Tinker Coffee - The Firehouse

It was my first time in and I loved it! The staff were super polite and welcoming. The space has great energy and feels cozy.I had the BEST chai tea latte! It was absolutely delicious and I can't wait to go back and get another one. Oh my gosh, and the rice crispy treat! I almost forgot about it. I grabbed one of those as well and it was wonderful. Yum!

Met my boss for a meeting at Tinker! Had never been to the Illinois location, but it was recognizable and familiar to all Tinker locations, which I always appreciate. Though busy, they have generous seating, and we were able to get lots done. I even stayed after for a while, enjoying the environment. Awesome playlist too! Didn't want to put my headphones on. Coffee was solid- stuck with a basic cappuccino, and it was frothy and pretty.

I love a cute coffee shop! I've only been once so I haven't tried much but the brown sugar cinnamon latte was delicious. I'm excited to go back and try a few more things (I didn't pay much attention to their food options so will check that out next time for sure). Really cute space inside with a more cozy second room for meetings or meet ups. They also have nice outdoor seating for when the weather is nice. Will be back soon!

Newly opened coffee shop in the old Firehouse building formerly occupied by Chalet.They remodeled the interior completely- the front is open and modern, the back room is cozy with a fireplace, some comfy arm chairs and some tables and chairs. Additionally, there is some outdoor seating as well.The cappuccino I purchased was very good, as was the blueberry muffin.They are open from early in the morning to the evening hours. There is free WiFi.

I will admit that a little part of me cringed the first time I heard that this historic former firehouse would turn into a coffeehouse. While I admired the efforts of the former "The Chalet" to bring the space to life in a new way, I'll admit that I seldom went there as it never completely clicked for me and wasn't particularly wheelchair friendly. Despite my resistance, I was also sad when The Chalet closed down and this space fell empty. I love that the folks at Tinker Coffee, local folks, decided to turn this into The Firehouse and really spruce it up in some special ways while also allowing it to maintain that "firehouse" charm. I can't say accessibility is perfect. The entrance is up a bit of an incline and this neighborhood has always had wonky parking at best. It's an older, historic neighborhood and coming here always presents challenges for me as a wheelchair user. However, Tinker has made some definite improvements including an accessible spot near the entrance that offers decent parking without a menacing incline and without the threat of being smacked by traffic on Illinois St. There's also a nice curb cut right next to the spot to improve the access even more. There's an awful lot to love here - the wonderful floor-to-ceiling natural light with garage door windows feeling both fresh and consistent with the building's history. The fireplace with stylish yet retro-vibed seating offers comfortable ways to gather in smaller groups. The lighting and design inside feels warm, inviting, and makes you want to smoosh yourself in and relax for awhile. And yes, smoosh is a word. The employees? Always friendly and welcoming. While I'm not a wheelchair user who needs assistance, I have no doubt it would be offered. This is one of five locations for Tinker. It's considered their "cafe" and, indeed, it is a place where you can truly relax, socialize, and enjoy both traditional Tinker offerings and a simple yet expanded menu - don't think full meals, but breakfast sandwiches, grab n' gos, pastries, etc. During the day, you primarily have coffee and non-coffee fare. At night, there's beer (including locals like Ash & Elm cider and Guggman Haus brews), wine, and more. Every time I drive by here, there's a decent crowd gathered and I'm hopeful Tinker has found a wonderful neighborhood home here with a good number of houses within easy walking distance. Both Butler and Broad Ripple are only a few minutes away. (There is a reason it's called Butler-Tarkington, after all). Seriously, this is such a lovely addition to the Butler-Tarkington area with this lovely little corner including a children's bookstore, Byrne's Grilled Pizza, a Safeway grocery store, and even Graeter's Ice Cream. While those with mobility issues will want to plan a bit, Tinker has done a lot to improve the spot and I had very little difficulty accessing this wonderful new addition to Butler-Tarkington.

Came here to study with my friends and it was such a cozy vibe! They had great Wi-Fi, lighting, and coffee- what more can you ask for?! We found a table in the back with a couple of outlets that we could all share. I had ordered a maple miso latte, which I absolutely adored. I really did kinda taste like a salted caramel latte Loll. Can't wait to come back for more!

I craned my neck for months watching the transformation of this space as we drove by on Illinois twice daily on our route to school. They've certainly made the interior their own - it's nearly unrecognizable from the former coffee shop and in the best of ways. The floor-to-ceiling natural light from the front garage door windows is much appreciated, along with lighting, tiles, and a seating cluster around a fireplace. All wonderful touches. I also like the variety of seating formats that facilitate a variety of needs (group meetings, 1:1s, remote work, high chairs for kiddos, etc.). The menu features some of their go to classics like the miso caramel latte and five spice latte as well as seasonal offerings. Folks can't seem to get enough of the breakfast sandwich offerings which I have yet to try. I am a sucker for their sweet treats (brown butter chocolate chip cookie) and the front cooler has salads, overnight oats and snacks. Note that you can also pick up beans from the front shelves.We've had friendly service every time. Tinker, bravo. I couldn't be happier to see you adding your sparkle to this neighborhood.

Greatrepurposed use of a neighborhood staple using the old firehouse! Really enjoyed their hot 5-Spice latte. They offer a nice lil assortment of munchables, and of course you can get their bagged coffee for home. Chill vibe, with main room full of tables as well as the Lil lounge on the north end. Happy addition to the neighborhood!

Coffee is amazing! Love that you can order ahead and pop in to grab your drink or food at the counter.

Love that we have a Tinker by Butler now! I have loved Tinker's coffee for a while now, and am excited to now have one so close by. I think this location was a great move for the company. Their menu has unique flavors and a variety of options. I also love their breakfast sandwiches. It is the perfect study and coffee spot, because the ambiance is perfect for focusing in. The baristas have also been so nice too, which definitely sweetens the experience! Will definitely keep going back!