Red Key Tavern

The perfect, quintessential Indianapolis dive-bar. Where else can you walk in and hear a customer play the piano next to a board with all the birthdays of their regulars?More than that, their cheeseburgers have a nice, home-grilled feel to them that makes them extra delicious and nostalgic. Cheap drinks, great service, cash-only. Need I say more?

Red Key is one of those unassuming spots that has managed to carve out a loyal following despite being a "hole in the wall." Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, it's a place where strangers often end up as friends over a couple of cheap drinks. It's been around for years, offering a nostalgic, no-frills vibe that draws in regulars and newcomers alike.First off, the drinks are reasonably priced, a big plus in an age where many bars tend to overcharge. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that Red Key operates on a cash-only basis, which might be inconvenient for some. If you're heading out here, make sure you've got cash in hand.The bar itself is small, and while it may not offer the most luxurious experience, it's packed with character. There's both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a versatile spot depending on the weather, but parking can be a challenge. The lot is cramped, and there's a tricky back lot situation where spaces get blocked, so you'll want to make sure you park with care--not to mention, be mindful of the houses and garages in the area. No one likes a bad neighbor.While the bar is great for a low-key night out, there are a few notable downsides. The jukebox has been broken for months, which means you won't have music unless there's live entertainment, which can be hit or miss. If you're someone who enjoys a good playlist while sipping on your drink, this could be a dealbreaker.Also, be aware that Red Key has a strict no-cursing policy. It's an unusual rule for a dive bar, but it helps maintain a certain vibe. If you tend to let the occasional expletive slip, you might want to curb that before heading in.The service is definitely a bit of a mixed bag. Some bartenders are friendly and welcoming, creating a warm atmosphere, while others can come off as less than enthusiastic. It's a bit of a gamble in that regard, but when you hit it right, it feels like you're visiting a long-lost friend.All things considered, Red Key is a great spot if you're looking for an unpretentious bar with a chill atmosphere. It's not perfect, but that's part of its charm. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, there's something endearing about this little dive, as long as you're prepared for its quirks.

This place is a trip. One of Indy's greatest dive bars. CASH ONLY!The staff here crack me up. First time I came here, I arrived right after they had opened and it was just me and one other customer. The bartender was a a small, older lady who took my order right away while I waited for my friend. I ordered an Old Fashioned which was made fairly quickly. It sat on the table for a minute or so while I checked some emails on my phone. The bartender comes back up with a bottle of simple syrup and says she forgot to mix in the simple syrup. Doesn't matter to me since I hadn't touched the drink yet. As soon as she gets to the bar, she turns back with a cherry in some tongs and dunks it in my drink without a word. Mixing drinks at the table is a first. Part of the charm is what I chalked it up to.This is a dark, medium sized bar with boxes stacked in the back around the bathrooms. Just one of those places that welcomes customers who aren't too fussy about appearances. I hope this place never closes.

Some friends and I wanted to hit a local, been around "forever" type of bar. We decided on the Red Key Tavern. We walked in to a lively scene of a pub that, we found out, has been in the same family since 1950. There were 6 of us, the waitress moved tables around and we had our spot. We all ordered beers and the some of us decided to get a cheeseburger. Our waitress was the only one in the tavern. She handled it perfectly. She gave us the story about the long family ownership. She checked on us often. She was on her game for sure. The cheeseburger was delicious. It says "often voted best" and I can see why. We wanted potato salad, but it is only there until it sells out. It was sold out - apparently it is that good!One thing to note - Cash only. There is an ATM onsite, but don't go think you'll be using a credit card! You won't.

We've lived down the street for five years, and for five years have been meaning to pop in. We finally had cash on us and decided the time was right on a Thursday night ($4 wells night).I can't recall having a warmer welcome in a dive bar. The man working the counter welcomed us, talked us through the history, and felt like my grandpa. I also learned Ben Affleck sat at the bar in the same spot I was which was a fun fact! I'm a veg, so there weren't too many food options, but the burgers look like they slap. The cutest lady brings them out on a styrofoam plate. There are definitely good people working here who love the place. This is the 3rd oldest bar in Indy. Yes, they will ask you to leave if you are swearing (see the 10 rules). This place goes back to 1921 so enjoy! You are sitting in a piece of College Ave history.

Long time resident, first time visitor. My review is based on my one and only visit. If I could give it 3.75 stars I would. The ambiance is that of a warm, comfortable, historic neighborhood bar. A space time forgot. The many tables were full when we arrived, but the space was not loud. The vibe was low conversation, calm, and friendly. The service was good and friendly. They bar has rules that they share with you if you are new, but are not enforced as we observed during our visit. Overall if you are looking for a quiet conversation, or feeling nostalgic this is the spot for you.

What a perfect cozy hole in the wall. Cash only! I've heard many regulars here are very particular about things but I thought everyone was super friendly and welcoming. This place opened in 1933 and according to the rumors the giant murals that are painted on the walls were painted by the mother in law when they opened. Seems like a lot of history packed into this little place.No draft beers but cheap bottles and a full liquor selection. Very limited food menu but we tried the burger which according to the bartender is the fan favorite. They don't have fries, but they have a wall of chips and offer a few cold sides such as potato salad (if they have it). They were out when we were there but figure it's a big batch make and when they're out they're out. Burger was like a traditional diner burger and tasty.

The waitress literally tried to fight us because we wanted to pay our tabs separately. It's not one of Russ's rules, we were not asked not to pay separately. She told me that it's not normal for parties of 6-8 to pay separately. Umm... Yes it is, especially for adults in a bar in America. I waited tables for ten years, yes, people tend to pay separately. She asked me if I really wanted to stand here and argue - A level of attitude I was completely unprepared for while making a common and reasonable request.I have never in my life met more confrontational people. We were there to celebrate my dead sister's birthday with about 11 or so people coming and going. The confrontational attitude and the slamming down of the rules was so dehumanizing. They stoked up the regulars to harass us too and one even deemed it "good" that my sister was dead. Whitney was hands down the worst. Even after my sister said just bring the check, we'll work it out amongst ourselves, she slammed the rules down and told us we were going to listen to her lecture. No ma'am, we're not children. It's your job as a waiter to find out if everyone is together or separate and not the customer's job to fix that mistake while you brandish the rules like a get out of jail free card. The only reason she stopped putting her hair up to follow us outside to fight was because my sister reminded her the tab hadn't been settled yet. Grow up Whitney.Enjoy this picture of my sister giving the folks at 21st Amendment #Whitney'sTips

The Red Key Tavern is a neighborhood watering hole that's been around for 70 years! We would know as we accidentally went for the first time on their anniversary, April 2nd. This place is a no frills, seat yourself place. The menu is small but cheap. There are no beers on tap, only bottles and cans. The cheeseburger was good! A thicker homemade patty with the fixings you want. The lettuce and tomato were fresh! They don't have many sides but I opted for the potato salad. A step down from the burger as it was very blended like mashed potatoes and pretty bland. I'm sure that recipe has existed for as long as this place!

Came with enough cash to pay for 2 burgers at the website price, (because they only take cash) only to discover the website prices are out of date. Had to get cash at the ATM in house and pay a $4 ATM fee. Please be courteous and update your website prices. Burger was great