These Indiana Dive Bars Are Among the Best in the U.S. for Food

If you're looking for the best bar food in the state, these three Indiana dive bars should be at the top of your list.

I've been to a few dive bars over the years, enjoying meals for lunch, dinner, and even breakfast. The food has rarely disappointed at any of them. My favorite was one I found while in Memphis, Tennessee, earlier this year, called Bardog Tavern. I was strolling the streets of downtown Memphis looking for a place that served breakfast when I stumbled across the establishment. It was 8 a.m., and there were already some folks enjoying drinks at the bar. I stuck with coffee while I enjoyed one of the best breakfast plates of my life.

Finding Dive Bars with the Best Food in the U.S.

While some may be reluctant to embrace this culinary tradition, I find it easy to look past the smoke-stained glass, tattered bar stools, and neon signs in search of good food. After all, there are tons of great dive bars across the United States serving up truly incredible menu items. In fact, a survey by Geek Nexus has just revealed the 120 best dive bars in the nation for food, including three from Indiana.

The Dugout Bar – Indianapolis, Indiana

The first Indiana dive bar on the list checks in at No. 58. It's called The Dugout Bar and can be found at 621 Virginia Ave in Indianapolis. The bar has been around since the early 1950s and is currently owned by Nick Baxter and Layton John. The menu includes everything from chicken wings, BBQ pulled pork, quesadillas, and pizza.

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The Whistle Stop Inn – Indianapolis, Indiana

The second Indiana locale on the list is a bit farther down at No. 98 out of 120. It's called The Whistle Stop Inn and is also located in Indianapolis at 375 S Illinois St. The establishment has a very attractive menu featuring items like fresh deep-fried pizza rolls, chicken wings, fries, mini corn dogs, deep-fried Pepper Jack cheese cubes, and more. Their website claims they "crush" the finger food game.

Five Star Dive Bar – Elkhart, Indiana

The final Indiana dive bar among the best in the nation is ranked No. 108 out of 120. The Five Star Dive Bar is located at 526 S Main St in Elkhart and is known for its live music, comedy shows, and laid-back trivia nights. Additionally, it's known for its variety of good eats, including burgers, fries, tacos, chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, and more. I'm hungry just thinking about it.