5 Places for Family-Friendly Outdoor Dining in Indianapolis

And just like that, we’ve survived another brutal Indiana winter!

 

To reward ourselves, we found five local restaurants that offer outdoor seating and guarantee a good time for the whole family.

Bru Burger Bar

With four central Indiana locations, Bru Burger Bar boasts award-winning burgers (including vegetarian and vegan options) using locally sourced meats and veggies.

Locations: Mass Ave, Carmel, Noblesville, Plainfield
Menu: Burgers and other American-style food choices
For Kids: Mac n’ cheese, grilled cheese and more. Kids meals include a side and a drink.

Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a kid who won’t cheer when you suggest pizza for dinner. Head to one of Jockamo’s three locations this summer for some of the best pizza in the city.

Locations: Irvington, Greenwood, Lawrence
Menu: Pizza, salads and sandwiches
For Kids: Well, pizza, including a “peanut butter & grape jelly pita pizza”

Jockamo in Irvington, courtesy of Jockamo's Facebook page
Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza Irvington, courtesy of Jockamo’s Facebook page

Books & Brews (Broad Ripple)

Kids eat free on Sundays at each of Books & Brews’ eight locations, but for outside seating, head to Broad Ripple. With specials throughout the week, $3 books and ample games, Books & Brews is a hit for the whole family.

Locations: North Indy, South Indy, Broad Ripple, Mass Ave, Zionsville, Brownsburg, Muncie, Carmel
Menu: Artisan grilled cheeses, flatbreads and beer (for the adults, of course)
For Kids: “Children’s Stories” menu includes the Pete-za Pettigrew (flatbread), Baby Frankenstein (charcuterie plate), and more

Petite Chou Bistro

This is a great option when you’re ready to splurge a little. With daytime, dinnertime and kids’ menus, Petite Chou pairs classic bistro food with a French cafe-inspired atmosphere.

Location: Broad Ripple
Menu: French-inspired omelettes, crepes, sandwiches and more
For Kids: Mac n’ cheese, French toast and more

Sun King Brewery

With Sun King’s downtown location making the switch to family-friendly, all three locations now allow kids! You can find Oca restaurants in the downtown and Carmel locations, as well as outdoor seating.

Location: Downtown Indianapolis Brewery and Tasting Room; Fishers Small Batch Brewery and Tap Room; Carmel Distillery
Menu: Sandwiches, sausages, charcuterie boards
For Kids: Grilled ham & cheese, hotdog, pretzel & cheese (kids eat free Monday-Thursday with purchase of regular food item)

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