just had bad experiences. I didn't encounter that. Can't wait to visit again one day!

    (5)
  • Matthew A.

    We went in, sat down, and we quickly presented with a large bottle of lukewarm tap water and two glasses with no ice. We were then ignored for the next ten minutes. Menu appeared to be seriously lacking.

    (1)
  • Sky W.

    I haven't been to this place in a short while but by far one of my favorites!!!! The small plates are great, the drinks are even better, the ambience is dark, very grown and sexy. Music is loud but only because there are sooo many people there (all of the time) yet it is small. Who would pass up a crowded great bar for a spacious, ok bar where you can throw a rock and not hit anyone???

    (5)
  • Mark C.

    Wow what a place, great drinks and quick oil changes. I stopped in because I was well overdue for an oil change. The attendant was very helpful and non judge mental about the fact my mothers rotting corpse was in the trunk (long story, but do you know how much it costs to ship a dead body? More money than I can afford considering my spotify subscription). The drinks were great I told the waitress anything but eggs since I'm allergic. She brought me a whole egg floating in bourbon, tasty! After this I got three pours of absolut with mint leaves and drove home. Will deff be back after I pay off my oil change. Try the mint leaves.

    (5)
  • Olga S.

    If ever in Indy, come to B&B for drinks. Cannot go wrong with The Rooftop. Staff are always friendly and helpful, I've never had a bad experience or a drink. If ever a problem, they solve the issue. Love this place!!

    (5)
  • Riccardo S.

    With its dark exposed-brick interior, muted lighting reflecting off the lustrous copper bar, and intimate seating in the small dining area, you would be forgiven if you thought you'd walked off Massachusetts Avenue into Paris' Le Très Particulier or NY's PDT. Thankfully, there is no need for reservations to approach the bar or secret entrances through a hotdog shop's phone booth, because you'll be welcomed warmly with no pretension. The Ball and Biscuit was first on a list of spots a friend sent me as "must visit" destinations in Indianapolis, and I dropped in looking for a well-made cocktail and something small to nibble on. Cory was behind the bar, and after seeing me get lost in the embarrassment of riches to be found in the cocktail menu, asked me what kind of mood I was in (vodka, rum, bourbon, etc). We finally settled on a Sazerac, expertly-made and worthy of a return trip on its own merits. The food menu was no less a treat. I'll never turn down an interesting Mac & Cheese, and this was fantastic. With a baked breadcrumb crust on top, garnished with leeks and pasta toeing the line of al dente while covered with rich and gooey cheese, it had everything I wanted. I'd paired it with an extraordinary artichoke dip which, while I'd have preferred it to not be chopped so finely, came with more than enough toast points and baguette to be a meal on its own. As the night wound down, Kendall came out and introduced herself as the operating partner of the lounge, and wanted to hear how everything was for me. This level of engagement from a proprietor explains why food, drink, and service are all top-notch here. I am looking forward to coming back and letting myself be guided through the rest of their menu.

    (5)
  • Stacie H.

    Nice place. Definitely gets packed quickly. For such a little place it's very loud. My husband has a slight hearing issue and wears a hearing aid. He couldn't hear me or anyone in our group. The drinks were great though. We were able to grab the corner lounging area. So comfy!

    (4)
  • Amanda R.

    Went in having been sober for 15 months - pregnancy/nursing. I wasn't sure what to get - I love gin and champagne. Just on that alone the bartender suggested a concoction that was perfect and started my night out off right. We also had the bruchetta - delicious. Staff is friendly and food/drinks are great. Maybe I will get out here again in the next year! :) I wish I could remember the bartenders name, but thank you!!

    (5)
  • Robert W.

    They serve some of the best cocktails on Mass Ave. Really unique how they will give you the author of the cocktail. The staff is always friendly and around when you need them. Kate always takes care of us. She's amazing. Ball and Biscuit has started to really get into appetizers and finger style bar food. Maybe not the dinner menu but they are not going for that in my opinion. Just an pleasant experience everytime I'm there.

    (5)
  • Sabrina S.

    This is my favorite spot in Indy to grab a cocktail. Love the moody lighting, and comfortable seating. It's a bit pricey, so I only stop in a couple times a year. The only thing that could be improved is their microbrew offering. But I guess if you are coming here, why not choose one of their creative libation concoctions?

    (4)
  • Carol T.

    Overall: Came in search of a high-quality cocktail bar. Turned out to be like every other modern bar that has a limited liquor selection, blasts loud music, and attracts the kind of obnoxious people that order red bulls and Jack Daniels Manhattans. Not all of the bartenders knew how to make traditional, classic cocktails. The only reason this place gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the decor and lighting were nice. Liquor: With respect to gin/genever, I was surprised that they did not have any Genever, Plymouth, or Beefeater's. My particular bartender did not know how to make a Ramos Gin Fizz, Bee's Knees, or French 75, which are all classic gin cocktails that should be in every cocktail bartender's repertoire. They had to be made by another bartender (even though the Bee's Knees and French 75 are listed on the online menu). The bartender that ended up making my Ramos Gin Fizz omitted the heavy cream. My companions decided to stick to the published menu. I was not impressed with any of their selections. Tonics: I expected them to have a selection of tonic waters, including Fever Tree.

    (2)
  • Karen M.

    What a great time. Sat right at the bar and enjoyed the conversation with Keegan (Our mixologist) on all the different drinks, which by the way are on fantastic! Made for such a great time we wanted more and went back the 2nd night. The drinks will not disappoint all while enjoying a lovely atmosphere.

    (5)
  • Susan F.

    Finally made it to the B&B again, and this time I tried food. My friends had the charcuterie and I had the spinach artichoke dip, which was honestly one of the best I've ever had. It was creamy and delicious, and served with toasted bread. I also tried a few different cocktails this time, and my fave "Rooftop Cocktail" was no longer on the drink list. The bartender assured me i could still get it, and that they can still make any of the drinks they have ever featured. I know that sounds silly, because almost every bar can do this, but their drinks have lots of different liquors in them. Heavenly.

    (5)
  • Jessica C.

    Damn good cucumber drink. Wayyyy overpriced and pretentious but whatever. It was a yummy drink and really good appetizers. We had a cheese spinach dip.

    (4)
  • Curtis R.

    I have spent more time than I care to admit in New Orleans and have drank innumerable Sauzeracs there. The B&B's is incorrect. WAY TOO SWEET. What are they using? Simple syrup? There should only be a single cube of sugar in a Sauzeracs. The waitress told me "that's how we make it here". I told her to look up the recipe on google. If it is not a proper Sauzeracs, don't label it as such. Maybe the should call it a "Poser Sauzeracs" and no one will be confused.

    (2)
  • Anthony T.

    I was pleasantly surprised! Classy and swanky vibe and delicious cocktails. I was little disappointed that they were out of their wheat beer on tap, but our server was very pleasant and polite. I'll definitely be coming back soon.

    (4)
  • Brittany C.

    I've been here a couple times and it's not really my things personally, but I can definitely see why so many people love it. The ambiance is my favorite part. However, this place does get very crowded. The water is severed in old liquor bottle, which I think is supper cool! Our waitress was fantastic. So, why is this place not my thing? Well, honestly I'm pretty simple in the beverage department. I love craft beer and good bourbon. I typically like my bourbon on the rocks or with coke or sprite depending on what it is. This place is putting pickle juice and all kind of strange things in the drinks. I tried a couple of the whiskey drinks and there were good, not my favorite though. I don't do vodka, EVER! So many of the drinks here were out for me. So with that said, their craft cocktails are interesting and worth a try but for now, I'll stick with my plain jane bourbon. It's a little pricey here ($12-$15), but if you enjoy the craft cocktails, it's definitely worth it.

    (3)
  • Bobby N.

    I love this place. So do a lot of other people and it isn't a secret so be prepared for it to be crowded. Fortunately I live in the neighborhood and can go on an evening when it isn't a weekend. The ambiance and decor is period, relaxed and comfortable. Exposed brick, nice dark wood and overstuffed couches. They make terrific drinks here and have some specials that will probably surprise you. Also a creative set of beer taps makes every visit and adventure for me. The staff is attentive and very knowledgeable. If you want to experiment with some spirits this is the place to do it.

    (5)
  • Ryan W.

    Absolutely LOVED this place. First-time visitors on a Sunday at 5:30pm. Literally had the place to ourselves for our 2hr stay. Our bartender, Erin, was great! She spent time discussing different drinks; even introduced us to a drink she was working on. Quality, creative drinks in a great environment. Definitely a MUST!!!!

    (5)
  • Melissa B.

    As a sucker for a great whiskey cocktail, this place is impossible to pass up on a trip down Mass. Ave. It's a smaller place with a lounge-type feel and great music. They have a great menu of all things cocktail, and they have some good seasonal items as well. It's hard for me to stray from my usual, narrow list of drinks I get, but I've never regretted my choice here. They have a small choice of plates to snack on that are seriously on point. Their meat and cheese plate was basically the greatest thing I've ever had. The worst part of it was that I had to share it with six other people. Be prepared to spend a little bit more here, but also be prepared to say that it was worth it. The service is wonderful, the atmosphere is relaxed, and, as I said, everything tastes phenomenal. Tip well.

    (5)
  • Elle A.

    This place was super cool! Very low lighting and exposed brick interior definitely gave this place a little more sophisticated but approachable atmosphere. BUT be prepared for paying for such a neat environment. The cocktails start at $10 and only go up from there and the beers start around $8. Everything we ordered was delicious and the food was just as good but this is definitely more of a special evening type of place instead of a local watering hole. I would definitely go back, I just probably wouldn't make it my regular spot,

    (4)
  • Ben N.

    I really dug the night atmosphere here, with the outdoor seating w/ heaters. Indoors kept the great feel of an underground, trendy joint. The area we sat (corner) had some uncomfortable seating arrangements, and I was like "Do I lean over, do I lean back? What's my motivation here? How does this seat work?" This all to say, after a couple of cocktails I knew exactly how to sit/lean. The unfortunate part of this visit was that our waitress didn't know how to make a few drinks - which I would find is OK generally, but don't lie about knowing what a Burnt Martini is if you don't know. Just ask, and they'll usually tell you exactly how to make it. Easy. Outside of that, and the cost of the drinks I would find this place to be a great 4 - 6 person cocktail place for special occasions. Date night for married couples with kids, maybe not so much.

    (3)
  • Kaitlyn H.

    On a Friday night when you are looking for an intimate setting and some delicious cocktails this is the place to go. Although the drinks are on the pricey side, they are very good! It's also in a great location!!

    (4)
  • Krista A.

    1) Do NOT go to B&B without knowing beforehand that you will be spending at least $10/drink and even more for food. 2) That being said - I LOVE B&B. Their drinks are very unique, and definitely worth the higher price. Their food is also good, although I go here much more often just to get drinks than I do to get food with my drinks. If you want a high-end place to get drinks, this is your spot. A nice ladies night or date night spot, indeed!

    (4)
  • Amy R.

    My review of The Ball & Biscuit is based on multiple visits that I have had over the past year or so. At first, the atmosphere seemed a bit pretentious, but it has grown on me. I enjoy going their relaxing atmosphere with the little seating cubbies here and there throughout the bar. The bar has a decent craft drink menu with similar prices to other bars offering craft drinks, but is certainly not my favorite of those type of bars in Indianapolis. They have a decent selection of local beer on tap and some wine choices as well. They offer some basic bar snacks like a cheese plate, hot nuts, etc.. If you want to have something more substantial you will need to leave the bar. Their service is decent, although you pretty much have to go up to the bar to order. I will be coming back, but mainly because it is close.

    (3)
  • DeAndrea B.

    This is a place with a great ambiance! Don't go if you're hungry, but it's perfect for a gathering of friends for sitting and having cocktails! My favorite is the agave margaritas, they are refreshing and delicious. Please try it because indy definitely need more places like this!

    (4)
  • Adam R.

    Good spot. Very nice "look" to the bar, and good/strong drinks. If you sit in the window seats, you will be uncomfortable, otherwise, sit in the back and enjoy drinks and people watching. Decent food offerings/small plates, albeit expensive for the portion size.

    (4)
  • Nana W.

    I love this place!! Showed up late Sunday night after Primus show...service was awesome, drinks and snacks were amazing as well!!

    (5)
  • Hannah H.

    This place is like a time machine! During a girls night out we opted to make this our destination, and having never been before I had no idea what to expect. But as soon as I walked in I knew I was going to love it. The atmosphere transforms you into feeling like you are in a genuine speakeasy. It was incredibly crowded, and I've heard that most nights they turn people away due to being at max capacity. The crowd was a bit frustrating at first, but it provided a great opportunity to make new friends... which is exactly what we did! Now, let's get to the important part... the famous craft cocktails. I was told to order their Champagne Cocktail, and I'm always one to listen to recommendations. It was far more pricey than what I typically am willing to spend on drinks ($11), and I was even more disappointed when they brought it out because it was served in a rather small glass. I figured I would give it a try, and then switch to my usual gin and tonic. Well, needless to say I didn't have a gin and tonic the entire evening. The Champagne Cocktail was not only delicious, but also packed a big punch for the price. I will make this a stop anytime I'm on Mass Ave, because of the laid back atmosphere and cool crowd... and because those Champagne Cocktails were absolutely to die for!

    (5)
  • Lane P.

    Awesome Bar, great atmosphere, and an amazingly creative menu. We go in for a cocktail every time we visit Mass Ave. Given their price point, though, they are a one drink stop. We personally love the rooftop, the French 75, the abusement and the Aviation. This is a true craft cocktail stop. No halfway signature cocktails here. Everything hand made and delicious. They have a selection of small plates and they are delicious, but they aren't made on site and frequently sell out. Once it gets really busy, you may have to make yourself known to get a refill. On a night out on Madd Ave, this is a must stop.

    (4)
  • Kevin T.

    After a glowing recommendation all the way from someone in Chicago, I expected a lot from The Ball & Biscuit and lo! and behold conveniently found myself across the street from it one night. A nice feel, dark, rustic, you know the type -- a cocktail bar first, as I didn't find a soul eating here. Moments after arriving, and still hours before their posted close time, they started to pile the chairs on top of the tables, a sound that was thankfully (?) drowned about by a we're-taking-this-seriously conversation about barware amongst some of the more vocal patrons. Maybe it was trying to hard, or the crowd was. The pricing is fine, we had mixed luck with the beverages we ordered, but having felt like it was closing time from the second we walked in, we moved on.

    (3)
  • Anna Z.

    I really love this cocktail bar. It's swanky, dark and they really know how to craft a cocktail. I especially love that the bartenders know how to recommend a drink according to your personal taste. I have experienced the most creative and exciting cocktails here and I thank the bartender Josh for this. I don't think he works at b&b any longer but he's quite the bartender. Again, this place is a yes and cheers to that.

    (5)
  • PablosPanda Z.

    This is our place to go each time we come to Indy for a weekend. Atmosphere: The lounge is dimly lit (great for date nights) with couches, tables and bar space. It has the secluded feel of a hole-in-the-wall cocktail bar, but with big, open windows facing Mass Ave. Drinks: Every drink we've tried has been unique and well executed- not to mention delicious! This is not the place to order a Jack and coke-- try something new and you won't be disappointed! The menu is organized by base alcohol, with pages and pages full of drink options. Service: The bartenders for the most part are awesome, laid back and helpful, but the last two times there has been one "over confident" unprofessional bartender (we will call him Mr Flannel Shirt) who spent more time cussing and flirting with waitresses than attending to customers. However, pride aside, he, too, makes a good drink. Food: surprisingly good olives Pablo's ratings: Drinks: 5 (get the old fashion) Service: 4 Atmosphere: 5 Value: 4 (about $11 a drink)

    (5)
  • D h.

    First impression, overrated. It's still a very nice place, just doesn't live up to the hype and feels a little pretentious. dimly lit, there are a mix of tables. i'd suggest trying to get a seat next to the front windows. bar is in the left corner & really isn't that large. surrounded by a few high tables, it's a beautiful wood bar with comfortable stools. i just go back to how dark the place is. much of the time that is not bad, but the place is beautiful. just turn the dimmer up from 1 to maybe 2 or 3. service can be great or average. just depends on the attitude of the bartender or waitress. cocktails are good and a decent beer list.

    (3)
  • Lindsey S.

    Trendy atmosphere and sophisticated adult beverages. Will be back!

    (5)
  • Molly S.

    This is a great place for an upscale, classy night out. The drinks are unique and STRONG. The Sazerac will knock you for a loop if you're not careful! A fun place for a drink with girlfriends or a pre-show cocktail for date night at the Murat. Trendy, fun atmosphere, great drinks.

    (4)
  • Lauren R.

    A hip little place on Mass Ave. We had one of the cheese plate like offerings that included some tasty olives. We really enjoyed the laid back vibe. I can't speak about the drinks since I'm a non drinker, but my party mates seemed to be enjoying themselves. The rest of the bar menu seemed like they would be tasty as well. The staff is also pretty friendly. This is a great place to start or end the night! I can't wait to go back with some buddies!

    (4)
  • Ashley R.

    Very cool atmosphere. Great cocktail list inspired by famous people. I had the smoke and mirrors drink with mezcal. I have never had smokey tequila before but I really enjoyed it. The service was good and it was a beautiful night and they have outdoor seating so we got to sit outside. Def will go back!

    (5)
  • Richard C.

    If you are a cocktail enthusiast, this is your bar. The old fashioned I ordered was made better than any I have had in Indianapolis. The detail that goes in to the cocktails goes beyond almost every bar on Mass Ave. A little pricey but worth it if you want a truly outstanding cocktail. The food compliments the drinks very well. If you are looking for Indianapolis' best cocktails, this is a good bet.

    (5)
  • Aaron P.

    I came in here with a friend on a visit to Indy after it being recommended by several people around town. I had stubbed my toe on the walk there, and the bartender kindly gave me three bandaids. Maybe not a huge deal, but at that moment it was a life-saver. I started with a whiskey sour, which is not one of my usuals. It was absolutely delicious. I then moved on to the the "Abusement," which was rum infused with jalapeños, lime juice, house made simply syrup, mint, and a splash of soda. Holy cow. This thing was like a drink hand-crafted by the gods just for me. It was delectably sweet, wonderfully spicy, and just tangy enough. Incredible. We also had a couple tiny little Miller High Life bottles. I didn't know they came in tiny little bottles, but they do, and they're fun to drink. The bartender recommended a restaurant for dinner, and when it was time to go he called us a Lyft free of charge (you can't beat free!). This was actually my introduction to Lyft, and I quickly became obsessed with it. This was a great start to our night. Awesome drinks. A knowledgeable bartender, a free ride, and bandages for my bloody toe to boot!

    (5)
  • Erwin S.

    Delicious hand crafted cocktails. More important, they offer excellent service to boot. We ordered a small plate to share and didn't realize that the goat cheese came rolled in crushed walnuts (yum). My wife is allergic to walnuts. Our server asked if we wanted a potion of plain goat cheese. My wife said "no I'm fine." Our server replied "you're fine, would you like to be great." We gladly accepted the goat cheese.

    (5)
  • Christian R.

    Alas a place for over privileged northsiders that have made to the city!!! I really enjoy this place during the week even though it is a bit overpriced. It is really nice that mass ave has blown up into a really nice hang but the space in this place is really tight for the volume of people. This inevitably means that the service lacks.... But it is a great place to unwind on a weekday after work!

    (3)
  • Peter P.

    One of the many craft cocktail bars that are populating the Indy landscape. The radio-themed decor is really classy and gives you the speakeasy feel. Music is at a reasonable level so you can carry on a conversation without raising your voice. Drinks are strong, but not overly boozy, just the way I like them. There is a very limited menu - meant more for snacking/soaking up the alcohol, than for a full meal.

    (4)
  • Stacy P.

    A friend I decide to extend our night to include drinks and desert after dinner and ended up at the Ball & Biscuit after walking down Mass Ave. What drew us in the the overall look at feel of the bar. Like what others have mentioned, it is very dark and masculine and small and intimate space. The server was extremely knowledgable of the drinks and menu. I opted for the Hootch and vanilla lemon pot de creme which ended up being a horrible combination. The drink was an interesting combination, but it was off. It is listed as having a sprinkle of cinnamon, but the top was coated in it. Every sip I took was like choking on cinnamon. The dessert was just bitter. The lemon was over powering. It wouldn't have been bad without the lemon topping. As for the ambiance, when we initially arrived, the music was very smooth and relaxing. You could hold a conversation With the person sitting next to you, but then the tempo of the restaurant switched midway though our visit. The music was a faster pace and a flash back to the 80s. It became extremely loud and difficult to converse. The speakers sounded like the bass was messed up and you could feel the vibrations in the floor. Maybe it was an off night. I might give the Ball & Biscuit another chance again someday.

    (2)
  • Rachel F.

    Such an eclectic atmosphere with an intimate feel. Sat by the windows on some couches and stools which was so fun. Ordered the peach daiquiri special. It was delicious. Will definitely be back. The service was great too!

    (5)
  • Brian L.

    Very good drinks that are not overpriced. The service was great and the atmosphere was unique and fun!

    (5)
  • Michael C.

    It was fun to sit around and have a drink here, and try the variety of Indy-inspired (Smoking Goose, King David's Dogs) food to snack on.

    (4)
  • Mysha H.

    I went to this bar expecting a boring atmosphere while waiting for friends and received the one of the best FIRST experiences I have EVER had on Mass Ave. The bartender was very nice and knowledgable. She kept my drinks filled and educated me on the cocktails she thought would suit my likings. I had the artichoke and Spinach dip and it was amazing. The bread that was served on the side was fantastic and offered many different flavors. The drink I had was called "On The Rooftops." It was well made, had a generous amount of alcohol in it, and tasted amazing! Bravo to the staff at Ball and Biscuit. Even with a full house on a Thursday night the ladies were still smiling and laughing, clearly enjoying their jobs and guests. AND the chef came out and worked the bar to help the bartender since the crowd was abnormally large that night. I am very impressed with this place. I will be back, with new faces, next time around. I can't keep this place a secret anymore! :D

    (5)
  • Olivia M.

    Ball & Biscuit is a classy establishment. I love the decor - mostly wood, dimmer lighting, some lower tables with cushion seats. It feels fancy enough to warrant dressing up, but you could also wear jeans and not be judged. The staff are friendly without being overbearing. The cocktails look pricey, but are worth the money for their strength and creativity. I recommend the spiked cider in the winter!

    (4)
  • Jelly R.

    The cocktails ("Don't Sassafras Me," which tastes like a root beer float, and their cucumber and something or other martini) were delicious, and had ample alcohol in them without it taking away from the taste. The mac and cheese was really good, though overpriced given the portion size. . . likewise with the cheese and meat platter. I'm sure I'll go back for drinks, but I probably wouldn't come here if I was really hungry. I liked the lighting, and the way the mortar oozed out between the bricks, lending to its cozy yet somewhat upscale atmosphere.

    (4)
  • Dawn B.

    A friend of mine brought me here after a Heat - Pacers ECF game. It looked like it might have been the only place still open downtown on a Sunday night. So after spending 3 minutes gawking at that dancing LED stick figure down the street (apparently her name is Ann) I walked into The Ball and Biscuit to find myself in awe of the decor. This place is cool. Low key, casual, hip, swanky.. all rolled into one. I definitely enjoyed an awesome craft cocktail (or two). I will make it a point to come here again on my next visit to Indy.

    (4)
  • Nate M.

    I was very excited when Ball and Biscuit came to mass ave. Coming from Ann Arbor, I hadn't seen a lot of options for craft cocktails. Initially I was very impressed with the feel and the cocktails. I also, didn't mind paying a little more for the drinks ($10-$18). After my first visit I began noticing it was harder and harder to find a seat. Again, due to the limited space, I didn't hold it against them. It wasn't until several negative experiences with the staff that I changed my opinion. Nothing major happened, in fact, I'm guessing the servers didn't even notice that they had given me a negative customer experience. Soon, I had several visits in which I was treated by the staff as if I were lucky enough to be able to pay them for their drinks. On multiple occasions I have been ignored by staff and treated as if I was in the way. After a few experiences I decided to vote with my dollars at the many other fine options on Mass Ave. If you are looking for a nice whiskey drink, it's a Tuesday night and you happen to be wearing a three piece suit, it's not a bad place to stop by.

    (2)
  • Ryan D.

    What a great spot! I love it when it's not too hot and they have the windows open. The style of drinks really makes me feel like I'm in an old lounge. The variety is awesome. it can get a bit crowded and from time to time you have to let the server know you are there but really they are very cool.

    (4)
  • Jackie H.

    I love the atmosphere here. It is candle lit, morter hanging over the bricks, and nice seating arrangements. It is relaxed and looks like it came from a movie. If you come here be ready to spend are $10 per drink. This is a place that has fantastic original drinks with many choices. The staff is very knowledgeable about what they offer and help you decide. Cheese: One aspect I do love is that they have 1 oz. cheese you can get with crackers. Cheese ... I know. But I love cheese and they have a fantastic variety of cheese that all have a different flavor and qualities.

    (4)
  • Some B.

    It's time to write a review to cajole the owners of this place to fix a problem, so they can hopefully make it the truly special place it looks like they'd like it to be. Patrons serious about ambiance should be wary of this place. Yes, it has good decor, proper lighting, proper furnishings, good staff, and well-made drinks. But it has a serious flaw which keeps it from being the classy cocktail lounge it wants to be. I asked my companion last night (also from out of town) what the one flaw with this place was, without hinting at anything. After a few seconds, she said, "the music". Yep, that's it. This place plays typical bar music that is simply too loud and out of character for the type of place it wants to be. It's trying to be a classy cocktail lounge reminiscent of the early 20th century. The music they play grates against that strongly. I hate to pull the "I live in LA and know better card", but, I do, and I've been to several places that know how to do this style of bar, and they don't have this typical sort of bar music. I love going to those places. They have taken a lot of my money over the years. I can have a conversation with strangers. They are in the mood to talk. I go back again and again. The quintessential example would be the Edison. They either play jazz, or nothing. They are never hurting for patrons, ever. The Noble Experiment in San Diego plays nothing. Great place. It doesn't matter whether it's 80s or top 40 or hip hop or whatever. My complaint isn't that I don't like what they played, it's that it doesn't match what they're trying to be. Great for a different venue, just not the Ball and Biscuit. Nor am I saying I don't like this place. I do, but with the music the way it is, it smacks a bit of amateurism. To the owners, I say, yes, you have plenty of business. It's certainly "classy enough" to get people wanting something like that to come in. Not having other examples, they may be perfectly satisfied. But, owners. I urge you not to settle for "good enough". Strive for excellence. Make your business something truly special, befitting the kind of effort you've put into it. 86 the typical thump-a-bump bar music. Either have the music match the light bulbs, or have none at all. Best of luck to you.

    (3)
  • Shelly F.

    Having returned over a dozen times since my first review, I felt it was time for an update. I still have a loving relationship with the B&B... My current drink crush is the pearl jam. Food is still simple and good. I'd like to see some growth in that area someday. Nice local beers and good wine options if you are inclined. One of my top favorite places to spend an evening with friends.

    (5)
  • David H.

    Really good drinks, the bartenders know what they are doing and the service is great.

    (4)
  • Doug O.

    I love this place, and I make a point to get there every time I come to town. Great drinks, imaginative twists on classic cocktails. My favorite is the Sicilian. The atmosphere is classy, but also very warm. The staff is always very friendly. This is the sort of place that could be totally pretentious, but isn't. I've always felt very welcome here, even when I came in dressed pretty badly after a Colts game. Big fan.

    (5)
  • Dylan E.

    I've been here a few times after work during the week, and earlier in the evening on some weekend nights. All those were pleasant experiences where we got a place to sit down, enjoy the nice ambiance and quiet setting, and sip of on delicious cocktails. While the drinks are overpriced, they are delicious and you are paying for the atmosphere as much as the alcohol. Service was fantastic, and their meat and cheese boards are delicious. The drink menu is extensive and has something to offer for every taste. There isn't a lot of seating for larger groups, but they have plenty of space for tables of 2-4 people. Based on that experience, I'd probably rate this a 4 star place, but I made the mistake of going in here late on a weekend night. All of that nice ambiance, quiet atmosphere, and space to sit down and enjoy your $12 cocktail goes completely out the window. Instead, it was packed, which meant ordering your expensive drink by yelling in between people sitting at the bar once you finally get the bartenders attention, reaching over people to get those drinks, and finally bumping your way through the crowd to find a space with enough room to stand with your friends. Essentially, this place turned into any other crowded and loud bar along Mass Ave, with the exception that drinks were still 3x more expensive and it was filled with the kind of people who looked like they probably have always gotten everything they wanted without having to do much work for it. All that being said, the area by the door in the separate section did seem to get spared from at least the crowds of people, so if you are lucky enough to get one of the 6-8 tables over there, you should still be able to enjoy your drinks and have a conversation. It was busy, but I've been in lots of places where the bartenders could run around nonstop all night and not appear bothered when you ordered a drink. That was not the case here. Overall, I'd say this is a great place to go after work or early in the evening to splurge on a good cocktail or two in a quiet and upscale place. However, unless you just have money to spend or don't come to a place like this looking for a nicer experience than any other bar, I'd avoid it late at night when it gets crowded. 4 stars after work or before a show on the weekend 2 stars late at night when it's packed and loud

    (3)
  • Meisha W.

    Still a fav. Delicious champagne cocktails and CHEESE. Can't beat that! The outdoor seating was a brilliant addition.

    (5)
  • Shannon B.

    Love the ambiance. Small overall but charming. The drinks are unique and very tasty. Wish all cocktail menus were as creative. I had the cucumber caipiroska and the Abusement. My friend had a sazerac. I would go back again based on the experience. Get their early during happy hour as this small place can get packed in a hurry.

    (5)
  • Erika F.

    Came to The Ball & Biscuit on a whim with my boyfriend when we were in town for The Indy 500. We were out exploring Indy and wanted to find a hip spot to grab some good cocktails. We pulled out our phones and found The Ball & Biscuit on yelp. We got there around 9 and it was pretty quiet. We bellied up to the bar and perused the cocktail list. They had old school cocktails, like the sazarac and manhattan, but they also had some newer original concoctions. We each ordered a drink and began chatting with the bartender. He turned out to be an owner and was very friendly and helpful, referring us to other not-to-miss places in Indy. He even made me his signature drink, which I cannot remember the name of, but it had tequila and hot sauce and lime juice or something along those lines. It was pretty delcious. The menu looked great and the girls next to us ordered a cheese plate that I was really jealous of. Next time we are in Indy, we will be back to eat. The atmosphere was great, quiet and cozy when we first arrived and by 11 p.m., this place was jumping. Standing room only. It was a very young 20s-30s crowd.

    (4)
  • Tamara D.

    We love this cozy bar. Delicious unexpected snacks. Nice cheese and meat selections. Wonderful drinks. It is a treat to go in.

    (5)
  • Cameron S.

    The best place in town with the best staff, bar none! Comfortable, upscale atmosphere that doesn't come off as overdone or cheesy. No TVs, which is a huge plus. Zach and Kendall will take great care of you.

    (5)
  • Trena T.

    A piece of history in the heart of downtown Indianpolis. Very classy, yet still laid-bck and comfortable. Intimate without being overwhelming. Excellent service, fantastic cocktails, and wonderful food. A stellar choice for an evening out with a step-up from the norm!

    (5)
  • Sarah F.

    I just love the atmosphere in here. It is so chic and classy....the lack of televisions makes this a refreshing respite from sports-bar hell. Actually, this place is so chic that I felt under-dressed and angry at my off-brand shoes. But a few perfectly-crafted cocktails cured that anxiety.

    (4)
  • Brandon P.

    Best made drinks downtown, by far. They've got an awesome cocktail list and have even resurrected some long forgotten cocktails. The only thing I don't like about this place is it can get super crowded on the weekends and finding a place to sit or even stand can be pretty tough. One of the bartenders (forget his name) has a pretty cool story he likes to share about when he had Michael Jordan (major douche) as a customer once. The set up is freaking awesome, they definitely have the best ambiance of any bar I've been to in Indy. I used to head to Nicky Blaine's when I wanted a well made cocktail downtown, but with the combination of that place having the worst service of all time and this place kicking ass, now I go to Ball & Biscuit.

    (4)
  • Steven A.

    Best bar in indy hands down. Drinks are amazing, food is local and great, and the ambiance can't be beat. Every time I visit I like it more and more.

    (5)
  • Michael+Jenni B.

    Ball & Biscuit is my favorite local spot for drinks. It is a necessary, upscale addition to the Mass Ave scene. Defiantly NOT a pub, but also not as pretentious as they have every right to be. The focus here is definitely on the cocktails & conversation (not on TV) The Aviation & Sidecar are my favorites; but also they make a great classic Tom Collins. A well edited seasonal selection of local brews make it the perfect spot even if your not in a cocktail mode. It's the perfect spot for pre or post dinner drinks, a light dinner itself before a show at the Murat/Old National Centre or to begin or end a night on the town. The vibe is intimate, but not awkward -- so while it's great with your significant other or close friends -- it's just as great for business & work outings and shows out of towners the amazing food & drink scene Indy has. On the food front, I appreciate the single selections of a wide variety of cheeses - in which you can make your own amazing cheese plate. The olives & bar nuts are must orders as soon as you walk in and if you are really hungry -- then order up the mac & cheese or artichoke dip. The servers are mostly trendy, artist types and as sweet as can be -- no eye rolls when you ask for a water. Be sure to say hey to Zach behind the bar (he slings the drinks and runs the show most nights). I also threw a private launch event there that turned out fantastic; they were super flexible and provided ample yummy appetizers & a great Bloody Mary Bar (with Hoosier Momma's mix).

    (5)
  • Joe L.

    I've been hear a couple times now and I think the best description I can come up with is "21st Century Speakeasy." Not because of the atmosphere, but because of the cocktail selections they have are bourbon and whiskey-based with a focus on craft liquors and mixers. Although they have a full bar, I don't think they had any signature martinis on their menu. This place is for real drinks and beer. The other amazing things about this place... great indie music, still able to carry a conversation, free WiFi, and AMAZING food. I just had the best Mac and Cheese tonight. If you come on Thursday, they have $2 oysters!!! REAL oysters, not cheap flavorless blue points. One time I had Kumamotos and tonight I had one from the East and West coast I've never heard of before

    (5)
  • Patrick G.

    Been here a couple times now and they make some pretty cocktails here. BUT they do have some issues. The biggest issue is that some of the classic cocktails they have on their menu are not made/served correctly. I had a Sazerac that came on ice! and not just one big cube or anything but soaked in crappy bar ice that you see at any bar. We were told that this is how they always serve the drink *shudder* . My friend got an Aviation, and that was also served with ice in the drink. The food was just ok, nothing to get super excited about but did the job. Service was somewhat odd, I think we had 3 different waitresses and they did not seem to communicate with each other. Overall I like this place but there's some significant room for improvement, still a great place to grab a drink in Indy.

    (3)
  • Stephanie Q.

    Had a friend in from out of town this past weekend. After showing them around downtown Indy (Meridian Area) on their first visit, I wanted them to experience Mass Ave this time around. I asked around and all signs pointed to the Ball and Biscuit. When we arrived (around 4 pm on Saturday) we were one of few guests in the building. It didn't take long for the place to fill up. It seemed like quite the popular place! Kendall the bartender handled it with stride. She was very knowledgeable and an amazing bartender. We enjoyed talking with her throughout the evening. She and of course the amazing drinks and ambiance, kept us there for a large portion of the night. Unfortunately, I can not remember all of the names of the drinks we tried or find many of them online since they are in the process of switching from their winter menu to their summer menu. However, that is always nice to see, switching up the menu seasonally. Makes people want to keep coming back to see what else they have concocted! Will most definitely be back! Esp on a nice night. Although we sat at the bar top, I would love to sit on their new patio and watch the Mass Ave life! Definitely worth 5 stars!

    (5)
  • Douglas B.

    I went out on a late, snowy, cold December night looking for a place just to chill and have a drink. When you're on Mass Ave you kind of expect a certain kind of feel when you go into a venue. Ball and Biscuit delivers. It is a hybrid modern lounge/old school speakeasy. How does that happen you may ask? On the lounge side, the decor consists of a number of classic (very comfortable btw) older style chairs and couches and tables. The exposed brick walls look like the contractor forgot to wipe away the extra filling, but it gives it a texture that you don't see often that is actually pretty cool. The exposed ceilings finish the industrial New York feel. There is low lighting, I can't remember, but there may have been candles too. Either way, it was enough to see who you're talking to without straining at all. On the bar side, you'll find a number of high tables and a small, but comfortable bar space that was very well put together and efficient. I liked the food menus being written in chalk for some reason. I guess it's because that means it changes and you never know what you'll get. I have yet to eat there, but the selections sounded perfect for the venue and looked pretty good from the plates I checked out. Bartenders and waitstaff were all easygoing and friendly. Ball and Biscuit is good for groups (probably no larger than 8) or one on one date spots. I almost forgot the thing that impressed me the most...the music. They played Cody Chestnutt and The Roots! While it's background music and not at a volume that you're going to get up and break it down, the fact they played a diverse range of music was appreciated. Thumbs up!

    (5)
  • J H.

    Can I just say how much I love that this bar is non smoking? It's got great cocktails (lots of creative ones - my fave is the ball & biscuit champagne cocktail) and a great vibe. The place wasn't overly crowded and our group of four was able to easily snag a table. I feel like this is a nice secret that is going to get out soon! The beer list is great and I love that they have several cocktails with St. Germain (a french elderflower liqueur - YUM)! I also enjoyed that it was just a great place to hang out and people watch! I'd highly recommend going with a group to check out the space and enjoy some unique classic cocktails!

    (5)
  • B B.

    Only one bartender working their large-ish bar on a crowded Sat night- What was management thinking?? We left after waiting 15 min just for eye contact. We used to like this place but now we are only luke warm about it. Attitude we got from the bartender makes me want to say, "Hey dude, you realize you are tending bar in Indianapolis, right?"

    (2)
  • Nicole H.

    It's been a long time since my original post about my Top 10 favorite things at Ball & Biscuit, so I decided go go ahead and write a new list. TOP 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT BISCUIT PART 2: 10. The bartenders. Hands down the best staff of bartenders around. Shout out to Kendall, Frankie, Dave and Josh (JD). 9. The food. All of this is done in house by their very own Marjan. In the past, they have used a caterer. This is my FAVORITE food menu so far. And I really love the old food so that is saying something. 8. The servers. Honestly, I usually sit at the bar so it would be really easy for the servers to ignore me but I have found the opposite to be true. All of them know my name and ask how things are going every time I'm in. Special Yelp love for MJ, Liz, Kelly, Erin and KATE! 7. Seems like I'm forgetting something important....oh yea....THE COCKTAILS. I'm mostly a Vodka girl (I know....I can hear all of the classic cocktail enthusiasts groaning as I type), and the BnB has some delicious vodka combinations. My all-time favorite is the Amelia. How can you really go wrong when a drink has fresh blackberry puree in it??? 6. No TV's. This was on my original list and is still one of my favorite things. This is where I can go to have actual conversations and relaxation. 5. The regulars. Myself and several other regulars refer to Biscuit as our cheers. While this is true, I have found one key difference -- we love when new people come and sit down. There isn't an ounce of pretention in the whole bar and that includes the regulars. 4. Artichoke dip (see my original post to truly understand how awesome this is). 3. The music volume. Unless you come on Thursday during the live DJ, Friday or Saturday, you can always expect that the music will be a subtle element to help carry the overall vibe through the place. It won't be blaring through the speakers so loud you can't think. I really appreciate that about my favorite local spot :) 2. Holiday parties. This past New Year's Eve party was the best bar/restaurant party I have been to. 1. Did I mention the bartenders yet? It is a craft cocktail bar after all :) But seriously, they are awesome! That is all for now. Thanks for reading. Check out Biscuit next time you need a delicious beverage.

    (5)
  • Lisa S.

    I've only been here once, but the I flove the decor of this place. Also, while the drinks are a tad pricey, they pour 'em strong. They specialize in Prohibition-era cocktails, and they don't disappoint. One Sazerac knocked me pretty sideways, and was yummy to boot. I went with a group of people I didn't know very well, and ended up having a great time. The cozy seating contributed to conversation, and even the strangers I met in line for the bathroom were friendly. Don't let the seemingly aloof hipster vibe fool ya. There's fun to be had.

    (4)
  • Courtney B.

    I have found that depending on you go to this bar with, the service differs. I have gone with a group of friends who work on Mass Ave and the service is A-OK. However, when I took some friends from not around Mass Ave, they were rude, and it took forever for the server to even come to our table. I want to say that it took about 45 minutes to order, another 30 to get the drinks and they actively discouraged us coming to the bar to order. They did have some good drinks though. But that is about all I can say.

    (2)
  • David C.

    We had to go here after reading all the great reviews. We were impressed immediately with the physical environment, kind of a swank shabby chic decor (is that possible? why yes, apparently it is) with lots of group seating in nice configurations, plus some regular high-top tables. We went on a Sunday afternoon and could only imagine the vibe on a late-week or weekend night but it rocked our coolness meters with the ambiance (cool blues toned down with blacks and browns on the walls, bar, and a copper-stained concrete floor that screams urban cool). Devoid of patrons on a sunny Sunday, I had plenty of time to check it all out. There are various eclectic collections of early-day microphones on the walls, plus no TV's (LOVE THAT), and a cool bartender. Beer & Food: We perused the beer menu and were both really pleased with what we had ordered; their draft list is on a board over the bar and I suppose that means ever-changing (mostly Hoosier microbrews although I had a great IPA from Kansas). Menu items I would have to give a C-, and maybe even a D+, simply because we could not order a charcuterie board replete with cheeses, olives, nuts, etc. They all came as individual plates or boards which is a bit unusual and way too expensive to order separately. They might want to rethink that strategy and offer a $15.00 combo board. We passed on the food. I'm looking forward to getting crunk there in the wee hours with my wife some night soon (yes we'll cab it in and out). Total chill and with high-style, exceedingly comfortable decor to boot. Wanna know what the etymology of Ball & Biscuit is? You'll have to go there yourself and read the menu's cover page. PS Great location with lots of other drinking & eating places to stroll over to, in case you're not as endeared to the B&B as us and other reviewers.

    (4)
  • Mark W.

    Was in town and stopped by after dinner. The place is nice and has an intimate atmosphere. Sat at the bar with my friend and had the "surprise me" special. It had a great mix of sweets and tart and was generous on the whiskey. Later to have Bourbon and was blown away by their selection. Prices were very reasonable and service was great. Highly recommend and would definitely return when I'm in town.

    (5)
  • Alex H.

    Bartender sucked. Took 40 minutes to get a drink while sitting at the bar. Will not return.

    (1)
  • Jenny J.

    I went here for a friends birthday last week and really liked the atmosphere. It's cozy and warm and in a great location. What I didn't like was that I found it super expensive and I didn't order any food but it seemed pretty fancy (They even had some bar nuts priced at $5). I got an Upland draft beer which looked like orange juce sice they hadn't turned the kegs I was informed, but they didn't act like anything was wrong with it. The wine was good, but for two drinks it was $16. The beer was actually $9 which is crazy for an Upland. I don't think I'll be back on purpose, but I didn't hate it.

    (3)
  • Nichole H.

    Something must be wrong with me. I am just not hip enough to appreciate Ball and Biscuit I think. I felt like things were overpriced and not that great. I had a variety of the small plates as well as two of the signature drinks. I just wasn't that into it. If you need me, I'll be back at MacNiven's.

    (2)
  • Derek C.

    The first time I came here was a couple of years ago. This was supposed to be Indy's premier Prohibition-era cocktail bar. I was horrified at what I saw and I never returned. When I joined Yelp, I wanted to write a review of this place but felt that it wasn't fair to write one on an experience so out of date. Every couple of weekends, I would try to go in again but wasn't willing to invest an hour standing in line. Last night, I lucked out and walked right in. Ball & Biscuit is almost there. It's not Violet Hour, Pouring Ribbons or Velvet Tango Room but if they keep refining their skills at the pace of the past 2 years, they will soon be in that league. They are now using what I believe to be Amarena Fabbri cherries and fresh squeezed juices and the resulting quality is apparent. The drink prices reflect that you're in a small city. $11 for a cocktail is a screaming deal. That is happy hour pricing in most cities. The one thing I think that they need to decide (and this was a complaint from my original visit) was whether they want to be an upscale but low-key bar or night club. We got there right at 9 and it was only half full. If there was music playing, it was drowned out by the regular chatter of the customers. A little while later, the stereo was cranked up to a ridiculous level and people were packed in like sardines. Definitely worth checking out. It's the best cocktail in Indianapolis.

    (4)
  • Karen M.

    Just watched a reenactment of The Way of the Cross processing down Mass. Ave. it is Good Friday after all. Still, the Smoking Goose Sausage Plate is awesome.

    (4)
  • Rick Z.

    Visiting from Cleveland and found this place using Yelp. Fantastic bar, great atmosphere I will visit again and highly recommend to everyone.

    (5)
  • Karen M.

    Lovely dark brick and candles galore, it feels intimate. Curtis the bartender whipped up the tastiest Moscow Mule I have ever had in a signature copper cup. Their pork sliders & mac are scrumptious. One of the best places to grab a drink downtown.

    (5)
  • Victoria L.

    This is a must in Indianapolis! Small plates, all amazing, a large list of wine and spirit selections. The service was outstanding. The building has an industrial feel that's a lounge, very cozy and modern. We ordered the all inclusive cheese board, hummus platter, their famous hot dogs, and dessert. No disappointments on any selections! Delicious and fresh! Can't wait to be back! One for the books!

    (5)
  • Deborah B.

    I love this place, the ambiance, the drinks, the decor. A great place to try an old-fashioned and creative cocktail or two!! Drinks that I have had here that I love include The Claret Cup and The Grand Marnier Splash. Just fantastic!! They have small plate offerings and artisanal cheeses. My only disappointment is they do not offer one of the greatest cheese in the world, Delice de Bourgogne, which is a triple creme brie from France. To die for!! The only place that I know has it is Whole Foods waaaay up in Nora. Anyway, I highly recomend Ball and Biscuit and will be back soon!!

    (5)
  • Laura M.

    I agree with a previous reviewer who suggested that this was a better bar to go for a cocktail and light dinner before the later crowd comes in and it gets cozy space-wise. If you like a quieter bar where you can sit and chat in a small group, not have to yell to converse, and have some quality drinks and small plate nibbles, this is a good place for you. The crowd is definitely younger, gainfully employed or on generous grad school stipends (I know, that's not very many of us these days) 20-30 somethings out on dates or friend nights. It makes sense - the drinks hover around 10 bucks a pop and the ambiance is more intimate, so it's more of a sort-of-special-but-not-like-birthday -or-anniversary-special type of joint. Maybe I'm feeling good about life - let's splurge a little special. I always get a perfect Manhattan (with Maker's, straight up) and they never let me down. The Manhattan is the high point of the cocktail world and they do it right. They don't skimp on the booze either - you will get the warm & fuzzies from these beverages.

    (4)
  • John R.

    Trendy and popular. $12 drinks but who cares because there are so many gosh darn good looking people around.

    (4)
  • Tristan S.

    Any place that plays Andrew Bird, serves Bavarian cheese and offers unique beverages like the cucumber-vodka-with-fresh-basil cocktail I had is A+ in my book. The setting gives the place the 5th star, too: straight out of dark-wood-brown-leather-dimly-lit heaven. Good service, too.

    (5)
  • andy h.

    The venue's atmosphere takes you back in time to a dark, prohibition-style saloon - but tastefully done it a way that feels modern, hip and comfortable. Enjoy the craft beers and the array of custom cocktails unlike any you'd expect to see on a typical menu. The macaroni and cheese has a lavender scent to it that makes it light, creamy and smooth. Really unlike any other mac and cheese I've ever had. The meatball is a delicious pound of meats (pork and veal) that is topped with sweet tomatoes and Parmesan. It is a pound of meaty goodness and I highly recommend it.

    (4)
  • Zach R.

    The Sazerac. A cocktail with 200 years of venerable service to mankind and somehow I'm just not finding out about. Thank you Ball and Biscuit. Thank you. As you may have figured out, I went to B&B and had my first Sazerac. It's a damn fine cocktail and it ain't the only good one they've got! I took a cue from my buddy John and started out with the Corn and Oil. I'll say that it's a mature drink, with lots of complexity, but damn it's good. Especially after you get through the first few drinks and start to unmask the lovely complexities and mysteries the brown, syrupy cocktail has to offer. The Saz is a whiskey drinkers drink, with a lovely flourish of orange at the end and a hint of anise near the end. Aside from fantastic damn cocktails that the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, Henry Clay, and other fine gentlemen probably drank, the atmosphere is great. It's very intimate. It achieves the speak easy vibe it's going for and also puts out a nice (yet not overly) Bohemian vibe (they have a cocktail called 'The Fauxhemian' by the way). It's small, but not cramped, especially if you get the chance to grab one of the four leather chairs on the raised portion of the bar by the wall (bad description, but I'm hardly an architectural vocabulary type kinda guy). Service wasn't necessarily attentive, but that wasn't a problem. Zach/Ziggy/Diesel, our server (pretty sure Zach's his name, but the credit receipt said Ziggy and someone called him Diesel... so hell if I know) didn't show up too often, but he wasn't neglectful. Just the second I started thinking about having a Saz, he was there. The second the smoked trout dip sounded good, there he came, smiling as if he knew I was powerless to the lovely menu choices I had in front of me. Service gets high marks in the end. Only thing wrong with the Biscuit is that the drink prices are a bit high. I'd like to see them drop that a bit. That would definitely guarantee a few return trips from me.

    (5)
  • Dassie R.

    The ball and biscuit has a perfect gastro pub atmosphere. They make pretty good cocktails and the apps are good too, but their prices are a little steep for Indianapolis. We love the decor, seating arrangements and music. My favorite cocktail is the pearl jam and It's worth it to stop in from time to time if you can ignore the pretentious, rude bartenders.

    (3)
  • Nicolette M.

    When this place was first opened, I didn't know how they could possibly make it any better. Then they put in huge windows, making it possible to enjoy a cool outdoor breeze while slipping on a Sazerac. I try to test out a new drink every time I go before I slip back to my favorites, Pimm's Cup and the B&B Champagne Cocktail. Feel free to ask the bartenders for advice for your drinks; trust me, they know what they're doing. The drinks are only a small part of this place. There was a lot of attention to detail when designing the place, the drink menu, and the food menu. There are also no TVs to distract you from the 1920s feel. The clientele of this place all equally love it and so prepare to bond with those you meet.

    (5)
  • Chanel R.

    This is one of the best bars in Indianapolis because of their attention to detail. You can tell they put thought into every choice to make this intimate bar great for their customers. From the comfortable seating and mood lighting to the beautifully placed orange peel in your vintage cocktail, this bar is definitely worth a visit!

    (5)
  • Kjirsten K.

    Fabulous menu of yummy, unique cocktails, good wine, good beer, and CHEESE! I love the atmosphere and the simple and chic design aesthetic. It feels modern and up-to-date, but with an old timey speakeasy feel. The music (usually indie rock) is at a good volume that is not overpowering or intrusive. The price of the cocktails are a little high, averaging around $9, but you get what you pay for. You won't find overplayed Cosmos or drinks loaded with pre-made sweet and sour mixes on the cocktail menu. My favorites are the Rooftop, the house margarita, and the Sazerac, which includes absinthe and rye whiskey. Added bonuses are the fact that Ball and Biscuit is non-smoking, you can usually find the owner (Zach) behind the bar mixing the drinks, and the name is so fun to say!

    (5)
  • Le W.

    One of my favorite places to go for a drink after work! Innovation combinations, great service, always busy!

    (4)
  • Brad K.

    What a great little joint to hang out and chat. My super-fly girl friends were looking for a place to grab a drink and catch up. We kicked around some ideas and settled here. What a treat. The lounge area off to the right was perfect. Big comfy seats, low music and low maintenance staff. (Who were way polite even though we sat for a few hours and didn't really throw down.) The music gets a little funky around 10 pm apparently. It goes from loungy-rat pack to obnoxious modern music. It doesn't come anywhere close to fitting the setting. Let's be honest, though. When the hell am I out in a bar after 10 pm? Answer: never. So that served as my warning to leave. Now that I think about it, that made the place perfect. Go here. But wear something nice (not that you have to) because it's a classy joint.

    (4)
  • Lesley H.

    This place was exactly what we wanted for a night out to celebrate my boyfriend running the Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis. We're from the Chicago area, and we were taken here by a friend who is a local. I told him several times that he chose a great spot. We're all in our mid 20's and over the club/bar scene, and this was just what we wanted. The dark leather chairs and candle lit lighting is very mature. Expect to pay at least $10+ for a drink - but they're very delicious. I'd recommend the Champagne Cocktail, I had 2. Oh! and if you're craving something sweet..order the brownie on the menu. It is warm in the middle and melts in your mouth. Three of us ate it. I also love the pitcher of water they served our table along with our drinks. Music is played at an enjoyable level to where you can still carry on a conversation. If we didn't have a seating spot, it may have made things a little less comfortable. Not much room for those to stand - at least where we were. However, we walked in and found a spot right away that fit a group of 5 comfortably. And like most Indianapolis spots, they were wonderful with splitting the checks! In fact, they did it automatically. This is always a hassle in Chicago, it was a delight to not have it be a concern. I would definitely check this place out again next time I'm in the area.

    (5)
  • Bill J.

    If you want to be cool (and you know that you do) then you should be hanging out at The Ball and Biscuit. Great cocktails, great food, superb & knowledgeable staff...and you simply can't beat the awesome Mass Ave location.

    (4)
  • Nick B.

    Great place to check out for cocktails and appetizers. It's great environment with multiple seating options and styles. It's perfect for a few drinks after work with friends!

    (4)
  • Scott L.

    While I just stopped in quickly for an afternoon drink, the best word I can use to describe this place is "Chill". I can't speak about the drinks, I just got a diet Coke, but the atmosphere is dark and epic. There are couches in the back. There are AMAZINGLY comfortable chairs to sit in. From everything I've been told by the regulars there, this place is fantastic. So, for the very short time I was there, and the very limited products I purchased...this place was awesome. Go there..drink and be merry!

    (4)
  • Tess B.

    THE best bar in Indy, no doubt. Great staff, amazing cocktails and excellent food! The ambience is perfect with attractive lighting, comfy seating and acoustics that allow you to actually carry on a conversation while listening to the best music! Let the cocktailers school you on what makes that place so unique, they know their stuff! Plus the bartender and GM, Kendall, will make you the best drink you've ever had. Indy needed a place like Ball & Biscuit! Always my first choice when deciding where to go for dinner, drinks and lots of fun.

    (5)
  • Tim L.

    Awesome decor and vibe. Great selection of drinks. Fun times had by all.

    (5)
  • Januarie Y.

    So I start this with the fact that I may or may not have been trolling the B&B cocktail menu for a few weeks now. I've long heard about them and wanted to go and randomly a few nights ago, me and my sister went! Atmosphere: It was a Friday night and considering it's summer and Mass Ave, the small inside was packed tight with people. There was literally no where to sit except outside, which was fine by me. Their open patio section and snooty drinks intrigued my inner-snoot and I embraced the experience of the wrap around wood bench. There were a few other patrons outside having their individual conversations with each other and me and my sister sat close to the sidewalk (aka Mass Ave Foot Traffic). It was a light rainy night, so door attendant rolled down the decorative 'shutters' (idk what to formally call those). We used them as a cool backdrop and I loved the design of bookcases and fine bottles combined with the ability to still see a little bit straight thru them. Another guest offered to take a picture of me and my sister. Points for cool people !!!! #CoolKidsClub Drinks: I ordered the Sidecar and my sister ordered the Rooftop (?). I was going with something fluffier and fruitier but I figured for sake of where I was (Snoot levels - 8 on scale 1-10), I'd venture out and try something different. The Sidecar is Cognac infused with "other stuff", but whatever it all was turned out AMAZING!!! Did I say great? Yes GREAT !!!!! OMG?? Yes, all the OMGs allotted for a bar drink go here. Yes. So the drinks are a little pricey. Yes. But worth it. This is the kind of drink I don't mind paying for. Nevermind that artistically cool drink menu that they have. I wish I were richer for these simple delights right here. I wanted more but we were both balling on a diva budget of hopeful dollars and glitter quarters, so we limited ourselves appropriately. I sipped slowly. I was pleased. Alcohol perfection pleased. It's quite possibly the best drink I've had in Indy. Yeah I said that. Highly effective Snooty Fox levels!!!!! Food: We also indulged in some bacon. How could we pass up Siracha Bacon and Honey Maple Bourbon Bacon on a stick ? We couldn't, that's how !!! So we indulged and guess what??? **Snoot levels rise to elevated status. High alert. People should beware of extended pinky fingers and exposed cheese and croissant-like crackers!! ** Ok that was dramatic. But the bacon was dramatic. And the water was served in tall glass Vases. Overall, I mean what else can I say here? I gave it five stars. I expected a great time and a good drink here and have been repeatedly talking about it over the last few weeks (and couple of years). Finally I go and it didn't disappoint. THAT is what you call an Elite experience, with High Levels of Snoot !!!

    (5)
  • Kavitha D.

    I like this place for the great drinks and close proximity to my apartment. I get an aviation (love me some gin!) every time I go. I think their drinks are really good!! Nice quality. Im also a huge meat and cheese fan. Theres is decent, too much bread in my opinion. No comparison to Bluebeard's, but still good. My only complaint is I wish they actually made their drinks (mainly aviations) to a full glass amount. Ive been multiple times and some bartenders skimp. Cmon!!

    (4)
  • Maya H.

    What I like about this place is how it is quieter than a lot of the bars downtown, and very open. The menu is very unique, almost exclusively drinks I have never heard of or seen. We went for my birthday and I am almost ashamed to admit how many things we tried. My favourite drink was made with a rose liquor and had an edible flower in it which was sweet and delicious. My boyfriends favourite is called "The Maya". It comes in a skull mug. Looking around at the other tables I realized a lot of the orders use the mug as presentation, which is really cool. I feel like it sort of adds to the experience. We did not try any bar food since we had just had dinner, but we will come back to try it some time, since it looked very tempting. I feel like the service was great, the bartender was very helpful and very friendly.

    (5)
  • Beth W.

    Came here Halloween night 2014. They had themes drinks and had candy all around the tables. I ordered a drink that came in a syringe. We were dressed up in costumes and enjoyed the people there. It was a fun place to hang out.

    (4)
  • Ashley T.

    We went in twice in one night on our short trip to Indy. Once, before a show, to have a couple drinks. Once, late that night because the sushi place we wanted to eat at had just closed their kitchen. I'm honestly glad because we got to try the fish sliders and they were really good! Drinks were stout and they had unique combinations. Bartenders and servers were all friendly and welcomed us back in later. The decor inside is really cool. One of the neatest things was the screen over the windows looked like massive bookshelves and I have never seen anything like it. We really liked this place and would for sure go back!

    (5)
  • Sigrid F.

    Only went in to have a drink on our girl's night out. I must say they were fabulous. I so recommend the Maya or the Son of a Peach, both lovely drinks. Waitress was awesome even so we only had drinks. The interior and ambiance are very welcoming and comfortably trendy. I can see why this place is do popular.

    (4)
  • Amy T.

    Top notch cocktails!!! The bartender knew exactly what to make when you tell him your spirit and what you normally like. This bar is dim lighted and very vintage looking. If the weather permits, sit outside. :)

    (5)
  • Sarah N.

    Great little bar. I'm not a local to Indy, but can enjoy cool, little bars that are not about sports and have a true urban feel. Ambiance and decor are comfortable and cool, industrial lighting, dark leathers, mixologist inspired drinks and a good selection of tap beers. Weather you gather with friends around one of their low top tables with big chairs or belly up to the bar, this bar is a great intimate, hip spot in the downtown landscape. It is not a gigantic bar, but would be good for a group or a date. There appeared to be a small dining room off to the side too that you could sit down at a normal table and eat something too.

    (4)
  • Chris P.

    Drinks were ok, but pricey for what you get. Menu was rather interesting but place is next door to a pizza restaraunt we favor. Nice location but better other options in the area.

    (3)
  • Amber C.

    Dark corners, leather furniture, and candlelight? I'm IN! I happened across The Ball & Biscuit quite by accident. A friend and I were heading to one of our favorite spots, but it was unusually crowded on this particular evening. (Side note: don't you hate when people finally discover your secret hideaways?). I was pleasantly surprised by The Ball & Biscuit. The decor was exactly what you'd expect in a classed-up tavern. Think mood music, leather arm chairs that you can get lost in, minimal lighting, and a perfectly retro bar. This seems like the place that you might meet a clandestine lover or make super-secret power deals that may or may not be under the table. That's not negative at all, it's a great feel and perfectly fits the prohibition history of Indy. I had the pleasure to enjoy a seasonal cheese plate and was duly satisfied. My cheeses were very fresh and my crostini was perfectly crisp and served warm. My friend ordered a moscow mule type drink and was satisfied, if not overwhelmed or particularly impressed. I suspect I happened across The Ball & Biscuit on an unusually quiet night. I'd be interested to see how it looks/feels during one of it's more characteristic busy spells. Next time, perhaps!

    (4)
  • Anthony J.

    Great looking place. Kind of limited seating though. Around 6 and already encountered some rowdy middle aged people. They food. Overpriced and ehh nothing special Beer and cocktails are limited but it is a lounge. They should change their menu around. Less opulence more simple and good. Good to talk for a bit but other than that I would try my lock elsewhere. Doesn't help that the bartender was already straining from just a dozen customers.

    (3)
  • Joanna S.

    Yep. This is as good as it gets. Classy atmosphere, imaginative mixologists and kick ass open air seating. I'll be heading back just as soon as physically possible.

    (5)
  • TOMMY o.

    one of the latest & hip places to be was very comfortable, loved the woods & brick walls i'm not much of a drinker, but i do LOVE small plates (no matter what you've heard), some include olives, smoked trout dip, Shagbark Syrup Cured Salmon, Duck Rillettes, Hummus, Garlic chips & cheeses from around the Globe, & the Brown Sugar Bar Nuts were dusted with brown sugar but with a hint of red pepper to balance it out under the most currently highest priced real estate, the music is great, the service with the tall & witty Amber .......... FAB no Smoking inside it seemed ballandbiscuit.com

    (4)
  • Brenda B.

    Love this place! Zack is awesome! All I can say is I'll be back with lots of friends! Ask for the sidecar! You won't be sorry!! Hope to see you here soon!

    (5)
  • Roger H.

    One of a kind, always a pleasure.

    (5)
  • Reggie L.

    Absolutely one of my favorite spots! Great, inventive cocktails and food! Zach is constantly working at adding new food and drink items to the menu! Very relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

    (5)
  • Cindy G.

    The Ball & Biscuit was probably one of my favorite places on our recent trip to Indy. It felt very much like OTR. Trendy, dim lit, beautiful atmosphere, and damn good cocktails. We came in pretty early around 6:30 and snagged a table near the bar. There are two sides to this place, one more causal and the other feels more intimate and lounge-y. The great thing is you can come dressed up or down. I saw some regulars in shorts and a t shirt while others were in dresses. They do have some food the menu is small but still packs a punch. Known for their signature hot dogs & charcuterie this place was right up our alley. I love small bites to share so we ordered up the artichoke dip and their mac and cheese dog. The artichoke dip came out pipping hot with LOADS of bread (see pic) and was a great bar snack especially for the price point. We then moved onto the mac dog. The hot dog was good quality and the mac and cheese was great, but together I don't know. The mac was a bit overcooked for my taste but had great flavor. It had ham and herbs in it making it very hearty and yummy. I probably would order it again as a side. Now for the cocktails. There is a decent list to choose from and they can probably make you anything you'd like. I opted for a gin drink with cilantro and cucumber, I cannot remember the name but it was very unique. It was really well balanced and the hawaiian red rock salt on the rim of the glass was DIVINE. I would order again in a heartbeat. The bf got a dirty martini and asked for it extra dirty. The first one she brought out was not good, but they happily exchanged it and made a fresh one which was so nice and much appreciated. This place will for sure take care of you! For my second drink I opted for a blackberry champagne cocktail, and although the flavor of the blackberry was super fresh I think there may have been too much simple or some kind of sweetness for my taste. Loved the idea though. The service was phenomenal. Very friendly and knowledgeable, and to be honest, I was surprised given this places reputation of being pretentious, I felt the complete opposite! If you're in Indy, this should be on your list of must-visit spots! I'm a fan.

    (4)
  • Jon C.

    It really makes me sad to write this review, but tonight was kind of the tipping point for me with Ball & Biscuit. I've been here several times in the past and have had average service with outstanding drinks. Tonight though I wasn't able to even able to get a drink and walked out after 20 minutes of being ignored. I arrived Sunday over Labor Day with two friends around 8:30 in the evening. There were a couple of tables sitting outside as well as three or so tables sitting in the bar. We sat down right away in the bar and waited. About 10 minutes after walking in, someone came by and literally threw a bottle of water on the table; coming back a minute later and throwing glasses at us without a word. Our server? Never came over. 15 minutes or so after we sat down, we saw her. She checked on the tables around us and then went to the bar and had a lengthy conversation with the bartender with her back to us, and then walked off. Unhappy about the entire situation, when she walked out, we did too. Ball & Biscuit is a great place and I really admire their efforts on bringing the craft cocktail back to Indianapolis.. but if the service doesn't get any better, I'm afraid people will turn to the restaurants next door, leaving Ball & Biscuit as empty as a bar during Prohibition that followed the rules.

    (2)
  • Monnica L.

    I used to love this place and have been a regular over the last couple of years but, sadly, the experience I had last night has soured me. It was a new bartender, at least I hadn't seen him before. I wanted to try the new pineapple martini and was disappointed in what I received and offended by their handling of the situation. First, the glass was only about 1/3 full. If a drink is a smaller portion, use a smaller glass. Then I tasted it and it tasted like watered down pineapple juice. The server took it away and put in my request for another drink. The next thing I knew, the bartender was standing over my friend and I asking for specifics of what was wrong. I told him and he countered, very defensively, that it was "perfectly made" and had 2 ounce of vodka (could have fooled me) and said that I would still have to pay for it because he couldn't sell it to someone else. Really? We went back and forth until my friend stepped in. In the end, I was not charged for it, but this experience has definitely soured me. If I am going to pay $11+ for a cocktail it needs to be top notch, or at least better than something I can get at home. Such a disappointment. I hope they can turn things around.

    (2)
  • Tamika K.

    Favorite bar in Indy!!! Me and my friends have been looking for a bar to hang out and after I had my 2nd and last child we decided it was high time for a girls night. Even though I don't write a lot of reviews I'm on yelp every other day so I thought why not try the ball and biscuit. It was great. It is small and very open. Even though it was a Saturday night and it was busy it never felt overly crowded. We had a fantastic time and the drinks were great. We have been back countless times since then to hang out!! Thanks for our girls night memories.

    (5)
  • Catherine H.

    This is the bar I have been looking for. It has a cozy, but not sleepy, atmosphere and serves creative craft cocktails. I got the champoppy which came with a flower garnish and it was just adorable. Cool joint!

    (5)
  • Hannah C.

    Imagine a lowball topped off at the max. Your featherweight friend takes a few sips, and you sit back and enjoy the dj mix of soul/acoustic/pop. It's Saturday night, the place is packed with an allcomers group - short, tall, young, old... chillin'. Luckily, you swooped in and robbed those butt-swallowing cushion-y lounge chairs from a group of girls flauntin' in their heels. Your conscience re: their bunions eases once you place your order for a kimchee hot dog and crab cakes. Twenty minutes later, your friend is declaring herself Drunk, the meniscus one ice cube's height from the brim. But, you stay for a couple more hours because you're enjoying the more urban scene. It's nice... and comfortable. Corn and Oil - loved it. Strong and tasty. Other general mixed drinks off the menu are equally well-mixed. The food is not quite as satisfying but interesting enough to make you curious for another taste. Side note: kimchee is not for the weak. If you eat it, buy a side of breath mints. A thinner-necked Steve Austin-looking man approached us and asked if "that's what smelled like propane." ... For those that have an appreciation, give this dish a try!

    (5)
  • Nana M.

    Super cute place! This was my first time visiting Mass Ave. and I was not disappointed. The decor was modern and upscale and they had a great selection of wine and spirits. The cocktail list was a mix of standard cocktails (old fashions, bees knees, etc.), and the bartenders creations. I asked the waitress for the least sweet gin cocktail on the menu... There wasn't one, so I just asked the bartender to make something up.... That's always hit or miss... This time it was a miss for me (still way too sweet), but it was a tasty drink and my friend enjoyed it. We didnt order any food, but I have a feeling the food here would be really tasty. My only issue is that the drinks were pricey... I really hate paying $12-$13 for a drink when Im in New York... It REALLY irritates me to pay Manhattan prices in Indiana. Your rent is not that high... no meed for the massive markup. Anyway... i'll step off my soapbox. All in all a great time and I'd definitely come back on my next trip.

    (4)
  • Sascha D.

    I am reading these comments about this place being over priced and whatnot, and I completely disagree. If it were a sports bar, I would understand that, but its not. It's the premier prohibition-style bar in Indianapolis. You're paying for a drink that you can't get anywhere else... They make their own drink syrups too! It's also one of those places that you can go it and say I want something fruity or bitter, or with whiskey, and the bartender will make the best best mixed drink you've ever had... Not come out with a vodka cranberry. The food is pretty dope as well. I usually get the fish tacos or the cheese plate.

    (5)
  • Louis C.

    Phenomenal. The decor of hardwoods and dark colors, accented by soft warm lighting really draws out the best in its customers. The prohibition era cocktails are masterfully crafted by the bartenders. This is exactly what Indianapolis needs.

    (4)
  • Daniel L.

    I feel like I've written a lot of 4 stars lately... The Ball & Biscuit is a great "adult bar," as noted in a lot of the reviews. If you are feeling the need to be fratty, head to the Ripple. Drinks are more expensive than most places, but they are often worth the price. Food is in the same boat, though I would prefer a few items that are somewhat standard fare. The kimchi dog is delicious, but sometimes I just want a burger a fries. All told, if you haven't been to this location, and are looking for a Brass Ring style bar, give it a shot. It'll be just a little more expensive...

    (4)
  • Conrad P.

    As for the bartender to make you something they like. You'll love what they create

    (5)
  • Chris M.

    I like the Ball and Biscuit during non-peak hours. The place is just not comfy when it is crowded. An early stop at the non-crowded bar for a pint of decent beer and some cheese usually hits the spot. I've had some of the cocktails, but I'm not one who is often impressed with fancy mixed drinks ordered from a menu. Not that they are bad, just not my thing. Other notes: Staff is friendly and the decor is killer.

    (3)
  • Amy H.

    Clean glasses! Clean glasses! Clean glasses! Can I say how exciting it is to be served your drink in a glass that is spotless? I saw them gleaming up on the wall shelf but the bartender wiped them out anyway whenever he took a new one down, inspecting it in the light. Actually, now that I t think about it, this whole place was spotless...including the bathroom - I'm sure the implications of that datapoint isn't lost on anyone. YAH! Ball and Biscuit has an amazing array of cheeses. I tried a gorgeous plate of 3 varieties, (none of which I can remember now except that they were all yummy), along with some seasoned nuts and olives. This paired wonderfully with a few glasses of red wine. Service was prompt. The crowd was pretty chill (albeit it was early) but this is clearly a great after work gathering spot. And, now that I know about the Kumamoto oysters, I'll be angling to get back down here on a Thursday soon.

    (5)
  • David V.

    This is a great place to have drinks. Their appetizer plates are also very tasty. I suggest the hummus and cheese and cracker plates. If you're on Mass Ave. for a night out you should definitely stop by the Ball and Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Lorand M.

    Nice that they took the time to respond to my deploring of a marketing move on facebook to promote positive yelp reviews... I very much appreciate and respect someone associated with B&B taking the time to peruse social media critiques...and...taking the time to write me a note. This is the type of professionalism that is typically found in establishments that do things...like....clean the bathrooms...wipe the tables...take time to pick beer offerings instead of whatever the hot chick from the distributor is promoting...and shockingly...ya end up with a thriving business. Hmmmm ? survey customers opinions on social media...and..rather than getting defensive and decrying the idiocy of the "no nothing" clientell...and....you actually write a well worded note of contrition... Thanks B&B for being so professional...and looking forward to many more enjoyable evenings at your place.

    (4)
  • Kendra W.

    Cool place! Kind of expensive. Comfortable but somewhat upscalish atmosphere..

    (4)
  • Ron S.

    I swear, this bar is my new obsession and, thus, has become my favored hangout spot. Ball n Biscuit brings contemporary pub-lounge style to Mass Ave in a rather elegant fashion. The decor is hard to describe, but I'd have to say "Industrial-revolution" chic if I had to put my finger on it (if you ever shop at Spitalfield's when you're in Chicago or New York, you'll know what I mean by that). Comfortable seats and chairs adorn the entire place and there's nary a bad seat in the house. During the summer, the huge windows are propped open so you can view the street. I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place to enjoy a beer on Mass Ave. On tap, they have a plethora of local brews including BBC and Sun King. I've only sampled the charcuterie and proscuitto dishes, but they were excellent and it's a huge change of pace from the burgers and fries sports joints that are otherwise in this area. In addition, they don't skimp on the alcohol with the mixed drinks, and the wait staff is courteous and knowledgeable. Since this place has opened, it has become my preferred place to bring out-of-towner guests and they have nothing but positive things to say about this place, it really shatters their previously held notions about Indy being nothing but a cow-town. Long and short: Indy needs more classy places like this.

    (5)
  • Parvonay D.

    Ball & Biscuit is pretty much my perfect bar. Dark wood, dim lighting, exposed brick, that "bar of yesteryear" vibe. Atmosphere is classy without being stuffy or pretentious. Arrive a bit early on a Friday or Saturday night to ensure you have somewhere to sit. Sip wine or classic cocktails and enjoy the people watching on Mass Ave out of their giant windows. Haven't tried any of the food yet, but what I've seen looks good. Prices are what I'd expect with this atmosphere and are pretty standard for similar places in Indy. You'll see all types of dress here, from suits and fancier "going out" attire to jeans, so come as you are. Bonus: it's smoke free!

    (5)
  • Twinkle V.

    So far, The Ball & Biscuit has some of the best drinks I've had not only in Indy, but most likely ever. Vintage recipes, obscure liqueurs and fresh zests accompany a great small plate menu filled with a variety of specialty cheeses, meats and dishes created with local ingredients. This bar has no fear for meat, the bone marrow there is outrageously amazing, yet the menu still can cater to those who are more vegetarian-inclined. Also, the rustic, back room speakeasy look of the place gives it a hip, yet relaxed atmosphere that fits in perfectly with its location. Notably one the best playlists on the sound system in any bar I have come across in Indy, yet.

    (5)
  • Alex H.

    over priced....drink was good but not worth the price

    (3)
  • Adam C.

    Our first stop in Indy and all I can remember is it could have been a better experience. Bartender seemed distracted most of the time, hard to get a drink and even harder to get your bill and pay. The Meatball is huge with ok flavor but could be great with the right seasoning and for 14 bucks should be a lot better. Great place, it's kinda the place you would want if you had a bar. Nice place to have a drink after work and catch up, only suggestion be more friendly to the customers.

    (4)
  • Gregg M.

    Back home again in Indiana And it seems that I can see The gleaming candlelight, still shining bright Thru the sycamores for me The new mown hay sends all its fragrance From the fields I used to roam When I dream about the moonlight on the Wabash Then I long for my Indiana home... Actually, I was also longing for a well-made, hand-crafted cocktail. So following the sage advice of our bartender, Corey, at Olives, the girlfriend and I made our way to The Ball & Biscuit. The Ball & Biscuit resides along the surprisingly vibrant, diagonal-running Mass Ave, which reminds me more of the neighborhood along the similarly diagonal Mass Ave in DC than anything I ever remember from my days in Indy. Although the Ball & Biscuit may have a name that sounds incongruous with quality cocktails (or anything else for that matter other than a place for dog toys and treats), the B&B really impresses with its execution of craft cocktails. Throughout our stay, we were professionally served by Joe, our skilled bartender. For my first round, I had the B&B's version of a classic sazerac. Their Fall Sazerac consisted of Jim Beam Rye, Hickory Works Shagbark Hickory Syrup, The Bitter Truths Orange Bitters, and a Vieux Carre Absinthe rinse ($10). If you're going to make a classic cocktail, you either need to follow the original recipe to the letter or create a version that stay's true to the spirit of the classic but has a unique twist that showcases the ingredients and the creativity of the bartender. This was a case of the latter. The sazerac possessed all of the notes of the classic, but was made special by the use of the local produced (or at least in-state) hickory syrup which added a subtle smoky/nutty spin to the cocktail. My second round was the Corn and Oil, another classic cocktail, consisting of black strap rum, house made falernum and bitters served on the rocks ($10). The oil-like black strap rum was complemented nicely by the falernum making for a satisfying, yet not as sweet as you'd think, cocktail. I enjoyed both drinks but I have to say that the Fall Sazerac took honors. Indianapolis has changed a lot over the past 10-15 years...and for the better. Who says you can't go home again? Not me! Mass Ave and the Ball & Biscuit have been added to my permanent "to do" list for future trips back home again in Indiana.

    (4)
  • Lindsay B.

    Love, love, love their thoughtful drinks here! I had the Fauxhemian, and one other cocktail which is no longer on their menu [I was there in August... a little slow posting reviews] but I would have happily sipped any drink on B&B's menu! Everything I tasted, including my companion's drinks, had well balanced flavors, and was unique and delightful. We also shared a cheese plate and a couple of small plates. The food was respectable, but the drinks were really the stars. The ambiance is also wonderful - cozy, warm and lively. This was the highlight of my short stay in Indy. I'll definitely return to Ball & Biscuit next time my travels take me to this town.

    (5)
  • Scotty Z.

    I'm doing it!! I'm bumping this place up to 5 stars. Oh wait -- twas already there. Can I give it 6? 7? I LOVE this place!! Considering how masterful their drinks are, now that I'm a somewhat regular, they also get an "A+" for consistency. Every drink is awesome. They don't take 20 mins to make. And, our service has been superb every time. Find of the night: I topped off the evening with the Willett Rye Old Fashion -- except substituted a barrel aged Willett instead. There's no going back now!.

    (5)
  • Kami L.

    I have been here quite a few times and it is, without a doubt, my favorite bar in Indy. It's beautiful, elegant yet comfortable, and the drinks are phenomenal. It is priced accordingly, be prepared. Standard well drinks (Jack & coke, etc) are more in keeping with prices in the area than specialty cocktails, which run $8-$10.... but they are poured STRONG and taste amazing. They also have an awesome selection of CHEESES! If you are looking for a nice place for a date or a night out with friends, then this is perfect. If you're a college kid looking to get plowed (either way you think of it), this is not the place for you.

    (5)
  • Toby M.

    The place has a great vibe! Great drinks and great food given that the food here is catered every night it always seems to be perfect! downside it can be waaaaaayyyy to dark some times that you need your phone to light up the menu and it gets crowded very quickly, but try it out its great!

    (3)
  • Brock W.

    Cool place with a solid beer and cocktail selection. The cheese selections were pretty good too. Will definitely swing by again next time I'm in Indianapolis.

    (3)
  • Zachary O.

    Anyone, be you a local socialite or cultured traveler, will find it all too easy to declare this modern speakeasy your own personal Mecca. Finding solace in the chic, vintage interior, whether you're propped up on the brass-top bar or relaxing on one of the distressed leather couches, with the accompaniment of an absolutely stellar menu, featuring items that range from duck rillettes to bone marrow and shortribs, you'll be able to see, firsthand, exactly why so many people are raving about this "New Gem of Mass Avenue." So, why not live a little? Pop on by and fall in love with The Ball and Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Taryn M.

    So I may be giving this one less star than it deserves, but I will explain why. I had heard a lot of hype about this place and finally decided to go. i was told it was a modern day speak easy. There was nothing at all that made me feel like I was in a speakeasy. Ive have been to a few previously, one in particular that I love (Bourbon and Branch in SF) and this didnt come close. First of all, there is a huge window in the front and a sign that lets everyone know that the place is bar. Second, the waiters are SOOOOO slow. My friends and i had a running joke that the staff thought it really was prohibition and we were cops trying to shut down the place. The drinks were delicious, slightly overpriced but good. Not too sure about food. Someone i was with had the kimchi hotdog and said it was pretty good but definitely not worth the price. I had the raw oysters. UGH!! Not sure who shucked those things, but Ive never had so may broken shell pieces in my life. The only thing I really enjoyed about the bar was the atmosphere, BUT it was not the "speakeasy" vibe I was expecting. I would recommend this as a place to simply grab a few drinks with friends and unwind. They have great alcohol and a very nice beer list. Some of the best cocktails Ive seen in downtown Indy and delicious. My favorite thing was that it was non-smoking. Being from CA, I havent seen smoking in doors since I was too little to remember. It was great having some place to go and have a good time without coming home smelling like a public ashtray.

    (2)
  • Sarine J.

    First place I EVER went to on my visit to Indy. LOVED it. I'm from LA so this is the typical LA type of hangout place. The atmosphere made me feel like I was at home and loved the decor. Their mixed nuts are also yummy. It's just way too expensive.

    (3)
  • Lebeth Z.

    We went here towards the end of summer and they had all of the front windows open to the street. Really nice atmosphere & IPA's.

    (3)
  • Jason M.

    Best drink in town with the Pearl jam! If you are looking for a place to have the best cocktail intown B & B is place to go. Friendliest staff and must try bone marro!! Brings out the friendliest side in everyone

    (5)
  • Clinton J.

    My new favorite place. From the location to the atmosphere to the menu to the staff, everything is likeable. Drinks aren't cheap but they are made with superlative ingredients and made well. I'm a big fan of B&B's focus on bringing back the old school cocktails that this country was built upon. The decor is cool and the lounge area is quite comfortable. It's another great reason to hang out on Mass Ave.

    (5)
  • Kato S.

    Must have gone on a bad night. Staff had an attitude and wine was sub-par. Cocktail was good, but not worht putting up with the pretentiousness.

    (2)
  • Jenny S.

    This is definitely not your usual cocktail joint. It's nicely appointed with some really interesting cocktail choices. The drinks are pretty pricey though, so this might not be the place to take a chance on something you haven't tried before. It can get fairly busy on the weekends, but on a weeknight, it's a great romantic pre-dinner drink stop.

    (4)
  • Stacy J.

    Love the potential here... just had very, very poor/unacceptably poor service... If that were to improve, I could see the charm in this place along with great appetizers and good brews!

    (2)
  • Tracy R.

    Our family from across the pond landed in Indy recently for a few weeks stay so of course we were ready to hit Naptown! On our way to one of favorite dinner spots my sister in law was desperate for a great Martini so we ducked into the B&B for a drink before our meal. What a great addition to Mass. Ave.! A cozy, warm atmosphere welcomes you when you walk through a very strip mall like door into intimate tables, comfy chairs and a chatter of conversation instead of blaring televisions. That's right, NO TVs:) Three of us being beer geeks, we were happy with a small, but good, selection of craft/microbrew and import beers on draft. We were thrilled when informed that Zach(an owner) will be switching up said selection frequently and featuring beers by region in the U.S. I love that idea! The Martini my Sis was craving? So good she had two and recommends Death's Door Gin. Because our one drink before dinner turned into more, we needed a munchie. So, a cheese plate arrived and impressed us all. A fine selection of creamy, sharp, and bold flavored cheeses served with crackers(could've been a bit more impressive) and blackberry preserves. A delicious starter before our indulgence next door. The B&B is a refreshing addition to Mass. Ave: offering light food/meals, retro cocktails, unique spirits and wines, microbrewed beers and conversation instead of tv inundation. I can't wait to take the rest of the relatives!

    (4)
  • Donovan M.

    They definitely have their own little menu. If you like old school drinks (with bourbon) then you'd like the place even more. The cheese is $3 or so and awesome. Definitely go check it out if you're on mass ave.

    (5)
  • Brandy F.

    I have visited the Ball & Biscuit several times, and not once have I been disappointed. It seems silly for me to try and write a review on any one of their delicious cocktails, as they change with the season. Just go there, and if it isn't too busy, sit at the bar and speak to the bartender (who is usually the owner), tell him your likes and let him decide for you. He seriously knows what he is doing. I always order cheeses to enjoy with my libations, and again, when I'm not sure what I want, the owner has always provided some awesome suggestions. Lastly, I'm not a fan of trout, but the smoked trout dip is pretty unbelievably delicious!

    (5)
  • Joshua F.

    The B & B staff should give customer service lessons to most other restaurants and bars in Indy. The service is sharp, efficient, and professional. The drinks are thoughtful, balanced, and worth every damn penny. This joint would succeed anywhere, I'm just happy it's a 10 minute walk from my home.

    (5)
  • Valerie S.

    Absolutely my favorite place to get into on a Friday or Saturday night. That being said, it can sometimes be hard to get in! This is by far the hopping-est place to go right now, but they've gotten better at crowd management and keeping the bar busy but not too full. The new windows out front are wonderful, the drinks are strong (or craft beer), and the wait staff is great. The music is always pleasant in volume and choice, and the food is to die for. Best of the best!

    (5)
  • Jason P.

    My Favorite place for cocktails in Indy. Moscow Mule is my favorite but for something different ask for the Hot Carla--its not on the menu. Best spot in the bar on a warm summer night is in front of the large windows that they open up onto the busy Mass Ave sidewalk. If you enjoy a well made cocktail or drinks with some exotic ingredients, this is the best place in town.

    (5)
  • Nick G.

    Come here. You won't regret it. Unless you have a large group of grumpy people. Then send them on their way and come here alone. Very small and quaint inside, and not a terribly exciting menu. But that didn't deter me from coming here 3 nights in a row. Bartenders and servers are all very nice and know the beer and cocktail menus very well. The olives and nuts were good, although a little overpriced, but the atmosphere makes up for it. Side note, this is the only place I have ever seen Stone Sublimely Self Righteous sold at a restaurant. I highly recommend it!

    (5)
  • Mark S.

    This is one of the coolest bars I've stepped in to. I had my first Pimm's Cup here, and it was amazing.The atmosphere made me feel special, which I am not.

    (5)
  • Angelica G.

    After experiencing two disappointments in a row with closed bars we ended up at The Ball & Biscuit before a concert on a quiet Monday afternoon. The bartender made our experience, really. He made a tasty Magellan gin Cucumber Caipiroska that I could've drank for hours. My hummus plate wasn't the standard fare you can find at any other establishment, either. It had toasted pita, tahini, marinated olives, and a generous portion of hummus. Although i've yet to visit Liberty Street or the Libertine, I wouldn't pass up visiting The Ball & Biscuit again.

    (5)
  • Melanie R.

    My husband and I joined a friend for dinner on Mass Ave recently, and then we walked down here to grab a drink and hang out. We each got a different cocktail so that we could sample a few things. Everything was unique and tasty. We did a round of beers as well along with an order of the sweet and spicy nuts. Everything was good, though I'm not sure the drinks ranked as high with me as the atmosphere. It's just a neat little spot with a good vibe, and they were playing some excellent music. It was great for just hanging out with a friend and enjoying the evening.

    (4)
  • Steven H.

    On a recent work trip to Indy, I happened to be meeting with some co-workers across the street, but I kept seeing people heading into the Ball & Biscuit so I knew I had to drop in. Walked in solo and instantly saw a cool looking spot with an intriguing drink menu. Bartenders really took the time to create some great drinks and each one is done correctly. The Monday that I was there had a really great DJ playing old school music and classic hip hop.... The music the DJ was bringing would usually have a place packed in LA or Chicago but the crowd that night seemed not to notice... Maybe it wasnt their thing or the crowd just wasnt quite able to appreciate the selections the DJ was playing, but I can say that he has some serious chops and I'd go back for that kind of musical vibe... Put some trust into the bartenders there and try one of their signature drinks or ask them for recommendations.... Step out of your Jack & coke world....

    (5)
  • Alex S.

    When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And when in Indianapolis, drink as the Community Managers do ... or, uh, something like that. I had never been to this Indy city before but I was looking for a drink. And since I was out and about with Yelp Community Manager Jon "the mustached man" A, I figured we should head to one of his favorite bars. And so, we wound up on Mass Ave at The Ball & Biscuit. This mood-lit prohibition style bar was, well, fantastic. Seriously, I can't think of a thing I didn't like about it. There was tons of seating, to the right in the bar-room and to the left in an alcove-like room with tons of places to relax. And the seats were comfortable upon comfortable. I probably could have sat there for hours, sipping on fine cocktails. And yes, the cocktails - amazing. They had a nice little menu of drinks you could order, including house specializes I'd never even heard of before but were fantastic. Pricy, but you got what you paid for ... which was an amazing drink (and not at all pricy compared to cocktails in, say, New York or San Francisco.) Plus, the place served cheese plates, and they had tons of different varieties of cheese plates. Who doesn't love a cheese plate? Who doesn't love saying the word cheese plate? Ah, cheese plate. A great spot in a fine city. You've done well here, Indianapolis.

    (5)
  • Allen N.

    Quality slipped. Been there before and had amazing stuff. This time order a couple queso dips and coagulated.

    (2)
  • Jill W.

    went with friends as part of a Saturday St. Patricks pub crawl. Loved the open air seating, great for people watching. We only had appetizers and beers, but entire menu looked amazing - will go back. Had good selection of craft beers on tap and cocktail menu looked great as well.

    (5)
  • Sal W.

    Great ambiance, huge selection of drinks. Charcuterie/cheese plates are very good. Waiter was the bartender coming over from the other side and seemed kind of bored with helping us choose from their enormous selection. Would've liked more input on a first visit, but he was handling the whole restaurant.

    (3)
  • Kaylee H.

    Listed as American cuisine but it's definitely just a bar. Realized that after I sat down and was asked for my ID. Unfortunately it's only 6pm too.

    (1)
  • Jason G.

    When you brand your restaurant as a cocktail bar you must make out of this world craft drinks. I always heard rave reviews and maybe I went on an off night. We had dinner reservations across the street and needed to kill about an hour. Sitting at the bar he recommended a hot totty for my wife and I ordered an Old Fashion. I don't claim to be a connoisseur of Old Fashions, but having ordered many I know when they are made incorrect. The bourbon was very watery and he shook the drink and didn't muddle the fruit. For my wife's hot toddy, he couldn't describe the bourbon used and it tasted like warm lemon water. The bar man was not much of a showman. I like the experience of watching them make a cocktail and he hit the ingredients under the bar like there was something to hide. It will be very hard for me to come back for an $8 drink when The Libertine is around the block and I've always had a 5 star experience.

    (2)
  • Colin A.

    I'm not fancy enough for this place -- either to appreciate it or enjoy it, I suppose. Service was on point, and the menu of small plates is quite extensive. The tap craft beer I sampled was a double IPA -- quite a punch. Unfortunately, this just isn't my type of place. I can't go lower than 3 stars because it was a rather OK visit, I just don't fancy this sort of establishment enough to enjoy throwing down the kind of cash it takes to dine/drink here. One more thing: brown sugar bar nuts? Yep, definitely not up my alley but it may be your type of place -- don't let my review dissuade you.

    (3)
  • Zach Z.

    At first I was weirded out because it was so quiet in there when my wife and I walked in. It was also "seat yourself" which was unexpected. Once in there it is a very quaint bar. It looks as if you are stepping back in time. There is a more "private" sit down area to the right which reminds me of like a Nicki Blanes downtown. To the left is your more traditional seating and the bar. The drinks are very good and it is almost all specialty drinks. They are overpriced but you are not going to this place for bargain drinks, you are going here for the ambiance and experience. They do have light food choices as well (Also overpriced) All in all Im glad we went but there are other choices I would make next time. It is definitely worth checking out if you have never been here before.

    (4)
  • Tiffany H.

    So so good. I love the atmosphere and the wait staff. Please keep the amazing cheese plates and Mac and cheese! I dream of it. The Jack Rose is my drink of choice and it never disappoints.

    (5)
  • Nick C.

    The Ball & Biscuit is exactly what Nap Town needs more of... a local place that is distinctly different from the other options. The atmosphere is very relaxing with brick, soothing colors, and oversized chairs. The music was not overpowering and blended in well (Death Cab for Cutie and Owl City type sound). The drinks may appear pricey to some folks, generally $10 and up for a signature cocktail, but you pay for what you get. I think the price was actual very reasonable and had a sampling of a few drinks. I also tried a small plate and was very satisfied. There is not a huge selection of foods, just a few small plates perfectly selected to compliment the premium drinks. There are some nice beers on tap and wines if that is more your style. I am officially a regular of The Ball & Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Kinsey C.

    The Ball & Biscuit is my favorite place to go in Indy when I want a high quality cocktail. If you're looking to go out for beers, or looking for a place to make you whiskey and coke, this might not be the place you want to go. I am always surprised the the quality and tastiness of the cocktails I order. They are always well made. I'm the kind of person who finds something they like and stick with it, but I am always up for trying something new from the B&B. A cozy and chic atmosphere, I feel like I'm traveling back in time to a hidden speak easy. Leather chairs and ottomans, big windows, and a great mic collection hanging on the wall. This place is really great, and a wonderful place to take friends and family visiting Indianapolis.

    (5)
  • Tiffany G.

    I've been a long-time Biscuit fan. Not sure why its taken me so long to review this gem, but here it goes! The Ball and Biscuit is like your favorite band -- You wonder what they'll come up with next, but you always inevitably fall in love with it on the first listen. When you see them live, they surprise you with new material, while still saving time to play their hits (and maybe a few of your favorite B-sides). They reinvent themselves while still staying true to who they are. If you sit at the bar, it's like a private concert -- ask for what your heart desires and they will create something amazing. The creativity and passion the bartenders have for what they do shines through in every cocktail. Some specifics: The Bees Knees: Sweet honey and lemony. For those of you who aren't huge gin fans, you won't notice it it this light spring/summer cocktail. This is that short-but-sweet song in the middle of the album that you're tempted to put on repeat. El Comediante: Wow. Red Pepper infused rum, ginger syrup, a red wine float and cilantro -- sounds like a lot going on, but this is smoooooooooooooooth. Almost like a twist on a Sangria (hmm.... I wonder if there's a way to get some Bakersfield tacos to go with this??) One of the most creative drinks I've ever had. Kendall, you're a freakin' genius. Smoke and Mirrors: I only got a sip of this, but it'll be first up next time I return. Yummy. Smokey Mezcal is yummy.This drink is yummy. Yummy. Smoked Sicilian: My husband got this and I got to taste it. Not sure which smoked bourbon it was, but it was a nice twist on the original. Think of it as your favorite band playing a cover of another one of your favorite songs. The atmosphere, the service, the drinks..... no wonder The Ball and Biscuit has received so much national attention. Cheers!

    (5)
  • Mary W.

    I am a sucker for interesting cocktails and good atmosphere. This place has them both in abundance. My husband and I did a joint bachelor/bachelorette party here the night before our wedding and LOVED it. The weather was beautiful and the front windows opened up so you felt like you were sitting outside even in the bar. The combination of the cocktails were amazing! My favorite was the The Rooftop Cocktail which comes with St. Germain (mmmm! Elderflower!); I will probably spend the rest of my life trying to recreate this cocktail.

    (5)
  • Stephen S.

    I loved this ... Indy's very own gastropub with fabulous cocktails. I just discovered this spot with my niece while I was visiting Indy. My cocktails were exquisite. I couldn't suck down that B&B Champagne Cocktail fast enough. I'm a total St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur whore anyway. And, this one had just the PERFECT balance of bitter. This libation was quickly followed by an Aviation Cocktail, which was good to the very last damn drop. Food was good, though it did not cause me to throw down my fork and scream. The kimchee hot dog was fine (that fat all-beef dog was fat and difficult to master despite my big mouth :) and the kimchee had a nice kick to it. I will say that the brown sugared nuts were quite underwhelming; more like lightly sweetened and salty average mixed nuts. I guess I was expected some brown sugar coating and spice (something more than you can get from a can in a grocery store). Toward the end of our visit, we saw some twice-baked fingerlings float past that looked devine. When I asked the server (turned out to be the chef) what they were, he kindly brought us the last one he had in the house to sample. YUM. I would definitely order those again. They beat any ap we had. If you're on or near Mass Ave, this is a "must-stop-by-for-a-bite-and-a-bev" kinda spot.

    (4)
  • Steve O.

    Don't go if you want a bartender to pop the cap on your Bud Lite Lime and take your cash. But if you like crafted cocktails, crazy good food and servers/bartenders with personalities - this is the place! This people are passionate about what they do, and it shows. This is the place that you miss every time you are not there.

    (5)
  • Holly H.

    Let's take a moment to appreciate the champagne cocktail. Mmmm... just right for when you're feeling girly and flirty.

    (4)
  • Megan M.

    Love the drinks; hate the ambiance. When B&B opened, there was not loud music - in fact I had heard that the owner purposely kept the music level down. Those days seem to be long gone and my love of going here has also faded. When I'm sipping a serious cocktail I want to be able to hear my companions without them needing to shout. Quick mention of the staff. They are *always* incredible (nice, will recommend drinks, refill water, ect. .)

    (3)
  • Deborah W.

    Cocktails are very good and the appetizers are a perfect combination. Service is very good and knowledge about drinks. Menu is limited but if you're just here for drinks and appetizers it's a great place to start.

    (4)
  • Sara J.

    Went there for a drink with a friend. The lighting and decor were beautiful, cozy, and the cocktails were top shelf. I would leave a more in depth review but can't think of the words. If you're on mass ave and looking for somewherequiet and romantic, this would be a great place.

    (5)
  • Joel M.

    I came to B&B with very high expectations and they met (most of) them. I imagined the place to be a lot bigger for some reason, but really like the intimate atmosphere. The interior had the staples of a quaint "speakeasy" - very dim lighting and very social seating seating arrangement (open layouts with couches, etc.). We actually ended up sitting next to complete strangers and sparking up a good conversation (real conversation, not drunken blabber / pickup lines), something that is rare in your typical sports bar or dance club around Indy. The drinks are great, although I honestly wouldn't know if my Old Fashioned was made with craft bourbon or well whisky (I just don't have a pallet for cocktails / spirits). All I know is it was tasty and strooong. I actually had to switch to beer after this because I would have probably blacked out after two. Much to my surprise they have an excellent draft beer list to compliment their cocktail menu. The service was okay, but a little slow for such a small place. The crowd was very diverse - there was everything from people in suits to Mario and Luigi costumes (it was the weekend before Halloween). I would definitely bring friends or family here for a few drinks if I wanted to keep it classy and low key.

    (4)
  • Jon A.

    Like experiences with art -- be it a movie, a book, a painting -- our timing, our point of view, where we stand in our lives matters when we visit a bar. Like when I revisit my favorite movies (F for Fake, Park Row, The Train, Point Blank), the timing of my visits to Ball & Biscuit matters. There are wonderful quiet moments at 4pm on a Tuesday. There are genius conversations on Sunday nights. Then, sometimes i take the risk of "the curtain nights" (as I call them) on Friday & Saturday (a risk because I don't fair well in loud crowds). These nights The Biscuit is slammed. Conversations are loud, but if you place yourself right (either in the back corner nook, or cranny by the bourbon barrel aging house liquers at the end of the bar you can in fact still have a space that's removed from the awesome, awesome crowd. A Friday at midnight where I had a martini for dinner (I'm not kidding) gives rise to a need-based craving: a King David Hot Dog. I crave these damn things all the time. I never ordered a hot dog in my life -- anywhere (even my beloved Dodgers' Dodger Dogs) -- until this Kosher, all-beef red hot. And The Biscuit is the only place to get this dog at night. Um, and what did they up and do? They loaded the King David Dog with Mac N Cheese -- Barely Buzzed (espresso lavender) Cheese, to boot. To the point: this was simply the greatest drunk food celebration I've ever experienced. Paired with a Sun King Osiris, drunchies forever changed. I had yet to try the Grand Marnier Smash, but whoadoggie (yeah I said it) that's rad. As too is there French 75 -- which could compete with the mimosa as a morning Hair of the dog. Every experience here is cinematic. The cocktails are technicolor. The mood is always changing. There's always a soundtrack. A session of cocktails & conversations can have a deeper meaning then you'd ever believe.

    (5)
  • Molly F.

    I have to say that this is not the most friendly joint. It seems to be very snooty. I did not feel welcomed at all. I have been here 5 times now and every time I get snubbed just b/c I don't order a $10 cocktail or "don't fit in." I live downtown and am a frequent restaurant goer would spend more money if they weren't so rude.

    (2)
  • Phil H.

    Vintage cocktails in a classy hip decor makes for prohibition era enjoyment. The kind of dimly lit joint that you can picture the Rat Pack sitting around in a corner with drink in hand and cigarette smoke lazily drifting in the air above. One of my goals during this visit to Indy was to find a speakeasy here. It was suggested by many that the Ball & Biscuit was the place to be. They were not wrong. As soon as I walked in here I knew it was going to be pure pleasure. Dimly lit with old style type lighting hanging from the ceiling, candles flickering all around, a mix of brick walls and chic leather seating in one room, and a smattering of tables and chairs around the room in the bar area. As it was a Wednesday night it was not crowded at all and I took a seat at the bar. A mix of 50's, indie rock, and R&B was playing at a low volume. Good to hear old school James Brown tunes. Bartender greeted me and handed me a drink and bar snacks menu. I asked him a bit about the drinks and to suggest a whiskey based drink. He said I would like the Willett Rye Old Fashion. He told me they use their own three month old whiskey that they age in their own barrels right on the bar. Willett Straight Rye whiskey stirred together with aromatic bitters, syrup, and an infused cherry. Wow - this was so good. It had a smooth finish with a vanilla undertone. Definitely a drink to sip slowly and savor. For $11 it was so worth it. Bartender was nice enough and asked me how I liked the drink and was attentive without being overbearing. Just right for a speakeasy. Looking over the menu I saw that they have a nice mix of classic style mixed drinks, and a good amount of whiskey, scotch, and cordials. They also feature a rotating group of craft beers ( around eight), bottles (a really nice selection), and some wines. It's a very well thought out selection and there is something for everone's taste here. They also have a fun grouping of bar snacks and small plates available - kimchi hot dogs, pulled pork sliders, jar of pickles, bone marrow, house marinated olives, smoked trout dip, and more. There are also around ten cheeses to choose from. Indianapolis needs more bars like this. Chic and sophisticated ambiance to enjoy a prohibition era style drink among quiet conversation with friends or a date. I will be back.

    (5)
  • Lindsay P.

    Meh... Great ambiance and cool decor, this speakeasy is not your ordinary bar. They're always serving up some sort of fun cocktail. But they're wine selection is severely lacking. I wanted nothing more than to enjoy a nice bottle of wine here alongside a carefully chosen cheese board; they hit my mark on the cheese, and were no where near my mark on wine. As a group, we had to send our wine glasses back multiple times due to various (and unappealing) scents that were messing with the enjoyment of a great glass of wine. After 3 failed attempts we should have given up. It just became real awkward and it was clear they had no idea about their wine or that they shouldn't be zesting oranges right over their wine glasses. This place is definitely well liked by many as it's typically full even on random nights, but perhaps that's the reason I will typically pick anywhere else on Mass Ave besides the BAB.

    (3)
  • Jennifer H.

    Be sure to double check your receipts! I recently had a bartender here add $10 to his tip. I called and spoke to a "manager" to get the issue fixed and 3 calls later they finally credited my account. The manager also said it must have been an accident. Right. Either way - check your receipts.

    (1)
  • Taylor F.

    Well slap me on the back and call me a monkey's uncle! Is this Sazerac cocktail adding to my merriment or did I just see Dean Martin walk by! What a great atmosphere! Great big regal leather arm chairs, low lighting, low riding urban vintage chic lounge chairs and friendly smile that had lot of recommendations and personal favorites in the libations department! What a brilliant throw back to Rat Pack Era of high cocktail culture, quality mixology that borders on art turning a collector's heart green with envy. Phenomenal innovative selection, perfect atmosphere for any celebration. So with all the accolades where is that ever elusive fifth star? Well...sad story while our waitress was incredibly nice with engaging recommendations, her coworkers seemed a little less thrilled that we were taking up precious table space. We were a group of 11 or 12 and while not entirely fitting into our corner booth we did mistakenly block the walk way. Had we known we would have been more than happy to move for them so they could walk through, last thing I want to do is make anything more difficult for cocktail servers. But it was the unfriendly smile and the snarky, "Uh...we need to walk through here so you are going to need to move." And as we were leaving in order to get us to move faster they sent in the busing team to bus our cocktail table while we were attempting to leave, the ironic thing was that they were blocking the exit it was slightly counter productive. All these things are minor though, we'll be back. We had a great time and the New Years Celebration sounds like a blast! Comments about pricing...to be honest I expected it to be $10 to $11 a cocktail, for a well made cocktail I consider that a deal! OH I almost forgot! They have MANCHEGO cheese on the menu! GOODNESS I LOVE THAT CHEESE! I am considering making a list soley devoted to MANCHEGO!

    (4)
  • Liz M.

    Excellent location. Phenomenal decor. Great Service. Delicious crafty cocktails. Can't ask for much more. Server was very helpful and patient. I did not try the food, but when I make it back to Indy I will!

    (4)
  • Darshy N.

    This is how Indy does cocktails; not in the speakeasy scene, but a solid cocktail bar this is. I took my out of town friends here, and explained to the bartender that we were visiting, and which they replied, "Oh. Why would someone from Toronto every visit Indy?" Err--- yeah. So that didn't really help my sell of this place, but the fact that we strolled in early, (1/2 hour) was pretty darn Indy friendly. We ended up helping them prepare the garnish for the St. Patty's rush. I wanted a Moscow Mule, and I'm going to admit they make the best one I've ever tasted here. The recommended Sazerac is pretty much the staple of this joint and I'm not a whiskey person. But it is such an amazing drink. The atmosphere is pretty trendy as well. I love the big couches, and the intimate lighting. You can surely find a secret spot and get lost in conversation.

    (4)
  • Jim W.

    Interesting food and expert service. We had the cheese plate, charcuterie plate, and artichoke dip. All were excellent. Our server brought extra bread for the artichoke dip. The cocktail list is extensive but the beer list needs some expansion into darker beers. Worth a visit.

    (5)
  • Chelsey S.

    I don't agree with Laura M. This was not a quieter bar. They played really odd, jungle-like music for the space and it was BLARING!! We sat at a dirty table for at least an hour before I complained to the server that I was grossed out by the gum hanging on the side of the glass that had been staring at me for far too long. She finally took away the five dirty glasses that had been on the table since we sat down. I paid $12 for two Sun King pints. Stupid. I'm all for supporting local business but I've been PLENTY of places where a local brew isn't that steep. I do like that they brought us out a bottle of water, although the water tasted a little funky. It's a good thought though. I also like the decor and the mortar between the bricks. I probably won't be back unless they lower the prices and do something about The Lion King soundtrack that left me with tinnitus.

    (2)
  • Jason B.

    The overall feeling at the Ball and Biscuit is more trendy than other bars on Mass ave. However it doesn't feel so trendy that you feel like a slob in a t-shirt. It tends to be a popular hangout for the law firms and other similar type of workers in the area. This also means that the prices and selection tend to be a little more trendy as well. In terms of selection, they have several micro-brews on tap including some local favorites. They also have a pretty good bottled beer list. Mixed drinks and wine seem to be their specialty as they are always coming up with new concoctions that seem to get pretty popular pretty quickly. Beer prices are decent. $4-6 per bottle and similar draft prices. The mixed drinks can be pricey, but you're paying for higher end booze so it makes sense. My only real problem was when we ordered the $12 cheese plate and we received more apricot preserves than cheese to put on our crackers. It was not enough cheese at all for the price, even if the cheese was fancier cheese. Head to the Ball and Biscuit if you are all dressed up, have some money in your pocket, and want to drink on Mass ave and still feel fancy.

    (4)
  • Stephanie H.

    Exactly what I expected it to be, and the cocktails were phenomenal. I appreciate a well-crafted and unique cocktail, and got exactly that. The vibe was very laid back and professional, and the setting quite intimate. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the only thing left to be desired was a slightly wider menu offering-the Mac and Cheese and such is all wonderful, but as someone with Celiac, the choices to balance out the drinking were very limited.

    (4)
  • Crystal K.

    This bar is awesome.

    (5)
  • Erika B.

    I like the atmosphere and it's great when they open the front windows during the summer. The food is so so. I have enjoyed the cheese and smoking goose plates. They have a nice collection of drafts and a tasty cocktail menu. I do wish their wine list was better. It would be a great spot to have a bottle of good wine and a cheese plate but not possible with the current wine selection. It is a cocktail bar and not a wine bar. Enjoy it for what it is.

    (3)
  • Regan F.

    perfect moscow mule

    (5)
  • Matt F.

    At the end of Prohibition in 1933, President Roosevelt said "what America needs now is a drink!" Well, Frank, I think I'll take your advice and head to The Ball & Biscuit. In a world of bland, boring bars, it is here to rescue us from buckets of beer and fifty cent chicken wing specials. It is a modern day speakeasy that serves cocktails from a long ago era. The drink menu changes periodically and is somewhat seasonal. If you like your drink a certain way, let the bartender know and he will do his best to accommodate. On our first visit I ordered a Vieux Carre and although they did not have everything needed, he was able to mix me up something similar. They also have a good selection of draft beer, including several Indiana brews. We're usually here for a drink before or after dinner so I haven't tried a lot of the food but what I have had is decent. We have the trout dip on every visit and have tried several different cheeses. They have a happy hour from 4-6 with a few small plate dishes available for $3. I have read some complaints about rude staff. On our last visit, the bartender was not exactly rude but was just not overly friendly. Other than that, our experiences with the bartenders and servers have been great. Cheers! .

    (5)
  • Kate D.

    Only came here for drinks, and would return. They are all on the pricey side but well mixed and very good variety. The server was friendly and quick. The ambiance was a bit dark, giving it a very loungy feel, but it was a fun place for a group of four.

    (4)
  • Derrick B.

    You know..a lot of people are really impressed with the Ball and Biscuit, and I can honestly understand why. The place is beautiful. The people (for the most part--I mean, I was in there significantly bringing down the average!!) are beautiful, and the drink selection is incredible. Plus, the name is GENIUS! I won't ruin the story behind the name, but it's definitely unique. Just by LOOKING at the menu (which includes everything from drink combinations I've never heard of to cheese selections that I've never heard of) you can tell that this place is top notch. However, for the same reasons people love this place I'm simply not that impressed. I'm admittedly an average joe. I like what I like, and I don't intend to overpay for it--unless there are extenuating circumstances, like the going away party of a dear Yelper (as I pour my proverbial drink!) The Ball and Biscuit is not for the average Joe's. I really cannot fathom regularly paying $4 for a BUDWEISER! WHERE.DEY.DO.DAT.AT?! Plus, like I mentioned, the menu serves a clientele that knows and appreciates the difference between "Marrow w/ribs" as opposed to simple "ribs." If that's your fancy, Ball and Biscuit is a dream come true. In fact, this place is a model for supporting community initiatives. So, let's be straight, I'm not knocking it, or folks with refined tastes. It's just too perfect, and I'd rather have my restaurant experiences in a place that has some awkward, some weird, some flaws!!

    (3)
  • Jennifer P.

    I used to say this place was 5 stars but sadly my visit the other night changed this. We used to come in for great craft cocktails that you HAD to sip slowly because you didn't want to rush through you wonderful drink, you wanted to savor all the wonderful flavors. Our last visit made this place blend with all the other regular bars that just rely on the mixes and other ingredients and don't highlight the quality spirits. Hubby and I both ordered our favorite drinks and both were so weak and overpowered by the mixers that you could taste, much less appreciate, the alcohol. We were both disappointed and left as soon as we could pay our tab and choke back our blasé drinks. Probably wont be back for a while. Ball&Biscuit seems to have lost its luster :(

    (3)
  • Ronnie R.

    This place is seriously overrated. If you're not ordering from their specialty menu, at least one bar tender hasn't a clue. They certainly don't know how to make a classic like the Mint Julep. And even if it were some ridiculous personal expression, it was a poor one. I asked for something similar to a Manhattan, and I was delivered a "Brooklyn." Absolutely nothing to distinguish it from the former. At last, I ordered a neat bourbon. Its the only thing the guy couldn't botch. The worst part is, I step away from the bar to go to the bathroom, maybe three minutes pass, and my place setting is cleared with someone sitting in my seat. Now whether this is the work of a smartass bartender, or just a plain old inconsiderate serviceman, this place can hardly be called anything more than vanilla. The only thing it has on its side is a lack of competition. Places like this are just bars in other cities. This is just a bar with one bad bartender.

    (2)
  • Laura P.

    Can't go wrong with one of their craft cocktails.

    (4)
  • Orval Ale S.

    Thank you Marjan for your excellent customer service! the ambiance, drinks, and cheese platters are not to be missed while in town.

    (5)
  • Chris H.

    This is definatly a downtown hot spot, great drinks, excellent service and food. Very hip place to hang out, especially with a group. Kendall is awesome!

    (5)
  • Sara N.

    As soon as I walked in the door I was in love with this place. Very cool bar, very good wine, and ambiance is spectacular. Oh and there are no TVs (as far as I could tell), which is an A+ for an Indy restaurant. Drinks and wine are wonderful and service was quite good. The only complaint I have is that we ordered olives and hummus, which took 40 minutes (ridiculous) and they were both absolutely horrible. I mean the olives were almost rancid and the hummus was so bad it was mind boggling. But oh well, I guess you shouldn't eat food here. I would just go back for the drinks and ambiance. You should definitely try this place, you will love it!

    (4)
  • Ben K.

    Most intimate, best ambiance, best cocktails in Indy.

    (5)
  • Donna B.

    I was really looking forward to a nice evening with my husband, and did a little searching to find 'just the right place'. The Ball and Biscuit almost had it. We stopped in quite early, about 530pm. There were plenty of tables available, as well as seats at the bar. We opted to sit in these lovely high backed leather chairs. The seat were quite comfy and we settled in to look at the menu while our server, Kelly, went to get us some water. You will want to take your time with the menu, and read about the many unique cocktails. We poured the water from the old-style soda bottle. As I was bringing the glass to my mouth to take a sip, I was overwhelmed with the odor of straight up indianapolis water. It tasted as bad as it smelled. Suggestion: get a water filtration system. Our first round of drinks included the Aviation Cocktail and Moscow Mule. Both drinks were fresh and crisp. We ordered the Papa Roux trio of pro' boys and the chicken and sausage soup. Both were tasty, but not awesome. Kelly was very prompt checking back on us initially, but as it got busier, she was not quite as attentive. When she did check on us, she was helpful and pleasant. We ordered another round, this time a Martinez and Sazerac. Again, we truly enjoyed the cocktails. Our little seating arrangement was quite comfortable with the exception of being cold. The B&B needs some help with the drafts of the door opening so often. There are very few seats unaffected by this. There is a heavy curtain they could use near the front door that may help with th cold air. Drinks ranged around $10, give or take, with the exception of the Sazerac, which was $15 ( old barrel). Overall, we enjoyed it, but with all the new bars and restaurants popping up around Indy, will not return, at least for a while.

    (3)
  • Nick J.

    This bar has one of the best atmospheres in Indy. I love the lighting and the cocktails are fantastic, especially the Sazerac. The bartenders are professional and know how to make cocktails the right way. They are also great about answering any questions about the menu and are great at keeping you supplied with both water and alcohol. I've been to the Ball & Biscuit three times and enjoyed myself each time. My most memorable experience was sharing Sazeracs with a close friend as we caught up on a breezy summer night. The drinks were perfectly mixed and the bartenders are quite knowledgeable. I again cannot stress enough how excellent the cocktail selection here is. The only negative I would give to the Ball & Biscuit concerns the food. I have tried both the Gazpacho and a poboy platter. The gazpacho was not something I would get again and the poboy platter was good, but the bread in no way resembles actual poboys. This is a common problem with Indy's Louisiana-style establishments. But this does not detract from the overall experience. I will try other food items on the Ball & Biscuit's menu, but these two are ones that I won't go back to.

    (4)
  • Holly H.

    To borrow a phrase from my favorite Food Network Star... It's cocktail time! We went to The Ball & Biscuit tonight! I must admit that I was a little nervous that the place would be super elitist, overcrowded, and just generally not my scene. As it turns out, I was pleasantly surprised to be wrong! I think a lot of it had to do with our timing. My husband and I, along with our two best friends, got there a bit before 7. We had an early dinner, and wanted to keep the evening going for a little while longer. The place was basically empty, and we ended up sitting in what I think were the best seats in the house (four deep armchairs surrounding a low table). My husband and I, especially, had been wanting to give this place a go... He'd even pre-selected his first round cocktail (awww!); The Aviation Cocktail. I played it a bit safe, getting The Rooftop Cocktail. Our friends got The Claret Cup (which tasted A LOT like sangria) and the Cinnabar Negroni. We also got an order of bar nuts and some marinated olives. Our server was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about the cocktails, and answered all of our questions in detail... sometimes a bit more detail than was actually needed. But it was actually really nice. She was SUPER friendly and I'll take that over the alternative any day. Our drinks and snacks came quickly after we ordered (which I'm sure was a result of the place not being busy at all). We all sampled all of the drinks, and decided that they were ALL pretty awesome. Sometimes there is a bit of jealousy at who ordered what and what we wish we had ordered instead, but I think we were all pretty pleased with our selections. :) We sat back and enjoyed our delicious beverages while talking and laughing. After a while, we decided to get a second round, and we all mostly tried a different drink. This time my husband got the Sazerac, I got The Grand Marnier Smash, and our friends got the Hemingway Daiquiri and The Rooftop (because he liked mine so much). All of the drinks were beautiful and surprisingly tasty. I'm not a big drinker at all, and I managed to find two cocktails that suited my tastes. It is kind of sad to report that those two drinks left me with a serious buzz... The force is STRONG with their drinks, indeed. We all decided that we'd hit our wall at two drinks, and settled up. Our tab (which included four of their classic cocktails, the bar nuts, and the marinated olives) came to about 45 dollars plus tip. Some people might scoff at paying 10 bucks for a cocktail, but it's pretty much right in line with what one should expect to pay for for a designer drink. One previous reviewer had it just right. They are a lot like art in a glass and you pay for the privilege. Between the four of us, we managed to hit most of the items on their menu, and all of them were kind of amazing. As far as the vibe of the lounge itself... The decor is awesome (as I'm sure many reviewers before me have mentioned). It's very laid back and casual, with sofas and chairs as well as some traditional tables. I hate to use the word chic, but it's totally that. It was definitely a comfortable place to spend a couple hours. As a completely random side note... I also used the bathroom while I was there. It was super clean and nice and even managed to smell good... which is kind of a big deal for me. No one wants to use a gross bathroom! Am I right? I know I'm right. :) Another (random) great thing! No smoking! Just thought I would mention that in case it's an issue either way. Personally, smoke gives me a headache and just generally makes me grumpy, so I'm happy to be without... But perhaps you like to smoke when you drink... And if so, this is not the place for you! :P If you have any inclination to do so, I would absolutely recommend visiting The Ball & Biscuit. There is a discernible lack of pretentiousness, and the drinks are phenomenal. It's definitely a good time to be had by all. **We were also told that they are getting ready to roll our their new Fall drink menu in the next week or two. Our waitress recommended that we check their Facebook page for updates, which we totally plan on doing. She gave us a brief rundown of some of the new drinks coming out... and they definitely sound exciting. :)

    (4)
  • Marcie M.

    For my 200th Yelp review (woo hoo!! Happy 200 to meeee!) I have to give credit where credit is due with this new upscale speakeasy-esque bar experience on Mass Avenue. It proves that you CAN have a successful BRAND NEW non-smoking bar do well....and without all the extra haze of nasty cigar or cigarette smoke to ruin a perfectly good evening and force you to shower immediately upon returning home. I was absolutely stunned that Indy has something so cool, beautiful and unique right within my grasp, a mere 20 minutes from Carmel. Although the bar was hoppin', we were still able to get a table for 7 easily. There were lovely leather couches along the walls, fabulous ornate ceilings, stunning hardwood floors and the freshness of a new building with the old school vibe of a 1920s underground prohibition bar. Even our server was the 2010 version of a flapper girl....she was gorgeous and attentive. Lovely and helpful. The menu offered a vast array of interesting concoctions with the year in which the drink was invented underneath....many of the drinks had a very mature, seductive vibe. I wanted to try them all but fear of mixing too many hard liquors kept me from going overboard. I ended up ordering a sangria-esque drink for $10. May sound pricey but whoooooah, was it worth it. It was a very generous drink filled to the brim with a perfect amount of icey goodness. The rest of my table ordered an array of drinks and wine. No one complained about price. We were too inthralled with our lovely surroundings and the fabulousness that is B&B that we couldn't stop talking about when we wanted to come back. Girls and boys, I recommend this for a GREAT date place...nothing like the perfect adults atmosphere, with an atmosphere and drink list to talk about! I recommend it especially for a romantic starter to a very nice evening out. You will only leave here smelling of the alcohol of choice and not the nastiness that permeates from the majority of downtown establishments after 9 p.m. Enjoy yourself, relax, sit back and immerse yourself in the best new bar in Indy...

    (5)
  • Alexandra G.

    Always a great experience at the B&B. Exceptionally crafted drinks and always great service, despite the busy crowds on the weekends. Totally understand the small, intimate feel, and greatly appreciate the ambience, but often find myself wishing it was slightly larger to accommodate larger parties of 6 or 8 for seating. Fav drink...Hot Carlina (sp?)/Carlita. Not sure of the actual spelling/name, but it's fabulous if you like it HOT! (Thanks Frankie!)

    (4)
  • Scot C.

    The finest cocktails in Indianapolis. Period. The Ball & Biscuit is a wonderful epicurean experience, through and through. When browsing through the libations list, you start to wonder if you're ordering a drink or a well-crafted piece of distilled art... A romantically dark, woody, dim lit art-deco lounge, it has the look and feel of a classic speak easy. As noted, they offer an array of creative cocktails, great local craft beer on draught, as well as plenty of high-end bottled beer, and an inciting wine list for those who prefer the vine. The food is also a fine aspect; I praise their savory cheese sampling (I really enjoy the Taleggio), as well as some tasty dishes to satisfy any appetite (the Barley Buzzed Mac & Cheese is a must try). The staff is top-notch and make you feel at like you're among friends. One also can't help but admire the vintage microphone collection that line the walls; a very interesting backdrop indeed. My favorite of their creations and perhaps the best cocktail I have EVER had: 'The Harrison Sicilian', "Indiana's first bourbon, Harrison Governors Reserve, stirred together with Luxardo Amaretto, bitters and a dash of The B&B's house made grenadine." Bravo B&B, let's clink gasses again soon!

    (5)
  • Megan C.

    Love this place. It is Mad Men classy meets hipster paradise. The old-school cocktails are so fun and really, really well made. They also have such foodie treasures as kimchee hot dogs, bone marrow, charcuterie, gourmet olives, an amazing whitefish dip, and a huge variety of lovely artisanal cheeses. And I LOVE good cheeses and classy cocktails, so this place is basically heaven for me. I have always had a great time here, and I have even brought my parents and their friends (in their 50's) and they also really enjoyed themselves. Fun for the whole (over 21) family! I think I read another review at some point about someone being upset that the bartender refused to serve them shots. In my opinion, that is not a bad thing. I think this place is trying to be a classy and cool place, definitely not a get-so-smashed-you-puke vibe. So props to the owners for trying to stick with that even if it cost them money at that moment to do so. That classy, laid-back vibe is what keeps me coming back here and bringing everyone and anyone I know to enjoy fun cocktails without the frat party atmosphere that pervades so many other bars.

    (5)
  • Pj J.

    This bar started with the right intentions, a throw back speak easy vibe with great craft cocktails. Now past 9pm you might as well go to the Vogue. The music is so loud you can't even converse with those around you. The drinks are over priced and this place has lost it way from the original concept. Let's just say I won't be back. If you want a real cool atmosphere, with great craft cocktails 1933 is a better option.

    (1)
  • Sergey G.

    A great place for a cocktail and a conversation. Small, warm, and cozy. Far less pretense than in some other speak-easy Indy places. Food is good. Beer is well selected. Bartenders know what they are doing. The crowd is hit or miss- everyone from yaps, hipsters, and plain old idiots to some intriguing-looking individuals. One of the best places for a date. Fan of their whiskey cocktails.

    (4)
  • Tonya S.

    I moved to Indy (near Mass Ave) in July of 2010. A few weeks prior to my move, I kept hearing a lot of *hype* about this new Ball & Biscuit place that was opening up on Mass. My first thoughts, "Where did they come up with a name like that?", "What does the name mean?" and "Gotta check this place out!" Well, I tried it, loved it and I have probably *checked in* 100+ times since. Let me first start with saying, if I have a *Cheers* in downtown Indy, this is it. My absolute first choice for cocktails when I want to be in a social environment and know I will run into acquaintances or friends, I pick the Ball & Biscuit. It is by far my neighborhood bar. When you first enter, you are greeted with a black drape.....kind of makes you wonder what is on the other side. Well, I am getting ready to tell you...... Let me sum it up like this......lighting that is right for any mood, vintage atmosphere, top shelf all around, Indiana brews on tap, best new bar in Indy (per votes!), creative drinks (from pre-Prohibition to modern-day concoctions that you are sure to LOVE), no televisions, smoke-free, professional, classy, laid-back, excellent and very unique menu items, fresh oysters on Thursdays and a bartender that is up for Nuvo's Battle of the Bartender (yes, I voted for Zach). I forgot to mention the wide array of amazing cheeses!! As a cheese lover, I spent National Cheese Lover's Day at.....the Ball & Biscuit. Best choice ever. About the drinks....most unique selection in downtown Indy, in my opinion. It is like you need a recipe book for these concoctions. Who serves up a Bacon infused Belveder Bloody? They do. Fabulous! About the menu, the meatball, cheese plates and kimchi hot dog are amazing. ....and who has Bone Marrow on the menu? They do. Creative! Don't know what cheese to order? Have them throw something together for you. You won't be disappointed. The Ball & Biscuit is the type of place the Conrad and JW Marriott direct their guests too, yet it is the place the locals love. Sip on your Sidecar or Sun King brew and you may just look over and see Elaine Irwin Mellencamp sitting next to you. I did. Love the bartenders, love the caterer, love the drinks and the menu. I always leave the Ball & Biscuit happy. I do stay clear of the St. Germaine though as it is a mind-eraser. Ha! Sadly though, sometimes the table servers appear to ignore me, yet I like to go to the bar anyway. Zach is awesome! If you go in alone or in a small group, I recommend sitting at the bar. You are sure to strike up a really cool convo with the bartender and/or meet some really interesting folks. My favorite bar in downtown Indy is right in my *hood*. I call it the B&B =) ....of course, I give it 5 stars. I would give it 10 if I could.

    (5)
  • Sarah B.

    First stop on our Indy pub crawl... had a couple of beers and moved on. Small selection of beer but we found something we each liked. The bartender was super friendly and the bar patrons were chatty as well. We were in town on a Monday night so there wasn't much going on, but I kind of like that.

    (4)
  • V B.

    The name of this place is worth 5 stars just by itself. Long days deserve long rewards. Drinks here remind me of LA, but the Midwest can work the crowd like no other. This is one classy bar for drinks. They serve food too, but save room in your tummy for something with at least 90 proof.

    (5)
  • Chet C.

    Don't know about the food, but drinks are top notch.

    (5)
  • Fiona S.

    First time at the Ball and Biscuit. I offered my preference for seating. Loved that. Our server took great care in describing our food options and recommending drink options, pairing flavors and undertones of flavor such that drinks and foods would optimally enhance each other. Service was personal and attentive. I had the olive twists. Delicious-puff pastry smooth and light on the inside and crispy on the inside. The texture of the filling, the olive tapenade was smooth, the flavors blended but with a lovely tang. I have never been a fan of bread pudding but-the vanilla bourbon bread pudding-both flavor and texture smooth. I love the candied caramel-sugar topping. Found out there was a new person in charge of food menu selections. Elevating the offering to a new level!

    (5)
  • Benjamin H.

    I can't comment too extensively on the cocktails, but B&B always has great craft beer on tap! Pair that with a kimchi hot dog and a cheese plate then I'm a pretty happy dude. If you like to avoid "tourists" I highly suggest visiting on a weeknight.

    (4)
  • Lars F.

    Stopped here after MacNiven's for another pint. The Upland Wheat Ale was smooth. I love the selection of seats, the giant windows that open into the street which is perfect for people watching, and the waitress was very nice. A very cool vibe.

    (5)
  • Paul F.

    Place is chill! Mellow decor and tunes. Calm lighting. Multiple seating types and surfaces for couples to small groups. Non pretentious staff. Mood is reminiscent of a basement bar in Madrid I found off a small ally. I've had five cocktails, one beer on tap, two small plates and two cheese plates over two visits just this week. Drinks were fun with distinct flavor reflecting the very accurate descriptions on the menu. The food was perfect as a side to the great drinks but substantial enough to make a meal...like large tapas. Best of all NO TV! Yes... you can actually look into the eyes of your drinking companion(s) without the "normal" upward annoying, reflexive, rude glances at the boob tube (downward glances are another story... pocket the smart phone dudes). Looking forward to trying all the cocktails and plates!

    (5)
  • Angelique C.

    The drinks are fabulous. I'm fond of the Harrison Sicilian and the Milk Punch. The atmosphere is masculine, dark and quiet with lots of wood and leather chairs. The service was adequate. But....the food was terrible.My companion and I started with a charcuterie plate which was teeny. We also ordered bread pudding which was syrupy sweet and the temperature was scalding.I will come back for drinks but if you are looking for something to eat while you imbibe, head towards the Libertine.

    (3)
  • Torrey R.

    Since I've never actually ordered food here before, it is all about the atmosphere and drinks. We came here with some friends and were actually able to talk with no blaring music or squawking televisions. They have couches on which to lounge, dim lighting, and local brew offered. This is a great spot to end a low key evening with a few drinks in hand.

    (4)
  • MJ W.

    No TVs, no loud music to compete with, and no smoke! This is a great place to put the technology away and talk to one another. Check out my review of the Yelp Elite Event at B&B! yelp.com/biz/the-first-y…

    (5)
  • Robyn S.

    I had a very pleasant experience visiting here in April 2012. I had a nice evening out with a friend and enjoyed the atmosphere as much as the drinks. It was busy, the service was solid and everything was very good. I'd gladly go back.

    (4)
  • Alex H.

    over priced....drink was good but not worth the price

    (3)
  • Ben K.

    Most intimate, best ambiance, best cocktails in Indy.

    (5)
  • Riccardo S.

    With its dark exposed-brick interior, muted lighting reflecting off the lustrous copper bar, and intimate seating in the small dining area, you would be forgiven if you thought you'd walked off Massachusetts Avenue into Paris' Le Très Particulier or NY's PDT. Thankfully, there is no need for reservations to approach the bar or secret entrances through a hotdog shop's phone booth, because you'll be welcomed warmly with no pretension. The Ball and Biscuit was first on a list of spots a friend sent me as "must visit" destinations in Indianapolis, and I dropped in looking for a well-made cocktail and something small to nibble on. Cory was behind the bar, and after seeing me get lost in the embarrassment of riches to be found in the cocktail menu, asked me what kind of mood I was in (vodka, rum, bourbon, etc). We finally settled on a Sazerac, expertly-made and worthy of a return trip on its own merits. The food menu was no less a treat. I'll never turn down an interesting Mac & Cheese, and this was fantastic. With a baked breadcrumb crust on top, garnished with leeks and pasta toeing the line of al dente while covered with rich and gooey cheese, it had everything I wanted. I'd paired it with an extraordinary artichoke dip which, while I'd have preferred it to not be chopped so finely, came with more than enough toast points and baguette to be a meal on its own. As the night wound down, Kendall came out and introduced herself as the operating partner of the lounge, and wanted to hear how everything was for me. This level of engagement from a proprietor explains why food, drink, and service are all top-notch here. I am looking forward to coming back and letting myself be guided through the rest of their menu.

    (5)
  • Stacie H.

    Nice place. Definitely gets packed quickly. For such a little place it's very loud. My husband has a slight hearing issue and wears a hearing aid. He couldn't hear me or anyone in our group. The drinks were great though. We were able to grab the corner lounging area. So comfy!

    (4)
  • Amanda R.

    Went in having been sober for 15 months - pregnancy/nursing. I wasn't sure what to get - I love gin and champagne. Just on that alone the bartender suggested a concoction that was perfect and started my night out off right. We also had the bruchetta - delicious. Staff is friendly and food/drinks are great. Maybe I will get out here again in the next year! :) I wish I could remember the bartenders name, but thank you!!

    (5)
  • Robert W.

    They serve some of the best cocktails on Mass Ave. Really unique how they will give you the author of the cocktail. The staff is always friendly and around when you need them. Kate always takes care of us. She's amazing. Ball and Biscuit has started to really get into appetizers and finger style bar food. Maybe not the dinner menu but they are not going for that in my opinion. Just an pleasant experience everytime I'm there.

    (5)
  • Sabrina S.

    This is my favorite spot in Indy to grab a cocktail. Love the moody lighting, and comfortable seating. It's a bit pricey, so I only stop in a couple times a year. The only thing that could be improved is their microbrew offering. But I guess if you are coming here, why not choose one of their creative libation concoctions?

    (4)
  • Carol T.

    Overall: Came in search of a high-quality cocktail bar. Turned out to be like every other modern bar that has a limited liquor selection, blasts loud music, and attracts the kind of obnoxious people that order red bulls and Jack Daniels Manhattans. Not all of the bartenders knew how to make traditional, classic cocktails. The only reason this place gets 2 stars instead of 1 is because the decor and lighting were nice. Liquor: With respect to gin/genever, I was surprised that they did not have any Genever, Plymouth, or Beefeater's. My particular bartender did not know how to make a Ramos Gin Fizz, Bee's Knees, or French 75, which are all classic gin cocktails that should be in every cocktail bartender's repertoire. They had to be made by another bartender (even though the Bee's Knees and French 75 are listed on the online menu). The bartender that ended up making my Ramos Gin Fizz omitted the heavy cream. My companions decided to stick to the published menu. I was not impressed with any of their selections. Tonics: I expected them to have a selection of tonic waters, including Fever Tree.

    (2)
  • Karen M.

    What a great time. Sat right at the bar and enjoyed the conversation with Keegan (Our mixologist) on all the different drinks, which by the way are on fantastic! Made for such a great time we wanted more and went back the 2nd night. The drinks will not disappoint all while enjoying a lovely atmosphere.

    (5)
  • Susan F.

    Finally made it to the B&B again, and this time I tried food. My friends had the charcuterie and I had the spinach artichoke dip, which was honestly one of the best I've ever had. It was creamy and delicious, and served with toasted bread. I also tried a few different cocktails this time, and my fave "Rooftop Cocktail" was no longer on the drink list. The bartender assured me i could still get it, and that they can still make any of the drinks they have ever featured. I know that sounds silly, because almost every bar can do this, but their drinks have lots of different liquors in them. Heavenly.

    (5)
  • Jessica C.

    Damn good cucumber drink. Wayyyy overpriced and pretentious but whatever. It was a yummy drink and really good appetizers. We had a cheese spinach dip.

    (4)
  • Curtis R.

    I have spent more time than I care to admit in New Orleans and have drank innumerable Sauzeracs there. The B&B's is incorrect. WAY TOO SWEET. What are they using? Simple syrup? There should only be a single cube of sugar in a Sauzeracs. The waitress told me "that's how we make it here". I told her to look up the recipe on google. If it is not a proper Sauzeracs, don't label it as such. Maybe the should call it a "Poser Sauzeracs" and no one will be confused.

    (2)
  • Anthony T.

    I was pleasantly surprised! Classy and swanky vibe and delicious cocktails. I was little disappointed that they were out of their wheat beer on tap, but our server was very pleasant and polite. I'll definitely be coming back soon.

    (4)
  • Brittany C.

    I've been here a couple times and it's not really my things personally, but I can definitely see why so many people love it. The ambiance is my favorite part. However, this place does get very crowded. The water is severed in old liquor bottle, which I think is supper cool! Our waitress was fantastic. So, why is this place not my thing? Well, honestly I'm pretty simple in the beverage department. I love craft beer and good bourbon. I typically like my bourbon on the rocks or with coke or sprite depending on what it is. This place is putting pickle juice and all kind of strange things in the drinks. I tried a couple of the whiskey drinks and there were good, not my favorite though. I don't do vodka, EVER! So many of the drinks here were out for me. So with that said, their craft cocktails are interesting and worth a try but for now, I'll stick with my plain jane bourbon. It's a little pricey here ($12-$15), but if you enjoy the craft cocktails, it's definitely worth it.

    (3)
  • Bobby N.

    I love this place. So do a lot of other people and it isn't a secret so be prepared for it to be crowded. Fortunately I live in the neighborhood and can go on an evening when it isn't a weekend. The ambiance and decor is period, relaxed and comfortable. Exposed brick, nice dark wood and overstuffed couches. They make terrific drinks here and have some specials that will probably surprise you. Also a creative set of beer taps makes every visit and adventure for me. The staff is attentive and very knowledgeable. If you want to experiment with some spirits this is the place to do it.

    (5)
  • Ryan W.

    Absolutely LOVED this place. First-time visitors on a Sunday at 5:30pm. Literally had the place to ourselves for our 2hr stay. Our bartender, Erin, was great! She spent time discussing different drinks; even introduced us to a drink she was working on. Quality, creative drinks in a great environment. Definitely a MUST!!!!

    (5)
  • Melissa B.

    As a sucker for a great whiskey cocktail, this place is impossible to pass up on a trip down Mass. Ave. It's a smaller place with a lounge-type feel and great music. They have a great menu of all things cocktail, and they have some good seasonal items as well. It's hard for me to stray from my usual, narrow list of drinks I get, but I've never regretted my choice here. They have a small choice of plates to snack on that are seriously on point. Their meat and cheese plate was basically the greatest thing I've ever had. The worst part of it was that I had to share it with six other people. Be prepared to spend a little bit more here, but also be prepared to say that it was worth it. The service is wonderful, the atmosphere is relaxed, and, as I said, everything tastes phenomenal. Tip well.

    (5)
  • Elle A.

    This place was super cool! Very low lighting and exposed brick interior definitely gave this place a little more sophisticated but approachable atmosphere. BUT be prepared for paying for such a neat environment. The cocktails start at $10 and only go up from there and the beers start around $8. Everything we ordered was delicious and the food was just as good but this is definitely more of a special evening type of place instead of a local watering hole. I would definitely go back, I just probably wouldn't make it my regular spot,

    (4)
  • Ben N.

    I really dug the night atmosphere here, with the outdoor seating w/ heaters. Indoors kept the great feel of an underground, trendy joint. The area we sat (corner) had some uncomfortable seating arrangements, and I was like "Do I lean over, do I lean back? What's my motivation here? How does this seat work?" This all to say, after a couple of cocktails I knew exactly how to sit/lean. The unfortunate part of this visit was that our waitress didn't know how to make a few drinks - which I would find is OK generally, but don't lie about knowing what a Burnt Martini is if you don't know. Just ask, and they'll usually tell you exactly how to make it. Easy. Outside of that, and the cost of the drinks I would find this place to be a great 4 - 6 person cocktail place for special occasions. Date night for married couples with kids, maybe not so much.

    (3)
  • Kaitlyn H.

    On a Friday night when you are looking for an intimate setting and some delicious cocktails this is the place to go. Although the drinks are on the pricey side, they are very good! It's also in a great location!!

    (4)
  • Krista A.

    1) Do NOT go to B&B without knowing beforehand that you will be spending at least $10/drink and even more for food. 2) That being said - I LOVE B&B. Their drinks are very unique, and definitely worth the higher price. Their food is also good, although I go here much more often just to get drinks than I do to get food with my drinks. If you want a high-end place to get drinks, this is your spot. A nice ladies night or date night spot, indeed!

    (4)
  • Amy R.

    My review of The Ball & Biscuit is based on multiple visits that I have had over the past year or so. At first, the atmosphere seemed a bit pretentious, but it has grown on me. I enjoy going their relaxing atmosphere with the little seating cubbies here and there throughout the bar. The bar has a decent craft drink menu with similar prices to other bars offering craft drinks, but is certainly not my favorite of those type of bars in Indianapolis. They have a decent selection of local beer on tap and some wine choices as well. They offer some basic bar snacks like a cheese plate, hot nuts, etc.. If you want to have something more substantial you will need to leave the bar. Their service is decent, although you pretty much have to go up to the bar to order. I will be coming back, but mainly because it is close.

    (3)
  • DeAndrea B.

    This is a place with a great ambiance! Don't go if you're hungry, but it's perfect for a gathering of friends for sitting and having cocktails! My favorite is the agave margaritas, they are refreshing and delicious. Please try it because indy definitely need more places like this!

    (4)
  • Adam R.

    Good spot. Very nice "look" to the bar, and good/strong drinks. If you sit in the window seats, you will be uncomfortable, otherwise, sit in the back and enjoy drinks and people watching. Decent food offerings/small plates, albeit expensive for the portion size.

    (4)
  • Nana W.

    I love this place!! Showed up late Sunday night after Primus show...service was awesome, drinks and snacks were amazing as well!!

    (5)
  • Mark C.

    Wow what a place, great drinks and quick oil changes. I stopped in because I was well overdue for an oil change. The attendant was very helpful and non judge mental about the fact my mothers rotting corpse was in the trunk (long story, but do you know how much it costs to ship a dead body? More money than I can afford considering my spotify subscription). The drinks were great I told the waitress anything but eggs since I'm allergic. She brought me a whole egg floating in bourbon, tasty! After this I got three pours of absolut with mint leaves and drove home. Will deff be back after I pay off my oil change. Try the mint leaves.

    (5)
  • Olga S.

    If ever in Indy, come to B&B for drinks. Cannot go wrong with The Rooftop. Staff are always friendly and helpful, I've never had a bad experience or a drink. If ever a problem, they solve the issue. Love this place!!

    (5)
  • Hannah H.

    This place is like a time machine! During a girls night out we opted to make this our destination, and having never been before I had no idea what to expect. But as soon as I walked in I knew I was going to love it. The atmosphere transforms you into feeling like you are in a genuine speakeasy. It was incredibly crowded, and I've heard that most nights they turn people away due to being at max capacity. The crowd was a bit frustrating at first, but it provided a great opportunity to make new friends... which is exactly what we did! Now, let's get to the important part... the famous craft cocktails. I was told to order their Champagne Cocktail, and I'm always one to listen to recommendations. It was far more pricey than what I typically am willing to spend on drinks ($11), and I was even more disappointed when they brought it out because it was served in a rather small glass. I figured I would give it a try, and then switch to my usual gin and tonic. Well, needless to say I didn't have a gin and tonic the entire evening. The Champagne Cocktail was not only delicious, but also packed a big punch for the price. I will make this a stop anytime I'm on Mass Ave, because of the laid back atmosphere and cool crowd... and because those Champagne Cocktails were absolutely to die for!

    (5)
  • Lane P.

    Awesome Bar, great atmosphere, and an amazingly creative menu. We go in for a cocktail every time we visit Mass Ave. Given their price point, though, they are a one drink stop. We personally love the rooftop, the French 75, the abusement and the Aviation. This is a true craft cocktail stop. No halfway signature cocktails here. Everything hand made and delicious. They have a selection of small plates and they are delicious, but they aren't made on site and frequently sell out. Once it gets really busy, you may have to make yourself known to get a refill. On a night out on Madd Ave, this is a must stop.

    (4)
  • Kevin T.

    After a glowing recommendation all the way from someone in Chicago, I expected a lot from The Ball & Biscuit and lo! and behold conveniently found myself across the street from it one night. A nice feel, dark, rustic, you know the type -- a cocktail bar first, as I didn't find a soul eating here. Moments after arriving, and still hours before their posted close time, they started to pile the chairs on top of the tables, a sound that was thankfully (?) drowned about by a we're-taking-this-seriously conversation about barware amongst some of the more vocal patrons. Maybe it was trying to hard, or the crowd was. The pricing is fine, we had mixed luck with the beverages we ordered, but having felt like it was closing time from the second we walked in, we moved on.

    (3)
  • Anna Z.

    I really love this cocktail bar. It's swanky, dark and they really know how to craft a cocktail. I especially love that the bartenders know how to recommend a drink according to your personal taste. I have experienced the most creative and exciting cocktails here and I thank the bartender Josh for this. I don't think he works at b&b any longer but he's quite the bartender. Again, this place is a yes and cheers to that.

    (5)
  • Serena S.

    I visited from out of town because I read about it online & it sounded awesome. It was a good experience & I will come back some day. I ordered 2 drinks don't ask me the names & a hotdog covered with Mac n chz. Also the meat & cheese variety plate. That plate had some very delicious tastes that were new to my taste palate. The drinks were worth the money in my opinion. Service was nothing special but we were served in a timely manner and that's all that matters to me really. As long as staff isn't rude. Some reviews say they are but maybe those reviewers just had bad experiences. I didn't encounter that. Can't wait to visit again one day!

    (5)
  • PablosPanda Z.

    This is our place to go each time we come to Indy for a weekend. Atmosphere: The lounge is dimly lit (great for date nights) with couches, tables and bar space. It has the secluded feel of a hole-in-the-wall cocktail bar, but with big, open windows facing Mass Ave. Drinks: Every drink we've tried has been unique and well executed- not to mention delicious! This is not the place to order a Jack and coke-- try something new and you won't be disappointed! The menu is organized by base alcohol, with pages and pages full of drink options. Service: The bartenders for the most part are awesome, laid back and helpful, but the last two times there has been one "over confident" unprofessional bartender (we will call him Mr Flannel Shirt) who spent more time cussing and flirting with waitresses than attending to customers. However, pride aside, he, too, makes a good drink. Food: surprisingly good olives Pablo's ratings: Drinks: 5 (get the old fashion) Service: 4 Atmosphere: 5 Value: 4 (about $11 a drink)

    (5)
  • D h.

    First impression, overrated. It's still a very nice place, just doesn't live up to the hype and feels a little pretentious. dimly lit, there are a mix of tables. i'd suggest trying to get a seat next to the front windows. bar is in the left corner & really isn't that large. surrounded by a few high tables, it's a beautiful wood bar with comfortable stools. i just go back to how dark the place is. much of the time that is not bad, but the place is beautiful. just turn the dimmer up from 1 to maybe 2 or 3. service can be great or average. just depends on the attitude of the bartender or waitress. cocktails are good and a decent beer list.

    (3)
  • Lindsey S.

    Trendy atmosphere and sophisticated adult beverages. Will be back!

    (5)
  • Molly S.

    This is a great place for an upscale, classy night out. The drinks are unique and STRONG. The Sazerac will knock you for a loop if you're not careful! A fun place for a drink with girlfriends or a pre-show cocktail for date night at the Murat. Trendy, fun atmosphere, great drinks.

    (4)
  • Lauren R.

    A hip little place on Mass Ave. We had one of the cheese plate like offerings that included some tasty olives. We really enjoyed the laid back vibe. I can't speak about the drinks since I'm a non drinker, but my party mates seemed to be enjoying themselves. The rest of the bar menu seemed like they would be tasty as well. The staff is also pretty friendly. This is a great place to start or end the night! I can't wait to go back with some buddies!

    (4)
  • Ashley R.

    Very cool atmosphere. Great cocktail list inspired by famous people. I had the smoke and mirrors drink with mezcal. I have never had smokey tequila before but I really enjoyed it. The service was good and it was a beautiful night and they have outdoor seating so we got to sit outside. Def will go back!

    (5)
  • Richard C.

    If you are a cocktail enthusiast, this is your bar. The old fashioned I ordered was made better than any I have had in Indianapolis. The detail that goes in to the cocktails goes beyond almost every bar on Mass Ave. A little pricey but worth it if you want a truly outstanding cocktail. The food compliments the drinks very well. If you are looking for Indianapolis' best cocktails, this is a good bet.

    (5)
  • Rachel F.

    Such an eclectic atmosphere with an intimate feel. Sat by the windows on some couches and stools which was so fun. Ordered the peach daiquiri special. It was delicious. Will definitely be back. The service was great too!

    (5)
  • Brian L.

    Very good drinks that are not overpriced. The service was great and the atmosphere was unique and fun!

    (5)
  • Michael C.

    It was fun to sit around and have a drink here, and try the variety of Indy-inspired (Smoking Goose, King David's Dogs) food to snack on.

    (4)
  • Aaron P.

    I came in here with a friend on a visit to Indy after it being recommended by several people around town. I had stubbed my toe on the walk there, and the bartender kindly gave me three bandaids. Maybe not a huge deal, but at that moment it was a life-saver. I started with a whiskey sour, which is not one of my usuals. It was absolutely delicious. I then moved on to the the "Abusement," which was rum infused with jalapeños, lime juice, house made simply syrup, mint, and a splash of soda. Holy cow. This thing was like a drink hand-crafted by the gods just for me. It was delectably sweet, wonderfully spicy, and just tangy enough. Incredible. We also had a couple tiny little Miller High Life bottles. I didn't know they came in tiny little bottles, but they do, and they're fun to drink. The bartender recommended a restaurant for dinner, and when it was time to go he called us a Lyft free of charge (you can't beat free!). This was actually my introduction to Lyft, and I quickly became obsessed with it. This was a great start to our night. Awesome drinks. A knowledgeable bartender, a free ride, and bandages for my bloody toe to boot!

    (5)
  • Erwin S.

    Delicious hand crafted cocktails. More important, they offer excellent service to boot. We ordered a small plate to share and didn't realize that the goat cheese came rolled in crushed walnuts (yum). My wife is allergic to walnuts. Our server asked if we wanted a potion of plain goat cheese. My wife said "no I'm fine." Our server replied "you're fine, would you like to be great." We gladly accepted the goat cheese.

    (5)
  • Christian R.

    Alas a place for over privileged northsiders that have made to the city!!! I really enjoy this place during the week even though it is a bit overpriced. It is really nice that mass ave has blown up into a really nice hang but the space in this place is really tight for the volume of people. This inevitably means that the service lacks.... But it is a great place to unwind on a weekday after work!

    (3)
  • Stacy P.

    A friend I decide to extend our night to include drinks and desert after dinner and ended up at the Ball & Biscuit after walking down Mass Ave. What drew us in the the overall look at feel of the bar. Like what others have mentioned, it is very dark and masculine and small and intimate space. The server was extremely knowledgable of the drinks and menu. I opted for the Hootch and vanilla lemon pot de creme which ended up being a horrible combination. The drink was an interesting combination, but it was off. It is listed as having a sprinkle of cinnamon, but the top was coated in it. Every sip I took was like choking on cinnamon. The dessert was just bitter. The lemon was over powering. It wouldn't have been bad without the lemon topping. As for the ambiance, when we initially arrived, the music was very smooth and relaxing. You could hold a conversation With the person sitting next to you, but then the tempo of the restaurant switched midway though our visit. The music was a faster pace and a flash back to the 80s. It became extremely loud and difficult to converse. The speakers sounded like the bass was messed up and you could feel the vibrations in the floor. Maybe it was an off night. I might give the Ball & Biscuit another chance again someday.

    (2)
  • Mysha H.

    I went to this bar expecting a boring atmosphere while waiting for friends and received the one of the best FIRST experiences I have EVER had on Mass Ave. The bartender was very nice and knowledgable. She kept my drinks filled and educated me on the cocktails she thought would suit my likings. I had the artichoke and Spinach dip and it was amazing. The bread that was served on the side was fantastic and offered many different flavors. The drink I had was called "On The Rooftops." It was well made, had a generous amount of alcohol in it, and tasted amazing! Bravo to the staff at Ball and Biscuit. Even with a full house on a Thursday night the ladies were still smiling and laughing, clearly enjoying their jobs and guests. AND the chef came out and worked the bar to help the bartender since the crowd was abnormally large that night. I am very impressed with this place. I will be back, with new faces, next time around. I can't keep this place a secret anymore! :D

    (5)
  • Olivia M.

    Ball & Biscuit is a classy establishment. I love the decor - mostly wood, dimmer lighting, some lower tables with cushion seats. It feels fancy enough to warrant dressing up, but you could also wear jeans and not be judged. The staff are friendly without being overbearing. The cocktails look pricey, but are worth the money for their strength and creativity. I recommend the spiked cider in the winter!

    (4)
  • Peter P.

    One of the many craft cocktail bars that are populating the Indy landscape. The radio-themed decor is really classy and gives you the speakeasy feel. Music is at a reasonable level so you can carry on a conversation without raising your voice. Drinks are strong, but not overly boozy, just the way I like them. There is a very limited menu - meant more for snacking/soaking up the alcohol, than for a full meal.

    (4)
  • Jelly R.

    The cocktails ("Don't Sassafras Me," which tastes like a root beer float, and their cucumber and something or other martini) were delicious, and had ample alcohol in them without it taking away from the taste. The mac and cheese was really good, though overpriced given the portion size. . . likewise with the cheese and meat platter. I'm sure I'll go back for drinks, but I probably wouldn't come here if I was really hungry. I liked the lighting, and the way the mortar oozed out between the bricks, lending to its cozy yet somewhat upscale atmosphere.

    (4)
  • Dawn B.

    A friend of mine brought me here after a Heat - Pacers ECF game. It looked like it might have been the only place still open downtown on a Sunday night. So after spending 3 minutes gawking at that dancing LED stick figure down the street (apparently her name is Ann) I walked into The Ball and Biscuit to find myself in awe of the decor. This place is cool. Low key, casual, hip, swanky.. all rolled into one. I definitely enjoyed an awesome craft cocktail (or two). I will make it a point to come here again on my next visit to Indy.

    (4)
  • Nate M.

    I was very excited when Ball and Biscuit came to mass ave. Coming from Ann Arbor, I hadn't seen a lot of options for craft cocktails. Initially I was very impressed with the feel and the cocktails. I also, didn't mind paying a little more for the drinks ($10-$18). After my first visit I began noticing it was harder and harder to find a seat. Again, due to the limited space, I didn't hold it against them. It wasn't until several negative experiences with the staff that I changed my opinion. Nothing major happened, in fact, I'm guessing the servers didn't even notice that they had given me a negative customer experience. Soon, I had several visits in which I was treated by the staff as if I were lucky enough to be able to pay them for their drinks. On multiple occasions I have been ignored by staff and treated as if I was in the way. After a few experiences I decided to vote with my dollars at the many other fine options on Mass Ave. If you are looking for a nice whiskey drink, it's a Tuesday night and you happen to be wearing a three piece suit, it's not a bad place to stop by.

    (2)
  • Ryan D.

    What a great spot! I love it when it's not too hot and they have the windows open. The style of drinks really makes me feel like I'm in an old lounge. The variety is awesome. it can get a bit crowded and from time to time you have to let the server know you are there but really they are very cool.

    (4)
  • David C.

    We had to go here after reading all the great reviews. We were impressed immediately with the physical environment, kind of a swank shabby chic decor (is that possible? why yes, apparently it is) with lots of group seating in nice configurations, plus some regular high-top tables. We went on a Sunday afternoon and could only imagine the vibe on a late-week or weekend night but it rocked our coolness meters with the ambiance (cool blues toned down with blacks and browns on the walls, bar, and a copper-stained concrete floor that screams urban cool). Devoid of patrons on a sunny Sunday, I had plenty of time to check it all out. There are various eclectic collections of early-day microphones on the walls, plus no TV's (LOVE THAT), and a cool bartender. Beer & Food: We perused the beer menu and were both really pleased with what we had ordered; their draft list is on a board over the bar and I suppose that means ever-changing (mostly Hoosier microbrews although I had a great IPA from Kansas). Menu items I would have to give a C-, and maybe even a D+, simply because we could not order a charcuterie board replete with cheeses, olives, nuts, etc. They all came as individual plates or boards which is a bit unusual and way too expensive to order separately. They might want to rethink that strategy and offer a $15.00 combo board. We passed on the food. I'm looking forward to getting crunk there in the wee hours with my wife some night soon (yes we'll cab it in and out). Total chill and with high-style, exceedingly comfortable decor to boot. Wanna know what the etymology of Ball & Biscuit is? You'll have to go there yourself and read the menu's cover page. PS Great location with lots of other drinking & eating places to stroll over to, in case you're not as endeared to the B&B as us and other reviewers.

    (4)
  • Some B.

    It's time to write a review to cajole the owners of this place to fix a problem, so they can hopefully make it the truly special place it looks like they'd like it to be. Patrons serious about ambiance should be wary of this place. Yes, it has good decor, proper lighting, proper furnishings, good staff, and well-made drinks. But it has a serious flaw which keeps it from being the classy cocktail lounge it wants to be. I asked my companion last night (also from out of town) what the one flaw with this place was, without hinting at anything. After a few seconds, she said, "the music". Yep, that's it. This place plays typical bar music that is simply too loud and out of character for the type of place it wants to be. It's trying to be a classy cocktail lounge reminiscent of the early 20th century. The music they play grates against that strongly. I hate to pull the "I live in LA and know better card", but, I do, and I've been to several places that know how to do this style of bar, and they don't have this typical sort of bar music. I love going to those places. They have taken a lot of my money over the years. I can have a conversation with strangers. They are in the mood to talk. I go back again and again. The quintessential example would be the Edison. They either play jazz, or nothing. They are never hurting for patrons, ever. The Noble Experiment in San Diego plays nothing. Great place. It doesn't matter whether it's 80s or top 40 or hip hop or whatever. My complaint isn't that I don't like what they played, it's that it doesn't match what they're trying to be. Great for a different venue, just not the Ball and Biscuit. Nor am I saying I don't like this place. I do, but with the music the way it is, it smacks a bit of amateurism. To the owners, I say, yes, you have plenty of business. It's certainly "classy enough" to get people wanting something like that to come in. Not having other examples, they may be perfectly satisfied. But, owners. I urge you not to settle for "good enough". Strive for excellence. Make your business something truly special, befitting the kind of effort you've put into it. 86 the typical thump-a-bump bar music. Either have the music match the light bulbs, or have none at all. Best of luck to you.

    (3)
  • Mark W.

    Was in town and stopped by after dinner. The place is nice and has an intimate atmosphere. Sat at the bar with my friend and had the "surprise me" special. It had a great mix of sweets and tart and was generous on the whiskey. Later to have Bourbon and was blown away by their selection. Prices were very reasonable and service was great. Highly recommend and would definitely return when I'm in town.

    (5)
  • Alex H.

    Bartender sucked. Took 40 minutes to get a drink while sitting at the bar. Will not return.

    (1)
  • Robyn S.

    I had a very pleasant experience visiting here in April 2012. I had a nice evening out with a friend and enjoyed the atmosphere as much as the drinks. It was busy, the service was solid and everything was very good. I'd gladly go back.

    (4)
  • Dylan E.

    I've been here a few times after work during the week, and earlier in the evening on some weekend nights. All those were pleasant experiences where we got a place to sit down, enjoy the nice ambiance and quiet setting, and sip of on delicious cocktails. While the drinks are overpriced, they are delicious and you are paying for the atmosphere as much as the alcohol. Service was fantastic, and their meat and cheese boards are delicious. The drink menu is extensive and has something to offer for every taste. There isn't a lot of seating for larger groups, but they have plenty of space for tables of 2-4 people. Based on that experience, I'd probably rate this a 4 star place, but I made the mistake of going in here late on a weekend night. All of that nice ambiance, quiet atmosphere, and space to sit down and enjoy your $12 cocktail goes completely out the window. Instead, it was packed, which meant ordering your expensive drink by yelling in between people sitting at the bar once you finally get the bartenders attention, reaching over people to get those drinks, and finally bumping your way through the crowd to find a space with enough room to stand with your friends. Essentially, this place turned into any other crowded and loud bar along Mass Ave, with the exception that drinks were still 3x more expensive and it was filled with the kind of people who looked like they probably have always gotten everything they wanted without having to do much work for it. All that being said, the area by the door in the separate section did seem to get spared from at least the crowds of people, so if you are lucky enough to get one of the 6-8 tables over there, you should still be able to enjoy your drinks and have a conversation. It was busy, but I've been in lots of places where the bartenders could run around nonstop all night and not appear bothered when you ordered a drink. That was not the case here. Overall, I'd say this is a great place to go after work or early in the evening to splurge on a good cocktail or two in a quiet and upscale place. However, unless you just have money to spend or don't come to a place like this looking for a nicer experience than any other bar, I'd avoid it late at night when it gets crowded. 4 stars after work or before a show on the weekend 2 stars late at night when it's packed and loud

    (3)
  • Meisha W.

    Still a fav. Delicious champagne cocktails and CHEESE. Can't beat that! The outdoor seating was a brilliant addition.

    (5)
  • Shannon B.

    Love the ambiance. Small overall but charming. The drinks are unique and very tasty. Wish all cocktail menus were as creative. I had the cucumber caipiroska and the Abusement. My friend had a sazerac. I would go back again based on the experience. Get their early during happy hour as this small place can get packed in a hurry.

    (5)
  • Nicole H.

    It's been a long time since my original post about my Top 10 favorite things at Ball & Biscuit, so I decided go go ahead and write a new list. TOP 10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT BISCUIT PART 2: 10. The bartenders. Hands down the best staff of bartenders around. Shout out to Kendall, Frankie, Dave and Josh (JD). 9. The food. All of this is done in house by their very own Marjan. In the past, they have used a caterer. This is my FAVORITE food menu so far. And I really love the old food so that is saying something. 8. The servers. Honestly, I usually sit at the bar so it would be really easy for the servers to ignore me but I have found the opposite to be true. All of them know my name and ask how things are going every time I'm in. Special Yelp love for MJ, Liz, Kelly, Erin and KATE! 7. Seems like I'm forgetting something important....oh yea....THE COCKTAILS. I'm mostly a Vodka girl (I know....I can hear all of the classic cocktail enthusiasts groaning as I type), and the BnB has some delicious vodka combinations. My all-time favorite is the Amelia. How can you really go wrong when a drink has fresh blackberry puree in it??? 6. No TV's. This was on my original list and is still one of my favorite things. This is where I can go to have actual conversations and relaxation. 5. The regulars. Myself and several other regulars refer to Biscuit as our cheers. While this is true, I have found one key difference -- we love when new people come and sit down. There isn't an ounce of pretention in the whole bar and that includes the regulars. 4. Artichoke dip (see my original post to truly understand how awesome this is). 3. The music volume. Unless you come on Thursday during the live DJ, Friday or Saturday, you can always expect that the music will be a subtle element to help carry the overall vibe through the place. It won't be blaring through the speakers so loud you can't think. I really appreciate that about my favorite local spot :) 2. Holiday parties. This past New Year's Eve party was the best bar/restaurant party I have been to. 1. Did I mention the bartenders yet? It is a craft cocktail bar after all :) But seriously, they are awesome! That is all for now. Thanks for reading. Check out Biscuit next time you need a delicious beverage.

    (5)
  • Angelique C.

    The drinks are fabulous. I'm fond of the Harrison Sicilian and the Milk Punch. The atmosphere is masculine, dark and quiet with lots of wood and leather chairs. The service was adequate. But....the food was terrible.My companion and I started with a charcuterie plate which was teeny. We also ordered bread pudding which was syrupy sweet and the temperature was scalding.I will come back for drinks but if you are looking for something to eat while you imbibe, head towards the Libertine.

    (3)
  • Jackie H.

    I love the atmosphere here. It is candle lit, morter hanging over the bricks, and nice seating arrangements. It is relaxed and looks like it came from a movie. If you come here be ready to spend are $10 per drink. This is a place that has fantastic original drinks with many choices. The staff is very knowledgeable about what they offer and help you decide. Cheese: One aspect I do love is that they have 1 oz. cheese you can get with crackers. Cheese ... I know. But I love cheese and they have a fantastic variety of cheese that all have a different flavor and qualities.

    (4)
  • Derek C.

    The first time I came here was a couple of years ago. This was supposed to be Indy's premier Prohibition-era cocktail bar. I was horrified at what I saw and I never returned. When I joined Yelp, I wanted to write a review of this place but felt that it wasn't fair to write one on an experience so out of date. Every couple of weekends, I would try to go in again but wasn't willing to invest an hour standing in line. Last night, I lucked out and walked right in. Ball & Biscuit is almost there. It's not Violet Hour, Pouring Ribbons or Velvet Tango Room but if they keep refining their skills at the pace of the past 2 years, they will soon be in that league. They are now using what I believe to be Amarena Fabbri cherries and fresh squeezed juices and the resulting quality is apparent. The drink prices reflect that you're in a small city. $11 for a cocktail is a screaming deal. That is happy hour pricing in most cities. The one thing I think that they need to decide (and this was a complaint from my original visit) was whether they want to be an upscale but low-key bar or night club. We got there right at 9 and it was only half full. If there was music playing, it was drowned out by the regular chatter of the customers. A little while later, the stereo was cranked up to a ridiculous level and people were packed in like sardines. Definitely worth checking out. It's the best cocktail in Indianapolis.

    (4)
  • Karen M.

    Just watched a reenactment of The Way of the Cross processing down Mass. Ave. it is Good Friday after all. Still, the Smoking Goose Sausage Plate is awesome.

    (4)
  • Rick Z.

    Visiting from Cleveland and found this place using Yelp. Fantastic bar, great atmosphere I will visit again and highly recommend to everyone.

    (5)
  • Karen M.

    Lovely dark brick and candles galore, it feels intimate. Curtis the bartender whipped up the tastiest Moscow Mule I have ever had in a signature copper cup. Their pork sliders & mac are scrumptious. One of the best places to grab a drink downtown.

    (5)
  • Victoria L.

    This is a must in Indianapolis! Small plates, all amazing, a large list of wine and spirit selections. The service was outstanding. The building has an industrial feel that's a lounge, very cozy and modern. We ordered the all inclusive cheese board, hummus platter, their famous hot dogs, and dessert. No disappointments on any selections! Delicious and fresh! Can't wait to be back! One for the books!

    (5)
  • Jenny J.

    I went here for a friends birthday last week and really liked the atmosphere. It's cozy and warm and in a great location. What I didn't like was that I found it super expensive and I didn't order any food but it seemed pretty fancy (They even had some bar nuts priced at $5). I got an Upland draft beer which looked like orange juce sice they hadn't turned the kegs I was informed, but they didn't act like anything was wrong with it. The wine was good, but for two drinks it was $16. The beer was actually $9 which is crazy for an Upland. I don't think I'll be back on purpose, but I didn't hate it.

    (3)
  • Laura M.

    I agree with a previous reviewer who suggested that this was a better bar to go for a cocktail and light dinner before the later crowd comes in and it gets cozy space-wise. If you like a quieter bar where you can sit and chat in a small group, not have to yell to converse, and have some quality drinks and small plate nibbles, this is a good place for you. The crowd is definitely younger, gainfully employed or on generous grad school stipends (I know, that's not very many of us these days) 20-30 somethings out on dates or friend nights. It makes sense - the drinks hover around 10 bucks a pop and the ambiance is more intimate, so it's more of a sort-of-special-but-not-like-birthday -or-anniversary-special type of joint. Maybe I'm feeling good about life - let's splurge a little special. I always get a perfect Manhattan (with Maker's, straight up) and they never let me down. The Manhattan is the high point of the cocktail world and they do it right. They don't skimp on the booze either - you will get the warm & fuzzies from these beverages.

    (4)
  • John R.

    Trendy and popular. $12 drinks but who cares because there are so many gosh darn good looking people around.

    (4)
  • Nick G.

    Come here. You won't regret it. Unless you have a large group of grumpy people. Then send them on their way and come here alone. Very small and quaint inside, and not a terribly exciting menu. But that didn't deter me from coming here 3 nights in a row. Bartenders and servers are all very nice and know the beer and cocktail menus very well. The olives and nuts were good, although a little overpriced, but the atmosphere makes up for it. Side note, this is the only place I have ever seen Stone Sublimely Self Righteous sold at a restaurant. I highly recommend it!

    (5)
  • Mark S.

    This is one of the coolest bars I've stepped in to. I had my first Pimm's Cup here, and it was amazing.The atmosphere made me feel special, which I am not.

    (5)
  • Angelica G.

    After experiencing two disappointments in a row with closed bars we ended up at The Ball & Biscuit before a concert on a quiet Monday afternoon. The bartender made our experience, really. He made a tasty Magellan gin Cucumber Caipiroska that I could've drank for hours. My hummus plate wasn't the standard fare you can find at any other establishment, either. It had toasted pita, tahini, marinated olives, and a generous portion of hummus. Although i've yet to visit Liberty Street or the Libertine, I wouldn't pass up visiting The Ball & Biscuit again.

    (5)
  • Melanie R.

    My husband and I joined a friend for dinner on Mass Ave recently, and then we walked down here to grab a drink and hang out. We each got a different cocktail so that we could sample a few things. Everything was unique and tasty. We did a round of beers as well along with an order of the sweet and spicy nuts. Everything was good, though I'm not sure the drinks ranked as high with me as the atmosphere. It's just a neat little spot with a good vibe, and they were playing some excellent music. It was great for just hanging out with a friend and enjoying the evening.

    (4)
  • Steven H.

    On a recent work trip to Indy, I happened to be meeting with some co-workers across the street, but I kept seeing people heading into the Ball & Biscuit so I knew I had to drop in. Walked in solo and instantly saw a cool looking spot with an intriguing drink menu. Bartenders really took the time to create some great drinks and each one is done correctly. The Monday that I was there had a really great DJ playing old school music and classic hip hop.... The music the DJ was bringing would usually have a place packed in LA or Chicago but the crowd that night seemed not to notice... Maybe it wasnt their thing or the crowd just wasnt quite able to appreciate the selections the DJ was playing, but I can say that he has some serious chops and I'd go back for that kind of musical vibe... Put some trust into the bartenders there and try one of their signature drinks or ask them for recommendations.... Step out of your Jack & coke world....

    (5)
  • Alex S.

    When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And when in Indianapolis, drink as the Community Managers do ... or, uh, something like that. I had never been to this Indy city before but I was looking for a drink. And since I was out and about with Yelp Community Manager Jon "the mustached man" A, I figured we should head to one of his favorite bars. And so, we wound up on Mass Ave at The Ball & Biscuit. This mood-lit prohibition style bar was, well, fantastic. Seriously, I can't think of a thing I didn't like about it. There was tons of seating, to the right in the bar-room and to the left in an alcove-like room with tons of places to relax. And the seats were comfortable upon comfortable. I probably could have sat there for hours, sipping on fine cocktails. And yes, the cocktails - amazing. They had a nice little menu of drinks you could order, including house specializes I'd never even heard of before but were fantastic. Pricy, but you got what you paid for ... which was an amazing drink (and not at all pricy compared to cocktails in, say, New York or San Francisco.) Plus, the place served cheese plates, and they had tons of different varieties of cheese plates. Who doesn't love a cheese plate? Who doesn't love saying the word cheese plate? Ah, cheese plate. A great spot in a fine city. You've done well here, Indianapolis.

    (5)
  • Allen N.

    Quality slipped. Been there before and had amazing stuff. This time order a couple queso dips and coagulated.

    (2)
  • Jill W.

    went with friends as part of a Saturday St. Patricks pub crawl. Loved the open air seating, great for people watching. We only had appetizers and beers, but entire menu looked amazing - will go back. Had good selection of craft beers on tap and cocktail menu looked great as well.

    (5)
  • Sal W.

    Great ambiance, huge selection of drinks. Charcuterie/cheese plates are very good. Waiter was the bartender coming over from the other side and seemed kind of bored with helping us choose from their enormous selection. Would've liked more input on a first visit, but he was handling the whole restaurant.

    (3)
  • Kaylee H.

    Listed as American cuisine but it's definitely just a bar. Realized that after I sat down and was asked for my ID. Unfortunately it's only 6pm too.

    (1)
  • Jason G.

    When you brand your restaurant as a cocktail bar you must make out of this world craft drinks. I always heard rave reviews and maybe I went on an off night. We had dinner reservations across the street and needed to kill about an hour. Sitting at the bar he recommended a hot totty for my wife and I ordered an Old Fashion. I don't claim to be a connoisseur of Old Fashions, but having ordered many I know when they are made incorrect. The bourbon was very watery and he shook the drink and didn't muddle the fruit. For my wife's hot toddy, he couldn't describe the bourbon used and it tasted like warm lemon water. The bar man was not much of a showman. I like the experience of watching them make a cocktail and he hit the ingredients under the bar like there was something to hide. It will be very hard for me to come back for an $8 drink when The Libertine is around the block and I've always had a 5 star experience.

    (2)
  • Colin A.

    I'm not fancy enough for this place -- either to appreciate it or enjoy it, I suppose. Service was on point, and the menu of small plates is quite extensive. The tap craft beer I sampled was a double IPA -- quite a punch. Unfortunately, this just isn't my type of place. I can't go lower than 3 stars because it was a rather OK visit, I just don't fancy this sort of establishment enough to enjoy throwing down the kind of cash it takes to dine/drink here. One more thing: brown sugar bar nuts? Yep, definitely not up my alley but it may be your type of place -- don't let my review dissuade you.

    (3)
  • Zach Z.

    At first I was weirded out because it was so quiet in there when my wife and I walked in. It was also "seat yourself" which was unexpected. Once in there it is a very quaint bar. It looks as if you are stepping back in time. There is a more "private" sit down area to the right which reminds me of like a Nicki Blanes downtown. To the left is your more traditional seating and the bar. The drinks are very good and it is almost all specialty drinks. They are overpriced but you are not going to this place for bargain drinks, you are going here for the ambiance and experience. They do have light food choices as well (Also overpriced) All in all Im glad we went but there are other choices I would make next time. It is definitely worth checking out if you have never been here before.

    (4)
  • Tiffany H.

    So so good. I love the atmosphere and the wait staff. Please keep the amazing cheese plates and Mac and cheese! I dream of it. The Jack Rose is my drink of choice and it never disappoints.

    (5)
  • Nick C.

    The Ball & Biscuit is exactly what Nap Town needs more of... a local place that is distinctly different from the other options. The atmosphere is very relaxing with brick, soothing colors, and oversized chairs. The music was not overpowering and blended in well (Death Cab for Cutie and Owl City type sound). The drinks may appear pricey to some folks, generally $10 and up for a signature cocktail, but you pay for what you get. I think the price was actual very reasonable and had a sampling of a few drinks. I also tried a small plate and was very satisfied. There is not a huge selection of foods, just a few small plates perfectly selected to compliment the premium drinks. There are some nice beers on tap and wines if that is more your style. I am officially a regular of The Ball & Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Kinsey C.

    The Ball & Biscuit is my favorite place to go in Indy when I want a high quality cocktail. If you're looking to go out for beers, or looking for a place to make you whiskey and coke, this might not be the place you want to go. I am always surprised the the quality and tastiness of the cocktails I order. They are always well made. I'm the kind of person who finds something they like and stick with it, but I am always up for trying something new from the B&B. A cozy and chic atmosphere, I feel like I'm traveling back in time to a hidden speak easy. Leather chairs and ottomans, big windows, and a great mic collection hanging on the wall. This place is really great, and a wonderful place to take friends and family visiting Indianapolis.

    (5)
  • Tiffany G.

    I've been a long-time Biscuit fan. Not sure why its taken me so long to review this gem, but here it goes! The Ball and Biscuit is like your favorite band -- You wonder what they'll come up with next, but you always inevitably fall in love with it on the first listen. When you see them live, they surprise you with new material, while still saving time to play their hits (and maybe a few of your favorite B-sides). They reinvent themselves while still staying true to who they are. If you sit at the bar, it's like a private concert -- ask for what your heart desires and they will create something amazing. The creativity and passion the bartenders have for what they do shines through in every cocktail. Some specifics: The Bees Knees: Sweet honey and lemony. For those of you who aren't huge gin fans, you won't notice it it this light spring/summer cocktail. This is that short-but-sweet song in the middle of the album that you're tempted to put on repeat. El Comediante: Wow. Red Pepper infused rum, ginger syrup, a red wine float and cilantro -- sounds like a lot going on, but this is smoooooooooooooooth. Almost like a twist on a Sangria (hmm.... I wonder if there's a way to get some Bakersfield tacos to go with this??) One of the most creative drinks I've ever had. Kendall, you're a freakin' genius. Smoke and Mirrors: I only got a sip of this, but it'll be first up next time I return. Yummy. Smokey Mezcal is yummy.This drink is yummy. Yummy. Smoked Sicilian: My husband got this and I got to taste it. Not sure which smoked bourbon it was, but it was a nice twist on the original. Think of it as your favorite band playing a cover of another one of your favorite songs. The atmosphere, the service, the drinks..... no wonder The Ball and Biscuit has received so much national attention. Cheers!

    (5)
  • Doug O.

    I love this place, and I make a point to get there every time I come to town. Great drinks, imaginative twists on classic cocktails. My favorite is the Sicilian. The atmosphere is classy, but also very warm. The staff is always very friendly. This is the sort of place that could be totally pretentious, but isn't. I've always felt very welcome here, even when I came in dressed pretty badly after a Colts game. Big fan.

    (5)
  • Sara J.

    Went there for a drink with a friend. The lighting and decor were beautiful, cozy, and the cocktails were top shelf. I would leave a more in depth review but can't think of the words. If you're on mass ave and looking for somewherequiet and romantic, this would be a great place.

    (5)
  • Stephen S.

    I loved this ... Indy's very own gastropub with fabulous cocktails. I just discovered this spot with my niece while I was visiting Indy. My cocktails were exquisite. I couldn't suck down that B&B Champagne Cocktail fast enough. I'm a total St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur whore anyway. And, this one had just the PERFECT balance of bitter. This libation was quickly followed by an Aviation Cocktail, which was good to the very last damn drop. Food was good, though it did not cause me to throw down my fork and scream. The kimchee hot dog was fine (that fat all-beef dog was fat and difficult to master despite my big mouth :) and the kimchee had a nice kick to it. I will say that the brown sugared nuts were quite underwhelming; more like lightly sweetened and salty average mixed nuts. I guess I was expected some brown sugar coating and spice (something more than you can get from a can in a grocery store). Toward the end of our visit, we saw some twice-baked fingerlings float past that looked devine. When I asked the server (turned out to be the chef) what they were, he kindly brought us the last one he had in the house to sample. YUM. I would definitely order those again. They beat any ap we had. If you're on or near Mass Ave, this is a "must-stop-by-for-a-bite-and-a-bev" kinda spot.

    (4)
  • Steve O.

    Don't go if you want a bartender to pop the cap on your Bud Lite Lime and take your cash. But if you like crafted cocktails, crazy good food and servers/bartenders with personalities - this is the place! This people are passionate about what they do, and it shows. This is the place that you miss every time you are not there.

    (5)
  • Holly H.

    Let's take a moment to appreciate the champagne cocktail. Mmmm... just right for when you're feeling girly and flirty.

    (4)
  • Megan M.

    Love the drinks; hate the ambiance. When B&B opened, there was not loud music - in fact I had heard that the owner purposely kept the music level down. Those days seem to be long gone and my love of going here has also faded. When I'm sipping a serious cocktail I want to be able to hear my companions without them needing to shout. Quick mention of the staff. They are *always* incredible (nice, will recommend drinks, refill water, ect. .)

    (3)
  • Deborah W.

    Cocktails are very good and the appetizers are a perfect combination. Service is very good and knowledge about drinks. Menu is limited but if you're just here for drinks and appetizers it's a great place to start.

    (4)
  • Shelly F.

    Having returned over a dozen times since my first review, I felt it was time for an update. I still have a loving relationship with the B&B... My current drink crush is the pearl jam. Food is still simple and good. I'd like to see some growth in that area someday. Nice local beers and good wine options if you are inclined. One of my top favorite places to spend an evening with friends.

    (5)
  • David H.

    Really good drinks, the bartenders know what they are doing and the service is great.

    (4)
  • Joel M.

    I came to B&B with very high expectations and they met (most of) them. I imagined the place to be a lot bigger for some reason, but really like the intimate atmosphere. The interior had the staples of a quaint "speakeasy" - very dim lighting and very social seating seating arrangement (open layouts with couches, etc.). We actually ended up sitting next to complete strangers and sparking up a good conversation (real conversation, not drunken blabber / pickup lines), something that is rare in your typical sports bar or dance club around Indy. The drinks are great, although I honestly wouldn't know if my Old Fashioned was made with craft bourbon or well whisky (I just don't have a pallet for cocktails / spirits). All I know is it was tasty and strooong. I actually had to switch to beer after this because I would have probably blacked out after two. Much to my surprise they have an excellent draft beer list to compliment their cocktail menu. The service was okay, but a little slow for such a small place. The crowd was very diverse - there was everything from people in suits to Mario and Luigi costumes (it was the weekend before Halloween). I would definitely bring friends or family here for a few drinks if I wanted to keep it classy and low key.

    (4)
  • Jon A.

    Like experiences with art -- be it a movie, a book, a painting -- our timing, our point of view, where we stand in our lives matters when we visit a bar. Like when I revisit my favorite movies (F for Fake, Park Row, The Train, Point Blank), the timing of my visits to Ball & Biscuit matters. There are wonderful quiet moments at 4pm on a Tuesday. There are genius conversations on Sunday nights. Then, sometimes i take the risk of "the curtain nights" (as I call them) on Friday & Saturday (a risk because I don't fair well in loud crowds). These nights The Biscuit is slammed. Conversations are loud, but if you place yourself right (either in the back corner nook, or cranny by the bourbon barrel aging house liquers at the end of the bar you can in fact still have a space that's removed from the awesome, awesome crowd. A Friday at midnight where I had a martini for dinner (I'm not kidding) gives rise to a need-based craving: a King David Hot Dog. I crave these damn things all the time. I never ordered a hot dog in my life -- anywhere (even my beloved Dodgers' Dodger Dogs) -- until this Kosher, all-beef red hot. And The Biscuit is the only place to get this dog at night. Um, and what did they up and do? They loaded the King David Dog with Mac N Cheese -- Barely Buzzed (espresso lavender) Cheese, to boot. To the point: this was simply the greatest drunk food celebration I've ever experienced. Paired with a Sun King Osiris, drunchies forever changed. I had yet to try the Grand Marnier Smash, but whoadoggie (yeah I said it) that's rad. As too is there French 75 -- which could compete with the mimosa as a morning Hair of the dog. Every experience here is cinematic. The cocktails are technicolor. The mood is always changing. There's always a soundtrack. A session of cocktails & conversations can have a deeper meaning then you'd ever believe.

    (5)
  • Molly F.

    I have to say that this is not the most friendly joint. It seems to be very snooty. I did not feel welcomed at all. I have been here 5 times now and every time I get snubbed just b/c I don't order a $10 cocktail or "don't fit in." I live downtown and am a frequent restaurant goer would spend more money if they weren't so rude.

    (2)
  • Phil H.

    Vintage cocktails in a classy hip decor makes for prohibition era enjoyment. The kind of dimly lit joint that you can picture the Rat Pack sitting around in a corner with drink in hand and cigarette smoke lazily drifting in the air above. One of my goals during this visit to Indy was to find a speakeasy here. It was suggested by many that the Ball & Biscuit was the place to be. They were not wrong. As soon as I walked in here I knew it was going to be pure pleasure. Dimly lit with old style type lighting hanging from the ceiling, candles flickering all around, a mix of brick walls and chic leather seating in one room, and a smattering of tables and chairs around the room in the bar area. As it was a Wednesday night it was not crowded at all and I took a seat at the bar. A mix of 50's, indie rock, and R&B was playing at a low volume. Good to hear old school James Brown tunes. Bartender greeted me and handed me a drink and bar snacks menu. I asked him a bit about the drinks and to suggest a whiskey based drink. He said I would like the Willett Rye Old Fashion. He told me they use their own three month old whiskey that they age in their own barrels right on the bar. Willett Straight Rye whiskey stirred together with aromatic bitters, syrup, and an infused cherry. Wow - this was so good. It had a smooth finish with a vanilla undertone. Definitely a drink to sip slowly and savor. For $11 it was so worth it. Bartender was nice enough and asked me how I liked the drink and was attentive without being overbearing. Just right for a speakeasy. Looking over the menu I saw that they have a nice mix of classic style mixed drinks, and a good amount of whiskey, scotch, and cordials. They also feature a rotating group of craft beers ( around eight), bottles (a really nice selection), and some wines. It's a very well thought out selection and there is something for everone's taste here. They also have a fun grouping of bar snacks and small plates available - kimchi hot dogs, pulled pork sliders, jar of pickles, bone marrow, house marinated olives, smoked trout dip, and more. There are also around ten cheeses to choose from. Indianapolis needs more bars like this. Chic and sophisticated ambiance to enjoy a prohibition era style drink among quiet conversation with friends or a date. I will be back.

    (5)
  • Lindsay P.

    Meh... Great ambiance and cool decor, this speakeasy is not your ordinary bar. They're always serving up some sort of fun cocktail. But they're wine selection is severely lacking. I wanted nothing more than to enjoy a nice bottle of wine here alongside a carefully chosen cheese board; they hit my mark on the cheese, and were no where near my mark on wine. As a group, we had to send our wine glasses back multiple times due to various (and unappealing) scents that were messing with the enjoyment of a great glass of wine. After 3 failed attempts we should have given up. It just became real awkward and it was clear they had no idea about their wine or that they shouldn't be zesting oranges right over their wine glasses. This place is definitely well liked by many as it's typically full even on random nights, but perhaps that's the reason I will typically pick anywhere else on Mass Ave besides the BAB.

    (3)
  • Jennifer H.

    Be sure to double check your receipts! I recently had a bartender here add $10 to his tip. I called and spoke to a "manager" to get the issue fixed and 3 calls later they finally credited my account. The manager also said it must have been an accident. Right. Either way - check your receipts.

    (1)
  • Taylor F.

    Well slap me on the back and call me a monkey's uncle! Is this Sazerac cocktail adding to my merriment or did I just see Dean Martin walk by! What a great atmosphere! Great big regal leather arm chairs, low lighting, low riding urban vintage chic lounge chairs and friendly smile that had lot of recommendations and personal favorites in the libations department! What a brilliant throw back to Rat Pack Era of high cocktail culture, quality mixology that borders on art turning a collector's heart green with envy. Phenomenal innovative selection, perfect atmosphere for any celebration. So with all the accolades where is that ever elusive fifth star? Well...sad story while our waitress was incredibly nice with engaging recommendations, her coworkers seemed a little less thrilled that we were taking up precious table space. We were a group of 11 or 12 and while not entirely fitting into our corner booth we did mistakenly block the walk way. Had we known we would have been more than happy to move for them so they could walk through, last thing I want to do is make anything more difficult for cocktail servers. But it was the unfriendly smile and the snarky, "Uh...we need to walk through here so you are going to need to move." And as we were leaving in order to get us to move faster they sent in the busing team to bus our cocktail table while we were attempting to leave, the ironic thing was that they were blocking the exit it was slightly counter productive. All these things are minor though, we'll be back. We had a great time and the New Years Celebration sounds like a blast! Comments about pricing...to be honest I expected it to be $10 to $11 a cocktail, for a well made cocktail I consider that a deal! OH I almost forgot! They have MANCHEGO cheese on the menu! GOODNESS I LOVE THAT CHEESE! I am considering making a list soley devoted to MANCHEGO!

    (4)
  • Liz M.

    Excellent location. Phenomenal decor. Great Service. Delicious crafty cocktails. Can't ask for much more. Server was very helpful and patient. I did not try the food, but when I make it back to Indy I will!

    (4)
  • Darshy N.

    This is how Indy does cocktails; not in the speakeasy scene, but a solid cocktail bar this is. I took my out of town friends here, and explained to the bartender that we were visiting, and which they replied, "Oh. Why would someone from Toronto every visit Indy?" Err--- yeah. So that didn't really help my sell of this place, but the fact that we strolled in early, (1/2 hour) was pretty darn Indy friendly. We ended up helping them prepare the garnish for the St. Patty's rush. I wanted a Moscow Mule, and I'm going to admit they make the best one I've ever tasted here. The recommended Sazerac is pretty much the staple of this joint and I'm not a whiskey person. But it is such an amazing drink. The atmosphere is pretty trendy as well. I love the big couches, and the intimate lighting. You can surely find a secret spot and get lost in conversation.

    (4)
  • Jim W.

    Interesting food and expert service. We had the cheese plate, charcuterie plate, and artichoke dip. All were excellent. Our server brought extra bread for the artichoke dip. The cocktail list is extensive but the beer list needs some expansion into darker beers. Worth a visit.

    (5)
  • Chelsey S.

    I don't agree with Laura M. This was not a quieter bar. They played really odd, jungle-like music for the space and it was BLARING!! We sat at a dirty table for at least an hour before I complained to the server that I was grossed out by the gum hanging on the side of the glass that had been staring at me for far too long. She finally took away the five dirty glasses that had been on the table since we sat down. I paid $12 for two Sun King pints. Stupid. I'm all for supporting local business but I've been PLENTY of places where a local brew isn't that steep. I do like that they brought us out a bottle of water, although the water tasted a little funky. It's a good thought though. I also like the decor and the mortar between the bricks. I probably won't be back unless they lower the prices and do something about The Lion King soundtrack that left me with tinnitus.

    (2)
  • Jason B.

    The overall feeling at the Ball and Biscuit is more trendy than other bars on Mass ave. However it doesn't feel so trendy that you feel like a slob in a t-shirt. It tends to be a popular hangout for the law firms and other similar type of workers in the area. This also means that the prices and selection tend to be a little more trendy as well. In terms of selection, they have several micro-brews on tap including some local favorites. They also have a pretty good bottled beer list. Mixed drinks and wine seem to be their specialty as they are always coming up with new concoctions that seem to get pretty popular pretty quickly. Beer prices are decent. $4-6 per bottle and similar draft prices. The mixed drinks can be pricey, but you're paying for higher end booze so it makes sense. My only real problem was when we ordered the $12 cheese plate and we received more apricot preserves than cheese to put on our crackers. It was not enough cheese at all for the price, even if the cheese was fancier cheese. Head to the Ball and Biscuit if you are all dressed up, have some money in your pocket, and want to drink on Mass ave and still feel fancy.

    (4)
  • Stephanie H.

    Exactly what I expected it to be, and the cocktails were phenomenal. I appreciate a well-crafted and unique cocktail, and got exactly that. The vibe was very laid back and professional, and the setting quite intimate. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the only thing left to be desired was a slightly wider menu offering-the Mac and Cheese and such is all wonderful, but as someone with Celiac, the choices to balance out the drinking were very limited.

    (4)
  • Crystal K.

    This bar is awesome.

    (5)
  • Sara N.

    As soon as I walked in the door I was in love with this place. Very cool bar, very good wine, and ambiance is spectacular. Oh and there are no TVs (as far as I could tell), which is an A+ for an Indy restaurant. Drinks and wine are wonderful and service was quite good. The only complaint I have is that we ordered olives and hummus, which took 40 minutes (ridiculous) and they were both absolutely horrible. I mean the olives were almost rancid and the hummus was so bad it was mind boggling. But oh well, I guess you shouldn't eat food here. I would just go back for the drinks and ambiance. You should definitely try this place, you will love it!

    (4)
  • Matt F.

    At the end of Prohibition in 1933, President Roosevelt said "what America needs now is a drink!" Well, Frank, I think I'll take your advice and head to The Ball & Biscuit. In a world of bland, boring bars, it is here to rescue us from buckets of beer and fifty cent chicken wing specials. It is a modern day speakeasy that serves cocktails from a long ago era. The drink menu changes periodically and is somewhat seasonal. If you like your drink a certain way, let the bartender know and he will do his best to accommodate. On our first visit I ordered a Vieux Carre and although they did not have everything needed, he was able to mix me up something similar. They also have a good selection of draft beer, including several Indiana brews. We're usually here for a drink before or after dinner so I haven't tried a lot of the food but what I have had is decent. We have the trout dip on every visit and have tried several different cheeses. They have a happy hour from 4-6 with a few small plate dishes available for $3. I have read some complaints about rude staff. On our last visit, the bartender was not exactly rude but was just not overly friendly. Other than that, our experiences with the bartenders and servers have been great. Cheers! .

    (5)
  • Kate D.

    Only came here for drinks, and would return. They are all on the pricey side but well mixed and very good variety. The server was friendly and quick. The ambiance was a bit dark, giving it a very loungy feel, but it was a fun place for a group of four.

    (4)
  • Derrick B.

    You know..a lot of people are really impressed with the Ball and Biscuit, and I can honestly understand why. The place is beautiful. The people (for the most part--I mean, I was in there significantly bringing down the average!!) are beautiful, and the drink selection is incredible. Plus, the name is GENIUS! I won't ruin the story behind the name, but it's definitely unique. Just by LOOKING at the menu (which includes everything from drink combinations I've never heard of to cheese selections that I've never heard of) you can tell that this place is top notch. However, for the same reasons people love this place I'm simply not that impressed. I'm admittedly an average joe. I like what I like, and I don't intend to overpay for it--unless there are extenuating circumstances, like the going away party of a dear Yelper (as I pour my proverbial drink!) The Ball and Biscuit is not for the average Joe's. I really cannot fathom regularly paying $4 for a BUDWEISER! WHERE.DEY.DO.DAT.AT?! Plus, like I mentioned, the menu serves a clientele that knows and appreciates the difference between "Marrow w/ribs" as opposed to simple "ribs." If that's your fancy, Ball and Biscuit is a dream come true. In fact, this place is a model for supporting community initiatives. So, let's be straight, I'm not knocking it, or folks with refined tastes. It's just too perfect, and I'd rather have my restaurant experiences in a place that has some awkward, some weird, some flaws!!

    (3)
  • Jennifer P.

    I used to say this place was 5 stars but sadly my visit the other night changed this. We used to come in for great craft cocktails that you HAD to sip slowly because you didn't want to rush through you wonderful drink, you wanted to savor all the wonderful flavors. Our last visit made this place blend with all the other regular bars that just rely on the mixes and other ingredients and don't highlight the quality spirits. Hubby and I both ordered our favorite drinks and both were so weak and overpowered by the mixers that you could taste, much less appreciate, the alcohol. We were both disappointed and left as soon as we could pay our tab and choke back our blasé drinks. Probably wont be back for a while. Ball&Biscuit seems to have lost its luster :(

    (3)
  • Ronnie R.

    This place is seriously overrated. If you're not ordering from their specialty menu, at least one bar tender hasn't a clue. They certainly don't know how to make a classic like the Mint Julep. And even if it were some ridiculous personal expression, it was a poor one. I asked for something similar to a Manhattan, and I was delivered a "Brooklyn." Absolutely nothing to distinguish it from the former. At last, I ordered a neat bourbon. Its the only thing the guy couldn't botch. The worst part is, I step away from the bar to go to the bathroom, maybe three minutes pass, and my place setting is cleared with someone sitting in my seat. Now whether this is the work of a smartass bartender, or just a plain old inconsiderate serviceman, this place can hardly be called anything more than vanilla. The only thing it has on its side is a lack of competition. Places like this are just bars in other cities. This is just a bar with one bad bartender.

    (2)
  • Laura P.

    Can't go wrong with one of their craft cocktails.

    (4)
  • Erika B.

    I like the atmosphere and it's great when they open the front windows during the summer. The food is so so. I have enjoyed the cheese and smoking goose plates. They have a nice collection of drafts and a tasty cocktail menu. I do wish their wine list was better. It would be a great spot to have a bottle of good wine and a cheese plate but not possible with the current wine selection. It is a cocktail bar and not a wine bar. Enjoy it for what it is.

    (3)
  • Regan F.

    perfect moscow mule

    (5)
  • Adam C.

    Our first stop in Indy and all I can remember is it could have been a better experience. Bartender seemed distracted most of the time, hard to get a drink and even harder to get your bill and pay. The Meatball is huge with ok flavor but could be great with the right seasoning and for 14 bucks should be a lot better. Great place, it's kinda the place you would want if you had a bar. Nice place to have a drink after work and catch up, only suggestion be more friendly to the customers.

    (4)
  • Orval Ale S.

    Thank you Marjan for your excellent customer service! the ambiance, drinks, and cheese platters are not to be missed while in town.

    (5)
  • Donna B.

    I was really looking forward to a nice evening with my husband, and did a little searching to find 'just the right place'. The Ball and Biscuit almost had it. We stopped in quite early, about 530pm. There were plenty of tables available, as well as seats at the bar. We opted to sit in these lovely high backed leather chairs. The seat were quite comfy and we settled in to look at the menu while our server, Kelly, went to get us some water. You will want to take your time with the menu, and read about the many unique cocktails. We poured the water from the old-style soda bottle. As I was bringing the glass to my mouth to take a sip, I was overwhelmed with the odor of straight up indianapolis water. It tasted as bad as it smelled. Suggestion: get a water filtration system. Our first round of drinks included the Aviation Cocktail and Moscow Mule. Both drinks were fresh and crisp. We ordered the Papa Roux trio of pro' boys and the chicken and sausage soup. Both were tasty, but not awesome. Kelly was very prompt checking back on us initially, but as it got busier, she was not quite as attentive. When she did check on us, she was helpful and pleasant. We ordered another round, this time a Martinez and Sazerac. Again, we truly enjoyed the cocktails. Our little seating arrangement was quite comfortable with the exception of being cold. The B&B needs some help with the drafts of the door opening so often. There are very few seats unaffected by this. There is a heavy curtain they could use near the front door that may help with th cold air. Drinks ranged around $10, give or take, with the exception of the Sazerac, which was $15 ( old barrel). Overall, we enjoyed it, but with all the new bars and restaurants popping up around Indy, will not return, at least for a while.

    (3)
  • Nick J.

    This bar has one of the best atmospheres in Indy. I love the lighting and the cocktails are fantastic, especially the Sazerac. The bartenders are professional and know how to make cocktails the right way. They are also great about answering any questions about the menu and are great at keeping you supplied with both water and alcohol. I've been to the Ball & Biscuit three times and enjoyed myself each time. My most memorable experience was sharing Sazeracs with a close friend as we caught up on a breezy summer night. The drinks were perfectly mixed and the bartenders are quite knowledgeable. I again cannot stress enough how excellent the cocktail selection here is. The only negative I would give to the Ball & Biscuit concerns the food. I have tried both the Gazpacho and a poboy platter. The gazpacho was not something I would get again and the poboy platter was good, but the bread in no way resembles actual poboys. This is a common problem with Indy's Louisiana-style establishments. But this does not detract from the overall experience. I will try other food items on the Ball & Biscuit's menu, but these two are ones that I won't go back to.

    (4)
  • Holly H.

    To borrow a phrase from my favorite Food Network Star... It's cocktail time! We went to The Ball & Biscuit tonight! I must admit that I was a little nervous that the place would be super elitist, overcrowded, and just generally not my scene. As it turns out, I was pleasantly surprised to be wrong! I think a lot of it had to do with our timing. My husband and I, along with our two best friends, got there a bit before 7. We had an early dinner, and wanted to keep the evening going for a little while longer. The place was basically empty, and we ended up sitting in what I think were the best seats in the house (four deep armchairs surrounding a low table). My husband and I, especially, had been wanting to give this place a go... He'd even pre-selected his first round cocktail (awww!); The Aviation Cocktail. I played it a bit safe, getting The Rooftop Cocktail. Our friends got The Claret Cup (which tasted A LOT like sangria) and the Cinnabar Negroni. We also got an order of bar nuts and some marinated olives. Our server was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about the cocktails, and answered all of our questions in detail... sometimes a bit more detail than was actually needed. But it was actually really nice. She was SUPER friendly and I'll take that over the alternative any day. Our drinks and snacks came quickly after we ordered (which I'm sure was a result of the place not being busy at all). We all sampled all of the drinks, and decided that they were ALL pretty awesome. Sometimes there is a bit of jealousy at who ordered what and what we wish we had ordered instead, but I think we were all pretty pleased with our selections. :) We sat back and enjoyed our delicious beverages while talking and laughing. After a while, we decided to get a second round, and we all mostly tried a different drink. This time my husband got the Sazerac, I got The Grand Marnier Smash, and our friends got the Hemingway Daiquiri and The Rooftop (because he liked mine so much). All of the drinks were beautiful and surprisingly tasty. I'm not a big drinker at all, and I managed to find two cocktails that suited my tastes. It is kind of sad to report that those two drinks left me with a serious buzz... The force is STRONG with their drinks, indeed. We all decided that we'd hit our wall at two drinks, and settled up. Our tab (which included four of their classic cocktails, the bar nuts, and the marinated olives) came to about 45 dollars plus tip. Some people might scoff at paying 10 bucks for a cocktail, but it's pretty much right in line with what one should expect to pay for for a designer drink. One previous reviewer had it just right. They are a lot like art in a glass and you pay for the privilege. Between the four of us, we managed to hit most of the items on their menu, and all of them were kind of amazing. As far as the vibe of the lounge itself... The decor is awesome (as I'm sure many reviewers before me have mentioned). It's very laid back and casual, with sofas and chairs as well as some traditional tables. I hate to use the word chic, but it's totally that. It was definitely a comfortable place to spend a couple hours. As a completely random side note... I also used the bathroom while I was there. It was super clean and nice and even managed to smell good... which is kind of a big deal for me. No one wants to use a gross bathroom! Am I right? I know I'm right. :) Another (random) great thing! No smoking! Just thought I would mention that in case it's an issue either way. Personally, smoke gives me a headache and just generally makes me grumpy, so I'm happy to be without... But perhaps you like to smoke when you drink... And if so, this is not the place for you! :P If you have any inclination to do so, I would absolutely recommend visiting The Ball & Biscuit. There is a discernible lack of pretentiousness, and the drinks are phenomenal. It's definitely a good time to be had by all. **We were also told that they are getting ready to roll our their new Fall drink menu in the next week or two. Our waitress recommended that we check their Facebook page for updates, which we totally plan on doing. She gave us a brief rundown of some of the new drinks coming out... and they definitely sound exciting. :)

    (4)
  • Marcie M.

    For my 200th Yelp review (woo hoo!! Happy 200 to meeee!) I have to give credit where credit is due with this new upscale speakeasy-esque bar experience on Mass Avenue. It proves that you CAN have a successful BRAND NEW non-smoking bar do well....and without all the extra haze of nasty cigar or cigarette smoke to ruin a perfectly good evening and force you to shower immediately upon returning home. I was absolutely stunned that Indy has something so cool, beautiful and unique right within my grasp, a mere 20 minutes from Carmel. Although the bar was hoppin', we were still able to get a table for 7 easily. There were lovely leather couches along the walls, fabulous ornate ceilings, stunning hardwood floors and the freshness of a new building with the old school vibe of a 1920s underground prohibition bar. Even our server was the 2010 version of a flapper girl....she was gorgeous and attentive. Lovely and helpful. The menu offered a vast array of interesting concoctions with the year in which the drink was invented underneath....many of the drinks had a very mature, seductive vibe. I wanted to try them all but fear of mixing too many hard liquors kept me from going overboard. I ended up ordering a sangria-esque drink for $10. May sound pricey but whoooooah, was it worth it. It was a very generous drink filled to the brim with a perfect amount of icey goodness. The rest of my table ordered an array of drinks and wine. No one complained about price. We were too inthralled with our lovely surroundings and the fabulousness that is B&B that we couldn't stop talking about when we wanted to come back. Girls and boys, I recommend this for a GREAT date place...nothing like the perfect adults atmosphere, with an atmosphere and drink list to talk about! I recommend it especially for a romantic starter to a very nice evening out. You will only leave here smelling of the alcohol of choice and not the nastiness that permeates from the majority of downtown establishments after 9 p.m. Enjoy yourself, relax, sit back and immerse yourself in the best new bar in Indy...

    (5)
  • Alexandra G.

    Always a great experience at the B&B. Exceptionally crafted drinks and always great service, despite the busy crowds on the weekends. Totally understand the small, intimate feel, and greatly appreciate the ambience, but often find myself wishing it was slightly larger to accommodate larger parties of 6 or 8 for seating. Fav drink...Hot Carlina (sp?)/Carlita. Not sure of the actual spelling/name, but it's fabulous if you like it HOT! (Thanks Frankie!)

    (4)
  • Torrey R.

    Since I've never actually ordered food here before, it is all about the atmosphere and drinks. We came here with some friends and were actually able to talk with no blaring music or squawking televisions. They have couches on which to lounge, dim lighting, and local brew offered. This is a great spot to end a low key evening with a few drinks in hand.

    (4)
  • MJ W.

    No TVs, no loud music to compete with, and no smoke! This is a great place to put the technology away and talk to one another. Check out my review of the Yelp Elite Event at B&B! yelp.com/biz/the-first-y…

    (5)
  • Scot C.

    The finest cocktails in Indianapolis. Period. The Ball & Biscuit is a wonderful epicurean experience, through and through. When browsing through the libations list, you start to wonder if you're ordering a drink or a well-crafted piece of distilled art... A romantically dark, woody, dim lit art-deco lounge, it has the look and feel of a classic speak easy. As noted, they offer an array of creative cocktails, great local craft beer on draught, as well as plenty of high-end bottled beer, and an inciting wine list for those who prefer the vine. The food is also a fine aspect; I praise their savory cheese sampling (I really enjoy the Taleggio), as well as some tasty dishes to satisfy any appetite (the Barley Buzzed Mac & Cheese is a must try). The staff is top-notch and make you feel at like you're among friends. One also can't help but admire the vintage microphone collection that line the walls; a very interesting backdrop indeed. My favorite of their creations and perhaps the best cocktail I have EVER had: 'The Harrison Sicilian', "Indiana's first bourbon, Harrison Governors Reserve, stirred together with Luxardo Amaretto, bitters and a dash of The B&B's house made grenadine." Bravo B&B, let's clink gasses again soon!

    (5)
  • Megan C.

    Love this place. It is Mad Men classy meets hipster paradise. The old-school cocktails are so fun and really, really well made. They also have such foodie treasures as kimchee hot dogs, bone marrow, charcuterie, gourmet olives, an amazing whitefish dip, and a huge variety of lovely artisanal cheeses. And I LOVE good cheeses and classy cocktails, so this place is basically heaven for me. I have always had a great time here, and I have even brought my parents and their friends (in their 50's) and they also really enjoyed themselves. Fun for the whole (over 21) family! I think I read another review at some point about someone being upset that the bartender refused to serve them shots. In my opinion, that is not a bad thing. I think this place is trying to be a classy and cool place, definitely not a get-so-smashed-you-puke vibe. So props to the owners for trying to stick with that even if it cost them money at that moment to do so. That classy, laid-back vibe is what keeps me coming back here and bringing everyone and anyone I know to enjoy fun cocktails without the frat party atmosphere that pervades so many other bars.

    (5)
  • Pj J.

    This bar started with the right intentions, a throw back speak easy vibe with great craft cocktails. Now past 9pm you might as well go to the Vogue. The music is so loud you can't even converse with those around you. The drinks are over priced and this place has lost it way from the original concept. Let's just say I won't be back. If you want a real cool atmosphere, with great craft cocktails 1933 is a better option.

    (1)
  • Sergey G.

    A great place for a cocktail and a conversation. Small, warm, and cozy. Far less pretense than in some other speak-easy Indy places. Food is good. Beer is well selected. Bartenders know what they are doing. The crowd is hit or miss- everyone from yaps, hipsters, and plain old idiots to some intriguing-looking individuals. One of the best places for a date. Fan of their whiskey cocktails.

    (4)
  • Tonya S.

    I moved to Indy (near Mass Ave) in July of 2010. A few weeks prior to my move, I kept hearing a lot of *hype* about this new Ball & Biscuit place that was opening up on Mass. My first thoughts, "Where did they come up with a name like that?", "What does the name mean?" and "Gotta check this place out!" Well, I tried it, loved it and I have probably *checked in* 100+ times since. Let me first start with saying, if I have a *Cheers* in downtown Indy, this is it. My absolute first choice for cocktails when I want to be in a social environment and know I will run into acquaintances or friends, I pick the Ball & Biscuit. It is by far my neighborhood bar. When you first enter, you are greeted with a black drape.....kind of makes you wonder what is on the other side. Well, I am getting ready to tell you...... Let me sum it up like this......lighting that is right for any mood, vintage atmosphere, top shelf all around, Indiana brews on tap, best new bar in Indy (per votes!), creative drinks (from pre-Prohibition to modern-day concoctions that you are sure to LOVE), no televisions, smoke-free, professional, classy, laid-back, excellent and very unique menu items, fresh oysters on Thursdays and a bartender that is up for Nuvo's Battle of the Bartender (yes, I voted for Zach). I forgot to mention the wide array of amazing cheeses!! As a cheese lover, I spent National Cheese Lover's Day at.....the Ball & Biscuit. Best choice ever. About the drinks....most unique selection in downtown Indy, in my opinion. It is like you need a recipe book for these concoctions. Who serves up a Bacon infused Belveder Bloody? They do. Fabulous! About the menu, the meatball, cheese plates and kimchi hot dog are amazing. ....and who has Bone Marrow on the menu? They do. Creative! Don't know what cheese to order? Have them throw something together for you. You won't be disappointed. The Ball & Biscuit is the type of place the Conrad and JW Marriott direct their guests too, yet it is the place the locals love. Sip on your Sidecar or Sun King brew and you may just look over and see Elaine Irwin Mellencamp sitting next to you. I did. Love the bartenders, love the caterer, love the drinks and the menu. I always leave the Ball & Biscuit happy. I do stay clear of the St. Germaine though as it is a mind-eraser. Ha! Sadly though, sometimes the table servers appear to ignore me, yet I like to go to the bar anyway. Zach is awesome! If you go in alone or in a small group, I recommend sitting at the bar. You are sure to strike up a really cool convo with the bartender and/or meet some really interesting folks. My favorite bar in downtown Indy is right in my *hood*. I call it the B&B =) ....of course, I give it 5 stars. I would give it 10 if I could.

    (5)
  • Sarah B.

    First stop on our Indy pub crawl... had a couple of beers and moved on. Small selection of beer but we found something we each liked. The bartender was super friendly and the bar patrons were chatty as well. We were in town on a Monday night so there wasn't much going on, but I kind of like that.

    (4)
  • V B.

    The name of this place is worth 5 stars just by itself. Long days deserve long rewards. Drinks here remind me of LA, but the Midwest can work the crowd like no other. This is one classy bar for drinks. They serve food too, but save room in your tummy for something with at least 90 proof.

    (5)
  • Chet C.

    Don't know about the food, but drinks are top notch.

    (5)
  • Fiona S.

    First time at the Ball and Biscuit. I offered my preference for seating. Loved that. Our server took great care in describing our food options and recommending drink options, pairing flavors and undertones of flavor such that drinks and foods would optimally enhance each other. Service was personal and attentive. I had the olive twists. Delicious-puff pastry smooth and light on the inside and crispy on the inside. The texture of the filling, the olive tapenade was smooth, the flavors blended but with a lovely tang. I have never been a fan of bread pudding but-the vanilla bourbon bread pudding-both flavor and texture smooth. I love the candied caramel-sugar topping. Found out there was a new person in charge of food menu selections. Elevating the offering to a new level!

    (5)
  • Benjamin H.

    I can't comment too extensively on the cocktails, but B&B always has great craft beer on tap! Pair that with a kimchi hot dog and a cheese plate then I'm a pretty happy dude. If you like to avoid "tourists" I highly suggest visiting on a weeknight.

    (4)
  • Lars F.

    Stopped here after MacNiven's for another pint. The Upland Wheat Ale was smooth. I love the selection of seats, the giant windows that open into the street which is perfect for people watching, and the waitress was very nice. A very cool vibe.

    (5)
  • Paul F.

    Place is chill! Mellow decor and tunes. Calm lighting. Multiple seating types and surfaces for couples to small groups. Non pretentious staff. Mood is reminiscent of a basement bar in Madrid I found off a small ally. I've had five cocktails, one beer on tap, two small plates and two cheese plates over two visits just this week. Drinks were fun with distinct flavor reflecting the very accurate descriptions on the menu. The food was perfect as a side to the great drinks but substantial enough to make a meal...like large tapas. Best of all NO TV! Yes... you can actually look into the eyes of your drinking companion(s) without the "normal" upward annoying, reflexive, rude glances at the boob tube (downward glances are another story... pocket the smart phone dudes). Looking forward to trying all the cocktails and plates!

    (5)
  • Lorand M.

    Nice that they took the time to respond to my deploring of a marketing move on facebook to promote positive yelp reviews... I very much appreciate and respect someone associated with B&B taking the time to peruse social media critiques...and...taking the time to write me a note. This is the type of professionalism that is typically found in establishments that do things...like....clean the bathrooms...wipe the tables...take time to pick beer offerings instead of whatever the hot chick from the distributor is promoting...and shockingly...ya end up with a thriving business. Hmmmm ? survey customers opinions on social media...and..rather than getting defensive and decrying the idiocy of the "no nothing" clientell...and....you actually write a well worded note of contrition... Thanks B&B for being so professional...and looking forward to many more enjoyable evenings at your place.

    (4)
  • Kendra W.

    Cool place! Kind of expensive. Comfortable but somewhat upscalish atmosphere..

    (4)
  • Ron S.

    I swear, this bar is my new obsession and, thus, has become my favored hangout spot. Ball n Biscuit brings contemporary pub-lounge style to Mass Ave in a rather elegant fashion. The decor is hard to describe, but I'd have to say "Industrial-revolution" chic if I had to put my finger on it (if you ever shop at Spitalfield's when you're in Chicago or New York, you'll know what I mean by that). Comfortable seats and chairs adorn the entire place and there's nary a bad seat in the house. During the summer, the huge windows are propped open so you can view the street. I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place to enjoy a beer on Mass Ave. On tap, they have a plethora of local brews including BBC and Sun King. I've only sampled the charcuterie and proscuitto dishes, but they were excellent and it's a huge change of pace from the burgers and fries sports joints that are otherwise in this area. In addition, they don't skimp on the alcohol with the mixed drinks, and the wait staff is courteous and knowledgeable. Since this place has opened, it has become my preferred place to bring out-of-towner guests and they have nothing but positive things to say about this place, it really shatters their previously held notions about Indy being nothing but a cow-town. Long and short: Indy needs more classy places like this.

    (5)
  • Parvonay D.

    Ball & Biscuit is pretty much my perfect bar. Dark wood, dim lighting, exposed brick, that "bar of yesteryear" vibe. Atmosphere is classy without being stuffy or pretentious. Arrive a bit early on a Friday or Saturday night to ensure you have somewhere to sit. Sip wine or classic cocktails and enjoy the people watching on Mass Ave out of their giant windows. Haven't tried any of the food yet, but what I've seen looks good. Prices are what I'd expect with this atmosphere and are pretty standard for similar places in Indy. You'll see all types of dress here, from suits and fancier "going out" attire to jeans, so come as you are. Bonus: it's smoke free!

    (5)
  • Twinkle V.

    So far, The Ball & Biscuit has some of the best drinks I've had not only in Indy, but most likely ever. Vintage recipes, obscure liqueurs and fresh zests accompany a great small plate menu filled with a variety of specialty cheeses, meats and dishes created with local ingredients. This bar has no fear for meat, the bone marrow there is outrageously amazing, yet the menu still can cater to those who are more vegetarian-inclined. Also, the rustic, back room speakeasy look of the place gives it a hip, yet relaxed atmosphere that fits in perfectly with its location. Notably one the best playlists on the sound system in any bar I have come across in Indy, yet.

    (5)
  • Chris H.

    This is definatly a downtown hot spot, great drinks, excellent service and food. Very hip place to hang out, especially with a group. Kendall is awesome!

    (5)
  • Gregg M.

    Back home again in Indiana And it seems that I can see The gleaming candlelight, still shining bright Thru the sycamores for me The new mown hay sends all its fragrance From the fields I used to roam When I dream about the moonlight on the Wabash Then I long for my Indiana home... Actually, I was also longing for a well-made, hand-crafted cocktail. So following the sage advice of our bartender, Corey, at Olives, the girlfriend and I made our way to The Ball & Biscuit. The Ball & Biscuit resides along the surprisingly vibrant, diagonal-running Mass Ave, which reminds me more of the neighborhood along the similarly diagonal Mass Ave in DC than anything I ever remember from my days in Indy. Although the Ball & Biscuit may have a name that sounds incongruous with quality cocktails (or anything else for that matter other than a place for dog toys and treats), the B&B really impresses with its execution of craft cocktails. Throughout our stay, we were professionally served by Joe, our skilled bartender. For my first round, I had the B&B's version of a classic sazerac. Their Fall Sazerac consisted of Jim Beam Rye, Hickory Works Shagbark Hickory Syrup, The Bitter Truths Orange Bitters, and a Vieux Carre Absinthe rinse ($10). If you're going to make a classic cocktail, you either need to follow the original recipe to the letter or create a version that stay's true to the spirit of the classic but has a unique twist that showcases the ingredients and the creativity of the bartender. This was a case of the latter. The sazerac possessed all of the notes of the classic, but was made special by the use of the local produced (or at least in-state) hickory syrup which added a subtle smoky/nutty spin to the cocktail. My second round was the Corn and Oil, another classic cocktail, consisting of black strap rum, house made falernum and bitters served on the rocks ($10). The oil-like black strap rum was complemented nicely by the falernum making for a satisfying, yet not as sweet as you'd think, cocktail. I enjoyed both drinks but I have to say that the Fall Sazerac took honors. Indianapolis has changed a lot over the past 10-15 years...and for the better. Who says you can't go home again? Not me! Mass Ave and the Ball & Biscuit have been added to my permanent "to do" list for future trips back home again in Indiana.

    (4)
  • Lindsay B.

    Love, love, love their thoughtful drinks here! I had the Fauxhemian, and one other cocktail which is no longer on their menu [I was there in August... a little slow posting reviews] but I would have happily sipped any drink on B&B's menu! Everything I tasted, including my companion's drinks, had well balanced flavors, and was unique and delightful. We also shared a cheese plate and a couple of small plates. The food was respectable, but the drinks were really the stars. The ambiance is also wonderful - cozy, warm and lively. This was the highlight of my short stay in Indy. I'll definitely return to Ball & Biscuit next time my travels take me to this town.

    (5)
  • Scotty Z.

    I'm doing it!! I'm bumping this place up to 5 stars. Oh wait -- twas already there. Can I give it 6? 7? I LOVE this place!! Considering how masterful their drinks are, now that I'm a somewhat regular, they also get an "A+" for consistency. Every drink is awesome. They don't take 20 mins to make. And, our service has been superb every time. Find of the night: I topped off the evening with the Willett Rye Old Fashion -- except substituted a barrel aged Willett instead. There's no going back now!.

    (5)
  • Erika F.

    Came to The Ball & Biscuit on a whim with my boyfriend when we were in town for The Indy 500. We were out exploring Indy and wanted to find a hip spot to grab some good cocktails. We pulled out our phones and found The Ball & Biscuit on yelp. We got there around 9 and it was pretty quiet. We bellied up to the bar and perused the cocktail list. They had old school cocktails, like the sazarac and manhattan, but they also had some newer original concoctions. We each ordered a drink and began chatting with the bartender. He turned out to be an owner and was very friendly and helpful, referring us to other not-to-miss places in Indy. He even made me his signature drink, which I cannot remember the name of, but it had tequila and hot sauce and lime juice or something along those lines. It was pretty delcious. The menu looked great and the girls next to us ordered a cheese plate that I was really jealous of. Next time we are in Indy, we will be back to eat. The atmosphere was great, quiet and cozy when we first arrived and by 11 p.m., this place was jumping. Standing room only. It was a very young 20s-30s crowd.

    (4)
  • Tamara D.

    We love this cozy bar. Delicious unexpected snacks. Nice cheese and meat selections. Wonderful drinks. It is a treat to go in.

    (5)
  • Cameron S.

    The best place in town with the best staff, bar none! Comfortable, upscale atmosphere that doesn't come off as overdone or cheesy. No TVs, which is a huge plus. Zach and Kendall will take great care of you.

    (5)
  • Trena T.

    A piece of history in the heart of downtown Indianpolis. Very classy, yet still laid-bck and comfortable. Intimate without being overwhelming. Excellent service, fantastic cocktails, and wonderful food. A stellar choice for an evening out with a step-up from the norm!

    (5)
  • Sarah F.

    I just love the atmosphere in here. It is so chic and classy....the lack of televisions makes this a refreshing respite from sports-bar hell. Actually, this place is so chic that I felt under-dressed and angry at my off-brand shoes. But a few perfectly-crafted cocktails cured that anxiety.

    (4)
  • Brandon P.

    Best made drinks downtown, by far. They've got an awesome cocktail list and have even resurrected some long forgotten cocktails. The only thing I don't like about this place is it can get super crowded on the weekends and finding a place to sit or even stand can be pretty tough. One of the bartenders (forget his name) has a pretty cool story he likes to share about when he had Michael Jordan (major douche) as a customer once. The set up is freaking awesome, they definitely have the best ambiance of any bar I've been to in Indy. I used to head to Nicky Blaine's when I wanted a well made cocktail downtown, but with the combination of that place having the worst service of all time and this place kicking ass, now I go to Ball & Biscuit.

    (4)
  • Steven A.

    Best bar in indy hands down. Drinks are amazing, food is local and great, and the ambiance can't be beat. Every time I visit I like it more and more.

    (5)
  • Nichole H.

    Something must be wrong with me. I am just not hip enough to appreciate Ball and Biscuit I think. I felt like things were overpriced and not that great. I had a variety of the small plates as well as two of the signature drinks. I just wasn't that into it. If you need me, I'll be back at MacNiven's.

    (2)
  • Lisa S.

    I've only been here once, but the I flove the decor of this place. Also, while the drinks are a tad pricey, they pour 'em strong. They specialize in Prohibition-era cocktails, and they don't disappoint. One Sazerac knocked me pretty sideways, and was yummy to boot. I went with a group of people I didn't know very well, and ended up having a great time. The cozy seating contributed to conversation, and even the strangers I met in line for the bathroom were friendly. Don't let the seemingly aloof hipster vibe fool ya. There's fun to be had.

    (4)
  • Michael+Jenni B.

    Ball & Biscuit is my favorite local spot for drinks. It is a necessary, upscale addition to the Mass Ave scene. Defiantly NOT a pub, but also not as pretentious as they have every right to be. The focus here is definitely on the cocktails & conversation (not on TV) The Aviation & Sidecar are my favorites; but also they make a great classic Tom Collins. A well edited seasonal selection of local brews make it the perfect spot even if your not in a cocktail mode. It's the perfect spot for pre or post dinner drinks, a light dinner itself before a show at the Murat/Old National Centre or to begin or end a night on the town. The vibe is intimate, but not awkward -- so while it's great with your significant other or close friends -- it's just as great for business & work outings and shows out of towners the amazing food & drink scene Indy has. On the food front, I appreciate the single selections of a wide variety of cheeses - in which you can make your own amazing cheese plate. The olives & bar nuts are must orders as soon as you walk in and if you are really hungry -- then order up the mac & cheese or artichoke dip. The servers are mostly trendy, artist types and as sweet as can be -- no eye rolls when you ask for a water. Be sure to say hey to Zach behind the bar (he slings the drinks and runs the show most nights). I also threw a private launch event there that turned out fantastic; they were super flexible and provided ample yummy appetizers & a great Bloody Mary Bar (with Hoosier Momma's mix).

    (5)
  • Joe L.

    I've been hear a couple times now and I think the best description I can come up with is "21st Century Speakeasy." Not because of the atmosphere, but because of the cocktail selections they have are bourbon and whiskey-based with a focus on craft liquors and mixers. Although they have a full bar, I don't think they had any signature martinis on their menu. This place is for real drinks and beer. The other amazing things about this place... great indie music, still able to carry a conversation, free WiFi, and AMAZING food. I just had the best Mac and Cheese tonight. If you come on Thursday, they have $2 oysters!!! REAL oysters, not cheap flavorless blue points. One time I had Kumamotos and tonight I had one from the East and West coast I've never heard of before

    (5)
  • Patrick G.

    Been here a couple times now and they make some pretty cocktails here. BUT they do have some issues. The biggest issue is that some of the classic cocktails they have on their menu are not made/served correctly. I had a Sazerac that came on ice! and not just one big cube or anything but soaked in crappy bar ice that you see at any bar. We were told that this is how they always serve the drink *shudder* . My friend got an Aviation, and that was also served with ice in the drink. The food was just ok, nothing to get super excited about but did the job. Service was somewhat odd, I think we had 3 different waitresses and they did not seem to communicate with each other. Overall I like this place but there's some significant room for improvement, still a great place to grab a drink in Indy.

    (3)
  • Courtney B.

    I have found that depending on you go to this bar with, the service differs. I have gone with a group of friends who work on Mass Ave and the service is A-OK. However, when I took some friends from not around Mass Ave, they were rude, and it took forever for the server to even come to our table. I want to say that it took about 45 minutes to order, another 30 to get the drinks and they actively discouraged us coming to the bar to order. They did have some good drinks though. But that is about all I can say.

    (2)
  • Deborah B.

    I love this place, the ambiance, the drinks, the decor. A great place to try an old-fashioned and creative cocktail or two!! Drinks that I have had here that I love include The Claret Cup and The Grand Marnier Splash. Just fantastic!! They have small plate offerings and artisanal cheeses. My only disappointment is they do not offer one of the greatest cheese in the world, Delice de Bourgogne, which is a triple creme brie from France. To die for!! The only place that I know has it is Whole Foods waaaay up in Nora. Anyway, I highly recomend Ball and Biscuit and will be back soon!!

    (5)
  • Mary W.

    I am a sucker for interesting cocktails and good atmosphere. This place has them both in abundance. My husband and I did a joint bachelor/bachelorette party here the night before our wedding and LOVED it. The weather was beautiful and the front windows opened up so you felt like you were sitting outside even in the bar. The combination of the cocktails were amazing! My favorite was the The Rooftop Cocktail which comes with St. Germain (mmmm! Elderflower!); I will probably spend the rest of my life trying to recreate this cocktail.

    (5)
  • B B.

    Only one bartender working their large-ish bar on a crowded Sat night- What was management thinking?? We left after waiting 15 min just for eye contact. We used to like this place but now we are only luke warm about it. Attitude we got from the bartender makes me want to say, "Hey dude, you realize you are tending bar in Indianapolis, right?"

    (2)
  • Tristan S.

    Any place that plays Andrew Bird, serves Bavarian cheese and offers unique beverages like the cucumber-vodka-with-fresh-basil cocktail I had is A+ in my book. The setting gives the place the 5th star, too: straight out of dark-wood-brown-leather-dimly-lit heaven. Good service, too.

    (5)
  • Stephanie Q.

    Had a friend in from out of town this past weekend. After showing them around downtown Indy (Meridian Area) on their first visit, I wanted them to experience Mass Ave this time around. I asked around and all signs pointed to the Ball and Biscuit. When we arrived (around 4 pm on Saturday) we were one of few guests in the building. It didn't take long for the place to fill up. It seemed like quite the popular place! Kendall the bartender handled it with stride. She was very knowledgeable and an amazing bartender. We enjoyed talking with her throughout the evening. She and of course the amazing drinks and ambiance, kept us there for a large portion of the night. Unfortunately, I can not remember all of the names of the drinks we tried or find many of them online since they are in the process of switching from their winter menu to their summer menu. However, that is always nice to see, switching up the menu seasonally. Makes people want to keep coming back to see what else they have concocted! Will most definitely be back! Esp on a nice night. Although we sat at the bar top, I would love to sit on their new patio and watch the Mass Ave life! Definitely worth 5 stars!

    (5)
  • Douglas B.

    I went out on a late, snowy, cold December night looking for a place just to chill and have a drink. When you're on Mass Ave you kind of expect a certain kind of feel when you go into a venue. Ball and Biscuit delivers. It is a hybrid modern lounge/old school speakeasy. How does that happen you may ask? On the lounge side, the decor consists of a number of classic (very comfortable btw) older style chairs and couches and tables. The exposed brick walls look like the contractor forgot to wipe away the extra filling, but it gives it a texture that you don't see often that is actually pretty cool. The exposed ceilings finish the industrial New York feel. There is low lighting, I can't remember, but there may have been candles too. Either way, it was enough to see who you're talking to without straining at all. On the bar side, you'll find a number of high tables and a small, but comfortable bar space that was very well put together and efficient. I liked the food menus being written in chalk for some reason. I guess it's because that means it changes and you never know what you'll get. I have yet to eat there, but the selections sounded perfect for the venue and looked pretty good from the plates I checked out. Bartenders and waitstaff were all easygoing and friendly. Ball and Biscuit is good for groups (probably no larger than 8) or one on one date spots. I almost forgot the thing that impressed me the most...the music. They played Cody Chestnutt and The Roots! While it's background music and not at a volume that you're going to get up and break it down, the fact they played a diverse range of music was appreciated. Thumbs up!

    (5)
  • J H.

    Can I just say how much I love that this bar is non smoking? It's got great cocktails (lots of creative ones - my fave is the ball & biscuit champagne cocktail) and a great vibe. The place wasn't overly crowded and our group of four was able to easily snag a table. I feel like this is a nice secret that is going to get out soon! The beer list is great and I love that they have several cocktails with St. Germain (a french elderflower liqueur - YUM)! I also enjoyed that it was just a great place to hang out and people watch! I'd highly recommend going with a group to check out the space and enjoy some unique classic cocktails!

    (5)
  • andy h.

    The venue's atmosphere takes you back in time to a dark, prohibition-style saloon - but tastefully done it a way that feels modern, hip and comfortable. Enjoy the craft beers and the array of custom cocktails unlike any you'd expect to see on a typical menu. The macaroni and cheese has a lavender scent to it that makes it light, creamy and smooth. Really unlike any other mac and cheese I've ever had. The meatball is a delicious pound of meats (pork and veal) that is topped with sweet tomatoes and Parmesan. It is a pound of meaty goodness and I highly recommend it.

    (4)
  • Zach R.

    The Sazerac. A cocktail with 200 years of venerable service to mankind and somehow I'm just not finding out about. Thank you Ball and Biscuit. Thank you. As you may have figured out, I went to B&B and had my first Sazerac. It's a damn fine cocktail and it ain't the only good one they've got! I took a cue from my buddy John and started out with the Corn and Oil. I'll say that it's a mature drink, with lots of complexity, but damn it's good. Especially after you get through the first few drinks and start to unmask the lovely complexities and mysteries the brown, syrupy cocktail has to offer. The Saz is a whiskey drinkers drink, with a lovely flourish of orange at the end and a hint of anise near the end. Aside from fantastic damn cocktails that the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, Henry Clay, and other fine gentlemen probably drank, the atmosphere is great. It's very intimate. It achieves the speak easy vibe it's going for and also puts out a nice (yet not overly) Bohemian vibe (they have a cocktail called 'The Fauxhemian' by the way). It's small, but not cramped, especially if you get the chance to grab one of the four leather chairs on the raised portion of the bar by the wall (bad description, but I'm hardly an architectural vocabulary type kinda guy). Service wasn't necessarily attentive, but that wasn't a problem. Zach/Ziggy/Diesel, our server (pretty sure Zach's his name, but the credit receipt said Ziggy and someone called him Diesel... so hell if I know) didn't show up too often, but he wasn't neglectful. Just the second I started thinking about having a Saz, he was there. The second the smoked trout dip sounded good, there he came, smiling as if he knew I was powerless to the lovely menu choices I had in front of me. Service gets high marks in the end. Only thing wrong with the Biscuit is that the drink prices are a bit high. I'd like to see them drop that a bit. That would definitely guarantee a few return trips from me.

    (5)
  • Dassie R.

    The ball and biscuit has a perfect gastro pub atmosphere. They make pretty good cocktails and the apps are good too, but their prices are a little steep for Indianapolis. We love the decor, seating arrangements and music. My favorite cocktail is the pearl jam and It's worth it to stop in from time to time if you can ignore the pretentious, rude bartenders.

    (3)
  • Nicolette M.

    When this place was first opened, I didn't know how they could possibly make it any better. Then they put in huge windows, making it possible to enjoy a cool outdoor breeze while slipping on a Sazerac. I try to test out a new drink every time I go before I slip back to my favorites, Pimm's Cup and the B&B Champagne Cocktail. Feel free to ask the bartenders for advice for your drinks; trust me, they know what they're doing. The drinks are only a small part of this place. There was a lot of attention to detail when designing the place, the drink menu, and the food menu. There are also no TVs to distract you from the 1920s feel. The clientele of this place all equally love it and so prepare to bond with those you meet.

    (5)
  • Chanel R.

    This is one of the best bars in Indianapolis because of their attention to detail. You can tell they put thought into every choice to make this intimate bar great for their customers. From the comfortable seating and mood lighting to the beautifully placed orange peel in your vintage cocktail, this bar is definitely worth a visit!

    (5)
  • Kjirsten K.

    Fabulous menu of yummy, unique cocktails, good wine, good beer, and CHEESE! I love the atmosphere and the simple and chic design aesthetic. It feels modern and up-to-date, but with an old timey speakeasy feel. The music (usually indie rock) is at a good volume that is not overpowering or intrusive. The price of the cocktails are a little high, averaging around $9, but you get what you pay for. You won't find overplayed Cosmos or drinks loaded with pre-made sweet and sour mixes on the cocktail menu. My favorites are the Rooftop, the house margarita, and the Sazerac, which includes absinthe and rye whiskey. Added bonuses are the fact that Ball and Biscuit is non-smoking, you can usually find the owner (Zach) behind the bar mixing the drinks, and the name is so fun to say!

    (5)
  • Le W.

    One of my favorite places to go for a drink after work! Innovation combinations, great service, always busy!

    (4)
  • Brad K.

    What a great little joint to hang out and chat. My super-fly girl friends were looking for a place to grab a drink and catch up. We kicked around some ideas and settled here. What a treat. The lounge area off to the right was perfect. Big comfy seats, low music and low maintenance staff. (Who were way polite even though we sat for a few hours and didn't really throw down.) The music gets a little funky around 10 pm apparently. It goes from loungy-rat pack to obnoxious modern music. It doesn't come anywhere close to fitting the setting. Let's be honest, though. When the hell am I out in a bar after 10 pm? Answer: never. So that served as my warning to leave. Now that I think about it, that made the place perfect. Go here. But wear something nice (not that you have to) because it's a classy joint.

    (4)
  • Lesley H.

    This place was exactly what we wanted for a night out to celebrate my boyfriend running the Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis. We're from the Chicago area, and we were taken here by a friend who is a local. I told him several times that he chose a great spot. We're all in our mid 20's and over the club/bar scene, and this was just what we wanted. The dark leather chairs and candle lit lighting is very mature. Expect to pay at least $10+ for a drink - but they're very delicious. I'd recommend the Champagne Cocktail, I had 2. Oh! and if you're craving something sweet..order the brownie on the menu. It is warm in the middle and melts in your mouth. Three of us ate it. I also love the pitcher of water they served our table along with our drinks. Music is played at an enjoyable level to where you can still carry on a conversation. If we didn't have a seating spot, it may have made things a little less comfortable. Not much room for those to stand - at least where we were. However, we walked in and found a spot right away that fit a group of 5 comfortably. And like most Indianapolis spots, they were wonderful with splitting the checks! In fact, they did it automatically. This is always a hassle in Chicago, it was a delight to not have it be a concern. I would definitely check this place out again next time I'm in the area.

    (5)
  • Bill J.

    If you want to be cool (and you know that you do) then you should be hanging out at The Ball and Biscuit. Great cocktails, great food, superb & knowledgeable staff...and you simply can't beat the awesome Mass Ave location.

    (4)
  • Nick B.

    Great place to check out for cocktails and appetizers. It's great environment with multiple seating options and styles. It's perfect for a few drinks after work with friends!

    (4)
  • Hannah C.

    Imagine a lowball topped off at the max. Your featherweight friend takes a few sips, and you sit back and enjoy the dj mix of soul/acoustic/pop. It's Saturday night, the place is packed with an allcomers group - short, tall, young, old... chillin'. Luckily, you swooped in and robbed those butt-swallowing cushion-y lounge chairs from a group of girls flauntin' in their heels. Your conscience re: their bunions eases once you place your order for a kimchee hot dog and crab cakes. Twenty minutes later, your friend is declaring herself Drunk, the meniscus one ice cube's height from the brim. But, you stay for a couple more hours because you're enjoying the more urban scene. It's nice... and comfortable. Corn and Oil - loved it. Strong and tasty. Other general mixed drinks off the menu are equally well-mixed. The food is not quite as satisfying but interesting enough to make you curious for another taste. Side note: kimchee is not for the weak. If you eat it, buy a side of breath mints. A thinner-necked Steve Austin-looking man approached us and asked if "that's what smelled like propane." ... For those that have an appreciation, give this dish a try!

    (5)
  • Nana M.

    Super cute place! This was my first time visiting Mass Ave. and I was not disappointed. The decor was modern and upscale and they had a great selection of wine and spirits. The cocktail list was a mix of standard cocktails (old fashions, bees knees, etc.), and the bartenders creations. I asked the waitress for the least sweet gin cocktail on the menu... There wasn't one, so I just asked the bartender to make something up.... That's always hit or miss... This time it was a miss for me (still way too sweet), but it was a tasty drink and my friend enjoyed it. We didnt order any food, but I have a feeling the food here would be really tasty. My only issue is that the drinks were pricey... I really hate paying $12-$13 for a drink when Im in New York... It REALLY irritates me to pay Manhattan prices in Indiana. Your rent is not that high... no meed for the massive markup. Anyway... i'll step off my soapbox. All in all a great time and I'd definitely come back on my next trip.

    (4)
  • Sascha D.

    I am reading these comments about this place being over priced and whatnot, and I completely disagree. If it were a sports bar, I would understand that, but its not. It's the premier prohibition-style bar in Indianapolis. You're paying for a drink that you can't get anywhere else... They make their own drink syrups too! It's also one of those places that you can go it and say I want something fruity or bitter, or with whiskey, and the bartender will make the best best mixed drink you've ever had... Not come out with a vodka cranberry. The food is pretty dope as well. I usually get the fish tacos or the cheese plate.

    (5)
  • Louis C.

    Phenomenal. The decor of hardwoods and dark colors, accented by soft warm lighting really draws out the best in its customers. The prohibition era cocktails are masterfully crafted by the bartenders. This is exactly what Indianapolis needs.

    (4)
  • Daniel L.

    I feel like I've written a lot of 4 stars lately... The Ball & Biscuit is a great "adult bar," as noted in a lot of the reviews. If you are feeling the need to be fratty, head to the Ripple. Drinks are more expensive than most places, but they are often worth the price. Food is in the same boat, though I would prefer a few items that are somewhat standard fare. The kimchi dog is delicious, but sometimes I just want a burger a fries. All told, if you haven't been to this location, and are looking for a Brass Ring style bar, give it a shot. It'll be just a little more expensive...

    (4)
  • Conrad P.

    As for the bartender to make you something they like. You'll love what they create

    (5)
  • Chris M.

    I like the Ball and Biscuit during non-peak hours. The place is just not comfy when it is crowded. An early stop at the non-crowded bar for a pint of decent beer and some cheese usually hits the spot. I've had some of the cocktails, but I'm not one who is often impressed with fancy mixed drinks ordered from a menu. Not that they are bad, just not my thing. Other notes: Staff is friendly and the decor is killer.

    (3)
  • Scott L.

    While I just stopped in quickly for an afternoon drink, the best word I can use to describe this place is "Chill". I can't speak about the drinks, I just got a diet Coke, but the atmosphere is dark and epic. There are couches in the back. There are AMAZINGLY comfortable chairs to sit in. From everything I've been told by the regulars there, this place is fantastic. So, for the very short time I was there, and the very limited products I purchased...this place was awesome. Go there..drink and be merry!

    (4)
  • Tess B.

    THE best bar in Indy, no doubt. Great staff, amazing cocktails and excellent food! The ambience is perfect with attractive lighting, comfy seating and acoustics that allow you to actually carry on a conversation while listening to the best music! Let the cocktailers school you on what makes that place so unique, they know their stuff! Plus the bartender and GM, Kendall, will make you the best drink you've ever had. Indy needed a place like Ball & Biscuit! Always my first choice when deciding where to go for dinner, drinks and lots of fun.

    (5)
  • Tim L.

    Awesome decor and vibe. Great selection of drinks. Fun times had by all.

    (5)
  • Amy H.

    Clean glasses! Clean glasses! Clean glasses! Can I say how exciting it is to be served your drink in a glass that is spotless? I saw them gleaming up on the wall shelf but the bartender wiped them out anyway whenever he took a new one down, inspecting it in the light. Actually, now that I t think about it, this whole place was spotless...including the bathroom - I'm sure the implications of that datapoint isn't lost on anyone. YAH! Ball and Biscuit has an amazing array of cheeses. I tried a gorgeous plate of 3 varieties, (none of which I can remember now except that they were all yummy), along with some seasoned nuts and olives. This paired wonderfully with a few glasses of red wine. Service was prompt. The crowd was pretty chill (albeit it was early) but this is clearly a great after work gathering spot. And, now that I know about the Kumamoto oysters, I'll be angling to get back down here on a Thursday soon.

    (5)
  • David V.

    This is a great place to have drinks. Their appetizer plates are also very tasty. I suggest the hummus and cheese and cracker plates. If you're on Mass Ave. for a night out you should definitely stop by the Ball and Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Kami L.

    I have been here quite a few times and it is, without a doubt, my favorite bar in Indy. It's beautiful, elegant yet comfortable, and the drinks are phenomenal. It is priced accordingly, be prepared. Standard well drinks (Jack & coke, etc) are more in keeping with prices in the area than specialty cocktails, which run $8-$10.... but they are poured STRONG and taste amazing. They also have an awesome selection of CHEESES! If you are looking for a nice place for a date or a night out with friends, then this is perfect. If you're a college kid looking to get plowed (either way you think of it), this is not the place for you.

    (5)
  • Toby M.

    The place has a great vibe! Great drinks and great food given that the food here is catered every night it always seems to be perfect! downside it can be waaaaaayyyy to dark some times that you need your phone to light up the menu and it gets crowded very quickly, but try it out its great!

    (3)
  • Brock W.

    Cool place with a solid beer and cocktail selection. The cheese selections were pretty good too. Will definitely swing by again next time I'm in Indianapolis.

    (3)
  • Zachary O.

    Anyone, be you a local socialite or cultured traveler, will find it all too easy to declare this modern speakeasy your own personal Mecca. Finding solace in the chic, vintage interior, whether you're propped up on the brass-top bar or relaxing on one of the distressed leather couches, with the accompaniment of an absolutely stellar menu, featuring items that range from duck rillettes to bone marrow and shortribs, you'll be able to see, firsthand, exactly why so many people are raving about this "New Gem of Mass Avenue." So, why not live a little? Pop on by and fall in love with The Ball and Biscuit.

    (5)
  • Taryn M.

    So I may be giving this one less star than it deserves, but I will explain why. I had heard a lot of hype about this place and finally decided to go. i was told it was a modern day speak easy. There was nothing at all that made me feel like I was in a speakeasy. Ive have been to a few previously, one in particular that I love (Bourbon and Branch in SF) and this didnt come close. First of all, there is a huge window in the front and a sign that lets everyone know that the place is bar. Second, the waiters are SOOOOO slow. My friends and i had a running joke that the staff thought it really was prohibition and we were cops trying to shut down the place. The drinks were delicious, slightly overpriced but good. Not too sure about food. Someone i was with had the kimchi hotdog and said it was pretty good but definitely not worth the price. I had the raw oysters. UGH!! Not sure who shucked those things, but Ive never had so may broken shell pieces in my life. The only thing I really enjoyed about the bar was the atmosphere, BUT it was not the "speakeasy" vibe I was expecting. I would recommend this as a place to simply grab a few drinks with friends and unwind. They have great alcohol and a very nice beer list. Some of the best cocktails Ive seen in downtown Indy and delicious. My favorite thing was that it was non-smoking. Being from CA, I havent seen smoking in doors since I was too little to remember. It was great having some place to go and have a good time without coming home smelling like a public ashtray.

    (2)
  • Sarine J.

    First place I EVER went to on my visit to Indy. LOVED it. I'm from LA so this is the typical LA type of hangout place. The atmosphere made me feel like I was at home and loved the decor. Their mixed nuts are also yummy. It's just way too expensive.

    (3)
  • Lebeth Z.

    We went here towards the end of summer and they had all of the front windows open to the street. Really nice atmosphere & IPA's.

    (3)
  • Jason M.

    Best drink in town with the Pearl jam! If you are looking for a place to have the best cocktail intown B & B is place to go. Friendliest staff and must try bone marro!! Brings out the friendliest side in everyone

    (5)
  • Clinton J.

    My new favorite place. From the location to the atmosphere to the menu to the staff, everything is likeable. Drinks aren't cheap but they are made with superlative ingredients and made well. I'm a big fan of B&B's focus on bringing back the old school cocktails that this country was built upon. The decor is cool and the lounge area is quite comfortable. It's another great reason to hang out on Mass Ave.

    (5)
  • Kato S.

    Must have gone on a bad night. Staff had an attitude and wine was sub-par. Cocktail was good, but not worht putting up with the pretentiousness.

    (2)
  • Jenny S.

    This is definitely not your usual cocktail joint. It's nicely appointed with some really interesting cocktail choices. The drinks are pretty pricey though, so this might not be the place to take a chance on something you haven't tried before. It can get fairly busy on the weekends, but on a weeknight, it's a great romantic pre-dinner drink stop.

    (4)
  • TOMMY o.

    one of the latest & hip places to be was very comfortable, loved the woods & brick walls i'm not much of a drinker, but i do LOVE small plates (no matter what you've heard), some include olives, smoked trout dip, Shagbark Syrup Cured Salmon, Duck Rillettes, Hummus, Garlic chips & cheeses from around the Globe, & the Brown Sugar Bar Nuts were dusted with brown sugar but with a hint of red pepper to balance it out under the most currently highest priced real estate, the music is great, the service with the tall & witty Amber .......... FAB no Smoking inside it seemed ballandbiscuit.com

    (4)
  • Brenda B.

    Love this place! Zack is awesome! All I can say is I'll be back with lots of friends! Ask for the sidecar! You won't be sorry!! Hope to see you here soon!

    (5)
  • Roger H.

    One of a kind, always a pleasure.

    (5)
  • Reggie L.

    Absolutely one of my favorite spots! Great, inventive cocktails and food! Zach is constantly working at adding new food and drink items to the menu! Very relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

    (5)
  • Stacy J.

    Love the potential here... just had very, very poor/unacceptably poor service... If that were to improve, I could see the charm in this place along with great appetizers and good brews!

    (2)
  • Tracy R.

    Our family from across the pond landed in Indy recently for a few weeks stay so of course we were ready to hit Naptown! On our way to one of favorite dinner spots my sister in law was desperate for a great Martini so we ducked into the B&B for a drink before our meal. What a great addition to Mass. Ave.! A cozy, warm atmosphere welcomes you when you walk through a very strip mall like door into intimate tables, comfy chairs and a chatter of conversation instead of blaring televisions. That's right, NO TVs:) Three of us being beer geeks, we were happy with a small, but good, selection of craft/microbrew and import beers on draft. We were thrilled when informed that Zach(an owner) will be switching up said selection frequently and featuring beers by region in the U.S. I love that idea! The Martini my Sis was craving? So good she had two and recommends Death's Door Gin. Because our one drink before dinner turned into more, we needed a munchie. So, a cheese plate arrived and impressed us all. A fine selection of creamy, sharp, and bold flavored cheeses served with crackers(could've been a bit more impressive) and blackberry preserves. A delicious starter before our indulgence next door. The B&B is a refreshing addition to Mass. Ave: offering light food/meals, retro cocktails, unique spirits and wines, microbrewed beers and conversation instead of tv inundation. I can't wait to take the rest of the relatives!

    (4)
  • Donovan M.

    They definitely have their own little menu. If you like old school drinks (with bourbon) then you'd like the place even more. The cheese is $3 or so and awesome. Definitely go check it out if you're on mass ave.

    (5)
  • Brandy F.

    I have visited the Ball & Biscuit several times, and not once have I been disappointed. It seems silly for me to try and write a review on any one of their delicious cocktails, as they change with the season. Just go there, and if it isn't too busy, sit at the bar and speak to the bartender (who is usually the owner), tell him your likes and let him decide for you. He seriously knows what he is doing. I always order cheeses to enjoy with my libations, and again, when I'm not sure what I want, the owner has always provided some awesome suggestions. Lastly, I'm not a fan of trout, but the smoked trout dip is pretty unbelievably delicious!

    (5)
  • Joshua F.

    The B & B staff should give customer service lessons to most other restaurants and bars in Indy. The service is sharp, efficient, and professional. The drinks are thoughtful, balanced, and worth every damn penny. This joint would succeed anywhere, I'm just happy it's a 10 minute walk from my home.

    (5)
  • Valerie S.

    Absolutely my favorite place to get into on a Friday or Saturday night. That being said, it can sometimes be hard to get in! This is by far the hopping-est place to go right now, but they've gotten better at crowd management and keeping the bar busy but not too full. The new windows out front are wonderful, the drinks are strong (or craft beer), and the wait staff is great. The music is always pleasant in volume and choice, and the food is to die for. Best of the best!

    (5)
  • Jason P.

    My Favorite place for cocktails in Indy. Moscow Mule is my favorite but for something different ask for the Hot Carla--its not on the menu. Best spot in the bar on a warm summer night is in front of the large windows that they open up onto the busy Mass Ave sidewalk. If you enjoy a well made cocktail or drinks with some exotic ingredients, this is the best place in town.

    (5)
  • Jimmy W.

    The Ball and Biscuit is what Indianapolis needs more of! An easy going, upscale feeling, dark and beautiful, old-style feeling loungy bar! The beers were cold and tasty, and had I not just eaten a fabulous dinner, I would have loved to delve into the cheese menu! Who would have thought that seeing a huge cheese selection in their menu would probably be one of the points that brings me back time after time? At any rate, the chairs were comfortable, everybody in the place was dressed sharply, the music was hip, and I felt just a little bit fancy (which doesn't happen a whole lot). The wait staff was amazing, too! I never had to do more than have a quick glance at the woman who was taking care of us and she hustled over to take care of us. Perfect!

    (5)
  • Julie N.

    I love just about everything about the B&B (cocktails, location, ambience, people, oysters on Thursday, cheese and charcuterie plate), except for the table service. I have had to walk out thirsty twice because its taken over 30 minutes to get served. I'd advise avoiding a table all together and sitting at the bar if there are seats available and if you're not with a group.

    (3)
  • Elizabeth F.

    This is my home away from the home. The ambience here simply can't be beat. The music (generally of the indie kind) isn't loud enough to drown out conversation but still sets the mood for a great evening. There are no TVs to distract. It's not overrun with college kids looking to binge drink. It's the perfect place to have a meeting after work (grab a table to the left and order some small plates -- my fav is the artichoke dip and roquefort cheese), go on a cozy date (head to the right to snag a seat in the dim, romantic lighting) or celebrate with a large group (the two large sofa-ish areas are great for this!). Careful with the cocktails though -- Zach delivers quite a kick! Ball and Biscuit knows how to deliver an upscale, sophisticated environment without being the least bit snobby or pretentious. Be sure to check out their special nights when they host a DJ and make room for a little dancing, if you feel so inclined.

    (5)
  • James H.

    Absolutely love this place. Great place to take a date out. Service sometimes is a little slow, especially during the weekend. My girlfriend, who's French, and I have been here several times after dinner to grab a drink. She loves the fact that they serve Chartreuse here, it is a French liquor from her home town. The cheese selection is small but great, adds a nice touch to the bar/lounge. You'll find mainly younger crowd here in their 20s and early 30s. Atmosphere has a '50s feel to it, dimly lit, and a little dressy.

    (5)
  • Janet S.

    2 of my lady friends and I stopped in here during a night out on the town, one of them had heard good things about it and wanted to check it out. I am so glad we did! Just walking in the door, the place feels different than most any other establishment I've been to in Indianapolis. It just oozes sophistication. 2 of us had sidecars - delicious and boozy, without being _too_strong; my other friend had a caipirinha, which she said she thoroughly enjoyed. I really liked this place, and I am looking forward to going back. I love the layout of the bar, the light fixtures, the speakeasy dim ambience, the easy luxury. This would be a great place to cuddle in a corner with a cutie, or a ladies night out like I had. It is fun, without being loud and obnoxious. It is a bar for adults, not frat boys. I approve!

    (4)
  • J A.

    Not bad food, good drinks, this place has an interesting vibe.

    (2)
  • joey d.

    Big Zack..that's all I need to say..

    (5)
  • Jon R.

    I just can't stop going. I will continue to go, and hopefully, continue to enjoy it more, each and every time.

    (4)
  • David C.

    Great cocktails, great atmosphere and good service make this new speakeasy a welcome addition to Mass Ave. Try the Deaths Door Gin or sample a few of the cheeses.

    (5)
  • Richard H.

    It's a lot of fun. We have intentionally gone when they were not too busy, sat right at the bar and had excellent service. OK, the last time the bartender sure was pokey getting to us for the first drink. But the menu of small plates is fairly diverse and intriguing, and everything we have had there has been tasty. The drinks are well prepared as well, and the atmosphere is quite nice. Good times!

    (4)
  • Kimberly W.

    Great ambiance and drinks, so so service

    (4)
  • David K.

    Didn't get it, I"m afraid. Beer was OK, but there wasn't anything decently hoppy; food was OK, but nothing special; seemed a bit cliquey to me as well.

    (2)
  • Januarie Y.

    So I start this with the fact that I may or may not have been trolling the B&B cocktail menu for a few weeks now. I've long heard about them and wanted to go and randomly a few nights ago, me and my sister went! Atmosphere: It was a Friday night and considering it's summer and Mass Ave, the small inside was packed tight with people. There was literally no where to sit except outside, which was fine by me. Their open patio section and snooty drinks intrigued my inner-snoot and I embraced the experience of the wrap around wood bench. There were a few other patrons outside having their individual conversations with each other and me and my sister sat close to the sidewalk (aka Mass Ave Foot Traffic). It was a light rainy night, so door attendant rolled down the decorative 'shutters' (idk what to formally call those). We used them as a cool backdrop and I loved the design of bookcases and fine bottles combined with the ability to still see a little bit straight thru them. Another guest offered to take a picture of me and my sister. Points for cool people !!!! #CoolKidsClub Drinks: I ordered the Sidecar and my sister ordered the Rooftop (?). I was going with something fluffier and fruitier but I figured for sake of where I was (Snoot levels - 8 on scale 1-10), I'd venture out and try something different. The Sidecar is Cognac infused with "other stuff", but whatever it all was turned out AMAZING!!! Did I say great? Yes GREAT !!!!! OMG?? Yes, all the OMGs allotted for a bar drink go here. Yes. So the drinks are a little pricey. Yes. But worth it. This is the kind of drink I don't mind paying for. Nevermind that artistically cool drink menu that they have. I wish I were richer for these simple delights right here. I wanted more but we were both balling on a diva budget of hopeful dollars and glitter quarters, so we limited ourselves appropriately. I sipped slowly. I was pleased. Alcohol perfection pleased. It's quite possibly the best drink I've had in Indy. Yeah I said that. Highly effective Snooty Fox levels!!!!! Food: We also indulged in some bacon. How could we pass up Siracha Bacon and Honey Maple Bourbon Bacon on a stick ? We couldn't, that's how !!! So we indulged and guess what??? **Snoot levels rise to elevated status. High alert. People should beware of extended pinky fingers and exposed cheese and croissant-like crackers!! ** Ok that was dramatic. But the bacon was dramatic. And the water was served in tall glass Vases. Overall, I mean what else can I say here? I gave it five stars. I expected a great time and a good drink here and have been repeatedly talking about it over the last few weeks (and couple of years). Finally I go and it didn't disappoint. THAT is what you call an Elite experience, with High Levels of Snoot !!!

    (5)
  • Kavitha D.

    I like this place for the great drinks and close proximity to my apartment. I get an aviation (love me some gin!) every time I go. I think their drinks are really good!! Nice quality. Im also a huge meat and cheese fan. Theres is decent, too much bread in my opinion. No comparison to Bluebeard's, but still good. My only complaint is I wish they actually made their drinks (mainly aviations) to a full glass amount. Ive been multiple times and some bartenders skimp. Cmon!!

    (4)
  • Maya H.

    What I like about this place is how it is quieter than a lot of the bars downtown, and very open. The menu is very unique, almost exclusively drinks I have never heard of or seen. We went for my birthday and I am almost ashamed to admit how many things we tried. My favourite drink was made with a rose liquor and had an edible flower in it which was sweet and delicious. My boyfriends favourite is called "The Maya". It comes in a skull mug. Looking around at the other tables I realized a lot of the orders use the mug as presentation, which is really cool. I feel like it sort of adds to the experience. We did not try any bar food since we had just had dinner, but we will come back to try it some time, since it looked very tempting. I feel like the service was great, the bartender was very helpful and very friendly.

    (5)
  • Beth W.

    Came here Halloween night 2014. They had themes drinks and had candy all around the tables. I ordered a drink that came in a syringe. We were dressed up in costumes and enjoyed the people there. It was a fun place to hang out.

    (4)
  • Ashley T.

    We went in twice in one night on our short trip to Indy. Once, before a show, to have a couple drinks. Once, late that night because the sushi place we wanted to eat at had just closed their kitchen. I'm honestly glad because we got to try the fish sliders and they were really good! Drinks were stout and they had unique combinations. Bartenders and servers were all friendly and welcomed us back in later. The decor inside is really cool. One of the neatest things was the screen over the windows looked like massive bookshelves and I have never seen anything like it. We really liked this place and would for sure go back!

    (5)
  • Sigrid F.

    Only went in to have a drink on our girl's night out. I must say they were fabulous. I so recommend the Maya or the Son of a Peach, both lovely drinks. Waitress was awesome even so we only had drinks. The interior and ambiance are very welcoming and comfortably trendy. I can see why this place is do popular.

    (4)
  • Amy T.

    Top notch cocktails!!! The bartender knew exactly what to make when you tell him your spirit and what you normally like. This bar is dim lighted and very vintage looking. If the weather permits, sit outside. :)

    (5)
  • Sarah N.

    Great little bar. I'm not a local to Indy, but can enjoy cool, little bars that are not about sports and have a true urban feel. Ambiance and decor are comfortable and cool, industrial lighting, dark leathers, mixologist inspired drinks and a good selection of tap beers. Weather you gather with friends around one of their low top tables with big chairs or belly up to the bar, this bar is a great intimate, hip spot in the downtown landscape. It is not a gigantic bar, but would be good for a group or a date. There appeared to be a small dining room off to the side too that you could sit down at a normal table and eat something too.

    (4)
  • Chris P.

    Drinks were ok, but pricey for what you get. Menu was rather interesting but place is next door to a pizza restaraunt we favor. Nice location but better other options in the area.

    (3)
  • Amber C.

    Dark corners, leather furniture, and candlelight? I'm IN! I happened across The Ball & Biscuit quite by accident. A friend and I were heading to one of our favorite spots, but it was unusually crowded on this particular evening. (Side note: don't you hate when people finally discover your secret hideaways?). I was pleasantly surprised by The Ball & Biscuit. The decor was exactly what you'd expect in a classed-up tavern. Think mood music, leather arm chairs that you can get lost in, minimal lighting, and a perfectly retro bar. This seems like the place that you might meet a clandestine lover or make super-secret power deals that may or may not be under the table. That's not negative at all, it's a great feel and perfectly fits the prohibition history of Indy. I had the pleasure to enjoy a seasonal cheese plate and was duly satisfied. My cheeses were very fresh and my crostini was perfectly crisp and served warm. My friend ordered a moscow mule type drink and was satisfied, if not overwhelmed or particularly impressed. I suspect I happened across The Ball & Biscuit on an unusually quiet night. I'd be interested to see how it looks/feels during one of it's more characteristic busy spells. Next time, perhaps!

    (4)
  • Anthony J.

    Great looking place. Kind of limited seating though. Around 6 and already encountered some rowdy middle aged people. They food. Overpriced and ehh nothing special Beer and cocktails are limited but it is a lounge. They should change their menu around. Less opulence more simple and good. Good to talk for a bit but other than that I would try my lock elsewhere. Doesn't help that the bartender was already straining from just a dozen customers.

    (3)
  • Joanna S.

    Yep. This is as good as it gets. Classy atmosphere, imaginative mixologists and kick ass open air seating. I'll be heading back just as soon as physically possible.

    (5)
  • Cindy G.

    The Ball & Biscuit was probably one of my favorite places on our recent trip to Indy. It felt very much like OTR. Trendy, dim lit, beautiful atmosphere, and damn good cocktails. We came in pretty early around 6:30 and snagged a table near the bar. There are two sides to this place, one more causal and the other feels more intimate and lounge-y. The great thing is you can come dressed up or down. I saw some regulars in shorts and a t shirt while others were in dresses. They do have some food the menu is small but still packs a punch. Known for their signature hot dogs & charcuterie this place was right up our alley. I love small bites to share so we ordered up the artichoke dip and their mac and cheese dog. The artichoke dip came out pipping hot with LOADS of bread (see pic) and was a great bar snack especially for the price point. We then moved onto the mac dog. The hot dog was good quality and the mac and cheese was great, but together I don't know. The mac was a bit overcooked for my taste but had great flavor. It had ham and herbs in it making it very hearty and yummy. I probably would order it again as a side. Now for the cocktails. There is a decent list to choose from and they can probably make you anything you'd like. I opted for a gin drink with cilantro and cucumber, I cannot remember the name but it was very unique. It was really well balanced and the hawaiian red rock salt on the rim of the glass was DIVINE. I would order again in a heartbeat. The bf got a dirty martini and asked for it extra dirty. The first one she brought out was not good, but they happily exchanged it and made a fresh one which was so nice and much appreciated. This place will for sure take care of you! For my second drink I opted for a blackberry champagne cocktail, and although the flavor of the blackberry was super fresh I think there may have been too much simple or some kind of sweetness for my taste. Loved the idea though. The service was phenomenal. Very friendly and knowledgeable, and to be honest, I was surprised given this places reputation of being pretentious, I felt the complete opposite! If you're in Indy, this should be on your list of must-visit spots! I'm a fan.

    (4)
  • Jon C.

    It really makes me sad to write this review, but tonight was kind of the tipping point for me with Ball & Biscuit. I've been here several times in the past and have had average service with outstanding drinks. Tonight though I wasn't able to even able to get a drink and walked out after 20 minutes of being ignored. I arrived Sunday over Labor Day with two friends around 8:30 in the evening. There were a couple of tables sitting outside as well as three or so tables sitting in the bar. We sat down right away in the bar and waited. About 10 minutes after walking in, someone came by and literally threw a bottle of water on the table; coming back a minute later and throwing glasses at us without a word. Our server? Never came over. 15 minutes or so after we sat down, we saw her. She checked on the tables around us and then went to the bar and had a lengthy conversation with the bartender with her back to us, and then walked off. Unhappy about the entire situation, when she walked out, we did too. Ball & Biscuit is a great place and I really admire their efforts on bringing the craft cocktail back to Indianapolis.. but if the service doesn't get any better, I'm afraid people will turn to the restaurants next door, leaving Ball & Biscuit as empty as a bar during Prohibition that followed the rules.

    (2)
  • Monnica L.

    I used to love this place and have been a regular over the last couple of years but, sadly, the experience I had last night has soured me. It was a new bartender, at least I hadn't seen him before. I wanted to try the new pineapple martini and was disappointed in what I received and offended by their handling of the situation. First, the glass was only about 1/3 full. If a drink is a smaller portion, use a smaller glass. Then I tasted it and it tasted like watered down pineapple juice. The server took it away and put in my request for another drink. The next thing I knew, the bartender was standing over my friend and I asking for specifics of what was wrong. I told him and he countered, very defensively, that it was "perfectly made" and had 2 ounce of vodka (could have fooled me) and said that I would still have to pay for it because he couldn't sell it to someone else. Really? We went back and forth until my friend stepped in. In the end, I was not charged for it, but this experience has definitely soured me. If I am going to pay $11+ for a cocktail it needs to be top notch, or at least better than something I can get at home. Such a disappointment. I hope they can turn things around.

    (2)
  • Tamika K.

    Favorite bar in Indy!!! Me and my friends have been looking for a bar to hang out and after I had my 2nd and last child we decided it was high time for a girls night. Even though I don't write a lot of reviews I'm on yelp every other day so I thought why not try the ball and biscuit. It was great. It is small and very open. Even though it was a Saturday night and it was busy it never felt overly crowded. We had a fantastic time and the drinks were great. We have been back countless times since then to hang out!! Thanks for our girls night memories.

    (5)
  • Catherine H.

    This is the bar I have been looking for. It has a cozy, but not sleepy, atmosphere and serves creative craft cocktails. I got the champoppy which came with a flower garnish and it was just adorable. Cool joint!

    (5)
  • Matthew A.

    We went in, sat down, and we quickly presented with a large bottle of lukewarm tap water and two glasses with no ice. We were then ignored for the next ten minutes. Menu appeared to be seriously lacking.

    (1)
  • Sky W.

    I haven't been to this place in a short while but by far one of my favorites!!!! The small plates are great, the drinks are even better, the ambience is dark, very grown and sexy. Music is loud but only because there are sooo many people there (all of the time) yet it is small. Who would pass up a crowded great bar for a spacious, ok bar where you can throw a rock and not hit anyone???

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :4:00 pm - 3:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : No
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Late Night
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : No
    Good for Kids : No
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Classy
    Noise Level : Average
    Music : Background
    Good For Dancing : No
    Alcohol : Full Bar
    Happy Hour : No
    Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
    Coat Check : No
    Smoking : No
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : No

The Ball & Biscuit

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